Singer-Songwriter Scott Helmer Leaves Spotify, Apple, and All Streaming and Social Platforms to Go 100% Direct-to-Fan
Independent singer-songwriter and Guinness World Records holder Scott Helmer has officially removed all of his music from Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and every other major digital streaming platform. He has also deleted all of his social media accounts, including YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, in a bold move to go 100% direct-to-fan through his official website: scotthelmer.com.
This isn’t a retreat: it’s a protest and a return to what matters.
“Music is human. I won’t let AI noise, rigged algorithms, or war-profiting billionaires decide how my songs are heard.”
Helmer points to a system where artists are forced to pay to promote their work on platforms that bury it beneath AI-generated noise. More than 100,000 tracks are uploaded to Spotify each day, many from bots or faceless production farms. Authentic musicians are drowned out while the platforms profit from both sides.
“Why pay to promote your music on a platform that buries it under AI junk? It’s a rigged game and you’re just funding your own silence.”
He also cites ethical concerns, including Spotify founder Daniel Ek’s nearly $700 million (€600 million) investment in Helsing, a company developing AI-powered military targeting systems.
“I don’t want my music tied to platforms investing in weapons. That’s not where I want to live as an artist, or a person.”
Helmer’s growing body of work now lives exclusively at his website, where fans can preorder new releases, buy high-quality digital and physical music, check tour dates, follow his photo scrapbook from the road and studio, shop merch launching later this month, and connect directly with the artist.
“What started as a way to share music became a codependent loop. You feed the machine, it drowns you out with AI — and calls it promotion. I had to break that.”
This isn’t the first time Helmer has taken a stand. During the pandemic, he chose not to perform at venues with mask or vaccine mandates. That decision was highlighted in the 2021 Human Events article, ‘LIVE FREE OR DIE’: Arizona Singer to Play Concerts with No Mask or Vaccine Mandates.
He also released the acoustic protest single Shouting It Out Loud, which voiced concern about the widespread push to vaccinate children. Many parents already find the sheer number of vaccines recommended today overwhelming, and his song gave voice to that unease.
What happened then, and what is unfolding now with AI and the loss of jobs, are connected. Entire sectors are being reshaped, and the ripple effects will touch everyone, even if it is not immediately visible. People everywhere are feeling the strain. Higher prices, inflation, and an economy that seems stacked against ordinary families are all part of the same pattern.
Music, the arts, and entertainment are only one part of the picture. Other industries will follow, and the impact will be far-reaching.
Out of care for livelihoods, and for the future of children and grandchildren, it is important to look honestly at what is happening. These developments are not hidden. They have been discussed openly for years under names like the Great Reset and Agenda 2030. The hope is that more people will take the time to learn about them and prepare, so that society can face the future with awareness, strength, and unity.
Official lyric video for Shouting It Out Loud, Scott Helmer’s protest song against forced vaccination of children.
“Sometimes music is the only way I can speak the truth, especially when it’s uncomfortable. Isn’t that what music and art are supposed to be about? Not just love, loss, or good times, but standing up, speaking out, and telling the truth..”
About Scott Helmer
Scott Helmer’s music blends rock and pop, combining powerful vocals, memorable melodies, and heartfelt storytelling. His original songs explore life, love, loss, social issues, and second chances. Standout tracks like Time To Say Goodbye, Broken, Go Go Go, Have Guitar Will Travel, and I'll See You Again reflect his signature style and emotional depth.
A nationally touring artist who has opened for acts like Heart, Eddie Money, Jeff Bridges, 3 Doors Down, and Eric Burdon & The Animals, Helmer also holds a Guinness World Records title and has helped raise millions for good causes through his live shows.
In 2008, Scott faced a personal turning point, staring down the barrel of a gun on a remote mountain road. He made a promise that day to make his second chance count.
As a result, in addition to his regular tour dates, Scott also supports and performs at select fundraising events and causes he believes in. Read Scott’s full bio →
More From Scott Helmer
Official lyric video for Scott Helmer’s latest release, Go Go Go
Scott Helmer – Best of Acoustic 2024 Preview, recorded live on his tour bus.This video compilation features the best of Scott’s 2024 acoustic performances, including Time To Say Goodbye, Have Guitar Will Travel, Go Go Go, Broken, Long Way Round, and I’ll See You Again
For Helmer, this move is about something bigger. Creating honest music, connecting with real people, and standing for what matters. He hopes it will inspire other artists to rethink their path, reclaim their voice, and trust that there’s still a place for truth in art.
