Spotify’s Filter Flaw: Explicit Lyrics Slip Through in Hit Tracks

• Spotify glitch: explicit lyrics in “clean” versions.
• Major artists affected; doubts about Spotify’s control.
• Users upset; edited lyrics mirror explicit originals.

In a recent investigation, it has been revealed that Spotify’s content filtering system has a significant flaw, allowing explicit lyrics to be displayed despite users opting for the “clean” or “radio-friendly” versions of popular songs. The streaming giant, which boasts over 500 million users worldwide, has faced criticism for failing to properly filter explicit content, potentially exposing listeners to offensive language even when they specifically choose sanitized versions.

The issue was found to affect numerous chart-topping songs from renowned artists such as Dua Lipa, The Weeknd, Drake, and Lil Nas X. Despite inquiries, Spotify has chosen not to comment on the matter. However, reports suggest that the company is aware of the problem and is actively working to address it.

Spotify had introduced a content filtering system in 2018 in response to concerns from parents regarding explicit lyrics. Explicit tracks are typically marked with an ‘E,’ and users have the option to block explicit content in their settings, with clean versions usually offered as alternatives. However, the investigation found that the lyrics in Spotify’s database for many edited versions mirrored those of the original tracks, displaying explicit language even in the “clean” versions.

Users attempting to avoid explicit content were further frustrated when it was discovered that on desktops or laptops, they could still access explicit lyrics by clicking on track names from a search or artist profile page, even if explicit content was blocked.

Following notification of the issue, Spotify took action by removing lyrics for a small number of songs. The incident raises questions about the effectiveness of streaming platforms’ content control measures, leaving users hoping for a swift resolution to ensure a more seamless and censorship-compliant listening experience.

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