The general legal adviser of Spotify, Eve Constanta, departs from the streaming music platform after nearly five years in this position.
The New York legal director announced in a message on social media on Monday (January 27) that after 32 years of legal practice, she has “chosen to step away from full corporate life.”
Constanta’s last day at Spotify will be this Friday, January 31.
Spotify’s General Director, Daniel Ek, responded to the executive’s announcement in a LinkedIn note, expressing gratitude for Constanta’s contributions to Spotify and to him personally over the past five years.
Credit: SIPA US/ALAMY
“Your leadership, dedication, and thoughtful approach had such a significant impact on the team and everyone with whom you worked.”
Daniel Ek, Spotify
He further remarked: “Your leadership, devotion, and thoughtful approach greatly impacted the team and everyone you collaborated with.
“It has been an honor to have you as part of this journey, and I’m so thankful for all your contributions. I wish you nothing but success, fulfillment, and joy in this new chapter – you will be missed.”
Background and Career Journey
Constanta joined Spotify in 2020 after spending more than 20 years at broadcasting giant HBO, where she served as EVP and general counsel.
In her previous role at HBO, she managed legal matters globally, including initial programming production, distribution agreements, litigation, employment issues, intellectual property, and antitrust matters.
After a two-year stint at HBO, Constanta then joined WarnerMedia as EVP and general counsel, leaving that position in October 2019.
As the general legal adviser at Spotify, she was responsible for a variety of legal issues, including content licensing, mergers and acquisitions, litigation, employment, and compliance.
In November, Constanta cashed out 16,234 Spotify shares for $7.3 million.
On Monday, she noted that her departure from Spotify “marks the end of a chapter filled with unforgettable experiences and significant personal growth.”
Constanta added: “While it’s bittersweet to leave a role I cherish, I believe this is the right time for this transition.”
“I am deeply grateful to Daniel Ek for trusting me with the opportunity to contribute to this remarkable company, the brilliant legal team at Spotify – some of the finest legal minds I’ve had the honor to work with – and the many, many individuals at Spotify who made the past five years unforgettable.”
Eve Constanta
Looking Ahead
Constanta expressed her eagerness to dedicate more time to nonprofit and educational initiatives that inspire her, enhancing her fitness routine, exploring new books and ideas, and, most importantly, spending more time with family and friends. She remains open to opportunities where her experience can add value — whether through board service or other significant commitments.
“Throughout my career, it has been an honor to work alongside exceptional colleagues, many of whom have become lifelong friends. I am deeply appreciative of the opportunity to contribute to Spotify, and I look forward to witnessing the amazing and innovative things the company will accomplish next.”
“I’ve been fortunate to learn from many exceptional leaders during my career, including Richard Plepler during my two decades at HBO, and Mitch Lawental and Debbi Buell, my earliest mentors in my legal journey. Their support and wisdom have been invaluable to me.”
“As I embark on this new chapter, I carry forward the lessons, friendships, and memories forged over the past three decades, aiming for purpose, growth, and connection.”
Constanta’s departure occurs amid ongoing litigation in the United States, as the mechanical licensing collective (MLC) filed a lawsuit in May 2024 against the streaming service for allegedly underpaying royalties to songwriters and publishers.
In August, Spotify petitioned the court to dismiss the MLC’s lawsuit, describing the streaming service’s operations as “bundled.” In September, MLC filed a response, urging the court to completely deny Spotify’s petition.
Meanwhile, on Sunday (January 26), MBW reported news that Universal Music Group and Spotify had signed a new licensing agreement, which both companies subsequently confirmed. The deal includes a novel direct licensing agreement between Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) and Spotify in the United States (and several other territories).
This transaction is understood to replace Spotify’s previous discount applied to the mechanical royalty rate for UMPG payments in the U.S. Spotify has been operating under this discounted rate since March of last year, following a legal settlement in 2022 (referred to as Phonorecords IV). This settlement allowed music publishers and music streaming services to agree to pay a lower mechanical royalty rate in the States than standalone music services.
Spotify’s controversial decision to classify its premium tiers as “bundled” last year led to the filing of the MLC’s lawsuit.
Lucas focuses on the interaction between music and society. He specializes in how music influences and reflects cultures, analyzing the role of sound in social, political, and cultural events around the world.
