Labrinth is publicly pushing back on the music industry again.
In a new Notes app post shared to Instagram on Tuesday (March 17), the artist criticized the culture surrounding success in music, describing an environment driven by competition, positioning, and opportunism.
“WE HOVER AROUND BIG STARS HOPING TO BE IN THEIR PLACE ONE DAY LIKE SNAKES,” he wrote. “WAITING TO EAT THEIR OWNERS.”
Labrinth framed the industry as a system that reshapes creatives, turning artists into what he described as “wolves of Wall Street” and encouraging them to prioritize opportunity over genuine relationships.
He then directed a broader question at the industry itself.
“WHO THE F— SAID THIS IS NORMAL OR OK TO TURN WHAT I CALL GODS NOISE (our music) INTO BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS?”
He closed the message with a clear stance.
“I DON’T SUBSCRIBE.”
In the caption, Labrinth expanded on the sentiment, saying he is seeking “meaningful interactions” and has no interest in using or being used by others.
“Fake ain’t a good business plan,” he wrote.
The post quickly drew support from peers across the industry. India.Arie responded, “We have all felt this! I really feel you,” while Lauren Jauregui and Dove Cameron also shared agreement in the comments.
This is the second time in recent days Labrinth has spoken out.
Earlier in the week, he posted a now-deleted message criticizing both his label and his involvement with the HBO series Euphoria, writing, “I’M DONE WITH THIS INDUSTRY / F— COLUMBIA / DOUBLE F— EUPHORIA / I’M OUT.”
It is unclear what prompted the posts.
Labrinth recently released his fourth studio album Cosmic Opera: Act I in January, his second project under Columbia Records. He has also served as the lead composer for Euphoria since its debut in 2019, with the show’s third season scheduled to premiere April 12.
Since his debut, Labrinth has built a catalog that includes multiple entries on the Billboard Hot 100, including collaborations tied to the series.
His latest posts highlight a familiar tension in the industry. Artists want connection and creative expression. The system is built on leverage, positioning, and transactions. Most learn to navigate it.
Some decide they don’t want to participate at all.
