I see the logic, but perhaps playlists evolve more like the compilation business rather than like radio. Very few have successfully built brands (think NOW). Ultimately Spotify don't own the underlying content and have to compete with companies who can develop similar substitutable products and are better equipped to weather the licensing costs. If Spotify's service is so much better than that of its competitors, then why not raise the subscription price, which would have a dramatic effect on profitability? If the switching costs are as great as you assert, then there should be minimal attrition. My guess is that such a price increase would result in significant loss of subscribers, leaving more of a burden on its free, lower profit margin, ad-supported service to sustain future growth. Just a thought...