[deeth_starr]

My guess because it will save them a few $$$. Millions at stake here. Why would someone do a MITM attack against 5 secs of intro audio?

Obviously the NSA would.

Edit: exclusives. https://qz.com/949942/spotifys-new-deal-with-universal-gives...

[michaelmior]

Forget MITM, it also leaks information about your listening history which some may be uncomfortable with.