Labrinth has launched a fresh attack on what he calls a “fake” music industry culture, doubling down on his claim that he no longer wants to be part of it.
The British artist, 37, first sparked headlines with a blunt Instagram post aimed at his label Columbia Records and the hit HBO series Euphoria.
“I’M DONE WITH THIS INDUSTRY.
F*** COLUMBIA. DOUBLE F*** EUPHORIA. I’M OUT. THANK YOU AND GOOD NIGHT X.”
He offered no immediate explanation at the time, leaving fans and industry observers trying to piece together the context.
“I don’t want to be used anymore”
Labrinth has since expanded on his position, describing a wider industry environment driven by competition, opportunism and commercial pressure.
In a follow-up post, he wrote:
“WE HOVER AROUND BIG STARS HOPING TO BE IN THEIR PLACE ONE DAY LIKE SNAKES. WAITING TO EAT THEIR OWNERS.”
“WE WALK INTO THIS INDUSTRY AS PURE CREATIVES THAT WISH TO SHARE COLOR AND GET TURNED INTO WOLVES OF WALL STREET DRIBBLING OVER STOCKS AND SHARES.”
“WHO THE F*** SAID THIS IS NORMAL OR OK TO TURN WHAT I CALL GODS NOISE (our music) INTO BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS?”
He later added a more measured caption:
“I want to have meaningful interactions… I don’t want to use anyone I don’t want to be used. I hope people stop acting like this is just how it’s done. It doesn’t have to be done that way. Fake ain’t a good business plan.”
Tensions follow recent album release
The comments come just weeks after Labrinth released his latest studio album, Cosmic Opera: Act I, via Columbia in January.
While he has not directly linked the outburst to the release, his remarks suggest frustration with how creative work is positioned and prioritised within the industry.
Deep ties to Euphoria’s sound and success
Labrinth has been central to the musical identity of Euphoria, working as lead composer on the series created by Sam Levinson.
His collaborations with Zendaya include All For Us, which closed the show’s first season, and I’m Tired, featured in a key storyline in season two.
All For Us went on to win an Emmy for Outstanding Original Music and Lyrics, cementing his role in shaping the show’s sonic identity.
He also released Never Felt So Alone, later reworked with Billie Eilish, helping extend the show’s reach beyond its core audience. Other tracks, including Mount Everest, have achieved viral success.
Labrinth even made an on-screen appearance in season two, further underlining how closely his work is tied to the series.
Season three approaches despite public fallout
The timing of Labrinth’s comments is notable, with Euphoria season three set to premiere on 12 April 2026.
The new season will also feature music from Hans Zimmer, who has joined the project alongside Labrinth.
At the time of the announcement, Labrinth had spoken positively about the collaboration:
“Another chapter in the Euphoria universe! So great to join Hans, one of my heroes in film score, and bring some new magic to this new season.”
Zimmer also praised Labrinth’s impact on the series:
“Labrinth’s music has shaped the show’s identity and I’m looking forward to contributing to the ongoing story.”
Now what for Labrinth?
It remains unclear whether Labrinth’s statements signal a permanent exit from the industry or a moment of frustration. What is clear is that he is publicly challenging the structures and expectations that underpin modern music careers.
Given his track record, both as a solo artist and as a composer for one of television’s most influential series, any next move will be closely watched.
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