The online streaming music service Spotify has a new policy requiring users to sign up with a Facebook account instead of creating a unique Spotify account. Previously, new subscribers could create a unique login that wasn’t tied to Facebook in any way.

Spotify now requires Facebook accounts for new users

In response to questions on the Spotify forums, an employee named Darren stated, “Hey Guys thanks for your question, Unfortunately you will need a Facebook account to access Spotify from now on, unless you already have an account set up. This does not stop you creating the Facebook account adding nothing to it and making it totally private as the Facebook account does not have to be actively used.”

At least some potential Spotify customers aren’t pleased with the company’s new pro-Facebook policy. Customers are asking the company to drop the Facebook account requirement, or at least give users the option to create a Spotify-only account.

Facebook users can link to their Spotify accounts, as well as Rdio, Rhapsody, and other online music services. Spotify has also released an app for the Facebook service that adds the ability to play music from user’s Facebook accounts, as well as share favorite songs.

Linking Spotify accounts to Facebook ultimately gives the music streaming service more visibility, although the idea of sharing everything they’re listening to isn’t sitting well with some customers.

Users that signed up for Spotify accounts before the new policy went into effect won’t have to set up or link to Facebook accounts if they don’t want to. For new users, however, it’s Facebook, or no music.

Spotify representatives weren’t available for comment on the new policy.