The funniest thing about Spotify was that so many people stopped downloading illegal content because all of a sudden they could legally pay for it and support artists. Now it looks like that supposed deal was a sham and the money doesn't make its way to the artists just the distributors and middle men (classic tech move).
And yes, best way to support artist is live shows that aren't run by Ticketmaster.
And yes, best way to support artist is live shows that aren't run by Ticketmaster.