D4vd faces YouTube demonetization and UMG-assisted song removals after murder charge
Updated
Updated · Rolling Stone · Apr 25
D4vd faces YouTube demonetization and UMG-assisted song removals after murder charge
3 articles · Updated · Rolling Stone · Apr 25
D4vd, born David Anthony Burke, was charged with first-degree murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez in Los Angeles and pleaded not guilty.
YouTube suspended D4vd from its Partner Program, while Universal Music Group aided artists like Kali Uchis and Laufey in removing collaborations from streaming platforms.
Music advocacy group Industry Blackout is petitioning Spotify and Apple Music to remove D4vd's music, as the industry faces pressure to address artists charged with serious crimes.
What digital trail on D4vd's devices led prosecutors to file a murder charge against him?
Should streaming platforms erase an artist's music based on charges, before a conviction is reached?
With a 'not guilty' plea, how will D4vd's defense counter the massive digital and forensic evidence?
Why do prosecutors believe the rising TikTok star murdered a 14-year-old to save his career?
Does the music industry have a moral duty to protect its young fans from predatory artists?
How could a dismembered body remain undiscovered in a celebrity's car for several months?
Inside the D4vd Trial: Brutal Murder Charges, Massive Digital Evidence, and Industry Fallout
Overview
On April 23, 2026, singer David Burke appeared in court facing charges of first-degree murder with special circumstances, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and mutilation of human remains, all linked to the brutal killing of 17-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors allege Burke killed Celeste to silence her about their sexual relationship and protect his music career. The case relies heavily on extensive digital evidence, including child pornography found on Burke's devices. In response, Burke's record label severed ties, collaborators removed his features, and he canceled his tour. Public reactions are divided, with some fans boycotting and others supporting him, while Celeste's family demands justice. A preliminary hearing is set for May 1, 2026, which will determine if the case proceeds to trial, potentially setting legal precedents on artistic expression and industry accountability.