Apple Inc. just announced that its new music stream, Apple Music, will launch next week. Many wait in anticipation, but not all are happy as multi-platinum selling recording artist Taylor Swift chooses to opt her music out of the service.
Swift is known for opting out of music streaming services in the past. She delayed her album “Fearless” for release with Spotify and now she has done the same with Apple Music by refusing to release her new album “1989.”
The reason? The three month free-trial that Apple is offering with its release on June 30. According to Swift, Apple was not going to be paying the artists, writers or producers during the free period. When she was told this, she believed it to be “shocking” and “disappointing.” She wrote a letter asking Apple to reconsider their decision, which they have actually agreed to.
Swift took out her frustration on Tumblr saying,
“Three months is a long time to go unpaid, and it is unfair to ask anyone to work for nothing.”
Singer Swift referred to the company as, “astronomically successful” and asked them to “pay artists, writers and producers for the 3 month trial period… even if it is free for the fans trying it out.”
Apple responded to Swifts request, agreeing to pay artist’s during this trial period.
Eventually after the free period is over, users will have to pay the $10 monthly fee for its services. There is also an optional $15 family plan to share with up to six people.
Still Swift continues her protest:
“These are the echoed sentiments of every artist, writer and producer in my social circles who are afraid to speak up publicly because we admire and respect Apple so much. We simply do not respect this particular call. I realize that Apple is working towards a goal of paid streaming. I think that is beautiful progress.”
Image: Via Flickr/GabboT
