Taylor Swift Explains Her Issue With Apple Music And Why 1989 Won't Be On It
"To Apple, Love Taylor"
by Kyle Hodge 6/21/2015
Apple came out swinging during their announcement of Apple Music when they brought out Drake and The Weeknd during their press conference. Most fans and artists are on board except for Taylor Swift. Swift explained in a lengthy letter on why she won't be sharing her latest album 1989 on the music service when it debuts on June 30.
"I feel this deserves an explanation because Apple has been and will continue to be one of my best partners in selling music and creating ways for me to connect with my fans. I respect the company and the truly ingenious minds that have created a legacy based on innovation and pushing the right boundaries," Swift wrote in a post on her Tumblr, entitled "To Apple, Love Taylor."
Despite her love for the company, their free, three-month trial period to Apple Music subscribers – a time period where artists won't earn any royalties for streams of their songs – is what Swift is against. It's a similar issue TIDAL dealt with in its beginning.
"I'm sure you are aware that Apple Music will be offering a free 3 month trial to anyone who signs up for the service. I'm not sure you know that Apple Music will not be paying writers, producers, or artists for those three months. I find it to be shocking, disappointing, and completely unlike this historically progressive and generous company."
She concludes her letter with a reminder that it isn't too late for Apple to right this wrong, "But I say to Apple with all due respect, it's not too late to change this policy and change the minds of those in the music industry who will be deeply and gravely affected by this. We don't ask you for free iPhones. Please don't ask us to provide you with our music for no compensation.
Read her full letter to Apple below, and tell us what you think on the issue. Is the free three month policy fair for rising musicians? Is the music service pro-artist?
http://taylorswift.tumblr.com/post/122071902085/to-apple-love-taylor
Kyle Hodge
@hdgkyl
Tags: Taylor Swift