Apple Music will now pay artists during the 3-month trial period, having initially expected the musicians to foot the bill for the customer trial of their new service. Taylor Swift stood her ground against the tech giant, refusing to stream her latest album 1989 for free during the trial period.
In an open letter to Apple and the world, Swift said, “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 continued to explain that this was not about her, but, “about the young songwriter who just got his or her first cut and thought that the royalties from that would get them out of debt;” concluding with, “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.” The UK’s indie labels had been making the same case for some time, with umbrella label Beggars Group refusing to sign up to Apple’s terms.
#AppleMusic will pay artist for streaming, even during customer’s free trial period
— Eddy Cue (@cue) June 22, 2015
I am elated and relieved. Thank you for your words of support today. They listened to us.
— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) June 22, 2015
In a spectacular 180, Apple have seen Swift’s light. Senior VP of Internet Services and Software Eddy Cue tweeted, “We hear you @taylorswift13 and indie artists. Love, Apple,” “#AppleMusic will pay artists for streaming, even during customer’s free trial period,” adding that, “Apple will always make sure that artist are paid #iTunes #AppleMusic”. Taylor Swift responded to say, “I am elated and relieved. Thank you for your words of support today. They listened to us.”