Last week, reports began to surface about the divide between Apple and independent artists/labels regarding the three-month free trial period that would be available to subscribers when Apple Music launched later this month on June 30. The issue at hand? That artists would not be paid during the free trial period.
The backlash was capped off by a passionate open letter from Taylor Swift, who expressed in great detail why she would not be including her latest album, 1989, on the streaming service. "We know how astronomically successful Apple has been and we know that this incredible company has the money to pay artists, writers and producers for the 3 month trial period… even if it is free for the fans trying it out."
"We don’t ask you for free iPhones," she added. "Please don’t ask us to provide you with our music for no compensation."
Eddy Cue, senior vice president of Internet software and services, confirmed via Twitter late Sunday evening that Apple will now be paying artists during the trial period. "We hear you [Taylor Swift] and indie artists," he said.
Apple will always make sure that artist are paid #iTunes #AppleMusic
#AppleMusic will pay artist for streaming, even during customer’s free trial period
We hear you @taylorswift13 and indie artists. Love, Apple
