The Worldwide Independent Network (WIN) has publicly criticised an offer from YouTube to independent labels which would see their music added to the video giant’s new music streaming service, which it hopes will eventually rival Spotify.
YouTube has already come to an agreement with the three remaining, dominant major labels – Sony, Warner and Universal – but an offer described as ‘indefensible’ by WIN has been rejected, leading YouTube to apparently threaten the removal of artists’ videos and music from across its platforms should the ‘non-negotiable’ terms not be agreed to.
“This is not a fair way to do business,” Alison Wenham, CEO of WIN and Chairman of the Association of Independent Music, UK has told Music Week. “WIN questions any actions by any organization that would seek to injure and punish innocent labels and musicians — and their innocent fans— in order to pursue its ambitions.”
“We believe, as such, that these actions are unnecessary and indefensible, not to mention commercially questionable and potentially damaging to YouTube itself, given the harm likely to result from this approach. The international independent music trade associations call upon YouTube on behalf of their members to work with them towards an agreement that is fair and equitable for all independent labels.”
