Iconic singer/songwriter Neil Young has told his fans that he is pulling his catalogue from streaming services – presumably including the likes of Spotify and Apple Music.
Although Young’s library of classic albums remains available on both services, the artist says “streaming has ended for me”.
In a note on his Facebook page, the Canadian artist blamed the sound fidelity of streaming services for being “the worst quality in the history of broadcasting”.
Young launched his own HD audio device and digital download platform, Pono, was released in January after a successful crowdfunding campaign – but was panned by critics.
Although Young didn’t blame monetary income from streaming for his decision, he did make a dig at label Warner, claiming that “my share [of royalties] (like all the other artists) was dramatically reduced by bad deals made without my consent”.
You can read Young’s full note to fans below.
Streaming has ended for me. I hope this is ok for my fans.
It’s not because of the money, although my share (like all the other artists) was dramatically reduced by bad deals made without my consent.
It’s about sound quality. I don’t need my music to be devalued by the worst quality in the history of broadcasting or any other form of distribution. I don’t feel right allowing this to be sold to my fans. It’s bad for my music.
For me, It’s about making and distributing music people can really hear and feel. I stand for that.
When the quality is back, I’ll give it another look. Never say never.
Neil Young
MBW discovered last week that Young was amongst artists who have declined to allow MCPS to service his mechanical rights to the BBC as part of the broadcaster’s blanket licence.
Because the Beeb is now allowing users to ‘download’ radio and TV shows for a 30-day period to watch/listen to offline, Young’s mechnical rights come into play – explaining why the BBC has banned staff from playing his hits.Music Business Worldwide
