When Kanye West launched his latest album, the focus was on his protective approach to distribution. The strategy was controversial at best, especially given the immediate wave of piracy the title faced. But in the weeks following the official release, West has been less obviously changing how his fans perceive the very idea of an album in the streaming age. Continue Reading
Popular British songstress Adele may be the latest major artist to be “pulling a Taylor.” Unnamed sources with knowledge of her upcoming release told The New York Times that the album “25” would not get a launch on streaming services. The Verge has a slightly different take on the situation. It reported that Adele’s camp was willing to put the album on Spotify, but only if it was restricted to paying listeners. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: Spotify’s unfilled job listings; Sinfini Music hits Australia; music business considering global release dates; two more execs join ADD. Continue Reading
If 2013 was the year when labels released their star albums on Internet radio, 2014 is starting by reversing that trend. Clear Channel announced that Bruce Springsteen’s new album, “High Hopes,” will launch today with a one-hour radio documentary/preview. Continue Reading