Prince has reportedly asked that all streaming services except Tidal remove his catalog from circulation. There’s been no reason given for the sudden change of heart.
Prince’s Spotify page has a note for some that suggests the widespread takedown. The text (seen below) seems to have been removed, but Spotify users still can’t stream his tracks.
Tidal and Prince have been cozy of late, with the streaming service broadcasting his “Rally 4 Peace” concert. Prince’s Tidal page still has what looks to be his full catalog.
Prince has frowned on digital music in the past. After his record deal with Warner Brothers went sideways, leading him to use a symbol rather than his stage name and write “slave” on his cheek when in public, Prince launched his own website to distribute music.
He also reportedly said “The Internet’s completely over. I don’t see why I should give my new music to iTunes or anyone else. They won’t pay me an advance for it and then they get angry when they can’t get it.”
In addition to Spotify, Apple Music is lacking Prince’s catalog. Google Play Music All Access currently has Prince’s music available, so it seems not everyone got the memo.
➤ Prince Removes Music From All Streaming Services Except TIDAL [Radio]
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