London - June 18, 2014 - The Worldwide Independent Network (WIN), the organisation that represents the interests of the global independent music community, has issued a new statement further questioning the actions of YouTube as the Google owned company presses ahead with plans to block and "cull" the content of independent labels that do not sign up to a new music streaming agreement.
YouTube continues to issue content blocking threats to WIN's independent label members who refuse to sign what many labels are calling highly unfavourable, and non-negotiable terms, which undervalue existing rates in the marketplace from partners such as Spotify and Deezer.
WIN was formed in 2006 to represent the global independent industry, which boasts the second largest global market share after Universal.
YouTube has announced plans to launch a new music streaming service later this summer. The service has apparently negotiated separate agreements with the three major labels - Sony, Warner and Universal - but according to WIN's membership has yet to reach any substantive agreement with the independent sector.
Alison Wenham, CEO of WIN said, "Put simply, by refusing to engage with and listen to the concerns of the independent music sector YouTube is making a grave error of commercial judgment in misreading the market. We have tried and will continue to try to help YouTube understand just how important independent music is to any streaming service and why it should be valued accordingly. Music fans want a service that offers the complete range of music available. This is something that companies such as Spotify and Deezer do, both of whom have excellent relationships with the independent music sector. By not giving their subscribers access to independent music YouTube is setting itself up for failure. We appreciate that a small number of independent labels may have their own reasons for agreeing to YouTube's terms, that is their prerogative, but they are very much in the minority. The vast majority of independent labels around the world are disappointed at the lack of respect and understanding shown by YouTube. We once again urge YouTube to come and talk to us."
About Worldwide Independent Music Industry Network
The Worldwide Independent Music Industry Network (WIN) is a global forum for the professional independent music industry. It was launched in 2006 in response to business, creative and market access issues faced by the independent sector everywhere. For independent music companies and their national trade associations worldwide, WIN is a collective voice. It also acts as an advocate, instigator and facilitator for its membership.
See more at: http://winformusic.org/#
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