Sorry Janet Jackson but unfortunately the best things in life may no longer be free. You see, following a refusal by independent record labels to agree with very specific, non-negotiable terms, old mate YouTube has announced it will remove music from independent artists who have not signed up for it’s soon-to-be-released subscription music service.

YouTube is preparing to launch their very own ‘YouTube Music Pass’ where for a fee, users will be able to watch and listen to music without ads. Paying customers will also be able to download content to their mobile device. More importantly, YouTube will block all content from independent labels if they do not join the subscription music service. It is believed Warner, Universal and Sony have all signed major deals and YouTube has been hinting at launching a streaming music service, which will compete with the likes of Spotify and RDIO.

For years Youtube has been the outlet for independent artists looking to promote their material. Independent artists were able to directly access a huge market, for no charge. This new licensing agreement will push many independent artists out of the game, swinging the balance heavily in favour of major labels.

The next few days should prove very interesting, as all we REALLY want as music fans is an accessible service that offers a complete range of music, and not just showcase those artists who can afford it.

Youtube Music Pass will cost users US$5 per month with ads, or $10 a month ad-free. Will the business gain traction or users look elsewhere?

Source: Pulse