May 10, 2024 - Apple Music is now exercising censorship over artist's works, which came as a complete shock to me, but then again, in these crazy times, anything can happen.
During my recent re-uploading of my previous releases due to a switch to a different distributor, I was informed that 4 of my tracks that were previously carried by Apple Music were not "in compliance" with iTunes and Apple Music, because they contain "generic instrumental music". Apparently, there was no problem in 2023, but in 2024 they are all of a sudden not in compliance. What is even stranger is that 3 of these tracks are currently carried by iTunes and Apple Music in their full album versions, but as individual singles, they don't comply.
I have contacted Apple Music, who sent me back to my distributor, who send me to Apple Music - the classic circle jerk that goes nowhere. The only advice that I received was to "add vocals or collaborate with other artists who could provide lyrics and vocals" to my music. Simply outrageous.
This sets a very dangerous precedent when streaming platforms censor artists and tell them to change their works to fit the personal preference of some desk jockey in an office tower who has never produced a single piece of music.
What is next? Telling Tangerine Dream, Joe Satriani and Steve Vai that they need to add vocals to their works or that they need to add rap lyrics? Simply unbelievable.
I have since learned that other artists have had similar experiences with Apple Music and other platforms. This kind of outrageous censorship needs to stop before these platforms start to tell the public what they can listen to and what not.
To my knowledge, all other platforms are carrying The IQON's material. At least for now.
To my faithful listeners, I apologize for the inconvenience. If you are a faithful Apple Music subscriber as I have been for many years, you have options.
As always, I appreciate your support.
The IQON