Garth Brooks, a country music icon, is notably absent from popular streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. Why? His decision stems from a fundamental disagreement with their business models and a strong commitment to songwriter compensation. This article delves into the reasons behind Garth Brooks’ exclusive deal with Amazon Music and his unwavering support for songwriters’ rights.
Garth Brooks’ Stance on Streaming Services
Brooks has been openly critical of streaming services, particularly Spotify and Apple Music. He believes their royalty structures undervalue the contributions of songwriters, the very foundation of the music industry. This belief led him to forge a different path, signing an exclusive streaming deal with Amazon Music in 2016.
Garth Brooks at SXSW
At the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival following the Amazon deal, Brooks shed light on his meetings with Spotify and Apple Music. He praised Spotify CEO Daniel Ek for understanding music and wanting to help artists, acknowledging that Ek often receives undue criticism. However, Brooks ultimately felt Spotify’s model didn’t align with his values.
His experience with Apple Music was different. He felt their rigid rules demanded established artists conform, a compromise he was unwilling to make. While respecting Apple Music, he recognized their partnership wasn’t feasible.
The Amazon Music Difference: A Focus on Physical Sales
The core reason behind Brooks’ alliance with Amazon Music lies in their dual role as a retailer and a streaming platform. This distinction was clarified during the Country Radio Seminar in Nashville. Brooks emphasized that Amazon’s commitment to physical music sales ensures songwriters receive fair compensation.
“The fact is that Amazon is a retailer as well,” Brooks explained. This allows for a synergistic approach where streaming promotes physical album sales, benefiting songwriters through traditional royalty streams. He highlighted the importance of supporting songwriters, stating, “If we don’t take care of these songwriters, what do you guys have to play?”
Brooks’ focus on physical sales reflects his deep concern for songwriters’ livelihoods in a digitally dominated music landscape. He believes Amazon’s model provides a more equitable system where artists and songwriters can thrive.
Garth Brooks’ Commitment to Songwriter Royalties
Brooks’ unwavering support for songwriters stems from his own experience as one. He understands the challenges they face and advocates for their fair compensation. He hopes his stance encourages other artists to prioritize songwriter royalties and seek partnerships that value their contributions.
His success, marked by diamond-certified albums and record-breaking tours, reinforces the power of his principles. By choosing Amazon Music, he prioritized a model that aligns with his values, demonstrating that commercial success and ethical practices can coexist.
Conclusion: A Strategic Stand for Songwriters
Garth Brooks’ absence from Spotify and Apple Music isn’t a rejection of streaming but a strategic decision rooted in his commitment to songwriter compensation. By partnering with Amazon Music, he found a platform that supports both streaming and physical sales, ensuring songwriters receive their due. His actions highlight the ongoing debate about fair compensation in the digital music age and the importance of artists advocating for ethical practices.
