Paul McCartney has urged MEPs to back proposed changes to music copyright law which he believes will force online upload platforms to pay songwriters and performers fairly for use of their work.
Members of European Parliament will vote today (July 5) whether to change the laws, which will require websites and apps, such as YouTube, who allow users to upload content to gain copyright licences for everything. The proposed changes have been criticised, with some aligning them with censorship.
The 76-year-old musician fears that without this change, the future of the music industry could be at risk.
The singer has joined more than 1,300 artists, including Placido Domingo and James Blunt, in calling for politicians to vote for change.
In the note, Sir Paul writes: “Music and culture matter. They are a heart and soul. But they don’t just happen; they demand the hard work of so many people.
“Importantly, music also creates jobs and economic growth and digital innovation across Europe.
He goes on: “But today some user upload content platforms refuse to compensate artists and all music creators fairly for their work while they exploit it for their own profit.
“The value gap is that gulf between the value these platforms derive from music and the value they pay creators.”
Michael Dugher – the chief executive of UK Music responded to Sir Paul’s letter on Twitter showing his support which represents the interests of the UK’s music industry.
He wrote: “I’ve loved McCartney since i was a kid. For me he’s the greatest songwriter the world has ever known & a virtuoso musician who’s brought happiness to billions of people. And now he’s working to ensure future generations of creative talent get fair rewards. Legend. Thank you Macca.”
> Shiuly Rina
Paul McCartney Urged MEPs to Back Music Copyright Law Change
