Outspoken and rebellious recording artist Prince is against unfair music industry practices and he wants the world to know. During a small and private meeting with 10 journalists at his Paisley Park Studios, where no cellphones, recording devices, or even alcohol was permitted, the legendary artist spoke about the need for artists to have their own resources. He took it a step further by comparing recording contracts to slavery.
“Record contracts are just like — I’m gonna say the word — slavery,” Prince said. “I would tell any young artist, don’t sign.”
He also defended Jay Z’s streaming service, TIDAL (which he joined earlier this year), suggesting that more companies should be paying artists for their music. As previously reported, Prince’s next album, “HITNRUN,” will be released exclusively through the service.
“Once we have our own resources, we can provide what we need for ourselves,” he said. “Jay Z spent $100 million of his own money to build his own service. We have to show support for artists who are trying to own things for themselves.”
For as long as we can remember, Prince has taken a stand against what he feels is wrong with the music industry. In fact, he once protested against Warner Bros. Records by plastering the word “slave” across his cheek. In the ’90s, he changed his name to “The Artist Formally Known As Prince” and went by a unique symbol. Clearly, the 57-year-old artist still has a bone to pick with the music industry.
What do you think of Prince’s latest statement comparing record contracts to slavery? Is he off the mark or on the money?
