Meek Mill is sharing his thoughts on the issues affecting the music industry, particularly how streaming has changed the business for artists.
The Philly rapper has been vocal about the challenges he has faced since blowing up. With streaming affecting artists across every genre, Meek took to social media to express how he believes the current system has negatively impacted rappers.
“The business of music has gotten far from our hands. The way it operates and the decisions being made that shape the business do not align with talent at all, just viral moments.”
The rapper also questioned the streaming payout system, arguing that the percentage and policies in place benefit digital service providers (DSPs) like Apple Music and Spotify more than the artists creating the music.
“Whoever made up 1500 streams a sale is insane and whatever music artist or black person that was in the room when that decision was made help set the music eco system back 10 years for the artist and consumer! How did that come about?”
The Dreams and Nightmares rapper recently became independent after 13 years of being signed to a major label. Meek has previously stated that he was only receiving 13% of his royalties under his former deal. Now, he says he owns 100% of his masters and publishing.
Since going independent, Meek has released his first project under his new status, Indie Pack Volume 1.
Throughout his career, Meek Mill has encouraged young artists to carefully review their contracts, be strategic about the platforms to release their music, and understand the business side of Hip-Hop. His latest comments continues his concerns about how the industry operates and the importance of artists having more control over their careers.
