September 25, 2008 14:37

Independent label boss slams MySpace Music

Beggars Group chief attacks service for not including indies

Martin Mills, chairman of the Beggars Group of record labels, has slammed the new MySpace Music service for launching without signing up influential independent record labels.

MySpace Music launched in the USA yesterday (September 24), and is expected to launch in the UK soon.

All of the 'big four' major record labels are signed up to the service. However, Mills has criticised those behind it for not enlisting more independent labels, which he says were influential in the initial growth of MySpace.

He said in a statement: "It is both disappointing and astonishing that MySpace, built on the music of independent artists and labels, should, now it has the majors as partners, choose to launch without those that have been at its heart, and whilst treating independents as second class citizens.

"The service's independent content, sadly, appears to constitute only the independent distribution arms of the majors by virtue of their deals with their parents, and the orchard.

"We, however, believe that independent music and artists are worth every cent as much as that of the majors, and will not be supporting this potentially exciting new service until we see fair play."

The Beggars Group owns the Rough Trade, 4AD, Matador, XL, Too Pure, Merok and Young Turks labels.

Artists that fall under the group's remit include Jarvis Cocker (pictured above), The White Stripes, Beck, TV On The Radio, Radiohead and British Sea Power.