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A leaked version of YouTube's controversial proposed contract for indie labels has been leaked online.
YouTube, who are gearing up to launch their own music streaming service, has recently been in dispute with independent labels such as XL and Domino, who do not want their artists' entire back catalogue made available to stream on the video-sharing site.
YouTube have been accused of dirty tactics, with independent labels trade body WIN accusing the site of trying to force its members to agree to the contract or else see their videos removed from the website.
Now, Digital Music News has obtained a leaked copy of the contract. As The Guardian points out, one part suggests major labels will be able to influence the amount of royalties paid to independent labels:
"To the extent that any major label agrees to any rates for the Google Services that are lower than the rates set forth in Exhibits C or D, including with respect to bundling, Google will have the right to reduce Provider’s analogous rates accordingly, following thirty (30) days written notice (via email will be sufficient) to Provider."
Elsewhere in the contract, a clause appears to stipulate that YouTube will be able to stream an artist's record in its entirety the day its released. Head over to Digital Music News to read the full version of the leaked document.
