Hi all,

We, the undersigned, are writing this petition to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding the recent update to UnitedMasters' distribution plans. The decision to limit music releases exclusively to social media platforms, removing the option to distribute on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and others, will impact independent artists and their ability to reach a wider audience.

On June 14, 2023, UnitedMasters will pull all of your past releases from streaming platforms, and move them to social media. This is where a large problem lies that's detrimental for everyone.

How this hurts artists

While I understand the need to constantly adapt to new trends, and that UM doesn't mean any harm and wants to help new artists, this is not the way to do so. Artists get most of their streams from top services like Spotify, and if fans can't discover a song they like from their favorite artist on anywhere else other than social media, this is very likely to cause confusion, and this update may actually hurt music producers' image and prevent them from getting more streams. In short, the new update unfairly restricts artists' options and diminishes their ability to reach a wider audience and monetize their craft effectively.

UnitedMasters has to recognize that neither the artist nor their audience rely on just these platforms for music. Streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and others provide a significant avenue for discovery, fan engagement, and their main source of revenue for countless independent artists, and this new update just hinders that.

What UM can do

We respectfully request that UnitedMasters reconsider the update and provide artists with more flexibility and choice in their distribution strategy. We urge them to take the following actions:

1. Restore the option for artists in the DEBUT plan to distribute their music on streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and others. This will allow artists to get their broader fan base - and potential revenue streams - back, getting their streams and revenue back on the road safely.
2. Modify the existing DEBUT plan that combines the benefits of both DEBUT and SELECT, offering artists the opportunity to distribute their music on both social media platforms and streaming services. This would ensure that artists can reach their desired audience through multiple channels.
3. Engage in an open dialogue with artists and their representatives to gather feedback and suggestions for improving the distribution plans. By actively involving the artist community, UnitedMasters can better understand their needs and tailor their services accordingly.

We acknowledge that UnitedMasters aims to support early stage artists through their DEBUT plan, but it is crucial to recognize that many artists have established a significant presence on streaming platforms and depend on them for their career growth. This sudden change not only disrupts their existing strategies but also fails to consider the preferences and needs of artists who have built a dedicated following on Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming services.

By signing this petition, we express our collective voice and demand that UnitedMasters reevaluates its update to ensure that artists can continue to pursue their creative endeavors with autonomy and access to a wide range of distribution options.

Let's come together to protect the rights and opportunities of artists worldwide. Sign this petition and share it widely to raise awareness and bring about positive change within the music industry.

- Miiro