The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) has taken legal action against Spotify USA Inc. (Spotify) for allegedly underpaying royalties on its music streaming platform.

FOLLOW ANAND BHATT on SPOTIFY⁠ @ https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Zf1vBtza79MCpWpag4ojo In a lawsuit filed on May 16th, 2024, the MLC contends that Spotify’s recent classification of Premium Individual, Duo, and Family plans as “Bundled Subscription Offerings” has led to lower reported revenue and subsequently reduced payments to songwriters and publishers.

The MLC asserts that Spotify’s interpretation of relevant laws and regulations is flawed, and they are determined to ensure that Spotify meets its royalty payment obligations. As the sole entity authorized to address blanket license terms, the MLC emphasizes its responsibility to advocate for its members when discrepancies arise in usage reporting and royalty disbursements.

The lawsuit is now before the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Spotify will have an opportunity to respond, and the court will establish a schedule for the case. The MLC remains committed to securing rightful royalties for songs streamed on Spotify’s Premium plans and will keep its members informed of any adjustments resulting from the legal proceedings.

FOLLOW ANAND BHATT on SPOTIFY @ https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Zf1vBtza79MCpWpag4ojo

The MLC Sues Spotify Over Alleged Underpayment of Royalties

The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) filed a lawsuit today, May 16th, 2024, against Spotify USA Inc. (Spotify) for allegedly underpaying royalties on its music streaming platform.

The MLC claims that Spotify began classifying its Premium Individual, Duo, and Family plans as "Bundled Subscription Offerings" in March 2024. This classification change, according to the MLC, allows Spotify to report lower revenue and consequently pay lower royalties to songwriters and publishers.

The MLC argues that Spotify's interpretation of the relevant laws and regulations is incorrect. They believe they have the legal authority to address this issue and ensure Spotify fulfills its royalty payment obligations. They initiated this lawsuit to enforce these obligations and secure all rightful royalties for songs streamed on Spotify's Premium plans.

As the sole entity empowered to take legal action regarding blanket license terms, the MLC emphasizes its responsibility to represent its members when they believe usage reporting and royalty payments are inaccurate.

The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York. Spotify will have the chance to respond, and the court will then establish a schedule for the case. The MLC will inform its members of the outcome and any resulting adjustments to royalty payments once the matter is resolved.

⁠FOLLOW ANAND BHATT on SPOTIFY⁠ @ https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Zf1vBtza79MCpWpag4ojo #MusicRoyalties #SpotifyLawsuit #MLCvsSpotify

This is an excerpt from the book "Akshaya - Thriving No Matter What: How to Succeed in a Chaotic World" which is available here: https://amzn.to/3W6TGu8

In this insightful episode, we explore the concept of emotional flexibility and its transformative power. Learn how cultivating emotional agility can help you navigate life’s challenges, adapt to change, and ultimately thrive in any situation. Join us as we share practical tips and expert insights on this essential life skill.

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Ahoy, TV aficionados! Let's talk about a show that, even years after its final cannon blast, still reigns supreme on the high seas of television history. Yes, I'm talking about "Black Sails," a treasure trove of narrative gold that continues to outshine its contemporaries.

FOLLOW ANAND BHATT @ https://open.spotify.com/artist/5Zf1vBtza79MCpWpag4ojo

From the very first episode, "Black Sails" set a new standard for storytelling. The show is a prequel to the classic "Treasure Island," but it's so much more. It weaves together historical figures with fictional ones, creating a tapestry so rich, you can almost smell the salt in the air and feel the deck beneath your feet.

The characters of "Black Sails" are its beating heart. Captain Flint, Long John Silver, and the rest are not just pirates; they're complex beings with ambitions, fears, and a hunger for freedom. They're as unpredictable as a Caribbean storm, and twice as powerful.

Let's not forget the production quality. The attention to detail in the sets, costumes, and special effects would make even the most hardened pirate drop their jaw in awe. The battles are choreographed with such finesse; you're not just watching a fight, you're witnessing art.

"Black Sails" may have sailed into the sunset, but its legacy endures. It challenged norms, broke boundaries, and told a story that was both intimate and epic. It's a show that doesn't just deserve a spot in the hall of fame; it deserves to be the captain.

So, here's to "Black Sails," a show that, like the finest rum, only gets better with age. May its sails forever catch the wind of admiration and its flag fly high in the annals of television greatness.