Selling the Beatles Catalog

Word is that Apple Corps Ltd., the multi-media company set up by The Beatles (not to be confused with Apple, Inc), is considering selling the Beatles catalog on their own website. The Beatles have been noticeably absent from iTunes by not licensing their catalog to the mega online store. It’s not like the Beatles need a service like iTunes to sell their songs. And, if they did license their songs to iTunes, Apple Corps would only see 70% of every sale. iTunes would receive the other 30%.

If Apple Corps Ltd. does pursue this option, they would be wise to make the songs as easy as possible for fans to import into their iTunes (or other) library. Since they are the company of the Beatles, they also have tremendous leeway in offering ancillary products along with the tunes. Because, let’s be honest, most people that want the Beatles tunes already have it, legally or illegally.

If Apple Corps Ltd could offer exclusive content, even retro content about the Beatles along with the digital tracks, this would be a major selling point that would likely lead to more digital track sales.

A few weeks ago, we learned that there will be a special edition of the Rock Band video game specifically for the Beatles. This is the first time that they have released part of their catalog digitally.

This more open attitude should lead to more fans. And it should lead to a better appreciation for one of the greatest musical groups of all time.

Stay tuned,
Erik
erikrostad.com