Billy Bragg has issued a formal apology to Taylor Swift after incorrectly claiming she "sold her soul to Google." The controversy arose when YouTube featured Swift's music during demonstrations of their new YouTube Music Key service to journalists, creating the false impression that she had authorized its use.

Key points about the situation:

• YouTube showcased Swift's music in Music Key demos without her permission
• Journalists were initially told Swift's back catalog would be available on the free tier
• Google later clarified Swift's music would not be accessible on Music Key
• The demo was for internal use only, shown to journalists before launch

In his apology, Bragg stated:

• He mistakenly assumed Swift's Spotify boycott was a corporate power play
• He now supports Swift's stance that music has value
• He backs artists fighting for transparency in deals between rights holders and service providers

The incident highlights ongoing challenges around music streaming services, artist compensation, and the need for transparency in digital music distribution deals. Bragg pledged his "full support" if Swift leads the fight for greater transparency in the industry.

This situation adds another chapter to Swift's high-profile stance on music streaming services, following her removal of content from Spotify over similar concerns about artist compensation and music valuation.

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