Rhapsody to include deep credits

RHAPSODY GOES DEEP: On the first morning of the NARM Convention…um, make that the Music Biz 2013 Conference…the Recording Academy and Rhapsody have announced that the original streaming service will be the first digital of its kind to include credits for songwriters, non-featured performers (session players, backing vocalists, etc.), producers and engineers, just as they’re listed in the credits of their physical releases. The Academy refers to this initiative as Give Fans the Credit. "We have a responsibility to our listeners to back this initiative, and further, view the inclusion of more complete credits as a truly useful feature that will only deepen our listeners' connection to their favorite artists and songs," Rhapsody President Jon Irwin offered, just before being drowned out by Neil Portnow. "Since we launched the 'Give Fans the Credit' campaign, we've seen an outpouring of support from music makers and music lovers alike," said the Academy majordomo. "We applaud Rhapsody for taking a leadership role on this initiative. Putting credits in the hands of fans is the next step forward in guiding fans to music discovery, as they find new songs and artists based on songwriters, producers or band personnel. It is our hope that other digital music services will follow Rhapsody's lead." It will take several months for Rhapsody to fully implement the massive amount of credit info. (5/7a)