The change was spurred in part by Beyonce's most recent surprise release, as well as piracy from Down Under.
The music industry is on the verge of adopting a global street date that could see all countries issuing new releases on a Friday, probably beginning a year from now, in July 2015, according to industry sources.
While some sources say its a done deal as far as the major labels and the IFPI and RIAA are concerned, other sources insist the issue has yet to be fully decided. The main reason why the industry is moving toward a global street date -- instead of letting each territory pick the day that they feel is best for their respective markets, which is the way it works now -- is to cut down on global piracy.
With Australia now having a Friday street date, digital piracy begins almost immediately around the globe, as the new release is shared across the web before fans in the U.K. (which has a Monday street date) or the U.S. (which has a Tuesday street date) have a chance to purchase the music legally.
With varying street dates in different markets, the labels are able move their artists around in order to take advantage of marketing opportunities that coincide with the changed street date. Now, labels can still do that on the week of release, but will have less opportunity to schedule a high-profile appearance on the release date itself.
While sources say that digital music service providers like the Friday street date, not all physical merchants have given the change their blessing; some indie labels and indie merchants are opposed to having the global street date on Friday.
it's not a bad idea but if someone intends to pirate something they'll probably do it anyway. but considering how bad sales are right now, might as well try it.
Correction I read the article, Yeah its a good idea, there were a lot of flaws in Beyonce plan like not promotiong and launching 17 videos at the same time. But If its an album with just the music and the same release date WW it would be awesome!
Let's compare the population of Australia to the population of North America. Now somebody explain to me why we have to move our date to accommodate theirs
