Apple agreement paves way for Beatles digital release

Source: Music week

 

 

The Beatles’ catalogue finally becoming available digitally has moved a crucial step nearer after their company Apple Corps reached a settlement in a long-running dispute with Apple Computer.

 

The two companies, which have had a series of legal run-ins over the use of the Apple name, last clashed in London’s High Court last year after the computer giant was alleged to have infringed a 1991 trademark agreement over the use of its Apple logo. Under this deal the computer giant was not allowed to use the Apple name in relation to music.

 

Apple Computer was found not guilty of infringement last May with Justice Edward Mann ruling the computer firm “had used the [Apple] mark in relation to the [iTunes] software and not to the music†and was not “guilty of a breach or what was considered the trademark agreementâ€. Apple Corps immediately appealed against this decision.

 

However, a new agreement has been announced between the two sides, replacing the 1991 agreement. Under this new agreement, Jobs’ Apple Inc will own all of the trademarks relating to Apple, but will license some of these back to Apple Corps for their continued use.

 

“In addition, the ongoing trademark lawsuit between the companies will end, with each party bearing its own legal costs, and Apple Inc will continue using its name and logos on iTunes. The terms of settlement are confidential,†according to a statement issued on behalf of the two parties.

 

Jobs says, “We love the Beatles, and it has been painful being at odds with them over these trademarks. It feels great to resolve this in a positive manner, and in a way that should remove the potential of further disagreements in the future.â€

 

Apple Corps manager Neil Aspinall adds, “It is great to put this dispute behind us and move on. The years ahead are going to be very exciting times for us. We wish Apple Inc every success and look forward to many years of peaceful co-operation with them.â€

 

The agreement removes a huge barrier to Apple Corps allowing The Beatles’ catalogue to be made available on iTunes Music Store and other digital music sites. It was speculated that Apple Computer would use an TV advertising slot in yesterday’s Superbowl announcing The Beatles would soon be on iTunes but this did not materialise. There is now suggestions the catalogue could be made available digitally some time this year with the 40th anniversary of the group’s landmark Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album in early June a possible launch date.

I'm still not so sure that we will see chart domination again...I think that people will slowly buy the tracks...A lot of people have probably got the 1's album on their mp3 player...

So all their studio albums will probably be digitally re-mastered and re-released later in the year then.Have them all on CD so don't need them.