
Based on articles by Tim Ingham in Music Business Worldwide, on June 2023 and Kelsie Gibson in PopSugar on February 28, 2023
In a groundbreaking twist that has sent shockwaves through the music industry, the ongoing saga between Taylor Swift and music mogul Scooter Braun (below) has reached new heights. Swift, the chart-topping pop sensation known for her empowering anthems and captivating performances, has been engaged in a bitter dispute with Braun over the ownership of her master recordings.
It all started when Braun's company, Ithaca Holdings, acquired Big Machine Label Group, the record label that held the rights to Swift's early music catalog. Swift, who had been signed to Big Machine at the beginning of her career, was blindsided by the acquisition and voiced her deep concern over Braun's control of her artistic legacy.

The battle escalated when Swift publicly accused Braun of orchestrating a "bullying campaign" against her, claiming he had been involved in years of torment and manipulation. Swift's grievances stemmed from personal clashes and Braun's association with controversial figures in the industry, which she believed undermined her creative autonomy.
As tensions continued to mount, reports emerged that Braun was exploring the possibility of selling Swift's masters to a private equity firm. This revelation sparked a renewed outcry from Swift's devoted fan base and the wider music community, who rallied behind the artist in support of her quest for ownership and artistic control.
Adding fuel to the fire, Scott Borchetta, the founder of Big Machine Label Group and a key figure in the dispute, entered the fray. Borchetta defended Braun's intentions, stating that he had given Swift multiple opportunities to regain ownership of her masters. However, Swift vehemently denied these claims, insisting that the proposed deals offered to her were unacceptable and would further perpetuate the power imbalance.
As the battle lines are drawn, the music industry finds itself at a crossroads. Swift's case shines a spotlight on the broader issue of artists' rights and the significance of owning one's creative work. It has ignited a fierce debate about the power dynamics within the industry and the need for greater transparency and fairness.
The outcome of this high-stakes confrontation remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Taylor Swift's fight for control over her music has become a rallying cry for artists around the world. As the music industry grapples with the consequences, it is forced to confront its own practices and consider a future where artists are empowered to protect their artistry and reap the rewards of their hard work.
Photo of Taylor Swift taken from her official Instagram account.
Summary by ChatGPT
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