Apple Launches Streaming Service With Drake Endorsement

After teasing the launch for months, Apple has finally rolled out Apple Music, its new streaming platform. Today (June 8) at their Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the electronics giant announced a litany of changes, including updates to their Mac operating systems, Apple TV and long-awaited details about the Apple Watch. But all eyes were on the keynote addresses, and Jimmy Iovine himself stopped by to explain Apple Music. The Interscope and Beats mogul said that Apple has employed "leading music experts" to help curate playlists for subscribers. "These people are gonna help you with the most difficult question in music," Iovine said: "when you’re listening to a playlist, what song comes next?"

He also said that Apple Music would include 24/7 global radio, with a host of key industry players manning channels. Zane Lowe, the note BBC personality who has interviewed many of rap's biggest stars, including Kanye West and Eminem, is reportedly involved in the radio component. Hot 97's Ebro from Ebro in the Morning will also be apart of the radio component. Perhaps most exciting for hip-hop fans: Drake hit the stage, albeit not to perform. The "Hold On, We're Going Home" star was there to promote Connect, a service that makes it easier for aspiring artists to upload music. For the address, he donned a vintage Apple employees bomber jacket.

"As a kid growing up, I always wondered if my city or even my country would have somebody break into the global scene as a true superstar," Drake said. "The dream of being an artist like myself and connecting directly with an audience has never been more close and reachable than right now." He would go on to announce that his next album will be released through Connect, according to Verge.

Squad goals #AppleMusic
A photo posted by champagnepapi (@champagnepapi) on Jun 8, 2015 at 1:10pm PDT

“And one more thing…” Apple Music, coming soon. #WWDC15 http://t.co/HcKyj4emmO https://t.co/1MzOlcUDx3
— Apple Music (@AppleMusic) June 8, 2015

All the ways you love music. All in one place. Apple Music, coming soon. #WWDC15 http://t.co/HcKyj4emmO https://t.co/yCk2TWnk2M
— Apple Music (@AppleMusic) June 8, 2015

Here are other facts that were revealed at the WWDC:

The new operating system will be called OSX El Capitan.
In iOS 9 your iPhone will function like a personal assistant.
When you plug in your headphones, your phone will automatically go to the "Now Playing" screen.
Siri can access your apps and offer you predictive reminders.
Newstand feature will be replaced with News and feature articles from big and small publishers like The New York Times, Conde Nast, ESPN, and any many more.
The new Maps will include a Transit view that will include public transportation routes and directions.
Better battery life
Swift 2 will be open source

Filed Under: apple music, Drake, spotify, tidal

Categories: News