Irving Azoff Sounds Off on YouTube Pulling Data From Billboard Charts: “Good Riddance”

Hollywood Reporter

by Ethan Millman

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Irving Azoff, a prominent figure in the music industry, has voiced strong support for Billboard’s decision to resist YouTube’s demand to treat free streams equally with paid ones in chart calculations. In an open letter, Azoff criticized YouTube for underpaying artists and songwriters compared to other platforms like Apple and Spotify. He argued that until YouTube increases its payments, its data should not influence Billboard charts. Azoff’s stance reflects a broader industry debate over fair compensation and the role of streaming metrics in determining music success. The conflict arises from YouTube’s December announcement that it would withdraw its data from Billboard’s charts unless free streams were given equal weight. YouTube Music head Lyor Cohen claimed this approach better reflected fan engagement, but Azoff dismissed it as an attempt to gain control over chart rankings. He emphasized that YouTube’s lower payment rates compared to other services make its demands unjustified. Azoff also criticized YouTube for using its market power to coerce changes in industry practices. This issue matters because it touches on the balance of power between tech platforms and traditional music entities like Billboard. The dispute highlights concerns about fair compensation for artists and the integrity of chart rankings, which influence artist recognition and revenue streams. As digital streaming continues to shape the music industry, questions about how engagement is measured and valued remain critical. By standing firm against YouTube’s demands, Billboard has set a precedent for challenging platforms that seek unfair influence over music metrics. Azoff urged the industry to support Billboard in upholding standards that prioritize artists’ interests. The outcome of this standoff could have significant implications for how music charts evolve and who holds control over them in the digital age. Ultimately, the debate underscores the ongoing tension between tech platforms like YouTube and traditional music entities. As streaming services compete for dominance, issues of payment rates and data influence will likely remain central to discussions about fair treatment of artists and creators.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/20/2026