(PCM) Yesterday, the internet was buzzing after Jay-Z held a bizarre celebrity-filled press conference to launch his new artist-run music subscription service called Tidal.
Jay-Z recently purchased the platform which is worth an estimated $56 million and will feature high quality audio and exclusive content that is owned by the actual artists. Jay-Z was joined at the press conference by artists such as Rihanna, Kanye West, Madonna, Nicki Minaj, Jack White, Alicia Keys, Jason Aldean, Daft Punk, Arcade Fire and of course Jay-Z’s wife Beyonce. Both Calvin Harris and Chris Martin joined in via video conference.
Tidal, prides itself as being by the artist, for the artists and will cost the listener $20 per month. It was not so much the announcement of Tidal that was bizarre, it was just the behavior of the artists in attendance. They were all lined up on the stage appearing very cult-like and made a big to-do about signing an official declaration.
The worst was Alicia Keyes incredibly confusing speech that found her rambling about everything from Jimmi Hendrix to Nietzsche while giggling and humming “Pomp & Circumstance”, she appeared more intoxicated than serious. It didn’t help matters when Madonna threw her leg up on the podium, Usher made odd hand gestures and the rest of the celebrities just stood around the stage looking uncomfortable.
Almost abruptly the sound cut out and then it was over and Tidal was official born … at least we think. You can watch the full bizarre press conference below: