Paula Cole’s “I Don’t Want to Wait” may have dominated the charts in the 90s, but did you know she doesn’t earn anything from it? In a TikTok video, the Grammy-winning songstress reveals the shocking truth behind her hit and how an unfair record deal stripped her of ownership.
Armed with her 2016 “Artist Preferred Version” Cole’s not just reclaiming her music, she’s sparking a crucial conversation about fair compensation and artistic control in the music industry.
Why the 2016 Re-recordings?
- This wasn’t merely a sentimental endeavor; Cole decided to proactively reclaim control of her music by re-recording some of her greatest singles, including “I Don’t Want to Wait.”
- The success of Cole’s original music brought her little financial gain, so in 2016 she did an “Artist Preferred Version.” This act was not so much about re-releasing old material as it was about taking creative ownership and control.
- To further emphasize the gap between artists and their work, “I Don’t Want to Wait” was not allowed to be included in the original Dawson’s Creek streaming version due to licensing concerns.
@paulacoleofficial Dear friends, followers, creators, when you consider using “I Don’t Want to Wait” will you please use my re-record. I don’t see anything from the recorded master from the 90’s. In 2016, I re-recorded “I Don’t Want To Wait” and “Where Have All The Cowboys Gone?” – 20 years later as an anniversary event for my album, “This Fire”. It’s called “I Don’t Want To Wait (Artist’s Preferred Version)” OR “I Don’t Want To Wait (20th Anniversary Edition). Thank you for being here on the long life path with me, Paula. #paulacole #90sthrowback #ThisFireAlbum #rerecordings
♬ I Don’t Want to Wait (Artist’s 20th Anniversary Edition) – Paula Cole
Cole draws attention to how outdated exploitative contracts are, leaving artists with little control over their creations. Cole wants to make sure she gets paid fairly for her efforts and original songs. The re-recordings were well received by the audience, who valued the opportunity to hear well-known songs in a new way as well as the act of empowerment.
“If you want to use my songs for your creative work, please consider using my master.”
– Paula Cole (via TikTok)
Fans show their support
Just a little over a day since Paula Cole posted on TikTok about her situation, her Artist Preferred Version of “I Don’t Wanna Wait” is already rising in the ranks of the iTunes Pop Charts. The comments are also filled with positive messages affirming that her fans will support her.
