One of the most influential bands in the history of music is noticeably absent from the world of iTunes. The Beatles have repeatedly resisted entering the digital age which would allow their songs to be sold individually. The band continues to distribute its remastered collection the old-fashioned way on CDs.
Apple Corps is a holding company made up of four partners, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Yoko Ono (John Lennon’s widow) and Olivia Harrison (George Harrison’s widow). The company has so far been unable to reach a deal with iTunes owner Apple Inc.
Yoko Ono offered vague comments to Reuters: "[Apple CEO] Steve Jobs has his own idea and he’s a brilliant guy. There’s just an element that we’re not very happy about, as people. We are holding out. Don’t hold your breath … for anything!"
Fans are managing to get their Beatles fix online. Sources estimate that 100 million Beatles tunes are downloaded every year for free from music sharing sites.