Apple backs down after Taylor Swift boycott threat.

Apple has agreed to pay musicians for songs played on its new music streaming service after pop star Taylor Swift threatened to boycott it.

In an open letter to Apple over the weekend, the singer said she was withholding her new record as she was unhappy with the three-month free trial offered to subscribers, which meant artists and producers wouldn't be paid for their material during that time.

Now Apple says it will pay artists for any music streamed during their trial periods.

On hearing the news Taylor Swift tweeted "I am elated and relieved", while Apple's senior vice-president Eddy Cue tweeted "We hear you @taylorswift13 and indie artists. Love, Apple."

Helienne Lindvall, a songwriter, musician and columnist for the Guardian and Digital Music News, told the BBC this development would be welcomed by those in the music industry.