Pandora is now arguing that free tiers should be killed off, just as Apple did when it prepared to launch its on-demand streaming music service. Both companies are keenly aware that Spotify and YouTube have become the villains, portrayed by musicians as thieves and Nazis. They want to side with artists and labels by avoiding the free tier, but know that it will be tough to catch Spotify if they can’t match its free option.
Source: Pandora cozies up to the music labels as it prepares to take on Spotify | The Verge