It bugs the hell out of me when the biggest artists in the world (or their representatives) refuse to embrace the Internet. Go on, try to watch a video of Madonna’s collaboration with Justin Timberlake on the web – you’ll find it hard to locate one.

As fast as helpful music fans put the video on YouTube, Warner and the YouTube admins are pulling them down. Sure, there’s an official version available, but guess what? It’s not available in my country.

Last time I looked, it was the 21st Century and the Internet had rendered phased releases in different countries impossible. No, irrelevant.

Now, if I could be bothered, I’m sure there are plenty of copies available through less legal channels. Fact is, Madonna isn’t really on my radar, so I won’t waste my time. I could be telling you what I think of the new single right now, but someone doesn’t want people on the Internet talking about her music.

Who’s the brainiac behind this anti-marketing decision? Is it Madonna or is it Warner Music? You’d like to blame the record company, but face it: Madonna is a major established artist. You have to assume that the buck stops with her when it comes to these types of decisions.

So, dear Madonna, would you please explain what your grudge is against the Internet? And why can’t I, in my remote corner of the UK, watch your stupid video?*

* I’ve seen it, by the way. You can’t police every corner of the Internet, dearie. But nice to see a poker company is making a fast buck out of your video.

[Bonus link: Idolator have some good commentary on the new Madonna/JT single. I won't be wasting my money on it.]