Last month, a rumor claimed that Amazon could be preparing to launch its own streaming music service in June or July. Now that rumor has gotten a big boost of support thanks to a report from the New York Times.

Sources speaking to the NYT claim that Amazon could launch its music streaming service as early as this week. Those tipsters corroborate details of the service that we previously heard about, namely that it will give Amazon Prime subscribers access to a catalog of ad-free music but that it will “omit most new releases.” Additionally, it’s said that Universal Music Group’s music will not be included. Some of the artists signed to UMG are 50 Cent, Lady Gaga and U2.

Amazon has reportedly been in negotiations with music labels regarding this service for the past 6 months. Several music companies felt that Amazon’s royalties were too low, but eventually major labels like Sony and Warner Music signed on.

While it’s kind of a bummer that Amazon’s streaming service will lack current hits and music from artists on Universal Music Group, the free tunes will still be a nice add-on for Amazon Prime. Not only will existing subscribers get another perk, but those folks that aren’t yet Prime members could be swayed by the ability to stream thousands of songs for no extra charge.

Are you currently an Amazon Prime member? If not, will this music streaming service convince you to sign up?

Via New York Times