The Rap Genius licensing issue that took until 2014 [1] will be interesting with Google going after this space. Since Rap Genius seemed to get off the hook [2] with Google "easier" then others.

I imagine Google can offer better terms and/or soft-velvet glove (traffic) then Rap Genius.

I only bring up Rap Genius, because they seem to have taken over (admirable) as the foremost lyrics site.

[1] http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/07/business/media/rap-genius-...

[2] https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=6957463

> Won't rights owners try to sue Google the same way they whine about lyrics sites?

How do you know that Google hasn't acquired the rights to use the lyrics for promotional purposes for sale of the song and the Google Play Music service as part of the whole package of getting the songs on Google Play in the first place?