Many artists were told to shorten their songs or at least produce radio versions, and that was part of the contract. At least according to the film Bohemian Rap

Many artists were told to shorten their songs or at least produce radio versions, and that was part of the contract. At least according to the film Bohemian Raphsody, Queen was faced with such a predicament - now imagine if they had been weaker willed (though still the kind of artist you might give a shit about)... Money (and security required for the lack of it) is unfortunately a big incentive in society's producton of art, and one look at the "culture industry" tells you more than you need to know.