An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for the velocity proportional clocking of time base servo tape storage devices. The apparatus, system, and method allow the velocity of time base servo tape storage devices to be adjusted and maintained by adjusting the frequency of a clock. In one embodiment, a velocity command is received and the clock signal frequency is varied in response to the command. A feedback control signal may then be produced to control the velocity of a time base servo device in response to the clock signal frequency, the feedback control signal being used to vary the velocity of a servo motor. In one embodiment, the velocity of the servo motor varies directly proportionate to the clock signal frequency.