Sky is to launch Sky Songs, an online music service offering access to over four million tracks for download and ad-free streaming.
Every track is available via unlimited online streaming, and as mp3 files that can be downloaded and stored forever, for use on any mp3 compatible device. The service, which launches on the 19th October 2009, will be available to any consumer in the UK with an active broadband connection.
The service launches with new releases and back catalogues from every major music label (EMI, Sony, Universal and Warner) plus a comprehensive range of independent labels and distributors.
Sky Songs offers users unlimited streaming, plus download-to-own tracks and albums from £6.49 a month. Customers can also purchase additional music on a per-track or per-album basis from 65p and £6.49 respectively.
There are two subscription options available:
- pay £6.49 and download either a £6.49 album or 10 songs, and receive unlimited access to listen to over four million songs online for one month; or
- pay £7.99 and download either a £7.99 album or 15 songs, and receive unlimited access to listen to over four million songs online for one month.
To celebrate the launch, all Sky broadband customers who access the site will receive a free downloadable album worth £6.49.
The service will be available at: http://songs.sky.com/
Mike Darcey, Sky’s Chief Operating Officer, comments: “Our music partners bring an outstanding catalogue and unrivalled expertise that complements Sky’s strengths in content distribution. Sky Songs will reach out to consumers who want legitimate digital services offering choice, ease of use and great value. Offering legal access to digital music is a vital step in combating illegal downloading. ”
Eric Daugan, SVP, Digital Business, Warner Music Europe, said “Sky has an impressive track record in engaging fans of all kinds of entertainment with compelling, easy-to-use services. This flexible music platform offers access to unlimited music as well as premium fan-oriented content, whilst ensuring our roster of artists are appropriately rewarded for their creativity.”
Graeme Ferguson, SVP Digital & Strategic Partnerships, Sony Music UK, adds: "We welcome Sky’s compelling new broadband music service - our repertoire together with Sky's expertise in marketing content will be very attractive to consumers.”
Andria Vidler, President, EMI Music UK & Ireland, adds: “Sky has proven expertise in running first class consumer services and we welcome their entry into the music market. The widespread adoption of DRM-free downloads has helped drive new digital music services and with Sky’s launch we have another major player who will help our artists and their music reach an ever wider audience.”
Adrian Pope, Director of Digital & Business Development, [PIAS] Entertainment Group adds: “The entry of Sky into the market represents an exciting development not least as their market presence and understanding of a successful user experience has the potential to provide a truly compelling service”.
Andrew Shaw, MD Broadcast, Online & Recorded Media PRS for Music adds: “Any new legal music service is good news for creators and music consumers; by licensing Sky Songs we ensure the writers, composers and publishers we represent are rewarded when their music is enjoyed. Sky Songs is another example of how digital service providers and the music industry can work together to bring choice to music lovers and return royalties to creators.
