Sky moves into download music market

Published on Sunday 11 October 2009 22:24

SKY is set to stretch its media and entertainment empire by tuning into a new medium.

The Rupert Murdoch-owned corporation is launching a bid to conquer the growing online music market.

More than four million music tracks will be offered with advert-free streaming and MP3 downloads through Sky Songs, to be available via monthly subscription.

Mike Darcey, Sky's chief operating officer, said: "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."

The move comes in the wake of the success of iTunes and Spotify – the latter offers free music on demand with adverts or an ad-free service for 10 a month.

To celebrate the launch, all Sky broadband customers accessing the site will get a free downloadable album worth 6.49.

The Sky service launches later this month boasting back catalogues from major music labels, including EMI, Sony, Universal and Warner, plus a comprehensive range of independents.

The service, available from 19 October, will cost from 6.49 a month and offers customers the opportunity to buy music track-by-track or complete albums.