Sky has confirmed October 19 as the launch date for Sky Songs, its new ad-free streaming service, boasting four million tracks that will also be available for downloading as an MP3 file. The new service will offer customers unlimited streaming and download to own tracks from £6.49 per month. Customers can also purchase additional music on a per-track or per-album basis from 65p and £6.49 respectively.
“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,” said Sky COO Mike Darcey.
Four major music labels, EMI, Sony, Universal and Warner, have all agreed for their new releases and back catalogue to be featured. Universal indicated its involvement in Sky Songs as long ago as July 2008 and in June confirmed its commitment to a similar service operated by Virgin Media.
The move was welcomed by a number of senior music executives including Eric Daugan, SVP, Digital Business, Warner Music Europe, who said Sky had an impressive record in promoting al types of entertainment 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.”
£6.49 per month allows the user to download either a £6.49 album or 10 songs. They also receive unlimited access to listen to over four million songs online for one month. For £7.99 the subscriber can download either a £7.99 album or 15 songs in addition to the online catalogue.
Sky is promoting the launch with a free downloadable album for its broadband customers.
