Universal & Sony to wipe out release window
News: 18th January 2011 by Louise Dodgson under Record Labels, Selling & Distributing Your Music
With effect from next month, major labels Universal and Sony will be putting a new policy into play; one that hopefully help cut down on music piracy. Traditionally, singles and albums are promoted via radio airplays in the run up to their release date, up to 6 weeks in advance. But as from February both these labels will be releasing their artist's material for radio airplay and for sale on the same day, therefore greatly eliminating leaks and illegal copies, therefore hopefully increasing sales.
Research carried out has shown that online searches for specific tracks via Google and iTunes were at their highest 2 weeks prior to the release date. It seems we, the public, are no longer able to wait patiently and desire instant gratification when it comes to music we want to hear. Overall, this change should transpire to be a great development for the music industry so here's hoping other labels follow suit in the near future.
Related Links
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2011/jan/16/universal-sony-music-singles-release
http://www.thecmuwebsite.com/article/universal-and-sony-close-%E2%80%98release-window%E2%80%99/
Tags
universal records, sony music, major labels, record companies, record labels, music streaming, radio airplay, music sales
