Rather than an iTunes-style database, Live Nation's MP3 store will route fans to artist pages somewhat similar to the ones found on MySpace.
The deal represents another major label move away from DRM, but it also strengthens Live Nation's position as a one-stop-shop for all things relating to its artists. With deals worth hundreds of millions of dollars with high-flying artists like U2, Jay-Z, Nickelback and Madonna, the Ticketmaster contract set to expire in December and plans to launch its own ticketing service that will include one of Ticketmaster's biggest former clients, the company now handles everything from merchandise to show tickets to distribution. Add to that list, “DRM-free music store."
Essentially, Live Nation is turning into a microcosm of the music business at large. If you're a fan of one of its bands, you're going to spend money on them eventually, whether its a concert ticket, a T-shirt, a CD, fan club access to exclusive “VIP" content, an MP3 from an artist page or whatever. And when you do, Live Nation will be there to take a slice of the pie -- a savvy business strategy when no one knows for sure where the bulk of music revenue is going to come from.
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