BBC News technology show Click featured an item about the new We7 website, which provides legal free downloads and pays the artists! It is reported to be launching next month, but the beta version is on line now, with a very limited number of tracks.
This page explains how it works but briefly, when you download an MP3, there is a 10-second ad at the start; after four weeks you can choose to delete the ad and the tune is yours free, to handle as you wish. If you just can't stand ads you can download the tune "at the normal price".
The interview with Peter Gabriel, the ex-Genesis star who is backing the project, can be seen
here (Click on Web Specials - Peter Gabriel) where he explains why he is so committed to DRM-free downloads as well as talking about his musical life and projects. The interview video is over 23 minutes long but I found it fascinating.
How We7 works for the artist:
QUOTE
We7 shares the money that is made from the ads that are embedded with downloaded music and videos. Unlike P2P piracy sites, we respect your Intellectual Property and your contribution to the world of entertainment. For free music downloaded from our site, the split is typically 50/50 between you and the rights owner, after costs.
Be interested to hear from our musicians...
