Forever, it seems, Apple’s iTunes has served as the front-runner in the digital music arena. Indeed, for many, the firm are majorly responsible for de-criminalising the notion of “music online”, using their marketing muscle to transform it into one of the most integral aspects of the modern music industry.
It’s only natural, then, that company after company would arise, positing an “iTunes-killer”. Yet, one gaze across the digital wasteland reveals gravestones for each one. And while some have escaped such fate (see: Amazon), Apple remain perched atop of the pack.
Not for much longer, if Google have their way.
Full story after jump…
Not content with essentially owning the internet at large, the big G threw their hat into the online music arena last month with the launch of Google Music.
Hailed for comprising the best of iTunes and Spotify, the service serves as both an online streaming tool as well as a music store. Users can also store up to 20,000 songs on a cloud-like service, which automatically makes their music available on their desktop and Android devices.
Sounds great, but somewhat expected, right?
Well, in an unprecedented move, the muti-national are taking advantage of Soundscan’s latest regulations, which establish that songs sold for less than $0.39 will not count towards the Billboard tally (with the album threshold being $3.49).
As such, the firm announced new pricing which sees over 10 million songs made available at $0.49 and over half a million albums sold for $4.99. (Sony Music artists, however, will see their songs remain at a traditional price point of $1.29)
Blockbuster on many a front, the price slash sees Google make a direct beeline for Apple’s market share by selling the same songs and albums for half the price; all the while remaining credible in that purchases from its store will still count towards the charts.
And to think we assumed it was just the artists and labels getting their claws out. Interesting times certainly lay ahead.
[polldaddy poll=”5794549″]
This will certainly be interesting and let’s see how that will help artists sell in 2012….I thinks it a good marketing plan but why does Sony music say @ $1.29 though?
WE DON’T STAN FOR BIRDS.
December 22, 2011 at 6:06 pm
Actually We Found Love AND The One That Got Away are being sold for the same price.Not here for hypocritical Rih stans or Bloggers who refuse to include ALL the info.
Amazon lowered prices to compete with Google,NOT because Gaga’s single was flopping.
Try again,Sam
______________________________________________________________
I TOLD Y’ALL Amazon slashed prices at $.49 on a majority of their Top 100 downloads to compete with Google’s music service.
😕
Sam,you really need to BACKTRACK the words you said here,you MESSY ASS BLOGGER
http://thatgrapejuice.net/2011/12/amazon-slash-price-lady-gagas-marry-night-bid-boost-ailing-sales/
Ohhhh could be good!
@istann4gaga
Tell slow people how it is! 🙂
Anyway, to be honest I only buy “physical” music, I like to have my physical albums. Never used itunes to buy anything
I don’t get this move… How is there going to be revenue for everyone involved at such a low price?! Not that I’m complaining, artist earn way too much money for what they do…
who cares? I can get it for free ..
BYE
i tunes is getting competition
OMG beyonce is set to give birth today ….check it out http://bit.ly/otCOIh
Check out my version of “Marvin’s Room” By Drake! I call it “Dani’s Room”! Click the link below to watch! #supportupcomingtalent @DaniJMusic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4RYghF1XGY&sns
Who posted this? Google Music’s website actually says that this is a limited time promotion.
Ive an iphone not android so for me aint a damn thing changed but hol up wait Bey is signed to Sony… Aww booboo 🙁
OMG beyonce is set to give birth today ….check it out http://bit.ly/otCOIh
Sad thing about it is, Billboard doesn’t recognize singles sold for .49 cent
Wil u stop with this Bey is about yo give birth nonsense. Its funny how mediafakeout is the one starting this BS. One minute they say she’s faking her pregnancy next she’s about to give birth. Anything for them hits
my favorite unreleased Brandy songs are Freedom, List, one thing, porcelain doll, believer, too little too late (solo), stand back, maximum risk, bet u didnt know, and feels so good oh and today
And once again I cannot benefit being from Jamaica.
None of these Music Stores are available to non US residents. Not Amazon, not iTunes and now once again not Google Music.
Sigh…so until I can purchase…