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MySpace Friends Three Major Labels, Readies Launch of Music Service

April 3, 2008 12:25 PM ET

Looking to compete with digital services like iTunes and Amazon — as well as fend off Facebook's increasing popularity — MySpace announced today that it has deals in place with Sony BMG, Universal and Warner to create MySpace Music, a digital music service that will sell downloads, stream ad-supported music and videos and serve as a storefront to physical goods and concert tickets. The move is in response to Facebook's hookup with iTunes via the iLike feature, allowing users to purchase and stream music, post play lists and update concert information. By striking deals with three of the four major labels (only EMI has not signed on), MySpace Music boasts "the most comprehensive catalogue of music content available online." The service anticipates launching "in the coming months."

Related Stories:
MySpace Plans New Digital Music Service, EMI Plans New MySpace
SonyBMG Sends MySpace a Friend Request, MySpace Accepts
Facebook Ponders Expansion into Music

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Song Stories

“Time to Pretend”

MGMT | 2008

Listening to MGMT’s breakthrough song, one might interpret it as being about the excesses of rock stardom, but it’s actually about the duo’s pet praying mantis. Ben Goldwasser and Andrew VanWyngarden told Rolling Stone they got the idea from the insect's jerky movements. The mantis died, but the two bandmates kept the egg sack and allowed the hundreds of eggs to hatch. “We tried to name them all, but they died after a day,” said Goldwasser, with VanWyngarden chiming in, “But the praying mantis dance inspired us.”

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