Clear Channel Entertainment confirmed to CelebrityAccess they are in the final stage of the developmental phase in offering concert fans after-concert CDs as they leave the venue. Steve Simon, executive vice president of CCE's music group, says the project is one of several new artist-based initiatives the company is working on.
"This project will enhance the concert experience for fans, provide a new revenue source for artists and an alternative to piracy," he explained. "Our infrastructure, our technology, our position as a promoter/venue owner and a partnership with a major national retailer will make our program unique. I have read something that suggests we will not be doing this with touring acts and I have no idea where that supposition came from.
In response to a similar initiative recently announced by upstart DiscLive (CelebrityAccess, February 12, 2002), Simon says, "Competition is a good thing and challenges us all to be our best."
Clear Channel plans to officially announce this new service shortly.