(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Electronic Arts is teaming up with Nettwerk Music Group to launch EA Recordings, a groundbreaking digital music distribution label that will bring EA's rich catalogue of wholly-owned musical compositions and remixes to Digital Service Providers (DSPs) worldwide. An industry first, this initiative will deliver music clips from blockbuster EA games as ringtones, mastertones or in .mp3 format to online download destinations including Apple iTunes, MSN, Yahoo Music, AOL Music, Rhapsody and others.
This agreement marks EA and Nettwerk's recognition that music lovers and game fans are consuming digital media in a multi-disciplinary manner. EA is the first interactive entertainment company to sell its catalogue of music in digital download format via exclusive partnership with a leading music group.
The partnership complements Next Level Music, EA's joint venture with Cherry Lane Music Publishing since that project is focused on signing artists and licensing EA music to TV, movies and commercials, while the agreement with Nettwerk is focused on direct-to-consumer online music sales.
"Audiences today are media masters–they listen, play, download, watch and basically devour their entertainment in revolutionary new ways. They demand that the technology keep pace. This deal is a triumphant new commitment to making classic EA music and themes available to millions worldwide," said Steve Schnur, worldwide executive of Music and Music Marketing at EA. "We are proud to be on the cutting-edge of this trend with Nettwerk–an innovative and proven partner that is a world leader in digital music distribution."
"We've entered a new age where video games are arguably more powerful than the radio when it comes to exposing audiences to music. Nettwerk could not be more thrilled to partner with today's most respected and exciting gaming brand, on the cusp and ahead of the curve," said Terry McBride, CEO, Nettwerk Music Group. "We look forward to delivering EA's bold themes and soundtracks to both gaming fans and music lovers alike."
Over the past 20 years, EA has amassed over 3,000 minutes of wholly-owned musical compositions which have been featured in blockbuster game franchises such as Medal of Honor and The Sims as well as sports games such as NBA LIVE basketball and NASCAR racing. Unforgettable orchestral works have been produced by such award-winning composers as Sean Callery, Michael Giacchino, Chris Lennertz, Trevor Jones and Mark Mothersbaugh. Game beats have been produced by such artists as Da Riffs and Just Blaze while original songs and remixes have been custom-cut by Paul Oakenfold and others. –Bob Grossweiner and Jane Cohen
