NEW YORK (Hypebot) – eMusic is removing all product from major labels and independents distributed by major labels from its site. The service, one of the first digital music sites to launch way back in 1998, calls it a strategic move to return to is roots with the goal of becoming the premier indie music destination on the web.
In an email to subscribers on Monday morning, eMusic wrote:
“Beginning 1 Oct 2014, the leading download-to-own music retailer will be exiting the mainstream music business and exclusively offering independent music. The company’s goal is to build the most extensive catalogue of independent music in the world.”
Exact plans remain unclear, but eMusic currently offers plans starting at $12 for 24 MP3s a month. That's an impressive deal vs. iTunes. But when compared to unlimited streaming, it seems less competitive.
And while niche genre sites seem to have traction, will fans od the broad indie genre be satisfied with the limited selection,