It's hardly news that the music industry has been imploding. But a few recent events point out just how weakened the traditional marketing and distribution platforms have become.
Later this week, Guns N Roses long-delayed album Chinese Democracy will be released exclusively via Best Buy. In the meantime, fans can stream the new album on the GNR myspace page. Metal band AC/DC struck a similar exclusive deal to sell their latest CD via Wal-Mart.
NPR has gotten into the game, with upcoming exclusive previews of a new CD from Paul McCartney and a 1968 live recording from Neil Young. When I read about the McCartney release, I clicked into the NPR page and was surprised at the depth of the NPR music site. I'm an NPR fan but really hadn't explored this part of their website previously. There's a great amount of content on the site including a mix of alternative, international and classic rock and jazz.
The music industry continues to evolve. And while it may not be healthy for the traditional players in the music industry, it seems to be pretty good for the consumer.
