The jukebox goes back to the future

16 October 2015 - 02:47 By Reuters

A British start-up has launched a music streaming service dubbed the Electric Jukebox that, for an annual fee, plugs into the back of a television set for music fans who do not want to fiddle with app-based monthly subscription services. Offering millions of songs and curated music channels, the service is designed to enable listeners to discover a wide range of music without the need for a laptop or smartphone, potentially appealing to older consumers.Ever since illegal downloads destroyed the traditional model of selling music via CDs, the music industry has been trying to find new ways to sell songs, either via streaming services such as Spotify, single-sale downloads via the likes of Apple or ad-funded video sites like YouTube."We want to bring music back into people's living rooms," said Rob Lewis, CEO of Electric Jukebox Company."Rather than huddling around a laptop or smartphone to play music or being forced to rely on old CDs and radio, we've created a music device that is simple and easy to use and which works straight out of the box."The new service, which will consist of a plug that goes into the back of a TV and a controller, is being backed by many industry heavyweights, including the former heads of Warner Music, EMI Music and the former manager of U2.Rock stars Sheryl Crow and Robbie Williams and comedian Stephen Fry will be some of the entertainers sharing their music on the service. ..

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