MySpace launches new music program

Currently only available to US users, MySpace is hoping the new service will draw users by offering exclusive video and audio content from artists, and is offering incentives for those artists to, in effect, "sign with MySpace."

Participants will be able to upload videos for viral distribution, or sell exclusive tracks directly to the consumer.

Examples of the new service's features include exclusive behind-the-scenes looks at use's favorite artists, or a Q&A session with fans. For example the first artist to agree to use the service, James Blunt, will use Transmissions to sell five tracks recorded exclusively for MySpace directly to fans.

The site plans to promote content through the Transmissions profile as well as MySpaceTV.  

Users will be able to share the content with others through their own profiles on the network. In addition, tracks could be made available through a user's page, similar to what Blunt is doing.

Additional artists that would participate in Transmissions will be announced in the coming weeks, the company stated this morning.

 “Transmissions takes our existing music programming to the next level by creating a unique way to expose users to exclusive content while empowering artists and labels with a new way to generate revenue on MySpace,” said Josh Brooks, VP of Programming and Content for MySpace. “We’re committed to working with all stakeholders in the industry to develop monetization structures that work for labels, bands, and fans. Stay tuned—this is the tip of the iceberg in the evolution of MySpace Music.”