For those who remember the long and painful MuxTape saga, it may seem that another attempt to emulate the popular mixtape site would be a hopeless cause, but 8tracks is hoping for a new angle on the old idea. Users upload or select songs from the existing online library and create a playlist of 8 tracks, which totals about 30 minutes of curated music. At the heart of the site there is the understanding that music fans can create innovative playlists that lead similar listeners to new and interesting selections. Be sure to check out their tumblr and twitter sites.
8tracks does allow users to search the database, which Muxtape never allowed, but very unlike Muxtape they plan to pay small-broadcaster royalties to please the RIAA.
[Image via DG Jones on Flickr]
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Hi Nicko,
Thanks for the coverage! We’re excited about our progress. We appreciate the comparison b/c Muxtape rocked but 8tracks has been over 2 years in planning and takes many cues (including its licensing) from the originator in this user-programmed playlists sector, called Live365 (I worked at Live365 2000-06).
The basic gist on the licensing is that we have to conform to a set of rules established for internet radio by US law, the spirit of which is to ensure that the streaming promotes sales (i.e. is consumed just like “regular” radio).
Happy to field questions on 8tracks anytime! Thx again : )
January 13th, 2009 at 4:50 pm