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Radiohead's Free Downloads Prompt Others

Oasis, Jamiroquai are among those mulling freebie releases

By Colleen Barry, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 10, 2007 4:23 PM CDT

(Newser) – Oasis, Jamiroquai and other bands not tied to record labels may soon follow in Radiohead's footsteps by offering their music for free download, reports the Daily Telegraph. While fans may pay whatever they choose for Radiohead's new album, released today, a spokesperson says the majority of visitors preordering on the band's web site are bypassing the freebie in favor of the £40 box set.

Music downloads have grown from zero in 2003 to a 53 million last year; performers who give away free music expect to make their money from upped sales of concert tickets and merchandise. "Any big name that is out of contract … will now see it as an option," says a Music Week editor.

[Images (5)]

[Videos (1)]

Thom Yorke, lead singer of the British band Radiohead, performs on stage at the 15th Rock Oz'Arenes music festival, in Avenches, Switzerland, in this Aug. 15, 2006, file photo. (AP Photo/Keystone, Laurent... (Associated Press)

Thom Yorke of Radiohead performs part of the band's "Hail to the Thief Tour 2003," at Shoreline Amphitheater in Los Angeles, California, Tuesday, September 23, 2003. (KRT Photos)

Jonny Greenwood of British rock group Radiohead performs. (Getty Images (by Event))

British Pop Star Jay Kay of Jamiroquai, appears at the MTV Video Music Awards Japan in 2005. Jamiroquai is another band considering following Radiohead's independent online distribution model. (Getty Images)

Noel Gallagher of Oasis arrives at Earl's Court Arena in London. Oasis is another British band looking at Radiohead's distribution model as an example. (Getty Images)

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Radiohead's Free Downloads Prompt Others