British rock bands Radiohead, Oasis, and Jamiroquai are reportedly considering to offer their music for free through internet, challenging the disc labels.
Radiohead was the first band to make such a move when it announced last week
that it would start accepting pre-orders for the band's new album, through the band's
official website. The album will be available for downloading for free, or optionally for just 45p (UK) through their credit card.
The move is This isn't the first time that an artist has opted to charge nothing for an album, but the move is significant because Radiohead remains one of the biggest bands in the world. The album is also available separately as part of a box-set which includes the album on CD, two vinyl records, a CD with additional songs, photos, artwork and lyrics.
Jamiroquai and Oasis, two major names, are rumored to be considering following Radiohead by offering work for free, according to industry sources.
Note that all the aforementioned British bands are not contracted to a record labels. In addition, the specific bands were massive during the 90s years. Although they are still considered as major bands, giving away their music for free could help them regain popularity. The bands believe that merchandise and concert tickets will make up for giving away the free album for free.