Xbox 360 Gains Epic Records Support News

Microsoft today made its first major step into the world of downloadable digital entertainment, heralding the start of a new era of content for the Xbox 360, with the announcement of an agreement with Epic Records.

A full year of exclusive artist content and high-definition music downloads will be available free for all Xbox 360 gamers. Over the course of the year, Microsoft and Epic will showcase 12 up-and-coming artists through the "Artist of the Month" programme via Xbox Live, dubbed the first and only unified global online entertainment network.

Natasha Bedingfield is set to kickstart the new service, having recently enjoyed some success on the US Top 40 Mainstream Airplay chart and iTunes. Starting from today, Bedingfield's video for "Unwritten" can be downloaded for free from Xbox Live, whilst a sweepstake later in the month will provide one person the opportunity to see whether she can hold her own with a pad during April's Game with Fame session.

"Our goal has always been to make Xbox Live a cutting-edge entertainment experience," said Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business at Microsoft. "This agreement with Epic Records offers our members exclusive artistic content directly from the source. With Artist of the Month we will be providing exactly what music-loving gamers want: brand-new, exclusive music videos that can be downloaded quickly, easily and free of charge."

"The fusion of music and video games now plays a significant role in breaking artists and enhancing the video game experience; the cross- cultivation of the two mediums helps new games and new artists thrive together," said Charlie Walk, president of Epic Records. "Through this alliance, Epic and Xbox show that we are in one business -- exciting young adults and leading them to the art of discovery."

"This program really taps into the passion and excitement that surround both video gaming and music," said Cory Llewellyn, vice president of Epic Records Digital Marketing and Promotion. "We are excited to bring our strong roster of developing artists together with Xbox Live for a variety of great experiences for consumers."

Whether this service will make it across to Europe remains to be seen, however expect further information to filter through soon...