Net radio gives Alanis her own station
Radio Free Virgin teams with Alanis Morissette to launch a channel featuring songs by the musician, including tracks from her new album, "Under Rug Swept."
Dubbed AlanisRadio, the new channel also will deliver interview clips and songs from Morissette's favorite artists via a free digital player people can download at Radio Free Virgin's Web site. Morissette's new album is due in stores Feb. 26.
The launch is the latest move by Radio Free Virgin to create a role for itself in the anticipated new era of paid music services. Over the past year, the company has fostered partnerships with companies including RioPort, which is preparing a music subscriptions service. In addition, Radio Free Virgin has disengaged a record feature on its digital media player in an attempt to show the music industry it will protect artists' rights.
Analysts, however, say such deals may be a push to increase the company's profile.
"Online radio is not quite there yet," Jupiter Media Metrix analyst Aram Sinnreich said. "For most online radio providers, Radio Free Virgin included...what they're looking for is kind of ancillary business models like promotional uses that will help them raise their profile without necessarily increasing the costs associated with their business."
Radio Free Virgin has been forced to find other ways to reduce costs. In October, the Los Angeles-based company cut its staff nearly in half.
Despite such trials, the company said it is confident its new online radio channel will attract attention.
"AlanisRadio is a great example of Radio Free Virgin's deep dedication to music, recording artists, and our listeners," Zack Zalon, general manager of Radio Free Virgin, said in a statement.