Pandora and other webcasters who fought for lower royalty rates a few years ago rejoiced when they achieved rates they thought would allow them to achieve profitability, back in 2009.
Pandora is stretching its wings a bit, expanding its stellar recommendation engine beyond just music and into stand-up comedy. Categories range from PG to “working class” to “urban”, or you can sort by a favourite comic.
You already had some music choices with TiVo Premiere – Rhapsody and Music Choice have been available for some time – but now Pandora’s joined the party. Sad news, though, for those of you clinging to your prior-generation TiVos: this app’s for Premiere only.
Hey now, BlackBerry users. Just because that Magnum hasn’t been found in a bar and leaked, doesn’t mean you can’t smile today. Though unless you aren’t in the market for a 2011 Ford Fiesta – you can resume frowning.
We’ve chronicled how Pandora was nearly wiped out by the dickish National Association of Broadcasters, but actually, it’s been a decade-long struggle to survive. Did you know founder Tim Westergreen considered a blackjack tour in Vegas to raise money? [NYT]
Warner Music, one of the four largest record labels, is upset with just how free their music is online, and they’re not talking about piracy: They’re worried about legit, ad-supported services like Last.fm, Spotify and Pandora. Uh oh.
