Independent Music Finds New Outlet: Chuck D and DMC Launch Beyond.fm

Hip Hop legends Chuck D of Public Enemy, DMC of RUN-DMC and DJ Johnny Juice Rosado teamed up in Las Vegas at the Hard Rock Hotel on January 6, 2008 to launch Beyond.fm. The launch event coincided with the kick-off of the 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held from January 7 through 10 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Beyond.fm calls itself a "fresh, inspiring and well-timed concept for exposing digital content to the masses and allowing artists, musicians and photographers to create awareness and new-found revenue streams." Beyond.fm allows users to discover and purchase (for personal use) or license (for commercial use) music, music videos, photography and podcasts/radio programming. For each song, video, photo and podcast sold through Beyond.fm, the musician receives 80%. All music purchased from Beyond.fm downloads in CD Quality (320 kbps) MP3 format. Beyond.fm says this allows the musician to take business into his/her own hands and go "beyond" the traditional record label model and markets their full assets directly to the consumer including music, ringtones, videos, photos, stories, podcasts, live events, charity events, electronics, etc.

Beyond.fm content includes music by Chuck D, DMC, The Cold Crush Brothers, the entire Strong City catalog courtesy of the Original Jazzy Jay, Crew Grrl Order, DJ Johnny Juice, Busy Bee, X-Vandals, Masters of Ceremony, Ultimate Force and more, plus photos by Ernie Paniccioli. Selections include the James Brown Tribute album by Chuck D and the Peeps of SOULFunk as well as radio shows by DJ Tony Tone, Wildman Steve, DJ Johnny Juice and more. Beyond.fm is powered by its parent company Media Street, Inc. For more information, please visit: MediaStreet.com.