New York Times: In a bid to widen significantly the audience for concerts and live events, America Online and XM Satellite Radio are backing a venture that will deliver live performances to Internet, satellite and wireless customers and through other media.
The venture is expected to start offering its performances this fall. Many of them will originate from arenas and theaters owned by the AEG division of the Anschutz Company, a concert promoter that also holds a stake in the venture. Kevin Wall, executive producer of broadcasts of the multicity Live 8 concert this month calling for aid to Africa, will run the new venture, Network Live.
Mr. Wall, former vice chairman of the Internet services company iXL Enterprises, said AEG was aiming to offer up to 40 concerts from major acts this year and develop its own brand-name series, which could then be distributed or downloaded to an array of devices.
The company plans to generate revenue by licensing its events to various distributors, including AOL and XM, and by selling advertising and corporate sponsorships tied to its concerts, Mr. Wall said.
