Electric Jukebox launches, streams millions of songs through TV sets

UK streaming platform Electric Jukebox has finally launched, allowing users to stream music via their TV without a subscription fee.

Initially availably only in the UK, it offers a new streaming subscription model, and aimed at those who find the streaming process difficult. Users merely buy a stick-in device £169 (A$274.20) which plugs directly into their TV sets.

It provides access to 29 million songs from all major and leading independent labels, including Universal, Sony, Warner, Merlin, PIAS, Believe Digital and InGrooves. It also has all the major publishers, including Universal Music Publishing Group, Sony/ATV, and Warner/Chappell Music.

It means users are confined to their home, unlike those using its rival services as Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer and Tidal. But the appeal is that, aimed at casual streamers, it offers the same amount of songs as Spotify at half the price.

Rob Lewis, CEO of Electric Jukebox’s parent company Magic Works points out that only 8% of UK consumers subscribe to streaming services because they find the process expensive and complicated. Electric Jukebox was set up for the other 92% who want something at home and is simple to use as their radio or CD player.

So to take things back to the basics, Electric Jukebox has removed obstacles as user accounts and passwords, downloading apps and complicated multi-function interfaces. You can’t share playlists or sync with your phone.

Lewis, said, “Britain has always been at the centre of making music. Now we can be at the centre of a new music revolution. Just plug in, connect to Wi-Fi and play. No subscription, no hassle.”

For those wanting to stream without ads, there’s a free Premium Music Pass for a year. Further passes will cost £52 ($84.35) a year.

Electric Jukebox was launched a year ago at a glitzy event, with endorsements from Robbie Williams, Stephen Fry and Sheryl Crow, all of whom are shareholders.

It has taken 12 months to put in software and financial agreements in place to assist with integration in countries outside the UK. An Australian release is expected in 2017.