Edel Music Teams up with Napster

Edel Music AG (www.edel.com), the world's second-largest independent music label, has joined forces with Napster ( www.napster.com) and will allow the master recordings and musical compositions it owns or controls to be used for file sharing under the new service Napster is offering.

"We are very happy to be working with edel as we evolve toward our new model," said Hank Barry, chief executive officer of Napster. "We are delighted that a progressive and successful label like edel has stepped forward and recognized that the interests of music lovers and music makers are both enhanced by the service that Napster is developing."

Edel will advise Napster as part of the company's ongoing effort to address the concerns of artists, songwriters, and record and publishing companies. Edel will also work with Napster to promote acceptance of the new membership-based business model of Napster. In addition, beginning in February 2001, selected edel artists will be promoted through Napster's Featured Music Program, a feature that helps the Napster users discover new music and artists.

"This is a very logical step for a company like ours," said Michael Haentjes, chief executive officer of edel. "We have embraced the Internet, which offers the music industry new and exciting ways to reach a growing, global audience."

In October 2000, music giant BMG formed an alliance with Napster to start a music membership service.