Cumulus Media Inc. has announced a partnership with digital music service Rdio. In exchange for a significant stake in Rdio’s parent company Pulser Media, Cumulus will provide Rdio with exclusive content and advertising promotions over a five year period. Additionally, Rdio will use the Cumulus sales model to monetize ad-supported free products, like music on-demand, custom playlists and content formed by Cumulus.
“This partnership leverages our premier broadcast and content assets along with Rdio’s acclaimed digital audio platform – enabling consumers to listen to whatever they want, whenever they want, however they want,” said Cumulus CEO Lew Dickey.
Founded by the co-creator of Skype, Rdio allows users to build digital music collections and play and share more than 20 million songs. The service has received praise from media outlets ranging from Mashable to The New York Times.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Cumulus and their robust network of radio stations and premium content,” said Rdio CEO Drew Larner. “This monumental deal is the first time a digital and a broadcast platform have come together in this way and we’re eager to bring the Rdio experience to the greater Cumulus listening audience.”
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Michael Smith is the Operations Manager at MusicRow Enterprises, where he works in the sales and editorial departments, and manages MusicRow's CountryBreakout Chart. He holds a BA from Vanderbilt University. Please send feedback to msmith@musicrow.comView Author Profile
