Online music business to discover future stars

Apr 3 2008 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal

A MUSIC-LOVING entrepreneur is hoping to unearth the rock stars of tomorrow with the launch of a new online business.

Dutchman Dirk Kok, who has lived in the region since graduating from Sunderland University in 2001, has launched IsMyMusic – a web-based service which allows unsigned bands to sell their music to fans via their mobile phones. Unsigned artists using the service can upload their songs to IsMyMusic.com and then direct the audience to download their songs directly to their mobiles during performances by texting the site for £1.50.

Mr Kok said: “Over the years, I have seen so many great bands and innovative musicians who never got the recognition or the return on investment they deserved.

“I got frustrated with the situation and started to think about a service where everyone wins – a mobile ‘iTunes’ platform where bands can expand their promotional reach. That’s how IsMyMusic.com was born.”

Although the business is currently in the start-up phase, Mr Kok believes it is geared for success in the future.

He said: “Last year, a study showed that around 40 million users browsed the mobile internet and downloaded music; the same survey showed that around half of music lovers wished it were easier to purchase music in this way.

“A key part of the market is teenagers, who, on average, do not have a credit card, but do have a mobile phone with credit on it.”

IsMyMusic has already signed up some 60 acts to the service from around the North East including well- known local musician Dave Lynas, a promising Sunderland-based singer/songwriter.

The company is currently testing a service aimed at promoters, which will enable them to accept mobile payments for gig tickets and expand their promotion reach from web to mobile. It will be looking for investors for the service in the coming months.