The joint venture, known as Network Live, was born as a result of the broadcasting success of the recent Live 8 concerts. Kevin Wall, who produced the fundraising event, will head up the new company.
Network Live will stream live music and comedy performances, some of which will originate from AEG-owned venues around the world, and will be offered to America Online’s (AOL) web customers and XM Satellite Radio subscribers.
As Live 8 proved, this is a new era for live entertainment on the web, said Jon Miller, CEO of AOL. This venture taps into the immediacy of the internet for live shows and live shows on demand. Network Live will enhance the standout video programming lineup that we are now providing free on the web through the AOL.com portal.
Reports claim the new company will aim to secure exclusive access to various entertainment events, and will generate revenue by licensing its programs to distributors such as AOL and XM and by selling advertising space. It will not, however, charge users a separate fee to view the shows.
