'American Idol' Goes To The Web Online

LOS ANGELES (FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide/ www.fluidaudio.com) - Fluid Audio Networks, a Los Angeles based Internet company, and FremantleMedia Licensing Worldwide, Americas (FLW, Americas), the US licensing division of FremantleMedia, co-producer and licensor of American Idol, announced today the launch of the first ever online incarnation of American Idol - American Idol Underground (https://www.idolunderground.com).
American Idol Underground will bring American Idol to an Internet audience by offering talent competitions in a number of different music genres, including pop, rock, country, R&B, classical, jazz, spoken word and rap. The announcement was made at Licensing Show 2005 in New York.

"Fluid Audio is providing an entirely new format for aspiring American Idols to make their dream a reality," said Keith Hindle, Vice President, Integrated Marketing and Interactive for FLW, Americas. "We anticipate that American Idol Underground will become one of the most talked-about online services and a highly trafficked site in the coming year."

The American Idol Underground website, which will launch later this year, will be powered by Fluid Audio's proprietary self-publishing software. Musicians will directly upload their music to one of thirteen genre specific music channels for review by internet listeners and celebrity judges.
"After developing the technology our main objective was partnering with the premier entertainment brands; American Idol represents the holy grail of entertainment brands and FremantleMedia's support has been fantastic," said Justin Beckett, CEO and founder of Fluid Audio Networks. "Whether they're looking for a recording contract or just to get their music heard, this service will give musicians from every genre the platform to reach the masses like only American Idol can."
Specific details about the contests will be disclosed closer to its official launch in late 2005, but those interested can sign up at https://www.idolunderground.com to receive periodic e-mail updates about contest timing, prize packages and more!