Apple’s Jimmy Iovine Announces Beats1, a 24-Hour Live Worldwide Radio Station
The Birth of a Revolutionary Idea
At WWDC15 today, Apple’s Jimmy Iovine announced the launch of Beats1, the world’s first ever live worldwide 24-hour radio station. This groundbreaking initiative is set to revolutionize the way we experience music and will be available exclusively on Apple Music.
According to Iovine, the idea for Beats1 was sparked by a conversation with Trent Reznor, who said, "I got it. Let’s create the world’s first 24/7 radio station." Iovine recalled the moment, saying, "He called me up and said that. And I said… ‘Why do artists always have the craziest ideas that are so hard to execute? But wait a second, that’s why we’re at Apple!’"
A Station Led by Music Itself
Iovine explained the concept behind Beats1, stating, "Broadcast from 3 cities; not based on algorithms, not based on drum beats. A station that only has one master: music itself." This unique approach to radio will bring together a diverse range of artists and genres, providing listeners with a truly immersive experience.
Global Reach and Local Touch
Beats1 will broadcast the same sound from London, Los Angeles, and New York City out to over 100 cities throughout the world. The station will be led by former Radio 1 DJ Zane Lowe, who will be broadcasting from L.A., along with DJs Ebro Darden in New York and Julie Adenuga in London.
The team at Beats1 is committed to delivering exclusive interviews and guest hosts, providing listeners with a dynamic and engaging experience. With its global reach and local touch, Beats1 promises to bring people together through the power of music.
A Year-Long Process
The creation of Beats1 has been a year-long process, involving high-profile DJs from around the world. Iovine explained that this initiative is part of Apple’s efforts to create an Apple Music-streaming service, which will compete with established players such as Spotify, Pandora, and Rdio.
A New Era for iTunes Radio
Iovine has also revamped iTunes Radio, bringing it in line with the new Beats1 station. This revamp marks a significant shift towards creating a more engaging and personalized music experience for users.
Exclusive Content and Features
Beats1 will offer a range of exclusive content and features, including live performances, interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights into the music industry. With its commitment to delivering high-quality content, Beats1 is set to become a go-to destination for music lovers around the world.
Availability and Pricing
Apple Music subscribers can access Beats1 starting June 30th, with a monthly fee of $9.99 or a family plan for $14.99 per month. This makes it an affordable option for music enthusiasts who want to experience the best in live radio.
Conclusion
Beats1 is a revolutionary new initiative that promises to change the way we experience music. With its global reach, local touch, and commitment to delivering exclusive content, this 24-hour live worldwide radio station is set to become a must-listen destination for music lovers around the world.