Emmis Interactive and Broadcast Electronics (BE) announced a partnership to offer a next generation iTunes song tagging solution for the radio industry. The partnership leverages BE’s data management studio system with Emmis Interactive’s new proprietary tag management system, TagStation.
TagStation is a web-based application that empowers broadcasters with an easy-to-use system to manage their iTunes tagging for accurate song matching. It easily integrates with Broadcast Electronics TRE on-air software connectivity and builds on Emmis Interactive’s suite of digital products which include BaseStation and iTunes Storefront.
Utilizing the companies’ joint tagging solution will enable listeners to tag songs played over-the-air by FM RDS and HD Radio receivers.
“TagStation will be central to the monetization of iTunes tagging because it provides the song tracking and reporting that is necessary for stations to receive payment by iTunes,” said Rey Mena, Co-President of Emmis Interactive. “We are thrilled to be able to build upon our iTunes relationship and work alongside BE to provide the industry with the premiere iTunes tagging solution.”
“This is a key partnership for us and for the industry. We expect it will result in broader adoption and market penetration of iTunes tagging because we’re essentially integrating all the tools and services broadcasters need to make revenue back from the songs that their listeners tag and purchase through iTunes,” said Ray Miklius, BE Vice President of Studio Systems.
“What I like about this solution is that it is affordable, easy to use and works with any on-air playout system,” said Paul Brenner, Emmis Communications SVP/CTO and President of the Broadcaster Traffic Consortium. “My exposure to radio manufacturers’ future designs clearly indicate the need for broadcasters to fully embrace song tagging and similar technologies to enhance the listener’s experience.”
