Proposal

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=Music Merger: Your One-Stop Music Shop=

Piracy is a major issue in the music industry -- one that causes artists to lose millions of dollars every year. Still, people download illegally often because they want a quick and convenient way to get their music. We at MusicMerger believe that we have constructed an ideal application that would encourage users to purchase their music, merchandise and concert tickets all that the same place. The best part is that the artists profit, instead of the middle men (like at TicketMaster).

MusicMerger proposes to re-design a one-stop online music store that combines the sales of digital downloads, physical releases, concert tickets and merchandise along with a social networking aspect that allows users to create playlists to share with others, review albums and concerts, post personalized content and discuss music with other users. Our extensive research shows that consumers want personalization, and listen to music that defines their personalities. MusicMerger is all about customization, personalization and support of artistry.

The site will be created by artists and bands themselves so they can regulate the sales of their music, and can choose to sell it at their own price. There will be no standard pricing like iTunes. This will eliminate the 'middle men' like Record Labels, TicketMaster, iTunes/Apple, etc. Artist participation is greatly encouraged with MusicMerger, and we don't see this being a problem as many popular artists have spoken out about TicketMaster's "monopoly" status. MusicMerger is for the artist and the consumer, and we strive to bring them as close together as possible without any middle men in between.