Sony And Universal Announce New Singles Release Policy

Two of the four major record labels have announced plans to change the way they release singles.

From February, artists attached to Sony and Universal will make singles available on the same day they are played for the first time on radio.

In the past, radio has typically been given a six week window in advance of a single's release.

It is hoped the move will encourage music fans to buy songs rather than illegally download a radio-ripped version offline.

The Featured Artists Coalition, a group with over 1,500 artists and supporters who collectively campaign for the protection of UK performers' and musicians' rights, was behind the change.

Its members include Ed O'Brien of Radiohead, Pink Floyd's Nick Mason and Blur's Dave Rowntree.

"We welcome the move by several of the major and independent labels to move to same day retail and airplay single releases,” they said in a statement.

“We believe artists will benefit from increased sales, fewer illegal downloads from fans who want to own the music as soon as they hear it, and a more accurate chart which reflects undistorted consumer behaviour."

MORE: Blur's Dave Rowntree: New Singles Policy Will Benefit New Bands.

The “on air, on sale” policy is expected to most benefit up and coming bands.

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Blur's Dave Rowntree On The Future Of The Music Industry.