Music Sites Rock On

Brandweek, Jan 10, 2000

With a mix of user-friendly technology and sticky programming, Seattle-based Real.com, maker of the seemingly ubiquitous Real G2 streaming media player, retains its lead over other sites offering music content. But in the ever-changing landscape of the Internet, positions can change rapidly, as both startups and established online brands vie for consumer mindshare and clicks.

One to watch is Shockwave.com, the spinoff site from Web technology tool maker Macromedia. Last year, San Francisco-based Macromedia revamped its consumer destination strategy to create a worthwhile showcase for its Flash plug-in. Judging by its growth, Web surfers finally are tuning in.