Google launches "open" music store for artists

Yesterday, Google announced the launch of the Google Artist Hub; significantly, it allows musicians to upload, share and sell music all directly through Google's own platform. While iTunes has workarounds available - like Tunecore - the deal is noticeable in that it is completely manageable by the artists and elminiates the need for a "publisher" like a label or Tunecore to act as gatekeeper to the store.

The product acts as a sort of super-Bandcamp in that it also allows bands to post full album streams, music videos and enables flexible pricing. The product is part of Google's newly launched Google Music which also features a music store with material from two of the big three labels - Universal Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment - but not Warner Music Group as well as many of the big indies.

Google will give 70% of revenues (based on prices set by the artist) to the musicians and requires a one-time fee of $25; this is similar to the split that most musicians recieve with iTunes which also provides a 70-30 split. Bandcamp takes only 10%, but that includes all merchandise and music sold through the store including physical media.

It remains to be seen if Google can dethrone Apple's iTunes given the dominant hold it has among music sellers. Notably, the store will be integrated into Android phones which should provide a significant foothold for Google.

Speaking to artists, would you sell your music through Google?