On the heels of the news that Universal was limiting song length on myspace comes the news that Imeem is the indirect benefiary of the deal. The music social–networking site has completed negotiations with Universal and now is legally allowed to stream music from all four of the major labels. In exchange, Imeem will provide a cut to Universal.
In recent years, the major labels have become increasingly desperate for a new revenue stream with CD sales drying up, and single–track iTunes–style sales cutting into revenue. The labels have maintained fairly strict control over streaming music, so this deal provides access to the largest music catalogues available.