Muxtape
Originally founded as a service that allowed users to create virtual "Mixtapes", Muxtape found itself in conflict with the RIAA in August 2008. After being shut down for almost a month, the site announced its plans to return. On September 26, 2008, Muxtape resurfaced. This time, however, the site will only feature music from Indie bands, as a licensing deal with the major recording labels was unsuccessful.1 Muxtape was created by photographer and web designer Justin Ouellette.
Fast Facts
- Created by: Justin Ouellette
- Launched: March 25, 2008
- Contact: help@muxtape.com
- Justin Ouellette: “My goal is nothing short of changing the way we consume, distribute, and discover music.”
Muxtape Reborn
On September 26, 2008, Muxtape reopened as a showcase for bands. Compared to the new MySpace Music,1 the site's new format was the result of several weeks of fruitless negotiation with major record labels, culminating with a shutdown of Muxtape's server after a complaint from the RIAA.2 On the front page of the newly relaunched Muxtape site, Justin Ouellette said "I realize this is a somewhat radical shift in functionality, but Muxtape’s core goals haven’t changed. I still want to challenge the way we experience music online, and I still want to work to enable what I think is the most interesting aspect of interconnected music: discovering new stuff."3
Muxtape Down
On Monday, August 18, 2008, Muxtape went offline, apparently in response to a legal issue with the RIAA (The Recording Industry Association of America). Users to the site were told that "Muxtape will be unavailable for a brief period while we sort out a problem with the RIAA."4 Also, a message on Muxtape's Tumblr page informed users that "No artists or labels have complained. The site is not closed indefinitely. Stay tuned."5
Related Pages on Mahalo
How to Discover Your Next Favorite Band | How to Download Free Music | RIAA | Indie Music
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