Verizon lands AC/DC digital exclusive

For those about to rock, we salute you: Australian rock icons AC/DC announced an exclusive, multi-tiered deal with Verizon Wireless to release their entire back catalog via the operator's V Cast Music service. The agreement heralds the first authorized digital release of the 18-album AC/DC catalog--Verizon will retain exclusive mobile sales and distribution rights through March 2008, additionally securing exclusive live footage and launching AC/DC-themed V Cast Mobile TV programming.

Since releasing its debut LP High Voltage in 1975, AC/DC has sold more than 63 million albums in the U.S., with 1980's landmark Back in Black alone moving 21 million units, becoming the fifth largest-selling album in U.S. chart history. "You Shook Me All Night Long" will be the sole full-song download available via Verizon--V Cast will otherwise release each record as a full-album download, although ringtones and ringbacks will also be issued.

"Verizon Wireless and V CAST offer a fantastic new high-tech platform for the long-awaited digital release of AC/DC's music and video catalogs," said Columbia Records chairman Steve Barnett. "Through Verizon's cellular phone and mobile television technology, new and established generations of AC/DC fans will find fresh and innovative ways to enjoy the sights and sounds of the world's most electrifying rock and roll band." Big news for Verizon, as well as a real blow to the diminishing omnipotence of Apple's iTunes platform …

Speaking of Verizon news, the operator also announced an agreement with NBC Universal to add the network's entire suite of mobile video channels to the V Cast Video lineup. Verizon will add clips from series including "The Office," "Heroes" and "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" as well as content from NBC News and NBC Sports.

For more on the AC/DC deal:
- read this release
For more on the NBC Universal deal:
- read this release

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