Online music 'set to make singles chart'

[Grojlach]

Online music 'set to make singles chart'

The singles chart could soon include music downloaded from the internet.
The Official UK Chart Company is working on new rundowns that take data from commercial music websites into account.
They are currently working on a producing standalone lists, but the plan is to eventually incorporate the information into the main countdowns.
Record companies have been trying to stem the impact on record sales by allowing music to be downloaded legitimately on some sites.
Wednesday is the second Digital Download Day, which allows users to access tracks for free to highlight the availability of online music.
Chart chiefs are now working out how to measure the numbers who are getting their music via computer to create a chart.
An Official UK Chart Company spokesman said: "It's very important for the singles chart to remain relevant.
"If a new format is generating considerable sales we have to pick up those formats as well as the more traditional forms. It's a major initiative for us.
"Downloads will be incorporated into the official singles and albums chart. It will happen when the music industry is ready for it. We're probably talking about 18 months."

Source: Ananova

Note: not meant as a kick-off for yet another downloading is good/bad debate, as the previous one is still going on over here. Try to keep it on topic.