by 
Just a short time ago, U2 performed on stage at Apple’s big event and played a song from their new album “Songs of Innocence.” Shortly after the performance ended, Apple CEO Tim Cook and U2 singer Bono announced that the entire album will be available for download today for free.
Starting today, and lasting until October 13, users will be able in 119 countries to every iTunes Store customer. It is available right now in the iTunes store. However, it is taking a while to show up for some users. You can access it in the U.S. here. All you have to do is click on the “Free” button to begin the download.
Cook noted that the album is available for more than half a billion iTunes customers. “It makes music history,” Cook said. “It is the largest album release of all time.”
U2’s new, free album is 11 tracks of pop rock and a digital songbook, which includes a picture of the vinyl test pressing, the track list, some pictures of the band, the lyrics, a “Flashback” album biography, album credits, and Thank Yous. All of it looks like it was typed out on crumpled paper (probably all digital effects).
Songs include tributes to punk rock legends Joey Ramone of the Ramones and Joe Strummer of the Clash, both of whom have passed away. There is also a dedication to Bono’s supposed best friend, Irish avant-garde artist and musician Guggi.
To get the album for free, you must be an iTunes Store customer, which means you must have an Apple ID. Apple has made the album available for free until October 13, probably to give new Apple users a chance to create a new account.
If you are an iTunes Store customer, simply download “Songs of Innocence” for free in iTunes and start listening now.
» Related posts:
Apple Pressuring Major Labels for More Exclusive Album Launches Similar to Beyoncé
Apple to Leverage iTunes Radio as a way to Push Album Sales
Apple Now Ranked as the World’s Number One Brand with a Value of over $98 Billion
