March 17, 2008

By By Antony Bruno, Denver

Fan-driven word of mouth has always been considered the most effective music marketing technique, and there is no shortage of Web 2.0 companies online hoping to help facilitate that process.

Enter Surrge.com, the newest of this bunch was unveiled over the weekend at SXSW. The service aims to give fans the power to not only promote the artists they are most passionate about, but also compensate them for driving the bands success. Users -- or "scouts" as they're called -- earn 10% or more of the sale price for each song sold as a result of their recommendation.

Members can upload MP3 files of their favorite music, while other can sample streaming songs in full and purchase for download DRM-free selections.

The service has deals with BMI and ASCAP at present.

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