Hollywood Records announced a new CD format called CDVU+(pronounced Rat-a-….oh I mean CD View Plus). The idea is that by purchasing the CD, not only do you get the audio, but digital content that can be unlocked with the CD. Disney hopes that this will help the CD format compete against iTunes and even Disney's download service called Disney Mix Central. Essentially the CD will come with Bonus Features like a DVD. In fact, as video downloading keeps getting easy, the entertainment is relying of bonus features to get you to purchase the DVD, so might as well try the same strategy for CDs
It sounds a little gimicky, so I am not certain it will take off. However, I have learned not to underestimate the Walt Disney Music Group. They are the golden child of the music industry right now, and it is hard to imagine that Bob Iger had to persuade the Board not to shut the buisness down a few years ago. They are able to leverage Radio Disney and Disney Channel, to make some serious hits. For example, the Hannah Montana 2 album that was just released premiered at the number one spot on the charts. So if anyone can launch a new CD format, it is Disney.
The first album released in this format is the Jonas Brothers' upcoming self-titled album, out August 7. Of course you can't turn on Radio Disney without hearing their song Year 3000. They also recorded a cover of Poor Unfortunate Souls for the DVD release of The Little Mermaid, Kids of the Future for the Meet the Robinsons soundtrack, and Hold On for the Disney Channel Original Movie, Johnny Kapahala: Back on Board. The video for their next single, S.O.S. premieres on the Disney Channel August 3rd. As you can see, these three brothers are fully integrated in to the Disney teen hit machine. And if you want to see them act, they will be guest staring in the episode of Hannah Montana that airs after the premiere of High School Musical 2.