UMG confirms deal with Qtrax to allow free music downloads

SAN JOSE, Calif.—Universal Music Group confirmed Tuesday that it has reached a deal with file-sharing site Qtrax to allow free, legal downloads of UMG music.

Qtrax announced in January that it had the backing of"all the major labels" to distribute music free online, generating revenue with ads. But New York-based Warner Music Group Corp., said it had not authorized the use of its content on Qtrax's service. UMG and EMI Group PLC also said at the time they did not have licensing deals in place with Qtrax.

UMG spokesman Peter Lofrumento confirmed Tuesday that an agreement has been reached but declined to elaborate or to say whether a contract has been signed.

"All of UMG's music available digitally will be available for free, legal downloads on Qtrax," Qtrax spokeswoman Shamin Abas told The Associated Press.

A joint UMG-Qtrax statement said UMG and its artists and songwriters will be compensated for the use of their content.

Abas said users "will be able to purchase music-related items" on the site.

Qtrax first launched in 2002 but shut down after a few months to avoid potential legal trouble.