MS, Live Nation Deal to Promote IE8, Free Content

Facing the rising popularity of rival browsers Firefox and Opera, Microsoft has launched its first-ever advertising deal with Live Nation (a concert ticket search engine) to promote Internet Explorer 8. The agreement promises to make consumers happy by offering free content with every download of IE8.

Fans of popular Canadian rock band Nickelback will be most pleased with the deal. The agreement means that Internet Explorer 8 and Microsoft have signed on as the main sponsor for the rock and roll crew's Dark Horse tour, named after the band's platinum album of the same name.

Something in Your Mouth (Browser)

Those who click over to the deal's dedicated website, www.ie8-nickelback.com will be able to download a live version of "Something in Your Mouth," the band's less-than-tongue-in-cheek hit. Rock fans will also get the chance to watch exclusive backstage pass content covering the band's 2009 tour.

The deal also means that Microsoft and Internet Explorer will be the main sponsor of Live Nation's Bamboozle Music Festival. (Source: fmqb.com)

The agreement could work wonders for both Microsoft and Live Nation, who will now be infused with the advertising power of one of the world's most powerful corporations. "The band likes it because they've got a new, cool way to get connect to their fans," said president of North American Alliances at Live Nation Russell Wallach. "It's also good for IE8 because Nickelback has a predominantly young male audience to put IE8 in front of." (Source: mediapost.com)

Hard Times for IE8

As for Microsoft, the deal helps promote an embattled browser that faces the rising popularity of Mozilla's Firefox. With the European Union bearing down on the Redmond-based firm over antitrust charges the last few years, Microsoft also admitted that it would no longer bundle IE8 with its operating systems when Windows 7 ships to Europe this fall.

Microsoft general manager of Internet Explorer Amy Barzdukas believes the deal makes IE8 more fun and functional than ever before. "We are excited to work with Live Nation to provide an exclusive entertainment experience for our customers that builds on the unique features of Internet Explorer 8," she said.