New York - (RED), the nonprofit campaign spearheaded by U2 frontman Bono whose goal is to help eliminate AIDS in Africa, announced on Monday that it plans to launch a $5-per-month digital music subscription service that will help fund its efforts. Powered by PassAlong Networks, the service will each week receive one new exclusive song from a top artist; one song by an emerging talent; a "Crackerjack surprise," such as a music video; and stores describing details of (RED) dollars being put to work in Africa.

Half of each month's membership fee will go to (RED)'s Global Fund, while the other half will go to the artists and other rights holders providing the music.

"Just five subscribers will generate enough money annually to provide a person living with HIV with antiretroviral treatment for one year," the organization said.

The service will be run by Don MacKinnon, who previously headed Starbucks' Hear Music initiative.

"The world's best brands created (RED) products that have generated over $110 million. What we are doing now is applying the (RED) model to music. Every week you will receive great music from amazing artists and people living with AIDS in Africa will receive lifesaving antiretroviral medicine," said Don MacKinnon, president of (RED) Content.

Poll: Will You Sign Up For Bono's (RED) $5 per month music service?

Related Links:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/google/20080630006381/en

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/30/arts/music/30red.html

http://www.joinred.com