That, at this stage, may be more of a marketing stance than an attempt at real e-commerce. But it surely is an indication of the emerging power of the internet. "The Web offers an efficient, high impact, one-to-one connection between the consumer and music companies and artists. It will open up a host of new revenue streams and marketing options," said MTV Networks chairman and chief executive officer Tom Freston, while speaking at a music forum here on Friday.

The internet is revolutionising the music industry in four different ways: It provides easy and convenient access, builds new and vibrant online communities, makes customisation possible and combines the artists, amateurs, composers, fans, entrepreneurs and technology into a creative process. "The internet offers challenges and opportunities to record companies, music channels and artists,"said Freston.

Speaking at the forum, Far East managing director of Tower Records Inc Keith Cahoon said the internet would "grow the pie" for music business. It would not signify the death of retail stores. "Retailers need to be curators and introduce social aspects of shopping. There are possibilities for combining brick and mortar and internet `click and mortar'," he added.

Other speakers at the forum also agreed that online retailing would be an important revenue channel for music companies and retailers in the country.