Quick guide to...Myspace

What is Myspace?

Myspace is a social networking website where you can upload audio and music tracks, and connect with friends and other people interested in music.

Who uses it?

It is used mainly by up-and-coming bands, to display and promote their music without having to produce and send out CDs to promoters, agents and labels.

Oh yes, I heard a bit about it a few years ago but nothing for a while

It has gone out of fashion a little bit. Between 2005-2008 it was the most popular social networking site in the world but the increase in popularity of Facebook and Twitter saw the number of Myspace users start to decline steadily.

So it's on its way out now then?

Not necessarily - it's gone back to its roots in a way, being a place for bands and musicians, and their fans, rather than a networking website for everyone. Bands tend to promote themselves through a variety of networks now anyway, so they may have a Myspace page that they promote through Twitter and Facebook.

Why would I use it?

If you are a singer, performer, artist or part of a band, you might like to create a profile and get your music heard (or your artwork seen) by more people. Alternatively, if you like discovering new music or simply having a look around at what people are creating, and listening to, it's good for a browse. Many well known artists also have profiles on there, so you can listen to songs by, for example, Elton John or Simply Red through the website.

Tell me an interesting fact.

Pop star Justin Timberlake is co-owner of Myspace, having bought it with a media company in 2011 for $35 million.

Date: 30/01/2012