Webcasting is, quite simply, broadcasting over the Internet. A webcast (sometimes called Internet radio or online radio) is the streaming of live or recorded audio and video on the World Wide Web; however, with the advent of “simulcasting,” a webcast may be simultaneously broadcast over AM and FM radio stations and/or television as well. Webcasters use streaming media technology known as non-interactive linear stream broadcasting via telecommunications networks, making webcasts available to listeners and viewers continuously.

Webcasting is a combination of the words web and broadcasting. The technology for webcasts came into use little more than 10 years ago with technological capabilities of the Internet made available for public use. Webcasters use a format that is similar to regular radio stations, utilizing talk radio and music, but a webcast can also include the video component in the broadcast.

Licenses specific to webcasting are required for Internet broadcasting of copyrighted materials. In order to transmit copyrighted music, a webcaster must be licensed under two copyright laws, one for the lyrics and music and one for the sound recording.

Perhaps the most well-known webcasting site is YouTube. The site allows anyone to post a webcast on any subject. This has opened up a world of possibilities for those who are in the business of music promotions, allowing them to feature videos of various musical entertainers that can easily be accessed around the globe. Several Internet-based marketing agencies have been developed to provide “affordable” and “fast” audience-targeted webcasting events to companies, organizations, and individuals.

Commercial entities make broad use of webcast technologies for educational and business purposes. Meetings, online classes, seminars, and communications of various kinds are transmitted via webcast technology that is widely available and inexpensive. Commercial companies, public organizations, and independent citizens can practice webcasting from their homes, offices, or schools to communicate, inform, teach, and entertain.

This article provides an overview of music webcasts. If you would like to submit an article about webcasting or any other music-related subject, please feel free to do so here at Media Positive Radio.