Amazon Amp App, in Beta, Lets Users Create Radio Shows for Free

Amazon launched a limited-access beta version of its Amp app for iOS users allowing creators to DJ their own radio shows, it blogged Tuesday. Users will have access to a catalog of “tens of millions” of licensed songs from Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, Warner Music Group and independent music companies, it said. With Amp, users can offer “spontaneous talk,” music discovery, diverse personalities and broad programming using the latest technology “so anybody with a phone, a voice, and a love for music could make their own show,” said Amp Vice President John Ciancutti. Users will be able to create live shows alongside well-known artists participating in the limited beta including Nicki Minaj with her Queen Radio show, singer-songwriter Tinashe, electronic artist Lindsey Stirling, drummer Travis Barker, and rappers Pusha T, Lil Yachty and Big Boi. Amp, free to use, gives creators access to a song library they can use when creating their shows, and the ability to invite live callers to join their programs, with the ability to take callers, including control over who speaks and when. They can plan and schedule their shows and listen to songs in real time with their audiences, said Ciancutti. Amp is creating built-in discovery and notifications, so listeners can find and follow creators and upcoming shows. Future capabilities include Alexa integrations, social sharing and search and discovery features. Following the beta, Amp will have a public launch later this year, he said.