Inc. said Wednesday that it will begin selling samples of rock 'n' roll music over the Internet ahead of compact disc releases.
It is reportedly the first Internet promotion of its kind by a major music and entertainment firm.
In addition to being compatible with personal computers, tunes selected from the Web, at 340 yen per download, will also be transferable to portable digital music players and mobile telephones equipped to play music.
Sony said it is also trying to develop ways to download music directly to mobile phones.
The first song Sony Music will make available over the Internet is the single "King of the Jungle," one of 12 tracks recorded by the Japanese rock group Triceratops. The CD is due to be released Feb. 21.
Downloads will be available at Bit Music, Sony Music's online sales site, and other sites beginning Jan. 31.
Bit Music's Web site is at bit.sonymusic.co.jp