Music Survey Patent to Go under Hammer

In the US, Kelly Music Research's President Tom Kelly is to sell the patent for his moderator-free methodology for conducting music surveys at home.

The method, involving online music opinion surveys, is used by both broadcast and Internet radio stations to modify playlists to reach larger audiences, and to extend listening times.

Kelly, who was granted the patent in 1999 and first used the method with a survey product called the 'Living Room Music Test', says interest in the last few years has been 'considerable' and has included holding companies interested in controlling the licensing rights and prohibiting unauthorized use. The patent is held by his own firm, Max Gluteus Properties LLC, which will auction it to the highest bidder at a sale of intellectual property being held in Chicago next month.

After the auction, Kelly will retain the right to use the system for the benefit of his research firm's clients in the broadcasting, Internet and recording industries, while the new owner will be able to restrict its use by other companies and also to impose license fees for its use.

Pennsylvania-based Kelly Music Research was founded in 1991 to help radio broadcasters determine which songs to play by surveying listeners about their musical likes and dislikes.

Web site: www.kellymusic.com .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.