Emmis Communications Corp. is partnering with Jelli to offer five radio Internet radio stations that connect their Jelli account to Facebook.
Jelli positions itself as “100% user-controlled radio,” with its software allowing users to change the station’s playlist (within certain parameters chosen by the station) by voting songs up or down using a web browser or an iPhone.
Jelli and Emmis are extending two Emmis stations brands to Facebook as five customized Internet streams: HOT 97, Hot97 Throwback, Hot97 Funk Master Flex, Power 106 and RXP.
Emmis VP Digital Angie-May Cook said the companies are combining terrestrial radio with social media. “We have a big learning curve ahead us as we watch and experience our brands in the hands of our biggest fans.”
At the f8 Facebook developer conference this week, Jelli said it has integrated further with the Facebook platform to make listening more social. Jelli launched a viral Listen Button and Group Listen events in Facebook News Feed. When listeners connect with their Facebook accounts, they can add what they’re listening to on their Facebook profile and share with friends, who can tune in and help shape the playlist.