EMI in music first on Hulu with Norah Jones channel

Hulu is a US-based joint venture between broadcasters NBC, Fox and ABC. It was created with the aim of cutting the amount of illegally downloaded television shows and films by providing an ad-funded alternative, although the service looks likely to add paid-for content next year.

Rival video service YouTube has already signed deals with the major record labels and a host of independents, to share revenues generated by the vast numbers of people who watch music via the site. It is also working to a new site dedicated to music called Vevo, due to launch later this year. However, Hulu is not looking to compete by adding thousands of music videos to its library of content.

Speaking to the New York Times, Andy Forssell, senior vice-president of content and distribution at Hulu, said: "We thought the best starting point that fits with our mission, and with what our users expect, is a good mix of content, some music videos, long-form content and interviews, everything we can get for an immersive experience around certain artists."

Hulu is set to launch in the UK next year.