Microsoft today announced the launch of Ignition, a new programme that will give recording artists who have new releases a unique channel to reach consumers from around the world. Microsoft has for the first time packaged promotional opportunities across Zune, Xbox and MSN. This will help artists reach consumers in all three audiences more efficiently, whether they be browsing music online, playing games or reading news.

Ignition ensures that artists will receive maximum exposure by attracting consumers with appealing content over a month by prominently placing them on Zune Marketplace, Zune.net, MSN and Xbox Live Marketplace. Consumers will be able to access exclusive content, free song and video downloads, streaming video, editorial features as well as artists playlists online through Ignition which will provide a steady stream of new music.

“The Ignition program is designed to help artists connect with a substantial consumer audience,” said Christina Calio, director of Music Marketing for Zune. “Consumers are looking for ways to find new music, and Ignition helps connect artists with potential new fans by giving them multiple opportunities to listen to, watch or read about the artist across Microsoft’s online platforms.”

Look out for Maxïmo Park, the UK band which Ignition will launch with. Their current album, ‘Our Earthly Pleasures,’ is doing well on the UK charts and throughout June consumers in the US will meet this band through free and exclusive music downloads and features on Zune Marketplace and Zune.net, video downloads on Xbox Live Marketplace and promotional video and music streams on MSN Video and MSN Music.

For more information check out Zune.net.