Concentric Network Corp. said it now counts rock star David Bowie as a virtual private network (VPN) customer thanks to a new partnership with UltraStar Internet Services under which it will provide network services for the new BowieNet online venture.
Concentric said it will combine its CustomLink VPN service with hosting and e-commerce capabilities for BowieNet, which is described as an online, community-based environment for Bowie fans.
BowieNet, which is scheduled to launch in August, will also be accessible by music fans through the Concentric Network. A special Concentric Internet access offer, along with sign-up software and plug-ins, will also be included on several of Bowie’s greatest hits CDs being released throughout 1998 and 1999.
“Concentric Network has been leading the VPN services arena, and we’re excited to partner with a company that is blazing new ground and with a rock legend that is leading the entertainment industry in the use of Internet technology,” said Henry R. Nothhaft, chairman, president and CEO of Concentric Network. “The VPN service model is now moving from the business-world to the entertainment and music industries, and our flexible product offerings are ready to meet the needs of these new audiences.”
UltraStar is a management technology partnership that specializes in the arena of Internet services, working to bring major entertainment, sports and fashion clients to the world in a community-based forum delivered over the Web.
