The sign of a new found love and partnership between Microsoft and Apple?

Mar 26, 2007 15:33 GMT  ·  By

What do Microsoft and Apple have in common? Well, lately, this answer is Elton John. Hard to believe, but it's true. Microsoft and Apple have agreed to "share" the British singer that will find his way both on MSN and on iTunes. Now many feel that Microsoft and Apple simply don't mix. The fact that Elton has managed to joggle both companies and to act as a common denominator is an artistic exception.

Elton John's "Happy Birthday, Elton" live concert has been streamlined live through MSN and Control Room. "We are thrilled to add Elton John's Madison Square Garden show to the list of exclusive concert offers on MSN," said Rob Bennett, general manager of Entertainment and Video Services for MSN. "Our collaboration with Control Room enables musicians such as Elton John to easily connect with fans across the globe, while providing people with the best way to experience high-quality content featuring their favorite artists."

Fans have been able not only to watch the concert live, but also to visit MSN and relive the experience on-demand. With this concert, Elton has celebrated 60 years and 60 performances at the Madison Square Garden.

However, according to suppositions, Elton has also signed an exclusive iTunes deal. Through the agreement, the singer's over 30 albums and more than 400 songs will be exclusively available from the iTunes Store. The deal is said to debut today, March 26.

In this manner, Sir Elton John will take the stage both at Microsoft/MSN and at Apple/iTunes. Is this the sign of a new found love and partnership between Microsoft and Apple?