Microsoft to Sponsor Free Zune Concerts

Microsoft said Monday that it is sponsoring a series of free concerts over the next month to help promote its Zune music player. Called Zune Live at the BBQ, the tour features several hip-hop acts and starts in Los Angeles on July 12. Other dates are currently planned for Chicago on July 22, and New York City on August 4. Viral invitations will be sent to fans.

Confirmed artists include Common, Mos Def, Bilal, Collie Budz, E-40, and Cham, among others. Microsoft said additional acts were still being confirmed and it planned to have a few surprise acts. "It's a way to show our appreciation to the hip-hop community for its support of the Zune brand and to bring the music to life for fans," Zune marketing chief Chris Stephenson said.