Peer-to-peer file sharing platforms have become the targets of RIAA and record labels and are taking heavy fire. Some P2P sites like Napster have gone from file sharing to attempting to operate legitimately by selling music.

LimeWire recently announced they intend to try their hand at hawking DRM-free tunes on their dedicated, stand-alone web site. The DRM-free music will sell in MP3 format and songs have a 256Kbps bitrate. At launch, the store will sell music from IRIS distribution and Nettwerk Productions who handle some well-known acts like Avril Lavigne, Sarah McLachlan, and Paul Van Dyk.

The existing LimeWire software seems to be continuing as is with links added to the DRM-free store for those wanting to buy music. This seems like a weird deal to me, why would someone want to buy the cow, when LimeWire gives them the milk for free?

The other odd item for me is LimeWire was sued by RIAA, Universal Music, Sony BMG, EMI and Warner Music for illegal file sharing just a year ago. I can’t see these labels willing to sell their music through LimeWire. No further details are available concerning when the store will launch or what prices music will sell for, but the music will be available for individual purchase as well as download with a monthly membership.