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Last Updated: Thursday, 26 May, 2005, 19:47 GMT 20:47 UK
Crazy Frog 'shows teen spending'
Crazy Frog CD
The Crazy Frog's Axel F has become a hugely popular ringtone
The success of a popular mobile phone ringtone shows how teenagers spend more money on mobile phones and computer games than music, a study suggests.

The Crazy Frog's Axel F is set to become the first mobile phone ringtone to top the charts.

The University of Birmingham's Peter Webb said the success of the track validated findings into young people's spending habits.

The track is a new version of the Beverly Hills Cop movie theme tune.

'Music still important'

It is by Harold Faltermeyer and reached number two in the UK 20 years ago.

"The success of the Crazy Frog shows the popularity of ringtones among teens and is a clear example of how different markets compete for youngsters' time and money", sociologist Dr Webb said.

"This is the situation the music industry has to contend with in a climate of decreasing sales especially within the singles market, significant free downloading practices and many demands on time, resources and creative practice of consumers in general."

The research into music and other leisure pursuits was carried out among 220 15 to 16-year-olds in Birmingham.

Dr Webb added that general trends showed music was still important to the age group, but it was having to compete increasingly for attention with other "consumption areas".


SEE ALSO:
Tough rules for ringtone sellers
28 Feb 05 |  Technology


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