Rock the Net!

It's official. After months of work, the "Rock the Net" campaign officially launched today. For those that don't know, Rock the Net is a coalition of musicians, music labels and fans pledging their support for the concept of network neutrality.

The roster of musicians that have already signed up include R.E.M., Sarah McLachlan, Ted Leo, Death Cab for Cutie, Boots Riley of The Coup and many, many more. In these opening moments of the campaign, things already look pretty good already -- nearly 150 artists and labels have joined. The effort has also got some attention in the blogosphere. Here are some early reports from The Washington Post tech blog and Wetmachine.

Rep. Edward Markey, D-Mass., spoke at a teleconference this morning announcing the launch. He said he would be working to pass legislation in support of the concept of net neutrality.

“The wonderful thing about the Internet is that no one has to ask to anyone’s permission to get their voice heard, to launch a service, to communicate with fellow citizens,” Markey said.

We couldn't agree more.