The present invention includes a method and apparatus for distributing
music to local, digital, electronic jukeboxes. In particular, a complete
menuing system is stored in a central storage location. A portion of the
complete menu is stored locally at the jukebox, depending on user demand.
A jukebox selectively requests the transmission of songs from the central
storage location using a variety of communication means based upon usage
data with respect to songs and the menu. The request can be initiated by
the jukebox and can occur automatically based on statistics compiled by
the jukebox representing user demand. The central storage location
processes the requests and schedules individual requests from each jukebox
to coordinate transmission of music to multiple locations simultaneously.
In addition, the central storage location periodically updates the local
jukeboxes with a list of new releases, during which time the jukebox can
also download the music. A portion of the complete menu is stored locally
at the jukebox, depending on user demand. The jukebox also includes secure
hardware used to decrypt and encrypt music and monetary certificates, to
prevent improper use or copying of music.