LimeWire Returns as a NFT Marketplace

July 13, 2022

 In March, Fortune announced that the music file-sharing site, “Limewire” would be returning, but this time, as an NFT marketplace. But, last week, it debuted, and probably did not get the reaction it was expecting.  This new LimeWire focuses on being an “open music and entertainment NFT marketplace for creators and collectors.” The resurrection of the company comes as a way to offer “digital collectibles” as stated on their website.And although some might think this might be reserved for indie and newer artists, Travis Barker, drummer of Blink-182, will be releasing NFTs using the platform. You can even find people like Soulja Boy, Brandy, and other artists.

LimeWire_is_back_for_good.mp3#LimeWire returns in full power, with high-profile #NFT drops from the world’s best-selling artists.

Don’t miss out on all exclusive drops. Register now: https://t.co/4Vf39XgF7w#digitalcollectibles #web3 pic.twitter.com/pGI4oF7dur

— LimeWire (@limewire) July 7, 2022

Just to give you a bit of a recap if you don’t remember, Limewire was actually shut down in 2010 for infringement. According to the Guardian they ceased business due to  “permitting the sharing of thousands of copyrighted works by its 50 million monthly users.” This idea was most likely brainstormed in reference to nostalgia for earlier times, but it does not seem like Limewire is receiving the response they might have been expecting when debuting the resurrection of the website. 

The thing about LimeWire was that it offered the product without having to pay for it.

What this new version proposes is, what if you got the paying for it without receiving a product. https://t.co/Zb30t1mgPR

— Grace Robertson (@GraceOnFootball) July 13, 2022

Many people online were shocked when they saw this ad went viral on Twitter for being a bit cringy and definitely trying to benefit from millennials’ nostalgia. Some people however did feel nostalgia, but not necessarily in a positive way, as people remembered how badly the website performed with viruses or incorrectly labeled files.

Relaunching with a BANG!

We’re bringing you digital collectibles, created by your favorite artists, all in one marketplace.

Register via https://t.co/YWnSQ6GHr3 and follow the creators to be first to learn about all exclusive drops.#LimeWire #LWCollectibles pic.twitter.com/0dmM01f9GC

— LimeWire (@limewire) July 6, 2022

Many also found it ironic that Limewire was for piracy and illegally downloading music. Currently, NFTs are being discussed as being a scam and being easily stolen. And most recently, NFTs and cryptocurrencies, in general, are in what is known as a “crypto winter” due to low sales. So, some are wondering why LimeWire is making a comeback and why they chose NFTs in the first place.