Westin Hotels to develop engaging & emotional signature music program ''eMusicologist'', plans announced t work together with eMusic.com Inc. to bring music to the foreground of the hotel experience.

As part of the partnership eMusic.com will develop an innovative digital music offering that will be featured across Westin's 124 hotels and resorts around the world. Westin's signature music program will be incorporated into various aspects of the guest experience, including the lobby environment and in-room entertainment and will be part of Westin's new Sensory Welcome program that will debut brand-wide later this year.

Focusing on a theme of personal renewal and music discovery, eMusic will provide one of its top editorial staff experts, renowned international music columnist Richard Gehr, to help define the "global voice" of the Westin brand. As Westin's dedicated "eMusicologist," Gehr will compile soundtracks to unite Westin properties across geographies, cultures, architectural styles, climates and time of day, and characterizes the soundtracks -- which will aim for an ambient, melodic, rhythmic and energizing feel -- as global contemporary.

"There is no sensory element more engaging on an emotional level than music," said Sue Brush, Senior Vice President for Westin Hotels. "Through our signature music programming we will create a renewing, relaxing and welcoming atmosphere and a truly memorable experience for our guests."

"Our mission at eMusic is to help people discover some of the greatest and most diverse music in the world," said David Pakman, eMusic CEO. "Our partnership with Westin is a terrific opportunity for us to share our musical expertise and passion to create a compelling music experience for all Westin guests."

Westin eMusicologist Richard Gehr has been eMusic's World/Reggae columnist for two years -- and has been writing about international music for more than two decades. A former editor at the Los Angeles Reader, Spin magazine and Sonicnet.com, Gehr has also written for the Village Voice, Rolling Stone, the New York Times, Musician, Blender, Tracks, AARP: The Magazine and countless other publications. He also co-authored The Phish Book with the Vermont quartet.