MUMBAI: In what looks like an attempt to expand its viewer base in the UK, Zee Music is all set to turn free-to-air this month (exact date not specified).

Launched four years ago, Zee Music, the first Asian music channel, is currently available with Zee TV and Zee Cinema for £12.99 per month or £155.88 annually.

Among the popular shows that the channel has, its interactive phone-in show - Zee Music Box - is now two years old. The channel claims to be the only one to screen exclusive videos from some of the hottest local bands besides having five local programmes dedicated to the Brit Asian youth. Zee Music's programming line up includs Upbeat, Sorted, Mint, Jus' Bhangra and Mutz Cutz.

Zee's music arm claims to be the first choice of second and third generation Asians in the UK with the right mix of the latest videos from the world of Bhangra, Bollywood and Asian pop. In a bid to directly reach out to its target audience, Zee Music Nights was launched in April at the Bar Bollywood in Mayfair, London.