Downloads propell unsigned band into the chart Top 40

Koopa's single makes it to number 31

15 January 2007 9:28 GMT / By Amber Maitland

Thanks to new rule changes, for the first time an unsigned band has made it into the UK Top 40, debuting at number 31.

Koopa, a rock band from Essex, saw their single Blag, Steal, and Borrow, hit the charts even though it's only available by download. The rule changes, which came into effect on 1 January, mean that all singles, even those not available in hard copy form, are eligible for the chart.

X-Factor winner Leona Lewis is still number one with A Moment Like This, while Eric Prydz dance anthem Proper Education took the number two spot.

Koopa made it into the charts thanks to a strong fan base and social networking. The lead singer Joe Murphy told the BBC that their success was due to their manager and “awesome” fans.

“Just 4 days ago nobody had heard of us, now it seems like everyone has. I can't get my head around it.”

It doesn't seems like they'll be an unsigned band for long – they've already been contact by big record labels wanting them on their books.

Full tags

Audio, Online, Music downloads