August 2, 2010

Easily Browse Different Song Covers In the iTunes Store

When you visit the iTunes Store on your computer, the triangle next to the Buy button for individual songs contains an Other Versions option when additional versions of that track are available in the Store. Choose it and you'll be presented with links to these other versions. "Stardust" by Willie Nelson, for instance, produces two lists -- one with all the recordings of "Stardust" by Willie (currently nine), and the other containing the 196 recordings currently in the store by the amazing range of vocalists and jazz instrumentalists you might imagine. (Warning. Browsing among versions and listening for what's special about your favorite songs and performances is seductive. "Who Knows Where the Time Goes?" 69 recordings...)

As a related convenience that can be particularly useful for soundtrack albums with many songs tagged "Album Only," iTunes adds a View Songs Available for Individual Purchase button above the track list whenever possible. Click it, and when you're done with it, click "Back to the Album Page" just above the list.