New Music Business Briefing: Free Eagles From WalMart, Universal’s Cheap Mixtapes, Virgin Stores Sold & Much More

>>> WalMart will give away a free mp3 download of of the new Eagle’s single to everyone who pre-order’s the CD. (press release)

>>> With illegal mixtapes being targeted by the RIAA, Universal hits the streets with their own legal version at a $5-$6 retail price. (Reuters)

>>> The legal foundation for all 25,000 RIAA lawsuits is coming under court scrutiny. (ARS)

>>> Former Columbia vet Mitchell Cohen has been named VP A&R at Verve/Universal. (Billboard)

>>> Virgin Megastores in the US have been bought by real estate firm Related. (press release) Sources say they’ll continue to operate and expand the stores keeping existing management.

>>> Zenbu Media will re-launch music magazine Metal Edge in September with a new look and expanded metal coverage and a free CD. The editorial team will remain intact. A free digital download of the entire magazine will also be available at www.metaledgemag.com.

>>> Koch offers details of its digital expansion including Bill Crowley‘s promotion to VP Digital & Mobile. (press release)