Friday’s Music 2.0 Briefing: iPod Sales Slow, Net Radio Revenues Surge, Canada’s Music Tax & More

> iPod sales growth is slowing. Growth rates have declined for the past three consecutive quarters from 50% in the Dec. ’06 quarter to 17% in the Sept. ’07 quarter. Analysts predict that when Apple delivers Q1 results 1/22 it will show that year to year sales growth overall was just 17%, (SiliconAlleyInsider) But some analysts now say that contrary to popular wisdom, growth at Amazon will only help iPod sales. (Dow Jones) I don’t agree since all growth in DRM-free mp3’s broadens the opening for competitive devices.

> The Digital Media Association (DiMA) announced that Greg Barnes, Senior Counsel to House of Representatives Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers will join DiMA February 1 to become the association’s Legislative Counsel and Director of Government Affairs.

> A new report showed a 40% surge in 2007 in ad revenue at internet radio. (RAIN)

> Online live classics destination Wolfgang’s Vault has made a substantial investment in online indie music destination, Daytrotter. The later has built a following for free mp3’s of up and coming bands that stop by its Rock Island, IL studios. (more) The Vault has also added a dozen new classic concerts (more)

> The Songwriters Association of Canada is proposing a $5 per month licensing fee on every wireless and Internet account in the country in exchange for unlimited access to all recorded music. The idea is getting a lukewarm reception, but a Chicago Tribune writer says "it could save the music industry from itself."  (CT)