eMusic Adds Classical Labels
SAYS FREE SAMPLERS DRIVE SALES eMusic announced a number of larger ndependent classical label signings including UK-based Chandos Records, Telarc, and Harmonia Mundi. Other classical labels recently added include Naïve,. Continue reading
Microsoft Reminds Us Why DRM Sucks
I’ll let the evil corporate giant do the talking: "As of August 31, 2008, we will no longer be able to support the retrieval of license keys for the songs. Continue reading
Economy Begins To Effect Entertainment Spending
The weak economy is beginning to have an effect on the entertainment industry. 37% of Americans believe they will spend less on entertainment products and devices in 2008 versus 2007,. Continue reading
Sony Buys Gracenote For $260M
Sony Corporation of America has signed a merger agreement with Gracenote. Sony will pay approximately $260 million "plus other contingent considerations". Gracenote’s existing business will continue to operate separately and. Continue reading
Fontana Signs “360” Pulse Recordings
Fontana, the independent distribution arm of UMG, has signed an exclusive distribution deal with Pulse Recordings, the label controlled by 360 music startup Pulse. Pulse was founded by Josh Abraham,. Continue reading
Sonicbids Names Phoenix Media’s Kingston VP Business Development
Sonicbids has hired 19-year broadcast industry veteran Andy Kingston for the newly created position of Vice President of New Business Development. Andy joins Sonicbids from Boston-based Phoenix Media/Communications Group where. Continue reading
Wednesday’s Music 2.0 Briefing: Mobile Forecast, “Comes With” Details & More
HYPEBOT FEATURES: Microsoft turns off MSN track authorization reminding us why DRM sucks Weak economy starts to hit entertainment Sony buys Gracenote for $260M Sonicbds hires a VP Fontana grabs. Continue reading
Sonific Goes Dark. Blames Major Labels.
Sonific, creators of the SongSpot widget that enabled bloggers and others to embed a single song player anywhere with ease is going offline May 1st. Co-founded by music futurist Gerd. Continue reading
Op-Ed: Jon Webster, CEO Music Managers Forum
IN SUPPORT OF A UK I-POD TAX Music Manager Forum CEO Jon Webster responds to my commentary last week critical of a proposed UK tax on manufacturers whose devices enable . Continue reading