Friday’s Music Briefing: eMusic, Ministry oF Sound & More

> An in depth look at IODA (Independent Online Distribution Alliance) and the services it offers beyond digital distribution. (TechNewsWorld)

> More on eMusic’s remake and plans to compete: add lots of social networking features. (Fortune) Sounds good for existing subscribers but will it attract more? "So…we’re gonna build a sandbox and its gonna feel a little like imeem, but you gotta pay to get in."

> Global dance giant Ministry of Sound is rebranding itself to MSHK Group. The name change is part of a diversification strategy which include HedKandi toiletries, camping equipment and audio hardware. (Billboard)

> Indie music site Insound adds a unique t-shirt line. (Listening Post) Smart brand extension that you’re seeing at retail record stores too.  Loving a band or genre is a lifestyle…

> Live Nation continues to ramp up to be ready to do its own ticketing in November with a deal with Telstra for peak computing power. (press release) Should help with the big on-sale days.

> cNet offers the Top 5 Online Music Stores. (cNet)