Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008
Daily News: Tuesday
Nokia signs Sony BMG: “Nokia will offer free 12-month access to music from artists of Sony BMG, the world’s second-biggest label, to buyers of its particular music phones, the world’s top cellphone maker said on Tuesday.” (via Reuters)
Ray Charles’ Children Sue Manager: “Ray Charles’ children are accusing his longtime manager of mismanaging his estate and trusts and tarnishing his legacy by releasing two posthumous CDs the late singer never would have approved, according to a published report. In allegations outlined Sunday in the Los Angeles Times, several of Charles’ 12 children accused Joe Adams of holding too much power over Ray Charles enterprises and the Ray Charles Foundation and excluding them from business dealings.They’re seeking a formal investigation and audit looking into their father’s estate, trusts and foundation for possible wrongdoing. They have complained to the California attorney general, the Los Angeles County prosecutor’s office and the FBI.” (via Billboard)
Russ Rieger Joins SpiralFrog: “SpiralFrog, Inc. (www.spiralfrog.com), the free ad-supported Web-based music experience, today announced the appointment of Russ Rieger to the newly created position of vice president of strategic initiatives. In this role, Rieger will be responsible for securing and maintaining strategic partnerships within the music, media and advertising industries. Rieger brings 25 years of expertise in entertainment marketing and artist management. His deep knowledge of all aspects of the music business will further SpiralFrog’s ability to create a community for brand marketers to connect with music enthusiasts in a meaningful way.” (via Press Release)
EMI restructuring faces contractual obstacles: “Record label EMI has faced some unexpected challenges executing the bold restructuring plan it announced in January, sources say. EMI, now owned by private equity firm Terra Firma, wants to lay off 2,000 employees as part of a plan to tear down label walls and international boundaries, and focus more on finding new talent. But sources say some obstacles have cropped up at the home of Coldplay and Lenny Kravitz: issues concerning “key man” clauses in artists’ contracts; clauses in executive contracts that allow top staffers to leave if their responsibilities change or the company comes under new ownership or management; and challenges meeting deadlines by certain sectors of the company.” (via Reuters)
Sonific Goes Offline: “Music widget firm Sonific is to pull the plug on May 1. In a message posted on the online music playing service provider’s homepage, co-founder and CEO Gerd Leonhard blames the “unworkable” music licensing environment among the reasons for taking Sonific offline..” (via Press Release and Billboard)
