Music News: 5-7-08

TODAY’S FEATURE STORIES -

• WMG is now selling mp3’s via WalMart.com and Napter appears poised to finally jump on the DRM bandwagon.

• Peter Gabriel’s servers were stolen pulling down several of his web sites.

• An overview of Day 1 at Digital NARM plus quick panel highlights.

• eMusic was forced to yank the Rolling Stones ABKCO catalog.

• WMG appears set to offer DRM-free product to more download stores.

• WMG also will be experimenting with variable pricing.

• A complete list of the lucky folks that TVT owes money to.

• Universal/Buzznet has bought AbsolutePunk.net

PLUS -

• Zune expands its Marketplace and adds more social networking functions. (press release)

• New EMI hires are being forced to take psychometric tests - a favourite ploy of the boss, which typically includes general intelligence tests along with a paper to determine a candidate’s abilities. (Telegraph UK)

• Indie distributor IRIS has signed new deals with Alleviated, Labrador, Definitive and +1 plus direct artist deals with She Wants Revenge, Lou Reed, Larry Heard, Claude Von Stroke, and Lawson Rollins. (Billboard)

• The winners of this year’s Webby Awards have been announced. Music winners is BBC Radio 1 Meet The DJ’s and ResidentAdvisor.net, an EU music site with a heavy concert emphasis. Here’s a full list of winners.

• Neil Young is releasing his entire catalog on Blu-Ray disc. (AP)

• Whole Foods is jumping into the music game supporting select new releases. (Idolator)

• eMusic has added the entire My Morning Jacket catalog. (eMusic)

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