The major record company EMI decided to stay with IFPI after several months of deliberation. The record label will continue its participation in the group's operations, but will slash it funding for antipiracy policy.

Madonna's new contract with Live Nation Inc. worth $120 million (EUR 84.5 million) gives the concert promoter the opportunity to tap into concert, recording, merchandising and other profitable revenue streams. But do not discount the role that lowly ticket fees play.

Kanye West sold almost a million copies of his latest album during its first week in US stores, winning a much-hyped sales race with rival rapper 50 Cent and providing the ailing record industry with a rare piece of good news.

Activist Reverend Al Sharpton has organised rallies across the United States, urging public divestment from the music industry until rap lyricists stop employing the "n-word" and terms degrading to women.

This summer, Music City's next big star will be discovered at a neighborhood Drive-In, if Sonic has its way. Potential stars of all ages are invited to take part in the fourth consecutive "Sonic Search 4 a Star" talent competition. The winners in five separate age categories will receive $1,000 cash and a professionally produced recording session at Nashville's Fireside Studios.

MSN and Control Room will stream Elton John's "Happy Birthday, Elton" concert live in its entirety as part of a multiyear, global, live content distribution agreement forged last fall.