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FCC head Tom Wheeler resigns, net neutrality threatened

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler resigned today, effective January 20 (inauguration day). It is a customary resignation when a new political administration is headed for the White House. In this case, a Republican president overseeing an agreeable Congress makes likely a reversal of net neutrality. what does it mean for online audio? Continue Reading

Art19 formalizes business relationship with fast-growing Feral Audio podcast group

Podcast hosting and ad-tech company Art19 announces today that it has formalized a relationship with Feral Audio, a comedy podcast network that is enjoying what might be called an “accidental success” story. Feral Audio’s entire catalog of 50 shows is on the Art19 platform, and RAIN spoke with the CEO of Feral. Continue Reading

8tracks encourages subscription as it nears completion of major-label licensing

In a revealing blog post that transparently reveals company financials while explaining economic realities of the music streaming business generally, 8tracks Founder and CEO David Porter has announced that his company has “nearly wrapped our deal with the first of the major labels.” Along with that revelation, Porter says that 8tracks will start its subscription service in the new year. Continue Reading