Saavn announced that it has raised $100 million in Series C funding. This new financing brings the Indian streaming company’s valuation to $300-$400 million. The round is expected to go toward scaling the service and expanding into video. Continue Reading
Microsoft has renamed its Xbox Music service to Groove. The previous name had caused confusion among potential listeners, many of whom thought that the service required an Xbox game console. “Groove” is a more accessible name for listeners who don’t have the gaming hardware. But the rebrand also seems to be part of a broader effort to update Microsoft’s entertainment offerings to keep pace with existing services. Continue Reading
Pushing forward the digital initiatives that complement its vast over-the-air holdings, iHeartMedia has hired veteran media executive Carter Brokaw as President, Digital Revenue Strategy. Brokaw will report to iHeart’s head of sales, Tim Castelli. Continue Reading
Rdio has added new label stations to its existing category, with additions appearing in various localized editions of the Rdio app. Label stations are promotional playlists that highlight small and medium sized label artists, and are curated collaboratively. Continue Reading
iHeartMedia announced the launch of a new Hispanic brand management team. The new group will offer strategic guidance to the company’s Hispanic brands and connect advertisers with iHeartMedia’s Hispanic audience. Hispanic listeners are a growing category for the U.S. radio and music markets, and many media companies are working to better serve them. For instance, last week, Univision announced plans for an IPO. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web. Today, SoundExchange CEO Michael Huppe responds to a column in The Hill. Should music licensing costs to Internet radio be escalated or decreased? Continue Reading
Radio Vintage, a Chicago-based pureplay, offers deep sonic nostalgia — the same sort of musty romance you get when walking into a vintage clothing boutique in the East Village. Continue Reading
Pop performer Prince has started removing all of his music from streaming platforms. His discography went down at Spotify this morning, and a note on his artist page reads “Prince’s publisher has asked all streaming services to remove his catalog.” Continue Reading
Facebook has allegedly had early discussions about working with the major music labels. According to a report by The Verge, the social network has expressed an interest in getting involved with the music industry, but it is still unsure what form that interest might take. It has reportedly spoken with Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group, and Warner Music Group. Continue Reading
The Download on Podcasts is a weekly feature sponsored by PodcastOne.
Last week Edison Research released new information about the podcasting audience, revealing that teens are listening as much as some older groups, unlike in terrestrial radio. But where are the young podcast stars?
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RAIN Enterprises is pleased to announce the hiring of Michael Fischer as Director of Business Development for RAIN News and RAIN Summits. Michael Fischer is a 30-year veteran in radio and digital media. Continue Reading
Shazam and SoundHound have been making some speedy updates behind the scenes in light of the new Apple Music launch. Both have added integrations prompting the user to listen to a newly tagged song on Apple’s streaming music platform. Continue Reading