UMG/EMI Merger Approved: 
Universal Music Group's $1.9 billion acquisition of EMI Music has been approved by the US Federal Trade Commission, just hours after the European Union's green light. Part of the EU's approval included concessions from UMG, which will mean divesting one-third of EMI's assets in Europe. According to Reuters, the FTC's approval came with no conditions. When finalized, UMG's purchase of EMI Recorded Music will complete the breakup of EMI; earlier this year, Sony/ATV's $2.2 billion purchase of EMI Music Publishing was also approved by the EU and FTC. More here.
The Year End Print Special
featuring:
The Year In Music:
Morgan, Ella & More
CMA Radio Winners
Recap The Week
Label Of The Year
Big Loud Turns 10
BMG's Jon Loba:
The Interview
The 2026 Grammy
Voter's Guide
A quick reference guide to the 2026 Grammy Nominees
Inside This Issue:
Exstream: What Is Mainstream Country?
You Never Forget Your First … Cousin
Survey Says: NuVoodoo Research