The collapse in negotiations between Merlin and TikTok raises questions around how big a role music plays in TikTok's business, and how much they want to pay for it.
TikTok says it wants to enter "direct deals with Merlin members." Merlin reads it as TikTok "fragmenting" their membership to try to "minimize" licensing payments for indie music.
Sirota, who has led Merlin since 2020, says he's always thinking of ways to drive more value to the nonprofit's independent partners.
As part of a series on independent record stores, Billboard looks at one of D.C.'s only Black-owned shops, where vice president Kamala Harris has been known to visit.
As part of a series on independent record stores, Billboard looks at one of Music City's enduring shops, while co-owner Doyle Davis discusses Grimey’s contributions to Nashville.
In a new series on independent record stores, Billboard explores the Mile High City's signature shop and speaks to owner Patrick Brown on its past, present and future.
Merlin Connect will be available for up-and-coming startups on an application basis, with the goal of providing flexible, simplified terms that will also get rightsholders paid.
Retail Track Rides Again: Thanks to a wider selection of titles, including from artists like David Byrne, Paramore and Chappell Roan, some retailers said business was even better than last year.
