Rihanna, photo by Sam Collart

  • In a further effort to restructure the company, Clear Channel has hired a brand new brand management team.
     

  • EMI has partnered with US tech company, the Echo Nest, to release music content to app developers. Expect to see a lot of new Gorillaz themed iPad apps.
     

  • In other EMI news, Access Industries, once a frontrunner in the auction, has dropped out of the EMI bidding war.
     

  • The Alliance Of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) has allied with the American Federation Of Musicians-Canadian Federation Of Musicians (AFM-CFM) to create one monster alliance.
     

  • In the greatest (and weirdest) news of the week: Kid Cudi released a horror short this week directed by Shia Labeouf.
     

  • Both Rihanna and Adele are canceling many of their winter shows. Rihanna for exhaustion (probably due to excessive partying), and Adele to get throat surgery.
     

  • Brooklyn DIY venue, Bruar Falls, closed its doors this week. RIP Bruar Falls.
     

  • The FBI has deemed “Juggalos” (fans of the Insane Clown Posse) a credible gang threat. The report describes them as a “loosely-organized hybrid gang.”
     

  • The United States version of The X Factor has been picked up for a second season.
     

  • Breakout NYC-based band the Kin (who performed at CMJ Music Marathon this past month) has signed to Interscope. Congratulations!
     

  • Sir Michael Rocks of the Cool Kids signed a solo deal with Jet Life. Don’t worry though; the Cool Kids isn’t breaking up.
     

  • Public Enemy member Chuck D is suing Universal Music Group for $100 million over digital royalties.
     
    Industry Wrap is a weekly CMJ column covering industry-related music news. Send tips to Kate Shapiro at kshapiro@cmj.com.