Following those comments by EMI boss Eric Nicoli last week essentially ruling out the possibility of any merger with Edgar Bronfmann Jnr's Warner Music Group, there was speculation in the New York Post yesterday that Warner will instead up their market share through a programme of indie acquisitions.
The paper reports that Warner Music's US chief Lyor Cohen has been meeting with the owners of various independent labels in the States, with a view to making some kind of business deal. It is not clear yet if the major is looking for complete buy-out opportunities, or if they are considering joint venture deals akin to that they currently have (for the time being at least) with Madonna's label Maverick. Although word is any partnerships with independents would be run through WMG's indie distribution arm, ADA, suggesting they are considering co-ownership arrangements.
The labels Cohen is said to be talking to include Saddle Creek, Victory, Drive Thru and Wind-up.