Music Business News: Belgium

UMG receives Statement of Objections from EU regulator over $775m Downtown deal

Statement of Objections issued by the EC represents a formal escalation in the investigation into the transaction

Live Nation acquired Pukkelpop, one of Belgium’s largest music festivals. Now the market’s competition watchdog is investigating the deal.

The Belgian Competition Authority noted that Live Nation already provides artist booking services and organizes three of Belgium’s largest festivals.

News

EU pauses probe into Universal’s $775m Downtown deal

EC has reportedly 'stopped the clock' on the investigation as it awaits requested information

News

AB InBev apologizes for ‘$0 spent on music rights’ ad boast after Budweiser Cannes Lions win

The beer giant's claim that it had “$0 spent on music rights” prompted a backlash from the music industry

Interviews

‘Music fans nowadays are so immersed in the online world, they can see what’s real and what’s manufactured.’

MBW's World Leaders series meets Niels Walboomers, President, Recorded Music and Publishing, Benelux, Warner Music Group, which includes powerhouse dance label Spinnin’ Records

Analysis

Björn Ulvaeus: ‘Bring on the AI revolution – but stay true to safeguarding creators’ rights.’

The following op-ed was originally delivered as a speech to European lawmakers on Tuesday evening (May 20) by ABBA co-founder and CISAC President Björn Ulvaeus

News

Spotify hikes prices by up to 22% across Benelux countries

Individual subscriptions now cost €12.99 in the Netherlands and Luxembourg and €11.99 in Belgium

News

Youssef Chellak appointed General Manager of Warner Music Belgium

Exec will operate from the company's Brussels HQ