New Music Industry Briefing For Friday June 23, 2006

UPDATED –

– The iPod may enjoy a dominate 80% portable player market share in the US but worldwide it’s closer to only 26% providing hope for competitors. (DMN)

– Growth at satellite radio is slowing because of high gas prices and the end of the hype surrounding Howard Stern’s move to the format, according to a new report from Banc of America Securities. (Forbes)

– Digital distributor The Orchard has announced that Paul Verna has accepted the newly created position of director of corporate communications. A 17-year veteran of the music and entertainment technology industries, Verna will spearhead The Orchard’s global media relations,and marketing communications initiatives.

– Hits Rumor Mill asks: "Did Dixie Chicks manager Simon Renshaw and Irving Azoff finally conclude their long-rumored deal to join forces as a partnership?  What major act is about to join up? "

The FCC is considering opening the 17/24 GHz bands to a new broadcasting satellites which could bring "a new generation of innovative satellite services to American consumers — providing a mix of video, audio, data and multimedia services to residential and business subscribers." (AllAccess)