New Music Industry Briefing For Friday May 19, 2006

– Universal Music Group’s parent Vivendi announced that the music division, the world largest music company, more than doubled their profit for the first quarter of the year to $115 million.  A U.S. court settlement inflated the number. Bestsellers in the quarter included Andrea Bocelli, Jack Johnson Prince, the debut from Ne-Yo. Vivendi also rejected a move to split up the companies’ divisions.

– Small screen video will never satisfy so internet radio could be the killer app for 3G cell phones. (TMCNET.com via RAIN)

– USAToday had a generally favorable review of URGE.   

– Apple opens a flashsip retail store in NYC later today.  The store will be open 24/7.