Hypebot’s New Music Industry Briefing For Thursday July 27th, 2006

UPDATED –

– At least for now, EMI is reportedly ending any efforts to aquire WMG.

– Music sales including CD’s and downloads are down 5% over this week last year. (DMN)

– EARNINGS CALLS: Real Networks does their next earnings call at 5PM EST today.  CEO Rob Glaser will lead the call, which can be accessed at investor.realnetworks.com or dial 800-857-5305 within the United States and 773-681-5857 internationally. WMG‘s call is August 4 at 11 am EST. Call into the 800-857-2625 or (210) 234-6601.

– Digital distributor The Orchard now has more than 1 million tracks in its catalog.

– A never-released song that legendary U.S. rock guitarist Jimi Hendrix recorded 40 years ago is being sold at auction in October.