Grim Times For Record Stores

“Despite the resilient determination of record buyers to return time and again, the future still looks uncertain for the independent record dealer as the recession, downloads, and supermarket and internet giants such as Amazon continue to sell music at discount prices. In 2005 there were 734 record shops in the UK, but in just over three years that figure had fallen to just 305 stores according to the Entertainment Retailers’ Association.”

How A Forger Conned The Art Establishment

“Forgers are a peculiar breed and money is only one motive. Anonymous by necessity, they yearn for recognition. Technically adept, often with formal training and a keen sense of colour and form, they have produced work, down to the singular brushstroke or cut of the clay, that rivals the originals. But, by definition, they have not found their own voice; they are unable to put their name to pieces of modest integrity and flair when they know that they are capable of simulating the greats.”

The Band As Corporate Brand

“For the musician, wooing potential corporate partners has become as integral to his job as the DJ sets he does on tour at after-parties sponsored by Bacardi. Often will.i.am pitches the concepts himself using “decks” that sum up the Peas’ package, frequently in PowerPoint form. I consider us a brand.”