Possible UMG/EMI Merger

The Future of Music Coalition put out an article recently on why the possible merger between Universal Music Group and EMI is bad for artists and fans. The downside (or potential downside) for fans is somewhat obvious: fewer content owners leads to decreased competition in the marketplaces, etc. According to TheFutureofMusic.com, the labels argue that "this merger is necessary given their relatively weakened position in the digital era. UMG asserts that unauthorized distribution and even legal services like Amazon and iTunes are damaging the larger music landscape, and that this merger will help them compete in an ever more difficult music market."