News …

Best Buy to buy Napster for $121 million – The New York Times / DealBook (registration may be required)

MySpace Music signs four major sponsors to underwrite free music streaming costs – Reuters

Ignoring death threats, Paul McCartney still plans to perform in Israel – Israeli News Agency

Forget about the stars, watching film docs about obscure bands is where it’s at – The Times Online U.K.

Music’s magical time machine – The Daily Mail U.K.

Buddy Guy sits still long enough for a Q&A – The Daily Gleaner

Views …

The Mars Volta in Columbus, Ohio – ” … held court last night in the sold-out Lifestyle Communities Pavilion like conquering heroes” – The Columbus Dispatch

Elton John in Edmonton – “Backed by a five piece band, including two drummers, the 61-year-old rock legend – bedecked in sparkly jacket, cravat and purple sunglasses – made his way through close to three hours worth of hits and near hits.” – Edmonton Journal / Canada.comhits.

The B-52’s in Memphis – ” … they’ve still got the stamina they demonstrated in those heady early days.” – Memphis Commercial Appeal

Toby Keith in Cleveland – ” … turned Blossom Music Center into the Big Dog Daddy Pound.” – The Plain Dealer

Xavier Rudd in NYC – ” … struck a sure bond with his jam-happy audience, encouraging rapture as well as a sense of belonging.” – The New York Times (registration may be required)

Earth, Wind & Fire in Providence – ” A feel-good spirituality, pop hooks to spare, sweet singing and hard-hitting funk from the rhythm and horn sections.” – The Providence Journal

They Say It’s Their Birthday … (Or so says Associated Press)

Mitch Dorge (Crash Test Dummies) is 48

Kay Gee is 39

Allen Shellenberger (Lit) is 39

Ivette Sosa (Eden’s Crush) is 32