A union of five independent labels sold to U.S. retail by Warner Music Group’s Alternative Distribution Alliance (ADA) is seeking a physical-only distribution deal that could upset the business model for distributors, according to sources familiar with the plans. The deal sought by Beggars, Secretly Canadian, Domino, Merge and Saddle Creek goes against the grain…

Sony Music is ramping-up its EDM activities Down Under. Jon Hanlon is joining Sony Music Australia and New Zealand in the new position as director, Electronic Dance Music, the company said today. In his new role, Hanlon is responsible for the affiliate’s EDM repertoire, and he’ll take duties on electronic dance music in Asia, excluding…

Nicki Minaj has confirmed (via Twitter, naturally) that her judicial tenure on American Idol has come to an end. “Thank you American Idol for a life changing experience!” she tweeted. “Wouldn’t trade it for the world! Time to focus on the Music!!! Mmmuuuaahhh!!!” A nation mourns. And that’s not all, folks. Mariah Carey‘s flack Cindi Berger told ABC yesterday…

Bon Jovi tops this week’s Hot Tours tally with box office grosses reported from the final 19 venues on the band’s initial jaunt through North America along with a pair of shows in South Africa. Total ticket sales revenue from all 21 performances in this week’s report is $41.4 million, bringing the overall gross from…

APA has appointed former WME partner Steve Hauser as senior VP. Hauser — who brings with him such clients as Darius Rucker, the Charlie Daniels Band, Clint Black and Chris Cagle — will focus on building APA’s Nashville roster. “I am beyond thrilled to have the one and only Steve Hauser join our APA family,”…