UK-based MelodyVR, which creates immersive live music for VR headsets and phones, acquires Rhapsody International, owner of Napster, from RealNetworks for $70M
The saga of Napster has taken an interesting turn … Tim Ingham / Music Business Worldwide : Napster sold to MelodyVR in $70m deal, including $44m owed to record labels and other partners James Booth / CityAM : Virtual live music business Melody VR buys Napster in $70m deal Kelly Earley / Silicon Republic : MelodyVR plans to acquire Napster in a $70m deal Betty / MelodyVR : MELODYVR TO ACQUIRE MUSIC SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE NAPSTER Tweets: Brian Roemmele / @brianroemmele : Napster and RealNetworks!? <I check my Casio F91w to see if I set my decade accurately. Rub eyes.> Yep coming to you VR experience, some interesting IP. https://twitter.com/... Ingrid / @ingridlunden : It's a regular theme in tech that being the early mover doesn't always give you the advantage. (But this could be a very interesting combination, especially in the current market. I hope it is.) https://twitter.com/... Martin Sfp Bryant / @martinsfp : Napster is one of those brands that was really of its time 20 years ago, but I'm not sure why anyone would see much value in it now: https://techcrunch.com/... See also Mediagazer