Rhapsody is to acquire Napster

Rhapsody is to acquire Napster from Best Buy Co. The transaction will combine the subscriber bases of the two largest premium on-demand music services in the United States. Under the terms of the agreement, Rhapsody will acquire Napster subscribers and certain other assets, and Best Buy will receive a minority stake in Rhapsody.  The transaction is expected to close on or around November 30, 2011.

“Rhapsody has demonstrated that it has what it takes to build a profitable business in the increasingly competitive on-demand music market,” said Chris Homeister, senior vice president and general manager of entertainment for Best Buy. “We are confident they are the right partner to provide Napster’s existing subscriber base with an immersive digital music experience moving forward.”

“This is a ‘go big or go home’ business, so our focus is on sustainably growing the company,” said Irwin. “We’re excited to welcome Napster music fans to the best on-demand music experience anywhere.  Our new members will have more places to connect to the music they love and to discover new favorites, guided by Rhapsody’s rockstar editorial team and the tastes of other Rhapsody members via our innovative social features.

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