The latest potential EMI evacuee is one that has grown up considerably in the last two years: Walt Disney Records.
Back in 2005, when EMI signed on to distribute Disney recordings, the value of the kid-label was next to nothing.But with the "High School Musical" and "Hannah Montana" franchises changing that landscape dramatically - not to mention Rascal Flatts' success - Disney is apparently starting to look around at other distribs. The deal expires at the end of the year and Disney is suddenly the hottest "indie" label around. (Yes, as opposed to film and TV, Disney is not a major in music). Disney's cash cows could be tough ones to replace for Guy Hands.