Los Angeles - After independent record label bodies including Merlin and A2IM criticized MySpace (NYSE: NWS) for not offering them an equity position in its MySpace Music joint venture with the major record labels, MySpace responded in a statement saying it offered all labels the same deal, while independent music digital distributor The Orchard, which signed on with MySpace Music, explained its decision. "We have offered a relationship with Merlin that provides equal opportunities to Merlin's labels and Merlin's artists that we have provided to ALL labels and artists whether they are Indie Artists, Major Artists or Unsigned artists," reads the MySpace statement.

New York - The Orchard has completed its merger with Digital Music Group, Inc. (NASD: DMGI), a fellow provider of digital distribution services for music and video. Under terms of the all-stock transaction, shareholders of The Orchard will own about 60% of the combined company, which will be based out of New York, and continue to be led by Orchard president and CEO Greg Scholl.