New York - The Orchard (NASD: ORCD), a digital distributor of independent music and video, on Tuesday announced the launch of a toolset for artist and label clients. The Artist/Label Workstation includes features that offer control over catalogue and new release management, digital marketing reporting and analysis, accounting administration and royalty analysis. Separately, Gydget said that its viral fan widgets will be integrated into the new Orchard toolset. The company said that over 800 artists have begun using its widgets since launching nearly four months ago.

San Francisco - Gydget, the developer of a marketing platform that helps organizations -- such as music groups and sports teams -- reach their audiences on social networking and fan-based websites, said on Tuesday that it has raised an undisclosed amount in its first round of funding, led by SunBridge Partners.