Behind the music: Why can't labels agree on a music streaming service?

(From Guardian Unlimited)

Last year, I suggested that backing an "unlimited" ISP music service, like the proposed Virgin Media one, was a risk worth taking for record labels and music publishers. Negotiations between Virgin Media and record companies had been going on for more than six months, but labels were unable to agree on the cost of a monthly subscription and whether or not the scheme should be unlimited.

Almost a year later, we are no closer to seeing such a music service, while Universal Music Group, the first label to get on board with the project, has voiced its frustration with the lack of progress. Instead, last week brought the news that Virgin Media is …