The breach of contract trial between the Beatles' Apple Corps. and Apple Computers has all but concluded, with both sides awaiting a decision from the judge. The two Apples differ on whether the computer company violated their 1991 agreement by using the Apple name and logo in connection with iTunes. With the Beatles receiving $26 million dollars, the two sides set limits with respect to the usage of the Apple trademark. However, in 1991, no one foresaw the proliferation of the Internet or the potential for online computer-based sales.

As if this battle of titans wasn't newsworthy enough, it was revealed during the trial that The Beatles catalog is currently in the process of being digitally remastered in preparation for online distribution. In papers submitted to the court, Neil Aspinall, managing director of Apple Corps., informed the Court of their Internet intentions. "I think it would be wrong to offer downloads of the old masters when I am making new masters," said Aspinall. Even though every Beatles song is available on CD and fans can acquire Beatles music in several different compilations, the availability of Beatles music online, whether on iTunes or elsewhere, will surely be a watershed moment.

Just at the time when the value of the Beatles catalog could skyrocket even further, Michael Jackson has reportedly agreed to sell a significant portion of his rights in Beatles' recordings to Sony Corp. In 1985, Jackson surprisingly outbid his supposed friend Paul McCartney for the rights to the music. While the karma may not have been instant, Jackson's current sale comes in an effort to avoid bankruptcy after years of financially irresponsible behavior. For those who have been living in a cave, Jackson currently resides in Bahrain, having fled the United States after his acquittal on child molestation charges.

Labels: Beatles