Having already lost Radiohead and possibly the Rolling Stones, EMI is now in danger of losing the global distribution rights to up-and-coming ‘tween band the Jonas Brothers after their label Disney expressed concerns about EMI’s ability to market the album given the record giant’s recent restructuring of their staff (EMI was purchased by private equity firm Terra Firma last year). Disney’s international distribution contract with EMI expires at year’s end, but the Company That Mickey Built is already looking into a “change-of-ownership” clause that would allow them to opt out earlier. Leading the pack to pick up Disney’s profitable international rights, which also include both the Hannah Montana and High School Musical franchises, is the Universal Music Group, who had to deal with the defection of the Nine Inch Nails but generally don’t face the same uncertainty as EMI. Reportedly leading the charge for Disney to emancipate from EMI is the Jonas Brothers’ management team, which includes the trio’s father, Kevin Jonas, Sr. Disney and EMI both deny the rift.

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[Photo: Getty]