Study: A new NPD Group report finds that while most teens are using paid music download services, they’re also still using pirate sites at a high rate. The research group estimates up to 70% of U.S. kids aged 9 – 14 download music in a given month – 49% use iTunes, 26% use Limewire, and 16% use Myspace for sharing music.

U2 In Talks With Live Nation: FOX News columnist Roger Friedman has claimed the Rolling Stones are looking at a Madonna prototype deal with concert promoter Live Nation that would cover the release of their CDs, and now U2 are engaging in similiar talks. Sources say the group’s most recent release, 2004’s “How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb,” fulfilled their Interscope contract. Mega christian artist Michael W. Smith is also talking to Live Nation about career options.

New Music: Hollywood/Fearless Records have signed female fronted rock act Valora. The band participated in MTV’s virtual battle of the bands in November and they cite AFI, My Chemical Romance, and Tool as influences.
Check out the track ‘Can You Save Me Now‘ which is reminiscent of the Courntey Love track Celebrity Skin