Def Jam executive VP of A&R Shakir Stewart committed suicide on November 1st in Atlanta according to sources. He signed signed artists such as Rick Ross, Young Jeezy and Karina Pasian.

I Quit The Music Business: Alan McGee, who signed Oasis, Primal Scream and The Jesus and Mary Chain, has said he has quit the music business after 25 years. “We don’t really have a place in the music industry any more because we actually like music,” he said. “I think the pre-requisite for being in the music industry is not liking music and playing the corporate game, agreeing with your boss.”

McGee also claims that he couldn’t have predicted Oasis success. “It was obvious Oasis were going to become successful,” he explained. “That they were going to sell 54 million albums and go out and do a 168 date tour around the world this year? “No, I couldn’t have predicted that. I couldn’t have predicted that in 2008 they were still going to be absolutely relevant and still mean a lot to a lot of people. They kind of defy gravity.”

Why The iPod is Doomed: A article from MSN Money says, “iTunes and those beloved iPods — the company is veering toward trouble. Read here and see why!

New Stream: You can stream the entire Hinder record on their myspace. The record titled ‘Take It To The Limit’ will be available in stores on election day (November 4th). Our favorites include Lost In The Sun and Far From Home.

Alter Bridge Singer Jams With Zeppelin: Myles Kennedy who fronts Alter Bridge (ex-Creed members) may just land the Led Zeppelin re-union gig if Robert Plant refuses to join in. Kennedy has already rehearsed with Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and drummer Jason Bonham according to sources. Sources also claim that Kennedy’s departure from Alter Bridge could lead to a Creed re-union tour. I’m sure Kennedy could never have imagined jamming with Jimmy Page.

EMI News: EMI is considering turning over its distribution, sales and marketing operations in the United States to a rival in an attempt to cut its extensive losses, said Fortune Magazine. “Sources close to the talks say EMI could save as much as $300 million a year if it completely outsourced its American marketing and distribution operation.”