how does companies like iTunes obtain music–rights from the record companies or others? Be specific, plz?

Question by terrysmitheverett: how does companies like iTunes obtain music–rights from the record companies or others? Be specific, plz?
I am doing research on the supply chain and chose,AOL songs on demand, itunes and napster as my subject. I am interested in finding out how and where do these companies first obtain their music which is subsequently sold or distributed to those that download the music for a fee(?) I assumed they obtain the music from the record companies and pay a royalty of some type, then resale the music to downloaders. Please help ASAP.

Best answer:

Answer by mugenhunt
They indeed make deals with record companies and pay them royalties from the sales of the various songs.

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