Two of the big four record companies are missing from Google music store

TWO OF THE TOP FOUR recording companies are missing from a Google Music event scheduled for this Wednesday.

Google has invited some of the US press to an event in Los Angeles, where it is expected to add downloads to its cloud music service and reveal social networking features.

However, according to Cnet, Google has signed a licensing agreement for the service with Universal Music Group but does not have deals in place with Sony Music Entertainment or Warner Music Group. It is unclear whether EMI would participate, while sources told Cnet that talks between Sony, Warner and Google continue.

Apparently, the problem lies in the tumultuous relationship between Google and the record companies.

The record companies think Google is well placed to become a real Itunes competitor, and Google wants to give users of Android access to movies and music.

But Google has had problems in the past. It was accused by Viacom in a $1bn copyright lawsuit of encouraging Youtube users to post 'pirated' content.

The labels say that Google's latest move could seriously damage its chances of taking on Itunes, as the search giant would need licenses from all four labels to offer an appropriate selection of music.

Google, on the other hand, has decided it'll do whatever it darn well wants to do, it seems. µ