While the Rolling Stones focus on the imminent release of their latest album, Shine A Light , major record companies are vying to sign the band to a long-term deal in a contest that highlights the ways in which the music industry is changing.

Universal Music, Sony BMG and Warner Music have already begun courting the Stones in an effort to wrest them away from their long-time label, EMI. The band's contract expires in June, and they are expected to finalise their plans within months.