Yes, you read that correctly. Starbucks is planning to further diversify its brand and expand into the music recording business. The company's existing Los Angeles-based Hear Music label plans to sign its own artists; both established performers and those just emerging into the music industry. Naturally, the CD's will be sold in Starbucks stores, as well as through various other retailers. Rumor has it, in fact, that Paul McCartney has ended his 43-year relationship with Capitol Records and will be the first artist to sign under the Starbucks brand, bringing with him his entire catalogue of Wings and solo work. This isn't the first time Starbucks has attempted non-coffee related ventures ,though -- it has already extended into books, a movie and has a branded page at the online iTunes store. Four Hear Music Coffeehouses, where customers can purchase music and burn to CDs, are currently open, so we can probably expect to see more of those coming soon as well.














