The LAT reports that music trade publication Hits (and its news website) has been accused of letting advertising and promotional revenue influence editorial content. The article quotes from a widely-circulated email from V2 Records chief Andy Gershon to Hits editor Lenny Beer:

"You trash people that don't pay you. Pure and simple," Gershon wrote to Hits' editor, Lenny Beer, in an e-mail copied to scores of music executives and journalists. "You used to be nice and write nice things, WHEN we paid you... . You are nothing more than a two bit hustler at the end of the day, relying on strong arm tactics of fear."

The article goes on to detail several examples that seem to support Gershon's claim, and also to cite a statement from Beer which is surprising in its non-denial. ("He acknowledged that 'we do support people who support us.' He said it was common for trade publications to award positive media coverage to clients who purchased consulting services or advertisements.")

For non-music-insiders like me (and presumably most of you), it's hard to know what to make of this. But note that accompanying the article is a photograph of Gershon with his friendly-looking dog. And also note that Lenny Beer's last name is 'Beer.' Whom are you more inclined to trust, a devoted pet owner or someone named after an intoxicant? I know where I stand.