EMI is about to make its entire catalog available without DRM (slides from the announcement).  iTunes will be the first to offer the DRM-free downloads.  [Remember that EMI distributes The Beatles, who will own the entire Top 10 some time this year].

The DRM-less tracks will be more expensive and higher quality (256kbps AAC encoded for $1.29 per song).

EMI Music launches DRM-free superior sound quality downloads across its entire digital repertoire.

Apple’s iTunes store to be the first online music store to sell EMI’s new downloads

…

DRM-free albums will be priced at the same price (but higher quality) as current, DRM-crippled albums.

(Source: Engadget)

Linkage:  The Apple press release