Category Music Industry News

In a bold move towards addressing pervasive issues of racism, misogyny, and sexual harassment in the music industry, Black Lives In Music (BLiM) has launched an anonymous survey aimed at gathering crucial data on these systemic problems.

Following earlier research that uncovered shocking evidence of misogyny and sexual harassment, BLiM is now doubling down on its efforts to confront racism within the industry. The organization emphasizes that the information gathered through this survey will be instrumental in shaping its anti-racist code of conduct and will also be shared with governmental bodies like the Department of Culture, potentially influencing legislation.

Reports flooding in to BLiM include distressing testimonies of women feeling pressured to conform to certain dress codes at events, disturbing allegations of rape and sexual assault within music studios, and numerous accounts of racial and sexual discrimination.

Renowned singer-songwriter V V Brown has thrown her support behind the survey, recognizing it as a vital step towards eradicating discrimination, bullying, and harassment, especially targeting Black and POC individuals within the music industry.

Grammy award-winning songwriter Kamille, celebrated for her collaborations with industry giants like Dua Lipa and Little Mix, has bravely shared her own experiences of facing barriers in her career. She highlights the additional challenges faced by Black women in music, noting the negative labeling they often encounter when defending themselves against bullying.

The music industry is being called upon to stand in solidarity with these initiatives by participating in the anonymous survey, amplifying the voices of those who have endured discrimination and harassment. Together, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all within the realm of music.

Photo credit: Matt Batchelor.

You can carry out the survey here.

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Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of audio as Spotify’s highly anticipated All Ears Podcast Summit and All Music Friday Summit make their return to Berlin on April 18 and 19. With experts spanning the audio spectrum—from artists and publishers to marketing and advertising mavens—these events promise to be a dynamic convergence of industry insights, creative inspiration, and unforgettable performances.

Following the resounding success of the 2023 summits, which marked a milestone as Germany’s largest podcast event to date, this year’s edition is poised to set new standards. Attendees can look forward to engaging panel discussions, immersive workshops, and captivating live podcast recordings, all set against the backdrop of Berlin’s vibrant cultural landscape.

For the Record had the privilege of catching up with Michael Krause, Spotify’s General Manager for Europe and the mastermind behind these summits, to glean insights into the audio trends shaping the industry, especially within the German market.

When asked about his anticipation for this year’s summits, Krause expressed eagerness in reuniting the industry’s thought leaders and fostering discussions on the future of audio in Germany. He highlighted the spontaneous energy and diverse conversations that make these events truly electrifying.

In discussing emerging trends, Krause underscored the excitement surrounding new ad formats and enhanced targeting capabilities. He emphasized Spotify’s commitment to innovation, citing recent launches like Streaming Ad Insertion and call-to-action cards as transformative tools driving engagement and value for advertisers and creators alike.

As Germany stands as one of the world’s largest music markets, Krause shed light on Spotify’s role in fostering its growth. He emphasized the platform’s mission to empower artists, particularly emerging talents, through initiatives like EQUAL and RADAR, thereby democratizing access to global audiences and amplifying diverse voices.

Reflecting on his seven-year journey with Spotify, Krause marveled at the company’s evolution from a music-centric platform to a multifaceted audio powerhouse. From podcasts to audiobooks and beyond, Spotify’s expansion into new territories and formats has been nothing short of monumental, with over 600 million users now tapping into its vast ecosystem.

Turning his gaze to the future of podcasting in Germany, Krause spoke of a landscape ripe with opportunity. With a plethora of tools and functionalities at creators’ disposal, including video podcasts, Spotify is committed to empowering creators to cultivate and engage their communities in innovative ways, further enriching the audio experience for all.

As Spotify’s All Ears Podcast Summit and All Music Friday Summit gear up to captivate audiences in Berlin, the stage is set for a momentous celebration of audio excellence, creativity, and collaboration. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this immersive journey into the future of sound.

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In a harmonious call to action, the music industry is striking a chord with young adults, urging them to “Give an X” by registering to vote before the clock strikes 11:59AM today (April 16) for the upcoming UK Mayoral Elections next month.

Statistics reveal a staggering truth: while six million vibrant souls immersed themselves in the pulsating rhythms of festivals and electronic music events last year, an equivalent number neglected to register their vote in the last Mayoral Election.

In a resounding effort to bridge this gap, a constellation of UK-based festivals, electronic acts, publications, and nightlife venues have penned an open letter, rallying their communities to seize their electoral power.

Among the illustrious signatories lending their voices to the cause are luminaries such as Annie Mac, the dynamic duo BICEP, the trailblazing AVA Festival, the iconic Mixmag, the avant-garde Block9, the electric vibes of The Cause, the transcendent sounds of HAAi, the empowering Foundation FM, and a plethora of other esteemed names.

This collective resonance underscores the transformative potential when artistry and activism intertwine, amplifying the heartbeat of democracy. Let’s make our voices heard, let’s give an X, and let’s shape the future together.

Photo credit: Descrier.

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In a recent revelation, Paloma Faith, the soulful voice behind hits like “The Glorification Of ­Sadness,” has hinted at the possibility of bidding farewell to the music industry. The 42-year-old singer shared her contemplation during an episode of Jamie Laing’s Great Company podcast.

Paloma disclosed that she’s entertaining the idea of releasing one final album before redirecting her talents toward a different career path. Surprising many, she mentioned the prospect of becoming a teacher, a notion fueled in part by her mother, Pam Oakes-Ash. It seems Pam has been gently nudging Paloma towards the teaching profession, emphasizing the appeal of synchronized summer holidays with her children.

The singer, who is a mother to two daughters from her previous marriage to Leyman Lahcine, expressed her mother’s encouragement: “My mum’s always telling me I need to train to be a teacher.” Paloma further revealed, “She’s like, ‘You’ve had kids, you’ve done the pop star thing. Go and do PGCE [teacher training] because then you can have the same holidays as your kids.’ I’m considering it. I just might put one more record out.”

During the podcast, Paloma also candidly discussed the dissolution of her marriage to French artist Leyman, shedding light on personal aspects of her life beyond the spotlight.

As fans absorb the news, many are left pondering the potential shift in Paloma Faith’s career trajectory and eagerly await updates on her musical and professional endeavors.

Photo credit: Steven Leith.

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In a candid interview with NYLON magazine, iconic singer Gwen Stefani has revealed the challenges she faces in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry while juggling her roles as a mother and wife. The 54-year-old artist, renowned for her chart-topping hits both as a solo artist and as the frontwoman of No Doubt, likened the music industry to “the Wild West,” emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the creative process.

Stefani, who is married to country music star Blake Shelton, shared her struggles with finding the time and inspiration to write music amidst her familial responsibilities. “To be a mom and a wife and then write a record? Everybody might be like, ‘Why did it take so long?’ Well, OK, I want to see you try to find five seconds to get creative,” she remarked.

The Grammy Award-winning artist admitted that balancing her music career with her parental duties has been tough. “It’s so hard to squeeze it into the life that I have. And that’s why I think it’s more special than ever,” she expressed. Stefani equated the process of making music to those precious moments of self-care that new mothers cherish amidst the chaos of raising a child.

Despite the challenges, Stefani and Shelton recently collaborated on the track ‘Purple Irises,’ which was released earlier this year. The song’s inspiration stemmed from their time together on Shelton’s Oklahoma ranch during the pandemic, offering a glimpse into their personal lives and creative partnership.

As Stefani continues to navigate the music industry with her signature blend of pop and rock influences, her candid reflections serve as a testament to the dedication and resilience required to pursue one’s passion amidst the demands of everyday life.

Photo credit: Lorie Shaull.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize various sectors, presenting unprecedented opportunities and efficiencies. However, within the creative sphere, particularly in the music industry, the utilization of AI has ignited a contentious debate surrounding artist compensation and copyright.

Jenn Anderson-Miller, CEO and co-Founder of Audiosocket, emphasized the need for collaboration between artists, intellectual property (IP) owners, and AI innovators to navigate the ethical challenges presented by AI. Anderson-Miller stated, “We are in the ‘disrupt’ phase of generative AI right now, and we have some navigating to do,” highlighting the initial disruptive nature of AI implementations and the importance of leveling the playing field for all stakeholders.

The recent publication of an open letter in Billboard by the Artist Rights Alliance (ARA) intensified ongoing concerns regarding AI’s impact on the music industry. The letter calls for the ethical and responsible use of AI while advocating for the rights of musicians, performers, and songwriters.

“We believe that, when used responsibly, AI has enormous potential to advance human creativity,” the letter stated. However, it also warned against the misuse of AI, noting that “some platforms and developers are employing AI to sabotage creativity and undermine artists, songwriters, musicians, and rightsholders.”

Notably, the letter garnered support from over 200 prominent figures in the music industry, including Stevie Wonder, Robert Smith, Billie Eilish, Nicki Minaj, R.E.M., and many others. The wide array of signatories reflects the collective concern within the industry regarding the implications of AI on artistic integrity and fair compensation.

As the music industry continues to grapple with the integration of AI technologies, the call for ethical standards and the protection of artists’ rights remains paramount. Finding a balance between innovation and respect for creative labor will be crucial in shaping the future landscape of music production and distribution.

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After stirring concerns among fans and media alike with her recent “I quit” statement posted on Instagram, Lizzo has taken to social media once again to clarify her position. The Grammy-winning artist, known for her empowering messages and infectious energy, addressed the issue head-on, reaffirming her dedication to music and spreading positivity.

In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, Lizzo expressed, “I want to make this video because I just need to clarify – when I say I quit, I mean I quit giving any negative energy attention.” She emphasized her unwavering commitment to the joy of making music and connecting with people, acknowledging the struggle many face with negative thoughts and voices.

“What I’m not going to quit is the joy of my life which is making music, which is connecting with people because I know I’m not alone,” Lizzo stated. She highlighted the importance of standing up against negativity and empowering others to do the same, recognizing the impact of her platform.

Reflecting on the outpouring of love and support she received, Lizzo expressed gratitude to her fans, saying, “Once again I just want to say thank you. The love that I’ve received means more than you know.” Her message resonated deeply with followers who admire her resilience and authenticity.

Lizzo initially sparked concern with her candid post on March 29, where she opened up about feeling discouraged by negative attention and false narratives surrounding her. However, her subsequent clarification reassured fans that she remains steadfast in her mission to spread joy through her music and uplift others.

The “Good as Hell” singer’s transparency and determination serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care and resilience in the face of adversity. As she continues her musical journey, Lizzo’s unwavering positivity continues to inspire countless individuals worldwide.

In a world often clouded by negativity, Lizzo’s message of self-love and empowerment shines brightly, reminding us all to embrace our true selves and stand up against the forces that seek to dim our light.

Lizzo’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the resilience of the human spirit. As she forges ahead, her unwavering commitment to positivity serves as a beacon of hope for fans around the globe.

Photo credit: Andy Witchger.

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Fans gearing up for Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated Eras Tour in the UK just received some exciting news! Ticket-holders for the UK leg of the tour have been informed of a significant change regarding attendance regulations.

Initially, the shows were organized under a ‘lead booker’ policy, requiring the individual who purchased the tickets to be present at the event. However, in a recent development, Ticketmaster has announced a U-turn on this policy.

In an email sent out to ticket-holders, Ticketmaster clarified the update: “The ‘lead booker’ policy has been removed, meaning that the person whose name is on the Ticketmaster account used to purchase tickets is no longer required to attend the event. All other terms and conditions remain unchanged.”

This decision brings relief to fans who may have faced logistical challenges or scheduling conflicts under the previous policy, offering more flexibility for attendance.

Taylor Swift’s European tour kicks off with four exciting shows at Paris La Défense Arena on May 9, followed by performances in various cities including Stockholm, Lisbon, and Madrid, before making its way to major UK and Ireland destinations such as Liverpool, Manchester, London, Cardiff, and Edinburgh. The tour will further extend to Amsterdam, Zurich, Milan, and more.

An added bonus for attendees across Europe is the inclusion of renowned US rock band Paramore as support for all European shows, promising an unforgettable concert experience for fans of both artists.

The European leg of the tour will culminate with five epic shows at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium, offering fans a grand finale to remember.

With this latest update and an impressive lineup of performances, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for fans across the globe. Get ready for an exhilarating musical journey!

Photo credit: Eva Rinaldi.

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Over 200 music luminaries including Billie Eilish, Sam Smith, Jon Bon Jovi, Nicki Minaj, and Katy Perry have joined forces to demand an end to what they describe as the “predatory” use of generative AI in the music industry.

An open letter, orchestrated by the Artist Rights Alliance (ARA), was directed towards machine-learning software companies, urging for stricter regulations to safeguard against the misuse of AI technology. The letter highlights concerns over the unauthorized utilization of artists’ voices and likenesses, flagrant violations of creators’ rights, and the potential destabilization of the music ecosystem.

The missive underscores a critical distinction: while acknowledging the vast creative potential of AI when applied responsibly, it condemns the irresponsible exploitation of the technology. Particularly, it calls out instances where AI is employed to supplant human creativity, diluting royalty pools and threatening the livelihoods of musicians, songwriters, and artists.

The ARA emphasized the catastrophic impact such unchecked AI implementation could have, particularly on those within the music industry who are already struggling to make ends meet. The organization warned that the unregulated proliferation of machine-learning software could lead to a “race to the bottom,” devaluing the work of musicians and impeding fair compensation for their contributions.

The collective voice of these industry giants serves as a powerful call to action, demanding accountability and ethical standards in the development and deployment of AI within the music realm. Their unified stance underscores the urgent need for industry-wide dialogue and concrete measures to protect the rights and livelihoods of artists in the face of evolving technological landscapes.

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As Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated Eras Tour draws closer, Ticketmaster has rolled out a significant update, alleviating concerns for fans who had snagged tickets but faced potential hurdles due to a restrictive transfer policy.

The international tour is set to captivate the UK this summer, with sold-out shows lined up in Edinburgh, Liverpool, Cardiff, Dublin, and London. Amid the excitement, some Swifties found themselves fretting over Ticketmaster’s initial stipulation that only the “lead booker” — the individual whose card was used for the ticket purchase — could attend the concert.

This policy left many fans worried, especially those who had purchased tickets for friends or family. However, Ticketmaster has stepped in to reassure fans with a welcome change in terms and conditions specifically for Taylor Swift concerts. The “lead booker policy” has been scrapped, offering ticket holders the flexibility they need.

In Liverpool, the stage is set at Anfield Stadium from Thursday, June 13 to Saturday, June 15, where Taylor Swift will dazzle audiences with support from Paramore. The spectacle then moves to Principality Stadium in Cardiff before hitting the iconic venues of Wembley in London and Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

Photo credit: Ronald S Woan.

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