BILLBOARD COUNTRY UPDATE APRIL 13, 2020 | PAGE 4 OF 19 ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] Bulletin SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country YOURAlbu DAILYms; BrettENTERTAINMENT Young ‘Catc NEWSh UPDATE’-es Fifth AirplayJULY 8, 2020 Page 1 of 19 Leader; Travis Denning Makes History INSIDE How Major Music Companies Sam Hunt’s second studio full-length, and first in over five years, Southside sales (up 21%) in the tracking week. On Country Airplay, it hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCA Nashville/Universal Music GroupAre Nashville), debutsDepending at No. 1 on Billboard’s lion audience on impressions, Debt up 16%). and Credit Top •Country Music StreamingAlbums chart dated April 18. In its first week (ending April 9), it earnedand 46,000 Sales Rebound equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITH YOUNG Brett Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cording— toWill Nielsen Concerts Music/MRC Data. to Weatherand total Country the Airplay Pandemic No. 1 as “Catch” (Big Machine Label Group) ascends SouthsideFollow Suit?marks Five Hunt’s second No. 1 on the 2-1, increasing 13% to 36.6 million impressions. chartKey and Insights fourth top From 10. It follows freshman LP BY GLENN PEOPLES Young’s first of six chart entries, “Sleep With- MontevalloNew Nielsen, which Music/ arrived at the summit in No - out You,” reached No. 2 in December 2016. He MRC Data COVID-19 vember 2014 and reigned for nineOn weeks. March To date,12, as the coronavirus spread from Europe Others wantfollowed an insurance with the policy multiweek against No. disturbances1s “In Case You MontevalloReport has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved million in album sales. and Asia to the United States, Live Nation, joined by in their cashYou” flows. (three, In Januaryeither 2018),case, few “Mercy” businesses (two, August will Montevallo• Eminem’s has Publisher spent 267 weeksAEG on the and list, major tying agencies, took the unprecedented get through2018) 2020 and and “Here 2021 Tonight” unscathed. (two, April 2019). Luke BryanSues ’sHarry Crash Fox My Party as thestep sixth-longest- to recommend that tours be postponed, setting in Key takeaways:“Catch” completes his longest journey to No. 1, Agency, Alleging running titles in the chart’s 56-yearmotion history. a chain of events that has reshaped the global 1. Music companieshaving taken raised 46 weeks $3.3 to billion reach the in liquidityapex. It out - It Conspired With On the all-genre Billboard 200,music Southside business. ar- Just one week later, credit ratings since Marchpaces to help the 30-weekweather climb the COVID-19 of “Here Tonight.” pandemic. rivesSpotify at No. to5, awarding Skimp on Hunt his second top 10 On Hot Country Songs, “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG after the No.Royalties 3-peaking Montevalloagency. Moody’s downgraded Live Nation’s debt on 2. Some companiesa new high. could face defaulted on long- Hunt first released the EPX2C expectations, which debuted a downturn in touring would “materially term debt if debt holders hadn’t eased terms to • Thanks to and peaked at No. 5 on Top Countryweaken” Albums the company’s in August 2014.2020 Followingfinancial results.COMBS Live ‘DOES’ accountIT AGAIN for Luke shocks—some Combs’ “Does severe—to to Me” (River revenue House/Columbia and ‘Hamilton,’ Live Montevallo, Between the Pines: Acoustic Mixtape started at its No. 7 high in Nashville), featuring Eric Church, ascends 11-8 on Country Airplay, up 10% to Capture Could Nation moved quickly, announcing a $500 million earnings. November 2015. 24.7 million in audience. The song is Combs’ eighth straight career-opening Be Broadway’s Next cost-reduction plan — including furloughs, layoffs 3. Large companies have it relatively easy. Small Montevallo produced five singles, four of which hit the pinnacle of Country top 10, following a record run of seven consecutive out-of-the-gate, properly Act Airplay: “Leave the Night On,” “Takeand executive Your Time,” pay “House cuts — Party” as well and as “Make better debtpromoted terms No. 1 singles.companies, such as independent music venues, can’t on April 13. access capital markets and have sought help from You Miss• WhyMe.” NYC’s“Break Up in a Small Town” peaked at No. 2. Church adds his 15th Country Airplay top 10. HuntEntertainment co-penned all 12 songs onIt Southside was a remarkable, including 32-day “Body Likespan a —Back and there would Congress. Road,”Commissioner which was released Sees in 2017.be more The smash to come hit ruled. Country Airplay for THAT TOOK QUITE4. ‘AThe FEW’ biggest MONTHS companies Travis Denning that employ shatters tens the ofrecord thou for- threeReopening weeks and theMusic airplay-, streaming-In business, and sales-based unencumbered Hot Country cash Songs is always the king. most But weeks sandsit has taken of people to penetrate have enough the Country liquidity Airplay to topget 10 through as “After chart for a then-record 34 frames. It now ranks second only to Bebe Rexha and a Few” (Mercury Nashville) climbs 12-10 in its 57th week, up 4% to 21.4 mil - Venues as a Chance in a pandemic, debt and credit are the next best things. 2020, but time will tell if they’ve become over-lever- Floridato Rethink Georgia a ‘Flawed’ Line’s “Meant to Be” (50 weeks atop the latter list in 2017-18). lion in radio reach. Faced with a once-in-a-lifetime economic nosedive, aged. “Downtown’sSystem Dead,” which is also on the new set, reached Nos. 14 and 15 The song surpasses two tracks that took 50 weeks each to enter the top 10: on Hot Country Songs and Countrymany Airplay, music respectively, companies in are June turning 2018. “Kin to debt- andEaston credit Corbin ’s “ASince Girl Likemid-March, You,” which nine reached companies No. 10 thatin January work 2018 in mu be-- folks”• ledNielsen Country to Shed Airplay on Feb.to sustain 29, becoming themselves Hunt’s through seventh No. the 1. coronavirus It hit fore crisis. peaking at No.sic 6 — that Live February, Nation, and iHeartMedia, Aaron Watson Warner’s “Outta Music Style,” Group, which No. 3 on3,500 Hot Country Jobs in Songs. Some companies need every dollar to surviveachieved until the its No.CAA, 10 high WME, in December Ryman 2017. Hospitality, Cumulus, Entercom LatestRestructuring single “Hard to Forget” jumps 17-9 on Hot Country Songs. It’s his “After” is Denning’s second Country Airplay entry. “David Ashley Parker concert or advertising businesses return to normal. (continued) eighth top 10, having corralled 8.2 million U.S. streams (up 96%) and 5,000 in From Powder Springs” traveled to No. 32 in September 2018. ETHAN MICHAEL YOUNG: VIA MARTIN/NHLI GETTY HUNT: IMAGES. IMAGES MILLER/GETTY PROMOTION

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and Stingray — have condensed years of In normal times, healthy companies rou- the coronavirus as a regional threat in a financial deals into three frenzied months tinely use debt to fund operations or make February earnings call.) By April, the sum- that collectively added $3.3 billion in acquisitions, using the interest expense to mer concert season was being read its last liquidity: $1.8 billion from notes sales, $630 lower their taxes. Compared to stocks, eas- rites. S&P Global Ratings followed Moody’s million from new loans, $197 million drawn ily traded and discussed 24/7 on business with a downgrade of Live Nation on May 13. from existing credit lines, $670 million of television channels, debt is a mysterious S&P also downgraded HeartMedia on April new credit and $11 million from an asset financial instrument. Companies’ announce- 1 and Endeavor, owner of power agency sale. In addition, two companies saved cash ments of notes sales and new credit facilities William Morris Endeavor, on April 13 for its by nixing planned acquisitions: Live Nation aren’t as attention-grabbing as stock market $4 billion-plus debt to Silver Lake Partners canceled its $480 million acquisition of IPOs. But debt and credit will be vital for and other private equity firms. Fortunately Mexican promoter OCESA — the companies getting companies — especially ones tied to for Live Nation, most of its $5 billion of are currently in arbitration — and Ryman advertising and live music — through the debt is due after 2025; $550 million of notes Properties backed out of a $283 million rocky road ahead. come due in 2023 and another $575 million purchase of a mixed-use development with The downside of borrowing, especially in 2024. But for both companies, lower a 2,500-seat venue in Austin. during a pandemic, is the risk a company credit ratings can mean debt will become Companies around the world face a cash will extend itself too far, says Helen Mur- costlier in the future. crunch after governments issued stay-in- phy, CEO of Anthem Entertainment Group. That Live Nation has added $1.32 billion place orders in March, businesses were “If you take on more debt, what’s your in liquidity since March speaks to the con- forced to close and unemployment spiked ability to service that debt?” Higher interest cert promoter’s precarious position. Every (from 4.4% to 14.7% in April). In order to payments leave a company with less cash to major tour has been suspended until 2020 inject capital into the U.S. economy, the operate and make routine capital expendi- and festivals initially pushed to fall are now Federal Reserve allotted $250 billion to buy tures. Twice in the last decade a music com- postponed to 2021. After Live Nation sus- already-issued corporate debt — investment pany failed under the debt from a leveraged pended tours on March 12, its first-quarter grade debt from companies such as Apple, buy-out: EMI Music in 2010 and iHeart- concert revenues fell 24.6% to $993.4 mil- AT&T and Volkswagen Group America — Media in 2018. The coronavirus pandemic lion in the period, while ticketing revenue and $500 billion to buy new debt directly could create similar pressures if a company sank 15.8% to $284.3 million. With no live from firms. Other companies were saved takes on debt, doesn’t hit its revenue target shows other than experimental driven-in by lines of credit from banks, from $500 and is drained by larger interest payments. theater events and ticketing fees for advance million for AMC Theaters (which plans to With Touring Hit Hard, It’s a Long- sales not expected until at least the third roll out theater openings on July 30) to $25 Term Play to Stay Afloat: and fourth quarters, Live Nation’s second billion for Boeing. And many smaller busi- In March, the live music business was quarter revenue might be negligible. nesses received loans through the CARES hopeful the pandemic would be a brief hic- To survive through a virtually empty Act and won’t need to pay back all of the cup in an otherwise successful year. (Live concert schedule in the second and third principal. Nation CEO Michael Rapino downplayed quarters, Live Nation sold notes and gained

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credit capacity for an “extra cushion to second quarter ends, CEO Steve Cooper some runway.” withstand any scenario well into 2021,” noted in the May 7 earnings call. During its A common covenant is a debt-to-EBITDA Rapino said a May 20 press release. With IPO roadshow in May, Warner executives ratio around 4.5, meaning the borrower a monthly operational cash burn of $150 told prospective investors they expected is limited to $4.50 of debt for each $1 of million plus $15 million in monthly interest EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, EBITDA. The problem is that the normal expense — not including capital expendi- depreciation and amortization) in excess math doesn’t work in an abnormal 2020. tures, which Live Nation is reassessing — of $1 billion in 2021 rather than provide With live music on hiatus and the advertis- the new notes will cover about a year and at guidance for 2020, a source recently told ing market constricted, some companies zero revenue, although the company expects Billboard. Even so, investors weren’t phased. need more debt (a larger numerator) and to get ticketing fees in late 2020 for 2021 On June 2, Warner owner Access Industries will suffer from lower — or negative — concerts. It should be enough. “We don’t see sold $1.93 billion of stock in the largest U.S. EBITDA (a smaller denominator), resulting a strong likelihood of a cash crunch for Live IPO of the year to date. in a ratio that’s multiples greater than 4.5. Nation in 2020,” said Stephen Glagola, an With total liquidity of $784 million, For example, Warner’s lenders eased the analyst at Cowan & Co. including $484 million in cash and cash debt-to-EBITDA ratio from 4.75-to-1 to 5-to- Liquidity Means Security: equivalents, Warner won’t run into trouble 1 (and extended the due date of its credit After the advertising market receded in unless subscription services such as Spotify facility from January 2023 to April 2025). March, and without a full recovery in sight, — collectively 64% of Warner’s total rev- With the live music business all but radio companies raced to add liquidity. enues — suffer a subscriber exodus during frozen, Live Nation’s lenders will allow iHeartMedia, Cumulus and Entercom drew a prolonged recession. (In theory, Spotify’s EBITDA from 2019 to be used in debt- down their credit facilities by $120 million, fee-based, recurring revenue will provide to-EBITDA calculations from the fourth $60 million and $113 million, respectively; more stability than CDs, LPs and down- quarter of 2020 through the second quarter and iHeartRadio and Cumulus added $120 loads and its strong first quarter earnings of 2021. The revised numbers will turn the million and $100 million in credit, respec- suggests consumers will keep their sub- math in Live Nation’s favor; Huber Re- tively. Stingray, a Canadian company with scriptions.) And unlike SiriusXM — which, search analyst Doug Arthur forecasts 2020 numerous brands in cable and online radio, like many companies, rescinded its 2020 EBITDA loss of $426 million on revenues of secured a loan for $20 million and drew $10 guidance — Spotify has not changed its fore- just $3 billion; last year Live Nation posted million from its credit facility. cast for second-quarter subscriber growth. $942.5 million of EBITDA and $11.5 billion With the booming subscription business, Cost-Cutting Is Key, But Not Enough of revenue. Goldman Sachs has forecast a record labels and publishers have less expo- on Its Own: 75% decline in the global live music business sure to COVID-19 than the concert busi- Since mid-March, promoters (Live Na- this year. A Live Nation spokesperson says ness. But some segments will be affected: tion, AEG), agencies (CAA, UTA, WME) and the company “expect[s] to be in compliance brick-and-mortar retailers were forced radio companies (iHeartMedia, Cumulus) with our debt covenants ... for all of 2020.” to close, affecting physical sales, and the have used combinations of layoffs, fur- Radio companies need favorable terms, synch market could falter if brands pulled loughs, salary reductions and spending cuts on top of cost-cutting measures, to help back ad spending. On May 7, Warner Music to reduce their monthly cash burn. Lenders stay out of default. Radio advertising began Group added $120 million to a $180 million want a borrower “to be able to show them a to fall in March and S&P Global Ratings credit facility while also pushing back its budget [so] they can survive for a period of estimates radio advertising will decline maturity date, lowering the interest margin time, the duration of this crisis,” says Carol 16.5% overall this year before rebounding and improving the covenants. They were Ann Huff, a partner at Arnold & Porter who in 2021 — but only to 90% of 2019 levels. just-in-case measures, said executive vp and specializes in capital markets transactions. Even before the pandemic, iHeartMedia CFO Eric Levin during a May 21 earnings But cost-cutting isn’t enough. The pan- had no maintenance covenants for its term call. “While we haven’t needed to draw on demic is such a unique environment that loan or senior secured notes. On April 30, the revolver in the past five years, it’s help- creditors must ease debt covenants — ef- radio company Entercom amended a debt ful to us to know it’s there if necessary.” On fectively insurance for lenders — to ensure covenant so that nearly a quarter of its debt June 16, Warner announced the placement borrowers can pay interest and repay the is removed from the debt-to-EBITDA ratio. of $535 million in new notes, due in 2030, principal. “There definitely is a trend Not as endangered as broadcast radio of which $300 million will pay off notes due toward companies seeking waivers” of debt companies, SiriusXM nonetheless expects in 2023. covenants to buy time while the economy COVID-19 to hurt the automobile market The additional credit could come in improves,” Huff says. “Lenders are willing and Pandora’s advertising revenue, the com- handy: Last month, Warner revealed its total to work with companies to a certain extent. pany said in its April 20 earnings release. revenues were down 12% in April com- As long as a borrower can reduce costs and At the same time, SiriusXM didn’t expect pared to the prior-year period but “won’t show an ability to remain liquid, it’s often COVID-19 to harm its liquidity; it had $1.75 really know the impact of COVID” until the better for a lender to give those companies billion available in a revolver credit facility Page 5 of 19

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as of March 30. Even so, the company sold buyer can’t put a proper price on a catalog, $1.5 billion of new notes due in 2030 — at she notes. “A lot of it depends on the dura- Music Streaming a lower interest rate — to pay off notes of tion of the cycle.” the same amount of notes with due dates of When It Comes to Raising Cash, Bigger and Sales 2023 and 2025. In a pandemic, a later due Is Better: date beats an earlier due date. In a sense, companies that can access Rebound — Will Deal-Making Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop: capital markets for debt and credit are big Not all companies are pausing acquisi- enough not to fail, to tweak a term (“too big Concerts Follow tions amid the pandemic — although putting to fail”) used for investment banks during a price on a catalog becomes trickier. On the 2008 housing crisis. A company that’s Suit? Five Key April 2, Hipgnosis Songs, an active inves- too big to fail receives a government bailout tor in music publishing rights, revised its to prevent chaos in the economy. In 2020, Insights From revolving credit facility to add £50 million a company that’s big enough not to fail will ($62.5 million at current conversion rates) find lenders willing to help guard against New Nielsen to its £100 million ($125 million) facility insolvency or bankruptcy. with the option to seek another £50 million “Broadly speaking we believe that large Music/MRC Data for new purchases. Hipgnosis’ catalog was companies, especially those publicly traded, valued at £747 million ($933 million) as of are going to have a huge leg up in securing COVID-19 Report March 31 and includes classic songs such liquidity,” says Stephen Korn, chief invest- as Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On A Prayer” and ment officer at Fielder Capital. Across the BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” as well U.S., “smaller companies will have higher as works by modern hit-makers like Benny barriers in part due to Washington’s inabil- s some stay-at-home orders have Blanco, Jack Antonoff and The Chain- ity to get the funds there.” eased across the United States, smokers. Small music companies like record labels consumers are now spending Its debt has two covenants: total debt can- have access to the CARES Act’s Payroll Pro- more time outdoors and less time not exceed 20% of net present value — 30% tection Plan that launched on April 3. But withA activities like social media, TV and if shareholders approve the board’s proposal music venues are making a last-ditch effort video games, according to the fifth install- — and the company must maintain liquidity in Washington to get PPP loan terms that fit ment of Nielsen Music/MRC Data’s sur- greater than an estimate of one year’s total their specific situation: rent. Loan forgive- vey series COVID-19: Tracking the Impact costs. No problem, says Hipgnosis founder ness requires 75% of money goes to payroll on the Entertainment Landscape. They’re Merck Mercuriadis. “We always have an (many venues laid off most or all of their also increasingly interested in returning to eight figure liquidity buffer,” he says. “You’re staffs and who’s left isn’t working), doesn’t live events in the near future — and music talking over £50 million at any one time.... account for high overhead costs (leases are sales have picked up significantly as stores You can’t provide for a pandemic, but we’ve a major expense for venues) and required reopen. Audio and video streaming also have provided that our assets and investors are staff to be re-hired by June 30 (venues don’t rebounded following a significant dip at the protected at all times.” Not content with its know they they will open). height of the Black Lives Matter protests, 54 songwriter catalogs since its IPO in July Unlike large corporations that borrow which took priority in the national conver- 2018, Hipgnosis plans to offer Class C shares purely as legal entities, small businesses sation and led millions of Americans to take to raise £200 million ($250 million) “to fund loans are often secured with owners’ per- to the streets. further acquisitions,” according to a July 3 sonal guarantees. Below are five key takeaways from the announcement. “Literally the only place we can go is results of the new report, based on data Likewise, Murphy says Anthem won’t Congress and the federal government,” says collected June 10-14 from a representative slow its deal-making during the pandemic, Dayna Frank, CEO of First Avenue & 7th St. sample of 1,050 U.S. consumers ages 13 and although uncertainty surrounding the Entry in Minneapolis and president of the up. pandemic has made asset owners reassess National Independent Venue Association. 1. After an early-June lull, streaming has if they’re willing to buy or sell. “I think it’s Because small businesses tend to have per- risen to normal levels again — and country very difficult to see what impact the pan- sonal guarantees for loans, venue owners’ music remains king. demic is having on prices of anything at the personal assets are on the line, she explains. Though overall streaming dipped in early moment,” she says. Without clarity about “People are faced with losing their homes. June, coinciding with nationwide Black future revenue streams — royalties can take Big companies aren’t concerned if their kids Lives Matter protests, both audio and video nine months to flow from a foreign country, get to sleep in their bedrooms.” have now returned to normal. Country in through a U.S. performing rights organiza- particular has continued to trend upward, tion and finally to a publisher — a potential posting a remarkable 13% gain in weekly au- Page 6 of 19

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dio streams since the start of the pandemic. were likely to tune into one in the next two 250 of his songs — to the tune of billions in In fact, it’s the only genre that has risen over weeks. Now, as brands scramble to capital- damages — and now he’s bringing Harry Fox that time frame; by comparison, R&B/hip- ize on live streaming’s popularity, the survey Agency into the fray. hop is down 5.8%, while dance/electronic suggests consumers remain mostly split on On July 1, Eight Mile Style filed an is down 5.9%. Still, catalog music — i.e., the use of ads, though they are increasingly amended complaint alleging that HFA con- music older than 18 months — seems to be supportive of sponsored virtual shows. They spired with Spotify to conceal the infringe- picking up some of the slack, keeping overall are also keen on charitable initiatives, at ment by backdating Notices of Intention to streaming figures afloat. least when it comes to supporting artists obtain compulsory mechanical licenses and 2. New video streaming subscriptions fell whose incomes have been decimated by the falsifying royalty documents. HFA is a near- as Americans returned to normal life. loss of touring revenue. According to survey ly century-old organization that plays an For the first time since the start of the results, 59% of respondents said they would important if often overlooked role providing pandemic, new subscriptions to video view a brand more favorably if they found rights management for music publishers. In streaming services like Netflix and Hulu a way to support artists in the live stream- recent decades, it has gotten more and more fell — likely a result of increasing outdoor ing space — an increase of 4% from the last involved with the issuance of mechanical activities and the reopening of businesses. report. licenses, which digital outlets need for the That said, video remains the most popular 5. Retail is on the rebound. reproduction of compositions. Those have choice in the subscription streaming space. Not only do music stores around the been available without negotiation, but Among those who reported adding a new United States continue to reopen their music users need to let the rights-holders service, 72% subscribed to a video streaming doors, customers seem eager to return. Both know and make payments. HFA has assisted platform versus 45% subscribing to a music independent and chain music retail outlets in compliance. Now, HFA is basically being streaming platform. have seen a consistent increase in physical accused of favoring Spotify to the detriment 3. People are increasingly willing to attend album sales over the course of the pandem- of publishers. live events, though crowd sizes remain a ic, with weekly numbers for total physical “Defendants’ scheme to engage in concern. sales from all forms of retailers rising to copyright infringement was a massive suc- As consumers ease back into regular 980,200, up almost 32% from 742,900 at the cess,” writes attorney Richard Busch in the activities and become more accustomed beginning of the crisis. complaint, which is posted below. “Kobalt, to wearing masks (among other measures Read Release 1 here. serving as the entity authorized to collect designed to prevent the spread of the virus), Read Release 2 here. royalties from licenses validly made for they also seem more willing to embrace a Read Release 3 here. the Eight Mile Compositions, was tricked return to live events with such enhanced Read Release 4 here. into believing that Spotify had compulsory safety measures as mandatory masks and Read Release 5 here. licenses and into accepting ‘royalty state- temperature checks in place. A full 26% of ments’ distributed by HFA on behalf of respondents said they were likely to attend Spotify.” a live event one month or less after the Eminem’s Eight Mile says Kobalt trusted HFA be- pandemic — a 5% rise from the last survey. cause of its reputation in the industry, but it Within that group, teens represented the Publisher Sues later found that billions of streams had not biggest increase: 31% said they were likely been accounted for and the payments were to attend a concert, marking a 7% increase Harry Fox Agency, based on the statutory royalty rate, which from the previous report. Still, when shows wasn’t applicable because Spotify didn’t resume, people will probably favor smaller Alleging It actually obtain a compulsory license. Spo- venues over arenas. Among respondents tify has argued it obtained a license from who said they were likely to attend an event Conspired With Kobalt, but Eight Mile maintains Kobalt is one month or less after the pandemic, a merely its royalty collector and doesn’t have 63% majority said they would be willing Spotify to Skimp the authority to enter into such an agree- to attend one with an audience of just 250 ment. people or less. on Royalties “The most egregious example of Spotify’s 4. Live streams are still a popular choice. willful infringement is with respect to the Interest in live streams has remained on a BY ASHLEY CULLINS iconic musical composition ‘Lose Yourself,’” steady track since the outbreak of the pan- writes Busch, noting that the song topped demic. In the latest survey, 22% of respon- ast August, Eminem’s publisher Billboard charts for months and won an dents reported they had watched a virtual filed a lawsuit against Spotify Oscar for best original song and multiple concert or livestream performance over the alleging the streaming site has Grammys. “Despite ‘Lose Yourself’ being last two weeks, while 37% stated that they L infringed the copyrights in almost one of the most famous and popular songs in Page 7 of 19

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the world, HFA informed Eight Mile in Feb- provision of the law isn’t applicable in this mentary space, with such credits as Errol ruary, 2019, that Spotify, and its agent HFA, matter anyway because the MMA liability Morris’ 2003 Oscar winner The Fog of War had placed ‘Lose Yourself’ in what they call limitation only applies to works for which and 2004’s Metallica: Some Kind of Mon- ‘Copyright Control,’ an internal HFA des- the copyright owner is unknown and Eight ster. The live-capture experiment provided ignation reserved for songs that HFA does Mile maintains Spotify and HFA it owned Kamen with an entry into an exciting new not license because HFA supposedly does the rights to Eminem’s compositions. subgenre of the nonfiction film. The finished not know who is the copyright owner or Eight Mile also takes issue with a 2016 product, Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway, how to contact the copyright owner of the settlement between Spotify and the received a small theatrical release from Sony song. Putting one of the most well-known National Music Publishers’ Association, Pictures and, in the process, RadicalMedia songs in the world in this category is objec- arguing it is “woefully inadequate and failed “developed the nomenclature and a whole tive evidence that Spotify, through HFA’s to hold Spotify adequately accountable” and style of filming it in a very cinematic fash- contributions, engaged in willful copyright alleging that’s because the three largest dues ion,” Kamen recalls. infringement.” paying members of NMPA own big equity Fast-forward 12 years, and the so-called Eight Mile also says it has emails from shares in Spotify. live-capture film has become big business. HFA asking about revenue splits for “Lose In addition to suing Spotify for direct On July 3, Hamilton — which marks another Yourself” that date back to 2010, proving copyright infringement, Eight Mile has collaboration between RadicalMedia and that it’s known who owns the song and had added claims for contributory copyright in- Seller — hit Disney+. From July 3-5, some 1 contact the relevant information for the bet- fringement and vicarious copyright infringe- million customers downloaded the Disney+ ter part of a decade. It argues the fraudulent ment against HFA. It’s asking the court for a app for the first time in the Apple App Store NOIs were part of a scheme to avoid having declaration that the companies don’t qualify and Google Play, according to data firm to pay for more expensive direct voluntary for the MMA limitation from damages, that SensorTower, up 79 percent from the previ- mechanical licenses while still ensuring the retroactive elimination of damages in ous weekend. Downloads don’t necessarily Eminem’s music was on its site leading up this case would be unconstitutional and that translate into subscriptions, but the data to its initial public offering. Eight Mile says Eight Mile is owed either statutory damages bodes well for Hamilton’s appeal. it would have demanded equity in Spotify of $150,000 per work or actual damages The stakes were high for Disney given in negotiating a direct license, as well as a that include injury to the market value of that it paid $75 million for the film, directed higher royalty rate, or it would have refused its copyrights, defendants’ profits and the by Thomas Kail (Fosse/Verdon, Grease to allow the songs to be streamed on the site. value of the equity interest it was deprived Live!), back in February, a bounty that will “Spotify, through it and HFA’s fraudu- of because of the infringement. be shared by the play’s investors and creator lent contributions, has built a multi-billion HFA has not yet responded to a request Lin-Manuel Miranda, among others. The dollar business with no assets other than for comment. deal also marked the biggest price tag ever the recordings of songs by songwriters like This article was originally published by for a finished movie of any kind. Eminem made available to stream on de- The Hollywood Reporter. In the years between Rent and Hamilton, mand to consumers on its digital platform,” RadicalMedia has become the go-to pro- argues Busch. “Spotify’s apparent business ducer in the live-capture space. The com- model from the outset was to commit willful Thanks to pany’s post-Rent credits include Oh, Hello copyright infringement first, ask questions on Broadway, which streamed on Netflix, later, and try to settle on the cheap when in- ‘Hamilton,’ Live and Miranda’s In the Heights, which aired evitably sued. It later included, as discussed as part of PBS’ Great Performances series. below, working (with their equity holders, Capture Could The company also will bring the Spike Lee- such as the major music publishers) to pass directed David Byrne’s American Utopia to legislation that would purport to get them Be Broadway’s HBO in the fall. off the hook scot-free.” “For each one of these, you have to That legislation is the Music Moderniza- Next Act approach them differently and with the tion Act of 2018, which sought to streamline same care and detail the creators do,” says the process of matching songs with their BY TATIANA SIEGEL RadicalMedia entertainment president Dave owners in an attempt to make sure they’re Sirulnick. “You have to respect that level of properly licensed. Eight Mile argues the law ack in 2008, Broadway producer care that has gone into what is happening effectively wipes out past infringement if Jeffrey Seller approached Radi- on a stage, night after night after night — to a rights holder didn’t sue before the end of calMedia CEO Jon Kamen about merge the world of theater and presentation 2017 and that amounts to an unconstitution- filming the final performance of on a stage in front of hundreds of people in al taking of its property rights and denial BRent. Kamen’s New York-based production a theater.” of due process. The publisher argues that company already had a foothold in the docu- In the current landscape, streamers are Page 8 of 19

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driving the demand for live-capture content, ing this into the final product. ‘Live capture’ in April 2019, with a focus on strengthening whose budgets typically mirror that of a doesn’t do it justice.” the local film, TV, theater, music, advertis- traditional doc, between $500,000 and $3 This story originally appeared on The Hol- ing, publishing and digital content indus- million. Netflix scored a critical hit with lywood Reporter. tries while also overseeing the Office of Springsteen on Broadway in 2018 and has Nightlife. But with live entertainment on since launched Mike Birbiglia: The New One pause, she has instead spent much of the and Ben Platt Live From Radio City Music Why NYC’s past four months listening to the needs of Hall. Likewise, Amazon has streamed such local music venue owners, connecting them specials as the Vicky Jones-helmed Flea- Entertainment with government resources and fielding bag Live, which captured Phoebe Waller- ideas for safe reopening, from drive-in con- Bridge’s performance of the one-woman Commissioner certs to sidewalk shows. play that she turned into a hit series (all I’m trying to be careful now about distin- proceeds benefited COVID-19 relief efforts). Sees Reopening guishing between artists, freelancers and In the case of Hamilton, the film was workers — they’re all workers. I’m trying to poised to debut in theaters before making Music Venues as a reframe the dialogue for how we talk about its way to Disney’s new streaming platform. arts and culture generally. One opportunity But then the novel coronavirus pandemic Chance to Rethink is to let the industry know that we’re here hit, shuttering cineplexes worldwide. In to help through some of this stuff; and then fact, Disney was so confident thatHamilton a ‘Flawed’ System alternatively, really helping government will drive new subscriptions that it won’t and civic leaders understand that workers allow those using the platform’s free trial BY TATIANA CIRISANO are workers, whether they’re creating art or to stream it. With Broadway closed until serving dinner or building sets. The creative at least January, films likeHamilton are his week, New York City enters industries are significant — that’s what’s go- expected to draw even more viewers. phase three of reopening amid the ing to drive the recovery of New York City. Last year, Kamen considered approach- coronavirus pandemic, mean- That part has been invigorating and inspir- ing the producers of Broadway’s To Kill ing the return of hair and nail ing, even over some of the darkest times of a Mockingbird and Network to produce a Tsalons, basketball courts and more spaces the last four months. Hamilton-esque film but never did. “I only in addition to outdoor dining. But for local Of course, in the midst of all of this, we’ve wish [we’d asked],” he says. “And I bet you music venues from (Le) Poisson Rouge to had a real reckoning with Black Lives Mat- that right now they wish [this] as well, Brooklyn’s Elsewhere — many of which ter and the protests. This is stuff that we’ve because economically it might have helped faced rising rents, gentrification and other been talking about at the agency for quite a carry them through the shutdown from the challenges even before the pandemic began while now — the need to create pathways COVID crisis.” — the road to reopening remains ongoing for all New Yorkers to access opportunities. Even when Broadway reopens, a reeling and uncertain. I realize that might seem a little bit attenu- economy may make it more difficult for the Anne del Castillo knows this struggle ated and superficial, but it’s not. We know next Hamilton to find investors. Attorney well. The New York City native took over as that the strength of our city is its diversity, Nancy Rose, who has negotiated several commissioner of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s Of- and for an entertainment and arts center, live-capture deals, says the subgenre may fice of Media and Entertainment (MOME) we need to embrace that in every aspect of help alleviate that problem. “If a streamer in April 2019, with a focus on strengthening the work that we do. We have things that presale can reduce capitalization costs, the local film, TV, theater, music, advertis- we’ve been doing at the agency to advance making it easier to finance the production of ing, publishing and digital content indus- that conversation for many years, starting dramatic plays, this could be a great angle to tries while also overseeing the Office of with the “Made in NY” Production Assistant pursue,” she says. Nightlife. But with live entertainment on Training Program, up through the women’s Even though the subgenre has been pause, she has instead spent much of the fund grant. So that has been another posi- dubbed “live capture,” Kamen bristles at past four months listening to the needs of tive — to get everybody, finally, on the same that term. “A cinematic interpretation of local music venue owners, connecting them page that we’ve been touting for a while. live theater. Or a filmed interpretation,” he with government resources and fielding What exactly is the MOME’s responsi- offers as more accurate alternatives. “ ‘Live ideas for safe reopening, from drive-in con- bility in the city’s reopening process? capture’ would be as if we [simply] shot it. certs to sidewalk shows. To be clear, the health guidelines are the Hamilton was three days and three nights Anne del Castillo knows this struggle health guidelines. We’re not helping to cre- onstage. It’s a very carefully choreographed well. The New York City native took over as ate those guidelines, but [we do help create] film with 13 camera positions. The team commissioner of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s Of- things like operational guidelines, or even spent almost a year in postproduction craft- fice of Media and Entertainment (MOME) physical distancing guidelines for certain Page 9 of 19

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businesses. [The campaign] “Take Out... on Racial Inclusion and Equity. We want to are supposed to be coming in August. Don’t Hang Out” was our office. We came build a more equitable recovery. We’re talking to them about doing it without up with that because we saw that people Before the pandemic, New York’s mu- an audience, and just having the perfor- were confused about what was supposed to sic venues were already struggling with mances there, so that it’s an iconic New happen when they went to their local bar rising rents and other challenges. How do York location with perhaps satellite events or restaurant to get food. We just launched those pre-existing challenges factor into throughout the city. The summer does “It’s Up To You New York,” helping people what you’re doing now? provide opportunities for certain venues to understand that it really is up to every single Part of what we were trying to do in the do something outdoors. Are there ways we New Yorker to make sure that we have a music space was figure out what was getting can do programming around open streets? strong recovery. So [we’re] providing guid- in the way of success for venues. We were I think we’re going to start to see some ance — in some cases for operation, in some just starting to have that conversation, and collaborations among venues and nontradi- cases for behavioral guidance — and then now, they’re really hurting. So on the one tional venues, just to keep the spirit of the the other part of our role is to hear the con- hand, it’s really terrible, and we know that gathering that would normally take place in cerns of the industry, and make sure they’re there are very specific needs that venues those venues alive. When you have to social represented at the table of policy-making have, like rent relief. We need more loan distance, how do you keep that essence and and guidance development. programs; we need more federal support; that thing that makes that place special? We There has been so much uncertainty state support. The money is definitely an have dedicated staff for each type of entity, around this pandemic: How long it will issue. But what [the pandemic] has also and the live music venue crosses three last, the potential effects, what health done is really brought those issues to the areas of our portfolio — nightlife, music and guidelines are actually working, et ce- fore. The community has been saying this theater — so those program directors are tera. How are you working through that for a long time, but now that we’re having to working together to understand the needs uncertainty? reevaluate every single thing that drives our and see if there are cross-collaborations One of the things inherent in working in economy, it has a bigger voice. they can develop. the creative industry is the need to be fluid It’s awful that it takes a crisis, but in What do you think about drive-in and flexible. We were set to go, for example, some ways, there is an opportunity for us to concerts? with indoor dining on Monday [July 6], and rethink how to make entertainment a prior- There’s been some discussion around then we saw the reports last weekend of all ity in the recovery, because we know that that. Tribeca Drive-In just announced their of the upticks throughout the nation, and it’s so important for New York’s identity. It drive-in series, and we’re working with decided that’s not the right move. While we just strengthens the argument that we really them. But the spaces that are available to know that it’s the right thing to do, it’s a very need to support our local venues, and for us do that kind of thing are a bit limited, so hard thing to do, because we’re telling busi- to represent their needs at the table. I think we want to make sure there’s an equitable nesses, “You are still going to stay closed for the support structures that we’ve put into process. an indefinite period of time.” place are flawed, and this is an opportunity Enforcement seems to be an issue I’ve tried to turn that energy into plan- to think about, “How are they flawed and across all the national reopenings. Can ning. What we can control is how we think how do we fix it?” you speak to how New York City is mak- about what opening would look like if we Music venues aren’t explicitly listed in ing sure business owners and patrons could, and engage in those conversations. the current phase guidelines. Are venues comply with guidelines? How would you ensure the safety of your technically considered phase 4? The challenge of the Nightlife Office is workers; of your patrons? What do you This is where we get a bit fluid. I think it’s that they’re there to promote safe socializ- think it should look like if you want to start going to depend on the venue. It’s tricky, be- ing and safe engagement with outdoor din- production again; if you want to open up cause if you’re a bar that serves food and you ing, but they have no enforcement authority. your venue at partial capacity? It helps us have performance, then you’re open now. If And that’s by design; we have other agencies develop recommendations for our col- only we could all be Austin and have Stubb’s. to do that. Our job is really to remind people leagues in government about what the needs So there is some crossover, and it gets a of their human obligation to socialize re- may be in terms of informational support, little bit confusing for venues to understand sponsibly. if not financial support, because I think we what’s permissible and what’s not. Those But I think we’ve done a pretty damn all know that that’s a problem in the current are the kinds of conversations we’re having good job in New York City with the reopen- climate. What are some pieces of guidance, right now. ing. We’ve been really cautious. I have to information or resources that we could fa- What have those conversations been tell you, industries are like, “When are you cilitate to make it easier for these industries like? What are some of the most prom- going to open up filming? All of these other to reopen when they’re ready? That’s some ising ideas for safely reopening music jurisdictions opened up.” I’m like, “Yes, and of the work we’ve been doing. It’s also some- venues? now they’re closing.” This is why we’re be- thing we’ve been looking at in the Taskforce You probably have seen that the VMAs ing really judicious and deliberate in how Page 10 of 19

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we’re rolling things out. There’s always The optimization plan includes cuts of 3,500 areas for improvement, but by-and-large, staff worldwide — about 8 percent of the Universal Music I think New Yorkers have done a really company’s employees. solid job of stepping up and being safe and “Across Nielsen Global Media and Nielsen Partners With responsible to each other. We were the epi- Global Connect, we are making progress center, and yet our recovery so far has been on increasing our operational and financial Indian Hit-Maker pretty good. discipline, including zero-basing our cost What do you expect for the next couple structure as we move toward the planned Desi Melodies of weeks and months? separation of Nielsen Global Connect,” said We’re focusing on working with the Nielsen CEO David Kenny. “As discussed on in Push to Grow industry to [make sure they] understand our earnings call in April, we have increased the guidelines for safe reopening and have our focus on platform consolidations, Market Beyond access to all of the city supports. Continuing further automation, optimizing our global to make sure that New Yorkers are partici- footprint, and ensuring that our resource Bollywood pating in things in our portfolio — like the allocation aligns with high-margin essential creative and dining areas — and that they services. BY ALEXEI BARRIONUEVO understand they have a role in that. And “Today’s plan encompasses, accelerates, then really looking at long-term recovery for and expands on those initiatives. These niversal Music Group is partner- our industries. We have an opportunity to restructuring actions will further expedite ing with India’s Desi Melodies, rebuild and restructure certain things. What our transformation to a more efficient, agile, a leader in the recent wave can we do to make it better, moving forward, and scalable organization and are designed of Punjabi music, in a global for everyone? to drive sustained margin expansion and Udistribution deal that underscores the rapid Is there anything else businesses can increased cash generation. As part of the growth in consumption of regional-language be doing right now? optimization plan, we have made the diffi- content in the emerging market. The one thing I’ve been telling our cult decision to exit selected businesses and The deal announced Tuesday (July 7) will constituents is that, in addition to learn- markets and permanently reduce our work- solidify both Universal and Desi Melodies’ ing about the government, they really need force. While these are important actions to position at the forefront of India’s bur- to engage with their local electives and fill take, I recognize the impact they have on geoning non-film music sector, which has out the census! It’s really important. Those our people, and I am grateful for the impor- been cutting into the overall pie of India’s are two really important things they can do tant contributions made by these talented Bollywood-dominated market. right now to help with the recovery. associates during their time at Nielsen.” Universal Music India “continues to be The company expects to take pre-tax re- committed to transforming the non-film structuring charges of between $150 million music market, with the aim of giving Indian Nielsen to Shed and $170 million, up from an April estimate music and artists a global platform to find of $120 million to $140 million. About half of success,” Devraj Sanyal, MD and CEO 3,500 Jobs in those charges, mostly in the form of sever- Universal Music India and South Asia, says ance, were incurred in the second quarter. in a statement. Restructuring Nielsen will offer more details on its Under terms of the multi-year partner- optimization plan in its quarterly earnings ship, Universal Music India will exclu- BY RICK PORTER call on Aug. 5. sively distribute all audio recordings from This article was originally published by the Desi Melodies catalog, including past ielsen will cut up to 3,500 jobs as The Hollywood Reporter. releases and future non-film releases, where part of a restructuring of its busi- rights are retained by the label worldwide. nesses to save money and focus Universal will provide Desi Melodies with on its core holdings. global support and distribution for their NThe data company and TV ratings provid- audio catalog and future releases from UMG er says the moves are part of a “broad-based partner labels around the world, Universal optimization plan” to cut costs and make the says in a press release. The first release from remaining assets more efficient, as well as the partners is expected later this month. making Nielsen more profitable. Founded three years ago in the Punjab Under the plan, Nielsen will “exit several region of northern India by lyricist Jaani smaller, underperforming markets and non- and filmmakerArvindr Khaira, Desi core businesses” in the next few months. Melodies has emerged as a rising player in Page 11 of 19

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India’s entertainment industry. The label’s In 2018, UMI launched VYRL Originals, part of the development and nurturing of hits include the singles “Filhall,” “Coka” and India’s first dedicated non-film label. It Latin artists too.” “Kuch Bhi ho jaaya.” The duo, working with has released more than 50 singles from a Dedicated to releasing hybrid sounds frequent collaborator B Praak, has also pro- roster of 20 artists that includes Mithoon, from the global underground alongside con- duced hit records for other labels and film Vishal Mishra and Arjun Kanungo. Last temporary hitmakers, Dim Mak En Fuego’s soundtracks. Desi Melodies has more than year Universal formed a “multi-channel team includes Bryan Linares (head of mar- 5.5 million subscribers on YouTube. partnership” with Mass Appeal, the New keting) and Christian Herrera (co-founder Desi Melodies is benefitting from a sea York-based content company co-owned by of Gasolina Party). Distribution partners change in the growth of regional-language Nas. Mass Appeal India’s signings include include Merlin, A2IM and FUGA. content in India the past few years, which is hip-hop star DIVINE. Their first and only signed artist (so far) a result of greater smart-phone penetration, is Mexican self-described anti-boyband access to lower-cost high-speed internet AQUIHAYAQUIHAY who launch the label and the proliferation of streaming platforms, Steve Aoki with the release of their pop-tinged R&B including ones native to India like JioSaavn. track “Ya No Es Igual.” Punjabi, Tamil and Telegu are the Launches Latinx- “The idea of launching with AQUIHAYA- dominant languages for regional-language QUIHAY really cements where we want content in India, which now accounts for Focused Imprint Dim Mak En Fuego to land,” says Linares. more than 30% of all of consumption on “We could’ve come out with a straight reg- streaming services there. Punjabi tracks Dim Mak En gaeton record but coming out with them are contributing 12% of all regional music feels very authentic to us because we come streams, the same proportion as Tamil and Fuego: ‘We Want from the underground.” Telugu tunes put together, according to a Aoki spoke with Billboard, describing KPMG report. Acts like Badshah and Guru to Make a Big his vision for Dim Mak En Fuego and how Randhawa helped Punjabi overtake English hands-on he’ll be in the development of ris- as the second most-played language on the Splash’ ing Latin acts. platform. You launched Dim Mak Records 24 On streaming service Gaana, the con- BY GRISELDA FLORES years ago so wondering what was it about sumption of regional music now contrib- this moment that made you want to utes to about a third of all the streams on teve Aoki has collaborated with launch a Latinx-focused imprint? the platform. And on JioSaavn, a surge in a slew of Latin artists — most I remember back when I was in college demand for regional music led to a fall in in- notably Daddy Yankee, Maluma and started this label, I never expected it ternational music’s share from 25% in 2018 and Maná — but he wants greater would focus on electronic music. You have to only half that in 2019. Sinvolvement in the Latin market that goes to keep your mind open to all things that While the majority Tamil and Telugu beyond his star-studded collabs. inspire you and Dim Mak has always had a songs come from movie soundtracks, most After launching his own record label, very open mind, explored different avenues Punjabi plays are of non-film pop and hip- Dim Mak, 24 years ago, on Wednesday (July and hasn’t been confined to just one space. hop. As a result, the share of Bollywood 8) the multi-faceted producer announced We have jumped into so many different music, India’s dominant musical genre, has his new Latinx-focused imprint Dim Mak genres in our 24 years of existence from hip- been shrinking as a percentage of India’s En Fuego. His latest endeavor, which aims hop to emo to alternative, EDM and now we overall streams. Bollywood music’s portion to help nurture and develop Latinx art- want to make a big splash with having an of the pie slipped from as much as 70% in ists “driven from the underground scene,” entire imprint on Latin music. mid-2016 to a little over 50% in early 2019, according to Aoki, was born from the bond There are some incredible young and while international music fell to 18%, KPMG he’s had with his global Latin fanbase. veteran Latin acts who have shared music found. “We’ve been planning this for quite some with me and that’s when we started think- India is the 15th biggest market in the time now. These things take time to build ing about this in a structural way. What do world for recorded music, with stream- and it all started when I started doing more we do? What does Dim Mak do? We release ing accounting for 73% of all sales. Overall of the Latin collaborations — it was then music, develop and nurture artists. In this industry revenues rose by 19% in 2019 to that I started planting the seeds,” Aoki tells case, we can really focus on the Latinx total $181 million, according to IFPI’s 2020 Billboard. “I’ve gotten so much support from world because it has so much power, and Global Market report. my Latin fanbase and I’ve built a bond with what I love about this power that it has is For Universal, the Desi Melodies distri- them and its culture. Their acceptance has that it comes from the underground. It’s bution deal is the latest in a series of stra- not only helped me collaborate with Latin powerful when you see an artist come up tegic label launches in India by the major. artists, but it’s also now allowed me to be because [their] fans helped them get there, Page 12 of 19

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no help from mainstream radio. It’s awe- What excites you the most about this won three, including New Artist of the Year, inspiring. new venture? Male Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Your first and only signed artist (for Not knowing what can happen. There’s Year (“Beautiful Crazy”). He has addition- now) is Mexican anti-boyband AQUI- so much passion and energy but you don’t ally been nominated for seven ACM Awards HAYAQUIHAY. What drew you to them? know where it’s going to go, how it’s going — winning one for New Male Artist of the They are amazing young kids who are do- to go, but when you know that this can go Year in 2018 — and two Grammys. He was ing something different. When we heard the anywhere, that’s exciting. This can be a re- inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2019. music and saw what they’re doing and their ally big deal and if it’s not, it’s okay because “I’m really excited to be joining UMPG drive I thought, “that’s it.” This is the kind of we absolutely loved it. We’re always going to Nashville and the strong roster of songwrit- feeling we need when we sign an artist. I’m be here to support and guide artists to help ers they have,” said Combs in a statement. excited about watching what they can do. them grow. “Universal Music’s success with publishing I’m always an A&R no matter what and so a lot of great songs over the years cannot be I’m always searching for something refresh- denied, and I’m thankful to now be a part of ing and new. This is a different offering Luke Combs that.” to the musical world. They’re going to be Combs broke yet another record with beyond a boy band for sure. They have so Signs Global Deal his latest single, “Does To Me” feat. Eric much talent to offer and a lot of personality, Church, which topped Billboard’s Country that you don’t even know what direction With Universal Airplay chart in May, making him the first they will go in. Like right now, the way they country artist in history to have their first sound is incredible and I just want them to Music Publishing: eight singles reach No. 1 on the chart. unleash that energy, and we want them to “Luke is building his career like so many experiment and explore and try different Exclusive great artists of the past,” said UMPG Nash- things. ville chairman and CEO Troy Tomlinson. You say you’re an A&R so how are you BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN “He’s writing hit songs that country music finding these new artists? fans identify with. They feel like he’s the guy We have a team that helps me with that. niversal Music Publishing Group next door, their friend, someone who knows We have Bryan and Christian who are my has signed an exclusive global how they feel and sings about their life. ears on the ground but personally, I just publishing agreement with He does that with humility and respect for talk to friends and other artists. If I’m in country superstar Luke Combs. those who came before him. We are beyond the studio, they always tell me, “you gotta UUMPG said the pact covers all of the singer’s grateful to represent him and his songs.” check this artist or hear this.” Or, whenever songs going forward, but declined to give Added UMPG Nashville senior vp of A&R I have time, I’ll dig through SoundCloud to any other specifics about the deal. Cyndi Forman, “I quickly became a Luke hear and see what other people are doing. Combs – who was named Billboard’s Top Combs fan five years ago after hearing what And traveling is also a really big way for me Country Artist of 2019 – has enjoyed a steep would eventually be his debut album. It was to hear about new music and artists that are ascent since the release of his 2017 album apparent to me that he was not only a great bubbling in different parts of the world. I’m This One’s For You, which spawned such vocalist and entertainer, but someone who just totally open and in this case, mindful hit singles as “When It Rains It Pours” and is a songwriter at heart. Luke continues to and present. “Hurricane,” both co-written by Combs. His impress me with his ability to connect with How involved will you be in the devel- sophomore album, What You See Is What music fans across the world. I’m beyond opmental aspect of your signees? You Get, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard excited to have the UMPG team become a It’ll range. In some instances, I’ll be in- 200 last November and tallied the biggest part of his incredible team.” volved as executive producer or producer of streaming week ever for a country album, the song. AQUIHAYAQUIHAY already has with 74 million on-demand audio streams. their own producing team, which is what That same month, the singer/songwriter I love and I absolutely respect that. I don’t logged 16 tracks on Billboard’s Hot Coun- want to go in and say, “Ok guys, let me jump try Songs chart in a single week, breaking in.” I already love what they’re doing, and a 22-year-old record set by Garth Brooks. don’t want to mess with that. We’re here to This One’s for You also recently tied Shania support, develop and nurture. That’s what Twain’s Come on Over for longest-running we’re all about. I’ll probably put out my title atop the Top Country Albums chart, music through that label with other Latin reigning at No. 1 for a total of 50 weeks. artists at some point but right now, I’m here In addition to his chart hits, Combs has to take a back seat. been nominated for six CMA Awards and Page 13 of 19

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stories of their incredible contributions to best play and best musical. When they an- Rock & Roll Hall of music and impact on a generation of artists nounced the nominees for the 68th annual that followed them.” Tony Awards on April 29, 2014, they had five Fame Cancels Live Ticketmaster purchasers will automati- nominees for best play (up from the usual cally be issued a refund to their account. four) for the first time since 1975. Two years 2020 Induction The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleve- later, at the 70th annual Tonys, they had five land is now open. It plans to debut its 2020 nominees for best musical for the first time Ceremony, inductee exhibit on Aug. 14. since 1960. The 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame The Grammys finally joined the party Honorees Will Induction Ceremony will move to the fall when they announced the nominees for the with the 36th induction ceremony—which 61st annual Grammy Awards on Dec 7, 2018. Be Saluted on means there will have been a 2-1/2 year They went with eight nominees for each of gap between live ceremonies. It will also their big four awards—album, record and HBO Special return to Cleveland. The most recent induc- song of the year plus best new artist. They tion ceremony, in March 2019, was held at had generally had five nominees in each of BY PAUL GREIN Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Honorees were these categories. The Cure, Def Leppard, Janet Jackson, The Emmys and the Oscars have both ock and roll is fierce, but so, Stevie Nicks, Radiohead, Roxy Music and since tinkered with the number of nomi- unfortunately, is COVID-19. The The Zombies. nees for their top awards, but neither has Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foun- dropped as low as five since they went big. dation announced on Wednesday Since 2009, the Emmys have announced R(July 8) that, due to the ongoing pandemic, The 2009 between six and eight nominees for both it will cancel its live induction ceremony for outstanding comedy series and outstanding this year and replace it with a TV special Emmy Awards drama series. Since 2011, the Oscars have honoring this year’s inductees. veered between eight and nine nominees for The program will be available on HBO Experiment best picture. and to stream on HBO Max on Nov. 7— In recent weeks, both of these shows have nearly 10 months after this year’s inductees That Reshaped announced that they’re going to go large in were announced on Jan. 15. the future. The Emmys have announced that This year’s class, in case you’ve forgotten, Award Shows beginning with the upcoming 72nd Prime- consists of Depeche Mode, The Doobie time Emmy Awards (nominations are due Brothers, Whitney Houston, Nine Inch BY PAUL GREIN July 28), they’ll have eight nominees for Nails, The Notorious B.I.G. and T-Rex, both outstanding comedy series and out- as well as journalist-turned-manager Jon he Emmy Awards bucked 60 years standing drama series. The Oscars have Landau and manager-turned-mogul Irving of tradition when they announced announced that, beginning with the 94th Azoff, who were named as Ahmet Ertegun the nominees for the 61st Prime- Academy Awards which will be presented in Award honorees. time Emmy Awards on July 16, 2022, the best picture category will be set The 35th annual Rock & Roll Hall of Fame T2009. They unveiled seven nominees for at 10 nominees, rather than a have fluctuat- induction ceremony was originally sched- each of what are widely seen as their top ing number of nominations. uled for May 2, but on March 24, as the awards—outstanding comedy series and out- The Tonys have also tinkered with the pandemic spread, was pushed back to Nov. standing drama series. They had usually had number of nominees in their top categories 7. Most assumed at the time that the health five nominees in each of these categories. in recent years, but they had five nominees crisis would surely have blown over by then. Six and a half months later, on Feb. 2, (a lot for them, remember) for best musical Unfortunately, that no longer seems likely. 2010, the Oscars took it even further when at the 2019 Tonys (their most recent show, “To protect the health and safety of our they announced the nominees for the 82nd due to COVID-19) and five nominees for inductees, their families, crews and our annual Academy Awards. They unveiled best play at both the 2018 and 2019 shows. attendees, we’ve made the decision that the 10 nominees for their flagship award, best The Grammys are planning to hold at scheduled live event is not possible,” said picture, up from the usual five. They an- eight nominees in each of their big four John Sykes, chairman of the Rock & Roll nounced 10 nominees the following year as categories for the third consecutive year Hall of Fame Foundation. “Together with well. when the nominations for the 63rd annual HBO and executive producer Joel Gallen, The Tony Awards have a much smaller Grammy Awards are announced later this we will still create an exciting program field of potential nominees, but even they year. honoring our 2020 inductees, by telling the got into the act with their top two awards, The move at all four of these awards Page 14 of 19

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shows to expand the field of nominees for The deal encompasses Monte’s impres- their top awards is linked to the effort in sive catalog of songs on Monte Songs, span- Lil Baby Tops the past decade to increase diversity and ning an almost four-decade career, including expand the types of projects that tend to get hits like “Ainda Bem,” “Depois,” “Beija Eu,” Billboard Artist nominated. “Amor I Love You,” “Não Vá Embora,” “Já Sei Sid Ganis, then president of the Academy Namorar,” “Velha Infância,” “Passe em Casa” 100 For Third of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, made and “Não é Fácil.” that point when the Oscars’ decision to Long regarded as one of Brazil’s leading Week, Megan bump up the number of best picture finalists female acts, Monte is also a much-admired to 10 was first announced on June 24, 2009. artist globally who has worked with the Thee Stallion “Having 10 best picture nominees is going likes of David Byrne, Phillip Glass, Arnaldo to allow academy voters to recognize and Antunes and Carlinhos Brown. The latter Hits Top 10 include some of the fantastic movies that once described her voice as “one of the most often show up in the other Oscar categories perfect in the world. It’s like the wind: soft, BY XANDER ZELLNER but have been squeezed out of the race for gentle and caressing, but it messes with the top prize. I can’t wait to see what that everything in its path.” il Baby rises from No. 2 to No. 1 list of 10 looks like when the nominees are Monte’s deal with Universal comes at a on the Billboard Artist 100 chart announced in February.” time when the company is led by women, a (dated July 11) to become the top There has been some internal push-pull fact that she celebrated. musical act in the U.S. for a third at the Emmys, Oscars and Tonys to deter- “I am very happy for this partnership Ltotal week. mine just the right number of nominees. between my catalog as a composer and The rapper’s album My Turn logs a fifth Bruce Davis, then executive director at mo- a company with a female soul. Universal week at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, tion picture academy, said in 2011, “A best Music Publishing is globally chaired by with 70,000 equivalent album units earned, picture nomination should be an indication a woman. UMPG Latin is led by a strong, according to Nielsen Music/MRC Data, of extraordinary merit. If there are only female president who is surrounded by a marking the longest reign of 2020. eight pictures that truly earn that honor in a capable and talented team,” said Monte in a Lil Baby’s Artist 100 dominance is also given year, we shouldn’t feel an obligation to statement. “Care, delicacy, empathy and all aided by six songs on the latest Billboard round out the number.” the feminine intelligence at the service of Hot 100, led by “We Paid,” with 42 Dugg, as Davis’ reservations notwithstanding, the music. Long live the balance and the union the collab surges to the top 10. trend at award shows these days as far as the of forces!” Lil Baby first led the Artist 100 in March, number of nominees in marquee categories Alexandra Lioutikoff, President Latin concurrent with the chart debut of My Turn. is go big or go home. America and US Latin for UMPG, said: Megan Thee Stallion jumps from No. “Marisa Monte is […] a songwriter, artist 22 to No. 9 on the Artist 100, entering the and producer whose songs are celebrated by top 10 for the first time on the strength of Marisa Monte fans of all ages, making her a true icon in art two songs on the Hot 100. Her former No. and culture. We’re very proud to welcome 1 “Savage,” featuring Beyoncé, ranks at No. Signs Global her to our family and our team is eager to 4, followed by her new track “Girls in the deliver creative opportunities to spread her Hood,” which debuts at No. 28 (14.3 million Agreement With music all over the world, as she deserves.” U.S. streams; 11,000 sold). Just outside the Artist 100’s top 10, Haim Universal Music hits a new high, re-entering at No. 13 as the sister trio’s third LP, Women in Music, Pt. Publishing III, launches at No. 1 on Top Rock Albums and Alternative Albums and No. 13 on the BY LEILA COBO Billboard 200. The Artist 100, which launched in 2014, razilian star Marisa Monte, the el- measures artist activity across key metrics egant singer, songwriter, producer of music consumption, blending album and and instrumentalist known for track sales, radio airplay, streaming and her distinctive vocals and ability social media fan interaction to provide a Bto span multiple genres of Brazilian music, weekly multi-dimensional ranking of artist has signed a global administration agreement popularity. with Universal Music Publishing Group. Page 15 of 19

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Johansen, Javier Malosetti, Auténticos hip-hop are so much of a defining part of the Abel Pintos, Decadentes and Ráfaga will perform. Plus, culture itself that its history is now widely look out for new acts from all kind of genres known as hip-hop’s fifth element: knowl- Tini, Luciano including rock, pop, urban, cumbia, tango edge,” Blow said. and folklore, such as Natalie Pérez, Indios, Though the release of a hip-hop-themed Pereyra Among Bandalos Chinos, Soy Rada, Rodrigo Tapari, stamp may feel especially timely now, Wil- Benito Cerati, Emilia Mernes, Omar Varela, liam Gicker, Director of Stamp Services 300 Artists to Maxi Trusso, Emanero, Sol Pereyra, Ser, for the USPS, says a project honoring the Franco Masini and Enrique Campos. culture as an “American export and phe- Play Billboard Performers in the bill include artists nomenon” has been in the works for more hailing from all corners of the country. Ex- than three years. “The stamps aren’t quick Argentina’s ‘En La amples include Los Tekis (Jujuy), Vozenoff and reactionary. They’re developed over (Usuahia), Chule (Pehuajó) and John C time,” he explains. “It was a little bit of a Casa Fest’ (Tucumán), and many more. challenging subject because what we were trying to represent was an entire genre. And, BY LEILA COBO it’s not just music [and] fashion. It’s a whole How the New lifestyle. It’s grown and it’s gone global. It ore than 300 Argentine artists, would make an excellent book, but we’re including superstars Abel USPS Hip-Hop trying to render it down to a 1 inch by 1 inch Pintos, Tini, Luciano Pereyra, stamp.” Los Palmeras and Khea, will Stamps Came “From its inception, hip-hop has served Mperform as part of Billboard Argentina’s as a barrier-breaking genre and without its online Argentina En La Casa (Argentina at About contributions to art, music and film, many Home) fest. modern forms of these worlds would not The festival, which is the first-ever of this BY JEWEL WICKER exist today,” Kevin Young, director of the scope in the country, will take place over a Schomburg Center for Research in Black 24-hour period beginning at midnight today n 2016, photographer Cade Martin Culture, tells Billboard. “The Post Office is (July 8) through July 9, the day of Argen- reached out to Antonio Alcala, an art adding to the importance of capturing and tina’s Declaration of Independence. director with the United States Postal preserving the history of Black voices.” He It’s produced in collaboration with the Service, to tell him how much he calls the four stamps “a way to pay homage Unidxs Por La Música project of SI foun- Iadmired the work he’d done on the Star Trek to the early voices and roots of the genre,” dation, and will be streamed on Billboard Forever stamps. adding that the Schomburg Center recently Argentina’s YouTube channel. Five years later, the two are now collabo- acquired the archive of Fred “Fab 5 Freddy” The festival was born from the desire rators on a very different commemorative Brathwaite. to help a local stricken music community. stamp. Released on July 1, the USPS’s “Hip- Alcala says at least three consultants Argentina has been on a strict lockdown due Hop” stamps are the latest Forever release, always weigh in on the imagery and text to Covid-19 since March, and commercial commemorating today’s most popular genre for any commemorative stamp, and for the flights to and from the country still have not through a quartet of digitally-tinted images. “Hip-Hop” stamp in particular a few dif- resumed. All proceeds from the fest will be The stamps utilize Martin’s photography to ferent visual concepts were considered. “I donated to help workers in the live music depict the four elements of hip-hop — MC- was told by the Postal Service, if we can’t industry, including lighting and sound tech- ing, B-boying, DJing and graffiti art — a con- do these stamps right, we don’t want to do nicians, logistics personnel and other staff cept typically attributed to pioneer Afrika them,” he says. “It’s a little bit of maybe of involved in producing live shows. Bambaataa. a more scholarly identification, but if you Donations will be received through the In a virtual unveiling of the stamps, study and read about the history of hip- Unidxs Por La Música virtual store here. Kurtis Blow and Rocky Bucano, executive hop, almost everybody mentions these four Fans will be able to purchase memorabilia director of the Bronx’s Universal Hip Hop aspects.” donated by artists and/or make a donation. Museum, spoke before moving images of the The team didn’t want to hire actors “try- Everything raised is administered by the stamps were displayed, depicting a woman ing to play a particular role” for this project, SI foundation, which will be in charge of with a can of spray paint, a man spinning according to Martin, so it sought out talent distributing food and basic necessities to on his head, a DJ scratching on a turn- straight from the DJing, performance, art families in need. table and a rapper at the mic. “Today the and dance communities. “The DJ, MC and Established icons such as David Lebón, United States Postal Service celebrates those graffiti artist talent were sourced from the Sandra Mihanovich, Peteco Carabajal, Kevin elements, understanding that the roots of Washington, DC area of working hip-hop Page 16 of 19

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professionals, while the B-boy came from his sons. Jeff, Toto’s drummer, died in Philadelphia,” he says. “Once on set, we had Joe Porcaro, 1992 (aged 38). And Mike, the band’s bass them do their thing. My job was to be a fly player, passed in 2015 (aged 59). on the wall making images of them while Drummer and they created their craft.” The details of the photoshoot were kept Father to Toto’s Blake Shelton secret. “A signed NDA was a requirement to be on-set and the talent wasn’t privy to what Steve, Jeff and Announces Drive- the end product would be,” Martin explains. Once the photos were completed, Alcala Mike Porcaro, In Concert With highlighted them in yellow, green, red and black to lend a feeling of movement. Dies at 90 Gwen Stefani & Only 24 commemorative stamps are released annually, though Gicker says the BY LARS BRANDLE Trace Adkins USPS receives about 30,000 proposals from the public per year. Since 1957, the Citizens’ oe Porcaro, the acclaimed jazz drum- BY TAYLOR MIMS Stamp Advisory Committee has been tasked mer and percussionist whose sons with recommending which proposals make Steve, Jeff and Mike Porcaro co-found- lake Shelton is the latest country the cut, although the postmaster general ed Toto, died Monday at the age of 90. star to take the stage for a drive- has the final say. “It’s really the ultimate sort JOver a decades-long career, Porcaro per- in concert series from produc- of balancing act to try to represent the best formed on scores of albums for the likes of tion company Encore Live. On of America through our stamp programs,” Madonna, Boz Scaggs, Glen Campbell, Glen BJuly 25, Shelton will perform with special Gicker says. The USPS has a Black Heritage Campbell and Barbra Streisand, and cut a guests Gwen Stefani and Trace Adkins for series of stamps honoring African-American string of records with Rosemary Clooney Encore Drive-In Nights, which also brought culture (though “Hip-Hop” isn’t part of it), and Lalo Schifrin. fans the Garth Brooks: A Drive-In Concert which began in 1978 with a Harriet Tubman Porcaro’s musical talents clearly rubbed Experience last month. stamp (Booker T. Washington is the first off on his boys, who repaid their gifts by The all-new performances will be filmed Black icon the USPS ever honored with a inviting their dad to guest on several of their exclusively for each one-night-only event stamp, in 1940). albums in the ‘80s and ‘90s. and include cinematic interviews and Gicker stresses that the USPS knows the The late artist contributed percussion storytelling. Fans can watch the shows at hip-hop stamps are just an entry-point to for Toto’s iconic 1982 album Toto IV, which drive-ins throughout the U.S. and Canada. learning about the culture. “We think of scored six Grammy Awards and yielded the The cost? $114.99 per vehicle. stamps as the tip of the spear. We’re trying classics “Africa” and “Rosanna”. Indeed, it “This is such a great way to enjoy music to engage people to then go and learn more was Joe who performed the bass marimba with your family and friends and stay safe,” by doing your own research or just reading part on “Africa,” the California rock band’s said Shelton in a release. “I’m excited we’re about what we’re trying to convey because signature song. getting the chance to perform a concert for we are very limited in the space that we Steve Porcaro announced his father’s fans and we’re going to go back and play have.” passing. “The Porcaro Family is heartbroken old hits like ‘Austin,’ newer songs like ‘God’s “I see stamps as one of the few ways to announce the passing of our beloved Pa- Country’ and we might even introduce that the country brands itself,” Alcala adds. triarch, Joe Porcaro. Surrounded by his wife something brand new! So fill up those pop- “Stamps [are] official US government-sanc- Eileen and his family, Joe passed peacefully corn tubs and get ready for some country tioned imagery. For me, it’s a real thrill that in his sleep on July 6 at 11:37 PM,” he wrote music!” [USPS is] standing behind hip-hop.” in a Facebook post. Drive-in theaters hosting the Encore “Please allow a few days before reach- Drive-In Nights will adhere to Centers ing out with phone calls and texts. Given for Disease Control and Prevention rec- the enormous amount of people who Joe ommended guidelines as well as all state considered family and whose lives Joe has and local health mandates. Staff will wear impacted, it would be overwhelming to personal protective equipment and enforce respond just now. Please know that we so at least six feet of space between cars. The appreciate your love, thoughts, friendship series will also use contactless payment and can’t wait to celebrate his amazing life and ticketing systems and limit capacity in with all of you.” restrooms. The Porcaro patriarch outlived two of “After the overwhelming response to Page 17 of 19

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Garth Brooks’ drive-in concert feature, we that the festival could take place. “We’ve “ADMV” (abbreviation for “Amor de mi knew we had to launch Encore Drive-In been watching, waiting and hoping things vida,” which translates to “love of my life”) Nights to provide music fans across the USA improve, but there is a real possibility that marks Maluma’s second No. 1 of the year. He and Canada the chance to see their favorite we won’t be having festivals this year. No previously landed atop the tally with “Que artists in a cool new way,” said Encore Live one is in control of the situation,” he said Pena,” with J Balvin, which ruled Latin founder and CEO Walter Kinzie in a re- back in June. Airplay for one week on the Feb. 29-dated lease. “We can’t wait to bring music’s biggest The indie Latinx-focused fest joins chart. stars to outdoor movie screens all across Coachella and Lollapalooza who officially “ADMV” hits No. 1 with 12. 3 million in North America so that people can get back cancelled their 2020 edition as the U.S. sees audience impressions (up 45%) earned in out there again and safely enjoy engaging in a spike of coronavirus cases. the week ending July 5, according to Nielsen in-person experiences.” To date, the U.S. coronavirus death toll Music/MRC Data. Each ticket for the Encore Drive-In has surpassed 128,000 with more than 3 The song was written by Maluma, Edgar Nights will admit one passenger car, truck million COVID-19 cases confirmed forcing Barrera, Vicente Barco, Miky La Sensa and or SUV. Tickets will go on sale July 14 with states like California and Florida to close produced by Maluma alongside Barrera. more artists and shows expected to be an- previously re-opened businesses like restau- Maluma breaks away from a tie with nounced soon. rants and bars. Carlos Vives and Wisin for the seventh-most When asked what type of impact a cancel- No. 1s since the chart’s inception in 1994. lation could have on Los Dells, Rey said. He stands behind Enrique Iglesias who Los Dells 2020 “It’ll be disappointing because our festival continues at the top with 30 No. 1s, J Balvin is in a growth stage. We’ll pick up where we with 22, Daddy Yankee (20), Ozuna (19), and Is Officially can rebuild the momentum. It’ll take time, Ricky Martin and Romeo Santos, both with but fans have shown us that they want Latin 17. Canceled festivals and they’re anxious for them.” In addition to his new No. 1 on Latin Airplay, Maluma collects his ninth leader on BY GRISELDA FLORES Latin Pop Airplay as “ADMV” hikes 5-1. Maluma Talks Beyond his Latin Airplay and Latin Pop os Dells has officially announced coronation, “ADMV” makes progress on the that it will not be hosting a festival ‘Extra Special’ airplay-, streaming- and sales-based Hot this year due to the COVID-19 Latin Songs chart, lifting 19-14. pandemic. 16th No. 1 on Latin Over on Latin Digital Song Sales, LWhile a date for what would have been “ADMV” jumps 24-16 (though, with less the fourth edition of Los Dells in Wisconsin Airplay Chart than 1,000 downloads sold in the week end- had yet to be announced — it is typically ing July 2). held during the Labor Day weekend — the With ‘ADMV’ update was made today (July 8) on social media with a statement that reads. “Fol- BY PAMELA BUSTIOS Tommy Emmanuel lowing direction of government and health officials, as the situation continues to evolve, aluma’s “ADMV” hits No. 1 on to Host Live we have concluded that we cannot move the Latin Airplay chart as the forward with our event this year.” song jumps 4-1 on the July 11 Streams in Adding, “we are proud to take part in survey. It’s his 16th No. 1 on helping to elevate and facilitate Latin music Mthe all-genre list which dates back to his Support of Indie in the U.S. We want to celebrate with you former three-week leader “Borro Cassette” and we want to do it responsibly. We are in November 2015. Venues now looking to 2021 for our next oppor- “I’m super happy,” Maluma tells Billboard. tunity to do so. Until then, stay safe, stay “This 16th No. 1 is extra special because BY TAYLOR MIMS healthy, and let’s do our part to support one ‘ADMV’ is a ballad that is very close to my another.” heart and it means a lot at this time when rammy-nominated guitarist In a recent interview with Billboard, Da- the world is going through so much. It’s Tommy Emmanuel has an- mon Rey, who along with his father kicked also amazing that my first Latin Airplay No. nounced two live stream concerts off Wisconsin’s Los Dells in 2017 featuring 1 was less than five years ago, so I am so in support of independent con- artists like Bad Bunny, Ximena Sariñana, thankful for the fans and everyone at radio Gcert venues. On Aug. 15 and 29, Emmanuel Cuco and Banda MS, said he was hopeful that have been so supportive.” will perform from live from Tunesmith Page 18 of 19

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Studio outside of Nashville with all proceeds career. Lil Baby’s My Turn album rules the benefitting The Birchmere in Alexandria, 6lack’s ‘6pc’ Billboard 200 for a fifth week, the most of Virginia and The Coach House in San Juan any title this year, and leads Top R&B/Hip- Capistrano, California respectively. Wings Into Top 5 Hop Albums for a sixth term. “Without some support, we are in danger of losing some of the independent venues on R&B Albums that are a part of our culture and our local Blackpink Just communities,” said Emmanuel in a release. Chart “Most people don’t realize how many people Made More the touring industry supports. It’s so much BY TREVOR ANDERSON more than an artist onstage.” YouTube History The first event will begin at 8pm ET and lack nabs his second top five effort feature support from Rob Ickes & Trey on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums BY HERAN MAMO Hensley. The second show will start at chart as his new EP, 6pc Hot, 9pm ET and see an opening set from Andy debuts in the runner-up spot on s if Blackpink hadn’t broken McKee. 6the list dated July 11. The six-song project, enough YouTube records, the “When we do get back to touring, I want released on LVRN/Interscope, starts with K-pop quartet had more in store: to make sure some of these places are still 26,000 equivalent album units earned in the Blackpink surpassed 40 mil- around for me to play, so I’ve tried to figure week ending July 2, according to Nielsen lionA YouTube subscribers, making the girl out a way to help these independent venues, Music/MRC Data. group the sixth act on the video platform’s especially the ones that have supported me The singer-rapper, whose stage name is history to reach this milestone. throughout the years,” added Emmanuel. pronounced “Black,” previously reached Blackpink joins the top-tier ranks of the “We also wanted to create some sort of nor- the top five with his prior effort, 2018’s East most-subscribed musicians on YouTube, mality to the industry right now. That’s why Atlanta Love Letter, which reigned for two following Justin Bieber (55.2 million we are going to have opening acts on these weeks that September – October. His 2016 subscribers), Marshmello (46.6 million live streams and that I’m going to pay my debut, Free 6lack, climbed to a No. 6 best in subscribers), Ed Sheeran (44.9 million team just like any other show.” May 2017. subscribers), Eminem (43.3 million sub- “The Birchmere is honored to be the In addition to its R&B debut, 6pc opens at scribers) and Ariana Grande (42 million first venue to have Tommy Emmanuel do a No. 11 on Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and subscribers). Blackpink is the first non-Eng- streaming concert for us,” said The Birch- at No. 15 on the all-genre Billboard 200. lish-speaking musical act to achieve this feat mere’s booking agent Michael Jaworek As 6pc arrives, four of its cut debut on and the second female music act to do so. in a release. “Tommy has been one of our the Hot R&B Songs chart: “Float” (No. 12), The music video for the group’s comeback favorite and most valued artists to perform “Long Nights” (No. 13), “Elephant in the single “How You Like That,” which dropped at the club in its 54-year existence. Tommy’s Room” (No. 20) and “Outside” (No. 25). The on June 26, recently set an all-time record musical prowess as performer and composer quartet of new recruits push 6lack to 17 total for the biggest YouTube premiere with 1.66 is only exceeded by his kind and generous entries on the list since his first, “Cutting million peak concurrent views. Additionally, spirit.” Lies” in 2018. it scored the biggest 24-hour music video Tickets for both performances start at $15 Beyond those entries, a fifth title, “Know debut of all time with 86.3 million views. and are on sale now. My Rights,” featuring Lil Baby, debuts at No. Blackpink catapulted to No. 1 on You- 33 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Tube’s Global Top Artists chart, while It becomes 6lack’s fourth chart hit there “How You Like That” debuted at No. 1 on and arrives one spot below his personal best the Global Top Songs chart. The video also on the list, through “OTW,” a collaboration debuted at No. 1 in 10 different countries, with Khalid and Ty Dolla $ign that reached including South Korea, Australia, Sweden, No. 32 in July 2018. Canada and Nicaragua. “Rights” was both the top seller and highest-streamed track from 6pc in its initial week of availability. The tune registered 2,000 downloads in the week ending July 2 and generated 7.5 million U.S. streams in the same period. Its top status among 6pc is of little surprise, as featured act Lil Baby is cur- rently riding the hottest streak of his young Page 19 of 19

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community has been defined by positivity, 2002 lineup, is also not able to perform at A Group of Dance inclusivity, and unity,” reads a press release the 2021 edition. on the event. “It is now time to channel our Mad Cool 2021 will take place from June Music All-Stars strength to help shape the future we want 7th, 2021 to July 11th, 2021 with tickets to live in. Join Rave The Vote as we push ranging from about $85 for a one-day ticket Are Hosting our collective message beyond the ten- to about $500 for a four-day VIP pass. ants of hedonism and create a world worth Organizers have also extended the refund Four Huge Voter celebrating.” request period as of today (July 8) until one To that sentiment, we’re voting yes. week after the complete 2021 lineup is an- Registration nounced. See the complete lineup below. For more Events: See the Twenty One information visit the official Mad Cool Lineup Pilots, Red Hot website.

BY KATIE BAIN Chili Peppers & Let Harry Styles

ith less than four months More Set For Mad Lull You to Sleep until the U.S. presidential election, the dance world is Cool 2021: See With New Calm using its weapon of choice, music,W to get people registered to vote. Lineup App Partnership A new event called Rave the Vote will host four voter registration livestreams and BY JESSICA ROIZ BY RANIA ANIFTOS fundraisers on July 24, August 14, Septem- ber 11 and October 2 in an effort to get dance he Mad Cool Festival will return aving trouble falling asleep? fans to the polls. These politically-minded to Madrid in 2021 for its post- Harry Styles is here to help. online raves will be hosted by Lost Resort, poned 5th-anniversary bash, un- The Calm app announced on the livestream event that’s been hosted each veiling the first confirmed artists July 8 (after a cheeky Twitter week by Tokimonsta since the beginning of Tof its lineup today (July 8). Htease) that it is partnering with the crooner quarantine. Ninety-four bands out of the 132 that will to bring his dulcet voice to the platform. The Los Angeles-based producer will form part of the Spanish rock, indie and Styles will be narrating a 30-minute Sleep be joined by a long list of high caliber and pop music festival have been announced Story exclusively on the app titled “Dream politically aware producers including The including Twenty One Pilots, The Killers, With Me.” Black Madonna, Inner City, Seth Troxler, Mumford & Sons, Deftones, Placebo, Pix- “Sleep and meditation are a huge part Ardalan, Justin Martin, Uniiqu3, A-Trak, ies, and many more. of my routine, whether I’m at home, in the Aluna, Louie Vega and more. See the com- Red Hot Chili Peppers, Carly Rae Jep- studio, or out on the road,” the singer said in plete lineup below. sen and Puscifer, which were not part of the a press statement. “Rest and recovery is as Each 12 hour event will be broadcast via 2020 bill, were also added to the lineup. important as doing the work. Finding a bal- the Lost Resort Twitch page. (RSVP for Organizers will soon reveal 34 more acts, ance has been endlessly beneficial to both the July 24 event here.) In addition to the except for the four winners of the Mad my physical and mental health. It’s changed music, Rave the Vote will host discussions Cool talent competition by Vibra Mahou, my life. I’m so happy to be collaborating featuring trans femme entertainer Miss expected to be announced next year. with Calm at a time when the world needs Barbie-Q, Recreation and Parks Commis- “You have asked a lot about Taylor Swift, all the healing it can get. Treat people with sioner of Los Angeles and Chief Strategist of unfortunately we are sad to tell you that she kindness.” CicLAvia Tafarai Bayne, Executive Director won’t be able to attend our next edition,” Styles joins a number of other stars who of the Freelancer’s Union Rafael Espinal and reads an official statement; the star was set have contributed sleep, meditation and Chair of the Los Angeles Democratic Party to headline the 2020 fest. “We have been music content to the app including LeBron Mark Gonzales, with additional guests to be working with her agent and management to James, Laura Dern, Matthew McConaughey, announced. Afterparties will feature music try to make it happen for our 5th anniversa- Kelly Rowland, Lucy Liu and more. from SoCal’s Desert Hearts crew and East ry, but it hasn’t been possible. Hopefully we Coast party starters House of EFunk. will have her in one of our future editions.” “Since its inception the dance music It appears that Billie Eilish, who was on the