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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 AirplayMARCH 16, 2021 Page 1 of 17 Leader; Travis Denning Makes History INSIDE International Creators Gather For Sam Hunt’s second studio full-length, and first in over five years, Southside sales (up 21%) in the tracking week. On , it hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCA Nashville/ Nashville), debuts at No. 1 on Billboard’s lion audience impressions, up 16%). Top Country• So You Want to chart dated April 18. In its first‘Justice week (ending April 9), itat ’ Protests earnedSell 46,000Your Publishing equivalent units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITH YOUNG Brett Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cordingRights? to Nielsen A Veteran Music/MRC Data. andBY total LARS Country BRANDLE Airplay No. 1 as “Catch” (Big Machine Label Group) ascends Southsideof the Business marks SaysHunt’s second No. 1 on the 2-1, increasing 13% to 36.6 million impressions. chart andTake fourth a Beat top 10. It follows freshman LP Young’s first of six chart entries, “Sleep With- Montevallo, which arrived at theSpotify summit faced in No the- music on Monday (March 15) as the banner outof #JusticeAtSpotify. You,” reached No. 2 in December 2016. He • Jim Catino, vember 2014 and reigned for ninecreators weeks. To around date, the globe gathered to protest the “Spotify hasfollowed long withmistreated the multiweek music No. workers, 1s “In Case but theYou MontevalloLongtime has earned Sony 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved millionMusic in album Nashville sales. streaming giant’s royalties model. pandemic hasYou” put (three, the exploitationJanuary 2018), into “Mercy” stark (two, relief,” August MontevalloA&R Head, has spent to 267 weeks onThe the Sweden-basedlist, tying tech firm and its rivals have comments UMAW2018) and organizer “Here Tonight” and artist (two, AprilMary 2019). Regala- Luke BryanDepart’s Crash in June My Party as thecome sixth-longest- under increasing scrutiny in recent months for do, Pitchfork“Catch” reports completes. his longest journey to No. 1, running titles in the chart’s 56-year history. having taken 46 weeks to reach the apex. It out- • Joe Conyers III their top-heavy remuneration systems, despite re- “The company has tripled in value during the pan- On the all-genre , Southside ar- paces the 30-week climb of “Here Tonight.” to Head NFT porting billions in revenue each quarter. demic, while failing to increase its payment rates to rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 On Hot Country , “Catch” pushes 7-5 for Platform for Crypto. HUNT YOUNG after the No. 3-peaking MontevalloThose. concerns were at the heart of a U.K. par- artists by evena new a fraction high. of a penny. Musicians all over com: Exclusive Hunt first released the EPX2C liamentary, which debuted inquiry , announced late last year to the world are unemployed right now while the tech and peakedEvent Designerat No. 5 on Top Countryexamine Albums what ineconomic August 2014. impact Following music streaming COMBS is ‘DOES’ giantsIT AGAIN dominating Luke Combs the’ “Does industry to Me” take (River in billions. House/Columbia Music MontevalloBobby, Between Garza the Pines: havingAcoustic on Mixtape artists, started record at labels its No. and 7 high “the in sustainabilityNashville), featuring work Eric is labor, Church and, ascends we are 11-8 asking on Country to be paid Airplay, fairly up 10%for to November 2015. 24.7 million in audience. The is Combs’ eighth straight career-opening in Austin, in a of the wider music industry.” More than 150 pieces of that labor.” 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 Pandemic: ‘I Don’t written evidence were submitted into the “economics The UMAW announced its Justice At Spotify Airplay:Think... “Leave We’re the Night On,” “Take Your Time,” “House Party” and “Make promoted No. 1 singles. of music streaming” inquiry, and published in January. campaign in October of last year, along with a mission You MissFull-Tilt Me.” in“Break July’ Up in a Small Town” peaked at No. 2. Church adds his 15th Country Airplay top 10. Hunt co-penned all 12 songs onOn Southside Monday, including, the U.S.-based “Body Like Union a Back of Musicians and statement and a petition that had been signed by more Road,”• Avett which Brothers, was released in 2017.Allied The Workers smash hit took ruled a Countrymore hands-on Airplay for approach THAT when TOOK QUITEthan ‘A 6,000 FEW’ people. MONTHS Travis Denning shatters the record for three Billyweeks Strings and the and airplay-, streaming-it led a worldwide and sales-based demonstration Hot Country on Songs the doorstepsthe most of weeks it has“Spotify taken tois penetratethe most thedominant Country platform Airplay top on 10 the as “After chartMore for a then-record Announced 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 - Spotify offices. music streaming market,” the UMAW Floridafor Bonnaroo’s Georgia Line New’s “Meant to Be” (50 weeks atop the latter list in 2017-18). lion in radio reach. stated at the “Downtown’sConcert Series Dead,” which is alsoAmong on the its new demands, set, reached the UnionNos. 14 is and calling 15 forThe a 1 centsong surpassestime. two“The tracks company that took behind 50 weeks the streamingeach to enter platform the top 10: on and Countryper Airplay,stream royaltyrespectively, rate, in greater June 2018. transparency “Kin- Easton from Corbin’scontinues “A Girl Like to You,” accrue which value, reached yet music No. 10 workers in January every 2018- be- folks”• led2021 Country Grammys Airplay on Feb.Spotify, 29, becoming and an end Hunt’s to lawsuitsseventh No. targeting 1. It hit artists.fore peaking at No.where 6 that see February, little more and Aaron than penniesWatson ’sin “Outta compensation Style,” which Suffer Steep Fall No. 3 on Hot Country Songs. Artists and music industry professionalsachieved gathered its No.for 10 high the workin December they make.” 2017. Latestin single Ratings “Hard to Forget” jumps 17-9 on Hot Country Songs. It’s his “After” is Denning’s second Country Airplay entry. “David Ashley Parker in 31 cities, including 10 in the United States, under (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 NO LOVE LOST

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Spotify declined to comment on the ily driven by folks who realize that catalogs protests. So You Want are tremendous assets, and also by writers’ Writing for last month, representatives who have seen the money Charlatans frontman Tim Burgess added his to Sell Your they make plummet over the past few years voice to calls for a new business model. (especially if COVID-19 or an artists’ age In an opinion piece under the title “Even Publishing Rights? interrupted touring plans) and hope to make before Covid, music was broken. Let’s use some nice fees for “helping” them sell their this moment to hit reset,” Burgess wrote, “If A Veteran of the songs. A lot of the encouragement to sell a whole generation of musicians goes to the (and make money off of the sale) begins with wall, no one wins. And let me tell you, when Business Says the assertion to that “folks are we fix it there’ll be quite a lineup willing to offering insane amounts for catalogs” and play at the party to celebrate.” Take a Beat “you should sell ASAP because Biden might Later, Soundcloud revealed it would raise the gains tax.” adopt a “user-centric” payment system, BY RANDALL WIXEN Let’s have a closer look. In fact, even a where royalty payments to artists are calcu- 25-times net earnings multiple on a catalog lated on the number of fans streaming, not started Wixen Music Publishing in sale might not be insane. The passage of the the number of streams. 1978, long before music publishing Music Modernization Act (MMA) is going to became a “sexy” business to investors significantly change a lot of things, including and bankers, and have dedicated my how performing rights organizations like Ientire professional life to protecting song- ASCAP and BMI function, which presently writers, careers and legacies. Over more operate under government consent decrees. than 40 years I’ve never had anyone say to As part of that, the two big PROs now have me, “I sure am glad I sold my publishing the rates that they can charge broadcasters when I did. It was the best thing I ever did.” who publicly perform music, each deter- But I couldn’t begin to estimate the num- mined by a single judge. Because of the ber of times that folks like Tom Petty, Paul MMA, the judges making these rate deter- McCartney, , Tom minations in the future will be rotated for Johnston, Roger McGuinn, George Har- a better-balanced point of view, and many rison and Donald Fagen have told me that industry insiders believe that the rates that selling their songwriting catalogs was one of BMI and ASCAP receive and pay will rise the biggest mistakes they ever made. because of this. So, why the sudden push to sell publish- Royalties for on-demand streaming are ing rights now? also likely to rise. The Copyright Roy- In my opinion, the trend is being primar- alty Board (CRB), which sets such rates,

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determined that rates paid by streaming ate cash, then they should go make a five- companies or have they left a stream of services were way too low and awarded a year advance-based publishing deal. At least disappointed investors and furious creators 44% increase to publishers to be phased in that kind of mistake expires and they won’t in their wakes? over five years. This ruling is now on appeal regret something for the rest of their life. Have they ever done anything for the by various DSPs, but it seems pretty likely Here’s something else to think long-haul, or have they just flipped assets to me and many of the companies investing about: Let’s take a look at the usual sus- when the going got tough? in music rights (and who hope artists and pects that are trying to buy songs. Are they If that happens, are you going to find songwriters aren’t aware of this) that rates actually in the publishing business? Do they your songs owned by a company that also paid for streaming rights will be going up really care about writers, their careers, and invests in nuclear reactors or private prisons substantially. And the next cycle of CRB rate legacies, or are they really beholden to their someday? hearings has already started even though shareholders? Do they have a real back of- Are these companies based in foreign the prior ruling is still under appeal. It is fice that does administration and royalties countries or in off-shore tax havens where likely that there will be huge amounts of or are they just handing off to the lowest- it might be hard for investors to take legal retroactive royalties to be paid out once the cost company that really is in the business? action if necessary? appeals from the prior CRB hearings are The lowest-cost company actually handling What fees do these companies get for exhausted, and the current CRB hearings these songs might be charging a 5% admin- spending their investors’ money, and what are decided. That could mean if a songwrit- istrative commission and come up with a special perks (like the right to buy discount- er sells now, the buyer of their copyrights sloppily-collected “small pie” whereas a ed catalogs) do they get if the company can’t might be getting a windfall of income that higher-cost back office that spends a lot remain a going concern? was actually earned prior to the sale. more time making sure the collection is Have your representatives investigated Between the CRB rate hearings and done right and does a very thorough job any of these things, or have they just pres- changes that will be enacted because of the for a 10% commission on a much “larger sured you because selling is time-sensitive MMA and the newly created Mechanical pie” might, in fact, yield a lot more royalty and they’ve tempted you with a big pot of Licensing Collective (MLC) that was set income when things are examined through a gold? up thereunder, I see music catalogs being dollars-and-cents collected lens instead of a Do you want to be like one of the stars worth double what they are now in four to percentage rate-paid one. from the late 1950s or early 1960s who got seven years. If that prediction of catalogs If a composer kept their writer share or a Cadillac instead of royalties or like Little doubling in value happens, current rights some of their publishing rights, they certain- Richard who got $50 from Art Rupe for holders can look at the 25 times net earnings ly don’t want administration that will cause “Tutti Frutti?” You only get one chance to multiple as being closer to 12 1/2 in reality. their income to go down due to lower col- think before you jump. Now is the time. But let’s say you do want to sell anyway. lections by a third-party back office working Randall Wixen is the founder of Wixen Mu- Even with capital gains at the cur- for some financial vehicle. Moreover, if that sic Publishing, Inc. and co-founder of Wixen rent 20% rate, let’s say that representatives happens, that will also affect the value of Music UK Ltd. He is the author of The Plain and any other folks “helping” sell songs are what the remainder of the song rights might And Simple Guide to Music Publishing. For somehow constrained to only taking a 10% be worth. If a writer gives matching rights over 40 years, he has been an ardent advocate fee of the sale price. That would leave a or first right of refusal to a buyer on any sale for writer and publisher rights. writer 70% of what their catalog was worth of additional songs or rights they kept, or if when all was said and done. If they’re plan- the buyer promises additional bonus fees if ning on blowing through it all in the next a catalog performs well and meets certain few years, have at it. If they’re planning on income targets post-sale, is that an actual living on this money for a while or leaving it benefit or is it truly an incentive for the to their heirs to live on for an extended pe- buyer to give low-budget license quotes and riod of time — will they or their heirs be able collect poorly for the next few years? to live within their means, or will they blow Here are some more questions for a lump sum? Also, one has to think about songwriters contemplating catalog sales to how they would be investing their 70% net consider: proceeds. Can they find a safe investment Do the songs have any personal or senti- for the 70% net that will return the same mental value and would you not care if, say, amount that 100% of their publishing cata- “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling” was used log throws off each year — and which also in a condom commercial? might be worth twice what it’s worth now in What is the track record of the folks run- five years? ning these funds? If they’re really that strapped for immedi- Have they made money in their past 2021 TOP MUSIC LAWYERS

Behind every artist, and music produc- CONTACTS er is a trusted group of advisers who provide Joe Maimone guidance, advice and negotiate deals. Billboard’s 201.301.5933 | [email protected] 6th annual Top Music Lawyers list will recognize the biggest names and most prominent legal Lee Ann Photoglo minds in the world of music and 615.376.7931 | [email protected] entertainment law. They are the deal makers behind Cynthia Mellow the major contracts and lawsuits in the music 615.352,0265 | [email protected] industry. Marcia Olival 786.586.4901 | [email protected] This feature will also include a round-up of top law schools attended by the notable alumni on the Gene Smith Top Music Lawyer list. 973.452.3528 | [email protected]

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move because I love this place so much.” He contract ends on July 1st. This is something Jim Catino, went on to thank Goodman, as well as his I have wanted to do for some time, but it’s past Sony Nashville mentors/bosses, Renee always been hard to make that move because Longtime Sony Bell, Joe Galante and Randy Overton. I love this place so much. So it is bitter sweet. There is no word yet on who will replace I am so thankful for my 20 years at Sony Mu- Music Nashville Catino. sic. I have had so many amazing mentors - Goodman’s memo is in full below, follow- Renee Bell, Joe Galante, Gary Overton and, of A&R Head, to ing by Catino’s. course, the last six amazing years with Randy It is with a range of emotions that I deliver Goodman and team. Those years have been Depart in June the news to you all today that Jim Catino instrumental in building my confidence to has informed me of his decision to leave the make this decision. I’m excited about what’s BY MELINDA NEWMAN Company at the end of June to start his own ahead, but will miss all of you. This is an venture. Jim will be sharing more about his amazing staff and incredible group of artists. im Catino, ’s future plans with you all shortly in a separate It has truly been an honor to be a part of this longtime executive vp A&R, is leaving email. amazing team. I wish Randy, Ken, Steve, Jen, the company to start his own publish- When I joined Sony Music almost six years the incredible A&R team and all of the amaz- ing and artist development venture. ago, there was a need, and thus an opportu- ing staff at Sony Music Nashville continued JHe will depart at the end of June, coinciding nity, to reimagine the Company’s priorities success.” with the July 1 end of his current contract. and what A&R could/should mean for Sony Love you all. Randy Goodman, Sony Music Nashville Music Nashville going forward. Particularly Catino chairman and CEO, informed the staff in the area of breaking new artists. Jim has Tuesday (March 16) via memo, with Catino been an important partner in making all of responding with his own memo — both of that happen from our very first meeting. Here Joe Conyers III which were obtained by Billboard. Catino we are, six short years later, having achieved has been at Sony Music Nashville for 20 significant artist break throughs as well as to Head NFT years and worked with several label heads. our aspirational goal of claiming #1 cur- “When I joined Sony Music almost six rent market share for Country. None of that Platform for years ago, there was a need, and thus an would have happened without Jim’s creative opportunity, to reimagine the company’s vision, leadership and ability to execute. He Crypto.com: priorities and what A&R could/should mean has made an indelible mark on the amazing for Sony Music Nashville going forward. legacy of Sony Music Nashville and thus we Exclusive Particularly in the area of breaking new all owe him a great debt of gratitude. artists,” Goodman wrote. “Jim has been Jim has been with varying iterations of BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN an important partner in making all of that SMN since 2001. He is a 27-year music indus- happen from our very first meeting. Here try veteran and I know will find great success ryptocurrency exchange Crypto. we are, six short years later, having achieved in lays ahead. Ideally, we’ll continue com has hired Joe Conyers significant artist break throughs as well as to be a part of whatever new and exciting art- III to lead development of its new our aspirational goal of claiming #1 cur- ists he finds and develops. In the meantime, invite-only NFT platform, the rent market share for country. None of that we will come back to you very soon with more Ccompany announced today. would have happened without Jim’s creative information about our search for a new head In his new role, Conyers – who vision, leadership and ability to execute. He of A&R. joins Crypto.com from Downtown Music has made an indelible mark on the amazing Please join me in thanking Jim, and of Holdings, where he served as chief strategy legacy of Sony Music Nashville and thus we course Molly, for making us all better along officer – will serve as the company’s execu- all owe him a great debt of gratitude.” the way. tive vp and global head of NFTs, forging Among the artists Catino had worked We wish you God’s speed my friend, relationships with top artists, athletes with over the two decades are Luke Randy and sports leagues to take part in the new Combs, , Old Dominion, — platform. Kane Brown, , Carrie Under- Hey everyone. Speaking with Billboard, Conyers says wood, and many more. Just thought I’d send out a quick note the currently exploding NFT market rep- Catino called his decision “bittersweet,” thanking all of you for making SMN such a resents a way for artists to exercise control noting that starting his own company is great place to be for so long. I have decided over their art and careers in the digital “something I have wanted to do for some to go pursue my own music venture (pub- arena. “I think the storytelling aspect has time, but it’s always been hard to make that lishing and artist development) when my been taken away from them in a lot of ways 2 0 2 1 PRIMARY WAVE 15TH ANNIVERSARY

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with the DSPs,” he says. “It’s just go, go, ket. “I think you have to be very careful how ment here and see the full series here. go to playlists, and now there’s more ways you do it,” he says. “You want to do it very If not for the pandemic, this would be to tell your story. In the same way I think tasteful, and because there’s a bit of a gold weekend, right? also the music video had its own heyday of rush right now, you have to make sure who It would be. Everybody’s talking about telling stories, there’s going to be whole new you’re buying your shovels from is the one that. This is the one-year anniversary of ways to tell stories through this medium.” that doesn’t break in your hand when you’re when the universe stopped spinning on its Conyers’ leadership and innovation skills digging the rock.” axis. were well borne out during his time at You can find out more about Crypto. How philosophical are you about that? Downtown, where he co-founded Songtrust, com’s NFT platform here. I’m feeling conflicted about it. The way now a leading songwriter royalty collection the numbers look here in Austin, I was start- service. (For his efforts at the company, he ing to feel hopeful about where things were has been recognized as a Billboard Digi- Event Designer headed — our director of public health, the tal Power Player four years in a row.) He other day, said, “If current trends continue, launched his career more than 15 years ago Bobby Garza then we’d be in Stage 2, from a public-health after co-founding the art media compa- system indicator.” That’s very close to ny ArtObserved.com and has been playing in in Austin, in a everything being “normal.” And our gover- the cryptocurrency space for a decade, hav- nor lifted the mask mandate, and that sent ing worked with singer-songwriter Imogen Pandemic: ‘I all of my friends into a tailspin who work Heap on her blockchain project Mycelia in either venues or bars. It’s like, “What are through his role at Downtown. Don’t Think... you doing, man? It’s not safe yet.” Given that previous mini-NFT crazes Have your friends given reports about have bubbled up and then quickly fizzled We’re Full-Tilt whether people in are doing what over the last few years, Conyers understands the governor is telling them to do — are why there would be skeptics. But he believes in July’ they flooding back to bars and other this time is different. small indoor spaces and not wearing “I think the big difference between his- BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN masks? torical things like this is this resale market,” A friend founded this group called The says Conyers, referencing resale royalties for hen the concert busi- Amplified Sound Coalition and they had artist owned NFTs via so-called “smart con- ness shut down last a rally asking the governor to reconsider tracts.” “To be able to resell what you what March, Bobby Gar- the mask mandate until 70% of essential you bought and have the artists participate za abruptly shifted from workers were vaccinated, which I thought changes the economics of [how] these things puttingW on live events to tearing them down sounded reasonable, but of course there was work. Everyone is getting their interests — his company, Austin-based Forefront no response from anybody about whether aligned. It’s not just the auction house that’s Networks, had to cancel the food- that was even being considered. . . . I can’t interested, it’s not just the artists, it’s the fan and-music festival Yountville Live later that tell you how many times I’ve had friends too. It’s this triangle of success for every- month. In early April, his life changed even of mine that are bartenders that have been body.” more dramatically: Forefront furloughed 30 like, “the only people showing up in large “As we work towards growing from 10m percent of its staff, including him. numbers at bars and being jerks are people users to 100m over the next two years, there As part of Billboard’s efforts to best cover from out of town.” is no doubt the NFT market will be a major the coronavirus pandemic and its impacts President Biden suggested July 4 might growth driver,” said Crypto.com co-found- on the music industry, we will be speaking be a key date for gathering in groups. Is er and CEO Kris Marszalek in a statement with Garza, a 43-year-old former Forefront that reasonable? announcing Conyers’ hire. “Joe’s unique creative team leader who used to be general He said July 4 you can celebrate with experience building and managing some of manager of festival producer Transmission small groups. The nuance there is incredibly the largest creator driven companies in the Events, every other week to chronicle his important. I don’t think that means we’re world will accelerate our growth in the NFT experience throughout the crisis. As of early full-tilt in July. We’re still trying to find out market. While excitement for NFTs reached January, he is now vice president of pro- when full-capacity kind of things are hap- an all-time high recently, this is just the grams and community outreach at the Long pening. I’m hearing that a lot of folks are beginning.” Center, a performing-arts facility in Austin, thinking September is kind of the area. Conyers says that while the possibilities which, among other things is working on Festivals and everything else? with NFTs are great, he’ll guide creators dispersing emergency SAVES grants worth Michael Rapino from Live Nation was in taking a more measured approach to the tens of thousands of dollars to struggling saying festivals at full capacity are going to emerging, and increasingly crowded, mar- local concert venues. (Read the latest install- be happening again. When I read that I was 2021

On April 24th, Billboard will publish its annual CONTACTS International Power Players list. This issue Joe Maimone will profile the leaders in the global music 201.301.5933 | [email protected] industry including the label executives, concert promoters, managers, talent Lee Ann Photoglo agents and lawyers, and recognize their 615.376.7931 | [email protected] achievements. Advertise and congratulate Cynthia Mellow this year’s International Power Players to 615.352,0265 | [email protected] reach an influential audience of decision-makers worldwide. Marcia Olival 786.586.4901 | [email protected]

Gene Smith 973.452.3528 | [email protected]

Ryan O’Donnell +447843437176 | [email protected]

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like, “Clearly, this can’t be correct.” Maybe Yes! She loves the cold weather so much place to celebrate the return of live music he knows more stuff than I do, which is en- that even in the middle of those very cold than at the Bonnaroo Farm,” said Tennessee tirely possible. Maybe he’s talking to other days, she was sitting outside. Now that we’re Department of Development com- people with better data and better metrics. back up to 80 degrees, it’s miserable for her. missioner Mark Ezell in a release. “We’re On another level, if there are better metrics Tell her to come on over to Colorado, ready to see our stages and venues full again, and data for us to enjoy, where is that data, where I live. We just got two feet of snow. and artists back on the road doing what they and why can’t we see it? Isn’t that funny, the subjective reality in love. We know music fans are ready as well, What else is going on at the Long Cen- which we live? The weather here got down and Concerts On the Farm’s approach to de- ter? to 7 [degrees] and infrastructure started livering live music in a responsible environ- Our Long Live Music outdoor, socially crumbling, as if we weren’t in a first-world ment will set the bar high for future events.” distanced series went on sale, and three country. I was scooping snow out from my Concerts On the Farm will be limited in of the four shows sold out really quickly. front yard to get enough water to be able to capacity to allow for social distancing. Tick- We’ve got into this rhythm with the outdoor flush toilets, and that was 9 or 11” of snow ets will be sold in groups of four, and will things that are safe — you get your pod of up over four or five days. I guess it’s the same provide access to an 8’ x 8’ pod, with pods to four people, we bring you your food and when there are heatwaves in the Northeast arranged to allow 6 feet of distance between drinks, you don’t leave your pod unless you — there’s actually a concern for human life. groups. Fans are encouraged to bring chairs have to use the restroom. People are incred- I’ve produced ice-cream festivals when it’s or blankets to create their own comfort- ibly respectful of the house rules. We’re 107 degrees outside. able space within their pod. Concessions taking extra precautions on the back end to An ice-cream festival! That sounds and merchandise will be available on-site ensure the artists are safe and doing extra amazing right now. through mobile ordering. testing and all those things that felt difficult That was a pretty special festival. Just get- Masks will be required for all attendees before, or odd. They just feel like normal ting to see 20 different ice-cream vendors in when moving around the venue, but may be ways you’re doing business, like, “Sure, our the same spot was awesome. It was also very removed while inside their own reserved stagehands will get rapid tests a certain sticky. seating area. Organizers will continue to number of days before.” Maybe it’s just a monitor local health guidelines in order to new day, a new world we live in. keep both attendees and staff safe. Does that mean when I use the bath- Avett Brothers, Tickets for Concerts On the Farm will room in punk clubs, it’s not going to be go on sale at 11 a.m. ET Friday (March 19), completely disgusting? Billy Strings via BonnarooFarm.com, with $1 from Emo’s on 6th Street has a special place in each ticket benefiting the Bonnaroo Works my heart — that was one of those first places and More Fund. Ticket packages start at $225 and go I got to when I moved here in the early ‘90s. to $450. Select events will also be streamed There’s a rite of passage going to those bath- Announced for on Veeps. rooms. . . . Some of those clubs, if they had See the announcement below: pristine bathrooms, I would be concerned Bonnaroo’s New about the authenticity of the entire place. How are the portals going for the Save Concert Series 2021 Grammys Our Stages grants given to local venues? Since the Texas snowstorm a few weeks BY TAYLOR MIMS Suffer Steep ago, have things proceeded more or- derly? onnaroo organizers have an- Fall in Ratings We closed the portal Wednesday [March nounced Concerts On the Farm, 10] at 11:59 p.m., so of the 74 venues that a new concert series launching BY RICK PORTER received an emergency grant, we have about in May. 49 applications, which is a pretty good turn- BBilly Strings will kick off the series with he Grammy Awards joined a host around. Our team is digging into the process a performance at the Farm in Tennessee of other awards shows in experi- of reviewing all the applications and the on May 28. The following evening (May encing sizable ratings losses. financial data and verifying eligible expens- 29), Jon Pardi will perform with special CBS’ broadcast of the awards es, so we can score and rank and release the guest Jameson Rodgers. Concerts on the Tdrew 9.23 million viewers and a 2.28 rating list of folks that are going to get additional Farm will also feature three nights with The among adults 18-49 in Nielsen’s final same- enhanced grants. It feels like we’re doing Avett Brothers July 2-4. day ratings for Sunday (vs. 8.8 million and good work. “The soundtrack of America is made 2.1 in earlier ratings, which didn’t include Is your mom sad that the snow melted? in Tennessee, and I can’t think of a better out-of-home viewing). Both figures are Page 12 of 17

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all-time lows for the Grammys and down lessly genre-less, it is an absolute honor to announce. sharply from last year. Sunday’s show fell 51 welcome them to the Transgressive roster. An extension of his management and percent in total viewers (from 18.69 million) We have so much incredible music set to booking company LM Events, which and 58 percent in the 18-49 demographic drop in the next 12 months across several specializes in the regional Mexican market, (from 5.4). very important projects. An icon and an Lizárraga will run Room 28 alongside busi- The Grammys also came in well behind unmistakable charisma, making some of ness partner Mario Barrón. CBS’ performance last Sunday, when the the most vital music we’ve heard in years: “It’s an unknown world for me,” Lizár- network drew 17.8 million viewers for prepare to be utterly enchanted.” raga, who launched Lizos Music in 2013 Oprah Winfrey’s interview special with With the news of Blanco’s signing also (indie label home to Banda MS), tells Bill- Meghan Markle and Britain’s Prince Harry comes the first bit of new music from the board. “But you meet people that know that about their stepping back as senior members rapper/performance artist’s next cre- world perfectly and well they’re the ones of the royal family. ative phase: “Free Ride,” a genre-resistant that will guide this project. I am continuing The Grammys join the Golden Globes, mixture of trap beats, indie vibes and retro with Lizos Music but I wanted to create this CMA Awards, American Music Awards and soul flourishes steered by Mykki’s assertive alternate label that is exclusively for pop- Academy of Awards in suf- flow. “Free Ride” is co-produced by FaltyDL urban music.” fering steep declines this season. CBS notes, (whose ongoing creative partnership with The new company’s objective is to “give however, that the Grammys have scored the Blanco began in 2018 and will continue national and international visibility to biggest awards show audience of the 2020- through upcoming releases) and Hudson recording artists that contribute variety 21 season thus far. Mohawke. Annie Mac premiered the song and creativity,” according to an official Taylor Swift won album at the year at the Tuesday (March 16) on BBC Radio 1. statement. One of Room 28’s first signees Grammys for Folklore, and Beyoncé set a “Some of the most intimate moments and includes Mexican influencer Mont Pantoja, Grammy record with her 28th win, the conversations I have ever shared were with whose lip-sync videos have made her a star most ever by a female artist. my mother on long drives in the South- on Tik Tok, where she boasts of more than ABC’s was the top show ern countryside when I was a teenager,” 18 million followers. Pantoja is set to release on all other cable and broadcast networks says Mykki of the song. “The music that her debut single “Maviri,” a pop-infused in primetime, scoring a 0.83 rating among soundtracked these memories on our daily track, on March 18. Lizárraga’s daughter, adults 18-49 and 5.5 million viewers. journey’s was the stuff of my mother’s Brianda, is also part of the label’s roster, This article was originally published generation. I would find myself daydream- which will be announced in the next few by The Hollywood Reporter. ing, reflecting and envisioning the kind of days. life I would like to create for myself. These News of Lizárraga’s Room 28 arrives two memories and the music of months after the announcement of a new were the first inspirations behind the cre- booking and management deal between ation of my new song ‘Free Ride.’” Spanish singer-songwriter Natalia Ji- Signs to ménez and LM Events. The move, first reported by Billboard, marked the first time Transgressive Sergio Lizárraga in recent memory that a pop act entered a management agreement with a company Records: Exclusive Launches that specializes in the regional Mexican market. BY JOE LYNCH Pop-Urban Record “What excites me the most about new ventures is the challenge,” adds Lizárraga. ykki Blanco, one of the most Label Room 28: “[Room 28] goes hand-in-hand with what I original, unpredictable artistic already do but in a genre that has a different voices to emerge over the last Exclusive style of lyrics and rhythms. With Mario, who decade, has a new label to call knows the ins and outs of that world, we’re Mhome; Blanco has signed to London-based BY GRISELDA FLORES not only going to do this but we’re going to label Transgressive Records, Billboard can do this well.” reveal. anda MS manager and “We have been huge fans of Mykki Blanco founder Sergio Lizárraga has since we first saw them slay our sister Vi- launched new , Room sions Festival several years ago in London,” 28, that will focus solely on says Transgressive co-founder Toby L of the B“developing, managing and promoting” pop new signee. “Fiercely defiant and effort- and urban acts, Billboard can exclusively Page 13 of 17

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Hines led tributes to the late singer. “Send- company Tesla, which invested $1.5 billion Doug Parkinson, ing much love to Susie, your boys and all of in the cryptocurrency last month and has your family, friends and fans,” she tweeted. revealed plans to accept bitcoin as payment Soulful Australian Country star Troy Cassar-Daley wrote, for its vehicles in the future. “Man RIP Doug Parkinson you moved my You can read Billboard’s full explainer Singer, Dies at 74 soul brother thank you.” Singer and TV host on the NFT phenomenon — and the music David Campbell added, “Just heard the news industry’s exploding interest in it — here. BY LARS BRANDLE about Doug Parkinson passing away. An enormous vocalist and a man who worked oug Parkinson, the hirsute Aus- continually in his career. Another huge loss Foogiano Arrested tralian singer and bandleader for the Australian Music Industry. Doug’s whose distinctive, soulful vocals version of Dear Prudence matched the by Federal powered a string of hits in . Vale.” D1960s and 1970s, died Monday (March 15) at Agents After the age of 74. Parkinson’s publicist Lionel Midford Elon Musk Plans Being On the broke the news, announcing “the legendary Australian recording artist with a powerful to Sell a Song Run for Months and soulful voice, passed away suddenly at home.” Parkinson, he continued, was widely About NFTs... BY ASSOCIATED PRESS considered one of the “most unusual and influential singer-songwriters in the history as an NFT .S. Marshals in Tennessee have of contemporary music” in Australia. arrested Georgia rapper Foogia- A lifelong Sydneysider, Parkinson’s first BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN no, who was wanted for nearly band was Strings and Things, formed with three months after violating his the children of famed cricketer Sid Barnes. lon Musk is hopping on the NFT Uprobation by melting off his court-ordered Parkinson’s musical tastes matured and in craze with plans to sell a new song ankle monitor and disappearing, according 1967 he explored psychedelic rock with The about the non-fungible tokens... as to authorities. Questions. The group would support The its own NFT. The rapper (real name: Kwame Khalil Who, tour nationally with Small Faces and EMusk’s exact involvement in the dance Brown) was arrested by a U.S. Marshal’s place second in the finals of the prestigious track is unclear, and he has not yet provided Office task force Thursday in Memphis on Hoadleys Battle of the Sounds. a link to the NFT or any additional context a fugitive from justice warrant, The Athens Before the ‘60s were finished, the singer on where or when it might go on sale. Banner-Herald reported Monday (March formed a new band Doug Parkinson in Fo- In Musk’s tweet, the unnamed track plays 15), citing Memphis police. cus, whose reworking of The Beatles’ “Dear over the visual of a rotating golden trophy, The 27-year-old Atlanta-based rapper is Prudence” was a national smash. His new with the words “Vanity Trophy” revolving represented by Gucci Mane. group would go one better in the Battle of around a shiny sphere and a base that reads Brown was wanted in Greene County, the Sounds, taking top spot in 1969. “Computers Never Sleep” (an actual lyric Georgia, where he was released on a Parkinson moved to London in the early from the song) — above that, the acronym $50,000 bond in December for a probation 1970s with the band Fanny Adams, but by “HODL,” which is short for “hold on for violation stemming from a firearms charge, 1972 he’d left to pursue a solo career. From dear life.” That phrase is an oft-used slogan authorities said. He was initially on proba- the late 1980s, Parkinson had found success for the bitcoin community that’s used to tion for a 2015 burglary and was ordered in musical theatre, landing key roles in discourage crypto traders from divesting to wear an ankle monitor following the stage productions from Jesus Chris Super- from the cryptocurrencies. probation violation. He was accused of later star (playing Judas), The Wizard of Oz (play- The trophy additionally includes golden removing and destroying the device. ing the Lion), Buddy: The Buddy Holly dogs evocative of shiba inus, a.k.a. the Authorities had not known his where- Story (as The Big Bopper) and more. mascot for the dogecoin cryptocurrency that abouts until he was arrested last week at a Parkinson continue to work right up until gained some traction amid the Gamestop private residence in Memphis, The Banner- his passing. Indeed, he was slated to per- phenomenon earlier this year and which Herald quoted Chris Wright, an inspector form this Thursday (March 18) at Thebarton Musk himself has tweeted about a number with the U.S. Marshal’s Southeast Regional Theatre in South Australia and again on of times. Task Force, as saying. Wright said he could Saturday in his hometown. Musk has been a vocal cheerleader for not disclose how agents located Brown. ARIA Hall of Fame inductee Marcia bitcoin both on and through his The rapper was also named in an ongo- Page 14 of 17

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ing lawsuit filed by the estate of a victim Most Weeks at No. 1 on the Artist 100 songwriter, ). in the July 2020 shooting at the Lavish 46, Taylor Swift Further sales gains are likely on March Lounge in Greenville, South Carolina. Au- 32, Drake 15. Any news on continued sales increases, thorities said Jarquez K. Cooper, a member 21, The Weeknd as well as significant streaming gains for of Brown’s entourage, opened fire into the 16, BTS the performed songs will be reported in the audience from onstage, killing two people 15, Ariana Grande coming days. and wounding eight. 14, Here are the top 10 selling songs per- Cooper was charged with murder and 12, formed on the show, on March 14, according attempted murder and remains in a Green- 10, to initial reports: ville jail. Brown and Gucci Mane were not 10, BTS, “Dynamite” (10,500 sold on March charged in the shooting. In another Artist 100 move sparked by 14; up 2,748%) Silk Sonic, “Leave the Door Greene County Sheriff Donnie Harrison Drake, Yung Bleu debuts at No. 97 on the Open” (5,100; up 144%) said Monday that his office was awaiting an strength of his breakthrough single “You’re Harry Styles, “Watermelon ” (2,600; extradition order on the fugitive warrant. Mines Still,” featuring Drake. The track up 945%) Brown was set to appear in court in Mem- ranks at No. 21 on the Hot 100, as well as No. Dua Lipa, “Levitating” (2,600; up 121%) phis this Friday, according to jail records. 5 on Hot R&B Songs. Black Pumas, “Colors” (2,600; up 1,850%) It was not immediately clear whether he The Artist 100 measures artist activity Dua Lipa, “Don’t Start Now” (2,600; up had an attorney who could comment for across key metrics of music consumption, 98%) him. blending album and track sales, radio air- Mickey Guyton, “Black Like Me” (1,600; up play, streaming and social media fan interac- 13,225%) tion to provide a weekly multi-dimensional Cardi B, “Up” (1,600; up 5%) Drake Returns to ranking of artist popularity. Billie Eilish, “” (1,300; For all chart news, you can follow @bill- up 812%) No. 1 on Artist 100 board and @billboardcharts on both Twitter Maren Morris, “The Bones” (1,000; up and Instagram. 641%) Thanks to Historic Beyoncé was the biggest winner of the evening, taking home four Grammy Awards. Hot 100 Start BTS, Harry Styles, Her total trophy count now stands at 28, making her the female artist with the most BY XANDER ZELLNER Mickey Guyton wins ever (a point noted during the televi- sion broadcast). Her 28th win was for best rake dominates the Billboard & More Sales R&B performance, an award presented Artist 100 chart (dated March during the television broadcast, for the song 20), surging from No. 17, to be- Surge After 2021 “Black Parade.” The track sold 200 copies on come the top musical act in the March 14 – up 743%. DU.S. for a 32nd total week, and for the first Grammy Awards Awards in 84 categories were presented time since August 2018, thanks to his un- on March 14, though the bulk of them were precedented arrival at Nos. 1, 2 and 3 on BY KEITH CAULFIELD announced earlier in the day before the CBS the . television broadcast began. During the CBS Drake’s new tracks “What’s Next,” “Wants he 2021 Grammy Awards, which show, 11 categories were presented. and Needs” (featuring Lil Baby) and “Lemon aired live on March 14 on CBS, Aside from the best R&B performance, Pepper Freestyle” (featuring Rick Ross) spurred immediate sales gains the other on-air categories were: album launch at Nos. 1, 2 and 3, respectively, on the for every song performed on the of the year (Taylor Swift’s Folklore; 1,300 Hot 100, as Drake becomes the first artist to Tshow, according to initial reports to MRC sold on March 14; up 3%), record of the year debut in the top three positions in the same Data. (Eilish’s “Everything I Wanted;” 1,300; up week. Collectively, the tunes performed on the 812%), song of the year (“I Can’t Breathe,” He also joins The Beatles and Ariana show sold 40,000 copies on March 14 in the performed by H.E.R.; 800; up 4,641%), best Grande as the only acts to claim the top U.S. – up 330% compared to the 9,000 they pop solo performance (Styles’ “Watermelon three spots simultaneously. sold on March 13. The sales figures include Sugar;” 2,600; up 945%), best pop vocal Drake boasts the most weeks atop the the original or hit versions of songs covered album (Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia; 700; up Artist 100 among male artists, dating to the on the show, including Kenny Rogers’ 111%), best melodic rap performance (An- chart’s 2014 start, and trails only Taylor “Lady” (which was performed in tribute derson .Paak’s “Lockdown;” 100; up 594%), Swift for the top total overall. to the late Rogers on the broadcast by its best rap song (Megan Thee Stallion’s “Sav- Page 15 of 17

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age,” featuring Beyoncé; 700; up 422%), best Josh McSwain. in February 2013 before leading for two country album (Miranda Lambert’s Wild- “It’s been so exciting to see ‘Just the Way’ weeks starting that April, and “What If I card; 200; up 49%) and best Latin pop or take us to our next No. 1,” Matt Thomas Never Get Over You,” in May 2019 before it urban album (’s YHLQMDLG; tells Billboard. “We’re so thankful to every- reigned for a week in January 2020. less than 100; up 207%). one that helped get it there: our team, coun- “Like a Lady” follows “Champagne try radio and the fans, especially. This song Night,” which led Country Airplay for two is all about celebrating the women in our frames this January, becoming ’s 11th Parmalee & lives, so it’s even more special that it’s going No. 1, a sum that includes 15 top 10s. No. 1 during Women’s History Month.” Blanco Brown Brown survived a near-fatal accident in Atlanta last Aug. 31 when his motorcycle & St. Top Country collided head-on with a pickup truck. He broke both of his arms, wrists and legs and Vincent Join Airplay Chart: his pelvis, underwent a 12-hour surgery and spent almost a month recovering in the ‘Saturday Night ‘This Song Is hospital. “When dreams meet reality, passion Live’s Musical About Celebrating meets purpose,” Brown muses. “I’m blessed to do what I love for a living. A No. 1 on Guest Lineup the Women in the radio at a time when there are so many other great songs and gifted individuals is BY HERAN MAMO Our Lives’ unreal. Parmalee, we did it!” “LADY” LUCK Brett Young scores his id Cudi and St. Vincent will BY JIM ASKER seventh top 10 on Billboard’s multi-met- join previously announced ric Hot Country Songs top 10 as “Lady” musical guest Jack Harlow for armalee and Blanco Brown’s rises 11-10. the upcoming three episodes “Just the Way” ascends to On Country Airplay, the single, which Kof . No. 1 in its 43rd week on Bill- Young co-wrote, hops 6-3 for a new high, SNL alum Maya Rudolph will return to board’s Country Airplay chart up by 13% to 26 million impressions. It also host for the second time Saturday, March 27, P(dated March 20). In the week ending drew 4.5 million U.S. streams and sold 8,000 when the show returns from a mini break. March 14, the song increased by 7% to 30.9 downloads in the tracking week. Harlow, who received a Grammy Award for million audience impressions, according to Young has yet to miss the Hot Country “Whats Poppin,” said the gig was a “dream MRC Data. Songs top 10, encompassing all his proper come true” on Twitter. “I grew up watch- Parmalee achieves its second Country singles promoted to country radio. “Lady” ing SNL with my family every weekend,” he Airplay No. 1, after “Carolina” led for a week follows “Catch,” which peaked at No. 5 last wrote in February, when he and Rudolph in December 2013. The group has scored April. The song became Young’s fifth No. 1 were announced. “I vividly remember two additional top 10s: “Close Your Eyes” on Country Airplay the same month. seeing Kanye perform Love Lockdown and (No. 4, December 2014) and “Already Callin’ Young’s first Hot Country Songs entry, Heartless in 2008. Thank you for making You Mine” (No. 10, December 2015). “Sleep Without You,” reached No. 3 (and No. this happen. Another dream come true.” Meanwhile, Brown’s second Country Air- 2 on Country Airplay) in December 2016. On Tuesday (March 16), NBC’s play entry becomes his first No. 1. His break- LADY A’S BEST ARRIVAL Lady A long-running sketch comedy show an- through hit “The Git Up” peaked at No. 44 achieves its highest career debut on Country nounced Oscar-nominated Judas and the in August 2019, although it dominated the Airplay as “Like a Lady” flies in at No. 24. Black Messiah actor Daniel Kaluuya will airplay-, sales- and streaming-based Hot Released to country radio March 12, the make his hosting debut on April 3, when St. Country Songs chart for 12 weeks beginning song by the trio, which comprises Dave Vincent will mark her second time perform- in July 2019. The viral hit also topped Coun- Haywood, and , ing on the show following her 2014 debut. try Streaming Songs for 15 weeks. drew 7.6 million audience impressions in its The indie singer’s upcoming album, Dad- “Way,” released on Stoney Creek, was first three days, helped by hourly plays on dy’s Home, will be released on May 14. written by Parmalee frontman Matt participating iHeartMedia stations on its “Saturday Night Live has been my favorite Thomas, Kevin Bard and Nolan Sipe and first day. show since I was a kid and I can’t believe I produced by David Fanning (also the band’s Co-written by Scott, Lady A’s 31st Country get to play it AGAIN,” she tweeted. manager). Parmalee is rounded out by Scott Airplay entry bests two prior songs by the On April 10, Oscar-nominated Promis- Thomas (Matt’s brother), Barry Knox and act that each started at No. 25: “Downtown,” ing Young Woman actress Carey Mulligan Page 16 of 17

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will make her SNL hosting debut. And it’s lifts into second place, while KSI’s “Pa- surprisingly also Kid Cudi’s first time being tience” (BMG/Interscope) featuring Yung- Ado Scores the musical guest. He previously made his blud and Polo G is set for the week’s highest one-and-only musical cameo during Kanye debut. It’s at No. 3 on the midweeks. Her First No. 1, West’s star-studded run through “Ghost Blackpink’s Rosé could start her solo ca- Town” from ye when West was the musical reer with a Top 40 hit, as her debut release Kaze Fujii Logs guest in 2018. Cudder’s last album, Man on “On The Ground” (Interscope) opens at No. the Moon III: The Chosen, landed the rap- 32 on the midweek survey. First Top 10 on per his fifth top 10 album on the Billboard Over on the chart race, 200 in December. He tweeted the happy is on the road to the chart crown with his Japan Hot 100 news and, like Harlow, emphasized it was a sophomore album, (Insanity). “dream come true” on his Instagram Story. The British singer-songwriter tops BY BILLBOARD JAPAN Phoebe Bridgers, who made her own (lit- the U.K.’s Albums Chart Update, and holds erally) smashing debut in February and a lead of 1,700 combined units over the do scores her first-ever No. 1 on collaborated with Cudi on “Lovin’ Me” from second-placed LP, Thunder’s All The Right this week’s Billboard Japan Hot his latest album, congratulated him with Noises (BMG), the OCC reports. Grennan’s 100 with “Usse-wa,” rising 3-1 on heart emojis under his secondary tweet that debut album, 2018’s , the tally after hovering in the top read, “If u know me, u know snl is a huge peaked at No. 5. 5A for the past five weeks. dream of mine. This is huge. Cannot friggin London rapper Central Cee takes CD sales were slow on the week of March wait!” third spot with his debut mixtape Wild 1 to 7, making way for songs strong in audio But we’ll still have to wait a few more West (Central Cee), the most-streamed and visual streaming to climb in rank- weeks before Day ‘N’ Saturday Nite Live go album of the week so far, while indie-pop ing. The teenage singer’s explosive track down. artist RJ Thompson is close behind in fourth overtook the song at No. 2 last week, Yuuri’s spot with Lifeline (Codename), the most “Dryflower,” after competing against each downloaded album of the past weekend, other for the past six weeks. The overall Olivia Rodrigo according to the OCC. difference between the two had come down Yungblud completes the Top 5 to a narrow 319 points last week, and while Set to Lose with Weird! (Interscope). The Brit’s former “Dryflower” ruled streaming and karaoke chart-leader reenters the tally following this week, “Usse-wa” performed better in U.K. Crown as his Yungblud Show livestream and the re- downloads, radio airplay, Twitter mentions lease of “Patience,” his high-flying collabora- and video views, taking the top spot by an Nathan Evans’ tion with KSI. even narrower 242-point difference. Also, new releases from Rob Zom- Awesome City Club performed “Wasure- ‘Wellerman’ Leads bie, Selena Gomez and the late David na” live on the popular music program Mu- Bowie are poised to crack the Top 10 on sic Station on March 5, which boosted its Midweek Chart debut. position on the Japan Hot 100 this week. The Official U.K. Singles and Albums Figures for downloads and streaming for BY LARS BRANDLE Chart are published late Friday, local time. the ballad have increased, with the former jumping from 6,573 units to 9,242 units (No. livia Rodrigo’s two-month- 5) and the latter from 9,710,151 streams to long reign on the U.K. singles 10,015,667 units (No. 2) this week. The track chart appears to be coming to appears to have entered the cycle typical an end. of long-running hits, and climbs 9-5 on the ONathan Evans’ “Wellerman” (Polydor) is Japan Hot 100 this week. the leader on the Official Chart Update, a Rising singer-songwriter Kaze Fujii position it held on the chart blast last week trended on social media earlier this month before Rodrigo’s “Drivers License” (Poly- after wowing viewers with a live piano dor) hit the gas for a late win. performance of his current single called Don’t expect the same result. Based on “Tabiji” (“Journey”) during a segment on a midweek data, the eight-week run for “Driv- TV news show. The track was released on ers License” should come to a screeching digital platforms the same day (March 1) halt. It’s currently at No. 17. and came in at No. 1 for downloads, No. 2 Meanwhile, A1 and J1’s “Latest Trends” for radio, and No. 10 for Twitter, logging the Page 17 of 17

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young artist’s first top 10 on the Japan Hot Describing the large canvas featuring downtown, he revealed: “We’ll soon open 100. brightly colored drips and slashes of paint, ‘La Industria Bakery and Cafe’ in Bayside While currently outside the top 100, some Sheeran said it was one of images featured Marketplace.” of the representative songs in his catalog are on the cover of his 2020 “Afterglow” single. Nicky first announced his restaurant idea gaining momentum in streaming, down- In a video message recorded before the at the 2020 Latin Music Week last fall. loads, and video. “Tabiji” is the theme of an raffle — whose winner was announced on “It’s going to be a bakery and brunch bis- ongoing TV drama series (Nijiiro Karte), Monday — Sheeran said, “The painting is tro. We’re going to do a bunch of franchises,” and along with his well-received TV per- one of mine, one of the big splashy ones that he told Billboard’s Leila Cobo. “I went to a formance, the 23-year-old musician is set to you saw in the ‘Afterglow’ cover.” Venezuelan restaurant and I really loved become this year’s breakout star. Back in February, Sheeran, 30, hinted what they did and they gave me an idea. I The Billboard Japan Hot 100 combines that he’s ready to release a new album this wanted to do a restaurant where people go physical and digital sales, audio streams, year. “I’ll be back online with the 4th instal- and take photos of their breakfast and it’s radio airplay, Twitter mentions, YouTube ment in the series later this year, until then.” going to be so incredible, and so nice, and so and GYAO! video views, Gracenote look-ups The four-part series he was referring to are delicious that people are gonna go crazy. I’m and karaoke data. his debut + (or Plus from 2011), his sopho- going to take a bunch of artists over there. See the full Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart, more album from 2014 × (Multiply) and Bayside is going to be a hit no matter what.” dated Mar. 1 to 7, here. 2017’s ÷ (Divide). Assuming he’s completing On his Instagram Stories, Nicky an- This story was originally published in Bill- the elementary mathematical operations of nounced that “La Industria Bakery and board Japan. arithmetic, it’s a safe bet that he’ll name his Café” is now hiring baristas, cooks, servers, next effort – (Minus). and more. For those interested, email lain- [email protected]. to ‘Splash Planet’ Open a Brunch Painting Restaurant in Auction Raises Miami: ‘It’s $70,000 For Going To Be Cancer Charity Incredible & BY GIL KAUFMAN Delicious’ ne of Ed Sheeran’s “Splash Planet” painting was sold at BY JESSICA ROIZ auction, raising more than $70,000 for a cancer charity. icky Jam is not afraid to reinvent OThe abstract painting that resembles one himself during the pandemic, of abstract expressionist artist Jackson Pol- having invested in a school lock’s “drip” paintings was won by a bidder building, launching his own on the East Coast of the U.S. who paid $27 Ncelebrity talk show, forming part of the Tom for a raffle ticket to the event. & Jerry movie, and now, opening his own The sale raised $70,689 for the Cancer restaurant. Campaign in Suffolk, with the organization’s The Puerto Rican artist, known for hits chief executive, Karen Hare, telling BBC such as “El Amante,” “El Perdedor,” and News that, “We have been overwhelmed “Polvo,” shared a photo of himself wear- and delighted by the support we have been ing a black apron and holding two plates of given, both here and abroad, and it’s been loaded pancakes, officially announcing his absolutely fantastic to know that we have new venture. raised over £51,000 through ticket sales and Named after his management com- donations.” pany and located in the heart of Miami’s