Bulletin YOUR DAILY ENTERTAINMENT NEWS UPDATE MARCH 25, 2021 Page 1 of 35
INSIDE Charlie Walk Files Lawsuit
• Triller Strikes Music Against Attorney, Claims “Botched” Licensing Deal With Publishers Handling of #MeToo Allegations • Is It Time to Retire BY TATIANA SIEGEL Gendered Categories for Music Awards? On Jan. 30, 2018, Universal Music Group’s head of glob- look into his behavior. A media feeding frenzy ensued. • 6 Rules to al compliance Saheli Datta shot off a staff-wide email Though the findings of the investigation were never Navigating regarding the company’s high-flying executive Charlie made public, the impression left was strong: Walk was Music Influencer . “You may be aware of yesterday’s media reports guilty of #MeToo misconduct, according to an explo- Partnerships & Why Walk They’re a Big Deal concerning allegations of conduct by Charlie Walk sive lawsuit filed by the famed hit-maker against his (Guest Column) while he was an executive at Sony. We take allegations former attorney, high-profile Trump pitbull Marc Ka- of this nature very seriously,” Datta wrote. “If you have sowitz. The legal malpractice suit, filed Thursday in • Connie Bradley, something to say, we want to hear it.” New York state court, says Kasowitz “botched” Walk’s Longtime ASCAP Nashville Head The email came one day after a woman representation and undermined his ability to clear his and Music Row named Tristan Coopersmith posted an open letter name, setting in motion his subsequent ousters from Trailblazer, Dies at 75 on her now-defunct health and wellness blog claiming Republic and The Four. that the Republic Group president had sexually ha- “Perceiving Mr. Walk as too big to control, too • Taylor Swift & Evermore Theme rassed her 15 years earlier when they both worked at expensive to keep, and not wanting to lose him to a Park End Legal Columbia Records. UMG’s apparent efforts to solicit rival such as Warner, UMG kneecapped him, so that Battle, Drop Lawsuits additional information was highly unorthodox, given it could both fire him, and make him unhireable by that the alleged incident didn’t involve its workplace. anyone else,” the suit says. MARKET WATCH The move also violated written company policy, which Three years after his career was derailed, Walk PAGE 32 was created to protect the privacy and confidentiality is seeking $60 million in damages. Though UMG SONGWRITERS of all parties involved in harassment allegations. is not a defendant, the suit — portions of which are & PRODUCERS Within 24 hours, UMG informed news outlets that redacted — says the music giant “willfully engaged in CHARTS Walk had been placed on leave and that it had hired [Walk’s] public character assassination” and Kasowitz PAGES 33 - 35 boutique New York firm Collazo Florentino & Keil to (continued)
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“passively cooperated with UMG, leaving the site is defunct, two additional women tober 2018, Walk was approached by self-de- Mr. Walk defenseless” and pressured the ex- — Pam Kaye and Kate Harold — went on scribed Time’s Up ambassador Wade Davis, ecutive into signing a one-sided settlement the record in Rolling Stone to say they were who presented the unemployed executive agreement with UMG. sexually harassed by Walk in the late ’90s with a proposed contract for “transitional “Charlie Walk was the target of a carefully and early aughts at Columbia. Kaye leveled coaching” services and developing a “re- orchestrated campaign,” said his attor- the most damaging claim, that Walk had entry strategy” for $12,500 a month. ney Bryan Freedman in a statement to The put his hand down the front of her pants In November of that year, former Time’s Hollywood Reporter. “This led to a reckless and under her underwear in 2004. Harold Up president and CEO Lisa Borders emailed and damaging rush to judgment without due said Walk rubbed his erect penis against a rep for Walk and detailed the steps that process, which should have been remedied her at a restaurant in 2006. And Cooper- would need to be taken to “rehabilitate” by this former lawyer. The evidence in Char- smith, the original accuser, said Walk put his him. “There are many of these same men lie’s favor is overwhelming and he deserved hand on her thigh under a restaurant table who now see the light and wish to stand in the right to clear his name. This lawsuit will and repeatedly made vulgar comments in solidarity with women, seeking a path back do just that.” front of her. Walk denied all of the claims into the fold. To reiterate, we applaud this Kasowitz is no stranger to the spotlight at the time. Coopersmith has claimed she effort, in full support of redemption,” she and headline-grabbing battles, having received a settlement. Lawyers for Walk wrote. “We would welcome a conversation defended President Trump for decades on a say he “never participated in or was aware about contributions to The Time’s Up Foun- number of matters including the investiga- of any kind of settlement. This lawsuit will dation.” In another email, Borders referred tion into Russian interference during the unequivocally prove that.” to Davis as the head of Time’s Up’s men’s 2016 election. Kasowitz did not respond to a What remained hidden from public view division. (THR viewed the contract and the request for comment. in early 2018 was just how high the stakes emails last year). But the seeming conflicts The filing also underscores questions were at the time of the accusations. Behind of interest didn’t end there. Time’s Up Legal around the case of Walk, who spearheaded the scenes, the music industry veteran had Defense Fund was supporting Coopersmith, Republic Records’ ascent to the industry’s been in final negotiations with UMG on a Kaye and Harold and was paying a PR firm top label in terms of market share by assem- 5-year contract extension worth $20 mil- to assist them. According to the suit, that bling a roster of artists that also included lion, according to the suit. UMG declined same firm also represented Coopersmith’s Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Nicki Minaj, comment. business interests and UMG. Hailee Steinfeld, DNCE and Lorde. He Independent of the lawsuit, THR began A source close to Davis says the relation- remains the most prominent music industry looking into Walk’s industry exile back in ship with Walk was never finalized. Sources executive felled by sexual harassment al- spring 2020 while reporting out a Time’s say Walk turned down the overtures. Cur- legations in the post-#MeToo era. (L.A. Reid Up article that uncovered instances of the rent Time’s Up reps say the outreach was is the other notable example.) influential anti-sexual harassment organiza- not authorized, and Davis is not affiliated Less than a month after Coopersmith’s tion offering to work with accused men in with the organization. blog post, which is no longer live because exchange for high fees and donations. In Oc- Before his fall, Walk had a strained
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ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] IN BRIEF SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country relationshipAlbu withms; his UMG Brett boss, Republic Y oungtions were ‘Catc made public,h is’-es working withFifth filing Airplay notes: “Mr. Walk is aware of prior in- co-founder Monte Lipman, who was be- artists like Jennifer Lopez at his new Hitco stances in which other UMG employees had ing frequentlyLea upstagedder; by his presidentTravis EntertainmentDenning label. Makes Historybeen accused of and fired for sexual harass- and was known to have the label’s PR team There’s no question Walk’s earnings took ment, but the allegations and disciplinary call Page Six to rework a printed gossip item a major hit. He went from pulling down a actions taken against such employees were Samif Walk Hunt appeared’s second in studio a more full-length, prominent and posi first- in overmulti-million five years, Southside dollar a yearsales base (up 21%)salary in tothe trackingkept week. quiet.” On Country Airplay, it hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCAtion than Nashville/Universal him. Music Group Nashville), debutsearning at No. 1just on Billboard $19,000’s in 2019,lion audience according impressions, to upWrites 16%). Freedman and co-counsel Jeffrey Top Country Albums chart dated April 18. In its first week (ending April 9), it UMG’s January 2018 email to staff the suit. In February, his fledgling distri- Eilender, Erik Groothuis and Michael earned 46,000 equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITH YOUNG Brett Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cordingresembles to Nielsen what happenedMusic/MRC to Data. Universal Pic- bution and A&R companyand Music total Country Mastery Airplay No.Brodlieb 1 as “Catch” in the (Big suit: Machine “UMG Label ‘cancelled’ Group) ascends Mr. turesSouthside marketing marks chief Hunt’sJosh second Goldstine No. 1 on just the partnered with video and audio streaming Walk2-1, increasing based on 13%no credible to 36.6 million evidence impressions. and in chartone month and fourth later. top At 10. the It time,follows NBCUniver freshman LP- platform LiveXLive Media. orderYoung’s to settle first old of professionalsix chart entries, scores.” “Sleep With- Montevallosal’s Jeff ,Shell which and arrived Donna at theLangley summit sent in No a - Despite the detailed allegations of his outThis You,” article reached was originallyNo. 2 in December published 2016. He vember 2014 and reigned for nine weeks. To date, followed with the multiweek No. 1s “In Case You studio-wide note saying Goldstine was being accusers, Walk’s suit maintains that during by The Hollywood Reporter. Montevallo has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved millionsuspended in album and sales. investigated for “inappro- his 20 years at Sony, “he had never been the You” (three, January 2018), “Mercy” (two, August priateMontevallo conduct.” has spent Goldstine 267 weeks was on fired the list, three tying subject of any complaints of sexual harass- 2018) and “Here Tonight” (two, April 2019). Lukeweeks Bryan later,’s Crash with Mya #MeToo Party as the cloud sixth-longest- hanging ment or inappropriate behavior towards a Triller“Catch” completes Strikes his longest journey to No. 1, runningover his titles head. in theTwo chart’s years 56-year later, he history. won a $20 single woman — let alone Coopersmith.” having taken 46 weeks to reach the apex. It out- millionOn the legal all-genre judgment Billboard against 200, theSouthside studio ar in- Perhaps more relevant, Walk did not paces the 30-week climb of “Here Tonight.” rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 MusicOn Hot Country Licensing Songs, “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG afterarbitration. the No. 3-peaking (He now Montevallo has the top. marketing receive an HR official complaint during his a new high. jobHunt at Warner first released Bros.) the EPX2C , which debuted five-year tenure at Republic, according to Deal With andIn peaked Walk’s at case, No. Fox5 on alsoTop Countrylaunched Albums an in Augustthe suit.2014. “Since Following joining UMGCOMBS in ‘DOES’ 2013, Mr. IT AGAIN Luke Combs’ “Does to Me” (River House/Columbia Montevalloinvestigation, Between but found the Pines: no complaints Acoustic Mixtape or startedWalk at hadits No. not 7 oncehigh in been Nashville), the subject featuring of a Eric ChurchPublishers, ascends 11-8 on Country Airplay, up 10% to Novemberwrongdoing, 2015. the lawsuit claims. Still, he Human Resources complaint24.7 million of any in sort audience. — The song is Combs’ eighth straight career-opening 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 Airplay:was quickly “Leave cut the from Night the On,” music “Take competition Your Time,” “Houseespecially Party” sexualand “Make harassment.” promoted The No. suit 1 singles. goes BY TATIANA CIRISANO Youshow. Miss Me.” “Break Up in a Small Town” peaked at No.on 2.to say UMG failed to makeChurch any adds effort his 15thto Country Airplay top 10. HuntThe male-dominated co-penned all 12 songs music on industry Southside is, includingsubstantiate “Body Like the a Back claims. And, once he signed hort-form video app Triller has Road,”notorious which for was bad released behavior. in 2017. And Theyet, smash unlike hit ruledtheir Country settlement Airplay agreement for THAT at TOOK Kasowitz’s QUITE ‘A FEW’ MONTHScome Travis to Denning an agreement shatters with the record the for threethe film weeks industry, and the airplay-,there has streaming- been very and little sales-based urging, Hot Countryhe was boundSongs bythe a non-disclosure most weeks it has taken to penetrateNational the Country Music Airplay Publishers’ top 10 asAs “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 - Floridain the way Georgia of a Line#MeToo’s “Meant reckoning to Be” (50 to weeksdate. atop theagreement latter list in that 2017-18). left him lionunable in radio to defend reach. sociation (NMPA) on behalf of its Even “Downtown’sRussell Simmons Dead,” which, who is alsohas onbeen the new set, reachedhimself Nos.against 14 and the 15 charges. The song surpasses two Stracksmembers, that took compensating 50 weeks each its tonetwork enter the of top pub 10:- onaccused Hot Country of rape Songs by multiple and Country women, Airplay, has respectively, Walk’s in June treatment 2018. “Kin -appearsEaston to deviateCorbin’s from “A Girl Likelishers You,” and which songwriters reached No. when 10 in J theiranuary songs 2018 be- folks”appeared led Country as a guest Airplay on such on Feb. platforms 29, becoming as Hunt’sthat seventh of other No. executives 1. It hit foreat the peaking company at No. in 6 that February,are used and in Aaron videos Watson on the’s platform. “Outta Style,” which No.Tidal. 3 on Reid, Hot Country who was Songs. the subject of a Sony terms of maintaining confidentialityachieved its No. amid 10 high in December“NMPA 2017. is pleased to have come to an Latest 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 investigation before any harassment allega- an investigation. In an intriguing detail, the agreement with Triller to account for the 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 SEASON 2 OF THE ACCLAIMED SERIES
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past use of songs as well as a forward- claims. ican Music Awards, the Billboard Music looking license for our eligible independent In other Triller news, earlier this month, Awards and the Academy of Country Music publisher members,” NMPA president and parent company Triller Network ac- Awards (all of which declined interviews or CEO David Israelite said in a statement quired Timbaland and Swizz Beatz’s popu- statements for this story). The question re- shared with Billboard. “Music is founda- lar battle series Verzuz and tapped stars mains — should these awards be removed to tional to Triller’s platform and it is essential like Justin Bieber and Doja Cat to perform bring about more inclusion for those outside that the songwriters who create that music at its upcoming “Triller Fight Club” boxing the gender binary? are paid for their contributions to the Triller match. One notable exception from that list of experience.” awards shows is the Grammys. Back in “Music and video offer limitless potential 2012, before the debate regarding gendered to social media platforms, however compen- Is It Time to categories and their exclusion of non-binary sating songwriters must be a primary con- artists became mainstream, the Recording sideration, not an afterthought,” he contin- Retire Gendered Academy announced a sweeping overhaul ued. “Triller has recognized the importance of their disparate categories — including the of music creators and made a positive step Categories for removal of all gendered categories. forward by coming to this partnership.” Neil Portnow, the former CEO of the Added Triller chairman/co-owner Bobby Music Awards? Recording Academy, told Billboard at the Sarnevesht: “We are very excited to enter time of the change that “[We asked], is there this partnership with the NMPA, which BY STEPHEN DAW an underlying infrastructure and rationale ensures that songwriters are fairly compen- across all the awards as to how we’re doing sated and fully recognized for their work. am Smith is not a fan of the cur- this? And what we found is, there wasn’t. David Israelite and the NMPA team are truly rent music awards system. So we said, ‘All right, let’s deal with the holy amazing advocates for writers and publish- Posting a message to their social grail here. Let’s sit down and talk about ers, and we greatly look forward to working media on March 12, the singer — what might be a vision or an overview struc- with him and the NMPA membership to Sand arguably the most famous non-binary ture of this that gives us some consistency.’” demonstrate Triller’s ongoing commitment artist currently working in music — called Bill Freimuth, the Academy’s chief awards to supporting writers.” out the Brit Awards for their continued officer, tells Billboard that conversations The license is opt-in, meaning that eli- use of gendered award categories in 2021, around the restructuring began in 2009, and gible publisher members will need to take pointing out that artists who identify as were largely focused on cutting down the action to be covered (as opposed to being neither male nor female are being routinely 109 categories that were in circulation. covered automatically). excluded. “We never, ever in our 50-some-year his- Israelite had been critical of Triller’s “The Brits have been an important part of tory at that time, had gone through a total music licensing over the past year, accus- my career, one of my earliest achievements re-evaluation of our category structure and ing the platform of using music without the was winning Critic’s Choice in 2014,” Smith how it works and what makes sense,” he proper licenses in several heated posts on wrote in their statement. “Music for me has says. Instagram — which only intensified as the always been about unification, not divi- In evaluating those categories, the task app continued to lure over top influencers sion. I look forward to a time where awards force put together by Freimuth and the and prepare for an initial public offering shows can be reflective of the society we live awards team at the Recording Academy (IPO). Triller also faced a $50 million law- in. Let’s celebrate everybody, regardless of began asking themselves questions regard- suit from Wixen Music Publishing in No- gender, race, age, ability, sexuality and class.” ing potential nominees who do not fit within vember alleging copyright infringement on Smith is not alone. For the last several the binary limits that had been set for them. more than 1,000 songs, but a federal court years, as more artists like Smith have begun “We took it a step further and asked, in California dismissed the suit earlier this to publicly identify as non-binary, gender ‘Okay, what happens if a genderqueer per- month due to a lack of information about non-conforming, genderfluid and gender- son wins, or even wants to submit a record, the songs in question. queer — artists such as Christine and the in best R&B, male or female performance?’” Triller previously had music licensing Queens, King Princess, Arca, Dorian Electra, he says. “We wanted to get ahead of that agreements with Sony Music Entertain- Adult Mom and others — music award curve, not just to save face in a future situa- ment, Warner Music Group and Universal programs have started to feel more pressure tion like that, but because it’s a reality in our Music Group as of December. In Febru- to eliminate any categories surrounding world right now, and we wanted to respect ary, however, Universal abruptly pulled its gender. that.” catalog from Triller, claiming that the app The majority of music awards today still In the fields of pop, R&B and country — “shamefully withheld payments” to artists, have “male” and “female” trophies handed the three genres in which gendered catego- and Triller “categorically den[ied]” those out each year, including the Brits, the Amer- ries existed at the time — the Grammys took 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]
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out all gendered categories and replaced at awards programs. After the MTV Movie nominees since its creation in 2012, 23 were them with a singular “solo performance” & TV Awards’ first broadcast featuring all female, meaning women made up 45% of category (except in R&B, which simply genderless award categories, Bodenheimer the nominees. Five of the 10 winners in that became “best R&B performance”). Now, noted that even though the evening’s two category were women. none of the awards handed out at the annual main acting awards went to women, she still The statistics are even better for women ceremony are exclusively geared toward felt concerned about the future of awards in the R&B and pop categories as well, with male or female nominees. like this. 31 out of 50 nominees (62%) in best R&B The Grammys were one of the first “I don’t foresee this move heralding a performance featuring women, and six out major awards shows to part with gendered genderless future,” she said of genderless of 10 winners featuring women. In best pop awards, but not the last — in 2017, MTV an- awards. “Before we dispense with gender solo performance, 36 of the 51 nominees nounced that their Video Music Awards (and race), we need equity, and in a world were women (70.6%), and six out of 10 win- and Movie & TV Awards would do away where ... a room full of old, straight white ners were women. entirely with gendered categories, even men can still make decisions about women’s That trend also tracks at the VMAs — in changing the VMAs’ iconic “Moonman” bodies, we aren’t there yet.” the category for artist of the year (which re- award to “Moon Person.” There are some statistics to back up those placed the “best male/female video” catego- Chris McCarthy, the president of MTV fears — according to the fourth annual “In- ries starting in 2017), 11 of the 24 nominees Entertainment Group, ViacomCBS, tells Bill- clusion in the Recording Studio” study from (45.8%) were women, and three of the four board via email that the choice to remove the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative winners were women. gender from their awards shows was direct- published in March 2021, women made up Freimuth understands the concern over ly in response to the requests of their audi- only 13.4% of all nominations at the Gram- women not getting the representation they ence. “Our viewers don’t see male or female mys from 2013 to 2021, with 86.6% of all deserve from a purely mathematical stand- dividing lines, so removing gender barriers nominations going to men. point. “Of course, there’s more opportunity felt like an obvious choice,” he says. “Almost An LGBTQ activist who spoke to Bill- [for women to be nominated for and win four years later, it remains a touchstone in board on background also noted that while Grammys] when you have five nominations our mission to always reflect the audiences gendered categories may have a limited that are absolutely guaranteed, and one we serve across everything we do.” future, there is concern in the community guaranteed winner,” he says. “But there’s no So, if the aim of eliminating gendered regarding repercussions for transgender real reason why a male and a female can’t categories is to be more inclusive of more and non-binary people should widespread compete together in a category like best artists, then why are so many awards shows changes to categories like this be made — es- country performance. It’s not about gender, hesitant to remove them? pecially in a world where even the removal it’s about performance.” In their response to Sam Smith’s state- of gender from a toy like Potato Head can The study from the USC Annenberg ment, the Brit Awards brought that internal cause massive backlash. Inclusion Initiative also indicates that exist- debate into partial view. “The Brits are However, the USC report also points out ing gender disparities at awards shows like committed to evolving the show and the that the Grammys are making important the Grammys are symptomatic of a much gendered categories are very much under progress, slowly but surely; in 2019, 2020 larger problem within the music industry review,” they wrote in response. “But any and 2021, female nominees have steadily itself — according to the study, across the changes made to be more inclusive need to increased, each year making new records 900 popular songs studied, only 21.6 percent be just that — if a change unintentionally for the number of women nominated. The of all artists were female. Women made up leads to less inclusion, then it risks being 2021 Grammys reached a nine-year high for a measly 12.6% of songwriters, and a paltry counterproductive to diversity and equal- women in music, as 28.1% of all nominees 2.6% of all producers. ity. We need to consult more widely before identified as women. Even on the year-end Billboard Hot 100 changes are made to make sure we get it “There were nearly four times as many chart for 2020, the study points out, 79.8% right.” women nominated for a Grammy Award in of all artists represented identified as men, The concern of “less inclusion” in gender- 2021 in the five major categories (record of while 20.2% identified as women, and no less awards applies mainly to female artists the year, album of the year, song of the year, artists identified as gender non-conforming — some fear that removing “male” and best new artist and producer of the year) or non-binary. “female” distinctions in awards categories evaluated as there were in 2013,” the report Freimuth says that, in his view, having will lead to awards shows in which men reads. gendered categories at the Grammys was dominate, and women are largely excluded. Freimuth also points out that for the “solo not indicative of true inclusion — it was Rebecca Bodenheimer, a freelancer writer performance” categories where gender was a Band-Aid for a larger problem. Now, he and researcher with a PhD in ethnomusi- removed, female artists are being repre- hopes the Grammys can help prove that cology, wrote a piece for CNN in May 2017 sented at near parity. In the category of best genderless categories are better for every- raising concerns regarding gender equality country solo performance, out of the 51 one involved. 2 0 2 1 PRIMARY WAVE 15TH ANNIVERSARY
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“For us, at least, having separate gender the kinds of brands they want to partner nation with your label, publisher, or other categories was saying that women can’t with and consider both the upsides and business partners may be required and in compete with men. And that’s just not true,” downsides of the potential match. Like- some cases the brand may seek to lever- he says. “Now, I’m hopeful that non-binary- wise, brands should carefully consider the age those close relationships to assist with identifying people feel a little more at home profile of the musician-influencer. Does the rights clearance. Be clear about responsi- at the Grammy awards as a result of these product align with the musician’s values bilities up front, and don’t forget to con- changes.” and image? Will the campaign resonate with sider the cost and logistics around content the musician’s fan base? Will the campaign creation. take the musician or brand in a desired new Will the content be tied to specif- 6 Rules to direction? Music audiences are passionate ic dates or events, or will it be something and may be vocal if a campaign does not that can be used any time (“evergreen”)? If Navigating come across as genuine. They can be equally “evergreen,” musicians may need to con- vocal if the campaign goes well. sider how “old” posts could conflict with Music Influencer 2. Define the Relationship changes to their image over time. Can Before starting a new relationship, set ex- the brand freely re-post and re-use the Partnerships & pectations. Will this be a short-term, content for years to come? For brands, can campaign-based relationship or will the the musician share the content freely on an Why They’re a musician partner with the brand for a ongoing basis? longer term? If the brand is expecting an 4. Determine Who Has Authority to Big Deal (Guest exclusive arrangement, is it willing to pay Review Content Before It Is Released accordingly? How will exclusivity affect the Publicly Column) musician’s other plans and goals? Musicians Who decides when content is ready to be should consider these factors when defin- posted? For both influencers and brands, BY ADRIAN PERRY, ing the nature of the relationship, and if de- does the final post comport with your MICAELA MCMURROUGH AND sired, leave room to explore future partner- understanding of the agreement? Are you CHASE BRENNICK OF COVINGTON & ships with other brands or industries. Even comfortable with attaching your name and BURLING LLP if the campaign will be non-exclusive, con- reputation to the final post? It is also criti- sider whether the campaign could result in cal to review final content to ensure com- usicians are increasingly unintended consequences for the musi- pliance with relevant guidelines and legal using their celebrity sta- cian’s other brand partnerships. requirements. For example, does the content tus to become influencers to Could aligning with this new brand include any requisite paid promotional promote brands, products, cause existing partners to feel uncomfort- disclosures (such as #ad) or other contrac- Mand their own business ventures . At the able or foreclose other opportunities? And tually-specified requirements? same time, more and more music industry what are the economics? Influencer ar- If you are hiring influencers, con- players — from record labels to streaming rangements have a wide range of compensa- sider specifying when posts must occur platforms, and tour promoters to device tion structures: flat fees based on number to maximize reach. For example, you manufacturers — are looking to social me- of followers (in our experience, roughly could include parameters around the dia influencers to promote their new music, $10-$25 per 1,000 followers); revenue share; dates or times of day that particular con- products, services and events. The success minimum guarantees based on product sales tent should be posted, or you could create a of these partnerships depends on many or engagement. To get the most of out of schedule that spaces out multiple posts for variables, including the “fit” between the the relationship and avoid difficulty down maximum effect. influencer and the brand, the promotion’s the road, you’ll want to be clear about your Campaigns can also be timed to take ad- authenticity, and having clearly established expectations up front. vantage of the exposure the influencer expectations about how the relationship 3. Be Specific About the Content might receive in connection with key indus- will go. Content is king, and thinking about con- try events, such as the Grammys or CMAs. Whether you are an influencer, or en- tent early can prevent headaches later. Ask Nominees, performers or presenters may be gage influencers, here are six key tips for yourself: What will the content look ideal influencers, as activity on their plat- creating a successful partnership: like? What will it sound like? Who will forms is likely to peak in the days surround- 1. Find the Right Match own the content? Who can use the content, ing the event. If you have been the subject The target audience and the authentic- when and for how long? of awards-related hype, consider promoting ity of the proposed content are critical to If you are creating content, deter- yourself to partners and entering into in- the success of the campaign. Musicians and mine who should have creative control. Will fluencer relationships before nominations their representatives should think about you be creating something custom? Coordi- are announced. Brands may enjoy a boost Page 12 of 35
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from being associated with influencers who solve Them Quickly and Efficiently have received nominations, and this is a po- As in life, most parties enter the influ- Connie Bradley, tential selling point that you can use to your encer relationship with nothing but high benefit. Similarly, brands should consider hopes for the future. But then reality sets Longtime ASCAP the value of engaging a buzz-worthy, up- in. Disputes can and do arise, even with the and-coming artist. most clearly-structured relationships. Iden- Nashville Head 5. Use Data to Monitor, Incentivize and tifying and addressing potential disputes Evaluate Performance early can prevent them from arising or be- and Music Row Once the content is publicly shared, data coming a broader problem. Musicians analytics can be used to monitor prog- should establish flexibility where needed in Trailblazer, Dies ress and plan future campaigns. The musi- their contracts to account for their schedule, cian’s compensation could be structured and both musicians and brands should be at 75 based on audience engagement. Companies clear about any “dealbreakers” or reputa- may like the idea of incentivizing the influ- tional standards. Consider agreeing up front BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN encer to create attention-grabbing content, to dispute escalation procedures in order and musicians may like that they will be re- to foster discussion and encourage resolu- onnie Bradley, a more than warded for increased engagement. tion. Consider also whether an arbitration three-decade veteran at ASCAP Furthermore, both sides of the company- clause may be appropriate, as a confidential Nashville who is now considered influencer relationship may learn new arbitration may be preferable to resolving a pioneer among women execu- insights from data analytics. Influencers can disputes through public litigation. And both Ctives in the country music industry, died learn more about their audiences, which sides may want to retain the ability to shut Wednesday (March 24) at age 75. can inform other career decisions. Data down a campaign in the event of an im- “As head of ASCAP’s Nashville office for about when and how the audience en- age change, public relations issue, crimi- more than three decades, Connie Bradley gaged with the content can be valuable. For nal probe, or other reputational issue. When was a mentor to so many of country music’s example, knowing that engagement spiked an issue unexpectedly arises, both brands greatest songwriters and an indelible part when content was posted on a Sunday and influencers may appreciate having the of ASCAP’s history,” said ASCAP chairman night or that most viewers stopped watch- flexibility to decide whether the time is and president Paul Williams in a statement ing a video after 15 seconds will help both right for a campaign to move forward as on Bradley’s death. “She was a maverick brands and musicians more effectively planned. leader in country music with an enormous communicate with their target audienc- Influencer campaigns between musi- heart who passionately advocated for the es. Musicians should not forget to ask for cians and brands present huge opportunities songwriters she loved so much. ASCAP and access to the company’s data as well. Click- to reach passionate and dedicated mu- country music lost an iconic leader today. through rates, data on user activity on the sic audiences. Taking extra time and care to Our hearts go out to her family and the large company’s platforms, and sales figures that consider what each party expects and to community of songwriters who loved her.” are traceable to the campaign can provide appropriately structure the campaign from During her long tenure at ASCAP, Bradley useful insight into your audience’s en- the start will increase the benefits that both became known as a staunch advocate for gagement and buying habits and help you sides receive and help to avoid problems music creators. Upon being awarded the understand the value you add. This infor- down the road. Country Music Association’s prestigious Ir- mation can be useful for designing, pric- Adrian Perry is Partner, Co-Chair of the ving Waugh Award of Excellence in August ing, and rolling out merchandise and other Music Industry Practice; Micaela McMur- 2018 by Kenny Chesney, the country star products, and may even help inform touring rough is Partner, Litigation, Cybersecurity remarked, “I’ve been very blessed to have routes and venue sizes. & Privacy; and Chase Brennick is Associate, won Entertainer [of the Year] four times The same types of data can also be used Technology Transactions at Covington & with this organization and one of the years to evaluate opportunities on the front Burling LLP. that I won, I actually saw Connie stand- end. If you are a musician, having a clear ing in the audience, and I thanked her by understanding of your fan base will make saying she was one of the best friends that a you more appealing to brands and will help dreamer could ever have.” you select campaigns that are most likely to “She was one of the many trailblazers, resonate with your fans. If you are a brand, along with Frances Preston and Jo Walker you can use historical data about poten- Meador, for women in the Nashville music tial influencers to find the best match for business,” said CMA CEO Sarah Trahern in your goals. a statement. “Her passion for artists, songs 6. Avoid Disputes & Re- and the Country Music industry as a whole Page 13 of 35
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paved the way for so many. Personally, I will miss her class, her stories and her humor.” Taylor Swift & Motown Records Bradley was born Oct. 1, 1945 and raised in Shelbyville, Tennessee. After attending Evermore Theme Appoints Alison college at Middle Tennessee State Univer- sity, she began working in the mortgage Park End Legal Finley EVP/COO industry and, later, as a receptionist at Nash- ville’s News Channel 5. Battle, Drop BY TATIANA CIRISANO After pivoting to music, Bradley had stints at Famous Music/Dot Records and RCA Re- Lawsuits eteran music lawyer and Univer- cords before being hired in 1976 as a mem- sal Music Group (UMG) execu- bership representative at ASCAP, where BY JASON LIPSHUTZ tive Alison Finley has joined she quickly worked her way up to senior vp Motown Records in the newly- and Nashville head. Under her leadership, utting an end to an escalating createdV role of executive vp, chief operating ASCAP signed a cavalcade of major stars, legal battle, Taylor Swift and officer, the label announced today (March including Chesney, Dierks Bentley, Garth Evermore, a theme park in Utah, 25). Her position is effective immediately. Brooks, Alan Jackson, Reba McEn- dropped their opposing lawsuits Finley will oversee the iconic R&B and tire, Brad Paisley, Rascal Flatts, George Pon Wednesday (Mar. 24), with no money hip-hop label’s day-to-day operations and Strait and Sugarland. exchanged in the settlement. collaborate with teams across Motown’s Between 1983 and 2012, Bradley served “As a resolution of both lawsuits, the par- parent company, Universal Music Group on the CMA board of directors, where she ties will drop and dismiss their respective (UMG), where she previously served as was elected both president and chairper- suits without monetary settlement,” reads senior vp of business & legal affairs. Based in son. In 2012, she was honored at Nashville’s a statement provided to Billboard from a Los Angeles, she reports to Motown chair- SOURCE Awards, which recognize women spokesperson for Swift. man/CEO Ethiopia Habtemariam, who in country music, for being “a vital source in Last month, Evermore Park in Pleasant was promoted to the role earlier this month. the success of Music Row and the Nashville Grove, Utah, filed a lawsuit against the “Alison has been a strong advocate for art- entertainment industry.” pop superstar, claiming that Swift infringed ists throughout her career,” Habtemariam She became part of Nashville royalty after its name with her December album, Ever- said. “I’ve worked with her for years and marrying husband and former RCA Records more, and its accompanying merchandise. have always admired her forward-thinking head Jerry Bradley, whose father, the leg- Evermore Park, which offers an immersive and innovative approach to designing deals endary record producer Owen Bradley, is fantasy experience, argued that it had been that set up artists and labels for success. I’m widely considered one of the key architects the registered owner of the trademark for excited to welcome her as a key member of of what would later become known as the Evermore since 2015. our leadership team and I look forward to “Nashville Sound.” Three weeks after Evermore filed the working with her to continue to redefine But Bradley has since become a Nashville suit in federal court in Utah, TAS [Taylor Motown and find new ways to support our legend in her own right, and her legacy Alison Swift] Rights Management, the artists, partners and ever-growing catalogue at ASCAP is literally written on the walls: singer’s intellectual property management on a global level.” The board room at the Nashville office was company, filed its own lawsuit against the In her prior role at UMG, Finley oversaw named after her in 2010, the same year she theme park. TAS claimed that Evermore strategy and negotiations for the company departed the organization. used Swift’s songs without proper licensing including for label ventures, recording Bradley is survived by her husband, Jerry dating back to as early as 2019. agreements, label distribution, merchandise, Bradley, and son Clay Bradley, who works Evermore became Swift’s second No. 1 vendors and brand partners. She has spent as an executive at BMI. album of 2020 upon its December release; much of her career advocating for artists as its predecessor, Folklore, won the album of a lawyer, having began her legal career in the year trophy earlier this month. In April, private practice in 1998. Two years later, she Swift will release Fearless (Taylor’s Version), joined Davis Shapiro Lewit & Grabel LLP, a re-recorded version of her 2008 sopho- where she rose to senior equity partner. more full-length. Finley has represented artists like Kanye West, Raekwon and No ID, as well as com- panies like Red Bull Media House, and has also served as in-house counsel for Loud Records and Ultra Records/Ultra Music Publishing. She also serves on the board of Page 14 of 35
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trustees of the TJ Martell Foundation. ongoing legal dispute with the band’s re- “The magistrate’s recommendation was “I want to thank Sir Lucian and Ethiopia maining members after her husband’s sud- based solely on her subjective and un- for this tremendous opportunity,” Finley den death on May 18, 2017 at the age of 52 adopted opinion that additional facts must said. “I am deeply honored to join the Mo- while on tour in Detroit. He left his property be added to our client’s complaint, and we town leadership team in overseeing one of — including his intellectual and personal intend to amend our client’s complaint to the most iconic record labels in the world. property rights — to her for the benefit of include those facts,” said Singer. “Most im- “Motown represents much of the world’s their two minor children. portantly, the magistrate’s recommendation greatest music and continues to give an au- On Dec. 9, 2019, two and half years after has zero impact on the significant claims thentic and dynamic platform for our artists, Chris Cornell’s death, Vicky Cornell filed a against Soundgarden and its band mem- partners and creatives to be heard across lawsuit against the remaining members of bers, who have sought to trample on Chris the globe,” she continued. “I’ve been very the band — Kim Thayil, Matt Cameron and Cornell’s rights by unlawfully asserting fortunate to work with and to be mentored Ben Shepherd — and their business man- ownership over his vocal recordings and by by some of the greatest executives in the ager Rit Venerus, asking a judge to declare depriving his wife and children of millions music business and I am especially thankful her the rightful owner of her husband’s of dollars that the band members want to to Jeff Harleston and Michael Seltzer for unreleased sound recordings and of his keep for themselves.” their constant support of my career.” name and likeness. She also demanded the This isn’t Vicky Cornell’s only ongoing The current Motown roster includes court order the band to open its finances to legal dispute with the band. In February, she acts like Lil Baby, Tiana Major9, City her and to provide her with an inventory filed a separate lawsuit against the remain- Girls, Erykah Badu, Lil Yachty, Mi- of all of Chris Cornell’s personal property ing Soundgarden members, asking a federal gos, Vince Staples and Tiwa Savage. that was stored at the Pearl Jam warehouse judge to step in and decide the worth of her space. In addition, she claimed the band was late husband’s interest in the band. In that withholding thousands of dollars of Chris case, Vicky accuses of Thayil, Cameron and Vicky Cornell vs. Cornell’s royalties from her and accused the Shepherd of having severely undervalued band’s manager of breaching his fiduciary her share, offering her “the villainously Soundgarden duty to her. low figure of less than $300,000” when In Peterson’s opinion, however, the judge she demanded they buy out Chris Cornell’s Lawsuit: Judge found that Venerus was merely a go-be- interest in Soundgarden, according to her tween for Vicky Cornell and the band and 11-page complaint filed in U.S. District Court Recommends not her advisor. In addition, Peterson said Western District of Washington at Seattle. there wasn’t evidence that the band willfully That offer came after the group received a Dismissal of 2 withheld distribution of funds from Vicky $16 million offer for its master recordings, Cornell or that funds were misappropriated she claims. Claims to pay for the band’s legal fees in this case, Vicky Cornell says she counter offered the as Vicky Cornell claimed in her suit. Sound- band members $12 million for their collec- BY CLAUDIA ROSENBAUM garden argued that the disputed funds are tive interests, equaling $4 million per sur- owned by the band’s partnership, and that viving band member, which they summarily federal judge in Washington under Washington law that partnership con- denied in December. She said she later state is recommending the court tinues to legally own the funds until there is offered them $21 million for the band’s in- toss out two of Vicky Cornell’s a distribution by a partner vote. terests — $7 million per member — and that six claims against the remaining Peterson did not issue a finding on Sound- offer was also rejected. The four-member membersA of Soundgarden, her late hus- garden’s “alternative argument” that Chris rock group never had a written partnership band Chris Cornell’s band. Cornell became dissociated from the part- agreement, according to court papers. U.S. District Judge Michelle Peter- nership when he passed. They argued that Vicky Cornell’s court papers state her son said in report filed Friday that there because the band never had a written band filing was “necessitated by the self-serving wasn’t evidence that the band was improp- agreement, Washington general partnership and heartless actions of the remaining erly withholding “hundreds of thousands law therefore governs their dispute, and members of the band Soundgarden, who are of dollars” of Chris Cornell’s royalties from that under that law, they are only obliged seeking to rob from their former bandmate, her or that the band’s manager breached his to provide a buyout offer to his estate after Chris Cornell (“Chris”), his wife (“Vicky”), duty to look after her best interests. Peter- receiving a formal written buyout demand. and their minor children, Chris’ legacy and son’s report will now be sent to the case’s Vicky Cornell’s attorney Marty Sing- life’s worth, which has made them millions presiding judge, Robert S. Lasnik, who will er said in a statement released in response of dollars.” Adding that “the band members make the final decision. to the judge’s recommendation that his cli- have knowingly offered only an infinitesimal Vicky Cornell has been embroiled in an ent plans to “vehemently object” to it. fraction of the true worth of Chris’ interest Page 15 of 35
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in Soundgarden and certain related entities Are For” by Dionne Warwick, Stevie Won- administration of this rich African heritage by making a ludicrously low offer. And, they der, Gladys Knight and Elton John and of songs outside of Africa’s borders is in know it.” “Heartlight” by Neil Diamond. The former good hands with Sony Music Publishing,” Soundgarden declined to comment. peaked at No.1 on the Hot 100 chart the said Rob Cowling, General Manager of week of Jan. 18, 1986 while the latter peaked Gallo Music Group. “Their extensive net- at No. 5 the week of Nov. 13, 1982. work of professionals and systems as well as Publishing In addition to her Grammy win (out of a UK team, with some African roots and a a total of nine nominations), Sager won an knowledge of the content, will be a valuable Briefs: Julian Oscar in 1982 for “That’s What Friends Are asset in managing GMP’s works and driv- For,” which she co-wrote for the movie Ar- ing revenues for our composers, and their Casablancas Signs thur with future husband Burt Bacharach. beneficiaries.” She’s received an additional five Oscar This Fiction Music and Spark Music With Concord, nominations over the course of her career Group joined forces for a new publish- for songs written for films including The ing venture called Campfire Songs. The Hipgnosis Friends Spy Who Loved Me (“Nobody Does It Bet- company also announced it has signed NO- ter”), Beethoven’s 2nd (“The Day I Fall in BLE — a South African LA-based writer/ Carole Bayer Love”) and Junior (“Look What Love Has producer duo formed by Bubele Booi and Done”). David Balshaw — to a global co-publishing Sager Sony Music Publishing (SMP) South Af- agreement covering their catalog and future rica signed a worldwide (excluding Africa) works. BY CYDNEY LEE agreement with Gallo Music Publish- Seth Kallen and Ollie Hammett founded ers (GMP). Under the new partnership, This Music and Spark respectively. Kallen’s oncord Music Publishing has SMP will extend its services to facilitate company represents artists like X Ambas- announced a global publishing in the international promotion of GMP’s sadors and JP Saxe while Hammett’s Spark agreement with Julian Casablan- catalog of songs. manages Teddy Geiger and Dan Romer cas. The deal includes all of his GMP is the publishing side of Gallo amongst others. Amidst the pandemic and Cprevious and future solo efforts as well as Record Company, one of Africa’s largest and pursuing artist management individually, other endeavors including The Voidz, the oldest independent labels. The publishing the two friends created Campfire as a new experimental rock band he formed in 2013. company is comprised of South African joint endeavor for fostering rising talent. The singer-songwriter and producer is of songwriters and copyrights of some of their “Ollie and I are longtime friends, and have course the lead singer of garage rock reviv- most iconic music through decades. had many long conversations about both the alists The Strokes, who just won Best Rock “It gives me great pleasure to welcome struggles and thrills of being management Album at the Grammy Awards for their Gallo Music Publishers to the Sony Music entrepreneurs. When the realities of the sixth studio album, The New Abnormal. Publishing family. With its tremendous pandemic started to truly set in, we leaned “We are beyond excited that Julian has roster of writers, the history of Gallo is the on and supported each other, as many inde- joined Concord Music Publishing. Aside history of South African music,” said Guy pendent managers were doing, to figure out from helping to reclaim and redefine rock Henderson, President, International, Sony how to survive through so much uncertain- & roll for a generation, his ability to move Music Publishing. “Together, with Sony Mu- ty. We both made a distinct decision to build between genres as a writer and performer sic Publishing’s great roster of writers, we something,” Kallen said. “It’s been exciting has worked to cement his reputation as a look forward to taking the best of African to be reminded that music is global, and preeminent creative force in music today,” music to the rest of the world.” great writers, artists, and producers have said Tom DeSavia and Jeremy Yohai, Con- Gallo-published songwriters will have been able to adapt and work remotely on cord Music Publishing’s SVPs of A&R. the opportunity to collaborate with Sony creating great music.” The two will work together with Casa- songwriters and have their songs promoted Booi earned production credits on Be- blancas and his team. overseas. Through its administration and yonce’s The Lion King: The Gift album. He The Board of Hipgnosis Songs Fund synchronization services, SMP will also help alongside the megastar and Robert Mag- Limited and its investment adviser The collect, distribute and expedite royalty pay- wenzi created the song “Find Your Way Family (Music) Limited acquired the ments as well as create placement opportu- Back.” catalog of decorated pop songwriter Carole nities for GMP’s songs and licensing for use Campfire is currently searching for third- Bayer Sager. in film, television and commercials. party administration partners for NOBLE The EGOT nominee’s career spans over “We are very excited to announce this and future signings. five decades and includes classic hit songs partnership which has been a long time in Sheer Music Publishing announced a like Grammy-winning “That’s What Friends the making. We feel our vast catalogue and worldwide publishing deal with Nigerian Page 16 of 35
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artist Iyanya. The largest independent mu- and administration services for her catalog when her father temporarily relinquished sic publisher in Africa, which was acquired and future works. his role citing health reasons at the time. by Downtown Music Holdings last May, The Irish/Argentinian artist first gained Spears’ court documents also make clear agreed to represent the R&B/Afro-pop mu- traction after posting a cover of “Lose My that her requested appointment of Mont- sician, with the deal including his current Mind” by Dean Lewis and subsequently gomery does not mean that she is giving up catalog and future offerings. opening for him at his Dublin show in 2019. her rights in the future to end the conserva- “All of us at Sheer are excited to repre- Luz started her singing career in the shad- torship entirely. sent a songwriter of Iyanya’s stature and ows, posting covers from her bedroom be- “[Spears] expressly reserves the right to versatility,” said David Alexander, Manag- fore catching the attention of artists like Ed petition for the termination of this conser- ing Director of Sheer. “The most interesting Sheeran, Dua Lipa and Niall Horan. Last vatorship,” states the court filing. “Nothing producers in popular music are looking for year, she released her first three singles in the within petition shall be deemed to fresh inspiration and, at the moment, that which garnered more than 30 million constitute a waiver of that right.” is coming often from Nigeria as the artists streams across streaming platforms. If approved by the court, Montgom- and songwriters from this region travel Sentric Music Group signed London- ery will have the authority to retain 24/7 extensively and collaborate with their fellow based singer-songwriter Tom Speight to caretakers and security guards for Spears. songwriters from across the globe.” a global songwriting publishing deal. The She will also have the power to restrict and “With this partnership, I aim to stream- agreement includes his entire catalog and limit visitors with the exception of Ingham. line the complexities the music industry future releases. Montgomery will also be given the power to is known for, harness my creativity and Speight has accumulated more than communicate with any of Spears’ doctors. administer the collection of my royalties ef- 160 million streams across various music According to the boxes checked on peti- fectively. This is an exciting prospect for me streaming platforms and has more than one tion form, Spears requires a conservator be- as I journey in my music career to the next million monthly listeners on Spotify. He cause she is unable to properly provide for level,” Iyanya said. scored sync placements on Netflix’s To All her personal needs of “physical health, food, Iyanya’s career took off after he won the The Boys: Always and Forever and romantic clothing, or shelter” and unable to manage Project Fame West Africa talent competition drama series Virgin River. Speight has also her financial resources or to resist fraud or in 2008. Since then, he has released a hand- made television appearances in the UK and undue influence. ful of projects and collaborated with fellow earned support from BBC Radio 2. Speight is Spears has been in a conservatorship Nigerian artists Wizkid and D’banj. slated to drop his second album Everything’s overseen predominantly by her father since Nashville singer-songwriter Bre Ken- Waiting For You this year. 2008 when she was just 28. Now 39 many nedy has signed a global admin deal with Spears fans, one of her former attorneys Kobalt Publishing that will cover all of her and friends have come forward questioning works moving forward. Britney Spears whether there is still a reason for a restric- “I couldn’t be more excited and honored tive conservatorship over the singer’s per- to start this next chapter of music and Files Request for sonal and financial life. Spears herself has songwriting with Kobalt,” Kennedy said. asked the court to open the court process, “Everyone at the company inspires me to Jodi Montgomery where many hearings have been sealed, push my writing boundaries and continue saying in court papers that it is good public to help me grow as a songwriter… They feel to Remain as policy to appoint a new conservator of her like family and have been like home for me estate be made in as open transparent a mat- here in Nashville. I’m proud to continue to Conservator ter as possible. call Kobalt home!” James is still the co-conservator of his Kennedy is a prominent force in Nash- BY CLAUDIA ROSENBAUM daughter’s estate sharing that role with Bes- ville. She’s written for acts like Nina semer Trust Company of California. Nesbitt and Echosmith and released two ritney Spears has asked her A hearing will be held on April 27 on independent EPs: Jealous of Birds and Twen- father James to resign as her Spears’ request. Ingham has also informed ty Something. In 2019 and the beginning conservator and to appoint Jodi the court that Spears does not need to at- of 2020, Kennedy opened for Sheryl Montgomery, a private profes- tend the hearing. Crow, Gary Clark Jr. and Phillip Phillips. Bsional fiduciary, in his place. She is preparing to announce her forthcom- Spears’ court appointed attorney Samuel ing album this year. Ingham filed the request on Tuesday (March Kobalt also signed 19-year-old singer- 23) in Los Angeles Superior Court. Mont- songwriter Luz to a worldwide publishing gomery has been serving as the pop singer’s deal covering full range of creative, synch temporary conservator since Sept. 9, 2019 Page 17 of 35
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over a year ago. as a teenager before getting her big break Latinas Behind “I’ve always been aware of how important signing to Universal Music at the age of 16. it is to build other females in this industry, Now, the Latin Grammy nominated artist is the Hits: especially since it was so tough for me to composing and producing music for herself break,” Alberti says. “Helping [Blau] reach and other artists. These Female her goals and put her in the right situations “As a female composer, my perspective on has been very gratifying.” expressions of love, sexuality and empower- Songwriters, Quote: “Not only is it hard enough by be- ment is palpable in the music I write,” she ing a woman in an industry that’s predomi- tells Billboard. “As a female producer, I share Producers and nantly male — but add the fact that we are my take and my experience with different also minorities. It’s all about breaking down genres to feed the creative process during Engineers are those stigmas and walls and showing people sessions.” Not only is she experimenting why you belong in those rooms. The talent with urban and indie pop sounds that delve Blazing New Paths speaks for itself.” into her Dominican roots but she’s also Ali Stone mixing and mastering, writing for syncs, for Women in Ali Stone has been influenced by her Colom- and playing in an all-female band called The bian roots throughout her career as a pro- Mexican Standoff — composed of Fernanda Latin Music ducer, songwriter, singer and multi-instru- Ulibarri, Nancy Sanchez and herself. mentalist — which gives her “a wide variety Quote: “I’m continuing to hone my pro- BY BILLBOARD STAFF of sounds and styles to start a song from duction and engineering skills to help open scratch and know in which direction to take doors and represent us in this arena. I also s Latin music’s fortunes continue it,” Stone tells Billboard. The projects she think it’s important that we unite, in order to rise, Latin women still struggle credits as kickstarting her career include to be at the forefront of music.” to be heard — both on the charts working on the remix of the soundtrack for Beatriz Luengo and behind the hits. Disney’s Monsters University, co-producing Although many will recognize Luengo as AAs part of Billboard’s celebration of Cami’s Grammy-nominated album Mon- an eight-time Latin Grammy nominee and Women’s History Month, today we high- struo with Sebastian Krys and produc- recording artist, she has also brought her light 14 extraordinary Latin songwriters, ing Danna Paola’s 2020 multi-platinum touch to multiple hits by the likes of Ricky producers and engineers who are breaking album Sie7e+. Martin and CNCO, Ozuna, Daddy Yankee, down barriers as we speak. All of the women Currently, Stone is working on new music Chayanne, and Thalía — and is currently here are more often than not the only female with Gaby Moreno, Kat Dahlia and Gaby co-writing songs for Christina Aguilera’s faces in the studio, or the writing session, or Lagarde. “I’m working with women, writing upcoming Spanish-language album, as well behind the console — creatives whose talent together, hiring them to be part of my work as for the upcoming European Cup. and craft have been essential in the creation as musicians, mixing engineers, mastering Luengo, who writes for men as well as of some of the biggest hits of recent years, engineers, recommending them for gigs and woman, often focuses on vulnerability in and whose advocacy is ensuring a smoother opportunities too,” she says. “It’s impor- telling the male point point of view. “Men path for those who follow in their wake. tant to look for each other and help us all can also suffer and they can also heal Ale Alberti together.” through love,” she says. A fierce and very Los Angeles-based songwriter Ale Alberti Quote: “To have more inclusion, it’s public advocate of equality, the Spanish- says that signing her first publishing deal essential to not only have us in the writing born Luengo recently posted a “female” with Pulse Music nearly three years ago “led sessions and camps — but to also hire us for version of Maluma’s “Hawái” on her social to getting me in bigger rooms, which re- the final production of the song or project, media accounts that went viral, and also sulted in everything I have going on now.”” and pay us the same fee. And this includes co-wrote the Cuban liberty anthem “Pa- Fast-forward to present day, the bilingual not only producers & writers, but engineers, tria y Vida” alongside her husband, Yotuel creator has penned songs for artists such musicians. EQL and She Is The Music have Romero. as Becky G (“LDB”), Anitta (“Get to Know directories of women in music, listed by Quote: “I always fight for the female Me”), Danna Paola (“Sola”), Alaina Castillo their skill, location, etc., for people looking point of view. The notion of women as be- (“triste como yo”), among many others. Cur- to hire us.” longings frightens me. I never put my cred- rently, she’s working on projects for Jennifer Alih Jey its on a song where the woman is portrayed Lopez and the Fast and Furious soundtrack Alih Jey comes from a musically-driven as belonging to someone.” — as well as managing fellow songwriter family who encouraged and supported her Claudia Brant Dani Blau, who is signed to her own music music dreams from day one. With a key- An established hitmaker who has over company Rare Breed, which she co-founded board in her room, she began writing music 2,000 recorded songs, including hits by the Page 18 of 35
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likes of Camila Cabello, Fifth Harmony, Reik writer Elena Rose began writing poetry as leading women that came before me and do and CNCO, the Argentine-born Brant is an outlet to express her emotions. “Every- the same to the next generation of girls.” also an artist in her own right, winning the thing I was feeling or what I thought some- Erika Ender best Latin pop album Grammy in 2019 for one else was feeling, I would write it down,” Ender became a household name after her Sincera. Brant has been able to navigate she tells Billboard. She hasn’t stopped co-writing “Despacito” with Luis Fonsi. the recording studio by producing quality writing since then. Now, the 26-year-old But her prowess predates that hit by many work, beginning with “No me doy por ven- artist has become one of the most coveted years and many hits, including 2016’s Latin cido,” the massive hit she co-wrote with her songwriters in the industry. Most recently, Grammy-winning “Ataúd,” which she wrote friend Luis Fonsi. she’s co-written tracks for Jennifer Lopez for Los Tigres del Norte. Born in Panama to She is now working on multiple projects (“Pa’ Ti”), Daddy Yankee (“De Vuelta Pa’ La a Brazilian mother and a U.S.-born father of that involve “strong, powerful women” — Vuelta”) and Selena Gomez (“De Una Vez).” German ancestry, Ender speaks Portuguese including an upcoming single with Ximena Her first big break came when Sony and Spanish fluently, which helps inform Sariñana, a collaboration with Dianne invited her to a writing camp for Becky her multi-genre songwriting; in 2017 she Warren on her upcoming album, and a duet G. That’s when she wrote “Dollar” for the became the youngest inductee into the Latin album from Victoria La Mala and Chiquis. Mexican-American artist, which peaked Songwriters Hall of Fame. Quote: “Women have a unique sensitivity at No. 27 on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs in A key to her success, she says, is “un- and a different approach to creativity and 2019. “It was the song that changed my life derstanding this is a business of emotions. work ethics. I’ve been able to successfully in many ways,” she says. “My first big place- Besides my computer, my guitar or some juggle motherhood with work for many, ment and ow I met my manager Benito, so beat... I look for ways to communicate many years. I had to work very hard to earn it’s very precious to me.” with the artist/producer/co-writer with the respect I got in the music industry and I Quote: “When we walk in believing in an open heart and mind, and try to under- don’t take anything for granted.” ourselves and not believing that we are stand what feeling are they tuned into and Dani Blau better or more or less, we allow the energy what are they looking for.” In addition to Costa Rican-born songwriter Dani Blau to flow in in a positive way. We have to be her songwriting and her own career as an has written singles for artists such as The strong enough to let our wall down but not artist, Ender is also the founder of Talenpro, Fray, Lali, Danna Paola, HaAsh and Paty our guard down. I walk [into a studio] with a foundation and singing competition that Cantú. But it was her song “Quiero Volver,” a smile and a focused mindset. That’s all you fosters education and new talent in Panama. recorded by Tini and Sebastian Yatra in need to start.” Quote: “I’ve learned to, initially bring to 2018, that gave her that first big break. “I Ella Bric the table another point of view. If a room is wrote the song while I was traveling and At the beginning of her career, Ella Bric, full of masculine energy, us as females, bring the producers of the record placed it, which formerly Linda Briceño, was not 100 percent a different perspective. Also, a self confident opened the door for me to start working on confident in her songwriting, but she later attitude that mixes bright ideas and perfor- bigger projects,” she says. fell in love with the process after teaming mance, from a collaborative approach. Song- Signed to Alberti’s Rare Breed manage- up with other creatives in the field. Along writing is not meant to be a competition, but ment and label company, Blau — who now the way, she won producer of the year at a collaborative moment of creation.” lives in Los Angeles — is currently working the 2018 Latin Grammys, becoming the first Erika Vidrio with Manuel Turizo, Denise Rosenthal, Now woman to ever nab the reputable title. Her Vidrio is among the few prominent United and Las Villa for upcoming projects. win started a conversation about the lack songwriters in the male-dominated regional What she brings to the studio, she says, are of women representation in the music in- Mexican genre. With more than 100 songs “emotional melodies, intimate vocals, and dustry. “The issue here is to make sure that under her belt, she’s penned chart-topping friendly vibes.” jobs and opportunities are created for these tracks for artists such as Banda La Trakalosa Quote: “To be more inclusive, we need to women,” she says. “I’m talking about men- (“Borracho de Amor”), Christian Nodal bring women into projects or sessions and torship, funding and grant programs that (“Quién Es Usted?”), Beto Zapata (“40 y 21”) giving them the chance to prove themselves, allow them to keep creating and growing.” and Voz de Mando (“El de Arriba”). But her even if they’re not “inner circle” yet. Being Bric is currently working on her new big break was back in 2008 when Conjunto mindful as a male and trying something album, with the help of musicians, arrangers Primavera recorded her song “Sentí,” for different when you’re in a project that has and artists such as Judith Hill and Abraham which she received her first-ever royalty no female presence. As a female, building up Laboriel and is developing two musicals in check. and supporting your female coworkers— the collaboration with Greenwich House and “I would look at the check every day and better each one of us does, the more we pave Joe’s Pub. think, should I call to make sure it’s not a the way for the rest.” Quote: “I’m making sure my work speaks mistake?” the Mexican singer-songwriter Elena Rose for itself regarding my gender. I’m making remembers. “It was already beautiful to hear At age 11, rising Venezuelan singer-song- sure that I stay in contact and honor the them on the radio, but I never knew I’d get Page 19 of 35
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paid. Actually, I didn’t know much about am working with incredible talent and have this for me is the most important thing since how the industry worked back then.” Now, some great stuff coming out soon. And as an music is energy.” the five-time BMI Awards winner is focused artist I am also finishing my first EP, which I Monroe recently joined forces with Uni- on creating a network of women songwrit- can’t wait to share.” versal Music Publishing Group, where she’s ers in the regional Mexican space that she Quote: “As women I feel we often ex- focusing on various projects for other artists hopes will not only guide and help connect perience life from a very vulnerable place, as producer / composer, including her up- up-and-coming female songwriters, but also because of the way we look/feel. I believe coming EP Revelación. “One of my passions send a message to the industry. there is a special type of beauty in that, is helping other singer-songwriters,” she Quote: “I want us, female songwriters, in seeing the world with such detail, and adds. to be visible so that the industry knows that bringing that into a song makes it so much Quote: “As a woman, I personally feel we’re here, we always have been.” abroad to whom can relate to it. Also we are that we need to educate ourselves and be Isabella “Itzza” Primera the masters of multitasking and strength. more prepared for whatever and everything Itzza Primera got her foot in the door via And as a gay latin woman, I bring the vibes.” that comes along! Always say ‘yes’ to every Colombian producer and songwriter Chez María Elisa Ayerbe opportunity, to grow more and set a positive Tom, who forms part of Reykon’s team. The One of the few female Latin producers example for others to follow, since we know singer-songwriter, who has collaborated and sound engineers in the market, the that this industry is hard for us. It’s impor- with artists such as Chyno Miranda and the Colombian-born Ayerbe has worked for the tant to recognize and support each other.” late Legarda, says “there’s still a long way to likes of Laura Pausini, Ricky Martin, Mary go” for female composers in a male-domi- J Blige, Marc Anthony, Juanes, New World nated industry. Symphony and Mau y Ricky among many Australia’s Music “But every day we see more women in others. Ayerbe, who is currently producing, record companies, publishers, and indepen- engineering and co-writing the upcoming Biz Applauds dent teams capable of conquering spaces album by Latin Grammy nominee Paula with their talent,” she says. “I feel like it will Arenas, got her big break through producer Government only be a matter of time to see a more equi- Julio Reyes, and says her technical abilities, table percentage in the industry.” Currently, as well as her ability to create a great vibe in Rescue Package Itzza is working on growing her catalog as the studio, are essential in a session. a composer via Sony/ATV Music Publish- “I believe inclusion is a priority at the BY LARS BRANDLE ing, and will soon release her debut EP as an studio, but even above inclusion, we need artist. equity,” she says. “Inclusion enables access s the days count down until Quote: “Songs are the essence of the mu- for women in the music industry, but what is the creative sector’s safety net sic industry. Composers and producers have an opportunity in our industry when women is yanked for good, Australia’s a great responsibility in creating that seed aren’t paid the same as men?” federal government comes to the that becomes the success of the artist and Quote: “Not only do we need an open rescue.A their team. It all starts with a great song.” door for women, we need women to be call- Early Thursday (March 25), Canberra K Sotomayor ing the shots as music executives, we need confirmed a A$135 million ($102 million) As a singer-songwriter, K Sotomayor female producers and engineers to get paid survival and stimulus package, including always celebrates her projects no matter as much as their male peers, female artists A$125 million ($95 million) in new RISE how big or how small they are. But 2019 was need to be heard and their voices respected. funding, available until Dec. 31, 2021, with a big opportunity in her career because she Inclusion has already begun in our industry. the remaining A$10 million ($7.6 million) created real relationships with people in the Now it is time for the next step: equity.” earmarked for the Support Act charity. industry that truly “paid off.” Sky Monroe (real name: Cynthia That’s in addition to an original commit- “I had records with Sofia Reyes, whom I Pareja) ment of A$75 million ($57 million), which love working with,” she says, adding, “and Cynthia Pareja, artistically known as Sky is provided to arts businesses and organiza- Kat Dahlia, who is someone I deeply respect Monroe, says her participation on “Happy tions as competitive project grants towards and admire, and is not only an amazing cre- Mama Day,” part of Pitbull’s 2019 album the cost of putting on such activities as ator but one of my best friends.” K was also Libertad, opened all the doors for her in the festivals, concerts and tours. one of the Latin hitmakers behind Selena industry. “As a producer and songwriter, I “This investment by government will help Gomez’s Spanish-language EP Revelación, usually always contributed towards com- us keep companies alive, projects moving co-writing Gomez’s DJ Snake-assisted position; this includes lyrics, music, melody and people in jobs,” enthuses Evelyn Rich- “Selfish Love.” “I am so excited about this and vocal production,” she says. “Also as ardson, CEO of Live Performance Australia. chapter of my career not only as a writer a vocalist or Top-liner, I focus on finding The latest announcement is the culmina- but as an artist,” she notes. “As a writer I melodies that connect and move the room, tion of year-long lobbying efforts from the Page 20 of 35
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music industry, which crescendoed with a Watson welcomes “this significant support round of meetings last week with the Prime of live music,“ but is keen to see the cash Jason Kupperman Minister, Treasurer and Minister of the Arts. flow. “We look forward to further consulta- Its timing couldn’t have been any sweeter. tion with government in regard to these Launches There was no time left on the clock, with guidelines to help ensure that these badly JobKeeper wage subsidies due to disappear needed funds make it to the coalface of our Goldengate Talent by month’s end. industry as soon as possible”. From across the music industry on Thurs- The federal government is confident its Agency day, plaudits to a government for giving the package will support around 230 projects crippled live sector a leg-up. and up to 90,000 jobs, including entertain- BY DAVE BROOKS “We commend the federal government ers, managers, promoters and booking wholeheartedly for this package and its rec- agents. ormer Paradigm agent Jason Kup- ognition that our industry just wants to get Under the proposed expansion of the perman was very particular on back to business,” comments Geoff Jones, RISE guidelines, the threshold for grant how he wanted to launch Golden- LEIF co-chair and CEO of TEG. applications are lowered to A$25,000 gate Agency, and a press release His colleague Roger Field, LEIF co-chair ($19,000) from A$75,000 ($57,000), which Fwasn’t going to cut it. He wanted to create and president & CEO of Live Nation Asia ought to provide direct support to more something tangible, something that could Pacific, adds, “Our next step is to work with emerging artist tours and grassroots events. be mailed to new contacts, old friends and all governments to enable 100% venue ca- Several reports published by LPA and the members of the media. pacities, bring leading international touring ALMBC illustrate an industry in dire straits. He put together a package including two artists into the country and enable them and Some 77% of businesses will only survive items — the first was a Goldengate Agency domestic artists to plan national tours,” with the next six months unless trading condi- T-shirt, printed on a relaxed, poly-blend eye an to plotting a path back to a healthy, tions improve, an ALMBC survey found. It fabric. With it he included a note written growing industry. gets worse. Just shy of half the respondents on thick golden paper stock that said the Australia’s live sector is awakening from said their businesses may only survive an- most about what Kupperman was trying its COVID-induced slumber, arguably at a other three months. to convey to the music world with his new pace more rapid than other territories. The Late last week, LPA issued a plea to endeavor. damage from the lockdown, however, is government to remove venue capacity “This agency is able to exist because of done. According to LEIF, established last limits, give assurances that borders would you, your support, and our relationship,” he year to facilitate the opening of venues remain open, and to remove uncertainties wrote. “From sold out shows and big festival around the nation, some 86% of live enter- surrounding international acts entering stages, through stressful business matters tainment jobs are lost to the health crisis. Australia. Otherwise, the live industry, once to fun times and laughs, you have been a The industry is “delighted the Australian worth billions to the national economy, part of my journey and for that I need to say: government has listened to our plea to help could collapse. THANK YOU.” support Australia’s live music entertainment Now, LPA, APRA and others turn their A New Jersey native and Binghamton industry through the uncertainty of the next attention to the states and territories to University graduate, Kupperman got his six months,” comments Dean Ormston, CEO provide further support and “harmonise start at Monterey Peninsula Artists in 2006 APRA AMCOS. the regulations surround live music events,” as the company’s first ever ticket count ad- The targeted funding will help the sector Ormston notes. ministrator, calling venues and festivals for as it “struggles to restart under the weight of One of those states, New South Wales, has updated ticket counts on artists represented government restrictions and sudden border stepped up with a commitment worth A$24 by Paradigm. The job had him working closures,” he continues. million ($18 million) for live music venues. with well known agents like Duffy McSwig- Ormston was joined by colleagues at gin, Dan Weiner and the late Chip Hooper. APRA AMCOS, plus reps from Live Perfor- “The best part about Monterey is just the mance Australia, LEIF, and managers for caliber of human beings that work there,” what turned out to be fruitful talks with the Kupperman says. country’s leaders in the capital. After spending four years in the Central The champagne corks aren’t flying just Coast office, Kupperman was promoted to yet. Actions speak louder than words, and agent and moved back across country to the industry is keen to see the money reach work in Paradigm’s New York office. Now those who need it, swiftly. married and the father of a 13-year-old and Association of Artist Managers (AAM) a nine-year-old, Kupperman signed his first patron and Support Act board member John two clients — Big Gigantic and Andy Gram- Page 21 of 35
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mer — while working as an agent in the East ent areas of entertainment and working Hop: The Songs That Shook America through Coast office and went on to spend 11 years closely with the team will contribute to our his production company Two One Five at Paradigm before exiting the company last main objective, which is the growth of the Entertainment, and will next direct a year. company.” documentary about Sly Stone. He made his Goldengate’s 15-act roster now in- Additionally, Rich Music unveiled two directorial debut with the feature docu- cludes Anomalie, Big Gigantic, Badfish, internal promotions including Aquino, mentary Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Oak & Ash, the Floozies, Dennis Lloyd and former executive director, promoted to vice Revolution Could Not Be Televised), which Sunsquabi. president of creative and former direc- premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Kupperman says he planned to start his tor, digital marketing & strategy, Dave Festival and was awarded both the grand own agency long before the pandemic, tell- Hamberger, promoted to vice president of jury prize and audience award for best U.S. ing Billboard, “I wanted to build a home for marketing. documentary. my artists where they feel like they’re part “I am delighted to welcome our new Questlove has won five Grammys — three of a family and you everyone’s in it together. executive team,” Josh Mendez expressed. as a member of The Roots, one as a producer I want my agency to be a home for bands “Giovanna and David bring a wealth of expe- of Booker T. Jones’ The Road From Mem- who want to build long careers.” rience in their respective areas of expertise. phis (best pop instrumental album, 2011), Along with Jim and Dave’s new promotions and one as a producer of Hamilton (best in the creative and marketing areas, this musical theater album, 2015). Rich Music new structure will be the key to expand the Jesse Collins, who is co-producing the company into new areas of the business.” Oscar telecast with Stacey Sher and Steven Unveils Corporate Born out of their love for music in Soderberg, has brought two members of his 2007, Rich Music’s artist roster in- team at Jesse Collins Entertainment with Appointments: cludes Sech, Dalex, Justin Quiles, him to this year’s Oscar production team — and Dimelo Flow, among others. The indie Jeannae Rouzan-Clay and Dionne Harmon, Exclusive label was a three-time nominee at the 2020 both of whom will serve as co-producers. Billboard Latin Music Awards including top Rouzan-Clay, a writer and producer, is vice BY JESSICA ROIZ Latin albums label of the year, top Latin al- president of specials for Jesse Collins En- bums imprint of the year, and Latin rhythm tertainment. Harmon is the executive vice ich Music, the Miami-based inde- albums label of the year. president of content & strategy. pendent record label founded Other pros who are joining the Oscars by father and son Richard and production team for the first time are Dream Joshua Mendez along with their Questlove Set Hampton and Richard LaGravenese (both as Rfamily member Jim Aquino, has unveiled writers). new corporate appointments, Billboard can as 2021 Oscars’ Making repeat appearances on the Oscars exclusively announce today (March 25). production team are Glenn Weiss (as direc- With over 20 years of experience in tour- Musical Director tor), Rob Paine (as supervising producer), ing, marketing, sales, project management, Raj Kapoor (as co-producer), Taryn Hurd and coordination as the former director BY PAUL GREIN (as talent producer), Jon Macks (as head of artist booking for Cardenas Marketing writer), Amberia Allen, Rodney Barnes and Network (CMN), Giovanna Pérez has been uestlove has been selected as Mitchell Marchand (all as writers), David appointed as vice president of business musical director for the 93rd an- Rockwell (as production designer) and Rob- management and development. David Al- nual Academy Awards, set to air ert Dickinson (as lighting designer). varado, former vp of marketing at EMI Mu- April 25 on ABC. Questlove has The Oscars will be held on Sunday, April sic/Capitol Latin and vp of entertainment Qperformed on the Oscars previously, but this 25, at Union Station Los Angeles and the publicity for NBCUniversal/Telemundo, has is his first time as musical director. Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland been appointed as senior vice president of Questlove, founding member of hip- Center in Hollywood, and will be televised operations. hop group The Roots, is musical director live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. “I have witnessed the growth of Rich for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Music, and I am very proud to be able to for which The Roots serves as the house contribute to its success with my experi- band. He has also held musical directing ence,” said Pérez in an official statement. positions with such artists as D’Angelo, Emi- Alvarado is also excited to join the Rich nem and Jay-Z. family, adding: “Being able to contribute my The drummer, DJ and producer execu- knowledge and experience in the differ- tive-produced the documentary series Hip Page 22 of 35
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about 25% from the U.S. and 75% outside largest U.S. shares feature English lyrics and How Rose’s ‘On (partially due simply to the volume of are performed by artists from the U.S. and countries that contribute to the charts). At Canada. Conversely, the five songs with the the Ground’ 7%/93%, the split for “Ground” is even more largest non-U.S. shares are sung in English, sharp. Korean and Spanish and are by artists from Dominated In fact, the song sports the highest the U.S., New Zealand, Puerto Rico (counted percentage of non-U.S. streams for a Global separately from the U.S. for this research, to Internationally 200 No. 1 so far, narrowly surpassing BTS’ better spotlight its reach) and South Korea. “Life Goes On,” which received 90% of its As for its global sales, “Ground” starts to Debut Atop worldwide streams from outside the U.S. in with 29,000 in its first week, with 7,500 its week atop the chart in December. (26%) in the U.S. and 21,500 (74%) beyond. Billboard’s Global That’s in contrast to a week earlier, when Similar to streaming, its non-U.S. share is Drake’s “What’s Next” debuted at No. 1 on well above average, as among the 162 songs Charts the Global 200 and No. 11 on the Global that rank on both global charts this week, Excl. U.S. chart as it blasted in atop the Hot the average split for sales actually shows a BY ERIC FRANKENBERG 100. The track by Drake, a U.S. and global U.S. majority: 55% U.S. vs. 45% non-U.S. chart veteran for over a decade, scored the osé’s “On the Ground” bounds highest percentage of U.S. streams for a in at No. 1 on both the March Global 200 No. 1 to date: 68%. ‘Maxwell’s Urban 27-dated Billboard Global While Rosé’s No. 1 debut is the latest 200 and Billboard Global Excl. proof that songs can succeed on the global Hang Suite’ RU.S.. charts without major U.S. chart presence, As the singer-songwriter, a member of Drake’s week atop the Global 200 reflected Celebrates Its South Korean quartet BLACKPINK, was that American hits can reign worldwide born in New Zealand and raised in Australia even if they don’t fully export; “What’s 25th Anniversary and is now based in South Korea, the global Next” is the only song so far to top the command for “Ground,” which is sung Global 200 and simultaneously miss the top BY GAIL MITCHELL entirely in English, is especially notable in five of the Global Excl. U.S. chart, let alone terms of its reach domestically vs. in ter- the top 10. was just writing songs. ritories outside the U.S. (The Global 200 “What’s Next” is also the only Global 200 However, I knew in the back includes data from more than 200 countries, No. 1 with a majority share of its streams of my mind that I wanted to including the U.S.; the Global Excl. U.S. from the U.S. Here’s a look at all 10 leaders sequence them in a particular chart includes all territories except for the so far, ranked by their shares of U.S. vs. non- “Iway so you could put the record on and just U.S. The surveys began last September.) U.S. streams. (For songs that spent multiple let it play.” As it launches atop both global charts, weeks at No. 1, shares are averages among That’s how Maxwell describes the “Ground” debuts at No. 70 on the U.S.-based their total time on top.) humble beginnings of the debut album that Billboard Hot 100. The rank is the lowest on “What’s Next,” Drake (68% U.S. share of ultimately fostered his career breakthrough. the Hot 100 for a song atop the Global 200 streams; 32% non-U.S.) Released April 2, 1996, Maxwell’s Urban so far. The only other song to lead the Global “WAP,” Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion Hang Suite is celebrating its 25th anniver- 200 and simultaneously chart outside the (43%; 57%) sary this year by way of two special events. Hot 100’s top 10 was BTS’ “Dynamite” when “Drivers License,” Olivia Rodrigo (38%; This weekend (March 27), Maxwell will it placed at No. 25 on the Jan. 16-dated Hot 62%) mark the occasion with a performance at 100. “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Mariah the 52nd NAACP Image Awards on BET. He Aided by Rosé and BLACKPINK’s Carey (37%; 63%) won the Image Award for outstanding male worldwide fanbase, “Ground” starts with 6.4 “Positions,” Ariana Grande (35%; 65%) artist in 2010 and 2017. Then on April 2, million streams in the U.S. and 85.7 million “Dakiti,” Bad Bunny & Jhay Cortez (19%; Sony Music Entertainment’s catalog division streams internationally, or a share-split of 81%) Legacy Recordings will release a remas- 7% in the U.S. and 93% outside the U.S. in “Savage Love (Laxed – Siren Beat),” tered digital edition of the seminal album. its first week, ending March 18, according to Jawsh 685 x Jason Derulo x BTS (19%; 81%) A foundational building block of the MRC Data. “Dynamite,” BTS (15%; 85%) ‘90s neo-soul sound alongside debuts by On average, streams for songs on the “Life Goes On,” BTS (10%; 90%) D’Angelo (1995’s Brown Sugar) and Erykah Global 200 and Global Excl. U.S. charts skew “On the Ground,” Rosé (7%; 93%) Badu (1997’s Baduizm), Maxwell’s Urban heavily from the outside the U.S. anyway, at Unsurprisingly, the five songs with the Hang Suite conceptually explores adult ro- Page 23 of 35
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mance, love, commitment and spirituality by So maybe I was calling some shots, but to enjoy my adolescent and teenage time. I cycling from first date to marriage proposal. none of those shots would have mattered if later worked as a dishwasher, in hospitality Signed in 1994 by senior vp of A&R and I didn’t have Hod. He and I co-wrote “Til and at a Pizza Hut. At one point, I stood in Columbia Records Mitchell Cohen, Maxwell the Cops Come Knockin’,” which had been line in the snow trying to get my unemploy- wrote and produced on all 11 tracks, col- in skeletal form since 1992. Then Stuart, a ment check. I had these real-life things to laborating with his now longtime colleagues superstar with the band Sade, heard some- hold onto that kept me grounded through Hod David and Stuart Matthewman as well thing of mine and wanted to work with me. all the fanfare that followed Urban Hang as Peter Mokran, Itaal Shur, Leon Ware That led to “Whenever Wherever What- Suite and beyond. I try to always go back to (Marvin Gaye’s I Want You) and Melvin ever.” For me it was about having a team of that person with each project that I release “Wah Wah Watson” Ragin, a member of people that really believed in the tradition of because that’s the truest part of me. The Motown studio band The Funk Brothers. soul music and in my ability, which I didn’t part of me that’s onstage is a result of the The album’s savory fusion of jazz, funk, have that much belief in. I was a kid from work I’ve done but it isn’t a result of the life R&B and Quiet Storm balladry, coupled Brooklyn who was just happy to be there. I’ve really lived. with Maxwell’s suave tenor and hynoptizing Listening to the record again during Beyond the music, what still resonates falsetto, spun off four popular singles-con- the remastering, was there anything dif- 25 years later on this album is your lyri- cert faves: “Til the Cops Come Knockin’,” ferent you would have done? cal respect for women — especially as RIAA platinum-certified “Ascension (Don’t I’m always prone to say I could have done they continue to fight today for inclusion Ever Wonder),” gold-certified “Sumthin this or that. Or to say maybe something’s a and equality. Sumthin” and “Suitelady (The Proposal little flat or a little sharp. But after all this The issues that all women face in life Jam).” After spending 78 weeks on the Bill- time, the album is what it was supposed and business, especially just the day-to- board 200, Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite has to be. I’m so grateful that it stands up to day experience of Black women, is unlike since achieved RIAA double-platinum the modern records of today. I’d written anything. The inequality, the lack of rever- status. pages and pages and waited until certain ence. Black women are always there for us: “You blink and then bam, here it is 25 personal experiences occurred to spark the to forgive, to understand and clean up the years later,” Maxwell tells Billboard. “I’m engine and bring life to the record, which political messes that we make. I felt it was a not only happy about the anniversary but was released to very little fanfare. It wasn’t duty and very important to focus on that. It also for silent allies like [then-label] radio like I was No. 1 the first week. It was a slow, wasn’t something I had to think about be- promotion executive Cynthia Johnson when evolving process where people eventually cause it was obvious. Like why wouldn’t you this music wasn’t what was being played. discovered it. do that? It led to my covering Kate Bush’s And for all the collaborators and musi- That’s probably the best part: that it was “This Woman’s Work.” What a woman goes cians...this celebration is for them more than listeners who made the album what it was. through has always been a major theme myself.” There were so many kinds of political inter- in what I try to write. Women should be In the following interview excerpt ests at the time with regards to what got on celebrated. Maxwell also talks about the rare creative the radio, what was going to sell tickets, who Why were you featured on the back of freedom he had as a debut artist, the soul was going to be on MTV. And that still goes the album and not the front? icon who inspire the album’s cover, the im- on in our industry. But I’m forever grate- There was a big conversation about how portance of celebrating women in his lyrics ful to those college students, the cookouts that wouldn’t be marketable. The Nirvana — and new music he’s working on through a during that summer and all the experiences album [1991’s Nevermind] had a baby on the new partnership with BMG. in which I was able to be a fly on the wall cover. And a lot of classic soul records didn’t It was rare at the time for new artists through my music. always have the artists promoting their im- to call the creative shots, especially on a When did you know that fame was age. Being a young kid, like what in the hell debut album. How did that happen? knocking? did I know about marketing? I just wanted I wasn’t aware that most artists weren’t It was summer 1996 and I’m walking a cover that had this feel of a jazz record; able to have that kind of freedom. But the down the street one day in New York on something to put the music first more than art involved in creating the album was what Sixth Avenue. I see people stopping and anything. How I look should not supersede was truly calling the shots. Urban Hang staring; people are yelling my name as the work. It can be a complement to it or Suite knew what it wanted to be. And Mitch- they drive by and I’m hearing the song whatever, but it’s the music that matters to ell Cohen understood how much I loved [“Ascension”] blasting from their cars. I’m me the most. and cared about the sound and impact of like, “Whoa, wait a minute.” I used to walk Who really inspired the cover was one of soul music; artists like Marvin Gaye meant around and nobody knew me or cared. Now my favorite artists in the world, Bill Withers. the world to me. I don’t think anyone knew my world was changing. He had released a greatest hits album that then that this was going to be a conceptual I’m grateful that most of my career featured a cigar, I think, and some wine or album. But Mitchell trusted me. started in my early 20s because I was able whiskey and a rose. And I thought, what a Page 24 of 35
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cool cover. Thankfully, the people at Colum- ing on outside of that didn’t really affect us. I did for myself as an artist. I got the green bia sided with what felt right for the album. We still have to feed our families, and even if light, and it’s the beginning of what we are So when can we expect new music? there wasn’t anything happening, we would doing. Everyone is going to see this journey I’ve been working on so many songs for still be working our asses off. We don’t feed we’re going on.” many years. “Pretty Wings” was five years into what’s happening in the outside world Dolph continues, “It was a strategic old before it was release and “Lake by the too much.” plan, because prior to us doing Dum and Ocean” was five or maybe six years old. So That laser-like focus Key Glock men- Dummer, me and Glock never had music I keep working on material and tweaking tioned allowed the two cousins to lock in together. So I planned it that way — because it. But I am primarily working on another for Dum and Dummer 2, which they kept I always wanted Glock to take off and go album and meeting my commitment under under wraps until unleashing the winter- big on his own, without a Dolph co-sign or a new partnership between my own record inspired video for the project’s lead single, Dolph feature. Once Glock got himself to a company Musze and BMG. I signed the deal “Aspen.” The 20-track album is shorter certain status, I felt like the people wanted a year ago but wouldn’t talk about because than its predecessor, but the rap duo says it, and I don’t have to worry about people it would have been in poor taste to promote they took the fiery energy from the first feeling like Glock did this because of me.” something like that when the world had album and carried it to the next level for the With Glock placing himself in a formi- shut down due to the pandemic. I’ve been sequel. They’re coming with a knock-out dable position, he’s also getting a front-row waiting but now I’m ready. punch that they hope fans will feel. seat in learning how to run an independent Because Dolph and Glock seldom make label. One of the most important lessons music together, there was a sense of urgency Dolph maintains is letting his artists grow Young Dolph & while recording Dum and Dummer 2. The and flourish on their own, which in turn, has “Blue Diamonds” rapper says he didn’t want allowed Glock to lead the way for his new Key Glock’s ‘Dum critics to put Glock under his wing and labelmates. instead wanted him to grow independently; “I’m the quarterback or the point guard,” and Dummer 2’ hence why they only have a few songs he says. “I let the coach and staff do their together. job, and everybody has a job and a role to Is the First Phase “We were anxious to have fun on this al- play. I do my thing regardless because I’m bum,” Dolph explains to Billboard. “There’s not here to play. Like when COVID hit, I just in Paper Route a song on there called ‘Cheat Code’ we had to go in.” recorded in LA, and we don’t record music Dolph adds, “It’s a one-of-a-kind thing. Empire’s Hip-Hop together, but we played that one back over I like seeing new artists with no buzz, be- and over. The song was too raw and too cause I can give them game, and they’ll take Takeover hard, and we were like, ‘S—-t, let’s make an- that and run with it. It’s not like someone other 15 of these and put it out.’ We knew we who’s been around that feels like they know BY MARK ELIBERT had to make another one — so we said, ‘F—k it all. I just signed a lot of artists within the it, let’s drop Dum and Dummer 2.’’” last four months, and we got a lot of new n July 2019, Young Dolph and Key With Dum and Dummer 2, Dolph and music and content coming out. We’re going Glock struck gold when they dropped Glock are looking to surpass what they ac- to run circles around people at major labels.” their first collaborative album, Dum complished with the first album. Like the Paper Route Empire is in a great position and Dummer. The hard-hitting project first Dum and Dummer, the sequel has solo at the moment: They have a band of new Iput them on a path to succeed in a year records from the two MCs interspersed with rappers and a plethora of content ready to that was otherwise tough for their hip-hop the bass-heavy bangers they made together. be unleashed on fans. They aim to be the industry peers. Young Dolph and Key Glock’s latest proj- next big empire in hip-hop, and Dum and Dum and Dummer peaked at No. 8 on ect isn’t just a new album for the Memphis Dummer 2 is the start of that. According to the Billboard 200 chart and fueled them natives, though — it’s a part of the first phase Glock, Paper Route Empire lets the music to release individual top 20 Billboard of Dolph’s indie label Paper Route Empire’s speak for itself. 200-charting sets in Dolph’s Rich Slave (No. introduction to the game. Dolph has been “We know what’s going to happen when 4) and Glock’s Yellow Tape (No. 14) in 2020, working diligently behind the scenes to we drop,” Dolph added. “There’s a lot of respectively. What pushed them to continue build a label with a slew of up-and-coming people in this game that wait for Paper working as if it was a regular year, despite artists that are ready to hit the road running. Route, Dolph or Glock to drop just to get the COVID-19 pandemic ravaging the out- “This has always been my plan and my that new lingo and style and see what type side world, was their ability to focus. vision, to build a strong team and build art- of creativity we on. They either take it and “We be in our own little world,” Key ists like Glock,” Dolph says. “I always knew run and bite off our shit, or they want to do Glock shares with Billboard. “What was go- I could do it with artists, because I saw what that. Either way, we’re having fun with this.” Page 25 of 35
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for a swim. I was mostly listening to Beck, a little Sublime and a lot of Bowie at the Cash(ing) Me time and the intersection of those influences The Revivalists mixed with my geographical location got me Outside: Bhad in the mood to make a song that went with Singer David the kind of days and nights that I was hav- Bhabie Selling ing,” he says. Shaw Unveils David Shaw was produced by four-time Iconic Meme Grammy-winning producer Jack Splash, New Single, Preps who Shaw calls “the perfect choice to help as NFT on 18th bring these songs to life in a fresh yet pe- NFTs for Debut destrian kind of way. His sensibilities lend Birthday themselves to my own so working in the Solo Album studio with him just felt right.” BY GIL KAUFMAN Shaw put together his own house band BY DAVE BROOKS for the project, telling Billboard the group ost teenagers are happy to cel- shared a “deep sense of camaraderie” not- ebrate turning 18 with a party rtist, producer and The Revival- ing “they’re the best of friends and if I’ve or a new car. Not rapper Bhad ists frontman David Shaw has learned anything from being in a band over Bhabie (aka Danielle Bregoli). just released his latest solo single these past 15 years, it’s that it really helps if MThe teen known for Dr. Phil-spawned meme “Got Me Feeling Good,” an uplift- you’re also really good friends.” “Cash Me Outside” is planning to mark her ing,A sing-along style anthem. The guitar- Shaw is releasing a number of NFT of- birthday on Friday (March 26) in a super of- centric, harmony-driven track follows the ferings via Fanaply for the album’s release the-moment way — with an NFT auction. release of Shaw’s singles “Heavy Soul,” including limited album cover art designed According to a release from Bhabie’s “Shivers” “Shaken” and “Promised Land” by Mike Tallman of Add Noise Studios as team, her “ETH Me Outside: A CASH ME from his debut solo album which drops May well as three tiers (standard, silver, gold) of OUTSIDE NFT” retrospective will feature 7 via Yokoko Records/C3 Records. custom tarot card art for each song on the an original collection of digital icons based “From the beginning, this album was all album by artist Priscilla Frank. All items on 2017’s most searched meme, hitting about self-exploration and the joys that were animated by Andrew Carey and initial the auction block as NFTs (non-fungible come from finding strength and confidence purchase of each token will include a physi- tokens), the unique blockchain-supported in places that might not have been acces- cal copy of the David Shaw album on vinyl. digital objects that have become the hottest sible before,” Shaw tells Billboard, noting Tokens are available here to claim and pre- commodity on the crypto market. that the self-titled solo record “required a order for vinyl can be found here. The Bhabie auction will include 20 NFTs new way of thinking about how I create the containing original works based on the songs but also, most importantly, the feeling “Cash Me Outside” meme, the rapper’s rise that arises during their creation and incep- to fame, her music and the meme culture, tion.” with contributions from a group of film- Shaw said the record is meant to feel makers, visual artists, photographers, music familiar to fans of The Revivalists, noting “I producers and fashion designers who’ve wanted this album to be that steadfast old worked with Bregoli or who were picked friend that you can always turn to when ev- by her and are comprised of “female and erything around you feels like it’s too much. binary talent.” The NFTs are “an artistic It’s what I needed at the time and now that representation of the meme’s reach,” a it’s coming out soon that feeling is only rep tells Billboard — not a reproduction of becoming clearer.” the Dr. Phil footage. “Feeling Good” was inspired by Shaw’s re- The first round of Bhabie NFTs will drop cent sojourn to Los Angeles where the shift on Friday through Opensea, with a first- in lifestyle got him thinking about how one’s time female and binary-only drop on March environment can shift the way artists think 29 on Rarible, and another on March 31 about influence. on Zora. Among the participating artists are “Every day I’d get up early in the morn- Nick Goosen & David Spade, Glassface, Os- ing and head down to the coffee shop for eanworld, Pastelae, Harriet Blend, Goodboy- a cortado before heading out to the beach shady, Paola Pinna, Indietrent, Super Trip Page 26 of 35
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64, producer Pliznaya and more. The increases far outpaced their domestic Chesca, who’s signed to Saban Music Among the items up for auction are bumps of 48% and 30%, respectively. Group, discovered her passion for music at ownership of the iconic “Cash Me Outside” “Levitating” drew 46.8 million global a very young age thanks to her musically meme, personalized video of the transfer streams for the week, with 14.9 million in driven family and her admiration for Mi- sale from Bhabie to the buyer from the the U.S. and 31.9 million beyond. “Every- chael Jackson. “When I was 8 or 9, I began rapper’s Instagram and YouTube, and one thing I Wanted” attracted 16 million global tagging along with my dad and his band in 16-bar verse feature from Bregoli, among streams (5.4 million U.S.; 10.6 million non- Puerto Rico,” she recalls. “One day the lead others. U.S.). singer got sick and I substituted her because See two of them below: Plus, while neither Lady Gaga nor Ari- I knew the entire repertoire. Here you had ana Grande attended the Grammys in 11-year-old Chesca singing live for the first person, their duet “Rain on Me” (122-98) time, and that’s when everything kicked off.” Grammys Go won for best pop duo/group performance A young Chesca signed a development and subsequently spiked by 18% in non-U.S. deal with Sony Latin at only 11 years old. Global: Billie streams, compared to 7% domestically. However, a tragic boat accident shortly after, Other songs that made notable increases in celebration of her singing and Cinco de Eilish, Dua Lipa & outside the U.S. following the Grammys Mayo, put her professional dreams on pause. were “Dynamite” by South Korea’s BTS (4- “Music was the only place where I could More Surge 2), “Say So” by Doja Cat (170-132) and escape reality,” she says. “I had noticeable “Watermelon Sugar” by England’s Harry surgeries and I lost 70 percent of my hair in on Global Excl. Styles (51-26), with respective gains of 28%, that accident. I went through 14 reconstruc- 25% and 24% outside the U.S. All three tive surgeries on my scalp to get it all back. U.S. Chart songs were nominated and performed on The only place I didn’t feel judged was on- the Grammys, with “Watermelon Sugar” stage, because I would wear wigs and hats.” BY ERIC FRANKENBERG winning for best pop solo performance. When she did pick up the pieces, Chesca says that one of the first people to believe in he 63rd annual Grammy Awards her was Pitbull, whom she met about four took place in Los Angeles on Latin Artist on the years ago. “I was persistent with his camp March 14, with big wins for Be- and one day, I was brave enough to ask him yoncé, Billie Eilish and Taylor Rise: How a Tragic for a meeting,” she notes. “He was moved TSwift, followed by domestic streaming by my personal story and that’s when he bumps for Mickey Guyton, Haim and Post Accident Shaped invited me to be on his song ‘Cinco de Mayo’ Malone, among others. with Lil Jon.” Despite the show’s U.S. home base, the Chesca’s Career They now have four records together, March 27-dated Billboard Global Excl. including “Subelo” with Israeli pop duo U.S. chart reflects international surges for BY JESSICA ROIZ Static & Ben and “Te Quiero Baby” with the Grammy nominees, winners and perform- iconic Frankie Valli, both of which topped ers. uring a pandemic, when the the Billboard Latin Airplay chart. “Súbelo The latest Global Excl. U.S. list sports 14 music world was shaken and (Further Up)” landed at No. 1 on the chart songs that were performed and/or nomi- live entertainment came to a dated March 28, 2020, and “Te Quiero Baby” nated for a Grammy, and half of those rank halt, Chesca shined. In just last December. among the chart’s top 20 streaming gainers. Dthe past year, the Puerto Rican newcomer “It’s a dream come true, because I always The 14 tracks averaged a 16% increase in U.S. collaborated with artists such as Pit- looked up to Billboard and I told myself that streams in the week ending March 18 and a bull, Arcangel and De La Ghetto; entered one day I’ll be recognized on this platform slightly higher boost internationally: 17.5% the Billboard charts for the first time; was but to know that Frankie has never been outside the U.S., according to MRC Data. nominated at Premio Lo Nuestro; and made on a Latin chart and this record put him on The biggest international gains were for her late-night television debut. there is unbelievable,” she says. two of the night’s big winners, with record “It’s been a crazy journey,” she tells Bill- Currently, Chesca is making the rounds of the year recipient Billie Eilish’s “Every- board. “Everything that’s happened in the with her single “Como Tu Me Querias,” thing I Wanted” (a re-entry at No. 115) up last year, I’ve been optimistic and positive which boasts a De La Ghetto-assisted remix, 73% in streams outside the U.S. and “Levi- about. I’ve been working my ass off for so and the Spanglish “Como Tu (Dirty)” with tating,” by England’s Dua Lipa, who won for long and now I’m going to let things flow De La and Offset. “I love the record so much best pop vocal album (for Future Nostalgia), and happen. It’s meant to be. It’s what God because it brought me back to my roots,” she featuring DaBaby (up 17-12), up by 52%. had planned for me.” notes. On Mar. 19, Chesca, joined by De La, Page 27 of 35
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Offset, and a live band, premiered “Como Tu Artists: The 26-year-old MC has become a (Dirty)” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Main Artist - Rosé familiar name associated with the recent Learn more about this week’s Latin Artist Songwriters: revival of New York’s rap scene, and for a on the Rise below: Composer Lyricist - Amy Allen good reason. In between his vivid storytell- Name: Franchesca Ramirez Bravo Composer Lyricist - Jon Bellion ing of growing up in Harlem, collaborating Recommended Song: Chesca, De La Composer Lyricist - Jorgen Odegard with the likes of Benny The Butcher, Dave Ghetto, “Como Tu Me Querias (Remix)” Composer Lyricist - Rosé East, and Lil Durk, and naturally expanding Major Accomplishment: “So far, to have Composer Lyricist - Raúl Cubina his sound, Neek has only elevated himself been nominated for new female artist at Composer Lyricist - TEDDY within a short time. But what Neighborhood Premio Lo Nuestro. I feel like people in the Producers: Hov means to Neek is greater than releasing industry are acknowledging my work.” Producer - 24 a new body of work. What’s Next: “The music video for Producer - Jon Bellion Besides being his first full-length release ‘Como Tu (Dirty).’ There are so many things Producer - Jorgen Odegard in two years, the Harlem native recognized lined up. This year there are so many oppor- Producer - Ojivolta the need for a shift in his music while also tunities to perform and release new music. Labels: embracing a new role away from it: being a People will get to see more of Chesca and Distributor - Universal Music Group Dad. “My daughter is who I do it for,” Neek I’m hopeful and positive that this year I’ll Label - YG Entertainment/Interscope says. “Everything I said on the outro of this have that one record that will really set me Records project (“FIRST LOVE, PT 2”) is always on apart.” Explore the full “What’s Next” credits on my mind, and I was inspired to do that. I’m Jaxsta here. willingly opening myself up to the world with my music.” The Players Throughout the entirety of Neighborhood Neek Bucks Aims Hov, we hear Neek trade verses with Benny Behind Rosé’s ‘On the Butcher (“Pain”), share stories with G- to Follow Jay-Z’s Herbo (“Default”), and croon to the ladies the Ground’: See with Lil Tjay (“Fly Away) without him ever Blueprint With sounding out of place at all. With the release the Full Credits of his 12-track effort, honesty is becoming Latest Project Neek’s calling card. BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN Following Neighborhood Hov’s release, ‘Neighborhood Neek Bucks spoke to Billboard about his LACKPINK member Rosé has new project, why Jay-Z inspires him, how scored her first solo hit with the Hov’ he found his place within NY’s evolving rap single “On the Ground,” which scene and more. entered the Billboard Global BY ARDEN FRANKLYN While various people have different B200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. charts views of Jay-Z, it’s much different from at No. 1 this week. o best understand Neek Bucks is those who grew up in New York watch- The singer’s chart-topping debut marks to understand his intentions prop- ing him. In what way did he influence you the first time an artist has led the Global erly. The proud Harlem native is most? Excl. U.S. tally both solo and with a group; the prime example of someone It was mainly from a business standpoint. BLACKPINK’s “Lovesick Girls” topped the Twho made it out of his environment, but To become the mogul he became was very survey dated Oct. 17, 2020. The popularity wants to give back. Tales of such determina- encouraging to watch, especially to a fellow of “On the Ground” additionally rocketed tion were first introduced to us on his 2018 New Yorker. Hov is still the top guy out here, Rosé to No. 2 on Billboard’s Emerging Art- debut project El Barrio but are more promi- so who else footsteps to follow? ists chart. nent than ever via his latest release, Neigh- It had been a couple of years since we In the March 12-18 tracking week, “On the borhood Hov (Feb. 19). heard your last project, El Barrito 2. What Ground” racked up 92.1 million streams and And as eye-grabbing as that title is, it impacted the making of Neighborhood sold 29,000 worldwide, aided in part by Ro- makes sense why Neek chose it in the Hov? sé’s performance of the song on The Tonight first place. “What Hov [Jay-Z] means to It was COVID-19 and this pandemic, to be Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on March 16. the culture of hip-hop and other things is honest. It forced me to reinvent myself and Explore the team of musicians, producers what I mean to my neighborhood or the closely study those who came before me. and more behind the track with recording streets,” Neek tells Billboard. “When I speak, I gained a greater understanding of what credits provided by Jaxsta below. they listen.” a great project and songs are supposed to Page 28 of 35
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sound like, so then I tapped into different Nipsey Hussle’s clear influences without song from his soon-to-be-released album, bags while recording the new music. I was it taking away from you. How much of and Karol G will take the stage with Mariah in a different space with this project, and it those two artists influenced you, if that’s Angeliq for an exclusive TV premiere, to shows, especially because I spent over a year the case? name a few. working on it. It’s quite a bit. When it comes to 50, that They join the first wave of performers, There’s been an ongoing conversation will always be there being a ‘90s baby grow- which included Ana Bárbara, Banda MS regarding the status of artists, who are ing up in New York. I was born in ‘94. de Sergio Lizárraga, Camilo, Carlos Vives, either “project artists” or “singles art- Nice. I was born in ‘93. David Bisbal, Eslabon Armado, Gerardo Or- ists.” Which side do you believe you fall Oh, word? So you have to be a 50 fan, too, tiz, Joss Favela, Karol G, Los Dos Carnales, on? because that was our guy. [Laughs.] At the Maluma, Myke Towers, Nicky Jam, Piso 21 Although I value delivering a strong body least, 50 was one of those artists we fol- and a special tribute to the late Regional of work, as that’s my strong point, I genu- lowed while beginning to understand music Mexican singer-songwriter Joan “El Poeta inely believe I’m a mix of both. I know I can at an older age. As a matter of fact, 50 was del Pueblo” Sebastian. give you both, and I aspire to do that. the reason I picked up a pen. When it comes Following safety protocols to protect the As you saw your profile rise in recent to Nipsey, I actually had the chance to con- health and safety of all involved, the 2021 years, what has been your greatest lesson nect with him before he passed away. I loved awards show will honor some of the most learned? what he stood for — and as he would say, influential Latin artists of today, as voted by That hard work pays off. There were the marathon continues. I have to continue fans (click here) in 25 categories including many times when I didn’t know if this spreading his message. pop, urban, tropical, regional Mexican, and would work, despite always working on my the newly added favorite virtual concert. craft, but it felt good seeing it pay off. Es- The 2021 Latin AMAs, hosted by actress pecially when folks know you, and the next Anitta, Juanes, Jacqueline Bracamontes, will air at 7 p.m. thing you know, you’re working with Lil ET on Thursday, April 15, from the BB&T Durk and G-Herbo. It’s a great feeling. Ricky Martin, Center in Sunrise, Florida, via Telemundo Being a New York artist, you know of and will broadcast simultaneously on the shared thought that you guys don’t Carrie Underwood Universo and throughout the Americas on work together enough. Yet, you’ve col- Telemundo Internacional. laborated with Benny The Butcher, Dave & More to Perform East, Lil Tjay, and Stunna Gambino. Does that prove New York artists can work at 2021 Latin Diplo Debuts together more often? Absolutely! It’s just a matter of us remem- AMAs on Top Dance/ bering that we’re New York, a.k.a. the place that started this [hip-hop culture]. We have BY JESSICA ROIZ Electronic Albums to understand that, expand our vision, and keep it going, so everyone else knows what’s elemundo has unveiled the second Chart With ‘Do up. For me, I’m able to tap in with all sorts of wave of performers to take center artists, whether they’re new or established. stage at the 2021 Latin American You Dance?’ I bring in good energy and find a way to Music Awards (Latin AMAs) in make it work. TApril. BY GORDON MURRAY Is it easy for you to find that balance of Confirmed for the sixth annual cer- wanting to make sure your collaboration emony are Anitta, Carrie Under- iplo draws the sole debut on works out for everyone while still doing wood, Juanes, Manuel Turizo, Pit- Billboard’s Top Dance/Electron- the best? bull, Ricky Martin, Wisin, Yandel, Ziggy ic Albums chart (dated March Oh, yeah, because I’m an observant and Marley, Alaina Castillo, Cami, Carlos 27) with Do You Dance? at No. genuine person. As long as you bring good Rivera, Juhn, Mariah Angeliq, Natanael D18. The seven-track set earned nearly 2,500 energy and don’t pose a threat, then you Cano, Sofía Reyes and Yendry. equivalent album units, with close to 1,000 should be fine. But with that said, people Country singer Underwood will join Da- from album sales, in the week ending March know what I come to do [Laughs]. I care vid Bisbal for their first-ever television per- 18, according to MRC Data. about making the best music and making formance of “Tears of Gold,” Ricky and Car- Dance is Diplo’s seventh entry on the sure we’re good. los Vives, as well as Ziggy and Maluma, chart, a sum that includes four top 10s and Throughout Neighborhood Hov, the will present their upcoming collabora- one leader, Skrillex and Diplo Present Jack listener could identify 50 Cent and tions, Juanes will serenade fans with a new U, with Skrillex (three weeks at No. 1, 2015). Page 29 of 35
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Diplo also earned No. 2 peaks with Revo- vibe perfectly.” “What Do You Mean” (2.1B) and his break- lution (2013) and Random White Dude Be Returning to Hot Dance/Electronic out single “Baby” (2.4B). His latest contend- Everywhere (2014). Songs, English DJ/producer Riton (real er for the Billion Views Club is “Peaches,” As a member of Major Lazer, Diplo has name: Henry Smithson) and Nightcrawlers from his just-released Justice album, which charted another eight entries, including two roll 13-10 with “Friday,” featuring Mufasa arrived Friday along with a music video. No. 1s: Free the Universe (2013) and Peace Is and Hypeman. It’s the first top 10 for all Watch the video below: the Mission (2015). acts. “Friday,” which borrows from Night- On the multi-metric Hot Dance/Elec- crawlers’ “Push the Feeling On,” ascends tronic Songs chart, Diplo darts 31-21 with with 1.4 U.S. streams. “Push” charted twice Jon Nite Dance track “Turn Back Time,” with Sonny on Dance Club Songs, reaching No. 7 in 1993 Fodera, following its No. 17 peak in Febru- and No. 1 in 2004. Leads Country ary. The song earned 596,000 U.S. streams, The festive “Friday” is Riton’s second up 9%, and sold 500 downloads, up 148%, chart hit, following “Turn Me On,” with Songwriters in the tracking week. Another album cut, Oliver Heldens and featuring Vula, a No. 11 “Conga Rock,” with Mat.Joe, arrives at No. hit in January 2020. Chart, Thanks to 30 (385,000 streams; 500 sold). Three other Dance titles hit Hot Dance/ Hits by Gabby Electronic Songs in 2020: “Looking for Me,” Justin Bieber & with Paul Woolford and Kareen Lomax (No. Barrett & Brett 18 peak); “On My Mind,” with SIDEPIECE Jaden Smith’s (No. 25); and “Love to the World,” with Wax Young Motif (No. 48). ‘Never Say Never’ In other Diplo news, Silk City (the duo BY XANDER ZELLNER of Diplo and Mark Ronson), snags a second Video Hits 1 Billion week at No. 1 on the Dance/Mix Show Air- on Nite rises from No. 3 to No. 1 play chart with “New Love,” featuring Ellie YouTube Views on Billboard’s Country Songwriters Goulding. chart (dated March 27), leading for Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter BY KATIE ATKINSON the first time thanks of two songwrit- Aviella (full name: Aviella Winder) earns Jing credits on the latest Hot Country Songs her first Billboard top 10 as “Tell Me What ustin Bieber lodges his eighth entry chart. You’re Thinking” rises 12-9 on Dance/Mix in YouTube’s Billion Views Club as Gabby Barrett’s “I Hope,” which Nite Show Airplay. The track, remixed by Lip- his “Never Say Never” video, featur- co-wrote with Barrett and Zach Kale, ranks less, Disco Fries and JYYE, among others, ing Jaden Smith, hits the milestone at No. 3 after spending 27 weeks at No. 1, the is drawing core-dance airplay on Music Jthis week. longest reign for a song by a woman and no Choice’s Dance/EDM channel, iHeartRa- Revisiting the 2010 music video more accompanying acts and the third-longest dio’s Evolution Network and SiriusXM’s than a decade later is a true time capsule, overall, after Bebe Rexha and Florida Geor- BPM. with the then-16-year-old Bieber towering gia Line’s “Meant to Be” (50 weeks) and Sam Aviella, originally from Rochester, N.Y., over an even tinier 11-year-old Smith in the Hunt’s “Body Like a Back Road” (34). tells Billboard, “I worked on ‘Tell Me What studio. The song was on the soundtrack for Nite also places at No. 10 on Hot Country You’re Thinking’ with some amazing the 2010 remake of The Karate Kid, star- Songs via Brett Young’s “Lady,” which the songwriters from Sweden [David Pietras, ring Smith, who also lends a rap verse to pair co-wrote with Ross Copperman. Nellie Fors and Amanda Johansson]. They JB’s track and is seen throughout the video Nite notched his first songwriting credit approached me with the concept of love and alongside co-star Jackie Chan in scenes on the Hot Country Songs chart in 2012 perseverance and I loved it. I think it’s so from the film. with Thompson Square’s “Glass” (co-writ- important because even if your mind wan- “Never Say Never” was a top 10 hit for ten with Copperman; No. 15 peak). ders or overthinks, there are some things in Bieber on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at Since then, Nite has had a hand in writing life not worth losing.” No. 8 in March 2011. The song also lent its 30 Hot Country Songs hits, including 15 top “The title was originally ‘Don’t Know title to a 3-D concert film that documented 10s and four No. 1s: What You’re Thinking’,” adds Aviella, the pop star’s My World Tour stop at New Artist, Title (songwriters in addition to who also co-wrote the Pietras and Lorne York’s Madison Square Garden, which pre- Nite) Padman-produced song. “We ended up miered in February 2011. Keith Urban & Miranda Lambert, “We Were scrapping that because I wanted a little bit Other Bieber videos that have notched 1 Us” (Jimmy Robbins, Nicolle Galyon) of sass in the song, and I think that fit the billion views include “Sorry” (3.4 billion), Jake Owen, “Beachin’ “ (Jimmy Robbins, Page 30 of 35
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Jaren Johnston) fastest climb to the top since Calibre 50’s song on the Japan Hot 100 in over 10 years Luke Bryan, “Strip It Down” (Luke Bryan, “Contigo” ascended in four weeks on the — she last hit No. 1 on the chart dated Dec. 6, Ross Copperman) chart dated March 21, 2015. 2010, with “Goodbye Happiness.” Gabby Barrett, “I Hope” (Gabby Barrett, As “La Casita” hits No. 1 on Regional The 38-year-old singer-songwriter hit No. Zach Kale) Mexican Airplay, Banda MS claims its 15th 1 on the Japan Hot Albums chart last week Nite has also co-written 18 Country Air- No. 1, dating back 2015’s six-week winner with the project featuring “One Last Kiss,” play top 10s, including 11 No. 1s. “Hermosa Experiencia.” which continues to lead downloads this He succeeds fellow “I Hope” writers “’La Casita’ is a great track written by two week. The song also comes in at No. 2 for Barrett and Kale atop Country Songwriters, excellent friends and composers,” Sergio radio airplay, No. 3 for video views, No. 6 for after they spent a week tied at No. 1 thanks Lizárrga, the band’s MD, tells Billboard. streaming, and No. 9 for Twitter mentions. to their credits on Barrett’s “I Hope” and “With this achievement, the band places a While there are no major changes in the follow-up “The Good Ones.” new single on first place and with it, it accu- top 10 due to a slow week in terms of CD On this week’s Country Producers chart, mulates 15 No. 1 songs. Hitting the top again sales, BTS’ “Dynamite” rises 7-4 after the Joey Moi scores a record-extending 46th gives us great satisfaction.” K-pop supergroup’s performance of the hit week at No. 1, powered by eight production “La Casita” concurrently gains on the song at the Grammys boosted streaming credits on Hot Country Songs, seven from overall Latin Airplay, where the song (No. 3, from 9,218,756 to 9,303,959 streams), Morgan Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double climbs 14-10 in its third week, marking the downloads (No. 10, from 7,117 to 7,853 units), Album. fastest rise to the top 10 by a regional Mexi- and video views (No. 1, from 2,179,412 to The weekly Country Songwriters and can group since La Adictiva Banda San Jose 3,502,704 views). Overall points for the Country Producers charts are based on total de Mesillas’s “Escondidos” reached the top track had been on the decline, but the uptick points accrued by a songwriter and produc- tier also in its third week in November 2019. by over million views in particular has re- er, respectively, for each attributed song that The top 10 jump secures Banda MS its vived the South Korean septet’s all-English appears on the Hot Country Songs chart. 20th top 10 and enters a four-way tie along- track, which logs its 31st week in the top ten As with Billboard’s yearly recaps, multiple side Banda El Recodo de Cruz Lizarraga, of the Japan Hot 100. writers or producers split points for each Intocable and Los Tigres del Norte as the The Billboard Japan Hot 100 combines song equally (and the dividing of points will regional Mexican band with the second- physical and digital sales, audio streams, lead to occasional ties on rankings). most top 10s on Latin Airplay, trailing only radio airplay, Twitter mentions, YouTube The full Country Songwriters and Coun- Calibre 50’s 21 top 10s. and GYAO! video views, Gracenote look-ups try Producers charts, in addition to the full “La Casita,” produced by Sergio Lizárraga and karaoke data. genre rankings, can be found on Billboard. and composed by de Omar Tarazón y Edén See the Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart, com. Muñoz, is the third single from El Trabajo Es dated Mar. 15 to 21, is available here. La Suerte, the band’s top 20 set on Top Latin Albums and No. 2 peak on Regional Mexican Banda MS’ ‘La Albums chart (Aug. 20, 2020-dated list). Bono, Penelope Casita’ Rules Cruz, David Hikaru Utada’s Regional Mexican Oyelowo to Star ‘One Last Kiss’ Airplay Chart in Animated Hits No. 1 on Series on Vaccine BY PAMELA BUSTIOS Japan Hot 100 anda MS’s “La Casita” proves to Importance be a leader as the song conquers BY BILLBOARD JAPAN the Regional Mexican Air- BY ASSOCIATED PRESS play chart (dated March 27), lift- ikaru Utada’s “One Last Kiss” Bing 3-1 in its fourth week on the list. That’s rises to No. 1 on the latest Bill- ono, Penélope Cruz and David the fastest climb to No. 1 since 2015. board Japan Hot 100, dated Oyelowo will lend their voices “La Casita” hits No. 1 with a 7% increase March 15 to 21, after debuting in an animated series to raise in audience impressions, to six million, Hlast week at No. 2. The theme of the highly awareness about the importance earned in the week ending March 21, ac- anticipated Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon Bof global vaccine access. The ONE Cam- cording to MRC Data. The song wraps the a Time is the J-pop superstar’s first No. 1 paign announced Wednesday (March 24) Page 31 of 35
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the new series called “Pandemica,” which will launch Thursday (March 25). The series was created to bring atten- tion to global vaccine access in an effort to end the COVID-19 pandemic. The seven- episode series will feature characters voiced by Kumail Nanjiani, Danai Gurira, Michael Sheen, Phoebe Robinson and Wanda Sykes. The first episode will include Nanjiani, Robinson and Meg Donnelly. “Pandemica’s animated world animates a simple truth — that where you live shouldn’t determine whether you get these life-saving shots,” said Bono, U2’s lead singer and co- founder of ONE, an organization focused on global health and anti-poverty. The series is part of ONE’s ONE World Campaign, which calls for a global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Even while many of us still wait our turn, we need to commit to making sure that billions of people around the world aren’t left at the back of the line,” he continued. “It’s the right thing to do, obviously, but it’s also the only way out of this pandemic for all of us. If the vaccine isn’t everywhere, this pandemic isn’t going anywhere.” Cruz said she wants everyone who watches the animated series to “use their voice and take action” to ensure that no one gets left behind. “Pandemica is a compel- ling illustration of the inequality around the world,” Cruz said. All episodes will be available Thursday at ONE’s website and the campaign’s YouTube channel. The epi- sodes will be released in several countries including the United States, Canada, Nige- ria, South Africa, Senegal, France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the Netherlands. “We’re all trapped in Pandemica, but only some can get out,” Oyelowo said about the series. “This virus thrives on inequality, and right now billions of people around the world are seeing the promise of a vaccine, but not the opportunity to receive it. We must step up and do what it takes to end this pandemic for everyone, everywhere.” Watch the videos below: Page 32 of 35
A WEEKLY NATIONAL Market Watch MUSIC CONSUMPTION REPORT
Source: WEEKLY UNIT COUNT
Total Audio Video Album Digital Digital Albums Consumption Streams On-Demand On-Demand Sales Album Sales Tracks Units This 21,453,405,000 18,617,055,000 2,836,349,000 1,967,000 520,000 3,941,000 15,888,000 Week* Last 21,709,589,000 18,819,084,000 2,890,506,000 1,841,000 499,000 3,836,000 15,902,000 Week
Change -1.2% -1.1% -1.9% 6.9% 4.3% 2.7% -0.1%
This Week 18,162,719,000 15,293,331,000 2,869,388,000 1,523,000 544,000 4,200,000 12,952,000 Last Year
Change 18.1% 21.7% -1.2% 29.2% -4.4% -6.2% 22.7%
*All data measures U.S. activity as of the week ending March 17, 2021. All units counts are rounded to the nearest thousand.
YEAR TO DATE YEAR TO DATE STREAMS 2021 2020 Change TOTAL STREAMING BY AGE Total On-Demand 150m 226,543,950,000 215,059,688,000 5.3% Streams Audio On-Demand 196,436,856,000 177,196,135,000 10.9% 135m Streams
Digital Track Sales 41,822,000 52,899,000 -20.9% 120m
Album Sales 20,661,000 21,532,000 -4.0% 105m 147,839,071,000 Albums 167,622,000 154,732,000 8.3% Consumption Units 90m 134,095,166,000
75m ALBUM CONSUMPTION UNITS BY FORMAT 60m 2021 2020 Change
CD Sales 7,440,000 9,782,000 -23.9% 45m 80,964,522,000 78,704,879,000 Vinyl Sales 7,775,000 4,880,000 59.3% 30m
Digital Sales 5,364,000 6,784,000 -20.9% Catalog Current 15m Other Sales 82,000 87,000 -6.2% 2021 2020 2021 2020 0 Track Equivalent 4,182,000 5,290,000 -20.9%
Audio On-Demand 142,779,000 127,910,000 11.6% Equivalent -2.8% 10.2% Album consumption units — also known as albums plus TEA plus SEA — consists of album sales; track-equivalent album (TEA) sales whereby 10 tracks equal one consumption unit; and stream equivalent albums (SEA) whereby 1,250 paid and/or 3,750 ad-supported audio on-demand streams (OAD) equal one consumption unit. Page 33 of 35 DATA FOR WEEK OF 03.27.2021 HOT 100 SONGWRITERSTM HOT 100 PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 8 WKS DRAKE 1 4 WKS DAN NIGRO 2 LIL DURK 2 SUPAH MARIO 3 LIL BABY 3 YC TIE 4 DAN NIGRO 4 IAMTASH TIE 4 OLIVIA RODRIGO 5 D.A. GOT THAT DOPE 6 DABABY 6 FINNEAS 7 MANEESH BIDAYE 7 BLAQ TUXEDO 8 POOH SHIESTY 8 DANN HUFF 9 BRS KASH 9 NATE RHOADS 10 DAVE BAYLEY 10 JOEY MOI 11 CHRISTOPHER PEARSON 11 BLAKE HARNAGE TIE 12 BELLY 12 DAMN E TIE 12 DAHEALA TIE 13 MAX MARTIN TIE 12 MAX MARTIN TIE 13 OSCAR HOLTER TIE 12 OSCAR HOLTER TIE 13 THE WEEKND TIE 12 THE WEEKND TIE 16 BRUNO MARS 17 MEGAN THEE STALLION TIE 16 D’MILE TIE 18 BILLIE EILISH 18 TYRON HAPI TIE 18 FINNEAS 19 ZACH CROWELL 20 SUPAH MARIO 20 TRAVIS BARKER 21 POP SMOKE 21 TAINY TIE 22 BLAKE SLATKIN 22 JAY JOYCE TIE 22 OMER FEDI TIE 23 BLAKE SLATKIN TIE 24 ANDERSON .PAAK TIE 23 OMER FEDI TIE 24 BRODY BROWN 25 JACK RUTTER TIE 24 BRUNO MARS TIE 24 D’MILE COUNTRY SONGWRITERSTM COUNTRY PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 1 WK JON NITE 1 46 WKS JOEY MOI TIE 2 GABBY BARRETT 2 DANN HUFF TIE 2 ZACH KALE 3 JAY JOYCE 4 ASHLEY GORLEY 4 ZACH CROWELL 5 LUKE COMBS TIE 5 ROSS COPPERMAN 6 ERNEST KEITH SMITH TIE 5 ZACH KALE 7 JESSE FRASURE 7 DAVID FANNING TIE 8 CHRIS STAPLETON 8 SCOTT MOFFATT TIE 8 MIKE HENDERSON 9 COREY CROWDER 10 COREY CROWDER 10 ALEX KLINE R&B/HIP-HOP SONGWRITERSTM R&B/HIP-HOP PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 7 WKS DRAKE 1 2 WKS SUPAH MARIO 2 LIL DURK 2 YC 3 LIL BABY 3 IAMTASH SONGWRITERS & PRODUCERS & SONGWRITERS 4 MANEESH BIDAYE 4 D.A. GOT THAT DOPE 5 POOH SHIESTY 5 BLAQ TUXEDO 6 BRS KASH 6 NATE RHOADS 7 CHRISTOPHER PEARSON 7 DAMN E 8 SUPAH MARIO TIE 8 BRUNO MARS 9 DABABY TIE 8 D’MILE TIE 10 ANDERSON .PAAK 10 TYRON HAPI TIE 10 BRODY BROWN TIE 10 BRUNO MARS TIE 10 D’MILE R&B SONGWRITERSTM R&B PRODUCERSTM MAR. #1 #1 1 1 WK GIVEON 1 5 WKS BLAQ TUXEDO 27 TIE 2 ANDERSON .PAAK 2 NATE RHOADS 2021 TIE 2 BRODY BROWN TIE 3 BRUNO MARS TIE 2 BRUNO MARS TIE 3 D’MILE TIE 2 D’MILE 5 SEVN THOMAS 6 SEVN THOMAS 6 WOODPECKER TIE 7 DRAKE 7 MANEESH BIDAYE TIE 7 NATE RHOADS 8 LOSHENDRIX TIE 7 YUNG BLEU 9 DZL
AIRPLAY/STREAMING & AIRPLAY/STREAMING COMPILED BY DATA SALES TIE 10 MOOSKI TIE 10 CARDIAK TIE 10 WOODPECKER TIE 10 JEFF GITTY The top songwriters and producers on the Billboard Hot 100 and selective genre songs chart that utilize the Hot 100 formula (blending streaming, airplay and download sales data) for the charts dated March 27, 2021. Rankings are based on accumulated weekly points for all charted songs — on the specified chart for the week — on which a songwriter or producer is credited. If a song is written or produced by more than one person, points are divided equally among all credited parties. Page 34 of 35 DATA FOR WEEK OF 03.27.2021 RAP SONGWRITERSTM RAP PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 6 WKS DRAKE 1 2 WKS SUPAH MARIO 2 LIL BABY 2 YC 3 BRS KASH 3 IAMTASH 4 POOH SHIESTY 4 D.A. GOT THAT DOPE 5 LIL DURK 5 DAMN E 6 CHRISTOPHER PEARSON 6 TYRON HAPI TIE 7 MANEESH BIDAYE 7 CHI CHI TIE 7 SUPAH MARIO 8 PXCOYO 9 DABABY TIE 9 DJ SWANQO TIE 10 MASKED WOLF TIE 9 SEAN ISLAND TIE 10 TYRON HAPI TIE 9 YUNG DZA
DANCE/ELECTRONIC SONGWRITERSTM DANCE/ELECTRONIC PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 TIE 1 41 WKS F A L L E N 1 6 WKS HVME #1 TIE 1 41 WKS SAINT JHN 2 F A L L E N TIE 3 ANTON RUNDBERG 3 SURF MESA TIE 3 JAMES BELL TIE 4 HIGHTOWER TIE 3 JULIA KARLSSON TIE 4 TIESTO TIE 3 TIESTO TIE 6 BLOODPOP TIE 7 BOB CREWE TIE 6 BURNS TIE 7 BOB GAUDIO TIE 8 DJ SNAKE TIE 7 SURF MESA TIE 8 MARTY MARO TIE 10 BROCK KORSAN TIE 10 JARLY TIE 10 CARDO ON THE BEAT TIE 10 SIGALA. TIE 10 DAVEON JACKSON TIE 10 KENDRICK LAMAR TIE 10 KEVIN GOMRINGER TIE 10 TIM GOMRINGER TIE 10 TRAVIS SCOTT
LATIN SONGWRITERSTM LATIN PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 3 WKS TAINY 1 72 WKS TAINY 2 BAD BUNNY 2 OVY ON THE DRUMS 3 EDGAR BARRERA 3 MORA 4 MYKE TOWERS 4 ALBERT HYPE SONGWRITERS & PRODUCERS & SONGWRITERS 5 MORA 5 SANTANA THE GOLDEN BOY 6 JHAY CORTEZ 6 SKY ROMPIENDO 7 ALBERT HYPE 7 EDGAR BARRERA TIE 8 HAZE 8 MAG TIE 8 NYDIA YERA 9 MANUEL LARA 10 CAMILO 10 JETA ROSA
ROCK & ALTERNATIVE SONGWRITERSTM ROCK & ALTERNATIVE PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 MAR. 1 1 WK DAVE BAYLEY 1 8 WKS FINNEAS 27 2 FINNEAS 2 AARON DESSNER 2021 3 TAYLOR SWIFT 3 TRAVIS BARKER 4 BILLIE EILISH 4 OMER FEDI 5 OMER FEDI 5 BLAKE SLATKIN 6 BLAKE SLATKIN 6 DAVE BAYLEY 7 AARON DESSNER 7 KBEAZY 8 MACHINE GUN KELLY 8 JOEL LITTLE 9 BLACKBEAR 9 MARSHMELLO
AIRPLAY/STREAMING & AIRPLAY/STREAMING COMPILED BY DATA SALES 10 IANN DIOR 10 RYAN METZGER Page 35 of 35 DATA FOR WEEK OF 03.27.2021 ALTERNATIVE SONGWRITERSTM ALTERNATIVE PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 1 WK DAVE BAYLEY 1 11 WKS FINNEAS 2 FINNEAS 2 TRAVIS BARKER 3 BILLIE EILISH 3 OMER FEDI 4 OMER FEDI 4 AARON DESSNER 5 BLAKE SLATKIN 5 BLAKE SLATKIN 6 TAYLOR SWIFT 6 DAVE BAYLEY 7 AARON DESSNER 7 KBEAZY 8 MACHINE GUN KELLY 8 JOEL LITTLE 9 BLACKBEAR 9 MARSHMELLO 10 IANN DIOR 10 RYAN METZGER
HARD ROCK SONGWRITERSTM HARD ROCK PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 TIE 1 1 WK PETE LOEFFLER 1 8 WKS GREG KURSTIN #1 TIE 1 1 WK SAM LOEFFLER 2 JOE BARRESI 3 WOLFGANG VAN HALEN 3 ZEUSS TIE 4 ANGUS YOUNG 4 BRENDAN O’BRIEN TIE 4 MALCOLM YOUNG 5 KEVIN CHURKO TIE 6 IVAN MOODY 6 FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH TIE 6 JASON HOOK 7 FOO FIGHTERS TIE 6 KEVIN CHURKO 8 DASHDONDOG BAYARMAGNAI TIE 6 ZOLTAN BATHORY 9 TYLER SMYTH 10 SHAUN MORGAN 10 DREW FULK
CHRISTIAN SONGWRITERSTM CHRISTIAN PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 19 WKS ETHAN HULSE 1 21 WKS PAUL MABURY TIE 2 LAUREN ASHLEY DAIGLE 2 JONATHAN SMITH TIE 2 PAUL MABURY 3 JEFF SOJKA TIE 4 BRIAN JOHNSON 4 MICAH KUIPER TIE 4 PHIL WICKHAM 5 AJ PRUIS 6 ANDREW RIPP 6 ETHAN HULSE 7 MICAH KUIPER 7 JASON INGRAM 8 JEFF SOJKA 8 AARON ROBERTSON SONGWRITERS & PRODUCERS & SONGWRITERS TIE 9 AJ PRUIS 9 CHRIS BROWN TIE 9 MATTHEW WEST 10 TEDD T
GOSPEL SONGWRITERSTM GOSPEL PRODUCERSTM #1 #1 1 2 WKS BYRON LEWIS CAGE 1 6 WKS KYLE LEE 2 JOKIA WILLIAMS 2 KENNETH LEONARD, JR. MAR. 3 CHARLES JENKINS 3 ALEX HILL 27 4 TRAVIS GREENE TIE 4 JOHNTA AUSTIN 2021 5 RICH TOLBERT JR. TIE 4 TROY TAYLOR 6 BRIAN COURTNEY WILSON TIE 4 TRYBISHOP TIE 7 DONNIE MCCLURKIN 7 RICH TOLBERT JR. TIE 7 JOHNTA AUSTIN TIE 8 CURTISS GLENN TIE 7 TROY TAYLOR TIE 8 L8BOOM TIE 7 TRYBISHOP TIE 10 JONATHAN JAY TIE 10 TONY BROWN AIRPLAY/STREAMING & AIRPLAY/STREAMING COMPILED BY DATA SALES