Bulletin YOUR DAILY ENTERTAINMENT NEWS UPDATE APRIL 27, 2021 Page 1 of 22

INSIDE Vivid Seats Is Going Public,

• Blackstone Is Testing Investor Confidence Buying eOne Music, Including Death Row in Concerts’ Comeback Catalog, for $385M BY GLENN PEOPLES • Spotify Launches Podcast Subscription Plans With the U.S. concert season returning to pent-up SPAC investors who do not favor an acquisition. In ad- demand for live events, Vivid Seats, one of the leading dition, institutional investors will commit to a private • Spotify Begins secondary ticket marketplaces, has entered into a de- placement of $225 million in common shares. Raising Prices With finitive merger agreement with Horizon Acquisition Vivid Seats will use the acquisition proceeds to pay Family Plans in US, UK Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company down debt by $677 million, leaving $108 million of (SPAC) controlled by Todd Boehly and his Eldridge debt (net of cash) on its books, according to a Horizon • Warner Music Industries investment firm. investor presentation. The company said in a press Group Launches New Horizon raised $544 million in an August 2020 release it will invest in “growth and improvement Ad Sales & Creative Content Division initial public offering on the strength of Boehly’s name customer experiences.” and experience in media and entertainment companies. While some SPAC acquisitions involve developing • PRS for Music Boehly is chairman of MRC, which has an investment technologies such as batteries or nascent industries Warns of Hard Times in Penske Media, Billboard’s parent company, and like legal marijuana, Vivid Seats has healthy mar- Ahead as Revenues Drop 20% counts Los Angeles Dodgers, Draft Kings, The Beverly gins, a history of profitability, and the likelihood it Hilton and Flexjet among his investments. He will join will capitalize on an economic rebound and reboot • Legendary the Vivid Seats board of directors once the deal closes; of the concerts business. But Horizon entered the Recording Engineer Vivid Seats will retain its management team, including picture while the pandemic effectively put the live Al Schmitt Dead at 91 CEO Stan Chia and CFO Lawrence Fey. events business on hold and dropped Vivid Seats gross • Burning Man Vivid Seats will receive roughly $769 million in the order value — the value of all tickets sold, not just the Cancels 2021 Event deal and be valued at approximately $2.06 billion. fees Vivid Seats earned — by 94% in $2.28 billion to Eldrige, which provided $155 million of initial fund- $347 million in 2020 compared to 2019. In turn, net ing, will also invest in any common stock redeemed revenue fell by 75.6% from $471 million to $115 million by Horizon shareholders, a right typically granted to (continued)

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IN BRIEF

and adjusted EBITDA (earnings before in- in funding; and 90 SPACs liquidated — they IPO on the Nasdaq exchange, is likely to terest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) did not close a deal within the time limit, acquire a company in the media, entertain- dropped from $128 million to $5 million. usually 24 months — and returned investors’ ment, communications, telecommunications Vivid Seats weathered the storm by making money. or technology sector — Liberty head John necessary cutbacks, reducing general and Vivid Seats expects that ticket sales will Malone’s sweet spot — although it has not administrative costs by 50% from June quickly return to normal by the end of 2021. yet had “any substantive discussions” with through December and maintaining a posi- According to company estimates, 15 to 20 potential targets, according to the LMAC tive EBITDA. The company’s value took a artists plan to tour in 2021 that will sell over website. hit, however, and Vivid Seats took a $578.5 500,000 tickets to Live Nation events in impairment expense in 2020. 2021, and about 45 of these artists will hit A SPAC is an empty company, often called the road in 2022. (From 2017 to 2019, on av- Blackstone Is a blank check company, that raises money erage, there were 25 of these top-tier artist through an IPO on a public stock exchange tours, according to the presentation.) With Buying eOne with the express purpose of acquiring a vaccinations on the rise in the U.S., tours private company. Companies increasingly are being booked again and thus far ticket Music, Including favor the SPAC process because it avoids the on-sales have impressed: Bad Bunny set a public scrutiny and expenses related to a blistering pace by selling 480,000 tickets to Death Row traditional IPO. SPACs reached a fever pitch his El Último Tour del Mundo 2022 in less earlier this month when Singapore app Grab than one week in early April — the fastest- Catalog, for announced it will list on the Nasdaq stock selling tour since 2018. exchange through a SPAC at a $40 billion Music has received little interest from $385M valuation. Everyone from A-list investors SPACs that tend to focus on high-growth such as Pershing Square, which raised $4 technology companies. To date, only Music BY ED CHRISTMAN billion in July 2020, to celebrity athletes Acquisition Corporation, a SPAC co-found- such as former baseball player Alex Rodri- ed by former Geffen Records president Neil inancial firm Blackstone has signed guez have been involved with SPACs in the Jacobson that raised $230 million in Febru- a definitive agreement to buy eOne last year. ary, is specifically focused on acquiring a Music from Hasbro for $385 mil- Out of 944 SPACs tracked by SPAC Ana- music company. lion, the companies announced lytics, a database of SPAC activity and IPOs, Another potential music investor is FMonday (April 26). 427 SPACs that have raised a total of $138.7 Liberty Media Acquisition Corporation, According to a press release from Hasbro, billion are seeking acquisition; 254 SPAC the SPAC founded by Liberty Media, the its entire music operation, including its mu- IPOs that raised $63.6 billion are waiting to majority owner of SiriusXM Radio and sic operation in Canada, will be acquired by be completed; 130 acquisitions have been minority investor in Live Nation. LAMC, Blackstone controlled entities. Blackstone announced from SPACs with $31.7 billion which raised $575 million in a January 2021 has nearly $650 billion in assets under man-

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BB House_Gene Smith Memorial_06_042421.indd 1 4/19/21 12:24 PM BILLBOARD COUNTRY UPDATE APRIL 13, 2020 | PAGE Page 4 5OF of 1922

ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] IN BRIEF SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country agementAlbu throughms; a variety Brett of investment Y oungBillboard ‘Catc broke the newsh’-es that Hasbro Fifth legal Airplay counsel to Entertainment One Canada vehicles, including SESAC music opera- was shopping the company last month. Limited. tions whichLea includesder; the Harry TravisFox Agency. SourcesDenning told Billboard at Makes the time that History eOne Music will be a separate stand-alone Hasbro was seeking $600 million for its operation, according to the announcement, music operation and subsequently said that Spotify Launches Samhelmed Hunt by’s its second current studio global full-length, president andChris first in overHasbro five years,would Southside only accept sales minimum (up 21%) in bids the trackingof week. On Country Airplay, it hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCATaylor Nashville/Universal, “who will focus Music on building Group Nashville), a debuts$200 at No. million 1 on Billboard for either’s eOnelion audience Music orimpressions, Audio Podcastup 16%). Topcreator-first Country Albums music chart brand dated with April global 18. Inscale its first Limited,week (ending or atApril least 9), it$400 million for both. earned 46,000 equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITH YOUNG Brett Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cordingand expertise.” to Nielsen Music/MRC Data. That means that if Entertainmentand total Country One Airplay No.Subscription 1 as “Catch” (Big Machine Label Group)Plans ascends Southside“I’m excited marks to continueHunt’s second to lead No. and 1 on grow the properly priced Audio Limited valuation 2-1, increasing 13% to 36.6 million impressions. chartthis exceptional and fourth top business,” 10. It follows Taylor freshman said in LP a when it acquired that company, then the re- BY BILLBOARDYoung’s first of STAFFsix chart entries, “Sleep With- Montevallostatement., which“We want arrived the at creative the summit commu in No-- corded masters, and its other small business out You,” reached No. 2 in December 2016. He vembernity to 2014know and that reigned we are for focused nine weeks. on Tomaking date, operation — digital distribution, music pub- followedpotify with the has multiweek announced No. 1sa podcast“In Case You Montevallo has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved millionsure that in album this only sales. benefits them and the lishing and artist management — received a You” (three,subscription January 2018), solution “Mercy” for (two, creators August workMontevallo we do hastogether.” spent 267 weeks on the list, tying valuation of about $170 million. 2018) andhoping “Here Tonight”to attract (two, listeners April 2019). will- LukeeOne Bryan Music’s Crash generated My Party aboutas the sixth-longest- $120 mil- “This transaction will ensure that eOne “Catch”ing completes to pay a hislittle longest extra journey for bonus to No. 1, runninglion in annual titles in revenuethe chart’s in 56-year 2019, accordinghistory. to Music is well positioned to unlock great Scontent.having taken 46 weeks to reach the apex. It out- EntertainmentOn the all-genre One’s Billboard financial 200, Southsideresults. Aboutar- opportunities for its many talented art- pacesStarting the 30-week soon, creators climb of using “Here Spotify’s Tonight.” rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 On Hot Country Songs, “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG afterone-third the No. of 3-peaking that coming Montevallo from .the Audio ists and partners, as Hasbro continues to podcasta new high. creation tool Anchor (which Spotify LimitedHunt first production released the music EPX2C operation,, which debuted which focus on the core strategic elements of our acquired in 2019) will be able to designate andwas peaked acquired at No.in 2019 5 on forTop about Country $215 Albums million, in AugustBrand 2014. Blueprint Following to further COMBS strengthen ‘DOES’ ITour AGAIN Lukeepisodes Combs as’ “Does subscriber-only to Me” (River before House/Columbia publish- Montevallomeaning that, Between record the label Pines: operations Acoustic Mixtape gener- startedposition at its No.as a 7 purpose-led high in Nashville), play and featuring entertain Eric- Churching to, Spotify ascends and11-8 onother Country platforms. Airplay, Like up 10% to Novemberated the bulk 2015. of the remainder $80 million ment company,” said Hasbro24.7 million chairman in audience. and ThePatreon, song is aCombs’ subscriber eighth platform straight career-opening for podcasts 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:in revenue. “Leave the Night On,” “Take Your Time,” “HouseCEO Party”Brian and Goldner “Make in apromoted statement. No. 1 singles. and other content, podcasters will be able to YouThe Miss eOne Me.” Music “Break catalog Up in a Smallincludes Town” owner peaked- at No.The 2. transaction, whichChurch is subject adds to his 15th Countryoffer Airplay various top tiers 10. of subscriptions that can shipHunt of theco-penned famed Deathall 12 songs Row onRecords Southside rap , includingcustomary “Body Like closing a Back conditions and receipt of be tailored based on material. At present, Road,”catalog, which Dualtone was released Records, in Canadian2017. The smash label hit ruledregulatory Country Airplay approvals, for isTHAT expected TOOK to QUITE close ‘A FEW’Spotify MONTHS has Travis three Denningprice tiers: shatters $2.99, the $4.99 record or for threeLast Gangweeks Records, and the airplay-, a small streaming- music publish and sales-based- in the Hot second Country or Songs third quarterthe most of weeks 2021. it J.P.has taken$7.99 to penetrate per month. the Country Airplay top 10 as “After chart for a then-record 34 frames. It now ranks second only to Bebe Rexha and a Few” (Mercury Nashville) climbs 12-10 in its 57th week, up 4% to 21.4 mil - Floridaing operation Georgia and Line a ’sdigital “Meant indie to Be” distribution (50 weeks atop theMorgan latter list is inacting 2017-18). as exclusivelion in radio financial reach. ad- For the next two years, creators will keep company.“Downtown’s Its portfolio Dead,” whichalso includes is also on the the cata new- set, reachedvisor to Nos. Hasbro 14 and on 15 the transaction,The song surpasses Cravath, two tracks100% thatof their took subscriber50 weeks each revenues to enter (excludthe top 10:- onlogs Hot of Country other labels Songs acquired and Country by eOne, Airplay, includ respectively,- Swaine in June & 2018.Moore “Kin LLP,- MayerEaston Brown Corbin In’s “A- Girl Likeing You,” transaction which reached fees) beforeNo. 10 ina 5%January fee kicks2018 be in- folks”ing DRG’s led Country Broadway Airplay soundtracks, on Feb. 29, Sheraton becoming Hunt’sternational seventh No. LLP 1. It and hit Stikemanfore peaking Elliott at No. LLP 6 that February,starting and in 2023.Aaron Watson’s “Outta Style,” which No.Square’s 3 on Hot rock Country recordings, Songs. and Compendia are acting as legal counselachieved to Hasbro its No. and 10 high in DecemberSpotify 2017. launched the program today to a 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 and Light Records’ Christian/gospel music. Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP are acting as test group of 12 creators — including NPR 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 2021 NOEL SCHAJRIS 20TH ANNIVERSARY TRIBUTE

Latin Grammy winner, singer, songwriter and pianist Noel CONTACTS Schajris, has sold more than 25 million records and 1 million tickets since his first solo album 20 years ago, some Joe Maimone of his songs and albums had been appeared at the 201.301.5933 | [email protected] Billboard’s top ten charts. He has earned international Lee Ann Photoglo success with the legendary duet Sin Bandera where he 615.376.7931 | [email protected] and Leonel Garcia created some of the biggest hits in Spanish music history. Cynthia Mellow 615.352,0265 | [email protected] His music videos have more than 700 million views and his social media includes 9.5 million followers from more than Marcia Olival 15 countries. As a recording artist, he has sung duets with 786.586.4901 | [email protected] John Legend, Brian Mcknight, Luis Fonsi, and Reik, just to Ryan O’Donnell name a few. +447843437176 | [email protected]

In 2020 he released the unique web www.NoelSchajris.fan which includes an online store, a fan subscription service and online shows . Mr. Schajris is considered to be one of the most important and celebrated artists in Latin music.

ISSUE DATE 5/15 | AD CLOSE 5/5 | MATERIALS DUE 5/6 Page 7 of 22

IN BRIEF

— who will begin releasing subscriber-only Spotify Open Access Platform (OAP) and Beginning April 30, Billboard has confirmed content to their existing feeds. The company audio advertising marketplace Spotify Audi- that Spotify will begin increasing prices is accepting submissions to be added to the ence Network (SPAN). on a number of plans in different markets, early adopter list, and will expand globally The OAP, which is currently in testing including the United States and Europe. In “over the coming months,” it said. mode, will allow podcasters who have paid the U.S., Family Plan subscribers began re- “By enabling wide distribution of subscriber bases on other platforms to ceiving emails telling them that the price of subscriber-only content, our aim is to help deliver paid Spotify content directly to those their subscriptions will be increasing from podcasters maximize their subscription au- bases, using their existing login systems. $14.99 per month to $15.99 per month, as diences and grow them from their existing SPAN, which Spotify first announced at its reflected in the June billing statement. listener bases,” the company said. “Within Stream On event in February, will begin roll- Meanwhile, in the U.K., Student, Duo and Spotify, this content will be searchable and ing out to select independent creators using Family Plan subscriptions will also see a discoverable like any other podcast episode.” anchor starting May 1. price hike, up one pound apiece for Student Podcast listeners will start seeing small It’s only Tuesday, and this news already and Duo plans to £5.99/month and £13.99/ lock icons next to premium episodes in their joins a string of announcements from month, respectively, with Family Plan podcast feeds. Clicking on the button will Spotify this week. Yesterday, on the music subscriptions rising £2 to £16.99/month. prompt a pitch to “support this podcast by streaming end, Spotify began hiking prices The raises were first reported by The becoming a subscriber.” for Family Plan subscribers in the U.S. and Verge, which also reported that some other Spotify’s top competitor in the podcasting U.K. and launched a Facebook miniplayer al- countries in Europe will see Student and space, Apple, announced last week that it lowing users to stream music directly within Duo plans rise by one euro/month and will launch a similar podcast subscription to the social media platform. Family Plans by three euros/month, with creators and fans starting next month. Apple increases in Asia and South America as well. subscriptions will provide support for ad- “With more than 70 million tracks and 2.2 free listening, exclusive content, and early Spotify Begins million podcasts, Spotify continues to in- access to new shows, however, there will be novate and invest in providing our listeners more fees involved. In line with other App Raising Prices with greater value than ever before, includ- Store purchases, Apple will keep 30% of sub ing the best audio content and user experi- fees for the first year and 15% annually after With Family Plans ence,” a spokesperson told Billboard in a that. statement. “We offer a variety of subscrip- Apple’s podcast division helped popular- in US, UK tion plans tailored to our users’ needs, and ize the format, but in recent years has given we occasionally update our prices to reflect up its lead to Spotify, which has grown BY DAN RYS local macroeconomic factors and meet mar- rapidly. Spotify’s acquisition of Anchor in ket demands while offering an unparalleled February 2019 marked its third podcasting ate last year, Spotify CEO Daniel service.” company acquisition that year — after Gim- Ek released prepared remarks The price increases have long been fore- let Media and Parcast — spending upwards alongside the company’s third cast, with Ek saying last October that “based of $400 million total on the trio. In No- quarter earnings report, in which on our maturity in certain markets and the vember, Spotify added podcast advertising Lhe looked ahead to Spotify’s continuing increasing value we provide to our subscrib- and publishing company Megaphone to its quest to build “the world’s largest audio net- ers — including enhanced content — we’ve arsenal, too. According to market research work,” noting plans for market expansion, seen engagement and more specifically value firm eMarketer, Spotify is expected to pass additional content in the form of podcasts per hour grow substantially over the past few Apple Podcasts in U.S.-based monthly and an enhanced user experience. years.” He continued, “I believe an increase podcast listeners this year, with 28.2 million Six months later, several of those ideas in value per hour is the most reliable signal listeners every month, compared to Apple’s have come to fruition: In February, the we have in determining when we are able to 28 million. company announced an expansion to 80 use price as a lever to grow our business.” For the most part, Spotify’s podcasting additional markets, a promised HiFi And increases may be an important piece push has so far focused on big-name talent, tier and new podcast tools and monetiza- of Spotify’s continued growth plan, as it inking content deals with the likes of Joe tion offerings for creators at its Stream On looks to continue to grow revenue at a time Rogan, Kim Kardashian and Barack and event; while in March it acquired Locker when its licensing costs account for some Michelle Obama. But today’s announce- Room in a bid to get into the live audio 70% of the money it brings in. ment of a new podcast subscription is part space spearheaded by Clubhouse. The price hikes have been on the cards of a three-pronged effort from the company Now, the company is beginning to roll out for a while, with hikes being tested in to help independent podcasters monetize, another aspect of the plan that Ek alluded to Scandinavia — Spotify’s home turf — in the which also includes the newly-announced in those October 2020 remarks: price hikes. summer of 2019, and their further imple- 2021 PRIDE

On June 5th, Billboard will publish its 3rd annual CONTACTS Pride issue honoring culturally moving and Joe Maimone influential people who have contributed to the 201.301.5933 | [email protected] community’s history and its current landscape. Lee Ann Photoglo Year-round Billboard and Rolling Stone celebrate 615.376.7931 | [email protected] the LGBTQIA+ community through the lens of music, amplifying the culture of the proud Cynthia Mellow LGBTQIA+ community across our editorial 615.352,0265 | [email protected] channels, including Billboard Pride. Marcia Olival 786.586.4901 | [email protected] Building on this platform, Billboard and Rolling Stone will be joining together for the entire month Ryan O’Donnell +447843437176 | [email protected] of June to celebrate love, acceptance, diversity and what it means to be queer in music. All month long, Billboard and Rolling Stone will be the go-to destination for music and entertainment Pride content. Leveraging our iconic voices within music and culture, Billboard and Rolling Stone will curate a mix of engaging video and social content featuring thought-provoking panels, heartfelt performances, and glam tutorials – all fostering a community of consumers and influencers in celebration of LGBTQIA+.

ISSUE DATE 6/5 | AD CLOSE 5/26 | MATERIALS DUE 5/27

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mentation being presumably slow rolled by November of Weaver, who arrived from the onset of the pandemic. (Ek had said the Warner Music Comcast, where she had been chief market- company would “tread carefully” while the ing officer. In March, Weaver promoted pandemic raged.) What was unclear was Group Launches longtime Warner Music Group veteran Elsa what those price hikes would look like, and Vivero to the newly-created position of whether they would come in the form of New Ad Sales & general manager/executive vp of WEA, giv- additional subscription tiers — such as the ing her a wide purview within the company. HiFi option, which is on the cards for later Creative Content Blank’s position is also new, representing an in the year — or some form of subscription expanded portfolio under Weaver’s WEA. or payment tied to podcasts, which have Division “Since meeting Ben I’ve been impressed been a particular point of emphasis for the with his drive, his leadership and his fear- company in recent years. BY DAN RYS less ability to think outside the box to create In the U.S., Spotify hasn’t increased the meaningful and engaging content,” Weaver price of its singular premium subscription he Warner Music Group has said in a statement. “He’s always in tune from its $9.99/month rate in the decade launched a new digital advertis- with the cultural conversation and he and since it launched, having preferred to intro- ing sales and creative content the UPROXX team have built something re- duce different types of plans and bundles division, the company announced ally special. There’s no doubt he’s the right at different price points to draw in new TTuesday (April 27). As part of the announce- person to take the reins as we take a new subscribers. Complicating matters is that its ment, Benjamin Blank has been named approach to our owned media.” biggest competitors — Apple Music in par- president of media at WEA overseeing the ticular — are also priced at $9.99/month for department, reporting to recently-installed their music subscription with essentially the WEA president Maria Weaver. PRS for Music same catalog of music on offer. That means The new division will wrap up Warner’s that the varied price points in streaming various owned creative content subsidies, Warns of Hard TV that are seen with competing services including sites UPROXX, HipHopDX and like Netflix, Hulu and Disney+, for example, the live music app Songtrust under Blank’s Times Ahead as don’t apply as comparisons, given that those purview, where he will be in charge of services offer different libraries of content. creative and ad sales for all the company’s Revenues Drop But podcasts are the differentiators here media properties. Blank was most recently for audio streaming services, and those will CEO & chief creative officer of UPROXX, 20% likely take center stage as additional price a site that describes itself as shaping and increases are mooted, tested and rolled out influencing youth culture, which Warner BY RICHARD SMIRKE in the coming months or years. Last week, acquired in 2018. for instance, Apple announced that it will All told, WMG says its YouTube channels, ONDON — The devastating begin allowing podcasters to offer individual streaming and social platforms collectively financial impact of the pandemic subscriptions for fans beginning in May, pull in 30 billion views each month, repre- on songwriters and composers with ad-free listening and exclusive content senting a formidable bloc of interest that can will continue to be felt for several as the draws. That is similar to what Spo- now be sold together to advertisers under Lyears, U.K. collecting society PRS for Music tify announced in February that it would the new structure. says. be rolling out for its podcast creators, which “Warner Music is a powerhouse, home to Despite paying out a record £699 million will be part of “diversified options” around not only some of the world’s most influential ($970 million) to its members last year, rev- paid subscriptions that its creators will be artists, but also to culture-shaping brands enues at the London-based organization fell able to utilize — though, as yet, there hasn’t and online destinations for music fans,” 20% to £650 million ($902 million) in 2020 been further detail on when that would Blank said in a statement. “Putting this as a result of the global health crisis. begin to be implemented. collective firepower under one roof makes With live music almost entirely on hold Later this week, Spotify will present its sense, allowing our partners to tap into our in 2020, the biggest single fall was in public first quarter earnings for 2021, when further broad reach of fans across the globe at an performance receipts, which PRS says fell details may become available. At its last even bigger scale. I look forward to working by 61% to £86 million ($119 million). That report, covering the fiscal year 2020, the alongside Maria and am excited to continue income is generated from the use of PRS company reported it had 155 million paid to collaborate with my UPROXX family and members’ music at U.K. festivals and con- subscribers around the world, with 345 mil- everyone at HipHopDX and Songkick.” certs, as well as plays in British shops, bars, lion monthly active users and $9.5 billion in The move is the latest executive appoint- cinemas, restaurants, offices and nightclubs. revenue for 2020. ment at WEA since the appointment last The collecting society, which represents 2 0 2 1 INDIE L A B E L P O W E R P L AY E R S

On June 5th, Billboard will publish CONTACTS its fourth annual Indie Label Power Joe Maimone Players List. This special feature in 201.301.5933 | [email protected] advance of Indie Week (6/14-6/17) and Lee Ann Photoglo the 10th Anniversary Libera Awards will 615.376.7931 | [email protected] profile leading executives at top independent record labels, publishing Cynthia Mellow companies and distribution companies. 615.352,0265 | [email protected] Positioning themselves as the driving force Marcia Olival behind the success of independent music, 786.586.4901 | [email protected] these executives contribute to the independent music sector and to the Ryan O’Donnell +447843437176 | [email protected] world of music at large.

Take this opportunity to advertise and congratulate this year’s 2020 Indie Label Power Players.

ISSUE DATE 6/5 | AD CLOSE 5/26 | MATERIALS DUE 5/27

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more than 10 million musical works and has growth was 8%, the organization says. was very active on up until his passing), 155,000 members, says that a projected rise In 2020, PRS struck license deals with the family posted the following note: “Al in online royalty income over the next 12 more than 30 new digital platforms, includ- Schmitt’s wife Lisa, his five children, eight months won’t be enough to offset the loss of ing TikTok and Triller. Royalties from those grandchildren, and five great grandchil- public performance income. As a result, PRS services will only start to be paid out to dren would like his friends and extended expects distributions to its members to fall members this year and are not included in recording industry family to know that by at least 10% in 2021. the 2020 annual figures. PRS says a sharp he passed away Monday afternoon, April Much of the £699 million PRS distributed rise in livestream concerts as a result of the 26. The world has lost a much loved and in 2020 — an increase of 2% over 2019 — pandemic, and growth in online gaming respected extraordinary individual, who led came from royalties collected pre-pandemic, platforms, will create additional new rev- an extraordinary life. The most honored and meaning the dramatic fall in income will be enue streams over the next year. awarded recording producer/engineer of all felt hardest by its members in 2021 and be- To date, the PRS Emergency Relief Fund, time, his parting words at any speaking en- yond, PRS for Music CEO Andrea Czapary which was launched last March, has paid gagement were, ‘Please be kind to all living Martin tells Billboard. out £2.2 million ($3 million) in 5,500 grants things.’ Loved and admired by his recording “It has been a tough time and it will be to songwriters and composers facing finan- colleagues, and by the countless artists he a tough time again this year,” says Martin. cial hardship. The average payout was £400 worked with, from Jefferson Airplane, Sam “Our revenues will go up this year, but not ($555). Cooke, Ray Charles, Neil Young, Paul Mc- back to the levels of 2019.” Martin says she’s hopeful that the U.K. Cartney, Diana Krall, Dr. John, Natalie Cole Globally, performance rights revenues live sector will fully reopen from June 21, as and Jackson Browne to Bob Dylan—and so fell by 10.1% to $2.3 billion in 2020 as a per the government’s roadmap, providing a many more—Al will be sorely missed. He result of the pandemic, halting more than a much-needed boost to the industry. “If that was a man who loved deeply, and the friend- decade of continuous growth, according to doesn’t happen,” she says, “our predictions ships, love and admiration he received in IFPI’s “Global Music Report 2021.” [of a 10% fall] are going to be significantly return enriched his life and truly mattered Of the £11 million ($15 million) PRS col- worse.” to him. A light has dimmed in the world, but lected from live performances last year, the we all learned so much from him in his time majority related to U.K. concerts and tours on earth, and are so very grateful to have from the likes of The 1975, Stereophon- Legendary known him.” ics and Madonna in late 2019/early 2020 — With a knack for lush, detailed produc- before Covid-19 brought live entertainment Recording tions that bring to mind the era of classic to a sudden stop, PRS says. vocal jazz, Schmitt won Grammys in six International receipts collected through Engineer Al consecutive decades starting in the ‘60s, reciprocal agreements with other societies when he won his first award for his en- continue to generate most of PRS’ revenue, Schmitt Dead gineering work on Henry Mancini’s Ha- but that income stream also dipped by tari soundtrack. Most recently, he won the almost 11% on a constant currency basis to at 91 2013 best surround sound album Grammy £249 million ($346 million). A reduction for McCartney’s Live Kisses. in radio advertising contributed to a 2.6% BY JOE LYNCH Born April 17, 1930 in Brooklyn, Schmitt decline in broadcast revenues, which totaled served in the U.S. Navy and began apprentic- £127 million ($176 million). ecording engineer Al Schmitt ing at Apex Recording Studios in New York The one area of growth for PRS was in died at the age of 91 on Monday City when he was 19. It was there he began online collections, which were up 5% year- (April 26), according to the his working with legendary engineer/producer on-year to £188 million ($261 million) on the family. With 20 Grammy wins for Tom Dowd, eventually engineering a session back of increased demand for on-demand Rhis work with everyone from Ray Charles for Duke Ellington and His Orchestra on his TV and film services like Netflix and Ama- to Paul McCartney to Natalie Cole to Steely own when no one else was around. zon Prime. Music streaming royalties con- Dan, Schmitt won more Grammy Awards “Duke Ellington sat next to me, and I tributed the lion’s share of online receipts, than any other engineer in music history. was so nervous and it was obvious. I kept rising 2% to £158 million ($219 million). In addition to earning a Grammy Lifetime saying, ‘You know, Mr. Ellington, I’m really PRS said the rise in streaming revenue Achievement Award in 2006, he became the not qualified to do this. This was a huge resulted from a “significant” new license first person to win a Grammy album of the mistake,’” Schmitt told Billboard in a special agreement, “partly offset by a lower value of year award and a Latin Grammy album of tribute to the engineer in 2012. “And he kept prior period royalties and the removal of ad- the year award; additionally, he’s recorded patting me on the leg and saying, `Don’t vances on an existing key license.” Exclud- more than 150 gold and platinum albums. worry, son. We’re going to get through this.’ ing one-offs, underlying streaming revenue On Schmitt’s Facebook page (which he And that was it. I got thrown in, we got it Page 12 of 22

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done, we did four sides. The nice thing was focus on creating community, helping sup- it gave me confidence that I was able to do Burning Man port one of the 59 Burning Man-funded art it. I often think that if they’d told me the projects the organization is helping produce, night before that I was going to record Duke Cancels 2021 support Burners Without Borders. Burn Ellington the next day, I probably would Week, when the event usually happens the have called in sick.” Event week before Labor Day, will be marked with In the same spotlight, McCartney said of online events. Schmitt, “If Al made furniture, it would be BY KATIE BAIN “Black Rock City is radically different Chippendale. If he was a painter, he would from other events,” reads the Blog Post. be Monet. But Al makes music and it’s a urning Man is canceled for “We’re building a city, not a stage. This is Schmitt! He’s one of the best in the world 2021 due to the coronavirus a community, which means money doesn’t and it is my great pleasure to work with pandemic and instead plans to build this; personal intention and dedica- such a superb craftsman. He’s also a great return in 2022, the organization tion do. Our community is the event. We’ve guy.” Bannounced Tuesday (April 27). The event heard from many who don’t feel ready After a 1963 move to Los Angeles to would have been held Aug. 26 to Sept. 3 to come to Black Rock City. While we’re work for RCA, he began his run of classic in Black Rock City, Nevada. confident in our ability to get a permit and recordings, engineering material for Cooke “For 2021, we know the need for commu- to safeguard public health, we know that co- (“Cupid,” “Another Saturday Night”) and nity has never been stronger, and building creating Black Rock City in 2021 would put Mancini (including “Moon River”). When community is what Burners do best. We also tremendous strain on our community while he went independent in 1966, he continued recognize the pandemic is not over,” said we are still ironing out uncertainty.” to engineer LPs and singles for a slew of Burning Man CEO Marian Goodell In a live The blog post also notes that the land on legends, including Young, Browne, Jefferson video announcement Tuesday. “We’ve heard which Burning Man takes place, which is Airplane, Frank Sinatra (both Duets al- your feedback, and we’re really grateful controlled by the Bureau of Land Manage- bums), Natalie Cole (Grammy album of the for all of the work you have been doing to ment, will remain open. “Some of you will year winner Unforgettable… With Love), prepare for Black Rock City. So much, from choose to gather, co-create and celebrate Ray Charles (Grammy album of the year so many.” Burning Man culture on the playa this year,” winner Genius Loves Company), Diana Krall, Goodell continued, “But we’ve made a dif- organizers write. “The Bureau of Land Man- Bob Dylan, Steely Dan, Toto (“Africa”) and ficult decision based on the best information agement says at this time public lands will many more. available to us. We’ve decided to focus our remain open to the public. Anyone choosing Schmitt’s love for music — and attention energy on building Black Rock City 20222. to camp on the playa this year will need to to detail — stemmed all the way back to his It’s too important to do half-a—ed, so we’re be entirely self-sufficient.” childhood, as he shared in a 2018 interview doubling down on next year.” with Billboard. “My uncle [a record produc- With the announcement, Burning Man er] bought me a little wind-up phonograph joins a number of festivals that have decided Charlie and I was listening to big bands all the time,” to completely postpone a 2021 event, in lieu Schmitt told Billboard while promoting his of trying to hold it later in the year. Prior Walk’s Former memoir/how-to manual On the Record: The to the postponement, Burning Man had Magic Behind the Music. “I listened to where considered requiring vaccinations for all Attorneys Fire they had the strings, how the string are set attendees. The fabled counterculture art fes- up, what rhythm sections sounded like, how tival typically draws roughly 80,000 people Back, Demand far in front the vocalist was. Those were to the Black Rock Desert about 100 miles things that were important to me when I north of Reno. Dismissal of $60M was even a little kid.” In a blog post published immediately When asked if he considered himself, 88 after the announcement, organizers noted Malpractice Suit at the time of that interview, even semi- that “although here in the United States we retired, Schmitt replied, “Only when the may be feeling the weight lifting and the BY CLAUDIA ROSENBAUM phone doesn’t ring.” light at the end of the tunnel brightening, we But the phone never stopped ringing. are still in the pandemic, and the uncertain- ew York attorney Marc Ka- More recently, Schmitt had worked on The ties that need to be resolved are impossible sowitz and his New York firm Mavericks’ En Español album and Trisha to resolve in the time we have.” Kasowitz, Benson, Torres is de- Yearwood’s Sinatra tribute, Let’s Be Frank, Goodell reminded the crowd that Burning manding that its onetime client, both in 2019. Man is much more than the event itself, and Nformer Republic Records president Charlie Additional reporting by Melinda Newman. encouraged Burners around the world to Walk, immediately dismiss his “frivolous” Page 13 of 22

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$60 million malpractice suit. Walk was primarily concerned over his studio and soundstage opening later this Walk sued Kasowitz and the firm on “deep fear about being publicly fired for year in Santa Monica, Calif. The respected March 25 in New York Supreme Court, cause” and the “severe and immediate… studio veteran will “bring awareness to blaming them for causing him to lose his consequences that such a firing could have UMG commercial studio offerings to the in- $3.5 million dollar a year job at Universal on his son’s potential matriculation to a dustry and book third party business includ- Music Group by, he claims, failing to vigor- particular college,” according to the letter. ing music, television and film and streaming ously defend him when he was accused It also claims that Walk told the firm “it was [projects],” she tells Billboard. of an old allegation of sexual harassment likely that his wife would divorce him” if he Salvatore, who worked for 30 years out that occurred during his tenure at Sony. In decided to fight UMG. of Capitol Studios in Hollywood, will now the complaint, Walk alleged that Kasowitz “Your client apparently wants to smear be based at UMG’s Santa Monica headquar- “botched representation” during his depar- Mr. Kasowitz and this firm to try to repair ters. She will continue to work with Capitol ture from UMG, leading to “catastrophic his reputation which his own misconduct Studios, as well as with Republic Studios in results” on his career. sullied,” Benson writes. “He will be unable Los Angeles, and UMG’s East Iris Studios in In response, Daniel Benson, an attorney to do so. Your participation in his effort by Nashville. Formerly House of Blues Studios at the Kasowitz firm, dispatched a terse let- defaming Mr. Kasowitz and this firm in your in Nashville, East Iris Studios opened in ter to Walk and his attorneys advising them fictional complaint and in your statements May 2020 and features six commercially to voluntarily dismiss the lawsuit by 5:30 to the media is sanctionable. If the com- bookable studios. p.m. on April 27. If the suit isn’t dismissed plaint is not withdrawn immediately, we “I’ll be dealing with the clients and pick- by that deadline, the letter says the firm will take all necessary and appropriate steps ing out which studio would be best for them will pursue sanctions and ask the court to to obtain redress for you and your client.” and just making sure they have the right award them attorney fees and other costs In an email sent to Billboard, Walk’s at- facility for their needs,” she says, as well as incurred in defending themselves from the torney Bryan Freedman of Freedman & working with the individual studios to plan “frivolous” lawsuit. The letter contends that Taitelman states, “Charlie Walk deserved profile-raising events. Walk’s complaint is not only without any his day in court so that he could present Salvatore reports to Patrick Kraus, merit, but was “undertaken primarily to his truly overwhelming evidence. This case UMG senior vp recording studios and harass or injure Kasowitz.” is simply about that issue not harassing or archive management. “There are very few Benson argues that Walk’s premise that injuring Mr. Kasowitz.” people in our industry with Paula’s breadth the firm failed to aggressively defend his of relationships and deep knowledge of former client is “ludicrously false.” He main- managing recording studios,” said Kraus in a tains that the three independent outside at- UMG Names statement. “Simply put, Paula is a legend in torneys Walk met with during the time Ka- our field — highly respected and beloved by sowitz was representing him all told Walk of Capitol Studios recording artists, engineers and producers his other options to pursue litigation, what alike. This elevated role will leverage her claims he could bring in litigation and of the Vet Paula experience managing Capitol Studios across potential witnesses who would testify. all of UMG’s U.S. facilities and in our global Contrary to Walk’s claim that the lawsuit Salvatore to New strategy.” he was facing concerned his previous stint UMG’s move in January resulted in at Sony, Walk was in fact being investigated National Role shutting down Capitol Studios’ mastering for misconduct he was accused of commit- and tape transfer departments to convert ting while at UMG — namely, his attempts BY MELINDA NEWMAN the space for other resources. The layoffs to kiss a woman at a UMG party, Benson totaled around half a dozen engineers and argues in the letter. After the completion of hree months after Universal Mu- other staffers. that investigation, which was undertaken by sic Group moved to consolidate Though she has been quietly working an independent firm hired by UMG, the administrative services across behind the scenes since the move, Salva- company threatened to terminate him for all its North American studios, tore’s new role had been kept under wraps cause under their harassment policy, Benson Tthe company has promoted former Capi- until now. As word spread of her departure continues. tol Studios vp studio administration and as Capitol’s studio manager in January, there Benson maintains that the firm was pre- sales Paula Salvatore to vp client relations was an outpouring of love for Salvatore pared to aggressively defend Walk, but that and studio marketing. from producers, engineers, artists, session Walk independently decided it would be In the newly created role, Salvatore will musicians and recording personnel on social better to enter into a settlement agreement oversee client relations and studio market- media. rather than go through a protracted and ing across all of UMG’s U.S. commercial “I was very honored about the love and expensive arbitration. recording studios, including UMG’s new support I received.... I was overwhelmed,” Page 14 of 22

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she says. “I know Capitol Studios was re- and Kehlani will close out the San Francisco celebrated the one-year anniversary of structuring and I quickly became aware they festival. Sunday will also be filled with mu- the release of album Saint Cloud and was had a client-facing position for me that they sic from Nelly, Brittany Howard, Burna Boy, filmed in Kansas City. The two entities also were working on and, fortunately, every- Troyboi, Sofi Tukker, Cam and more. partnered for Ani DiFranco’s Revolution- thing worked out well. I get to spend more Outside Lands has also announced the ary Love album release with a livestream on time taking care of my clients’ needs and sale of single-day tickets. According to April 18. more time inspiring and nurturing.” organizers, the festival has already sold out “Ground Control Touring is one of the Salvatore has played an integral part in of three-day GA and VIP passes for the fes- sharpest - and, let’s be honest, coolest - recording sessions for top artists ranging tival’s return. A handful of three-day Golden agencies in music, and we’re excited to be from James Taylor to Tony Bennett, Paul Gate Club tickets still remain. Outside partnering with them on our shared mission McCartney, Diana Krall, Barbara Streisand, Lands single-day tickets will be available of bringing their acts’ live music goals to and Frank Sinatra. Prior to Capitol Studios, for purchase this Thursday at 10 a.m. PT. fruition,” said Mandolin CEO Mary Kay Salvatore managed the Sound City Studios Single-day GA ($165), single-day VIP ($375) Huse in a release. in Van Nuys, Calif., the subject of Dave and single-day Golden Gate Club tickets will Under the terms of the deal, Mandolin Grohl’s 2013 documentary. be available exclusively at SFoutsidelands. will power upcoming GCTV streams and Though her office will be in UMG com. serve as a continuation of the series that headquarters, Salvatore still plans to spend Check out the poster below for a full daily Ground Control Touring launched in mid plenty of time in the recording studios. “I lineup breakdown. 2020 to provide a solution for their artists just love being in recording studios because to present ticketed live and pre-recorded I think they are the most special places streaming concerts. Shows hosted on Man- where creativity is nurtured and inspired,” Ground Control dolin through GCTV will not be limited to she says. “I believe that’s UMG’s vision and Ground Control Touring clients and will it’s one that I plan to help keep alive.” Touring Inks include non-GCT bands, festivals, and other Exclusive partners as well. Outside Lands Streaming Pact Chinese Pop Announces With Mandolin Music Superstar Daily Schedule & JJ Lin Signs With Single-Day Passes BY TAYLOR MIMS ooking agency Ground Control UTA BY TAYLOR MIMS Touring has signed an exclusive livestreaming partnership with BY ETAN VLESSING utside Lands has announced the streamer Mandolin. Ground Con- daily lineup for its 2021 edition Btrol Touring is the first booking agency to hinese pop music superstar JJ this October. exclusively partner with Mandolin to host, Lin has signed with UTA for U.S. Friday night will be headlined produce, and market select forthcoming and European representation in Oby The Strokes, Tyler, The Creator and shows from its powerhouse roster of artists. all areas. Glass Animals. The first day of the festival The announcement comes on the heels CThe Singaporean artist has reached over that typically occurs in August will also of Mandolin’s previous exclusive partner- 121 billion streams on online music plat- see sets from Kaytranada, Khruangbin, ships with The Ryman Auditorium and City forms worldwide, while nabbing around Earthgang, Sharon Van Etten, SG Lewis and Winery. 400 music awards across Asia. Last month, more. “We are excited to partner with Mandolin Lin released his first English album, Like Lizzo will take the top spot on Saturday to power our upcoming streams, bringing You Do, through Warner Music, and also following fellow headlining performances their best-in-class software solutions to our recently released “Bedroom,” a bittersweet from Vampire Weekend, Zhu and Young roster of artists and their fans worldwide,” ballad sung with UK singer Anne-Marie. Thug. Saturday will also feature Lord said Ground Control Touring vice presi- He launched his career with his debut Huron, Melanie Martinez, 24kGoldn, Angel dent John Chavez in a release. album Music Voyager, which earned him the Olsen and Hinds. The partnership kicked off last month best new artist trophy at the Golden Melody On Halloween and the Sunday of the with a special anniversary show on March Awards. Lin’s earlier hit singles include event, Tame Impala, J Balvin, Rufus Du Sol 27 from Waxahatchee. The performance “River South,” “Cao Cao,” “If Only” and Page 15 of 22

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“Twilight,” while he also lent his voice to the — set in the fictional Mooby’s fast food res- can’t suck,” noting whenever possible they Mandarin version of Luis Fonsi’s interna- taurant that holds a special place in the film work with local providers for craft beer, tional hit single “Despacito.” lexicon of writer, director and actor Kevin cider and CBD water. Lin has collaborated with Hans Zim- Smith. Mooby’s was where Rufus (Chris Smith said he and Mewes fly out to the mer, Jason Mraz, Ayumi Hamasaki, Steve Rock) revealed that Jesus was actually black opening of Mooby’s popups across the Aoki and Jackson Wang, among others. in Dogma (1999) and where Jay and Silent country for a ribbon cutting ceremony and And he has completed four world tours and Bob (played by Jason Mewes and Smith) “interact with the fan base in a world where more than 130 shows, with 66 shows from respond to trolls with a double-digested we couldn’t do live shows all year long.” The his recent Sanctuary World Tour selling out threat that sets the course for Jay and Silent food is served to-go, typically priced $29 per within 10 minutes of tickets being released . Bob Strike Back (2001). person and includes a main item — the Cow He was named as one of Forbes Asia’s 100 But its Clerks II that gives Mooby’s a Tipper burger (vegan available), the C*** Digital Stars and did guest appearances on deeper dimension, one that Smith, who also Smoker friend chicken sandwich and the China’s The Voice. In gaming, Lin launched tours as a comedian and storyteller, has been Cow Dong vegan brat (cows are female by Team Still Moving under Gunfire (Team taking on the road for the past year. Smith the way). SMG), a professional esports team in China created a pop-up version of the fast food “We just did our tenth one in Boston two and Southeast Asia. joint at the beginning of the pandemic with weeks ago and the staff was very enthusi- Lin will continue to be represented by JFJ the help of artist Derek Barry, who built astic — not because of me and the movies, Productions. similar installations for fans of Saved by the but because they hadn’t seen each other in This article was originally published Bell, Beverly Hills 90201 and Good Burger. months and this was like their opportunity by The Hollywood Reporter. After touring the Mooby’s popup around to get back together,” Smith said. “And they the country, Smith’s agent Seth Seigel from kept telling me thank you for bringing this WME had an idea — expanding the popup here. It’s not the money, which I’m sure Kevin Smith Brings concept to shuttered venues. people like, but the friendships that bring “These venues haven’t had any ticket people together.” Mooby’s PopUp to sales or presales for a year — and now their “And they’re great tippers,” Seigel quickly first on-sale is a Kevin Smith popup,” Seigel followed up, noting the restaurant staff Struggling Venues tells Billboard, noting that the first venue keeps 100% of gratuities. “We are constantly they booked was First Avenue in Minneapo- hearing how generous Kevin Smith’s fans BY DAVE BROOKS lis. “And these venues that were closed can are to the host venues.” bring back their workers and can reopen Learn more here. re the Transformers blasphe- their kitchens for their fans to come back mous? and visit.” Perhaps in a literal sense, but So far Mooby’s has visited the Van Buren Billboard & Hot as the 19-year-old character Elias in Phoenix, the Up Down in Des Moines explainsA in the 2006 film “Clerks II,” char- and House of Blues in Boston. Moobys is Topic Launch acters such as Optimus Prime are truly more currently visiting St. Louis and will head to than meets the eye. Austin next. Limited-Edition “Since God created man, and man created “We don’t make a lot of money from the the Transformers, the Transformers are restaurant part of it because the restau- T-Shirt Collection a gift from God!” Elias (played by Trevor rants take the risk buying the food, paying Fehrman) excitedly explains to Randal their staff and keeping the lights on,” Smith BY HERAN MAMO (Jeff Anderson) of Clerks fame. tells Billboard. The director says he takes In the first Clerks, Randal gifted the world a small percentage of each food sale and illboard announced a new with “I’m a firm believer in the philosophy moves a ton of surplus and new merchan- partnership with Hot Topic on a of a ruling class, especially since I rule” and dise, including Moobys hats, uniforms and limited-edition clothing collec- in the film’s sequel, he doesn’t fail to up the shirts at each location. tion celebrating the past, present ante when responding to Elias’ moral calcu- The menu for the popup was created by Band future of pop music culture. lation of the Transformers. Chef Royce Burke from LA restaurants like The new, one-of-a-kind collection with “No sir, they are not a gift from God,” Ran- Yarrow and Secret Lasagna. the retailer specializing in music and pop dal replies. “They are an unholy curse from “The food experience is going to be satis- culture-inspired fashion contains 50 T- the beast we call The Desolate One.” fying,” Smith said. “Derek (Barry) works in shirts with retro designs highlighting the And so begins the best plot line in Clerks the restaurant business and reminds me that power of music, including the Billboard and II — that of coming of age in a dead-end job the most important part of this is the food. It Billboard Hot 100 logos from different Page 16 of 22

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decades and boombox decals. T-shirt prices mán Chávez in 2012 in their native Nuevo There are no plans to open an Austra- range from $22.90-$26.90. León, Mexico, Remex’s catalog encompasses lian office, Georges Fornay, deputy CEO of “Music has the power to drive different wide-ranging regional Mexican sub-genres Qobuz tells Billboard. Instead, the com- aspects of culture, especially fashion,” said such as banda, mariachi, norteño, cumbia, pany has recruited U.K.-based Jessica President of Billboard Julian Holguin in a sonora and sierreño. Porter-Langson as a music merchandiser, statement. “We’re thrilled to partner with “We are very happy about the acquisition an “Australian music expert” with a specific Hot Topic, a retailer known for its cel- of the diverse and rich catalog of Remex focus on the antipodean markets. ebration of individuality, to honor music’s Music built through the successful work Australia’s recorded music is thriv- unique influence and share Billboard’s con- of Domingo and Germán during recent ing right now, largely due to streaming tent with fans through exciting verticals.” years,” said Roberto López, president platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and You- This partnership marks the Bill- of Sony Music México. “We are proud to Tube Music. Streaming powered the market board brand’s first domestic licensing launch team up with such talented executives who to a sixth consecutive year of growth in since joining P-MRC Holdings in Septem- will continue developing their roster in the 2020, according trade data published by ber 2020. The joint venture between MRC dynamic and vibrant regional Mexican mar- ARIA in March. and Penske Media Corporation, which also ket. This musical catalog is a new treasure Subscription platforms, a category that includes The Hollywood Reporter, Rolling for us that we will curate with the utmost includes Spotify and Apple Music, generated Stone, Variety and Vibe, among other maga- care.” A$362 million in the calendar year 2020, up zines, recently signed a deal with South Aside from continuing to develop its art- 14% from the previous year. by Southwest. P-MRC is reportedly taking ists, which includes chart-topping band Ed- The market is far from saturated at the a 50% stake in SXSW and plans to bring win Luna y La Trakalosa de Monterrey, high-res end, notes Fornay. Qobuz is “of- its “media expertise and new avenues for Grupo Pesado, Leandro Ríos, among others, fering something uniquely different to the discovery” to the iconic event, while look- Domingo and Germán will release new other platforms out there,” he enthuses, ing for expansion opportunities with new content pursuant to its renewed alliance namely the ability to download or stream at events and business models. with The Orchard. CD quality or Hi-Res “studio quality” audio See the limited-edition collection on Hot “We are proud that in the decade (24-Bit up to 192 kHz). Topic’s website here. since Remex Music was launched, execu- In addition to its catalog of 70 million tives like Roberto López have shown inter- tracks, Qobuz also offers album reviews, art- est and trust in our roster’s talent,” Domingo ist biographies, musical booklets, interviews Sony Music and Germán said in a statement. “This opens and music news. the possibility of team-ups with Mexican The service in Australasia is available Mexico Acquires and international artists across genres, at several different price points, starting which will develop our artists’ markets even with the “Studio Premier” plan at A$19.16 Catalog of more.” each month (or A$229.99 yearly), while a subscription to the “Studio Premier Family” Regional Mexican plan is sharable to up to six accounts under Hi-Res Streaming one roof and is priced at A$44.99 per month Label Remex or A$429.99 for a full year. Service Qobuz The “Studio Sublime” plans unlock Music Qobuz’s catalog of Hi-Res and CD-qual- Launches In ity albums, for an annual subscription of BY GRISELDA FLORES A$299.99 or A$599.99 for the family offer- Australia, NZ ing. ony Music Entertainment Méxi- The expansion into these parts comes co has signed an agreement to BY LARS BRANDLE after Qobuz secured €10 million ($12 mil- acquire the musical catalog of the lion) in new capital to “drive its momentum” regional Mexican label and man- obuz, the hi-res-first audio and “consolidate its future developments.” Sagement company Remex Music, the parties streaming and download brand, Founded in France in 2007, Qobuz also announced. is now open for business in Aus- operates in the U.K., Ireland, Germany, While neither Sony nor Remex provided tralia and New Zealand. Austria, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, specifics on the economics of the deal, it’s QWith its rollout Down Under, Qobuz is Luxembourg, the Netherlands and in the worth noting that the accord includes cata- available in 18 territories across Europe and Nordic countries of Sweden, Denmark, Nor- log only, not ownership of the label. in the United States, where it came online way and Finland. Launched by brothers Domingo and Ger- in 2019. Page 17 of 22

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knows, Atlanta is a very huge cornerstone At Polyvinyl, Good Morning join an eclectic R&B Duo DVSN in modern R&B. I think for us to bring them artist stable alongside the likes of Alvvays, to meet our vibe and take what they do and STRFKR, Julia Jacklin, Kero Kero Bonito Signs to LVRN add a little bit more southern flavor [will be and others. great].” Of the signing, Polyvinyl label director Management Known for their slow-burning ballads, Seth Hubbard enthuses, “I’ve been a fan of dvsn joins a roster jampacked with elite the band for years, but when I heard their BY CARL LAMARRE R&B firepower in Summer Walker and newest collection of songs I was blown 6LACK. “We plan to change the climate away. We are so excited for Polyvinyl to help oday (Apr. 27), LVRN announces of R&B. So we had to get the team that we share this music with the world.” the management signing of R&B know can help get that done,” the group tells The first release through the new pact duo dvsn, Billboard reports. The Billboard. Baiden believes the company’s is “Mollyduker” and “Keep It,” their first Toronto tandem comprised of acquisition will help them form a potent tri- taste of new music since 2019’s melancholy Tsinger Daniel Daley and producer Nine- umvirate between his three signees as they LP Basketball Breakups. teen85 will remain signed to Drake’s OVO advance into the future. Locally, the band continues to release mu- Sound while being anchored on the man- “There is no other better home for R&B sic via their own imprint Good Morning agement front by the Atlanta-based record than what we’re creating. That’s just a fact. Music Company Worldwide via Virgin label. Anybody can say what they want. In the last Music Australia. “I think for us, it’s really about expan- four years, we put up arguably two, three The two-track is due out Wednesday sion, but expanding in a way that makes classics in R&B. I don’t know anybody else (April 28), and will be supported with tour sense to what’s true to our core and our that’s doing that that’s not a major label,” dates across their home state Victoria, start- identity,” says LVRN co-founder and head relays Baiden. “Obviously, major labels sign ing June 11 at The Curtin Bandroom in their of A&R, Justice Baiden. “With dvsn, I’ve in bulk, but if you look at the stories that hometown. always been a fan, especially following their have come out in R&B with Summer and “Mollyduker” and “Keep It” were written first project Sept.[ 5]. Me as a fan. I always 6LACK. Those are all important stories in collaboratively during a two-week-long stint reach out to other artists doing their thing the space. I don’t think there’s anybody that in quarantine, when the act returned last and say, ‘I’m f—king with what y’all are do- understands the space and is dedicated to year from their 2020 U.S. tour cut short by ing. This is what we’re doing,’ and we kind the space as much as we are. If you want to the pandemic. of just stayed cordial.” have a career in R&B, come to LVRN.” A full-length set from Polyvinyl will fol- Last year, dvsn released their third low later in 2021. album, A Muse in Her Feelings. Boasting features from Future, Ty Dolla $ign, Jes- Australian Indie sie Reyes, Snoh Aalegra, and more, their Eric Church Tops 2020 effortscored a top-five debut on Duo Good the Billboard R&B charts. In January, they Artist 100 Chart returned with their album’s deluxe edition Morning Sign titled, Amusing Her Feelings. According to for First Time, Baiden, the group has already started work- With Polyvinyl ing on new music with revered Atlanta stars Thanks to New LP Jermaine Dupri and Sean Garrett. Records: Exclusive “Dvsn has been known this far for their ‘Heart’ music, and I feel like the pieces to the puz- BY LARS BRANDLE zle make it a little bit more exciting because BY XANDER ZELLNER now we get to know them individually, verything’s looking good for what they care about, who they are, what Melbourne duo Good Morning, ric Church vaults from No. 86 they stand for, what the vibe is and how can who’ve struck a new record deal to No. 1 on the Billboard Art- draw it out into a space where the average ahead of the unveiling of new ist 100 chart (dated May 1) to consumer knows who they are in terms of Emusic and a run of live shows. become the top musical act in the individually as artist and producer,” he says. The melodic indie pairing of Stefan EU.S. for the first time, thanks to his new “Also, from a music standpoint, I think the Blair and Liam Parsons sign to Champaign, album Heart. roots that we have are completely differ- Illinois-based Polyvinyl Records on a The set debuts at No. 5 on the Billboard ent from where they’re from. They’re from global basis (excluding Australia and New 200 with 49,000 equivalent album units Toronto, and we’re from Atlanta. If anybody Zealand), Billboard can exclusively confirm. earned, according to MRC Data. Of that Page 18 of 22

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sum, 40,000 are from album sales, as it de- by a woman since March 2011, when Jason trip to the tier since 2017, when “Yours If buts atop the all-genre Top Album Sales list. Aldean and Kelly Clarkson’s “Don’t You You Want It” became the trio’s 14th leader The album marks Church’s sixth career Wanna Stay” led for three frames. that August. Rascal Flatts extends its record top 10, all of which have hit the top five, on The last time that a woman unaccompa- for the most top 10s among groups of three the Billboard 200 and first since Desperate nied by any other act dominated for three or more members dating to the list’s January Man in 2018 (No. 5 peak). On Top Coun- weeks or more before Barrett was when 1990 inception. try Albums, Heart opens at No. 3, marking Miranda Lambert’s “The House That Built Church’s ninth top 10, and eighth top five Me” reigned for four frames starting in June title. 2010. Tori Kelly, Rachel Plus, Greta Van Fleet re-enters the Artist “Wow, a No. 1 single is something that is 100 at No. 3 on the strength of its sopho- so, so special, and for this song to be No. 1 Platten & More more LP The Battle at Garden’s Gate. The set for three weeks is astonishing,” Barrett mar- arrives at No. 7 on the Billboard 200 and No. vels. “It means the world to me to know that to Perform At 1 on the Top Rock Albums chart with 44,000 it has resonated with so many people. I’m units. The band topped the Artist 100 for thankful to our Lord Jesus, my own good Christina Grimmie a week in November 2018, when its prior one [husband] Cade, my fans for supporting LP Anthem of the Peaceful Army debuted at me, country radio for welcoming me and to Tribute Concert: No. 3 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on Top my family, label and team for always believ- Rock Albums. ing in me and my music.” “The Good Ones” Exclusive The Artist 100, which launched in 2014, first topped the Country Airplay chart dated measures artist activity across key metrics April 17, marking Barrett’s second career- BY ANNA CHAN of music consumption, blending album and opening No. 1, after “I Hope” led for a week track sales, radio airplay, streaming and in April 2020. She became the first woman hristina Grimmie’s friends and social media fan interaction to provide a to go two-for-two out of the gate since family are coming together to pay weekly multi-dimensional ranking of artist Kelsea Ballerini, who earned the honor with tribute to the late Voice contestant popularity. “Love Me Like You Mean It” in July 2015 with virtual fundraising show For all chart news, you can follow @bill- and “Dibs” in March 2016. C“Concert For a Cause” five years after her board and @billboardcharts on both Twitter ‘UP’ TO TOP 10 Sam Hunt banks his death, and the Christina Grimmie Founda- and Instagram. ninth top 10 on Billboard’s Hot Country tion is sharing the lineup with Billboard first. Songs chart, which blends airplay, sales and Tori Kelly, who paid tribute to her friend streaming data, as “Breaking Up in the 90’s” with “Blink of an Eye” one month after the Gabby Barrett Is jumps 13-6, up by 38% to 7.1 million streams. rising star’s 2016 death, is set to perform On Country Airplay, it pushes 7-5 for a new during the show. Also taking the stage First Woman to high, up by 10% to 21.1 million impressions. are Rachel Platten, who toured with Grim- Hunt’s latest is the first Hot Country mie; Audra McLaughlin and Jacquie Lee, Achieve This Feat Songs top 10 whose title references an entire her friends from season six of The Voice; and decade since K.T. Oslin’s “80’s Ladies” hit YouTubers Sam Tsui, Tiffany Alvord, and Atop Country No. 7 in July 1987. Meanwhile, he has the Tyler Ward. Kurt Schneider, who was Grim- second top 10 whose title calls out the ‘90s mie’s producer, will be joining Tsui for “Just Airplay Chart in overall: Jason Aldean’s “1994” reached No. a Dream,” and also worked with the artists 10 in 2013. for a special tribute to the singer. Music Over a Decade ‘GLAD’ TIDINGS Dan + Shay net their from The Similar and Stephen Rezza will 11th Hot Country Songs top 10 as “Glad You also be featured during the show. BY JIM ASKER Exist” jumps 18-10, having surged by 48% Hunter March of E! News’ Nightly Pop is to 6,000 sold and 8% to 5.7 million streams. hosting the event, which will be a tribute abby Barrett’s “The Good Ones” On Country Airplay, it pushes 23-21 (8.6 to Grimmie’s legacy as well as a fundraiser holds atop Billboard’s Country million). The duo performed the song on the to help families impacted by gun violence. Airplay chart (dated May 1), Academy of Country Music Awards April 18 Grimmie, who finished third in her season with 27.6 million radio audience and won for duo of the year. of The Voice, was shot and killed during a Gimpressions in the week ending April 25, ac- MEMORABLE TOP 10 Plus, Rascal fan meet-and-greet in June 2016. She was cording to MRC Data, adding its third week Flatts earns its 32nd Country Airplay top 10 22. Her brother, Marcus, was able to tackle at No. 1. as “How They Remember You” lifts 11-10 (18 the gunman. The song is the first three-week leader million, up 8%). It marks the group’s first “We’re honored to see the amount of Page 19 of 22

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support we’ve gotten for this event from has been extended (on view through fall). so many of the people Christina cherished, “We’re thrilled that the day has come that Porter Robinson respected, and loved, and we’re excited to we can reopen our doors and welcome our bring this event to Team Grimmie and fans community back to the Grammy Museum…” Shares His Set around the world,” Marcus said in a state- said Michael Sticka, the museum’s presi- ment. dent. “We have a wide range of new exhibits From Secret Noted dad Albert, one of the foundation’s for visitors to experience and I’m proud of founders, “This June marks five years since our hard-working team who has made sure Sky Virtual Fest, Christina was taken from us, and while we the Museum is safe and enjoyable for all.” miss her immensely, we are choosing to The museum is taking active measures Announces Fall celebrate her life by continuing her legacy of to maintain a safe environment for guests, love, hope, and inspiration.” including new health and safety protocols Bay Area Show The show is set to stream June 8 at 8 such as limited capacity, advanced timed- p.m. ET via the concert’s official web- entry online ticketing, required face-mask BY KATIE BAIN site. The event is free, but donations are wearing, mandatory temperature checks, a encouraged, and will benefit the Christina touchless visitor experience, enhanced and pril 24 might as well been named Grimmie Foundation, which helps families more frequent cleaning and sanitizing pro- Porter Robinson Day on Twitter, rebuild their lives after losing someone to tocols, one-way paths through the museum with the platform going wild in gun violence. floors, social distancing marks, hand sanitiz- the wake of the producer drop- ing stations, and more. ping ANurture, his seven-years-in-the-making The museum’s Clive Davis Theater, where sophomore album. Artists including G Grammy Museum the popular public programs are held, Jones, Rezz, Jai Wolf and more dropped into remains closed until further notice for eve- the feed to congratulate Robinson on the Set to Reopen ning programming, but will be open during album, which has already garnered millions the day as part of the Motown exhibit for of streams and many glowing reviews. Next Month special film viewing. Online advanced ticket The festivities continued the follow- reservations are now available. ing day, with Robinson playing the album BY PAUL GREIN The museum will continue to engage with during the second iteration of his virtual online audiences through Grammy Museum festival, Secret Sky. Robinson’s set launched he Grammy Museum at L.A. Live at Home, providing digital educational with him on the piano, then jumping around in Los Angeles will reopen its content and lesson plans as part of the onstage and singing the album single “Some- doors to the public on Friday, May Grammy in the Schools Knowledge Bank, thing Comforting.” (While the vocals are 21, following a 14-month closure and their official online streaming service, pitched up, Robinson was in fact singing Tdue to the COVID-19 pandemic. Collection:live. live, with his voice being adjusted in real Museum members will have special pre- The museum will celebrate its reopening time.) Watch the complete set below. view days on Saturday, May 15, and Sunday, with a members-only virtual event taking Robinson’s moment continued Monday May 16. During the first phase of reopening, place on Thursday, May 13, at 5:30 p.m. PT. (April 26) with the announcement that the the museum will follow guidelines provided “A Reopening Celebration with the Grammy second edition of his IRL festival, Second by L.A. County for museums. It will re- Museum” includes a recently recorded in- Sky, is taking place in the Bay Area this fall. open at limited capacity to maintain social terview and performance with Brandi Car- Produced by Goldenvoice, the show will distancing. In addition, the museum will lile and a first look at the new exhibits. This happen at Berkeley’s Cesar E. Chavez Park provide free admission to first responders, is available to current museum members or on September 18-19, with Robinson as the healthcare workers and essential workers members who join by Wednesday, May 12. headliner and additional artists to be an- through June. For more information, visit www.gram- nounced in the coming weeks. The museum will re-open with three new mymuseum.org. While the event has not yet addressed exhibits: “Dave Matthews Band: Inside COVID protocols, a press release notes that and Out” (on view through fall), “Y Para Second Sky 2021 moved to a larger venue Siempre…Marco Antonio Solís” (on view after the debut 2019 event sold out quick- through spring 2022), and the previously ly. Second Sky debuted in June 2019, with announced “Motown: The Sound of Young a lineup featuring Robinson, Anamanaguchi, America” presented by City National Bank Cashmere Cat, Nina Las Vegas, Madeon and (on view through winter). Additionally, the others. museum’s “This Is Nat King Cole” exhibit Robinson has been working on the live Page 20 of 22

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show for Nurture for the better part of the Last month, they streamed their Salute The 18-year-old hitmaker announced on year, telling Billboard that while he initially HER Awards which honored Black women Tuesday (April 27) that she’s the latest addi- intended to make the show a bit melan- from various industries. The honorees tion to the performer lineup with a picture cholic to match the tone of the album, “as I were immunologist Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett; of her U.K. drivers license, writing on Insta- started putting the show together, perhaps author Denene Millner; Melanie Campbell, gram, “My first time in the uk and I’m gonna purely as a consequence of having been in president/CEO of the National Coalition on be performing at the @brits omg. so excited quarantine and seeing no live shows for the Black Civic Participation; professional mod- I can hardly wait!” previous year, I kept cranking up the fun. I erator Latosha Brown; restaurateur Pinky Rodrigo’s Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 block- couldn’t stop. I made everything into a more Cole; actress Holly Robinson Peete; and buster debut single “Drivers License” is fun version of itself.” Cynthia Erivo, Tony, Grammy and Emmy the U.K.’s biggest song of 2021 (so far) after winner. spending nine weeks at No. 1 on the Official According to their website, “Café Mocha U.K. Singles Chart, making it the U.K.’s Earth, Wind & is ‘radio from a woman’s perspective’ and longest-reigning No. 1 debut single in the only nationally syndicated show dedi- 15 years. Her highly anticipated debut Fire, Ludacris cated to women of color. The show’s mis- album Sour will be released on May 21, 10 sion is to create an empowering experience days after her BRIT Awards performance. & More to Be for women via a 360° multi-media approach The BRIT Awards teased her perfor- that includes the radio show, events, digital mance on Monday with a One Direction- Honored at 2nd and social media activations.” inspired clue. The official awards show Presented by AARP and Toyota, the account wrote out the lyrics to the U.K. boy ‘Saluting Our upcoming ceremony will feature music trib- band’s “Olivia” lyrics (“The summertime utes. It will benefit the Mocha Cares Foun- and butterflies, all belong to your cre- Culture’ Virtual dation, supporting housing and services to ation...”), before sending a cryptic series of combat homelessness and domestic violence emojis hinting at “Drivers License” and its Event through mentorship programs. follow-up single “Deja Vu.” It then alluded “Café Mocha is ecstatic to pay homage to to the latter by writing, “What’s it called BY CYDNEY LEE this year’s honorees, who collectively exem- when you feel like you’ve been here and plify a body of creative forces from legendary done this before? Asking for a friend....” n June 6, Café Mocha Radio will musical treasures to the architects of contem- Rodrigo will join already-announced per- stream their 2021 Salute THEM porary music today,” says Sheila Eldridge, formers Arlo Parks, Dua Lipa, Griff, Headie Awards show. The ceremony Café Mocha creator and executive producer. One, and Rag’n’Bone Man and P!nk along- will honor individuals selected The awards will stream via www.Salu- side the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Oby Café Mocha in the areas of music, televi- teTHEMAwards.com at 7 p.m. ET. Regis- Trust Choir. sion, film, fashion and dance. The honor- tration is required here. “I’m so excited that my first time in the ees are Sly Stone, June Ambrose, Jamal U.K. will be spent at The BRITs! My U.K. Josef, Earth, Wind & Fire, Bille Woodruff, fans have been beyond supportive of me, Dr. Bobby Jones, Patrice Rushen, Ludac- Olivia Rodrigo and I’m so excited to perform for them on ris and Darlene Love. this iconic stage,” Rodrigo said in a press The Salute THEM Awards will be co- Set to Perform at release. hosted by Yo-Yo, Café Mocha Radio host and The 2021 BRIT Awards will be held on Grammy-nominated rapper, and Broadway 2021 BRIT Awards: Tuesday, May 11, at London’s O2 Arena. The actor Saint Aubyn (Ain’t Too Proud). It will 4,000 expected audience members will not stream from the new National Museum ‘So Excited I Can be socially distanced or required to wear of African American Music (NMAAM) in face coverings in the arena, making it the Nashville, taking attendees on a histori- Hardly Wait!’ “first major indoor music event to welcome cal journey of Black music curated by the back a live audience — a pivotal moment in museum. BY HERAN MAMO the return of live music at scale,” according In celebration of Black Music Month, to a statement from the show. About 2,500 the event will be the second show in Café livia Rodrigo won’t need her tickets will be gifted by the record music Mocha’s “Saluting Our Culture” series. The drivers license to travel across industry to “key workers” — the British term series recognizes the influence and contri- the pond, where she’ll be for “essential workers” — in the greater Lon- butions of the Black community, especially headed to perform at the 2021 don area. The remaining 1,500 tickets will in the areas of arts and culture. OBRIT Awards. be available for purchase by the nominated Page 21 of 22

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and performing artists and their teams, “Shy Away” is the lead single from Twen- Lil Nas X’s latest hit continues to outstrip supporting record labels, management and ty One Pilots’ sixth studio album, Scaled and its rivals on streaming platforms. The track show partners and sponsors. Icy, due May 21. notches 7.6 million plays this week in the U.K., well ahead of the second-ranked track on the Official U.K. Singles Chart, Justin Twenty One Pilots Lil Nas X, London Bieber’s “Peaches” (Def Jam) featuring Daniel Caesar & Giveon. Have Two Fastest Grammar Rule Finally, Olivia Rodrigo speeds up the chart with “Déjà Vu” (Geffen), the followup Runs to No. 1 on U.K.’s Charts to her global hit “Drivers License.” “Déjà Vu” leaps 26-12 on the latest tally. Alternative Airplay BY LARS BRANDLE

Chart in Last il Nas X enters a fourth week Tom Jones on at No. 1 on the U.K.’s singles Decade chart with “Montero (Call Me Track For U.K. By your Name)” (Lil Nas X), as BY XANDER ZELLNER LLondon Grammar blast to the summit of No. 1 With the national albums survey with California wenty One Pilots’ new single Soil (Ministry of Sound). ‘Surrounded By “Shy Away” hits No. 1 on Bill- London Grammar, the trio of Hannah board’s Alternative Airplay chart Reid, Dot Major and Dan Rothman, easily Time’ (dated May 1) in just its third takes the Official U.K. Albums Chart crown Tweek on the survey. The song completes the as California Soil scoops 31,000 chart sales, a BY LARS BRANDLE fastest climb to the top since the duo’s own sum that bests the rest of the Top 5 com- “Jumpsuit” took just two weeks to reign in bined. om Jones is eying his first U.K. July 2018. It’s London Grammar’s second No. 1 al- chart crown in two decades. In the last 10 years, no other song has bum, following 2017’s The Truth Is A Beauti- The iconic Welsh singer leads hit No. 1 on Alternative Airplay so quickly. ful Thing, and it’s the fastest selling album by the midweek chart with his 41st Going back a bit further, to the start of the a British act this year, with a quarter of all Talbum Surrounded By Time (EMI), the ter- 2010s, only two other titles led in three chart sales on vinyl, the OCC reports. ritory’s best-seller on CDs and downloads weeks or fewer: Linkin Park’s “The Cata- Meanwhile, London rapper AJ Tracey over the past weekend, the OCC reports. lyst” (September 2010) and Foo Fighters’ bows at No. 2 with Flu Game (Revenge Re- The veteran singer has three U.K No. 1 al- “Rope” (March 2011), each of which ruled in cords), his sophomore album. It’s the U.K.’s bums, most recently with Reload, which hit their third frame. most-streamed album of the chart cycle, ac- the summit in October 1999 and returned to In the Alternative Airplay chart’s entire cording to the OCC, and it’s Tracey’s career the top for another two weeks in 2000. 32-year history, Twenty One Pilots are now high, narrowly beating the No. 3 peak of his Coming in at No. 2 on the Official Chart among a select club of acts with multiple 2019 self-titled debut. Update is John Lennon’s first solo al- songs to rise to No. 1 in three weeks or less, Veteran U.S. rock outfit The Off- bum Plastic Ono Band (Parlophone), which thanks to “Shy Away” and “Jumpsuit.” They spring complete an all-new Top 3 with Let reenters the survey off the back of a 50th join U2 (five such coronations); R.E.M. The Bad Times Roll (Concord), their first anniversary release. The late former Bea- (four); The Cure, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili album in almost a decade. Let The Bad tles great saw his LP peak at No. 8 following Peppers (three each); and Foo Fighters (two). Times Roll starts at No. 3 to give The its release in 1971. “Shy Away” earns the duo its eighth No. Offspring their highest-charting to date in Another legendary British act is on track 1 on Alternative Airplay, tying U2 for the the U.K., easily eclipsing the No. 10 peak for a return to the Top 5 as The Who’s third sixth-most. Red Hot Chili Peppers lead of Americana from 1998. studio LP The Who Sell Out (Polydor) blasts with 13. Twenty One Pilots first hit led with Also new to the weekly albums survey is to No. 4, just one spot behind the current “Stressed Out” in November 2015. Irish rock singer Imelda May, whose sixth chart leader, London Grammar’s California The new single concurrently hits No. 1 LP 11 Past The Hour (Decca) opens at No. 6, Soil (Ministry of Sound), down 3-1. The Who on the all-rock format Rock & Alternative while U.S. rockers Greta Van Fleet enter Sell Out peaked at No. 13 back in 1968. Airplay chart, with 6.3 million audience im- the survey at No. 8 with The Battle at Gar- Meanwhile, veteran alt-rockers Di- pressions, up 13%, according to MRC Data, den’s Gate (EMI), for their first appearance nosaur Jr. are chasing their first Top 10 earning the act its sixth leader. in the U.K. Top 10. album in almost thee decades with Sweep Page 22 of 22

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It Into Space (Jagjaguwar). It’s new at No. Read more about the book, and pre-order it 9 on the chart blast, just ahead of indie pop in Kindle, audiobook and hardcover here. Tori Kelly To Sing group Scouting For Girls, whose Easy Cover (Near Wild Heaven) starts at No. 10. National Anthem Meanwhile, Lil Nas X is on target for a BTS Offering fifth consecutive week atop the Official U.K. at 2021 Kentucky Singles Chart with “Montero (Call Me By Limited-Edition Your Name)” (Lil Nas X). It sits atop the Derby Official U.K. Singles Chart Update, ahead ‘Dynamite’ Art of Riton’s and Nightcrawlers’ “Friday” BY GIL KAUFMAN (Ministry of Sound) featuring Musafa and Print Hypeman; and Justin Bieber’s “Peaches” ori Kelly will sing the National (Def Jam) featuring Caesar & Giveon, re- BY GIL KAUFMAN Anthem at Saturday’s (May 1) spectively. 147th Kentucky Derby. Accord- The Official U.K. Singles and Albums TS announced the sale of a ing to USA Today, the two-time Charts are published late Friday, local time. limited-edition screen printed TGrammy winner is boning up on her horse illustration inspired by the visu- sense in advance of the gig, the first leg of als in their colorful “Dynamite” the Triple Crown renowned for the often Jim Morrison Bvideo on Tuesday (Apr. 27). The $65 vibrant wild fashions sported by attendees who image, created by image licensing studio descend on Louisville’s Churchill Downs for Book of Poetry, Sideshow and designed by artist Tracie the annual tradition. Ching, is available for pre-order now and is “I’m stoked because I’ve always wanted Lyrics & More slated to ship in May and June. to go to the Kentucky Derby,” Kelly told the The 18 x 24” screenprint depicts RM, paper. “It’s such an iconic event and historic Writings to Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook event. It’s all really exciting.” Knowing that scattered across a light blue background she has to bring her hat A-game, Kelly added Release This with ribbons of color streaming all around that she’d be “crazy” not to fully embrace them as they smile and give knowing looks. the event’s legendary vibe. She’s already had Summer The image is printed on white pearlescent a fitting with her stylist and plans to rock a Stardream Smooth 2.0 paper by print shop custom fascinator on Saturday, where any- BY RANIA ANIFTOS The Half and Half, according to Sideshow, one who’s anyone makes the scene with eye- with 10 color inks and a clear gloss layer. catching, unnecessarily elaborate headwear. he creative genius of Jim Morri- Each piece will be hand-numbered in And though she said she hasn’t yet tried son will live on in a new anthol- pencil and the image will be available for the Derby’s traditional drink of choice, the ogy, set to release via Genesis on a limited time and then never again, with Mint Julep, Kelly plans to pour one up on June 8, 2021. the final edition size slated to be set after Saturday. She’s already a “Star-Spangled TThe Collected Works of Jim Morrison: the limited order window closes on Sunday Banner” veteran, with performances at a Poetry, Journals, Transcripts, and Lyr- (May 2). number of NFL games, as well as an ace at ics is created in collaboration with the That was only the second-best knows singing the notoriously tricky anthem while late Doors icon’s estate, and will contain ARMY got this week, coming just after the following COVID-19 protocols at such previ- almost 600 pages of writings. The book K-pop icons announced the May 21 release ous events as last year’s Macy’s Thanksgiv- was inspired by a posthumously discovered of their second English-language single, ing Day Parade and the Rockefeller Center list by Morrison entitled “Plan for Book,” “Butter.” The song is described as “a dance tree lighting ceremony. and will include poetry, lyrics and audio pop track brimming with the smooth yet “I’m so grateful to even be getting asked transcripts of Morrison reading his work, charismatic charm of BTS.” to do these things through COVID,” Kelly accompanied by a compelling mix of 160 Check out the image below. said, noting that she has no problem follow- visual components. ing whatever protocols are necessary to keep The Collected Works of Jim Morrison also herself and others safe. “It doesn’t throw me includes a foreword by novelist Tom Rob- off too much as far as mental preparation and bins, introduction by editor Frank Liscian- getting ready for the performance because dro that provides insight to the work and a I’m just so happy to be there.” prologue by the rocker’s sister Anne Mor- The Kentucky Derby will air on NBC at 5 rison Chewning. p.m. ET on Saturday.