Bulletin YOUR DAILY ENTERTAINMENT NEWS UPDATE MAY 4, 2021 Page 1 of 26

INSIDE Warner Music Group • Pop on Top, R&B Rising: The State Boosts Profit Margins on of the Hot 100’s Top 10 in Q1 2021 $1.25B Quarterly Revenue • Red Hot Chili Peppers Selling BY ED CHRISTMAN Song Catalog

• The Revolution Will arner Music Group rebounded nicely “Following a strong first quarter, I’m happy to Be Digitized: How from last year’s pandemic-riddled report that our momentum continued in Q2, and our RAC Is Using NFTs to second fiscal quarter, posting $117 business is stronger than ever,” WMG CEO Steve Coo- Empower Artists million in net income, or 23 cents per said in a statement. “Despite the ongoing pandem- • Here’s How perW diluted share, on revenues of $1.25 billion for the ic, we generated double-digit revenue growth in both Music Companies quarter ended March 31, 2021. That’s versus a $48 Recorded Music and Music Publishing. Our success Are Honoring million net income loss on revenue of $1.09 billion for was driven by chart-topping new releases from our Asian American the quarter ended March 31, 2020. incredible artists and songwriters, as well as bold and and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Most importantly, all of the company’s profit met- imaginative execution from our world-class opera- rics showed improvement with OIBDA (operating tors. We’re excited about the rest of year, as we have a • UTA Promotes income before depreciation and amortization) coming fantastic slate of new music coming from established over 100 Across in at $228 million versus $12 million in the year earlier superstars and emerging talent.” 30 Divisions period; while after those expenses, operating income The company credited releases from Megan Thee • All Your Questions came in at $151 million, versus a $43 million loss last Stallion, as well as carryover success from Dua Lipa, About the End of the time out. That means the company’s operating margin Michael Bublé, Ed Sheeran, Ava Max, the Hamilton cast Grammy Nomination — in the red in the year earlier period — is now begin- recording and Roddy Ricch, for all boosting revenues. Review Committees, Answered: Analysis ning to climb and stands at 12.1% of revenue. Breaking out revenue by operations, the company’s The increased profitability was spurred by gal- record labels produced $1.06 billion in revenue — a • Michael Jackson’s loping streaming revenue growth, tighter overhead 16.8% increase from the $907 million turned in last Likeness Valued at cost containment and lower non-cash stock-based year. From those totals, the company produced $235 $4.1 Million in Big Tax Court Win for Estate compensation related to the company’s management million in OIBDA in the second quarter, versus $76 incentive plans. (continued) 250 SPEAKERS FREE FESTIVAL REGISTER TODAY

TIMBALAND MERCK MERCURIADIS NILE RODGERS CHRIS BLACKWELL BUFFY SAINTE-MARIE DEBRA RATHWELL Award-Winning Record GRAMMY®-Winning Founder, Singer, Songwriter CEO/Founder ® EVP, Global Touring & Producer, Rapper, DJ, Composer, Producer, Island Records Oscar -Winning Composer Singer, and Songwriter Hipgnosis Songs Ltd. Arranger and Guitarist Talent, AEG Presents 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.

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IN BRIEF

million in the year-earlier corresponding fiscal quarter, Warner Chappell Music grew million from $116 million in the first half of period. That amounts to a nearly three-fold a whopping 15.7% to $192 million from 2020, and when non-cash charges are added increase year-over-year. After the non-cash $166 million the same quarter last year, back in OIBDA totaled $495 million, or expense subtractions, the recorded music with streaming driving practically all of nearly double the prior year’s $248 million. division brought in $184 million in operating that increase. Within that, recorded music grew 11% to income, good enough to produce a respect- Breaking down publishing revenue for $2.22 billion from $1.99 billion in the year- able and growing 17.4% operating margin. Q1 2021: earlier corresponding six month period and Breaking down recorded music revenue Digital generated $104 million, up 15.7% publishing was up 8.3% to $367 million from for Q1 2021: from $75 million from the same period last $339 million. Streaming produced $722 million in rev- year. Looking at recorded music, digital drove enue, a 23.2% increase from the same period Performance revenue, as expected, the segment’s revenue growth as it in- last year when it was $586 million. dropped 14.6% to $35 million from $41 mil- creased a healthy 17.8% to $1.483 billion bil- Downloads dropped 15% to $34 million lion in the same period last year. lion from $1.26 billion in the year-earlier, from the same period last year when it was Synchronization increased by 11.8% to $38 six-month period. $40 million. million from $34 million in the same period Breaking down recorded music revenue Physical grew 25.5% to $118 million from last year. for H1 2021: the same period last year when it was $94 Mechanical fell 20% to $12 million from Streaming grew 20.3% to $1.414 billion million, thanks to catalog vinyl releases from $15 million in the same period last year. from the first fiscal half of 2020 when it was Fleetwood Mac and Neil Young and a Yellow As a percentage of revenue, that breaks $1.175 billion, and now comprises 63.7% of Monkey release in the Japan market. out to: 54.2% digital, 19.8% synch, 18.2% recorded music revenue (compared to 59% Artist services and expanded rights man- performance, 6.3% mechanical and 1.6% in the first half of 2020). aged to hold its, own coming in at $118 mil- other. (The year prior that was 44.6% digi- Downloads dropped 17.9% to $69 mil- lion, up slightly from same period last year tal, 24.7% performance, 20.5% synch; 9% lion from the first fiscal half of 2020 when when it was $115 million mechanical and 1.2% other.) it was $84 million, and now comprises 3.1% Licensing and other revenue fell nearly For the six month period ended March of revenue (compared to 4.2% in the first 7% to $67 million, down from $72 million in 31, 2021, the company enjoyed robust half of 2020). the same period last year. net income growth to $216 million, or 41 Physical grew 5% to $292 million As a percentage of recorded music cents per diluted share, a whopping 350% from the first fiscal half of 2020 when it revenue, that breaks out to: 71.4% digital increase over the $48 million, or nine cents was $278 million, and now comprises 13.2% (68.2% streaming and 3.2% downloads), per diluted share, in the six months ended of revenue (compared to 14% in the first 11.1% physical; 11.1% artist services with March 31, 2020, while revenue grew 11.1% half of 2020) expanded rights; 6.3% licensing and other to $2.56 billion from $2.33 billion in the first Artist services and expanded rights income streams. half of 2020. dropped 1.7% to $298 million from the first Looking at publishing, during the second Operating income nearly tripled to $347 fiscal half of 2020 when it was $303 million,

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DIGITAL NEWSLETTERS 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

BB House_Pride_06_042421.indd 1 4/21/21 10:00 AM BILLBOARD COUNTRY UPDATE APRIL 13, 2020 | PAGE Page 4 5 OF of 1926

ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] IN BRIEF SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country andA nowlbu comprisesms; 13.4% ofBrett recorded music Young Digital ‘Catcgrew 38.1% toh $203’-es million Fifth from Airplay revenue (compared to 15.2% in the first half the first fiscal half of 2020 when it was Pop on Top, R&B of 2020) Leader; Travis $147, andDenning now comprises Makes 55.3% of revenue History Licensing and other income streams (compared to 43.4% in the first half of 2020). Rising: The State dropped 6.6% to $147 million from the first Synch grew 1.4% to $71 million from the Samfiscal Hunt half’s ofsecond 2020 studiowhen full-length,it was $161 and mil -first in overfirst five fiscal years, Southsidehalf of 2020 sales when (up it 21%) was in$70 the mil tracking- of week. the On Country Hot Airplay, it100’s hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCAlion, and Nashville/Universal now comprises Music 6.6% Group of recorded Nashville), debutslion, and at No. 1 onnow Billboard comprises’s lion 19.3% audience of revenue impressions, up 16%). Topmusic Country revenue Albums (compared chart dated to 7.6% April in 18. the In itsfirst first (comparedweek (ending to April 20.6% 9), it in the first half of 2020). earned 46,000 equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITHTop YOUNG Brett 10 Young inachieves Q1 his 2021fifth consecutive cordinghalf of 2020).to Nielsen Music/MRC Data. Performance fell 25.3%and to total $65 Country million Airplay No. 1 as “Catch” (Big Machine Label Group) ascends SouthsideExamining marks recorded Hunt’s music second from No. 1a onprofit the from the first fiscal half of 2020 when it was BY 2-1,GARY increasing TRUST 13% to 36.6 million impressions. chartperspective, and fourth the top company 10. It follows produced freshman $407 LP $87 million, and now comprises 17.7% of Young’s first of six chart entries, “Sleep With- Montevallomillion in ,operating which arrived income, at the which summit trans in No- - revenue (compared to 25.7% in the first half out You,” reachedhat No. were 2 in Decembersome of the 2016. most He vember 2014 and reigned for nine weeks. To date, followed with the multiweek No. 1s “In Case You lates into an 18.3% operating margin. That’s of 2020). notable trends on the Bill- Montevallo has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved millionup 79.3% in album from $227sales. million in the first six Mechanical fell 23.3% to $23 million from You” (three, Januaryboard 2018), Hot “Mercy” 100 songs (two, August chart monthsMontevallo of 2020. has spent If the 267 non-cash weeks on the charges list, tying of the first fiscal half of 2020 when it was $30 2018) and “Here Tonight”in the first (two, quarterApril 2019). of 2021? Lukedepreciation Bryan’s Crash and Myamortization Party as the sixth-longest-are added million, and now comprises 6.3% of revenue WHit“Catch” Songs completes Deconstructed his longest, whichjourney pro to No.- 1, runningback in, titles that in brings OIBDA the chart’s 56-year to $504 history. million, (compared to 8.8% in the first half of 2020). videshaving compositional taken 46 weeks analytics to reach forthe apex.top 10 It Hot out- a 59%On the increase all-genre from Billboard $317 million 200, Southside in the year ar- Other income held steady at $5 mil- 100paces hits, the has 30-week released climb its of Q1 “Here 2021 Tonight.” State of the rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 On Hot Country Songs, “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG afterearlier the period. No. 3-peaking Montevallo. lion, roughly equal to the first fiscal half of Hota new 100 high. Top 10 report. HuntAs for first Warner released Chappell, the EPX2C publishing, which debuted rev- 2020, and now comprises 1.4% of revenue Here are three key takeaways from Hit andenue peaked grew toat $367No. 5 million,on Top Country an 8.3% Albums increase in August(compared 2014. Following to 1.5% in theCOMBS first ‘DOES’half of IT2020). AGAIN LukeSongs Combs Deconstructed’s’ “Does to Me” in-depth(River House/Columbia research. Montevallofrom $339, millionBetween in the the Pines: first Acoustic six months Mixtape of startedLooking at its No. at 7 the high overall in Nashville), company oncefeaturing again, Eric ChurchPop, ascendstops, R&B 11-8 onbounds. Country In Airplay, Q1 2021, up 10% 42% to Novemberfiscal 2020. 2015. Operating income fell to $40 its cost of goods, including24.7 artist million and in reper audience.- Theof songall Hot is Combs’ 100 top eighth 10s were straight of primarily career-opening pop, 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:million “Leavefrom $44 the Nightmillion On,” in “Takethe first Your half Time,” of “Housetoire Party” costs totaledand “Make $1.31 billion,promoted which No. 1 means singles. the leading genre for a third consecutive You2020, Miss but Me.” OIBDA “Break improved Up in a Small slightly Town” to peaked$82 at No.it’s 2.running at a gross profitChurch margin adds of his49.5%. 15th Countryquarter. Airplay Though top 10. down from a 48% share millionHunt co-pennedfrom $81 million all 12 songs last ontime. Southside, includingThat’s “Body an improvementLike a Back from the first half of in Q4 2020, the genre rose from 41% in Q3 Road,”After which artist was and released repertoire in 2017. costs The of smash $238 hit ruled2020 Country when Airplay cost of for goods THAT totaled TOOK $1.185 QUITE bil- ‘A FEW’2020 MONTHS (when Travis it tied Denning for the shatters lead with the recordhip- for threemillion weeks are andsubtracted, the airplay-, that streaming- leaves Warner and sales-based lion, Hot leaving Country gross Songs margin the at most 48.4%. weeks it has takenhop/rap) to penetrate and the 30% Country in Q2 Airplay 2020. 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 - FloridaChappell Georgia with netLine publisher’s’s “Meant to Be”share (50 of weeks $129 atop the latter list in 2017-18). lion in radio reach. The genre includes Olivia Rodrigo’s million.“Downtown’s That’s Dead,”up from which $123 is million also on inthe the new set, reached Nos. 14 and 15 The song surpasses two tracks“Drivers that License,” took 50 weeks which each debuted to enter theat the top 10: onyear Hot earlier Country period Songs when and Country A&R costs Airplay, were respectively, in June 2018. “Kin- Easton Corbin’s “A Girl LikeHot You,” 100’s which summit reached in JanuaryNo. 10 in Jandanuary reigned 2018 be - folks”$216 million. led Country Airplay on Feb. 29, becoming Hunt’s seventh No. 1. It hit fore peaking at No. 6 that February,for eight and weeks, Aaron and Watson the ’schart’s “Outtanew Style,” No. which No. 3 on Hot Country Songs. achieved its No. 10 high in December 2017. Breaking down publishing revenue for 1 “Save Your Tears,” by The Weeknd and 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 H1 2021: Ariana Grande, after it first reached the top 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 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.

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Page 7 of 26

IN BRIEF

10 in February. ($104 million). In another move, on April 1, Runner-up hip-hop/rap, with a 29% share Red Hot Chili Hipgnosis converted from being a Guern- in Q1 2021, has declined continuously quar- sey-based company to becoming an invest- ter-over-quarter for the past year, dropping Peppers Selling ment trust. from 35% of the Hot 100’s top 10 in Q4 2020, 41% in Q3 2020 (tying on top with pop) and Song Catalog a leading 48% in Q2 2020. The Revolution Pop and hip-hop continue passing the BY ED CHRISTMAN baton as the Hot 100’s top primary genre. Will Be Digitized: While pop holds the lead a quarter of the t looks like Hipgnosis has won yet way through 2021, the genres tied at 41% for another big music publishing acqui- How RAC Is all of 2020. In 2019, pop took the title (48% sition, pocketing the Red Hot Chili vs. 34%), after hip-hop led in both 2018 Peppers song catalog in a deal ranging Using NFTs to (59% vs. 24%) and 2017 (34% vs. 29%). Ifrom $140 million to $150 million, according Meanwhile, R&B/soul surged to a 21% to sources. Empower Artists share of all Hot 100 top 10s in Q1 2021, It’s unclear if the acquisition has closed vaulting from 4% in Q4 2020. It claimed 6% yet, but sources say the firm has notched BY TATIANA CIRISANO in Q3 2020 and 13% in Q2 2020. Notably the deal, which likely includes the band’s among the genre, “Leave the Door Open” by most popular songs, such as “Under The hat day is it, Thurs- Silk Sonic, the duo of Bruno Mars and An- Bridge,” “Dani California,” “Snow (Hey Oh), day?” André Allen derson .Paak, debuted in the top 10 in March “Californication,” “Otherside,” “Can’t Stop” Anjos asks with a on its way to No. 1. and “Give It Away.” laugh. They’re instrumental in hits. Nineteen The band members — Anthony Kiedis, “WYes, it’s a Thursday afternoon in mid- instruments can be heard in Hot 100 top 10s Flea, John Frusciante and Chad Smith — March, though the Grammy-winning musi- in Q1 2021, with three continuing a heavy collectively write many of their songs, so it cian and producer known as RAC could be prominence: drums/percussion, non-bass appears that a majority of them would have forgiven for his confusion. He’s speaking synth and synth bass, with each played in needed to agree to sell their shares of the over Zoom from his home in Portland, Ore., over 90% of hits in that span. rights to make this deal happen. Accord- where he’s spent the past two weeks fielding Still, atypical sounds found their way ing to BMI, the Red Hot Chili Peppers song constant calls from friends and a handful of to the Hot 100’s top 10 in January-March, catalog is administered by Moebetoblame music icons whose names he asks to be kept including harp (on Drake’s “Lemon Pepper Music, under the guidance of lawyer Eric confidential. Everyone is seeking his advice Freestyle,” featuring Rick Ross), organ (Jus- Greenspan, managing partner of the law about one thing: non-fungible tokens, or tin Bieber’s “Holy,” featuring Chance the firm Myman, Greenspan, Fox, Rosenberg NFTs, the music industry’s favorite buzz- Rapper) and sitar (CJ’s “Whoopty”). Mobasser, Younger & Light LLP. Sources say word since late February. “What is my life?” Produce(r) dept. The most popular size Greenspan shopped the deal for the band. he wonders aloud to no one in particular. for a production team on a Hot 100 top 10 in The Red Hot Chili Peppers song catalog As recently as six months ago, NFTs — Q1 2021? Three members, with a 38% share generates $5 million to $6 million in net unique digital collectibles bought and sold in the year’s first quarter, ahead of two cred- publishers’ share (usually known as gross primarily on the Ethereum blockchain — ited producers (25%) and one (21%). profit — although in this case its likely were a niche interest for cryptocurrency Mixing boards are showing more finger- to include all revenue from the catalog), enthusiasts. They can take almost any form, prints, as production teams of three jumped sources say, and it traded at a about a 25 from virtual trading cards to tweets, and can to the top rank in Q1 2021 (again, 38%) from times multiple, which calculates to about also be linked to experiences (like a meet- third place for all of 2020 (doubling from $125 million to $150 million total. At dead- and-greet) or physical items (like a vinyl 19%). Trios swapped spots with single- line, Greenspan and Hipgnosis couldn’t be album). Creators set rules for their NFTs in billed producers in that stretch, as the latter reached for comment. a “smart contract” designed to automatically tumbled from first place (41%) to third In order to help finance that deal, Hip- execute behaviors like giving the creator a (again, 21%). gnosis sold 9 million new ordinary shares at cut of the resale total — typically 10% to 25% (Production teams of two held in second £1.195 ($1.66) per share on April 29, bringing — each time the NFT is resold in the future. place, slipping slightly from 29% in 2020 to in £10.76 million ($14 million). Those shares But thanks to headline-grabbing sales 25% in Q1 2021.) are expected to be listed on the London from digital artists like Beeple, who has “Save Your Tears” represents the Q1 Stock Exchange on May 5. generated nearly $80 million auctioning off 2021 majority, with three producers: Oscar In January, Hipgnosis sold nearly 62 NFT artwork since December, the music Holter, Max Martin and The Weeknd. million shares and raised about £75 million industry seemed to collectively wake up Page 8 of 26

IN BRIEF

with a start to the financial and creative more power in the hands of creators. party can control — that’s what I was really potential of NFTs last fall, and artists That’s why he is parlaying his influ- excited about.” like deadmau5, Grimes, Ozuna and Shawn ence in the sector to launch his own NFT He was quickly swept up in the growing Mendes swiftly began launching their own. creative agency, called 6. With it, he hopes community of cryptocurrency advocates, The turning point came on Feb. 28, when to help other artists capitalize on NFTs both which he lovingly describes as “a group of electronic DJ 3LAU finished auctioning creatively and financially — and prove that misfits and people that are a little crazy. It off $11.6 million worth of NFTs, a record the much-hyped new art form is more than has kind of a hacker vibe to it,” he continues, for the primary sale of an NFT collection a passing, eye-roll-inducing trend. “where it’s like, ‘We’re changing things.’” at the time. The market for music NFTs “I’d really hate for it to be like, in six Specifically, crypto advocates like Anjos has since exploded, with major-label acts months, ‘Hey, remember NFTs?’” he says. want to create a better financial system for like Halsey and The Weeknd each selling “But I think we’re past that.” the music industry, which would increase millions of dollars worth of their own. In 2007, as a college student in Illinois, transparency and make more accurate pay- Not all acts are seeing immediate suc- Anjos recruited a group of online remixers ments in real-time. The technology, as he cess: King of Leon’s album NFT sale in to create the Remix Artist Collective, which and his fellow crypto fans see it, could even March was extended after the band’s fan- became his solo project post-graduation. be used to stop ticket scalpers and hold the base struggled to understand the purchasing Three years later, he garnered attention copyrights to songs and catalogs (the lat- process, and a Mick Jagger animated video for a 2010 remix of The Shins’ “Sleeping ter would be challenging to execute given NFT sold at auction for $50,000 in April Lessons,” and by 2016, Anjos was fully im- music’s complex web of rights holders). — somewhat low for an icon. But interest mersed in the music industry: he’d released “There’s tons of value that’s being left on the hasn’t gone away, and by late April, music music independently, signed with Inter- table or that’s going to the wrong people” in tech newsletter Water & Music reported that scope Records and then Ninja Tune imprint the music industry, he says. “This technol- music-related NFT sales had surpassed $70 Counter Records, worked on official remixes ogy essentially enables [us to] replace a lot million since last June, with the vast major- for artists like Foster the People, Tegan of the plumbing.” ity happening within the 75 days prior. and Sara and Theophilus London in addi- In 2017, Anjos discovered Ethereum, the Anjos, on the other hand, had been antici- tion to his own solo work, and even won a blockchain on which the majority of NFTs pating all this for years. Outside of his work Grammy for his 2016 remix of Bob Moses’ are sold, and home to Ether, the second- as an in-demand artist, producer and remix- “Tearing Me Up.” most popular cryptocurrency after Bitcoin. er for the likes of Lana Del Rey and Phoe- But the totality of the experience he “I was like, ‘This is going to change the nix, he is an early cryptocurrency adopter calls “being an artist in the typical music world,’” Anjos says. He laughs and gives and has dabbled in digital art since 2017. industry” left him disillusioned. “I was not a little self-conscious eye-roll; he knows He sold his first NFT — a pastel audiovisual enthusiastic about it, to put it lightly,” he most ideas involving the blockchain are titled “Elephant Dreams” — at auction for says. “I was frustrated with the middleman still years away from wider music industry more than $26,000 in October, and has since and the amount of control that three labels adoption. But in the meantime, he’s been grossed nearly $1 million worth of NFT have over the entire market.” steadily experimenting. As soon as he be- sales, including a close to $700,000 haul for It was around that time that he discovered came aware of Ethereum he partnered with a collection released in conjunction with his cryptocurrency, the digital, encrypted and the blockchain-based music startup Ujo March EP, YOU. decentralized medium of exchange intended Music to release his introspective second Now, “A lot of people are like, ‘Hey, do to help people evade the bank-reliant finan- album EGO on the currency (as well as on you have two hours to explain all this stuff cial system and control their own money. streaming services), allowing fans to pur- to me?’” says Anjos, an affable and talkative Cryptocurrency (most commonly Bitcoin) chase a digital download for the equivalent 36-year-old who dabbles in computer sci- operates on a blockchain, a transparent and of about $10. The album sold about 130 cop- ence. “I feel a bit validated.” publicly-accessible ledger which securely ies on Ethereum — a solid showing for the For Anjos, a longtime artists’ rights and instantaneously records transactions. first album to be sold as a collectible on the advocate who went fully independent in At first, the concept struck a chord with blockchain, predating the NFT standard. January after 10 years releasing music under Anjos because it reminded him of file- Then, in May 2020, Anjos released his labels like Interscope Records and Ninja sharing website BitTorrent, the decentral- next album BOY and sold 100 cassettes as Tune, NFTs are about more than making a ized successor to Napster that was his the token $TAPE on the Ethereum-based quick buck. Because they allow the market main source of music while growing up NFT marketplace Zora. Each token, which to determine the value of music, are built in Porto, Portugal. “A lot of people don’t had a starting price of $28, represented one on transparency, streamline instantaneous connect those two, but I think that they’re physical copy of the cassette, and the owner payments and cut out the middleman, he sees ideologically aligned,” he says. “This idea could redeem it for the physical item at any them as a way to fundamentally shift the way of a decentralized network that doesn’t point — driving further scarcity for the to- we think about the value of music — and put have a single point of failure that no single ken. “Instead of just putting it on a website Page 9 of 26

IN BRIEF

and selling it, I decided to create a market ing, I had sweaty palms, I was freaking out a brought in more than $400,000; and Ty- for it,” Anjos explains. “I was just happy to little bit,” he remembers. Five days later, he cho, whose first NFT collection on April 15 be the experiment and try it, because I’ve accepted the highest bid of $26,128 from a earned more than $200,000 and included a got nothing to lose. If it fails, who cares? It’s digital art collector known as Max Stealth. $32,000 lifetime VIP pass to his headlining a cassette, you know?” “It was a telling moment for me, because it shows. Eventually, 6 will branch out into In the end, the price of a single $TAPE would take me years to make that on Spotify other digital monetization models like social token soared to nearly $13,000, which Anjos on one track,” he says. “I kind of never tokens, a form of cryptocurrency which believes marks the most expensive cassette looked back.” can be exchanged for perks like exclusive tape ever sold. (“We haven’t found anything Feeling “a little self-righteous,” he jumped content and merch discounts (Anjos’ social more expensive,” he says; the closest he’s on Twitter. “I hope the music industry is token is $RAC). seen was a $5,000 Prince cassette on eBay.) watching,” he wrote. “You’ve been devalu- “We want to create something that’s long- Seventy of the cassette NFTs are in circula- ing music and art for decades and we’re term and viable, and create entire econo- tion today, trading at around $4,000 at the gonna change things.” Four months later, mies around artists — not just NFTs but time of this story’s publication. 3LAU closed his then-record-setting NFT social tokens and Metaverse [the concept of “That’s very much in line with my mis- drop. Around that time, Anjos had begun shared virtual spaces] stuff,” Anjos says. sion, which is to challenge this notion that throwing around ideas for an NFT agency in In its rush to capitalize on NFTs, the music is worth 0.000-whatever cents,” a group chat he belongs to with other NFT music industry has also been inundated Anjos says, referencing streaming royalty and cryptocurrency proponents. 3LAU’s with widespread confusion and some rates. “Recorded music is far more valuable success was a turning point for them, too. lackluster projects. In early March, Kings than what we’re selling it for. This is proof “3LAU had his big auction on Saturday of Leon extended an NFT auction pegged of that.” and on Sunday, we were like, ‘Guys, we need to new album When You See Yourself after Soon after the sale, as digital art market- to launch this tomorrow,’” Anjos says. “Be- their fanbase struggled to adapt to the new places started to gain traction, Anjos hud- cause literally everybody in the music indus- technology and purchase process. Collectors dled with his manager, YM&U Group’s Zael try is going to sit down and have a meeting must connect a digital wallet with crypto- Ellenhorn. “He’s like, ‘Yo, we’re going to at eight in the morning to talk about this.” currency to the NFT marketplace in order to start dropping NFTs,’” Ellenhorn remem- Ellenhorn and Anjos awoke to a barrage buy and sell NFTs, which can seem daunting bers. “The guy’s been making music for of texts. While members of the group chat to newcomers. 10-plus years now. He’s been in the crypto started divvying up calls to artists hungry Critics also like to point out that mu- world for 10 years now. And this was kind for information and advice, Ellenhorn sic NFTs harm the environment, since of the first time that those two things re- drafted an email template to speed up his the blockchain has an enormous carbon ally clicked and started working in tandem response time and Anjos’ friend Bobby footprint — a view which frustrates Anjos, instead of separately.” Hundreds — of streetwear company The who (as he explained in a lengthy Twitter For his first NFT, Elephant“ Dreams,” Hundreds, a master of physical drop culture thread) acknowledges the view isn’t un- Anjos wrote an original clip of music and — set up a weekly drop-in Zoom session to true, but lacks an understanding of the full collaborated on visuals with Andrés Reising- explain the new art form. picture. (The system supporting blockchain er, an established visual artist who created “The past three weeks have been the is bad for the environment, but efforts to the BOY album art. Like many musicians, busiest of my entire life so far,” Ellenhorn change it are ongoing, and the existence of Anjos was drawn to an NFT format where says, speaking over Zoom from his home in NFTs doesn’t make a big difference). a clip of music plays over an image or video California in mid-March. “Everybody smells The NFT frenzy has also raised important on loop. opportunity and everybody smells money. questions about how music for NFTs should “The way that I consume art is I’ll go to There’s a lot of hype.” be licensed, and who deserves a cut of the a museum, look at a piece for 30 to 45 sec- Anjos announced his agency 6 on March revenue. As an independent artist who is onds, and then move on,” Anjos says. “I was 1, alongside partners Jesse Grushack, the creating new music for his NFTs, Anjos like, ‘How do I make something [digital] that co-founder of Ujo Music, and Georgio chooses to split the proceeds (as well as a is made for that experience?’ That’s how we Constantinou, a former music manager 10% resale royalty) in half with his artist col- landed in that 30 to 45 second loop, where who has worked with artists like Tyga, Af- laborator. (Ellenhorn takes a management you can get the experience and keep scroll- rojack and Ty Dolla $ign. commission from Anjos’ cut.) But not every ing away if you want.” The agency aims to help artists develop artist is able to make that call on their own. He put the one-of-one NFT — mean- and manage their releases (usually taking a The major record labels — Universal ing there’s only one copy — up for sale on cut of the revenue), and has already worked Music Group, Sony Music Group and Warner the marketplace SuperRare on Oct. 5, and on NFT drops for electronic acts like Music Group — are plotting their own NFT watched from his computer screen as bids duo Galantis, whose March 25 collection of strategies to drive revenue for their artists rose into the thousands. “My heart was rac- five NFTs reimagining their sea fox mascot and themselves, and major label executives Page 10 of 26

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predict that NFTs will soon become a stan- a silent auction. Instead of rehashing the open, and that’s exactly how he likes it. dard part of artists’ release strategies. There’s songs in the EP, he created a new, original “It’s completely undefined right now,” he not yet a clear consensus on what types of “sonic mood” for each item, and collec- says. “That’s my favorite place to be, because licenses are needed to use music in an NFT, tors of editions 3 through 12 of each also then you actually have a say.” He could go especially since NFTs can take a variety of received a free vinyl copy. on, of course, but Anjos has to jump. He’s formats. But labels are calling NFT mar- The drop also included a pair of one-of- late for his next NFT Zoom. ketplaces “to make sure that they’re aware one NFTs: “The Object,” which could be re- that we will assert our rights when we need deemed for a physical sculpture and speaker to and that they need to come to us,” as one containing a one-hour ambient piece of Here’s How Music source recently put it to Billboard. original music; and “The Room,” a package Even so, Anjos points out that major including an audiovisual of the album cover, Companies Are labels’ efforts clash in the first place with all eight of the silent auction NFTs and one the reigning ethos among NFT creators and signed vinyl. Honoring Asian collectors, who are often distrustful of cor- “This is one of the most cohesive [music] porate entities. “I got pitched by one of the launches I’ve ever done, in terms of having American and major labels, and they were like, ‘We want multiple ways to interact with it,” Anjos to do our own branded NFTs of our best al- says. More so, he created a moment for Pacific Islander bums,’” he says. “I’m like, ‘I don’t think you people to gather around virtually, driving guys get it. This exists because of you. This emotional value for the digital collectibles. Heritage Month is the anti-major label thing.’” “The further [the music] spreads, the more Because of that clash in ideology, and valuable those NFTs become, because it be- BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN because major labels will aim to take a cut comes a cultural artifact that people are at- of their artists’ NFT revenues, Anjos thinks tached to,” he says. “It’s a collectible, but it’s ith a marked increase in independent and emerging artists stand to also like, ‘I was there. You had to be there.’” anti-Asian violence amid gain the most from the emerging medium. To call the project a success would be the coronavirus pandemic “That’s a bit unfortunate [for major-label an understatement. The collection grossed and #StopAsianHate rallies acts], but then again, I don’t really see the $708,000 — including $300,000 for “The Ob- andW protests making international headlines more interesting stuff coming from those ject” and $83,300 for “The Room” — which earlier this year, Asian American and Pacific artists,” he says. “The more interesting work Anjos says is “far more” than he’s made off of Islander Heritage Month has taken on a is coming from independent artists who are three albums over the last decade. heightened significance in 2021. Music com- treating it as a new art form, versus try- Attaining that kind of financial freedom panies have taken note, with many announc- ing to reappropriate something else. A lot can be game-changing for an artist. As soon ing a range of initiatives to observe the of people do, ‘Well, we paid five grand for as Anjos began releasing NFTs, “We were annual month-long celebration that honors these tour visuals, can we just sell them?’” like, ‘We don’t need to do as many remixes. the contributions of the AAPI community in While the NFT market is almost certainly We have the power to say no,’” Ellenhorn America and around the world. in a bubble — and eight-figure paydays says. “It changes the way music is made. Below, Billboard has compiled a running like the one 3LAU enjoyed are unlikely to If you’re making enough money from list of AAPI-focused initiatives announced happen again — Anjos and Ellenhorn argue NFTs, you can make music that maybe is by record labels, streaming services and that when done right, the revenue stream not going to get on the bigger pop playl- more to commemorate the month. from NFTs can offer artists more freedom to ist. Maybe it’s just the music you actually 88rising work on the music projects they love. Anjos want to be making.” NFTs can also drive The Asian-led music company will host helped demonstrate that with his latest proj- attention back to artists’ catalogues: For a AAPI-focused programming on its SiriusXM ect, YOU, a five-track EP and NFT collection week in early March following “Elephant channel, 88rising Radio (ch. 305), throughout released on March 26 which explores how Dreams” and the debut of 6, Anjos’ Spotify the month of May. This includes “AAPI A-Z,” mundane objects from past relationships plays jumped by 25%. a twice-hourly, alphabet-themed spotlight of can carry special meaning. And now, 6 finds it’s not alone in the AAPI artists by 88rising Radio hosts; “88ris- The EP’s corresponding NFT series on marketplace. On April 13, longtime cryp- ing Speakers,” an ongoing series of conversa- Nifty Gateway, created again in partner- tocurrency proponent deadmau5 (a.k.a. tions exploring the Asian-American experi- ship with Reisinger, included eight NFTs Joel Zimmerman) launched PIXELYNX, ence with AAPI leaders across industries; representing left-behind items — like a shell a company which will help clients digitize weekly takeovers of 88rising shows House of from a trip to the beach, a hotel keycard and their brands into collectible goods for use in Jade and There There by guest DJs from the a postcard with a handwritten poem — each gaming and virtual worlds. As far as Anjos AAPI community; and a May 25 conversation of which had 100 copies available, sold in is concerned, the NFT playing field is wide between Steve Aoki and 88rising Radio host Page 11 of 26

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DJ Sosuperam on Sosupersounds. mon Kings; the playlist Celebrating Asian playlists highlighting AAPI and mixed-race Amazon Music American Voices, featuring some of the most artists — including Dope AF, .ORG, Desi Hits The streaming service is partnering with influential Asian American artists work- and AAPI Pride — with new music. It has AEG, Gold House, Pacific Bridge Arts Foun- ing today; the short film “Unapologetically also partnered with Audrey Nuna to cover dation (PBA) and Transparent Arts on this Asian” directed by Amber Park; and Apple G-Dragon’s “That XX,” a song that pays year’s “Identity 2021” benefit livestream. Music radio episodes featuring interviews homage to Nuna’s AAPI heritage. Slated to take place on May 15 via Amazon with artists such as Rina Sawayama, Sophia On the podcasting front, Spotify has Music’s Twitch channel, the event will Chang, UMI and more. unveiled a “dedicated podcast shelf” fea- feature live performances, panels, PSAs and Grammy Museum turing episodes that address racism and more with members of the AAPI commu- The Grammy Museum at L.A. Live in Los xenophobia. These include new episodes of nity, including Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda, Angeles – which is slated to reopen on May Asian Enough, featuring U.S. vice president James Reid, Guapdad 4000, ATEEZ, 21 – will celebrate AAPI Heritage Month Kamala Harris discussing the rise in anti- Kalani Peʻa and Steve Aoki. The livestream with “archived programs and exhibits Asian violence and how government leaders will raise money for PBA’s scholarship pro- featuring AAPI talent.” The programs will should address racism in America; Asia grams as well as the AAPI Community Fund. highlight Grammy winners and nominees In-Depth, where hosts Leesa Lin and Char- Amazon Music has also announced plans including Daniel Ho, Tak Matsumoto, lie Woo discuss the rise in attacks against to release a weekly series of Amazon Origi- Anoushka Shankar and Henry Kapono, Asians during the pandemic; and Dear Asian nals for in May that will celebrate AAPI among others. Girl, whose hosts will discuss their personal artists across a number of genres. Episodes These archived public programs will experiences with Asian fetishization, the are slated to debut every Friday on its Mix- additionally be available on Collection: model minority myth and the lack of Asian tape Asia playlist, with the first being “Rent live, the Grammy Museum’s online stream- representation in media. Free,” a new Amazon Original track from ing service (available for $2.99/month or Elsewhere, Spotify has partnered with Dumbfoundead featuring Filipino-Ameri- $29.99/year). illustrator Jocelyn Tsaih to create a special can singer, songwriter and record producer Sony Music mural in New York City’s Chinatown high- Jeff Bernat. In tandem with other Sony companies in lighting the strength of the neighborhood’s The service will additionally launch the U.S. this past March, Sony Music made residents. It will also launch “Proud to Be several new playlists in commemoration of monetary donations to Asian Americans AAPI,” a social campaign encouraging AAPI AAPI Heritage Month including Made in Advancing Justice (AAJC) and the Asian artists, podcasters, influencers and AAPI- Hawaii (spotlighting Hawaiian musicians), American Legal Defense and Education identifying Spotify employees to share stories The Collective (new hip-hop from AAPI art- Fund (AALDEF). about why they’re proud of their heritage. ists) and [RE]DISCOVER, which will center Going forward, SMG will host a series of Universal Music Group on the Asian-led collective and record label AAPI-themed virtual events throughout the Throughout the month, UMG and its 88rising. A number of existing playlists month of May via HUE, an employee net- AAPI employee resource group UTOPIAA showcasing regional scenes across Asia, work group “dedicated to uplifting people ERG will celebrate AAPI Heritage Month including Bollywood Tadka and K-Pop Now, of color.” These include mental wellness with content and virtual programming will also be highlighted on the platform. workshop “Stop AAPI Hate: Compassionate to “educate, celebrate, and activate” its Finally, Amazon Music will release a new and Radical Healing”; a virtual potluck spot- employees. This includes a special perfor- short film celebrating API women artists lighting AAPI food, culture and history; an mance by Filipina rapper Ruby Ibarra on “who break norms and defy stereotypes to executive roundtable discussing AAPI rep- May 6; a “fireside chat” with UMG India redefine culture,” with featured artists to resentation in the media and entertainment & South Asia managing director and CEO include Audrey Nuna, Deb Never, Joyce industry; a panel discussion with politicians Devraj Sanyal about the Indian music Wrice, and Maliibu Miitch. On May 7, the and activists on fostering inter-community industry; a screening of the Eddie Huang- service will also begin debuting new weekly solidarity across POC groups; and a series directed movie Boogie followed by a Q&A episodes of Amazon Music’s Twitch show of bystander and intervention and de-esca- with Huang; and a performance by a to-be- Group Thread: IYKYK featuring AAPI artists lation sessions presented by AAJC and the named UMG-signed AAPI artist on May 26. and creatives. anti-harassment organization Hollaback! Universal Music has additionally curated Apple Music Spotify the Spotify playlist Inclusion Is Universal, The streaming service has put together an To commemorate the month, Spotify has which features AAPI artists signed to the AAPI Heritage Month hub featuring a vari- created the AAPI content hub, a dedicated UMG roster. ety of content, including celebrity playlists space that will house “leading AAPI voices Warner Music from AAPI artists, producers, DJs and ad- alongside fresh new releases from creatives As part of its preexisting partnership vocates such as Steve Aoki, UMI, Guapdad across the audio landscape.” The streaming with the anti-bullying non-profitAct To 4000, H.E.R., Hailee Steinfeld and Com- service is additionally refreshing several Change, Warner Music is sponsoring the Page 12 of 26

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organization’s “United We Stand” event on National AAPI Day Against Bullying and UTA Promotes All Your Questions Hate (May 18). WMG will also host an AAPI panel for over 100 Across About the End employees exploring how the globaliza- tion of AAPI media has shaped the identity 30 Divisions of the Grammy of the AAPI community in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, the company will BY TAYLOR MIMS Nomination host a live listening and feedback session with students and others from local AAPI TA is making big moves with Review organizations for in-house artists and A&R more than 100 promotions representatives. across 30 departments. The el- Committees, In tandem with Topsify, WMG will also evations mark the largest promo- have a leading AAPI artist curate a playlist Utions class in the agency’s 30-year history. Answered: centered around AAPI identity. The promotions include employees at vari- Lastly, the company will host a virtual ous levels throughout the company and from Analysis drag show near the end of the month to ben- divisions including comedy touring, music, efit both AAPI and LGBTQ+ organizations music innovations, production, speakers, BY PAUL GREIN in commemoration of both AAPI Heritage sports, talent, theatre and many more. Month and Pride. “Amid the unprecedented circumstances ow that we’ve all had a few days YouTube surrounding the pandemic, having the abil- to absorb the Recording Acad- YouTube Music has launched a flagship ity to promote over 100 colleagues is a testa- emy’s bombshell announcement playlist entitled “Celebrating APAHM” that ment to the perseverance of our UTA family on April 30 that it is disbanding will feature both emerging and established and the continued evolution and expansion Nits nominations review committees (except Asian-American artists including cover star of our company,” said UTA co-president Da- in so-called “craft” categories), let’s answer Audrey Nuna, Eric Nam, Raja Kumari and vid Kramer in a release. “We couldn’t be some of your questions about this momen- keshi. Other playlists showcasing Asian art- more proud or grateful for this group’s resil- tous change. ists will follow throughout the month. ience and innovative thinking in the face of How will this affect the Grammy Over on the YouTube Spotlight channel, adversity, and we can’t wait to watch them nominations? the service will showcase AAPI artists and thrive in their new positions.” We can probably expect fewer shockeroos others including Anna Akana, Steve Aoki, According to UTA, the elevated group — both in terms of omitting records that Hasan Minhaj and Amanda Lee. The partici- represents a wide range of backgrounds and met all the usual criteria and still weren’t pants will discuss what it was like growing up experiences across gender and ethnicity. nominated and including records that had and living in North America while “juggling Close to 60% of those promoted identify as barely registered. multiple cultures, languages and customs” women and over 35% identify as people of This past year, The Weeknd’s failure to and how those experiences shaped who they color. Additionally, 90% of those promoted receive a single nomination made the most became. Additionally, upcoming episodes of to agent and nearly 80% of those promoted headlines, but nearly as surprising was Har- the behind-the-scenes video series Released to coordinator started their careers in the ry Styles’ failure to land a nomination in will feature special AAPI programming. agent training program. any of the Big Three categories: album, The promotions follow a string of key record and song of the year. hires in newly created positions. In 2021 For most of Grammy history, The Weeknd so far, UTA has added Heather Brooks and Styles would have been automatic Karatz as executive vice president of Grammy nominees in the top categories — growth and operations, Jean-Rene Ze- not just because they had huge commercial trenne as chief people officer, Clinton success, but also because they made great Foy as general partner in venture capital records that represented a meaningful ad- and Danny Barton as sports content execu- vance in their careers. They did everything tive. Additionally, UTA’s most recent partner right, and still didn’t get nominated (in the class, announced in October 2020, marked top categories, in Styles’ case). the largest in the company’s history. Meanwhile, two of the album of the year nominees barely made a blip on the Billboard 200. Black Pumas’ Black Pumas (Deluxe Edition) peaked at No. 200 by the Page 13 of 26

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time of the nominations (it got as high as No. people sitting around a table think — espe- The final nominees in the remaining 13 86 after the awards). Jacob Collier’s Djesse cially when they’re being oh-so calculating categories were determined by so-called Vol. 3 didn’t chart at all. and image-conscious. I care much more “craft committees.” The committee seemed to see its mis- what the broad membership thinks. The So they installed nominations review sion, at least in part, as championing new unvarnished truth is more interesting to committees in the Big Four categories and worthy artists. That’s not unreasonable. me than a highly refined alternate version as a reaction to controversy over the Everyone who had the slightest interest in of the truth. nominations and they’re dissolving popular music had heard The Weeknd’s It always struck me as problematic that them as a reaction to controversy over “Blinding Lights” countless times. You can thousands of Grammy voters could want the nominations. picture some committee members saying: someone to be nominated and a small, hand- Basically. It seems to me the backlash over “Why not give that slot instead to a quality picked committee could essentially overrule The Weeknd being shut out was bigger and act that could really use the boost?” them. Something could conceivably rank louder and more public than any grumbling The counter-argument is that isn’t the first with rank-and-file voters and not even 26 years ago over Tony Bennett and The Grammys’ primary role — to break an art- get nominated. Theoretically, the committee Three Tenors being nominated. ist or play “tastemaker.” When you have could bypass all of the voters’ top five picks Didn’t the committees help to ensure multiple agendas, your central purpose can and come up with a completely different that the nominations were more diverse get muddled. slate of nominees, drawing from further in terms of race, gender and genre? In recent years, we have seen more and down the list. Yes, but they did it in a self-conscious more nominees in the Big Four categories When I saw nominations for left-field can- way, not in an organic way. The Recording — the aforementioned Big Three plus best didates who probably didn’t get there with- Academy has been working hard to expand new artist — that made little commercial out a boost from the committee, I was happy and diversify its membership, which is a impact. It seems unlikely they would have for those acts, but I also wondered what was better, more organic way to achieve the been nominated without getting a boost knocked out to make room for them. same result. from the committee. Why did the Grammys institute nomina- The Academy’s membership has evolved In the past three years, four singles were tions review committees in the first place? considerably since 1994, both through nor- nominated for record of the year that never The idea in forming these committees mal attrition (a fair number of the members appeared on the Billboard Hot 100: Brandi was that experts in each of the genre fields who voted in 1994 have retired or died) Carlile’s “The Joke,” Bon Iver’s “Hey, would be more apt to be really plugged in, and as a result of the Academy’s aggressive Ma,” H.E.R.’s “Hard Place” and Black Pu- and less apt to vote for sentimental favorites, outreach efforts in recent years. mas’ “Colors.” big names or best-sellers. In effect, the Trustees seem to have Going forward, we can probably expect The move to nominations review commit- agreed that these committees have outlived to see fewer artists chosen because they tees began in 1989 with the classical catego- their usefulness. would make the Grammys look cool or hip. ries, followed shortly after by jazz. It’s probably a little late to ask this, but In the 2019 awards cycle, the committee did The committee approach was adopted how did the committees work? not award a best new artist nod to Lewis in the Big Four categories in 1995, after The committees were presented with an Capaldi. Instead, they anointed Black controversy erupted over some of the 1994 alphabetical list of the top vote-getters by Pumas, Tank and the Bangas and Yola. With Grammy nominations. Some argued that rank-and-file voters in a given category. The the voters having the final say, the Lewis album of the year nods for Tony Bennett and committee in the Big Four categories saw the Capaldis of the world — talented and suc- The Three Tenors — and none that year for top 20 vote-getters in each of these catego- cessful artists who aren’t necessarily buzzy alternative or hip-hop artists — showed that ries. The committees in various genre fields or critical favorites — may have a better shot the Grammys were out of touch. saw the top 15 vote-getters in each category. at Grammy recognition. The nominations review committee ap- These committees were fairly small. We may also see more country albums proach expanded over the years to the point There were 25 plus people in the Big Four and more film soundtracks nominated. that such committees came to have the final committee room; about 15 to 18 in each of The committee nominated just 11 country say in the vast majority of categories. the genre field committees. albums for album of the year in 26 years and When I crunched the numbers a couple The committee members listened, just three soundtracks (Waiting to Exhale, O of months ago, I was surprised to learn that discussed and voted. Their votes alone Brother, Where Art Thou? and Black Panther: rank-and-file Grammy voters determined determined the final nominations. How the The Album, Music From and Inspired By). final nominees in just 12 of 84 categories. rank-and-file voters ranked the entries was So do you see this decision as a good In a whopping 59 categories, rank-and- immaterial. In fact, the Academy insisted, thing? file voters voted in the first round and then the committee members had no way of I like things that are real, even if they’re nominations review committees had the knowing what finished first in the voting imperfect. I don’t care that much what 20 final say in determining the nominees. among rank-and-file-members and what Page 14 of 26

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finished last. If you were to combine R&B and con- If you ever saw nominees in categories temporary R&B, that genre would sail into Michael Jackson’s below the Big Four where your initial ac- second place, with 22 album of the year tion was astonishment that those records nominations in this period. Likeness Valued or artists made the voters’ top 15 in the first Note: Waiting to Exhale, a 1996 album of place, your instincts were probably correct. the year nominee, wasn’t eligible for a genre at $4.1 Million The Academy only recently revealed that album category because of the rules in place in the genre committees — but not in the at the time. It’s the only album of the year in Big Tax Court Big Four committee – committee members nominee from this 26-year period that’s not had the option of replacing up to two of the included in the above tallies. Win for Estate listed candidates with write-ins (provided Didn’t Grammy voters nominate some the write-ins were released in the eligibil- pretty lame records back in the day be- BY ASHLEY CULLINS ity year). fore committees? What artists did the best with the com- Yes. I’m still amazed that Starland Vocal ore than four years after go- mittee? Band’s “Afternoon Delight” (1976) and Billy ing head-to-head with the In the 26 years that a nominations review Ray Cyrus’ “Achy Breaky Heart” (1992) were IRS in U.S. Tax Court, Mi- committee had the final say in the Big Four nominated for both record and song of the chael Jackson’s estate has categories, Taylor Swift amassed more year. But if we’re going to bring up the lame Memerged largely victorious — with a album of the year nods as a lead artist than records that were nominated, we’ve also got federal judge finding the artist’s worth at anyone else (four). to acknowledge the great ones that made it the time of his death to be much closer Dixie Chicks, Kanye West, Radiohead, through the Grammy system. to its estimate than the government’s and Eminem, Lady Gaga, Beck, Beyoncé and It’s worth remembering that rank-and-file declining to issue any penalties. Kendrick Lamar are second, with three voters, with no committees to guide them or The dispute centered on how much Jack- album of the year nods in this time period. overrule them, selected three Stevie Wonder son’s image and likeness were worth when (Lamar had one more as a featured artist on albums to win album of the year and also he died in 2009, which would determine how the Black Panther soundtrack.) awarded Grammys in that category to such much in taxes the estate would owe the IRS. Thirteen artists amassed two album of landmark albums as the Beatles’ Sgt. Pep- It also includes the worth of Jackson’s inter- the year nods (as lead artists) in this time per’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and U2’s The est in New Horizon Trust II, which included period: Bob Dylan, OutKast, Mariah Carey, Joshua Tree. his stake in Sony/ATV Music Publishing, Paul McCartney, U2, Justin Timberlake, Foo In the record of the year category, they and New Horizon Trust III, which included Fighters, Adele, Bruno Mars, Drake, H.E.R., awarded Grammys to Eagles’ “Hotel Cali- Mijac Music, a publishing catalog that owned Coldplay and Post Malone. (If you were fornia” and Tina Turner’s “What’s Love the copyrights to compositions Jackson to combine group and solo achievements, Got to Do With It” and nominated Isaac wrote or co-wrote and works by other song- you could add Fugees/Lauryn Hill and The Hayes’ “Theme From Shaft,” Don Henley’s writers. (The estate and IRS generally agreed White Stripes/Jack White.) “The Boys of Summer,” Peter Gabriel’s on the value of the other assets.) What genres did the best with the com- “Sledgehammer,” R.E.M.’s “Losing My On Monday, after a lengthy deliberation mittee? Religion” and Bruce Springsteen’s “Streets process, U.S. Tax Court Judge Mark Holmes In this 26-year period, 40 albums were of Philadelphia.” issued a more than 250-page ruling that nominated for album of the year that the So they made some pretty good calls, too, begins by acknowledging the complexities Grammys classified as pop. Using the over the years. of the situation. Grammys’ own classifications for all of “From the time he was a child Michael these albums, that makes pop the top genre Jackson was famous; and there were times for this period, followed by rock and rap, in his life, testified his executor, when he each with 21 album of the year nomina- was the most famous person in the world,” tions. Contemporary R&B is next with 14 writes Holmes. “There were certainly years nominations. (The name of the genre was when he was the most well-known popular- changed, first to urban contemporary and music star, and even after his death there now progressive R&B.) have been years when he was the world’s Alternative music is next with 13 album of highest-earning entertainer. But there were the year nominations, followed by country also many years when he was more famous (11), R&B (eight), contemporary folk and/ for his unusual behavior and not his unusual or Americana (five), jazz (two), electronic talent. And there were some years where his dance (2) and compilation soundtrack (1). fame was turned infamous by serious accusa- Page 15 of 26

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tions of the most noisome acts. We make no writes, “Any projection that finds a torrent The estate was represented by attor- particular judgment about what Jackson did of revenue, and not just a trickle, from such neys from Hochman Salkin Toscher Perez; or is alleged to have done, but we must decide a man’s image and likeness — especially one Hoffman Sabban & Watenmaker; Freeman how what he did and is alleged to have done who in the last two years of his life was so Freeman Smiley; and longtime Jackson affected the value of what he left behind.” unpopular he did not even have a Q score — estate lawyer the late Howard Weitzman of The IRS valued Jackson’s likeness and is simply not reasonable.” (Then, there’s the Kinsella Weitzman Iser Kump. image at about $434 million, while the whole perjury thing.) This article was originally published estate said it was only worth about $2,000 at Ultimately, Holmes found Jackson’s by The Hollywood Reporter. the time he had died. The reason? Jackson likeness to be worth approximately $4.15 struggled to rehabilitate his image amid al- million at the time of his death, his interest legations of child molestation. In fact, one of in New Horizon Trust II (which included Epic v. Apple the estate’s experts estimated that in the fi- the Sony/ATV stake) to be valueless because nal six months of his life Jackson only made at the time he died its liabilities exceeded its Antitrust $24 in image and likeness-related revenue. assets by about $89 million, and his interest (After further expert consultation leading in New Horizon Trust III (which included Trial Begins up to the trial the estate would increase its Mijac) to be just more than $107 million. valuation to around $3 million.) Holmes doesn’t fault the estate for its valu- BY ERIQ GARDNER Holmes notes that, in a situation like this, ations and found no penalties are warranted.” it’s vital to separate what the value was at Jackson had outlived the peak of his pop- n Oakland, California, a closely- the time of Jackson’s death from what the ularity, but in the decades before his death watched trial is now underway over value would later become because of the he kept spending as if he had not,” writes Apple’s practices with respect to its estate’s management of those assets. Holmes. “Popular culture always moves on. App Store. The case is being pursued Because there’s no seeing the future, the There will come a time when Captain EO Iby Epic Games, which produces Fortnite. estate’s experts compared Jackson’s posthu- joins Monte Brewster and Terry Forbes as Last August, Apple booted the mega-hit mous prospects to those of other departed names that without googling sort of sound game from its app distribution platform celebrities, specifically Marilyn Monroe, familiar, but only to people of a certain age upon Epic’s attempt to bypass the 30 per- James Dean, Bettie Page, Jackie Robinson, or to students of entertainment history. cent commission that Apple takes on in-app Princess Diana and Elvis Presley. It also And just as the grave will swallow Jackson’s purchases. In response, Epic quickly un- factored in public perception, balancing fame, time will erode the Estate’s income. It leashed a public campaign to #freefortnite respect for his artistic talents against dam- resurrected and then sold what became its from Apple’s closed system. age to his reputation. Holmes notes that the most valuable asset to Sony before trial. The The major antitrust showdown could have “stigma is reflected in his lack of endorse- value of what it has left, no matter how well an outsized impact on streaming’s fu- ments or merchandise agreements unrelated managed, will now dwindle as Jackson’s ture by providing guidance about what those to a musical tour or album from 1993 until copyrights expire and his image and likeness who control “walled gardens” online can and his death.” shuffle first into irrelevance and then into can’t do under the nation’s primary federal The IRS, however, gave greater weight the public domain.” law regulating competition. Both sides agree to “foreseeable opportunities,” including John Branca and John McClain, co-exec- that Apple’s App Store has become an impor- themed attractions, branded merchandise, a utors of The Estate of Michael Jackson, on tant part of the world’s economy since the Cirque du Soleil show, a film and a Broad- Monday issued this statement in response to rise of the iPhone in the mid-aughts, but the way musical. Again, Presley was used as a the decision: “This thoughtful ruling by the disagreement lies in whether Apple is abus- bit of a template, as were other celebrities U.S. Tax Court is a huge, unambiguous victo- ing control of a market. with brand deals (Tony Hawk, Paris Hilton, ry for Michael Jackson’s children. For nearly “The evidence will show as a technical Regis Philbin, Jennifer Lopez and Tyra 12 years Michael’s Estate has maintained matter, [Apple’s 30 percent tax] is not about Banks). Meanwhile, the Cirque show be- that the government’s valuation of Mi- security but about profits,” said Katherine came a factor because Jackson’s ex-manager chael’s assets on the day he passed away was Forrest, the Cravath attorney representing Tohme Tohme said negotiations were outrageous and unfair, one that would have Epic, in her opening statement. underway before Jackson’s death. saddled his heirs with an oppressive tax li- Karen Dunn, Apple’s lawyer at Paul Weiss, Holmes found the hypotheticals to ability of more than $700 million. While we had a different perspective. be “unreliable and unpersuasive” — and disagree with some portions of the decision, “Ever since the launch of the iPhone , notes that the government’s expert failed we believe it clearly exposes how unreason- consumers have relied on Apple to provide to account for any costs of managing the able the IRS valuation was and provides a a safe and secure environment,” said Dunn, likeness rights and seems to have ignored path forward to finally resolve this case in a later adding, “Epic, a $28 billion company, the hit Jackson’s reputation had taken. He fair and just manner.” has decided it doesn’t want to pay for Page 16 of 26

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Apple’s innovations anymore.” progress and economic growth, she argues. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Epic’s claims represent a “fundamental Sony Music UK there’s limited seating capacity in the court- assault on what made the growth possible,” room of U.S. District Court Judge Yvonne says Dunn, adding, “Epic is here demanding Taps Charlotte Gonzalez Rogers. Just one member of the that this court force Apple to let in untested media is being allowed to attend at a time, and untrusted apps.” Edgeworth to and the judge decided against providing a Anticipating this argument, Forrest says video stream of the proceeding. Instead, the evidence doesn’t show that absolute Lead Diversity, audio-only dial-in access is available, but the control over the app distribution system court was plagued with problems at the start is needed to create a safe environment. Inclusion & of the trial. The media-only line went silent Certainly not any 30 percent “tax” on in-app soon after the court was called into session purchases, she says, pointing out how the Social Impact while the line for the public was taken over App Store has allowed a lot of harmful apps for a brief time by pro-Epic gamers. through Apple’s review process including BY CYDNEY LEE Nevertheless, despite the inauspicious a school shooting game just weeks after a start, both sides were able to craft and gunman killed 17 people at a high school in ony Music Entertainment UK an- convey their respective narratives during Parkland, Florida. nounced on Tuesday the appoint- fast-pace opening statements. Meanwhile, Dunn attempted to undercut ment of Charlotte Edgeworth to Forrest, a former federal judge, said there the notion that Epic is as benevolent as it the newly created position of direc- was really no reason why open distribution portrays itself to be in the press, on social Stor of diversity, inclusion and social impact. couldn’t exist for apps, and that when the media, and in this case. Specifically, Apple’s In her new role, she will strive to foster App Store was launched in 2008, Steve Jobs attorney said that Epic had pursued a side an equitable workplace, leading company stated that it wouldn’t be a money-maker. deal that would have allowed a special strategies and working closely with Tif- Now? carve-out for the game giant from the App fany R. Warren, vp and chief diversity Apple generates a billion dollars annually Store rules. and inclusion officer at Sony Music Group. from the App Store, says Epic, adding the While the first of its breed, this plat- Edgeworth will also work closely with the computer giant now tacks on extra charges form antitrust fight will hardly be the last. UK Social Justice Board and Towalame for subscriptions, premium search place- The trial comes just as Europe gets tough Austin, SMG’s executive vp of philanthropy ment, and even technical help. “The margins on digital gatekeepers and as Roku and and social impact. are far, far higher than any other compa- Google square off about over the distribu- “I’m delighted that Charlotte is joining rable company in this sphere,” says Forrest. tion of YouTube TV. The proceeding will the Sony Music UK as one of our newest Epic’s lawyer says developers now find last roughly three weeks with testimony leaders. She has played a key role in helping themselves “in a trap of Apple’s making,” expected from Epic CEO Tim Sweeney, establish our Social Justice Fund and activi- with users locked into an ecosystem. And Apple CEO Tim Cook, other industry execu- ties,” said Jason Iley, chairman and CEO of the penalties for not obeying Apple’s rules tives, and experts as well. Jude Rogers, who Sony Music UK and Ireland. “Her expertise are harsh. “The evidence will show that has told the parties she agrees the antitrust will continue to drive us forward in our Apple wields its [termination] provision as a issues are cutting edge, will then review the commitment to diversity, inclusion and sword,” she says, also arguing, “Apple argues testimony and issue a decision, likely some- social impact. Charlotte’s leadership role re- all its conduct is covered by IP rights but the time later this summer. inforces our efforts to ensure our company evidence will show that IP rights don’t over- This article was originally published truly reflects the diversity of our employees ride competition law.” by The Hollywood Reporter. and artists.” Is there any pro-competitive purpose to With over 20 years of experience, Edge- how Apple keeps such a tight leash on app worth has championed diversity and across distribution? numerous industries. In 2020, she joined Yes, says Apple, repeatedly emphasizing Sony Music UK, advising on activities and security, privacy, and reliability. disbursements for the company’s Social Jus- “Apple did not create a secure and inte- tice Fund. The Fund is a part of SMG’s $100 grated ecosystem to keep people out; it did million Global Social Justice Fund, which that so it could invite developers in, without was created in June 2020 to support social compromising the privacy, reliability and justice, equal rights and anti-racist initiatives. quality consumers wanted,” says Dunn. As the new director of diversity, inclusion Other business have relied on Apple here. and social impact, Edgeworth will continue And that’s led to a decade of technological building on the Fund’s commitments and Page 17 of 26

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philanthropic partnerships to expand its case of potential weather events. A render- ity and unparalleled character. Coupled scope and reach. ing of the new site is available here. with his creativity, drive and determina- “I am delighted to join Sony Music UK at “Building a recovery for all of us means tion, there is no question he will soon such a vital time in the movement towards a reconnecting with the iconic events that place an Emmy and Tony award alongside fairer and more inclusive society,” she said. make New York City the greatest travel his Grammy and Oscar.” “I look forward to further developing Sony destination in the world,” said Mayor Bill de Hailing from a musical family, D’Mile Music’s commitment to equity and oppor- Blasio in a statement. “As more New Yorkers was classically trained in piano as a child tunity in the workplace and driving social become vaccinated by the day, we’re proud before moving onto the guitar, bass and change ​in the wider community.” to support arts and culture and welcome drums. When asked about his decision to back Governors Ball and their fantastic pursue music, the Brooklyn native says it lineup, including New York City’s own Prin- was destined. “I think I made my decision Billie Eilish, cess Nokia, A$AP Rocky, and King Princess, before I even knew what I was doing,” he among others.” told Billboard in a recent interview. “It was a A$AP Rocky, Also slated to perform are Freddie Gibbs part of me.” & The Alchemist, EarthGang, Orville Peck, In addition to his production and song- & Post Malone Bartees Strange, Pink Sweat$, Aminé, Domi- writing work with H.E.R. and Silk Sonic, nic Fike, Smino, Duck Sauce and more. D’Mile collaborators include Rihanna, to Headline Check out the full lineup below: Beyonce, Jay-Z, Janet Jackson, Lucky Daye Governors and Ty Dolla $ign. Grammy Winner Ball 2021 Roskilde Festival D’Mile Signs 2021 Is Cancelled BY GIL KAUFMAN Publishing Deal he 2021 Governors Ball festival Due to COVID-19 will take place at New York’s Citi With BMG Field from Sept. 24-26, and will BY LARS BRANDLE feature headlining sets from Bil- BY NEENA ROUHANI Tlie Eilish, A$AP Rocky and Post Malone. he 2021 edition of Roskilde The 10th anniversary edition of the festi- ward-winning producer Dernst Festival, one of Europe’s premier val — which took a break in 2020 due to “D’Mile” Emile II announced a summer music fests, has been the COVID-19 pandemic — will follow all new global publishing deal with scrapped due to the health crisis. mandated state and federal guidelines at the BMG on Friday (April 30). The T“We finally received an official state- time of the event, according to a release. newlyA minted Oscar and Grammy winner ment from the authorities,” reads a state- More than 60 acts will take the stage earned his awards for songwriting work ment from organizers, published Tuesday over the weekend, including J Balvin, with longtime collaborator H.E.R. on “Fight (May 4). “There will be no Roskilde Festival DaBaby, Megan Thee Stallion, RÜFÜS For You” from Judas and the Black Mes- this summer.” DU SOL, Ellie Goulding, Leon Bridges, 21 siah and last summer’s soul-stirring protest This year’s outdoor event was booked Savage, Young Thug, Portugal. The Man, anthem, “I Can’t Breathe.” across eight days from July 26, to June 3, Burna Boy, Future Islands, Phoebe Bridg- “I am excited to renew my relationship with a line-up featuring the likes of The ers, Jamie XX, Carly Rae Jepsen, Big Thief, with BMG and I’m confident that this next Strokes, Tyler, The Creator, Faith No Bleachers and many more. phase will be even bigger and more memo- More, Haim, DaBaby, Deftones, Doja Cat, This year, the show is moving to the Citi rable for our fans and collaborators,” said Fontaines D.C., Megan Thee Stallion and Field complex in Queens, New York, a site D’Mile in a statement to Billboard. The R&B many more. that organizers tout as having more trans- veteran kicked off the year in a major way, On a typical year, 130,000 music fans de- portation options, as well as a 360-degree working extensively with power duo Silk scend on the site, about 20 miles west of the layout modeled on The Meadows Music Sonic (Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak) capital, Copenhagen. This, however, is the and Arts Festival that cut down travel time in addition to his critically acclaimed work second successive year Roskilde has had to between stages while still preventing sound with H.E.R. cancel due to COVID-19. bleed. The event will also carpet the venue Thomas Scherer, president of reper- The latest development is “very serious for with high-grade astroturf for comfort, and toire and marketing at BMG said, “Behind the festival,” for the Roskilde Festival Charity, allow easy access for quick entry and exit in all his success is an unmatched authentic- the organization behind the fest, “and for our Page 18 of 26

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community,” the statement continues. ing Audien, Louis the Child, Rezz, 3lau, “We will work extra hard to make room BreatheCarolina, Tommy Sunshine, Manila Here’s How for art, volunteering and new cultural expe- Killa, Dave Dresden and many more — along riences in the time to come,” say organizers. with Spinnin’, Proximity, Anjunadeep and ‘Fearless “But first we must digest this sad announce- more labels and distributors — expressing ment. Then we will be back.” their condolences. (Taylor’s Version)’ Ticketholders can transfer their stubs for “He was one of my best friends, and truly the 2022 event, or get a refund. like a brother to me,” wrote Audien. “I don’t Performed in Denmark’s population of about 5.8 know what else to say on here.. RIP to some- million has reported more than 254,000 one truly special.” Its Third Week cases of infection and 2,491 COVID-related Fulton is survived by his parents, his deaths, according to updating research brother, his sister and his wife. Compared to published by Johns Hopkins University. “The past year has been a difficult time Currently, just 11% of the population is for everyone,” Griff Fulton continued in his Taylor Swift’s fully vaccinated. statement. “If you or anyone you know has been struggling, please take your intuition Original ‘Fearless’ seriously, speak up about your feelings, and Dance Producer reach out for help.” BY JASON LIPSHUTZ The statement continues that the fam- Pierce Fulton Dies ily is planning to start an organization in fter Taylor Swift’s Fearless Fulton’s honor. It also encouraged fans and (Taylor’s Version) scored the at 28 After ‘Tragic friends to send their condolences, pho- biggest debut of any album so tos, videos and recollections of Fulton to far in 2021 upon its release last Struggle With [email protected]. month,A the re-recorded version of her 2008 May is Mental Health Month. If you or sophomore album remains in the top 10 of Mental Health’ anyone you know is struggling with mental the Billboard 200 chart. Meanwhile, we can health or substance abuse disorders, reach keep tracking how the new version of Fear- BY KATIE BAIN out to the Substance Abuse and Mental less has impacted the old version of Fearless, Health Services Administration’s national in terms of weekly listenership. lectronic producer Pierce Fulton helpline 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for In its third week on the Billboard has died at age 28. confidential treatment referrals and informa- 200, Fearless (Taylor’s Version) slips to No. On Monday (May 3), Ful- tion. For those who are experiencing suicidal 9, after previously debuting atop the chart ton’s older brother Griff Fulton thoughts and/or distress, the National Sui- and sliding to No. 2 on last week’s tally. The Ereleased a statement via social media an- cide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 re-recorded album earned 33,000 equiva- nouncing the death. “It breaks my heart to at 1-800-273-8255. lent album units on the chart dated May 8, share with you that Pierce passed away on according to MRC Data, down from 57,000 Thursday evening following a tragic struggle equivalent album units the previous week. with mental health.” By comparison, the original Fear- Fulton made his name in the dance scene less earned 5,000 equivalent album units on in the early and mid-2010s via house and the chart dated May 8, which was steady progressive house productions released by with its total from the previous week. Here’s labels including Armada, Monstercat, Anju- a visual comparison of how Fearless (Tay- nadeep and more. “Waiting for Tomorrow,” lor’s Version) and Fearless have performed his 2018 collaboration with Martin Garrix over the past three chart weeks, in equiva- and Mike Shinoda,hit No. 26 on Hot Dance/ lent album units: Electronic Songs, while his solo track “Run- As previously noted, Fearless (Tay- away” hit No. 1 on that same chart in 2014. lor’s Version) has the benefit of new fan Fulton also had charting tracks on the Dance interest compared to the original Fearless, Mix/Airplay Show chart. In January 2020, which won Swift her first album of the year his collaborative project Leaving Laurel was Grammy of the three she has earned over released via Anjunadeep. the course of her career. Also, Fearless (Tay- The dance music community is mourning lor’s Version) has six additional “From The Fulton’s death online, with artists includ- Vault” tracks that count toward its equiva- Page 19 of 26

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lent album unit numbers. trailer to starting a fire. one day play Saturday Night Live. Although all of the “From The Vault” Wilson moved to Nashville in 2011, She shares her other desire with the frank- songs have fallen off the Hot 100 chart as at the age of 19, arriving with a Flagstaff ness befitting her small-town roots: “I want of this week, “Willow” — Swift’s latest No. trailer full of her belongings attached to a to keep my head screwed on straight, and 1 single, from last year’s Evermore album — pickup truck. She parked outside a family then get to the point where I’m traveling on a comes in at No. 61 on this week’s tally. Swift friend’s recording studio and lived in it for bus, because boys stink and I don’t want to be has told fans that she is already hard at three years. “I was known as that crazy girl around stinking boys anymore!” work on her next re-recorded album, after with the trailer back then,” she recalls. By A version of this article will appear in the announcing plans in 2019 to re-record her 2016, she independently released her debut May 15, 2021, issue of Billboard. first six full-lengths. album, Tougher, which hit No. 44 on Bill- board’s Top Country Albums chart, and followed it up with a self-titled EP. Billie Hayes, Chartbreaker: All the while, she was determined to “meet the right people who could help connect ‘H.R. Pufnstuf’ How Lainey the dots on the way to success. I changed management a few times and made a few and Broadway Wilson Went mistakes while figuring out exactly what the formula was that would work for me.” Star, Dies at 96 From Living In a By March 2018, she scored a publishing deal with Sony/ATV, and by that August a contract BY MIKE BARNES Trailer to Climbing with indie label Broken Bow Records. The label released her four-track EP, Redneck Hol- illie Hayes, who played the cack- Country Charts lywood, the following year, which included ling Wilhelmina W. Witchiepoo “Things A Man Oughta Know.” on Sid and Marty Krofft’s H.R. BY MARCUS DOWLING But as the label was gearing up to release Pufnstuf and the scrappy Mammy her major-label debut full-length — Sayin’ BYokum in the Broadway and big-screen ver- ainey Wilson’s dad was recently What I’m Thinkin’ arrived this February — sions of Li’l Abner, has died. She was 96. having a day like any other: listen- much of the world was in lockdown due to Hayes died Thursday of natural causes at ing to the radio on his tractor while COVID-19. Thanks to her grassroots start in Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Ange- planting corn. But then, something Nashville, though, Wilson was familiar with les, a family spokesperson said. Ldifferent happened. He heard his daughter’s navigating uncertain times. After starring as the evil protagonist on breakout hit begin to play. “When he heard “Lainey didn’t let the pandemic stop her the 1969-70 kids program H.R. Pufnstuf, she my song, he called me,” recalls Wilson, tear- from engaging with fans on social media reteamed with the Krofft brothers in 1971- ing up. “He’s a good ol’ country boy and a and industry professionals in the Nashville 72 on Lidsville, another Saturday morning man of few words. He reminded me that we and country communities,” says Jon Loba, show for children (she played the incompe- used to listen to country music on the radio president of BMG Nashville. “She’s that tent Weenie the Genie on that one). on the tractor together when I was a child. rare artist who is [simultaneously] respect- The Kroffts reacted on Twitter to the It was a full-circle moment.” ed by consumers, industry gatekeepers, and news of her death: Wilson’s “Things A Man Oughta Know” — other artists.” More recently, Hayes served as a voice about learning what it means to be prepared It helped that, prior to the pandemic, the actor for The Black Cauldron (1985) and for for whatever life throws your way, from label arranged for Wilson to meet with key such cartoons as Trollkins, The New Scooby- doubt to heartbreak — has spent 18 weeks radio and DSP players. Loba says iHeartra- Doo Mysteries, Paw Paws, Darkwing Duck, The on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart, re- dio, for example, met Wilson over a year ago Brothers Flub and Transformers: Rescue Bots. cently surging into the top 20. and because she remained visible through- Born on Aug. 5, 1924, in DuQuoin, Illinois, Wilson — who was born and raised in out 2020, was eager to work together, nam- Hayes played in bandleader Vince Geno- Baskin, La., “a hard-working, blue-collar ing her a 2021 “On The Verge” act. Spotify vese’s orchestra while in high school, then town of 300 people who love country followed a similar path, adding Wilson its its toured with her own singing and dancing music” — says mining her upbringing was inaugural Hot Country Artists to Watch list. act throughout the Midwest. a natural process while writing alongside Loba predicts Wilson will be a future After moving to New York, she auditioned Jason Nix and Jonathan Singleton. She “stadium-touring act.” Even with concerts for theater legend J.J. Shubert and was started talking about her childhood and on hold, she has improved her live vo- hired for principle roles in three road- soon relayed what her parents taught her cal skills, mostly through intimate online show operettas: Student Prince, The Merry early on, from catching a fish to hitching a performances. As for Wilson, she’s hoping to Widow and Blossom Time. Page 20 of 26

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Hayes made her Broadway debut in she said. “Years later, to receive the Billboard The 2021 Billboard Music Awards are Leonard Sillman’s New Faces of 1956, then Music Awards Icon Award is hard to fathom! produced by dick clark productions, which succeeded Charlotte Rae as Mammy Yokum I feel so honored to join the ranks of music is owned by MRC; MRC and Penske Media in Li’l Abner. She played the bare-knuckle idols like Cher, Garth Brooks, Janet Jackson are co-parent companies of Billboard. champion of Dogpatch for the remainder of and Stevie Wonder. It’s a true ‘pinch me’ mo- Barry Adelman and Robert Deaton are its Broadway run through July 1958, then ment and I feel humbled and blessed.” executive producers. segued to the 1959 Paramount big-screen As all of the previous Icon Award recipi- The show will air live from the Microsoft version that also starred Peter Palmer, Leslie ents have, P!nk will perform at the show. Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, May 23, Parrish, Stubby Kaye, Julie Newmar and This will mark her first performance on the at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on NBC. Stella Stevens. (Hayes portrayed Mammy BBMA stage in five years. Yokum again in a 1971 ABC telefilm.) The Icon Award “recognizes outstanding In 1966, she toured with the national artists who have achieved excellence on the With a Global company of Hello, Dolly!, starring Betty Billboard charts and have made an indelible Grable, and later appeared on such TV mark on music itself.” Team and ‘God shows as The Monkees, Bewitched, Trapper P!nk’s last three studio albums — The John, M.D. and General Hospital. Truth About Love (2012), Beautiful Trau- Connecting the Survivors include her niece, Nancy, and ma (2017) and Hurts 2B Human (2019) nephews Tom, Louie and Guy. — have entered the Billboard 200 at No. Dots,’ New Artist Donations in her memory can be made 1. In addition, she has amassed four No. 1 to the humane organization she found- singles on the Billboard Hot 100: “Lady Pricie Is Set Up ed: Pet Hope, P.O. Box 69493, West Hol- Marmalade” with Christina Aguilera, Lil’ lywood CA 90048. Kim and Mýa (2001), “So What’’ (2008), For Success This article originally appeared in “Raise Your Glass” (2010) and “Just Give Me THR.com. a Reason,” featuring Nate Ruess (2013). BY LYNDSEY HAVENS The versatile singer also reached No. 1 on the Hot Country Songs and Country Airplay t the top of 2020, rising artist P!nk to Receive charts with “Setting the World on Fire,” a Pricie was staying with her A&R 2016 collab with Kenny Chesney. in Hollywood. While out on the Icon Award at P!nk’s “Beautiful Trauma” world tour balcony, she overhead someone (2018-19) became the highest-grossing tour playingA the piano to Beyoncé’s “Halo” from the 2021 Billboard by a woman in the 2010s and the second a rooftop below. She decided to sing along. highest-grossing tour by a woman in Box- However, the keyboardist happened to be Music Awards score history. It received Billboard’s legend a social media star and was filming his latest of live and tour of the year awards in 2019. gimmick, in which he plays songs blindfold- BY PAUL GREIN P!nk was Billboard’s Woman of the Year ed, for his 2.6 million TikTok followers. in 2013. She has received several other ma- “She just started singing a cappella over !nk has been selected to receive jor career honors in recent years, including his piano, literally from rooftop to roof- the Icon Award at the 2021 Bill- the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award top,” recalls Matt Handley, director of A&R board Music Awards, which will at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2017 at Sydney-based indie label Sweat It Out. broadcast live from the Microsoft and the outstanding contribution to music “It was pretty sick.” It also demonstrated PTheater in Los Angeles on Sunday, May award at the Brit Awards in 2019. that he had, in fact, recently signed a star 23. Nick Jonas is hosting the show for the The Weeknd is this year’s leading BBMA in the making. first time. finalist with 16 nods, followed by Da- Handley first came across Pricie three P!nk, 41, is the 10th artist to receive the Baby (11), Pop Smoke (10) and Gabby years prior when her demo landed in his Icon Award and the youngest recipient to Barrett (nine). inbox. The gospel-infused funk-pop tracks date. The previous recipients are Neil Dia- BBMA finalists and winners are based on were “completely left” of the dance-based mond, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Jennifer key fan interactions with music, including demos he typically received. “Instantly it Lopez, Celine Dion, Cher, Janet Jack- album and digital song sales, streaming, ra- ticked everybody’s boxes,” says Sweat It Out son, Mariah Carey and Garth Brooks. dio airplay, and social engagement, tracked director Jamie Raeburn. “It was one of the In a statement, P!nk made note of that by Billboard and its data partners, including easiest, ‘Yes, we want to sign you’ conversa- impressive roster of icons. “As a little girl, MRC Data. This year’s awards are based on tions we’ve had.” I always dreamed about being a singer and the chart period of March 21, 2020, through That said, he admits there were concerns sharing my love of music with the world,” April 3, 2021. over if the label was the best fit for Pricie, Page 21 of 26

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because of its storied past with break- media, and still remembers when two of the following 6-12 months mapped out. As ing and supporting dance acts, from A- her Facebook friends affirmed her path by Corcoran says, it’s all about cadence and Trak to Rüfüs Du Sol. “But one of our direct-messaging her that she needed to consistency — especially for a new artist. founders, [dance legend] Ajax, who has pursue music more seriously. Not long after, “When we turn on a TV show, if there’s sadly passed away — he always used to refer her demo made its way to Handley and by only one episode a year, how can we ever be to records with shtick, and that’s exactly Feb. 2018 she signed a recording contract interested in watching it?” he says. “Just logi- what this [demo] had. It had shtick — and with Sweat It Out. “We don’t have a lot of cally thinking, we need to be consistent so she had shtick. It didn’t really matter what artists, and we tend to focus quite heavily that people tune in on a consistent basis. Pri- style it was.” on [the ones we do have] from quite an early cie’s got a vault of amazing material, so we’re Pricie’s debut single, “Too Dang Good” — stage,” says Raeburn. By the time Pricie not worried about having a lack of music.” a sassy, soulful song with rapped vocals and visited L.A., she and the team agree the way Pricie’s next single, “Friendzone” — a glimmering pop production that she wrote in which everything else came together was, booming, slinky song featuring Ghanaian- just as COVID-19 hit — had so much shtick simply put, “God’s plan.” Australian hip-hop artist Genesis Owusu — that before it was even properly released, While staying with Handley, Pricie will arrive May 14 (though Raebrun is quick Australia’s government-funded alterna- bonded more with his girlfriend, Johanna to note that “Too Dang Good” is still “doing tive radio station, Triple J, added it to the Moonan. After watching, and being im- so bloody well at radio we don’t want to rotation. (The release date had moved at pressed, by how Moonan negotiated a new jump on its parade”). least four times due to the pandemic, before lease agreement with a nightmarish land- While focusing on singles for now — the team finally decided to start fresh in lord, Pricie was intent on being managed Handley compares their strategy to DJing the new year with a new rollout plan). By by her. Though she herself had no manage- in that “you want to get the crowd’s trust by early February, as the song officially arrived, rial experience, her longtime friend, Logan playing them a few songs that they really Triple J’s sister station, Unearthed, named Kearns, did — and had recently launched his like, and then you can throw out a few that Pricie as a featured artist. Over on Spotify, own company, Camp Management. are left-of-center” — Pricie has been able the track was added to a wide-range of Five years prior, Kearns had met Pat to book support slots and label showcases genre-based playlists, from Front Left to Corcoran, who was managing Chance the since live music has returned to the country. House Party. Rapper at the time. The two had since been As Kearns says, “that’s the great thing with Beyond her music, Pricie had the look eager to collaborate, and Pricie proved to her being in Australia, you can actually build and feel of a star, too. Sweat It Out’s head be the perfect opportunity. Just as Pricie an artist how we’ve historically been build- of publicity, Amanda Jenkins, says from was gearing up to release “Too Dang Good,” ing artists for years.” the first time the team met her she came in Corcoran came on board and all the pieces Handley says one of the biggest hurdles with “these really strong ideas about visuals fell into place: she had Australian and U.S. with the timing of forthcoming releases and photo shoots. It just felt straight away label representation through Sweat It Out is that a handful of Pricie’s demos sample like she was going to be the whole package. and Corcoran’s Nice Work (which runs music and audio clips pulled from YouTube, We’re not trying to create any story — we’re through Warner’s distribution company which the team has since been working to just facilitating hers. I think that’s when you ADA), respectively, and a widespread retroactively clear or rerecord. But as every- get the absolute best results of any artist, management team with Moonan’s Working one assures, there’s no rush — and above all when they really know themselves.” Holiday in L.A., Kearns’ Camp Manage- else, they’re taking their cues from Pricie. Pricie, 26, was raised on gospel music ment in Toronto and Corcoran’s Nice Work “It’s so fun for me, because I get to experi- while growing up in Nigeria, particu- in Chicago. ence people’s mentality towards how they larly CeCe Winans, and would often dance “To be honest, we didn’t plan it that way,” perceive females in the industry, or Black and harmonize with her sisters at countless says Raeburn of her team’s global reach. females in the industry,” she says. “When I Nigerian weddings (current favorites in- “We thought we’d start in Australia and was growing up, leadership for me meant I clude Anderson .Paak, Cardi B, Saweetie and build slowly. We always had international had to control everyone and everything and SZA). “Rhythm, grooves, vibes, it’s always in mind for her — we thought she was going that’s it. But the older I got it was like, ‘My just been there,” the singer says. She asserts to break in the U.K., then the U.S. — but it ideology on leadership as an artist is nobody there was never that moment where she was snowballed really quickly. When people owns me and I don’t own nobody.’” like, “Oh shit, I can really sing,” but rather start asking you for records and you start to “[I always heard] labels just want to push, a moment when she realized, by the age see momentum, you’ve got to be reactive.” push, push,” she continues, “and it’s been of 16, that she had the ability to tell stories From the start, Jenkins formed a game incredible to experience the opposite. They through music that connected with people plan to ensure Pricie would always be a work with me, I work with them. For some- she didn’t even know. step ahead. She says a key part of the team’s one to see the value in something I did out Pricie soon started posting covers and strategy was making sure that when they of my own insecurity or my own joy or my original songs on YouTube and social did finally drop “Too Dang Good” they had own pain, you can’t manufacture that. It’s Page 22 of 26

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God connecting the dots.” are due back in court May 11. Whaley drove the arrests publicly. Fischer is recover- Cocoran, for his part, is familiar with that Jackson and White around Hollywood, the ing from a gunshot wound and has called kind of serendipity in this industry. “I know city of West Hollywood and the San Fer- the violence a “very close call with death” how it feels to be strapped to a rocketship,” nando Valley on Feb. 24 “looking for French in social media posts. he says. “I’ve been prepared for it.” bulldogs,” the felony complaint states. They found Fischer and his three charges in Hollywood. The trio tailed Fischer as Wu-Tang Clan Lady Gaga’s Dog he led the dogs — named Asia, Koji and Gustav — along the famed Sunset Boulevard, Imposter Gets Walker Tailed LA prosecutors wrote. They turned off the white sedan’s lights and followed him down Prison Time by Suspects, a secluded side street. Jackson and White jumped out and attacked Fischer, steal- for Cheating According to ing Koji and Gustav in a violent struggle captured on the doorbell camera of a Hotels, Limos Prosecutors nearby home. They hit and choked Fischer, prosecutors alleged, and Jackson pulled BY ASSOCIATED PRESS BY ASSOCIATED PRESS out a semiautomatic gun and fired, striking Fischer once before they fled. Georgia man has been sentenced hree men drove around the Hol- The camera recorded the dog walker to more than eight years in fed- lywood area in late February, on screaming “Oh, my God! I’ve been shot!” eral prison for using stolen credit the prowl for expensive French and “Help me!” and “I’m bleeding out cards to live large in hotels and bulldogs to steal, prosecutors said. from my chest!” Over the next two days, limousinesA while claiming to have ties to TTheir night would end in gunfire — and White’s father, Harold White, and Jennifer the hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan. Walker the violent theft of pop star Lady Gaga’s McBride, who was in a relationship with Washington of Augusta was sentenced to beloved pets. The robbery would prompt the elder White, became involved in the 100 months in prison after pleading guilty to headlines around the world — and motivate theft, prosecutors wrote. They allegedly conspiracy to commit wire fraud, David H. the owners of French bulldogs to be wary helped the younger White avoid arrest, and Estes, acting U.S. attorney for the Southern during walks — with few clues made public McBride returned the dogs to police on District of Georgia, said in a news release. about the case or the circumstances sur- Feb. 26. She claimed she’d found the animals U.S. District Judge Dudley H. Bowen rounding the dogs’ disappearance. tied to a pole, police said at the time, and also ordered Washington, 53, to pay about The felony complaint, filed by prosecutors asked about Lady Gaga’s offer of a $500,000 $300,000 to 19 businesses defrauded in the Thursday in Los Angeles Superior Court reward if the dogs were returned “no ques- scheme, according to the release. He must and obtained by The Associated Press on tions asked.” The singer was in Rome at the serve three years of supervised release after Monday (May 3), gives some new details time filming a movie. his prison term is completed. There is no about the attack and what preceded it. Five Police initially said McBride appeared to parole in the federal system. Washington’s people are charged in the case — the three be “uninvolved and unassociated” with the co-defendant, Aaron Barnes-Burpo, 29, of men and two alleged accomplices — and all crime. She is charged with receiving stolen Crestview, Florida, was previously sen- have pleaded not guilty. The Lady Gaga con- property valued above $950, in addition to tenced to seven years after pleading guilty to nection was a coincidence, authorities have a count of being an accessory after the fact. the same charge and also must pay $300,000 said. The motive was the value of the French Jaylin White remains held on more than in restitution to the businesses. bulldogs, a breed that can run into the $1 million bond, jail records show. Jackson “These two flim-flam artists and their thousands of dollars, and detectives do not is held on just over $3 million bond, and phony entourage lived large for several believe the thieves knew the dogs belonged Whaley’s bond is $1.1 million. weeks by scamming hospitality providers,” to the pop star. The elder White, who is an alleged Estes said. “We commend the skeptical hotel The three men in the sedan — James gang member nicknamed Lil Porky, was clerk who saw through the scam and alerted Jackson, 18; Jaylin White, 19; and Lafayette released from jail Saturday, and McBride law enforcement, bringing this scheme to a Whaley, 27 — were arrested last week on was freed Monday pending their next court halt.” Barnes-Burpo and Washington admit- suspicion of attempted murder and robbery. appearance. McBride’s attorney could not ted that they falsely claimed to be affiliated Jackson is also accused of shooting Lady immediately be reached for comment. It with the Roc Nation production company Gaga’s dog walker, Ryan Fischer. The trio — was not immediately clear if the others had and the Wu-Tang Clan and used fraudulent purported gang members nicknamed Infant lawyers who could speak on their behalf. and stolen credit cards to rent limousines, Dice, Lil Gudda and LFace, respectively — Lady Gaga and Fischer have not addressed defraud hotels, caterers and production stu- Page 23 of 26

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dios in multiple cities as early as September to another level. Working with the team top 10 with “Bluebird,” which peaked at No. 2019, prosecutors said. and Joey Moi is a huge advantage. I am also 3 last August and led Country Airplay the Staff at the Fairfield Inn and Suites in so proud of the songwriters on this song. same month, becoming her sixth No. 1. Augusta became suspicious on Nov. 21, Neil Medley, Joey Hyde and Benjy Davis … ‘ALL’ RIGHT Luke Combs banks his 11th 2019, and notified the FBI and the Rich- it’s their first No. 1 song as writers. These straight career-opening Country Airplay top mond County Sheriff’s Office, the release moments are so special and I’m fortunate to 10 (counting properly promoted singles) as said. “These two scammers will have plenty be a small part of it. Finally, I’m thankful for “Forever After All” hops 11-8 (19.8 million, of time to figure out if their few weeks of country radio for supporting this song, and up 17%). Each of Combs’ 10 previous singles unearned fame was worth several years in my career for all these years. We have great hit No. 1, a record career-opening streak prison,” said Chris Hacker, special agent in champions out there at radio and this is a since the chart began in 1990. charge of FBI Atlanta. testament to that. I love country music. I’m ‘GONE’ STILL GOING Dierks Bentley living a dream.” rolls up his 26th Country Airplay top 10 as ‘SOUL’ MUSIC Eric Church adds “Gone” rises 13-10 (16.6 million, up 17%). Jake Owen’s his 10th Top Country Albums top 10 The single follows “Living,” which led as Soul starts at No. 2 with 53,000 equivalent Country Airplay for a week in September ‘Made For You’ album units (42,000 in album sales) in the 2019, becoming his 17th No. 1. “Gone” is week ending April 29, according to MRC the lead single from his forthcoming 10th Tops Country Data. Released April 23, Soul is the top-sell- studio album. ing album of the week across all genres and Airplay Chart: arrives as Church’s fourth No. 1 on the Top Album Sales chart. On the all-genre, multi- Eric Church ‘I Love Country metric Billboard 200, Soul starts at No. 4, marking his seventh top 10. Spends Second Music … I’m Soul is one of Church’s three new albums, collectively dubbed Heart & Soul. On last Week Atop Artist Living a Dream’ week’s May 1-dated Top Country Albums chart, Heart, released April 16, entered 100 Chart, Thanks BY JIM ASKER at No. 3. Meanwhile, &, released exclu- sively to members of Church’s Church to ‘Heart & Soul’ ake Owen earns his ninth No. 1 Choir fan club, arrives on Top Country on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart Albums at No. 12 with 11,000 units, all BY XANDER ZELLNER as “Made For You,” released on Big in album sales. Heart & Soul contains 24 Loud Records, lifts 2-1 in its 50th week tracks; Heart and Soul house nine each, ric Church logs his second total Jon the list (dated May 8). It increased by 5% while & sports six. and consecutive week at No. 1 on to 28.7 million audience impressions in the The project was produced by Jay Joyce, the Billboard Artist 100 chart tracking week ending May 2, according to while Church had a hand in writing 22 of (dated May 8), as he holds as the MRC Data. the 24 tracks. Etop musical act in the U.S. The song, which Benjy Davis, Joey Hyde Lead track “Stick That in Your Country Dating to the Artist 100’s launch in 2014, and Neil Medley wrote and Joey Moi pro- Song” reached No. 22 on Country Air- Church is just the second core country artist duced, is the fourth single and third No. 1 play and No. 23 on the airplay-, sales- and to log back-to-back weeks at No. 1. He follows from Owen’s sixth LP, Greetings From… Jake streaming-based Hot Country Songs list Morgan Wallen, who spent five consecutive Owen, which debuted and peaked at No. 8 in July 2020. Sophomore single “Hell of weeks on top in January and February. on Top Country Albums in April 2019, mark- a View” bumps 3-2 for a new high on Hot Church reigns on the strength of his three ing his seventh top 10. Country Songs (9.1 million U.S. streams, up new albums, collectively referred to as Heart “Made” joins “I Was Jack (You Were Di- 9%) and pushes 9-6 on Country Airplay, up & Soul. A week earlier, Heart debuted at No. ane)” (one week at No. 1, August 2018) and 13% to 20.1 million audience impressions. 5 on the Billboard 200 (dated May 1) with “Homemade” (one, March 2020) as Country ‘SETTLING’ IN Miranda Lambert scores 49,000 equivalent album units, accord- Airplay leaders from Greetings. her 16th Hot Country Songs top 10 as “Set- ing to MRC Data. This week, Soul starts “Rounding out this album with a third No. tling Down” lifts 11-8. The track, which she at No. 4 (53,000), while & enters at No. 83 1 is something I am so proud of,” Owen mar- co-wrote, ascends with 15.3 million in radio (11,000). Soul also gives Church back-to- vels. “I chose Big Loud Records as my part- reach (up 9%), as it rises 14-13 on Country back No. 1s on the Top Album Sales chart, ner because I know what they are capable Airplay, and 6.3 million streams (up 20%). following the launch of Heart. of. I knew they could take me and my music Lambert last hit the Hot Country Songs Plus, Soul single “Hell of a View” zooms Page 24 of 26

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from No. 41 to No. 28 on the Billboard Hot The 2021 LAMC event is taking place 100, earning Church his sixth top 40 hit and this week from May 4-7 with back-to- Coldplay Set first since 2014, when “Give Me Back My back panels on mental health, the future Hometown” rose to No. 36. He’s reached a of touring in a pandemic era and stream- to Open 2021 No. 19 best with “Springsteen” in 2012. On ing strategies. For the second year in a the Country Airplay chart, Church boasts row, the 23rd annual LAMC is offering free Brit Awards nine No. 1s among 16 top 10s. Meanwhile, registration for all panels, workshops and Moneybagg Yo vaults 44-2 on the Artist 100, showcases. Check here for the full panel BY PAUL GREIN reaching the top 10 for the first time. The and concert schedule. rapper scores his first No. 1 album on the Below, five takeaways from C. Tangana’s oldplay is set to open the 2021 Billboard 200, as A Gangsta’s Pain arrives conversation with Cobo. Brit Awards on May 11 performing with 110,000 units. What’s changed from 2017, when you last on a pontoon on the Thames near The Artist 100 measures artist activity appeared at LAMC, and now? The O2 arena, where the show is across key metrics of music consumption, “Many things have changed. The focus Cbeing held. Their performance will fol- blending album and track sales, radio air- then was to grow our urban music in Spain low the release of their new single “Higher play, streaming and social media fan interac- because it was already relevant in places Power,” which is being released on Friday. tion to provide a weekly multi-dimensional such as Latin America and the U.S. but we This will be Coldplay’s third performance ranking of artist popularity. needed recognition for what we were do- at the Brits in five years. They opened the For all chart news, you can follow @bill- ing here. And for radio stations to play our 2016 show with “Hymn for the Weekend.” board and @billboardcharts on both Twitter music and to give us more respect. Now, the And they teamed with The Chainsmok- and Instagram. [urban scene] a priority in Spain.” ers the following year to perform their col- Describe your music in one sentence. lab smash “Something Just Like This.” “It’s hard because it’s always been evolv- This will be Coldplay’s first TV perfor- 5 Takeaways ing. But right now, it’s the new Spanish song.” mance in more than a year. Likewise, the How did you pick your collaborations Brit Awards will be the first live music show From C. Tangana’s for El Madrileño? at The O2 in more than a year. “It was an exercise because I wanted to Coldplay has won British group at the Fireside Chat open the spectrum to all the music I can Brits four times, more often than any other make and not be a niche but represent an group. They have won British album of the With Billboard openness for many trends and styles. I had year three times, which puts them in a tie these traps that I put on myself thinking I with Arctic Monkeys for the lead. Coldplay at LAMC 2021 could never do that style or that style, but in has won two other Brit Awards, for a total of the end decided to do things I never thought nine. Their 28 Brit nominations is the most BY GRISELDA FLORES I could do. I tried to be more honest.” by any group. You went from being an indie artist to The Brit Awards 2021 with Mastercard – ay one of the virtual 2021 Latin signing with Sony — why? as the show is officially billed – has previ- Alternative Music Conference “To have a major support me was to like ously announced performances by Olivia hosted the first “LAMC Talks break that barrier and prove that we were Rodrigo, Arlo Parks, Dua Lipa, Griff (this With Billboard Latin” featur- part of mainstream. The idea was to change year’s Rising Star winner), Headie One, and Ding Spanish artist C. Tangana, who spoke that mentality that we aren’t part of the Rag’n’Bone Man & P!nk with the Lewisham to Leila Cobo, Billboard’s VP/Latin industry mainstream. It worked because you’re see- and Greenwich NHS Trust Choir. lead, about all things El Madrileño, his cre- ing these major labels’ rosters change.” This year’s Brit Awards, hosted by come- ative vision and going from an indie artist to What’s one piece of advice you wish dian and actor Jack Whitehall, will be exclu- signing with Sony Music. you were given when you were younger? sively broadcast on ITV and ITV Hub. The Spanish rapper, who most recently “How important your team will be in this The Brit Awards last month announced released his album El Madrileño featuring process. I wish I would have had that clear- that it will be the first major indoor music collabs with José Feliciano, Jorge Drexler er early on in my career. It would have been event to welcome back a live audience. The and Carin León, among others, was last very valuable. But now I know and my team indoor ceremony and live show will form part of the LAMC back in 2017 when he members include friends and family mem- part of the U.K. government’s scientific performed in New York. Since then, many bers. I’ve surrounded myself with creative Events Research Programme, using en- things have changed, he said. “Back then, people who have a passion for this. And they hanced testing approaches to examine how the focus was to grow our urban music in are people I’ve known all my life.” events can take place without the need for Spain ... now it’s a priority.” social distancing. Page 25 of 26

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YouTube Music, Vevo and Amazon, and it’s the pantry. I love this body, but I wanna Tame Impala’s said to be the first award of its kind to recog- FEEL better. No more midnight muffins…this nize a songwriter’s achievement. is it! Imma get in the BEST SHAPE OF MY Kevin Parker Previous recipients include Dean LIFE!!!!!” the star captioned the post. “Team- Lewis and Jon Hume (for “Be Al- ing up with @YouTube to get my health & Honored For right”), Flume (for “Never Be Like wellness back on track. Hope it works!” You”), Starley and P-Money (for “Call Just days ahead of the Best Shape of My Streaming On Me”), Vance Joy (for “Riptide”), Go- Life announcement, Smith shared a photo tye (for “Somebody That I Used to Know”), of himself on Instagram, revealing his Milestone and Vassy (for “Bad”). See the full list here. current average bod. “I’m gonna be real wit yall — I’m in the worst shape of my life, he BY LARS BRANDLE captioned the photo. In the snap, he’s wear- Will Smith ing short shorts and an unzipped jacket, nother week, another award revealing his chest, belly and legs. for Tame Impala, whose 2015 Is Doing a Smith’s unscripted series is expected to classic “The Less I Know the premiere in 2022. Better” enters APRA AMCOS’ Docuseries About YouTube also shared on Tuesday that TheA 1,000,000,000 List for accumulating Alicia Keys’ previously untitled project now more than one billion streams. Getting Fit After has Noted as a working title. The four-part Tame Impala leader Kevin Parker col- performance documentary will explore lected the honor at the PRO’s head office in Declaring He’s ‘In Keys’ life as she prepares to celebrate the Sydney last week. The Western Australian 20th anniversary of Songs in A Minor, and production wizard made the trip east to the Worst Shape’ as she records her eighth studio album. collect songwriter of the year at the APRA The docuseries arrives this summer. Music Awards, held April 28. BY ANNA CHAN See the rapper-actor’s Instagram post At the award presentation, Parker re- about his new series below: counted how the song was meant for Mark ill Smith is about to get Ronson’s album. pumped! The actor-rapper “During the recording session,” Parker told is launching a new six-part BTS’ J-Hope APRA AMCOS staff, “I was working myself unscripted series with up to tell him I was going to take it back.” YouTubeW Originals and Westbrook Media Makes Generous There were no bad feelings from Ronson. following his journey to get fit once again, The Brit Award-winning producer be- YouTube announced on Tuesday (May 4). Donation to stowed the songwriter of the year award The press release describes the series, to Parker during the annual APRA Awards, tentatively titled Best Shape of My Life, as Aid Child via video link. “the fun, funny, inspirational, wildly ad- “You think of ‘The Less I Know the Bet- venturous, and deeply entertaining story of Violence Victims ter,’” Ronson explained during his speech, Smith challenging himself to improve every “it’s one of the most iconic basslines of the aspect of his fitness, from agility to power to BY GIL KAUFMAN past 20 years.” recovery and more.” Helping the star on his Parker wrote, recorded, produced and fitness journey will be pro athletes, scien- TS singer J-Hope has donated mixed the song, which appeared on the tists, experts and YouTube creators. more than $90,000 to the Child- Grammy-nominated album Currents and The series will be directed by Dexton Fund Korea in observation of went to No. 1 on the triple j station’s Hot- Deboree, and is Smith’s second project South Korea’s Children’s Day. test 100 listener’s poll for decade. Cur- with YouTube Originals; his first was BAccording to the Yonhap News Agency, rents went to No. 1 in Australia, and Top 5 on 2018’s Will Smith: The Jump, in which the J made the charitable donation to the both side of the Atlantic. star bungee jumped from a helicopter over Seoul-based ChildFund Korea to support Today, the song is four-times platinum the Grand Canyon. operations at the new One Stop Center in certified in Australia, double-platinum in After YouTube’s announcement, Smith Tanzania, East Africa. the U.S. and platinum in the U.K. proudly showed off his pandemic figure on The facility offers legal and counseling The 1,000,000,000 List acknowledges Instagram and tout his new series. “This is assistance and treatment for victims of child streaming numbers from all major services the body that carried me through an entire violence. May 5 is a national holiday in Ko- including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, pandemic and countless days grazing thru rea, known as Children’s Day and in honor Page 26 of 26

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of the celebration, ChildFund Korea said, “In light of Children’s Day, J-Hope donated 100 million won for the support of children in Tanzania exposed to violence,” according to Soompi. “Many people around the world are suf- fering from COVID-19. I came to support children overseas following the support of domestic children in hopes that the warmth of sharing could reach them in the nooks of the world,” J-Hope said in a statement; a spokesperson for BTS could not be reached for additional comment on the donation. Lee Jae Hoon, chairman of ChildFund Korea added, “The continuous support of global superstar BTS’s member J-Hope is raising awareness of children suffering from economic difficulties. The foundation will also do its best to uphold the intentions of all donors including J-Hope by support- ing children in need both domestically and internationally.” Last year, J-Hope was named as a mem- ber of the Green Noble Club in 2018 for donating more than $89,000 and last year he donated a similar amount to help chil- dren from low-income families struggling during COVID and another $133,800 in February; to date, J-Hope’s total donations to ChildFund Korea reportedly amount to more than $624,000. The K-pop superstars are in the midst of the slow reveal of their upcoming second English-language single, “Butter,” which is slated to drop on May 21st.