Bulletin YOUR DAILY ENTERTAINMENT NEWS UPDATE AUGUST 10, 2021 Page 1 of 21

INSIDE Pershing Square Acquires • iHeartMedia Stock Drops 21%, Even as 7.1% of Universal Music Group at Radio Recovers

• Tunji Balogun Possible Bargain Valuation Named Def Jam CEO BY GLENN PEOPLES • Walter Yetnikoff, Former CBS Records President and Pershing Square Holdings fulfilled its plans on Tues- UMG’s latest earnings help explain Ackman’s af- Industry Titan, day (Aug. 10) to acquire a stake in Universal Music fection for the company: Revenues increased 19.6% Dies at 87 Group ahead of Vivendi’s spin off on Sept. 21. The year over year to 1.65 billion euros ($2.4 billion) and • Bonnaroo & high-profile hedge fund led by Bill Ackman paid recorded music streaming revenue, the engine of the Summerfest Are about $21.78 per share and $2.8 billion in total for 7.1% company’s long-term growth, rose 23.8% to 1.12 billion Requiring COVID-19 of UMG’s equity. The deal values UMG at 33 billion euros ($1.35 billion). Vaccines or euros ($38.7 billion) equity value, putting the enter- “There’s no business I have more confidence in the Negative Tests prise value at roughly 35 billion euros ($45.7 billion) long-term trajectory of than this company — or the • Hollywood to 37 billion Euros ($43.4 billion). PSH and its affili- music industry in general,” Ackman told Billboard in Park Opens New ates have the right to acquire another 2.9% of UMG’s July. “Piracy almost killed this business and streaming 6,000-Capacity ordinary shares by Sept. 9. has made it better than it was with CDs and records in YouTube Theater Tuesday’s announcement came three weeks the ‘90s.” • R. Kelly Trial Begins after Pershing Square’s special purpose acquisition Ackman could be getting a bargain as UMG’s equity With Jury Selection: company (SPAC), Pershing Square Tontine Holdings, is arguably worth far more than 33 billion euros, ac- On the Scene at dropped its plans to buy a 10% stake in UMG in a cording to a dozen analysts who cover Vivendi. Taking NYC Courthouse complicated deal at a 35 billion euros ($41 billion) into account UMG’s net debt, the 33 billion euros • San Diego valuation. After PSTH investors lost interest, driving equity value puts UMG’s enterprise value at about 35 Symphony’s down the share price, and the Securities and Ex- billion euros. With UMG’s stakes in Spotify, Tencent Year-Round Venue, change Commission objected, according to Ackman, and Vevo, as valued by analysts, the enterprise value The Rady Shell, Hosts PSTH changed course. As an alternative, Ackman said climbs to roughly 37 billion euros. The 12 reports ex- Gladys Knight on Opening Weekend the PSH hedge fund would step in and buy between amined by Billboard have an average valuation of 40.2 5% and 10% of UMG’s ordinary shares. (continued)

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IN BRIEF

billion euros. UMG could be worth far more: expected by analysts polled by FactSet, ac- In a July 29 report following UMG’s strong iHeartMedia cording to DowJones Newswire, and second-quarter earnings, J.P. Morgan ana- investors were clearly hesitant about the lysts predicted that its $62 million valuation Stock Drops company’s future. — the highest of the dozen analyst valua- iHeartMedia shares began Friday at tions — “will ultimately prove conservative.” 21%, Even as $26.49 — 415% above its pandemic-era low To take advantage of a hot music industry of $4.31 — but fell by 17% on the day and and revived investor interest, Vivendi will Radio Recovers another 4.9% on Monday (Aug. 9), bringing spin off 60% of UMG through a listing on the two-day drop to 21.1%. the Euronext Amsterdam exchange on Sept. BY GLENN PEOPLES Investors have also continued to ham- 21. A Tencent-led consortium acquired 20% mer Audacy, the country’s third-largest of UMG’s ordinary shares bought at a 30 bil- HeartMedia’s share price fell more radio company, after its $0.01 earnings per lion euros valuation established in Decem- than 21% following the company’s share on Friday fell well below the $0.09 ber 2019. Vivendi will retain 10% of UMG’s second quarter 2021 earnings report consensus estimate. Audacy’s forecasted ordinary shares. on Friday, capping a week of mostly 10% revenue growth from the second to the PSH’s original plan was to use $4 billion Ipositive earnings-related news for the third quarter was lackluster compared to of the SPAC’s $5.4 billion to purchase a 10% recovering broadcast radio business. Still iHeart (20%), and investors reacted accord- stake in UMG. The remaining money would investors appear cautious about the sector’s ingly. Audacy shares dropped 10.9% to $3.03 be set aside in a new, second SPAC, and future, especially as the country faces a new on Monday and the company has lost 52.3% PSTH shareholders would receive warrants wave of COVID-19 cases. of its market capitalization since Feb. 23. that entitled them to buy into a future PSH With iHeartMedia posting gains across all Radio was among the earliest business transaction. Ackman promised investors “a business segments, revenues jumped 76.7% sectors to be hit by the pandemic after a company that will survive and thrive” with from the prior-year period to $862 million quick dearth in local advertising led to double-digit growth, an independent board, for the country’s largest radio company, widespread layoffs and furloughs. Now, the a dominant market position and a leader exceeding April’s guidance of a 65% gain. pandemic stubbornly continues, but the in Lucian Grainge he compares to “iconic Adjusted EBITDA (earnings before inter- radio industry is far removed from the dark CEOs” such as Walt Disney and Steve Jobs. est, taxes, depreciation and amortization) days of 2020. The three largest radio compa- After ditching its original plan, PSH reas- improved to $185 million from a $29 million nies — iHeartMedia, Cumulus and Audacy sured its investors that UMG is a worthy loss a year earlier. Both metrics exceed the — reported buoyant earnings that show a investment. “Pershing Square intends to be expectations of Morgan Stanley analyst Ben comeback in the making. a long-term UMG shareholder,” Ackman Swinburne, who has a $23 price target for In the second quarter, iHeart’s broadcast wrote in a July 19 letter to investors, “and will the company’s stock. business — which represented 52.4% of total endeavor to work with UMG management to But iHeartMedia’s net loss per share was revenue — climbed 84.9% from the prior-year help create value for all stakeholders.” $0.22 compared to the $0.14 loss per share period and 25.8% from the previous quar-

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ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] IN BRIEF SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country ter. AThelbu digital audioms; group, Brett which includes Y oungtightening ‘Catc their belts inh 2020.’-es iHeartMedia Fifth Airplay podcasts, grew 112.3% year over year. Podcast expects to “replicate the majority” of its Tunji Balogun revenue aloneLea improvedder; 151.9% toTravis $54.3 $200Denning million cost reductions Makes from 2020 andHistory million, although it represented only 6.2% of return to 2019 EBITDA levels by the end of Named total revenue — up from 4.3% a year earlier. this year. iHeartMedia’s six-month adjusted SamCumulus’ Hunt’s second revenue studio jumped full-length, 53.9% andto first in overEBITDA five years, was Southside $286.7 million,sales (up compared 21%) in the to tracking Def week. On Jam Country Airplay, CEO it hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCA$224.7 Nashville/Universal million from $146 Music million Group in Nashville), Q2 debuts$420 at No. million 1 on Billboard in the ’sfirst lion half audience of 2019, impressions, when up 16%). Top2020. Country Adjusted Albums EBITDA chart dated improved April 18.to In$36.9 its first finishedweek (ending the Aprilyear 9), at it $1 billion. earned 46,000 equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITHBY CHRIS YOUNG Brett EGGERTSEN Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cordingmillion to from Nielsen a $6.4 Music/MRC million loss Data. the previous Cumulus’ fixed costs andin 2022total Countrywill be Airplaymore No. 1 as “Catch” (Big Machine Label Group) ascends year.Southside “Spot” marks broadcast Hunt’s advertising second No. improved 1 on the than $70 million below 2019 — up from 2-1, increasingip-hop 13% to and 36.6 R&B million A&R impressions. heavy- chart66.9% and and fourth contributed top 10. It 61.6%follows to freshman the $78.7 LP $50 million from last quarter’s projection, Young’s firstweight of six Tunji chart Balogunentries, “Sleep has With- Montevallomillion revenue, which gain. arrived Also, at the Cumulus summit soldin No - president and CEO Mary Berner said in out You,” reachedtaken theNo. job2 in Decemberas Def Jam 2016. He vember“non-core 2014 real and estate”reigned forin Nashvillenine weeks. for To date,$34 an Aug. 4 earnings call. So far in the third followed withRecords’ the multiweek new chairman No. 1s “In Caseand You Montevallo has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved million in and album will sales. use the proceeds to pay quarter, the company is pacing in the “mid- HCEO,You” according (three, January to sources 2018), “Mercy” familiar (two, with August the downMontevallo debt. Compared has spent 267 to weeks Q2 2019, on the Cumu list, tying- teens” ahead of Q3 2020 and forecasts 2022 situation.2018) and The “Here move, Tonight” effective (two, April Jan. 2019). 1, 2022, Lukelus’s Bryanrevenue’s Crash and Myoperating Party as theincome sixth-longest- were EBITDA in the range of $175 to $200 mil- marks“Catch” Balogun’s completes departure his longest as executive journey to No.vp 1, runningdown 19.6% titles inand the 84.4%, chart’s respectively. 56-year history. lion, Berner said. A&Rhaving at RCA taken Records, 46 weeks whereto reach he the spent apex. six It out - OnCumulus the all-genre shares Billboard increased 200, as Southside much as ar- Although radio companies receive the years.paces Balogun the 30-week will climb be based of “Here in Los Tonight.” Angeles rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 On Hot Country Songs, “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG after4.6% the to No.$13.09 3-peaking following Montevallo its Aug.. 4 earnings lion’s share of revenues from broadcast anda new report high. to UMG chairman & CEO Sir releaseHunt first and releasedended the the dayEPX2C up, 1.6%which at debuted $12.71 advertising, broadcast is an increasingly Lucian Grainge. and— but peaked had lost at No. those 5 on gains Top Countryby Monday Albums when in Augustoutmoded 2014. Following term: iHeartMedia, COMBS Cumulus ‘DOES’ IT AGAINand LukeJeffrey Combs’ “DoesHarleston to Me”, Universal (River House/Columbia Music Montevalloit closed 2.9%, Between below the where Pines: it Acoustic started Mixtape before startedAudacy at its have No. 7 well high established in Nashville), digital featuring busi- Eric ChurchGroup, ascendsexecutive 11-8 vp on business Country Airplay, and legal up 10%af- to Novemberthe earnings 2015. report. nesses that include original24.7 millionpodcast in content. audience. Thefairs, song has is Combs’been filling eighth the straight role incareer-opening an interim 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:Shares “Leave of Sinclair the Night Broadcasting On,” “Take —Your which Time,” “HouseAt iHeartMedia, Party” and “Make digital promotedwas 23% ofNo. total 1 singles. basis since it was vacated by Eminem’s long- Youposted Miss revenues Me.” “Break of $1.61 Up in billion a Small in Town” Q2 on peaked Aug. at No.revenue, 2. up from 19.1% in Q2Church 2020, adds and his got 15th Countrytime Airplaymanager, top Paul 10. Rosenberg, in February 4 —Hunt rose co-penned 10% to $31 all at 12 Friday’s songs on close. Southside Like , includingover “Body a third Like of aits Back growth from its podcast 2020. He will continue overseeing the label Road,”other radio which stocks, was released however, in 2017. Sinclair The smashdropped hit ruledbusiness, Country which Airplay is for the largestTHAT TOOKin the QUITEU.S. in ‘A FEW’until MONTHS Balogun Travis officially Denning shatterstakes over the recordnext year. for threeon Monday, weeks and by the2.97% airplay-, to 30.08, streaming- but is still and sales-basedterms Hot of Country monthly Songs audience the most— more weeks than it has taken to“It penetrate has been the an Country honor Airplay and a pleasuretop 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 - Florida6.78% above Georgia its Linepre-earning’s “Meant openingto Be” (50 price. weeks atop the50% latter greater list in 2017-18).than second-placelion in radio NPR reach. — and to lead and grow Def Jam over these past “Downtown’sReduced spending Dead,” has which bridged is also onlyon the part new set, reachedmonthly Nos. downloads, 14 and 15 accordingThe song to Podtrac. surpasses two trackstwo years,” that took said 50 Harleston weeks each in to a enter statement. the top 10: onof Hotcompanies’ Country Songsbottom-line and Country shortfall Airplay, as their respectively, in June 2018. “Kin- Easton Corbin’s “A Girl Like“Having You,” which had the reached privilege No. 10 of in working January 2018 with be - folks”earnings led Countryper share Airplay have oncome Feb. in 29, under becoming Hunt’s seventh No. 1. It hit fore peaking at No. 6 that February,Tunji for and more Aaron than Watson a decade,’s “Outta I couldn’t Style,” which be No.expectations. 3 on Hot Country For their Songs. part, radio compa- achieved its No. 10 high in Decemberhappier to 2017. hand the reins over to him. Tunji 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 nies will keep their budgets thinned after has all the tools to take the Def Jam brand 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 PHOTO FINISH RECORDS 15TH ANNIVERSARY

Photo Finish Records is an independent record label CONTACTS boasting a diverse roster including Alternative Rock, Indie Pop, Electro Pop, and Hip Hop that has amassed billions of Joe Maimone 201.301.5933 | [email protected] streams and over 40 million tracks sold. Lee Ann Photoglo The New York City-based label was created and founded 615.376.7931 | [email protected] by Matt Galle and 2021 will celebrate its fifteenth year of success. As the label grew and developed, Matt brought in Cynthia Mellow his business partner Mike Marquis to co-run the label with 615.352,0265 | [email protected] him. Marcia Olival 786.586.4901 | [email protected] Photo Finish has forged a well-deserved reputation for developing and breaking an eclectic roster of artists Ryan O’Donnell including 3OH!3, SHAED, The Maine, Marian Hill, Mister- +447843437176 | [email protected] Wives, ROZES, The Mowgli's, and new signings Ross Copperman, CAL, Elliot Lee, Lakeview, guardin, and joan.

Photo Finish Records is distributed through Virgin Music Artist & Label Services. The team along with Matt and Mike includes Drew Kaklamanos, Gerardo Cueva, Michael Collin, Taylor Flynn, and Shane Friedman.

ISSUE DATE 8/28 | AD CLOSE 8/18 | MATERIALS DUE 8/19 Page 7 of 21

IN BRIEF

and artists to new levels of success. He has chapter and thank Lucian and Jeff for their age 87. He would have turned 88 on Aug. 11. the vision. He has a track record of signing support and this incredible opportunity.” Yetnikoff’s passing was confirmed by the best and brightest new talent who ‘move Balogun started his career as a market- multiple friends and colleagues, including culture’ around the world and has always ing intern at Warner Bros. Records, setting former CBS Records Nashville executive been an incredible advocate for artists.” aside his college aspirations to become Mary Ann McCready, who received the Balogun — who was recently named to a rapper himself. After graduating from news from Yetnikoff’s wife Lynda. His cause Billboard’s R&B Hip-Hop Power Players list Pomona College in 2004, he pursued a of death has not been disclosed. — has been with RCA since 2015 after join- full-time job with Warner while — fittingly Brash, colorful and self-aggrandizing, ing the label from Interscope. He created a for today’s news — also working at Def Jam with very public addictions to alcohol, lane with alt-R&B artists at RCA, playing an Mobile, which was Def Jam Enterprises’ cocaine and extramarital affairs, Yetnikoff instrumental role in signing Khalid, Wizkid, division for selling ringtones. ushered CBS into selling to Japanese elec- Goldlink, and Bryson Tiller. More recently Between 2007 and 2015, the young execu- tronics giant Sony in 1987 and was, depend- he has also worked with Doja Cat, whose tive served in an A&R role at Interscope, ing on whose story you believe, the catalyst third studio album Planet Her in June de- where he worked with Kendrick Lamar, for breaking MTV’s color line with Michael buted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B ScHoolboy Q, The Game, Keyshia Cole and Jackson’s video “Billie Jean.” He was a Albums chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200 OneRepublic, as well as signing Atlanta workaholic, chain-smoking while working in June. rapper K Camp and bringing Los Angeles two phones simultaneously, and charmed In 2018, alongside Courtney Stewart, rapper Cozz to J. Cole’s Dreamville joint stars with his humor and intellect: He once Jon Tanners and Jared Sherman, Balogun venture with Interscope. impressed Mick Jagger at a Paris wine co-founded Keep Cool, a joint-venture label Balogun is just the latest in a series of exec- bar by calculating the Value Added Tax in with RCA whose roster includes Normani, utive shakeups at Def Jam over the past two France on a napkin. VanJess, Lucky Daye and Freddie Gibbs months. In June, the company announced it “Bruce and I worked with Walter during & Madlib. At the time, RCA chairman/ had promoted Nicki Farag to executive vp his entire CBS/Sony tenure. We couldn’t CEO Peter Edge called the joint-venture and general manager. Just a few days later, it have had a greater or more effective cham- a “natural progression” for Balogun, who revealed it had brought on Snoop Dogg as pion,” Jon Landau, Springsteen’s longtime Edge said has “an innate ability to under- executive creative and strategic consultant. manager, told Billboard after hearing of stand an artist’s musical genius and [...] the In May, Def Jam’s executive vp and general Yetnikoff’s passing. “He gave his whole- potential of their cultural impact.” manager Rich Isaacson departed the label hearted support to everything that Bruce In Balogun’s new role, which was first after more than three years. created and what more can any artist and reported by Variety, he will oversee a roster producer ask for? Could he be wild, crazy, that includes Jay-Z, Kanye West, Justin and confrontational—you bet. But, more Bieber, Rihanna, YG, Big Sean, Logic and Walter Yetnikoff, importantly, he was a great friend, he was Alessia Cara. brilliant, and he was a man of vision. Walter “Tunji is part of a new wave of dynamic Former CBS had some very rough personal demons, but executives who view today’s artists and he made it to the other side, and went on to music through a unique creative lens,” said Records President have a very successful third act, in his post Grainge in a statement. “Not only does he record industry years. I will remember him bring a deep understanding and respect for and Industry as someone who made a meaningful differ- the cultural significance of what Def Jam ence in my life, all of it for the better.” has created over the past four decades, but Titan, Dies at 87 Yetnikoff kept his allies close and had he also sees the boundless potential of what no interest in diplomacy with enemies: Def Jam can be to a new generation of art- BY STEVE KNOPPER AND He called Jackson “archangel Michael” ists and fans.” ANDREW UNTERBERGER when Thriller took off, but he referred to Added Balogun, “I grew up on Def Jam’s his boss, CBS Inc. owner Laurence Tisch, as music – collecting, listening to and study- alter Yetnikoff, CBS Re- “The Little Dwarf,” and powerful Columbia ing their albums and singles – those early cords’ kingpin from 1975 to Records president Goddard Lieberson as moments as a young fan have had a lasting 1990, as famous for guiding “Potted Lieberfarb.” Irving Azoff, the Eagles influence on who I am today. Def Jam re- the megastar careers of manager, gave a speech declaring CBS had mains one of music’s most iconic brands and WMichael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Barbra a drug addict at the helm. “If you just focus has always represented forward-thinking Streisand, Bob Dylan and Billy Joel as for his on the outrageous things he says and does artists and partners that continue to shift profane, sometimes uproarious feuds with . . . you miss the man,” David Geffen said ideas and impact culture around the world. Paul Simon, David Geffen and the entirety in 1986. “Walter is an absolutely honorable I’m honored to lead Def Jam into its next of Warner Bros. Records, died on Sunday at man who keeps his word, and that’s more WE’RE BACK, LIVE IN MIAMI

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IN BRIEF

than you can say about the Irving Azoffs of career (which had floundered somewhat at Big-bearded and open-shirted, Yetnikoff this business.” That was four years before Motown in the mid-’70s) with 1979’s Off the also declared war on Warner and was re- Yetnikoff fell out with Geffen by making Wall album — a move to disco that proved ported to have stopped an industry inves- crude jokes about his homosexuality. wildly successful and established the front- tigation of Mob-connected independent “I know Walter says he has a deaf ear, but man as a best-selling solo superstar. That, of radio promoters who muscled hits onto the he has vision,” Nona Hendryx, of onetime course, would prove just to be the opening airwaves. One of the central figures, Fred CBS stars LaBelle, told Billboard in 2004, act for what came next: Thriller, the 1982 DiSipio, was a Yetnikoff friend. “I like street when Yetnikoff’s biography “Howling at the game-changer that defined popular music characters,” he wrote. Moon: The Odyssey of a Monstrous Music in the 1980s, went on to be the best-selling Yetnikoff is also credited with push- Mogul in an Age of Excess” came out. “If he non-compilation album of all time, and is ing Spanish pop superstar Julio Iglesias saw talent and value in someone, he could often credited with helping to revive a then- to sing more in English, which eventually see where it could lead. . . . That’s what’s dormant music industry. led to 1984’s multi-platinum 1100 Bel Air missing now: the characters and the fun. The oft-told story is that Yetnikoff played Place and its hit singles “All of You” (with Sometimes you need to be a little crazy in hardball with MTV — who at the time would Diana Ross) and “To All the Girls I’ve this business to be successful.” not play music videos from Black pop and Loved Before” (with Willie Nelson). “You’re Born in Brooklyn to a hospital-painter R&B stars, claiming they didn’t fit the chan- destroying my playboy with this cowboy!” father and a bookkeeper mother, Yetnikoff nel’s rock format — and essentially forced Yetnikoff once remarked on the Willie attended Brooklyn College and worked as a them to play the clip for Jackson’s “Billie duet, according to artist/producer Albert garbage collector and a deliveryman to pay Jean” by threatening to pull all future videos Hammond in Decoding “Despacito”: An for his books. He attended Columbia Law, from CBS Records artists from the channel Oral History of Latin Music, by Billboard which led to his first job as a lawyer, with if they didn’t put it into rotation. The exact journalist Leila Cobo. the firm Rosenman and Colin, where he degree and nature of his demands remain un- In 1987, Yetnikoff used his longtime befriended Harvard-trained attorney Clive clear; then-MTV svp Les Garland told Bill- friendship with top Sony execs Akio Morita Davis. When Davis joined CBS’ legal depart- board in 2009 that Yetnikoff “got more upset and Norio Ohga to expand the company’s ment, he brought in Yetnikoff as a junior because we didn’t play [Columbia artists] CBS investment into a multibillion-dollar lawyer, “learning the complex contractual Willie Nelson or Barbra Streisand.” sale, reportedly bringing him roughly $20 lessons of the music business,” as he wrote Regardless, MTV ultimately acquiesced, million. By then, though, some of his many in his memoir. and Jackson became the biggest star of the enemies were planning his downfall. Back then, CBS owned Columbia, one of channel’s early years in short order — el- In the early ‘90s, Yetnikoff’s Sony protégé, the most powerful record labels, with es- evating both MTV and Jackson to defining former artist manager Tommy Mottola, tablished pop stars like Andy Williams and cultural touchstones of the era in the process, formed an alliance with rivals such as Gef- Tony Bennett and talents like Miles Davis and helping Thriller go 33x platinum. fen and influential music-business attorney and Dylan. Moving up to Columbia Records During Yetnikoff’s tenure at CBS, Spring- Allen Grubman. Together, they pushed president, Davis brought in Santana, Blood, steen put out Born to Run and Born in the Springsteen, Jackson and other stars away Sweat & Tears, Simon & Garfunkel, Janis Jo- USA, James Taylor jumped from Warner to from Yetnikoff and made personal con- plin and many others, and as CBS’ revenues Columbia and Labelle hit big with “Lady nections with Sony leadership. It didn’t increased from $485 million to $2 billion, Marmalade.” help that Yetnikoff was distracted with sex Yetnikoff’s record-executive career took off, His love for music spanned several differ- and drugs. When Sony’s Ohga put him on and “so did my sexual hunger,” he wrote. ent genres. McCready, whose late husband, sabbatical and pressured him to cut off his One of his many affairs was with a coke ad- Roy Wunsch, Yetnikoff named the first contract, he told his longtime friend: “I’m dict he called Boom Boom. president of CBS Nashville, remembers sorry, Walter, but this hurts me more than it When Lieberson departed, CBS made a character who came to Nashville sev- hurts you.” Yetnikoff president and CEO in 1975. “The eral times a year. “He would go to Tammy In 1996, Yetnikoff formed Velvel Records appointment went to my head, went to my Wynette’s for banana pudding. He would — named after an old nickname given to dick, and over a period of years turned me ride motorcycles on Larry Gatlin’s farm. He him by his grandmother — with a musically into a madman,” he wrote. “The more pow- was a huge Willie Nelson fan. He came to diverse roster and an eye towards indepen- erful I became, the greater my rewards, the Nashville to buy Quonset Hut Studio (later dent operations, but the label failed to find deeper my lunacy.” re named Columbia Studio B). He would its footing and sold to Koch Entertainment The artist whose success Yetnikoff show up at the Lone Star in New York to in 1999. He also focused on getting clean and would come to be most closely associated see Johnny Paycheck,” she recalls. “He got sober, first with transcendental meditation, with was Jackson. Having signed with his things done by inspiring people, not be then via 12-step programs, which prompted brothers as The Jacksons to CBS subsid- intimidating people, not by being the most him to work on making amends. iary Epic in 1975, Michael resumed his solo powerful person in the world.” “When he got sober, he was as passionate, O N S A L E SEPT. 18, 2021

2021 NEW & R ENOVATED VENUES

On September 18th Billboard will provide CONTACT readers with an exclusive backstage Cynthia Mellow | 615.352.0265 pass into the newest and latest renovated [email protected] venues around the world. This special Joe Maimone | 212.493.4427 feature will assess the architecture, [email protected] production capabilities, sound, capacity Lee Ann Photoglo | 615.376.7931 level, fan amenities, and more that entice [email protected] talent to these highly anticipated venues. Ryan O’Donnell | +447843437176 Take this opportunity to advertise your venue [email protected] and reach key touring industry decision- makers as they plan tour schedules and map Marcia Olival | 786.586.4901 out must-play venues. [email protected]

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IN BRIEF

generous , funny and kind as when he wasn’t Instagram post on Tuesday (Aug. 10). with their proactive decision to implement sober, it was a remarkable recovery. He was “The safety of our patrons and staff is these additional safety measures and ensure the same guy with the bad stuff gone,” Mc- our No. 1 priority. As such a full COVID-19 festivalgoers can feel comfortable attending Cready says. “He was just a beautiful person vaccination or negative COVID-19 test will this beloved music fest responsibly.” on the other side of it. I really believe that be required to attend Bonnaroo 2021,” read To date, the novel coronavirus has in- with all my heart.” the statement from the event hosting Foo fected 36 million Americans and killed more In 2004, he acknowledged the record Fighters, Meg Thee Stallion, Lizzo, Tame than 617,000. industry had left him behind. Impala, Tyler, the Creator, My Morning “To work in the business’ corporate atmo- Jacket, Run the Jewels, Young Thug and Lil sphere now?” he told Billboard. “Oh, God, I Baby, among others Sept. 2-5. “Bonnaroo Hollywood Park couldn’t survive.” strongly encourages vaccination. The last In a statement, Sony Music Entertain- day to receive the second shot of Moderna Opens New ment said, “We are saddened by the news or Pfizer, or a single dose of Johnson and of Walter Yetnikoff’s passing. He was an ac- Johnson is Thursday, Aug. 19.” 6,000-Capacity complished executive who played a leading As for patrons who are not fully vacci- role in the growth of the music industry in nated, a negative COVID-19 test result must YouTube Theater the 1970s and 80s, overseeing CBS Records be obtained within 72 hours of first entering through the development of many iconic the festival grounds, and organizers request BY TAYLOR MIMS artists that continue to shape music and that unvaccinated fans wear a mask at all culture. He also was a key player in bring- times while on the Farm. They are also ask- he Hollywood Park complex ing together Sony and CBS Records, helping ing that anyone who has tested positive in Inglewood, California, has a create the foundation of today’s Sony Music. or traveled internationally within 14 days brand-new asset to lure artists His impact on the business, and the legend- or experienced COVID symptoms such as the short drive south from Los ary music created under his leadership, high fever, cough or shortness of breath not TAngeles. On Monday (Aug. 9), the owners reverberates to this day.” attend this year. of So-Fi Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Yetnikoff is survived by his wife Lynda Similarly, Milwaukee’s Summerfest (Sept. Rams, unveiled their 6,000-capacity venue Kady Yetnikoff, and sons Michael and Daniel. 2-4, 9-11 and 16-18) announced on Tuesday — YouTube Theater. Assistance on this story provided by Me- that patrons must show proof of full vac- The state-of-the-art theater is part of linda Newman. cination or a negative COVID-19 test within the 300-acre Hollywood Park being built 72 hours of the date they will be attend- by Rams owner and chairman E. Stanley ing the event that will feature Luke Bryan, Kroenke. It falls under the same signature Bonnaroo & Chance the Rapper, Twenty One Pilots, Jo- ETFE roof as So-Fi Stadium and American nas Brothers, Miley Cyrus and many more. Airlines Plaza. The three-story venue can Summerfest Other safety measures on tap at both fests be curtained off to offer reduced capaci- include increased hand sanitizer stations on ties for more intimate performances and Are Requiring site and dedicated cleaning crews hitting size-wise rivals the AEG-owned Microsoft frequently high-touch areas, and mask rec- Theater next to the Staples Center at L.A. COVID-19 ommendations in all indoor areas (including Live in Los Angeles. requirements for all patrons under age 12). Hollywood Park and So-Fi Stadium man- Vaccines or There will also be overnight deep-cleaning aging director Jason Gannon says YouTube and cashless transactions at Summerfest. Theater is complimentary to the stadium, Negative Tests “We collaborated with national health ex- which can hold 45,000 to 100,000 guests. perts and music industry executives and de- “From a flexibility standpoint, it was really BY GIL KAUFMAN termined this was the best course of action important for us to do something like this in for Summerfest,” said Don Smiley, President a conditioned space,” he says. s the nation struggles to contain and Chief Executive Officer of Milwaukee “We’re very excited to open it up in a the latest COVID-19 wave, two World Festival, Inc., in a statement. couple of weeks from a technology stand- major festivals have announced Milwaukee Health Commissioner Kirsten point,” Gannon continues. “There’s a lot enhanced safety protocols enact- Johnson added, “Milwaukee World Festival of screens and a lot of interactive things Aed to help prevent further spread. Bonnaroo has been a community leader and a tremen- around here. That was important in putting — which hosts more than 80,000 people per dous partner in prioritizing the health of fes- this together and also in the partnership day over its four-day stretch in Manchester, tival staff, vendors, performers, and attendees with YouTube.” Tenn. — revealed their requirements in an throughout their planning. We are pleased YouTube Theater features a 13 feet by 10 Page 12 of 21

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feet digital signage display of the YouTube Reporters covering the trial and other icon, which can be transformed into an im- R. Kelly Trial members of the public are not allowed in mersive video screen for guests to interact the courtroom and instead gathered in an with. The theater also includes an interactive Begins With overflow room in the courthouse to watch digital wall on the interior that can be used the proceedings from a TV screen. to celebrate YouTube creators and artists by Jury Selection: Kelly’s charges include racketeering, hu- showcasing them in a gallery-like setting. man trafficking, enticement of a minor, ob- The theater was partially constructed On the Scene at struction of justice and child pornography, during the pandemic, but YouTube’s vp among others, citing events dating back to brand marketing Angela Courtin says many NYC Courthouse the early ‘90s — most notably involving late of its digital components like streaming ca- R&B singer Aaliyah. The beloved songstress, pabilities were envisioned even before 2020. BY NEENA ROUHANI who was married to Kelly at 15, will be iden- “YouTube Theater offers a unique tified during the trial as “Jane Doe #1.” Kelly business opportunity for us to combine ore than two years after his has pleaded not guilty. His lawyers recently the digital world with the physical one,” initial arrest stemming from told the judge that the 54-year-old singer is says Courtin. “We imagine that whatever is federal charges related to sex running out of funds and cannot afford court happening here, we could put directly onto crimes, the trial for R&B sing- transcripts. Following his current trial, Kelly YouTube through livestream. The technol- Mer/songwriter R. Kelly began Monday (Aug. will stand trial in Chicago and also faces ogy is state-of-the-art: the cameras, the 9) with jury selection at the Eastern District state charges in Minnesota. sound, everything. That way when we work of New York courthouse in Brooklyn, N.Y. with artists, creators, gamers and the like, The courtroom, typically filled to the brim we can partner with them and say, ‘How do for naturalization ceremonies, was eerily San Diego we take this experience and put it out to our empty, only holding parties directly involved 2 billion users worldwide?’” with the trial, including Kelly himself. The Symphony’s Year- The theater is slated to host its first artist wore a navy suit and was surrounded performance on Sept. 3 with the Holly- by his lawyers, Nicole Blank-Becker, Round Venue, The wood Black Comedy Festival Presents Deon Thomas Farinella and, the latest additions Cole and Friends. On Sept. 4 the venue to the legal team, Devereaux Leon Cannick Rady Shell, Hosts will welcome Caifanes, followed by Los and Calvin Scholar. Angeles Azules, Pitbull and Black Pumas After the potential jurors filed into the Gladys Knight on throughout the month. The current roster courtroom gallery, Judge Ann M. Don- of shows includes comedy, R&B, Latin mu- nelly addressed the group, emphasizing Opening Weekend sic, classic rock, and pop. With Live Nation the anonymity of selected jurors. Donnelly as venue’s the exclusive promoter, Gannon explained that U.S. marshals would accom- BY TAYLOR MIMS says they intend to have an eclectic lineup of pany jurors to and from the courthouse each shows going forward. day, in response to the onslaught of media permanent outdoor venue has Inglewood mayor James T. Butts Jr. says attention and high-profile status of the case. been a long-time dream for the it’s surreal to see the theater finally opened. In August 2020, charges were filed against San Diego Symphony. In sum- “The reality far exceeds the dream,” says associates of Kelly for witness tampering, mers past, it would take several Butts, who adds that the venue was recent- another factor playing into the decision for a Aweeks to build a temporary stage at the top ly opened up to host three local high school partially sequestered and anonymous jury. of the season and another two weeks to take graduations. “It had an impact on the chil- “Nobody knows what your names are,” it down. But this weekend, the symphony dren and their parents. It was a manifesta- Donnelly reassured. “I don’t want anyone... christened its new year-round structure, tion of the dreams that we had when we first trying to get your take on [the trial].” The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, with three started bringing back the city of champions. Donnelly questioned potential jurors, performances, concluding on Sunday with a We went from being the city of champions inquiring about their hobbies, jobs, experi- show by Gladys Knight. to the home of the Sizzler and the big donut ences with law enforcement and views on “About 15 years ago, the Orchestra settled and an $18 million structural deficit. Now same-sex relations, presumably in reference here at Embarcadero Marina Park South we have the opportunity not just to grow to upcoming evidence and accounts. In the and it was a temporary venue with no the city, but to provide an environment of end, 18 jurors will be selected, six of whom sides, just kind of blowing in the breeze,” growth and success for our children.” will serve as alternates. The trial is set to last says San Diego Symphony CEO Martha four weeks, with opening arguments begin- A. Gilmer from a venue table overlooking ning Aug. 18. the water. “We wanted it to be a beautiful Page 13 of 21

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place for the orchestra to hear themselves is not exclusive. It is inclusive. That’s really “Coming Out Latin” with Raymix, Esteman, and be able to achieve really high-level per- a very important part of the mission.” Erika Vidrio and Grupo Firme’s Jhonny Caz; formances that then can be brought to the The Rady Shell’s upcoming sched- “My Cause, My Music: A Conversation on audience. Our primary concern was sound.” ule includes Nas with The San Diego Social Justice” with Yotuel Romero, Kany The Rady Shell is the centerpiece of the Symphony, comedian Sebastian Manis- García and ChocQuibTown members Goyo 3.7-acre Jacobs Park, a public space that calco, Smokey Robinson, Brian Wilson, and Tostao; “Making the Hit, Live” master- overlooks the marina and provides a 360-de- Gary Clark Jr. and plenty of performances class with Lunay and his longtime producers gree view of downtown San Diego. The from the Orchestra. The Orchestra will also Chris Jedi and Gaby Music; and “Regional performance shell features concentric, wid- perform alongside popular films like The No More– Mexican Music Goes Global” ening, oval rings as its canopy — a structure Goonies and Rocketman. with Natanael Cano, Los Dos Carnales and that reaches a height of 57 feet and a width “I think artists are going to absolutely want Carin Leon, and moderated by Rancho Hu- of 92 feet at the front of the stage. For open- to make sure this is part of their tours going milde’s Jimmy Humilde. ing weekend, the shell hung over the first forward, because it is a brand-new, state-of- The star-studded 2021 Latin Music Week few rows of patrons who showed up for con- the-art venue,” says Gilmer. “When you’re lineup — headlined by Daddy Yankee, Karol certs from Rafael Payare conducting the San standing on that stage and you’re looking at G, and Nicky Jam — also includes participa- Diego Symphony on Aug. 6, the Symphony’s this view it is an inspiring place to be.” tion by Anitta, Elena Rose, Myke Towers, “The Best of Broadway” showcase on Aug. Nicki Nicole, Rauw Alejandro, Tainy, and 7 and seven-time Grammy winner Knight, Tini, with more to be announced in the who closed out the series on Aug. 8. Power Players coming weeks. The symphony will work with the Port of Under the slogan “The Beat of Latin Mu- San Diego to program 110 days throughout Rebeca Leon, sic,” making its mark as the longest running the year. The remainder of the time, the and biggest Latin music industry gathering space will continue to function as a public Walter Kolm, & in the world, this year’s event will con- park with revamped basketball courts and tinue through the end of the week as Bill- exercise areas. Henry Cardenas board launches its En Vivo concert series in “This is a very unique partnership with partnership with Samsung, Amazon Music, the Port. Eighty-five percent of the time this Join 2021 Latin and Bacardí. is a public park. People can come and walk The 2021 Latin Music Week will take around. They can sit and listen to rehearsals. Music Week place from Sept. 20 to 24 at the Faena Fo- They can watch art being made,” says Gilmer. rum in Miami, and coincides with the 2021 “Then 15% of the time, we occupy it. Keeping BY JESSICA ROIZ Billboard Latin Music Awards broadcasting that balance was critical. I think the Port saw live via Telemundo on Sept. 23. this as a real opportunity for activating our ndustry leaders Rebeca León, Walter To register and for more information, coastline and bringing people to the bay that Kolm, and Henry Cárdenas have been visit BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com. haven’t been down here before.” confirmed for Billboard’s 2021 Latin For Knight’s performance, the venue was Music Week, returning to Miami outfitted to welcome 3,500 guests – both Iin September with a weeklong event that Virtual FUTURX seated and spread out on the lawn. The audi- unites the top Latin hitmakers, influencers, ence, however, extended to passersby who and executives, and features live perfor- Event to Discuss pulled up outside the park gates with blan- mances and conversations with superstars. kets and lawn chairs and even the occasional Moderated by Billboard’s VP and Latin Tech, Media pet. On the water, boats anchored themselves Industry Lead Leila Cobo, the marquee trio around the shell to take in the show. will discuss the most urgent issues in Latin & Production The Rady Shell can be configured for music today during a panel called “The up to 10,000 guests and features a nearly Billboard Latin Power Players In Conversa- BY BILLBOARD STAFF 13,000-square-foot open-air dining plaza tion.” All three guests were former Latin that can also be utilized for pre-event func- Executives of the Year: León, artist manager 32HZ, the Argentine music label tions. Gilmer says the Symphony hopes and Lionfish Entertainment co-founder/ and company with areas devoted to use the park’s various spaces for free CEO (2020); Kolm, artist manager and CEO/ to leadership, music marketing entertainment for locals, multi-stage festi- president of WK Entertainment (2019); and and promotion and education, is vals and more. Cárdenas, president/CEO of CMN - Carde- 4launching its monthly FUTURX event. “We just want to make sure that art is ac- nas Marketing Network (2018). The August edition of FUTURX, which cessible,” says Gilmer. “As I say, the creative Previously announced panels include takes place Aug. 10-12, will feature one panel Page 14 of 21

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each on Tuesday and Wednesday and three in the world, this year’s event will con- conversations on Thursday, all under the um- Jhonny Caz, tinue through the end of the week as Bill- brella of “Musical Ecosystems of the Future.” board launches its En Vivo concert series in Speakers include producer Tweety Gonzalez, Esteman, Raymix partnership with Samsung, Amazon Music who will chat with artists Eduardo Cabra and and Bacardí. Marian Ruzzi; digital and cultural market- & Erika Vidrio to The 2021 Latin Music Week will take ers Adel Hattem, Malfi Dorantes and Martín place from Sept. 20 to 24 at the Faena Fo- Giraldo; Judith Gómez Machado of TikTok in Discuss Pride & rum in Miami and coincides with the 2021 Latin America; and Billboard’s Latin VP, Leila Billboard Latin Music Awards broadcasting Cobo, speaking with Billboard Argentina edi- Music at 2021 live via Telemundo on Sept. 23. tor Santiago Torres. To register and for more information, Registration is required to attend the Latin Music Week visit BillboardLatinMusicWeek.com. event, and can be accessed here. FUTURX kicked off its speaker series BY JESSICA ROIZ in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic. The Berklee College monthly series broached topical subjects aymix, Esteman, Erika Vid- of discussion featuring leaders of different rio and Jhonny Caz of Grupo to Open Its Doors industry sectors throughout Latin America Firme have all been confirmed with the aim of educating and optimizing for Billboard’s 2021 Latin Music to Non-Musicians interconnectivity and technology. RWeek returning to Miami in September with The goals are aligned with those of a weeklong event that unites the top Latin for First Time 432HZ, which was launched in Argentina by hitmakers, influencers and industry leaders, music entrepreneurs Nicolás Madoery and and features live performances and conver- BY HANNAH DAILEY Diego Knoblovits in 2014 as an extension of sations with superstars. indie label Concepto Cero, and has grown to The four artists will form part of LMW’s he Berklee College of Music include management, events and education “Coming Out Latin” panel for an insightful has announced it will now offer and consultancy. and heartfelt conversation on the challeng- a Bachelor of Arts program in “We created FUTURX after many years of es and rewards of coming out as a Latin Music Industry Leadership and generating educational spaces for different music act. The panel will be moderated by TInnovation. Announced Tuesday (Aug. 10) organizations. Our plan was to broaden our Eder Diáz, host of the podcast De Pueblo, and launching fall of 2022, the program editorial brand, chat with people we admire, Católico y Gay. will be the first undergraduate Bachelor of and highlight in real time different visions Recently announced panels include “My Arts degree to be available in the college’s and contrasts within the music industry,” Cause, My Music: A Conversation on Social 75-year history. says Madoery. “FUTURX’s final goal is to Justice” with Cuban artist/activist Yotuel Famous for its esteemed music program create a Latin American community around Romero, Puerto Rican star Kany García and — as well as its esteemed list of alumni — the the music industry that can accelerate proj- ChocQuibTown members (and husband and college that’s provided education to artists ects and be competitive. We want to think of wife) Goyo and Tostao; “Making the Hit, like John Mayer, Quincy Jones and Charlie alternate business models and strive toward Live” masterclass with Lunay and his long- Puth will now have a place for non-musi- equity in different aspects of the industry.” time producers Chris Jedi and Gaby Music; cians. The major will be offered through the and “Regional No More– Mexican Music Boston school’s music business/manage- Goes Global” with Natanael Cano, Los Dos ment department and has been “specifically Carnales and Carin Leon, and moderated by designed for non-musicians who have an Rancho Humilde’s Jimmy Humilde. interest in business and technology,” accord- The star-studded 2021 Latin Music ing to the press release. Its curriculum is set Week lineup, headlined by Daddy Yankee, to combine theoretical and practical learn- Karol G and Nicky Jam, also includes par- ing, with students taking business, liberal ticipation by Anitta, Elena Rose, Myke Tow- arts and general elective courses. ers, Nicki Nicole, Rauw Alejandro, Tainy “Berklee was born out of the spirit of in- and Tini, with more to be announced in the novation,” said Tonya Butler, chair of the coming weeks. music business/management department. “I Under the slogan “The Beat of Latin Mu- look forward to welcoming the first class of sic,” making its mark as the longest-running students to study music industry innovation and biggest Latin music industry gathering in the place where music of all styles and Page 15 of 21

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genres resides.” Queens and Angélique Kidjo playing in than 4 billion doses administered to date The new B.A. includes specializations in Paris, with more locations and performanc- have occurred in just 10 countries while marketing and production development, es to be announced later this month. only 1% of people in low-income countries licensing and administration and emerging With additional shows in Rio de Janeiro, have received a dose,” said Dr. Tedros Adha- technologies, along with coursework rooted London, Seoul, Los Angeles and Sydney, the nom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, in the contemporary music industry. concerts are slated to raise awareness about in a statement. “We cannot disregard this No faculty members were listed in the issues including climate change, famine and gross inequity or become complacent. This release, but the program’s professors will vaccine equity and coincide with the United remains a global crisis, with emerging vari- be “active in both the music and technology Nations General Assembly in September, ants emanating from undervaccinated parts fields.” the G20 meeting in October and Novem- of the world continuing to threaten every- One major difference between the new ber’s COP26 meetings. The artists will try one’s lives and livelihoods. It will only end program and the rest of Berklee’s music and to rally citizens across the planet to demand with global equitable access to vaccines and performance majors is that students will not that governments, major corporations and other life-saving medical supplies.” be required to audition. It is, however, still a philanthropists work together to defend the All of the shows will comply with the lat- “highly selective and competitive program planet and defeat poverty; support the cam- est COVID-19 health and safety guidelines designed for students with a strong desire to paign, earn tickets and take action here. according to organizers, with a limited- impact, change, and even disrupt the music Among the other previously announced capacity event in Lagos filmed in advance industry of today, while making a meaning- acts slated to appear live or in pre-taped with a fully vaccinated audience. Attendees ful contribution to the industry of tomor- slots are: Adam Lambert, Andrea Bocelli, in Paris on the Champ de Mars must show row,” Butler said. BTS, Demi Lovato, Duran Duran, Green proof of vaccination, or a negative CO- Day, Hugh Jackman & Deborra-lee Furness, VID-19 test and in New York, the festival on Keith Urban, Lorde, The Lumineers, Metal- the Great Lawn in Central Park will require Ed Sheeran, lica, Rag’n’Bone Man, Ricky Martin, Shawn attendees to be fully vaccinated no later that Mendes, The Weeknd and Usher. two weeks before the concert or present a Coldplay, Billie “Over the last year and a half, we’ve negative PCR test within 72 hours of the seen music bring communities together show to gain entry and all fans must wear Eilish, Doja Cat & and inspire action during one of the most masks regardless of vaccination status. challenging times of our generation,” said More to Headline Katie Hill, SVP, Head of Music, Entertain- ment and Artist Relations, Global Citizen Jack White’s ‘Global Citizen in a statement. “We’re excited to join these incredible artists to unite people across the Third Man Live’ Concerts globe on September 25th as we hold world leaders and business leaders accountable to Records to Open BY GIL KAUFMAN rectify the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As we carefully resume Global London Storefront he 24-hour Global Citizen Live se- Citizen’s live events, we couldn’t be more ries of concerts on Sept. 25 will fea- grateful to each of these artists for donat- BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN ture a star-studded line-up of acts ing their time and performances to make an performing in COVID-safe shows impact through this urgent campaign.” ack White’s Third Man Records is go- Tspanning six continents. The initial roster Global Citizen Live will ask world lead- ing international. for the New York event will feature Cold- ers to deliver on a number of a ambitious Today, the company announced it play, Billie Eilish, Camila Cabello, Jennifer goals before Sept. 1, including: 1 billion will open a storefront at 1 Marshall Lopez, Lizzo, Meek Mill, Shawn Mendes, trees planted and preserved to help prevent JStreet in London’s historic Soho neighbor- Alessia Cara, Burna Boy, Cyndi Lauper, Jon global temperatures from rising beyond hood, marking the first Third Man Records Batiste and Lang Lang. 1.5ºC above pre-industrial levels by curbing store to open outside the U.S. and the third The historic show that will air on ABC, emissions and supporting 1t.org; 1 billion overall. The other two stores are located in ABC News Live, BBC, FX, iHeartRadio, vaccines to the poorest countries; meals for Nashville and Detroit. Hulu, YouTube, TIME, Twitter and more the 41 million people on the brink of famine. The London store will boast a two-level outlets will also host Femi Kuti, Davido, “As wealthy countries are well on their retail space, an intimate live music venue Tiwa Savage and Made Kuti in Lagos, Ni- way to reopening and returning to normal named The Blue Basement and a European geria and Ed Sheeran, Doja Cat, DJ Snake, life, we now face a two-track pandemic of headquarters for the label. Slated to open on H.E.R., Black Eyed Peas, Christine and the haves and have-nots. Over 75% of the more Sept. 25, the space was personally designed Page 16 of 21

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by founder White alongside Third Man’s nothing that the self-assured, goal-oriented “creative hive of artists,” according to a Tai Verdes Saw performer didn’t already have visualized, press release. The store was conceptualized though: “I have a video on TikTok that says and created throughout 2020 and 2021. All This Coming: like, ‘I wanna get on Billboard by the end of Additional features of the London space the summer,’” Verdes recalls. include the “Literarium,” a token-operated Viral Singer- Below, Billboard talks with the newly lucky dip book machine designed by Toron- minted hitmaker about his debuts both on to-based artist Craig Small, just the second Songwriter Talks the charts and onstage, and how he already of its kind; and a token-operated recording has his career planned out until the mid- booth where artists and the general public ‘A-O-K’ Success 2020s. can record their own material straight to How have you gotten ready for first live vinyl. & His 5-Year Plan gig? Have you had rehearsals? Have you put To celebrate the opening, Third Man Re- together a band? Do you have any sort of cords solicited several U.K. artists – includ- BY ANDREW UNTERBERGER vocal training? ing Paul Weller, David Ruffin, The Jesus & Man, you’re a good guesser! All three of Mary Chain, Cornershop, Gina Birch of The hen Tai Verdes calls to those things. Yo, I just wanted to make sure Raincoats and “lost” Manchester band The speak with Billboard in I was the worst person on stage [when I Magic Roundabout, who will release their late July, it’s from a curb perform]. I wanted professionals around me, debut LP on the label – to either record outside of the Lollapalooza playing my songs in a way that brings them to something new or contribute previously-un- Wfestival in Chicago, where he’s checking out life. You know? And once I got that done, all I heard recordings to the Third Man catalog. the scene before playing the festival himself gotta do is basically jump and scream so hard The resulting releases will be available to that Friday (July 30). It’s both his first time that I pass out, and we good. In the show. buy on black vinyl beginning Sept. 25 from at the festival — any festival, he says — as Any big surprises or planned moments for the Third Man webstore (which will soon either an performer or attendee, and his first your own show tomorrow? expand to the U.K. and the E.U.), at all gig as a live performer of any kind. So, un- Mmm… I think I got some moments for three physical Third Man locations and at surprisingly, he plans to give it his all: “If I everybody. I’m really just excited to see the independent record shops everywhere. In don’t pass out [onstage], I’ll be disappointed physical representation of what I’ve been addition, the London store will exclusively with myself.” working on for this entire last year and a host limited-edition yellow vinyl versions of The 25-year-old Verdes — who has been half. Because everything has been kind of all of these releases. grinding to make a name for himself in imaginary. All these numbers — who really Today’s announcement was preceded by the music industry since he was trying out counts Spotify streams, right? But I do know the appearance of eight fake, rotating store- (unsuccessfully) for music reality competi- that I can count the amount of people that fronts at the London store’s Marshall Street tions and uploading songs to YouTube under have hit me up on Instagram or in any DM address which bore names like Swank’s his given name, Tyler Colon — earned the and said like, “Hey, ‘A-O-K’ has made a dif- Muscle Tee Emporium, Jack Sharp’s Up- status to make his live debut for a festival ference in my day,” or like, “This song has holstery Tacks and Harry Lime’s Penicillin audience of thousands in large part due to brought me out of this moment.” You know? — all touted by the Instagram account of viral success on TikTok. In 2020, the alt-pop So I just really appreciate that, and I wanna a company calling itself Absurd Scam singer-songwriter’s “Stuck in the Middle” see it happen — like, the physical represen- Records. As many Third Man fans correctly took off on the service, ultimately crossing tation of that. surmised, those businesses were all just part over to streaming, where it’s racked up over Were you excited to see “A-O-K” hit the of an elaborate marketing scheme designed 70 million plays on Spotify and led to a deal Hot 100 for the first time? to build hype around the new location. Last with Arista in late 2020. Yeah man... now it’s just about seeing week, physical invitations to the store’s Sept. But while countless artists have found what it does. It kind of has its own life now, 25 opening — arriving under the name of early success on TikTok to be unrepeat- because the radio’s pushing it, and everyone one of the fake companies — were sent to able, Verdes has already eclipsed his is super in on the song. So now it’s just about U.K. subscribers of Third Man’s The Vault breakthrough hit with this year’s affirma- exposure. We’ll see what happens after that. subscription service. tive “A-O-K,” from debut album TV. The Have you heard yourself on the radio yet? song has matched the viral performance of Yeah man! A couple times at random, and “Middle,” while also scoring radio airplay a couple times on purpose, but yeah, each — it’s reached No. 21 on Billboard’s Pop time has been wild. Songs listing — resulting in it becoming How do you do it on purpose? Verdes’ first Billboard Hot 100 hit, where it My manager will hit me up like, “Oh, the climbs to a new peak of No. 67 this week. It’s first time that it’ll be added will be around Page 17 of 21

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this hour.” And then I’ll like, spend the marketing company or with — maybe even whole hour on the radio trying to listen to it. going out into the physical world — that’s Harry Styles, Does it feel good to get that second hit out exciting to me. And I think finding those of the way after “Stuck in the Middle”? So pockets of excitement is what I’m going to Lewis Capaldi, many artists that break big on TikTok, it’s be chasing moving forward. pretty hard for them to get a second hit, let How did you come to get hooked up with Dave, Celeste Top alone one that’s bigger than the first one. Arista? Man, to be honest, like — I have this Well s—t, I want to own my s—t! I had 2021 Ivor Novello planned out for the next four years, what’s calls with people from Atlantic, Warner, about to happen. I know the album covers, they wanted to take my stuff. But this is my Award Nominees I know what color they’re gonna be. I know s—t. So I want to deal with it my way. It’s my the names of them. I know what tracks are team running the creative, it’s the people BY GIL KAUFMAN gonna be on the next album. I’m working around me figuring out what’s going to be in on the third one. I just want my ideas to be the music videos… I’m writing the treat- arry Styles, Lewis Ca- shared. Whatever capacity is great, but I ments, I’m figuring out the songs. This is a paldi, Dave and Celeste are know the plan that’s going to happen. So I’m very driven direction that is already work- among the nominees for the excited to see that fleshed out. ing, and I just needed some gas behind it. 2021 Ivor Novello Awards. The Were there any lessons that you picked up And then Arista was the one who was like, H66th annual celebration of creative excel- while you were either on the shows that you “We totally support this, give you the money lence by British and Irish songwriters and were trying out for, or the YouTube record- and get out of the way.” And I’m super down screen composers will take place on Sept. 21 ings that you were uploading — anything for that. at Grosvenor House in London. you learned that sort of prepared you for Does that mean that you also own your The shortlist for this year’s Ivors also this moment? own masters — or is that something you’re features Fontaines D.C., Lianne La Havas, Just what I didn’t want to do, man. I was looking to do? Pa Salieu, Laura Marling and AJ Tracey, an intramural volleyball referee for a corpo- No, I already own my own masters. I told among others. rate association, right? So I would see Jim you man, I want it. I want it all. Check out the award categories below: from accounting yell at me for not having Did you have any ideas already what the Songwriter of the Year: AJ Tracey, a spike be in, on beach volleyball. So I was next album is gonna be like? Any sort of new Celeste and Jamie Hartman, Kamille, Kid doing that. I was slinging phones. I worked directions you’re leaning in, or new vibes Harpoon and Harry Styles, MNEK at like a premium Asian luxury sunglass you kinda want to bring to it? Best Album: Fontaines D.C., A Hero’s brand... I had to stand all day. I know I didn’t Man, if I told you it wouldn’t be a sur- Death; Lianne La Havas, self-titled; Pa want to do any of those things. I worked prise! I mean, honestly I’m just making stuff Salieu, Send Them to Coventry; Laura Mar- at a marketing agency — and even though that I feel good [about]. So any time you ling, Song For Our Daughter; Tom Misch + I market now, I didn’t want to work at a hear a Tai Verdes album, it’s just gonna be Yussef Dayes, What Kinda Music marketing agency. like, “Oh, there’s Tai Verdes making stuff Best Contemporary Song: Dave and That’s the biggest thing about life — just that makes him feel good.” Fraser T Smith, “Children of the Internet”; figuring out what you don’t want to do. And I’m just pumped about music, man, and Ashnikko, “Daisy”; Pa Salieu, “Energy”; then, it gives you more space to figure out that’s what I want it to be like for the rest Rachel Chinouriri, “Give Me a Reason”; For what to do. of the time that I’m doing it. Just to be Those I Love, “Top Scheme” You’ve really embraced TikTok as part pumped. I think that music is something Best Song Musically and Lyrically: Arlo of your marketing, but a lot of artists have that’s forever. It’s a forever entity. And this Parks, “Black Dog”; Headie One & Fred a love/hate relationship with it — they’re music that I’m putting out, I always want to Again.., “Gang”; Obongjayar, “God’s Own grateful for the exposure it gives them, but love it. So I’m never going to put out some- Children”; Marina, “Man’s World”; Celeste, they don’t necessarily want to come to be thing that I don’t like. “Stop This Flame” associated with it. Do you think that artists A version of this article originally ap- PRS for Music Most Performed Work: have the wrong idea about how to use Tik- peared in the Aug. 7, 2021, issue of Bill- Harry Styles, “Adore You” and “Watermelon Tok to their own advantage? board Sugar”; Lewis Capaldi, “Before You Go”; I think that TikTok is just people sharing Joel Corry feat. MNEK, “Head & Heart”; things. And that’s a lot of social media. And Lewis Capaldi, “Someone You Loved” when you’re on a platform where you can Best Original Film Score: Black put any piece of content out without touch- Mass, Calm With Horses; Anne Nikitin, Four ing a single setting, that can be put into a Kids and It; Adam Janota Bzowski, Saint circle that you would never reach with a Maud; Daniel Pemberton, The Trial of the Page 18 of 21

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Chicago 7; Craig Stuart Garfinkle and Ei- a week after their triumphant return-to- In describing the hard decision, Durst mear Noone, Two By Two: Overboard! form main stage set at the full-capacity told Billboard that it was all about solidarity Best Original Video Game Score: Ilan Lollapalooza festival in Chicago. and making sure we take care of each other Eshkeri and Shigeru Umebayashi, Ghost “In short, the system is still very flawed,” as hospitalizations and cases have spiked of Tsushima; Jessica Curry and Jim Fowl- Durst told Billboard. “Even if the performers, all across the country in what some health er, Little Orpheus; Gareth Coker, Ori and the crews, staff, and promoters do their best to experts are beginning to call a pandemic of Will of the Wisps ensure safety on and behind the stage, that the unvaccinated. “It’s one for all and all Best Television Soundtrack: Alex doesn’t ensure the safety of the audience as for one, or it’s just not going to work,” Durst Heffes and Anoushka Shankar, A Suitable a whole. We are all in this together, and we said. “I’m willing to do my part. Are you?” Boy; Geoff Barrow, Ben Salisbury and the all — individually and as a whole — have to Insects, Devs; David Arnold and Michael make our best efforts to be as responsible Price, Dracula; Matthew Herbert, Noughts + and proactive as possible moving forward to Jason Isbell Crosses; Oli Julian, Us combat and stop spreading COVID.” Rising Star Award with Apple Music: Asked if there was a specific incident Talks Concert Allegra, Holly Humberstone, Kamal., Rachel that prompted them to pull the plug on the Chinouriri, Willow Kayne theater run originally slated to keep them Vaccine Policy: on the road through an Aug. 24 date at the Palladium in Los Angeles, Durst said there ‘If You’re Dead, Fred Durst wasn’t anything he could point to, but rather it was “just perception.” You Don’t Have Explains After making it through just four dates, the band announced over the weekend that Any Freedoms’ Canceling Limp beginning with the Aug. 6 gig at the Stone Pony Summer Stage in Asbury Park, N.J., the BY LARS BRANDLE Bizkit Tour Amid planned 12-date outing was off. According to Rolling Stone, Durst ason Isbell’s months-long tour is a Latest COVID-19 posted an Instagram Story shortly after the COVIDsafe one, with ticketholders re- scotched Pony show to dispel rumors that quired to show proof of vaccination of Surge: ‘The guitarist Wes Borland was having health a negative test to attend. Not everyone, issues. “Let us be clear: 1. Wes Borland does Jhowever, is a fan of the new rules. System Is Still not have Covid. 2. The system is seriously The country star stopped by MSNBC on flawed,” Durst wrote. “3. We don’t care Monday (Aug. 9) to discuss the trek and its Very Flawed’ much about the BS… We care a lot about safety features. you… Dad vibes coming soon.” “I think the people who work at the BY GIL KAUFMAN Borland also reportedly denied the venues and who work in the music business rumors in his own Story, writing, “I’m not understand,” Isbell explained. ust as the touring industry was primed sick… No seriously. No matter what you’ve “From everything that I’ve heard so far, all to bounce back from more than 18 read, I don’t have Covid. I’m fine. Thanks.” the response I’ve gotten from people in the months of lockdown due to the CO- The Bizkit bounce came as a number of business has been positive because they un- VID-19 pandemic, the highly conta- artists are either re-thinking, canceling their derstand that we could go back to not work- Jgious Delta variant appears to be putting a dates or insisting that fans be vaccinated ing at all. And a lot of these smaller venues crimp in those best-laid plans. Case in point: in order to attend. Jason Isbell is asking they aren’t going to be able to reopen if they 1990s nu-metal band Limp Bizkit’s decision ticketholders to show proof of vaccina- go through another round of shutdowns.” this week to pull the plug on their Limited tion or a negative test to come to his shows, He continued, “I think they understand. Last Minute Post Pandemic Popup Party while Lynyrd Skynyrd pulled a number of The problem is they’re just getting so much Edition tour. dates after guitarist Rickey Medlocke tested pushback from some of the governors of cer- In a statement, the group explained that positive for COVID-19. Counting Crows tain states who want to kowtow to their po- they were doing so “out of an abundance yanked a Boston show just hours before litical base and try to make people think that of caution and concern for the safety of the curtain after a member of their touring their freedom is being encroached upon.” band, crew and most of all the fans.” party tested positive, and the New Orleans As for “freedom,” he’s all for it. “But if In a follow-up message to Billboard, Jazz & Heritage Festival canceled its 2021 you’re dead, you don’t have any freedoms at singer Fred Durst dove a bit further into event due to the “exponential growth” of all. So it’s probably important to stay alive their difficult decision to cancel the tour new cases in New Orleans. before you start questioning your liberty, Page 19 of 21

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you know? It’s life and then it’s liberty and Rice first ruled Country Airplay as a then it’s the pursuit of happiness and those Chase Rice Tops recording act with “Eyes on You” for two are in order of priority.” weeks in May 2019. He has also hit the top The protocols shouldn’t come as a sur- Country Airplay 10 with “Ready Set Roll” (No. 5, 2014) and prise to anyone. Isbell and his team laid it all “Gonna Wanna Tonight” (No. 2, 2015). out on social media ahead of recent shows. Chart With Florida Born in Florida and raised in Asheville, “We’re now requiring proof of vaccina- N.C., Rice, 35, previously worked as a NAS- tion or a current negative test to attend Georgia Line: CAR pit crew member for Hendrick Motors- all our shows, indoors or out. If the venue ports and placed second on CBS’ Survivor: won’t allow that, we won’t play,” he writes ‘There’s Nobody Nicaragua in 2010. in one post. Florida Georgia Line last led Country Air- Another formal message ahead of his More Special in play No. 1 with “Long Live” (April 10). The spell at Austin City Limits reads, “With pair moves closer to Brooks & Dunn’s record the number of COVID-19 cases rising due My Musical Life’ for the most leaders among duos or groups to Delta variant, all attendees of this event (20) in the chart’s 31-year history. Rascal must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 BY JIM ASKER Flatts ranks third with 14 No. 1s. or have tested negative for COVID-19 within Meanwhile, FGL’s other current single, 72 hours of attending the event(s)”. hase Rice hoists his second “Lil Bit,” with Nelly, ranks at No. 45 on Not everyone is keen to play by the rules. leader on Billboard’s Country Country Airplay (1.6 million). Isbell has responded to a string of unhappy Airplay chart, as “Drinkin’ Beer. On Hot Country Songs, “Beer” bounds 7-3 fans, putting out social media fires and Talkin’ God. Amen,” featur- for a new high. The track drew 7.1 million engaging in a Twitter spat with singer and Cing Florida Georgia Line, ascends from streams (up 7%) and sold 1,900 downloads songwriter Marc Broussard, who dismissed No. 2 to No. 1 on the survey dated Aug. 14. (up 10%) in the week ending Aug. 5. Isbell and his regulations as being ”so bour- It drew 32.5 million audience impressions ‘WAVES’ CRASHES INTO TOP 10 Luke geois” and “elitist”. in the week ending Aug. 8, according to Bryan’s “Waves” soars 11-6 on Hot Country Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit have tour MRC Data. Songs, sparked by its 40% swell to 6.5 mil- dates on both sides of the Atlantic booked FGL, which comprises Tyler Hubbard lion streams (helped by more prominent through November 2022. and Brian Kelley, adds its 16th Country Amazon Music playlist placement). On The Alabama native’s most recent studio Airplay leader. Country Airplay, the single holds at its No. 6 album, May 2020’s Reunions, peaked at No. Rice co-wrote “Beer” with Corey high, up 4% to 26.7 million impressions. 9 on the Billboard 200. Crowder, Cale Dodds and Hunter Phelps. Bryan earns his 32nd Hot Country Songs “I knew that if I ever did a major col- top 10. It follows “Down to One,” which hit laboration, I wanted it to be natural and No. 5 in March (and led Country Airplay the meaningful, which is what we were able to same month, becoming his 24th No. 1). Bry- accomplish,” Rice tells Billboard. an banked his first Hot Country Songs top While the song is the first chart hit with 10 with his 2007 debut hit “All My Friends,” Rice and FGL sharing artist credit, he which hit No. 5 that September. co-wrote the duo’s breakthrough smash ‘TIME’ FOR ANOTHER TOP 10 Scotty “Cruise” with Hubbard and Kelley, Joey Moi McCreery achieves his sixth Country Air- and Jesse Rice. The track topped Country play top 10 as “You Time” climbs 11-10 with Airplay for three weeks in December 2012 a 2% advance to 17.7 million in audience. and dominated the airplay-, sales- and The latest from McCreery, who streaming-based Hot Country Songs chart won American Idol in 2011, follows “In for 24 frames into 2013. Between,” which became his third total and Rice adds, “There’s nobody more special in consecutive No. 1 in June 2020. “You Time,” my musical life than Brian and Tyler, so to be which he co-wrote, is the lead single from able to come back together after first making his fifth LP, Same Truck, due Sept. 17. music together and to not only have a blast ‘COWBOY’ RIDES IN Parker McCol- doing it, but to also get to see the song reach lum’s first major label LP, Gold Chain Cow- the top of the chart, is a dream come true. I’m boy, debuts at No. 6 on Top Country Albums so thankful to everyone who helped make with 12,000 equivalent album units. this my second No. 1 as an artist and I can’t The 10-track set follows his EP Hollywood wait to share what we have coming next.” Gold, which arrived as his first entry at its Page 20 of 21

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No. 10 peak last October (9,000). No. 6) “To Be Loved by You,” the new album’s Eilish’s six debuts up her total to 30 ca- BTS’ ‘Butter’ sophomore single, leaps 41-28 for a new high reer Hot 100 appearances. She first reached on Hot Country Songs, up 35% to 3.5 million the ranking in June 2018 with her Khalid Keeps Atop streams. It holds at No. 33 on Country Air- duet “Lovely.” She boasts five top 10s, in- play (4.7 million, up 21%), after reaching No. cluding the No. 1 “Bad Guy” in 2019. Songs of the 32 so far. Launch track “Pretty Heart” led With her 11th week at No. 1 on the Artist Country Airplay for a week and hit No. 4 on 100, Eilish passes Adele for ninth-most Summer Chart, Hot Country Songs last December. frames on top. Taylor Swift leads all acts with 48 weeks, followed by Drake (32), The The Kid LAROI Weeknd (22), BTS (19), Ariana Grande (15), Billie Eilish Post Malone, Justin Bieber (14 each), and Ed & Justin Bieber’s Sheeran (12). Returns to Elsewhere on the Artist 100, Prince ‘Stay’ Debuts re-enters at No. 4 as his LP Welcome 2 No. 1 on Artist America opens at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 BY BILLBOARD STAFF (55,000 units). The set, which becomes the 100 Thanks to late legend’s highest-charting new release TS’ “Butter” continues atop Bill- since 2009, is his milestone 20th top 10 board’s Songs of the Sum- ‘Happier Than album, tying him with Elton John for the mer chart (dated Aug. 14). 10th-most top 10s since the chart became Plus, The Kid LAROI and Jus- Ever’ Debut a combined stereo and mono ranking in Btin Bieber’s “Stay” debuts on the seasonal August 1963. survey, as it hits No. 1 on the Billboard BY XANDER ZELLNER Prince led the Artist 100 chart for two Hot 100. weeks following his death in 2016. The 20-position Songs of the Summer run- illie Eilish jumps from No. 24 The Artist 100 measures artist activity ning tally tracks the most popular titles based to No. 1 on the Billboard Artist across key metrics of music consumption, on cumulative performance on the weekly 100 chart (dated Aug. 14), reign- blending album and track sales, radio air- streaming-, airplay- and sales-based Hot ing as the top musical act in the play, streaming and social media fan interac- 100 from Memorial Day through Labor Day BU.S. for an 11th total week, and for the first tion to provide a weekly multi-dimensional (this year encompassing charts dated June time since February 2020, thanks to her new ranking of artist popularity. 12 through Sept. 11). At the end of the season, LP Happier Than Ever. For all chart news, you can follow @bill- the top song of the summer will be revealed. The set arrives at No. 1 on the Billboard board and @billboardcharts on both Twitter “Butter” holds atop the Songs of the Sum- 200 with 238,000 equivalent album units, and Instagram. mer chart over Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U”; according to MRC Data, notching the fifth- Dua Lipa’s “Levitating,” featuring DaBaby; largest week of 2021 in terms of weekly and Doja Cat’s “Kiss Me More,” featuring units earned. SZA, as the three songs remain at Nos. 2, 3 Eilish concurrently places nine songs and 4, respectively, and The Weeknd and on the latest Billboard Hot 100 chart, all Ariana Grande’s “Save Your Tears” rises to from Happier Than Ever. Here’s a recap (all the top five (6-5). are debuts except where noted): Meanwhile, The Kid LAROI and Bieber’s Rank, Title “Stay” enters the Songs of the Summer list at No. 11, “Happier Than Ever” No. 19 as it takes over atop the Hot 100. The No. 59, “NDA” (up from No. 87; peaked at Kid LAROI notches his second Songs of the No. 39) Summer hit, joining prior single “Without No. 69, “Getting Older” You,” which holds at its No. 12 high. Bieber No. 70, “Billie Bossa Nova” banks his 10th entry, a run that began with No. 72, “Oxytocin” “Boyfriend” in 2012 and includes the top No. 80, “I Didn’t Change My Number” title on the season-ending 2017 Songs of the No. 84, “Lost Cause” (re-entry; peaked at Summer chart: Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yan- No. 27) kee’s “Despacito,” featuring Bieber. No. 90, “Halley’s Comet” Check out the top 10 summer songs every No. 91, “My Future” (re-entry; peaked at year throughout the Hot 100’s history (from Page 21 of 21

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the chart’s start in 1958) and the latest Songs up loving the team and is sponsoring the Pass (Apple Corps), which surges following of the Summer survey in its entirety. men’s and women’s jerseys this season, its 50th anniversary reissue. The late Bea- Plus, SiriusXM’s Billboard Top 500 will get his own jersey and number in the tles great blasts in at No. 2 on the Official Summer Hits countdown is available upcoming season. Chart Update. on-demand in the SiriusXM app through “@edsheeran might be used to being Another British rock legend enjoys a Aug. 13. The full chart, ranking the top 500 number one, but it’s 17 that is next to his strong start with a classic record as Bri- summer hits based on Hot 100 data from name on Town’s official squad list for the an May’s 1992 solo debut Back To The 1958 through 2020, will post on Billboard. 2021/22 season!” the third-division team an- Light (UMC/Virgin) vaults to No. 3, follow- com Aug. 16. nounced last week in a tweet that featured ing the release of a remastered cut. Ed wearing his signature #17 shirt. Elsewhere on the chart blast, last week’s Check out the announcement and jersey leader Happier Than Ever (Island) by Bil- Ed Sheeran to Play below. lie Eilish slips 1-4, while Barbra Strei- sand’s compilation Release Me 2 (Sony Mu- Intimate London sic CG) opens at No. 5, and is track to give Will Young the U.S. great her 15th U.K. Top 10 album. Show Celebrating Finally, London rapper Fredo’s third Leads Midweek studio album, Independence Day (Since 93), 2011 Debut Album races to No. 8 on the midweek tally. It’s Fre- U.K. Chart With do’s second release of 2021, following Money BY GIL KAUFMAN Can’t Buy Happiness, which peaked at No. 2 ‘Crying On The in February. d Sheeran will be in a reflec- The Official U.K. Singles and Albums tive mood next month when he Bathroom Floor’ Charts are published late Friday, local time. performs his entire 2011 debut al- bum, +, during an intimate Sept. 2 BY LARS BRANDLE Eshow at London’s 2,000-capacity Shepherd’s Bush Empire. Fans who want to attend can ill Young can wipe away register here for a chance to purchase tick- the tears. Crying On The ets for the show, with registration closing on Bathroom Floor (Cooking Aug. 15 at 11:59 GMT. Vinyl) is leading the race to Sheeran, who typically plays arenas and Wthe U.K. chart title. stadiums, will scale things down for the gig, The British pop veteran’s eighth and lat- his first headlining show since he wrapped est LP heads the midweek chart, and posts his record-breaking Divide tour in August the market’s highest sales in physical and 2019. “While I’ve been lucky enough to con- digital formats, the OCC reports. tinue playing shows across the world, Shep- It’s tight at the top. Just 1,700 combined herd’s Bush Empire is still really special to sales separate the three hottest titles. me,” said Sheeran about the underplay gig Young shot to fame after winning the first according to NME. edition of the U.K.’s Pop Idol in 2002. In the “When I first set out in music, one of my years since, he has bagged four U.K. No. 1 main goals was to one day headline SBE and singles (including his first three releases) my first gig there is still one of my favourite and 11 Top 10s. His albums have led the na- shows that I’ve played,” he added. “I can’t tional albums chart on four occasions, with wait to get back and celebrate 10 years eight cracking the Top 10. of + with you.” Tickets for the gig are $55, Crying On The Bathroom Floor, a covers plus fees, and fans who successfully register album, is the followup to 2019’s Lexicon, his will be able to purchase them beginning at first via indie label Cooking Vinyl, which 10 a.m. local time on August 18. peaked at No. 2. Sheeran also has another milestone to Earlier in his career, Young won two Brit celebrate this month, as his favorite home- Awards, for best British breakthrough act town football team, Ipswich Town Football and best single, for “Your Game.” Club in Suffolk, England, will honor him in Close behind is George Harrison’s 1970 the best way possible. Sheeran, who grew chart-topping solo album All Things Must