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Bulletin YOUR DAILY NEWS UPDATE AUGUST 16, 2021 Page 1 of 29

INSIDE ’s ‘Happier Than Ever’ • & Extend Spends Second Week at No. 1 on ‘Stay’ Atop Hot 100, ’s Chart ‘Take My Breath’ Debuts in Top 10 BY KEITH CAULFIELD • Recording Academy’s Bill Freimuth, Billie Eilish’s Happier Than Ever holds atop the website on Aug. 17. For all chart news, follow @ Lourdes Lopez Billboard 200 albums chart for a second week, as the billboard and @billboardcharts on both and and Lisa Farris Depart Following set earned 85,000 equivalent units in the U.S. Instagram. Restructuring: in the week ending Aug. 12 (down 64%), according to Of Happier Than Ever’s 85,000 equivalent album Exclusive MRC Data. The album debuted at No. 1 a week ago units earned in the tracking week ending Aug. 12, SEA with 238,000 units – the fifth-largest week of 2021 units comprise 49,000 (down 42%, equaling 66.1 mil- • Live Nation Venues to Require for an album. Happier Than Ever is the second album lion on-demand streams of the album’s songs), album Vaccinations or released in 2021 to spend its first two weeks at No. 1, sales comprise 36,000 (the top-selling album of the Negative Test following ’s Dangerous: The Double week; down 76%) and TEA units comprise less than Album (which spent 10 weeks at No. 1, all consecutive, 1,000 (down 55%). • Tencent Music Value Plummets from its debut on the Jan. 23-dated chart). ’s former No. 1 Sour is up one spot Amid Regulatory The Billboard 200 chart ranks the most popular to No. 2 with 61,000 equivalent album units earned Uncertainty in China albums of the week in the U.S. based on multi-metric (down 6%). consumption as measured in equivalent album units. Nas scores his 15th top 10 album on the Billboard • and Warner Music Units comprise album sales, track equivalent albums 200, and highest charting effort since 2012, as King’s Group Announce (TEA) and streaming equivalent albums (SEA). Each Disease II debuts at No. 3. The set, released on Aug. 6, Career-Spanning unit equals one album sale, or 10 individual tracks earned 56,000 equivalent album units in its first week. Global Partnership sold from an album, or 3,750 ad-supported or 1,250 Of that sum, SEA units comprise 35,000 (equaling • Music Companies paid/subscription on-demand official audio and 47.44 million on-demand streams of the set’s songs), Delay Return to Office, video streams generated by songs from an album. The album sales comprise 19,000 and TEA units comprise Mandating Vaccines new Aug. 21, 2021-dated chart (where Happier Than a little over 1,000. Ever holds at No. 1) will be posted in full on Billboard’s (continued)

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King’s Disease II announced only a ing 3.96 million on-demand streams of the week before its release, on July 29, and is the album’s tracks) and TEA units comprise less The Kid LAROI sequel to King’s Disease, which was released than 1,000. The album, Harrison’s third solo in 2020 and debuted and peaked at No. 5 on studio effort and first No. 1 album, topped & Justin Bieber the Billboard 200 (dated Sept. 5, 2020). Billboard 200 chart for seven consecu- new album is Nas’ highest-charting set since tive weeks in 1971 (Jan. 2-Feb. 13, 1971-dated Extend ‘Stay’ 2012’s Life Is Good debuted at No. 1 on the charts). It launched a pair of top 10 hits on Aug. 4, 2012-dated list. the songs chart: his first Atop Hot 100, Nas landed his first top 10 album 25 years No. 1, the double-sided hit “My Sweet Lord” ago, when his second studio album, It Was / “Isn’t It a Pity,” and the No. 10 hit “What The Weeknd’s Written, bowed at No. 1 on the July 20, Is Life.” 1996, chart. With All Things Must Pass’ return to the ‘Take My Breath’ The Kid LAROI’s former chart-top- top 10, it marks Harrison’s first time in the per F*ck Love falls 2-4 with nearly 56,000 region since 1988, when Cloud Nine peaked Debuts in Top 10 equivalent album units (down 15%), Doja at No. 8. It’s also Harrison’s highest rank Cat’s Planet Her is steady at No. 5 with since Dark Horse galloped to No. 4 on Jan. BY GARY TRUST 55,000 units (up 2%) and Wallen’s Danger- 25, 1975. (Harrison died in 2001.) ous: The Double Album is a non-mover at No. Rounding out the new Billboard 200 top he Kid LAROI and Justin 6 with 44,000 units (down 2%). 10 are Lil Baby and ’s former No. Bieber’s “Stay” spends a second ’s former No. 1 al- 1 The Voice of the Heroes (holding at No. 8 week at No. 1 on the Billboard bum All Things Must Pass returns to the with 28,000 equivalent album units earned; Hot 100 songs chart, a week af- top 10 for the first time since 1971, as the set down 6%), ’s Nostalgia (sta- Tter ascending to the summit. re-enters at No. 7 following its 50th anniver- tionary at No. 9 with 27,000 units; down 6%) Olivia Rodrigo’s “,” at No. 2 on sary reissue on Aug. 6. The album was newly and ’s former No. 1 Hall of Fame (a the Hot 100 after a week at No. 1, takes over mixed and reissued in a variety of formats non-mover at No. 10 with 24,000 units; as the most-heard song on U.S. airwaves, for its re-release. All versions of the album, down 4%). as it tops the chart. It also including the original 1970 release, are com- ties for the most weeks totaled in the Hot bined for tracking and charting purposes. 100’s runner-up spot (11), a mark first set by All together, the set earned 32,000 equiva- ’s “Exhale (Shoop Shoop)” lent album units in the U.S. in the tracking in 1995-96. week ending Aug. 12 — up 1,401% (from Plus, The Weeknd’s “Take My Breath” about 2,000 in the week previous). Of its enters the Hot 100 at No. 6, arriving as his 32,000 units earned, album sales comprise 13th top 10. 28,000, SEA units comprise 3,000 (equal- The Hot 100 blends all-genre U.S. stream-

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On August 28th, Billboard will publish its annual 40 CONTACTS : Under 40 Issue, celebrating the next generation of leaders in the . This issue will profile Joe Maimone | 201.301.5933 40 power players who are making their mark in music, [email protected] touring and live entertainment. Lee Ann Photoglo | 615.376.7931 These progressive young leaders’ innovation and [email protected] creativity will continue to create excitement in the music business. Cynthia Mellow | 615.352,0265 Advertise in this issue to reach the music industry’s [email protected] most influential and affluent - from the young disrupters to the seasoned veterans - who paved Marcia Olival | 786.586.4901 the way. [email protected] ON SALE : 8/28 | +447843437176 Issue Close: 8/18 Ryan O’Donnell Materials Due: 8/19 [email protected] BILLBOARD COUNTRY UPDATE APRIL 13, 2020 | PAGE Page 4 5 OF of 1929

ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] IN BRIEF SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country ing A(officiallbu audioms; and officialBrett video), Y radio oungmission to ‘Catc Dance” (oneh week)’-es and nowFifth The “How Do I Live”). airplay and sales data. All charts (dated Aug. Kid LAROI and Bieber’s “Stay” (two weeks). Most weeks in Hot 100’s top 10: 21) will updateLea on Billboard.com tomorrowder; Travis “Exhale”Denning spent all 11 of itsMakes weeks at No. 2 Historya 57, “,” The Weeknd, No. 1 (Aug. 17). For all chart news, you can follow spot below and Boyz II Men’s peak (four weeks), beginning April 4, 2020 @billboard and @billboardcharts on both “One Sweet Day” in 1995-96. 39, “Circles,” , No. 1 (three SamTwitter Hunt and’s second Instagram. studio full-length, and first in over Songsfive years, to Spend Southside the Mostsales Weeks (up 21%) at in No. the 2 tracking weeks), week. On Nov. Country 30, 2019 Airplay, it hops 18-15 (11.9 mil- (MCA“Stay,” /Universalreleased July Music 9 on GroupRaymond Nashville), debutson at the No. Hot 1 on Billboard100: ’s lion audience impressions, 33,up 16%).“Sunflower (Spider-Man: Into the TopBraun/Columbia Country Albums Records/Def chart dated April Jam, 18. drew In its first 11,week “Good (ending 4 U,”April Olivia 9), it Rodrigo, first week at Spider-Verse),” Post Malone & Swae Lee, No. earned 46,000 equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITH YOUNG Brett Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cording40.5 million to Nielsen radio Music/MRC airplay audience Data. impres- No. 2: June 5, 2021 and total No.1 (one 1 as “Catch” week), (Big Jan. Machine 19, 2019 Label Group) ascends sionsSouthside (up 26%; marks good Hunt’s for top second Airplay No. 1Gainer on the 11, “Exhale (Shoop Shoop),” Whitney Hous- 33,2-1, “Girls increasing Like You,”13% to Maroon 36.6 million 5 feat. impressions. , charthonors and on fourth the Hot top 10.100) It followsand 31.8 freshman million LPU.S. ton, Dec. 2, 1995 No. Young’s1 (seven first weeks), of six Sept.chart 29,entries, 2018 “Sleep With- Montevallostreams (up, which 3%) andarrived sold at 12,700the summit downloads in No - 10, “Bad Guy,” Billie Eilish, June 8, 2019 33,out “Shape You,” reachedof You,” No. Ed 2Sheeran, in December No. 12016. (12 He vember(down 201412%) and in thereigned week for ending nine weeks. Aug. To 12, date, ac- 10, “That’s What I Like,” , April weeks),followed Jan. with 28, the 2017 multiweek No. 1s “In Case You Montevallo has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved millioncording in to album MRC sales. Data. 1, 2017 32,You” “Levitating,” (three, January Dua 2018), Lipa “Mercy” feat. DaBaby, (two, August No. MontevalloThe track has adds spent a fourth 267 weeks week on theatop list, tying 10, “Work It,” Missy “Misdemeanor” Elliott, 2,2018) May and22, “Here2021 Tonight” (two, April 2019). Lukethe Streaming Bryan’s Crash Songs My Party chart, as the dips sixth-longest- 5-6 Nov. 16, 2002* 32, “Sicko“Catch” Mode,” completes Travis his longest Scott, journey No. 1 (one to No. 1, runningon Digital titles Song in the Sales chart’s and 56-year bounds history. 19-10 on 10, “Freak Me,” , March 27, 1993 week),having Dec. taken 8, 46 2018 weeks to reach the apex. It out- RadioOn the Songs. all-genre The Billboard Kid LAROI 200, tallies Southside his secar-- 10, “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” Foreigner, 32,paces “Closer,” the 30-week climb of “Here Tonight.”feat. Halsey, rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 On , “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG afterond Radiothe No. Songs 3-peaking top Montevallo10, after “Without. You” Nov. 28, 1981* No.a new 1 (12 high. weeks), Sept. 3, 2016 hitHunt No. first5 in May,released and the Bieber EPX2C earns, which his debuted 19th. (*Five of the seven songs above hit No. 1 32, “,” LeAnn Rimes, No. 2, andOlivia peaked Rodrigo’s at No. 5 “Goodon Top 4Country U,” which Albums ruled in Auguston the 2014. Hot Following 100; only “WorkCOMBS It” ‘DOES’and “Waiting IT AGAIN LukeDec. Combs 13, 1997’ “Does to Me” (River House/Columbia Montevallothe Hot 100, Between in its debut the Pines: week Acoustic in May, Mixtape holds startedfor aat Girl its No. Like 7 high You” in peaked Nashville), at No. featuring2.) Eric Church31, “Mood,”, ascends 24kGoldn 11-8 on Country feat. iann Airplay, dior, up No. 10% 1 to Novemberat No. 2 as 2015. it rises to No. 1 on Radio Songs, ’s “Bad Habits”24.7 million rises toin audience.a new The(eight song weeks), is Combs’ Oct. eighth 24, 2020straight career-opening Montevallo produced five singles, four of which hit the pinnacle of Country top 10, following a record run of seven consecutive out-of-the-gate, properly Airplay:up 2% to “Leave 77.4 million the Night in On,” audience. “Take YourRodrigo Time,” “HouseNo. 3Party” Hot 100 and high,“Make from promoted No. 5, and No. Doja 1 singles. 31, “!,” feat. Youclaims Miss her Me.” second “Break Radio Up in aSongs Small leader,Town” peakedafter at No.Cat’s 2. “Kiss Me More,” featuringChurch SZA, adds climbshis 15th CountryBruno Airplay Mars, top No. 10. 1 (14 weeks), Jan. 17, 2015 “DriversHunt co-penned License” allfor 12 five songs weeks on Southside in March, including 6-4, “Body after reachingLike a Back No. 3. The Weeknd’s “Take My Breath” debuts Road,”and April. which was released in 2017. The smash hit ruled DuaCountry Lipa’s Airplay “Levitating,” for THAT featuring TOOK QUITE DaBaby, ‘A FEW’at MONTHSNo. 6 on Travisthe Hot Denning 100. The shatters song, thereleased record for three weeks and the airplay-, streaming- and sales-based Hot Country Songs the most weeks it has taken to penetrate the Country Airplay top 10 as “After “Good 4 U” logs its record-tying 11th week drops 3-5 on the Hot 100, after hitting No. 2. Aug. 6, starts with 30. 7 million in radio audi- 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 - Floridaat No. 2 Georgia on the HotLine ’s100, “Meant encompassing to Be” (50 weeks the atop theAs latter for another list in 2017-18). longevitylion mark in radio in the reach. chart’s ence, 19.3 million streams and 18,000 sold chart’s“Downtown’s 63-year Dead,”history. which It matches is also on Whitney the new set, reachedupper reaches, Nos. 14 and it posts 15 a 32ndThe songweek surpasses in the two tracks(digital that and took physical 50 weeks singles each tocombined). enter the top It 10: onHouston’s Hot Country “Exhale Songs (Shoop and Country Shoop),” Airplay, which respectively, top in10, June tying 2018. for “Kin the -sixth-longestEaston Corbin run ’sin “A Girl Likeenters You,” at which No. 4 reached on both No. Streaming 10 in January Songs 2018 and be - folks”also debuted led Country at No. Airplay 1 before on Feb. settling 29, becoming in at Hunt’sthe seventh region No.(and 1. Itfor hit the longestfore peaking top 10 at No.stay 6 that February,Digital andSong Aaron Sales Watson and No.’s 25 “Outta on Radio Style,” Songs. which No. 3 2. on “Good Hot Country 4 U” has Songs. ranked directly below among songs not to reachachieved No. 1, equalingits No. 10 high in December“Breath” 2017. was available for purchase in its 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 BTS’ “Butter” (for eight weeks) and “Per- the time spent in the tier by LeAnn Rimes’ first week as a download (discounted to 69 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 15TH ANNIVERSARY

Photo Finish Records is an independent CONTACTS boasting a diverse roster including , , Electro Pop, and that has amassed billions of Joe Maimone 201.301.5933 | [email protected] streams and over 40 million tracks sold. Lee Ann Photoglo The -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, , Mister- +447843437176 | [email protected] Wives, , 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.

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cents) for its original version and in extend- leisha Butterfield Jones and Panos A. ed and instrumental form, while its original Recording Panay as co-presidents in early June. mix was also available as a CD single for Butterfield Jones was initially hired as $1.99. Plus, six clips of the song were posted Academy’s the Academy’s first chief diversity, equity to The Weeknd’s official YouTube channel and inclusion officer in May 2020. Panay, in the tracking week: its official ; Bill Freimuth, who starts his new position Monday, most official audio and lyric videos; its extended recently was senior vp of global strategy and and instrumental versions; and an “XO Lourdes Lopez innovation at Berklee College of Music. Lens” treatment. Those changes, which many welcomed as The Weeknd achieves his 13th Hot 100 and Lisa Farris the Academy continues to put an emphasis top 10, a run that began in November 2014 on diversity and inclusion, nonetheless left with the No. 7-peaking “Love Me Harder,” Depart Following the organization top-heavy with a surfeit of with . “Breath” is his fourth high level executives, sources say. song to debut in the top 10. BTS’ “Butter” Restructuring: Mason and the trustees also eliminated descends 4-7 after nine weeks atop the Hot the nominations review committees in late 100, as it leads Digital Song Sales for an 11th Exclusive April, allowing Grammy voters to have the week (62,900, down 20%). final say in non-craft categories. and ’s “Industry BY MELINDA NEWMAN Mason also oversaw a round of layoffs Baby” slips 7-8 on the Hot 100, two weeks last October that saw the departure of 13 after launching at No. 2, and tops the multi- arvey Mason Jr., who as- staffers from and metric Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot sumed the CEO position at the its philanthropic arm, MusiCares. At that Rap Songs charts, which use the same Recording Academy in May time, Mason said the changes stemmed from methodology as the Hot 100, for a third after serving as interim CEO, a major reorganization that streamlined the week each. Hcontinues to restructure the organization Recording Academy into three divisions: an Rounding out the Hot 100’s top 10, Lil Nas with the latest changes resulting in some entertainment/consumer division, trade/ X’s former one-week No. 1 “Montero (Call high profile departures. industry group and organizations/cross ver- Me by Your Name)” drops 8-9 and Olivia Friday was the last day for Bill Freimuth, ticals. Prior to those layoffs, the Recording Rodrigo’s “Deja Vu” backtracks 9-10, after longtime chief awards officer; Lourdes Lo- Academy had 169 staffers. reaching No. 3. pez, vp of communications, and Lisa Farris, Freimuth could not be reached, but his re- Again, for all chart news, you can follow chief marketing and innovation officer. ply email states that he is no longer with the @billboard and @billboardcharts on both Since 2004, Freimuth oversaw the team company. Farris and Lopez confirmed their Twitter and Instagram and all charts (dated that handles the Grammy nominations and departures, but declined to comment further. Aug. 21), including the Hot 100 in its en- eligibility process and was the explainer- The Recording Academy did not immedi- tirety, will refresh on Billboard.com tomor- in-chief when it came to elucidating the ately respond to a request for comment. row (Aug. 17). Recording Academy’s often complicated and changing eligibility rules. Lopez had worked at the Academy since 2002 in communications and marketing, and was promoted to VP, communications in July 2019. Farris joined in 2019 as chief digital of- ficer, before moving to chief marketing and innovation officer last August. Mason has made other changes over the past 20 months since being named interim president/CEO in January 2020, after the Academy placed new president/CEO Debo- rah Dugan on leave. She was subsequently terminated in March 2020. After becoming permanent CEO/presi- dent in May (and resigning as board of trustees chair), Mason quickly relinquished the president’s title weeks later, naming Va- WE’RE BACK, LIVE IN MIAMI

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require proof of vaccination for entry into Arete Research, called “a tsunami of uncer- Live Nation its owned and operated clubs, theaters and tainties.” Investors have reacted by pricing festivals. AEG will implement its require- their uncertainty into Tencent Music’s stock Venues to Require ments as of Oct. 1 and, unlike Live Nation, price. Its shares currently trade at 27.1 times will not accept negative COVID-19 tests as forward price-to-earnings compared to 44.2 Vaccinations or an alternative for entry. on March 31, according to Refinitiv. At its Live Nation promotes, books and works on all-time high price, Tencent’s market capi- Negative Test thousands of concerts every year, but not all talization almost equal with that of . of their events are at venues they fully own or Now, at roughly $17 billion, Tencent Music BY TAYLOR MIMS operate. Many shows Live Nation works on is worth 41% of Spotify’s roughly $41 billion will have vaccine requirements determined market capitalization. roof of vaccination is increasingly by the artist or the venue, though Live Nation The problems began in July when China’s becoming the status quo for con- says it is in favor of the requirements. State Administration for Market Regulation certgoers in the U.S. as the tour- “We know people are eager to return to aimed to reduce Tencent Music’s market ing industry’s two top promoters live events and we hope these measures dominance by requiring the company Pare now mandating it where they can. encourage even more people to get vacci- to end its practice of entering exclusive After the world’s biggest concert com- nated,” Rapino said in a note to staff on Aug. licensing deals with record labels. In addi- pany Live Nation announced earlier this 6. “That is the number one thing anyone can tion, regulators will require the company month that it would empower artists to do to take care of those around them and we to secure approval for such preferential require proof of vaccination at its shows, the are encouraging as many shows as possible licensing deals “without justifiable reasons.” company has clarified that all of its ful- to adopt this model.” In regulatory filing with the U.S. Securities ly owned and operated venues and festivals and Exchange Commission, Tencent Music will require all artists and fans to provide said it is “committed to complying with proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 Tencent Music all requirements set forth in the [SAMR] test to attend shows. first decision fully and in a timely manner” and reported the news. Value Plummets will implement a “rectification plan” that in- The new requirements will be enforced cludes terminating licensing arrangements. after Oct. 4 and will only apply to ven- Amid Regulatory China has targeted a wide range of is- ues and events where these practices are sues such as foreign-listed corporations, permitted by law. On the same date, all Live Uncertainty monopolistic behaviors, culture of working Nation employees will also need to be fully long hours and cybersecurity. For example, vaccinated in order to work at or visit one of in China Tencent, which spun off Tencent Music in the promoter’s events, venues or offices. 2018, will be required to use facial recogni- “Vaccines are going to be your ticket back BY GLENN PEOPLES tion technology to adhere to new rules that to shows, and as of October 4th we will be prohibit minors from playing online games following the model we developed for Lol- nvestors and analysts are feeling more from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. And Ali Baba, China’s lapalooza and requiring this for artists, fans skeptical about Tencent Music Enter- e-commerce giant, has also drawn the ire of and employees at Live Nation venues and tainment’s future since the Chinese regulators, leading to a $2.8 billion fine for festivals everywhere possible in the US,” government regulatory crackdown abusing its dominant market position. said Live Nation Entertainment president Ion the music streaming company began on As some Chinese companies pause their and CEO Michael Rapino in a statement. July 23. plans to go public, Netease unilaterally de- The announcement follows Live Nation’s J.P. Morgan downgraded TME’s stock layed its plans to spin off its Netease Cloud Aug. 6 news that they would encourage the on Thursday to neutral, driving stock down music streaming service — a distant second artists they work with to require vaccina- 6.2% as of Friday’s (Aug. 13) market close. As place competitor to Tencent Music — and tion proof or proof of a negative test at their recently as March 23, Tencent stock was at an raise nearly $1 billion. The company chose shows. Live Nation plans to offer support all-time high of $32.25, but since then have to exercise caution after regulators report- for artists who want to implement the fallen 69.6% to $9.80 as of Friday, eliminating edly suggested that ride-hailing company mandates in states where it is permitted. Ac- roughly $38 billion of market value. Didi delay its IPO on the New York Stock cording to Ballotpedia, there are 20 states The Chinese government has unleashed Exchange that raised about $4.4 billion. in the country that have prohibited proof-of- 50 regulatory actions — mostly affect- Days later, Chinese regulators launched an vaccination requirements. ing tech companies in recent months, investigation into Didi, leading to an im- Last week, Live Nation’s biggest com- by The Economist’s count, that has created mediate 25% decline in its stock price and petitor, AEG, announced that it would what Richard Kramer, managing partner of leading the U.S. Securities and Exchange 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]

O N S A L E 9 / 1 8 | I SSU E C L O S E 9 / 7 | M A T E R I A L S D U E 9 / 8

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Commission to require Chinese companies “Since the very beginning, Warner Music listed on the U.S. exchanges to begin disclos- Group has helped bring my music and vision Music Companies ing the risks of Chinese government inter- to all my fans around the world with the ference in their regular financial reporting. utmost care and consideration. They have Delay Return to The current uncertainties are also af- been amazing partners, and I am delighted fecting music companies that own stakes to be embarking on this next chapter with Office, Mandating in Tencent and Tencent Music — and vice them to celebrate my catalogue from the last versa. Spotify owns 9% of Tencent Music 40 years,” Madonna said in a statement. Vaccines while and Oseary added: “Over the past 30 years, Entertainment each have smaller stakes. I’ve been fortunate enough to meet and BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN , fewer than six spend time with many of Madonna’s incred- weeks from listing on the Euronext Am- ible fans, and this new partnership will s COVID-19 vaccines began sterdam exchange on September 21, owns bring to fruition what so many of them have making their way into millions a 1% stake in Tencent Music; Tencent and a been patiently waiting for: a celebration of of arms earlier this year, office consortium of investors, meanwhile, owns her groundbreaking catalogue. My partner reopening plans were announced 20% of Universal Music Group. Sara Zambreno and I are working closely byA music companies across the industry, with Warner Music Group to bring new life promising a return to business-as-usual to these iconic works.” after more than a year largely spent working Madonna and “We’re honored to be forming a dynamic from home. new partnership with an incomparable su- Only a few months later, the delta vari- Warner Music perstar whose influence on our musical and ant has sent coronavirus infections surging artistic landscape is immense and immu- across the U.S., forcing these same companies Group Announce table,” said Lousada. “Madonna has changed to reconsider their reopening strategies as the course of pop and , while well as their stances on mandating vaccines Career-Spanning taking live performance to new heights of for employees. A handful of the 10 com- drama and invention. At the same time, she panies surveyed by Billboard pushed their Global Partnership uses her fame to amplify some of the most full reopenings from September (the initial important social issues and movements of target date for most music companies) into BY ASHLEY IASIMONE our time. Constantly and fearlessly challeng- October, while others — most notably tech ing convention, her four decades of music giants Facebook and — have set a arner Music Group has an- are not only an extraordinary body of work, target early 2022. The remaining companies nounced a global partner- but a playbook for creative and cultural — namely UMG, Sony Music and Live Nation ship with Madonna that evolution.” — have left their full returns open-ended as encompasses a new agree- In 2022, when Madonna celebrates the they assess the unfolding situation. mentW for her entire recorded music catalog. 40th anniversary of her recording career In terms of vaccine mandates, roughly The deal that has Madonna return- (she first signed a record deal with Warner’s half of companies surveyed are requiring ing to her previous longtime label home in 1982), an “extensive, multi- that employees provide proof of inoculation includes her Sire//Warner catalog, year series of catalog releases” will launch. before returning to the office. At Spotify, the plus her three most recent studio al- Madonna is set to curate deluxe editions ultimate decision not to mandate vaccines bums, MDNA, , and Madame X, of her landmark albums and offer unique wasn’t an easy one, with internal discussions which were released by releases for special events, overseen by War- mirroring the highly-polarized nature of the but will join the Warner catalog in 2025. ner catalog team. issue in the U.S. “It’s definitely been hotly Madonna exited Interscope in 2020. Warner Music Group, a publicly traded debated,” says Spotify director of communi- Warner says its new agreement with company, also administers all of Madonna’s cations, global markets Eileen Moore, who Madonna covers 17 studio albums, as well as publishing through . handles all employee and internal commu- singles, soundtrack recordings, live albums Last week, Warner brought Cardi B’s nications at the company. “I know that our and compilations. publishing under its umbrella, announcing senior leaders in the HR team and employ- Madonna’s longtime manager the rapper’s new deal with Warner Chap- ees all have pretty strong feelings about it.” at Maverick, Allen Grubman of Grubman pell Music. Cardi has been signed to WMG’s Moore adds that the highly-global nature Shire Meiselas & Sachs P.C., Madonna’s busi- since 2017. of the Spotify workforce — the company ness manager Richard Feldstein of NKSFB, boasts 50 offices across 25 countries — and Max Lousada, Warner Music Group’s made instituting a blanket vaccine mandate CEO of recorded music, executed the deal. even more challenging. “In some countries, Page 12 of 29

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in some regions, it would actually be illegal back must be fully vaccinated. A source around the world,” though the company is to do so,” says Moore, “and so we’re just previously told Billboard that the company not mandating it. Regardless of vaccination sort of taking the stance that people will would support more work-from-home flex- status, all employees will be required to make good decisions.” ibility for employees moving forward. wear masks while working out of the office. Notably, local ordinances in major urban Warner Music Group As offices reopen, Spotify will continue centers could force companies’ hands. All fully-vaccinated WMG employees in to roll out its previously announced “Work Earlier this month, Mayor Bill de Blasio an- the U.S. are currently allowed to return to From Anywhere” policy, which allows em- nounced that a proof of vaccination will be the office on a voluntary basis, though the ployees to work full time from home, the of- required to enter indoor restaurants, gyms company has delayed its September return fice, or a combination of the two — with the and performance venues in the city start- to an unspecified “later date” in Octo- “exact mix of home and office work mode” ing on Aug. 16 — though the order does not ber, Billboard has learned. Upon returning, left up to each employee and their manager. yet apply to offices. Last Tuesday, the L.A. employees must be vaccinated to enter County Board of Supervisors voted to look WMG buildings, though limited exceptions According to reports, Apple has pushed into options for requiring residents to show will be made under certain circumstances in its office reopening date from September proof of vaccination in indoor spaces where accordance with applicable laws. to October — at the earliest — and will crowds gather, to be followed by a two-week BMG give employees at least a month’s warning discussion over whether to apply the man- So far, BMG is sticking with its original before mandating a return. Apple CEO Tim date to some or all indoor public spaces, and plan to gradually increase capacity at its U.S. Cook previously told CNBC that the com- whether to require full or partial vaccina- offices (which have been running at 25% -ca pany is considering a vaccine mandate for tion. Just one day later, the L.A. City Council pacity since June) in the fall before mount- employees, and reports indicate the compa- voted 13-0 to approve a similar motion, with ing a full reopening at the beginning of next ny is requesting the vaccination status of details of that prospective mandate to be year. As COO Ben Katovsky previously employees in some locations and suggesting decided in consultation with businesses, told Billboard, most BMG employees will be that additional health and safety protocols business organizations and council offices. permitted to work from home two days a may apply to unvaccinated workers. Here’s where the leading music compa- week going forward. There is no vaccination Amazon Music nies are dealing with this new, unpredict- mandate for employees at this time. After previously setting a Sept. 7 return- able phase of the pandemic and pivoting Live Nation to-office for its employees in the U.S. and with the delta variant. The promoter will require its staff to be some other countries, on Aug. 5 Amazon Universal Music Group vaccinated before returning to the office (in pushed its reopening date to Jan. 3, 2022. On July 23, UMG executive vp and chief addition to the company’s events and ven- According to a statement posted to its people and inclusion officer Eric Hutcher- ues) beginning on Oct. 4, when Live Nation corporate website, the timeline “will vary son sent an internal note to U.S. employees offices are slated to reopen for “flex work,” globally in accordance with local condi- stating that the company’s original mid- according to a statement CEO Michael tions.” The company hasn’t yet indicated September return-to-office date was being Rapino sent to employees on Aug. 6. whether it will require proof of vaccination pushed back due to the rise of the delta AEG for returning employees. variant, Billboard has learned. Hutcherson The L.A.-based concert promotion com- Concord noted that the company continues to con- pany is requiring full-time employees work- Concord has set a tentative return-to- sult its medical advisors — with the goal of ing at company offices in the U.S. to be fully office date of Oct. 18, Billboard has learned, alleviating any COVID-19 risks for its em- vaccinated against COVID-19. Employees though the company hasn’t yet decided ployees — and that an updated timeline will returned to the office in June and have until whether it will require proof of vaccination be shared at a later date. When the time Oct. 1 to present evidence of vaccination. for employees upon their return. comes, UMG plans to implement a phased Spotify Google/YouTube return and introduce hybrid work sched- Though Spotify’s work-from-home ar- On July 28, Google and Alphabet ules, though it has not yet taken a stance on rangement for all employees globally was CEO Sundar Pichai wrote a public note vaccination requirements. extended until Sept. 1, 2021, the stream- to employees stating that the company’s Sony Music ing giant isn’t planning to reopen all of its global voluntary work-from-home policy Sony has postponed its full reopening offices on that date. Instead, the company was being extended through Oct. 18. Pichai indefinitely amid the surging delta vari- is taking a phased, city-by-city approach added that the company would “continue ant, Billboard has learned, having previously to reopening by tracking local government watching the data carefully” and inform set a full return after Labor Day. The compa- guidelines. A Spotify representative notes employees at least 30 days in advance of ny will nevertheless continue its voluntary that it is “strongly encouraging” all Spotify transitioning to a full return-to-office plan. return through September — and beginning employees to get vaccinated while “closely The company is additionally extending its on Sept. 7, all employees who choose to go following guidelines of local health officials Expanded Carer’s Leave program through Page 13 of 29

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the end of 2021 for parents and caregivers; ing platforms. those with “special circumstances” will Universal Music The regulatory action signals China’s also be allowed to apply to work from home intent to force a more level playing field for through the end of the year. Launches Tencent’s Chinese competitors, and a more In addition, anyone returning to one of competitive landscape for international Google’s campuses must be vaccinated, companies like Universal. a policy that’s slated to roll out in the Even before the regulatory action, coming weeks in the U.S. and expand to China In Strategic Chinese streaming companies had been other regions in the coming months. “The negotiating new deals with the major labels. implementation will vary according to local Expansion Last August, Universal entered into content conditions and regulations, and will not licensing agreements with both Tencent apply until vaccines are widely available in BY ALEXEI BARRIONUEVO Music and NetEase Cloud Music. Sony Mu- your area,” Pichai wrote. Details about an sic and Warner Music have signed similar exceptions process for those who cannot be epublic Records — home to pop non-exclusive deals in recent months. vaccinated “for medical or other protected superstars , Ariana The more competitive landscape is provid- reasons” will be shared at a later date. Grande and The Weeknd — is ing even more incentive for the major labels Facebook launching its first international to push deeper into China. Over the past five Founder Mark Zuckerburg has notified Rdivision in China, as part of a broader strate- years, China’s recorded-music business has employees that Facebook’s return-to-office gic expansion by Universal Music Group in grown at an unparalleled pace: up 278% from plans are being delayed until Jan. 2022. The the rapidly expanding music market. $209.4 million in 2016 to $791.9 million in company previously announced an October In creating Republic Records China, the 2020, according to IFPI, with streaming ac- reopening, with a vaccine mandate for all world’s largest music company says it is counting for 90.5% of last year’s revenue. U.S. employees returning to the office and a also re-launching historical Chinese labels “This initiative recognizes the extraor- mask mandate regardless of their vaccina- Polygram Records China and EMI China dinary growth in the Chinese marketplace, tion status. as “frontline labels” alongside Universal and its palpable influence, which has made a “Data, not dates, is what drives our ap- Music China. tremendous impact on our industry world- proach for returning to the office,” said a The moves will reinforce Universal wide,” Monte Lipman, Republic’s chairman Facebook spokesperson in a statement sent Music’s “commitment to accelerating and and CEO, says in a statement. to Billboard. “Given the recent health data introducing the next wave of Chinese Republic Records China will sit alongside showing rising Covid cases based on the music talent to the world across a variety of EMI China, PolyGram Records China and Delta variant, our teams in the US will not genres,” the company says in a press release Universal Music China. Each will operate be required to go back to the office until today, also noting it will be the first major independently with their own dedicated January 2022. We expect this to be the case label to establish multiple frontline label artist rosters, A&R and specialist marketing for some countries outside of the US, as operations across mainland China. teams. Universal hopes the new structure well. We continue to monitor the situation Republic Records China will be based in will accelerate the development of the “next and work with experts to ensure our return Beijing and led by Tony Wen, a former mu- wave of Chinese music talent to the world to office plans prioritize everyone’s safety.” sic producer at Sony Music and executive across a variety of genres,” the company says at EE-Media, a Mandopop record label in in a statement. Shanghai. He will report to Sunny Chang, Universal Music China will be re- the chairman and CEO of Universal Music launched as a new label under the leader- Group China. ship of Garand Wu, Managing Director, Universal Music’s strategic expansion Universal Music China. It will continue comes as the growth of China’s streaming to represent UMG’s international artist market is accelerating, and as China’s anti- repertoire, as well as domestic talent that trust regulator is cracking down on Chi- includes breakthrough artists in 2020 like nese tech companies — including Tencent Taiwanese singer Li Nong Chen and Thai Music Entertainment and its parent Tencent singer Sunnee. Holdings — for monopolistic practices. In The relaunched label will be home to recent weeks, the regulator has leveled fines China’s acclaimed classics and jazz division, against the companies and ordered Tencent which includes music and artists from the Music to cease its practice of forging exclu- historic Deutsche Grammophon and Decca sive multi-year deals to feature international labels. UMC is also home to the Magic catalogs from the major labels on its stream- Muses label, China’s first label dedicated to Page 14 of 29

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film soundtracks and scores. his Dominican and French roots. live operations director Jose Luis - UMGC’s roster also includes Jacky “When I heard his tone of voice and pitch, rez, creative director Basilio Silva, public- Cheung, Eason Chan and Yanzi Sun. One I knew I wanted to sign him, and in order ity director Marcie Stefan, and Slim Angel talent that is no longer part of the label is to do that, I needed to have a label,” Maffio Calderón, who will help run promo agendas. Canadian-Chinese pop star-actor Kris Wu, tells Billboard. “My whole thought process “These are people who want to do good whom Universal Music did not re-sign after and vision got sped up because of him.” in the industry and we’re riding together as Wu’s multi-year deal expired in March. Wu Today, he officially presents Alkatraks a team,” Maffio says. “When you’re starting is currently in police custody in Beijing as Music Group. The name derives from a business it doesn’t matter what title you part of an investigation into alleged sexual “alkaline batteries” and is a synonym for have,” Feito elaborates. “We’re all doers and assaults by the singer. “power tracks.” wear many hats. That’s kind of our mental- EMI China, which has been part of “I was mindful that I had to create a ity. There’s no ego involved because the job China’s musical legacy for more than a name, leverage, and credibility so that this will fall apart.” century, will be led by Mei Yeh, who will idea would one day be believable,” he adds. Alkatraks will distribute its music via also continue to serve as managing director, “I have 15 years in the industry, making hit InnerCat Music Group helmed by managing Universal Music Taiwan. The label’s new records, knowing the business in and out, partner Paris Cabezas and general manager dedicated A&R and marketing team will be and it was just the right time.” Garrett Schaefer. based in Beijing and report to Yeh. The first person to know about the label “We ultimately decided to go on a fairly Polygram Records China will relaunch was his right-hand and longtime business non-traditional independent route because under the leadership of Duncan Wong, partner Jessica Valladares, whom Maffio says they have a very different approach to the who will also continue as managing direc- is crucial to his team and will be operating others,” Zigél explained. “They have a very tor, Universal Music Hong Kong. The label many aspects of the label, from logistics to analytical and data-driven approach as far will relaunch with a dedicated A&R and booking. He then reached out to his lawyers as understanding this entire new digital era marketing team based in Beijing, alongside Javier Feito from SMGQ Law and Leslie Jose that we’re in right now. We all collectively additional resources in Hong Kong. Zigél from Firm’s Entertainment, Media & felt that they will be able to push certain Universal also operates offices in Shang- Technology Group, to invite them as his part- buttons within the way things are marketed hai, Guangzhou and Taipei. ners on this new career venture. today that will maybe be an advantage for “We get asked a lot to partner with cli- Calacote and Alkatraks. They’re willing to ents. It’s very rare for us to accept but this take the risk with us.” Maffio Launches is the exception, not the rule ” Zigél, one As for how they plan to recruit new tal- of Billboard’s 2021 Top Music Lawyers, ents? Maffio says all hands are on Calacote’s ‘Alkatraks Music’ says. “We began working with Maffio in project right now. 2019 on the legal side and the relationship “Once he spreads his wings, has a life of Record Label developed. It’s a true collaboration and his own, and is touring, then we will focus when he asked us to be partners we were on finding another diamond in the rough,” with New Artist honored, humbled, and super excited about he elaborates. “He’s going to be on the fore- this opportunity to make history together.” front of the label. We’re taking it slowly but Calacote: ‘This Is “It was a quick yes but you also have to very strategically.” take into account that it’s a business and Feito agrees: “It’s not about having 30 For the Culture’ what we hope to be a large-scale opera- artists. It’s really about developing one art- tion,” Feito adds. “The right thing to do is ist with patience and discipline. It’s about (Exclusive) approach it the way we approached it. We having a controlled group. Think Fania All- talked about it but we waited for the right Stars. A community of artists that can make BY JESSICA ROIZ moment. This is the perfect example of op- really good music and connect at different portunity meets preparation. We have the levels. It’s about doing it in an artful and n 2005, artist-producer Maffio (real relationship, the capital, we run operations, methodical way.” name: Carlos Ariel Peralta Mendoza) the creative part is taken care of, and now ALL BETS ON CALACOTE created Alkatraks Entertainment with it’s time to launch it using all of our resourc- It all begins with Calacote (real name: the vision to one day retire from music es and doing it with mutual respect.” Luca Newton), a 22-year-old ambitious Iand launch a record label. Sixteen years later, Both Feito and Zigél, who have been singer- who was born in North his vision came to life — after he received a working together for 15 years, will help run Carolina and is of Dominican and French spontaneous DM on Instagram from aspiring the backend of the operation and advise descent. music artist Calacote, who said he wanted to Maffio on all of the business issues. Also He describes his leap of faith as the ulti- revolutionize the dembow movement with joining up with Alkatraks Music Group are mate “cinematic hustle move.” Page 15 of 29

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He began exploring music about two hitmaker wants to achieve with his own ates an environment that they can depend on, years ago but never thought he could pursue record label. for their employees and customers.” a career in it. He discovered his talent and “Being Latino in our culture, I feel that Mayor de Blasio got a vote of confidence passion for composing music in the midst of we are losing our identity. Thirty years from from New Yorker and veteran director Spike the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and took now, a Latino kid born in the U.S. is probably Lee, who will debut his HBO four-part doc- his shot. He packed up his stuff, left , not going to know about their roots —- what umentary NYC Epicenters: 9/11→2021½ on where he was in grad school, moved first to cumbia or merengue is, what a sancocho is. Aug. 22 with an outdoor screening at Battery New York, and later to Miami. After a few I’m already thinking 30 years from now. I Park as part of the NYC Homecoming Week months of living in Miami, in December to want my grandkids to know and embrace program of events. “We lead and a lot of be exact, he decided to direct message Maffio where they come from,” he says. “That’s people are adopting measures that you and on Instagram. Twenty minutes later Maffio how I hope we, as Alkatraks Music Group, your administration have put in place,” Lee replied, they met up, and the rest is history. write our legacy, and we want to write it said while appearing alongside de Blasio at On Aug. 20, Calacote will be dropping his beautifully with respect and by keeping our the press conference. debut single under Alkatraks Music Group culture alive. This is for the culture.” Lee’s eight-hour documentary essay called “Azafata” (air hostess or steward- weaves together the stories, memories and ess). A remix with perreo all-stars Jowell & insights of those who were eyewitnesses to Randy is also underway. “This is the first NYC Vaccine New York’s greatest challenges, including song Maffio and I did together and the first the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and the time I ever went to a recording studio,” he Mandate current pandemic. The final two hours of says. “While Maffio was making the beat, his HBO documentary will launch on Sept. I was writing the song. It literally took us for Indoor 11, on the 20th anniversary of the Twin about 45 minutes to create.” Towers terrorist attack on New York City. With lyrics such as “serving me dinner Entertainment “New Yorkers are my people, from Harlem like a stewardess,” Calacote brings a “unique to Howard Beach. One love. I’m getting New and unheard of” musical mixture full of Venues to Launch Yorkers to tell their stories. There’s many witty hooks and experimental fusions, with eye witness accounts of what happened at Dominican dembow always at the forefront. on Tuesday the Towers, and today as people lost loved “My sound is and always will be develop- ones due to COVID,” Lee explained. ing,” he notes, “but I think that the es- BY ABBEY WHITE The city’s vaccine mandate initiative ar- sence of my sound will never change. That, AND ETAN VLESSING rives as the delta variant complicates New combined with Maffio’s beats, makes pure York City’s efforts to deal with the COVID magic. Fundamentally, I don’t try to copy eople attending indoor live events pandemic. The New York City mayor said anyone in music.” and performances across New the vaccine mandate is aimed to keep New Calacote, whose artistic name is a play on York City will be expected to Yorkers safe during the pandemic, not to words on “avoir la cote,” French slang for “to show proof of COVID vaccina- punish local indoor businesses that did not be popular,” credits Arcangel and Residen- Ption along with a photo ID starting Aug. 17, comply. “Our goal is not to penalize restau- te as his biggest musical influences. “They Mayor Bill de Blasio said on Monday. rants and indoor entertainment and fitness were the first artists to inspire me to ever De Blasio, during a morning press confer- businesses. We want to get everyone clear want to pursue a music career,” he recalls. ence, announced he will sign an executive about what they need to do and just make “And thanks to Maffio, now I’m in a real order and the city will begin educating New sure people do it,” de Blasio said. creative space, making music, and learning Yorkers on how the “Key to NYC” vaccine The Mayor at one point discussed un- so much.” mandate will work from its official launch a specified rules to verify vaccinations set for “I always tell Calacote to keep his ethics, day later, on Aug. 17. That rollout will come citywide arts organizations from Sept. 13. professionalism, and classiness. To know ahead of inspections and enforcement at “Cultural institutions clearly have a capacity everyone’s name, look them in the eye, and indoor city venues starting on Sept. 13. for checking people as they arrive. This is an be empathetic of his surroundings,” Maffio, To show proof of vaccination, New Yorkers additional step for sure because it’s one that who also launched his music career as an will have to show an Excelsior pass, a CDC they can navigate and we’re going to work indie artist before signing to Sony Music, paper card or other official documentation. with them on,” de Blasio said of patrons hav- advises. “The more successful you get, the “Whatever works, all you have to do is show ing to show proof of vaccination and ID to more humble you have to stay. Once you that proof and have ID as well,” de Blasio enter indoor entertainment venues. reach that level of stardom, it’s time to give said. The New York Mayor said city busi- He added that ensuring the safety of back and help.” nesses welcomed the vaccine mandate for arts and cultural organizations was key to And that’s precisely what the Latin providing certainty: “They believe this cre- helping end the pandemic in New York City. 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“Defeating the Delta variant is the best way East Side set to reopen shortly, told THR. in the face of an alarming surge in COVID to support cultural institutions because it “We look forward to seeing everyone soon, infection cases that could threaten the sum- brings us all back,” de Blasio said. and to following all New York City and State mer’s box office recovery as major chains Penalties for non-compliance, to start on health and safety protocols.” and indie cinema houses continue to reopen. Sept. 13, will begin at $1,000 and escalate as As of Monday’s announcement, at least “Most scientific experts tell you the virus the pandemic continues citywide amid the 50 New York City businesses had already will increase in winter compared with sum- delta variant surge. The New York City De- implemented the city’s Key to NYC vac- mer, but the big change between this winter partment of Health reported that the total cination pass, including City Winery, Union and last winter is vaccinations. And fortu- confirmed and probable COVID cases are up Hall, The Bell House and Stand Up NY. The nately, the number of vaccinations, especial- across the last seven days, for a total of 1,782, mayor attributed at least part of the decision ly among the most vulnerable populations, with the hospitalization rate also on the rise. to begin using a vaccine passport program has been so extensive that we’re optimistic As of Aug. 11, the seven-day average for the to efforts within the city’s private sector, that we won’t see the kind of lockdown of percent of residents who have tested posi- including the Broadway community. society this winter that we saw last,” AMC tive was 3.89 — an increase from the 3.03 Broadway has been among the most Entertainment CEO Adam Aron, whose percent reported on July 29. proactive when it comes to ensuring pro- circuit has 13 theaters in NYC, told an Aug. 9 The city Mayor first announced the re- ductions, crews and attendees are ready analyst call. quirement that patrons show they’ve been and safe for fall performances in the midst The National Association of Theatre Own- immunized against COVID-19 for indoor of rising delta variant cases and the CDC ers also told The Reporter ex- activities citywide on Aug. 3. At the time, reversing its stance on indoor masking for clusively that it wouldn’t object to the ordi- de Blasio suggested the first major vaccine vaccinated Americans. nance. “Working through how we implement passport effort in the nation — following While shows like Springsteen on Broad- it and how we deal with the economics are similar efforts in the EU, Israel and China way at the St. James Theatre have been challenges, but we’re not going to oppose it, — would “be a model that’ll be picked up on requiring proof of vaccination, on July 30, because people need to get vaccinated,” John a lot of other places as we prove that it can The Broadway League mandated it for Fithian, NATO president, said. work right here.” performers, backstage crew, theater staff Though smaller music and comedy venues, “It’s pretty straightforward. You check and audiences at all of Broadway’s 41 the- as well as some of the city’s larger multi- someone’s vaccination status at the door,” he aters through at least October 2021, along purpose venues, were hesitant to confirm said. “People check in to go to a restaurant with an additional mask requirement for all shifting plans ahead of the mayor’s Monday or bar or anything, you check their vacci- audience members. The news came only a press conference, the Met Opera’s established nation status. If they have it, great. If they day after a deal between Actors’ Equity and policy requiring attendees’ proof of vacci- don’t, turn around.” the Broadway League requiring vaccina- nation and to sign a COVID waiver stands. But as ever with implementing a vacci- tion for Broadway’s workforce, weekly Children under the 12 — who are cur- nation mandate as part of ongoing COVID testing for theater employees and improved rently ineligible to get vaccinated — are also protocols and safety plans — especially with HVAC standards for venues. not permitted to attend performances. the delta variant surge among the unvacci- By Aug. 11, Actors’ Equity and Off-Broad- Brooklyn’s Barclays Center confirmed on nated — the devil is in the details. So until the way League had reached a new collective Aug. 13 that it will be requiring guests 12 release of guidelines for the vaccine mandate, bargaining agreement that included CO- and up to show proof of at least one vaccine which will include specific stipulations on VID-19 protocols and other safety require- dose, with masks mandated for all patrons how a patron’s proof of vaccination for entry ments to meet the disparate needs of actors, over the age of 2 unless otherwise noted, can be verified, top execs at indoor New York stage managers and producers. with testing protocols currently a possibility City entertainment venues have given away “This agreement puts everyone on the dependent on the event. little about their specific plans as they begin path to recovery after an unprecedented Meanwhile, the country’s biggest music a delicate logistical minuet to comply with period of uncertainty for our industry,” said festivals and individual artists have begun Mayor de Blasio’s Key to NYC vaccine pass to Casey York, president of the Off-Broadway updating their vaccination and COVID keep New Yorkers safe and comfortable with League. “Our goal heading into these ses- safety protocols for indoor and outdoor leaving their homes to be entertained. sions was always to secure a long-term deal performances. On Aug. 6, Live Nation “We are monitoring the evolving situation that would provide members with clarity confirmed that they would allow artists surrounding COVID-19 and the delta vari- and stability coming out of the pandemic, to require full vaccination or a negative ant, focusing on the safety of our team and and we have achieved that with a new three- COVID test for attendees and staff at their our audiences as we prepare to reopen our year agreement.” live events. doors and welcome everyone back to Me- Individual cinema owners in New York In an interview on Sunday, Aug. 15, music trograph,” Christian Grass, CEO of Metro- City remained largely silent on the city’s mogul Clive Davis told CBS Sunday graph, an indie movie house on the Lower introduction of a vaccine pass from Aug. 16 Morning‘s Kelefa Sanneh that proof of Page 17 of 29

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vaccination will be required and that crowd the gorgeous beach of Rosarito, the Mexican The first night’s headlining act was capacities have been reduced for the star- festival brought headliners Ozuna, Karol G, Ozuna, who arrived on stage donning a studded Aug. 21 Central Park event We and Dominican dembow pioneer El Alfa for burgundy-colored yacht-like attire, dripping Love NYC: The Homecoming Concert. The day one on Friday (Aug. 13), as well as rising in bling. He opened up with the seductive performance was announced on July 1 and sensations Lunay, Dalex, and DJ Luian. Like banger “Adicto,” with hordes of people is part of a week of more than 100 enter- Coachella, the event has expanded to two singing along to every word and beautifully tainment, community, and arts and culture weekends, with the first weekend selling out crooned hits like “Tu Foto,” “Dile Que Tu events across the city’s five boroughs. in less than a month after tickets went on Me Quieres” and “Vaina Loca.” “They’re assuring us the environment sale in 2020, despite the global pandemic. Another highlight: rock made a come- will be totally safe, that they’re taking every Initially planned for August 2020, BBF back, backing up reggaeton superstars as precaution,” Davis said. “And that proof of was held back one year due to COVID-19, they sang along to their chart-topping hits. vaccination will have to be shown. And the so returning to a global festival that held During her set, Karol G brought exhilarating maximum — yes, Simon and Garfunkel had 30,000 attendees in 2019 was somewhat guitarist Sus Vásquez, who delivered electri- 500,000 in that space. We are not having concerning. However, no one — including fying rock riffs throughout, even performing 500,000. The maximum is 60,000 so that it artists, staff and festival-goers — was al- the instrument backwards, à la . “Ay, will be a much more spread-out situation.” lowed to enter the premises without show- DiOs Mío!” and “Mi Cama” were instant On June 15, Governor Andrew Cuomo, ing proof of vaccination, which was a neces- crowd favorites, and Karol captivated the whose just-announced resignation takes sary step to activate wristbands. Masks are audience with great pipes, and a sexy black effect on Aug. 25, lifted restrictions across also mandatory to navigate from one section leotard to boot. She also performed her just- the state. Social gathering limits, capacity to another inside festival grounds. released first English-language song, the restrictions, social distancing, cleaning and “We’ve been working with every state and EDM-driven “Don’t Be Shy.” disinfection, health screening and contact city department to make sure that Baja Beach Earlier in the day, Dalex brought more tracing became optional for commercial set- Fest is as safe as possible,” BBF founders heat to an already hot summer. Rocking blue tings, including entertainment and perfor- Aaron Ampudia and Chris Den Uijl said in checkered pants and a red bandana around mance venues. a press release. “We’re excited to show the his neck, his signature bleached curly on This article was originally published world that live music can come back in a way point, the Boricua artist slyly crooned to jams by The Hollywood Reporter. people can feel comfortable with.” like “Para Mí” and “Quizas.” Meanwhile, his On a similar note, a local policeman on punk drummer, who was sporting a Nirvana the ground, who asked to remain anony- tee, provided the energetic beat to all his reg- Amid COVID-19 mous, told Billboard, “Mexico continues gaeton cuts. In between sets, DJs expanded to enforce strict laws about not letting the beyond the urbano genre, stepping into corri- Protocols, public enter inside establishments without a dos tumbados, highlighting various hits from mask. If they decide to walk outside without Natanael Cano and Junior H. Mexico’s Baja one, we can’t issue a ticket, but we always The crowd sang along to rebellious cor- encourage everyone to take precautions for ridos too, showing an impressive crossover Beach Fest the safety of everyone.” from regional Mexican music and urbano The measures were enough to make artists pop. Karol G herself even sang a beautiful Returns With feel at ease. “I actually felt weird [returning corrido on her set, “200 Copas.” to the stage], but I felt safe, and that’s the Here’s to hoping we’ll see more genre Ozuna, Karol G most important thing,” Puerto Rican star diversity for Baja Beach Fest in the years Lunay told Billboard. A breakout act just two to come. But for now, the founders are & More years ago, the 20-year-old arrived at BBF doing it right by establishing their niche in fresh from releasing his second album, El urbano brilliance. BY ISABELA RAYGOZA Niño, and moved audiences with hits off the new release as well as 2019’s Épico. OVID-19 notwithstanding, this “I felt like it was a dream,” the artist year’s Baja Beach Fest (BBF) pre- said in Spanish backstage after his perfor- sented some of reggaeton and Lat- mance. “We were really looking forward to in trap’s biggest names, cementing this day and prepared a lot with my team Cthe beachside event as a top-tier celebration and band. I had a 45-minute show, which is of música urbana, even under strict health the longest I’ve had in my career. The audi- guidelines and with revelers in masks. ence is really unique and I thought it was Returning for its third installment on incredible.” Page 18 of 29

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On their end, artists were euphoric. lacks are surprise appearances. While reg- Baja Beach Fest “I was anxious to return to the stage and gaeton and Latin trap are heavy on fea- sing at a massive festival with a large audi- tures — and many artists on the BBF roster Day 2: Farruko, ence,” Farruko told Billboard backstage, in collaborate — it was a bit disappointing that Spanish, just after his set. “I’m speechless. no artists on the bill joined their colleagues’ Anuel & More I saw so many people. It’s impressive. The sets to perform any of their joint songs. feeling, the adrenaline. It’s been a long time Nonetheless, the fact that Baja Beach Fest, Perform Euphoric since we’ve seen that, and to feel that again and Day 2, took place at all, is a testament is something beautiful.” The 30-year-old that music has the power to bring us closer, Sets Amid Stricter performer spanned through his numerous especially during uncertain times. bangers and features like “6 AM,” “Krippy Safety Measures Kush,” “Calma” and his latest, “Me Pasé” featuring Enrique Iglesias. But the clos- Dick Odette, BY ISABELA RAYGOZA ing number “Pepas” was what, hands down, electrified the entire festival ground. Former Musicland arruko, smiling from ear to ear, “‘Pepas’ was an experiment. Obviously it’s donning an MLB-styled BBF jersey not a reggaeton song. We released it for Music Purchasing and bedecked in diamonds that the DJs as we were seeing that they were are basically shooting rainbows, returning to the clubs. We dropped it to Head, Dies at 77 Fis wailing out the chorus to one of the most see what would happen, and it went viral. hard-hitting songs of the summer, the an- People just went crazy,” he said. BY ED CHRISTMAN themic EDM banger “Pepas.” Before him, a Day 2 also featured headliner Anuel AA, sea of festivalgoers (30,000, to be exact) are as well as rising stars like , ick Odette, who in the last two losing their minds. Lenny Tavárez, super-producer Ovy on the decades of the 20th century It’s Day 2 (Aug. 14) of Baja Beach Fest, the Drums and Guaynaa. The former played a was one of the most impor- largest Latin music-focused festival in the 45-minute set of pop-flavored reggaetón tant executives in deciding the Americas to resume since the coronavirus that also included “Cumbia a la gente,” Dcommercial fate of new releases as head pandemic. The two-weekend fest kicked recorded as a duet with Azules, of music purchasing for the more than off Aug. 13 in Mexico’s Rosarito Beach, with in an example of the increasing blurring of thousand-store Musicland Group, died of reggaeton stars Ozuna, J Balvin and Karol genres in Latin music. natural causes on Aug. 5 in Estora, Florida. G among the headliners, and with strict While música urbana is still mainly domi- He was 77. COVID-19 protocols in place. nated by male performers, it was refresh- Odette, who joined Musicland in 1983, After some concertgoers took to social ing to see another female (following Karol was the key executive in deciding if a label’s media to criticize enforcement of proto- G’s performance on Friday night) seize the album was carried in hundreds of Musicland cols during Day 1, organizers seemed to be stage and command the audience. Mariah, stores in the 1980s and more than a thousand stricter on Saturday, implementing a zero- formerly known by her fuller name Mariah stores in the late . “We were lucky to tolerance policy. For instance, if attendees Angeliq, burst into the scene looking have Dick Odette [as] a part of our lives and were spotted without masks and refused confident as hell, rocking cute pigtails heading up purchasing at the largest music to wear them, they would be escorted out with extensions down to her lower back, a retail chain,” says Pete Anderson, who now- of the festival grounds. Temperatures were mini skirt, Nikes and white long socks. She adays is an executive at Gotham Distributing/ checked upon entrance, and squirting hand encouraged perreo among the hordes of Collectables Records/Oldies.com and was sanitizer on the hands of those moving from people with songs like “Bobo,” “Perreito” previously head of sales at Atlantic Records, section to section was mandatory. Most per- and “Taxi,” but really turned up the crowd and, before that, a Sony Music Distribution formers also reminded audiences to leave with “El Makinon,” featuring Karol G, who branch manager. “He was influential in help- their masks on. did not join her onstage. ing develop new artists; and taking estab- According to a report in Mexican news- “It’s my first time being out here,” she lished artists to a new level.” paper 24 Horas, Baja ’s Secretary told Billboard. “It was crazy crossing cus- On a more personal note, Anderson says, of Health Alonso Pérez Rico said health toms to get here. That shit was so packed, “Our thoughts and prayers are for his wife officials had verified that organizers were we drove from San Diego. I loved the crowd, Rose Ann Odette. The many tributes to taking the agreed-upon measures, and that I loved coming out here, seeing all my col- Dick over the last couple of days [on Face- the show could go on. If measures were not leagues and making more connections. It’s book] portrayed the love many of us had for followed, he said the festival could be shut always great.” the man.” down, according to published reports. Unlike Coachella, one thing that BBF Jim Caparro, former president of Poly- Page 19 of 29

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Gram Group Distribution and later CEO completely telling the story or showing of WEA, shared a similar sentiment. “The Shuttered that you’re eligible, then you’re going to kind words from all who commented is a have some issues.... It’s not a process geared testament to him as a person and an execu- Indie Venues toward getting a lot of people approved and tive. Very few can say that they touched an I think that frustrates some people.” industry as Dick had. May God bless him Grant Deadline But, he adds, “This money was authorized and all his loved ones.” Congress and there is a real desire to get it Indeed, a litany of comments from former Approaches into the right hands.” and current music industry executives on As of Monday, about 68% of applicants Facebook testify to that assessment. Gerry BY DAVE BROOKS — 10,826 out of 15,872 total — had so far re- Kopecky, who was senior vp sales at Decca ceived $8.4 billion in funding. But there are Records until he retired, says, “Dick was ndependent live entertainment busi- more than 3,200 businesses who had their an icon in our industry and a really good nesses have until Aug. 20 to submit or applications rejected — roughly one quarter guy.” Joe McFadden, a former top executive resubmit to receive federal assistance of all the SBA’s decisions. Of these, Pollack at CEMA Distribution and currently chief under the $16 billion Shuttered Venue says, it’s part of the process and “this isn’t commercial officer at Better Noise Music, re- IOperators Grant (SVOG) program. And the SBA trying to be mean — it’s a situa- called Odette as “a man of class and integrity.” although over 15,000 applications have been tion where they’re stating to the people But, McFadden adds to Billboard, “as social as submitted already with millions distrib- that need funding, ‘Let us try to help you,’” Dick was, he was a company man first.” uted, eligible applications are still rolling in adding that the SBA will begin reaching out That’s also how WEA senior vp sales, with only a week left to go. to applicants via telephone to close out any counsel and culture Steve Corbin remem- “A lot of people could probably still apply, backlog appeals. bers Odette. As the Musicland vp purchas- either they didn’t know about it or it was Rejections commonly come down to small ing, “he was tough but fair,” Corbin tells Bill- too complicated, or both,” says Joshua Pol- clerical mistakes and missing paperwork, board. “He understood what we (the record lack, co-founder of the newly launched says Pollack. Or it can be a larger issue labels) were trying to accomplish but he firm MySVOG, which is currently advis- with how a company presents its financial always maintained the principals of what ing more than 100 clients whose work go reporting or describes its events and busi- Musicland operated on.” beyond the concert venues and promoters ness. “You want to think about why you may Odette, an avid golfer, worked at Musi- often associated with the program. Comedy have been declined,” he says, “You should cland through the end of 2001 before retir- clubs, dance studios, universities, museums, study which people got approved and see if ing. Prior to working at Musicland, Odette movie theaters and local arts organizations you can fit into one of those buckets.” was a menswear buyer for a department may be eligible for grants up to $10 million After Aug. 20, the SBA will open up its store chain, some of his former colleagues too. “Anything with a stage that would take grant supplemental funding awards, for recall. Odette is survived by his wife of 41 a ticket qualifies on facility side,” he says. which businesses will not need to reapply, years, Rose Ann Odette. Industry executives “There’s also promoters, talent managers, distributing grants for up to half of what tell Billboard that plans are afoot to host a cel- agents and the people that put acts on the was received in the first round. ebration of life event, possibly in January. stage that qualify on the presenting side.” Pollack and his partner Schuyler Hover- sten charge a “small success fee” for their services that’s “variable based upon how much work is involved and how organized or not they are,” says Hoversten. It’s similar to how other consultants have helped small businesses apply for other government- sponsored COVID-19 aid programs like the Payroll Protection Program and the SBA’s restaurant grant program during the pandemic. And with the SVOG deadline approaching, they want to encourage busi- nesses not to , even if the process seems complicated. “It’s so complex. It’s so convoluted,” Hoversten says. “They’re asking for a lot of information and I think if you’re not Page 20 of 29

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Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). constant moving, harassment, and threats Nicki Minaj & He was later added to the California Megan’s from the Defendants and their associates. Law database, which tracks offenders in She is currently living in isolation out of fear Husband Kenneth the state of California, where Petty and Minaj of retaliation,” the filing states. reside with their son, whom the rapper gave Petty Sued for birth to last year. The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office announced in March 2020 The Weeknd’s Harassing His that the charges were dropped against Petty, but if he were to be convicted of the same ‘Blinding Lights’ Attempted Rape felony charge, he would face up to 10 years in prison, which is the statutory maximum. Spends Record- Victim The New York State department labels Petty as a level-two sex offender, which Breaking BY HERAN MAMO deems him of having a moderate risk of a repeat offense, all stemming from the 1994 88th Week on icki Minaj and her husband, Ken- attempted rape conviction. neth Petty, are facing a lawsuit by In the lawsuit, Hough recounts the years Billboard Hot 100 a woman who accused Petty of after the alleged rape, claiming she felt rape in 1994 in New York. “mentally and emotionally destroyed” and BY GARY TRUST NThe woman, Jennifer Hough, filed a moved around a lot out of fear of returning lawsuit in the U.S. District Court in Eastern to New York. But beginning in 2018, interest he Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” New York on Friday (Aug. 13) and alleges in her identity surged following Minaj’s logs a record-breaking 88th week that Petty “intimidated” and “harassed” viral comments about the case. Underneath on the Billboard Hot 100 (on “Plaintiff [Hough] not to speak out concern- a 2018 Instagram post, Minaj, 38, clapped the chart dated Aug. 21). It passes ing the rape she experienced at the hands of back at those who continued to criticize TImagine Dragons’ “Radioactive,” which Defendant Petty,” while claiming Minaj (real Petty’s criminal past. “He was 15, she was spent 87 weeks on the survey in 2012-14. name Onika Tanya Maraj) also “threatened” 16… in a relationship. But go awf Inter- “Blinding Lights,” released on XO/Repub- “Plaintiff [Hough] to recant her legitimate net.” In a 2019 episode of Minaj’s Queen lic Records, debuted at No. 11 on the Hot 100 claim that Defendant Petty raped her.” Radio show on Apple Music, she told her dated Dec. 14, 2019. The song, which ranks at In the filing, Hough also accuses the fans, “You’ve gotta cover your husband in No. 18 in its 88th week, hit No. 1 for its first married couple of “witness intimidation, prayer” before saying that he was wrong- of four weeks on top on the chart dated April intentional infliction of emotional distress, fully accused of rape by Hough, whom she 4, 2020. Over its run, it has rewritten the re- negligent infliction of emotional distress, said wrote a letter recanting her statement, cords for the most time spent in the Hot 100’s harassment, assault, battery, sexual assault, which Hough denies. “But white is right,” top five (43 weeks), top 10 (57 weeks), top 20 and sexual harassment.” Minaj said later on in the episode (The filing (79 weeks) and top 40 (84 weeks). The lawsuit, obtained by Billboard, states that Hough is biracial.) Here’s an updated look at the titles to tally details how on Sept. 16, 1994, when Hough In 2020, shortly after Petty was arrested the most time on the Hot 100, dating to the and Petty were both 16 years old living in for failing to register as a sex offender, the chart’s Aug. 4, 1958, inception through the Jamaica, Queens, in New York, that she ran suit alleges that Hough’s brother told her latest list, dated Aug. 21, 2021. into him on her way to school when he later over the phone that “two people reached Most Weeks Spent on the Billboard Hot held her at knifepoint, led her into a nearby out to a family member stating an offer 100: house and raped her. He was arrested that of $500,000.00 from Defendant Minaj if 88 weeks, “Blinding Lights,” The Weeknd, day for first-degree rape and later pleaded Plaintiff wrote a letter recanting her rape No. 1 peak (four weeks), April 4, 2020 peak guilty to attempted rape. He was sentenced claim against Defendant Petty.” At one point, date to 18 to 54 months in prison. Hough’s childhood friend, who acted as 87 weeks, “Radioactive,” Imagine Dragons, He later pleaded guilty in an unrelated a liasion between the married couple and No. 3, July 6, 2013 case to a manslaughter charge in 2006, Hough, also presented another $20,000 79 weeks, “Sail,” AWOLNATION, No. 17, Oct. spending seven years behind bars out of from Minaj, who proposed to “send birthday 12, 2013 his 10-year sentence and let out in 2013 on videos to Plaintiff’s Daughter for her sweet 76 weeks, “I’m Yours,” Jason Mraz, No. 6, supervised release. 16 as a bonus” if she would sign a prepared Sept. 20, 2008 Petty was charged Feb. 25, 2020, for fail- recanted statement. 69 weeks, “How Do I Live,” LeAnn Rimes, ing to register as a sex offender, which is “Plaintiff has not worked since May of No. 2, Dec. 13, 1997 a requirement under the 2006 Sex Offender 2020 due to severe depression, paranoia, 68 weeks, “Counting Stars,” OneRepublic, No. Page 21 of 29

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2, Jan. 18, 2014 “Only tickets purchased for admission court. “If he loves his daughter, it is time to 68 weeks, “ Anthem,” LMFAO or concerts during the Summerfest dates step aside.” feat. & GoonRock, No. 1 (six from Summerfest.com, Ticketmaster. A few weeks later, Rosengart made his weeks), July 16, 2011 com or in person at the Summerfest box of- first big move in the case. Notably, it wasn’t 65 weeks, “Rolling in the Deep,” , No. 1 fice will be eligible for refunds,” the event’s to actually end the conservatorship. It was (seven weeks), May 21, 2011 announcement stated. a petition to remove Jamie. And what stuck 65 weeks, “You Were Meant for Me”/”Foolish Processing of refunds could take up to a out about this petition — at least for some- Games,” Jewel, No. 2, April 19, 1997 week. one who regularly reads this stuff — was a 64 weeks, “Before He Cheats,” Carrie Under- Summerfest is set to run on the first three reference to the criminal code (specifically, wood, No. 8, June 2, 2007 weekends in September. The festival will fea- Title 18), talk of financial misconduct and a “Blinding Lights,” which The Weeknd ture performances by , , warning that should he oppose his removal, performed as the finale of his Super Bowl , , fees would have to come not from the estate, LV halftime show medley Feb. 7, is one , Guns N’ Roses, Jonas but directly from his pocket. of three Hot 100 No. 1s from his 2020 Brothers, and many more. In short, Rosengart was attempting to add album After Hours. reasons over and above “fatherly love” as to “After Hours was always meant to be why Jamie should willingly step aside. a very personal project. It’s a story I had In the Britney Why? Well, Britney certainly has the to tell,” The Weeknd told Billboard after world on her side right now, and she might “Blinding Lights” became the first (and, so Spears Case, It’s have a reasonable legal case as well, but far, only) song to spend a year in the Hot what’s in the singer’s best interest ultimately 100’s top 10. “The fact I’ve been able to tell Time to Negotiate is a subjective call in the hands of a single it with the world listening is incredible.” individual — the judge, who certainly hears Meanwhile, The Weeknd adds his latest BY ERIQ GARDNER the #FreeBritney movement but also rules Hot 100 hit, as his new single “Take My based on the evidence (including a poten- Breath” launches at No. 6 on the Aug. 21 o, Britney is not free. tial mental examination). And, for the time chart, arriving as his 13th top 10. At least not yet. The acknowl- being, Jamie occupies the second-most-im- edgment from Jamie Spears, the portant seat to the judge’s and directs much singer’s father, that he doesn’t of the presentation of that evidence — and Milwaukee’s Nbelieve a public battle over his continued what’s more, he has a firm (some would say service as conservator is in her best interest annoying) hand in Britney’s life choices. Summerfest and that he “intends to work with the Court Better to get him out of the way as a prelude and his daughter’s new attorney to prepare to ultimately winding down the conserva- Offering for an orderly transition” is certainly a torship. Plus, at this juncture, it’s better to watershed moment in the 13-year-old case. focus on him rather than her. COVID-19 Refunds That said, what Jamie had to say in the The strategy makes sense, and given that other 99 percent of his latest court papers Rosengart is a former federal prosecutor BY ASSOCIATED PRESS shouldn’t be glossed over as meaningless. In who routinely attempts to go on the offense sum: There’s no timetable on the transition, in his cases (like the time he threatened fficials organizing Milwaukee’s a lot of defensiveness about decisions made Julianna Margulies), the move from him signature summer music festival for Britney and reaction to what mother isn’t particularly surprising. are offering ticket refunds for Lynne Spears said, and perhaps most impor- Then again, was invoking the criminal people who haven’t been vac- tantly, the filing serves as opposition to his code really that wise? Ocinated against COVID-19. immediate suspension and removal. Yeah, there might be a prosecutor out Festival officials announced on Tues- So what’s going on? And how does this there who wants to make a name for them- day that attendees will have to show proof end? Here’s one informed theory … selves and intervene in this domestic drama. of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test On July 14, the day that Britney got But that’s still on the iffy side. Meanwhile, to get through the gates. The Milwaukee permission from L.A. County Superior in the event that Jamie does leave and the Journal Sentinel reported Saturday (Aug. Court Judge Brenda Penny to hire Mathew estate is prepared for dissolution, there 14) that festival officials announced late Rosengart of Greenberg Traurig as her new would be a final accounting of income and Friday that anyone seeking a refund must counsel, a suggestion was publicly floated. expenses. Would Jamie really want to leave file a request with their original point of “Does anybody really believe Mr. Spears’ his seat at the table when that discussion purchase online or at the festival box office continued involvement is in the best inter- begins? With the prospect of a criminal by Monday. est of Britney Spears?” Rosengart said in referral out there? Page 22 of 29

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So yeah, Jamie is now saying he’s ready num albums throughout his career. In 2007, to step away. But no, he’s not giving any sort , he was posthumously inducted into the of indication of when that will be or under Musicians Hall of Fame. what circumstances. He can slow walk this , Mother-daughter duo Naomi and Wyn- if he wishes. onna Judd first hit the country charts in “Jamie’s willingness to voluntarily resign is Eddie Bayers & 1983, and a year later, earned their first No. 1 intended to make the petition moot in hopes with “Mama He’s Crazy.” The song became that the court does not entertain suspension,” Pete to Join the first of eight consecutive No. 1 hits, says Vatche Zetjian at Jeffer Mangels. including the 1985 CMA single of the year, This may very well be an invitation for “Why Not Me,” “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout exit negotiations. Meaning, any fees need- the Good Ole Days)” and “Have Mercy.” ing reimbursement and a way that he can Hall of Fame Their 1990 hit, “Love Can Build a Bridge,” exit without fear of what could happen earned the Judds a Grammy for best country subsequently. BY JESSICA NICHOLSON performance by a duo or group with vocal. Now comes a lot of posturing as both sides The duo held court over the vocal group sense the endgame. The Spears camp will ay Charles, The Judds and and vocal duo of the year CMA honors from wish to ride momentum by leveraging its musicians Pete Drake and Eddie 1985 through 1991. In 1991, Naomi retired main advantage — the public — highlighting Bayers are the newest inductees from The Judds due to a chronic hepatitis to friendly reporters the fact that Jamie is on into one of country music’s most infection, while Wynonna went on to launch his way out. But the reality is that the process Rcoveted, exclusive groups, the Country a successful solo career, led by hit songs may be slower than everyone realizes. Music Hall of Fame. Reba McEntire, who including “No One Else on Earth.” “It’s easy to believe that Mr. Spears needs was inducted into the Country Music Hall “As an artist, it’s wonderful to be included to seek shelter somewhere for things that of Fame in 2011, hosted a virtual announce- in the family of country and as a believer, I supposedly went on during his tenure as con- ment Monday (Aug. 16) to announce this thank God for my gift. As an American, it’s servator,” agrees Michael Stutman, a family year’s inductees. just wonderful to celebrate anything,” Wyn- lawyer in New York. “He is vulnerable to an Annually, the Country Music Hall of onna said during the announcement. The audit type of proceeding. It’s easy to believe Fame sees honorees inducted in three Judds are the first all-female duo or group to that there are transactions that he engaged categories: modern era, veterans era and be inducted. in that don’t withstand scrutiny, so he is one of three rotating categories including Charles’ 1962 album Modern Sounds in probably looking for a release or some sort of non-performer, songwriter and recording Country and Western Music was a landmark immunity from that type of investigation.” and/or touring musician. album in country music, blending R&B, , This article was originally published The Judds go in under the modern era gospel and jazz on his versions of country by The Hollywood Reporter. section, while Ray Charles is this year’s classics including “You Win Again,” “Hey, veterans era selection. Drummer Bayers and Good Lookin’,” and “I Can’t Stop Loving pedal steel player Drake are in the recording You.” After he released Modern Sounds in and/or tour musician category. Country and Western Music Vol. 2, he earned Bayers becomes the first drummer induct- the Top Ten hits “You Are My Sunshine” ed into the Country Music Hall of Fame. and “Take These Chains From My Heart.” He has played on sessions for , He continued recording country material , , , Tan- including “.” ya Tucker, , among others. He Charles earned a Horizon Award CMA has been a member of the Grand Ole Opry’s nomination in 1985, along with the No. 1 hit house band for 18 years, and was inducted “Seven Spanish Angels” alongside Willie into the Musicians Hall of Fame in 2019. Nelson. Charles’ additional country hits Drake, who died in 1988, becomes the first could include “We Didn’t See a Thing” (with pedal steel player to be inducted into the and Chet Atkins), “It Ain’t Country Music Hall of Fame. He played on Gonna Worry My Mind” (with Mickey Gil- iconic country recordings including Tammy ley) and more. Over his career, Charles, who Wynette’s “Stand By Your Man,” George died in 2004, earned 17 . Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” and He becomes the third Black musician to be on sessions for Ringo Starr, inducted, following Charley Pride (2000) and more. He was part of Nashville’s famed and DeFord Bailey (2005). A-Team, and played on 118 gold and plati- The Judds, Charles, Bayers and Drake Page 23 of 29

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will be formally inducted into the Country attorney, was impressed with both Brooke’s she was drunk. The accusation prompted an Music Hall of Fame in Spring 2022. personality and her voice. outpouring of sympathetic comments online Last year’s Country Music Hall of Fame “We began working and I said, ‘What do for the teenager and criticism of Wu. inductees included Marty Stuart (modern you think about doing a Spanish album?’” The teenager said seven women contact- era artist), Hank Williams Jr. (veterans era says Singh. “She said she’d love to and we ed her to say the former member of Korean artist) and songwriter Dean Dillon, who has instantly clicked.” boy band EXO seduced them with promises penned numerous hits for George Strait, as Singh reached out to Duars, another long- of jobs and other opportunities. She said well as songs recorded by , time client and friend, and they decided to some were under 18 but gave no indication George Jones, and more. jointly sign Brooke to an unusual joint label whether any were younger than China’s age Their ceremony, postponed because of COV- deal instead of shopping her to another label. of consent of 14. ID-19 concerns, will take place in November. “Eric and I know this business very well Wu was detained Aug. 1 while police Induction into the Country Music Hall and we have the capital. So rather than conducted an investigation in response to of Fame has long been viewed as a career knock on doors, we’re going to build it up comments online that he “repeatedly lured pinnacle achievement, recognizing signifi- ourselves,” Singh told Billboard. young women” to have sex, according to a cant contributions to the advancement of Brooke is the latest mainstream female police statement at that time. country music from both creative individu- artist to record in Spanish in the past year. Wu grew up in Guangzhou in China and als and industry executives. In 1961, the Gomez released her first Spanish- in Vancouver, British Columbia. Police have first artists and executives to be inducted language EP earlier this year and Camila said he is a Canadian citizen. included Jimmie Rodgers, Fred Rose, and Cabello has forayed into Spanish in singles The teenager publicized her accusations Hank Williams. as well. on social media and later in an interview Fans will get a first listen to Brooke’s new with the internet portal NetEase. A day after music during a showcase hosted by Duars that interview appeared, at least 10 brands Ally Brooke to Entertainment and slated to take place dur- including Porsche and Louis Vuitton broke ing Billboard Latin Music Week in Miami the off endorsement and other deals with Wu. Release Spanish week of Sept. 20 with a line-up that will also includes Rauw Alejandro. Singh says he plans Album Via Joint to release a first single immediately after. With Martin No stranger to the charts, Brooke has Latin Label Deal scored previous hits alongside collaborators Garrix’s ‘Love like and Afrojack. BY LEILA COBO Runs Out,’ She Is

ollowing a stint in Dancing With Kris Wu The Music Nabs the Stars and a 2020 U.S. tour, Ally Brooke is tapping into her Latin Arrested on Its First Major side. The former Fifth Harmo- Fny member has signed a joint record deal Suspicion of Rape Placement with indie labels Duars Entertainment, founded by Eric Duars, and with AMSI, BY ASSOCIATED PRESS BY KRISTIN ROBINSON launched by entertainment attorney Simran A. Singh, becoming the first female artist EIJING (AP) — Chinese-Canadi- fter years of empowering female signed to either company. an pop star Kris Wu was arrested and non-binary with Brooke, who is Mexican American, is in Monday on suspicion of rape in a writing camps around the world, the midst of recording her first Spanish-lan- high-profile case that followed an nonprofit She Is the Music guage album and is working with producers Baccusation the singer had sex with a 17-year- (SITM)A nabbed its first major recording Luny Tunes, Dimelo Flow and Mr. NaisGai, old while she was drunk and lured young artist placement last week with the release among others. The album will also feature women into sexual relationships. of Martin Garrix’s new RCA single “Love collabs with Latin and mainstream artists. The prosecutor’s office of the Beijing Runs Out,” featuring G-Eazy and Sasha The San Antonio native met Singh –who district of Chaoyang said in a one-sentence Alex Sloan. also reps , Ozuna and Anuel, statement that Wu’s arrest was formally ap- The beginnings of the song, which was among others—through mutual friend Su- proved but gave no details of the charges. written by Sloan, Alex Hope and Chloe An- zette Quintanilla, Selena’s sister. Wu, 30, earlier denied the accusation by gelides, were written during a camp orga- Singh, who initially came onboard as her a teenager that he had sex with her while nized by SITM and independent publisher Page 24 of 29

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Prescription Songs in 2018. ‘Love Runs Out,’ which I loved right away. Fully vaccinated means two weeks after “We were collectively thinking about I started working on the track, adding my final dose. female powerhouse executives whom we sound and production to it. With G-Eazy Fans under 12 years old will have to take admired, and the team at Prescription Songs adding his touch as well, the track has be- a COVID-19 diagnostic test within 48 hours came to mind,” says Taylor Testa, Song- come a collaborative effort where everyone’s of the event to provide a negative test result. writing Committee Co-Chair for SITM, of talent came together in the best way pos- Unvaccinated fans over 12 years of age who the collaboration. Helmed by Prescription sible. I’m honored that ‘Love Runs Out’ is have a valid medical reason and note must Songs head of A&R, west coast Rhea Pasri- the first major release to originate from one also take a COVID-19 diagnostic test, Ticket- cha and A&R manager Marlee Kula, along of the SITM writing camps, but I’m sure it master said. with SITM’s songwriting committee definitely won’t be the last.” Mask-wearing is not required. co-chairs, the team hand selected Sloan, Kula hopes the RCA release will lead to The Foo Fighters performed before a Angelides and Hope, among others, to par- more high-profile placements. “Having such vaccinated audience June 20 at Madison ticipate in the Los Angeles-based camp at well-respected artists use their platforms Square Garden in New York City. It was the Spotify’s studios. to help promote female creatives is such a venue’s first show in more than 460 days. Working together on what would become wonderful way to shed light on all the tal- “Love Runs Out” “felt effortless,” says An- ented women working in the biz,” she says. gelides. “I’m sure a lot of other female art- Babitt agrees: “Successes like this go to Silento Indicted ists, writers, and producer can relate to how show that women can write for any artist, in magical it feels to be surrounded by women any situation, in any genre.” on Felony Murder and non-binary writers in a creative space.” For female and nonbinary songwriters, Charge in sessions often remain a boys club. “There Foo Fighters to is still a disparity in the music industry, es- Cousin’s Killing pecially in studio space,” says Hope. In fact, Require COVID-19 women made up only 12.9% of all songwrit- BY GIL KAUFMAN ers on Billboard’s year-end Hot 100 charts Vaccine Proof last year, according to a study by USC An- atch Me (Ship/Nae nenberg’s Inclusion Initiative, so with the or Negative Nae)” rapper Si- SITM’s women and non-binary-centered lento was indicted camps, many participants found themselves Test Results at on four charges by a in exclusively non-male writing sessions for “WGeorgia grand jury on Aug. 3 in connection the first time in their careers. Alaska Concerts with the shooting death of the MC’s cousin “One of the greatest hurdles for young earlier this year. According to the DeKalb women in songwriting and production is sim- BY ASSOCIATED PRESS County Superior Court’s bill of indictment ply meeting each other,” says Hannah Babitt, obtained by Billboard, Silento (born Ricky SITM songwriting committee co-chair. he Foo Fighters are requiring Lamar Hawk) was charged with malice Once Babitt and the SITM team heard that people who attend their up- murder, felony murder, aggravated assault the results of the “Love Runs Out” session, coming shows in Alaska be fully and possession of a firearm during the com- it was clear that the track was a standout. vaccinated against COVID-19 mission of a felony. “Our teams proceeded with pitching the Tor receive a negative test result 48 hours TMZ was first to report on the indictment. record to artists whom they felt would un- before attending, the Anchorage Daily The MC, 23, was arrested in derstand and build upon the vision, and our News reported. February for the murder of his 34-year-old dream was Martin Garrix and G-Eazy,” says The 12-time Grammy-winning-band plans cousin, Frederick Rooks. On Jan. 21, police Babitt who also runs the boutique manage- to perform in Anchorage on Aug. 17 and 19 responded to a 3:30 a.m. call regarding shots ment firm BABZ, Inc. at the Dena’ina Center and in Fairbanks on fired, and found Rooks dead at the scene Luckily, Garrix felt the same way. Aug. 21 at the Carlson Center. Buy tickets to with multiple gunshot wounds, according to “Throughout my career, I’ve been lucky upcoming Foo Fighters shows on Ticket- the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. enough to work with a lot of amazing master here. Silento was also arrested last August for women, and I think She Is The Music is a Negative test results or proof of vaccina- assault with a deadly weapon after being ac- great initiative to create equal opportuni- tion must be provided before entering — cused of walking into an unlocked stranger’s ties for female creators in our industry,” either the original card or copy of card with home in the Valley Village area of Los Ange- he tells Billboard in a statement. “Sasha, an ID to match, according to a statement les and swinging a hatchet at the two people Chloe, and Alex made the initial demo for Saturday (Aug. 14) from Ticketmaster. inside before one of them disarmed him. A Page 25 of 29

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day prior to that arrest, he was held on do- ing days and investigators are working with reflect purchases from full-service digital mestic violence charges at a home in Santa those who have tested positive to identify music retailers from around the world, with Ana, Calif. In October, he was arrested for other cases. sales from direct-to-consumer (D2C) sites allegedly driving 143 mph in DeKalb County. Public Health officials urge people who excluded from the charts’ calculations. The grand jury’s arrest warrant noted that attended the festival to self-quarantine and ‘Stay’ Scores Third Week Atop Global the indictment was handed to the grand jury get tested for the virus. On average, symp- 200 in a special presentment, and that Silento toms of the virus develop five to six days “Stay” by The Kid LAROI, from Austra- had not been placed under bond to answer after exposure, but the incubation period lia, and Justin Bieber, from Canada, adds a to the charges at the time. It was not clear at can be as long as 14 days, officials said. third week at No. 1 on the Billboard Global press time when Silento is due to make an In eastern Oregon, Umatilla County 200. The song, The Kid LAROI’s first leader appearance in court to face the four charges. Public Health officials have tied at least 66 on the list and Bieber’s second, drew 108.5 A spokesperson for Silento — best known COVID-19 cases to the outdoor Pendleton million streams (up 23%) and sold 21,000 for the viral 2015 dance hit that climbed to Whiskey Music Fest on July 10. Sixty-one of downloads worldwide (down 2%) in the No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart — has the people who tested positive were unvac- Aug. 6-12 tracking week. not yet responded to a request for com- cinated, officials said. Ed Sheeran’s “Bad Habits” holds at No. ment. Billboard has also reached out to the 2 on the Global 200, after a week atop the DeKalb County District Attorney’s office. chart; Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow’s “Indus- Silento has been in an Atlanta-area The Kid LAROI try Baby” returns to its best rank (4-3); and jail since the shooting in February, and Måneskin’s “Beggin’” dips to No. 4 from its the AJC reported in June that he was denied & Justin Bieber’s No. 3 high. bond in the case. The Weeknd’s “Take My Breath” debuts ‘Stay’ Tops at No. 5 on the Global 200 with 52.5 mil- lion streams and 23,000 sold worldwide Watershed Both Billboard following its Aug. 6 release. The Canadian singer-songwriter earns his fourth top five Music Festival Global Charts hit since the chart began, following “Save Your Tears,” with Ariana Grande (No. 1, in Washington BY GARY TRUST one week), “Blinding Lights” (No. 2) and “Hawái,” with Maluma (No. 3). Tied to Over 160 he Kid LAROI and Justin ‘Stay’ Leads for First Time Outside U.S. Bieber boast the biggest song in The Kid LAROI and Justin Bieber’s “Stay” COVID-19 Cases the world, as “Stay” spends a third posts its first week atop the Billboard Global week at No. 1 on the Billboard Excl. U.S. chart, rising from No. 2 with 78.4 BY ASSOCIATED PRESS TGlobal 200 chart and climbs from No. 2 million streams (up 34%) and 8,500 sold (up for its first week atop the Billboard Global 18%) in territories outside the U.S. in the ore than 160 cases of CO- Excl. U.S. survey. Aug. 6-12 tracking week. VID-19 have been confirmed Plus, The Weeknd’s new single “Take My As on the Global 200, “Stay” is The Kid so far among people who Breath” enters the Global 200 and Global LAROI’s first Global Excl. U.S. No. 1 and attended the Watershed Music Excl. U.S. charts at Nos. 5 and 7, respectively. Bieber’s second, after his own “Peaches,” MFestival at the Gorge Amphitheatre in cen- Billboard’s two global charts (the latest featuring and , for five tral Washington. of which are dated Aug. 21) began last Sep- weeks in April-May. Bieber becomes the first More than 20,000 fans packed the Gorge, tember and rank songs based on streaming soloist with multiple Global Excl. U.S. leaders in George, Wash., for the three-day outdoor and sales activity culled from more than 200 and the second act overall, after BTS (four). country music festival in late July, The Se- territories around the world, as compiled by Ed Sheeran’s “Bad Habits” drops to No. attle Times reported. MRC Data. The Billboard Global 200 is in- 2 after five weeks atop the Global Excl. U.S. The Grant County Health District said clusive of worldwide data and the Billboard chart; Måneskin’s “Beggin’ “ holds at No. Friday (Aug. 13) the cases are tied to residents Global Excl. U.S. chart comprises data from 3 after hitting No. 2; Lil Nas X and Jack in counties including King, Grant, Pierce, territories excluding the U.S. Harlow’s “Industry Baby” ascends to the Skagit, Kittitas, Okanogan, Whatcom, Kitsap, Chart ranks are based on a weighted top five (7-4), becoming the former’s second San Juan, Lincoln and Stevens. There’s also formula incorporating official-only streams song to reach the tier and the latter’s first; one case tied to an Oregon resident. on both subscription and ad-supported and Olivia Rodrigo’s “Good 4 U” is steady at Officials expect more cases associated tiers of audio and video music services, as No. 5, after five weeks at its No. 2 high. with the festival to be confirmed in the com- well as download sales, the latter of which Plus, The Weeknd’s “Take My Breath” Page 26 of 29

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starts at No. 7 on the Global Excl. U.S. chart and more. with 34.3 million streams and 9,200 sold In 2019, festival producer Danny Wimmer Longtime outside the U.S. The song is his fourth top Presents announced that would 10, joining “Hawái” (No. 1, one week) and headline all five of its festivals. Given the The Cure Bassist the No. 2-peaking “Blinding Lights” and pandemic, Metallica’s headlining sets were “Save Your Tears.” moved to the promoter’s 2021 dates. Simon Gallup The Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Read Louder Than Life’s full statement Global Excl. U.S. charts (dated Aug. 21) will below. Reportedly update on Billboard.com tomorrow (Aug. 17). For both charts, the top 100 titles are Quits Band: available to all readers on Billboard.com, Cancels while the complete 200-title rankings are ‘Just Got Fed visible on Billboard Pro, Billboard’s sub- Concert Due to scription-based service. For all chart news, Up of Betrayal’ you can follow @billboard and @billboard- Positive COVID-19 charts on both Twitter and Instagram. Case ‘Within BY GIL KAUFMAN imon Gallup, longtime bassist with Louder Than the Korn Camp’ English goth rockers The Cure, has quit the band, according to Life Festival to BY ASHLEY IASIMONE multiple reports. announced on SSaturday that he has quit the group. Require COVID-19 orn called off a concert Saturday According toRolling Stone and CNN, Gal- night just hours before show lup, 61, wrote simply in a terse Facebook Vaccines or time after an undisclosed indi- post Saturday (Aug. 14), “With a slightly vidual “within the Korn camp” heavy heart I am no longer a member of the Negative Tests Ktested positive for COVID-19. Cure! Good luck to them all...” When some- “Unfortunately, there has been a con- one asked if he was leaving the Robert Smith- BY ASSOCIATED PRESS firmed COVID-19 case within the Korn fronted act because of health reasons, Gallup camp. The safety of our artists, crew, venue added, “I’m ok... just got fed up of betrayal.” ans, artists, and staff at Louisville staff, and fans are our top priority, so we The Facebook account is unverified; Bill- music festival Louder Than Life must postpone the show tonight,” the band board has reached out to The Cure. Gallup will be required to be vaccinated said in a statement posted on social media. has not yet responded to requests for com- against COVID-19 or provide proof Korn and were both scheduled to ment. Fof a negative COVID-19 test result, Louder perform Saturday (Aug. 14) at the Pavilion Gallup didn’t elaborate on what, if any, Than Life says. at Montage Mountain in Scranton, Penn- incident, precipitated his split, and at press “To protect the health of our fans, artists, sylvania. time, it did not appear that frontman Smith staff and crew, all attendees will be required “We’re deeply sorry for this unfortunate had reacted. But as Variety pointed out, to show proof of either a full COVID-19 last minute news, but please hold on to your in 2019 Smith told the Irish Times that if vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test,” tickets while we work to get your resched- the second longest-serving member of the organizers wrote in a statement. “For fans uled date sorted ASAP with Live Nation group took leave, “it wouldn’t be called who are not fully vaccinated, a negative CO- and the pavilion at Montage Mountain,” The Cure.” That same year, he also told VID-19 test result must be obtained within Korn’s note continued. “Thank you for your the NME that their relationship was the 72-hours of the first day of coming into the understanding, and stay safe out there. We’ll key to the band’s success. campgrounds or festival grounds.” be back soon.” “For me, the heart of the live band has Masks will be required in any indoor How the positive COVID-19 case will always been Simon, and he’s always been my spaces, regardless of vaccination status. affect the summer tour’s upcoming best friend,” Smith said. “It’s weird that over The festival is set for Sept. 23-26 at dates was unclear at press time. Bill- the years and the decades he’s often been Highlands Festival Grounds at the Kentucky board reached out to a representative for overlooked. He doesn’t do interviews, he Expo Center. Rock bands Metallica, Nine the band for further information. isn’t really out there and he doesn’t play the Inch Nails and Korn will headline, with The tour kicked off on Aug. 5 in West role of a foil to me in public, and yet he’s ab- performances from Snoop Dogg, Machine Palm Beach, Florida. solutely vital to what we do. We’ve had some Gun Kelly, Kentucky band difficult periods over the years but we’ve Page 27 of 29

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managed to maintain a very strong friend- The Billboard 200 chart ranks the most a three-vinyl LP set) a deluxe edition (23 ship that grew out of that shared experience popular albums of the week in the U.S. standard tracks, plus 17 demos, outtakes and from when we were teens. When you have based on multi-metric consumption as jams, on a three-CD or five-vinyl LP set), friends like that, particularly for that long, it measured in equivalent album units. Units a super deluxe edition (23 standard tracks would take something really extraordinary comprise album sales, track equivalent plus 47 demos, outtakes and jams, on digital for that friendship to break.” albums (TEA) and streaming equivalent download, a five-CD-plus blu-ray set, or an Gallup joined The Cure shortly after albums (SEA). Each unit equals one album eight-vinyl LP set) and even an uber deluxe the release of their 1979 debut, Three sale, or 10 individual tracks sold from an edition (the same 23 standard tracks and 47 Imaginary Boys, and appeared on Seventeen album, or 3,750 ad-supported or 1,250 paid/ bonus tracks on the super deluxe — on five Seconds (1980), Faith (1981) and Pornogra- subscription on-demand official audio and CDs, one blu-ray and eight vinyl LPs — but phy (1982) before taking a short break and video streams generated by songs from an housed in a collectible wooden crate with returning in 1984. Smith formed The Cure in album. The new Aug. 21, 2021-dated chart memorabilia and two books documenting 1978, and more than a dozen members have (where All Things Must Pass returns to the the making of the album). Pricing for the cycled through over the years, with Gallup top 10) will be posted in full on Billboard’s various editions ranged from about $13-$25 serving as the second longest-running mem- website on Aug. 17. For all chart news, fol- (for the standard album across its various ber of the outfit. low @billboard and @billboardcharts on formats) to $1,000-plus (depending on the Smith — who has collaborated with Ch- both Twitter and Instagram. retailer) for the uber deluxe edition. vrches and recently — has prom- All together, the set earned 32,000 equiva- ised several times that the new — and he’s lent album units in the U.S. in the tracking said final — The Cure album is slated for week ending Aug. 12 — up 1,401% (from INXS’ ‘The release this year. about 2,000 in the week previous), accord- ing to MRC Data. Of its 32,000 units earned, Very Best’ Sets album sales comprise 28,000, SEA units George Harrison’s comprise 3,000 (equaling 3.96 million on- Chart Record demand streams of the album’s tracks) and ‘All Things Must TEA units comprise less than 1,000. In The album, Harrison’s third solo studio Pass’ Album effort and first No. 1 album, topped the BY LARS BRANDLE Billboard 200 chart for seven consecutive Returns to Top weeks in 1971 (Jan. 2-Feb. 13, 1971-dated NXS kick another record, this time charts). It debuted at No. 5 on the Dec. 19, snagging a piece of chart history in the 10 on Billboard 1970 chart, and was last in the top 10 on the alternative rock veterans’ homeland, March 27, 1971-dated list, where it ranked at Australia. 200 Chart After No. 9. IWith the publication of the latest ARIA The album launched a pair of top 10 hits Albums Chart, dated Aug. 13, INXS - The 50th Anniversary on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart: Har- Very Best lifts 43-33 to notch 468 non-con- rison’s first No. 1, the double-sided hit “My secutive weeks on the survey, more than any Reissue Sweet Lord” / “Isn’t It a Pity,” and the No. LP currently on the Top 100. 10 hit “What Is Life.” (Harrison of course In a statement confirming the chart feat, BY KEITH CAULFIELD racked up numerous earlier No. 1s on both ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd pays tribute to the Hot 100 and Billboard 200 charts as a INXS’ “immense contribution” to Australian eorge Harrison’s former member of .) music and their “significant role in sky- No. 1 album All Things Must With All Things Must Pass’ return to rocketing our industry’s recognition on the Pass returns to the top 10 on the the top 10 on the Billboard 200, it marks global stage.” Billboard 200 chart for the first Harrison’s first time in the region since Inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in Gtime since 1971, as the set re-enters at No. 7 1988, when Cloud Nine peaked at No. 8. It’s 2001, INXS remain one of the country’s (on the Aug. 21-dated list) following its 50th also Harrison’s highest rank since Dark “most adored and iconic acts,” Herd notes. anniversary reissue on Aug. 6. Horse galloped to No. 4 on Jan. 25, 1975. The hits collection was released in 2011 The album was newly mixed and reissued (Harrison died in 2001.) and features such classics as “Never Tear Us in a variety of formats for its re-release. All All Things Must Pass was reissued in a siz- Apart,” “Original Sin” and Billboard Hot 100 versions of the album, including the original able number of formats for its anniversary. leader “Need You Tonight.” 1970 release, are combined for tracking and Among them: a standard 23-track set (avail- Last November, The Very Best was charting purposes. able as either a digital album, a two-CD or awarded “Diamond” status, for combined Page 28 of 29

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sales in-excess of 500,000 in Australia. No. 6, following the release of its 50th an- During its journey, The Very Best ruled the Ed Sheeran’s niversary edition. All things Must Pass is the national tally for seven weeks and came in at U.K.’s best-selling album on wax this week. No. 1 on ARIA’s End Of Decade Australian ‘Bad Habits’ Finally, Brian May’s 1992 solo effort Back Albums Chart. To The Light (UMC/Virgin) makes a chart “It is truly amazing news, to hear Holds at No. 1 splash following a remastered release. Its No. INXS’s The Very Best has been in the Top 7 return eclipses its original No. 19 peak. 100 album charts for nine years,” comments on U.K. Chart founding band member Andrew Farriss. INXS formed 44 years ago in Perth, West- BY LARS BRANDLE Former ‘American ern Australia, and would go on to sell more than 50 million albums worldwide. d Sheeran extends his streak Idol’ Finalist Led by the charismatic Hutchence, the atop the Official U.K. Singles new wave outfit scored six U.K. top 10 Chart into a seventh week with Syesha Mercado’s albums (including a No. 1 with Welcome To “Bad Habits” (Asylum), while The Wherever You Are from 1992) and five U.S. EWeeknd enjoys the highest debut on the Newborn top 20 albums. At the peak of their powers fresh frame. in the late 1980s and early-to-mid 1990s, “Bad Habits” is the most-streamed and Baby Taken By INXS was one of the biggest stadium acts on downloaded song during the chart week, to the planet. give Sheeran his longest-reigning U.K. No. Authorities Tragedy struck in 1997 when Hutchence 1 single since 2019, when “I Don’t Care,” his died, aged 37. The band continued perform- collaboration with Justin Bieber, ruled for BY GIL KAUFMAN ing with guest singers, before splitting in eight consecutive cycles. November 2012. All told, the group’s record- Meanwhile, the title track to Billie Eil- ormer third-place ing career spanned 35 years, more than 200 ish’s Happier Than Ever (Interscope) album finisher Syesha Mercado is fighting songs and 11 studio albums, including six lifts 6-4, for her sixth Top 5 single. to regain custody of her two young that sold platinum or better in the U.S. The week’s highest new entry belongs to children, both of whom have been The group enjoyed a comeback of sorts The Weeknd, whose “Take My Breath” is Fremoved from her care by Florida authori- following the controversial 2014 mini-se- new at No. 13 (Republic Records/XO) for the ties over the past six months. ries Never Tear Us Apart and Richard Lowen- Canadian artist’s 18th Top 20 hit in the U.K. The 34 year-old posted an hour-long stein’s 2019 documentary film Mystify, which Also new to the chart is KSI and Lil video Aug. 11 of what she said was footage launched INXS back into the charts. Wayne’s “Lose” (BMG), arriving at No. 18, of a fleet of sheriff’s officers surrounding In 2017, INXS late mentor Chris Mur- while Olivia Rodrigo snags her seventh Top her car and removing her 10-day-old infant phy signed the group’s classic catalogue to 40 appearance with Sour track “Jealousy daughter as the singer cried, “This is so his label Petrol Records, and engineered a Jealousy” (Geffen), new at No. 36. wrong! This is my baby! My baby is healthy string of projects to introduce INXS and Over on the Official U.K. Albums and happy! ... I’m not a danger to my baby!” their music to new generations. Chart, Dave returns to the summit The post, captioned, “THEY TOOK OUR with We’re All Alone In This Together (Dave BABY AGAIN!” came more than six months Neighbourhood), up 2-1, and swapping after her toddler son was placed into foster places with Eilish’s sophomore album. care in February. The action was taken after The highest new entry in the current the singer and her partner, Tyron Deener, cycle is Will Young’s covers set Crying On took 1-year-old Amen’Ra to a hospital in St. The Bathroom Floor (Cooking Vinyl), new Petersburg, Fla., for treatment for dehydra- at No. 3. It’s the former ’s eighth tion as he struggled to gain weight while consecutive Top 3 studio album. transitioning from breast milk to solid foods, Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour dips 3-4, but re- according to a group supporting Merca- mains the market’s most-streamed album, do, We Have the Right to be Right. while Barbra ’s Release Me 2 (Sony The Herald-Tribune reported that author- Music CG) compilation is new at No. 5, for ities took the baby girl to the hospital after the legendary singer’s 15th Top 10 album. deputies gave the couple a court order to A pair of British greats are close be- turn her over for a checkup even after they hind. George Harrison’s former leader All informed the officers that they had been to Things Must Pass (Apple Corps) blasts in at the doctor the day before. At press time, it Page 29 of 29

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was unclear if the infant was still in custody, way company of The Book of Mormon, and lywood’s boycott of me? One man, one actor but sheriff’s deputies told NBC News that was honored with a Syesha Mercado day in in an unpleasant and messy situation, over they took the baby girl because the couple Sarasota in May 2008. the last number of years?” failed to inform authorities that Mercado See the video of the police action below. Depp noted that he is “moving towards had given birth in the middle of the custody (Warning: Clip contains intense situations.) where I need to go to make … to battle over Amen’Ra. bring things to light.” According to NBC, Amen’Ra was assessed The libel case was part of a series of prob- in February by Dr. Sally Smith, a physician Johnny Depp lems for Depp. Still, he has supporters in who was the subject of a USA Today inves- the industry. The San Sebastian and Karlovy tigation over accusations that she was too Says He’s Being Vary Film Festivals recently doubled down quick to diagnose child abuse. A review of on their decisions to honor the controver- hundreds of Smith’s cases reportedly found Boycotted by sial star despite being criticized for the more than a dozen instances where charges decisions. The San Sebastian film festival were dropped or parents were acquitted Hollywood announced this week it would honor Depp after a traumatizing experience. with its Donostia Award, a achieve- As they plead with authorities in the video, BY SHARAREH DRURY ment honor that recognizes “outstanding Deener says, “Can you have some empathy? contributions to the film world.” Y’all done took our son, now you’re taking ohnny Depp says he feels he is being The Karlovy Vary International Film our daughter,” telling authorities that the boycotted by Hollywood as his latest Festival in the Czech Republic also said it couple asked that all questions go through film, Minamata, has yet to be released would celebrate the Pirates of the Caribbean their attorney, which he claims did not hap- in the United States, calling his fall star and “recognize and pay tribute to the pen. Deener assures officers in the video that Jfrom Hollywood graces as an “absurdity of acclaimed actor’s extensive career and last- the baby had gone in for a checkup the day media mathematics.” ing legacy on the globally.” before and was deemed healthy. Discussing the film in a new interview This article originally appeared in THR. Amen’Ra was reportedly placed into the with The Sunday Times, Depp discussed com. Manatee Child Protective Services, and the “surreal five years” he has experienced NBC reported that the Manatee County during his fallout from the Hollywood Sheriff’s Office said that it had received in- community. formation from the hospital’s abuse line that Depp stars in the movie as W Eugene the boy was “severely malnourished,” which Smith, an American photojournalist who Mercado disputed. helped expose the devastating impact of Amen’Ra was later reportedly discharged mercury poisoning on coastal communities to a white foster family — Mercado and in in the 1970s. Deener are Black — with Mercado saying she In the wake of the actor losing a libel was not informed and no family members case against British tabloid The Sun, which were contacted for possible placement. Mer- referred to the actor as a “wife-beater” in an cado gave birth to her daughter in the midst article about Depp and his ex-wife Amber of the legal fight over custody of Amen’Ra. Heard, MGM reportedly shelved the release At press time, Mercado and Deener had of the Andrew Levitas-directed project. raised $388,170 (of a $200,000 goal) on a Go- Depp was also forced to exit Warner Bros.’ FundMe in which she says her son has been Fantastic Beasts franchise last year after he “kidnapped by the System” after she claimed lost the case. authorities said the couple refused a B12 shot Depp said he “looked those people in for Amen’Ra. “We never refused a B12 shot, the eyeballs and promised we would not be and at no point was he on the verge of death,” exploitative. That the film would be respect- she wrote on the GFM page. Billboard has ful. I believe that we’ve kept our end of the reached out to Mercado for comment; a bargain, but those who came in later should spokesperson for the Manatee County Sher- also maintain theirs.” iff’s Office’s Child Protection Unit had not yet The 58-year-old actor also addressed his returned requests for comment. standing in the film industry, saying, “Some In addition to finishing third on the films touch people and this affects those seventh season of Idol, Mercado has toured in Minamata and people who experience in and performed in the Broad- similar things. And for anything … for Hol-