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INSIDE DJ Khaled Lands Third • The Weeknd & Ariana Grande Hold Atop Hot 100; No. 1 Album on Billboard 200 Chart Billie Eilish, The Kid LAROI & Miley Cyrus With ‘Khaled Khaled’ Hit Top 10 BY KEITH CAULFIELD • TuneCore Owner Believe Begins IPO Process, J Khaled nets his third No. 1 album May 15-dated chart (where Khaled Khaled debuts at With Plans to on the Billboard 200 chart as Khaled No. 1) will be posted in full on Billboard’s website on Raise €500M Khaled debuts atop the list. May 11. For all chart news, follow @billboard and @ The 14-track album was released on billboardcharts on both Twitter and Instagram. • Streaming Prices, New Revenue & DApril 30 via We the Best/Epic Records and features Of Khaled Khaled’s 93,000 equivalent album units More: 5 Highlights a galaxy of guest stars, ranging from Drake and Jay- earned in the tracking week ending May 6, SEA units From WMG’s Z to Justin Timberlake and Justin Bieber. Khaled comprise 76,000 (equaling 106.87 million on-demand Earnings Call Khaled starts with 93,000 equivalent album units streams of the album’s tracks), album sales com- • ‘Vax Live’ Concert earned in the U.S. in the week ending May 6, accord- prise 14,000 and TEA units comprise 3,000. Khaled Raises $302 ing to MRC Data.Khaled Khaled follows DJ Khaled’s Khaled was preceded by a pair of top 10-charting Million, Exceeds previous leaders, Grateful (in 2017) and Major songs on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, both featuring Vaccine Goal Key (2016), both of which also boasted a bevy of A- Drake: “Popstar” and “Greece,” which reached Nos. 3 • How ‘Vax Live’ list collaborators. and 8, respectively, on the Aug. 1, 2020-dated chart. Came Together The Billboard 200 chart ranks the most popular The next five albums on the Billboard 200 are all (And Exceeded albums of the week in the U.S. based on multi-metric former No. 1s. Moneybagg Yo’s A Gangsta’s Pain slips Its Goals) consumption as measured in equivalent album units. 1-2 in its second week (70,000 equivalent album • How Netflix Series Units comprise album sales, track equivalent albums units earned; down 37%), Morgan Wallen’s Dan- — Both Originals (TEA) and streaming equivalent albums (SEA). Each gerous: The Double Album is a non-mover at No. 3 & Reruns — Are unit equals one album sale, or 10 individual tracks (53,000; down 2%), Justin Bieber’s Justice rises 5-4 Propelling the Music sold from an album, or 3,750 ad-supported or 1,250 (42,000; down 12%), the Slime Language 2 project led of Latin Icons paid/subscription on-demand official audio and video by Young Thug falls 2-5 (40,000; down 34%) and Rod Up the Charts streams generated by songs from an album. The new (continued) 250 SPEAKERS FREE FESTIVAL REGISTER TODAY
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Wave’s SoulFly is steady at No. 6 (a little million on-demand streams of the album’s more than 35,000; down 11%). tracks), album sales comprise 14,000 and The Weeknd & Dua Lipa’s Future Nostalgia rises 8-7 for TEA units comprise 1,000. The album was its 12th straight week in the top 10, earning led by the single “What’s Your Country Ariana Grande nearly 35,000 units (down less than 1%). Song?” which marked his 16th No. 1 on The album debuted at No. 4 on the April the Country Airplay chart (dated March Hold Atop Hot 11, 2020-dated chart, then spent two more 27) and his second leader on the Hot Coun- weeks in the top 10 (April 18-25) before try Songs chart. 100; Billie Eilish, falling out of the region until the Feb. 27, Country Again (Side A) is the fifth top 10 2021-dated chart, when it began its current album for Rhett, all consecutive, from his The Kid LAROI top 10 streak. debut full-length project It Goes Like This in Future Nostalgia is the only album by a 2013 (which peaked at No. 6). & Miley Cyrus woman in the top 10 this week. It’s just the The 11-track Country Again (Side A) proj- second time in 2021 where the top 10 has ect is the first of a two-part project from Hit Top 10 held just one album by a woman. On the Rhett, with Country Again (Side B) set to Feb. 20-dated list, Ariana Grande’s Posi- arrive later this year. BY GARY TRUST tions was the only set by a leading lady in the top 10. (The last time the top 10 did not he Weeknd and Ariana Grande’s have an album credited to a woman was the “Save Your Tears” spends a second Nov. 7, 2020 chart. It’s worth noting that week at No. 1 on the Billboard week’s top 10 did feature the multi-artist Hot 100 songs chart. The track, original Broadway cast recording of Hamil- Toriginally released solely by The Weeknd on ton: An American Musical, which boasted a his 2020 album After Hours, topped the tally number of female performers.) for the first time a week earlier following Pop Smoke’s former No. 1 Shoot for the the release of its remix with Grande. Stars Aim for the Moon rises 10-8 on the new Plus, Doja Cat’s “Kiss Me More,” featur- Billboard 200 with 32,000 equivalent album ing SZA, hits the Hot 100’s top five, rising units earned (down 2%). The Weeknd’s 6-5; Billie Eilish debuts at No. 9 with “Your previous leader After Hours dips 7-9 with Power”; and The Kid LAROI and Miley nearly 32,000 units (down 18%). Cyrus soar from No. 23 to No. 10 with Thomas Rhett rounds out the new top “Without You,” following the arrival of 10 with the No. 10 debut of his latest studio its remix with Cyrus. album Country Again (Side A). Of that sum, The Hot 100 blends all-genre U.S. stream- SEA units comprise 15,000 (equaling 19.34 ing (official audio and official video), radio
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ON THE CHARTS JIM ASKER [email protected] IN BRIEF SamHunt’s Southside Rules Top Country airplayA lbuand salesms; data. All chartsBrett (dated MayYoung (up 15% to ‘Catc 70.7 million).h’-es Fifthretreats Airplay 7-8 on the Hot 100, five weeks after 15) will update on Billboard.com tomorrow Dua Lipa’s “Levitating,” featuring DaBaby, it launched at No. 1. (May 11). ForLea all chartder; news, you Travis can follow hitsDenning a new No. 4 Hot 100 Makes high, rising from History Billie Eilish’s “Your Power” debuts at @billboard and @billboardcharts on both No. 5, as it continues to be a prominent No. 9 on the Hot 100 following its first full Twitter and Instagram. source for soundtracking clips on TikTok. week of availability. Released at 12 p.m. ET Sam“Save Hunt Your’s second Tears,” studio released full-length, on XO/Re and first- in overIt likewisefive years, ranks Southside in the Radiosales (up Songs 21%) topin the five tracking April week. 29, On it Country enters theAirplay, chart it hopswith 18-15 22.2 (11.9 million mil- (MCApublic Nashville/Universal Records, holds atop Music the Group Hot Nashville), 100 with debutsfor at the No. first 1 on Billboard time (7-4;’s 51lion million, audience up impressions,16%, streamsup 16%). and 4,200 sold in the April 30-May Top22.4 Country million Albums streams chart (down dated 26%) April and 18. In8,500 its first afterweek (ending previously April peaking9), it at No. 6 in January; 6 tracking week. It also drew 9.6 million in earned 46,000 equivalent album units, including 16,000 in album sales, ac- TRY TO ‘CATCH’ UP WITH YOUNG Brett Youngachieves his fifth consecutive cordingdownloads to Nielsen sold (down Music/MRC 53%) Data. in the week it hit a weekly high of 55.4and million total Country in Febru Airplay- No.airplay 1 as “Catch” audience (Big inMachine the week Label ending Group) May ascends 9. endingSouthside May marks 6, according Hunt’s second to MRC No. Data. 1 on Itthe ary). It reaches a new No. 2 best on Digital It2-1, starts increasing at No. 413% on to Streaming 36.6 million Songs impressions. and No. chartalso attracted and fourth 68.5 top 10.million It follows radio freshman airplay LP Song Sales, up from No. 4 (9,700, down 11%), 17 onYoung’s Digital first Song of Sales.six chart entries, “Sleep With- Montevalloaudience impressions, which arrived (up at the1%) summit in the weekin No - and keeps at its No. 6 peak on Streaming outEilish You,” earns reached her No.fifth 2 inHot December 100 top 2016.10 and He vemberending 2014 May and 9. reigned for nine weeks. To date, Songs (21.8 million, up 2%). thirdfollowed to debut with thein the multiweek top tier. No. “Bad 1s “In Guy” Case en You- Montevallo has earned 3.9 million units, with 1.4 Didn’t Know” (two weeks, June 2017), “Like I Loved millionA week in album earlier, sales. following the April 23 Doja Cat’s “Kiss Me More,” featuring SZA, teredYou” at (three, No. 7January in April 2018), 2019 “Mercy” and spent (two, a August week releaseMontevallo of its has remix spent with 267 weeks Grande, on the “Tears” list, tying ascends to the Hot 100’s top five, lifting 6-5 at2018) No. 1and that “Here August. Tonight” Her (two,next Aprilfour 2019).top 10s Lukesurged Bryan by ’s111% Crash to My30.4 Party million as the streams sixth-longest- and with 25.9 million in airplay audience (up have“Catch” all reached completes the region his longest in either journey their to No. 1, running265% to titles 18,000 in the sold. chart’s 56-year history. 12%); 25.6 million streams (up 6%); and firsthaving or takensecond 46 weeks toon reach the chart, the apex. as, Itprior out - On the all-genre Billboard 200, Southside ar- paces the 30-week climb of “Here Tonight.” The track dips 2-3 on Radio Songs and 4,700 sold, essentially even week-over-week. to “Your Power,” “Everything I Wanted” rives at No. 5, awarding Hunt his second top 10 On Hot Country Songs, “Catch” pushes 7-5 for HUNT YOUNG after2-5 on theStreaming No. 3-peaking Songs Montevallo and falls. from No. 1 Doja Cat notches her second top five Hot vaulteda new high. from No. 74 to its No. 8 peak in to HuntNo. 4 first on the releasedDigital the SongEPX2C ,Sales which chart. debuted 100 hit, among two top 10s, after “Say So,” November 2019 following its first full week and“Leave peaked the at DoorNo. 5 onOpen” Top Countryby Silk Sonic, Albums the in Augustfeaturing 2014. NickiFollowing Minaj, toppedCOMBS the ‘DOES’ May IT 16, AGAIN Lukeof release; Combs ’“My “Does Future” to Me” (Riverlaunched House/Columbia at its No. Montevalloduo of Bruno, Between Mars theand Pines: Anderson Acoustic .Paak, Mixtape started2020, at itschart. No. 7SZA high makes in Nashville),her first featuringvisit to the Eric Church6 peak, ascendsin August 11-8 2020; on Country and “Therefore Airplay, up 10% I to Novemberholds at No. 2015. 2 on the Hot 100, four weeks top five, among four top24.7 10s. million in audience. TheAm” song rocketed is Combs’ from eighth No. straight 94 to its career-opening No. 2 best in 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:after reaching “Leave the No. Night 1. It On,” logs “Take a fourth Your week Time,” at “HousePolo Party” G’s and“Rapstar” “Make descendspromoted 4-6 No. on 1 singles.the November 2020 following its first full week YouNo. Miss1 on Me.”Radio “Break Songs Up (80.9 in a Small million, Town” up peaked 5%), at No.Hot 2. 100 after arriving andChurch spending adds its his 15th Countryof availability. Airplay top 10. whileHunt leading co-pennedHot all R&B 12 songs Songs on for Southside a seventh, including first “Body two Likeweeks a Backon the chart at No. 1. It rules “Future,” “Therefore” and “Your Power” Road,”week and whichHot was R&B/Hip-Hop released in 2017. Songs The smash for a hit ruledStreaming Country AirplaySongs (29.5for million,THAT TOOK down QUITE 15%) ‘A FEW’are MONTHS all on Eilish’s Travis DenningLP Happier shatters Than the Ever record, due 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 third frame; both charts use the same meth- and the multi-metric Hot Rap Songs rank- July 30. Her previous studio set, When We 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 - Floridaodology Georgia as the HotLine ’s100. “Meant to Be” (50 weeks atop theing latter for alist fourth in 2017-18). week each.lion in radio reach. All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go?, debuted “Downtown’sJustin Bieber’s Dead,” “Peaches,” which is featuring also on the Dan new- set, reachedMasked Nos. Wolf’s 14 and “Astronaut 15 The in song the surpasses Ocean” two tracksatop the thatBillboard took 50 weeks 200 each in April to enter 2019; the it top 10: oniel HotCaesar Country and SongsGiveon, and keeps Country at No. Airplay, 3 on respectively, the returns in June to 2018.its No. “Kin 7 Hot- 100Easton best, Corbin from ’sNo. “A Girl Likespent You,” three which weeks reached at No. 101 that in January April-June 2018 be - folks”Hot 100, led Countrysix weeks Airplay after onit debuted Feb. 29, becoming at No. 1. Hunt’s8, as seventh it becomes No. 1. Ithis hit first fore No. peaking 1 on Digital at No. 6 that February,and has and logged Aaron its Watson first 109’s “Outta weeks Style,” on the which No.The 3 songon Hot claims Country the Songs. Hot 100’s top Airplay Song Sales (2-1; 11,000, downachieved 13%), its No. and 10 Lil high in Decemberchart in the 2017. top 40 (this week rising 30-24). 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 Gainer award for a sixth consecutive week Nas X’s “Montero (Call Me by Your Name)” Rounding out the Hot 100’s top 10, The eighth top 10, having corralled 8.2 million U.S. streams (up 96%) and 5,000 in From Powder Springs” traveled to No. 32 in September 2018. ETHAN MICHAEL YOUNG: VIA MARTIN/NHLI GETTY HUNT: IMAGES. IMAGES MILLER/GETTY 2021 PRIDE
On June 5th, Billboard will publish its 3rd annual CONTACTS Pride issue honoring culturally moving and Joe Maimone influential people who have contributed to the 201.301.5933 | [email protected] community’s history and its current landscape. Lee Ann Photoglo Year-round Billboard and Rolling Stone celebrate 615.376.7931 | [email protected] the LGBTQIA+ community through the lens of music, amplifying the culture of the proud Cynthia Mellow LGBTQIA+ community across our editorial 615.352,0265 | [email protected] channels, including Billboard Pride. Marcia Olival 786.586.4901 | [email protected] Building on this platform, Billboard and Rolling Stone will be joining together for the entire month Ryan O’Donnell +447843437176 | [email protected] of June to celebrate love, acceptance, diversity and what it means to be queer in music. All month long, Billboard and Rolling Stone will be the go-to destination for music and entertainment Pride content. Leveraging our iconic voices within music and culture, Billboard and Rolling Stone will curate a mix of engaging video and social content featuring thought-provoking panels, heartfelt performances, and glam tutorials – all fostering a community of consumers and influencers in celebration of LGBTQIA+.
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Kid LAROI and Miley Cyrus’ “Without 1,270 employees. Its services include dis- You” blasts from No. 23, its prior best, to TuneCore Owner tribution to major streaming services like No. 10 following the April 30 release of its Spotify and Apple Music; digital marketing remix with Cyrus. It hits the top 10 with Believe Begins and playlist pitching; sync services and more 12.5 million streams (up 54%) and 7,600 sold for worldwide artists like Parcels, Gavin (up 218%) in the week ending May 6, good IPO Process, James, FKJ and more. for the Hot 100’s top Streaming and Sales In 2020, Believe says it provided services Gainer honors. It also drew 43.5 million in With Plans to to more than 850,000 artists (either directly airplay audience (up 9%) in the week ending or through their labels) and recorded €728 May 9. It surges 50-5 on Digital Song Sales Raise €500M million in digital music sales, up 54% from for its first week in the top 10 and concur- €472 million in 2018. rently hits the Radio Songs top 10, roaring BY TATIANA CIRISANO It recorded €441 million in consolidated 13-6. On Streaming Songs it re-enters at No. revenues in 2020, up from €238 million 21, likewise a new high. aris-based music distributor and in 2018, and in the first quarter of 2021, The Kid LAROI posts his second Hot 100 artist services company Believe made €124 million in revenue, a 26% uptick top 10 and first in a lead role, after “Hate the has gained approval for its regis- from the first quarter of 2020. Other Side,” by Juice WRLD and Marshm- tration document with the French That revenue comes from across the ello featuring Polo G and The Kid LAROI, Pfinancial regulatory body, the company world: In 2020, 18% of Believe’s consolidat- debuted and peaked at No. 10 last July. announced Monday (May 10), marking the ed revenue was generated from France, 22% Cyrus (credited on the Hot 100 on “With- first step towards its contemplated initial from Germany, 28% from the rest of Europe, out You” for the first time, as the remix public offering (IPO) on the Euronext Paris 18% from Asia, Oceania and Africa and 14% accounted for the majority of the title’s con- stock exchange. from the Americas. sumption activity in the tracking week) adds Believe, which acquired New York-based With Believe’s registration document now her 10th Hot 100 top 10, including one under distribution company TuneCore in 2015, approved by French regulator Autorité des her Hannah Montana alter ego. Her top now seeks to raise €500 million (nearly Marchés Financiers (AMF), the completion 10s, in order of peak date, prior to “With- $608 million) to finance its growth strategy of the IPO is now subject to the approval out You”: “See You Again” (No. 10, 2008); of building “the leading global artist digital of “the prospectus relating to the offering “7 Things” (No. 9, 2008); “The Climb” (No. development platform,” according to a press by the AMF, as well as favourable market 4, 2009); “He Could Be the One” (Han- release. As the independent music market conditions,” a press release states. nah Montana; No. 10, 2009); “Party in the continues to grow, TuneCore’s pitch is that Citi, J.P. Morgan and Société Générale are U.S.A.” (No. 2, 2009); “Can’t Be Tamed” it can provide services to the next genera- acting as joint global coordinators and joint (No. 8, 2010); “We Can’t Stop” (No. 2, 2013); tion of artists and create a fairer, more trans- bookrunners in the contemplated IPO; BNP “Wrecking Ball” (No. 1, three weeks, 2013); parent industry for them. Paribas, Goldman Sachs, HSBC and UBS are and “Malibu” (No. 10, 2017). “In the last decade, streaming has acting as joint bookrunners and Rothschild Six-cess: Meanwhile, “Without You,” changed how people discover music, paving & Co. is acting as independent financial already the most common title of a Hot the way for the rise of independent art- adviser to Believe. 100 top 10 over the chart’s 62-year history, ists and labels. Believe is ideally positioned extends that mark, as The Kid LAROI and at the core of this transformation with a Cyrus take the sixth song by that name to unique model to provide solutions best the bracket. It follows top 10s titled “With- adapted to meet the evolving needs of each out You” by Johnny Tillotson (No. 7 peak, independent artist and label, at all levels of 1961); Nilsson (No. 1 (four weeks, 1972); development, in the digital world,” Believe Motley Crue (No. 8, 1990); Mariah Carey, founder and CEO Denis Ladegaillerie said who remade Nilsson’s hit (No. 3, 1994; listed in a statement. on the chart with B-side “Never Forget “This IPO project would enable us to ac- You”); and David Guetta featuring Usher celerate our development and continue to (No. 4, 2011). pursue our profitable growth trajectory,” he Again, for all chart news, you can follow continued, “while achieving our mission to @billboard and @billboardcharts on both help build a better, more diverse, more re- Twitter and Instagram and all charts (dated spectful, more transparent and fairer future May 15), including the Hot 100 in its en- for all artists.” tirety, will refresh on Billboard.com tomor- Founded in Paris in 2005, Believe now row (May 11). operates in more than 50 countries with 2 0 2 1 INDIE L A B E L P O W E R P L AY E R S
On June 5th, Billboard will publish CONTACTS its fourth annual Indie Label Power Joe Maimone Players List. This special feature in 201.301.5933 | [email protected] advance of Indie Week (6/14-6/17) and Lee Ann Photoglo the 10th Anniversary Libera Awards will 615.376.7931 | [email protected] profile leading executives at top independent record labels, publishing Cynthia Mellow companies and distribution companies. 615.352,0265 | [email protected] Positioning themselves as the driving force Marcia Olival behind the success of independent music, 786.586.4901 | [email protected] these executives contribute to the independent music sector and to the Ryan O’Donnell +447843437176 | [email protected] world of music at large.
Take this opportunity to advertise and congratulate this year’s 2020 Indie Label Power Players.
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said he expects other streaming services forced to cut costs during the pandemic and Streaming Prices, will follow Spotify’s lead and rase their learned it could use remote working and vir- prices as well, provided Spotify does not see tual meetings to save money long-term. “We New Revenue & the higher prices increase its churn rate — have a global cost-savings program that’s which Spotify has said has not happened. working with our corporate, our music pub- More: 5 Highlights “What people have a tendency to do on lishing and recorded music divisions to find these services is build their library, build efficiencies related to automation. And we From WMG’s their playlists, and so there is a stickiness,” are finding impact from that,” said Levin. he said. “And I think that as Spotify and/or “We are generating new policies to make Earnings Call others experiment with these price increas- sure costs from real estate or travel are re- es, if they don’t see any meaningful churn duced,” he continued, “not just in the short BY GLENN PEOPLES events — and to date, we’re not aware of any term when we’re out of the office from CO- — I think what we should have an expecta- VID but in the long term when we return.” arner Music Group ex- tion about is that other DSPs will begin to Deep Sea Data Diving: ecutives painted a rosy raise their prices as well.” When asked if Warner’s data is valuable, picture of the company’s New Revenue Streams: Cooper said Warner processes 2 billion lines post-pandemic comeback “We’re focused on maximizing our art- of data each day and growing. The “oceans” duringW Tuesday’s earnings call for its second ists’ and songwriters’ reach and revenue of data from hundreds of sources such as fiscal quarter ending March 31. They had across all fandom touch points, whether it’s Spotify, Apple, Facebook and Live Nation al- ample reason to celebrate: Warner’s Q2 a snippet on social media, a soundtrack to lows Warner’s data scientists to find insights revenue grew 13% year-over-year to $1.25 an in-home workout, a live performance in that help its marketing and promotion. billion while adjusted EBITDA rose 25% a metaverse or an NFT digital collectible,” He said, “If you look at data like the Pacific (adjusted to non-cash expenses such as said Cooper, speaking to Warner’s vision Ocean, while it’s important to analyze from depreciation, amortization of intangible for investments and partnerships in next- 0 to 15 feet, you’ve got to be able to organize, assets, as well as non-operational items such generation platform and products. “These categorize and pull really useful information as restructuring costs and loss on extin- points show how the music ecosystem is and really, really great insights from not only guishment of debt). Streaming revenue, the broadening and deepening its relationship 0 to 15 feet in the Pacific Ocean, but all the lynchpin of every music company’s growth with people everywhere.” way down to the Mariana Trench.” strategy, was up 23% in Warner’s recorded Added Levin on the fast-growing revenue music division. from “emerging forms of streaming reve- A Warner Music Group earnings call is nue” such as Facebook, TikTok and Peloton: ‘Vax Live’ Concert especially revealing because Warner is the “Three years ago, these emerging forms of only pure-play, publicly traded music com- streaming revenue was approximately zero. Raises $302 pany. The financial results of Sony Music, One quarter ago, we said on an annualized Universal Music and BMG have sparse basis, the revenue was running at about $150 Million, Exceeds financial data tucked within the parent com- million [annual run rate]. Now this quarter, panies’ earnings reports. In contrast, War- we’re saying it’s running on an annualized Vaccine Goal ner’s financial statements a rare, detailed basis at $200 million. They are growing glimpse under the hood of a global record rapidly and growing more diverse.” BY ASSOCIATED PRESS label and music publisher. CEO Stephen CDs Up, Vinyl Down: Cooper and CFO Eric Levin are some of the “Overall, I think we still have to be cau- he Global Citizen fundraising con- most informational music executives in the tious about physical,” said Levin. “The CD cert advocating the importance of business and their quarterly earnings calls market is still in decline. There is an op- vaccine equity has pulled in $302 are must-hear commentary on the direction portunity based on release schedule to have million, exceeding the goal for the of the music business. strong quarters. But I would say, overall, we Torganization’s campaign. The May 4 earnings call was filled with should expect physical in decline, but we Global Citizen announced Saturday (May notable insights ranging from Spotify’s price will be working very hard to maximize its 8) that the funds raised helped procure increases in select markets to the impor- potential, both through CDs, but especially more than 26 million doses at the Vax Live: tance of Warner’s data analysis. Here are the in vinyl, which is a long-term attractive The Concert to Reunite the World. The orga- call’s highlights. market that’s growing.” nization said money was garnered through Streaming Subscription Rate Increases: Reducing Costs After the Pandemic several philanthropic and corporate com- Cooper spoke about Spotify’s price Subsides: mitments. increases in a small number of markets. He Warner, like many other companies, was President Joe Biden, Prince Harry 2021 GERARDO ORTIZ 10TH ANNIVERSARY
Gerardo Ortiz is one of Latin music’s most defining artists of CONTACTS the last decade, scoring a total of ten No. 1s on the Billboard Regional Mexican Airplay chart, over 22.3 Million followers on Marcia Olival social media, and an astounding ONE BILLION and counting 786.586.4901 | [email protected] views on VEVO. The two-time GRAMMY ® nominee and one- time Latin GRAMMY®, is one of the architects of the alternative Joe Maimone corrido movement and one of the most award-winning 201.301.5933 | [email protected] singers of Regional Mexican music in the past years. Lee Ann Photoglo 615.376.7931 | [email protected] In recent years, Ortiz has winning a number of awards including twenty seven Billboard Latin Music Awards, twelve Cynthia Mellow Premios Lo Nuestro, earning four Platinum records and five 615.352,0265 | [email protected] Gold records as certified by the RIAA, and selling out festivals, dance halls, and arenas across the United States and Mexico. Ryan O’Donnell +447843437176 | [email protected] He breaks schemes with each production, after his successful 9th studio album, "Más Caro Que Ayer" was released in February 2020 he placed at #1 on Apple Music’s "Mexican Music" chart. His first single titled popular charts followed by the hit single "Otra Borrachera", the band version that reached #1 on México's Monitor Latino “Popular” chart, and #1 on the Billboard’s "Regional Mexican Airplay" chart. Starting a new decade and commemorating his 10th career anniversary, Gerardo Ortiz celebrates with the debut of his production "Décimo Aniversario" (10th studio album.)
Join Billboard in congratulating Gerardo Ortiz on his remarkable career over the past 10 years.
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and Jennifer Lopez were among the big for the first massive, COVID-compliant we were able to honor John and so many names who took part in the event, which concert in the United States. In the audience other extraordinary global citizens for their was recorded May 2 and aired Saturday. were 27,000 fully vaccinated healthcare work. It’s been a sprint. ABC, ABC News Live, CBS, YouTube and workers, whom Gomez saluted: “You set an We knew coming to this year the issue of iHeartMedia radio stations will broadcast example for all of us, both in how you stayed vaccine equity would be such a huge chal- the concert staged at SoFi Stadium in Ingle- on the job and that we need to get vacci- lenge as well as, frankly, the issue of vaccine wood, California. nated as soon as possible.” uptake. Eight percent of people in the U.S. Selena Gomez hosted the show, which Raising more than $302 million in com- are considering not getting their second was attended by several thousand fully- mitments and tracking more than 26 million dose, 26% of people are not taking the vaccinated concertgoers who cheered donations of vaccine doses (exceeding its vaccine at all, so we knew we had to fight on performances by Eddie Vedder, Foo initial goals), Vax Live aims to get the world these twin issues to drive our campaign. We Fighters, J Balvin, H.E.R. and Lopez, who back on track as well as plan for a better partnered with the Ad Council and other enjoyed a duet with her mom. future. “If we’re truly going to build back extraordinary partners to bring Vax Live. Ben Affleck, Chrissy Teigen, Jimmy Kim- better,” Global Citizen CEO Hugh Evans We’ve seen the private sector rally with mel, Sean Penn and David Letterman served asks Billboard over the phone, “What does huge commitments from Verizon through as special guest speakers. that actually look like?” to Cisco to Procter and Gamble. We’ve also Vax Live was one of the largest concert In the wake of Vax Live, Evans spoke seen governments step up. President Biden, gatherings in Southern California since to Billboard about everything from team- Vice President Harris and the First Lady the coronavirus pandemic roiled the world ing up with Prince Harry and Meghan, the agreed to participate, His Holiness the Pope more than a year ago. Duke and Duchess of Sussex, to how Selena as well as Prince Harry and Meghan, the Organizers called the event the country’s Gomez’s activism secured commitments Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have all agreed first large-scale music event for a COVID from world leaders. And as Global Citizen to help drive the campaign and that’s what’s 19-compliant audience. Media and produc- looks to refocus our attention on issues “that enabled us to help achieve our goal. tion staff needed to show a negative CO- have been neglected as a result of everyone I want to ask about a few of the names. VID-19 test before entering the stadium. focusing on COVID,” Evans teases what to Prince Harry and Meghan, how did their expect from this September’s Global Citizen involvement come about? Live event, which takes a few cues from the We reached out to Prince Harry and How ‘Vax Live’ legendary Live Aid concert from 1985. Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Last year, we spoke after the One and said we were hoping they would help Came Together World concert. Walk me through what us, alongside Selena Gomez as host, cham- Global Citizen has been busy with since pion these issues. Immediately Meghan said, (And Exceeded then. “We’re so passionate about this, we would Since One World: Together at Home we’ve love to encourage the private sector to step Its Goals) had a very busy year. We immediately re- up.” Prince Harry was also so passionate ceived a phone call after that from Bloom- about the issue of vaccine misinformation BY JOE LYNCH berg and partnered up with the European on social media and wanted to highlight Commission for a strategy to help fund the that. Both of them were true leaders. It was or a decade, Global Citizen has vaccine. And that coincided with Global just such a natural fit and they were extraor- worked with celebrities and world Goal: United for Our Future — The Concert, a dinary states people to work with. They’re leaders to help rally on-the- TV special on NBC that had The Rock, willing to convene roundtables privately and ground activism and private sector Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, and a range of write public letters, one of which we pub- Fdonations to work toward ending extreme amazing artists. We also secured money lished on Global Citizen, and on Archie’s poverty. When the pandemic put nearly ev- from all the G7 nations – over $1.5 billion second birthday (May 6), when people often erything on planet earth on hold last March, was committed and that went to help fund give gifts to the Royal Family around the Global Citizen quickly pivoted to help tackle the Moderna vaccine as well as the As- time of birthdays, they decided they wanted the urgent threat, while still highlighting the traZeneca and helped purchase vaccines those gifts to go to vaccines this year. The inequalities that are exacerbated during a through COVAX for the world’s poorest level of commitment they have to this cause global health crisis. nations. After that, leading into the U.S. is a testament to them as human beings and With Vax Live: The Concert to Reunite the election we partnered with Alicia Keys, to the urgency of the mission. World airing on Saturday (May 8), Global America Ferrera and Kerry Washington to And Selena Gomez as host was a great Citizen tapped host Selena Gomez and drive our Every Vote Counts campaign. And fit. performers including Jennifer Lopez, Foo then John Legend finished the year with us Selena Gomez has been on stage for Glob- Fighters, J Balvin, Eddie Vedder and H.E.R. hosting the annual Global Citizen Prize and al Citizen in the past; in fact, she’s been a Page 12 of 26
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long-term UNICEF supporter and UNICEF the pandemic together. These vaccines are been neglected as a result of everyone focus- are part of the frontline delivery of vaccines publicly subsidized. It’s right for pharma- ing on COVID. It’s hard when the world on the ground. So when we reached out to ceutical companies at this juncture to be do- needs to focus on one thing – everyone Selena and asked her if she could host she nating doses. They should all be doing better knows we can’t move forward until we end said “yes” straightaway. On social media, her deals with the COVAX facility, they should the pandemic – but all these other issues tweets she’s been sending to world lead- all be supportive of a temporary halt on have been neglected so we need to refocus ers got direct responses. This is the sort of intellectual property rights associated with the world’s energy this September and say advocacy Global Citizen loves, where an it because that’s the only way we beat the “okay, if we’re truly going to build back artist uses the power of their social media pandemic. When Jonas Salk invented the better, what does that actually look like?” platform alongside Global Citizen’s platform vaccine for polio, someone asked him, “Are And Global Citizen is going to be leading the to encourage world leaders to respond. you going to patent it?” He said, “can you charge around education, food security and Spain’s Prime Minister Sánchez responded patent the sun?” His reference there was the the environment and equity. and committed 7.5 million doses for Latin idea, “how on earth can you patent some- America. New Zealand responded over the thing that gives all of us life, like the sun?” weekend, even the White House responded That’s the way we need to approach the end How Netflix Series and that’s what’s led to so many of the com- of the pandemic. It’s been a disastrous thing mitments they’ve been making. President for the whole planet, and we need to use — Both Originals Macron of France, Chuck Robbins, the our shared values to actually see some hope incredible CEO of Cisco, committed $5 mil- and light at the end of the tunnel by being as & Reruns — lion and so did Marc Pritchard of P&G and generous as we can. Coke also got on board. It’s a snowball effect What’s your advice for the average per- Are Propelling created by the power of her advocacy. For son who wants to help out? me, I feel extremely thankful. You can see If you want to take action, go to Global the Music of through this campaign everyone has put the Citizen.org and start calling on Moderna full weight of their platforms behind this to commit doses right away. Start calling Latin Icons urgent issue and that’s why we’re starting on all the major pharmaceutical companies to see policy change. In the short term, we and world leaders. I’m a huge believer in Up the Charts need doses donated, and I’m thrilled those the power of digital democracy globally. I’ve are starting to be donated from G7 and G20 heard the European Union and others are BY GRISELDA FLORES nations. This campaign has helped push na- reconsidering their position in light of the tions and the private sector step up in ways White House’s big step forward, so I think hen Selena: The Se- we hadn’t seen. there’s real hope, but we need citizens to act ries made its debut on Were you at Vax Live in person? If so, quickly. We don’t usually drive donations Netflix in December, the what was it like seeing live music after — we drive activism — but this is a rare oc- late singer-songwrit- so long? casion where if people want to donate doses, er WSelena Quintanilla scored her first en- I was there in person. It was surreal. You they can donate doses directly through try on Billboard’s Latin Pop Albums chart know what was the coolest? There were the COVAX facility. But if they’d rather use since 2016, thanks to the original series’ 27,000 fully vaccinated healthcare workers their voice, then use your voice, send tweets, soundtrack — which bowed at No. 8 on the who were rocking away. I posted some pho- use the Global Citizen platform to call on tally (dated Dec. 19) and features classics tos on my Instagram of the healthcare work- world leaders to create immediate action. such as “Baila Esta Cumbia,” “La Carcacha” ers, the doctors and nurses on the frontline, What’s next for Global Citizen? and “Como La Flor.” enjoying it themselves. That makes me the Earlier this year we launched our recov- The same effect could be seen with Jenni proudest. They’ve been working so hard ery plan for the world, partially launched Rivera’s Mariposa de Barrio (Soundtrack over the last 12 months to keep us all safe, with the World Health Organization, about de la Serie), which debuted at No. 5 on Bill- and they also are symbolic of the 27 million how the world can recover post-COVID board’s Regional Mexican Albums chart healthcare workers globally who haven’t and what needs to happen. This September (dated March 27), a few months after it was yet had access to the vaccine. It’s really not our dream is to reunite the whole planet released on Netflix – not as an original series right that myself, a 38-year-old male here in with Global Citizen Live in the spirit of Live but as a rerun of the Telemundo-produced the United States, should have access to the Aid. We want to focus on the broader issues biopic that aired on the network back in vaccine before a heroic healthcare worker of recovery, whether that’s the environmen- 2017. Taking its name after the series based on the frontline in Africa. That’s simply tal negotiations taking place around Paris on the Rivera’s autobiography Unbreak- because of the U.S.’s purchasing power. We Climate Change Agreement this October or able: My Story, My Way (2013), the 15-track need to treat this as a public good and end the issues of food and education that have soundtrack became Rivera’s first showing on Page 13 of 26
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the chart since Nov. 2016. fashion, and key events in these artists ca- While we have yet to see Luis Miguel’s reers that became cultural moments and we Insomniac catalog have a resurgence on Billboard’s see this reflected in the incredible creativity charts following his Netflix original series’ thriving in the app around these biopics.” Ruling Upheld second season release in April, biopics Luis Miguel joining the app with an of- inspired by the lives of Latin music icons are ficial account was also key as he “offered Despite Appeal having a moment — and, at the same time, a main source of content where users can propelling their music back onto and up the discover historic moments offering a new That Judge charts. The direct correlation between the layer of support to the biopic,” adds Ruiz, various series and the increases in cata- who credits Netflix for engaging users to Was Heavily log consumption for the respective artists join conversations through content related featured in them is a no-brainer, says Fran- campaigns. “As a result encourages unprec- Medicated cisco Ramos, vice president content Latin edented virality of the content.” America at Netflix. From Telemundo to Netflix and Tik- BY DAVE BROOKS “These stories are not only helping fans Tok, the discovery of series or music isn’t rediscover music from their favorite Latin linear anymore like it once was before. In ven if retired judge George Schia- musicians, but are also creating a whole new a multigenerational Hispanic household, velli was taking medication strong generation of fans that are hearing some of “someone who is in their late 40s may have enough to “knock out a horse” this music for the first time,” he says. “Music seen [Mariposa de Barrio] on television in when he ruled in favor of Insom- and entertainment in general have some of 2017 and then someone younger discovered Eniac founder Pasquale Rotella in a dispute the biggest fans, so naturally putting the two it on Netflix and a teenager discovered it on over a mid-2000s rave festival, a California together creates the ultimate fan experi- TikTok,” Rosado points out. “So I think the appeals court judge ruled earlier this week ence. Through the portrayal of their life future of successful productions is going to that the November 2018 ruling stands. stories we can also get a glimpse into the be that. We need to be relevant for everyone, That’s because Rotella’s former part- world they lived in and how much audienc- from the abuela to the teen.” ners, Brian Alper and Brett Ballou, did es shaped them and they shaped culture.” But ultimately, the binding of generations, not protest Schiavelli’s pill popping during It also captures the zeitgeist of Latin new and old fans, is a testament to an artist’s the arbitration hearing, said judge Eileen music now that the genre has established ability to create music that is timeless and C. Moore, citing the principle of “you a stronger foothold in the mainstream what makes these series uniquely impactful, snooze, you lose” in a snappy ruling. She says Romina Rosado, EVP Entertainment & says Ramos. “We are investing in local sto- said the pair should have addressed the is- Content Strategy at NBCUniversal Telemun- ries and local stars, and making those stories sue during the original nine-day hearing and do Enterprises. “If you think at the history so people all over the world can discover demanded that Schiavelli disqualify himself of hip-hop, it’s influenced everything — and and fall in love with them too.” at that time. I think what we see now is that Latin music The dispute is linked to a disagreement is having a similar effect,” he says. “Where over the future of the How Sweet It Is music it’s gone from being a niche genre that only festival, which ran from 1999 to 2001. Ro- Hispanics listen to, to a trend-setting genre tella helped revive and finance the festival that is influencing everything.” in 2005 but had a falling out with Alper and The aforementioned series also created a Ballou over the future of the event in 2010. buzz on TikTok with users on the platform Alper and Ballou claimed Rotella created joining the conversation by breaking down a competing event called Beyond Wonder- an episode, reacting to the music they’ve land, which still operates today, and that just discovered from watching the series or they were owed a piece of the festival. doing a “fun facts” video about the artist. The legal fight went to arbitration, where “TikTok’s unique format is really the case was heard by Schiavelli, who changing the way music is being discov- eventually ruled against Alper and Ballou, ered in a way that has never been done saying the men bore most of the responsibil- before,” says Rob Ruiz, head of music ity for the collapse of their relationship with operations for TikTok Mexico. “In addition, Rotella and Insomniac due to their “cavalier anything nostalgia-oriented has the poten- and essentially non-negotiable attitude.” tial to become a huge trend on TikTok — not Schiavelli also noted that the lawsuit wasn’t only the music, which is a special part of filed against Insomniac until three years TikTok’s creative DNA, but also hairstyles, after the initial dispute, following the pur- Page 14 of 26
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chase of Insomniac by Live Nation for $44 In her opinion, Moore stated that the reveal specific amounts. million in 2013. comment about the drugs being strong “We’re looking at groups that are doing During the arbitration, Schiavelli told enough to “knock out a horse” was “obvi- this work from a very grassroots perspec- both parties “that he was [a] party to a ously humorous hyperbole that no one tive… providing services to communities on personal injury action” related to a fall would have taken seriously.” Besides, the the ground,” says Austin of how organiza- from a malfunctioning escalator in Encino, judge continued, “plaintiffs did not make tions are chosen. “We want to make sure California, Moore recounted in her decision. a demand at any point to disqualify the that we are touching and impacting people He told both sides “that his injuries were arbitrator, nor did they even question the and communities with our work.” causing him great pain, and that he was tak- arbitrator’s ability to conduct the hearing. Recipients are chosen by “a group of task ing powerful painkillers that `would knock a Indeed, plaintiffs’ counsel made a strategic forces” employed by Sony across the globe. horse out.’” decision ‘to finish the arbitration hearing Those selected then go through a “vetting “On the first day of the hearing he pulled and hope for the best.’” and due diligence process” before being sent out his pill bottle and stated he was taking his Billboard reached out to both Insomniac to an advisory committee for review and 10 mg of Percocet to help with his pain,” Alp- and lawyers for Alper and Ballou but did not final approval. er wrote in a sworn statement. “He typically receive a response. After receiving the funds, the organiza- took the medication with a soda or similar tions – known as “non-profit partners” drink before or after his lunch. Initially the – report back to Sony on how the money is Percocet use wasn’t a major concern until the Sony Music’s being used. end of the first week of the arbitration when I “We operate in terms of a full grant noticed facts being mixed up.” Global Justice process, in terms of making sure that it’s At one point in the hearing, Schiavelli going through a very strategic process for pulled out a large bag “revealing multiple Fund Taps 90+ consideration and also making sure that we prescription bottles” and considered offer- are getting information on the impact that ing Alper and Ballou’s attorney a painkiller New Recipients they’re providing in these communities, the before changing his mind, saying, “I’d give work that they’re doing, the demographics you one of these, but it would probably BY CHRIS EGGERTSEN that they’re serving,” says Austin, “just mak- knock you out and you wouldn’t be any good ing sure that they’re hitting their goals.” to anybody,” according to court documents. ony Music Group is set to provide Sony is not naming third-round recipients Alper and Ballou’s lawyer also observed that funding to over 90 additional at this time. Schiavelli was “unusually thirsty and con- international, national and regional Since its founding, the fund has doled stantly drank large amounts of Gatorade and non-profits via its $100 million out money to organizations including the energy drinks” during the hearing. SGlobal Social Justice Fund, the company mental health non-profit Silence the Shame Lawyers for Alper and Ballou later sued announced today. (founded by former Universal Motown to strike Schiavelli’s ruling favoring Ro- The fund, which was unveiled last June, executive Shanti Das), the National Museum tella, arguing that “the Arbitrator failed to was established to support social justice and of African American Music and 3T Course, a disclose his alleged inability to conduct or anti-racist initiatives. This is the third fund- U.K. non-profit that provides technical train- timely complete the proceedings,” according ing round to date, bringing the total number ing to Black women in the touring industry. to court documents. of organizations supported to more than Another recipient from a previous round, Rotella’s attorney Gary Kaufman said 300 around the world. the Young Urban Arts Foundation (YUAF) he believed the use of medication had no The allocation breakdown in this funding in the U.K., provides workshops designed to impact on Schiavelli, noting he “interjected round is 24% educational initiatives, 23% drive creativity in at-risk youth. with pointed questions, paid full attention, civic and community engagement programs, “Working with Sony artists and Sony staff heard and ruled on motions and objections” 21% civil rights and social justice organiza- in our online programme; Thrive & Con- and said Alper and Ballou’s attorney never tions, 17% youth advocacy organizations and nect has added so much value to what we mentioned their objection to the taking of 15% additional equal rights, cultural and are doing and opening doors of aspiration medication during the arbitration hearing. wellness programs. The work of the chosen that YUAF can offer our young people,” said The ruling made by Schiavelli, who died organizations impacts communities in YUAF founder Kerry O’Brien in a state- of cancer in Sept. 2019, was first appealed Africa, Australia, Canada, the Latin America ment. “The panel sessions will help them to an Orange County judge, who declined region, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S. broaden their perspectives of working in to overturn it. It was then appealed to the All funds provided to recipients are the industry, by discovering new ways they Court of Appeals of California, Fourth Dis- “need-based,” says Towalame Austin, can work in a record label or in publishing, trict in Orange County, where Moore was SMG executive vp philanthropy and social rather than just going down the artist route. assigned to the case. impact, who added the company does not Working with Doctored Sound delivering Page 15 of 26
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education on Black History is also hugely virus in November, lifted the state’s mask The Terry Bison Ranch shows debuted beneficial to everyone learning the crucial mandate in March and eliminated restric- last June, when local club promoter Ely history that undeniably shaped music.” tions on outdoor events. Colorado, by com- Corliss brought in Robert Randolph and Also receiving funds in a previous round parison, has a full page of outdoor-event Yonder Mountain String Band for drive-in was the Canada-based non-profit Pour 3 rules, such as mandating six feet of distance concerts, which evolved into a “pod” model Points, which offers athletic programs for between all attendees. of restricting groups of fans to their own youth from underserved neighborhoods. “We can be working with a different space on the field. Friday’s EDM show, the “Our partnership with Sony adds a brick state’s rules that might be a little more flex- first of two nights, was the first full-on, to the foundation of the vision and the mis- ible,” says Don Strasburg, co-president of general-admission concert at the venue. sion of our organization,” says Pour 3 Points AEG Presents Rocky Mountains and Pacific “We just made our changes as the world philanthropic development advisor Ericka Northwest, “and we’re still within a foot of kept changing,” he says, adding that he Alneus. “Sony realizes that we play a role in our own state.” hopes AEG and other promoters continue to the community supporting under supported As vaccinations increase — Wyoming’s book Wyoming shows after the pandemic. youth in the community and the coaches population is 29% fully vaccinated, ac- Others in the concert business are open to that we train. The impact to ensure social cording to the New York Times, compared the idea, but skeptical fans will venture so equality is important. Our partnership is the to 36% in Colorado — concerts have been far from traditional touring routes. start of a conversation that demonstrates slowly coming back. About 110 miles south, “I don’t think this’ll be like playing Boston what can be done in the community when in Morrison, Colo., Red Rocks Amphitheatre on a Tuesday or Minneapolis on a Thurs- corporate companies partner with organiza- has put on shows at 25% capacity since April day,” says Lee Anderson, a Wasserman agent tions such as ours.” 23, while Texas and other states are doing who represents Skrillex, Zedd and Disclo- limited-capacity indoor and outdoor shows sure. “But if the property is enjoyable, and with major names like Miranda Lambert it’s somewhat doable to get to, we’re always Wyoming Is and Thomas Rhett. looking for new places.” “I jumped at the chance,” says Jesse Friday night’s EDM event mostly carried Kicking Off the “Subtronics” Kardon, who curated this on as if the pandemic had never happened, past weekend’s EDM events in Cheyenne. with Subtronics bouncing up and down as Rocky Mountains “They’re doing COVID screenings at the his beats synced to exploding plumes of fire door, temperature checks, 50% capacity, and smoke and Calcium declaring before Concert sanitizing everything constantly. The fact a bass drop: “Who’s ready to get mega- that I feel safe about a GA event in this day punched straight in the face?” But several Comeback With and age is surreal and exciting.” Friday headliners seemed moved by the Although “Masks Strongly Encouraged” novelty of an audience. Patrick Megeath, the Few Restrictions signs were posted at the entrance to the Boulder DJ known as Dirt Monkey, held up ranch, which has a full capacity of 5,000, his toddler son during his set and repeatedly BY STEVE KNOPPER few fans wore them, and not everyone praised the crowd’s enthusiasm, proclaim- had received vaccine shots. Michael Gay, a ing at the end of his set, “That was one of HEYENNE, Wyo. — Taking the 23-year-old Cheyenne resident, is waiting for the best hours of my life.” stage not far from trucks roaring the distribution center where he works to down Interstate 25 in Cheyenne, set them up. “I personally feel safe,” says Gay, Wyo., with the faint smell of who hopes the ranch events lead to more Cmanure in the air, Subtronics announced prominent local concerts. “It is weird to be to a fist-pumping EDM crowd packed into able to go out in crowds. It’s quite nice.” a general-admission pit: “I’m going to cry! For all its minimal restrictions, Wyoming We’re really back right now. Is this real?” is not exactly a COVID refuge: The state Despite the unusual location, at the has reported 58,623 cases and 710 deaths, 27,500-acre Terry Bison Ranch just north of compared to 523,758 and 6,489 in Colorado. the Colorado-Wyoming border, the windy “We’re encouraging people to do some Friday-night show drew 2,000 kids in neon distancing and wear some face masks,” and fishnets and mostly felt “normal” after says Kathy Emmons, executive director of nearly 14 months of COVID-19 isolation. the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health De- AEG Presents’ Denver office promoted partment. “I’m realistic and know that’s not the show here, in part because Gov. Mark going to happen 100%.... If they’re outside, Gordon (R), who tested positive for the there are no public-health orders.” Page 16 of 26
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get you close. My thesis was that can we use New Video the technology to actually do something.” Wynn Resorts DiLorenzo decided to focus on engi- Platform 2GTHR neering a platform where fans could have Puts a Nightclub on-screen conversations with artists and Connects Fans virtually join them onstage. The technology, in End Zone at he says, makes livestreams feel more like With Guitarists live events with the interactivity between Las Vegas’ fans and the artist given a new dimension. for Interactive “Most technology platforms that exist Allegiant Stadium today, they’re either built for one way web- Livestreams casts like webinars or streamed concerts, or BY MELINDA SHECKELLS they’re built like zoom for a video confer- BY DAVE BROOKS ence, which is terrible for music. So we set one are the days when a sky- out to build something optimized for high- box or suite are considered the ong-time media executive Marc quality streams uploaded from the artists so best seats at a stadium game or DiLorenzo has launched a new in- that the music and video and audio are high concert. When the new Allegiant teractive video streaming platform depth and high quality,” he says. “We also GStadium in Las Vegas officially opens this created specifically for guitar- took advantage of the thing that is sort of summer, arguably the most coveted vantage Lbased music. uniquely valuable that you can do with the point will be from the party happen- After a beta period, streaming platform technology, like having someone raise their ing at field level. 2GTHR.co opened to the public Monday hand and come on screen and meet their A first in stadium entertainment, Wynn (May 10). For subscription ranging from heroes face to face.” Resorts is partnering with the Las Ve- $9.99 to $11.99, fans get access to live and The ability to ask questions and partici- gas Raiders to create Wynn Field Club, achieved performances with high-def video pate is included with subscription pric- which spans the entire length of the north and audio by guitarists like Blackberry ing. Artists are payed a performance fee for end zone and brings the vibe of the city’s Smoke’s Charlie Starr and Jeff Healy pro- performing on 2GTHR, which takes care of nightclub scene to a unique environment. tégé Philip Sayce. 2GTHR.co also allows promoting and marketing the show, and the Just imagine Wynn Nightlife talent like The fans to have one-on-one relationships streaming technology is simple to set up and Chainsmokers, Diplo, Alesso or Shaquille with artists and the ability to join perform- requires very little engineering, DiLoren- O’Neal, a.k.a. DJ Diesel, plucked straight ers “onstage” as they livestream from their zo says. from XS and Encore Beach Club, perform- homes, studios or elsewhere for face-to- Participating artists include Josh Smith, ing at halftime or pre/post-event festivi- face live Q&As and chats. named 16th best living blues guitar player ties for around 700 people enjoying bottle “We’re a VIP meet-and-greet platforms, in the world by Guitar World magazine; service as they would in a club. DJs also can paired with a social network and a live American electric blues guitarist, singer and be on display to perform for 65,000 fans in stream concert,” explains DiLorenzo, a songwriter Kirk Fletcher; British blues the stadium. former executive with Fox Television, 20th guitarists Matt Schofield; Jimmy Page col- Headliners have yet to be announced, Century Fox and Disney, who has helped laborator Audley Freed and performer and although it is confirmed that WFC will bring legacy company’s video businesses chair of the Guitar department at Los Ange- host its first event July 10 as Garth Brooks into the streaming age. les College of Music Molly Miller. christens the fully enclosed and climate- DiLorenzo is lifelong fan of music, who controlled stadium—completed in 2020, but took a three-year sabbatical in the 2000s to yet to host a full capacity event. work full-time as a music composer for film “[At] Wynn Field Club, ticketed guests and television. He’s also a guitar enthusiast will be able to enjoy a stadium experience and performer who noticed an uptick in that is one-of-a-kind in the sports and en- guitar interest during the pandemic at all tertainment capital of the world,” says Bran- levels as well as a huge rise in popularity of don Doll, the Raiders senior vice president, guitar-based music, instruction and retail. strategy and business development. “Wynn “I’ve always wanted to get closer to the Field Club offers an upgraded high-energy artist — to know something about them, nightlife experience in the center of the “ DiLorenzo says his motivation for founding action. The nearly 11,000 square foot venue 2GTHR. “The traditional paid meet-and- will feature over-the-top access that can great gets you proximity, but they don’t really only be found in Las Vegas.” Page 17 of 26
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Wynn executives say WFC will have a pri- 1933. A singer in his church’s gospel choir vate entrance with a dedicated VIP Host. Lloyd Price, growing up, he helped draw national atten- When inside at one of the 29 booths or 18 tion to New Orleans’ unique and burgeoning dining tables, expect tiered shellfish towers, ‘Personality’ R&B sound when he landed his first No. 1 pirate ship sushi boats, 40-oz bone-in toma- R&B hit with 1952’s “Lawdy Miss Clawdy,” hawk steaks, giant pretzels, chicken tenders and ‘Stagger Lee’ released through Los Angeles-based Spe- and even Raider Nation silver and black cialty Records. Follow-up singles such as nachos. And you just know there’ll be elabo- Singer, Dies at 88 “Oooh-Oooh-Oooh,” “Ain’t It a Shame” and rate, themed bottle parades with confetti. Tell Me Pretty Baby” reached top 10 R&B On the technology side, there are 42 televi- BY GAIL MITCHELL between 1952-53. sions, a 9-foot by 35-foot LED screen that is However, after a stint in the army, Price just large enough to accommodate the big- loyd Price, the Rock and Roll Hall didn’t reign on the charts again until 1957. gest spender’s name in lights, a 45,000-watt of Famer behind the groundbreak- That’s when “Just Because” notched No. sound system and two DJ booths. The sound ing 1950s pop/R&B hits “Personal- 3 R&B and became his first pop crossover system has acoustic speakers, amplifiers and ity” and “Stagger Lee,” has died. at No. 29. The single was the first release processors, in addition to specialized ‘silent’ LHe was 88. through Price’s own KRC Records with subwoofers for the on-field booths. Theatri- Although media outlets reported that partners Harold Logan and Bill Boskent — cal and architectural lighting by SJ Lighting Price died on May 6, his wife Jackie states and a portent of things to come. features 100 fixtures and lasers set in tradi- he passed away on May 3. With distribution through ABC Records, tional Raiders colors moving light through- In a statement she sent to Billboard, KRC issued several more Price classics: out the venue. Jackie wrote: “I am so touched by the out- 1958’s million-selling No. 1 R&B/pop smash The original concept for the club was con- pouring of love and tribute for the passing of “Stagger Lee” (his cover of a folk song about ceived by the Raiders organization in June my husband Lloyd Price, who passed peace- a real-life murder), the 1959 million-selling 2017 after they visited Wynn Nightlife’s fully on May 3, 2021 at Schaffer Extended No. 2 pop crossover “Personality” (which Encore Beach Club, says Pauly Freedman, Care in Westchester County, NY. Lloyd’s earned him the nickname “Mr. Personality”) Wynn’s vice president of nightlife. music crossed many boundaries and carried and that same year’s top 3 pop/R&B hit “I’m Manica Architecture, who designed him to all corners of the world. He got the Gonna Get Married.” Subsequent R&B hits Allegiant Stadium, created a space for a nickname ‘Mr. Personality’ because of his between 1959 and 1969 include “Three Little nightclub within the structure. biggest hit but he also earned that name be- Pigs,” “Come Into My Heart,” “Lady Luck,” “In May 2019, the Raiders issued a request cause he was charismatic, generous, smart, “Question,” “Misty” and “Bad Conditions.” for proposal for hospitality management funny, talented with a very kind heart. I am An indie pioneer, singer-songwriter Price services to operate the venue and create a so grateful for everyone who loves his music launched several labels after KRC, among one-of-a-kind quality guest experience,” and have precious memories of his many them Double L Records, LPG Records (with Freedman says. “Wynn Nightlife was award- songs. From the deepest part of me thank boxing promoter Don King) and Turntable. ed the partnership with the Raiders and you, love to all.” Price, an indefatigable entrepreneur, also Allegiant Stadium after a comprehensive, Kenneth Gamble, one-half of the legend- opened a club in New York City named two-year bidding process and will launch ary songwriting/production team Gamble Turntable and delved into several other the new club concept.” & Huff, tells Billboard that Price was “a business ventures, including construction to Wynn Resorts is a founding partner of great dude who helped me, Leon [Huff ] build affordable housing in New York and a Allegiant Stadium, the official nightlife part- and Thom Bell a lot in the early days” when line of Southern-style food products. He also ner of the Las Vegas Raiders and Allegiant the three played as a band at Loretta’s helped the aforementioned King promote Stadium, and an official gaming partner of Hi-Hat club in New Jersey where Price boxing matches, including 1974’s historic the Raiders. sometimes performed. Rumble in the Jungle between Muhammad In addition to Raiders football, Allegiant “We had fun competing with Lloyd, who Ali and George Foreman in Kinshasa, Zaire, Stadium will host the Pac-12 Champion- had a funky band,” Gamble continues. “Not as well as that bout’s preceding Zaire 74 ship Game and the Las Vegas Bowl, as well only was he a talented singer and performer, music festival featuring Bill Withers, James as concerts from major touring acts, and it Lloyd was also a skillful songwriter: ‘Person- Brown, B.B. King, The Spinners and Miri- serves as the home of UNLV Football. The ality’ was a monster of a song as well as oth- am Makeba. stadium project is expected to generate an ers like the slow drag ‘Just Because.’ Always In addition to being inducted into the economic benefit of $620 million annually positive and uplifting, Lloyd was a fearless Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, Price while creating 6,000 permanent jobs in and independent force ... an original.” received the Pioneer Award from the Southern Nevada. A native of the New Orleans suburb Ken- Rhythm and Blues Foundation in 1994, ner, Louisiana, Price was born on March 9, entered the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in Page 18 of 26
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2010 (the same year he performed “Stagger More than 80 artists are set to perform ing department at Warner Chappell and in Lee” on the season one finale of the HBO to the expanded 2021 festival includ- music supervision at Endemol Shine North series Treme) and was inducted into the Na- ing Lil Yachty, Lil Tecca, Gunna, Ski America. tional Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2019. Mask the Slump God, City Girls, Car- Kumble comes to the agency now from He published his autobiography, Lawdy nage, 24kGoldn, The Kid Laroi, Young Familiar Music Group, with five years of Miss Clawdy: The True King of the 50’s — The M.A., NLE Choppa. publishing and artist crossover experience. Lloyd Price Story with co-author William Three-day GA passes are available for In her new role, Kumble will focus on Waller, through Lloyd Price Books in 2009. purchase now here, starting at $260. For supporting and expanding the roster of Price later penned a series of empowering those looking for an elevated festival-going composers and music supervisors that the essays for his 2015 book sumdumhonky. experience, Summer Smash Festival is also music for visual media department repre- In addition to his wife Jackie, Price is offering several different VIP packages, sents, and identifying new PA crossover survived by three daughters and two sons. which are also available for sale today. opportunities for our touring artists in the Among others who shared their memories film & television space. of Price are singer Sarah Dash (LaBelle) Kumble also runs a nonprofit called Girls and his longtime collaborator and friend, Leyla Kumble are Loud, where she puts together all-fe- producer George Kerr. male teams for artists to record singles live, Noted Dash, “I was saddened to hear of Returns to WME shoot music videos and put on shows, for the passing of my friend, Lloyd Price. His which she produces and creative directs. music helped create a dance called the stroll. as Agent for He was ‘Mr. Personality’ personified, always kind; plus he had a great big smile. RIP.” Visual Media Clubhouse Now “Lloyd Price and I have traveled together all over the world,” said Kerr. “Lloyd is the BY DAVE BROOKS Available for beginning of rock ‘n’ roll with songs like ‘Personality,’ ‘Where Were You,’ ‘On Our ME today announced Android Users Wedding Day,’ ‘Lawdy Miss Clawdy’ and that Leyla Kumble has ‘Misty’ to name a few. Lloyd’s legacy will returned to the company BY SHARAREH DRURY live forever. I know Lloyd’s fans all over the as an agent in the music for world are in mourning and so am I. Thank visualW media department, which represents lubhouse has been exclusively GOD there’s no more pain. Lloyd RIP.” world class composers and music supervi- available on iOS since launch. sors including Trent Reznor & Atticus Starting Sunday (May 9), Android Ross, Ludwig Göransson, Max Rich- users in the United States can join Chicago’s Summer ter and Randy Newman. Cin on the audio-only socializing. Headed by Bradley Rainey, WME’s mu- The social media app announced the Smash Festival sic for visual media department had three long-awaited availability for Android users of the five nominations in the Best Original during its weekly Town Hall this Sunday. Returns For 2021 Score category at both this year’s Golden Android users in the U.S. will be able to Globes and Academy Awards. Reznor & download the app starting May 9. Users BY DAVE BROOKS Ross took home wins at both shows for their around the world will be able to pre-register work on Soul. In 2020, the department took via the Clubhouse page in the Google Play ne of the Midwest’s largest home three Emmy Awards and two Ivor Store to be notified as soon as the app is indie music festivals is return- Novello Awards. available in their area. ing as a three-day event, with “Leyla’s ability to nurture the careers of Clubhouse will continue to apply its headliners A$AP Rocky, Lil a broad array of artists is second only to invitation-only system — which allows OBaby and Lil Uzi Vert. her ability to source the perfect material existing community members to invite a Summer Smash Festival, presented by to match those artists with,” says Bradley handful of contacts — for Android users indie hip-hop promoter SPKRBX Presents Rainey, head of music for visual media, “as part of the effort to keep the growth and Cole Bennett’s media platform Lyri- WME. “We are excited to welcome her measured,” according to a statement on the cal Lemonade, will return Aug. 20-22 to to the team as the soundtrack business Android launch. Chicago as a three-day festival in Douglas evolves rapidly.” The announcement comes a week after Park. The 2019 festival last played host to Kumble began her career at WME work- Clubhouse announced beta testing had over 40,000 total attendees across the two- ing with composers and music supervisors, begun for a “handful of friendly testers.” day event. then went on to work in the Sync Licens- “It has been a little over a year since we Page 19 of 26
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set out to build a new type of network — a next few weeks is to collect feedback from Born in San Diego, Kitaen began her jour- more human place on the Internet based on the community, fix any issues we see and ney as an ’80s music video heartthrob by voice, where people from all corners of the work to add a few final features like pay- appearing on several albums for the heavy world could come together to talk, listen, ments and club creation before rolling it out metal band RATT, as well as their “Back for hang out, share, debate, learn from each more broadly.” More” video. She later appeared in a video other, deepen friendships, meet new people, “As a part of the effort to keep the growth for Whitesnake’s 1987 smash hit “Here I Go and experience unforgettable moments measured, we will be continuing the waitlist Again,” along with “Still of the Night,” “Is together,” Paul Davison and Rohan Seth, and invite system, ensuring that each new This Love” and “The Deeper the Love.” as well as the Clubhouse team, shared in a community member can bring along a few Kitaen was briefly married to Whitesnake statement to welcome Android users. close friends. As we head into the sum- lead singer David Coverdale from 1989-1991. “We’ve always taken a measured ap- mer and continue to scale out the backend, Notable film and television roles include proach to growth, keeping the team small, we plan to begin opening up even further, for Kitaen include Witchboard, White building in public, and getting feedback welcoming millions more people in from the Hot, Dead Tides, Santa Barbara, Seinfeld and from the community along the way. When iOS waitlist, expanding language support, most recently Moms Anonymous. She also you scale communities too quickly, things and adding more accessibility features, so recently appeared in several reality shows, can break. So we started Clubhouse on a that people worldwide can experience Club- including The Surreal Life, Botched and Ce- single platform and have expanded gradual- house in a way that feels native to them. lebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. ly through an invite model. Earlier this year, With Android, we believe that Clubhouse Kitaen was also married to baseball player Clubhouse started growing very quickly, will feel more complete. We are so grateful Chuck Finley from 1997 to 2002. They had as people all over the world began inviting to all of the Android users out there for their two daughters together. their friends faster than we had ever ex- patience. Whether you are a creator, a club This article was originally published pected. This had its downsides, as the load organizer, or someone who just wants to by The Hollywood Reporter. stressed our systems—causing widespread explore, we are so excited to welcome you to server outages and notification failures, and the community.” surpassing the limits of our early discovery This article originally appeared on The The Weeknd algorithms. It made us shift our focus to Hollywood Reporter. hiring, fixing, and company building, rather to Perform at than the community meetups and product features that we normally like to focus on. It Tawny Kitaen, 2021 Billboard was an important time of investment, which we think will help us serve the community ‘80s Music Music Awards much better in the long run.” “The good thing about this period is that Video Vixen & BY ASHLEY IASIMONE it has shown us how universal voice is as a medium. The same types of rooms that we ‘Bachelor Party’ he Weeknd will be performing at saw forming last year in the U.S. quickly the 2021 Billboard Music Awards. started forming in Japan, Brazil, and Nige- Star, Dies at 59 The announcement on Monday ria. Farmers in rural Georgia have been mak- (May 10) kicks off a daily count- ing friends with entrepreneurs in Tanzania. BY SHARAREH DRURY Tdown of performers leading up to May 23, Film clubs have formed in India. We’ve seen when the BBMAs will broadcast live from German debate rooms, Italian singalongs, ulie E. “Tawny” Kitaen, who famously the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. and Middle Eastern quiz shows. We’ve seen appeared in several Whitesnake mu- Up for awards in 16 categories — includ- firsthand what we’ve always believed—that sic videos and starred as Tom Hanks’s ing top artist, top male artist and top Hot the need to gather with other humans is uni- fiancée in Bachelor Party, has died. She 100 artist — The Weeknd is the top final- versal. Throughout this period, we have felt Jwas 59. ist at this year’s show, hosted by Nick Jonas. the need to be cross-platform more strongly Kitaen died in her Newport Beach, Calif., The “Save Your Tears” singer is only the than ever,” Davison and Seth continued in home on Friday morning (May 7). The Or- second artist in history to have three No. 1 their statement. “Today, we are thrilled to ange County Coroner’s Office confirmed her singles on the Billboard Hot 100 in three dif- share that Clubhouse for Android will start death via a press release, which listed her as ferent years from one album — After Hours. rolling out in beta immediately. We will be- Tawny Finley. Her cause of death has not yet It was previously revealed that P!nk, who gin gradually, with the U.S. today, followed been released. will receive the Icon Award honoring record- by other English-speaking countries and The Hollywood Reporter has reached out breaking artists and their impact on music, then the rest of the world. Our plan over the to Kitaen’s representatives for comment. will also take the stage for a performance. Page 20 of 26
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The BBMAs celebrate music’s greatest On being in a lockdown for over a year vulnerable. As artists we have to be because achievements, with finalists determined Rozalén: “At the beginning it was a shock we show it in our music. Being vulnerable is by performance on the Billboard charts. because you never think it will happen to part of an artist’s life. As a man, I’ve always Finalists and winners are based on key fan you. I live in Spain and Italy is right next fought against the idea of ‘boys don’t cry’ interactions with music — album and digital door and we thought, ‘that won’t happen and those stereotypes. If you’re a man and song sales, streaming, radio airplay and so- to us.’ Then they tell us to quarantine and you’re not allowing yourself to be vulner- cial engagement — tracked by Billboard and you start living day-to-day. I had a moment able, you’re missing out.” its data partners, including MRC Data. This of euphoria. I had days when I experi- Aguilar: “When you’re vulnerable you year’s awards are based on the chart period enced all sorts of emotions. I’d cry and had have strength. When you try to hide being of March 21, 2020, through April 3, 2021. moments of depression and wasn’t feeling vulnerable, you add another issue because The 2021 Billboard Music Awards are creative at all. A year later, I feel like I’m now you’re lying. It would be awful to live a produced by dick clark productions, which feeling worse than at the beginning. I want life where you can’t be vulnerable because is owned by MRC; MRC and Penske Media to see the light at the end of the tunnel but life is so short. So why live a lie, especially as are co-parent companies of Billboard. Barry I don’t see it yet.” an artist?” Adelman and Robert Deaton are executive Pepe Aguilar: “I see the light. There’s no producers of the show. other option but to see the light and forget Tune in to the BBMAs on May 23 at 8 p.m. about the past. My mother died in Novem- Vibra Urbana ET/5 p.m. PT on NBC. ber and that’s when I understood death and knew she wouldn’t come back but I also Music Festival learned about other forms of eternity. The Ximena Sariñana, only thing left to do now is learn, reflect and Announces take responsibility because we can’t wait for Fito Paez & More others to get us out of this. We have to do Orlando Lineup: that by ourselves. And to do that, we have Reflect On Mental to understand the importance of mental Rauw Alejandro, health. It’s most important to have mental Health at 2021 health in order to get out of this but, un- Sech & More fortunately, it’s not something we all have. LAMC Panel Mental health should be the first thing we BY GRISELDA FLORES learn about at home. Kids should be learning BY GRISELDA FLORES this now. Why do I want my kids to know ollowing its inaugural edition in algebra when they’re going to be depressed Miami in February 2020, Vibra Ur- n the last day of the 2021 Latin in a corner not knowing how to deal with bana Music Festival will make its Alternative Music Conference their emotions?” debut in Orlando with a two-day (LAMC), the “Mental Health for Ximena Sariñana: “This situation has Fevent set to take place July 31 - Aug. 1. the Creative Community” panel made us live a life more transparent. Right Phase one of the lineup includes artists Oreunited Ximena Sariñana, Fito Paez, Ro- now I’m in a closet and you can hear my kids such as Rauw Alejandro, Sech, Mora, Mari- zalén and Pepe Aguilar for a wholesome screaming in the background. It’s important ah Angeliq, Alex Rose, Dalex, Eladio Car- conversation on mindfulness. for others to see that we’re all going through rion, Zion & Lennox, among others, who The panel, presented by Latin Record- this and it’s ok to not be ok right now.” are set to perform at the Orlando Amphithe- ing Academy and MusiCares with Sariñana On being vulnerable ater. Additional artists will be announced in taking the lead as moderator, touched upon Rozalen: “I studied psychology and I the upcoming weeks. life in a pandemic and allowing oneself to learned that being vulnerable was a way “After over a year since our last show as be vulnerable. to normalize many things for other people a result of the pandemic, our team wanted The 23rd annual LAMC took place from who haven’t been able to be vulnerable. to make sure we delivered the most exciting May 4-7 with back-to-back panels on post- Especially as an artist, it’s so important to be and energetic festival for our fans,” Javier pandemic touring and streaming strate- vulnerable because that way, we are saying Caso, founder and partner of Vibra Urbana, gies. For the second year in a row, the LAMC that it’s ok to be this way.” said in a statement. “Being able to bring our offered free registration for all panels, Fito Paez: “If we’re not vulnerable then Vibras to a second city in the Sunshine State workshops and showcases. we simply don’t exist. If we’re not feeling makes us beyond excited.” Below, check out the best quotes from the well, what’s so wrong about saying ‘I’m “We are honored to be bringing some of “Mental Health for the Creative Commu- not feeling well or I’m going through a the biggest and brightest names in the genre nity” panel. hard time.’ I think everyone in this panel is with Rauw Alejandro and Sech, along with Page 21 of 26
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one of the legendary groups in reggaeton, X’s first Def Jam album in 18 years — since all to know that while Joel is leaving and Zion Y Lennox,” added Kirk Taboada, head 2003’s Grand Champ — shares its name with will be pursuing new opportunities, we are of talent and Vibra Urbana partner. “It has one of the rapper’s sons, Exodus Simmons, and will always be brothers. We support him always been a dream of mine to do a reggae- and will feature themes of redemption, in his next chapter, and will always, most ton festival here in my home state. Orlando, according to the statement. Album artwork importantly, remain a family.” I hope you’re ready for us!” is by photographer Jonathan Mannion, a “We know this news is saddening and is Other artists set to perform in Orlando frequent collaborator . going to be as hard for all of you as it is for include Boza, Eix, El Prefe, Emilia, LATE- DMX, who sold more than 74 million us,” they said, addressing the band’s future, NIGHTJIGGY, Marconi Impara, Mario records worldwide in his lifetime, continues “but we appreciate you sticking with us. Duran and Omy de Oro. Tickets will go on- to hold the distinction of being the only art- While it will be different, we are so excited sale Friday, May 14, at 10 a.m. ET at www. ist in history to enter both the Billboard 200 to continue into this new era of CNCO, and vibraurbanafest.com. and Top R&B/Hip-Hop charts with No. 1 can’t wait for all of you to see what we have Growing from a single-day event to two debuts for his first five consecutive career in store for you!” days, Vibra Urbana will also return to Miami albums: It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot (May CNCO wrote, “You guys are what keep at the Miami Dade County Fair & Expo Cen- 1998, with “Ruff Ryders Anthem”), Flesh us going and have us so excited to continue ter on Dec. 18-19. This year, the outdoor fest of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood (December together stronger than ever. For that reason, will transform into an immersive two-day 1998), ... And Then There Was X (1999, with we wanted to give you a final gift all to- experience in a new, open-air format. “Party Up (Up In Here)”), The Great Depres- gether. On Friday, we will perform, the five sion (2001, with “Who We Be”) and Grand of us, one last time for our global livestream Champ (2003, “Where The Hood At?”). concert event.” Posthumous A track listing for Exodus was not avail- Pimentel retweeted the note on his Twit- able at press time. See the cover art below. ter account and updated fans with some DMX Album of words of his own. “It’s time for me to grow an explore new All-New Original CNCO’s artistic avenues, it’s time to start building my own path and career. This is why I’ve Songs ‘Exodus’ Joel Pimentel decided to leave the band,” the Mexican- American artist explained. Is Coming Soon Is Leaving the “To Erick, Chris, Richard and Zabdiel, I truly wish you the best as you continue on BY GIL KAUFMAN Band: ‘We Are with the CNCO legacy,” wrote Pimentel. “We’ve lived through so much together that posthumous album of all- and Will Always we’re family now.” new material from late rap- He added, “I can’t wait to share my new per DMX, Exodus, is due out on Be Brothers’ project with y’all. This is just a new begin- May 28th on Def Jam Recordings. ning.” X’sA longtime collaborator producer Swizz BY ASHLEY IASIMONE See their posts below. Beatz is listed as both the executive pro- AND JESSICA ROIZ ducer and producer of the collection. “My brother X was one of the most pure oel Pimentel is leaving CNCO to move and rare souls I’ve ever met,” Swizz said in on to a new chapter of his career, Bill- a statement about the Grammy-nominated board has learned. Ruff Ryders MC and actor (born Earl The band announced Pimentel’s Simmons), who died at age 50 on April Jdeparture on Sunday (May 9) with a state- 9 after suffering what officials called a ment posted in Spanish and English. His last catastrophic cardiac arrest. “He lived his official appearance with CNCO will be at a life dedicated to his family and music. Most livestreaming concert this Friday (May 14). of all, he was generous with his giving and “We’re sad to tell you that after five and loved his fans beyond measure. This album, a half unforgettable and life changing years X couldn’t wait for his fans all around the together, Friday, May 14th will be Joel’s last world to hear and show just how much he day as a member of CNCO,” the group, who valued each and every single person that just released the covers album Déjà Vu in has supported him unconditionally.” February, wrote on Twitter. “We want you Page 22 of 26
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cepts, including The Warm Up, Sideline Swift is not expected to perform on The J. Cole Dropping Story and Friday Night Lights. Brit Awards with Mastercard 2021 — as the Watch the documentary trailer below. show is officially known. Coldplay is set ‘Applying to open the show for the fifth time in their career, performing their new single “Higher Pressure: The Taylor Swift Set Power.” The show will also include perfor- mances by The Weeknd (performing re- Off-Season’ to Receive Global motely), Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, Griff (this year’s Rising Star award winner), Headie Documentary Icon Award at One, and Rag’n’Bone Man & P!nk with the Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust Choir. BY GIL KAUFMAN 2021 Brit Awards Comedian and actor Jack Whitehall is set to host the Brits for the fourth consecutive . Cole season is upon us. The rapper BY PAUL GREIN year. The show will be held at The O2 arena, revealed on Sunday that his new mov- with a live audience of about 4,000 people, ie, Applying Pressure: The Off-Season aylor Swift will receive the roughly one-fifth of the venue’s capacity. Documentary, will drop at 1 p.m. ET global icon award at the 2021 Jon Monday (May 10) on YouTube. At press Brit Awards, which will be held time there were few details about the Scott on Tuesday, May 11. Swift will The Misfits Lazer-directed film that will accompany the Tbecome the first female artist and the first MC’s upcoming album, The Off-Season. non-English artist to receive the award, Join Sold-Out “This is the moment that a lot of your fa- which the Brits characterize as their high- vorite rappers hit a crossroads,” Cole says in est accolade. The only previous recipients Aftershock the 26-second teaser clip, during which he are Elton John (2014), David Bowie (2016) hops on a midnight flight, toils in the studio and Robbie Williams (2017). Festival 2021 and shoots hoops by himself. “Are you okay The award is given “in recognition of her with getting comfortable? Did you leave immense impact on music across the world Lineup As no stone unturned creatively? And when I and incredible repertoire and achievements thought about that feeling, I was like, ‘Nah, to date.” Headliners I’m not cool with that.’” Swift could leave the event with two The album, due out on Thursday (May awards. She is also nominated for interna- BY TAYLOR MIMS 14) was “years in the making” according to tional female solo artist, an award she won a recent post from Cole about the follow-up in 2015. She is competing in that category he Misfits are back and surpris- to 2018’s KOD. The Off-Season is the first of with four other American artists — Ariana ing rock fans with a headlining three albums the rapper teased in a De- Grande, Billie Eilish, Cardi B and Miley appearance at Aftershock 2021. cember 2020 Instagram post that caused Cyrus. On Friday (May 7), festival pro- speculation surrounding his retirement That 2015 win for international female Tducer Danny Wimmer Presents announced from the rap game. According to the post, solo artist is Swift’s only Brit Award to date, that the original lineup for the Misfits will the following albums will be titled It’s a from six nominations. headline Saturday night of the Sacramento, Boy and The Fall-Off, a play on his first mix- Swift has set many records on the U.K. Calif., festival. tape released in 2007, The Come Up. charts, as she has in the U.S. and around The Misfits lineup will include Glenn Last week, he previewed the album via the world. She is the only female artist in Danzig and Jerry Only with Doyle, Dave a new song, “i n t e r l u d e,” which he co- the 21st century to amass seven No. 1 studio Lombardo and Acey Slade. Aftershock will produced with T-Minus and T. Parker. albums on the Official U.K. Albums chart. be their first show together since Decem- The Off-Season cover art is reminiscent The Official Charts Company also reports ber 2019. of his freshman mixtape, The Come Up, that Swift is the U.K.’s top-selling artist of My Chemical Romance was originally set showing Cole standing in the right corner 2021 to date, which is remarkable for an art- to take top billing for the festival, but the with a cool-toned, city background. What’s ist 15 years into her career. group postponed all of their 2021 dates back different is The Off-Season art shows a bas- Swift has amassed 17 top 10 hits on the in April. The original Misfits will fill in ketball hoop set ablaze in the background, Official U.K. Singles chart, but, surprisingly, while Metallica closes out both the Friday potentially a nod to his almost career as a she has landed just one No. 1 single on that and Sunday nights of the four-day event. ball player, and remaining consistent with chart — “Look What You Made Me Do,” Producers also announced a handful of his previous sports-themed album con- which spent two weeks on top in 2017. newly booked acts for the festival that will Page 23 of 26
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take place from Oct. 7 to 10 at Discovery ing Book. It was the first streaming-only tory, which dates to 1992. Park. Dropkick Murphys, In This Moment, album to win a Grammy. “POV” is the third radio single from Anti-Flag, August Burns Red, Black Map, “As the first individual music artist to Grande’s Republic Records album Positions, Blame My Youth, All Good Things, Tempt, distribute a concert film at AMC, Chance after the title cut led for seven weeks begin- and OXYMORRONS will all join the lineup. continues to break new ground in enter- ning in December and “34+35” reigned for They will be in addition to previously an- tainment, and we are thrilled to bring this three weeks in February. nounced acts such as Limp Bizkit, Rancid, incredible event to the big screen at AMC Grande previously came within a notch The Offspring, Machine Gun Kelly, Social communities around the country,” Nikkole of tripling up in the Pop Airplay top 10. On Distortion, Rise Against, Pennywise and more. Denson-Randolph, svp of content strategy the Feb. 9, 2019, chart, her “Thank U, Next” The news of the Misfits comes after the & inclusive programming at AMC Theatres, ranked at No. 2, “7 Rings” blasted 21-10 and festival sold out its 2021 edition (passes said in a press release. “Chance’s love of not “Breathin” dipped 7-11. Timbaland likewise are still available on resale site, Vivid Seats only film, but the communal magic of the charted three songs in the top 11 spots for here). Fans who purchased singe day tickets cinemas and the shared experience of see- two weeks in November 2007, after Usher for Saturday should expect an email for ing a film together makes this collaboration landed a trio in the top 11 ranks for two their pass options. even more special.” frames in July 2004. Check out the full lineup below. Magnificent Coloring World is directed Nearly a year ago, Grande was also scor- by Jake Schreier and produced by Chano’s ing concurrent Pop Airplay hits, with “Stuck House of Kicks and Park Pictures. The With U,” with Justin Bieber, and “Rain on Chance the concert film will exclusively be released in Me,” with Lady Gaga. At the time, Erik Brad- AMC theaters in summer 2021. ley, music director at chart reporters KNOU Rapper Is Chance wrote and directed a one-hour (97.1 Now!) Los Angeles and WBBM-FM virtual holiday concert film Chi-Town (B96) Chicago, mused that the format had Celebrating the Christmas in December, which paid homage room for both Grande tracks. “No worries to his favorite childhood Christmas movies on that,” he said. “We tend to toss out the 5th Anniversary and TV sitcoms and featured performances standard artist separation preferences and of songs from his joint album with Jer- become more concerned with playing hits. of ‘Coloring emih, Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama: The Gift She’s strongly on the A-list.” That Keeps on Giving. “POV” is Grande’s 19th Pop Songs top 10, Book’ With a Watch the Magnificent Coloring a run that began with “Problem” (her first World teaser trailer below. of eight No. 1s) in June 2014. She boasts the Concert Film most top 10s of any act in that span, ahead of Bieber (15), Taylor Swift, The Weeknd (11 BY HERAN MAMO 3 Top 10 each), Maroon 5 and Ed Sheeran (10 each). All charts will update Tuesday, May 11, hance the Rapper announced on ‘Positions’: on Billboard.com. Friday (May 7) that he will release his concert film Magnificent Col- Ariana Grande oring World with AMC Theatres Luis Fonsi & Rauw Cthis summer. Makes History on Magnificent Coloring World marks the Alejandro’s ‘Vacío’ fifth anniversary of the Chicago rapper’s Pop Airplay Chart iconic third mixtape Coloring Book, which Hits No. 1 on Latin he supported with the 2016 Magnificent BY GARY TRUST Coloring World Tour and one-day home- Pop Airplay Chart town music festival Magnificent Coloring riana Grande scores a first Day Festival, which set an attendance on Billboard’s mainstream top 40 BY PAMELA BUSTIOS record for White Sox’s Cellular One Field radio-based Pop Airplay chart, with upwards of 47,000 concertgoers. thanks to three of her hits. uis Fonsi and Rauw Alejandro’s Chance made history at the 2017 Grammy AAs “POV” rises 13-10 on Pop Airplay, join- “Vacío” takes over atop Bill- Awards, where the independent artist was ing former No. 1s “Positions,” at No. 6, and board’s Latin Pop Airplay chart nominated for seven awards and won best “34+35,” at No. 9 (on the chart dated May as the duet rises from No. 3 on the new artist, best rap performance for “No 15), Grande becomes the first artist to post LMay 8-dated survey. The song jumps 3-1 Problem,” and best rap album for Color- three concurrent top 10s in the survey’s his- boosted by a 21% lift in audience impres- Page 24 of 26
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sions, to 6.7 million, earned in the week end- in part to a remix featuring Bugzy Malone, ing May 2, according to MRC Data. Royal Blood Fivio Foreign, Darkoo, Buni, ArrDee, and Luis Fonsi earns his ninth No. 1 on the E1 & ZT. chart after “Perfecta” with Farruko reigned Splashes at “Over 69 years, the Official Singles Chart for two weeks starting in Dec. 2020. Rauw has seen a multitude of different genres pio- picks up his third, and second of the year, No. 1 In U.K. neering a new Number 1 sound,” comments following “Baila Conmigo,” his two-week Martin Talbot, CEO of the Official Charts champ alongside Selena Gómez (March With ‘Typhoons’ Company. “The fantastic achievement this 13-dated list). week of Tion Wayne and Russ Millons “Vacío” is the fourth male co-billed duet BY LARS BRANDLE marks a brand new high point for drill and to top Billboard’s Latin Pop Airplay chart perhaps the beginning of a new era for the in 2021, one of which, as previously men- oyal Blood’s Typhoons (Warner Official Singles Chart.” tioned, also includes Luis Fonsi: “Perfecta,” Records) is a force of nature on With the “Body” blow, Lil Nas X’s “Mon- with Farruko (Jan. 2). In between, two other the U.K. albums chart, where it tero (Call Me By Your Name)” falls after five dual male pairings took the crown: Ozuna bows at No. 1 by outselling the weeks at the summit, down 1-2; while Doja and Camilo’s “Despeinada” (four weeks Rrest of the Top 5 combined. Cat’s “Kiss Me More” (Ministry of Sound) starting Jan. 9-dated list) and Sebastian Typhoons rips through the week with featuring SZA rises 6-3, a new peak. Yatra and Guaynaa’s “Chica Ideal” (three- 32,000 chart sales, including 24,000 on Finally, Billie Eilish bags this week’s week champ starting Feb. 2). physical formats and the most digital highest new entry with “Your Power” (In- “Vacío” is among a handful of songs of downloads of the cycle, the OCC reports, terscope). It’s new at No. 5 for the U.S. pop late to find reception among both Latin pop for the biggest opening week for a British star’s seventh U.K. Top 10. and Latin rhythmic audiences and radio. It act in 2021. continues its ascent on the Latin Rhythm It’s the alternative rock duo’s third Airplay chart (9-7) to become the fifth Latin leader following 2014’s self-titled debut and Coldplay pop song No. 1 of 2021 to make it to the top 2017’s How Did We Get So Dark?. 10 of the Latin Rhythm Airplay chart, fol- The Brighton pair lead a Top 10 crammed Blasting to U.K. lowing four other titles which led Latin Pop with new releases. Merseyside act The Cor- Airplay before: Ozuna and Camilo’s “Despei- al snag a sixth Top 10 LP and highest-chart Top 10 With nada,” Sebastian Yatra and Guaynaa’s “Chica position in 18 years with Coral Island (Run Ideal,” Selena Gomez and Rauw Alejandro’s On), new at No. 2. ‘Higher Power’ “Baila Conmigo” and Karol G, Anuel AA and Mick Fleetwood & Friends’ live trib- J Balvin’s “Location.” ute Celebrating The Music of Peter BY LARS BRANDLE “Vacío” concurrently enters the top 10 Green (BMG) debuts at No. 3, just ahead on the all-genre Latin Airplay chart with of British singer Birdy, whose Young oldplay are powering to the U.K. a 14-9 hike. Luis Fonsi ups his career count Heart (Atlantic) flies in at No. 4. Top 10 for the first time in four to 19 top 10s, while Rauw clams his sixth. Gojira, the French metal band, score their years. “Vacío” was written by Luis Fonsi, Andres first Top 10 album with Fortitude (Roadrun- The iconic British band is away Torres, Mauricio Rengifo, Omar Alfanno ner), new at No. 6, just ahead of Norwegian Cto a solid start with their comeback single, and Rauw Alejandro. DIY singer-songwriter Girl in Red’s debut “Higher Power.” It’s new at No. 3 on the effort If I Could Make It Go Quiet (No. 7 First Look chart, which ranks singles based via Marie Ulven), and Pink Floyd’s Live at on sales and streams generated in the first Knebworth 1990 (No. 8 via Rhino). 48 hours of the week. Completing the Top 10 is DJ Khaled’s Coldplay have impacted the Top 10 on digital-only 12th studio set Khaled Khaled. 18 occasions, most recently with their It’s the most-streamed album of the week, 2017 Chainsmokers collaboration, “Some- according to the OCC, for the Miami pro- thing Just Like This,” peaking at No. 2. ducer’s fourth Top 10. Expect “Higher Power” to enjoy a bump There’s a new No. 1 on the Official U.K. following Chris Martin and Co.’s perfor- Singles Chart as Tion Wayne and Russ mance of the song Sunday (May 9) on Amer- Millions’ “Body” becomes the first drill ican Idol, and again at the top of the 2021 track to lead the survey. Brit Awards this Tuesday (May 11). “Body” lifts 4-1 on scoring 71,000 chart At the summit of the chart blast is current sales, including 10.7 million streams, thanks No. 1 “Body,” by Tion Wayne & Russ Mil- Page 25 of 26
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lions. Last Friday, the single lifted 4-1 to be- Nominees for top social artist are: come the first drill track to lead the Official BLACKPINK Bob Dylan Visual U.K. Singles Chart. It’s the most-streamed BTS song of the weekend, the OCC reports. Ariana Grande ‘Retrospectrum’ Following the release of his sophomore SB19 album Life By Misadventure, Rag’n’Bone Seventeen Exhibition Man is eyeing a new peak with “Any- Fans may vote on Twitter and on bill- where Away From Here,” his collaboration board.com/BBMAsVote. To vote on Twit- Coming to U.S. with Pink. It’s up 31-11 on the First Look ter for top collaboration include #BBMAs- survey. The pair will perform the duet live at TopCollab + Collaboration Song Name in a BY GIL KAUFMAN the BRITs, to be held at London’s O2 Arena. tweet. To vote on Twitter for top social artist Finally, The Kid Laroi’s “Without You” include #BBMAsTopSocial + @FinalistTwit- comprehensive visual exhibition continues to climb in the U.K., thanks to a terHandle in a tweet. of Bob Dylan’s artwork will show new remix with Miley Cyrus. It’s up 30-13, Song titles for top collaboration Twitter in the U.S. for the first time in and is on track for a new high. voting: November when it touches down “Without You” is the current leader on Mood atA Florida International University’s Frost the Australian chart, making the move 10-1 I Hope Museum. Retrospectrum is described in a in its 22nd week. Go Crazy release as the “most expansive and detailed” The Official U.K. Singles Chart is pub- ROCKSTAR exhibition of Dylan’s artwork ever seen on lished late Friday local time. WHATS POPPIN U.S. soil. Handles for top social artist Twitter voting: The show will open on Nov. 30 at the @BLACKPINK Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum on the Fan Voting in Two @BTS_twt FIU campus, and will span six decades of @ArianaGrande Dylan’s drawing, painting and sculpture. “ Billboard Music @SB19Official The exhibition’s curation has been de- @pledis_17 signed to showcase the development and Award Categories According to the official rules, Twit- diversity in Dylan’s visual practice, while ter votes must be from public accounts. immersive and interactive displays will Is Now Open Fans may vote for only one finalist and one simultaneously illuminate the context of category at a time. A re-tweet of a valid vote that development in tandem with that of his BY PAUL GREIN from a public account also counts as a vote, musical and literary canon,” read a state- subject to daily vote limits. Fans may vote ment announcing the show. oting in two fan-voted catego- up to 10 times per day, per category, per “When I saw the catalogue representing ries which will be presented at platform. the beautiful and comprehensive Bob Dylan: the upcoming Billboard Music For more information, visit: billboardmu- Retrospectrum exhibition that premiered in Awards opened on Monday sicawards.com/vote Shanghai in 2019, I knew immediately that (MayV 10) at 12 p.m. ET / 9 a.m. PT. The cat- The Billboard Music Awards are produced I wanted to bring this iconic artist’s rarely egories are top collaboration and top social by dick clark productions, which is owned by seen visual works to South Florida, to be artist. MRC. MRC and Penske Media are co-parent enjoyed by our students, our broader com- Voting closes on Friday, May 21 at 11:59:59 companies of Billboard. munity and visitors from across the country p.m. PT. The BBMAs will presented on Sun- and around the globe,” said FIU president day May 23. Nick Jonas is set to host the Mark B. Rosenberg about the collection that show. P!nk will receive the icon award. The focuses on Dylan’s life-long visual artwork Weeknd, who led this year’s list of final- as part of a broader look at his Nobel Prize- ists with 16 nods, is the first performer to winning body of musical accomplishments. be announced. The exhibition will open at the same time Nominees for top collaboration are: as FIU’s humanities and arts hub, The Wolf- 24kGoldn ft. iann dior, “Mood” sonian Public Humanities Lab (WPHL), Gabby Barrett ft. Charlie Puth, “I Hope” will present DYLAN@FIU, a symposium Chris Brown & Young Thug, “Go Crazy” “exploring the myriad facets of Bob Dylan’s DaBaby ft. Roddy Ricch, “ROCKSTAR” career and cultural influence.” Both will be Jack Harlow ft. DaBaby, Tory Lanez, & Lil timed with Miami Art Week, with further Wayne, “WHATS POPPIN” programming and event information to be Page 26 of 26
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announced soon. original music and covers. The produc- order expected. The first exhibition of Dylan’s art- tion counts Jason Owen, one of music’s top Fox has yet to renew any of its live-action work, The Drawn Blank Series, opened at managers, among its exec producers. He is scripted originals for next season. Instead, Kunstsammlungen Chemnitz, Germany expected to bring his wealth of knowledge it’s made early decisions on its animated in 2007 and since then his work has been and relationships to make a mark on the se- slate with renewals for Bob’s Burgers, Dun- shown at the National Portrait Gallery ries as his client roster includes such artists canville, Family Guy, The Great North and in London, the National Gallery of Den- as Kacey Musgraves, Faith Hill, Little Big staple The Simpsons. That leaves 911 and its mark, the Palazzo Reale in Milan and the Town and the estates of Johnny and June spinoff, Prodigal Son, The Resident and multi- Modern Art Museum (MAM) Shanghai in Carter Cash. Sources say some of Owen’s cam comedy Call Me Kat on the bubble, with China, for which Retrospectrum was ini- clients are expected to appear and/or per- animated comedy Housebroken due in May. tially conceived and where it drew 100,000 form on the series, which will begin casting Follow the status of the remaining pilots in visitors in its first three months. immediately. contention with THR‘s guide and keep track When Fox picked up the script nearly of all the renewals, cancellations and new two years ago, the drama was poised to be a series orders with our handy scorecard. Country Music co-production between the network and its This article was originally published former in-house Gail Berman-led SideCar by The Hollywood Reporter. Drama Produced content development accelerator. SideCar was disbanded last summer, with Berman by Talent Manager returning to run her production company, The Jackal Group. (SideCar and Jackal oper- Jason Owen ated independently of one another.) Ber- man continues to exec produce the series Lands Fox alongside Jackal’s Hend Baghdady as well as Owen via his Sandbox Entertainment. Series Order Monarch joins Our Kind of People in bypassing the traditional pilot process and BY LESLEY GOLDBERG scoring a straight to series order at Fox for the 2021-22 broadcast season as the ox’s 2021-22 scripted lineup con- network, like others, continues to focus tinues to take shape. Hours after on year-round development. Both shows, the network ordered The Clean- which went from development to writers’ ing Lady, the Charlie Collier-led room before being picked up to series, had Fbroadcaster handed out a series pickup been in the works for years. to Monarch, a country music drama that has All told, Monarch is Fox’s fifth series been in the works since September 2019. order for the 2021-22 broadcast season. Created by relative newcomer Melissa It joins The Cleaning Lady, Scott Foley London Hilfers and showrun by Michael drama The Big Leap, the Lee Daniels- Rauch (Royal Pains, Instinct), Monarch is produced Our Kind of People and Paul Feig also Fox’s first fully owned live-action mockumentary This Country. The net- scripted original series that is fully owned work, which recently bailed on Thursday by the independent network. Night Football (which heads to Amazon Monarch is described as a Texas-sized, in 2022), also has an untitled animated multigenerational musical drama about comedy from Rick and Morty co-creator America’s first family of country music. Dan Harmon (which it also fully owns) due The Romans are fiercely talented, but while in 2022 and an update of Fantasy Island set their name is synonymous with honesty, for August. the very foundation of their success is a lie. As for Fox’s remaining pilot slate, fellow When their reign as country royalty is put 2020 holdovers Blood Relative, the un- in jeopardy, Nicky Roman, the heir to the titled Goonies re-enactment project (which crown, already battling an industry stacked was never cast) and comedy Pivoting remain against her, will stop at nothing to protect in contention. Fox is expected to make her family’s legacy. decisions on its remaining slate pilots in the The series, written by Hilfers, will feature coming days, with a potential comedy series