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Showing posts from October, 2025

From Universal’s landmark Udio deal to DistroKid’s new merch launch… it’s MBW’s Weekly Round-Up

The biggest news from the past week - all in one place Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/from-universals-landmark-udio-deal-to-openais-500bn-music-ambitions-its-mbws-weekly-round-up/

TikTok joins roster of big name partners for the Music Business UK Awards

Less than 100 hours to go - and TikTok joins the party as sponsor of Manager of the Year award Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/tiktok-joins-roster-of-big-name-partners-for-the-music-business-uk-awards/

UMG strikes strategic alliance with Stability AI to develop ‘next-generation’ AI music-making tools

UMG artists will be involved in the development process, gathering feedback on what creators need from AI-powered recording and composition tools. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/umg-strikes-strategic-alliance-with-stability-ai-to-develop-next-generation-ai-music-making-tools/

Warner overhauls Italian frontline label structure with launch of Warner Records Italy & Atlantic Records Italy

Eleonora Rubini elevated to Label Director, Warner Records Italy; Marco Masoli upped to Label Director, Atlantic Records Italy Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/warner-overhauls-italian-frontline-label-structure-with-launch-of-warner-records-italy-atlantic-records-italy/

Drake files to appeal dismissal of UMG lawsuit over Kendrick Lamar’s ‘Not Like Us’

Drake has filed a Notice of Appeal to challenge the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/drake-files-appeal-against-dismissal-of-umg-lawsuit-over-kendrick-lamars-not-like-us/

After hitting 100m registered users, Bandsintown launches Marketplace to connect 700K artists with distribution, data, and merch tools

The company recently reached 100 million users and seeks to help independent musicians navigate what it describes as “unpredictable algorithms." Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/after-hitting-100m-registered-users-bandsintown-launches-marketplace-to-connect-700k-artists-with-distribution-data-and-merch-tools/

BTS’ RM becomes first K-pop artist to deliver keynote at APEC CEO Summit, urges investment in creative industries

The APEC CEO Summit brings together business leaders and government officials from across the Asia-Pacific region Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/bts-rm-becomes-first-k-pop-artist-to-deliver-keynote-at-apec-ceo-summit-urges-investment-in-creative-industries/

AwonMnyuzik Drops “Paperwork” – A Sonic Ubuntu Anthem About Hustle, Success & Elevation

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  South African artist AwonMnyuzik has officially released the music video for his latest single, “Paperwork” , and it’s a bold declaration of ambition, success, and living life on your own terms. Fusing Hip Hop with his signature Sonic Ubuntu sound, this track takes listeners on a journey from the grind to the glow-up — celebrating perseverance, power, and prosperity. 🎧 Watch/Stream “Paperwork” here: 👉 https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/awonmnyuzik/paperwork  The Meaning Behind “Paperwork” “Paperwork” isn’t just about stacking money — it’s a metaphor for putting in the work, handling your business, and achieving financial freedom through discipline and consistency. With smooth delivery and confident lyricism, AwonMnyuzik paints a vivid picture of the come up , reminding listeners that dreams become reality when backed by hustle and focus. The hook, “Stack paper to the ceiling, aren’t no concealing’,” perfectly captures the essence of self-made success and relentle...

Udio’s bid to dismiss claims of ‘illegal scraping’ from YouTube contains ‘fatal flaws,’ record labels say

If Udio gets its way, there will be no controls on copyrighted content made available to the public, record labels say Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/udios-bid-to-dismiss-claims-of-illegal-scraping-from-youtube-contains-fatal-flaws-record-labels-say/

Peter Kurczaba upped to VP of Sync, Cleome Barber promoted to Director, Creative A&R at Primary Wave

Peter Kurczaba promoted to VP, Creative Sync; Cleome Barber named Director, Creative A&R Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/peter-kurczaba-upped-to-vp-of-sync-cleome-barber-promoted-to-director-creative-ar-at-primary-wave/

Idris Elba extends exclusive, global publishing agreement with Universal Music Publishing Group

'People might think Idris is an actor who sometimes makes music, but in reality, he’s a songwriter who sometimes acts,' said UMPG's Pete Simmons Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/idris-elba-extends-exclusive-global-publishing-agreement-with-universal-music-publishing-group/

Vevo sponsors Major Label category at Music Business UK Awards

It's not long now until the big night - and Vevo is the latest big-name sponsor to join the party Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/vevo-sponsors-major-label-category-at-music-business-uk-awards/

Why Reservoir bet tens of millions of dollars on Jazz legend and ‘definition of cool’ Miles Davis

Reservoir President Rell Lafargue gives us an exclusive look at the company's Miles Davis deal Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/why-reservoir-bet-tens-of-millions-of-dollars-on-jazz-legend-and-definition-of-cool-miles-davis/

In latest MENA M&A move, Reservoir and PopArabia acquire catalogs of Iraqi company HFM Production & Kuwaiti singer-songwriter Essa Almarzoug

Companies have acquired all compositions and masters owned by Iraqi music production house HFM Production Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/in-latest-mena-ma-move-reservoir-and-poparabia-acquire-catalogs-of-iraqi-company-hfm-production-kuwaiti-singer-songwriter-essa-almarzoug/

UAE-based CMO Music Nation formally begins operations

The company received approval from the UAE government in June to operate a CMO in the country Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/uae-based-cmo-music-nation-copyrights-management-formally-begins-operations/

AI-powered artist management service startup MNRGS.AI raises $1m

MNGRS.AI was co-founded in 2022 by Alexandre Deniot and Thomas Quenoil, both former executives at MIDEM and Music Universal Group. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/ai-powered-artist-management-service-startup-mnrgs-ai-raises-1m/

Warner Chappell Music signs global deal with composer and producer, Victor Le Masne

He has worked on a range of projects with artists including Lady Gaga, Gojira, Aya Nakamura and Jean-Michel Jarre. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/warner-chappell-music-signs-global-deal-with-composer-and-producer-victor-le-masne/

YouTube’s ‘twin engine of ads and subscriptions is firing on all cylinders,’ says Lyor Cohen, as platform makes $8bn+ payout to the music industry over the past year

The figure was shared by Lyor Cohen, YouTube’s Global Head of Music, at the Billboard Latin Music Conference in Miami on Wednesday. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/youtube-paid-the-music-industry-over-8bn-over-the-past-year-lyor-cohen-says-platforms-twin-engine-of-ads-and-subscriptions-is-firing-on-all-cylinders/

Triller Group faces Nasdaq delisting over missed filings

The TikTok rival missed the deadline to submit its annual report for 2024 and quarterly reports for the periods ending March 31 and June 30, 2025. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/triller-group-faces-nasdaq-delisting-over-missed-filings/

Recording Academy to stage Grammy House Giza event in Egypt

The Academy has previously held Grammy House events in Los Angeles and New York but hasn't taken the concept outside the US until now. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/recording-academy-to-stage-grammy-house-giza-event-in-egypt/

Merlin partly dismisses lawsuit against Triller

The case continues to threaten the TikTok rival with a possible default judgment just as it fights to stay on the Nasdaq stock exchange. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/merlin-partly-dismisses-royalty-lawsuit-against-triller/

Live music discovery platform Bandsintown reaches 100m registered users

The company says it now has a network of over 700,000 registered artists and 65,000 venues and promoters. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/live-music-discovery-platform-bandsintown-reaches-100m-registered-users/

Armada Music launches NBT Records in partnership with Simon Dunmore

The imprint will operate from Armada’s brand-new creative hub in London Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/armada-music-launches-nbt-records-in-partnership-with-simon-dunmore/

Labels fire back at Suno’s attempt to dismiss YouTube stream-ripping claims

They argued that Suno violated federal anti-circumvention laws regardless of any fair use defense. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/labels-fire-back-at-sunos-attempt-to-dismiss-youtube-stream-ripping-claims/

US Latin music revenues neared $500m in H1 2025, growing 6X faster than overall US market

Revenue growth for Latin music was six times as fast as it was for recorded music overall Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/us-latin-music-revenues-neared-500m-in-h1-2025-growing-6x-faster-than-overall-us-market/

Suno and Udio face another lawsuit from indie artists over AI training, echoing major labels’ stream-ripping allegations

The AI firms are being accused of maintaining internal libraries of copied audio and lyric files that staff and contractors access for testing and other purposes. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/suno-and-udio-face-another-lawsuit-from-indie-artists-accusing-them-of-stream-ripping-and-market-harm/

Dr. Richard James Burgess named Chair at the UK’s PPL as John Smith steps down

Burgess succeeds John Smith OBE, who will be stepping down after nearly a decade leading the board. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/dr-richard-james-burgess-named-chair-at-the-uks-ppl-as-john-smith-steps-down/

💼 “Paperwork” by AwonMnyuzik — The Official Anthem of the Hustle

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In a world where dreams meet dedication, AwonMnyuzik continues to define what modern hustle sounds like. His latest single, “ Paperwork (Sonic Ubuntu) ” , is not just another trap anthem — it’s an embodiment of focus, loyalty, and growth. Built on heavy 808s and layered with his signature Sonic Ubuntu sound, “Paperwork” is a motivational masterpiece that speaks to anyone chasing elevation — from the block to the penthouse . 🎵 The Meaning Behind “Paperwork” For AwonMnyuzik , “Paperwork” isn’t just about the money — it’s about proof . Proof of the grind, the lessons, and the legacy that comes with putting in the work. “It’s not just about stacking paper — it’s about documenting your journey, staying loyal, and manifesting greatness,” says AwonMnyuzik. Each bar feels like a mantra for self-made success. It’s music for the motivated — those who understand that every signature, every deal, and every moment of grind adds up to something real. 🎧 Stream “Paperwork” ...

Lisa Yang joins Warner Music Group as EVP, Global Head of Strategy

Exec was previously Managing Director of Media & Internet at Goldman Sachs' Global Investment Research Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/lisa-yang-joins-warner-music-group-as-evp-global-head-of-strategy/

Suno is generating more than $100M in annual revenue – and is in talks to raise more money at a $2B valuation

The company is currently generating more than $100 million in annual recurring revenue, Bloomberg said, citing sources. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/suno-is-generating-more-than-100m-in-annual-revenue-and-is-in-talks-to-raise-more-money-at-a-2b-valuation/

Jess Miller and Anne Sandig promoted to key roles at the UK’s Karma Artists

Jess Miller elevated to Senior Creative & Operations Manager; Anne Sandig joins as Senior Manager Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/jess-miller-and-anne-sandig-promoted-to-key-roles-at-the-uks-karma-artists/

Too Lost has entered the chat…

Gregory Hirschhorn, CEO of company expected to surpass $100 million in revenue this year, gives his view on UMG/Downtown Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/too-lost-has-entered-the-chat/

‘I don’t see any ceiling – the sky’s the limit.’

Ryan Richards on the rise and rise of Sleep Token, why they're not a metal band (and why the masks are staying on), what he learned from his career as an artist and where rock goes from here Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/sleep-token-manager-ryan-richards-on-guiding-the-career-of-one-of-the-biggest-breakout-bands-of-the-last-few-years/

Melanie C and Red Girl Records partner with Virgin Music Group for new album and single

The former Spice Girl teams up with Virgin and her own Red Girl Records for a new dance-infused project set to arrive in 2026. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/melanie-c-and-red-girl-records-partner-with-virgin-music-group-to-for-new-album-and-single1/

TikTok’s SoundOn touts latest success with viral hit ‘NOW OR NEVER’ by Tkandz and CXSPER

Three years after TikTok launched SoundOn, the music distribution service is giving record companies and music distributors a run for their money Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/tiktoks-soundon-touts-latest-success-with-viral-hit-now-or-never-by-tkandz-and-cxsper/

Limbo was one of the first LATAM distro companies to sign a deal with iTunes. Now it’s built a tool that lets labels have ‘conversations’ with their streaming data using AI chatbots

MBW meets Fer Isella, co-founder and CEO of limbo/ music, a "boutique" B2B distribution technology company Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/limbo-was-one-of-the-first-latam-distro-companies-to-sign-a-deal-with-itunes-now-its-built-a-tool-that-lets-labels-have-conversations-with-their-streaming-data-using-ai-cha/

Spotify adds text input and Spanish requests to AI DJ

Spotify also added personalized prompt suggestions to help users who are unsure what to request, with the system generating three suggestions. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/spotify-adds-text-input-and-spanish-requests-to-ai-dj/

beatBread launches $100m global indie fund in partnership with AIM, WIN, IMPALA

Labels will be able to borrow against existing catalog revenue streams, securing advances for artist signings and more. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/beatbread-unveils-100m-global-indie-fund-in-partnership-with-aim-win-impala/

Live Nation strikes deal with Trip.com to offer concert travel packages cross five markets in Asia

The two parties will combine ticket presales with flights, hotels and local experiences through a multi-year agreement. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/live-nation-strikes-deal-with-trip-com-to-offer-concert-travel-packages-cross-five-markets-in-asia/

Sony Music Publishing inks global administration deal with the UK’s Minds On Fire

Agreement includes joint venture for new writer signings and catalog administration Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/sony-music-publishing-inks-global-administration-deal-with-the-uks-minds-on-fire/

Warner Music merges Benelux-GSA businesses; Niels Walboomers named President, as Central Europe bosses Doreen Schimk & Fabian Drebes exit

Company combines recorded music businesses in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, with those in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria under the Warner Music Central Europe banner Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/warner-merges-benelux-gsa-businesses-niels-walboomers-named-president-as-central-europe-bosses-doreen-schimk-fabian-drebes-exit/

Facing ‘stream-ripping’ allegations from labels, Suno & Udio weigh in on separate case to challenge ruling that makes YouTube downloading illegal

Now that the majors have accused Suno and Udio of stream-ripping, the AI companies are pushing to have the practice declared legal Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/facing-stream-ripping-allegations-from-labels-suno-udio-weigh-in-on-separate-case-to-challenge-ruling-that-makes-youtube-downloading-illegal/

Disney lands Taylor Swift’s ‘The Eras Tour’ content with 6-episode docuseries and concert film

Both will premiere on December 12, with the docuseries featuring appearances from Gracie Abrams, Sabrina Carpenter, Ed Sheeran and Florence Welch. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/disney-lands-taylor-swifts-the-eras-tour-content-with-6-episode-docuseries-and-concert-film/

Sir Lucian Grainge on UMG’s AI policy: ‘We will NOT license AI models that use an artist’s voice without their consent.’

Universal Music Group boss says company is 'actively engaged' with nearly a dozen AI companies on new products Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/sir-lucian-grainge-we-will-not-license-ai-models-that-use-artists-voices-without-consent/

Chorus TM sponsors Management Company category at Music Business UK Awards

The big night is now only three weeks away as Chorus TM backs blue-chip category Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/chorus-tm-sponsors-management-company-category-at-music-business-uk-awards/

Piracy claims can’t be added to music publishers’ copyright case against Anthropic, says Judge

US District Judge Eumi Lee found denies amendment to complaint Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/piracy-claims-cant-be-added-to-music-publishers-copyright-case-against-anthropic-says-judge/

Autumn Ledgin launches Ledgin Management with flagship artist Tucker Wetmore; strikes strategic partnership with Red Light

Nashville-based manager partners with Red Light to guide breakout country star Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/autumn-ledgin-launches-ledgin-management-with-flagship-artist-tucker-wetmore-strikes-strategic-partnership-with-red-light/

From Drake losing his UMG lawsuit to HYBE’s new services division… it’s MBW’s weekly round-up

The biggest headlines from the past few days – all in one place Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/from-drake-losing-his-umg-lawsuit-to-hybes-new-services-division-its-mbws-weekly-round-up/

Too Lost makes seven-figure investment into independent label Rebellion Records

Label was co-founded by artist and CEO Michael Turner (PLVTINUM) and COO Daniel Nall Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/too-lost-makes-seven-figure-investment-into-independent-label-rebellion-records/

Lauren Wirtzer joins direct-to-fan music platform EVEN as Chief Operating Officer

Lauren Wirtzer, who also spent time at Instagram, will oversee operations, partnerships and expansion at EVEN. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/lauren-wirtzer-joins-direct-to-fan-music-platform-even-as-chief-operating-officer/

BMG and Spotify ink new US direct publishing licensing deal

Companies said that the deal is "designed to deliver greater value to songwriters and their teams". Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/spotify-and-bmg-strike-new-direct-multiyear-us-publishing-licensing-deal/

Isabel Garvey to exit as Chief Operating Officer of Warner Music UK

Garvey joined Warner as COO in 2023 and was previously MD of London's legendary Abbey Road Studios Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/isabel-garvey-to-exit-as-chief-operating-officer-of-warner-music-uk/

Spotify brings music recommendations to ChatGPT via new integration

Spotify Free and Premium users can now link their accounts to ChatGPT and receive personalized music and podcast recommendations directly within their ChatGPT conversations via a new integration. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/spotify-brings-music-recommendations-to-chatgpt-via-new-integration/

Believe Music Publishing officially launches, led by Chris Meehan as CEO

Believe has named Chris Meehan as Believe’s CEO of Publishing Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/believe-music-publishing-officially-launches-following-acquisition-of-sentric/

Universal has quietly launched a creator marketing app that pays influencers to post content on TikTok and Instagram. Meet ‘House of Carmen’

House of Carmen was rolled out in September 2024 and has bene operating in "stealth mode" Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/universal-has-quietly-launched-a-creator-marketing-app-that-pays-influencers-to-post-content-on-tiktok-and-instagram-meet-house-of-carmen/

Taylor Swift’s ‘The Fate of Ophelia’ becomes most-streamed song in a single day on Spotify as new album shatters records across platforms

The Life of a Showgirl became Spotify's most-streamed album in a single day in 2025 so far, reaching the feat in under 11 hours Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/taylor-swifts-the-fate-of-ophelia-becomes-most-streamed-song-in-a-single-day-on-spotify-as-new-album-shatters-records-across-platforms/

PPL supports ‘The Forbsie’, celebrating the industry’s unsung admin heroes at this year’s Music Business UK Awards

Another partner confirmed for the industry's most enjoyable night out of the year Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/ppl-supports-the-forbsie-celebrating-the-industrys-unsung-admin-heroes-at-this-years-music-business-uk-awards/

🎵 Getting Signed vs Being Independent: The Real Differences and How Artists Can Improve

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In today’s music industry, artists face a major crossroads: sign with a record label or stay independent . Both paths offer unique advantages and challenges — and neither guarantees success on its own. The real difference often lies in understanding what each route offers, what it demands, and how to maximize your position regardless of which side you’re on. 💼 The Signed Artist: Structure, Reach, and Resources Getting signed means partnering with a record label — major or independent — that invests in your career. Labels provide infrastructure that can fast-track an artist’s growth, but that comes with trade-offs. ✅ Advantages Access to Funding & Resources: Labels handle recording budgets, marketing, touring support, PR, and often distribution. This reduces the financial pressure on artists. Industry Connections: Being signed opens doors to producers, songwriters, radio, playlist curators, and established artists. Marketing Power & Global Reach: Major labe...

🎵 How Artists, Musicians, and Small Labels Can Build a Powerful Brand

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In today’s music landscape, talent alone isn’t enough — branding is everything . Whether you’re an independent artist, part of a collective, or running a small label, the way you present, position, and promote your art defines how the world sees (and hears) you. Branding is more than just a logo or aesthetic; it’s about identity, emotion, and consistency . Let’s break down how to craft a strong, authentic brand that grows with your music. 🔊 1. Define Your Core Identity Before logos, visuals, or slogans — you need clarity on who you are and what you represent . Ask yourself: What emotions do I want my music to evoke? What’s my story, and what makes it different? What values or lifestyle do I represent? This forms your brand DNA — the emotional thread that runs through your sound, visuals, and message. For a label, this could be your sound niche (Afro-fusion, trap-soul, conscious hip hop, etc.) or a cultural mission (uplifting local artists, preserving heritage, pushing ...

Jah Crucial: The Reggae Ambassador

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Early Life & Identity Born in Stirtonville, east of Johannesburg, Jah Crucial (originally with multiple surnames) eventually changed his name in 1994 to Ras Jah Crucial , removing what he refers to as his “Babylon name.” He was inspired by Biblical figures who changed names when they “found God.” From a young age he had a connection with music, especially through church circles, family members who served as priests, and exposure to the hardships around him. Notably, as a child he was separated from his mother for periods, spent time with relatives, and experienced the polarization under apartheid in South Africa. Musical Beginnings & Sound System Culture Jah Crucial’s love for reggae blossomed early. He frequented record bars, especially the “Jantjies” shop in Small Street, where imported reggae LPs played loudly. He devoured these records — King Tubby, Mighty Diamonds, Johnny Clarke , etc. — favoring roots and militant songs over lighter love tracks. He beg...

🎤 Rah B: The Rising Force in Hip-Hop

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Rah B (sometimes stylized as RAH B or RahBoog ) is carving his lane in the rap world with a style that blends grit, raw storytelling, and ambition . Emerging from Newark, NJ , Rah B’s sound reflects his reality: the hustle, the pain, and the victories that come with living authentically through music. With a growing fanbase on Spotify , Apple Music , and SoundCloud , he’s fast becoming a name to watch on the global stage. 🚀 Musical Journey & Sound Rah B’s catalog is steadily growing, with projects and singles that showcase his raw, freestyle-driven style . One of his major projects is the 2024 album RAH B VS EVERYBODY , a 12-track showcase of intensity, street wisdom, and unfiltered energy. On SoundCloud , early drops like Throw My Pole On and 100 Thousand illustrate his experimental edge, while songs such as Gotta Go (feat. O.T. Genasis) underline his ability to bring in high-profile features without losing authenticity. Rah B operates closely with A.B.M./...

🎶 AwonMnyuzik Presents Juke Box — A Prelude to Sonic Ubuntu

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In a bold and electrifying move, South Africa’s rising sonic architect AwonMnyuzik drops Juke Box , an 8-track project that bridges raw energy, star-studded features, and creative ambition. More than just a collection of songs, Juke Box is the opening act, the teaser, the prologue to the larger vision: Sonic Ubuntu . The Vision Behind Juke Box From the first beat, Juke Box asserts itself as a statement: AwonMnyuzik isn’t here to simply ride trends; he’s here to curate experience . Like flipping through vinyl records in a dimly lit room, each track is a different groove in his musical turntable, a new side of his personality. The album weaves through styles—hip hop, dancehall, street rap—while infusing a distinctly South African backbone. What elevates Juke Box is its collaborators. Featuring heavyweights such as Uncle Snoop , YSL Thugga , Rah B , and Sean Paul , the project gains international depth and the kind of cross-pollination that demands ears. These features...

From Taylor Swift’s ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ to Spotify’s leadership shakeup… it’s MBW’s weekly round-up

The biggest headlines from the past few days – all in one place Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/from-taylor-swifts-new-album-to-spotifys-leadership-shakeup-its-mbws-weekly-round-up/

AwonMnyuzik Drops Brand-New Album JUKE BOX: A Journey Through Sound and Soul

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  South African musician, producer, and visionary artist AwonMnyuzik has officially released his highly anticipated album JUKE BOX — a project that captures the raw essence of his journey, emotions, and growth as an artist. This isn’t just another album; it’s a sonic diary , weaving together different sounds, moods, and experiences. Each track on JUKE BOX carries its own heartbeat, telling stories of resilience, passion, and the unshakable will to keep creating music that truly moves people. “This project is a reflection of my journey — blending raw sound, real emotions, and unforgettable vibes. Each track is a piece of my story, crafted to connect, inspire, and move you.” — AwonMnyuzik Why JUKE BOX Matters In an era where music is often fast-consumed and quickly forgotten, JUKE BOX stands out as a timeless body of work. AwonMnyuzik’s creative fusion of hip hop, African rhythms, and modern production makes the album both unique and universally relatable. The project is ...

‘There are so many distractions, but when you write a magic song it opens doors and that’s all I can really control.’

Having first found success writing for One Direction, Julian Bunetta is now hitting new heights working with artists such as Sabrina Carpenter and Teddy Swims. Here he looks back on his career and discusses the art of songwriting Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/there-are-so-many-distractions-but-when-you-write-a-magic-song-it-opens-doors-and-thats-all-i-can-really-control/

After buying Spitfire Audio in reported $50m deal, Splice launches virtual instrument platform for music producers

Splice INSTRUMENT offers access to over 1,200 playable presets at launch. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/after-buying-spitfire-audio-in-50m-deal-splice-launches-virtual-instrument-platform-for-music-producers/

Anthem Music Publishing buys catalog of Grammy nominated songwriter Mark Holman

The acquisition covers country and pop hits Holman has penned, including songs from Cole Swindell, Florida Georgia Line and Jordan Davis. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/anthem-music-publishing-buys-catalog-of-grammy-nominated-songwriter-mark-holman/

KPop Demon Hunters joins Fortnite with month-long gaming event

The collaboration features a dedicated game mode called Horde Rush: Demon Rush, which will run through November 1. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/netflixs-kpop-demon-hunters-joins-fortnite-with-month-long-gaming-event/

HYBE Chair Bang Si-Hyuk faces travel ban amid probe over IPO (report)

Police in Seoul have barred HYBE Chairman Bang Si-Hyuk from leaving South Korea as authorities investigate allegations of improper share transactions worth around 200 billion South Korean won (approx. USD $142 million). That’s according to reports from multiple local media outlets, including The Korea Herald and Chosun Daily, which reported on Wednesday (October 1) that … Continued Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/hybe-chair-bang-si-hyuk-faces-travel-ban-amid-probe-over-ipo-report/

Fraser T. Smith Receives BMI President’s Award at 2025 BMI London Awards

BMI London Awards celebrated top UK and European talent across music, film and television. Source source https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/fraser-t-smith-receives-bmi-presidents-award-at-2025-bmi-london-awards/