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“Phil Collins: Drummer First” Documentary Is Full (Or Fill) Of Surprising Details

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“I’m not a singer that plays a bit of drums; I’m more of a drummer that sings a bit”. This famous Phil Collins quote perfectly captures the essence of a man celebrated by millions as a pop legend. But ask Phil himself, and he’ll tell you: “I’m a drummer”.

On March 26, 2022, after an extraordinary 50-year career of touring and recording, Phil Collins announced his retirement. Later that year, we had the incredible honor of inviting Phil and his son, Nic Collins, to the breathtaking Château de l’Aile in Vevey, Switzerland. From October 18-21, 2022, Phil shared his story like never before in a series of brand-new interviews.

For the first time on film, Phil takes us on a journey through his life and career from a drumming perspective—from his early days behind the kit to his groundbreaking work with Genesis and his celebrated solo career, from his time with the jazz-fusion group Brand X to composing for Disney’s Tarzan, forming his own big band, and ultimately passing the torch to Nic during the final Genesis and Phil Collins tours.

This is Phil’s story, told in his own words.

This documentary offers a rare and personal glimpse into the life and legacy of a true drumming icon. Phil’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and sacrifice—a testament to the power of giving everything you have for what you love.

Yo Gabba Gabba takes over NPR’s Tiny Desk

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Never in a million years would I ever expect to see the Tiny Desk getting a vibrant makeover with a visit to Yo Gabba GabbaLand! Led by Kammy Kam and backed by a dynamic five-piece band, the fun-filled set features classics like “Party in My Tummy” and new tracks such as “The Orange Cat’s Special Time Outdoors,” with a surprise appearance by Thundercat in an orange cat suit! With lively performances from all five Gabba friends, this colorful, groovy concert is pure joy for kids and the young at heart.

Nardwuar Interviews Chappell Roan At Sonido Del Valle Records

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Nardwuar meets pop sensation Chappell Roan at Sonido Del Valle Records for a fun and quirky interview you don’t want to miss!

Waxahatchee Returns to NPR’s Tiny Desk

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Waxahatchee returns to the Tiny Desk with a full-band transformation! Grammy-nominated Katie Crutchfield, now blending her Americana charm with profound lyricism, performs her latest single “Much Ado About Nothing,” fan-favorite “Right Back to It,” the standout “Crowbar,” the title track “Tigers Blood,” and the transformative “Fire” from Saint Cloud. Joined by Eliana Athayde (upright bass), Cole Berggren (piano/banjo), Spencer Tweedy (drums), Colin Croom (pedal steel/dobro), and Clay Frankel (guitar), this set captures the heart of Waxahatchee’s musical evolution.

Postmodern Jukebox and Sunny Holiday Bring Festive Flair to ‘Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer’

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Postmodern Jukebox delivers holiday cheer with a campy twist! Sunny Holiday shines in a sultry reindeer look, belting out the Elmo and Patsy 1979 classic “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” while Tatum Langley and Demi Remick dazzle as the dancing “Reinderettes.”

Social Networking Market to Grow $238.4B by 2028, Boosted by Internet And AI Trends

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The global social networking market size is estimated to grow by USD 238.billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 19.96% during the forecast period. Increased internet penetration is driving market growth, with a trend towards social media advertisements gaining traction. However, privacy concerns obstruct market growth poses a challenge. Key market players include Alphabet Inc., Automattic Inc., ByteDance Ltd., Discord Inc., LinkedIn Corp., MediaLab.Ai, Meetup, Meta Platforms Inc., Myspace LLC, Nextdoor Holdings Inc., Pinterest Inc., Quora Inc., Rakuten Group Inc., Reddit Inc., Snap Inc., Telegram Messenger Inc., Tencent Holdings Ltd., Twitter Inc., Yelp Inc., and Z Holdings Group.

Social media advertising due to its ability to reach vast audiences through advanced targeting. Influencer marketing and partnerships amplify this reach. Key platforms include Google Play Store, Apple IOS store, Microsoft store, and social networks like LinkedIn and Facebook. Devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs are common targets. Performance indicators include in-app purchases, app sales, and user engagement. B2C enterprises leverage these channels using a bottom-up approach, focusing on independent databases and consumer attitudes. Exchange rates and messaging sites also impact the business of apps.

Social networking markets face privacy challenges as platforms collect and share user data without consent, leading to identity theft and cybercrimes. B2C enterprises use this data for targeted advertising and sales to third parties. Tracking technologies monitor user activities across devices and websites. Key players include Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and e-commerce platforms like Instagram and Facebook Shops. Data security concerns persist with the rise of Big Tech, 5G technology, and AI-based libraries. User behaviors and preferences shape this market, with interests in music, games, yoga, and live streaming videos.

The global social networking market experienced significant growth in 2022, with advertising holding the largest market share. This trend is driven by the increasing use of social media for brand promotion and product awareness. Key developments include the integration of 5G technology for faster connectivity, data security concerns leading to advanced encryption methods, and Meta’s foray into the metaverse with 3D image context. National lockdowns accelerated the shift to online communities, leading to increased engagement in areas such as theatre, sports, art, music, games, and yoga. Live streaming videos and OTT platforms gained popularity, while AI-based libraries and customized photo collages enhanced user experience. Influencer marketing thrived on Android & iOS-based platforms like Google Play Store and Apple IOS store. Smart devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs, facilitated this growth. LinkedIn continued to dominate professional networking, while in-app purchases and cloud-based apps boosted revenue.

In the dynamic world of B2C enterprises, the Business of Apps has witnessed significant growth, particularly in the realm of social networking. With the proliferation of smartphone users, messaging sites like Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Facebook Messenger, as well as e-commerce platforms and social media giants such as Instagram, have adopted a bottom-up approach to engage users through in-app purchases and the monetization of independent databases. The S-curve function illustrates this trend, with user adoption following a steady growth pattern. However, with the increasing use of these platforms, data security concerns have emerged as a major challenge. The advent of 5G technology and Meta’s foray into 3D image context further underscores the importance of this market. National lockdowns have accelerated the shift towards online communities, with users turning to social networking sites for entertainment, including theatre, sports, art, music, and games.

In today’s digital world, social networking apps have become an integral part of our lives. With an estimated 3.6 billion users worldwide, the social networking market is a powerful platform for businesses and individuals alike. Apps like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn offer unique features that cater to various needs. For instance, Facebook and Instagram focus on personal connections and visual content, while LinkedIn is geared towards professional networking. Purcheses, ads, and sponsorships are common in this market, with companies using targeted marketing strategies to reach their audience. Consumer behavior is influenced by factors such as location, interests, and online activity. The use of data analytics and artificial intelligence enables businesses to tailor their offerings and engage with their audience effectively. The social networking market is a dynamic and ever-evolving space, with new trends and technologies shaping the way we connect and communicate.

ADMAF Announces Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 Programme to Launch its Twenty-Second Edition

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Held under the honorary founding patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Founding Honorary Patron of Abu Dhabi Festival, and under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has announced its programme for the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025. Commencing on 7 February 2025, the annual Festival returns with its twenty-second edition under the theme, “Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,” celebrating cultural diversity, artistic excellence, and its

With a spectacular lineup featuring world-renowned talent including prestigious orchestras, taiko ensemble, opera and solo recital series, accompanied by performances abroad, Visual Arts exhibitions, and community and educational programmes for the nation’s youth, the Festival promises to engage and inspire audiences on both local and international stages. This year, the Festival celebrates 50 years of diplomatic relations and friendship between the UAE and its country of honour, Japan, with a vibrant showcase of cultural richness.

With 12 headline performances and many accompanying activations, the Festival showcases world-exclusive co-productions, performances and appearances, making their debut for the first time in the region. Opening on 7 and 8 February, The New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra will share the stage with legendary Japanese conductor Yutaka Sado, star tenor Jonathan Tetelman, and rising pianist Kyohei Sorita. For Ramadan, Sheikh Mahmoud El-Tohamy will revive the tradition of Inshad spiritual chanting. The Festival then continues with a performance from KODO, Japanese Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble followed by virtuoso pianist Yunchan Lim performing Bach’s iconic Goldberg Variations.

Other highlights include performances by renowned percussionist Kuniko Kato, the Labèque sisters’ exquisite piano duo, and an opera gala featuring star tenor Javier Camarena and soprano Jessica Pratt accompanied by the Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra conducted by Toufic Maatouk. Dazzling violinist Augustin Hadelich will perform works by Bach and others. An All-Star Ballet Gala will feature six of the world’s most acclaimed dancers, while Kian Soltani, Yamen Saadi, Sara Ferrández, and Pablo Ferrández will connect the world’s most prestigious musical stages. Additionally, talented trumpeter Riley Mulherkar will captivate audiences with soulful rhythms, and the Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Chi-Yong Chung, will inspire the audience with a romantic program from Brahms and Tchaikovsky.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi Festival Founding Honorary Patron said: “Year after year, the Abu Dhabi Festival reinforces its leading position as a platform that conveys to the world the UAE’s message of upholding the values of peace, harmony and diversity, and building bridges of cultural communication between different civilisations and people.”

“As the Festival celebrates Japan as the guest country of honour of this edition, we emphasise the depth of bilateral relations and enduring friendship between our two countries, that dates back more than 50 years, and is based on long history of strategic cooperation at various levels.” H.H continued.

“The twenty-second edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival continues its leading role in stimulating cultural dialogue with our international partners and working to raise awareness of the importance of creativity and innovation in the renaissance of countries and the development of societies. We look forward to an inspiring and innovative new series as the Abu Dhabi Festival continues its pioneering journey and its important role in strengthening the country’s position as a unique model of cultural and civilisational diversity.” H.H concluded.

His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, said: “We appreciate the role of the Abu Dhabi Festival in stimulating the creative cultural movement in the UAE, the region and the world. We congratulate the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) for announcing the programme for its twenty-second edition, which reflects its dedication – for more than two decades – to inspiring generations of Emirati artists and creatives. This also demonstrates ADMAF’s commitment to empowering the cultural and creative industries sector in the country to stimulate the cultural dialogue and contribute to presenting an Emirati culture that inspires the world and highlights our national identity through the cultural diplomacy initiatives organised by the Festival within the framework of its abroad programme. These efforts bring people closer together with the values of coexistence and openness and builds bridges of cooperation between countries.”

“As part of the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Culture and the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, we are collaborating to invest in Emirati talent, develop skills and build the capabilities of our artists and creatives to reflect the thriving and sustainable cultural scene in the UAE.  We affirm our joint commitment to deepen cultural relations between the UAE and Japan, which will be hosted by the festival as the country of honour for its 2025 edition, thus contributing to highlighting its rich culture and diverse artistic heritage,” H.E. concluded.

H.E Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “Since its establishment in 2004, the Abu Dhabi Festival has greatly contributed to Abu Dhabi’s thriving cultural ecosystem, helping to cement the emirate’s position as an incubator for creativity and a compelling destination for artists and creators. Our strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation reflects a shared vision to support Abu Dhabi’s creative industries and build cultural bridges, ensuring that audiences in the emirate have access to the very best of global creativity in dance, opera and classical music. In bringing prominent international musicians and creators to the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi Festival not only raises awareness of the destination but plays an important role in inspiring new generations of young artists.”

H.E. added: “This year’s selection of Japan as guest of honour at Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 will make for an especially exciting event, showcasing the diversity and richness of Japanese culture to Abu Dhabi audiences. The UAE and Japan have a history of bilateral relations going back more than fifty years, and I look forward to seeing our cultural ties strengthened even further.”

Her Excellency Huda Ibrahim Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Founder of Abu Dhabi Festival, said: “The twenty-second edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival gathers us under its inspiring theme “Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,” to embody the position of the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi, as a city that brings together endless cultures, to meet, communicate and exchange ideas, opportunities and potentials, in harmony and in unity. The Festival celebrates Japan as the country of honour, commemorating over fifty years of mutual respect and friendship between our two countries. Among many leading events, we present the premiere in the Arab world of the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by legendary Maestro Yutaka Sado.”

“Abu Dhabi Festival continues to build cultural partnerships with international institutions, opening new avenues of collaboration between countries, global artists and audiences. The Festival’s programme abroad will mark several historic milestones this year including the world premiere of Debussy’s Pelléas et Mélisande with the Opera National de Paris, directed by Canadian-Lebanese Wajdi Mouawad, in a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the classical opera and the Arab world. Additionally, the Festival will showcase historic visual arts exhibitions in partnership with the renowned Seoul Museum of Art in Korea, along with its world tour across ChinaJapan, and Singapore, making it one of the most ambitious joint cultural initiatives ever seen in this region,” H.E. concluded.

H.E. Ken OKANIWA, Ambassador of Japan to the United Arab Emirates said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) for organizing the 22nd Abu Dhabi Festival. This year is a very special occasion as Japan has been designated as the Guest Country of Honour. We are truly delighted to be part of this event.”

“The 22nd Festival features performances by top musicians from Japan, namely, New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, “Kodo” (Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble) and Kuniko Kato (Percussions). While their respective genre varies from classic to traditional and modern, music grounded upon creativity and Japanese excellence is sure to enchant the audience.” H.E. added

“Music is an art that transcends languages and brings peoples together. I look forward to the Festival promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Japan, the United Arab Emirates and other countries.” H.E. concluded.

Homaid Al Shimmari, Deputy Group CEO and Chief Corporate & Human Capital Officer, Mubadala Investment Company commented, “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Abu Dhabi Festival and to see the incredible impact it is making enhancing our proud city’s cultural environment. The next edition will go even further in enriching Abu Dhabi’s dynamic cultural scene by strengthening its position as a global hub for arts and culture and fostering cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.”

A spokesperson for GS Energy said: “We are honoured to partner with the Abu Dhabi Festival as the exclusive energy partner. At GS Energy, we believe that the arts have the power to inspire, uplift, and transform communities. By supporting the Abu Dhabi Festival, we aim to contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of the region and enhance the quality of life for its communities. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to fostering creativity, cultural excellence, and social responsibility. Together with the Abu Dhabi Festival, we look forward to illuminating the global stage with a harmonious blend of energy and artistic brilliance.”

Early bird tickets are available now. For ticket information and to learn more, visit www.abudhabifestival.ae.

Founded in 2004, the Festival was generously granted the patronage of the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, from 2007 to 2011. The first Abu Dhabi Festival was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the then Minister of Information and Culture (UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs). Abu Dhabi Festival is the festival of “Bilad Al Khayr“, the land of blessings, the land of Zayed, and embraces the values of dialogue, tolerance, respect and peace. For more information, please visit www.abudhabifestival.ae.

Founded in 1996, ADMAF is one of the oldest, cultural organisations in the Arabian Gulf. Pioneering new artistic practices, it seeks to deepen global cross-cultural dialogue and inspire a renewed interest in the creativity of the UAE and Arab world. Often in partnership with leading national and international institutions, it delivers multidisciplinary initiatives for people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities through the Abu Dhabi Festival, year-round youth platforms and community programmes.

Karaoke Market to Grow $450.8M by 2028, Driven by Music Leisure And AI Trends

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The global karaoke market size is estimated to grow by USD 450.8 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  4.51%  during the forecast period. Growing popularity of music-related leisure activities is driving market growth, with a trend towards integration of advanced technologies with online streaming services. However, increasing adoption of virtual musical instruments and music production software  poses a challenge. Key market players include Acoosta, Audio Video Solutions Corp., DAIICHIKOSHO CO. LTD., Digital Products International Inc., inMusic Brands Inc., JIANGMEN BOWAY SOUND EQUIPMENT CO. LTD., Karaoke USA, Karavision, Persang Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., pTron, Pure Acoustics Inc., Rockville., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., The Singing Machine Co. Inc., TJ Media Co. Ltd., VOCOPRO, Whitesquare, Xiaomi Communications Co. Ltd., XING INC., and ZOOOK.

The karaoke market is experiencing significant growth due to advancements in technology. AI technology enhances video quality and streaming, supporting aspects of video production for service providers like cinematography and editing. Popular streaming platforms, such as Hulu and YouTube, drive the use of AI technology. Additionally, blockchain technology has the potential to decentralize the karaoke industry, enabling artists and consumers to connect directly, distributing content and allowing users to access music anytime, anywhere. Amazon Personalize is an example of AI technology used in OTT services to create customer recommendations and provide demographic information. The implementation of blockchain technology is still in its early stages but is expected to positively impact the growth of the karaoke market.

The karaoke market is currently experiencing significant growth, with microphones, speakers, and screens in high demand. Micropohones and screens are key components of karaoke systems, allowing users to sing along to their favorite songs. Brands offer various features such as Bluetooth connectivity, long battery life, and high-quality sound. Movingsystems and consoles are also popular, providing a more experience for users. The trend towards remote entertainment has boosted sales, with many people purchasing karaoke systems for home use. Additionally, the rise of social media platforms has led to an increase in virtual karaoke parties, further fueling demand. Overall, the karaoke market is thriving, with various brands offering innovative products to meet the needs of consumers.

The adoption of virtual musical activities and music production software has risen significantly in developed economies, replacing traditional physical instruments for composers. Apple, a leading laptop manufacturer, offers GarageBand software with a comprehensive music creation studio and sound library. Virtual instruments and production software are cost-effective alternatives to traditional karaoke machines. Laptop brands’ marketing campaigns and mobile applications expand the audience for audio systems, potentially impacting the karaoke market growth.

In the karaoke market, digital technology has brought significant changes. Consumers now expect convenient and versatile solutions. One challenge is ensuring compatibility with various devices and music formats. Another is providing a wide selection of songs to cater to diverse preferences. Additionally, implementing user-friendly interfaces and seamless connectivity is crucial. Furthermore, ensuring secure and reliable data storage is essential. Lastly, keeping up with the latest trends and integrating new features is a continuous effort. Overcoming these challenges requires a combination of technical expertise, customer understanding, and innovation.

The karaoke market, originating from bars, offers a platform for individuals to sing their preferred songs to an engaged audience. Karaoke establishments vary from open bars to private rooms. Regardless, they provide the necessary music and lyrics, enabling singers to concentrate on their performance. The market’s expansion is attributed to the rising number of nightclubs and restaurants offering karaoke. For instance, LaLa Pocha, a Korean restaurant in the US, recently opened with two rentable private karaoke rooms. Music enthusiasts find karaoke appealing, fueling the market’s growth. In countries like ChinaJapan, and India, karaoke is popular in clubs, restaurants, and business events. Businesses must secure permission from music composers to play copyrighted music, typically obtained through a blanket license. The expanding use of karaoke in bars and restaurants is projected to boost the market’s growth during the forecast period.

The Karaoke market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing popularity of digital platforms for home entertainment. Wireless connectivity and voice recognition are becoming standard features in modern karaoke systems, enabling users to easily access song libraries from online streaming services. Artificial intelligence and interactive interfaces are also being integrated into karaoke equipment, providing more engaging and personalized experiences. Smart devices, such as miniature microphones and audio accessories, are making it easier than ever to set up and use karaoke systems in bars, restaurants, pubs, and at home. Karaoke competitions continue to draw crowds, with digital karaoke systems offering advanced features like instrumental versions, lyrics display, and video screens with moving symbols. The market for karaoke equipment is diverse, with Sybersound and Party Tyme Karaoke being just a few examples of the high-tech offerings available.

The Karaoke market is a thriving industry that offers entertainment solutions for individuals and groups. It caters to various demographics, from homes to professional events. The market comprises a diverse range of products and services, including hardware such as karaoke machines, microphones, and speakers, as well as software like karaoke apps and streaming platforms. Additionally, there are various content providers offering a vast library of songs in multiple languages. The market is driven by technological advancements, increasing demand for interactive entertainment, and the growing popularity of virtual events. Consumers can choose from wired and wireless systems, portable and home use options, and even smartphone apps for on-the-go karaoke sessions. The market is expected to continue growing, offering exciting opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.

47% Growth Of Music Streaming Market To Originate From North America

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The global music streaming market size is estimated to grow by USD 49.63 Billion from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 19.99% during the forecast period.

North America is estimated to contribute 47%. To the growth of the global market. The Music Streaming Market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels from 2017 to 2027.  The music streaming market is experiencing significant advancements with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies. AI features, such as personalized recommendations, are now prime membership benefits for many streaming services. Unauthorized music streaming remains a challenge, but OTT platforms are addressing this issue through partnerships with record labels and rights holders. Live videos are a growing trend, with YouTube Live and Facebook Periscope leading the way. The music industry is witnessing a shift from traditional audio segment to a more diverse video segment. Consumers can now enjoy live streaming, rewind, fastforward, and pause features on application-based and web-based platforms. Revenue channels include non-subscription and subscription models for individual and commercial use. Interactive and social features, such as collaborative playlists, are driving engagement and global expansion. Cloud-based infrastructure enables high-fidelity and lossless streaming, enhancing the user experience. AI-driven personalization and live audio are the future of music streaming, with virtual concerts offering experiences for consumers.

The music streaming market is a significant business sector, with numerous companies offering subscriptions for on-demand access to millions of songs. These services generate revenue through monthly or annual subscriptions, providing consumers with convenience and flexibility. Major players like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Prime Music compete for market share, offering various features such as personalized playlists and offline listening. This market continues to grow, attracting both music industry giants and tech companies.

The free music streaming segment is expected to experience moderate growth in the music streaming market during the forecast period. Free music streaming is an advertising-supported service where vendors generate revenue by displaying ads during music play or when users make in-spot purchases. Leading global providers like Spotify and Alphabet offer free streaming services with limited music access and intermittent ads. For instance, Spotify’s free users can access 750 songs, while Alphabet provides up to 50,000 songs with some ads. The free segment’s growth is attributed to its widespread popularity and accessibility, making it a significant driver for the global music streaming market’s expansion.

Music streaming services have revolutionized the way consumers access and enjoy their favorite tunes, podcasts, and even live performances. With the rise of smart devices, music streams can now be accessed on-demand through websites and mobile apps, making music more convenient than ever before. Music videos and audio files can be streamed in high quality, with some services offering benefits like 5G connectivity for faster streams and downloads. 5G technology and 4G technology have made it possible for consumers to enjoy uninterrupted music streams, even on-the-go. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have also made their way into music streaming, with features like personalized playlists and song recommendations based on listening history. Prime membership benefits, live videos, and social media websites like YouTube Live and Facebook Periscope have added to the music streaming experience. The music industry has embraced Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, with individual segments like restaurants, cafeterias, salons, and gyms adopting cloud-based infrastructure for their music needs. However, unauthorized music streaming remains a concern, with consumers turning to piracy sites and apps to access copyrighted content. Rewind features and live streaming capabilities have added to the appeal of music streaming services, making them an essential part of modern entertainment.

Music streaming market is a dynamic and rapidly growing industry, driven by the proliferation of digital platforms and smart devices. Music streaming services, available as websites and application-based platforms, offer consumers on-demand access to music videos, podcasts, audio files, and live streams. Advancements in technologies like 5G connectivity and AI/ML enable high-quality music streams and personalized recommendations. Consumers can rewind, fastforward, pause, and interact with social features like collaborative playlists and live streaming. Revenue channels include non-subscription and subscription models for individual and commercial use. Unauthorized music streaming remains a challenge, while live videos, social media websites, and OTT platforms offer new opportunities. The music industry is transforming, with the audio and video segments experiencing significant growth. Cloud-based infrastructure, AI-driven personalization, and virtual concerts are shaping the future of music streaming. Smart devices, from smart speakers to alarms and voice commands, are making music streaming more accessible and convenient. Global expansion and localization are key trends, with social sharing and collaborative playlists enhancing the user experience.

Alessia Cara Teams Up with Lenovo and Intel for “Made By” Campaign

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In their sixth year of collaborating with globally-renowned artists to bring their creative visions to life, Lenovo, Intel, and Universal Music Group For Brands (UMGB), announced a new partnership with singer/songwriter and GRAMMY Award-winning artist Alessia Cara. This collaboration is anchored in Lenovo’s “Made By” campaign, positioning Alessia as the inspiration for a multi-faceted experience that celebrates the intersection of music, creativity, and technology. The campaign is a testament to the anticipation of Alessia’s fourth studio album, Love & Hyperbole, set to release on February 14, 2025. The new record showcases her evolution as a powerhouse vocalist and empathetic songwriter.

At the core of this partnership is the creation of a visually stunning album trailer and accompanying miniseries designed through collaboration between Alessia, her creative team, and some of today’s most influential creatives across production, styling, design, and world building. Directors Dario Caracciolo and Gordy De St. Jeor are adapting the album into a visual trailer experience while celebrity stylist Christian Stroble delivers the wardrobe aesthetic. Visual Artists and Content Creators Maris Jones and Gaia Alari are lending their unique creative talents to build custom graphics and set design key scenes for the trailer. All creatives involved in the production will utilize the Lenovo Slim 7i Aura Edition and other Lenovo Yoga devices to bring their artistic visions to life. Beyond the influential creatives, all members of the creative and production teams, from storyboarding to creating captivating graphics, will utilize Lenovo’s laptops with Intel Core Ultra processors to empower and elevate each phase of the creative process.

“It’s been over a three year journey and I’m so happy that Love & Hyperbole will finally get to float around in the universe,” said Cara. “What we are creating with this trailer is a testament to Lenovo and Intel’s innovative technology and a talented creative team who worked so hard to bring the world I’ve been creating to life. We had a ton of fun making this. I hope my listeners love these visual stories as much as I do.”

Since catapulting to stardom with quintessential loner anthem “Here” in 2015, the singer/songwriter has matured alongside her audience, capturing the highs and lows of adolescence and young adulthood with camera-like clarity. In many ways, Cara’s new era is a snapshot of an artist finally processing her meteoric rise in the music industry. The Grammy winner’s debut single, “Here,” peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went on to sell three million copies. Her platinum-selling debut album, Know-It-All, delivered another smash hit with “Scars to Your Beautiful” and she memorably contributed “How Far I’ll Go” to the Moana soundtrack. She then added further platinum plaques to her collection with “Stay,” a dizzying club collaboration with Zedd, and an unforgettable feature on Logic’s “1-800-273-8255.” The Brampton, Ontario, native returned in 2018 with The Pains of Growing, which won a Juno Award for Best Album and Songwriter of the Year cemented Cara as one of her generation’s foremost singer/songwriters. Her last album, In The Meantime, that featured hit singles “Best Days” and “Sweet Dream.” The album was met with critical acclaim from PitchforkBillboardRolling Stone, with The New York Times calling it “Incisive and introspective as ever. Cara continues to position herself as both pop star and therapist.”

The “Made By Alessia Cara” campaign will feature a three-part episodic series that documents the creative journey behind the development of the album trailer, capturing how Lenovo and Intel support and inspire Alessia’s vision. Throughout these episodes, fans will get an exclusive look into the creative process, how Lenovo’s laptops and Intel Core Ultra processors amplify collaboration and creativity for Alessia and her team and emphasize the integral roles of Maris Jones and Gaia Esther Maria in shaping the project’s artistic direction.

“At Lenovo, we are always seeking ways to showcase the interconnectedness of creativity and technology across our partners and products,” said Milo Speranzo, Chief Marketing Officer, Lenovo North America. “The ‘Made By Alessia Cara‘ partnership offers fans an exclusive look into her latest album while highlighting the creators and tech that brought it to life.”

“With technology as our canvas, Intel is pushing the boundaries of creativity and collaboration to enhance the human experience,” said Asma Aziz, America’s Marketing Director at Intel. “AI empowers us to amplify imagination and innovation, proving that when applied in amazing partnerships such as this one with Lenovo, technology has limitless potential to inspire and connect.”

“Universal Music Group for Brands, Lenovo, and Intel have continued to collaborate on campaigns that highlight the transformative role of technology in shaping the music industry,” said Richard Yaffa, EVP of Universal Music Group For Brands. “The ‘Made By Alessia Cara‘ campaign is another example of how we think beyond the conventional to provide artists with the tools to bring their creative visions to life. By partnering with Alessia on this campaign and utilizing Lenovo and Intel’s innovative technology, we’re all able to enhance the storytelling of her newest album and inspire audiences to see the possibilities when imagination is empowered by technology.”

In addition, Lenovo, Intel, and Alessia will host an exclusive album underplay event for fans in early February 2025. This event will feature a live performance by Alessia accompanied by interactive projection mapping and other immersive elements, all designed to highlight the synergy between music, art, and Lenovo and Intel’s cutting-edge technology.

The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition and additional Lenovo Yoga products used in the campaign exemplify Lenovo’s ongoing commitment to empowering creativity through technology. Enabled by Intel Core Ultra processors, Lenovo Aura Edition devices were imagined and co-engineered with Intel to deploy premium experiences like Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care to provide creators like Alessia with the tools they need to fully immerse themselves in the creative process. Paired together, Lenovo’s laptops and Intel’s processors seamlessly combine productivity with an intuitive user experience that supports and elevates creative output.

Fans can anticipate the release of Alessia Cara’s official album trailer and the episodic series in January 2025, followed by the highly anticipated album Love & Hyperbole on February 14, 2025. Head to lenovo.com/yoga soon for more information on the partnership.