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Grossman’s Tavern Announces Music Scholarship Fundraiser & Presentation November 26

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Grossman’s Tavern, the heart of Toronto’s blues scene, is thrilled to announce a powerhouse lineup for a special night of live blues on November 26, 2024 at 7:00pm at 377 Spadina Ave, Toronto. This memorable event will feature performances by some of Toronto’s finest blues acts, including The Happy Pals, Frankie Foo, Danny Marks, The Hogtown Allstars, and special guest Donnie Walsh of Downchild. Renowned Toronto musician Dan McKinnon will serve as the night’s MC, guiding audiences through an evening of soulful, electrifying performances.

This event is part of Grossman’s Tavern’s long-standing commitment to fostering the Toronto music scene. Known for its vibrant history and dedication to local talent, Grossman’s is also the home of the Amy Louie Grossman’s Music Scholarship (ALGMS), which supports Toronto-based musicians in their career development.

Founded in memory of Amy Louie, a beloved family member of Grossman’s owners, the scholarship was established to provide Toronto musicians with financial support to advance their careers. Since its inception in 2012, ALGMS has awarded deserving musicians, with recent winners including Five and Tens (2022) and past recipients like Dan McKinnon, The Responsables, and The Swingin’ Blackjacks.

Grossman’s Tavern remains a hub for live music, bringing together a rich community of music lovers, emerging talents, and legendary artists alike. The November 28 lineup promises an incredible showcase of blues talent and a gathering of the Toronto music community in celebration of live music.

Event Details:

  • Date: Thursday, November 26, 2024 at 7pm
  • Location: Grossman’s Tavern, 377 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON
  • Performers: The Happy Pals, Frankie Foo, Danny Marks, The Hogtown Allstars with special guest Donnie Walsh of Downchild
  • MC: Dan McKinnon

My Next Read: ‘Backstage Passes & Backstabbing Bastards: Memoirs of a Rock ‘N’ Roll Survivor’ by Al Kooper

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One of the funniest rock memoirs ever, Al Kooper’s legendary Backstage Passes is available again! Al’s quirky life, from would-be teenage rocker, to crashing Bob Dylan’s recording session and playing the organ on Highway 61, to forming Blood, Sweat, and Tears and masterminding the Super Sessions, it’s all here…plus, in this updated version, Al rides with us all the way back to the end of the 20th century. There has never been a more wickedly humorous and honest book by a man who has made such rock history.

Review of the pokie “Lucky fishing” at SpeedAU Casino

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By Mitch Rice

“Lucky Fishing” is one of the popular video slots that allows players to experience the environment of a real fishing trip and enjoy a relaxed yet interesting game. The slot is developed by the renowned provider Pragmatic Play and offers players unique winning opportunities.

At one of the popular online gambling platforms, Speed AU Casino, users can enjoy “Lucky Fishing” both in demo mode and in real bets. The game is characterized by its simplicity, giving everyone the opportunity to try their luck and get a variety of bonuses. This slot is ideal for those who are looking for not only entertainment, but also the opportunity to win with minimal effort, enjoying every minute of the gameplay.

Game Overview

The Lucky Fishing slot from Pragmatic Play on SpeedAU Casino’s platform offers players a relaxing fishing environment with picturesque scenery and fishing-related symbols such as fish, rods and boats. The sound design with splashing water and birdsong enhances the feeling of privacy and tranquility, creating the perfect environment for a relaxed game. The fishing theme becomes the centerpiece.

The concept of the game is for players to enjoy the tranquility of the process while having the opportunity for lucrative winnings. Wild symbols and free spins add to the dynamics, but the game remains accessible thanks to its simple mechanics. Combined with beautiful graphics and soundtrack, the slot offers an interesting experience for all types of players.

Gameplay and game mechanics

In Lucky Fishing, players interact with five reels that host various symbols. The game features 20 active paylines, which means that wins can be obtained not only when symbols match on the centerline, but also across the entire grid. The game process begins by setting the bet, after which players start the reels, which begin to spin. Once the spinning is complete, the symbols on the reels are fixed and winning combinations are checked. To receive a payout, the same symbols must line up on one of the active lines, starting from the first reel on the left.

Winning combinations can be formed using standard symbols such as fish, rods and other fishing related items. The biggest payouts come from combinations of symbols that depict large fish, as well as symbols related to the fishing process. It is important to note that winning combinations can be varied and formed on several lines at the same time, increasing the possibility of winning. Depending on the number of matching symbols and their value, the payouts can vary, which adds dynamics to the gameplay on the SpeedAU Casino platform.

Main characteristics of the slot

“Lucky Fishing” is a slot with 5 reels and 20 active paylines. Players will have to collect combinations of fishing equipment and fish symbols to get winnings. The bets range from 0.01 to 5 coins per line, allowing the game to be customized for different budgets. Wild and Scatter symbols, as well as bonus free spins, add additional winning opportunities and make the gameplay more interesting.

The slot has an RTP of 96.4%, which means a 96.4% return on all bets in the long run. The volatility of the game is medium, indicating a balanced risk and payout frequency. This makes Lucky Fishing suitable for players looking for steady wins with a moderate level of risk. The slot is available at SpeedAU Casino in demo mode and for real bets.

Features and bonuses

“Lucky Fishing” includes two key elements that significantly influence the gameplay: the Wild symbol and the free spins. The Wild symbol acts as a substitute for other symbols, which helps to form winning combinations. This increases the probability of winning, especially in the case of falling rare symbols. Free spins are activated when certain symbols hit the reels, giving players extra spins without having to place a bet.

In addition to these features, SpeedAU Casino’s platform offers a demo mode that allows players to familiarize themselves with the mechanics of the bonuses without risk. Free spins and the ability to win without additional bets make Lucky Fishing an interesting choice, even without a progressive jackpot.

Benefits of the slot

“Lucky Fishing” entices with its simplicity and accessibility for players of any level. The bright design and simple game mechanics make it easy to learn, and the Wild symbol and free spins introduce an element of strategy. The 20 active paylines make the process more dynamic and increase the odds of winning. At SpeedAU Casino slots are available both in demo mode and for real bets, which allows you to choose a convenient format.

The lack of complex bonus mechanics and progressive jackpots makes the game easy and relaxing, perfect for those who just want to enjoy the process. Plenty of paylines and bonus features keep things interesting and add variety to the gameplay.

Conclusion

“Lucky Fishing” is a slot that perfectly combines simplicity, theme and interesting bonus features such as the Wild symbol and free spins. Players are given the opportunity to enjoy an easy gameplay with the possibility to get good wins without being overwhelmed by complex mechanics. The fishing theme and colorful visual elements create a relaxing environment, making the game a great choice for those looking for easy and enjoyable entertainment.

At SpeedAU Casino, this slot is available both in demo mode and for real bets, giving you the opportunity to familiarize yourself with the game without risk. The many paylines, high RTP and available bonuses make it a great option for players with different preferences. Overall, “Lucky Fishing” is a great game for those looking for an enjoyable experience with an opportunity for favorable results.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

From Vinyl to Virtual: How Music Collectibles Evolved with Technology

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By Mitch Rice

From Vinyl to Virtual: How Music Collectibles Evolved with Technology

Once upon a time, music was something you had to physically hold. A vinyl record, a cassette tape, or a CD were the ways we connected with our favorite artists. But let’s be honest, that tactile feeling of flipping through record bins is now a bit of a nostalgic fantasy. Fast forward to today, and music collectibles are no longer just about physical formats. Many of them have gone virtual. Now, instead of storing records, you can store digital assets, some even as a blockchain-backed NFT. Welcome to the new era of music memorabilia.

Vinyl, Cassettes, and the Glory Days of Physical Music

The heyday of music collectibles was the 70s, 80s, and 90s, when vinyl records and cassette tapes ruled the world. Music wasn’t just about listening; it was about owning a piece of an artist’s legacy. Fans didn’t just collect albums—they cherished them. Collecting became part of the experience. Limited editions, colored vinyl, and signed covers were the Holy Grail for collectors. And who could forget that moment when you first got your hands on an autographed record or an ultra-rare album? That feeling of exclusivity still stands out, doesn’t it?

But, as with all things, times change. While vinyl is back (thank you, hipster culture!), digital formats, streaming, and downloads dominate the scene. But something’s missing, right? We lost the thrill of the find, the tactile connection to the music. That’s when technology started to step in, shaking things up once again.

Enter the Digital Era: The Rise of Virtual Music Collectibles

Here’s where it gets interesting: As we moved from physical to digital formats, we didn’t just lose the albums. We gained a whole new world of digital collectibles. Enter blockchain, NFTs, and digital assets—these aren’t just buzzwords. These innovations have completely redefined how we interact with music memorabilia.

Instead of finding a rare vinyl, you might be buying exclusive, limited-edition digital art linked to your favorite band. It’s not just about owning a track anymore. It’s about a digital experience that could include never-before-heard music, exclusive artwork, or behind-the-scenes footage. All of them are guaranteed to be authentic via blockchain verification. That’s right. No fakes here, folks.

NFTs have allowed music to move into a new dimension where scarcity, ownership, and digital art all intersect. And fans? Well, they love it. Collecting music memorabilia has now become as much about the experience as the actual content. For instance, owning a unique digital art piece tied to an album is just as exciting as scoring a limited-edition vinyl. Who knew a pixelated image could feel as valuable as a tangible record?

The ‘Hype Drop’ Phenomenon: Where Exclusivity Meets Innovation

Here’s the kicker: Not only are fans now collecting these new-age digital assets, but they’re also getting in on the thrill of a “hype drop.” A hype drop is when a brand or artist releases a limited-edition product, often digitally. It is designed to create massive excitement and demand. It’s like a Black Friday event, but for digital content.

Think of platforms like HypeDrop, where fans can buy “mystery boxes” containing rare, exclusive items. It’s a surprise, and it taps into that rush of anticipation. This electronic mystery box can contain anything from unreleased music tracks to digital art. And the thrill is real. The rarity of these items, combined with the excitement of the “drop,” creates a perfect storm for collectors and fans alike. It’s not just about owning something; it’s about the experience—the rush of securing something that everyone wants but only a few can have.

The Future of Music Collectibles: Where Do We Go From Here?

So what’s next? As technology keeps advancing, the lines between physical and virtual collectibles will blur. Physical records will come with digital collectibles. These could unlock exclusive content or private events. It’s no longer just about owning the music. It’s about experiencing it in a deeper, more personal way.

We’re already seeing early signs of this shift. Musicians are already creating digital experiences tied to album purchases. The future is about integration, where the digital and physical worlds merge seamlessly. Fans won’t just be collecting albums; they’ll be collecting moments, experiences, and connections.

Get Ready to Collect Again—But This Time, It’s Digital

The evolution of music memorabilia is anything but boring. Technology continues to shape the way we consume and collect music. The future of fan engagement is bright, interactive, and full of surprises.

So, are you ready for the next big drop? Whether it’s an exclusive digital track or a mystery box filled with virtual goodies, it’s clear: the way we connect with music is changing. And, if you’re a fan of exclusivity and surprise, the future of music collectibles is waiting for you.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

5 Surprising Facts About The Rolling Stones’ “Let It Bleed”

Let It Bleed, the Rolling Stones’ eighth studio album, isn’t just a rock and roll classic; it’s a time capsule of 1969’s cultural turmoil and musical innovation. While you may know every riff and lyric by heart, here are five lesser-known facts about this legendary record that shows if you try sometime, you might get what you need.

1. “Gimme Shelter” Was Born from a Storm

The haunting opener “Gimme Shelter” feels like a harrowing journey through a storm, and for good reason. Keith Richards wrote the iconic riff while watching a sudden downpour in London, observing people frantically running for cover. That moment of chaos and desperation inspired what Mick Jagger later called “an apocalypse song,” perfectly capturing the violent era of Vietnam and civil unrest. Add Merry Clayton’s unforgettable, spine-chilling vocals—recorded in just a few takes while she was pregnant—and you’ve got a song that still resonates today.

2. The Cake on the Cover Was Made by a Future Celebrity Chef

The quirky and surreal album cover, featuring a cake stacked atop a record, pizza, and bicycle tire, was crafted by none other than Delia Smith, who would later become one of Britain’s most famous TV chefs. Her baked creation sits among the album’s eccentric imagery, symbolizing the band’s eclectic sound and the chaotic energy of the late ’60s.

3. “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” Featured a Reluctant Choir

The grand, gospel-like opening of “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” was brought to life by the London Bach Choir. While their harmonies are unforgettable, the choir later distanced themselves from the track due to the album’s “relentless drug ambiance.” Despite their misgivings, the juxtaposition of their pure voices with Mick Jagger’s raw lyrics created a masterpiece that became a cultural anthem for the bittersweet realities of life.

4. Brian Jones Played His Final Notes

Brian Jones, the band’s troubled founding member, only contributed to two tracks before being fired during the album’s recording. His autoharp on “You Got the Silver” and congas on “Midnight Rambler” would be his last performances with the Stones. A month after his dismissal, Jones tragically passed away, making Let It Bleed a bittersweet farewell to his immense, though fleeting, influence on the band.

5. Keith Richards Played a Guitar That Literally Fell Apart

Keith Richards’ guitar work on “Gimme Shelter” is nothing short of legendary, but did you know the guitar he used barely survived the recording session? Playing an Australian-made Maton SE777, Richards pushed the instrument to its limit, and as he hit the final note, the guitar’s neck fell off. Talk about leaving it all in the studio!

Dust off your copy of Let It Bleed and come on, you Midnight Ramblers, let the Stones take you on a journey all over again.

Shaboozey Named SoundExchange 2024 Breakout Artist

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SoundExchange announced today that Shaboozey has been honored as a SoundExchange Breakout Artist. The honor recognizes his undeniable success in 2024, from his now ubiquitous smash single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” and latest album, Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going, to his standout appearances on Beyoncé’s star-studded country album, Cowboy Carter and more.

“Shaboozey has literally changed the game, marrying hip-hop and country music to create a unique sound that has rocketed him into the consciousness of the mainstream,” said Michael Huppe, President and CEO of SoundExchange. “He’s a prolific creator, unafraid of pairing big, exciting hooks with relatable storytelling and staging memorable live performances. We are proud to present Shaboozey with the SoundExchange Breakout Artist Award, and we can’t wait to see what he does next.”

“Thank you to SoundExchange for this honor and naming me 2024’s Breakout Artist,” Shaboozey said. “It’s been an incredibly fulfilling year with still, lots to come, and I deeply respect the work that you do to ensure artists get paid fairly for the use of their work.”

Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going is Shaboozey’s third full-length album, featuring the hit single “A Bar Song (Tipsy).” The track recently marked its 18th consecutive week at No. 1 on The Billboard Hot 100, which is the longest in history by a solo artist with no accompanying credited acts.

The first-ever Black artist to simultaneously top Billboard‘s Hot Country Songs chart and the Hot 100, Shaboozey will headline the Thanksgiving Halftime Show powered by Verizon on at the Detroit Lions’ annual holiday football game airing November 28 on CBS. His North American tour wraps December 16 in Philadelphia. A January 18 visit to Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry House will kick off his 2025, when he already has plans laid out for a March European tour. Full info on Shaboozey’s tour dates can be found at americandogwood.com.

6X GRAMMY nominated singer-songwriter Shaboozey is building his own world, carving a lane in the alternative country and hip-hop space. Born to parents of Nigerian descent and raised in the small town of Woodbridge, Virginia, the multi-faceted artist grew up on an eclectic mix of music encompassing classic hip-hop and R&B, to country and blues icons like Johnny CashKenny RogersGarth Brooks, and Lead Belly, to master lyricists, such as Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. A true crossover artist, he began his epic rise to stardom with two standout features on Beyoncé’s COWBOY CARTER—the only artist with multiple appearances on the album. His latest body of work, the critically acclaimed RIAA-gold certified masterpiece Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going, debuted in the top five of the Billboard 200 and was praised by Rolling Stone for “honoring country tradition and moving it forward.” NPR calls him “the future of country music,” and the Los Angeles Times crowned him as “the breakout country artist of the year.” The album’s breakthrough anthem, the 6X RIAA-Platinum certified, “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” holds the record for the longest-leading Hot 100 No. 1 ever by a solo artist while also topping Billboard’s Hot Country Songs, Country Airplay Chart, and Mediabase/Country Aircheck charts. The single has accumulated over a billion streams across DSPs and made history making Shaboozey the first Black male artist to simultaneously top Billboard’s Hot Country Songs and Hot 100. He has earned nominations for the upcoming 2025 GRAMMY® Awards in the general field (Best New Artist & Song of the Year), country (Best Country Song & Best Country Solo Performance), and rap (Best Melodic Rap Performance) categories. He won the New Artist of 2024 and New Artist Song of 2024 awards at the People’s Choice Country Awards, garnered Best New Artist and Song of the Summer nominations at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, and is nominated for New Artist of the Year and Single of the Year at the 2024 Country Music Association Awards. He was also named a TIME100 NEXT honoree and Billboard Country Power Player. Highlighting not only his musical vision but also his commitment to influencing modern culture, Shaboozey debuted his collaboration for YSL Beauty’s MYSLF Le Parfum for a groundbreaking campaign. Honoring his Virginia roots, Shaboozey continues the region’s long-standing tradition of prolific creativity by expanding the scope of contemporary hip-hop, introducing modern Americana to a global audience, and bringing a unique sense of artistry to the world. His debut headline tour “Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going” sold out in every market ahead of its launch, and he is currently performing in arenas in support of Jelly Roll’s “Beautifully Broken” tour.

Johnny Marr Partners with Epidemic Sound to Mentor the Next Generation of Artists

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Today, Epidemic Sound announced a partnership with legendary guitarist, songwriter, and producer Johnny Marr. Starting in Q1 2025, Marr will mentor three emerging Epidemic Sound artists, providing invaluable guidance on career development, artistic growth, and release strategies within the evolving music industry landscape.

Marr, renowned for his innovative guitar work in The Smiths, Modest Mouse, and The Cribs, as well as numerous collaborations and a glittering solo career, brings a wealth of experience across multiple facets of the music industry. His versatility as a guitarist, singer-songwriter, producer, and film composer — through collaborations with Hans Zimmer for movies such as Inception and the James Bond film No Time Die, including the title track created with Billie Eilish — makes him an ideal mentor for Epidemic Sound artists navigating the complex modern music ecosystem.

“I’ve always been interested in new talent and try to be of help if I can with emerging artists finding their unique voice,” said Johnny Marr, guitarist, songwriter, and producer. “Epidemic Sound is a new kind of music company with its innovative platform opening up ways for emerging musicians to make a living, while distributing their work at scale to today’s online audience of viewers, fans, and listeners. In today’s challenging music environment, it’s crucial for artists to develop a diverse skill set and I’m excited to work with some talented individuals to help them navigate the industry while staying true to their vision.”

This partnership comes at a critical time for the music industry, with many artists facing challenges such as a struggling grassroots live scene and low remuneration. Marr’s mentorship will focus on guiding these artists to diversify their approach, exploring opportunities in sync licensing, collaborations, social media, and commercial releases.

Johnny Marr’s extraordinary career and his ability to continually reinvent himself make him the perfect mentor for our artists. His insights will be invaluable in helping them develop the broad skill set needed to thrive in today’s music industry,” said John Cleary, Epidemic Sound’s Director of Global Music Recruitment. “We’re thrilled to have him on board and can’t wait to see the impact of this collaboration for our artists.”

Each mentee was selected for how their unique talent and goals aligned with Marr’s expertise, ensuring his mentorship would enhance their artistic growth and collaboration potential. The three Epidemic Sound artists selected for this program include:

  • Rebecca MardalMardal, a talented guitarist based in Sweden who began mastering her craft at just 11 years old, has built an impressive career with millions of streams from both her solo projects and collaborations.
  • Christoffer Moe DitlevsenDitlevsen is a Swedish composer and multi-instrumentalist known for his orchestral-cinematic works, which have been featured globally in commercials, TV shows, documentaries, and trailers. His passion for both black metal and rock guitar showcases his versatile range across moods.
  • Kylie Dailey: Kylie Dailey’s songs make space to take a deep breath. Her citrus-tinged melodies are an invitation to lightness, channeling some of the best human feelings: hair blown by ocean wind, passing the guitar with your best friends, sharing that hard thing with someone you love. Paired with arrangements by partner Kevin Dailey (Garden Friend), Kylie Dailey’s songs glow with personal experience filtered through musical influences ranging from American folk music to African folk melodies.

After launching its music licensing solution in 2009, Epidemic Sound has seen the reach of its music grow exponentially, with 2.5 billion daily views on platforms like YouTube and TikTok providing a powerful distribution engine for its artists. Simultaneously, it has consistently developed its remuneration model — which now includes a 50/50 streaming royalty split, fixed fees per track, and a portion of a SEK 30 million Soundtrack Bonus — while offering freedom for artists to work non-exclusively on multiple projects at the same time, and facilitating creative collaborations with industry legends such as Richie Hawtin and now Johnny Marr.

The collaboration kicks off with the launch of a playlist where Johnny Marr has picked his favorite Epidemic Sound tracks.

Widely regarded as the most influential guitarist of his generation, Johnny Marr’s impact on popular music cannot be overstated; from his time in The Smiths, The Pretenders, The The, Electronic, Modest Mouse, and The Cribs to his more recent solo releases and movie soundtrack work with Hans Zimmer, Johnny’s distinctive songwriting, production and guitar sound has been an integral part of the musical landscape for 40 years. In 2023, Marr released Marr’s Guitars, a beautifully curated photographic tribute to the instruments that have defined his distinctive sound and style. September 2024 brought the release of Boomslang, a powerful new work that continues his journey of sonic exploration, adding a fresh dimension to his storied career. His latest album, Spirit Power: The Best of Johnny Marr, captures the spirit and evolution of his career—a testament to his relentless creativity, genre-crossing musicality, and unwavering love of melody.

Stock Music Market to Grow by USD 650.4 Million (2024-2028), Driven by Rising Subscription Model Adoption

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The global stock music market size is estimated to grow by USD 650.4 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 8.09% during the forecast period. Rising adoption of subscription model is driving market growth, with a trend towards expanding variety of stock music. However, lack of ownership of streamed music and issues associated with integration poses a challenge.Key market players include Addictive Tracks Ltd., Adobe Inc., Artlist Ltd., Audio Network Ltd., Bensound, Envato Pty Ltd., Epidemic Sound AB, Filmstro Ltd., Footage Firm Inc., HookSounds, Marmoset LLC, Music Vine Ltd., MusicRevolution LLC, NEO Sounds Ltd., Pixabay GmbH, Shutterstock Inc., Smartsound LLC, SoundCloud Global Ltd. And Co. KG, The License lab LLC, and Trad Ventures LLC.

The Stock Music Market is experiencing significant trends driven by millennials and technology. Social media and authenticity are key factors, with music libraries in high demand for content creators in TV, films, advertisements, video games, corporate production, and entertainment business. Brands like Coca-Cola and Budweiser use stock music for brand anthems and advertising material. Technology enables localization, reaching affluent consumers with original music and cultural change agents, from touring musicians to local musicians. Stock music producers offer licenses, attribution, and exploitable rights to market participants. Premiumbeat, Magazines, Newspapers, and streaming services are integral parts of this market. Editing tools and platforms cater to professionals in the gig economy, offering genres and styles for multimedia content, instore activations, and digital efforts. Globalization unifies approach and platform integration, with digital advertising, online marketing, podcasting, and broadcasting driving growth in the Prague-based industry. Media spending on radio, internet, TV, and stock content continues to rise, making it an exciting space for businesses and creators alike.

The stock music market experiences significant demand due to its extensive usage as background music across various platforms. RF (Royalty-Free) music tracks are commonly employed in TV programs, corporate videos, on-hold productions, and websites. YouTube, a leading video streaming service, is a major consumer of RF music for user-generated content. Corporate clients utilize RF music for producing promotional videos and presentations, enhancing their marketing efforts by adding suitable background scores.

In today’s business world, stock music market faces various challenges from millennials’ preferences, technology advancements, and social media trends. Authenticity is key as content creators in TV, films, advertisements, video games, corporate production, and entertainment businesses seek original music for their brand assets. Licenses, attribution, and exploitable rights are crucial for market participants like Premiumbeat, Coca-Cola, Budweiser, and others, who use music as branding material. Technology and social media have disrupted traditional music industries, with localization and user base expansion through streaming services and digital advertising. Cultural change agents like touring musicians and local musicians also impact the market. Platform integration, unified approach, and multimedia content creation are essential for businesses in the gig economy. Genres and styles continue to evolve, requiring editing tools and platforms for professionals. Globalization and media spending on radio, internet, TV, and streaming services further shape the stock music market.

The digital music market, driven by the popularity of streaming services, is a significant sector in stock music publishing. Mobile apps, offering both free and paid subscriptions, dominate this market. With vast music libraries, these applications enable on-demand listening. However, the lack of ownership over downloaded music and the necessity for internet connectivity limit their appeal. Consequently, many consumers opt for downloading music instead. To effectively reach audiences, stock music platforms must integrate with mobile apps and social media.

Royalty-free (RF) music refers to the permission to use copyrighted materials without paying recurring royalties or license fees. RF music allows for one-time payment, regardless of usage frequency, number of copies sold, or timeframe. Traditionally, RF music was popular for TV productions due to its ease of use and elimination of complex licensing processes. With the rise of digital distribution, RF music adoption benefiting both composers and buyers. Numerous websites offer a vast selection of RF music across various genres, making it a convenient choice for producers. RF music’s affordability fuels the growth of the global stock music market, as it offers legal access to a wide range of musical content without the need for copyright infringement.

The Stock Music Market is a dynamic and evolving industry that caters to the diverse audio needs of various sectors, from Millennials to corporations. Technology and social media have revolutionized the way we consume and create music, making music libraries an essential resource for content creators in the entertainment business. From TV and films to advertisements, video games, and corporate production, the demand for authentic and high-quality music is at an all-time high. The gig economy has given rise to a new generation of multimedia artists, providing them with an opportunity to monetize their creations through stock music platforms. Genres and styles vary widely, catering to the unique needs of different industries and audiences. The user base of streaming services and digital advertising continues to grow, making online marketing and podcasting increasingly important channels for reaching consumers. The Stock Music Market is a thriving business that is here to stay.

The Stock Music Market is a dynamic and evolving industry that caters to the growing demand for authentic and high-quality music in various sectors. With millennials leading the charge, technology and social media have revolutionized the way music is consumed and shared. Music libraries have become essential resources for content creators in TV, films, advertisements, video games, corporate production, and the entertainment business. Stock music producers offer licenses, attribution, and exploitable rights to market participants, enabling a diverse range of businesses to access original music for their brand assets. Affluent consumers, cultural change agents, touring musicians, and local musicians all contribute to this vibrant ecosystem. Brands like Coca-Cola and Budweiser have embraced music as a powerful branding tool, creating iconic brand anthems and sponsoring music festivals. The digital element has transformed the industry, with streaming services, podcasting, and online marketing leading the charge. Editing tools and platforms have made it easier for professionals to integrate music into their multimedia content, from magazines and newspapers to instore activations and digital efforts. The market continues to grow, fueled by media spending and the unified approach to platform integration.

HarbourView Equity Partners Acquires Music Catalog of Renowned Jazz Guitarist Great George Benson

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HarbourView Equity Partners, an industry-leading alternative asset management company focused on investment opportunities in the sports, media and entertainment space, announced today that the company has agreed to purchase the master royalty income of iconic Jazz guitarist and singer-songwriter George Benson.

Benson has the rare distinction of being in the pop consciousness while remaining in the pantheon of jazz greats. With 36 studio albums, and 8 live albums, the 10-time Grammy-winner has summited the pop, R&B, soul, and jazz charts.

His 1976, three-time Grammy-winning album, Breezin‘, boasting the pop-jazz vocal smash “This Masquerade,” topped the jazz, pop, and R&B charts and remains one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time – it has since been certified 3x platinum.

Benson’s 1980 smash, “Give Me The Night,” produced by Quincy Jones and written by Rod Temperton (Michael Jackson), rocketed to the top of the soul single charts.

In 2009, Benson was awarded the NEA Jazz Masters Fellowship— the highest honor that our nation bestows on jazz artists. In addition, Benson has rightly earned a Hollywood Walk of Fame Star, as well as honorary doctorate degrees from Morris Brown College, the Berklee School of Music, and Duquesne University.

In 2018, Benson collaborated with subversive art-pop band, Gorillaz, featuring Blur’s Damon Albarn and visual artist Jamie Hewlett, to co-write and perform on the track “Humility,” which has amassed over 100 million YouTube views and counting. In 2021, DJ Steve Aoki remixed Benson’s hit “Give Me the Night” with a rugged house beat introducing the irresistible R&B-pop gem to a whole new audience.

Benson remains a vital force in modern music. His current albums have earned prime features and rave reviews in the New York Times, the Wall Street JournalAmerican SongwriterForbes, and Newsweek. He recently co-wrote, performed the title track, and appeared in the video for funk pioneer Bootsy Collins Power Of The One. In 2020, he was inducted into the jazz bible DownBeat Magazine‘s “Hall of Fame.” The following year he was inducted by music legend Quincy Jones into New Jersey’s Hall of Fame—an honor from which he received a personal congratulatory note from President Obama.

His successful live concert history speaks to his vitality as a performing artist – Benson walks that delicate balance between being a consummate performer and an adventurous instrumentalist. He remains an annual must-see artist who regularly packs and often sells out such hallowed venues as The Hollywood Bowl, Royal Albert HallHampton Court Palace, and Sydney Opera House. Benson is also a marquee artist at many U.S. Jazz and international festivals, including Montreux Jazz Fest.

HarbourView Equity Partners founder and CEO Sherrese Clarke Soares said, “We maintain a commitment to be a canon for legendary culture movers such as George Benson. His artistry is distinct in its sound, with acoustics that forever stir emotions of a musical era that means so much to so many of us. We are proud to stand in partnership and welcome him to the HarbourView family.”

Fox Rothschild served as legal counsel to HarbourView in this transaction. George Benson was represented by Manatt, Phelps & Phillips. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Chris Stapleton and Ashley Gorley Take Top Honors at ASCAP 2024 Country Music Celebration

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ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, announces the winners of the 62nd ASCAP Country Music Awards, celebrating the songwriters and publishers of country music’s most-performed ASCAP songs of the past year.

Ashley Gorley wins his 11th ASCAP Country Music Songwriter of the Year honor, extending his record as the winningest ASCAP songwriter in the country format. Among ASCAP’s 11 most-performed country songs of the year penned by Gorley are “World on Fire” and “Bulletproof” (Nate Smith), “Save Me the Trouble” (Dan + Shay), “All I Need Is You” (Chris Janson), “Truck Bed” (Hardy), and “God Gave Me s Girl” (Russell Dickerson). Gorley was recently nominated for induction to the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Chris Stapleton receives the ASCAP Country Music Songwriter/Artist of the Year honor and his “White Horse” (co-written by ASCAP member Dan Wilson) and “Think I’m in Love with You” are among ASCAP’s most-performed country songs of the year. Stapleton has two Grammy nominations and is up for five CMA Awards including Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year, and Album of the Year at Wednesday’s CMA Awards.

“Last Night” is the ASCAP Country Song of the Year. Co-written by JKash and Ashley Gorley, the song gives Gorley his fourth ASCAP Country Song of the Year win. Sony Music Publishing, Kobalt Songs Music Publishing, Domain Capital Group, Poppy’s Picks, Prescription Songs and Rap Kingpin Music celebrated with them. The Grammy-nominated single hit #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, the Billboard Country Airplay chart and the Billboard Hot 100 where it spent 16 non-consecutive weeks in the top spot. The song is among Gorley’s astounding 80 #1 hits, a record accomplishment across all genres.

Sony Music Publishing was named ASCAP Country Music Publisher of the Year for the 11th time with 24 of this year’s most-performed songs. Among their impressive list of works are “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Shaboozey’s mega-hit that was #1 concurrently on the Billboard Hot 100 and Billboard Hot Country Songs charts and is the longest-running #1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2024. The song is up for a CMA Single of the Year honor with Shaboozey nominated for five Grammys and in the CMA New Artist of the Year category. Additional Sony most-performed titles include “Can’t Break Up Now” (Old Dominion and Megan Moroney), “If You Go Down (I’m Goin’ Down Too)” (Kelsea Ballerini), “Texas Hold ‘Em” (Beyoncé), “Outskirts” (Sam Hunt), “Bulletproof” (Nate Smith), “Save Me the Trouble” (Dan + Shay), “I Can Feel It” (Kane Brown), “Light On in the Kitchen” (Ashley McBryde) and “Austin” (Dasha), among others. Sony Music Publishing Nashville CEO Rusty Gaston accepted the award.

ASCAP celebrated the winners at an exclusive gathering in Nashville where guests enjoyed a performance of “High and Lonesome,” a recent single by rising duo Everette. ASCAP CEO Elizabeth Matthews, ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams and ASCAP Vice President of Nashville Membership Mike Sistad handed out awards as writers of the most-performed songs enjoyed catching up with peers and friends at the invitation-only celebration.