5 Absolute No-Brainers the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Needs to Induct

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

5 Absolute No-Brainers the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Needs to Induct

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is no stranger to controversy, omissions, and delayed recognition. For every well-deserved induction, there are legends still waiting outside the doors, wondering what more they need to do to earn a spot. While fans debate the merits of genres, influence, and legacy, some names are so obvious they shouldn’t even be up for debate. Here are five artists the Rock Hall should induct without hesitation—because their resumes speak for themselves.

1. Phil Collins
Already inducted as a member of Genesis, Phil Collins deserves a second honor for his solo career—no question. He’s sold over 150 million records worldwide, scored seven #1 Billboard Hot 100 singles, and shaped the sound of the 1980s with his instantly recognizable voice and gated-reverb drum sound. From “In the Air Tonight” to “Against All Odds,” Collins blended pop, rock, and soul in a way few others could, all while being a world-class drummer. If Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, and Stevie Nicks can be inducted twice, Collins more than qualifies.

2. Oasis
Britpop’s loudest and most volatile torchbearers have yet to make the Hall—absurd, considering the Gallagher brothers were the voice of a generation. Definitely Maybe and (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? weren’t just massive albums—they were global events. They reignited rock’s swagger in the ’90s, with Noel’s melodies and Liam’s snarl giving life to anthems like “Wonderwall” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger.” Their influence spans from Arctic Monkeys to Coldplay, and their legacy remains as culturally relevant as ever.

3. The Smiths
Yes, Morrissey is divisive. No, it shouldn’t matter. The Smiths changed the course of alternative music with a sound that combined jangly guitars, sardonic wit, and unfiltered emotion. Johnny Marr’s guitar work was revolutionary, and Morrissey’s lyrical content—equal parts tragic, hilarious, and heartfelt—made countless misfits feel seen. Without The Smiths, there’s no Britpop, no indie revival, and no countless bands that followed in their shadow.

5. Smashing Pumpkins
They helped define the sound of 1990s alternative rock, blending grunge, goth, and dream-pop into something entirely their own. With landmark albums like Siamese Dream and Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, they pushed the boundaries of what rock music could be—both sonically and emotionally. Billy Corgan’s ambitious songwriting and the band’s layered, atmospheric production inspired a generation of musicians.

5. Iron Maiden
One of the most successful and influential metal bands of all time, Iron Maiden are a global force. Albums like The Number of the Beast and Powerslave helped define heavy metal, and their live shows are the stuff of legend. With nearly 100 million albums sold and decades of sold-out tours, their absence from the Hall is baffling.

10 Songs About Starting Over

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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There’s something magical about hitting the reset button. Whether it’s a breakup, a breakthrough, or just a new pair of shoes, music has always been there to soundtrack the art of starting over. Here are 10 songs that capture the thrill, the heartbreak, and the wide-eyed wonder of beginning again — each one a sonic do-over in 2 to 3 lines.

1. “Begin Again” – Taylor Swift
In classic Swift fashion, she captures that hopeful awkwardness of a first date after heartache. Acoustic, poetic, and set in a Parisian café — it’s a fresh start in cardigan form.

2. “Brand New Day” – Sting
This one’s got harmonica, sunshine, and optimism for miles. It’s the anthem of dusting off yesterday and driving headfirst into tomorrow (bonus points for Stevie Wonder’s harmonica cameo!).

3. “Starting Over” – Chris Stapleton
With a voice like warm bourbon and lyrics like a handwritten letter, Stapleton turns a fresh chapter into a full-blown road trip. It’s a love song, a leap of faith, and a back porch jam rolled into one.

4. “Feeling Good” – Nina Simone
Technically about a new dawn and a new day — but make no mistake, this is the sound of personal revolution. Birds flying high? That’s just Nina announcing your comeback.

5. “I’m Still Standing” – Elton John
A glitter-drenched reminder that resilience can be loud, proud, and fabulous. Who says starting over can’t include sequins and piano flourishes?

6. “Dog Days Are Over” – Florence + The Machine
This one doesn’t tiptoe into change — it sprints into it barefoot across a meadow. With drums like thunder and a voice like a battle cry, Florence leads the charge into your better days.

7. “Starting Over” – John Lennon
A gentle reboot for romance, this post-Beatles gem is a love letter to second chances. It’s cozy, doo-woppy, and full of Lennonesque warmth.

8. “Born Again” – Third Day
Gospel-tinged and spiritually soaring, this rock ballad frames starting over as a full transformation. Think baptism-by-guitar-solo.

9. “Unwritten” – Natasha Bedingfield
Is it legally required to blast this at full volume during any life pivot? Possibly. It’s the unofficial theme song for journaling your way into a new you.

10. “Reset” – Outkast (André 3000 feat. Khujo)
Deep cut alert! This futuristic funk-rap track from The Love Below is all about life’s big do-overs. It’s quirky, cosmic, and unmistakably André 3000 — just the way we like our fresh starts.

New beginnings aren’t always easy, but they sure sound good. Whether you’re reinventing your career, your love life, or your breakfast routine, these tracks are your melodic reset button. Now press play, take a breath — and begin again.

10 Songs You Didn’t Know Mick Jagger and Keith Richards Wrote… For Other People

5 Surprising Facts About Your Favourite Albums

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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10 Songs You Didn’t Know Mick Jagger and Keith Richards Wrote… For Other People

Before the Rolling Stones were the Rolling Stones as we know them—rock and roll’s eternal juggernauts—Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were young songwriters looking to break into the biz however they could. And that meant penning tunes for other artists. Here are 10 songs that Jagger and Richards wrote not for themselves, but for others to sing, shout, and shimmy to:

1. “That Girl Belongs to Yesterday” – Gene Pitney (1964)
One of the earliest Jagger–Richards compositions to hit the airwaves, this melancholic pop tune became a hit for Gene Pitney. It marked the first time the songwriting duo cracked the U.S. charts with someone else singing their words.

2. “As Tears Go By” – Marianne Faithfull (1964)
Long before the Stones made it their own, “As Tears Go By” was written for Marianne Faithfull when she was just 17. The lush orchestration and wistful lyrics launched her career—and hinted at the ballads Jagger and Richards could craft when they weren’t rocking out.

3. “Shang a Doo Lang” – Adrienne Posta (1964)
This girl-group-style pop number was written for 14-year-old British singer Adrienne Posta. Released in March 1964, it’s pure ’60s gold, brimming with swingin’ hooks and youthful charm.

4. “Will You Be My Lover Tonight” / “It Should Be You” – George Bean (1964)
Recorded as a two-sided single, these tunes by George Bean bear the unmistakable melodic stamp of early Jagger–Richards. Bean wasn’t a household name, but he had the honour of singing their words before they became icons.

5. “When Blue Turns to Grey” – Tracey Dey (1964)
Tracey Dey put her voice to this emotionally charged track before the Stones ever released their own version. It’s a perfect example of how the duo could channel heartbreak into harmony for other voices.

6. “Each and Every Day” – Bobby Jameson (1964)
The B-side to “All I Want Is My Baby,” this hidden gem was penned solely by Jagger and Richards. Jameson’s delivery gives it a moody edge, but the songwriting foundation is all Glimmer Twins.

7. “So Much in Love” – The Mighty Avengers (1964)
A British beat band that never quite broke through, The Mighty Avengers gave this Jagger–Richards tune a rousing go. The Herd, featuring a young Peter Frampton, would later revive it in 1966.

8. “Act Together” – Ronnie Wood (1974)
Written by Mick and Keith but gifted to Ronnie Wood for his debut solo album, this track grooves with a loose, communal feel. It’s Stones-y without being the Stones—just how Ronnie liked it.

9. “Sure the One You Need” – Ronnie Wood (1974)
Another Jagger–Richards track that Ronnie made his own, this swaggering rock number popped up again with the New Barbarians in 1979. The lyrics drip with Stones attitude, even when they’re not on lead.

10. “Lonely at the Top” – Mick Jagger (1985)
Ironically written by the pair but never performed by the band, this funky gem ended up on Jagger’s solo album She’s the Boss. It’s part satire, part autobiography—and proof their songwriting chemistry stretches far beyond the Stones’ catalog.

Helmut Philipps Explores Dub’s Global Legacy in ‘Dub: The Sound of Surprise’

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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Helmut Philipps Explores Dub’s Global Legacy in ‘Dub: The Sound of Surprise’

DUB, The Sound of Surprise is a detailed chronicle and fascinating guide to the captivating history of Jamaican dub music, the first of its kind. This archetype of the remix style grew out of reggae in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The book presents over 200 illustrations and some rare album covers, and describes the origins and development of a unique technique created in Jamaican recording studios which would change the world of music production forever. Author Helmut Philipps has visited the places dub happened, and met its pioneers, inventors, and key figures.

In addition to analysis, Philipps includes essays and conversations with and about King Jammy, Scientist, Style Scott, David Rodigan, Bunny Lee, King Tubby, Lee Perry, Dennis Bovell, Ernest Hoo Kim, Errol Brown, Linval Thompson, Tippy I-Grade, Victor Rice, Mad Professor and many others. The gripping narrative also takes a look at the development of dub in Europe, the UK, and the United States.

Graham Sharpe Chronicles the Vinyl Revival in ‘ON THE RECORDs’ Book

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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Graham Sharpe Chronicles the Vinyl Revival in ‘ON THE RECORDs’ Book

Far from being yesterday’s fading, forgotten format, vinyl records have survived and flourished as the music medium of choice for not only baby-boomers, but all ages. Every record a collector acquires comes with a story of its own, and the recent Covid-19 lockdowns prompted many vinylholics, including Sharpe, to look more closely at their reasons for collecting, take stock of existing collections and rediscover old favourites. ON THE RECORDs: Notes from the Vinyl Revival includes interviews and contributions from voices across the record industry – shop owners, record company insiders, online/postal sellers, auction organisers, market traders of vinyl, amateur collectors – who share their stories with candour, warmth and humour. A mesmerising blend of memoir, travel, music and social history that will appeal to anyone who vividly recalls the first LP they bought and any music fan who derives pleasure from the capacity that records have for transporting you back in time.

The Hold Steady and David Espinosa Alvarez Turn “Stay Positive” Into a Children’s Book

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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The Hold Steady and David Espinosa Alvarez Turn “Stay Positive” Into a Children’s Book

The Hold Steady’s beloved song of stick-to-itiveness and positivity is adapted into a beautiful children’s book co-written by David Espinosa Alvarez about the social life of a humble armadillo

STAY POSITIVE is a charming children’s picture book based on The Hold Steady song of the same name. The title track of the band’s fourth album (released in 2008), “Stay Positive” is a call to arms to stand strong and persevere during trying times. The song remains a fan favorite and a staple of The Hold Steady’s live shows.

The book follows the path of an adorable armadillo who discovers along the way how music can pull together a disparate cast of characters. It’s also a lesson in tenacity and maintaining a positive attitude when encountering adverse situations. The story ends up in a unified celebration that mirrors the joy of a Hold Steady performance.

Singer Craig Finn explains, “‘Stay Positive’ has a line that says, ‘The kids at the shows will have kids of their own,’ and it’s true: each year more Hold Steady fans become parents or grandparents. So I’m thrilled that we’re offering the children’s book version of ‘Stay Positive,’ which brings THS joy to the whole family.”

Grant McPhee’s ‘Postcards From Scotland’ Chronicles the Rise of Scottish Indie Music 1983–1995

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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Grant McPhee’s ‘Postcards From Scotland’ Chronicles the Rise of Scottish Indie Music 1983–1995

By 1983, many of Scotland’s post-punk bands had broken up or moved south to chase the major labels in London. That vacuum was filled by an influx of young musicians who were determined to remake the scene in their own image.

In this compelling and dynamic oral history, Grant McPhee chronicles the radical transformation of Scotland’s independent music scene from 1983-1995. Including archival photos and drawing from over 100 interviews with the key players of the time, Grant McPhee allows them to set the scene in their own words; including the Cocteau Twins, Shop Assistants, Teenage Fanclub, The Jesus and Mary Chain, Primal Scream and many more.

Postcards from Scotland is the definitive story of the radicals, misfits and experimentalists who made independent music what it is today.

Rely on a Professional Plumber for Seamless Installation of Your Dishwasher!

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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By Mitch Rice

Have you recently purchased a dishwasher for your kitchen? Are you excited because it can reduce your daily cleaning job? Therefore, avoid making the mistake of attempting a DIY installation. Your slight mistake can cost you a lot. In this post, we will guide you through the importance of hiring a professional plumber to install your dishwasher.

You have already decided to install it yourself to save on the upfront expenses. However, you will probably change your mind when you understand the consequences of self-installation.

How can a plumber help you with dishwasher installation?

It’s crucial to understand the expertise they can bring to you with their service.

Installation process.
Still set.
Efficiency.
Safety compliance.
Troubleshoot solutions.
Cost-effectiveness.

Now, consider the factors mentioned earlier and think critically about them. Is DIY a good option?

Are you still not satisfied?

If you are still not satisfied, let me show you the other significant factors that require professional installateur lave vaisselle services.

Electrical connections.
Permit and regulations.
Available drainage facilities.
Connecting the water supplies.
Availability of space.

Installing a dishwasher may be easy with the annual guide in your hand. But when you finally set for the task, you will face difficulties out of this world. Hiring a plumber can ensure time-saving and professional work. Believe me, it’s a wise decision after such a significant investment!

Safety

Proper plumbing and electrical connections ensure there are no accidents while using the unit.

Warranty coverage

If any problem occurs during the installation of the unit, you can sit back and relax, as the professionals will take care of it. Moreover, you will get warranty coverage. Thus, you can call them anytime for a free service if the system malfunctions.

Long term benefits

You can expect fewer problems in the future when you get it installed by your professional. With their knowledge and expertise, they can establish secure connections.

Efficiency

For efficient and smooth dishwasher unit operation, consulting a professional plumber is the best choice. Unless you want to experience frequent problems with water leakage and wiring connections, professional installation should be the foremost option.

Expertise

You can avoid expensive mistakes while installing. For some parts, no warranty is provided by the companies either. Due to a lack of knowledge and expertise, if you end up messing up any part of the unit, imagine who will suffer as a result. And, if it’s an expensive part, then again, you will have to pay a hefty amount to get it from the company. However, the time it will take is a different story altogether. So, is it a wise decision to do it yourself?

Regulations

Do you know the local plumbing codes? It’s understandable that, as an average person, you may not know about it. However, with professional assistance, you can ensure compliance with local regulations.

Conclusion

When you have spent a significant amount on buying a branded dishwasher, how much will it cost to install it? Yes, some companies do charge a lot, accompanied by hidden charges. However, with experts from https://www.plomberie5etoiles.com/, you can ensure complete peace of mind because their charges are transparent and relatively cheaper compared to other plumbing companies operating in the market. So, what are you waiting for? Call them now to schedule your appointment. Trust me, you will thank yourself later on for the wise decision!

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

Non-Alcoholic Seltzers Wholesale From Mitra9: Things To Ensure Before Buying

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 22, 2025

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By Mitch Rice

As demand for non-alcoholic beverages continues to grow, wholesale buyers are turning to trusted brands like Mitra9 for innovative options, such as non-alcoholic seltzers. These refreshing drinks offer a modern twist for retailers looking to expand their beverage lineup with trendy, functional products. However, before placing a wholesale order, it’s essential to evaluate a few key factors to ensure a smooth partnership and strong return on investment. From verifying inventory consistency to assessing packaging standards, being thorough upfront can help set your business up for long-term success with this brand’s seltzer offerings.

9 Things To Ensure Before Buying Non-Alcoholic Seltzers Wholesale From Mitra9

Consistent inventory availability

A key factor to consider before purchasing non alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is consistent inventory availability. Steady stock levels are crucial for maintaining a reliable supply chain, particularly if you intend to consistently offer these products to your customers.

Before committing to a wholesale partnership, it’s important to confirm that this brand can meet your order volumes without frequent backorders or delays. This consistency helps you avoid stockouts, fulfill customer demand on time, and maintain smooth business operations without disruption.

Competitive wholesale pricing

A key factor to consider before purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is competitive wholesale pricing. As a retailer or distributor, securing favorable pricing has a direct impact on your profit margins and pricing strategy.

It’s essential to compare this brand’s rates with those of other suppliers to ensure you’re getting a solid value for the quantity and quality offered. Clear and consistent pricing structures, along with potential bulk discounts, can make a noticeable difference in your bottom line and help you remain competitive in a growing beverage market.

Clear labeling and packaging standards

A key consideration before purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is ensuring that clear labeling and packaging standards are met. Professional and accurate packaging not only reflects the brand’s credibility but also supports your retail presentation. Labels should clearly list all essential details, such as ingredients, serving size, and any important usage instructions.

Additionally, well-designed packaging enhances shelf appeal and ensures the products meet retail compliance requirements. Confirming these standards in advance helps you maintain consistency across your inventory and creates a more trustworthy experience for your customers.

Reliable shipping and delivery timelines

A key consideration when purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is the reliability of shipping and delivery timelines. Timely fulfillment is crucial when managing stock levels, planning promotions, or meeting customer demand. Before placing a bulk order, it’s important to understand this brand’s shipping policies, estimated delivery times, and tracking processes.

A dependable logistics system minimizes delays, reduces the risk of inventory gaps, and helps your business operate efficiently. Confirming these details ahead of time allows you to plan more accurately and maintain a steady supply flow.

Transparent ingredient information

A key consideration when purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is transparent ingredient information. Clear disclosure of ingredients allows you to confidently present the product to your customers, address common questions, and meet labeling requirements.

Transparency also fosters trust, as buyers today are increasingly mindful of what they consume and expect straightforward product information. Before finalizing a wholesale purchase, it’s a good idea to review the ingredient list for each flavor and ensure it aligns with your store’s standards and customer expectations.

Positive distributor reviews and reputation

A key factor to consider before purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is positive distributor reviews and a strong reputation. Taking time to research what other retailers and partners say about this brand can offer valuable insight into their reliability, professionalism, and overall service quality.

Consistently positive feedback is often a sign of a trusted brand that delivers on its promises. Checking reviews, testimonials, or industry ratings can help you make a more informed decision and avoid potential challenges down the road.

Minimum order requirements and terms

A key consideration before purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is understanding the minimum order requirements and terms. Knowing the order thresholds, payment terms, and any return or cancellation policies ahead of time can help you plan your inventory and budgeting more effectively.

It also ensures that there are no unexpected conditions that could affect your purchasing process. Clear terms make the transaction smoother and allow you to assess whether the partnership aligns with your business model and sales goals.

Responsive customer service

A key factor to consider before purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is the availability of responsive customer service. When managing bulk orders or addressing order-specific concerns, having timely and helpful support makes a significant difference.

A responsive customer service team can quickly assist with inquiries, resolve issues, and provide updates that help keep your operations running smoothly. Before committing to a wholesale partnership, it’s wise to assess how easily you can contact their team and how efficiently they handle communication. This ensures a more dependable and collaborative business experience.

Product variety and flavor options

A key consideration before purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9 is the variety of products and flavor options available. Having a broad selection allows you to cater to diverse customer preferences and keep your offerings fresh and exciting.

Before placing a wholesale order, it’s essential to review the range of flavors and formats that this brand provides to ensure they align with your target market’s tastes. A versatile product lineup can enhance your store’s appeal and help attract a wider audience.

Why Should You Buy Non-Alcoholic Seltzers Wholesale from Mitra9?

You should consider purchasing non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9, as they offer a reliable combination of quality, variety, and competitive pricing.

This brand’s extensive product range and innovative flavors enable retailers to cater to diverse customer preferences, while their professional packaging and transparent business practices foster trust and credibility.

Additionally, this brand’s commitment to dependable shipping and strong customer support ensures a smooth purchasing experience. Partnering with them can help your business stay ahead in a growing market with confidence and ease

Bottom Line

Before buying non-alcoholic seltzers wholesale from Mitra9, it’s essential to carefully consider several key factors to ensure a successful partnership. Verifying consistent inventory availability, competitive pricing, clear labeling, reliable shipping, and transparent ingredient information can make all the difference in meeting your business needs. Additionally, paying attention to customer service responsiveness, product variety, positive distributor reputation, and order terms will help create a smooth purchasing experience.

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

Spotify Sparks Maskandi Renaissance as South Africa’s Fastest-Growing Genre Gains Global Momentum

Music

Eric Alper

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Jun 21, 2025

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Spotify Sparks Maskandi Renaissance as South Africa’s Fastest-Growing Genre Gains Global Momentum

In South Africa, the rebirth and resurgence of the vibrant folk genre Maskandi has captured the attention of music fans, becoming the country’s fastest-growing sound on Spotify over the past two years.

Steeped in Zulu storytelling traditions, Maskandi has spanned generations and has typically resonated mostin rural parts of the country, including the KwaZulu-Natal province it originated from. But as artists fuse Maskandi’s sound with Amapiano, gospel, and hip-hop, urban Gen Zs are embracing the genre as a way to reclaim their heritage and express their cultural fluency. The result? A full-blown Maskandi renaissance, fueled by pride, experimentation, and authentic storytelling.

A genre reinvented for a new era

On Spotify, nearly half of Maskandi’s listeners are under 35, and many are gravitating to their Bhinca Nation playlist, which is the destination for the genre’s hottest hits. Averaging more than 2 million plays each month, the playlist has grown by more than 3,000% since 2022.

This growing spotlight has also translated into dramatic rises in streams for many of Maskandi’s biggest names:

Umafikizolo, Mshinwemali, and Sminofu have all seen their fusion-forward sounds resonate across demographics. Since 2023, their streams are up 897%, 495%, and 258%, respectively.
Genre torchbearers Inkos’yamagcokama and Mzukulu continue to lead with consistency, with their streams growing 86% and 79%, respectively.
Meanwhile, LIMIT NALA and MENZI MUSIC are quickly turning heads and generating buzz as newcomers to the scene.

These aren’t just stats—they’re signals. Listeners are hungry for music that’s both culturally grounded and globally fluent. More than just a streaming destination, Spotify is soundtracking a movement and reshaping what it means to be proudly Zulu in a hyperconnected world.

Capturing a generational shift

As Maskandi’s revival grows larger, they want to uplift artists and help them build deeper connections with loyal fans, while introducing them to new listeners around the world. That’s why they ’ve kept an ear to the ground, and working with the Consumer Insights Agency, they recently commissioned an in-depth report uncovering the trends driving this movement.

Read on for the six key trends shaping the future of Maskandi, revealing how this age-old art form is being reinvented for a new generation.

Spotify isn’t just a platform for this new era of Maskandi, but a cultural catalyst. And they’re proud to help advance a cultural movement as the genre evolves for a new generation.

Discover the artists and hits fueling Maskandi’s growth on their Bhinca Nation playlist: