Big changes continue to shape the music industry as global recorded music revenue reached $18.3 billion in the first half of 2025, a new high, according to Hypebot. The business side saw further disruption with Daniel Ek stepping down as CEO of Spotify, though he will remain as executive chairman. This leadership change at the top streaming platform has some industry voices wondering about the future treatment of musicians and compensation structures, as raised in recent commentary on YouTube’s WN music news.
Technology headlines include Akai’s launch of the MPC Live 3, delivering a fast new workstation for producers just after earlier leaks, while Splice released a new virtual instrument simply named Instrument, featuring highly detailed sample libraries that push music tech innovation. Meanwhile, Facebook introduced new fan engagement tools for artists, building on social media and streaming as essentials for promotion and audience growth.
On the legal and consumer front, Ticketmaster agreed to change its ticketing labels, addressing backlash from fans after confusion around Oasis concert tickets, as reported by Hypebot. Performing Rights Organizations such as ASCAP, BMI, GMR, and SESAC have also expanded the Songview database, making it easier for artists to track their publishing income.
Listeners have a stacked lineup of new releases this week and through October, spanning genres and eras. Recent and upcoming drops include Florence + The Machine’s “Everybody Scream,” Taylor Swift’s newest album, and fresh work from Brandi Carlile, Mobb Deep, and Celeste, according to Metacritic and AV Club. Anticipation also builds for forthcoming projects from artists like Rihanna, FKA twigs, and even Madonna as her “Confessions On A Dance Floor Part 2” is reportedly in the works.
In alternative rock, Wolf Alice released their latest single “Bloom Baby Bloom,” sharing with NPR how the song continues their exploration of dreamlike textures and lyrical introspection. Mobb Deep’s album “Infinite” is garnering buzz, marking a posthumous chapter for the late Prodigy while honoring rap’s storied history. The industry is also watching the indie and electronic spaces, with Jay Som and SOHN prepping new albums, and The Antlers returning with “Blight.”
Outside the studio, notable personalities hit headlines: Dame Dash spoke out on Complex about his relationship with Jay-Z, reinforcing his business independence, while music legend Lionel Richie revealed to Fox News how a fan’s comment changed his career path from the priesthood to superstardom.
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