Spotify Set to Launch in the Middle East and North Africa This November

Spotify moves forward with its plan to go international and hopefully turn a profit in the process.  But, does this mean major labels and publishers have already fallen in line? According to a leaked internal e-mail, Spotify will launch in the Middle E…

Amazon Music’s ‘Produced By’ Series Pairs Legendary Artists With Famous Producers for New Original Content

With so many music streaming services to choose from, platforms are differentiating themselves through exclusive content. Both Apple Music and Spotify have embraced this concept with exclusive documentaries, playlists, and concerts. Now it looks like A…

Today In Spotify Executive Departures: Chief Marketing Officer Seth Farbman

Spotify just can’t stop leaking top talent. Now, the company’s chief marketing officer, Seth Farbman, will be departing at the end of September.  Spotify confirmed the departure this morning in a filing with the SEC. The statement in that f…

Is YouTube Really the Enemy? Not According to Rihanna and Paul McCartney

YouTube is expanding its original content line-up by featuring world-renowned content from musicians like Paul McCartney and Rihanna. Talk to music industry trade groups like the IFPI or RIAA, and YouTube is the devil in digital clothing.  But maybe ar…

Chart Wars: Apple Music Unveils 116 Global Music Charts

Apple’s music charts, along with those from its competitors, begs the question – Do we really need Billboard anymore? In a software update rolled out to some iOS users earlier today (September 7th), Apple Music unveiled a new feature – 116 “Top 100” mu…

Game Changer? Spotify Inks Three Carrier-Bundled Billing Deals In Indonesia & Thailand

Apple Music wants to bump Spotify out of the top spot for global music streaming dominance.  Spotify is making moves to avoid that fate. Both companies have employed unique strategies to obtain new subscribers, from exclusive concerts, podcasts, mercha…

75% of Spain’s Recorded Music Revenue Comes from Streaming

Is streaming taking over the global music industry? The non-scientific answer to that question is ‘pretty much’.  Though certain markets like Japan remain noteworthy exceptions.   But Spain is following a trajectory well-worn by other major…

A Fresh Battle Erupts Between Spotify and the Music Industry Over Music Videos

  Spotify needs major labels and publishers, and major labels and publishers need Spotify.  But that doesn’t mean they have to like each other. Several months ago, Spotify unveiled an interesting plan.  The company would offer select indepen…

Apple Is Revealing Another Documentary Exclusive — This Time from Paris

Despite the cancellation of the Apple Music Festival in 2017, Apple continues to host concerts for specific artists. The latest is a concert to celebrate the new album Chris by Christine and the Queens — with a special sweetener attached. The concert w…

Introducing Humbolt, The World’s First ‘Ethical’ Streaming Music Service

Humbolt, an indie-centered streaming music service, vows to pay artists and labels their fair share.  Yet, even before its launch, the company has failed to answer one key question – why should music fans and artists choose this clearly inexperienced s…