The hottest Music Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Music Topics

The Desperate Straights Edition

Why is this interesting? • 180 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎶 Music Genres Albums Artists Lyrics History
  1. The album 'Desperate Straights' combines many different music styles in a unique way, mixing genres like opera and pop.
  2. The lyrics are clever and playful, with the singer's distinctive voice adding to the album's charm.
  3. It's a challenging listen at first, but it becomes more rewarding with each play, making it a true musical masterpiece.

Brian Wilson Is My Brick

The Honest Broker • 26397 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
🎶 Music Music history Songwriting Cultural impact Personal narrative
  1. Having a special object, like a brick from school, can remind us of our roots and where we come from. It's important to cherish those memories as they shape who we are.
  2. Being different or feeling like an outsider can be tough, especially in youth, but it can also be a strength later in life. Embracing that uniqueness can lead to personal growth and success.
  3. Music can express feelings that are hard to put into words. Artists like Brian Wilson show us that being open about our struggles can connect us with others who feel the same way.

"The Next New Thing in Music Will Not Come from New York, Los Angeles, or London"

The Honest Broker • 13231 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎶 Music Music Industry Cultural Trends Global Influence
  1. The next big thing in music is likely to come from unexpected places, not the usual big cities like New York, LA, or London. There are creative gems outside the mainstream that can surprise everyone.
  2. Just like in the past, new music styles often arise from diverse and multicultural areas. It's the blend of different influences that sparks creativity.
  3. Thanks to the internet, every place can now be a creative hub. So, we should look globally, especially in regions like Africa or Asia, for the next music revolution.

The Rise and Fall of Sly Stone

The Honest Broker • 15392 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎶 Music Musicians Legends Addiction Biography Culture
  1. Sly Stone was a talented musician who peaked in his career early, creating hits that defined an era. Despite his early success, he struggled with addiction and self-destruction, leading to a long and painful decline.
  2. His life became a tragic story of missed opportunities for comebacks, marked by negative news and personal struggles. Instead of returning to music, he often appeared in headlines for the wrong reasons.
  3. In later years, Stone tried to turn his life around, claiming to overcome his addiction, but much of his story remains one of disappointment. Many fans wished for a redeeming comeback, but it never fully materialized.

Maybe God is a curious God

Blackbird Spyplane • 1958 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎶 Music Artist interviews Album Reviews Songwriting Cultural Commentary Live performance
  1. Father John Misty thinks that writing long songs can be as effective as short ones. He usually writes big, unstructured pieces that turn into several songs later.
  2. He reflects on how fame has taught him humility and changed his perspective on music. His recent experiences as a parent have also influenced his songwriting and personal growth.
  3. The new album explores themes of identity and existence, suggesting that our experiences might be part of a larger, non-human consciousness. He sees God as a curious presence that experiences life through individual human experiences.
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FYPcore and the Benson Boone-iverse

Read Max • 5506 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎶 Music Music Industry Pop Music Social media Cultural Trends Influencer Culture
  1. Benson Boone's song 'Beautiful Things' has become popular on short-form video platforms like TikTok and Instagram, even if many people don't know who he is. It's often featured in videos about everyday life or personal stories.
  2. There’s a new genre of music emerging, called 'FYPcore,' which is designed to fit well with the style of videos on platforms like TikTok. This music typically evokes a bittersweet, positive vibe that works well for influencer content.
  3. Short-form social media platforms are changing the music industry by helping songs go viral without needing a dance challenge. This means that more songs could be made specifically for these platforms in the future.

My favourite works and recordings of J.S. Bach

The Common Reader • 3118 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎶 Music Classical Performances Composers Music history
  1. Listening to Bach can be a lifelong journey, starting from childhood experiences like watching a movie. Many people find their love for his music grows as they discover new recordings and performances over time.
  2. Different artists bring unique interpretations to Bach's works. Some recordings, like Glenn Gould's, are especially cherished for their emotional depth and creativity.
  3. Bach's music is diverse and includes many forms, from orchestral pieces to solo works. Exploring various recordings can lead to discovering favorites and enjoying his music in new ways.

The Ugly Truth About Spotify Is Finally Revealed

The Honest Broker • 155259 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🎶 Music Streaming Production Journalism Industry Ethics
  1. Spotify has been using fake artists to fill playlists, leading to confusion about real musicians. Many tracks are distributed under different names, suggesting a strategy to minimize royalty payments.
  2. An investigative journalist revealed that Spotify has a program aimed at promoting cheaper music, often created without the involvement of human musicians. This raises concerns about the ethical treatment of artists.
  3. There is a call for greater transparency and regulation in the music streaming industry. Some believe that a cooperative platform owned by musicians and labels could be a better solution.

My brother-in-law is a genius

Thinking about... • 496 implied HN points • 07 Jun 25
🎶 Music Opera Composition Performance Songwriting Critique
  1. The phrase 'my brother-in-law is a genius' isn't commonly said, but it can be true for some people. In this case, the brother-in-law is an accomplished opera composer with award-winning works.
  2. Dan Shore's music often reflects contemporary themes while drawing from classical styles, making his operas unique and relatable. He uses his talent to express current events through his performances.
  3. In tough times, music can offer comfort and connection. Sharing songs that mix serious themes with humor can help people cope better with challenging situations.

Brian Wilson didn't even surf

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 499 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
🎶 Music Pop Rock Cultural impact Music history Songwriting
  1. Brian Wilson, despite not surfing, captured the essence of surfing in his music. His songs are about fun and carefree moments but also touch on deeper feelings.
  2. The Beach Boys combined catchy pop tunes with complex music, making their songs enjoyable for both kids and music lovers. Their harmonies are especially special because they were family members who had a unique bond.
  3. Brian's songwriting and music arrangements were genius-level. He created music that evokes hope and nostalgia, making listeners feel like everything will be okay.

Brian Wilson (1942-2025)

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 328 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎶 Music Artists Albums History Culture Legacy
  1. Brian Wilson had a significant impact on music and culture during his life. His creativity and unique sound changed the way people perceive music.
  2. The post highlights Brian Wilson's legacy and why it's important to remember him. Celebrating his contributions helps keep his influence alive.
  3. This piece is a reflection on someone's work, showing how different writers can share their thoughts on important figures in music history. It's great to see diverse perspectives on influential artists.

You and I Meet in a Cosy Cafe

a constellation • 297 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Music Production Creative Process Music Industry
  1. Writer's block can happen to anyone, and it's okay to not feel like writing sometimes. Sometimes life gets overwhelming, and we just need a break.
  2. It’s normal to want to keep certain creative projects private until they feel ready. Sometimes it feels special to keep things to ourselves.
  3. Feeling stuck on what to write about is common. It's important to remember that writing should be enjoyable, not just for others' expectations.

"The Infrastructure of the Recording Industry Is About to Fail”

The Honest Broker • 35074 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎶 Music Streaming Production
  1. The Hollywood industry is facing major problems, with many production companies moving away from California to other states and countries. This shift is caused by a mix of factors, including declining investments in new movies and changing viewer habits.
  2. Movie theaters aren't attracting audiences like before; ticket sales are dropping significantly. Creators, including famous directors, are considering other platforms like theater, which offer more stability and better audience engagement.
  3. Streaming services are prioritizing profits over original content, making it harder for creators to earn money. The industry needs to support creative talent more and explore new, independent platforms that give creators a bigger share of profits.

The Trees (The Band) Edition

Why is this interesting? • 542 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🎶 Music Rock Folk History Influence
  1. Trees was a folk-rock band in the UK during the late 1960s and early 1970s that had a brief career and released two albums. They were known for their unique sound and a mix of traditional and modern influences.
  2. Their music is still appreciated today and they've gained a kind of cult following, alongside a box-set retrospective to celebrate their work.
  3. The band's second album cover, created by the famous design team Hipgnosis, is considered iconic and likely drew many listeners in, even if they were unfamiliar with the band.

The Music Business is Healthy Again? Really?

The Honest Broker • 20845 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎶 Music Streaming Artists Industry Trends Market Analysis
  1. There's a big difference between music industry profits and musicians' earnings. While the industry claims to be thriving, many musicians are finding it harder to make money.
  2. Streaming platforms are making more money than ever but paying musicians less. This trend is leading to fewer opportunities for artists to earn from their work.
  3. The excitement in music is shifting towards live performances rather than recorded music. Fans seem to care more about concerts than new albums, highlighting a disconnect in how music is consumed.

John Coltrane's Love Is Still Supreme at Age 60

The Honest Broker • 20113 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎶 Music Jazz Albums Artists Music history Influence
  1. John Coltrane was incredibly busy in 1964, recording a lot of music and practicing hard. He often practiced so much that fans would overhear him in unusual places, showing his deep commitment to music.
  2. Coltrane's album 'A Love Supreme' was more than just music; it was a gift to God and a spiritual journey for him. The album's liner notes expressed his devotion, which was quite rare in jazz at the time.
  3. Even decades after its release, 'A Love Supreme' remains influential in jazz music. Many modern musicians still draw inspiration from Coltrane's style, showing that his music continues to resonate with new generations.

Please let me wonder

Why is this interesting? • 120 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🎶 Music Artists Albums History Genres Culture
  1. Brian Wilson has passed away, which is a significant loss for music fans. His contribution to music was profound and will be remembered.
  2. Many people recognize 'Pet Sounds' as a top album, but there's also appreciation for 'The Beach Boys Today.' It marks a shift in their music style.
  3. The Beach Boys' evolution from surf songs to deeper themes showcases their creativity and growth as artists over time.

My appearance on the Year of Bach podcast

The Common Reader • 425 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🎶 Music Classical Podcasts Artists Composers Music Analysis
  1. The discussion covered various topics including Bach, AI, and the emotional depth of music. It was an engaging conversation that explored the connections between different composers and their styles.
  2. Glen Gould's music was analyzed, with opinions shared about what was loved and disliked in his works. The contrast between Gould's introspective nature and Mozart's extroverted joy was particularly highlighted.
  3. The podcast emphasized the importance of serious music and its emotional weight. This perspective invites listeners to think deeply about the music they enjoy and its impact on their lives.

Becoming Led Zeppelin

Dada Drummer Almanach • 264 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎶 Music Rock Documentaries Performance Business Production
  1. Led Zeppelin found success by ignoring negative reviews and focusing on their live performances. They believed that word of mouth from fans was key to their popularity.
  2. The band took control of their music by producing their own recordings and owning their masters. This allowed them to avoid pressures from the music industry and shape their own path.
  3. Jimmy Page's vision for Led Zeppelin as an album band was ahead of its time. He wanted to create music that could be fully appreciated on albums, not just through hit singles.

In the Music Business, 80 Is the New 20

The Honest Broker • 18551 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🎶 Music Music Industry Cultural impact
  1. Record labels are focusing more on older music and artists instead of new talent. Many popular music shows feature tribute bands rather than original acts.
  2. Streaming music is dominated by older tracks, with a large percentage being songs that are at least five years old. It shows that people are more interested in nostalgia than discovering new music.
  3. With technology advancing, there's a growing trend of reviving late musicians through holograms and AI. This raises ethical questions about how these artistic legacies should be handled.

When Louis Armstrong Conquered Chicago

The Honest Broker • 12035 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🎶 Music Jazz Biography Cultural History Entertainment Performing Arts
  1. Louis Armstrong changed American music by creating new rhythms and melodies that had never been heard before. His unique trumpet playing and singing style influenced countless artists.
  2. Ricky Riccardi has been studying Louis Armstrong for years and has written a detailed biography telling Armstrong's life story in three parts. This highlights both Armstrong's early struggles and his rise to fame.
  3. Armstrong's move to Chicago was a significant turning point in his career. He felt nervous at first, but once he started playing music, his confidence grew, showing how talent can shine through even initial doubts.

I Share Private Journal Entries

The Honest Broker • 16623 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎶 Music Music culture Music theory Music Industry Music Criticism
  1. The people who control music today often don't have a real connection to it, treating it just as content instead of something meaningful. This could be harmful for music culture.
  2. Art and music should be appreciated for their depth and creativity, not just dismissed or judged based on trends. Enjoying something everyone mocks can show true artistic integrity.
  3. There's a danger in the way we consume and perceive music now, as we might miss important experiences or emotions that classic works offer. It’s valuable to cherish original music and its impact on us.

What Can Music Do Today?

The Honest Broker • 12101 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎶 Music Music history Music culture
  1. Music still holds a powerful role in our lives, influencing healing and emotional well-being. Recent studies show that sounds can even help revive people from comas.
  2. Many modern music events have a ritualistic feel, much like ancient practices. People seek transformative experiences through music, whether at a major festival or a local concert.
  3. The music industry often overlooks the deeper, transformative potential of music. Instead of creating meaningful connections, it tends to focus on short, entertaining tracks that don’t satisfy our deeper needs.

Sly Stone: Funk Revolutionary

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 445 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🎶 Music Influence Culture History Innovation
  1. Sly Stone was a unique artist who combined innovation with commercial success. He and his band, Sly and the Family Stone, were able to create popular music while also changing the cultural landscape.
  2. Their songs, like 'Everyday People' and 'Dance to the Music', were not just catchy; they were important messages promoting unity and breaking down racial barriers.
  3. Sly Stone's influence extended far beyond his time, inspiring many musicians from different genres and generations.

The White Zombie Edition

Why is this interesting? • 663 implied HN points • 20 May 25
🎶 Music Rock Metal Influence Culture History
  1. 'More Human Than Human' by White Zombie mixed industrial metal with themes of horror, influencing music and art for years. It's catchy yet unique, easy to remember but also strange.
  2. The song came out at a crucial time in music history, blending grunge's decline and nu-metal's rise, catching the attention of MTV and mainstream media.
  3. Even with its odd sound, 'More Human Than Human' reached number 7 on the Billboard charts, showing that being different can lead to commercial success.

’Fast Car‘

Steady • 23998 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎶 Music Music history Music Performance
  1. Tracy Chapman's performance of 'Fast Car' with Luke Combs at the Grammys was a standout and resonated with many fans both old and new.
  2. Chapman's iconic performance of 'Fast Car' at the 1988 Nelson Mandela tribute concert propelled her to new heights, earning her three Grammys.
  3. The song 'Fast Car' continues to have a lasting impact, with Luke Combs' cover reaching number one on the country charts and introducing the song to a new generation of fans.

My Search for Hidden Meanings in Beatles Songs

The Honest Broker • 18617 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🎶 Music Song analysis Censorship Cultural impact Historical context
  1. Before the internet, people had to guess or argue about the meanings of popular songs because there was no easy way to find accurate information.
  2. Songs by bands like The Beatles were often seen as puzzles. Listeners searched for hidden meanings because they felt there was something important to uncover.
  3. Today, easy access to explanations can lessen the mystery of music, but that sense of exploration and surprise from trying to understand a song is valuable.

Janis Ian

Van Cliburn Punched Me In The Mouth • 99 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Artist interviews Music Industry
  1. Janis Ian finds a community in Nashville that supports songwriters. She appreciates the polite and welcoming environment compared to New York.
  2. Her recent album, 'Folk Is The New Black,' is the easiest one she’s ever made, showing a cohesive flow and emotional depth. She focuses on expressing feelings without unnecessary filler in her lyrics.
  3. The music industry is changing rapidly, and artists now have to be more independent and proactive. This shift means they need to handle more business tasks themselves, which can take time away from creating music.

Willie On My Mind

Steady • 24136 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
🎶 Music Songs Interview Concerts
  1. The song 'Always On My Mind' by Willie Nelson is a classic that many people associate with special moments in their lives.
  2. Willie Nelson turned 90+ years old, had a documentary about his life on Paramount+, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
  3. The author shares a personal connection with Willie Nelson and wishes him luck on his tours.

Darius Rucker

Steady • 22799 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🎶 Music Celebrity Philanthropy Race Success
  1. Darius Rucker is a successful country music artist with a big heart for philanthropy.
  2. He has supported causes like childhood cancer treatment and Musicians on Call.
  3. Rucker's journey in country music breaks stereotypes and highlights progress in the genre.

Playing for Change

Steady • 20558 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎶 Music Social Change
  1. A new rendition of John Mayer's song brought together 100 artists from around the world to raise awareness about climate change.
  2. Playing For Change is a global nonprofit that offers arts education to marginalized young people in 17 countries.
  3. Music has positive effects on the brain, enhancing cognition, memory, literacy, creativity, and self-confidence.

16 YouTube Videos I'm Watching This Week

The Honest Broker • 6848 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
🎶 Music Genres Artists Music videos Performances Music history
  1. There are many interesting YouTube videos available this week, covering a wide range of topics. You might find something that really catches your interest.
  2. Some artists are pushing boundaries, like a young pianist who composes chamber music or a K-Pop group that performs live without auto-tune. It's great to see talent showcased in different ways.
  3. The blend of old styles with modern songs is intriguing, like rock songs performed in a swing jazz style. It's a fun way to explore how music can change across genres.

An EGOT for Elton

Steady • 17551 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
🎶 Music Entertainment Music videos
  1. Elton John joined the elite group of EGOT winners with his recent Emmy win.
  2. Sir Elton's music has been bringing joy for decades, with hits like 'Tiny Dancer.'
  3. A stunning video was created for 'Tiny Dancer,' celebrating the 50-year friendship between Elton John and Bernie Taupin.

💌 Liner Notes: Cascade

a constellation • 138 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Album Music genres Music Production
  1. The song 'Cascade' is about the journey of rocks, inspired by the sedimentary cycle. It reflects the idea of change and transformation.
  2. Sometimes songwriting can come easily, but certain parts, like the bridge in 'Cascade,' can take more time and thought to express deep emotions.
  3. The singer encourages listeners to explore her music and shares her creative process, letting them know that there's more to come from her debut album.

A New ’Joy‘ in Jazz

Steady • 13994 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎶 Music Jazz Genre Social media
  1. Samara Joy is a rising star in the world of jazz music.
  2. She has a unique style that blends classic jazz with gospel influences.
  3. Joy is using her social media presence to introduce jazz to a younger audience.

In praise of David Ackles

Soaring Twenties • 92 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎶 Music Songwriting Cultural impact Music history Personal Reflection
  1. It's good to seek out recommendations from friends instead of relying on algorithms. Friends can introduce you to music and films that you might not find on your own.
  2. Songs can tell powerful stories and change how we see people, like seeing an ex-convict as a human. These stories can influence our empathy and understanding of others.
  3. David Ackles was a talented songwriter who created deep and meaningful songs but never found commercial success. His work inspired many other artists even if he wasn't widely known.

Driving in Circles

Sarah Kendzior’s Newsletter • 12940 implied HN points • 06 Feb 24
🎶 Music Cultural impact Artists Song analysis Music Industry
  1. Tracy Chapman's song 'Fast Car' holds generational significance, connecting people across time through shared experiences and emotions.
  2. The song 'Fast Car' transcends eras, evolving from a narrative about Reagan-era struggles to a modern anthem of survival and reflection on American society.
  3. Music, like Tracy Chapman's 'Fast Car,' serves as a powerful medium for empathy, reflection, and social commentary, resonating across generations and stirring emotions.

Margaritaville

Steady • 24863 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
🎶 Music Lifestyle Legacy
  1. Jimmy Buffett exemplified the American Dream by creating a successful career around his lifestyle and unique style of music.
  2. Buffett showed that following your own path and being true to yourself can lead to fame and fortune.
  3. His music, fun and full of wordplay, created a loyal community of fans called Parrotheads, who found joy and a sense of belonging in his work.

Active Listening

Dada Drummer Almanach • 226 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎶 Music Music Criticism Cultural impact Artist interviews
  1. Active listening helps us connect with the world around us. It allows us to hear sounds we usually miss when we have headphones on.
  2. Spotify and similar services prioritize convenience but often neglect the true experience of music. This can lead to a shallow way of listening that doesn't engage deeply with the art.
  3. There are alternatives to corporate music platforms. We can support local music and artists to create a richer cultural experience beyond what major streaming services offer.