The hottest Music Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Music Topics

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.

"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 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.

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.
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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Death of the B-Side Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1327 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎶 Music Album Vinyl Streaming Cultural impact
  1. B-sides were special songs that didn't fit on albums, offering hidden gems that fans could discover. In today's music scene, the magic of finding these tracks has almost disappeared.
  2. While people think albums are dying, many artists, like Taylor Swift, continue to create and sell vinyl records, showing that albums are still popular. They are more resilient than people might believe.
  3. Streaming services change how we discover music, focusing on what we already like. This can make us miss out on new, unexpected music, which is what B-sides used to provide.

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.

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.

10 Great Vince Guaraldi Tracks NOT from Charlie Brown TV Shows

The Honest Broker • 7812 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🎶 Music Jazz Artists Soundtracks
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Born in the U.S.A.: The Protest Song America Misheard

American Dreaming • 123 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎶 Music Rock Pop Protest Cultural Commentary Song analysis
  1. Bruce Springsteen's song 'Born in the U.S.A.' is often misinterpreted as a patriotic anthem, but it actually critiques the treatment of Vietnam veterans and the struggles of the working class. Many listeners missed the deeper message behind the catchy tune.
  2. The album marked a significant shift in Springsteen's career, transforming him from a niche artist into a global superstar. Despite its success, the themes of economic decline and social injustice resonated more with a dedicated audience than the general public.
  3. Springsteen has expressed ongoing frustration with the way politicians, especially Ronald Reagan, used his music to promote a misleading narrative. He aimed to raise awareness about the American Dream's failures, which remains relevant today.

The 100 Best Recordings of 2024 (Part 1 of 2)

The Honest Broker • 7746 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎶 Music Genres Artists Music Industry Cultural Trends
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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.

My New Favorite Music Genre Is Polish Noir

The Honest Broker • 8344 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🎶 Music Genres Artists Cultural Trends Music Reviews Creative Expression
  1. There's a new music genre called Polish Noir, which has a dark and melancholic vibe but also feels uplifting. It's perfect for those looking for deeper, more meaningful sounds.
  2. Polish Noir music often has a trance-like quality and is influenced by mysticism. It's different from mainstream music and invites listeners to connect with their emotions.
  3. The genre features talented artists like Hania Rani who create unique, ritualistic music that's not about commercial success. It's about artistry and evoking a special feeling.

The 100 Best Recordings of 2024 (Part 2 of 2)

The Honest Broker • 4521 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎶 Music Genres Artists Albums Listening
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When does Brat summer really end?

Two Pages Double Spaced • 13 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
🎶 Music Pop Cultural critique Music videos
  1. Charli XCX's music reflects a shift from the optimistic EDM pop of the early 2010s to a more introspective and urgent sound in her recent work. This change mirrors broader cultural shifts in society.
  2. Her new album, 'Brat,' explores themes of personal reflection and the complexities of self-identity. The lyrics create a connection between the artist and listeners, showing vulnerability and self-awareness.
  3. The concept of 'cool' has evolved, where success and acceptance in the music industry now comes from understanding internet culture and blending it with genuine emotional expression.

My 10 Favorite Paul McCartney Post-Beatles Musical Moments

The Honest Broker • 7014 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Genres Live Performances Music history
  1. Paul McCartney had a successful solo career after the Beatles, showcasing his incredible talent beyond the famous band. His post-Beatles work is impressive enough to secure his legendary status.
  2. A touching moment from McCartney's 2022 performance featured him singing with a video of John Lennon, highlighting their deep connection even years after the band's breakup. This moment resonated with many fans, evoking strong emotions.
  3. In a lesser-known performance, McCartney played with an Afrobeat band from Malawi, demonstrating his versatility as a bassist. It's surprising that this performance didn't get more attention, as it showcases his unique style.

American Hedonism

Passing Time • 234 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎶 Music Music Reviews Song analysis Artist interviews Music culture
  1. The album 'American Hedonism' explores the struggle between seeking pleasure and understanding the consequences of that search. It's about trying to find happiness in the wrong places.
  2. The songs discuss themes like religion, morality, and personal freedom, highlighting how our choices shape our lives. The lyrics show a journey from frustration to a search for deeper meaning.
  3. In the end, the album suggests that true fulfillment comes from love and family, rather than from fleeting pleasures. It’s a reminder that we have the power to create a better life for ourselves.

’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.

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.

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.

Happy xmas from Chartbook - and Edie's xmas playlist.

Chartbook • 1072 implied HN points • 25 Dec 24
🎶 Music Playlists Music genres Cultural Influences Personal Stories
  1. Wishing everyone a happy Christmas and a joyful holiday season. It's a time for peace, happiness, and togetherness with loved ones.
  2. Edie has created a unique Christmas playlist that mixes different styles of music. There might be some new songs for you to discover while enjoying the holiday festivities.
  3. Take some time to enjoy the music while the Christmas decorations are still up. It adds to the holiday spirit and makes for a fun listening experience.

💌 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.

Steve Earle

Van Cliburn Punched Me In The Mouth • 158 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Politics Cultural impact Artistry Music Industry
  1. Steve Earle believes music has always had a political side, and right now it might be more important than ever. He thinks artists should write about what they feel strongly about, even if those topics are heavy.
  2. Earle points out that in the past, music played a big role in social change. He feels that today's artists have the chance to create impactful songs, especially with current issues in the world.
  3. He also emphasizes the need for empathy in songwriting. When artists connect with their emotions and experiences, they can reach people's hearts better, making them more powerful in conveying their messages.

Why Is Music Journalism Collapsing?

The Honest Broker • 24402 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
🎶 Music Journalism Music Industry Streaming platforms Artists
  1. Music journalism faces a crisis with major layoffs and company mergers.
  2. The decline in music journalism mirrors broader issues in the music industry, like layoffs in music companies and streaming platforms.
  3. The root cause of the crisis includes industry focus on old music, passive listening, and AI-generated tracks, leading to a lack of support for new artists.