The hottest Music Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Music Topics

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.

Epiphanies

Dada Drummer Almanach • 178 implied HN points • 01 Feb 26
🎶 Music Artists History Criticism Fandom Songwriting Performance
  1. He finds freedom inside musical limits, stretching time and phrasing like a jazz musician to make his drumming and singing constantly surprising and expressive.
  2. He lives simply and generously in retirement, valuing small pleasures, leftist principles, and warm, kind interactions with fans and friends.
  3. His work turns ordinary details into deep feeling and has profoundly influenced other musicians, teaching new ways to play drums and sing.

Suspended emotion

Disaffected Newsletter • 1538 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🎶 Music Music theory Emotional Expression Personal Reflection
  1. Music can be deeply emotional, and sometimes it can be tough to face those feelings. Taking a break from music during hard times can seem like a way to protect ourselves.
  2. Suspended notes in music create tension and beauty, making songs feel more powerful. This technique helps our hearts connect with the music on a deeper level.
  3. Understanding some music theory can enhance our listening experience. It shows us how sound works and helps us appreciate music more, even if we're not musicians ourselves.

Todd Rundgren as a songwriter and performer: The Creator Series #5

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 279 implied HN points • 02 Aug 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Performing Music Industry Creative Process
  1. Todd Rundgren believes there are different levels of musicians: entertainers, performers, and artists, with artists being the rarest who create unpredictable and unique expressions. He thinks being a performer is the best way to make a stable living in music.
  2. He values artistic freedom over chasing fame, using his success as a producer to create music that reflects his true self without worrying about commercial success. He sees the process of creating something from nothing as a key motivation for his work.
  3. Todd emphasizes the importance of practical help for artists, sharing how his manager supported him in both personal and professional matters, allowing him to focus on his music. He also finds inspiration from the music ecosystem around him and the collaborations he engages in.

"Peace Train" by Yusuf/Cat Stevens (1971)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 239 implied HN points • 07 Aug 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums History Genres Live Performances
  1. Cat Stevens was super popular in the early 70s, with his albums selling millions of copies. Songs like 'Peace Train' and 'Morning Has Broken' were huge hits.
  2. He left the music industry in 1977 after converting to Islam, which shocked many fans. It was a big deal because he gave up a successful career.
  3. Cat made a comeback in 2006 under the name Yusuf and has been creating music and touring ever since. His song 'Peace Train' remains a favorite for its catchy and uplifting melody.
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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.

Backstage

Dada Drummer Almanach • 154 implied HN points • 02 Feb 26
🎶 Music Live performance Community Building
  1. Backstage used to be a social, oral space where musicians hung out, swapped stories, and learned from each other, but smartphones and laptops have turned it into an office-like zone of constant productivity.
  2. Hanging out and informal conversation are not wasted time but important, unpaid labor that builds community, transfers practical knowledge, and sustains musical life.
  3. Digital recording and communication tools make sound and musical work more visible and measurable, which shifts how music is made and valued and can hide or devalue much of musicians’ labor.

Zac Brown Show At The Sphere

Points And Figures • 532 implied HN points • 13 Dec 25
🎶 Music Live performance Artists Production Touring Genres Songwriting Reviews
  1. The concert is a narrative journey from darkness to light that emphasizes personal growth, forgiveness, and life after failure.
  2. The Sphere's bold visuals and symbolic moments — skeletons, King Neptune, poems and Roosevelt interludes — build a coherent story rather than anything satanic.
  3. The show urges people to take agency: face fear, take risks, be the 'man in the arena,' and stop being a passive spectator in their own lives.

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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"Baby Blue" by Badfinger (1972) with Todd Rundgren as producer

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 339 implied HN points • 20 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Production Songs Albums
  1. Todd Rundgren took over as the third producer for Badfinger's album _Straight Up_, stepping in after the previous producers faced challenges. He worked quickly to finalize the album in under two weeks.
  2. The hit song 'Baby Blue' was written by Pete Ham about a woman he met on tour. It became popular, hitting #14 on the Billboard Pop Singles chart in the U.S. and was later featured in _Breaking Bad_.
  3. Todd's approach to production was more controlling than the previous producers, which caused some tension with the band. However, his work led to successful singles and helped build his reputation as 'The Fixer'.

"I'm a Believer" by the Monkees (1966)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 399 implied HN points • 12 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting Bands Music history
  1. The Monkees were a popular band created for a TV show, and they captured the hearts of many young fans with their music and antics.
  2. Their song 'I'm a Believer' was a huge hit written by Neil Diamond, making it one of the best-selling albums in the U.S. during its time.
  3. The B-side 'I'm Not Your Steppin' Stone' shows a different side of the band with a more psychedelic and edgy vibe.

Reclaiming Sinéad O' Connor

Letters from Suzanne • 4972 implied HN points • 27 Jul 23
🎶 Music Music
  1. The post discusses reclaiming Sinéad O' Connor.
  2. There is mention of Sinéad O' Connor's powerful voice and impactful songs like "Troy" and "Mandinka".
  3. To access the full post, a 7-day free trial subscription is offered.

SIXTY MILE PER HOUR WINDS

Entering The Lung • 2928 implied HN points • 10 Jan 24
🎶 Music Recording
  1. The author experienced a severe blizzard with high winds in Vermont, but power stayed on.
  2. The author expressed gratitude for the supportive community and feedback on a post about serial murderers.
  3. The author shared excitement and anxiety about recording a new music project, while mentioning a studio dog named Coco.

What is the Artist to Fascism?

Dada Drummer Almanach • 360 implied HN points • 29 Dec 25
🎶 Music Artist Rights Censorship Live Music Music Industry Corporate Influence
  1. Some leaders treat artists as mere service providers who must perform regardless of politics, stripping artists of agency and turning art into propaganda or kitsch.
  2. Political figures sitting on corporate and nonprofit boards reveal a pattern of corporate-government entanglement that protects corporate interests and weakens regulation.
  3. Artists who speak out or withdraw from gigs can face financial threats, public shaming, and being labeled disloyal, and ticket-sales arguments are often used to silence their dissent.

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

The Honest Broker • 7746 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎶 Music Recordings Genres Artists Music Industry Cultural Trends
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My favourite works and recordings of J.S. Bach

The Common Reader • 3118 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🎶 Music Classical Performances Recordings 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.

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.

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.

"We're an American Band" by Grand Funk Railroad (1973) with Todd Rundgren as producer/engineer

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 299 implied HN points • 19 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Production Artists History Culture
  1. The song 'We're an American Band' by Grand Funk Railroad, produced by Todd Rundgren, became a major hit and solidified Rundgren's reputation in the music industry.
  2. The recording of the song was quick, done within a few days, and it topped music charts, marking a successful moment for the band.
  3. Personal memories connected to the song highlight family dynamics and how music can create lasting memories, even amidst sibling rivalry.

Skylarking by XTC (1986) with Todd Rundgren as producer

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 239 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Albums Producers Artists Songwriting
  1. Todd Rundgren produced the album Skylarking by XTC, which was a big deal because the band needed a successful record to stay with their label. They had many songs but no clear direction when they started.
  2. To create a more cohesive sound, Todd visualized each song with images, connecting music to themes like seasons and emotions. Most of the album turned out great, but one song, 'Another Satellite,' didn't quite fit and caused some tension.
  3. Despite some challenges during the album's creation, Skylarking ended up being successful, helping XTC to continue making music. The album received recognition and is considered one of the top albums of the 1980s.

"Shambala" by Three Dog Night (1973)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 179 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
🎶 Music Rock Pop Songwriting History Cultural impact
  1. The song 'Shambala' by Three Dog Night emphasizes positivity and kindness as a way to improve our lives and the world.
  2. Shambala is a legendary place in Tibetan Buddhism that symbolizes hope and peace, especially in tough times.
  3. Three Dog Night was a successful band known for their strong vocals and hit songs, including 'Shambala' which reached #3 on the charts.

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.

Bat Out of Hell by Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman (1977) with producer Todd Rundgren

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 239 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Albums Producers History Genres
  1. Todd Rundgren took a chance on producing 'Bat Out of Hell' when many record labels rejected it. He saw potential in the theatrical style and unique vision of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman.
  2. The album combined rock music with a theatrical feel, challenging the norms of what a rock album should be. Jim Steinman's songwriting created a cinematic experience for listeners.
  3. Despite initial rejection and skepticism, 'Bat Out of Hell' became a worldwide success, proving that unconventional ideas can lead to incredible outcomes in music.

Artists Outside Their Comfort Zones, 1.0

Life Since the Baby Boom • 2075 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🎶 Music Artists Genres Covers Influences Performances
  1. Artists can surprise us by stepping outside their usual styles. For example, Ella Fitzgerald covered a hard rock song, showing her versatility.
  2. Many musicians have covered popular songs in unexpected ways. It's interesting to see how different artists put their spin on classics.
  3. Covering songs can add humor and variety to music. Artists like Lawrence Welk and Andy Williams took on rock songs that you wouldn't expect from them.

"You Can't Always Get What You Want" by the Rolling Stones (1969)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 319 implied HN points • 09 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Songs Live Performances Music history
  1. The Rolling Stones' song 'You Can't Always Get What You Want' reminds us that we may not always get what we desire, but sometimes we get what we need instead.
  2. The song features notable piano and organ work, showcasing the talent of the musicians involved.
  3. Many people enjoy learning about artists' creative processes and the stories behind their music.

"Day After Day" by Badfinger (1971) with producers George Harrison and Todd Rundgren

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 239 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Producers Songwriting History
  1. Badfinger had strong ties to The Beatles, which helped them get noticed and signed to Apple Records. They created hits partly thanks to Paul McCartney's early support.
  2. The band faced challenges with production and management, especially when inexperienced producers were assigned to them. This affected their music quality and output.
  3. Todd Rundgren eventually took over production and helped Badfinger achieve significant success with hits like 'Day After Day,' showcasing their musical talent.

"Chain of Fools" by Aretha Franklin (1967)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 299 implied HN points • 11 Jul 24
🎶 Music Music history Live Performances Songwriting
  1. Aretha Franklin's song 'Chain of Fools' is a powerful anthem about heartbreak and feeling trapped in a relationship. It's a classic hit that resonates with many people.
  2. The song showcases Aretha's incredible talent not only as a singer but also as a captivating live performer. Her ability to connect with the audience makes her performances special.
  3. The post suggests upcoming songs, encouraging listeners to engage with requests and offers a fun vibe like a retro DJ. It's a great way to discover new music and reminisce about the past.

Todd Rundgren as a producer - The Creator Series #4

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 199 implied HN points • 29 Jul 24
🎶 Music Music Production Music history Innovation
  1. Todd Rundgren has a unique approach to production, focusing on helping artists get their music out of their heads and into a record. He believes each song is a new challenge and works closely with artists to find their best material.
  2. He emphasizes the importance of preparation before hitting the studio. Todd thinks that having a strong collection of good songs makes the recording process smoother and more enjoyable.
  3. Todd's commitment is to the artist rather than the label. He sees himself as working for the artist, understanding their financial struggles, and creating platforms that allow them to connect directly with their audience.

From "Iron Man" to D’Angelo: A year of music notes

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 285 implied HN points • 19 Dec 25
🎶 Music Rock R&B Genres Instruments Live shows Music Criticism
  1. Some rock songs feel eternal—like 'Iron Man,' 'Smoke on the Water,' or 'Seven Nation Army'—they seem dug up rather than written.
  2. Drummers get a playful defense that if you can keep the beat, you can handle multiple partners, so drummers should be allowed to be polyamorous.
  3. Prince's solo on 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' is criticized as showy and self-indulgent, while 'Marquee Moon' by Television is offered as an example of a truly glorious guitar solo.

"Purple Haze" by the Jimi Hendrix Experience (1967)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 279 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Performance Songwriting History
  1. Jimi Hendrix is considered one of the greatest guitarists ever, and his song 'Purple Haze' showcases his unique style and innovative techniques.
  2. The live performance of 'Purple Haze' captures Jimi's impressive guitar work and the skill of his bandmates, making it memorable for fans.
  3. The song has become iconic in rock music and is loved for its energetic rhythm, perfect for dancing and acrobatics.

Revisiting the Pyramid of Inequality that is Streaming Music

Dada Drummer Almanach • 173 implied HN points • 15 Jan 26
🎶 Music Streaming Industry Royalties Artists Policy Economics Labor
  1. Streaming payouts are massively concentrated, with a tiny share of tracks getting nearly all the money while most tracks earn nothing.
  2. Per-stream payments are extremely small — artists often receive only a fraction of a cent per play — so even millions of streams usually don’t produce a livable income.
  3. Systemic change is needed, like laws requiring platforms to pay musicians directly per stream, and that will take fans, music workers, and artists organizing and supporting reform.

How I Stopped Hating Steely Dan

The Honest Broker • 21177 implied HN points • 26 Jun 23
🎶 Music Music history Music Analysis Music Industry
  1. The author's initial resistance to Steely Dan changed as they discovered the band's depth and artistry.
  2. Steely Dan's music challenged pop banality and conventionality, offering a unique and edgy perspective.
  3. The fusion of jazz elements in Steely Dan's art pop style inspired the author to appreciate skilled studio musicians and rethink elitist attitudes in music.

Looking Back, Track by Track

JoeBlogs • 3341 implied HN points • 02 May 23
🎶 Music Pop culture Baseball Athlete
  1. The author is reminiscing on the songs and athletes that were popular in their life, starting from 1973.
  2. The post offers a 30-day free trial for paid subscriptions to JoeBlogs.
  3. The author shares personal anecdotes related to specific songs and athletes from different years.

RECORDING SNAPSHOT!

Entering The Lung • 3301 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
🎶 Music Subscription Model
  1. Neko Case shared a snippet of a new song recorded with talented musicians.
  2. The musicians mentioned in the post are Paul Rigby, John Convertino, Sebastian Steinberg, and Steve Moore.
  3. To continue reading and supporting Neko Case's work, consider subscribing to their newsletter.