The hottest Artists 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.

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.

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
  1. Vinciin,??,rﾌ!???d??h,rr??t?j&??C??h??,p???H?????c?o???L??_r?c_?b?p?d???t?r?j_w?_Y???tM??@H??Y?
  2. V?nh????????f,??oh?C%B??y???????,t??t?dV?=G????BM????B??????d?Bhn?????d_no?t?H???kbo_????K??C??ND?Y?A_w??d?d??d??:??_`??????????Gf??_D???F??w?or??wL?
  4. G??_??????G??B??tH?N_????Go?C_????_?_?@??@P?__??t????:U??G??H??_????n???d_f?B??:???_d??????b?_p??'dg????_??d?_K??B?_y??h:CFo??k??H__g??NJ???Y?

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
  1. IncorporATINGINDIAnDCHnOUSTHRUgHnGAUAVOICGiNgMTnHYhSRSRRANttPditiCRiDpSNCRTtSNGnGTNOCtnnRNGinHmiTYngNOICSiomitTHRitHHTHYtStNNGGOtViitytOhtHhDStAoDhtiAtmHHtNRNdoyOTTTGOnORMSGhhNRyTHiiAoAcoUConINGIN
  2. TIVArTThNTNGowTACNtOTFiTdIoTAtcdNidSHimGDtINCtNNCiAnoiNITTHGnGTTYOHoHTRNYTHnCCoItiDtAtNTHyAriGNYNYOiN
  3. SOPOCOTNGNiNGcItCOFNOCRnHNNNnTCTNYdotorintTRSiHNUOCCFhSOnGGroSiFITdCRGANTNFAodNcothYGihtPIACRoAt
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

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
  1. Aiming, to find top notch t r y m o , d i f f t h i m f , h o giving B M f nding or doing i n m c o t m nt o t h n d o 
  2. T h i h b t  h i b i g , d o h n i n m c i f n t g h f or p r o m o t o r o g r D x n t h o n t h  m t t to g
  3. M r h g y o o o n c o g m c m h ön b f c o n t r t f i n n h h c b t b h d h t o r

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.

The Terrible Loneliness of Genius

Wrong Side of History • 427 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Art history Artists Mental health Cultural influence
  1. Vincent van Gogh struggled with loneliness and mental health issues throughout his life. His passion for art often clashed with his personal struggles, causing him to feel isolated.
  2. Despite facing rejection and lack of recognition during his lifetime, Van Gogh created around 200 artworks while living in Arles. This period was productive but also led to his mental breakdown.
  3. Today, Van Gogh is celebrated as a brilliant artist with a significant legacy. His brother Theo's widow worked hard to promote Van Gogh's art after his death, helping to secure his place in art history.

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.

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.

An Open Letter to Taylor Swift

The Honest Broker • 38632 implied HN points • 14 Sep 23
🎶 Music Industry Artists Streaming Live Music
  1. The music ecosystem faces various challenges like declining artist incomes, corporatized platforms, and struggling live music venues.
  2. Big players like streaming platforms, record labels, and technocrats may not provide solutions for these challenges.
  3. Taylor Swift is encouraged to lead a new initiative to empower musicians, create fair music distribution, and revitalize the music industry.

The Curious Case of the Pearl Jam Posters

Webworm with David Farrier • 10299 implied HN points • 05 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists Posters Compensation Design Creativity
  1. An artist was asked to make posters for a Pearl Jam tour but was offered an unusual form of payment.
  2. There were mixed reactions from artists who had similar deals with bands like Pearl Jam, with some feeling undervalued.
  3. The case raises questions about fair compensation for artists and the value of their work, sparking a conversation about artist payment standards.

China's Best Music of 2024

ChinaTalk • 415 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎶 Music Genres Artists Albums Reviews Trends
  1. China's music scene is diverse, featuring a mix of styles like Afrobeat, electronic, and indie rock. Artists are blending cultural elements to create unique sounds.
  2. Several Chinese music labels are reviving and promoting experimental music, showing that there's a growing interest in innovative and atmospheric sounds.
  3. Listening to recommended tracks and podcasts can offer a deeper understanding of China’s evolving music landscape and help discover new favorite artists.

My favorite artist

Austin Kleon • 4036 implied HN points • 12 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Artists Drawing Creativity
  1. Many artists believe that all kids are born artists because they naturally create and imagine. Staying artistic is about keeping that sense of wonder and creativity as we grow up.
  2. A personal story highlights the moment a child started drawing, showing that creativity can start at a young age. Encouragement from parents helps nurture this talent.
  3. The act of drawing and creating is a joyful and playful experience, often leading to spontaneous and fun discoveries in art.

Musical Interlude: Live to Tell

Disaffected Newsletter • 839 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🎶 Music Pop Performances Artists Emotional
  1. Madonna's emotional ballads show her true feelings, especially in 'Live to Tell'. It's a standout piece that showcases her talent beyond her public persona.
  2. The song holds personal significance, echoing themes of trauma and understanding that resonate with many listeners.
  3. Alternative performances of 'Live to Tell', especially those by Patrick Leonard and during Madonna's later concerts, bring a new depth to the song that enhances its impact.

How Miles Davis Hired John Coltrane

The Honest Broker • 8710 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🎶 Music Jazz Artists Narrative Biography Music Industry
  1. Miles Davis hired John Coltrane out of necessity, as his band needed a saxophonist for an upcoming tour.
  2. John Coltrane's musical talent and knowledge of Miles Davis's repertoire impressed during tryouts, leading to his eventual hiring.
  3. Their initial interactions were characterized by Miles Davis's aloofness and Coltrane's uncertainty, but despite difficulties, Coltrane eventually joined Davis's band.

Crushing on the singer or rock star

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 419 implied HN points • 30 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Culture Interviews Emotions Performance
  1. It's normal to crush on musicians and rock stars. They create strong feelings in us through their art, and it feels like we connect with them on a deeper level.
  2. People often confuse their feelings for the artist with feelings for the person. We get swept up in the emotions their work brings out in us.
  3. Many of us don't pay enough attention to each other. When someone really listens, it makes us feel seen and loved, leading to these intense crushes.

"Piece of My Heart" by Janis Joplin and Big Brother & the Holding Company (1968)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 379 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🎶 Music Rock History Artists Performances Albums
  1. Janis Joplin was full of life and passion, especially during her time in San Francisco's vibrant counterculture scene. She really embraced the rock and roll lifestyle.
  2. Her hit song 'Piece of My Heart' helped make her a star, showcasing her powerful voice and unique style. It was a big moment for her career.
  3. Even though Janis was a natural performer, she sometimes struggled with the recording process. She preferred the excitement of live shows over studio work.

"O-o-h Child" by the Five Stairsteps (1970)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 299 implied HN points • 05 Aug 24
🎶 Music Genres History Artists Reviews Albums
  1. The song 'O-o-h Child' by the Five Stairsteps was released in 1970 and aimed to uplift listeners during tough times. It reminds us that things can get better, even when the world feels chaotic.
  2. The Five Stairsteps were a family music group from Chicago, known as 'The First Family of Soul.' Their name came from how they looked lined up by age, like steps on a staircase.
  3. The group's style evolved from matching suits to embracing individuality. Their performances reflected the changing culture of the late 60s and early 70s, showing off their talent and creativity.

"Dancing Barefoot" by the Patti Smith Group (1979) with producer Todd Rundgren

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 379 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Albums Songwriting
  1. The song 'Dancing Barefoot' by the Patti Smith Group is a notable track from their 1979 album 'Wave', produced by Todd Rundgren. It's well-loved and has been covered by many artists.
  2. Patti Smith and Todd Rundgren share a deep friendship that began in the late 60s. Their bond was built on mutual respect and admiration for each other's artistic talents.
  3. The song is dedicated to women artists, showcasing Patti's love for strong female figures. It's recognized as a powerful piece about love and longing.

"Hello It's Me" by Todd Rundgren (1972)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 459 implied HN points • 16 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Genres Albums History Culture
  1. Todd Rundgren's song 'Hello It's Me' became a big hit in the early 1970s, reaching high positions on music charts. Many people connect the song to feelings of young love and heartbreak.
  2. The song has two versions: a popular solo version and one from his band The Nazz. It's interesting to see how his songwriting evolved from his teenage years to his later work.
  3. Rundgren is a self-taught musician who used his piano skills creatively. His unique style and fashion choices also reflected the glam rock trends of that time.

Music and Revolution

Dada Drummer Almanach • 96 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🎶 Music Artists Interviews History Albums Genres
  1. Caetano Veloso, a famous musician, had a memorable moment reflecting on his past beauty while signing an album. He seems to appreciate the admiration from others as well as his own history.
  2. During an interview, Veloso shared that one of his earlier albums, which flopped, was significant in his career. It shows how even setbacks can shape a person's journey.
  3. The playful banter and compliments exchanged between Veloso and his friends reveal a sense of camaraderie and humor, highlighting the importance of connections and support in life.

"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.

The Empire of Light Edition

Why is this interesting? • 301 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Surrealism Art market Painting Artists Exhibitions
  1. René Magritte's painting 'The Empire of Light' sold for over $120 million, setting a record for surrealist art at auction. This highlights the growing appreciation for surrealism in the art world.
  2. The painting depicts a street at night under a daytime sky, which is a unique and captivating imagery. It's part of a series that showcases Magritte's creative style and imagination.
  3. Magritte is now among a few elite artists whose works have crossed the nine-figure sale mark. This includes famous names like Leonardo da Vinci and Pablo Picasso.

"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'.

"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.

My 60 Favorite Nonesuch Albums (Part 1 of 3)

The Honest Broker • 4255 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
🎶 Music Albums Artists Genres
  1. Nonesuch label is known for maintaining high standards and integrity in releasing music, balancing commerce and artistry effectively.
  2. The list showcases a diverse range of Nonesuch albums, representing various genres and time periods, from Laurie Anderson's 'Big Science' to John Adams' 'City Noir.'
  3. The music by Nonesuch reflects a unique blend of traditional and avant-garde sounds, capturing the essence of different cultures and musical styles.

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.

My 60 Favorite Nonesuch Albums (Part 2 of 3)

The Honest Broker • 3989 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎶 Music Albums Artists Genres Instruments Songs
  1. Nonesuch Records is a unique label that focuses on nurturing creative work and high-quality music rather than just commercial success.
  2. Ted Gioia shares his favorite Nonesuch albums, showcasing a range of artists and eclectic music genres.
  3. Artists like Emmylou Harris and Lake Street Dive found creative freedom and success after joining Nonesuch Records.

"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.

Black-market Bob

Dada Drummer Almanach • 101 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎶 Music Artists Albums Live Performances Music history
  1. Bob Dylan's bootlegs provide a deeper look into his music that fans enjoy. These recordings include live performances and outtakes that show his artistic evolution.
  2. The 1965-1975 period is a favorite for many Dylan fans, showcasing his unique style as he transitioned from folk to rock music. Key recordings from this time have become legendary.
  3. Despite recent Grammy wins, some feel Dylan's latest work lacks the powerful imagery and creativity of his earlier albums. Fans often discuss his cycles of ups and downs in music careers.

The genius of Caravaggio

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art history Artists Painting Cultural Theory Creative Expression
  1. Caravaggio was a very influential artist known for his unique style using light and dark contrasts. This technique is called 'chiaroscuro' and inspired many other artists and filmmakers.
  2. He had a tumultuous life, filled with fights and adventures, which sometimes got him into serious trouble, like killing a man in a duel. Despite his bold personality, he faced many struggles, especially in his early life.
  3. Caravaggio's paintings often portrayed religious themes but in a way that made them relatable to ordinary people. His work was not just beautiful; it also had a deep connection to the social and political issues of his time.

EMPTY CHEESE JAR

Entering The Lung • 3125 implied HN points • 26 Sep 23
🎶 Music Artists Streaming Covid impact
  1. Musicians are struggling financially, especially due to streaming services like Spotify.
  2. The pandemic has worsened the situation for musicians without financial safety nets.
  3. There is a need for better support systems for musicians to ensure their well-being and livelihood.

"I Saw the Light" by Todd Rundgren (1972)

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 219 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🎶 Music Artists Albums Songwriting Performances Reviews
  1. Todd Rundgren wrote 'I Saw the Light' very quickly, in just about 20 minutes. He played all the instruments and sang all the parts himself to make it sound just how he wanted.
  2. The song was part of his album 'Something/Anything?' and became a Top 20 hit, even though another song from the same album, 'Hello It’s Me,' ended up being more popular later.
  3. Rundgren also performed 'I Saw the Light' with Daryl Hall, showing that their music is still great as they get older. You can hear both his original version and this performance to compare.