The hottest Artists Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Music Topics

Welcome to Rock 'n' Roll with Me

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 179 implied HN points • 15 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The goal is to celebrate and preserve classic rock music from the 60s and 70s, since it often gets overlooked on radio today.
  2. Ellen wants to share songs that make her and others want to dance, and she will focus mainly on rock but might include other genres too.
  3. She encourages comments and song requests, making it a fun community space for music lovers, while keeping copyright rules in mind.

Spirituals (Interview)

Flow State • 334 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Tyler Tadlock's music project Spirituals blends voice memos, digital instruments, and guitar to create beatless dance music.
  2. Tadlock's approach to music-making is organic and inspired by everyday sounds, emphasizing the importance of sounds' relationships.
  3. Tadlock finds inspiration in natural sounds, free improvisation, and underrated musicians like George Cartwright.

Brian Wilson (1942-2025)

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 328 implied HN points • 13 Jun 25
🎶 Music Artists
  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.
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The Year AI Broke

Dada Drummer Almanach • 57 implied HN points • 04 Dec 25
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The music business is betting heavily on AI as the main future, with no new technology or artist-development plan to replace streaming.
  2. Relying on AI risks pushing music away from real human musicians and the fans who care about them, which is a short-term approach that undermines music's long-term health.
  3. Artists should lead the creative thinking and efforts to protect music's long-term viability, because healthy music ecosystems matter for communities and the economy.

65 – A contemporary ceramics fair in Brussels

Ceramics Now Weekly • 275 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  1. The first major fair dedicated to contemporary ceramics, ceramic brussels, will take place in Brussels between January 25-28, 2024.
  2. New featured artists are showcased in Ceramics Now, presenting the work of Kensuke Yamada, Jacaranda Kori, and Maria Diletta Rondoni.
  3. Various opportunities and events in the ceramics world are highlighted, including residency programs, exhibitions, and conferences.

art delivery : 01.12.24

The NO SUCH THING AS TOO MUCH ART Society • 275 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  1. Artist Vickie Vainionpaa creates oil paintings with random squiggles based on eye movements from over 100 participants.
  2. The art delivery post features paintings 'Venus, Cupid, Folly and Time' and 'The Dream' by Vickie Vainionpaa.
  3. Readers can access the full post archives with a 7-day free trial of 'ART DELIVERY' from The Jealous Curator.

This YouTuber amassed a half million social media followers by interviewing touring musicians

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 249 implied HN points • 27 Jun 25
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Josh Weidling created Digital Tour Bus to give fans a peek inside musicians' tour experiences. He films tours and shares the behind-the-scenes moments through videos.
  2. Since starting in 2010, Weidling has posted over 9,000 videos and gained a following of over 500,000 people on social media. His work has grown from MySpace to platforms like TikTok.
  3. He originally saw the project as a way to help promote bands while also using his skills in planning and content creation. It's a unique way to connect musicians with fans.

The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan Show

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 119 implied HN points • 16 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The Beatles made their famous debut on the Ed Sullivan Show in 1964, capturing the attention of millions of viewers. People were excited about their music and unique style, which changed pop culture forever.
  2. Before their big show in America, the Beatles played long hours in clubs in the UK and Germany. This experience helped them become amazing performers with a wide range of songs.
  3. Paul McCartney mentioned that many of his love songs had themes of attraction and desire, even if he didn't realize it at the time. Songs like 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' became classics that people still love today.

Give Florida a Shot

Flagging Down the Double E's • 235 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Florida was booked for a concert without knowing the artist's identity
  2. The Dylan tour was a well-kept secret in the history of American pop music
  3. Venues were booked in advance without revealing the artist's identity

Songs for Drella

Austin Kleon • 1318 implied HN points • 04 Oct 22
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The album 'Songs for Drella' is a tribute to Andy Warhol, created by Lou Reed and John Cale, who were once estranged.
  2. The nickname 'Drella' combines 'Dracula' and 'Cinderella,' reflecting the complex nature of Warhol's personality.
  3. The songs on the album present Warhol's life from different perspectives, including his own and those of Reed and Cale.

The Haunting Beauty of "Wichita Lineman" - Glen Campbell and James Taylor

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 99 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The song 'Wichita Lineman' by Glen Campbell evokes deep emotions, often making listeners feel nostalgic or even cry.
  2. Glen Campbell and James Taylor both have a special talent for connecting with people's feelings through their music, making their songs resonate with many.
  3. Glen Campbell had a remarkable career and was part of the famous Wrecking Crew, a group that played on many hit songs in the 60s and 70s.

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 579 implied HN points • 23 Jun 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Tom Petty's music carries themes of longing and boundaries, suggesting to others to stay away when needed.
  2. His lyrics often reflect a sense of personal struggle and discontent, which resonates with many listeners.
  3. Enjoying a musical interlude can provide a break and a moment of reflection in daily life.

What's got my attention this week #45

The Shift With Sam Baker • 99 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Artists
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker newsletter offers a variety of curated content, including essays, round-ups, book clubs, and more for readers.
  2. The newsletter contains interesting links and recommendations on topics like relationships, celebrity encounters, personal reflections, and societal issues.
  3. Paid subscribers get access to exclusive posts and support the work of the newsletter creator.

Audio Autopsy, 1991: "Perspex Island"-The Robyn Hitchcock Interview by Amy Hughes

Front Row & Backstage • 373 implied HN points • 31 Jul 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Robyn Hitchcock's music defies typical pop sensibilities with clever, eccentric, and thought-provoking lyrics.
  2. The interview gives insight into Robyn Hitchcock's songwriting process, choice of songs for albums, and collaboration with producers.
  3. Robyn Hitchcock reflects on his music career, changes in his style, and the impact of commercial success on his artistic expression.

Audio Autopsy, 1985: Prefab Sprout, Paddy McAloon: Steve McQueen UK/Two Wheels Good US Album + 2023 Acoustic Vinyl

Front Row & Backstage • 353 implied HN points • 23 Jul 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The album 'Steve McQueen' by Prefab Sprout has an interesting history of different titles between the UK and the US.
  2. Prefab Sprout's music from the mid-'80s is considered sophisticated and beautiful, standing out from other popular music of that time.
  3. In 2023, an acoustic version of 'Steve McQueen' album was released in the US, bringing a new take on the classic songs.

Saul Steinberg at play

Austin Kleon • 1338 implied HN points • 12 Jul 22
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  1. Saul Steinberg was a unique artist who described himself as a 'writer who draws'. He inspired others to see art in new ways.
  2. His famous work, 'View of the World from 9th Avenue', is well-known and a great introduction to his style and ideas.
  3. Steinberg had a long history with 'The New Yorker' magazine, which showcases his diverse range of artistic styles and contributions.

George Harrison's "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 79 implied HN points • 30 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. George Harrison's song 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' was not just about music; it shows how the Beatles were starting to drift apart. Harrison faced challenges getting his songs recognized while John and Paul took the spotlight.
  2. Eric Clapton's contribution to the song was significant, as he was invited to play guitar, something that hadn’t happened with other artists on Beatles records. This added a new dynamic and was part of Harrison's growth as a musician.
  3. The song represented a shift in rock music during the late 1960s, marking a divide between the pop music of the past and the heavier, more political sound that was emerging. This change in style played a role in the band's eventual breakup.

Audio Autopsy, 1986: XTC "Season Cycle" from Skylarking LP, Produced by Todd Rundgren

Front Row & Backstage • 334 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. XTC's song 'Season Cycle' from the 1986 Skylarking LP is deeply influenced by 1960s music and the Beach Boys.
  2. The album 'Skylarking' by XTC was a loose concept album produced by Todd Rundgren.
  3. The songwriting and recording process of XTC, especially during their Dukes of Stratosphear project, showcased a creative homage to 1960s music.

What I Learned Going to 100s of Concerts - Part II

Can't Get Much Higher • 157 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Missed opportunities to see favorite artists at concerts can lead to regrets and disappointment.
  2. Live music can evoke strong emotions and create lasting memories, connecting people over shared experiences.
  3. Attending concerts, especially with friends and family, can have a profound impact on one's perspective and appreciation for music.

The Terrible Loneliness of Genius

Wrong Side of History • 427 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  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.

Radimir Koch & Anna Pederson, "Secrets to Graceful Living" at Alyssa Davis Gallery

Do Not Research • 159 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  1. The exhibition 'Secrets to Graceful Living' by Radimir Koch & Anna Pederson is hosted at Alyssa Davis Gallery from January 13 to February 25, 2024, showcasing unique aesthetic experiences.
  2. The exhibition involved a remote viewing session documenting raw intelligence about various aesthetic experiences using a specific protocol known as Distant Flame Protocol.
  3. Participants in the session provided detailed observations and interpretations of a mysterious gateway covered in moss, evoking feelings of being woven into something with elements of machinery and nature.

The Desperate Straights Edition

Why is this interesting? • 180 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🎶 Music Artists
  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.

"The Letter" - The Box Tops and Joe Cocker

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 79 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The Box Tops had their big hit 'The Letter' when their lead singer, Alex Chilton, was just 17, showing that young talent can shine quickly in the music industry.
  2. Joe Cocker's version of 'The Letter' three years later highlighted his unique voice, even though he faced tough times with stress and financial troubles during his career.
  3. The Box Tops and Joe Cocker both represent lasting legacies in music, illustrating how artists can influence each other and continue to be celebrated over time.

A song for you

Disaffected Newsletter • 619 implied HN points • 25 Mar 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Nostalgia can provide comfort and make us feel better about the present.
  2. Music often evokes memories and emotions that connect us to past experiences.
  3. Sharing music and memories with others can strengthen our bonds and create a sense of community.

China's Best Music of 2024

ChinaTalk • 415 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎶 Music Artists
  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.

Out for a Duck

Logging the World • 279 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. The musician Donald 'Duck' Dunn, known for his work on bass, had a significant impact in the music world and was part of iconic performances.
  2. Collaborations in the music industry, such as those involving the MGs and other notable artists like Neil Young and Eric Clapton, created powerful and memorable live performances.
  3. Music has the unique ability to evoke strong emotions and memories, bringing joy and connection through shared experiences.

110 Cool songs I like

Philosophy bear • 35 implied HN points • 29 Nov 25
🎶 Music Artists
  1. A mixtape can be a thoughtful reward for paid subscribers, offering something special beyond just appreciation.
  2. The playlist is a mix of personal favorites, including a variety of genres and some 'uncool' songs to show authenticity.
  3. It's okay to embrace music that you love, even if it doesn't align with current trends or what's considered 'cool'.

Magical Music

Clinsights • 275 implied HN points • 15 Mar 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Music has the power to communicate directly into our souls.
  2. A substance-induced buzz can enhance the music experience by removing barriers.
  3. Sharing music with someone can be a magical time travel experience.

The Figurative-to-Abstract Art Pipeline

Atlas of Wonders and Monsters • 1289 implied HN points • 10 Nov 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  1. Pioneers of abstract art often began with painting representational pictures.
  2. The shift from figurative art to abstract art is a gradual progression seen in artists like Kandinsky, Mondrian, Malevich, Pollock, and Rothko.
  3. Early abstract art skeptics may not fully appreciate the value of abstract art, but understanding the journey of artists can provide insight into their artistic development.

The Kompakt Selects Edition

Why is this interesting? • 180 implied HN points • 21 May 25
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Kompakt is a well-known music label from Cologne that recently celebrated its 500th release. It has a unique style and perspective in the music industry.
  2. Philip Sherburne is recognized as an important music and culture writer who recently wrote a great retrospective on Kompakt.
  3. The label shares similarities with others like Ghostly International, showcasing a strong artistic vision and identity.

Musical interlude

Disaffected Newsletter • 459 implied HN points • 13 May 23
🎶 Music Artists
  1. Some artists, like Suzanne Vega, are so great that people will buy their music without hearing it first. Her music is special and touches many hearts.
  2. Winning her album on the radio was a memorable moment, and it led to a personal connection when the artist replied to a thank-you letter.
  3. The lyrics of her songs often explore deep and thoughtful themes, connecting listeners to emotions that feel universal.

The genius of Caravaggio

Wrong Side of History • 441 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Artists
  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.