The hottest Music Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 494 implied HN points • 06 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Reading can help you navigate life stages and relationships, especially when considering family dynamics. It's great to explore different perspectives through essays and stories.
  2. Classic TV shows, like 'Seinfeld', still provide entertainment and humor. Revisiting familiar episodes can be a fun way to relax and reminisce.
  3. Exploring new music albums can be exciting, and sharing experiences with friends can enhance the enjoyment. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or thoughts on what you haven't heard yet.

The day had just taken a seat

Austin Kleon • 2777 implied HN points • 19 Aug 22
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Understanding today's politics can be easier if you look at professional wrestling. It's a surprising connection that many people are finding interesting.
  2. Finding a book that ends perfectly is a joy. Craig Brown's book about The Beatles really nailed its conclusion.
  3. It's important to be kind to yourself, especially when facing challenges. Sometimes, just taking small steps forward can make a difference.

The femcel crypto-degen catalog model and the serial killer

Read Max • 922 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. There's been a lot of talk about a little AI from China that really made waves in Silicon Valley this week. It seems to be a big deal in tech discussions right now.
  2. A new dark web movie explores intense themes like true crime, cryptocurrency, and mental health issues. It sounds like a gripping watch for those interested in these topics.
  3. A new album has been released that combines sounds similar to Radiohead. If you enjoy multi-instrumental music, this could be a great addition to your playlist.
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The Week In Recommendations 4.26.23

Rich Text • 727 implied HN points • 26 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. The authors recommend a podcast, movie, dresses, and a bag on sale
  2. They share their thoughts on novels, TV shows, podcasts, and shopping
  3. The post includes a mix of personal experiences, recommendations, and reflections

Here Comes a Regular

Kneeling Bus • 391 implied HN points • 10 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Gatekeeping has changed meaning online. It used to mean controlling access to opportunities, but now it often means keeping knowledge or culture to ourselves in a crowded digital world.
  2. The internet has made information widely accessible, but this has disrupted traditional cultural institutions and made it harder to find unique value in experiences and knowledge.
  3. Many people feel nostalgic for a time when communities were more exclusive. They wish for the good aspects of gatekeeping, which kept certain cultural experiences special and less diluted by mass access.

Not knowing what’s impossible

Austin Kleon • 2477 implied HN points • 09 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Sometimes, not knowing what can't be done can lead to amazing creations, just like Orson Welles with 'Citizen Kane'. It shows us the power of ignorance in fostering creativity.
  2. When faced with frustrating or silly ideas, a good response is to explore and contradict them, like what philosopher Mary Midgley did in her writing. It's a way to keep thinking and learning.
  3. Finding joy in our passions, like movies or music, helps us connect with ourselves. Looking back at what we loved as teens can reveal a lot about who we are today.

What's got my attention this week #29

The Shift With Sam Baker • 519 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. The post is a collection of interesting links and recommendations for the week.
  2. One notable highlight is about a Canadian traffic reporter standing up to body shaming.
  3. The post dives into various topics including Taylor Swift, emotional numbness, life without alcohol, and discussions on the gender binary.

Ali's Flair in Love and War

Ladyparts • 399 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Music
  1. Ali Smith, a former punk rock musician turned photographer and writer, reflects on her past experiences in the East Village and her band Speedball Baby.
  2. Despite her previous wild lifestyle, Ali Smith is now a thoughtful artist, mother, wife, and writer, living a cozy life outside London.
  3. Ali Smith's current interests include discussing her son's school activities, photography assignments, and her husband's career changes.

Fix Your Hearts or Die!: A Short Ode to David Lynch (RIP)

Counter Craft • 910 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. David Lynch was a visionary artist whose work greatly influenced American cinema and television. His shows and films changed how we think about storytelling in media.
  2. Lynch blended different tones in his art, mixing horror with humor and beauty. This combination made his work feel real and relatable.
  3. Even in death, Lynch's legacy lives on through his art, which captures the complexity of life and human emotions. His stories remind us of the beauty and mystery of existence.

Writing Rhythm

So Here’s a Thing • 688 implied HN points • 30 Sep 23
📚 Literature Music
  1. In writing, weaving different elements together like characters, plot, and dialogue is essential for a compelling story.
  2. Just as a driving rhythm is crucial in music, a well-crafted prose needs texture and momentum to engage the reader.
  3. Find your unique 'Open G' in writing - discover your natural style and voice to make the writing process smoother and authentic.

Audiences

polymathematics • 99 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Growing your audience can help you make money, connect with like-minded people, and influence positive change. It’s worth considering what audience growth means to you personally.
  2. Prioritize improving your work and be consistent with your writing. The better your work, the more likely it is to attract readers over time.
  3. Engagement can come from different platforms, so it's good to be visible on both Substack and your own website. Find creative ways to connect with your audience across these platforms.

Hidden Open Thread 358.5

Astral Codex Ten • 1101 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. This post is an open thread for discussions among paid subscribers.
  2. Subscribers can share thoughts and engage with others in the community.
  3. It promotes active participation and sharing ideas within a dedicated space.

Could ‘Hamilton’ Be Made Today?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 259 implied HN points • 20 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. The musical 'Hamilton' is seen as a reflection of a specific cultural moment in America, particularly its significance between 2009 and 2017.
  2. Events like the White House Poetry Jam in 2009 highlight how art and music can inspire hope and action.
  3. Current political changes make the enthusiasm around 'Hamilton' and similar artistic expressions feel like a thing of the past.

A Mythsinger's Path

The Art of Enchantment, with Dr Sharon Blackie • 658 implied HN points • 14 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Music
  1. The video shared is about the work and legacy of Daniel Deardorff, a multifaceted artist and mythologist with a rich history of creative contributions.
  2. Daniel Deardorff's focus on embracing Otherness and his exploration of meaningful wounds in myths make his work stand out, offering a unique perspective on culture and community.
  3. The Mythsinger Legacy Project continues to carry forth Daniel Deardorff's work through various creative endeavors, preserving his unpublished works and vision.

Hidden Open Thread 390.5

Astral Codex Ten • 344 implied HN points • 17 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. This content is specifically for people who pay for a subscription. It offers special posts or threads to those users.
  2. Open threads allow subscribers to discuss topics freely. This creates a community vibe where members can share and exchange ideas.
  3. The post encourages sharing with others. Promoting engagement helps grow the community around the content.

How To Love Classical Music

The Ruffian • 878 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Classical music has a rich history and can be a powerful emotional experience, especially when experienced live. Seeing many musicians come together to perform can make the music feel even more alive and impactful.
  2. Investing time and effort into understanding classical music can greatly enhance your appreciation of it. Unlike pop music, classical music may require more focus and patience to enjoy fully.
  3. You don't need to grow up with classical music to appreciate it, but having some exposure helps. Many people discover and love it later in life, and there are many resources available to help you get started.

Haircut for a Poem

Splattern • 119 implied HN points • 22 May 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Barbershops are important places in communities, where people gather and share stories. They create a special bond between the barber and their clients.
  2. Vaughn Acord, a talented hairstylist, listens to his clients and helps them express their true selves. It's not about his vision, but about bringing out their own unique style.
  3. Life should be about contributing to the community and making a difference. Helping others and sharing experiences can lead to a fulfilling life.

How New York Became a City of Billionaires

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 278 implied HN points • 07 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. New York has changed from a city that supported all its residents to one focused on the rich and ambitious. This shift happened mostly in the late 1980s.
  2. Wealth inequality in New York has grown, causing both extreme wealth and poverty to rise at the same time.
  3. The changes in New York have also led to increased racial tensions and fears among its residents.

My third eye

Austin Kleon • 1998 implied HN points • 21 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Comfort work is the work you do when you're unsure of what else to tackle. It can help ease feelings of uncertainty.
  2. Books and stories about loneliness often explore the difference between being alone and feeling lonely, which can be a complex topic.
  3. Discovering new music and films can be inspiring and enjoyable. It's great to find fresh sounds that you love or revisit old favorites.

Rare Steely Dan live photos from 1972

Expanding Dan • 471 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Music
  1. Rare Steely Dan live photos from 1972 captured by a teenage photojournalist
  2. Steely Dan performed at a basement bar in Milwaukee in 1972 during their early tour
  3. The photos taken by Rich Zimmermann at the concert may be the earliest known images of Steely Dan performing live

Tuesday Thread: What Music is REALLY DOING IT FOR YOU

Culture Study • 1000 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Music can create special holiday memories and rituals in our homes. It's nice to play favorites like classic Christmas albums to bring joy.
  2. Listening to different types of music, like a cappella or specific artists, can remind us of our loved ones and their tastes.
  3. Engaging with music and podcasts can be a fun way to connect with others and share experiences, especially during festive times.

Best Books, Movies, and Music of the year

Read Max • 922 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. The roundup highlights standout books, movies, and music from the past year. It's a great way to discover new favorites.
  2. There are fun and unique awards like 'Best alternate histories' and 'Best song my son loved.' These categories make it more engaging.
  3. Readers are encouraged to interact by sharing recommendations or asking for specific suggestions. It's a community-focused approach.

Numlock News: November 2, 2023 • Panda, Theia, Discogs

Numlock News • 569 implied HN points • 02 Nov 23
🔬 Science Music
  1. Downtown business districts in smaller cities may face significant financial impact from drops in office space rent compared to larger cities.
  2. China's panda bear diplomatic program involves significant costs for zoos worldwide but may not always be financially lucrative for the hosting facilities.
  3. The World Series experienced record low ratings, attributed in part to regional issues and the matchup between Dallas and Phoenix.

The Saturday Selection, Vol. 82

Why is this interesting? • 60 implied HN points • 06 Dec 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. The 1913 Webster's dictionary is appreciated by some for its clarity and timelessness, showing that older dictionaries can still be relevant today.
  2. The 'Rest is History' podcast is gaining recognition as a significant cultural achievement for Britain, celebrated for its engaging storytelling.
  3. Year-end lists from various publications are showcasing the best of TV and music, highlighting what people loved throughout the year.

"It looks like the fork has pierced the sky"

Read Max • 737 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Three picture books are a hit with my 4-year-old, showcasing the value of finding good children's literature.
  2. Interesting essays cover various topics, from cryptocurrency to social media, highlighting unique perspectives worth exploring.
  3. I enjoyed a lesser-known movie adaptation of John Le Carré's work, emphasizing the charm of discovering hidden gems in cinema.

Chalino, King of the Drug Ballad

CrashOut by Ioan Grillo • 628 implied HN points • 21 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Chalino Sánchez emigrated to Los Angeles to pursue his music career but remained loyal to his roots in Sinaloa.
  2. Chalino revolutionized the narco corrido genre, paving the way for its popularity and influencing future artists.
  3. Chalino's life and music legacy continue to inspire, with his impact seen through murals, imitators, and his family's continued defense of his reputation.

Your weekly links and recs round-up #36

The Shift With Sam Baker • 299 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. The Shift With Sam Baker newsletter features a variety of interesting topics like Tracy Chapman, menopause marketing, and personal stories.
  2. The newsletter includes links to thought-provoking pieces like getting married in Manhattan's City Hall and transforming relationships through travel.
  3. Paid subscribers get exclusive access to all the content shared in the newsletter.

Here’s your ticket

Austin Kleon • 2378 implied HN points • 22 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Creativity can feel more like discovering something than making it from scratch. It's about uncovering ideas that already exist.
  2. Bookstores are becoming more diverse and popular, which is great news for readers. It’s nice to see so many indie bookstores thriving.
  3. RIP to influential artists like William Hart and Claes Oldenburg, who contributed a lot to the music and art world. Their legacies will be remembered.

Chicken Pot Pie Bourekas

The Jewish Table • 334 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
🍲 Food & Drink Music
  1. The recipe combines a Sephardi pastry with an American classic for a unique twist.
  2. The author's husband is the founder of a band called Sandcatchers, blending Middle Eastern and Americana sounds.
  3. The newsletter includes a roundup of Tu Bishvat recipes to celebrate the Jewish tree holiday.

Sexuality is as wide as the sea

Wyclif's Dust • 3487 implied HN points • 26 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Sexuality is complex and diverse, like the sea.
  2. The link between sex and identity has led to a proliferation of identities, but the idea of sexual identity is fragile.
  3. The understanding of human sexuality is still uncertain, and sexual mores have evolved over time.

MUSIC: Max Richter

So Here’s a Thing • 609 implied HN points • 28 Mar 23
🎶 Music Music
  1. Max Richter's music captures a sense of wistful melancholy, often used in films and television shows to create a certain emotional atmosphere.
  2. Richter's work includes the heart-rending 'On The Nature of Daylight' from 'The Blue Notebooks' and an eight-hour album called 'Sleep' designed for promoting sleep or meditation.
  3. His re-imagining of Vivaldi's 'Four Seasons' showcases his unique style and creativity, demonstrating the breadth of his musical talent.

Who Needs Love

Splattern • 99 implied HN points • 29 May 24
🎭️ Culture Music
  1. Love is something we need, but asking for it all the time seems unrealistic. It's okay to want a little less love while we focus on our everyday lives.
  2. Even though it sounds nice to wish for constant love, the reality is that life is busy and complicated. We have work and responsibilities that often take priority.
  3. In the end, love would make life better, but we also need to manage our expectations and not let love overshadow our practical needs and goals.