The hottest Music Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Starting from scraps

Austin Kleon • 1238 implied HN points • 14 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media History
  1. Starting from limited resources can inspire creativity and lead to new ideas.
  2. The beauty of life is often found in our day-to-day experiences and connections, not just in grand adventures.
  3. Art and copyright law can clash, raising important questions about creativity and ownership.

Curator

Castalia • 439 implied HN points • 30 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Theater Music Literature Art
  1. American theater is struggling because it relies too much on the Broadway model, which doesn't connect with local communities. The solution may be to create smaller, more personal theater experiences that focus on direct connection between actors and audiences.
  2. The idea of the avant-garde in art is losing its meaning as artists grapple with historical context and the pressures of a changing society. It’s important to create art that speaks to personal experiences rather than just following trends or societal expectations.
  3. Music is being flooded with AI-generated content, making it harder for human artists to stand out. Even though AI can produce a lot of music quickly, the value of true art comes from human experience and creativity, which cannot be easily replicated.

On Sinead O'Connor and Borderline Personality Disorder

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Music Mental health Biography Art Media
  1. Sinead O'Connor's life and struggles highlight the challenges of living with Borderline Personality Disorder. It's important to understand the emotional ups and downs that come with this condition.
  2. Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their success or fame. Sinead's story reminds us to be compassionate towards others who are suffering.
  3. Discussing and raising awareness about mental health is crucial. It helps to break the stigma and encourages people to seek help when they need it.

Maggie’s Farm

Rethinking Software • 199 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Literature Philosophy Society
  1. Bob Dylan's song 'Maggie's Farm' speaks about the struggle against unfair management. It really highlights how frustrating it can be to feel stuck in a job with bad management.
  2. The songwriter encourages people to view themselves as partners, not just workers. It's important to feel valued and not treated like a servant.
  3. The song warns against peer pressure at work. Just like in a group, it's essential to stay true to yourself, even when others try to pull you in the same direction.
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Off to see the wizard

Austin Kleon • 1318 implied HN points • 13 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Film Literature Art Music History
  1. Re-watching movies like The Wizard of Oz can bring out strong emotions and memories we didn't realize we had. The experience can help us connect with our past selves.
  2. The idea of 'there's no place like home' in the movie feels unrealistic for many, as it contrasts with the exciting world of Oz. This highlights the tension between wanting to leave and the comfort of staying.
  3. Movies can teach us about self-authorization. The realization that we are the ones who give ourselves permission to pursue our dreams can be a powerful lesson.

Transcribe yourself!

Austin Kleon • 1578 implied HN points • 24 Jun 22
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Travel Education
  1. If you're stuck on writing, try talking it out and recording yourself. It can help free up your thoughts.
  2. Reading various books can be enlightening. Don't be afraid to share the ones you picked up and even put down.
  3. Traveling can be more enjoyable if you explore local spots like libraries or grocery stores. It helps you connect with the culture better.

One! Hundred! Thousand!

Austin Kleon • 1858 implied HN points • 08 Apr 22
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Poetry Media
  1. It's important to create a newsletter that you enjoy and would want to read yourself. Having a clear format helps keep things organized.
  2. Libraries can thrive without late fees or staff, as people often return items when given the chance. It's great to see how this positively impacts communities.
  3. April is a month to celebrate poetry and autism awareness. There are fun ways to engage with both, like sharing poems or learning more about autism through recommended readings.

Dog days

Austin Kleon • 1498 implied HN points • 08 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Criticism
  1. Reading shorter books can be enjoyable and worthwhile, even if they don’t blow you away. It's nice to find pieces that balance serious topics with a light touch.
  2. Creative work often comes from balancing respect for the past with the desire to innovate. This tension can lead to interesting new ideas and artworks.
  3. Podcasts and shows can be great for light entertainment; for example, 'The Offer' is a fun mini-series worth checking out.

The Absentees

Cybernetic Forests • 119 implied HN points • 31 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Music AI Creativity Experimental Workshops
  1. Generative AI can inspire artists by showing them glimpses of new possibilities and creative combinations.
  2. Using AI in music creation can raise complex ethical concerns, such as issues of cultural appropriation and the impact on marginalized communities.
  3. Engaging with generative AI tools like Suno can lead to a disorienting yet intriguing creative process, challenging traditional notions of music-making and expression.

We're moving from Black History Month to Women's History Month and partying at the intersection

The Austen Connection • 373 implied HN points • 05 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture History Literature Education Art & Illustration Music
  1. Celebrating Black History Month and Women's History Month together is important
  2. There are many great Black authors and stories that are intersecting with the world of Jane Austen
  3. Exploring historic and contemporary works that celebrate Black history and women's history is enriching

ANDRE HARRELL: GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN

The Nelson George Mixtape • 373 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Music Fashion Film Mentorship Lifestyle
  1. Andre Harrell was a influential figure in the music industry, specifically in the founding of Uptown Records and grooming talent.
  2. Harrell had a keen eye for cultural trends and was skilled at identifying emerging talent and styles.
  3. His mentorship extended beyond race and he was known for nurturing and guiding many individuals in various fields.

Science in a World Built for Alchemy

Variations on a Theme • 139 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Music Performance Creativity Emotions
  1. Embrace the power of art and creativity, even if you face initial failures. It can lead to unexpected and touching moments that resonate with others.
  2. Music and art have the ability to evoke deep emotions and connect people across time and space. They have a transformative power that can touch the soul.
  3. In a world where scientific reasoning often prevails, don't forget the infectious nature of positivity - a simple smile can make a significant impact, spreading joy and connection.

What I'm reading about the crisis in media; a great, overlooked '90s crime thriller; and a wonderful compilation of new-sound folk covers

Read Max • 395 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Media Movies Music Books Podcasts
  1. The author offers a roundup of articles and podcasts discussing recent layoffs and shutdowns in the news media business.
  2. A 1990s thriller from a lesser-known director is recommended as fantastic.
  3. There's praise for a compilation of reworked classic folk songs featured in the weekly roundup.

What's got my attention this week #28

The Shift With Sam Baker • 279 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Music Literature Relationships Celebrities Personal Development
  1. The post highlights interesting reads, watches, and listens for the weekend, such as celebrating singleness and the centennial of Maria Callas.
  2. It mentions coping strategies for dealing with conflicts and explores intriguing topics like celebrity tell-alls and personal growth.
  3. There's a mix of subjects from Jeff Bezos to the concept of 'killing time,' offering a diverse range of content for the audience.

Anna Gát: What to Read This Weekend #52

interintellect • 176 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Poetry Visual art Music Media
  1. The future of humanism remains a mystery, worth exploring to salvage humane virtues from the chaos of modern history
  2. Diverse perspectives on topics like friendship, violence, cancel culture, and mental health encourage critical thinking and reflection
  3. In the world of AI, art, music, and poetry, innovative approaches and debates spark new insights and appreciation

Who They Are

The Better Letter • 294 implied HN points • 17 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Behavior Beliefs Entertainment Music Social Issues
  1. Humans are not always rational and make decisions that defy traditional economic theory.
  2. We all have biases and tend to protect our deeply held values, making it difficult to accept new information.
  3. There is a rising trend of denialism and irrational beliefs that are not confined to a specific political ideology.

An eerie, witchy '90s fantasy masterpiece; an transcendentally stupid YouTube comedy; gorgeous Irish art pop

Read Max • 368 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Fantasy Comedy Music
  1. An eerie, witchy '90s fantasy masterpiece was recommended for fans of the genre.
  2. A transcendentally stupid YouTube comedy was highlighted along with a play in New York City for entertainment seekers.
  3. Gorgeous Irish art pop album was suggested for fans of avant-garde music artists like Björk and Laurie Anderson.

Plug your writing on our Substack

Disaffected Newsletter • 639 implied HN points • 10 May 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Community
  1. You can share your creative work like writing, music, or art with others. It's a chance to connect and show what you do.
  2. Feel free to leave links to your projects in the comments so others can check them out. This is a great way to support each other.
  3. By subscribing to the newsletter, you can stay updated on new posts and help support the creator's work.

Boston Calling

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 28 May 24
🎭️ Culture Music Activism Festivals History Community
  1. At the Boston Calling music festival, the crowd made the speaker realize they had to trust in the people around them and let go of control. It felt good to be part of such a big gathering without any panic.
  2. Hozier used his platform to educate the audience about civil rights and the importance of protests throughout history. He reminded everyone that small acts of kindness can really make a difference in the world.
  3. Zane believes that you can promote love and peace simply by living your passion and doing what you love. You don't need to fight against anything; just showing your joy can inspire others.

Cheeseburgers In Paradise

Body of Work: Belle de Jour • 353 implied HN points • 03 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Music Society Environment Community Family
  1. Jimmy Buffett's music and image resonate with a specific audience, offering a carefree escape.
  2. Living off-grid highlights the challenges of self-sufficiency and the importance of community.
  3. Burning Man and similar events may showcase ideals of self-reliance, but in reality, they can highlight societal disparities and the necessity of infrastructure and support systems.

Hamilton, Hip Hop, and the Culture of Dueling

Glenn’s Substack • 353 implied HN points • 25 Apr 23
🎭️ Culture History Music Politics Society Violence
  1. Dueling was a common practice among the gentry in early America, with social pressure making it almost inevitable to accept challenges or issue them.
  2. Attempts to outlaw dueling in the 19th century were largely unsuccessful, with laws not effectively curbing the practice due to cultural norms and individual reputations at stake.
  3. As the culture changed post-Civil War, dueling declined, with the experience of the war making the ritualized violence seem outdated and less acceptable.

Bob Dylan Wrote Propaganda Songs

Internal exile • 12 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Music Film Art History Literature
  1. The film 'A Complete Unknown' surprisingly succeeds in portraying Bob Dylan's rise to fame in a fresh way. It focuses less on his life story and more on the idea of talent and genius.
  2. Instead of trying to explain Dylan's personality, the movie treats him as a unique force of nature. It shows what it's like to witness true talent instead of just a biography.
  3. The film assumes that viewers already understand Bob Dylan's significance and legacy. This makes it feel odd to make a movie about someone who is still alive and actively creating.

Jeff Sauer: Mirrorwave

Do Not Research • 239 implied HN points • 18 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Advertising Technology Music Behavior Society
  1. Auto ads in subway cars can be strangely specific, like an ad featuring floating dogs in zero gravity
  2. Mirrorwaves are rare occurrences in subway ads, reflecting emotions from user metadata, like a misinterpretation of the user's feelings
  3. The protagonist's obsession with decoding subway auto ads leads to anxiety, fear of mirrorwaves, and ultimately, being blocked from using the subway

Deejaying on the hedonic treadmill

Austin Kleon • 1358 implied HN points • 15 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Media Philosophy
  1. Using DJ tricks like volume and sequencing can help us balance our feelings and experiences on the hedonic treadmill. It's all about finding the right mix in life.
  2. Reading can sometimes be frustrating if a book is too long, but it can still be engaging. It's a journey of wanting to know more while feeling overwhelmed.
  3. Recent shows and music can bring joy and surprise. It's fun to discover new artists or enjoy those earlier seasons of beloved TV shows.

The creative path

Splattern • 59 implied HN points • 26 May 24
🎭️ Culture Creativity Art Music Career Lifestyle
  1. Creatives often have non-traditional career paths that can be confusing to those in standard jobs. Success for a creative person can look very different than for someone in a typical career.
  2. Even those who seem successful in creative fields, like acting or music, often struggle financially. Many still have to work other jobs to support themselves, even if they are getting regular work.
  3. Having a supportive network, like family and friends, can be crucial for creatives. It's important to have people who believe in your dreams and help you navigate the ups and downs.

Vol. 2, Issue 12 - My Pokémon Collection (Part 5)

Johto Times • 119 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Music Gaming Collectibles Entertainment
  1. The author has a passion for Pokémon music and enjoys collecting soundtrack albums from the games. Each album reminds them of fond memories associated with the games.
  2. New Pokémon Trading Card Game sets and distribution events for in-game items are coming soon, keeping the community engaged with fresh content.
  3. Physical soundtracks for recent Pokémon games have been announced, and the author is excited to add those to their collection.

The Time of Big Walking

Wild Information • 216 implied HN points • 31 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Nature Literature Music Art
  1. Different indigenous peoples have unique ways of measuring time that are closely tied to nature and subsistence.
  2. The Sámi people have a calendar with eight seasons and twelve months that reflect changes in the environment.
  3. A year for Arctic peoples is not just a fixed number of days but a flow of natural events like bird migrations and frozen lakes.

A ticket to the freak show

Austin Kleon • 1458 implied HN points • 27 May 22
🎭️ Culture Books Music Comedy Art Film
  1. Reading can be a great way to escape tough times. Enjoying books like 'Three Men in a Boat' can really lift your spirits.
  2. Connecting with art and culture through activities like museum tours can be inspiring and help you appreciate history.
  3. Taking care of your creative self is important. Good advice includes protecting your time, reading good books, and spending time alone.

Rough Draft 2024, Part Two: Reflecting on a decade of work

polymathematics • 139 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Music Philosophy Art Personal Growth
  1. Embrace uncertainty in life, as unexpected experiences can lead to the best outcomes. It's okay to feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed; it's part of the journey.
  2. Finding the right balance in work and personal projects is important. It's essential to focus on what truly matters and avoid feeling like you have to compromise.
  3. Setting clear goals can help you stay organized and motivated. Aim to create specific projects that bring you joy, and don’t be afraid to reassess your direction along the way.