The biggest music industry news | November 2024
Christmas contests, AI tools, and major wins for Billie Eilish. Plus, a government-backed ticket levy and big moves from TikTok and YouTube as music copyright revenue soars.
RouteNote launches Christmas cover contest
We offer the chance to win a pair of high-tech, wireless, noise cancelling ear buds in exchange for some Christmassy creativity. The RouteNote Christmas cover contest invites users to enter their festive covers, automatically entering them into a draw for some shiny new earbuds. Isn’t that just the kind of present you music lovers wish for during the holidays?
Major copyright infringement lawsuit is filed against distributor
Universal Music Group, ABCKO Music & Records, and Concord Music Group (collectively UMG) filed a lawsuit seeking an eyewatering $500 million in damages against TuneCore and Believe. Allegations consisted of “industrial-scale copyright infringement” and fraudulent distribution. Believe refuted these claims, presumably as it prepares its defence.
Best vocalist of all time voted for by YOU
If you’ve ever wondered who the best vocalist of all time is, the answer has been revealed. At least, according to the respondents of our Instagram poll. After weeks of voting and squabbling, the crown landed firmly on the figurative head of Queen frontman, Freddie Mercury.
Spotify launches Spotify for Creators platform
Spotify has introduced a new Spotify for Creators platform, offering tools to help creators monetise and manage content, including ad-free video podcasts for Premium users. The updates also include an audience-driven payment model and video clips to enhance discoverability, aiming to expand opportunities for creators.
Ticket levy to support grassroots venues get UK government backing
The UK government has expressed support for the proposed ticketing levy put forward by music industry bodies to help protect struggling grassroots venues. While they have not confirmed its immediate implementation, the proposal aims to create a sustainable funding source for these vital venues, which are crucial to nurturing new talent and maintaining vibrant music scenes across the country.
SoundCloud adds 6 new AI integrations for music-making
SoundCloud has launched six new AI-powered tools designed to help music creators with everything from beat-making to vocal creation. These tools, including Tuney for track generation and ACE Studio for vocal production, aim to enhance creativity and simplify the music-making process, offering seamless integration for easy uploads to the platform.
Apple Music crowns Billie Eilish Artist of the Year 2024
Billie Eilish has been named Apple Music’s Artist of the Year 2024, making her the first artist to win the prestigious title twice. This recognition follows her success with the viral hits from her album HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, along with multiple Grammy nominations and a standout performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, solidifying her cultural and musical influence.
YouTube tests AI “restyling” of music for Shorts
YouTube is testing a new AI-powered feature that allows creators to “restyle” licensed music for Shorts, adjusting the mood or genre of a track. This expansion of the Dream Track tool offers more creative control, enabling users to generate unique 30-second tracks while maintaining the original song’s characteristics, providing a fresh way for artists to engage with their audience.
TikTok closes its doors in Canada
TikTok is facing challenges in Canada, with the government ordering the closure of its corporate offices in Toronto and Vancouver due to security concerns. While Canadian users can still access the app, the move has raised alarms in the local creative community, especially as TikTok has been ramping up its support for artists and creators in recent months.
Global value of music copyright soars to $45.5bn
Music revenue could double by the end of 2024, with earnings already reaching $45.5 billion in 2023, according to economist Will Page. This rise is driven by growth in labels, publishers, and collective management, making music a leading global revenue generator, surpassing the box office. For musicians, this signals big opportunities ahead.