Welcome back to Tune-In, Enharmonic Magazine's monthly dive into some of the most exciting news in the music industry! August brought us reunions, industry shifts, and unfortunately some sad news too. From iconic comebacks to government-backed controversies, Tune-In has all the essential news to keep you plugged into the Industry. And yes, the Udio and Suno battle continues!
This August, Oasis confirmed their highly anticipated 2025 reunion tour, marking 15 years since their split, with a series of major UK and international dates. Italy’s music scene also hit a high note, reporting a 15% revenue growth in H1 2024 driven by streaming and vinyl sales, further proving digital platforms' dominance. However, not all was glory—170 Scottish musicians, including Paolo Nutini and The Proclaimers, issued a stark warning of a "cultural catastrophe" caused by arts funding cuts, calling for government action to restore Creative Scotland's budget.
Lizzo shocked fans by announcing she's taking a gap year, stepping back from the music business to protect her peace after enduring public scrutiny. In an unexpected collaboration, Duolingo and Sony Music partnered to introduce music education through popular songs, combining tech and music for a fresh learning experience. Tragically, Houston’s music scene mourned the loss of rapper BeatKing, whose sudden death has left a void in Southern hip-hop.
Don’t miss the exclusive recap of these stories and more on Tune-In. Stay informed with the latest industry headlines and trends as we head into September!
British Band Oasis to Reunite After 15 Years, Confirms 2025 Tour
On August 27, 2024, Al Jazeera reported that British rock band Oasis announced a 2025 reunion tour, 15 years after their split in 2009 due to a feud between brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher.
The band, known for hits like "Wonderwall" and "Don’t Look Back in Anger," will perform 14 shows across the UK, starting in Cardiff on July 4, 2025, and concluding in Dublin. The reunion marks 30 years since their iconic 1995 album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? The band also hinted at additional performances outside Europe
Even NATO Is Posting 'BRAT' Memes Now
On September 3, 2024, Exclaim! writer Alex Hudson reported that NATO had joined the viral "BRAT" meme trend, which began with Charli XCX's album. NATO used the meme generator to post a message on Instagram for Labour Day, with the word "peace" and a green heart emoji, stating, "Summer might be over, but the goal for peace remains."
The trend gained significant traction when Kamala Harris incorporated it into her presidential campaign. Hudson suggested that while the meme’s ability to promote world peace is questionable, it highlights the deep cultural link between politics and pop culture.
Lizzo 'Taking a Gap Year'
On August 26, 2024, Female First reported that music star Lizzo announced via social media that she is taking a gap year to focus on her well-being. The 36-year-old singer, who hasn't released an album since Special in 2022, shared a video from her vacation in Bali, Indonesia, along with a message saying she is “protecting her peace.”
Earlier this year, Lizzo expressed frustration over public scrutiny and the toll it had taken on her. Despite earlier hints of quitting music, she later clarified that she is stepping away from negative energy but will eventually continue to make music in the future.
Italian Music Industry Hits 15% H1 '24 Growth on Streaming Gains
On August 27, 2024, Dylan Smith of Digital Music News reported that the Italian music industry saw over 15% growth in recorded revenue during the first half of 2024, largely driven by streaming. According to the Federation of the Italian Music Industry (FIMI), total recorded revenue reached $226.5 million (€202.6 million), with paid streaming contributing significantly with a 23% year-on-year increase. Additionally, vinyl sales also grew by 16%, while CD sales dropped by over 10%. The report highlights the dominant role of digital platforms in driving industry growth.
Duolingo Strikes a Chord with Sony Music
On August 16, 2024, Jacca from RouteNote Blog reported on a new collaboration between Duolingo and Sony Music aimed at transforming music education. The language-learning app Duolingo partnered with Sony to use over 60 hit songs from artists such as Whitney Houston, Hozier, and Meghan Trainor to help users learn music theory. This partnership allows users to study foundational music concepts through popular songs, covering skills like reading music and understanding note lengths. Duolingo’s goal is to make music education more engaging and accessible through popular culture, with hopes of inspiring a new generation of musicians
Massive Attack Slams Music Industry Over Climate Inaction
On August 23, 2024, Radio Times writer Molly Moss reported that Massive Attack’s Robert Del Naja criticized the music industry for its inadequate response to climate change. Ahead of the band's Act 1.5 show in Bristol, Del Naja emphasized the need for urgent action rather than mere discussion on the climate crisis.
The event, expected to be one of the lowest-emission music shows ever, will be powered entirely by renewable energy and feature eco-friendly measures like vegan food, compostable loos, and electric shuttle buses. The band’s efforts highlight the growing push within the music industry for environmental responsibility
Houston's Music Scene Mourns Loss of BeatKing
On August 16, 2024, The Pinnacle Gazette by Evrim Ağacı reported on the sudden passing of Houston rapper and producer BeatKing, born Justin Riley, at the age of 39. Known for his club hits and energetic persona, BeatKing's death was confirmed by his manager, Tasha Felder, who attributed it to complications from a pulmonary embolism. BeatKing was celebrated for his viral tracks like “Then Leave” and his significant contributions to Houston’s music scene. Tributes poured in from fans and industry peers, with many praising his influence on Southern hip-hop and his dedication to his family and community
Music labels' AI lawsuits creates copyright puzzle for courts
On August 5, 2024, Reuters reporter Blake Brittain discussed the legal challenges surrounding AI-generated music. Major music labels, including Sony, Universal, and Warner, have filed lawsuits against AI platforms Udio and Suno, accusing them of using copyrighted music to train AI models that imitate popular artists, which the labels claim infringes on intellectual property. Brittain emphasized the complexity of applying copyright law to music, where elements like melody and harmony complicate infringement claims. AI companies argue that their work falls under "fair use," comparing their technology to earlier innovations like synthesizers. These lawsuits signal the start of new legal questions surrounding AI and copyright.
Chapel Hart Discusses Why They Left the Country Music Industry
On August 16, 2024, Megan Grisham from Country Music Nation reported that country trio Chapel Hart, consisting of sisters Danica and Devynn Hart, along with their cousin Trea Swindle, announced their departure from the country music industry. Despite their success, including a golden buzzer on America’s Got Talent and performances at the Grand Ole Opry, they cited feeling undervalued and the competitive nature of the industry as reasons for stepping back. Although they are leaving the mainstream country music scene, Chapel Hart emphasized that they will continue making music for their fans, focusing on the heart and soul of storytelling without pursuing fame or awards
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