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Super Bowl LIX takes place on Sunday, Feb. 9 and all eyes will be on the big game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Chiefs will look to three-peat at Super Bowl LIX, while the Eagles hope to spoil those plans.
On Sunday (Jan. 26), the NFC and AFC Championship games set off a full day of American football with the winners barreling full speed ahead to Super Bowl LIX. In the NFC Championship game, the Washington Commanders, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, delivered a game effort but the Philadelphia Eagles and the attack from quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley proved too much for the burgundy and gold. The Eagles took that game 55-23 over the Commanders.
The AFC Championship game was a bit more competitive with Patrick Mahomes guiding the Chiefs in the intense showdown with the Buffalo Bills and their quarterback Josh Allen. After delivering knockout blows to one another, the Chiefs eked out a 32-29 win over the Bills.
The upcoming Super Bowl will be the next opportunity for Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and the Chiefs to take home the Vince Lombardi trophy for the third time in a row and would cement them as one of the top teams of the modern era. The Eagles have been here before themselves, last winning the Super Bowl in 2018 over the New England Patriots.
All eyes will certainly be on television sets and watch parties across the United States and the world. And even if the football game isn’t your thing, this year’s halftime show with Kendrick Lamar will be must-see television.
Learn more about the upcoming Super Bowl LIX contest here.
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Kanye West recently showed some love to the legendary rap group Dipset by posting a photo rocking a fur-hooded coat that perfectly matched a Dipset chain.
The bold move was a clear nod to the iconic crew, which includes Cam’ron, Jim Jones, and Juelz Santana. Kanye, known for his trendsetting fashion, blended high-end style with street culture, paying homage to the influence Dipset has had on the game. In Ye fashion (no pun), the coat and chain combo instantly caught the attention of fans, making people wonder what was the meaning behind it.
This fashion shoutout came amid an interesting time for Dipset, especially with the ongoing tension between Cam’ron and Jim Jones. Recently, Kanye and Jim were spotted together in Tokyo. While Cam’ron and Jim Jones have had their disagreements recently, seeing Kanye with Jim in a public setting suggests a level of unity or at least respect between them (and possibly Ye trying to squash the beef?). Kanye’s gesture goes beyond just fashion; it’s a public acknowledgment of Dipset’s influence, not only in music but in shaping hip-hop culture as a whole.
Jim Jones, Ye & Justin Laboy in Japan📍 pic.twitter.com/Ag1czuoNZY
— Wave Check🌊 (@thewavecheckk) January 27, 2025
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Despite any internal beefs within the group, Kanye’s support for Jim Jones shows that even in a divided scene, respect and love can still cross boundaries. Fans are left wondering if this moment signals the beginning of more collaborations or just a passing moment of mutual appreciation. Ye has been a collaborator with the Diplomats in years past, even making an appearance on Cam’ron’s Purple Haze album on the track “Down & Out.”
After keeping fans waiting for years and giving months of buildup before finally making an announcement, Lady Gaga has finally unveiled the title of her highly anticipated seventh studio album: Mayhem. The project is the long-awaited followup to the superstar’s Billboard 200-topping LP Chromatica, which last saw Gaga embracing her pop star persona at the […]
Drake is ready to make a splash in 2025. He shared a message with his Toronto faithful and also gave OVO fans an update on his joint album coming with PartyNextDoor in an Instagram Story on Sunday night (Jan. 26). “Love to all the 6’ers,” he captioned a photo of the CN Tower. “Winter months […]
With the back-to-back frenzy of Grammy Week and Super Bowl LIX officially at our doorsteps, all eyes are on Kendrick Lamar as he uses the two marquee events to segue into his forthcoming North American stadium tour. Last week (Jan. 23), the Compton rapper and Apple Music released a new teaser for his upcoming halftime performance; the clip found SZA, his Grand National tourmate, playfully dumping a container of blue Gatorade on Lamar, confirming her guest appearance during his Super Bowl set.
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Lamar, of course, KO’d Drake in last year’s seismic rap battle — and 2025 already has some sparring of its own. On Can’t Rush Greatness (Jan. 24), his long-awaited debut album, UK rapper Central Cee threw some shots at fellow British MC Aitch, spitting, “I felt like a p—k when I went to the BRITs and they gave the award to a guy called Aitch/ I had my acceptance speech prepared like, ‘Long live F’s,’ I’m goin’ insane.” Mere hours later, Aitch responded with a tract titled “A Guy Called?”; “Little boy is just there to be spun, gettin’ mad at the BRITs, there’s bare to be won,” the Manchester-based rapper snarled. Time will tell if the Cench-Aitch battle can hold a candle to the Kendrick-Drake one.
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In heavier news, the hip-hop community also spent the weekend mourning the losses of journalist and screenwriter Barry Michael Cooper and DJ Unk, the iconic voice behind Billboard Hot 100 hits like “Walk It Out” (No. 10).
With Fresh Picks, Billboard aims to highlight some of the best and most interesting new sounds across R&B and hip-hop — from Youssoupha’s rousing call to action to BigXThaPlug and Jessie Murph’s new cross-genre duet. Be sure to check out this week’s Fresh Picks in our Spotify playlist below.
Freshest Find: Youssoupha, “Prose Combat”
As anxiety sweeps the U.S. — and as protests sweep the rest of the world — in the wake of a new American presidential administration, artists are continuing to use their music to speak truth to power. Across “Prose Combat,” a stunning lyrical exercise taken from Amour Supreme, his eighth studio LP, French rapper Youssoupha calls for liberation for oppressed people across the world, from Rwanda to Mali. “Besoin d’une vraie solution ou d’une révolution pour renverser le royaume de Macron/ Besoin de voir l’Afrique jamais résignée, qu’elle arrête de croire que Poutine est plus stylé,” he spits over Akatché & A2B’s gritty production, demanding the dissolution of invisible colonial empires before voicing his support for the Palestinian people at the end of the first verse. “Besoin de grandes gueules quand personne ne dit rien, besoin d’une terre pour l’État Palestinien/ Besoin d’éviter de gros scandales, toute ma vie, j’suis fatigué du prose combat, mais voilà.” — KYLE DENIS
Central Cee & Lil Durk, “Truth in the Lies”
Central Cee’s Can’t Rush Greatness album already gives the U.K. rhymer an early rap album of the year candidate. Cench and Durk connecting has been years in the making and the intercontinental duo didn’t disappoint. “Truth in the Lies” finds Cench and Smurk getting honest about their hesitancies about love in the spotlight over Ne-Yo’s “So Sick.” Central Cee details women switching up on him unless he’s supporting them financially while Durk lives by the famous “what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas” adage. — MICHAEL SAPONARA
BigXthaPlug feat. Jessie Murph, “Holy Ground”
Dallas rapper BigXthaPlug just dropped the deluxe edition of Take Care featuring several new tracks, including the Jessie Murph-assisted “Holy Ground.” An anthem of resilience and self-empowerment, “Holy Ground” finds the two stars acknowledging life’s struggles while maintaining their pride and strength. Murph’s emotive chorus conveys how hardships become a part of us, with the “smoking gun” symbolizing the unavoidable challenges that shape our lives. BigXthaPlug’s verse reflects on the harsh realities of success — from betrayal to unmet expectations — while reinforcing that loyalty and hard work are the true measures of success. — CHRISTOPHER CLAXTON
Aqyila, “Focus”
Rising Canadian R&B artist Aqyila has been making steady waves for years with tracks like 2023’s JUNO Award-winning “Hello,” and she’s looking to maintain that momentum in 2025. Co-written with Sam Hook and produced by Monro, “Focus” finds Aqyila seductively cooing over a sultry uptempo R&B track that employs dancehall-adjacent synths and Afrobeats-nodding drum patterns. “I need you to focus, give me all your attention/ The slippery slope is when I get your attention,” she croons in the hook, sightly dipping into a bit of a staccato delivery that contrasts nicely with her airy, languid riffs in the pre-chorus. It’s the modulation in the final chorus, however, that really highlights how precise Aqyila’s vocal acrobatics are in the uppermost reaches of her voice. — K.D.
Jordan Adetunji & Bryson Tiller, “305”
“Kehlani” was just the tip of the iceberg for Jordan Adetunji, who showcases his range of flows and a blend of Jersey club, R&B and rap sounds throughout his A Jaguar’s Dream debut project. From Belfast to Miami, Adetunji and Bryson Tiller indulge in everything Vice City has to offer. “305” meshes moody R&B that The Weeknd would lend his croon to with an uptempo electronic twist that would make anyone floor the gas pedal cruising along Ocean Drive. — M.S.
Kacy Hill & 6LACK, “Time’s Up”
Kacy Hill joined forces with 6LACK on “Time’s Up”, a track she initially penned in 2019 and later brought to life by sliding into his DMs. Co-written with Ryan Beatty and produced by Jim-E Stack, the song explores the beauty of taking time in a relationship, valuing the moments spent together. The chorus, with its repeated theme of “takin’ my time,” emphasizes the intention to savor the connection and let things unfold naturally. 6LACK’s verse contrasts the natural high of love with the chaos in his life, touching on the complexities and vulnerabilities of intimacy. Kacy Hill’s verses highlight the clarity and joy the relationship brings, with everything else fading away in their shared moments. “Time’s Up” captures a peaceful contentment, reminding us of the importance of being present and truly appreciating those we care about. — C.C.
1900Rugrat & Kodak Black, “One Take Freestyle (Remix)”
1900Rugrat made some noise in Florida with his “U.O.E.N.O.”-sampling “One Take Freestyle” last year, and the burgeoning rapper is carrying his winning streak into 2025. Kodak Black took notice of Rugrat’s movement and hopped on the official remix for his fellow Sunshine State native. Yak tackles growing from his past, “I admit, I said a lot of dumbass shit when I was a youngin” and pushes back against colorist allegations. “I’m the one, lil’ b—h said I’m a colorist, how the f–k, b—h? I love my mother,” he snarls. — M.S.
Naïka, “Layers”
Naïka refuses to be boxed in. The French-Haitian singer grapples with her identity issues and the labels society continued to throw at her growing up on the soothing “Layers.” She cathartically flips the angst into a gentle guitar ballad while encouraging listeners to celebrate the beauty naturally within themselves. “I hate the boxes, they suffocate me,” she sings. “Baby, all these layers keep me warm and make me me.” — M.S.
Charlie Bereal, “Some People”
Charlie Bereal opens “Some People” with this ethereal chant: “Communicate/ Make a friend/ Teach someone/ Share with them/ Get together/ Start your own/ Build together/ Make it better.” More than a hook that perfectly complements his and Josef Liemberg’s lush, sweeping and soulful soundscape, it’s a much-needed reminder of what we can do on an interpersonal level to make the world an easier place to exist within. With a buttery falsetto that exudes the same warmth his lyrics exalt, Charlie Bereal emerges from his latest LP, Walk With the Father, as one of contemporary soul’s most exciting new artists. — K.D.
Abir, “Butterflies”
The hiatus is over, Abir returns with her first single in four years with the intoxicating “Butterflies” — and she’s back in her R&B bag. The L.A.-based Moroccan singer makes her sweet escape as a fluttery Abir serenades a certain lover who completes her existence. “You’re supplying me with what I need to push the clouds away/ Even a knife is like a sunny day,” she admits while showcasing her mellifluous vocal range. — M.S.
Bruno Mars is a history-making artist! The superstar is officially the first artist in Spotify history to reach 150 million monthly listeners, the streaming platform announced on Monday (Jan. 27). He is currently the number one artist on Spotify. Explore Explore See latest videos, charts and news See latest videos, charts and news The accomplishment […]
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Popeyes, the fried chicken fast food chain, and Don Julio, one of the top tequila brands in the world, aren’t exactly in the same wheelhouse on several fronts but it appears things are changing. Don Julio and Popeyes look to be hinting at an upcoming collaboration and those who make up Black Xitter on the X platform had some thoughts.
Last Thursday, Popeyes posted a video on its Instagram account that teases the Don Julio collaboration featuring a vibrant party scene and a woman DJ decked out in gear adorned with the chain’s namesake along with some fancy Black boxes featuring the tequila brand’s name as well.
The caption for the video read, “The kitchen is heating up for the big game. Party starts 1.31.25,” which we assume is meant to illustrate that the Super Bowl contest between the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs is happening soon on Feb. 9.
While we’ll have to wait until the end of the month to find out what exactly Popeyes and Don Julio are up to, fans on X, formerly Twitter, are chiming in with a wild variety of theories. Naturally, with the drop happening on the eve of Black History Month, some eyebrows were raised.
Will it be a new tequila-based glaze? Will there be Mexican-themed spices in a new drop? Is it a fashion collaboration considering the DJ’s outfit in the clip? It’s all over the place.
Check out the teaser clip below.
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Photo: Getty
TWS stands out as the breakout K-pop group of last year.Debuting on Jan. 22, 2024, with their first mini album Sparkling Blue, TWS quickly became the talk of the K-pop industry. Their debut single “Plot Twist” soared to the top of multiple Korean charts, including on Apple Music. Remarkably, it became the first boy group track in six years to claim the No. 1 spot on Melon’s annual chart, following iconic hits like BIGBANG’s “Bang Bang Bang” and iKON’s “Love Scenario.”
“Plot Twist” captures the emotions of excitement and nervousness that students feel when entering a new school for the first time. While K-pop boy groups in recent years have leaned heavily on powerful, high-energy tracks, TWS took a different approach. The group incorporated a Future Bass genre as the foundation to their music, emphasizing emotional resonance.
“I think the biggest change is that the barriers between the members are gone. Back then, we were still a bit awkward and reserved around each other, but now we care and think about each other like family,” the group shared. Much like the initial excitement they sang about in their debut track, TWS has continued to grow over the past year. They are now preparing to show a more mature side to their artistry.
Below, you’ll find an exclusive interview capturing the fresh and youthful spirit of TWS as they reflect on their journey so far.
You’re approaching your first anniversary since debut. What has changed the most compared to a year ago?
SHINYU: Compared to a year ago, I think the biggest change is that the barriers between the members are gone. Back then, we were still a bit awkward and reserved around each other, but now we care and think about each other like family. As time passes, I feel that these bonds will only grow stronger, so I’m looking forward to what’s ahead of us.
Your debut track “Plot Twist” became a hit right from the start. How did that feel at the time? Why do you think people connected with it so strongly?
JIHOON: We were so grateful that it received so much love from the beginning. Since it’s our debut track that captures our youth, I feel even more thankful that people connected with it more than we could have ever hoped for.
TWS has won the most “Rookie of the Year” awards among male groups that debuted in 2024. What do you think it is about TWS that draws people in?
YOUNGJAE: Thankfully, in our debut year, 2024, we were honored to receive the “Rookie of the Year” along with several other unexpected awards. It wouldn’t have been possible without the many staff members who worked tirelessly to support us, and our members who dedicated themselves to training until we debuted as TWS. We try to give our very best in every performance, and I believe that’s why our music and TWS as a group were able to earn recognition and love from people.
Last year, you told school stories through your debut album Sparkling Blue, your second mini-album SUMMER BEAT!, and your first single Last Bell—from the start of the “Plot Twist” to the “Last festival.” What stories or themes do you want to showcase in 2025?
JIHOON: I think we would like to share our story about how we’ve grown since our awkward first meeting, embracing and accepting various emotions, and how we have developed to express our heartfelt feelings. In addition to that, we hope to showcase a wider variety of music styles.
“Last Festival” is a reinterpretation of the legendary track of the same name, a song hailed as transformative in K-pop music history. It also marked a departure from the refreshing style TWS is known for. Are there any other songs you’d like to reinterpret?
DOHOON: We would love to reinterpret a song by SEVENTEEN, whom we have admired since our trainee years, and if given the opportunity, we would like to explore various genres and reimagine songs in our unique style!!
All of TWS members are reportedly introverts. Is there a big difference between your usual selves and your on-stage personas? Are you naturally a bit shy in daily life?
HANJIN: Yes, I’m usually very quiet and shy. When I’m in a new environment, I get nervous a lot and it takes me a while to warm up to new people. But when I’m on stage, I feel like a completely different person. As soon as the music starts, I naturally find myself immersed in the moment, and I’m actually amazed at the changes myself. At first, the confident version of myself felt quite unfamiliar to me, but over time, I’ve come to accept that ‘this is also a part of me.’ These days, I want to show 42s both my stage version and my everyday self.
TWS hasn’t held a solo concert yet. Do you have a vision in mind for what your solo concert would look like?
KYUNGMIN: As we are approaching our first fan meet soon, I’m really excited and looking forward to that day! If we do hold a headline concert, I think we’ll be able to showcase a variety of performances and connect with even more 42s, so I hope it’ll happen one day.
If you imagine TWS 10 years from now, what kind of group do you think you’ll be?
SHINYU: Even after 10 years, I believe that all the members in TWS will be giving their best in every moment and remain a group that pours in their heart into every performance on stage. It would be great to gather regularly for meals together. Even after 10 years, our modakbul (translates to bonfire: a term TWS use to describe an honest conversation time among the members) will still be burning bright!
Shinyu, as the leader and anchor of the team, you’re also a rapper. Many rappers take part in writing and composing their own songs. Are you interested in that as well? If so, what themes or stories would you like to explore in your lyrics?
SHINYU: I want to write a song for 42s, our fans. 42s have always been, and will continue to be, the driving force behind TWS and they are the reason why we continue to move forward. That’s why I want to give my heartfelt song as a gift and I think I’ll enjoy the whole process of creating it!
Dohoon, you’re known for your keen sense of fashion. What styles or trends are you drawn to these days? Even within the group, you’re recognized as a trendsetter! Have you ever thought about taking charge of the group’s styling one day?
DOHOON: I’m into eyewear these days!! It’s nice to add a stylish touch to my outfit, so I’m using it often! From sunglasses to rimless glasses, I like to choose what I wear based on my mood for the day.
Youngjae often mentioned self-awareness and diligence as key personal traits. How would you describe the Youngjae of today, and what kind of person do you aspire to become? How does that reflect in TWS’s performances or music?
YOUNGJAE: Right now, I feel like I’m becoming someone who has an open heart and embraces those around me with the energy that I draw from taking care of myself and understanding who I am. Moving forward, I want to become a person who pursues what I want with confidence and isn’t afraid of success or failure.
Hanjin, you’re turning 20 this year (Korean age)! What’s something you’ve always wanted to do at 20, and have you done it yet?
HANJIN: When I was young, I had a list of things that I wanted to do by the time I turned 20 years old— travelling alone, getting a new hobby, and becoming a more mature person. I haven’t achieved all of them yet, but I’m finding myself cherishing the precious moments in my daily life these days. Moments like spending time with my members and meeting 42s on stage have become special experiences of my 20s. Going forward, I want to make my 20s meaningful and special in my own way.
Jihoon, you’ve shown a lot of interest in dance. From hip-hop, tutting, krump, you’ve explored various genres. What style of dance has been catching your eye lately?
JIHOON: I’ve been focusing more on choreography rather than a specific genre these days. I’m practicing to apply the same sense of movement I use in freestyle to a choreography-focused routine.
Kyungmin, as the only member still connected to TWS’s school-themed concept by age, you’re uniquely positioned. With about a year left before you graduate, have your older members shared any advice or insights with you?
KYUNGMIN: There’s something that my older members always tell me, which is, to make lots of friends and memories when I’m at school! I only have about a year left, so I really want to make even greater memories!!
DOHOON
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
I love it when fans call me: “Flame Prince.” I feel like it’s the coolest of all my nicknames and it suits me well.
My favorite song at the moment: “My Turn” by SZA. I’ve always listened to SZA’s songs, and she recently released a new album, so I’m enjoying the album as a whole these days!
But my favorite song of all time is: “plot twist” by TWS. I’ve loved this song since the very first time I heard it and it left a strong impression on me ever since.
JIHOON
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
I love it when fans call me: “Jellyfish.” I have many reasons for liking jellyfish, and every time 42s call me by this nickname, I feel uplifted for those reasons.
My favorite song at the moment: “luther (with sza)” by Kendrick Lamar. It’s very much my style and I listen to it a lot when I practice to get refreshed.
But my favorite song of all time is: “Numb” by Men I Trust. I believe it’s a song you can enjoy anytime, anywhere and I particularly love the vibe and energy this song carries.
KYUNGMIN
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
I love it when fans call me: It’s “Kyungtaengi.” This nickname was actually created before my debut which makes it even more meaningful. I feel so thankful hearing 42s still call me that.
My favorite song at the moment: “What kind of future” by WOOZI of SEVENTEEN. His voice is very soothing, and the melodies really touch my heart.
But my favorite song of all time is: “plot twist” by TWS. This is our debut song that made us who we are today, which is why it holds such a special place in our hearts.
YOUNGJAE
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
I love it when fans call me: “Chun-i.” It’s a nickname created by our vocal trainer who has been with us since I was a trainee, and 42s also show lots of love for this name as well.
My favorite song at the moment: “Wandering youth” by Choi Yu Ree. I’ve always loved and listened to Choi Yu Ree’s songs often to gain comfort and strength. This song feels like it embraces my youth as I turn 21 years old.
But my favorite song of all time is: “I’ll be a grown up for you” by Park Jin Hwi. To some, it might feel a bit deep or intense, but I believe that there sometimes needs to be darkness in order for the light to have a place to shine.
HANJIN
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
I love it when fans call me: All the nicknames that 42s give me are very special, but my favorite one is “Han Jin-i.” It just feels very warm and friendly. Whenever they call me “Han Jin-i” I can feel their love, which makes me happy and full of energy. I’m also doing my best to call 42s with the same warmth that I receive.
My favorite song at the moment: The song that I listen to a lot these days is “Die With A Smile” by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars. When I listen to this song, I feel at ease and every line of the lyrics gives me a sense of comfort. Even though there are times I feel a bit tired on a busy day, this song becomes a source of strength and a driving force to keep moving forward. Someday, I hope that I can share music that brings this kind of comfort to someone.
But my favorite song of all time is: Since I was young, I loved listening to Taylor Swift’s “Lover”. This song has a very special meaning to me. It makes me happy whenever I listen to it and I like how you can always feel the warmth of love with each listen. When I find myself going back to the song that I loved as a child even after all these years, it reminds me once again how powerful music is.
SHINYU
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
I love it when fans call me: “Dumpling.” It’s a nickname I actually really like, and I think it suits me well since my cheeks are stretchy.
My favorite song at the moment: “Good Memories” by Gist. I’ve been loving this song the most lately because I can easily enjoy it every time I listen and it has a really memorable melody that sticks with me.
But my favorite song of all time is: “I got lucky” by Kwon Jin Ah. I’ve enjoyed listening to this song for a long time and many parts of the lyrics resonate with me, making it my steady favorite.
TWS
Image Credit: PLEDIS Entertainment
“Compared to a year ago, I think the biggest change is that the barriers between the members are gone,” SHINYU says. “Back then, we were still a bit awkward and reserved around each other, but now we care and think about each other like family. As time passes, I feel that these bonds will only grow stronger, so I’m looking forward to what’s ahead of us.”
In the summer of 2006, Madonna touched down in New York for a run of shows at Madison Square Garden in support of her album Confessions on a Dance Floor. One young attendee was Val Blavatnik. “It was my first live-music experience and I was just so blown away,” he recalls. “I knew from then, even before our family acquired Warner, this was an industry I wanted to be involved in.”
Blavatnik’s father, Len, founder of Access Industries, subsequently bought Warner Music Group in 2011. A dozen years later, Val made good on his childhood dream, starting as senior director of business development at Warner Chappell Music. In April 2023, he was elected to WMG’s board of directors.
Val currently attends Harvard Business School, but he has been in close conversation with the company’s executive leaders, including his friend Elliot Grainge, the new chief executive of Atlantic Music Group. “Elliot and I got very close” during the negotiations that preceded WMG’s purchase of 51% of Grainge’s 10K Projects label in 2023, Val explains. “I advocated for the original 10K acquisition and for Elliot in his new role at Atlantic.” He clarifies, however, “As a board member, I am proud of my role, but it was [WMG CEO] Robert [Kyncl’s] decision.”
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You spent a few years at Warner Chappell and investment bank LionTree before joining the WMG board. Why was it the right time to make that move?
Well, I was very honored to be invited, and I take the responsibility extremely seriously. There are a wide range of perspectives on our board. It’s a very collaborative room to be in. Being the youngest person on the board, I’ve tried to make my role about bringing a different perspective to the conversation. I’m also one of the people on the board who has worked directly with artists, managing them, being in the studio, helping to sign them. That on-the-ground, in-the-room experience is vital.
How closely do you work with leadership?
Robert is always open-minded, and we have some fascinating and productive discussions. Learning about publishing from Guy [Moot] and Carianne [Marshall] was invaluable, and I’ve been very fortunate to work with Tom [Corson] and Aaron [Bay-Schuck] on signing two young acts we’re very passionate about. [Blavatnik declined to name the acts.]
I’m probably most involved with Atlantic. The team and I have a fantastic, ongoing open dialogue. I’m fortunate to be able to help in any capacity which benefits the business — from strategizing about the future, to helping close an artist signing, all the way through giving my two cents on a song.
Why is Grainge the right pick to lead AMG?
Elliot is an incredibly talented leader. It’s been an absolute pleasure to work and collaborate with him. Most importantly, artists love him, his team is unbelievably passionate and committed. He has brilliant creative instincts, he’s fantastic at creating huge cultural moments, and he has a deep grasp of business. That makes him a triple threat.
Do you think the music business needs a generational changing of the guard?
The music business should constantly evolve and innovate, like any other successful business. It’s not so much about a generational shift, but more about having executives with bold, fresh ideas and the ambition to deliver outstanding results.
This story appears in the Jan. 25, 2025, issue of Billboard.
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The music industry’s biggest night is shaping to be something special. Doechii has been confirmed to perform at the 2025 Grammy Awards.
As spotted on Rap-Up, the Recording Academy made their first round of announcements of musicians who will perform at the upcoming ceremony. Set to hit the stage are Benson Boone, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Charli xcx, Doechii, RAYE, Sabrina Carpenter, Shakira, and Teddy Swims. All the aforementioned musicians are currently nominated for awards.
Doechii’s Alligator Bites Never Heal is up for the Best Rap Album and her song “NISSAN ALTIMA” is competing for Best Rap Performance. She also has the chance to take home the honor of Best New Artist. 2024 marked her breakthrough year with the success of her mixtape. Doechii’s 19-track effort was her first-ever project on Top Dawg Entertainment and featured several breakout singles including “Boom Bap,” and “Denial Is a River.”
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will not only honor the very best in music but will also raise funds to help those who were impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires. “The upcoming Grammy Awards won’t just be about celebrating and honoring the best in music this year, it will also show how the power of music can help rebuild, uplift and support those in need,” said Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. “We are thrilled that so many artists in our community are banding together at this time to show support for their fellow music makers and others impacted by the recent wildfires.”
The 67th Annual Grammy Awards will air Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on CBS Television Network.