Author: djfrosty
Page: 6
Save this storySaveSave this storySaveDavid Johansen, who fronted the legendary 1970s proto-punk band New York Dolls and who also recorded under the pseudonym Buster Poindexter, died on Friday, February 28, his representative, Carla Parisi of Kid Logic Media, shared via email. The musician “died at home in New York City on Friday afternoon holding hands with his wife, Mara Hennessey, and daughter Leah, surrounded by music, flowers, and love,” according to a statement. Johansen was 75 years old.The statement said that Johansen “died of natural causes after nearly a decade of illness,” but the musician had also recently revealed that he had been living with stage 4 cancer. At the time, his daughter, Leah Hennessey, launched a Sweet Relief fundraiser to help cover the costs of his care and medical treatment.David Roger Johansen was born on Staten Island, in 1950, where he was raised by a librarian mother and insurance salesman father. Johansen has reflected fondly on his home borough over the years, recording a two-part podcast on his idyllic childhood, which he spent zipping around on a bicycle, listening to records, and riling up the nuns at his Catholic school. In 2009, he appeared on Anthony Bourdain’s food show No Reservations as a guide to Staten Island’s culinary fare. At one point, Johansen told Bourdain that his beloved borough’s South Beach “rivals Kauai.”Like many architects of punk’s first wave, Johansen grew up devouring blues and rock’n’roll singles, many of which he bought at Staten Island’s since-shuttered Dew Dale Records. Young Johansen took a shine to Howlin’ Wolf, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Fats Domino, the Platters, and the girl groups of the 1960s, many of which were produced by Phil Spector. The latter’s influence is evident on the early New York Dolls song “Looking for a Kiss,” which kicks off with Johansen reciting the opening line of the Shangri-Las’ “Give Him a Great Big Kiss”: “When I Say I’m in Love, you best believe I’m in love: L-U-V,” Johansen sneers, just before the band comes in. Years later, New York Dolls guitarist Johnny Thunders repeated the phrase while covering “Great Big Kiss” on solo debut So Alone.In high school, Johansen watched as multiple siblings (he was one of six) took part in musicals. He, instead, was busy making a name for himself in the New York rock scene. By the early 1970s, Johansen joined the New York Dolls and he sang on the band’s self-titled debut. At the time, the group featured Johansen, Sylvain Sylvain, bassist Arthur “Killer” Kane, drummer Jerry Nolan, and guitarist Johnny Thunders. The album, produced by Todd Rundgren, was divisive upon release, in 1973, but has proved to be a classic of the glam rock and proto-punk genres.The New York Dolls released just one more studio album, 1974’s Too Much Too Soon, before they were dropped by their label, Mercury, for two records that did not sell well. Within the next year or two, the New York Dolls broke up for the first time.Johansen shared his first solo album, a self-titled effort, in 1978, and he went on to release several more records in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Eventually, he adopted the persona Buster Poindexter. As Poindexter, he scored his first real hit, a cover of Arrow’s “Hot Hot Hot,” which reached No. 45 on the Billboard Hot 100.In 2004, the former Smiths singer Morrissey helped Johansen reunite with his New York Dolls bandmates Sylvain Sylvain and Arthur Kane for shows in London. Kane died not long after the reunion, but Johansen, Sylvain, and others came together to record the New York Dolls’ 2006 comeback album, One Day It Will Please Us to Remember Even This. The reunited Dolls went on to make two more albums: the Todd Rundgren–produced Cause I Sez So and 2011’s Dancing Backward in High Heels.Late in his life, Johansen was the subject of a documentary from directors Martin Scorses and David Tedeschi, Personality Crisis: One Night Only. “I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making Mean Streets,” Scorsese said when he announced the film. “Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City. I often see him perform, and over the years I’ve gotten to know the depth of his musical inspirations. After seeing his show last year at the Café Carlyle, I knew I had to film it because it was so extraordinary to see the evolution of his life and his musical talent in such an intimate setting. For me, the show captured the true emotional potential of a live musical experience.”
David Johansen, frontman of the pioneering punk group New York Dolls and solo “Hot Hot Hot” hitmaker as his alter ego Buster Poindexter, has died. He was 75. “David Johansen died at home in NYC on Friday afternoon holding hands with his wife, Mara Hennessey, and daughter Leah, surrounded my music, flowers and love,” his […]
Save this storySaveSave this storySaveNext week, Pitchfork is hosting a live event to celebrate the release of a new quarterly zine. It was originally set to take place at Printed Matter, but, due to overwhelming interest, the event will now be held at the venue Baby’s All Right, located at 146 Broadway in Brooklyn.The zine launch event still takes place on Tuesday, March 4, at 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, and Printed Matter will be selling copies of the zine at Baby’s All Right. RSVP to the show here.Entry to the event is guaranteed for people who preorder the zine, which you can do now via the Printed Matter website. Buyers will be able to pick up their orders at the zine launch event. The event is first come, first served, with admission granted until the venue reaches capacity.The new event will still feature a panel with writer Meaghan Garvey, photographer Jason Nocito, and editors Mano Sundaresan and Jeremy D. Larson. Together, they’ll discuss Garvey’s new Cover Story on Bladee, the making of the zine, Bladee’s impact, and the evolving intersection of music, visual culture, and independent publishing. Plus, expect some DJ sets to follow the panel.If you can’t make it to Baby’s All Right on Tuesday night, but still want or preordered a zine, they’ll be available exclusively at Printed Matter, beginning on March 5. The shop is located at 231 11th Ave in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York.A Rare Interview With Bladee, the Mystic Oracle of Internet Rap
From career milestones to new music releases to major announcements and those little important moments, Billboard editors highlight uplifting moments in Latin music. Here’s what happened in the Latin music world this week.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Andrea Bocelli in Venezuela
On Feb. 22, Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli performed in Venezuela’s Estadio Monumental Simón Bolívar, where Venezuelan singer-songwriter Nella was a special guest. The two shared the stage to sing anthemic songs like “Bésame Mucho” and “Vivo Por Lei.”
“Infinite gratitude,” Nella wrote on Instagram. “This is one of those moments that I will treasure and keep in my heart for the rest of my life. Grateful to everyone who accompanied me and made this day possible.”
Trending on Billboard
Karol G Honors Shakira
Karol G shared an emotional message on her Instagram stories on Friday (Feb. 28), honoring fellow Colombian hitmaker, Shakira. The “Mi Ex Tenía Razón” singer took to social media to express how much Shakira means not just to to her but all of Latin America. “Her songs and her story have represented our country and the Latin industry for decades and it’s inspiring to see her shine like never before, or better yet, shining like always,” Karol wrote. “Sending you a hug from afar, enjoy it all.” Shakira is currently on tour with her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran trek, recently wrapping up her string of shows in her native Colombia.
‘El Gordy y La Flaca’ Hosts on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Television hosts Lili Estefan and Raúl de Molina, best known for their show El Gordo y La Flaca, were honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame Thursday (Feb. 27), where music stars Thalia, Gloria and Emilio Estefan were in attendance.
“Lili is Emilio’s niece by blood,” Gloria began here speech at the ceremony. “I’m so proud of Lili, she always knew who she wanted to be and worked so hard to get there. People always say, ‘Oh, you helped Lili’ but we did nothing. She did this all on her own.”
Mexican star Thalia spoke a few words in honor of her good friend Lili Estefan, saying she is a reference to many Latin women who look up to her. You can watch the entire ceremony here.
Marco Antonio Solís References Kendrick Lamar
Mexican icon Marco Antonio Solís referenced Kendrick Lamar‘s hit “Not Like Us” during a concert in Argentina. Solís incorporated the 2024 diss track at Estadio Centenario (Resistencia) on Sunday (Feb. 23), and even added Lamar’s viral dance moves from his Super Bowl halftime performance in New Orleans. Solís first danced to the mariachi song “El Celoso,” which then transitioned into “Not Like Us.” It was indeed a fan-favorite moment as the crowd erupted in a roar.
Check out the moment below:
Carlos Vives’ Sweet Moment at Viña
Colombian star Carlos Vives performed at Viña del Mar on Wednesday (Feb. 26), where he was awarded with Gaviotas de Plata and Oro. One of the most memorable moments from his set was when he serenaded his wife Claudia Elena Vásquez with “Volví a Nacer.” “I want to share with you something very special, this song was composed during a difficult moment of my life,” he prefaced the song. “We all spend difficult nights, but we know that the next day the sun rises. I composed this song for a person at a very special moment and from this song things changed in my life, and I want to dedicate it to everyone because I know that at some point we will all be born again.” The couple shared a passionate kiss to seal his performance.
Save this storySaveSave this storySaveNew albums are getting announced and released constantly. It’s tough to stay on top of it all. So that’s where we come in. Pitchfork is tracking notable new music releases with our guide to upcoming albums. In the coming months, there will be big new releases from Bon Iver, Lady Gaga, Lucy Dacus, Rico Nasty, Blondshell, Model/Actriz, Destroyer, Charley Crockett, the Horrors, Black Country, New Road, My Morning Jacket, Sasami, Djrum, Japanese Breakfast, DJ Koze, Perfume Genius, Deafheaven, Throwing Muses, Yung Lean, Beirut, Garbage, William Tyler, Tunde Adebimpe, Lil Wayne, and plenty more artists. This guide features streaming and digital release dates and will be updated regularly.As always, see some of our favorite albums and songs in the Best New Music section. Plus, catch up every Saturday with 10 of our best reviewed albums of the week. Sign up for the 10 to Hear newsletter here.March 7Alabaster DePlume: A Blade Because a Blade Is Whole [International Anthem]Bob Mould: Here We Go Crazy [Granary Music]Hamilton Leithauser: This Side of the Island [Glassnote]Harto Falión & Evilgiane: The Hurtless [Surf Gang]Jason Isbell: Foxes in the Snow [Southeastern]Lady Gaga: Mayhem [Interscope]Marina Zispin, Bianca Scout & Martyn Reid: Now You See Me, Now You Don’t [Scenic Route]Neil Young: Oceanside Countryside [Reprise]Sasami: Blood on the Silver Screen [Domino]Star 99: Gaman [Lauren]Tobacco City: Horses [Scissor Tail]The Tubs: Cotton Crown [Trouble in Mind]Vundabar: Surgery and Pleasure [Loma Vista]New music releases for Friday, March 7, 2025, include: Lady Gaga: Mayhem [Interscope]
March 14Charley Crockett: Lonesome Drifter [Island]Circuit des Yeux: Halo on the Inside [Matador]Of Montreal: The Sunlandic Twins (20th Anniversary Edition) [Polyvinyl]Throwing Muses: Moonlight Concessions [Fire]Whatever the Weather: Whatever the Weather II [Ghostly International]March 20Hiroshi Yoshimura: Flora [Temporal Drift]March 21The Horrors: Night Life [Fiction]Japanese Breakfast: For Melancholy Brunettes (& Sad Women) [Dead Oceans]Lonnie Holley: Tonky [Jagjaguwar]Lucy Liyou: Every Video Without Your Face, Every Sound Without Your Name [Orange Milk]My Morning Jacket: Is [ATO]Phil Cook: Appalachia Borealis [Psychic Hotline]Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco: I Said I Love You First [Interscope]Vijay Iyer & Wadada Leo Smith: Defiant Life [ECM]YHWH Nailgun: 45 Pounds [AD 93]Young Widows: Power Sucker [Temporary Residence Ltd.]New music releases for Friday, March 21, 2025, include: Japanese Breakfast: For Melancholy Brunettes (& Sad Women) [Dead Oceans]
March 28Alison Krauss & Union Station: Arcadia [Down the Road]Aya: Hexed! [Hyperdub]Backxwash: Only Dust Remains [Ugly Hag]Bryan Ferry: Loose Talk [Dene Jesmond]Cactus Lee: Cactus Lee [Western Vinyl]Deafheaven: Lonely People With Power [Roadrunner]Dean Wareham: That’s the Price of Loving Me [Carpark]Destroyer: Dan’s Boogie [Merge]DJ Python: I Was Put on This Earth EP [XL]Great Grandpa: Patience, Moonbeam [Run for Cover]Lucy Dacus: Forever Is a Feeling [Geffen]Perfume Genius: Glory [Matador]Sandwell District: End Beginnings [The Point of Departure]Spellling: Portrait of My Heart [Sacred Bones]Unrest: Perfect Teeth (30th Anniversary Edition) [4AD]Yukimi: For You [Ninja Tune]April 4Barker: Stochastic Drift [Smalltown Supersound]Black Country, New Road: Forever Howlong [Ninja Tune]Craig Finn: Always Been [Tamarac]David Longstreth, Dirty Projectors & Stargaze: Song of the Earth [Nonesuch/New Amsterdam]DJ Koze: Music Can Hear Us [Pampa]Djo: The Crux [AWAL]Elton John & Brandi Carlile: Who Believes in Angels? [Interscope]Florist: Jellywish [Double Double Whammy]L.A. Witch: Doggod [Suicide Squeeze]Marlon Williams: Te Whare Tīwekaweka [self-released]Penelope Trappes: A Requiem [One Little Independent]Scowl: Are We All Angels [Dead Oceans]Sleigh Bells: Bunky Becky Birthday Boy [Mom + Pop]The Waterboys: Life, Death and Dennis Hopper [Sun]New music releases for Friday, April 4, 2025, include: DJ Koze: Music Can Hear Us [Pampa]
April 11Bon Iver: SABLE, fABLE [Jagjaguwar]Kali Malone: The Sacrificial Code [Ideologic Organ]Ken Carson: More Chaos [Opium/Interscope]Röyksopp: True Electric [Dog Triumph]April 12Jeff Bridges: Slow Magic, 1977-1978 [Light in the Attic]April 18Beirut: A Study of Losses [Pompeii]Julien Baker & Torres: Send a Prayer My Way [Matador]Quickly, Quickly: I Heard That Noise [Ghostly International]Tunde Adebimpe: Thee Black Boltz [Sub Pop]New music releases for Friday, April 18, 2025, include: Tunde Adebimpe: Thee Black Boltz [Sub Pop]
April 25Broncho: Natural Pleasure [Broncho Worldwide]Djrum: Under Tangled Silence [Houndstooth]Nazar: Demilitarize [Hyperdub]Sumac & Moor Mother: The Film [Thrill Jockey]William Tyler: Time Indefinite [Psychic Hotline]May 2Blondshell: If You Asked for a Picture [Partisan]James Krivchenia: Performing Belief [Planet Mu]Jenny Hval: Iris Silver Mist [4AD]Model/Actriz: Pirouette [True Panther]PUP: Who Will Look After the Dogs? [Little Dipper/Rise]Sextile: Yes, Please. [Sacred Bones]Yung Lean: Jonatan [World Affairs]New music releases for Friday, May 2, 2025, include: Model/Actriz: Pirouette [True Panther]
May 9Deradoorian: Ready for Heaven [Fire]Little Simz: Lotus [AWAL]Mclusky: The World Is Still Here and So Are We [Ipecac]May 16Pelican: Flickering Resonance [Run for Cover]Rico Nasty: Lethal [Fueled by Ramen]Spill Tab: Angie [Because Music]May 23Sparks: Mad! [Transgressive]May 30Garbage: Let All That We Imagine Be the Light [Stun Volume]June 6Lil Wayne: Tha Carter VI [Young Money/Republic]Nadah El Shazly: Laini Tani [One Little Independent]New music releases for Friday, June 6, 2025, include: Nadah El Shazly: Laini Tani [One Little Independent]
After a massive blackout in Chile led to the cancellation of Tuesday’s show (Feb. 25), Morat and Sebastián Yatra will finally perform on Saturday night (March 1) at the Viña del Mar International Song Festival 2025, held at the Quinta Vergara amphitheater in the coastal city of Viña del Mar. Both acts will play approximately one-hour shows as part of the week-long festival which kicked off on Sunday, February 23.
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Headlining Colombian pop rock band Morat is slated to take the stage at approximately 7:30 p.m. ET, and Yatra is scheduled for around 11:15 p.m. ET, after the presentation of comedian Pedro Ruminot.
Trending on Billboard
Like all previous days, you can watch the performances in the U.S. exclusively on Billboard.com and BillboardEspanol.com.
With hits including “No Se Va,” “Besos en Guerra” and “Cuando Nadie Ve,” Morat debuted in 2016 with the album Solo El Amor y Sus Efectos Secundarios, and received a Latin Grammy nomination for best new artist the same year. Its fourth and latest LP, 2022’s Si Ayer Fuera Hoy, gave the band its first entry on the Billboard Latin Pop Albums chart, where it peaked at No. 18. On Tuesday, the band is making its debut at the Chilean festival.
Yatra, with almost a dozen No. 1s on the Billboard Latin Airplay chart — including “Robarte un Beso” with Carlos Vives, “Tacones Rojos” and “Un Año” with Reik, to name a few — had previously performed in Viña del Mar in 2019 with a full show, as well as the previous year during Vives’ concert, joining him on “Robarte un Beso.”
The 64th edition of the Viña del Mar Festival kicked off Sunday with a riveting set by Marc Anthony and since, artists like Myriam Hernández, Ha*Ash, Carlos Vives, Carín León, Incubus, Duki, Eladio Carrión and Kid Voodoo have performed at the Quinta Vergara. Morat and Yatra will finally have their turn tonight.
All nights are livestreamed in the United States on Billboard and Billboard Español. Performances can be viewed on the player in this story beginning at 7:15 p.m. ET.
Argentinian trap star Duki lit up the 2025 Viña del Mar International Song Festival on Friday (Feb. 28), making his debut at the Quinta Vergara as the headliner of the urban music night that would also feature Puerto Rican hitmaker Eladio Carrión and Chilean artist Kidd Voodoo.
Showcasing his impressive flow, Duki kicked off his set with the pulsating “GIVENCHY,” dressed in jeans, black jacket and T-shirt and silver chains. The face-tattooed singer looked like a rock star accompanied by drums, bass and guitar, while the audience chanted along with him at the top of their lungs. Behind him, fire images were blazing on the huge screens.
“Thank you so much, everyone! How are we doing tonight, Viña? Thanks for the love,” he said amid the screams of the audience after performing hits including “Si Te Sentís Sola,” “Pininfarina,” “Además De Mí” and “Sin Frenos,” his 2021 track with Bizarrap and Carrión. “A slightly more intimate, more sung moment is coming up. I hope you like it,” he announced shortly after, performing “Buscarte Lejos,” but soon he had everyone on their feet jumping to “Harakiri.”
With the energy high in the venue, Viña hosts Karen Doggenweiler and Rafael Araneda presented him with the Gaviota de Plata (Silver Seagull). “This is the first award I’ve received in my entire career,” said Duki, dedicating it to his followers and his parents, and also thanking urban acts from Chile who helped opened the doors for him in the country.
But the show didn’t end there. The Argentine star continued with “Duki: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 50,” which he started a cappella with an impressive flow before the music kicked in. Then came the reggaeton “Te Traje Flores,” as well as the No. 1 hit on the Billboard Argentina Hot 100 “Los del Espacio,” originally performed with LIT Killah, Tiago PZK, Emilia, Rusherking, Big One and FMK.
Among others, he sang the rockier “No Me Llores” and his 2019 trap hit “Goteo,” a powerful track that alludes to the image of “dripping” in wealth and style, symbolized by luxury brands like Gucci, Nike, Philippe Patek, Rolex, and Cartier.
In the end, Duki didn’t take home just the first award of his career — he also received the Gaviota de Oro (Gold Seagull), the highest recognition awarded by the Viña del Mar audience. Visibly moved, Duki wiped away tears, kissed his trophy, and with great humility thanked his fans and his parents again, who proudly watched their son triumph from the front row. “Thank you for making my dream come true,” he said.
To close, the 28-year-old rapper once again had the “monster” chanting along with “Malbec,” “She Don’t Give a Fo” and “Nueva Era,” before disappearing from the stage.
Viña del Mar 2025 kicked off Sunday with a riveting set by Marc Anthony and since, artists like Myriam Hernández, Ha*Ash, Carlos Vives, Carín León and Incubus have performed at the Quinta Vergara. Viña will continue Saturday (March 1), as the festival concludes with the Colombian group Morat followed by Sebastián Yatra. Both were originally scheduled for Tuesday (February 25), when the show was canceled due to a massive blackout in Chile.
While the K-pop scene is an ever-evolving landscape whose definition has expanded beyond a specific genre of music, Yves wants her career to change preconceived notions that tend to separate K-pop idols from being considered complete artists.
Explore
Explore
See latest videos, charts and news
See latest videos, charts and news
Back in November 2017 when Yves (born Ha Soo-young) was first introduced to the world as the ninth member of LOONA through the dark, atmospheric synth-pop throbber of single “New,” the star may have unknowingly set a standard of experimental excellence that would define her solo career years later. An exploration of newfound artistic expression and identity, a now-unshackled Yves released two EPs last year in Loop and I Did (both of which made Billboard‘s mid-year and year-end best K-pop albums lists) with singles like “Viola” and “Loop” featuring Lil Cherry embracing the club-ready sounds that defined some of 2024’s best records as different album cuts explore everything from racing and acoustic rock as well as airy R&B and soft electronica. To date, I Did has 6,000 equivalent album units of activity through Feb. 20, according to Luminate, with its songs collectively registering five million official on-demand U.S. streams. Furthermore, Yves’ most streamed song in the U.S. is “Viola,” which has 2.16 million official on-demand U.S. streams.
“I always had my own image,” Yves shares backstage at the Brooklyn Paramount ahead of the opening U.S. date of her Apple Cinnamon Crunch tour. “But as my solo career is developing, I think I was able to explore more and show more of myself. I feel like I can express a lot of things now that I couldn’t.”
Embracing the multifaceted flavors of the tour’s unique name, Yves begins the show in a punky, funky black mini-skirt and top for the first half of the show, which includes Madison Beer and Avril Lavigne covers before changing into an all-white ensemble reminiscent of any classic millennium pop star look.
While the 27-year-old connected with fans in person on tour across Europe and the States (and will hit Latin and South America in April), Yves wants all aspects of her career to speak to anyone who feels like an outsider. “What I’m trying to pursue is to become a person where I can freely express myself in the world where there is a lot that can cloud one’s perspective,” she adds. “I really don’t want to put myself in a box.”
As she takes center stage fully on her own as a soloist, Yves seems ready to shine brighter than ever. Read on for more insights from Yves’ concurrent journey of solo stardom and self-discovery.
You’ve performed in the States in the past, but it is your first time as a soloist. How has the tour been going and how are you feeling ahead of your first U.S. concert?
At first, I was very scared. Because on stage all of the members are gone, right? It’s just me. So, I’ve been very nervous, but now I think I can enjoy. I’m 70 percent ready out of 100.
From music to fashion to even social media presence, you’ve been sharing what feels like a totally refreshed person. What has been happening in these past months? Are we seeing the real you?
I always had my own image. Back when I was a part of LOONA, whenever I was wearing my own clothes — so, not the clothes that the company wanted me to wear — my members weren’t able to recognize me in public. But as my solo career is developing, I think I was able to explore more and show more of myself. I feel like I can express a lot of things now that I couldn’t before because I have opportunities, so as I develop more and more, you can see more and more of myself.
One of your biggest changes was signing with PAIX PER MIL. I’ve heard K-pop companies may kind of force an image on an idol or artist, but it seems like they give you a lot of creative freedom?
When I was first searching for agencies to join, most of them told me that I have to be either part of a girl group or they didn’t think I can make it as a solo in meetings. But when I went to PAIX PER MIL, the producer, millic, sent me a long message and told me that I have potential to become a solo artist. So, I was really touched by the message that he sent and also that he believed in my image. So, I trusted him and he trusted me.
I was with my first label for almost eight years and in an idol group so I was obligated to think, “Are these clothes right for me? Can I wear this? Can I pose this way? Can I take a picture like that?” I was unsure about what to do with myself. But the label [PAIX PER MIL] really pushed me to point where I could just express myself and just fully show my version of me. So, I think that’s how my label really supported me. It’s a lot easier to have fun now.
You came out so strong with “LOOP” featuring Little Cherry, “Viola” was one of the best songs of last year but there’s also rock, you’re recording in different languages you, is this the music you personally listen to?
When I was first making the LOOP EP, my musical spectrum wasn’t as big as of now. I used to listen to the same songs that I’ve always listened to, but my producers, millic and ioah, really helped me to expand my musical spectrum. It was kind of like homework, where they’d assigned me to listen to some music that they recommended or sometimes they’d share what kind of music they’re listening to. One thing that I remember is the day that they asked me to make a playlist of what I wanted to do in my solo career so I was able to collect the music that I wanted to perform as an artist and make my choices for my music. So, I think as of now, I can confidently say that I am doing what I want to do in terms of my music taste.
Do you remember what songs were included?
So many songs! When I was a part of LOONA, I felt that I was a member who is good at ballads rather than the kind of dance-pop that I’m doing right now. But when I was collecting the music from my playlist, I was able to collect some funky sounds, alternative sounds, rock sounds, all the different kind of experimental sounds that I’ve never dealt with [as a singer]. That’s when I discovered Caroline Polachek and other artists that I’m into right now.
You have great taste and it’s great you could develop your sound. But on the other side of things, why didn’t you want to go to a group or re-debut in another formation?
During my one year break [in 2023], I was able to interact with my other members of LOONA as well as keep communicating my fans. When I was talking to my fans, they were really the ones who convinced me to pursue a solo career. They really supported me for who I am, my choices, and what I wanted to do. So, I think that kind of really pushed me to become a solo artist. Also, when I was talking to other members of LOONA, we all wanted to reach a happy path for all of us and attempt challenges we hadn’t done before because we were going through a lot together. So, there are the solo artists like me and Chuu, but also other girl groups that were formed with LOONA members.
Despite the hard time, it seems like everyone from ARTMS and Loossemble to even Jade Jeong has loving memories of LOONA. Do you feel the same?
Of course. I’m not sure exactly how to put this in English, but it’s kind of like a sore finger. I feel like, you know, I have to have a finger, but also it kind of hurts and will always give me those memories of my past.
My, one of my favorite lyrics from you is on “Hashtag,” which is “Don’t care what’s fake and who you are/ Yeah, In my world, it is only you and me, babe.” What is your perspective these days on what you wanna personally share, whether it’s your social media, your lyrics, fan interactions?
What I’m trying to pursue is to become a person where I can freely express myself in the world where there is a lot that can cloud one’s perspective. I’m also trying to be a confident person who can make my opinions clear without losing my taste. There is a lot of social media and channels to communicate these days which means there’s a lot of information and opinions. It’s gotten to the point where if you’re a little bit different, people criticize or blame them for being different rather than being accepting for who they are. I think that’s the most important part to consider in this world of social media. I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels like that.
What kind of message would you give to someone who maybe is being criticized or not accepted and needs the kind of confidence you always show?
It’s a huge world. To the people who feel that something is different, even if you feel like you’re alone or you’ve isolated and locked yourselves in, I should share that when you look around, in fact, there are so many people who think like you, share the same beliefs and don’t deny their existence because of people who criticize them. And just like you or I would say, I always want to support you for who you are and don’t feel discouraged or insecure for being different. Don’t stop.
I love that message. Is there anything else you want to share right now?
I don’t know about the mindset abroad, but in Korea there’s a certain boundary of what is an idol and what is an artist. But I’ve honestly always been an artist and an idol equally since I was in LOONA. I want to be in both. It’s an ongoing process and I really don’t want to put myself in a box when I want to be part of both. I think that’s the message that I really wanted to share here.
Employees of DistroKid are still working without a contract 10 months after they voted to unionize — and now their union is hoping to raise awareness of their plight after more than 40% of the company’s staff was terminated and their jobs outsourced to the Philippines late last year.
Bill Bores, chapter president of the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-Communication Workers of America Local 15 (NABET-CAW) — the union representing the DistroKid employees — estimates that 37 jobs were lost in the recent purge at the New York-based company, which operates virtually with nearly all employees working from home.
At the time of the layoffs, DistroKid management said the cuts were part of a larger effort to fix issues around customer service, specifically “by expanding to 24/7 customer service with faster response times.” The company mostly serves independent artists, acting as a digital music distribution service to help musicians upload and monetize their music through sites like Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music. The site was valued at $1.3 billion in 2021 following a recapitalization deal with New York investment firm Insight Partners and reportedly has a customer base of two million artists.
In April, more than 63% of DistroKid employees voted to unionize with NABET-CAW, and the victory was later certified by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Company management and union officials even sat for their first collective bargaining session in July, but talks have been slow due to a lack of availability to meet, says Bores.
“We finally got something on the calendar with them for October, when the company’s attorney called me and said they’re going to fire half the unit,” says Bores, referring to the 37 employees who were initially placed on “administrative leave” before being terminated. Bores says many of the terminated employees had backed the union efforts and that many had worked in both customer and artist services roles. The employees were eventually replaced by a support team operating out of the Philippines, managed by offshoring company Concentrix.
“My union knows that company very well because they have been involved in providing scabs and people to cross picket lines and thwart union drives,” Bores says. ”So not only did they lay off American workers who are unionizing, they sent their work to the Philippines to workers there that make very little compared to the workers here in New York.”
In a statement to Billboard, DistroKid officials defended the staffing change, writing, “DistroKid remains focused on delivering a best-in-class support experience for independent artists worldwide. Since initiating our ramp-up to 24/7 support late last year, artist response times have improved by 74% over the past three months and 90% year-over-year. In the coming weeks, we’ll also roll out live chat for the highest-volume categories, further enhancing accessibility and efficiency for artists everywhere. Achieving this level of service required making difficult decisions that impacted valued team members, and we are deeply grateful for their contributions.”
Former employee Wilson Rahn, a customer service employee who lost his job during the October purge, says DistroKid’s claims don’t align with what he experienced at the company.
“My perception is that they were not bargaining in good faith,” says Rahn, who is still looking for work. “I worked on their customer support funnel, made it faster and more effective and had a record of showing that I was succeeding in that. So my firing is pretty clearly, in my opinion, just because I was vocally supportive of the union.”
Bores has filed four complaints against DistroKid with the NLRB but said the labor body has effectively been rendered powerless by President Donald Trump. On Jan. 27, Trump fired NLRB member Gwynne Wilcox, leaving the board with only two members — one below the minimum number needed to legally function. The firing has left the NLRB unable to certify union elections or hear complaints from workers. Without an enforcement option from the federal government, Bores says there is little his union can do to force DistroKid back to the bargaining table aside from applying public pressure campaigns.
In the worst-case scenario, says Bores, DistroKid could hold out until the one-year anniversary of the unionization vote, at which point it would be legally allowed to challenge the union’s right to continue representing employees. But he says he’s hopeful it won’t come to that and that the two sides will have a final contract ready to sign by next month.
HipHopWired Featured Video
CLOSE
Source: SAUL LOEB / Getty / Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Donald Trump
Today was an embarrassing moment for the United States after Felon 47 aka Donald Trump and his Vice President tried to come at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a televised meeting in the Oval Office.
Volodmyr Zelenskyy was sent home for checking Donald Trump in his house. Things went completely wrong during the meeting after Vice President JD Vance. Remember him? He had the gall to suggest that Trump’s Ukrainian counterpart did not express enough gratitude for the help he received from the United States in his country’s continued effort to fight back against Russian invaders and is standing in the way of peace.
JD Vance Does His Best Please & Protect Orange Mussolini
Zelenskyy gave Vance a much-needed history lesson on Russia/Ukraine relations which didn’t sit well with Trump’s VP.
“What kind of diplomacy, JD, you are speaking about?” Zelenskyy asked Vance.
“I’m talking about the kind of diplomacy that’s going to end the destruction of your country,” Vance replied, pointing his finger repeatedly at Zelenskyy.
“Mr. President, with respect, I think it’s disrespectful for you to come to the Oval Office to try to litigate this in front of the American media … You should be thanking the president for trying to bring an end to this conflict,” Vance said.
With some “bass” in his voice, Vance continued, “Do you think it’s respectful to come to the Oval Office of the United States of America and attack the administration that is trying to prevent the destruction of your country?”
https://x.com/kaitlancollins/status/1895529604338892805
After Zelenskyy warned that problems could reach US shores, Trump jumped in with Vance doing his best to please Orange Mussolini.
“Have you said ‘thank you’ once in the entire meeting? In the entire meeting, have you said ‘thank you?’… Offer some words of appreciation for the United States of America — and the president who’s trying to save your country,” Vance continued.
https://x.com/ruthbenghiat/status/1895554992259711398
Donald Trump Had Something To Say
During the shouting match, Trump managed to get some words, telling Zelenskyy, “You’re not really in a good position right now,” while raising his voice.
“You’re gambling the lives of millions of people. You’re gambling with World War III,” Trump continued.
https://x.com/Acyn/status/1895528700894195971
Trump Allegedly Gave Zelenskyy The Boot
According to TMZ, Trump asked Zelenskyy to leave the White House, canceling a planned lunch between the two leaders, news conference and not even signing the natural resources agreement.
Trump hopped on his crappy social media platform, Truth Social, to talk about the disgraceful meeting.
“We had a very meaningful meeting in the White House today. Much was learned that could never be understood without conversation under such fire and pressure. It’s amazing what comes out through emotion, and I have determined that President Zelenskyy is not ready for Peace if America is involved, because he feels our involvement gives him a big advantage in negotiations. I don’t want advantage, I want PEACE,” Trump said.
He continued, “He disrespected the United States of America in its cherished Oval Office. He can come back when he is ready for Peace.”
Zelenskyy also had something to say on X, formerly Twitter, writing in a post, “Thank you America, thank you for your support, thank you for this visit. Thank you @POTUS, Congress, and the American people.”
Speaking of X, the consensus on the platform is President Zelenskyy clowned both Trump and Vance, and the rest of the world has also let Ukraine know they are not alone even though the US seems to be on the wrong side of history now.
You can see those reactions in the gallery below.