In 1635, Samuel de Champlain, a pivotal figure in North American exploration, passed away. While Champlain is primarily recognized for his role as a soldier and geographer, his explorations had indirect implications for the evolution of music in the Black community of the Americas, particularly as the...
Born in 1937, O'Kelly Isley Jr. emerged as a pivotal figure in the realm of R&B and soul music. As a founding member of The Isley Brothers, O'Kelly played a crucial role in shaping the sound of a generation. The Isley Brothers, which included his siblings Ronald...
New Music Friday Keeps the Beats Coming
New Music Friday is here, and it’s packed with some unexpected gems. Bizarrap and J Balvin kick off the week with a collaboration that’s sure to shake things up in the global charts. This isn’t just another release; it’s a continuation...
Music Meets HomecomingDetty December isn’t just a season; it’s a phenomenon. Spotify's data reveals that this annual homecoming period in West Africa is fueling a massive surge in Nigerian music streaming. If you thought it was all about partying, think again. It’s about connections, culture, and a...
Howie Klein: A Music Industry Titan
Howie Klein is no longer with us. The veteran record executive, radio DJ, and fierce political activist passed away at 77 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. His sister broke the news on social media. Klein's impact on the music world...
In December 1968, the Apollo 8 mission marked a pivotal moment not only in space exploration but also in the cultural landscape of the United States, including its rich tapestry of Black music history. As the first crew to orbit the Moon, astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell,...
In December 1826, the United States Military Academy at West Point became the backdrop for a riot that would later be known as the Eggnog Riot. This unusual event unfolded on the night of December 24, culminating in chaos by the dawn of the next day. The...
Music Stocks on the Rise
Seven music stocks are turning heads right now: Tencent Music Entertainment Group, NetEase, Dolby Laboratories, Warner Music Group, Madison Square Garden Entertainment, Singing Machine, and Zeta Network Group. These aren’t just any stocks—they’re tied to companies that are knee-deep in the music game....
Radio Meets TV: HOT 97 News is Coming
It’s about time radio made a serious move into the TV space. MediaCo is taking the iconic HOT 97 brand and turning it into a daily live national TV show. This isn’t just about sound waves anymore. This is about...
Detty December Ignites Streaming Boom
Detty December is shaking things up in the Nigerian music scene. Spotify's latest data reveals that this annual homecoming bonanza isn't just about the parties—it's a full-on cultural phenomenon that's transforming the streaming landscape.
According to Spotify, the peak period from December 1, 2024,...
In 1908, the world welcomed Yousuf Karsh, a renowned Armenian-Canadian photographer whose work would come to play a significant role in documenting the cultural landscape of the 20th century, including the influential figures of Black music. Karsh, who passed away in 2002, is celebrated for his iconic...
In 1773, the Moscow State Academy of Choreography was established during the reign of Catherine II, marking a significant development in the world of ballet as the second ballet school in Russia after the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet. While this event primarily pertains to classical dance,...
