Latest news with #IFPI
Forbes
13-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
20 Accomplishments By BTS' Jung Kook During Mandatory Military Service
Jung Kook's managing to make his official solo debut and enlist for his mandatory South Korean military service within six months was already a testament to his ability to conquer and succeed quickly. However, the last 18 months during his conscription showed how much the youngest BTS member could accomplish even while serving his country. As one of the best examples in showing that enlistment can coexist with superstardom, his enlistment beginning on December 12, 2023, and his discharge on June 11, 2025, allowed him not only to maintain but arguably elevate his career. Along with releasing new music, topping charts, winning prestigious awards, and giving back to his community, here's a chronological look at 20 of his standout milestones from his time away. When the world's biggest streaming service revealed their year-end numbers, Jung Kook's massive solo single 'Seven' featuring Latto showed its lasting impact as the No. 4 top global song of 2023, only behind Miley Cyrus' 'Flowers,' SZA's 'Kill Bill' and 'As It Was' by Harry Styles. The achievement made him the only K-pop artist to land on any of Spotify's year-end global or U.S. lists. The massive audience for 'Seven' hasn't slowed down either. As Jung Kook completed his service, 'Seven' remains in the top 100 most-streamed songs of all time on Spotify, with 2.39 billion streams at press time. In the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry's global music report that looks at music sales and activity across the entire world, Jung Kook's 'Seven' landed at Number 10 on the IFPI Global Single Chart for 2023 making it the 10th biggest song in the world for the year — even with its July 2023 release. Earning the achievement with his official debut single showed how Jung Kook the Soloists had truly arrived. Recognized for his growing discography, Jung Kook joined the Korea Music Copyright Association as a regular member, following in the footsteps of his BTS band mates like Suga, RM and J‑Hope on January 31, 2024. Established in 1964, KOMCA protects the rights of music creators in South Korea, with members requiring a significant body of work for acceptance in the club. Jung Kook delivered a massive moment for representation by snagging the win for Male Artist of the Year at the 2024 People's Choice Awards. Not only did JK beat out big names like Drake, The Weeknd and Bad Bunny, but won as the first-ever Asian artist to win the award at the February 18, 2024 ceremony in Santa Monica. The people have spoken, indeed! On February 29, 2024, Billboard unveiled its inaugural K-Pop Artist 100 list, ranking the biggest K-pop artists and groups in America. Based on artist activity on the Billboard 200 albums chart, Billboard Hot 100 songs chart, and Billboard Boxscore touring data from January 2023 through December 2023, his Number One position only further underscored Jung Kook's undeniable dominance in the U.S. The Recording Industry Association of Japan hosted its 2024 awards ceremony, which honors top artists locally, globally, and in Asia. After Jung Kook took home the Song of the Year by Streaming – Western award at the 2023 Japan Gold Disc Awards for 'Left and Right' with Charlie Puth, Jung Kook earned yet another SOTY at the March 2024 ceremony. 'Seven' with Latto nabbed Song of the Year by Download – Asia, cementing his impact on Japan's lucrative music market. No joke: The iHeartRadio Music Awards may have taken place on April Fool's Day 2024, but Jung Kook's win as K‑Pop Artist of the Year showed how serious fans and radio were supporting him in the wake of his hugely successful Golden era. Marking another cross‑border triumph for his debut solo smash, 'Seven' with Latto earned the Song of the Year award at the first-ever Asia Star Entertainer Awards that took place in Yokohama, Japan, on April 10, 2024. As part of BTS's 11th‑anniversary 'FESTA' celebrations, the group's BIGHIT MUSIC shared an unreleased Jung Kook song, 'Never Let Go,' on June 7, 2024, marking his first solo output while serving. ARMY turned the upbeat thank‑you song for fans into a gift for JK himself when it became his seventh song to enter the Billboard Hot 100 chart, giving him a new record as the K-pop soloist with the most entries on the U.S.-based singles chart. From August 8 through September 19, 2024, Jung Kook and his BTS band mate Jimin co‑starred in the eight‑episode travel reality show Are You Sure?! that streamed on Disney+ for the guys' first summer away from fans. The series allows the guys to get outside and showcase their sense of adventure and camaraderie. The duo even got nominated in the 'Favorite On Screen' category at the 2025 iHeartRadio Awards alongside other music stars' streaming hits like Taylor Swift's The Era's Tour (Taylor's Version), Demi Lovato's Child Star and Megan Thee Stallion's In Her Own Words. Beginning September 18, 2024, Jung Kook's I Am Still documentary began showing in cinemas worldwide in 120 different territories. The film chronicled his solo era around his 2023 Golden album, offering an intimate look at his artistic evolution while reinforcing his cinematic appeal. Due to overwhelming fan demand for I Am Still, HYBE, in collaboration with the doc's distributor, Trafalgar Releasing, announced that 'Party Edition' screenings would be coming to theaters, featuring an additional 20 minutes of singalong videos. On May 1, 2024, the star was honored as part of the Gold House A100 List as one of 100 Asian Pacific figures shaping American culture. Jung Kook's influence extended beyond music to have a broader societal impact. In particular, Gold House noted how Jung Kook being 'the first Asian to win 'Male Artist of the Year' at the People's Choice Awards' was one of the year's primary examples of Asian Pacific-led creativity breaking records in entertainment. That year, fellow honorees included Steve Aoki, Charli XCX, and Alan Chikin Chow, with a judging panel that included legendary journalist Lisa Ling, actor Daniel Dae Kim, and chart-topping music group Far East Movement. After previously taking home the Top Global K‑Pop Song at last year's awards for 'Seven,' Jung Kook snagged the honor for a second time at the May 2024 show for another track, 'Standing Next to You.' Meanwhile, Golden secured the Top K‑Pop Album award, showing his ability to move records and singles. With nearly 20 years of ceremonies under its belt, the Huading Awards in China recognize both local and international talent. Jung Kook earned the title of Asia's Most Popular Male Singer as the only K-pop soloist reportedly recognized at the event in yet another display of his power and popularity overseas. During an October 2024 New Yorker feature about HYBE and its founder, Bang Si Hyuk, Usher belatedly disclosed that he invited Jung Kook to perform their remixed version of 'Standing Next to You' at the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show that past February — a slot missed only due to service duties but shows the immense stages for which the world considers JK ready. With winners voted by British radio listeners, the Global Awards took place on-air through the U.K.'s biggest radio stations, including Capital FM, Capital XTRA, Heart FM, Radio X, and Smooth Radio. Jung Kook and his fanbase were named the winner in the Best Fans category, highlighting the dedication of ARMY across the United Kingdom. His first solo nomination for AAA culminated in a win for Best K‑Pop Record at the December 27, 2024 show, solidifying Jung Kook and his Golden era as both critical and fan favorites. After Netflix's hit series XO, Kitty returned on January 16, 2025, and its soundtrack took over Billboard's Top TV Songs chart, led by Jung Kook's 'Seven,' which appeared in the season finale episode. With rankings based on song and show data blended with sales and streaming information for the month, 'Seven' earned an additional 12.5 million streams in the U.S., helping it break out among other songs synced and soundtracking other popular programs like Severance, High Potential, The Recruit and Landman. To do his part as South Korea battled wildfires in March 2025, Jung Kook gifted 1 billion in Korean won (more than $733,680) to the Hope Bridge Korea Disaster Relief Association to split equally between emergency aid for wildfire victims and acts to improve firefighters' working conditions showcasing his pockets are deep for generosity and social responsibility. Proving his consistent popularity, two Jung Kook tracks were named the Most Performed Songs of the Year at the 2025 BMI Pop Awards in Los Angeles on May 13, 2025. JK and his collaborators like BloodPop and Dave Stewart (who worked on '3D' featuring Jack Harlow), as well as Andrew Watt and Ali Tamposi (for 'Standing Next to You'), were all recognized as part of honors for the songs that have received the most performances and plays across terrestrial radio, satellite radio, and digital streaming services over the past year. In the past, 'Seven' was honored at the awards in 2024, while 2023 saw 'Left and Right' with Charlie Puth honored. However, 2025 was the first time Team Golden Maknae received double the recognition.
Broadcast Pro
12-06-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Sony Music Middle East partners with LuxuryKSA to champion Saudi music talent
The move comes amid significant industry momentum in the MENA region, which recorded a 22.8% rise in recorded music revenues in 2024, according to the IFPI Global Music Report 2025. Sony Music Middle East has announced a strategic alliance with Saudi-based entertainment company LuxuryKSA, aimed at nurturing and promoting Saudi Arabian music talent. The partnership strengthens Sony Music's regional presence and aligns with its long-term vision to grow Khaliji pop artists across the Middle East and on the global stage. The announcement comes amid a boom in the region's music industry. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) has emerged as the fastest-growing music market globally for the second time in three years, registering a 22.8% increase in recorded music revenues in 2024, according to the IFPI Global Music Report 2025. LuxuryKSA, headquartered in Riyadh, has carved a strong reputation in the local industry, developing artists like Ayed Youssef and Sultan Al Murshed for mainstream success. Ayed, who has garnered more than 500m views across digital platforms and received the 'Favorite Artist' award at the Joy Awards in both 2024 and 2025, recently topped the IFPI MENA charts with his single Tala'et Abeh. He currently has seven tracks charting in Saudi Arabia's IFPI listings. Sultan, another rising star discovered and nurtured by LuxuryKSA, has also made a mark in just three years, with several hit releases and his 2025 album entering the IFPI charts. Commenting on the collaboration, HRH Prince Khaled Bin Mansour Bin Saud Bin Abdulaziz, Chairman of LuxuryKSA, said: 'Partnering with Sony Music isn't just a milestone; it's a powerful evolution for an already vibrant Saudi music scene. As a leading force in the market, we are dedicated to amplifying our exceptional local artists who reflect our rich heritage. Together, we will elevate their voices on regional and global stages and redefine the future of entertainment.' Shridhar Subramaniam, President for Asia and Middle East, Sony Music, added: 'The Middle East is a priority market for us, with Saudi Arabia at the centre of a cultural and creative transformation. Our partnership with LuxuryKSA is part of a broader strategy to deepen our roots in the region, champion local voices, and support sustained artist development. As the music industry in MENA continues to grow at pace, we are committed to working with partners to shape its future and bring the richness of the region's music to a global audience.' Rami Mohsen, Managing Director for Middle East, Sony Music, stated: 'LuxuryKSA is renowned for nurturing Saudi talent and positioning them on a regional and global scale. Through this partnership, we're working on building a talent incubator with LuxuryKSA in Saudi Arabia, designed to nurture and develop the next generation of stars. With artists' creativity our utmost priority, this partnership strengthens our local presence in Saudi Arabia and expands opportunities for our artists in a culturally rich and diverse region.' Ayed Youssef commented: 'I'm thrilled about this partnership with Sony Music and LuxuryKSA! It's an amazing chance to bring Khaliji pop to new fans everywhere. I can't wait to share my music and connect with people while staying true to my roots.'
Forbes
11-06-2025
- Health
- Forbes
Music In Healing: Glen Ward On The Launch Of Rhythm & Relief
Glen Ward, founder of Rhythm & Relief Nearly one in four U.S. adults suffers from chronic pain, and over 58 million Americans report symptoms of mental illness annually. A longitudinal study, commissioned by the IFPI in 2023, across 20 countries reported that over 70% of respondents use music to relieve pain. In recent years, there is growing evidence showing music's power to reduce stress, improve memory, and accelerate recovery. The concept of music as medicine is not new—ancient civilizations used music for healing—but it's gaining renewed legitimacy through modern science. In I Heard There Was a Secret Chord, Daniel Levitin highlights that listening to music you enjoy triggers the release of the brain's natural opioids - offering a pain relieving effect. In addition to controlled studies that show that specifically designed 'positive' music increased a key immune-system antibody known as Salivary IgA by 55%. Beyond just pain relief, the application of music in health care spreads wide and deep, however, the integration of music into the U.S. healthcare system remains undersupported—modalities like music therapy are often excluded from insurance coverage and considered 'out-of-network,' limiting access. In fact, only 20% of U.S. music therapists receive insurance reimbursements. Launched during Mental Health Awareness Month in May 2025, Rhythm & Relief is a nonprofit on a mission to help foster the integration of music as a tool for healing. Rhythm & Relief is an advocate and fundraising engine for a coalition of U.S.-based organizations that use music therapy and intervention to address chronic pain, mental illness, trauma, and emotional hardship. Their 'ensemble' of partner nonprofits—each chosen for its evidence-based use of music in therapy—includes Music for All Seasons, Music & Memory, Music 4 Seniors, Songwriting With: Soldiers, Sounds of Saving, and Voices of Valor. Together, they support a diverse group including: veterans, hospital patients, domestic violence victims, incarcerated individuals. These organizations provide targeted services ranging from songwriting programs for veterans to therapeutic playlists for dementia patients. As an umbrella nonprofit, Rhythm & Relief mobilizes the music and entertainment industries to generate awareness and donations through exclusive song releases, livestream benefit concerts, and large-scale events. Its funding model is structured for transparency and impact: 85% of all donations go directly to member organizations, with the remaining 15% allocated to operating costs. 'Rather than have all these worthy programs competing for the same charity dollars, we wanted to offer a cooperative alternative,' says founder Glen Ward. 'We believe the whole is greater than the sum of the parts.' Rhythm & Relief debuted with an official launch event in Los Angeles featuring live music, testimonials from beneficiaries, and previews of upcoming campaigns. One highlight is a collaboration with emerging artist Jada Nikole, who will debut her new single 'Always Been You' at Prince's Celebration in June. The song, donated without solicitation, was inspired by her personal connection to the cause. 'Jada reached out on her own. She resonated with our story,' Ward explains. 'It's a testament to how powerful this mission is.' Rhythm & Relief was started by Glen Ward, a former CEO of Virgin Entertainment Group (North America) and past chairman of NARM—now known as the Music Business Association. Ward brings over 40 years of experience in the entertainment industry, retail and consumer technology to the cause. However, Ward is no stranger to philanthropy. He previously sat on the board of Nordoff Robbins and Music For All Seasons. He currently chairs Jazz Bakery, a cultural staple in Los Angeles. Ward's passion for music as a healing tool, draws on firsthand experiences—from watching autistic children light up during music therapy sessions to witnessing music soothe distressed hospital patients—Ward sees music not just as complementary care, but as essential. 'Music isn't just entertainment—it's intervention,' he said. Rhythm & Relief aims to do more than fund existing efforts—it seeks to shift the public conversation. As Ward explained, 'We're here to really be shouting from the rooftops and to champion that cause, so raising awareness and raising those critical dollars.' While its current focus is U.S.-based, Rhythm & Relief plans to expand globally, starting with the UK by the end of 2025. The organization also aims to grow its network of supported nonprofits from six to more than 25 in the coming years. Beyond funding, Rhythm & Relief positions itself as a voice for the music-as-medicine movement. Its board includes industry leaders like Carmen Murray of Title 9, Chris Scoates, and Scotty Gelade—individuals who share a belief in music's deeper purpose. For Glen Ward, the mission is deeply personal. He's seen music unlock emotion where words fall short, and he believes its potential is still vastly untapped. Rhythm & Relief is more than a funding vehicle—it's a call to elevate music as a credible, compassionate form of care. With the right support, what begins as a note can become a movement—one that transforms lives, one song at a time.
Time of India
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift sighting in Tennessee sets social media ablaze as she bags historic global music honor
Taylor Swift has secured her position as the world's top recording artist for the third consecutive year (Getty Images) Taylor Swift has once again proven that she isn't just a musical sensation—she's a cultural juggernaut. According to the 2025 IFPI Global Music Report, the 14-time Grammy winner has officially secured her spot as the world's top recording artist for a third consecutive year. This historic feat not only underscores her unmatched relevance in the music industry but also positions her as the first artist ever to achieve this distinction three years in a row. IFPI confirms Taylor Swift's historic global music chart reign The International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which monitors music consumption across digital downloads, physical sales, and streaming platforms, announced that Taylor Swift once again tops their annual Global Artist Chart. Her explosive Eras Tour, cleverly timed re-recordings, and surprise album drops all contributed to a banner year that left even her closest competitors trailing in her wake. Behind her on the IFPI chart are some of the biggest names in global music: Drake holds strong at second place thanks to his unshakable streaming dominance, while K-pop powerhouse Seventeen lands in third, reflecting the genre's unwavering fan loyalty. Billie Eilish, Kendrick Lamar, and The Weeknd also appear on the list—but none came close to matching Swift's gravitational pull. A viral outing with Travis Kelce sparks fan frenzy While her professional accolades dominate headlines, Swift's personal life continues to capture equal attention. Most recently, fans were sent into a frenzy after Swift was spotted in Tennessee alongside Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. The couple appeared relaxed and low-key, but their sighting reignited curiosity across social media, generating thousands of fan posts and speculation about the state of their relationship. From the Grammy stage to casual café sightings with Kelce, Swift continues to command attention in every sphere she touches. Swift's growing influence goes far beyond the charts. With each move—whether artistic or personal—she blurs the boundaries between celebrity and cultural architect. Her presence isn't just about music anymore; it's about shaping trends, rewriting industry rules, and captivating millions along the way. Also Read: Swifties blamed for Travis Kelce interview leak as Bussin' With The Boys crew relives 'hacked' moment As 2025 continues to unfold, Taylor Swift isn't just leading the music industry—she's redefining what it means to be a global icon in real time. One award at a time, and one viral moment at a time.
Observer
16-05-2025
- Business
- Observer
Composing, publishing music remains one of complex challenges
Composing, publishing and distributing music remains one of the most complex challenges facing cultural production globally — not only due to protecting musical works, but also in ensuring fair compensation for all contributors to the creative process. This includes composers, translators, publishers, distributors and supporting technical professionals, as well as the protection of a nation's artistic heritage, which is deeply tied to its cultural and civilisational identity. Modern technologies have played a transformative role in promoting and distributing musical content across various platforms. Music, in particular, has benefitted significantly — gaining exposure and generating increasing financial and economic returns. The global interest in music today is not solely cultural or social, but also profoundly economic. Within the growing knowledge economy, music is recognised as a dynamic industry, linked to production, consumption and shifting audience preferences. Thus, music contributes not only to cultural preservation but also to economic stability for musicians, composers and producers. According to the Global Music Report 2025 by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), recorded music has steadily grown over the past decade. However, the past year saw slower growth, impacting related creative industries and delaying recovery. Still, the report remains optimistic, noting significant potential for further expansion through innovation, emerging technologies and investment in both talent and infrastructure in developing music markets. The report underscores the vital role of production companies in sustaining and advancing the music sector. These companies are essential partners in identifying and nurturing talent, generating new revenue streams and connecting artists with audiences. Their work facilitates the commercial and creative success of artists at various stages of their careers. Moreover, they provide the resources for artistic development, innovation and technological support, allowing artists to fully express themselves and engage with their audiences. As intellectual property rights become a central concern for music-producing countries and companies, the rise of artificial intelligence poses a dual challenge. On one hand, AI fosters creativity and enhances artistic experiences; on the other, some AI firms — according to the IFPI — "consume" protected works by using copyrighted music to train their models, threatening the ownership and uniqueness of musical content. This raises serious concerns about copyright violations. The IFPI warns of widespread issues involving unauthorised downloads, redistribution, remixing, or alteration of protected works, posing challenges to digital broadcasting integrity and online protection. These infringements ultimately affect the financial viability of the music sector and undermine equitable income distribution among artists. Music, while being a historical expression of civilisations and traditions, also represents an economic asset that has long supported the livelihoods of creators. From instrument makers to composers, sound engineers to producers, the music community fosters cultural taste and appreciation. Many governments now recognise music's role as a pillar of cultural development and are investing accordingly. In response to the growing threat of AI-related copyright breaches, the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has dedicated World Intellectual Property Day 2025 to music, under the theme 'IP and Music: Sensing the Rhythm of Creativity.' This initiative affirms the rights of composers as central to the music industry and emphasises fair compensation for their intellectual contributions. Protecting music is not limited to standalone compositions or songs; it extends to all creative forms involving sound, including audiovisual works, video games, film scores and more. Ensuring these rights includes safeguarding those of publishers, broadcasters and distributors. Music is a core component of the audio-visual industries. Its protection demands coherent legal frameworks, effective policies and ethical practices that secure the rights of creators. This, in turn, fosters trust in the system, ensures financial fairness and provides a secure environment for artistic innovation. Oman, with its rich and diverse musical heritage, has actively worked to develop this sector through legislation and policy. It has implemented frameworks for intellectual property protection, encouraged musical institutions, supported creative talent and facilitated investment opportunities, particularly in traditional music groups across the governorates. However, the rapid advance of digital platforms and AI technologies poses new challenges. Music is increasingly vulnerable to exploitation and safeguarding it requires not only legal protection but also a shared ethical commitment. Upholding these rights is a collective responsibility — between institutions and individuals alike. Aisha al Darmaki is a researcher specialising in semiotics and a member of the State Council. The original version of this article was published in Arabic in the print edition of Oman newspaper on May 11, 2025. — Translated by Badr al Dhafari
