Random music news for Friday, June 5, 2026

Mom’s 90th today. The woman is an Energizer Bunny. As for music news on June 5, 2026…

1. This isn’t a scary headline at all: “The entire $12 trillion creative economy may now be at risk from AI.”
2. Or is there a way to appreciate AI’s contributions to the music industry? (Via Bobby)
3. There’s a new AI-powered audio gadget from a company called Opal.
4. AI overviews are taking over Google’s search. This is bad news because searchers are no longer directed to the original websites for information, resulting in declines in traffic. No traffic, no revenue. No revenue, no website. AI is eating search.
5. The mobile version of ChatGPT now has more than one billion active monthly users.
6. Here’s an interesting music industry/music fan problem: The personalization paradox.
7. Looking for a free alternative to Spotify? Try this.
8. Here’s a good interview with Smashing Pumpkins’ drummer Jimmy Chamblerin.
9. The Diddy situation isn’t over. Here’s the latest.
10. There’s a big lawsuit in the world of guitar makers. Let’s dig in. (Via Rick J)
11. I like this question: When is enough enough when it comes to an addiction to high-end audio gear?
12. This story gets really into the weeds of the back rooms of the music industry where all the nerdy stuff happens, but it’s good news.
13. If you’re addicted to Facebook, there’s a new feature called Series you might want to try.
14. KISS will release a coffee table book telling the story of the Destroyer (1976) album this October.
15. Meanwhile, an Ace Frehley guitar sold for $US512,000 at auction.

More music news? Go here.

BONUS: Mr. Burns vs. Mr. Monopoly. (Via Sean)