Random music news for Monday, October 6, 2025

October 6, 2025 Alan Cross 0 Comments 2 min read

When I was in Singapore, I saw a mobile phone company offering a 750 GB/month data plan for about $20. Canadians getting hosed when it comes to data. On that happy note, here’s music news for October 6, 2025.

Free speech is under attack in the US. There’s a new group of artists called the Committee for the First Amendment, which features some big names.
Paul Gallagher, the oldest (and most non-musical) brother, appeared in court. Liam dedicated a song to him.
It appears that the major labels are very close to a BIG AI licensing deal. This could be very good–or very bad.
A big question today? Is it ethical to sign AI artists to record deals? It’s already happening.
There’s been a shakeup at Warner Records UK. This is why it’s a bad thing for music.
This is a very, very good question: What, exactly is “mass appeal” and “mainstream” music today? Let’s explore that.
Taylor Swift is now “too big to fail.” Discuss.
Spotify now has a feature where you can prevent the same annoying songs coming up in your algo feed.
The Vancouver record store owner stuck gold with an ancient Beatles demo from 1962–and Paul McCartney invited him to LA. (Via Sean)
A good question: Who is listening to HD Radio?
Japanese audiophiles are some of the most obsessed in the world. Check it out. (Via Tom)
Speaking of Japan, this the 1973 Yamaha GX-1 synthesizer. It sold for for US$60k in 1973 (the equivalent of US$435k today). It weighed 951kg (2096 lb).
This was Michael Jackson’s nickname?
HAIM has a problem with a fan or two at their gigs. It appears the shows are being attended by one or more serial farters. You heard me.
If you’re ever hummed along to Gordon Lightfoot’s “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” you need to read this.