Random music news for Saturday, June 2, 2017

It was fifty-one years ago today that the Beatles released Sgt. Pepper in North America. It had come out the day before the UK. And now for music news on June 2, 2018.

1. These are my weekly music recommendations for GlobalNews.ca.
2. Here’s something we’ll have to check: Does Spotify’s chart change on Sundays?
3. This Australian electro musician called gay people “abominations.” We’ll let the Internet take it from here. (Via Tom)
4. Dave Grohl wrote a song for David Bowie which he never used. Now it’s getting released.
5. Look at all the bands that are making money by playing NASCAR events. (Via Tom)
6. You can use a smart speaker to remotely fire a gun? Apparently.
7. Damon Albarn once had a chance to work with Prince, but he declined because Prince wouldn’t let him smoke in the studio.
8. Does radio make you happy? Let’s explore that.
9. A statue of Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham has been unveiled in his hometown.
10. Here’s a look back on The Pursuit of Happiness Love Junk album, 30 years after its release.
11. What’s the best smart speaker strategy for musicians?
12. This UK festival is going to offer drug tests to make sure people who take drugs don’t take drugs that will kill them.
13. Want to save a life? Learn “The Macarena.” Seriously.
14. New Yeezy merch…
15. …and a salute to Prince’s art and commerce.
16. Shakira is getting rid of her place in Miami…
17. …and even musicians are into the tiny house thing.