spotify Archives - Page 25 of 38

Spotify’s RapCaviar Releases List Of The 50 Best Hip-Hop Beats

May 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

After a few other controversial hip-hop lists dropped this year, yet another debatable list is here for fans to discuss in celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary. Moreover, Spotify’s RapCaviar just unveiled its list of the 50 greatest beats of all time in the genre. While it does lean towards more classic fare from the 1980s, 1990s, and the 2000s, there are still some modern names that made the cut. As such, at first glance, the list seems quite fair to all eras and genres. Even though it probably missed the mark in a few areas for many out there, isn’t that conversation what makes a great list?

Regardless, here are the top ten beats of all time according to Spotify’s RapCaviar, from number ten to number one. First up are “Get Ur Freak On” by Missy Elliott, “SICKO MODE” by Travis Scott, and “Still Trippin’” by Mike Jones. Furthermore, spots seven through five are held by “It’s All About The Benjamins (Remix)” by Puff Daddy & The Family, “POWER” by Kanye West, and “A Milli” by Lil Wayne. Following that are “Who Shot Ya?” by Biggie Smalls, “Grindin’” by Clipse, and “Shook Ones, Pt. II” by Mobb Deep.

Spotify & RapCaviar’s List Of Hip-Hop’s Best Beats Of All Time

Finally, the greatest hip-hop beat of all time (according to Spotify’s RapCaviar) is “Still D.R.E.” by Dr. Dre. What’s more is that the legendary producer also got the top spot on Rolling Stone‘s list of the best West Coast rap songs. In both cases, it’s quite understandable, although Rolling Stone picked “Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang” over “Still D.R.E.” That key line alone is one of the most iconic melodies and intros in the whole genre, but we’re sure that you have a better number one pick in the comments.

Meanwhile, other names included in this list are Kendrick Lamar, Wu-Tang Clan, Future, Shawty Lo, Chief Keef, and many more. Some of the standout beats that missed out on the top ten are “Paid In Full” by Eric B. and Rakim, “Cell Therapy” by Goodie Mob, and “Ruff Ryders’ Anthem” by DMX. You can check out the full list by Spotify’s RapCaviar in the tweet above or in the via link below. After you take a peep, let us know in the comments what beats deserve higher placement or missed out altogether. As always, keep checking in with HNHH for the latest news, updates, and conversations in hip-hop culture.

[via]

Subscribing To Spotify Or Netflix Might Just Help You Buy A House, Believe It Or Not

May 10, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Subscription payments to things like Netflix and Spotify might seem like a hassle, but a new program is putting together a possible way for people to become homeowners through a modern mortgage concept, according to The Independent.

A bank in the UK called Leeds Building Society has partnered with Experian’s free Experian Boost. This would allow those who need to borrow money more opportunities to prove that they routinely keep a “financial track record.”

“This will particularly help younger borrowers, first-time buyers and anyone on lower incomes who face the toughest challenge to prove their ability to repay,” Richard Fearon, Leeds Building Society’s chief executive, told the publication.

“Often through no fault of their own, these groups can struggle to build a good credit score because they need to spend most of their earnings on rent and other regular payments,” he added.

Additionally, another bank called Skipton Building Society made a mortgage program that doesn’t need a deposit. “We recognise there’s a clear gap in the market for people who have a strong history of making rental payments over a period of time so can evidence affordability of a mortgage – but there is currently no solution for them to buy a property due to lack of savings or access to family wealth,” the company’s Charlotte Harrison noted.

While Spotify and the streaming platforms aren’t directly involved in the program, it still gives all those monthly subscriptions that we all pay possibly counting for something in the long run.

Spotify Wipes Thousands Of AI Songs From Its Platform

May 9, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Spotify has reportedly taken down tens of thousands of tracks from the AI company, Boomy. Universal Music previously reported the company for suspicious streaming activity to Spotify. The platform pays out to artists on the basis of streaming numbers and thus takes artificially boosted numbers quite seriously.

“Artificial streaming is a longstanding, industry-wide issue that Spotify is working to stamp out across our service,” Spotify said in a statement to Insider. “When we identify or are alerted to potential cases of stream manipulation, we mitigate their impact by taking action that may include the removal of streaming numbers and the withholding of royalties. This allows us to protect royalty payouts for honest, hardworking artists.”

Spotify Cracks Down On A.I. Music

PARIS, FRANCE – JANUARY 06: In this photo illustration, the logo of the Swedish music streaming service Spotify is displayed on the screen of an iPhone on January 06, 2017 in Paris, France. Spotify announced, via a tweet published Thursday, that it now has 70 million paid subscribers. As a comparison, in September, Apple Music claimed 30 million subscribers and Deezer had fewer than 10 million subscribers. (Photo by Chesnot/Getty Images)

The recent takedown encompasses 7% of Boomy’s total tracks. A.I. technology and its impact on the music industry has been a prominent talking point in recent weeks. Songs recreating vocals from Drake, The Weeknd, JAY-Z, and many more artists have all gone viral on social media. Many artists have condemned the use of their vocal likeness in the songs, while others, such as Grimes, have embraced it.

During Spotify’s quarterly financial call in April, CEO Daniel Ek described A.I. technology as both “really cool and scary.” He explained: “These are very, very complex issues that don’t have a single straight answer…But we’re in constant discussion with our partners and creators and artists and want to strike a balance between allowing innovation and, of course, protecting artists.” He added: I think the whole industry is trying to figure that out and trying to figure out [AI] training…I would definitely put that on the risk account because there’s a lot of uncertainty, I think, for the entire ecosystem.”

[Via]

Spotify Will Begin A Takedown Of AI-Generated Songs With Fake Streams

May 9, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Getty Image

AI-generated music mashups are all the rage. Unfortunately, while Grimes may be a fan of the technology-based artistry, other recording artists and their labels aren’t having it. Fans taking a few creative liberties with their favorite musicians’ voices might be fun for a good laugh on social media, but streaming giant Spotify is cracking down on which of these tracks make it onto their platform.

As per Boomy (in a report initially from Fader), the music streamer began taking down tracks using its technology on May 1. Their website reveals Boomy users have created more than 14.5 million AI-generated tracks. However, in a statement provided to Music Business Worldwide, Spotify is not specifically targeting the company or its users. Instead, it’s taking measures to remove songs with fake streams and inflated metrics.

A representative from Spotify confirmed that “certain catalog releases” from Boomy’s AI-generated songs were removed, adding, “Artificial streaming is a longstanding, industry-wide issue that Spotify is working to stamp out across our service.”

In the statement, the rep said, “When we identify or are alerted to potential cases of stream manipulation, we mitigate their impact by taking action that may include the removal of streaming numbers and the withholding of royalties. This allows us to protect royalty payouts for honest, hardworking artists.”

Spotify’s CEO Daniel Ek, has even gone on record to share his thoughts on AI, saying the technology is “huge for creativity” but, by the same token, acknowledges there is a “scary part” to it.

AI-generated music isn’t new by any means. However, as it continues to gain popularity, artists, labels, and streamers are looking to take preventive measures to ensure that it doesn’t infringe on their intellectual property rights.

Denzel Curry Drops “Live At Electric Lady”

May 5, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Denzel Curry is undoubtedly one of rap’s most unique and versatile voices. Time and time again Curry has provided us with great music. Moreover, the Florida word smith has been consistent since the beginning of his career. Tapes like N64, Imperial, Ta13OO, and a slew of others showcase the rapper’s range. Ever since the world heard “Ultimate” from Denzel Curry we knew he was destined for greatness. Not only that, his creativity, wordplay, and beat selection are extremely refreshing and inviting.

Denzel Curry dropped Melt My Eyez See Your Future last year. Additionally, the album showed Curry in a lane of his own. The tape was phenomenal. While there were some great features (shout out T-Pain) Denzel’s solo cuts are some of his best. It’s a cohesive, unique, and boundary-pushing yet fascinating listening experience. Interestingly, this album has received high praise all over, however, Mr. Taco Bell has been putting out great music from the beginning.

Denzel Curry Drops Soulful Live Performance EP

Nevertheless, Denzel Curry has returned with a new jazzy and soulful EP for our ears. His new EP, Live At Electric Lady, is a live performance at the historic New York study created by Jimi Hendrix. The EP has cuts from his previous album but has a soulful jazz band playing the instrumental. Additionally, the jazz band makes for a great change of pace when listening to these tracks. Not only the 7-track EP has great instrumentation across the board. Standout tracks like “Lonely Man,” “Troubles,” and his hit single “Walkin” all have electric, jazzy, and soulful elements to each song.

Interestingly, “Troubles” which features the godfather of auto-tune T-Pain (we appreciate you) now has a new verse from Curry. Furthermore, the track has the same upbeat elements as the original. However, it’s imputed with soul and beautiful instrumentation complimented with dope bars. Not only that, on the live EP, Denzel performs an amazing cover of Erykah Badu’s classic, “Didn’t Cha Know” with a feature from Bilal. While the EP has been dropped as a Spotify exclusive (unfortunately) it’s still worth the listen for the Apple Music users out there. Give the tape a listen and let the HNHH crew know what you think below!

Tracklist:

Lonely Man- Live At Electric Lady
Walkin- Live At Electric Lady
Troubles- Live At Electric Lady
Angelz- Live At Electric Lady
X-Wing- Live At Electric Lady
Didn’t Cha Know [Feat. Bilal]
Endtroduction- Cold Blooded Soul Version

Miguel’s New Single Lands At The Top Of This Week’s “R&B Season” Playlist: Stream

April 30, 2023 by newhiphopnews

While many people prefer to listen to slow jams to get them through the colder months, we’re still bringing plenty of heat to our R&B Season playlist updates this spring. One of our recent favourites comes from Miguel, who shared his first new solo single in some time earlier this week. Called “Give It To Me,” the fully-expected sultry song boasts hypnotic production that only compliments the 37-year-old’s silky smooth voice. It remains unclear if he has plans to share more with fans later this year, though we’ll certainly remain hopeful.

Another noteworthy release comes from Halle Bailey’s work on The Little Mermaid soundtrack. Disney and the Atlanta native are both gearing up for the film’s release next month. Despite the backlash they’ve received for casting Ariel as a Black woman, the vocalist seems to be completely unbothered and is instead leaning into excitement. “Part of Your World,” one of the movie’s most recognizable tracks arrived on DSPs (and our R&B Season playlist) within the past few days, showcasing Bailey’s beautiful vocals. She’s obviously best known for singing alongside her sister, Chlöe, but this proves that Halle is more than capable of holding her own.

HNHH R&B Season Playlist

Halle Bailey at the 95th Annual Academy Awards held at Ovation Hollywood on March 12, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images)

R&B legend Smokey Robinson came through with a sultry new album on Friday (April 28), called Gasms. The nine-track effort is featureless and finds the 83-year-old doing what he does best – setting a sensual mood for listeners with his iconic voice and musical sensibilities. We’ve picked the titular track as our favourite, though he previously shared “If We Don’t Have Each Other” and “How You Make Me Feel” as singles.

Our final pick is another solo effort, this one from Baby Rose’s Through and Through album. It’s called “Water,” and appears on the tracklist alongside efforts like “I Won’t Tell” with Smino” and “Go.” Stream this weekend’s round-up, exclusively on Spotify below. Afterward, tell us which artist had your favourite new arrival in the comments. For more HNHH release recommendations, check out our Fire Emoji playlist with heat from Jack Harlow, Lola Brooke, and more here.

Stream on Spotify

Spotify Could Raise Premium Prices This Year

April 26, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Spotify has become the music streaming platform. Other platforms such as YouTube Music and Tidal do exist. However, none of them come close to the reach or influence of Spotify. It also expanding its podcast services over recent years. Spotify is now the official home of Joe Rogan and The Ringer founder Bill Simmons.

Spotify is free to use with ads. Furthermore, it has previously introduced a system where ads are “frozen” for 30-minute play intervals. However, ads can be avoided entirely with a $9.99 subscription to Spotify Premium. Spotify has also previously run promotions That may not be the case for much longer, as Spotify might be gearing up to raise its prices.

Spotify “Ready” To Raise Prices

Spotify says it’s “ready to raise prices” — with 210 million paid subscribers as quarterly revenue grows 14%. https://t.co/8Yv8e9ecKH

— billboard (@billboard) April 26, 2023

Spotify is not exactly losing money. During their first quarter shareholder meeting, the platform was reported to have made $3.3 billion during 2023 Q1. That’s a 14% increase over 2022, but “slightly lower than the company expected.” This is reportedly due to a $20 million hit taken by the advertising revenue over economic uncertainty. However, CEO Daniel Ek appears set on raising prices in the US. “I think we are ready to raise prices, I think we have the ability to do that, but it really comes down to those negotiations [with major music industry stakeholders].” Ek said. Spotify currently has a reported 210 million premium subscribers. That means they are looking to increase the estimated $2.1 billion they make from premium subscriptions alone.

He also noted that “We did raise prices in 46 different locations and markets last year, and even in those markets, we were still out performing. I feel really good about our ability to raise prices over time — that we have that ability — and we have lots of data now that backs that up. We may have been marginally helped by being a lower-cost provider, but it isn’t a primary part of our strategy and it’s not something that we’re thinking about. Instead, we’re working with our label partners to work […] to figure out what’s the best opportunity to do that. And that’s a more complex trade. When the timing’s right, we will raise it.” While no formal plans were announced, be ready for your Premium subscription to change by the end of the year.

[via]