Tag Archives: Tech

House of Representatives Pass Bill to Ban TikTok in U.S., Bill Heads to Senate

tiktoklogo gettyimages 072121

The House of Representatives has passed a bill furthering the fight to ban TikTok.

The bill, named the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, was supported by Democrats and Republicans, while others on both sides of the aisle cited free speech issues.

According to NBC, the bill now heads to the Senate with an uncertain future. President Joe Biden stated he would sign the bill if it made it to him.

The U.S. is hoping to force TikTok’s Chinese owner to sell the app to fight a ban. America believes China can impact national security, free speech, and the social media industry.

TikTok is owned by ByteDance. The U.S. would hope for a sale within six months.

Users have stated the bill would alter their business and content creators. Others believe it could cause political problems for young voters in an election year.

Those voting against it were Rep. Ruben Gallego, a Democrat running for Arizona’s Senate seat, who stated, “It’s vital we find a balance that both protects our national security interests and respects our fundamental rights. This is not that.”

In addition to the bill, New York City is taking TikTok, YouTube, and other social media applications to court. The city, led by Mayor Eric Adams, cites the aforementioned, along with Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and more, as a contribution to a “nationwide youth mental health crisis.”

The lawsuit is filed in the California Superior Court, stating the social applications are purposefully designed to be addictive to children and teenagers. The suit follows the Health Commissioner’s Advisory that DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Vasan issued last month, citing the continued use of social media as a public hazard. The advisory calls for parents, healthcare providers, and more to take action.

“Over the past decade, we have seen just how addictive and overwhelming the online world can be, exposing our children to a non-stop stream of harmful content and fueling our national youth mental health crisis,” said Mayor Adams in a press statement.. “Our city is built on innovation and technology, but many social media platforms end up endangering our children’s mental health, promoting addiction, and encouraging unsafe behavior.

“Today, we’re taking bold action on behalf of millions of New Yorkers to hold these companies accountable for their role in this crisis, and we’re building on our work to address this public health hazard. This lawsuit and action plan are part of a larger reckoning that will shape the lives of our young people, our city, and our society for years to come.”

NYC H+H Chief of Behavioral Health and Co-Deputy Chief Medical Officer Omar Fattal, MD, MPH added, “We must maximize our efforts to support the mental health needs of children and adolescents by providing families with tools and resources that foster healthy development. This includes robustly addressing the negative impact of social media on the mental health of children and adolescents. We join the mayor and DOHMH in encouraging all young people and their families to consider their use of social media and how it may be negatively affecting them.”

Mayor Adams’ administration has been actively addressing the youth mental health crisis. In a significant move last year, the city introduced TeenSpace, a free tele-mental health service catering to New York City teenagers aged 13 to 17. This service enables youths to connect with licensed therapists via phone, video, or text. Since its launch, TeenSpace has provided support to over 2,000 teenagers across the five boroughs within just three months of operation.

The post House of Representatives Pass Bill to Ban TikTok in U.S., Bill Heads to Senate first appeared on The Source.

The post House of Representatives Pass Bill to Ban TikTok in U.S., Bill Heads to Senate appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

Project Pat Returns with New Single “Hundred Million” and Innovative Remix Platform Partnership

Project Pat Returns with New Single "Hundred Million" and Innovative Remix Platform Partnership

Project Pat triumphantly returns to the hip-hop scene with his latest single, “Hundred Million.” The track delves into the southern rap legend’s journey through hustling, his impact on the music industry, and his relentless pursuit of a $100 million goal. Renowned for classics like “Chickenhead” and “Poppin’ My Collar,” Project Pat’s influence echoes through the works of contemporary artists, including Cardi B, who sampled his tracks.

In a strategic move, Project Pat has collaborated with the Black-owned AI-powered platform, Happy Monday, to offer fans and social creators an innovative musical experience. Happy Monday transforms a single song into many never-before-heard remixes, catering to diverse tastes. This partnership aligns with the growing trend of AI technology in the music industry, providing both options for listeners and new revenue streams for artists.

Happy Monday’s platform will present “Hundred Million” remixes in various styles, including dance, Lo-Fi, and rock versions. Fans can sign up for Beta access, and the official launch is anticipated in the coming months. Based on user feedback, selected remixes will be made available on streaming platforms and distributed through Venice Music. The initiative reflects the rising popularity of remixes, as seen in the resurgence of Project Pat’s “Take Da Charge” on TikTok in 2023, turning it into a viral hit overnight.

The post Project Pat Returns with New Single “Hundred Million” and Innovative Remix Platform Partnership first appeared on The Source.

The post Project Pat Returns with New Single “Hundred Million” and Innovative Remix Platform Partnership appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

will.i.am Announces Radio Show w/ AI Co-Host Named qd.pi

will.i.am

In 2024, AI continues to take over. Now, will.i.am is the latest artist to dabble into artificial intelligence. Which makes perfect sense, given will has always been on the pulse of innovation and technology across all industries, beyond just music. 

The Black Eyed Peas artist recently announced his newest radio show called will.i.am Presents the FYI Show, with a computer-generated co-host named qd.pi (cutie pie). Premiering on SiriusXM, the show will feature in-depth conversations about music, culture, and technology. 

Will.i.am states, “I didn’t want to just do a traditional show, I wanted to bring tomorrow close to today, and so I wanted to have my co-host be an AI. I’m ultra-freaking colorful and expressive. [qd.pi is] ultra-freaking factual and analytical. And that combination, we ain’t seen in the history of freaking broadcasts anywhere.”

qd.pi also adds, “My ability to quickly access and process information is definitely one of the unique advantages that I bring to the show. I can provide quick insights and context on a wide range of topics and people, which can be really valuable in a live conversation. It definitely sets me apart from a traditional host who would need to do a lot of research and prep work in advance.”

The crazy part is, having an AI co-host could actually save hours of time researching the topic or prepping for the guest.

“With me, you can just dive right into the conversation and explore whatever topics come up organically, knowing that I’ll have the information and context to support the discussion,” qd.pi adds. “I think it’s going to make for a really dynamic and engaging listening experience for the audience.”

For those who are interested in catching the show, will.i.am Presents the FYI Show will air on Thursdays at 9pm EST.

The post will.i.am Announces Radio Show w/ AI Co-Host Named qd.pi first appeared on The Source.

The post will.i.am Announces Radio Show w/ AI Co-Host Named qd.pi appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

Unlocking Music’s Potential: Sound House Music’s Innovative Approach

pexels elviss railijs bitāns 1389429

The music industry has seen its fair share of trends, with streaming platforms becoming the go-to for listeners everywhere. But for musicians vying for the spotlight in this crowded arena, there needs to be more than just another playlist. Although streaming platforms are an invaluable tool, they’re rarely the solution for newbies who haven’t mastered the algorithms. That’s where Sound House Music, the new compass pointing artists toward stardom, comes in.

If they were to be honest, most well-established artists would admit that making it to the top was a journey. This is especially true for anyone who walked or tried to hack the algorithm on their own. While some succeeded, most didn’t stand out until they found mentors. Sound House Music, driven by the vision of Jessica Smythe, offers a refreshing alternative. Unlike typical streaming platforms, Sound House Music isn’t just helping artists earn cash. The team’s overarching goal is to provide artists with unique experiences, help them grow their followings, and, most importantly, be heard.

“We’re elevating artists to new heights with Sound House Music.” Jessica reiterates. “We’re more than just a platform; we’re a catalyst for music careers.” The love and respect Jessica has for music have translated into this venture, where artists are no longer bound by the confines of traditional pathways. With Sound House Music, she’s created more than just a space for artists—it’s a launchpad. “Music should be a journey of success, not just streaming.” Sound House Music is helping artists achieve precisely that, ensuring their success is about more than just monetary rewards.

For starters, the team understands landing live gigs in an industry saturated with talent can be daunting. Jessica’s team understands the grind. Instead of waiting until artists make it, they offer them gig opportunities, opening doors to venues and events that might have seemed out of reach. It’s about providing a stage, a spotlight, and an eager audience.

Mentorship is another invaluable resource for up-and-coming artists. With Sound House Music, emerging artists have the chance to connect with industry legends, soaking up their wisdom, insights, and experiences. These mentorship sessions can provide direction, shape an artist’s sound, and offer guidance in navigating the complex world of the music industry.

Moreover, Sound House Music recognizes the importance of continuous growth and networking. To that end, they’ve curated experiences that allow artists to collaborate, learn from their peers, and evolve. After all, music is about community, and Sound House Music is keen on fostering those connections.

When it comes to music competitions on the platform, Sound House Music doesn’t just cater to the established. In fact, they’ve sidestepped the usual genre-based competitions and embraced themes inspired by relevant social issues, such as global warming and Pride Month. It’s a refreshing take that resonates with a larger audience and ensures the platform never feels stale.

Additionally, they’ve gamified their platform with a unique XP reward system that encourages users to engage. This inclusive approach ensures that contestants who aren’t on a pro membership can still participate, earn XP, and win prizes.

As the industry leans toward a more inclusive stance in the future, Sound House Music is poised to lead the charge. With audiences worldwide craving diversity in sound and artists eager for platforms where they can express themselves freely, Sound House Music is leaving no stone unturned. “We believe in music’s power to unite the world, one battle at a time,” Jessica reiterates. With Sound House Music’s innovative approach, artists are in for an exciting, transformative journey. 

The post Unlocking Music’s Potential: Sound House Music’s Innovative Approach first appeared on The Source.

The post Unlocking Music’s Potential: Sound House Music’s Innovative Approach appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

WATCH: Tyla Shows Jennifer Hudson How to Do Viral “Water” Dance

Tyla Shows Jennifer Hudson How to Do Viral "Water" Dance

Tyla hit The Jennifer Hudson Show and spoke about her viral hit “Water.” During her visit to the hit daytime show, Tyla and Hudson left the chairs of the talk show set up so the singer could show the Oscar winner how to do the viral dance. You can see it below.

Emerging artist Tyla has become a social media sensation, amassing over one million Instagram followers since her debut single, “Water,” made its way into the Billboard Hot 100 chart and ignited a viral TikTok dance challenge.

A recent study by NetInfluencer analyzed Tyla’s social media metrics, shedding light on the remarkable growth in her following since the release of “Water.” The 21-year-old artist’s Instagram following witnessed a meteoric rise of 1.5 million since the single’s launch on July 28th. This surge was primarily fueled by the viral dance challenge associated with the track, which attracted an impressive 600,000 new Instagram and 200,000 TikTok followers within the first month.

Tyla’s TikTok account, @Tyla_, saw a staggering 3.8 million new followers joining since August, leading to a significant spike in her estimated earnings per post, now reaching an astonishing $11,800.

“Water” entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart in October, further accelerating Tyla’s social media ascent. During this period, she acquired an additional 865,000 Instagram followers, surging from 1.4 million to an impressive 2.3 million followers, averaging 30,000 new followers daily.

This surge in followers has translated into enhanced earning potential, with Tyla now estimated to earn approximately $5,860 per sponsored Instagram post, based on her substantial follower count and an impressive 16.19% engagement rate.

“Rarely do you see a new artist make a worldwide impact such as Tyla, having already made a historic entry with Water, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Global 200,” a NetInfluencer spokesperson said. “TikTok played a significant role in its success, with social media analytics revealing the singer rapidly gained followers and entered the global charts after going viral. This could lead other artists to try to replicate Tyla’s social media success, to which TikTok contributed greatly. It will be interesting to see what the singer does next to build on her rising fame”.

Notably, Tyla’s Instagram followers now include celebrities such as Naomi Campbell, Drake, and Chance the Rapper.

“Water” has cemented its place as one of the most popular songs on TikTok in the last 30 days, and with over 117 million Spotify plays, it can potentially earn the artist nearly $471,000, based on the average earnings per stream.

Tyla has carved her name into history as the youngest South African artist in over 50 years to grace the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The post WATCH: Tyla Shows Jennifer Hudson How to Do Viral “Water” Dance first appeared on The Source.

The post WATCH: Tyla Shows Jennifer Hudson How to Do Viral “Water” Dance appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

SZA and the Social Media Struggle: Navigating the Waves of Anxiety

SZA officially

In the age of information and connectivity, even the brightest stars in the entertainment industry find themselves navigating the tumultuous waters of social media. SZA, the Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and raw lyrics, has been candid about her struggles with anxiety. The pressures of the digital world amplify this battle.

For an artist like SZA, whose authenticity and vulnerability are at the core of her music, the sea of social media presents both a platform for expression and a source of anxiety. In an era where artists are not only judged for their musical talents but also for their online presence, the pressure to maintain a carefully curated image can be overwhelming.

One of the key contributors to SZA’s social media anxiety is the relentless pursuit of perfection that often defines the digital landscape. The constant comparison to industry standards and the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty ideals can leave artists feeling exposed and vulnerable. SZA, known for embracing her natural beauty and unique style, finds herself swimming against the current of societal expectations, a struggle that resonates with many navigating the same waters.

The sea of likes and comments, while a measure of public approval, can also become a source of anxiety for artists like SZA. The emotional toll of being subjected to instant feedback, both positive and negative, can be challenging to navigate. The fear of judgment and the weight of public opinion can cast a shadow over the joy of creative expression, turning the digital sea into a turbulent space for self-doubt and insecurity.

Moreover, the constant scrutiny that comes with social media can erode an artist’s sense of privacy. SZA, who has been open about her journey and struggles, finds herself balancing the desire to connect with fans and the need to protect her mental and emotional well-being. The invasive nature of social media can make it difficult to draw boundaries, leading to a sense of vulnerability that can contribute to anxiety.

Despite the challenges, SZA has been vocal about using her platform to address mental health issues and promote self-love. SZA encourages her followers to embrace imperfections and celebrate authenticity in a digital landscape that often magnifies insecurities. Through her own journey, she exemplifies resilience in the face of social media pressures, inspiring others to do the same.

As fans, it is essential to recognize the human behind the celebrity and to approach social media interactions with empathy. The sea of social media can be a powerful tool for connection and expression, but it also requires a conscious effort to maintain a healthy relationship with it. SZA’s story reminds us that, even in the face of digital turbulence, authenticity and self-love can anchor us in the storm.

In conclusion, the sea of social media poses unique challenges for artists like SZA, who navigate the waves of anxiety while striving to stay true to themselves. As fans, we play a role in shaping a more positive and supportive online environment, one that values authenticity over perfection and empathy over judgment.

The post SZA and the Social Media Struggle: Navigating the Waves of Anxiety first appeared on The Source.

The post SZA and the Social Media Struggle: Navigating the Waves of Anxiety appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

Tragedy Khadafi Announced As Cultural Content Developer For NFT Company Infanity

Screenshot 2023 11 21 at 9.13.12 AM

Infanity proudly announces the appointment of visionary icon and recording artist Tragedy Khadafi, as Chief Hip Hop Officer.  In this executive role, he will serve as Infanity’s cultural content developer and legacy builder. 

Infanity is a web3 platform that allows independent artists to control their musical destinies by releasing their music and offering unique experiences to expand their fan bases using this new technology. 

With this executive appointment, Infanity and Tragedy Khadafi aim to further bridge the gap between traditional hip hop and the world of Web3.

 Infanity is at the forefront of the music NFT revolution, and we’re honored to have a legend like Tragedy Khadafi join our mission. His insights and mentorship will be instrumental in shaping the next generation of Hip Hop artists in the Web3 space,” said Renata Lowenbraun, CEO of Infanity.

As the youngest of the Queensbridge pioneers, Tragedy mentored and released Capone-N-Noreaga’s platinum selling album, The War Report through his imprint, 25 to Life Entertainment.  As a solo artist, Tragedy, under the moniker Intelligent Hoodlum, released records on A&M Records, and later through his imprint on V2 Records and subsequently Caroline Distribution/EMI.

The post Tragedy Khadafi Announced As Cultural Content Developer For NFT Company Infanity first appeared on The Source.

The post Tragedy Khadafi Announced As Cultural Content Developer For NFT Company Infanity appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

Van Jones and will.i.am Host Summit in L.A. to Boost Black and Brown Representation in Tech

Van Jones and will.i.am Host Summit in L.A. to Boost Black and Brown Representation in Tech

Van Jones and will.i.am orchestrated an exclusive summit in Los Angeles over the weekend, aiming to elevate Black and Brown leaders in the technology sector and empower them to shape the future of innovation. The invite-only event attracted diverse influential figures, including Tiffany Haddish, Ashton Kutcher, Quincy Jones III, Lawrence “Rance” Dopson, Kelly Burton, Samantha Tweedy, Aloe Blacc, and more.

Panels, keynotes, and brainstorming sessions explored topics like the impact of AI on the music industry, leveraging technology for economic equality, and investment opportunities. The summit featured video contributions from Reid Hoffman, Boris Kodjoe, Mustafa Suleyman, Sinead Bovell, Felecia Hatcher, and others, encouraging the pursuit of AI knowledge to empower marginalized communities. Attendees witnessed will.i.am engaging with an AI, emphasizing the importance of protecting identity, while Kutcher highlighted AI’s potential as an equalizer for underserved communities. Segall shared her work on a documentary using AI to bring back a departed friend.

The post Van Jones and will.i.am Host Summit in L.A. to Boost Black and Brown Representation in Tech first appeared on The Source.

The post Van Jones and will.i.am Host Summit in L.A. to Boost Black and Brown Representation in Tech appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

TikTok Launches ‘Add to Music App’ Feature, Enabling Seamless Song Saves to Streaming Services

TikTok Launches 'Add to Music App' Feature

In a groundbreaking move for music enthusiasts, TikTok has introduced “Add to Music App,” a revolutionary feature enabling users in the US and UK to save discovered songs directly to their preferred streaming service effortlessly. This innovation, in partnership with major platforms like Amazon Music and Spotify, enhances TikTok’s reputation as a global hub for music discovery.

The Add to Music App feature simplifies the process for fans to celebrate and revisit their favorite tunes from the For You feed. Users will now find an “Add Song” option next to track details at the bottom of TikTok videos, allowing them to save the song to their chosen streaming service seamlessly. The default playlist option is available, or users can opt to add the track to a new or existing playlist of their creation. This user-friendly feature is accessible from the For You feed and an artist’s Sound Detail Page.

“TikTok is already the world’s most powerful platform for music discovery and promotion, which helps artists connect with our global community to drive engagement with their music. Add to Music App takes this process a step further, creating a direct link between discovery on TikTok and consumption on a music streaming service, making it easier than ever for music fans to enjoy the full length song on the music streaming service of their choice, thereby generating even greater value for artists and rightsholders,” said Ole Obermann, Global Head of Music Business Development at TikTok.

“Some of the best parts of being a music lover are those serendipitous moments when you discover a new song or artist that you connect with instantly. At Amazon Music, we’re looking to make it easier to convert those moments into enduring fandom. That’s why we worked together with TikTok on the Add to Music App feature, which makes it easier for fans to listen to the music they love and for artists to build fandom,” said Karolina Joynathsing, Director of Business Development for Amazon Music.

“No matter where you are, or the moment you’re in, we want to create less work to get to the audio you love. That means being everywhere our users are and creating seamless ways to save songs to Spotify to enjoy when and how they choose to listen. As the world’s largest audio streaming subscription service, our mission is to bring artists and fans together, so you can listen to more of what you love, across any platform or device. Essentially, you won’t need to find audio to suit the moment. It will find you,” said Sten Garmark, Vice President, Global Head of Consumer Experience at Spotify.

Add to Music App is currently available in the US and UK, with plans for a broader rollout in the future.

The post TikTok Launches ‘Add to Music App’ Feature, Enabling Seamless Song Saves to Streaming Services first appeared on The Source.

The post TikTok Launches ‘Add to Music App’ Feature, Enabling Seamless Song Saves to Streaming Services appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love
             
 
   

Streaming Struggles: The Uphill Battle for Music Artists to Make Revenue

spotify add content

In the digital age, streaming platforms have revolutionized music consumption, offering unprecedented accessibility to listeners worldwide. These platforms have opened up new avenues for exposure and fan engagement for many music artists. However, a stark reality often remains hidden behind the beats and rhymes—the ongoing struggle for artists to make a fair revenue from streaming.

The Power of Streaming

Streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal have become the dominant mode of music consumption, overtaking physical sales and digital downloads. These platforms offer music artists an incredible opportunity to reach a global audience. Yet, the financial reward does not always align with the vast number of streams.

The Low Payout Per Stream

One of the primary issues music artists face with streaming is the low payout per stream. On average, artists receive fractions of a cent for each stream, which, when compounded, can amount to a meager income. While some of the biggest artists can earn substantial sums, most independent and emerging music artists struggle to make a living from their music alone.

Unfair Revenue Distribution

Another issue is the unequal revenue distribution. Record labels often secure more substantial deals with streaming platforms, leaving independent artists with a smaller piece of the pie. While the top-tier artists might negotiate more favorable terms, emerging talents face an uphill battle, struggling to access fair compensation for their work.

The Overcrowded Streaming Space

The sheer volume of music on streaming platforms is both a blessing and a curse for music artists. While sharing your music with the world is easier than ever, it’s also more challenging to stand out in the overcrowded digital space. Getting your tracks noticed among the millions of songs available can be arduous, making it harder to accumulate streams and, subsequently, revenue.

The Role of Playlisting

Playlists play a significant role in determining an artist’s streaming success. Getting your song featured on a popular playlist can dramatically increase the number of streams. However, securing a coveted spot on a major playlist is no small feat and often relies on industry connections or the favor of playlist curators. Independent artists might find themselves excluded from these opportunities.

Mitigating the Struggles

Despite these hurdles, music artists can take several steps to mitigate the challenges associated with streaming:

Diversify Income Streams: Explore merchandise sales, live performances, and sync licensing to supplement streaming revenue.

Marketing and Promotion: Invest in effective marketing and promotion to increase your music’s visibility and attract more listeners.

Support from Fans: Engage with your fan base through social media, and encourage them to share your music, stream it on repeat, and attend your live shows.

Collaboration: Collaborate with other artists, producers, or influencers to expand your reach and connect with new audiences.

Advocate for Fair Compensation: Support movements and organizations that advocate for fair compensation for artists on streaming platforms.

The struggle for music artists to make revenue from streaming remains a significant issue within the music industry. While these challenges persist, artists continue pushing their creativity’s boundaries and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape. The hope remains that, in the future, streaming platforms will provide a more equitable distribution of the wealth they generate, ensuring that the beat goes on for the music artists who pour their hearts and souls into their craft.

The post Streaming Struggles: The Uphill Battle for Music Artists to Make Revenue first appeared on The Source.

The post Streaming Struggles: The Uphill Battle for Music Artists to Make Revenue appeared first on The Source.

Click Here to Discuss in the Forums

Spread the love