Besides Nirvana: 13 Great Alternative Rock Albums from the Early 1990sEarlier this year, we surveyed some great indie-rock albums from the years before Nirvana broke. Now, let's look at some of the best alternative rock LPs that competed with Nirvana in the CD racks.

Attorneys general from 14 states question FireAid’s $100M fund distributionThe inquiry, led by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, centers on growing complaints that fire victims have received no direct assistance.
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RØDE Unveils NT1 5th Generation Studio MicrophoneRØDE, a trusted name in professional audio, introduces the NT1 5th Generation, a modern evolution of its iconic mic.A statement from the company highlights artist Kyle Charles Hall’s endorsement: “Made for Music. Kyle Charles Hall’s words, not ours (although we agree).” Hall relies on the NT1 5th Generation to “capture the dreamy textures of his signature brand of woozy indie pop,” from “warm, velvety vocals” to “the subtle detail of every instrument.”According to RØDE, the NT1 5th Generation “fuses the classic sound signature of the iconic NT1 with cutting-edge, next-generation technology.” Key features include the patent-pending Dual Connect output, allowing both XLR and USB connectivity; a world-first “unclippable” 32-bit float digital output; advanced digital signal processing; and high SPL handling — all while maintaining the NT1’s signature warmth and clarity.The company describes it as “a true studio workhorse that excels on everything from vocals and speech, to guitar, piano, drums and percussion—the ultimate studio microphone.”RØDE states that the NT1 remains “unchanged by design,” but ready for the demands of modern recording.Explore more about the NT1 5th Generation here.The post RØDE Unveils NT1 5th Generation Studio Microphone first appeared on Music Connection Magazine.

The Many Layers of FandomFandom goes far beyond simply being a label or identity, it’s an ongoing journey fueled by active participation and deep connection. Learn why true fans invest time and passion beyond consumption and how layers of fandom redefine what it means to be a fan in the digital age.
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Live Music Industry News Roundup: Hard Rock, Resale, PROs, MoreThis week in live music we take a look at ticket resales, soaring Metal and Hard Rock ticket sales and PRO reporting.
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How Live Music Stocks Performed Last WeekLive Nation reported as strong Q2 on Thursday. Here is a recap of how it and major live music stocks performed during the week ending Friday, August 8, 2025, along with a comparison to the broader stock market.
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Founder of music streaming service BlueBeat indicted over alleged $3.1m fraud schemeA federal grand jury has indicted Hank Risan, the 70-year-old founder of music streaming service BlueBeat, on four counts of wire fraud
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Duolingo educational platform move to #music #education with their purchase and update. Imo can be good to teach

Independent Musician News: Apple Music Album Motion, Music Meets Data, Super Listeners, More…Calling musicians everywhere to check out this week’s Independent Musician News with the top guides and tips to finding success in such a competitive industry… Independent Musician News
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Music Business News Last Week: Micro-Markets, The Value of a Stream, Amazon Music Insights, More…Check out the top music business news last week including new marketing trends, what streams are worth, and more… Music Business News Last Week
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Guitar Center’s “Big Bang” drum event returnsGuitar Center announced on Friday the return of its annual Big Bang event, "a nationwide seasonal promotion that’s focused on drums and percussion running August 7–20, 2025. The two-week event includes special pricing on acoustic and electronic drum gear, along with new product drops from top brands.""Big Bang also brings Guitar Center exclusive models developed in collaboration with Ludwig, Gretsch, and TAMA, plus an expanded snare assortment available both in stores and online," they said. "Drummers can explore event offers on select snares and shell packs designed to deliver standout tone, style, and craftsmanship. In addition, Big Bang includes 48-month promotional financing on select models and in-store opportunities to demo featured kits. The event also features deals on electronic drums from brands like Alesis, giving players at every level a chance to upgrade their sound."“Big Bang highlights what’s possible when we work closely with the world’s top drum brands,” said Gabe Dalporto, CEO of Guitar Center. “We’re bringing drummers gear they won’t find anywhere else, from custom finishes and collector-grade builds to performance ready kits designed specifically for our community.”Guitar Center Exclusive New Launches Featured in the Big Bang Event:Ludwig Supraphonic Hammered Chrome-Plated Copper Snare Drum"This Guitar Center exclusive reimagines one of the most iconic snare drums in history – the Ludwig Supraphonic. Built with a hammered, chrome-plated copper shell, it delivers a darker, harmonically complex tone with enhanced sensitivity and resonance. A warm alternative to the traditional aluminum shell, this 14x6.5" snare drum is both a visual showpiece and a studio-ready workhorse. Limited to just 75 individually numbered pieces, this model merges classic pedigree with modern musicality."Ludwig White Mosaic Snare Drum with Gold Hardware"Blending sophistication and sonic clarity, this Guitar Center exclusive 14x6.5" Classic Maple snare drum features a rare Italian-made White Mosaic wrap paired with gleaming gold hardware. Crafted from 7-ply USA maple, it delivers a full-bodied, warm tone with powerful projection and rich midrange – perfect for both recording and live performance. Only 18 pieces were produced using the last available material from the Mosaic wrap series."Pearl M80 Snare Drum (12x4")"Back by popular demand and exclusive to Guitar Center, the Pearl M80 returns with a larger 12" diameter shell for improved versatility. Constructed from 6-ply poplar, it delivers sharp, focused attack with enough body to serve as a primary snare, a tight effects drum or a dynamic side snare. The updated version also features lighter, more efficient hardware for easier integration into any setup. Compact, crisp and budget-friendly, the M80 is ideal for drummers seeking punchy articulation without sacrificing tone."Pearl GPXS Snare Drum (14x6.5")"New to the Pearl GPX lineup, this Guitar Center exclusive GPXS snare features a 1 mm black nickel-plated steel shell designed to cut through the mix with clarity and power. Tuned for projection and tone, the drum’s eight dual-tuning lugs maintain consistent tension, while the rapid-release strainer allows quick head or snare wire changes – ideal for players who switch styles mid-set. Balancing brightness with warmth, this snare is a rock-solid choice for any genre."Gretsch Catalina Club 4-Piece Shell Pack in White Satin Flame"This Guitar Center exclusive Gretsch kit is as bold in sound as it is in appearance. Featuring an eye-catching White Satin Flame wrap – limited to only 150 shell packs – this 4-piece set (10"/12"/16"/22") marks the first time a Catalina Club has been offered with a 22" bass drum, giving it broader versatility for rock, funk and live gigging. With 7-ply mahogany shells and vintage-style appointments, the kit provides classic Gretsch warmth and attack in a head-turning finish."TAMA Superstar Classic 7-Piece Shell Pack in Coastal Drift"Exclusive to Guitar Center, this expansive 7-piece maple shell pack (8"/10"/12"/14"/14"/16"/22") features the stunning “Coastal Drift” finish – an ocean-inspired gradient that fades from aqua green to natural woodgrain. Designed for expressive players who crave both tone and aesthetic excellence, the drums include TAMA’s Star-Mount system for enhanced resonance, die-cast hoops for tuning stability, and a warm, focused maple tone. With a broad configuration and an approachable price point, this kit is built for performance versatility and visual impact.""Beyond these Guitar Center exclusives, Big Bang features discounts on a wide range of drum gear, including cymbals, pedals, hardware and accessories. Shoppers can browse in-store or online and connect with expert Gear Advisers for personalized recommendations, whether upgrading a single snare or building a complete rig from scratch. Additionally, customers can use the recently introduced Rig Advisor, Guitar Center’s groundbreaking in-store AI assistant that helps musicians instantly explore, compare and choose gear available at their local store, making it easier for musicians to find the right gear for their needs."For more information, visit guitarcenter.com.Photo: Ludwig Supraphonic Hammered Chrome-Plated Copper Snare DrumThe post Guitar Center’s “Big Bang” drum event returns first appeared on Music Connection Magazine.

From Live Nation’s record Q2 concerts revenue to Kobalt’s new AI deal… it’s MBW’s weekly round-upThe biggest headlines from the past seven days... all in one place
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Study claims ticket resale saved fans $414M last year. Did it?A study by "data-analytics firm" Automatiq for self-proclaimed "consumer advocacy group" Protest Ticket Rights claims that fans saved $414 million last year. They saved this amount by buying tickets on resale marketplaces.
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What is a Smart Music Release Strategy in 2025?Releasing music without a plan in 2025 is a fast track to getting buried in the noise. Learn how to build a smart, step-by-step music release strategy that gets music heard and keeps momentum going long after release day.
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PIANIST AND COMPOSER JAHARI STAMPLEY TO PERFORM AT DC JAZZ FESTIVALThe ASCAP Foundation announced on Thursday that, under the leadership of President Paul Williams and Executive Director Nicole George-Middleton, it "continues its partnership in support of emerging jazz artists for a third year with the DC Jazz Festival, headed by President & CEO Sunny Sumter.""The 2025 DC JazzFest takes place August 27-31. The citywide jazz celebration lineup ranges from renowned jazz legends to emerging artists and features a performance by one of this year’s ASCAP Foundation Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Award recipients. Pianist and composer Jahari Stampley will take the DC JazzFest Transit Stage at The Wharf, 1001 7th Street SW in Washington DC on August 30 at 5:15 pm.""Jazz continually reinvents itself, shaping young talent into tomorrow's generation of creators," said ASCAP Foundation President Paul Williams. "We are excited to partner for a third year with DC Jazz Fest to shine a spotlight on up-and-coming jazz creators."“Every summer, we look forward to the DC JazzFest to celebrate the art of jazz and theopportunity to have one of our Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Award recipients share their talents on a high-profile stage,” said ASCAP Foundation Executive Director Nicole George-Middleton."The Jahari Stampley Family Band will surely be a performance to watch. Featured are Jahari Stampley on piano, D-Erania Stampley on upright electric bass, sax, synth and vocals, Ofri Nehemya on drums, and a surprise guest who will be announced during the performance. Earlier that day at 1:00 pm, Jahari will join 'Composing the Future,' a free 'Meet The Artists' discussion at DC’s Arena Stage. Jahari will also be a featured guest on “VERSED: The ASCAP Podcast” on August 25."Jahari Stampley"Jahari Stampley is a Chicago-born pianist who began playing at the age of 14. Within two years of exploring the instrument, he won competitions including the Best High School Jazz Soloist Award and the National Young Arts Competition. By the age of 18, he was recognized and followed by many world-renowned musicians such as Yebba Smith, Jill Scott, Robert Glasper, Cory Henry, Jacob Collier, Stanley Clarke, and Derrick Hodge, among others. Jahari has toured with Stanley Clarke and is featured on Derrick Hodge’s Color of Noise album."Jahari has performed at Radio City Music Hall, The Met Philadelphia, Byline Bank Aragon in Chicago, Carnegie Hall, San Francisco Jazz Center and more. He has also headlined and performed solo piano tours in Berlin, Koethen and Magdeburg in Germany, Geneva, and Los Angeles. He has conducted music workshops in Santa Ana, Costa Rica, and taught masterclasses in Spokane, Washington. Jahari is also the band leader and featured pianist playing the part of Bill Withers’ keyboardist in the feature film Spinning Gold.In May of 2025 Jahari released his single “To Be Alive” from his upcoming second album What A Time, which is set to be released in Asia in July 2025 and in the US in September 2025.In 2023, Jahari won first place in the Herbie Hancock Institute International Competition, was named Chicagoan of the Year in Jazz, became the first non-classical musician to receive the Chicago Youth Symphony Alumni Award, and was awarded the 2023 Luminarts Fellowship for his debut album Still Listening. Still Listening rose to #1 on Apple iTunes in the first weeks of the album’s release. The music on Still Listening has also been arranged for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra."Earlier in his career, Jahari won the Bösendorfer prize in the 2019 International American Jazz Pianists Association Competition (for ages 18-25), the 2018 ASCAP Foundation Fran Morgenstern Davis Scholarship, and was a National Young Arts Foundation 2018 Young Arts Winner. Jahari also created and wrote the music for a mobile music training game, 'Piano Chronicles.' It is available as a mobile app for all mobile devices on Google Play Store and the Apple Store.""The Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Awards were established by The ASCAP Foundation in 2002 to encourage gifted jazz composers up to the age of 30. The program carries the name of the great trumpeter and ASCAP member Herb Alpert in recognition of The Herb Alpert Foundation's multi-year financial commitment to support this unique program. The recipients, who receive cash awards, are selected through a juried national competition."More information on this year’s Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Awards recipients can be found at https://www.ascap.com/press/2025/03/03-28-foundation-herb-alpert-recipients.The post PIANIST AND COMPOSER JAHARI STAMPLEY TO PERFORM AT DC JAZZ FESTIVAL first appeared on Music Connection Magazine.