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UMG Responds to TikTok As Its Catalog Is Removed From Platform

In an open letter to musicians and songwriters on January 30, Universal Music Group, the largest music corporation in the world, revealed that it will cease licensing its content to TikTok as the two parties failed to come up with a new agreement. The company accused TikTok of trying to “bully” and “intimidate” them into a deal, citing artist compensation, user safety, and AI as key issues at dispute.

In its response on Wednesday, TikTok criticized UMG of having “put their own greed above the interests of their artists and songwriters.” It concluded, “TikTok has been able to reach ‘artist-first’ agreements with every other label and publisher. Clearly, Universal’s self-serving actions are not in the best interests of artists, songwriters and fans.”

UMG, which began removing its catalog off the service on Wednesday night, has now issued a new statement in reply to TikTok (via Billboard):

Our agreements with TikTok have expired because of TikTok’s unwillingness to appropriately compensate artists and songwriters, protect human artists from the harmful effects of AI, and address online safety issues for TikTok’s users (more on that here).

In fact, TikTok’s own statement perfectly sums up its woefully outdated view: Even though TikTok (formerly Musical.ly) has built one of the world’s largest and most valuable social media platforms off the backs of artists and songwriters, TikTok still argues that artists should be grateful for the “free promotion” and that music companies are “greedy” for expecting them to simply compensate artists and songwriters appropriately, and on similar levels as other social media platforms currently do.

TikTok didn’t even attempt to address the other issues we raised regarding harmful AI and platform safety. It’s no surprise that artist rights advocates are speaking out in support of our action.

UMG represents some of the biggest stars in the world, including Taylor Swift, Drake, Adele, Bad Bunny, the Weeknd, Billie Eilish, and many more.

8 Books We’re Excited to Read in February 2024

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Another month, another crop of books to get excited about! Ranging from a taboo short story collection about sex work and neurodivergence, an alphabetically organized diary, and a reimagined version of American history, you’ll have more than enough to look forward to this month.

Alphabetical Diaries, Sheila Heti (Feb 6)

The acclaimed auto-fictional writer returns with a personal, abstract, decade-long project where she organizes each sentence in her diary by alphabetical order. The result is liminal but emotional — the form has it so surface-level reflections on food are next to deep ruminations on life itself. Funny, sincere, and always in-tune, Sheila Heti is a writer who is always worth paying attention to.

Ways and Means, Daniel Lefferts (Feb 6)

In a situation we’re all familiar with, Alistair McCabe is disillusioned with life. He came to New York City with a high-end finance job, hoping to give his mother a better life, but in 2016, everything comes undone when he starts working for a darkly ambitious billionaire, whose secrets threaten to rupture his plan. At the same time, he’s entangled in a love triangle with an older couple who have their own problems to deal with — unsavory family inheritance and a desperate painter who both figure out their own ways to success. Funny and observant, Ways and Means is a depiction of workers on the brink that anyone can see themselves in.

People Who Lunch: On Work, Leisure, and Loose Living, Sally Olds (Feb 6)

For fans of the sharp criticism and sly wit of Jia Tolentino and Jenny Odell, Sally Olds is a new, exciting voice that accounts for the millions of young adults attempting to do anything in the face of late-stage capitalism. The Australian writer tackles topics that stem from the rejection of the premise of hyper-productivity that capitalism insists on; Olds writes about polyamory, clubbing, cryptocurrency, art, labor and leisure with ease and dexterity. We might not understand how to particularly thrive in this day and age, but at least we’re all feeling similarly. 

Corey Fah Does Social Mobility, Isabel Waidner (Feb 6)

Bizarre and exploding with ideas, Isabel Waidner’s sophomore novel is a satire on the literary world; when Corey Fah wins the Award for the Fictionalisation of Social Evils, they must go through a journey to pick up the prize, and to get back to their world — including an eight-legged deer, a UFO, and a brief touch with a beloved reality TV show. Funny and entertaining, it’s bound to be another deeply imaginative read from the mind of Waidner.

Bugsy, Rafael Frumkin (Feb 13)

Rafael Frumkin’s second book in as many years is Bugsy, a rollicking, funny, and thoughtful short story collection whose musings are as varied as you can get. We peek into the mind of a doctor undergoing psychosis, a nonverbal child attempting to make sense of the world around him, and a ludicrously popular E-girl whose fans stop at nothing to get a taste of her. At only five stories, Frumkin has the opportunity to dive deep into each world, allowing a nuanced and sometimes uncomfortable look at how neurodivergence affects our lives; always bold, always entertaining.

Plastic, Scott Guild (Feb 13)

Released alongside an album of the same name, Plastic is intricately familiar, disturbingly surreal, and playfully interesting. Coming off the summer of Barbie, you might recognize Plastic’s protagonist, Erin, a plastic girl in a plastic world. She has a good job selling wearable tech, but one day, a terror attack on the factory causes her to see beyond the veneer of her life and explore the broader world. Before becoming a novelist, Scott Guild was a part of the new-wave band New Collisions, where he toured with Blondie and the B-52s. After writing his debut novel, he was pulled back into the world of music; the 9 tracks on Plastic: The Album serve as a soundtrack to Erin’s journey. Wonderfully inventive and redefining the formation of a book launch, Plastic is a major treat.

The Blueprint, Rae Giana Rashad (Feb 13)

In an alternate version of the United States, choice is obsolete — everything about a Black woman, who she marries, what she does, and where she lives is determined by an all-powerful algorithm. Solenne Bonet is one of these women, and while she writes a biography of Henriette, an enslaved ancestor in the 1800s, she realizes that their situations are slowly intertwining. Solenne starts to get involved with Bastien Martin, a high-ranking government official, and starts to wonder about fate and choice — in her world and Henriette’s.

Piglet, Lottie Hazel (Feb 27)

Despite her horrifically cruel nickname from childhood, Piglet is the story of a girl who actually turned out okay. Working as a cookbook editor and in love with a handsome fiancée who will always try her newest recipes, Piglet’s life has come together. But after Kit confesses a betrayal weeks before their wedding, Piglet is shaken, unsettled, and behaving erratically. Suddenly wanting more and going to any means to get it, Piglet’s hero poses a sharp discussion of the dark places our desires come from and how we handle them.

6 Exciting Features That Make Online Casino Games Stand Out

For those looking to combine a luxurious getaway with their love for gaming, the Nemacolin Resort offers an exceptional stay-and-play experience that perfectly complements the exciting features that make it stand out.

With this rise in demand, there has been an influx of new online casinos offering various games and features to entice players. Buckle up as we dive into the world of online casino gaming and explore what makes these virtual venues truly remarkable!

Diverse Game Selection

Online casinos offer a diverse game selection that caters to all types of gamblers. Classic slots and table games are available for those who prefer traditional casino games, while modern video slots and live dealer options are offered for those who are looking for more interactive gameplay. Nowadays, roulette live streaming is one of the most popular features that many online casinos offer, providing players with the chance to experience an immersive and authentic casino atmosphere. Thanks to the endless variety of games available, players can easily switch between different options and find their favorite ones.

Convenience and Accessibility

One of the main reasons why online casinos have become so popular is their convenience and accessibility. With just a few clicks, players can access their favorite casino games from anywhere at any time without having to travel to a physical casino. This means no more waiting in line for a slot machine or dealing with crowds of people.

Online casinos also offer mobile apps and optimized websites so that players enjoy their favorite games on the go. This allows for more flexibility and convenience, as players can now play during their lunch break or while waiting for a bus.

Exciting Bonuses and Promotions

Bonuses and promotions are a common way to reward players and attract new ones. Many sites offer a variety of exciting incentives, such as generous welcome bonuses, free spins, deposit matches, and loyalty rewards. These bonuses can help players get started, extend their gameplay, and enhance their overall experience without spending a dime.

Welcome bonuses can provide a great boost to a player’s bankroll, while free spins can give them a chance to try out new games without risking their own money. Similarly, deposit matches can help players stretch their dollars further while loyalty rewards can offer ongoing benefits and perks. With so many exciting bonuses and promotions you can take advantage of, online casinos are sure to keep players entertained and engaged.

Advanced Security Measures

As technology advances, so do the security measures put in place by online casinos. With cutting-edge encryption and data protection methods, players can trust that their personal information and transactions are safe and secure.

Advanced encryption ensures that all data is kept confidential, and only authorized personnel can access it. Trusting an online casino with this type of information can be nerve-racking, but with advanced security measures, you can rest assured that your information is in good hands. You can also use a VPN to add an extra layer of security and protect your personal information while playing online.

Live Dealer Experiences

As already mentioned above, live dealer games are becoming increasingly popular as they offer the thrill and excitement of a traditional casino without having to leave your house. These games feature real dealers and provide players with an authentic gaming experience, complete with interactive chats and high-quality streaming.

Live dealer options also add a social element to online gambling so that people can interact with each other and the dealer, creating a more immersive environment. If you are worried about missing out on the social aspect of traditional casinos, live dealer games are the perfect solution.

Mobile Gaming Compatibility

Mobile gaming has taken the world by storm, with more and more players choosing to enjoy their favorite casino games on their smartphones and tablets. To make this experience as seamless as possible, many online casino websites have optimized their platforms for mobile devices or have even designed dedicated mobile apps.

Beyond the convenience factor, playing on a mobile device also offers players the flexibility to play at their own pace and in their preferred environment. You don’t have to be tied down to your desktop computer or laptop anymore — simply grab your phone and start playing wherever you are!

As the online casino landscape continues to evolve, it becomes more apparent that these platforms are tailoring their experiences to meet the varying preferences and needs of an increasingly diverse player base. With a compelling mix of game diversity, convenience, bonuses, security, live-dealer interaction, and mobile compatibility, online casinos mimic the excitement of land-based venues and offer unique advantages that are hard to come by offline. 

Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or a curious newcomer, the virtual doors of online casinos are always open, inviting you to a world of entertainment that promises both fun and potential rewards.

Norah Jones and Remi Wolf Cover Big Thief’s ‘Change’

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Norah Jones has collaborated with Remi Wolf on a cover of Big Thief’s ‘Change’. It arrives as part of Jones’ contributions to the Spotify Singles series, which also features a new version of her track ‘Can You Believe’. Take a listen below.

Earlier this year, Jones announced her ninth studio album Visions, a collaboration with producer Leon Michels that’s set for release on March 8. It was led by the single ‘Running’.

Watch the Lemon Twigs Perform ‘My Golden Years’ on ‘Fallon’

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The Lemon Twigs appeared on last night’s episode of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, where they performed their recent single ‘My Golden Years’. In his introduction, Falson also revealed that the duo have a new album on the way called A Dream Is All We Know, which will follow last year’s Everything Harmony. Watch the performance below.

Holly Humberstone Joins Del Water Gap on New Song ‘Cigarettes & Wine’

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Del Water Gap – the solo project of Samuel Holden Jaffe – has enlisted Holly Humberstone for the new single ‘Cigarettes & Wine’. Check it out below.

“‘Cigarettes & Wine’ is an ode to a transatlantic long distance relationship,” Jaffe explained in a statemenet. “It’s about finally getting to catch a moment with the person you’ve been missing the most, and the threads that keep you connected when you’re once again forced to say goodbye.”

Humberstone added: “Working on ‘Cigarettes & Wine’ with one of my favourite artists has been so much fun. I first met Holden about three years ago at the very start of my career when we played a show together at The Roxy in Los Angeles. It was my first time in the states and I’d been a huge fan of Holden’s music and so I was pretty star struck! As the years have gone on I’ve been lucky enough to spend a lot more time in the states, but have definitely felt the pressures that long distance can put on relationships and I think that’s something that a lot of touring artists can really relate to. It’s a song that is so meaningful to me and being able to create it with one of my favourite writers has really been a dream and I hope people love it as much as we do.”

Del Water Gap’s second album, I Miss You Already + I Haven’t Left Yet, came out last year on Mom+Pop. Holly Humberstone released her debut LP, Paint My Bedroom Black, in October.

Billy Joel Releases ‘Turn the Lights Back On’, First New Song in 17 Years

Billy Joel has returned with ‘Turn the Lights Back On’, his first original song in 17 years. The song was produced by Freddy Wexler and co-written by Joel, Wexler, Arthur Bacon, and Wayne Hector. Listen to it below.

‘Turn the Lights Back On’ marks Billy Joel’s first new music since the 2007 songs ‘All My Life’ and ‘Christmas in Fallujah’. His last pop album was 1993’s River of Dreams, though he released the classical music album Fantasies & Delusions in 2001.

Billy Joel is set to perform at the 2024 Grammys this weekend. It will be his first time playing the ceremony in 22 years.

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Playing Online Slot Games

Online casino games are undeniably appealing. The fact that you can play from anywhere and the wide variety of casino games available at your fingertips have made online gambling incredibly popular. That said, before you immerse yourself in online action here are a few things you need to know.

In this article, we have compiled a list of common mistakes that players make when chasing the coveted jackpot prize.

1.      Not Setting a Budget

Managing your bankroll comes before everything and this goes for both online and physical casinos. Set a budget beforehand and stick to it. This should be an amount that you can afford to gamble away. Keep track of your spending, and most importantly, don’t get carried away if you are having good luck.

Even if you win a jackpot, make sure you cash out the prize immediately. This way you will have a bigger budget for your next session, setting yourself up for a refreshing start. Incorporating this strategy will help you maximize your wins in the long term.

2.      Not Taking Advantage of Bonuses and Promotions

Credible casinos often run promotions that reward players with extra cash. Most casinos offer these bonuses and promotions to attract new players and encourage them to try out more games. Depositing with crypto is another promotion that you should be on the lookout for, as these typically reward more than traditional currency deposits.

Some promotions are reoccurring while some are one-time rewards that may give you up to 2x your original deposits. So, read the terms of bonuses carefully, as some platforms have rollover requirements that players need to meet before cashing out their winnings.

3.      Not Understanding the RTP

Chances are you might have heard of RTP or Return-To-Player but don’t understand what it means. RTP is a percentage that shows how much money is returned to the player based on their bet amount. Mostly slot machines use this concept to determine how much a player can win and how much the house profits.

For instance, a slot with an RTP of 97% means the player can expect $97 back for every $100 wager. RTP is a long-term average which means the percentage of all money wagered on a game is paid back to players over time, so this is by no means a guarantee.

4.      Playing at Unlicensed Casinos

Many states do not allow gambling within their borders, but at the same time, they do not restrict online gambling. Most credible online gambling establishments that offer slots are registered in countries where gambling is legal.

Licensed online casinos ensure that their players get a fair gambling experience and provide 24-hour customer assistance through various channels. You can find the licensing information of an online casino establishment on its website footer or “About” page. If the website looks shady and doesn’t have much information, it’s likely unlicensed so stay away from those.

5.      Avoid Falling into Sunken Cost Fallacy Trap to Win Big in the Long Run

Everybody has losing streaks and since casino games are all about luck you will often get disappointing results before you hit the jackpot. As we mentioned earlier, manage your bankroll by setting aside cash that you can afford to lose.

The entire gambling experience should be fun and entertaining. It would help if you learned how to make informed decisions to maximize your winning and when to stop. Just because you have already spent a lot doesn’t mean you have to continue the cycle. Don’t chase losses, come back next time, and test your luck again. This is the most effective way of avoiding falling into the sunk cost fallacy trap.

What Are Slots with Sizeable Payouts & Flexible Bet Range?

There are hundreds of slots available online, but only a few of them shine due to their high payouts and big grand prizes. High payout slots are determined by their gameplay mechanics that feature free spins, multipliers, bonus rounds, and retriggers. Of course, as you play slots with sizeable payouts, you may aim for the jackpot, which exists as a grand prize, however, there are several other ways online slots pay out their rewards.

“A Night with Cleo” Slot is especially known for its progressive jackpot and gambling feature with the potential to multiply your original wager by several times. “Golden Buffalo” is another high-paying slot that offers 4,096 ways to win. Not only that but it also features three winnable jackpots.

Other notable high-paying slots are Lawless Ladies, Reels & Wheels, Fury of Zeus, 777 Deluxe, Mythic Wolf, and Pirates Pick.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the mechanics and concepts behind slot games is crucial for winning more frequently. Once you learn and practice different types of games enough you will have an easier time exploring your options. This can be applied to other games besides slots as well. Additionally, you can make use of “Free Play” modes to understand the games better without wagering real money.

Does Real-Time Strategy have a Place in the Gaming Ecosystem?

Real-time strategy games belong to a sub-genre that encourages you, as a player, to make decisions. It may be that you have to manage resources, build units or defend your territory from hostile invaders. You’ll have to do this while racing against the clock, and other people. Real-time strategy games are all about pace, and whether you are in charge of a whole civilisation or working as a simple farmer trying to make a profitable harvest, time management and solid strategy adoption are key to success.

Real-Time Strategy is Changing the Game

Real-time strategy games are influencing the gaming ecosystem as we know it. Strategy games are known for being both fast and intensive. In some ways, however, they also force you to slow down. When building an empire, it may take you several hours to establish a barracks or construct a stable so you can train horsemen. At the same time though, you may be forced to make important decisions regarding your battle strategy in a matter of seconds. Pacing is everything, and the ebb and flow of this genre is one of the many things that helps to make it so appealing.

Casino games follow a very similar concept. Games like poker happen in real time, with players having to make quick decisions based on the cards that are dealt. You may spend hours coming up with a strategy, only to pivot at the last second in an attempt to outsmart opponents. Other casino games, including online pokies at Sky City also work in real-time, with strategic decisions including whether to hold or nudge, along with the introduction of bonus rounds. Games like this show that real-time strategy games are not localised to consoles, and in reality, play a major part in the traditional gaming ecosystem too.

The Boom Behind Real-Time Strategy Games

Real-time strategy games are experiencing a huge boom right now. A lot of this comes down to the fact that people simply want more from the games that they play. At one point, people wanted better graphics, which then moved to people valuing the importance of a good storyline. Game developers are continually trying to keep up with the constant demand of players, and this is where real-time strategy games have a big part to play. Real-time strategy games utilise something human in a very digital world, the concept of time. They bring a human element to virtual games and force you to use the time you have to your advantage. Time management is key, and although with some games, when you hit pause, the game stops, that isn’t usually the case with RTS games. The virtual world will keep ticking over as the hours in your day go by. Your crops will grow, your armies will continue to fight under your banner and things will continually develop.

AI mechanics play a huge part in RTS games and with the recent advancement of AI, it’s no surprise to see that it is helping to bring this underground genre back into the forefront.

Lana Del Rey Announces New Country Album ‘Lasso’

Lana Del Rey has announced she has a new country album in the works. The singer-songwriter confirmed her plans for a new LP, titled Lasso, at Billboard’s pre-Grammy event in Los Angeles on Wednesday night.

Del Rey took the stage to pay tribute to Jack Antonoff, who’s competing for his third consecutive win as Producer of the Year, Non-Classical at this year’s Grammys. ”If you can’t already tell by our award winners and our performers, the music business is going country,” Del Rey told the crowd. “We’re going country. It’s happening. That’s why Jack has followed me to Muscle Shoals, Nashville, Mississippi, over the last four years – to write our album, coming out in September, called Lasso.”

The new album will follow 2023’s Did You Know That There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Blvd, which earned the singer five Grammy nods, including Album of the Year and Best Alternative Music Album. Her song ‘A&W’ is up for Song of the Year and Best Alternative Music Performance, while ‘Candy Necklace’ with Jon Batiste is nominated for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance.

Back in December, Del Rey shared a cover of the John Denver classic ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’.