Chappell Roan - The Rise of a Queer Pop Icon: A Case Study by shesaid.so

Chappell Roan at Coachella 2024

Chappell Roan, born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz, is a dynamic force in the music industry whose journey from a conservative upbringing in Willard, Missouri, to becoming a celebrated queer pop icon, exemplifies resilience and authenticity. Her story is one of transformation and determination, navigating the challenges of the music industry while embracing her true self. This case study explores Roan's evolution as an artist, her impactful contributions to queer representation, and her unwavering commitment to pushing musical and cultural boundaries. Through her bold lyrics, distinctive style, and passionate support for drag culture, Chappell Roan has not only carved out a unique space in pop music but also inspired countless individuals to live unapologetically.

Early Life and Inspiration

Born Kayleigh Rose Amstutz in the small town of Willard, Missouri, Chappell Roan was raised in a conservative Christian household, attending church three times a week. Despite her upbringing, she was inspired by pop music, including artists like Ke$ha, Lady Gaga, Cyndi Lauper, and Katy Perry, to pursue a career in music from a young age.

Musical Beginnings and Industry Challenges

Roan's musical journey began in her early teens when she started writing songs, driven by her infatuation with an older Mormon student. Her talent caught the attention of Atlantic Records, and she was signed to a record deal in her late teens. Adopting the stage name "Chappell Roan" in honor of her late grandfather, she embarked on a journey that took her across the United States for writing and recording sessions. Despite her initial excitement, Roan soon realized that the music industry required hard work and perseverance.

In 2018, Roan moved to Los Angeles to work with producer Dan Nigro, known for his collaboration with Olivia Rodrigo. The transition to the big city was both terrifying and exhilarating for Roan, who found herself experiencing queer freedom for the first time in West Hollywood's gay bars. This newfound sense of liberation inspired her to embrace her queer identity fully and incorporate it into her music and persona.

After the release of her empowerment anthem "Pink Pony Club," Roan faced setbacks when Atlantic Records dropped her. The release of "Pink Pony Club" in 2021 marked a turning point. This empowerment anthem resonated deeply with the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating self-love and individuality. While being dropped by Atlantic Records initially felt like a setback, Roan's determination only grew stronger.

Breakthrough and Artistic Vision

Despite feeling like a failure, she refused to give up on her dreams and returned to Los Angeles with renewed determination. Teaming up with Dan Nigro once again, Roan signed with Amusement, his imprint at Island Records, and began working on her debut album, "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess." The album, characterized by its bold and unapologetic sound, has garnered millions of streams and solidified Roan's reputation as a rising star in the music industry.

The pivotal moment that changed Roan’s music was in the UK for a gig called Naked in London. A drag queen called Crayola opened for her as she was getting ready and transforming into Chappell Roan, Crayola said, ‘Girl, you are a Drag Queen’. Roan said it was a life altering moment and it’s where she began to explore her queer identity within her artistry, embracing drag culture through her extravagant costumes, big hair, bold makeup and pop sound. 

For Roan, authenticity is paramount, and she refuses to conform to the norms of the music industry. Her debut album is a testament to her commitment to embracing her queerness and celebrating her unique identity. With lyrics that push the boundaries of taste and sound that blends influences from Patsy Cline to RuPaul, Roan's music stands out in a landscape dominated by safe and predictable pop.

Impact on Pop Culture and Queer Representation

Roan's rise to stardom has not only reshaped the music industry but also had a significant impact on pop culture and queer representation. By openly embracing her queerness and incorporating it into her artistry, Roan has become an icon of queer pop, inspiring countless fans to embrace their true selves unapologetically. Her presence in the music industry serves as a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ youth seeking visibility and representation in mainstream media.

Roan's passion for her queer identity extends far beyond music. A champion for drag culture, a vibrant art form with deep LGBTQ+ roots, she actively uplifts drag performers. From featuring local queens as tour openers to donating portions of ticket sales to LGBTQ+ charities, Roan's support extends beyond the stage. She even ensures merch and ticket prices are accessible, fostering a strong connection with her dedicated LGBTQ+ fanbase. She also believes that Chappell Roan is the “drag version” of Kayleigh, blurring the lines between singer and showman. Roan's expression of drag is campy, with over-the-top outfits that take inspiration from many cultural references, bold and exciting makeup, and a confident and assured stage presence – all infused with Roan's unapologetic spirit.

Conclusion

Chappell Roan represents a positive shift in the music industry towards greater acceptance and visibility of queer artists. Despite challenges like being dropped by her record label, Roan continued to pursue her musical career. Her rise to fame, driven by her authenticity and unique music, shows that the industry is becoming more welcoming to diverse voices. Roan's journey underscores the power of self-expression and the importance of staying true to one's identity in a field that often pressures artists to conform.

Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter: A Celebration of Black Legacy in Country Music

Beyoncé's new album"Cowboy Carter" celebrates Black cultural influence within the country music genre. The album celebrates Black culture and music while addressing issues of erasure and discrimination while showcasing impressive collaborations (Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and more).

We're exploring the album's powerful message of identity and resilience, and delve into Beyoncé's strategic approach in the industry.

Beyoncé's latest album, "Cowboy Carter," breaks genre boundaries and celebrates Black culture and music while addressing issues of erasure and discrimination. The album has the most incredible list of collaborators and contributors Including Dolly Parton, Post Malone, Miley Cyrus, Rumi Carter, Willie Jones, Linda Martell, Willie Nelson, Shaboozey, Tanner Adell, Brittney Spencer, Tiera Kennedy, Reyna Roberts and Pharrell Williams. 

The album's name, 'Cowboy Carter,' is inspired by the original Black cowboys of the American West, as stated by Beyoncé's Parkwood Entertainment. The character of Cowboy Carter symbolizes the 'Western fortitude' displayed by Black cowboys, aiming to reclaim the term 'cowboy' from its derogatory historical connotations. Additionally, 'Cowboy Carter' draws inspiration from Western films, with Beyoncé screening movies like 'Urban Cowboy,' 'The Hateful Eight,' and 'Space Cowboys' during the recording process.

"Cowboy Carter" has been in development since before Beyoncé's “Renaissance” album. Initially planned for release before Renaissance, it has been a long process with Beyoncé recording around 100 songs before finalizing the album. The delay in its release was attributed to the heaviness of the world during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, with Beyoncé wanting to bring joy to listeners when the time was right. She expressed gratitude for having the time and space to work on the album, ultimately trusting in divine timing for its release.

With a diverse range of sounds and collaborations with Black country artists, Beyoncé explores her family's ancestry and the Black roots of country music. Through spoken interludes and reinterpretations of classics like "Jolene," she highlights the challenges faced by Black musicians in the country genre. The album serves as a bold statement against critics who doubted her place in country music. It reflects Beyoncé's personal experiences, including her 2016 Country Music Awards performance, which faced racist backlash. It also references the historical mistreatment of Black Americans, symbolized by her reclaiming of her family's surname.

The album includes a tribute to Linda Martell, a pioneering Black country music singer. Martell's historic contributions to the genre, including her groundbreaking 1970 album "Color Me Country," paved the way for future Black artists in country music. Despite facing obstacles and setbacks in her career, Martell's legacy is being recognized and celebrated, with Beyoncé's homage marking another acknowledgment of her impact.

Beyoncé's rendition of Dolly Parton's classic song, Jolene, has sparked both praise and criticism. While some compare it unfavorably to the original, citing a perceived lack of vulnerability, others appreciate its departure from convention. 

 According to Dr Kadian Pow (Lecturer in Sociology and Black Studies, Birmingham City University), Parton's version embodies traditional white southern femininity, characterized by charm and demureness, contrasted with Jolene's fiery persona. “Beyoncé's interpretation, rooted in African American Women's Language, portrays a different narrative. She warns rather than pleads, asserting her multilayered Black identity and experiences. The song reflects a matured perspective on infidelity, with Beyoncé's husband standing by her side against the threat posed by Jolene. The differences in their approaches to the same theme highlight the intersectionality of age, race, and womanhood’.

As "Cowboy Carter" addresses themes of identity and resilience, it offers hope for a more inclusive future in the country music industry. While Beyoncé herself has clarified that her album isn't strictly country, its influence on the genre is undeniable. Beyoncé is paving the way for artists like Tanner Adell, Willie Jones, Tiera Kennedy, Linda Martell, Reyna Roberts, Brittney Spencer, and alt-country artist Shaboozey. Among those inspired by Beyoncé's impact are groups like The BoykinZ, a quartet of sisters from Atlanta suburbs, who see her creativity as a catalyst for their own artistic expression. Similarly, artists like RVSHVD, Ashlie Amber, The Kentucky Gentleman, and Chapel Hart are finding inspiration and encouragement in Beyoncé's approach to country music, ushering in a new era of diversity and inclusivity within the genre. 

A new CNN FlashDoc titled "Call Me Country: Beyoncé and Nashville’s Renaissance" explores this topic further (to be released on April 26), examining how high-profile artists like Beyoncé and Lil Nas X are challenging the genre's status quo. The film features interviews with artists like Rhiannon Giddens and Brothers Osborne, as well as commentary from experts and co-directors of the Black Opry.

Beyoncé’s artistic endeavors are approached with strategic precision to amplify her impact and effectively convey her message in major events like at the Superbowl with the Beyoncé & Verizon Commercial or by channelling glam cowgirl style at the 2024 Grammy Awards. All the while, she considers the broader impact that her work has on those looking up to her and following in her footsteps.  

Beyoncé's experience navigating exclusion in the music industry offers valuable insights. Following the backlash she faced after her performance at the 2016 Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, Beyoncé took a strategic approach in responding to exclusionary treatment. She chose not to directly address the incident at the time but instead focused on promoting her albums and expanding her representation in Black culture.

“This is not a country album,” she announced. “This is a Beyoncé album.” This suggests that her goal was not acceptance but to show that her work goes beyond the genre-limited thoughts. We should all find inspiration in her strategic approach: from letting the attacks go in the moment to finding collaborators keen to diversify the genre to developing her very own Queen Bey enterprise in Country Music. 

Victoria Monèt’s Road to Success: A Case Study by shesaid.so

Victoria Monét's journey to musical stardom is not a straight line. It's a testament to resilience, self-discovery, and unwavering passion, navigating the twists and turns of the music industry while staying true to her authentic voice.

This case study delves into Monét's remarkable ascent, from her early days as a poetry-loving teenager to her triumphant Grammy wins in 2024. We'll explore the challenges she faced, the lessons learned, and the unwavering determination that ultimately propelled her to the top.

Victoria Monét's musical journey began with her love for poetry. After a successful audition for a new group ‘Purple Reign’, she landed a record deal with Motown. A year later the group was dropped before releasing any music.
Following the group's disbandment, Monét turned to songwriting as her main source of income. 

Having written for artists like Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez and Blackpink, Monét struggled for recognition in her solo career, questioning her worth and considering leaving the industry.
The quest for recognition as a solo artist started in 2014, and Monét achieved her first win with the independent release of the “Jaguar" EP in 2020, where she discovered her authentic sound.

Establishing her voice included being honest with herself, her fans, and her family. In November 2018, she came out as bisexual, allowing her to express more truth in her music, such as in the 2019 Grande duet 'Monopoly' and 'Touch Me,' the concluding track on 'Jaguar'.

Monét's 10-year delay in reaching her potential reflects broader industry challenges. Breaking out from the 'songwriter' label, especially for women, is difficult. 

As Monét noted in an interview, the complication when female vocalists sound too similar to the artists they write for makes differentiation challenging.

Motherhood played a significant role in Monèt’s artistic rebirth, giving her new purpose and determination to elevate her career. While in labor with her first child, she continued working on her music. 

Despite setbacks and doubts about her career, she persisted, releasing her debut full-length album, "Jaguar II," in August 2023, which received critical acclaim.

In 2023, Monét hit major milestones in her music career; releasing her debut album, Jaguar II, headlining a sold-out tour, and scoring a number-one hit with "On My Mama" on the Billboard chart.

Notably, her 2-year-old daughter, Hazel Monét, became the youngest Grammy nominee of all time due to her laughter on Victoria's track "Hollywood."

Victoria Monét's journey to success reached a pinnacle in 2024 as she won her first Grammy awards, including the Best New Artist trophy, Best R&B Album for "Jaguar II," and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. 

The long-overdue recognition came after years of hard work and dedication in the music industry.

Monét stressed the significance of reading contracts and understanding her value in the music industry. Despite being labelled as 'underrated' for years, her persistence, tenacity, and patience have finally yielded well-deserved success.

As a mother in her 30s, she represents a shift in archaic standards and continues to evolve as an artist, expressing the best of life through her music.

Universal Music Group's Pause on TikTok

The music industry faces a brewing storm as Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok lock horns over the renewal of a licensing agreement. In a letter detailing concerns, UMG raises issues such as inadequate artist compensation, the impact of AI on royalties, and online safety. The repercussions of UMG pulling its music library are felt by disappointed fans and scrambling artists.

In a letter dated January 30, 2024, Universal Music expressed apprehensions about its expiring licensing agreement with TikTok. The missive pointed out problems like insufficient compensation for artists, the adverse effects of AI on human artists, and a lack of online safety measures.

UMG criticized TikTok for proposing a compensation rate significantly lower than other platforms. The letter also accused TikTok of allowing an influx of AI-generated recordings, affecting the royalty pool for human artists, and raised concerns about content infringement, adjacency issues, hate speech, and harassment.

While artists appreciate TikTok's ability to promote their music, they are also concerned about potential impacts on their careers. TikTok heavily relies on licensed music, particularly from Universal, to engage and retain users.

The impasse puts both Universal and TikTok at risk, with potential consequences for artist promotion and the platform's user experience. Previous deals with other labels, like Warner Music, did not face similar challenges, indicating unique complexities in negotiations between Universal and TikTok.

UMG's TikTok "time out" also impacts publishing clients, affecting artists such as Sophie Ellis Bextor (whose song "Murder on the Dance Floor" went viral on TikTok 22 years after its release, following its feature in the movie "Saltburn"), Harry Styles, Bicep, Rina Sawayama, and Fred Again..., whose hits have disappeared from TikTok.

A resolution is critical for the music industry, as the absence of Universal's vast catalog on TikTok could have long-term damaging effects for all involved, straining relationships with affected labels and stakeholders.

TikTok’s Response

TikTok's influence on global music consumption is indisputable. Songs, like Jain's "Makeba," published long ago, can suddenly become mega-hits. TikTok helped elevate Tate McRae's 'Exes' and 'Greedy' to her first number one song. Many more chart-toppers such as Ice Spice’s “Munch (Feelin’ U)” are attributed to TikTok's viral video trends.

On Tuesday, January 30, 2024, TikTok responded to Universal Music Group's decision with disappointment, accusing the label of prioritizing greed over the interests of artists and songwriters.

TikTok dismissed Universal's narrative as false, emphasizing successful 'artist-first' agreements with all other labels and publishers. The statement suggests that Universal's actions are not aligned with the best interests of artists, songwriters, and fans, highlighting TikTok's role as a powerful, free promotional and discovery tool for talent.

Fan Reactions

Universal Music Group's removal of Taylor Swift's music and songs from other major artists elicited shock and disappointment from fans on TikTok. Some humorously suggested Swift create a "TikTok Version" of her albums.

Musicians like Euan Blackman and Talia Sporkin shared their versions, while influencers joined the trend with comical cover videos. Independent artists seized the opportunity to promote their original work in the absence of UMG's big names on TikTok.

UMG vs TikTok: Can this deadlock be resolved?

Universal Music Group's TikTok withdrawal and its issued "time-out" mark a crucial moment in the music business, raising questions about the future of licensing agreements and the delicate balance between artists, platforms, and industry giants. Can this deadlock be resolved, or will it redefine the landscape of music industry partnerships? The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future dynamics of licensing agreements and collaborations between artists and digital platforms.

Nine Ways Taylor Swift Has Changed the Music Industry

Taylor Swift is one of the most successful and influential artists of her generation. She has broken numerous records, won countless awards, and amassed a global following of millions of fans. But what is it about Taylor Swift that makes her such a force to be reckoned with? We have explored some key factors that have contributed to Taylor Swift's success.

1 - Championing Artist Rights

In the mid-2010s, Taylor Swift made headlines as an advocate for artists' rights. In 2014, she pulled her music from Spotify, protesting the platform's low royalty payouts. Swift's bold move was followed by another stand in 2015 when she challenged Apple Music's decision not to pay artists during its free trial period. 

Swift's public outcry led to a quick policy reversal by Apple. These incidents showcased Swift's significant influence, used to champion fair treatment and compensation for artists. 

2 - Taylor's Version

Scooter Braun sold all Taylor’s masters to Shamrock Holdings, a move that Swift opposed. Despite her efforts, the sale went through. In August 2019, Taylor Swift revealed plans to re-record and release her six previous albums. 

Her decision received overwhelming support by fellow artists; e.g. Olivia Rodrigo negotiated full control of their masters, while Bryan Adams, re-recorded their material following Taylor's lead. The re-recorded albums achieved immense success with Taylor’s fans as they included bonus tracks, surprise collaborations, and fresh perspectives. 

3- Taylor's Version Impact

When Swift announced she would re-record her first six albums in June 2019, the concept of re-recording masters has evolved from a music-business niche for legacy artists like Frank Sinatra to a big headline topic.

Josh Binder, an attorney who represents SZA, Doechii and others, said in a recent Billboard article the Taylor Swift scenario is rare, and most artists never have to exercise their re-recording rights.  

However, as Taylor Swift re-recorded her ‘Red’ Album in 2021, Universal reworked contracts to block artists from doing the same with their music.

4 - Genre-Hoping Success

Swift's ability to evolve across genres has made her Eras Tour a standout event of the year. Most artists don’t try as many styles as Swift has, and even fewer are able to find any real success by crossing over from one genre to another and then back again.

The Grammy winner is present on more than a dozen Billboard rankings, and the songs and albums that find space on these competitive lists show that whether she’s dabbling in pop, alternative, rock or the twang that made her a household name, she almost never has an issue racking up enough sales to chart.

5 - Look What You Made Me Do

Spotify announced that in October 2023, the singer had become “the most-streamed artist in a single day in Spotify history, and “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” became Spotify’s most-streamed album in a single day this year.

Swift replaced herself as the most-streamed artist record holder, a year after she captured the title back on October 21, 2022. Earlier this month, she and Jack Antonoff celebrated their song “Cruel Summer” hitting No. 1 on the charts – four years after its initial release.

6 - Breaking Records

When "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)" debuted in July, it was Swift's fourth album to occupy the Billboard 200 chart's top 10 at the same time, alongside "Midnights," "Lover," and "Folklore." This made her the first woman to have four albums in the Billboard chart's top 10 simultaneously. Swift is the second living artist to do so after Herb Alpert in 1966. Prince also previously achieved this after his death in 2016.

Swift and Fincher are the only directors who have managed to make history by winning back-to-back awards in the Best Direction category at the MTV Video Music Awards.  Fincher for"Express Yourself" and "Vogue," and Swift for "All Too Well: The Short Film" and now “Anti-Hero.”

7 - Eras Tour Bonuses

Swift reportedly gave bonuses totaling more than $55 million to those working on her show. That money was distributed to her dancers, riggers, sound technicians, catering. Multiple sources reported that Swift gave $100,000 bonuses to each of the 50 truck drivers of her tour —those amounts alone total more than $5 million.

As for Swift? Don’t worry about her—even if she is a reported $55 million down as a result of her generosity, she's doing just fine. Before the tour, Swift's combined income streams were estimated at $92 million, landing her at No. 9 on Forbes' list of The World's 10 Highest-Paid Entertainers.

8 - Taylor Swift’s Billionaire Era

Taylor Swift’s Eras tour has catapulted her to billionaire status, according to a report from Bloomberg in October 2023, making her one of the few recording artists to build a 10-figure fortune almost entirely from her music.

The “most definitive account yet” of the 33-year-old pop star’s wealth claims that the singer, who has broken box office records with her Eras tour concert film ($92.8m in its opening weekend) and leading the charts again with the re-release of her 2014 album 1989, now has a total net worth of about $1.1bn.

9 - The Swiftie Community

Taylor Swift broke the barrier between artists and fans, embracing social media not just as a messaging tool but as a direct channel to connect with her audience. She might not have been the first one but her outreach extended beyond the virtual space and included personalized gifts, secret listening parties, intimate meet-and-greets and unexpected album drops was quite unique and has redefined how artists connect with their fans.

The Rise of Interpolation: Why Pop Music Is Embracing the Past

The charts are currently flooded with dance-pop tracks boldly borrowing from 80s, 90s and 00s classics. Is this a creative fusion of nostalgia and innovation, or does it signal a lack of original ideas in the industry?

1 - Interpolation Overload

The charts are currently flooded with singles employing interpolation - the musical technique of incorporating elements from an existing song, such as lyrics or melodies, into a new composition.

Recent examples include FIFTY FIFTY’s “Barbie Dreams” (feat. Kaliii) which features an interpolation of Janet Jackson’s 1997 classic “Together Again” and Charlie XCX’s "Speed Drive" which contains an interpolation of Toni Basil’s 1981 song"Mickey". 

Interpolation isn’t a new practice but the tipping point came in 2023 when David Guetta and Bebe Rexha released "I'm Good (Blue)" in which they interpolated Eiffel 65's "Blue (Da Ba Dee)," reaching No 1 on the UK charts. 

In a recent interview, Jack Melhuish, former general manager of Parlophone Records UK, highlighted the impact of this particular release. This marked a significant moment in the trend's escalation, prompting more producers and artists to embrace it.

2 - Future Nostalgia

Unlike traditional rap music samples that often faithfully recreate vocal hooks or original song productions, tracks that embrace interpolation, create a musical déjà vu by reusing specific lyrics or melodic phrases from dance classics.

When asked about the trend, Radio 1 DJ Natalie O'Leary pointed out that as certain dance classics were cultural phenomena that shaped scenes of the time, they bridge generations.  We say, it’s a delicate balance between honoring the past and shaping the future.

3 - Interpolation & Catalog Acquisition

The rise in catalog acquisition also helps to explain how we’ve arrived at a moment when the pop charts are littered with chunks of old intellectual property. Nicki’s “Super Freaky Girl” and Yung Gravy’s “Betty” are just two high-profile examples. Latto skillfully incorporated elements from Tom Tom Club's "Genius of Love," a track famously sampled in Mariah Carey's "Fantasy," for her own song "Big Energy." To add an extra layer of excitement, Latto even collaborated with Mariah Carey herself.

In March of 2006, Primary Wave announced its first-ever acquisition: the catalog of Kurt Cobain, for which it shelled out $50 million. Since then, they have acquired the rights to music by Bob Marley, Smokey Robinson, Prince, Stevie Nicks, James Brown, and Whitney Houston. Music publishing companies such as Primary Wave, own the rights to some of the most crucial American popular music ever recorded. Instead of passively collecting royalty income alone, catalog owners and managers are now actively marketing catalogues to new generations.

4 - Gen Z Decoding Musical References

Peering into the current pop charts feels like investigating a complex mystery, each song potentially holding hidden references. The art of crate digging has taken a digital twist, with TikTokers and musicians/producers like LUXXURY highlighting musical interpolations in popular songs by artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, Doja Cat, and Ava Max, all of whom have achieved chart success through these creative reinterpretations.

Interpolation in songs has become a focal point of analysis and debate in the music community.

The prevalence of song interpolations has led to a trend where music enthusiasts and self-proclaimed theorists engage in side-by-side comparisons of alleged plagiarism instances.

For example, Lil Nas X's "That's What I Want" subtly references OutKast's "Hey Ya," sparking discussions among copyright lawyers and “TikTok detectives”.

Similarly, Harry Styles' "As It Was" unmistakably echoes a-ha's "Take On Me," prompting fans to create mash-ups and even leading platforms like Genius to label "Take On Me" as a "sample" on "As It Was," despite the lack of official credits in the liner notes. 

5 - The Artist's Perspective

If it was a hit once, it can be a hit again. Collaborations like Rita Ora's "Praising You,"feat. Fatboy Slim reimagine classics. Artists are on a creative spree, melding eras and genres. Artists and producers are seeing what works, and giving the market more of what it wants. 

Much like Hip Hop’s inventive sampling in the 90s, today's interpolations are transformative. The industry isn't running out of ideas; it's reinventing them. 

What Emerging Musicians Can Learn from Katy Perry's $225 Million Music Rights Sale.

Katy Perry's $225 million music rights sale to Litmus Music is a landmark moment in her career and showcases how strategic management of music rights can lead to substantial long-term revenue.

Perry's decision to sell her catalog while her music is still widely popular is a valuable lesson for emerging musicians. Understanding the worth of your musical assets is crucial for making informed financial decisions.

Other key takeaways from Perry's deal include the importance of building a strong digital presence, keeping an eye on industry trends, and partnering with established entities.

Perry's journey serves as inspiration for those aspiring to make their mark in the music industry. By following her lead, emerging musicians can position themselves for success and achieve their financial goals.

In this case study, we explore Perry's music rights sale in detail, highlighting the key factors that contributed to its success and the lessons that can be learned by emerging musicians

1 - A Legacy Artist's Calculated Move

Perry is a legacy artist still at the prime of her career, with an extensive catalog of music and hits like "I Kissed a Girl", "Firework" and "Roar”. These songs have become part of the cultural fabric and have an enduring appeal. They continue to be played on radio, featured in commercials, and performed at live events, showcasing their longevity.

*Critical Factor: Know Your Catalog's Value

Perry knew the value of her back catalog and sold her music rights when her songs were still widely popular, maximizing the financial returns from the deal.
Emerging musicians should take this as a lesson in catalog evaluation. Knowing the worth of your musical assets can be pivotal in making informed financial decisions. Remember: Timing is Crucial.

2 - The Spotify Influence 

Perry has 51.4M monthly listeners on Spotify signifies that her music continues to resonate with a wide audience. Her catalog is a goldmine for future streaming royalties. With millions of streaming monthly listeners, investors were willing to pay a premium for the assurance that Perry’s music will continue to generate substantial income.

*Critical Factor: Digital Presence Matters

Music rights are seen as investments and not just about immediate gains; they are securing a steady stream of income for years to come. Emerging artists should develop a strategic plan that includes building a strong presence on streaming platforms. However, always maintain a diversified portfolio and keep on top of other opportunities such as synchronization licensing, merchandising, and live performances beyond streaming revenue.

3 - Keeping an Eye on Industry Trends

Katy Perry Is Now Worth $340 Million—And is One Of The Richest Self-Made Women In America according to Forbes. By selling her music rights for a reported $225 million, the pop star saw her wealth take off like a firework.

Katy Perry's sale comes on the heels of other significant music rights transactions in 2023, such as Dr. Dre and Justin Bieber's deals. 

*Critical Factor:  Be Strategic with & Industry Trends

Emerging musicians should study and stay alert of industry trends. Understanding the broader market dynamics can help them make informed decisions about their music rights, publishing, and royalties. By staying on top of the market, they can make better decisions about significant financial moves to maximize their music’s value.

4 - Partnering for Success

Katy Perry's career is full with examples of how partnering with established entities and brands played a pivotal role in her success - from Americal Idol to Adidas. 

Partnering with well-known and reputable industry players lends credibility to an artist's career. It can signal to fans, peers, and potential business partners that the artist is serious and has the backing of experienced professionals.

*Critical Factor:  Partner with Established Entities

Aligning with reliable partners can contribute to a stable and enduring career. They offer resources, promotional muscle, and industry connections that can help artists reach a global audience. Emerging musicians should consider aligning themselves with reliable partners. However, it's essential to seek partnerships that also allow creative autonomy, ensuring that their unique artistic vision remains intact.

Katy Perry's $225 million music rights sale to Litmus Music is a milestone moment in her career and a testament to her strategic acumen. Her journey serves as inspiration for those aspiring to make their mark in the music industry. In conclusion, Katy Perry's catalog serves as an example of how smart management of music rights can lead to substantial long-term revenue.

How Ice Spice Rose to Stardom: A Case Study

Ice Spice is a rapper who has quickly risen to fame in the digital age. She has achieved success through a combination of authentic branding, strategic marketing, and virality.

Ice Spice's rise to fame started in 2021 when she recorded herself taking on Erica Banks' Buss It challenge on TikTok. The video quickly became popular, and Ice Spice gained a large following on the platform. She then released her popular single, "Munch," which also gained attention on TikTok.

Ice Spice's success can be attributed to her authenticity and relatability. She doesn't conform to traditional norms but instead embraces her unique identity and personality. This enables her to form deep connections with her audience, who perceive her as a genuine and approachable figure.

Ice Spice's success is a complex phenomenon with many contributing factors. In this case study, we will take a deeper look at five of the most important factors that have helped her achieve stardom:

1. Community Driven Virality

Ice Spice filmed herself doing Erica Banks' Buss It challenge on TikTok, which was a popular trend in early 2021. This helped her gain exposure and connect with potential fans who resonated with the challenge, leading to a boost in visibility and interest in her music.

2. The Power of #Munch

The song was released in August 2022 and gained popularity after getting support from Drake, who played the song on his Sirius XM radio station, Sound 42.
Gen Z'ers, especially on TikTok, played a crucial role in propelling the song's popularity through user-generated content and remixes. The hashtag #munch now has over 2 billion views on the platform.

*Critical Factor: Authenticity & Relatability

Ice Spice didn't conform to conventional norms but instead embraced her unique identity and personality. This allowed her to connect deeply with her audience, who saw her as a genuine and approachable figure.
Authenticity builds trust and loyalty, creating a strong bond between the artist and fans.

3. Celebrity Endorsements & Brand Deals

The rapper quickly got the attention of industry professionals, got signed to 10K Projects and then Capitol Records by January 2023.
Beyoncé chose Spice to be included in the campaign for her latest Ivy Park x Adidas collection. Brand collaborations with Vogue, Marc Jacobs and more followed soon after.

*Critical Factor: Leveraging Endorsements and Collaborations

Ice Spice leveraged lifestyle marketing to enhance her commercial appeal. She strategically partnered with brands that aligned with her persona, making her brand collaborations look very intentional.
Strategic collaborations can open doors to new audiences, helping emerging artists gain recognition and credibility in the industry. 

4. Artist Collaborations

Collaborations with established artists like Nicki Minaj and Pink Pantheress and her participation on the Barbie movie soundtrack extended Ice Spice's reach and solidified her position as a cultural icon.  
Collaborating with artists from different genres, like Taylor Swift, exposed Ice Spice to new audiences and increased her search volume significantly. 

5. The Spice Cabinet

As Ice Spice's fame grew, a dedicated fandom, known as the Spice Cabinet or Munchkins, emerged on social media platforms.
The fans admire her fashion sense, lush flow, and empowering confidence, solidifying her as an inspiration to many.

*Critical Factor:  Building a Strong Online Community

Ice Spice actively engages with her fans, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity. She nurtures a passionate following that eagerly supports and promotes her music.
Engaging with fans and building a loyal community contributes to continued visibility and success.

Ice Spice's swift rise to stardom exemplifies the power of authentic branding and strategic marketing.  From viral TikTok trends to high-profile collaborations, she harnessed the digital age's potential to create a devoted fan base and dominate the music scene.  

The world can't wait to witness the next chapter of her phenomenal success story.

What Music Can Learn From The 'Barbie' Movie

Image of Billie Eilish from her Instagram account on July 18; behind-the-scenes of her video for her Barbie movie song, “What Was I Made For?”

The 'Barbie' movie premiere and soundtrack teach us a few valuable lessons on the importance of building your brand.

Here are 8 tips inspired by the iconic 'Barbie' universe.

1 - Define Your Brand

Just like the stars at the premiere, let your brand shine through in everything you do. Clearly define your artistic brand, values, and unique selling points. Be authentic and create a visual identity that reflects your music and personality.

2 - Collaborate For Success

The 'Barbie' soundtrack brought together artists from different eras and genres. Collaborations can expand your reach and introduce you to new audiences. Find like-minded musicians and create magic together.

3 - Diversify Your Sound

Barbie's movie soundtrack showcased a variety of musical styles. Experiment with different genres, sounds, and influences to create a unique sonic signature that sets you apart from the crowd

4 - Multidimensional Expression

Barbie represents diverse roles and careers. Expand your horizons and connect with your audience on multiple levels. Explore different avenues for creative expression, e.g. focus on merchandise, fashion and see yourself as a creative entrepreneur.

Margot Robbie and Nicki Minaj at the premiere of "Barbie" held at Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall on July 9, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. Michael Buckner for Variety

5 - Create a Strong Online Presence

Barbie’s marketing strategy left fans in awe. It's also a testament to the popular doll's already strong brand identity, reimagined for today's world. Build a solid online strategy that focuses on social media, streaming platforms, and a mailing list. Focus on 3 channels, build a community of superfans and scale from there

6 - Depth Is More Important Than Scale

Whilst having a big social media presence certainly helps, you don't need a huge profile to be successful. Creating a deep relationship with a few people is better than a large but shallow group of fans. Focus on your early supporters, similarly to how the movie focused on the doll's number 1 audience segment: young aspiring women.

7a - Partner with Established Brands

Just like how Barbie leveraged the power of music artists, strategic partnerships can amplify your brand, expose you to wider audiences and bring in new revenue. Brands are often drawn to artists with distinct identities that align with a new target audience. Research and identify relevant brands, then convince them of the mutual benefits of connecting with your highly engaged community of superfans.

Stewart Cook/Shutterstock

7b - Partner with Established Brands

When it comes to marketing statistics, focus on your strengths.

Remember you don't need a huge social media presence - high engagement matters more.

Utilize your existing network and be very clear in your outreach.

8 - Money Can Buy Success

With that said, it's important to acknowledge that all this incredible hype around the Barbie movie would not have been possible without a hefty investment. Most films don't get the same level of marketing spend because most don't have such a powerful and iconic brand backing them. Remember that next time you compare yourself to someone who might have been lucky enough to have more financial support than you.

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