RAREFORM BLOG
New Hearing Health Fund Launched to Support Musicians
A new Hearing Health Fund has been launched to support musicians and industry professionals at risk of noise-induced hearing loss. With free screenings and expert guidance, the initiative aims to provide accessible hearing care and prevention resources.
Researchers Develop Technology That Delivers Sound Only to Specific Listeners
Penn State researchers have developed “audible enclaves,” a breakthrough audio technology that sends sound directly to a specific listener without headphones. Using ultrasonic beams that bend around obstacles, this innovation creates localized sound bubbles for private listening in public spaces.
New Research Sheds Light on Mental Health Challenges in the Music Industry
New research reveals concerning mental health risks in the music industry, with musicians facing some of the highest suicide rates among occupational groups. The study highlights financial struggles, lack of support, and industry pressures as key factors, prompting calls for improved mental health resources.
Music Industry Supports Los Angeles Fire Recovery with ‘Sweet Relief’ Benefit Concert
As Los Angeles recovers from devastating wildfires, the music industry is stepping up with fundraising efforts. Sweet Relief Musicians Fund and Musicians for Fire Relief will host a global livestream concert and auction on March 6, featuring major artists to support affected music industry workers.
1,000 Musicians Release Silent Album to Protest AI Copyright Laws
Over 1,000 British musicians, including Kate Bush and Hans Zimmer, have released a silent album, Is This What We Want?, protesting proposed UK legislation that could allow AI companies to use copyrighted music without permission. The album symbolizes the potential loss of artists' rights in the face of AI-driven content generation.
Healthcare Resources for Music Artists Following Chappell Roan’s Grammy Speech
Chappell Roan’s Grammys speech has reignited discussions about healthcare access for music artists. While challenges remain, several industry organizations provide support, including SAG-AFTRA, MusiCares, and the Music Health Alliance. In response to growing concerns, Universal Music Group has launched a mental health fund to expand access to care for industry professionals.
Classical Music May Influence Unborn Babies’ Heartbeats, Study Finds
New research suggests classical music does more than soothe the mind—it may influence the heartbeats of unborn babies. A study found that exposure to classical compositions led to more stable heart rate patterns in fetuses, offering insight into the connection between music and early development.
Chappell Roan Wins Best New Artist at Grammys, Calls Out Record Labels Over Artist Wages
Chappell Roan won Best New Artist at the 67th Grammy Awards and used her acceptance speech to call out record labels for not providing livable wages and healthcare to artists. Her remarks have sparked industry-wide discussions about financial support for musicians, particularly those still establishing their careers.
Study Reveals How Music May Help Heal Emotional Wounds
New research shows music can alter the emotional tone of memories, highlighting its potential as a tool for healing emotional wounds and offering valuable insights for the music industry.
Suno AI CEO Sparks Controversy with Comments on Music Creation
Suno AI CEO Mike Shulman faces criticism after suggesting that many people find music creation unenjoyable. His comments, along with Suno’s ongoing legal disputes, highlight growing debates about AI’s role in reshaping the music industry.
L.A. Wildfires: Support for Music Industry Workers Affected by the Crisis
Devastating wildfires have swept through Los Angeles, impacting thousands, including music industry professionals. From financial aid to mental health support, organizations like MusiCares, Sweet Relief, and Backline are stepping up to help those affected. Learn about available resources and how the music community is rallying to support its own.
Benn Jordan Develops Algorithm to Detect AI-Generated Music with 100% Accuracy
Benn Jordan has created an algorithm that detects AI-generated music with 100% accuracy. This breakthrough highlights growing concerns about undisclosed AI tracks siphoning royalties from real artists on streaming platforms.
Study Reveals Music Can Ease Dementia Symptoms and Boost Brain Health
Music has emerged as a powerful tool in dementia care and brain health. Recent studies reveal that personalized music therapy reduces anxiety and enhances memory for those with dementia, while initiatives like a college pianist's outreach bring music’s benefits to life.
SoundCloud Launches Affordable Artist Plan for Emerging Musicians
SoundCloud’s new Artist plan makes professional tools accessible to emerging musicians for just $39 annually. This move aims to lower barriers for independent artists, providing features like unlimited uploads, monetization, and track distribution to major platforms.
Denver Saxophonist Sets Guinness World Record for Releasing 200 Singles in 24 Hours
Denver saxophonist Brandon Theis has made history by releasing 200 digital singles in a single day, earning a Guinness World Record. This milestone highlights his dedication to music and his evolving role as a mentor to emerging artists in Denver's music scene.
Music Found to Aid Post-Surgery Recovery, Study Reports
Research shows that listening to music after surgery may reduce pain, anxiety, and opioid use while aiding recovery. A simple, cost-effective tool, music is gaining attention as a valuable addition to post-surgical care.
Colin Stetson: Redefining Music Without Limits
Colin Stetson’s new album, The Love It Took to Leave You, redefines live recording with its fusion of raw saxophone performance, real-time visuals, and emotional depth. Released on September 13, this groundbreaking work highlights his mastery in blending electronic music, jazz, and cinematic influences.
Report Finds More Music Is Released in a Day in 2024 Than in All of 1989 Combined
More music is released in a single day in 2024 than in all of 1989 combined, highlighting the dramatic growth of self-releasing artists and the rise of accessible digital tools transforming the music industry.
How the Sound Team of Blitz Brought Steve McQueen’s WWII Film to Life
Discover how the sound team behind Steve McQueen’s Blitz recreated the harrowing world of wartime London through innovative techniques, from child-focused soundscapes to historically accurate air-raid sirens.
Remembering Quincy Jones: A Legacy Beyond Measure
Quincy Jones, a true pioneer in the music industry, leaves behind a transformative legacy spanning six decades. From redefining genres to breaking business barriers, his influence touched every corner of music, film, and culture.