Faith Hahn

By mistaking language as merely a tool that’s a means to an end—little different from a spatula—too many people have lost sight of the fact that understanding language provides the basis of smart thinking.

Although late to the party, this year Universal, through Virgin Music Group, acquired Downtown Music Holdings for $775 million in cash in December 2024. Downtown Music Holdings includes a number of companies, most notably CD Baby, Fuga, AdRev, SongTrust, and Downtown. Through these companies, Universal now owns independent music recordings,... See more

While changes to a market are expected as it evolves, the interconnectedness of music streaming means that impacts are felt throughout the entire ecosystem. This is to say that there is a responsibility for all parties concerned to transparently engage in wider consultation before such impactful decisions are made. There is a shared responsibility... See more

Jesca’s harmonic language is rich and variegated, sweet and sour. Her lyrics are wise, her voice like alabaster covered in a thin layer of ash.

The Keatsian endeavor has never been popular, but is particularly unfashionable today. Religious fundamentalists reject it on the grounds that revelation and commitment are needed to orient oneself in the world. The amorality of a poet who is a “thoroughfare for all thoughts” risks heresy or destabilization. Tell me where you stand, where your... See more

A month earlier, according to Music Business Worldwide, UMG acquired the remaining 51% of PIAS, Europe’s largest independent music company. These acquisitions illustrate Universal’s recognition that this is where the revenue growth in the music industry is happening.