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Halsey, Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes Named In Alleged Payola Scandal: Report

Paying radio stations to play certain artists’ music or to have them in heavy rotation is a practice that has been banned in the industry, but that doesn’t mean that there still aren’t deals happening under the table. “Payola” or pay-for-play deals are not only illegal but frowned upon, however on Monday (October 5), Rolling Stone published an exposé where they aired out the teams of a number of top-selling artists. According to the publication, these artists’ labels have been making shady deals with certain radio stations behind closed doors.

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Rolling Stone claims that they obtained over 2,500 text message correspondences between various industry professionals and Steve Zap, an independent radio promoter. Zap used to work for labels like MCA Records, Virgin Records, and Warner Records, and the relationships he formed along the way reportedly continued into his radio career. Texts allegedly show Zap telling radio stations not to take orders from a label directly because “they don’t pay me sh*t,” while billing others for rotation in certain time slots.

“Can we do Flora cash and Khalid,” one text reportedly read about the duo and singer. “Promise them 35 spins each. Will cover that cash giveaway.” In another Zap wrote, “Michael Franti to 35 spins,” followed by “Getting free show.” Another text stated, “Can we move Ellie c Goulding to a steady 40 a week? And x-ambassadors to start 5 a day. We need beach swag.”

In a statement, Zap denied that he’d done anything wrong, adding that these texts were sent out by one of his former employees who recently lost their job. Zap added that he provides a place for artists to receive airplay. “I try to sell radio station program directors on the merits of my clients’ music, and to make friends with program directors at various stations — always within legal bounds.”

“You say that I requested airplay and awarded [a station] with ‘consideration,’ and that such linkage is established by text messages,” Zap added. “The actual texts, though, do not support your characterizations. In the texts, no specific consideration is linked with any specific instance of airplay. Therefore, allegations that I purchased airplay through quid pro quo agreements would be reckless and extremely damaging.”

The artists themselves reportedly didn’t have anything to do with Zap or his alleged dealings with record labels, but Zap is said to have helped increase visibility for artists like Ed Sheeran, Marshmello, Halsey, Backstreet Boys, Ellie Goulding, Shawn Mendes, Panic! At the Disco, and Dua Lipa. It’s expected that there are dozens of other artists who could have benefitted from such behaviors, as well.

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Heartwish makes a better place out of resilience on latest release “Better Place”

With “Better Place,” HEARTWISH delivers a moving melodic rock statement beyond the strong instrumentation, taking on a message the world can really relate to. Uncertainty becomes determination on a track topped with soaring guitars and anthemic melodies and a chorus that echoes long after the music fades. HEARTWISH has found hope in every musical pinnacle rather than despair, reminding listeners that hard times are only temporary and that hope finds its voice. What you get is an emotionally charged anthem that fuses heartfelt storytelling with the big energy of today’s melodic rock.

At its heart, “Better Place” is about facing the realities of broken dreams, fear, and division without ever giving in to them. The song depicts people seeking strength in uncertain times, yet always pointing to unity as the answer. Its inspiring progression echoes that journey, letting the music grow with its core message. Each chorus is a call to hope that real change begins with people choosing compassion over division.

What makes this release especially memorable is its unrelenting optimism. HEARTWISH is not just a catchy rock anthem; it is a call for courage, empathy, and collective action. “Better Place” is a reminder that no matter how dark the night, the light will shine through, and every act of kindness helps make the world a better place. It’s an inspiring release that marries melodic power with a timeless reminder that, together, we can make the world a better place.

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Artist Spotlight

Henry Desira returns with renewed purpose on latest release “hopeful forever”

Henry Desira’s “Forever Hopeful” is a meaningful return to songwriting, a deeply personal release rooted in reflection, perseverance, and emotional honesty. Rather than sugar-coating life’s difficulties with simple optimism, the song embraces uncertainty and emphasizes the subtle resilience that enables us to carry on. It’s more than a return; it’s a creative renaissance after a difficult time away from music due to mental health issues.

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“Forever Hopeful” is a heartfelt song. The song is about the fact that there is still hope even when things seem too big. Henry Desira doesn’t make life seem easy, but rather embraces the complexities of life and reminds the listener that difficult moments don’t negate the possibility of brighter days ahead. That balanced view gives the track a comforting authenticity, making its message of uplift feel earned rather than idealized.

Forever Hopeful is a creative return that packs a bigger emotional punch than its title suggests. It speaks to the courage it takes to start over, to find inspiration again, to transmute personal adversity into something of value. The song becomes a personal milestone and a hopeful reminder that healing is seldom immediate, but progress is possible. Henry Desira’s latest release hits deep for being vulnerable and resilient at the same time, an honest offering of hope that sticks around long after the music stops.

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