Music
TikTok’s Deal With Sony Means Music By Beyonce, Travis Scott, And More Will Be Available On The App
Getty Image The licensing contract will bring music from thousands of artists to the popular platform. …
Back in August, it looked like new downloads of the popular app TikTok were going to be banned in the US. Fast-forward just a few months later, and it now seems that the app will actually be expanding its reach. TikTok just signed a music licensing deal with Sony, meaning popular songs by artists like Beyonce, Travis Scott, and many more will soon be available for use in videos.
According to a report from Bloomberg, TikTok is shelling out quite a bit more money for the new deal compared to previous contracts. On top of allowing their artists’ music on the platform, Sony’s deal with TikTok will foster emerging artist discovery. “We believe that we should share value with the music industry,” TikTok’s head of global music Ole Obermann said in a statement. “As we grow, the value of the industry should grow.”
TikTok has shown that it has powerful influence in the music industry. Lil Nas X became a global superstar when “Old Town Road” dominated on the app, Doja Cat scored her first No. 1 single after her track “Say So” went viral, and New Zealand artist Benee experienced her global breakout following the explosion of her song “Supalonely” among users.
The new deal allows thousands of more artists to get a shot at promoting their music on the app. Because TikTok has now secured the rights to music by Sony artists, that means musicians on the label’s imprints, including RCA and Columbia, can now make their catalog available for use in videos.
Doja Cat is a Warner Music artist. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.
Album Review
R3b3l I explores self-discovery through sound on “A Different Frequency” album
In a music scene often ruled by lyrics, R3b3l I proves that you can tell a powerful story without a single lyric. “A Different Frequency” is a twelve-track instrumental hip-hop and rap-inspired album inviting you into a deeply personal journey of growth, self-discovery, and purpose, speaking its message purely through mood, rhythm, and expression.
“Dance Before the Throne” opens the album, immediately establishing the tone of reflection and reverence. From here, “Elevate” and “The Wave” continue, adding momentum and a sense of movement and change. Each piece is a chapter in a larger story, allowing you to interpret the music with your own experience.
Songs like “I AM Power,” “Level Up,” and “Awaken” seem to be a big part of the progression of the album. The energy is one of empowerment and inner evolution. “The Jazzy Hop” is a nice change of pace in style, with a smooth, groove-flavored taste that shows R3b3l I’s versatility. Meanwhile, “Carousel,” “Raindrops,” and “Heartbeat” are moments of introspection that balance uplifting themes with emotional depth and openness.
The project wraps up on an emotional high with “Ancestors,” a heartfelt tribute to the forebears and the invisible forces that still influence us on our journeys. It’s a fitting way to close out an album about connection, growth, and purpose. “A Different Frequency” is more than a collection of tracks with carefully constructed instrumentals and thoughtful sequencing, and it’s a rewarding journey for those who want immersive instrumental hip-hop with heart, imagination, and substance.
Artist Spotlight
“Signalling Signatures” finds Mr Pigeons exploring dreams, truth, and hidden meanings
While the first look at an upcoming project usually sets the expectations, Mr Pigeons does something more ambitious with “Signalling Signatures.” With this release, the hip-hop artist opens up a portal into “Shining Arras,” inviting you into a world where dreams, symbols, and hidden meanings collide.
“Signalling Signatures” is an exploration of the thin veil between reality and imagination, based on themes of altered consciousness and shifting perspectives. The song is a mix of mythology, film, and spiritual symbolism and encourages you to look beyond the ordinary and find the messages in everyday life. Mr Pigeons delivers with purpose and swagger, blending introspection with crisp storytelling. He also renders the abstract ideas of the song accessible.
The thing about “Signalling Signatures” that is so compelling is its sheer audacity to challenge you. There are no easy answers in this song, only a quest for truth, perception, and uncertainty. A good opening chapter to “Shining Arras,” and it manages to build up suspense as well as showing Mr Pigeons’ artistic vision. “Signalling Signatures” is a good introduction to what could be an interesting new creative phase for the artist.
Connect with Mr Pigeons on | Website | Spotify | X | FB | TikTok | IG |
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