American record label, oldest surviving brand name in the modern music industry
A new Oasis documentary charts their 2025 reunion tour, showing Liam and Noel Gallagher reconciling and delivering a stadium-scale return. Directors Will Lovelace and Dylan Southern capture rehearsals, the Cardiff comeback, and fan ecstasy, while exploring why the music endures across generations.
Pianist Abdullah Ibrahim has died at 91 in Germany after a short illness. A pioneering force in South African jazz, Ibrahim had a career spanning seven decades and helped fuse local traditions with international styles. He devotionalised Mannenberg as an anti-apartheid anthem and performed at Nelson Mandela’s inauguration.
A collection of obituaries and reflections from major outlets highlight the career of a legendary record executive who shaped artists from Janis Joplin to Whitney Houston and Bruce Springsteen. The pieces emphasize his instinct for pairing talent with mainstream appeal, and note Patti Smith’s counterpoint approach. The coverage spans the Independent, New York Times, Guardian and Scotsman, among others, with portraits of his long influence.
Music industry titan Clive Davis has died at his Manhattan home, after recent hospitalization for respiratory issues. He built CBS, Arista and J Records into powerhouses, signing Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen and Aretha Franklin, among others. Reactions from peers and artists highlight his eye for talent and lasting influence on popular music.
Ariana Grande’s eighth studio album Petal has sparked conversation about her artistic direction and handling of fame. Critics note a more restrained vocal approach and darker production, while Grande faces ongoing questions about identity, media scrutiny and fan relationship as she navigates post-Wicked press tours and personal challenges.
Arlene Smith, who formed the Chantels and led the group to early fame with the hit “Maybe,” has died aged 84. Her work helped popularize girl groups in 1950s rock ’n’ roll, and she later taught music in New York City after leaving the group.