-
Wisconsin result halts winning streak for Democratic Party’s left wing
David Crowley has narrowly won Wisconsin’s Democratic primary for governor, defeating the more left-wing Francesca Hong in a result that interrupts recent successes for insurgent progressive candidates across the US. The centrist Milwaukee County executive will face Republican congressman Tom Tiffany in November, in a contest likely to be closely watched because Wisconsin is politically…
-
Spotify announces new AI-labelling system for AI-generated artists and content
Spotify will introduce an “AI Persona” badge from mid-September to identify profiles representing AI-generated artists, aiming to make it easier for listeners to distinguish them from human performers. The change matters because AI-generated music is becoming increasingly common on streaming services, raising concerns about transparency, impersonation and how such material is promoted. The badge will…
-
Just 20 of 6,600 Defra staff working on climate adaptation amid drought and wildfires
A freedom of information request has found that only 20 of Defra’s 6,613 staff are working on climate adaptation, despite warnings that England is poorly prepared for worsening heatwaves, droughts, floods and wildfires. Critics say the small team reflects a lack of government focus on protecting communities, food security and nature from the effects of…
-
Born 97 Years Ago Today in the Lone Star State, the Bakersfield Sound Pioneer Who Scored 21 No. 1 Hits and Changed Country Music
Buck Owens, born in Sherman, Texas, in 1929, became a leading figure in country music by helping to create and popularise the Bakersfield Sound during the 1960s. With his band the Buckaroos, he achieved a succession of country hits and influenced later artists including Merle Haggard, Dwight Yoakam and Brad Paisley. His career also brought…
-
How The Sims Made New-Age Jazz Piano the Soundtrack of Our Lives
Polygon explores how the minimalist new-age jazz piano used in The Sims’ build mode became one of video gaming’s most recognisable musical styles. The article matters because it examines how an understated soundtrack helped shape the game’s atmosphere and became closely associated with players’ memories of designing virtual homes. The piece features Jerry Martin, the…
-
‘We’re Trying to Bet Big on Human Artistry’: Spotify’s Sam Duboff Talks AI Initiatives
Spotify executive Sam Duboff said the company wants to develop artificial-intelligence music tools that support artists rather than compete with or replace them. Speaking during a visit to Australia, he said the country’s emerging approach to AI — centred on copyright, consent and payment — broadly matches Spotify’s position, and argued that licensed AI products…
-
Ex-New Jersey mayor, her husband charged for using fake ballot signatures after she pleaded guilty to DUI
Former Lumberton Township mayor Gina LaPlaca and her husband have been charged after prosecutors alleged that false signatures were used on her nominating petition for a Democratic primary contest. The case matters because it concerns the integrity of the election process and adds to the legal troubles of a local official who remains on the…
-
Reservoirs ‘well below’ average but no hosepipe ban as Yorkshire moves towards drought
Almost three-quarters of England is now in drought following the driest July in 190 years
-
‘New’ Smiths Single To Be Released In Rough Trade Box Set
Rough Trade Records will release a box set featuring a previously unissued Smiths single on the label, despite the song itself having been released elsewhere before. The inclusion is notable because it gives ‘The Headmaster Ritual’ its first official Rough Trade single release, with new artwork overseen by Morrissey. Due on 30 October, the set…
-
AI-Generated Turkish Series ‘Castle Walls’ Launches on Prime Video in What Is Being Touted as a Worldwide Streaming First – Trailer (EXCLUSIVE)
Turkish producer Ay Yapim has launched the AI-generated historical drama “Castle Walls” on Prime Video, describing it as the first series made end-to-end with artificial intelligence to receive a worldwide release on a major global streaming platform. The launch matters because it presents a high-profile test of AI-led television production while seeking to address concerns…