Entertainment
Justin Quiles & Lenny Tavárez’s ‘Superarte’ Album & More Best New Music Latin
New Music Latin is a compilation of the best new Latin songs and albums recommended by Billboard Latin and Billboard Español editors. Check out this week’s picks below.
Omar Courtz, Por Si Mañana No Estoy (Mr. 305 Records/Rimas Entertainment)
Por Si Mañana No Estoy finds Omar Courtz electrified — in a heightened position and spitting sharp verses, following the breakthrough success of Primera Musa (2024). Yet what makes this second full-length release so compelling isn’t just the growing scale of Omar’s star power but his sharpened lyrical prowess and fearless delivery. The 18-track album feels like a deliberate evolution, where Courtz embraces vulnerability, power and risk, carving out a sound that’s unmistakably his. Fusing reggaetón, trap, R&B, Afrobeats and electronic textures into a seamless sonic journey, the star is helping shape Puerto Rico’s music landscape. With standout collaborations with artists like Eladio Carrión (“Moonlight”) and Myke Towers (“What U Need? (SexPlaylist 2)”), as well as solo gems like “Lakenoshi,” he proves he’s arrived and comfortably designing his own lane in today’s Latin music scene. — ISABELA RAYGOZA
Justin Quiles, Lenny Tavárez, Superarte (No Somos Un Duo/Warner Music Latina)
Justin Quiles and Lenny Tavárez have further solidified their bromance with their first joint album, Superarte. Home to 12 tracks, the set is a explosion of rhythms that navigates from merengue to cumbia to soca music, without losing touch of that reggaetón and perreo DNA that best characterizes who Justin and Lenny are as artists. “I think we overcame many fears with this album” Tavárez told Billboard. “It’s very complete and we named it this way because we are super dads, super friends, super artists, super composers.” On the album, the Puerto Rican artists — not to be confused as a duo, because they each lead their own fruitful solo careers — record with collaborators like J Balvin, Eladio Carrión and Sech. “We’ve been working on this album for an entire year, and I think we’re inseparable right now,” Quiles added. — JESSICA ROIZ
Laura Pausini, “Mariposa Tecknicolor” (Warner Music Italy)
Laura Pausini reinterprets Fito Páez’s 1994 classic in a vibrant version that retains its rock-pop spirit. Arranged and produced by the artist herself along with her husband and guitarist, Paolo Carta, the song showcases a more provocative and refreshing side of the Italian superstar, better known in the Spanish-speaking world for her pop anthems and romantic ballads. Accompanied by a dazzling music video filmed in Rome and directed by Gaetano Morbioli, “Mariposa Tecknicolor” is the latest single from Pausini’s upcoming covers album, Yo Canto 2, due out on March 13. – SIGAL RATNER-ARIAS
Tainy, Rauw Alejandro & Jhayco, “Rosita” (NEON16)
“Rosita” brings together three undeniable forces in Latin music — Tainy, Rauw Alejandro, and Jhayco — for a track that feels slinky and experimental. Anchored by Tainy’s masterful production, the song’s undulating reggaetón foundation intertwines with futuristic electronic textures, giving it a glimmering pulse. Packed with flirtatious lyrics and double entendres, the single harkens back to the genre’s late ‘10s era, brimming with playful energy, seduction and allure. Released alongside a video directed by Stillz, “Rosita” offers a tantalizing glimpse into Tainy’s forthcoming sophomore album, BESTIA. — I.R.
Banda Los Recoditos, “En Coma Inducido” (FONO)
From the very first notes of its opening trumpets and clarinets, the song sets the tone for heartache, with the tambora and charchetas adding the signature touch of Banda Sinaloense. This time, the performance is carried by vocalists Jeypi (Jesús Pérez) and Rafael González, who pour their emotions into the song, making the lyrics hit even harder and instantly connect with the audience. “God, tell me what to do so she’ll come back to me/ But if she doesn’t want to, leave me in an induced coma”, they sing in Spanish. With this track, Banda Los Recoditos kicks off a new chapter, one where romantic songs, heartbreak and deeper emotional themes will play a bigger role in the outfit’s repertoire. “En Coma Inducido” is the first single from its upcoming album, a fresh offering from one of the most iconic groups in regional Mexican music, with over 30 years of hits and success to its name. — TERE AGUILAR
Bajofondo & Cristian Castro, “Se fue el Sol” (Sony Music Latin)
The renowned Río de la Plata collective Bajofondo presents the first single from their new album, OHM, featuring Cristian Castro as a special guest on a song that masterfully showcases the Mexican singer’s vocal versatility — especially in rock, a genre he is passionate about. The track evokes the ’80s electro-pop style of Pet Shop Boys and nods to ’80s hard rock bands like Twisted Sister and Poison, fused with the tango-infused beats of the collective co-founded by Latin rock guru Gustavo Santaolalla and Juan Campodónico. The single is a preview of what listeners can expect from the group’s new LP, whose title comes from the Greek capital letter Omega (Ω), meaning “resistance,” and which Santaolalla has described as “a tribute to electronic music.” The single is accompanied by a fun, dramatic, and exuberant video — filmed in Miami — that shows Castro and the members of Bajofondo in glam rock like never before. — NATALIA CANO
Venesti & Nicky Jam, “Babylon” (AP Global Music)
In a first collaborative effort, Nicky Jam teamed up with Colombian newcomer Venesti on “Babylon.” Co-produced by Jorge Milliano, Tomy B and J-Trons, and written by Gael, Kenneth Vargas, and Derek, the song steers away from Nicky’s signature reggaetón sound, and welcomes the Puerto Rican artist into Venesti’s musical realm — one that’s powered by Latin Afrobeats and pop fusions. The sensual rhythm carries emotional lyrics about ending a relationship and not being able to let go. “‘Babylon’ reflects a very real part of relationships, but at the same time has a rhythm that lifts you up and helps you move forward,” said Venesti in a press statement. Nicky Jam, on the other hand, noted that Venesti “brings a fresh sound, and I think this track shows what happens when you combine different experiences and styles.” — J.R.
Alex Fernández, “Vives en mi” (DBM)
Representing the new generation of mariachi, Alex Fernández brings a fresh sound with touches of pop to Mexican music. “Vives En Mí” carries the distinctive sound of trumpets, guitar and guitarrón, blended with the powerful voice of the heir to one of the most respected dynasties in ranchera music. This ballad, which speaks about how love endures despite physical separation, is an intense and honest effort by Fernández to carve his own path. “You may have plenty who understand you and try to replace me with another. I’m sorry, but it will all be in vain — you live in me, and I live in you,” he sings in Spanish. “Vives En Mí” is the first glimpse of the Mexican singer’s upcoming album, titled Voz de Mi Sangre. — T.A.
Boris Larramendi, Oye (Plus Media)
Cuban rockstar Boris Larramendi unleashes his new studio album, Oye, containing nine songs that are rooted in traditional Cuban rhythms (timba and conga, among others) fused with Latin rock music. With a trajectory that began more than 15 years ago as part of the famed group Habana Abierta, Larramendi demonstrates his lyrical prowess, which takes listeners through his personal and professional evolution. “The lyrics explore the search for happiness through personal freedom and love, with moments of nostalgia, irony, and a critical perspective on the reality of his native country, without relinquishing hope,” he further elaborates in an official statement. Created between 2021 and 2025, Oye was co-produced by Larramendi and Nam San Fong, and recorded with a live band that includes Ivette Falcón on cello, Pável Urkiza on backing vocals, and members of Habana Abierta on the opening track, “Ayer Me Alegré de Verte.” — J.R.
Check out more Latin recommendations this week below:
Entertainment
50+ Gifts for Music Lovers of Every Genre: Shop Thoughtful Presents for K-Pop, Hip-Hop & Rock Fans
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Gift-giving season can seem never-ending, with birthdays and holidays being a year-round presence. This can make finding unique and thoughtful gifts a challenge as you try to outdo the previous year’s pick. The good news: If you have a music lover in your life, then your gifting options are practically endless.
Shop the Best Gifts for Music Lovers, by Genre:
- Best Gift for K-Pop Lovers: Funko KPop Demon Hunters Pop! Rumi Figure – $14
- Best Gift for Rock Lovers: Fender Player II Telecaster Rosewood Fingerboard Electric Guitar – $850
- Best Gift for Hip Hop Lovers: A$AP Rocky x Ray-Ban Wayfarer Puffer – $202
- Best Gift for Pop Lovers: So High School Candle Duo – $80
- Best Gift for Country Lovers: Tecovas Cartwright Boot – $345
- Best Gift for Musicians: MasterClass Subscription – $5 (was $10)
Your first thought may be to check out holiday deals, AirPod deals or Bose headphones sales, but before you click “add to cart,” dig a little deeper and consider what genre of music they listen to. You’ll be able to tailor the gift exactly to their music interests rather than to music as a whole, while earning their appreciation in the process.
If your loved one is an aspiring musician or singer, subscription gifts for online music lessons will add a level of personalization beyond a gift card. Whereas, for those who prefer just to listen to their favorite artists, tailoring your gift to their artist’s favorite brands is another unique gifting avenue.
To help inspire you, ShopBillboard put together a list of the best gifts for music lovers, broken down by genre. Whether they’re a pop enthusiast or country music fan, we’ve got something for everyone.
Keep reading to discover where to buy the best gifts for music lovers below.
Best Gifts for K-Pop Lovers
Funko KPop Demon Hunters Pop! Rumi (What It Sounds Like)
Aurora Lovable BT21 Cooky Keychain
Yet another BT21 character, this time representing Jungkook. This bunny keychain has a fuzzy texture and can be attached to a bag or your keys, of course.
TWICE Official Candybong Light Stick
An official TWICE light stick.
Pop Mart The Monsters (Labubu) Blind Box V1
Let the Labubu hype hasn’t died down yet. Give the most exciting Christmas gift with this Pop Mart blind box.
K-Pop Demon Hunters HUNTR/X t-shirt
Celebrate the animated movie phenomenon with some must-have merch.
G-Dragon x CASETiFY Alloy Ripple Case
This case features a textural rippled design in a metallic hue. The case is available for the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max.
Mitchell & Ness x BLACKPINK Knicks Snapback
BLACKPINK gives the New York Knicks a K-Pop makeover.
FTTLCUS Stray Kids Bracelets Set
No better gift than a friendship bracelet.
Stanley 1913 x JENNIE Quencher Luxe Tumbler
KPop Demon Hunters Officially Licensed HUNTR/X Water Bottle
This water bottle features the members of HUNTR/X on the front displayed on a purple backdrop. It’s 25 oz. in size and has a leakproof lid. This one isn’t insulated so it’s best for beverages you want to sip now or on-the-go.
Funko Pop! Rocks: BTS – Agust D – (Haegeum)
A Suga Funko Pop! figure.
Stray Kids Tour Merch Hoodie
Stray Kids’ SKZOO characters are back, this time on a cozy hoodie.
ATEEZ Official Light Stick – Version 2
Shine bright like a K-Pop star.
LEGO Ideas BTS Dynamite
Bring BTS into your home in the form of this exclusive Lego set.
Best Gifts for Rock Lovers
Dr. Martens 1460 Metallica 8-Eye Smooth Leather Boots
This is a heavy metal take on the brand’s iconic 1460 silhouette. The boot is decked out in colorful grugy grahics like skulls and eye-catching red lettering.
MLS Club San Jose Earthquakes x The Grateful Dead Jersey
This collaborative jersey marks a new season for the Earthquakes and pays homage to The Grateful Dead’s roots in San Jose. The tie-dye makes reference to fans of the band’s unofficial uniform.
Fender Player II Telecaster Rosewood Fingerboard Electric Guitar
This limited-edition Fender Player II Telecaster electric guitar delivers versatile tone and exceptional playability. With its timeless design and silhouette, he’ll be jumping for joy before he even plays a string.
'This Is Spinal Tap'
4K Ultra HD
A Criterion Collection gem.
Electric Guitar Shaped Ceramic Mug
Now they can rock out during their morning cup of coffee.
Marshall Stanmore III Speaker
Marshall’s signature Rock N’ Roll aesthetic is a gift that keeps on giving.
RockSaws Iron Maiden "Somewhere in Time" Jigsaw Puzzle
A 500-piece jigsaw puzzle that rocks.
Pink Floyd 'Live in Japan' Hoodie
Even if you weren’t there, you can pretend like you were.
AeroBand Smart Guitar
Jam out with this smart guitar without pissing off your neighbors.
'Brothers' by Alex Van Halen
Alex Van Halen opens up about his family and journey to fame with his brother.
Pluginz Fender Jack Rack Keychain
Taylor 114ce Sunset Blvd Grand Auditorium Acoustic-Electric Guitar
A great acoustic guitar for any level rocker.
Best Gifts for Hip-Hop Lovers
Nas, Tupac & Redman 1993 Portrait by Al Pereira
This photo depicts rappers Nas, Shakur and Redman dated July 23, 1993, at Club Amazon in New York. Not pictured was fellow rapper The Notorious B.I.G., who famously beefed with Shakur. This image captures a moment of peace and unity among the rappers before their East Coast-West Coast rivalry began.
A$AP Rocky x Ray-Ban RB3929 Sunglasses
Sunnies like these are fashion-forward, but still give you the protection you need. The oval-shaped lenses are 2N, which means they are moderately tinted, protecting the eyes against the sun’s harmful rays. The N stands for not polarized, meaning they are standard lenses. This is opposed to polarized lenses, which means they reduce glare.
Bob Marley Originals Jersey
This football jersey features the words “Football is Freedom” on the front, along with Adidas’ iconic Trefoil logo and Bob Marley’s name in cursive. The color is reminiscent of the Jamaican flag.
The Book of HOV: A Tribute to Jay-Z
The Classic Edition of The Book of HOV is presented in JAY-Z blue, a color that has become a symbol of his vision and legacy.
Golf Le Fleur French Waltz Fragrance 50ml
Have them smelling like Tyler, the Creator with his popular French Waltz fragrance, which features notes of Mandarin, Nashi Pear, Lychee and Magnolia.
Official Drake "Free Weezy" T-Shirt
Beats Studio Pro Wireless Headphones
The Dr. Dre-approved Beats Studio Pro headphonrs are extremely popular, well-reviewed – and currently on sale for over 40% off.
Funko Pop! Notorious B.I.G. with Crown
Make room on your shelf for the one and only Notorious B.I.G.
Still Gin By Dre and Snoop
Dre and Snoop have expanded their alcohol collection with Still Gin, a contemporary take on the classic beverage.
A$AP Rocky x Ray-Ban Wayfarer Puffer
Channel your inner A$AP Rocky with these stylish Wayfarer puffer sunglasses.
adidas Superstar II
A classic that will never go out of style.
Playboi Carti NBA PLAYBOI CARTI X M&N JERSEY LOS ANGELES LAKERS 1999
A collaborative basketball jersey between Playboi Carti and Mitchell & Ness.
'Hip-Hop Is History' by Questlove
Questlove is ready to educate the masses on the impact of hip-hop in a new book.
Official Drake "Someone In Houston Loves Me" T-Shirt
For the Houston native in your circle.
Tupac at Club Amazon by by Al Pereira
Shakur graced Club Amazon on July 23, 1993, in New York. His appearance at the club was a pivotal moment in hip-hop history, capturing a snapshot of the era before the notorious East Coast-West Coast beef.
Best Gifts for Pop Lovers
Barbie Signature Doll Kylie Minogue
This is a posable doll from Mattel inspired by Minogue’s hit 2023 track “Padam Padam.” The single reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Dance/Mix Show Airplay chart and No. 7 on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart.
Laufey Orbit T-Shirt
This is a standard white graphic tee with retro-inspired Laufey graphics on the front. The tee is slightly oversized for a lived-in effect.
Selena Gomez Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Luminous Powder Blush
This blush features a satin shiny finish, doubling as a highlighter. Rare Beauty currently has six shades in their luminous blush line.
Bad Bunny x Super Tazón Black Starter Jacket
Celebrate Bad Bunny’s historic Super Bowl halftime performance with this timeless “Super Tazón LX” Starter jacket.
So High School Candle Duo
Celebrate Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement with this gym teach and english teacher scented candle set.
Billie Eilish Your Turn Eau de Parfum
The offical Billie Eilish Your Turn fragrance opens with notes of bergamot, cardamom, and fresh ginger, softening into peach skin and jasmine, then grounding with sandalwood, musks, and sustainable Sylvamber for a warmth that lingers.
Funko Pop! Britney Spears (Oops! I Did It Again)
Bring home the princess of Pop with this must-have collectible.
Shake It Up: Cocktails Inspired by the Music of Taylor Swift
A Taylor Swift-themed cocktail book.
Marry a Backstreet Boy Mug
Girl, same.
Night People: How to Be a DJ in '90s New York City
Cherry Baby by Sabrina Carpenter
Sabrina Carpenter has shifted from espresso to fruit in this Cherry Baby perfume release.
Watermelon Sugar High Candle
A Harry Styles-inspired candle will help set a cozy mood each time it’s lit.
'A Hard Day's Night,' The Criterion Collection
Best Gifts for Country Lovers
Tecovas Cartwright Boot
'Good Lookin' Cookin'' by Dolly Parton & Rachel Parton George
Dolly Parton and her sister are serving up some of their favorite Southern food recipes.
Levi's 501 Women's '90s Jeans
Let them unleash their inner Cowboy Carter.
Pro-Ject T1 Phono SB Turntable
For the vinyl lover in your life, this stylish turntable can easily be the focus point of a living room with its eye-catching satin walnut detailing. It can also pair with most bluetooth speakers, especially Sonos for a high-quality audio experience.
Western Shapeable Cowboy Hat with Chin Cord
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
These flagship Bose headphones deliver some of the best noise cancellation and spatialized audio experiences on the market. If he’s an audiophile, these will fully immerse him in a audio high.
Best Gifts for Musicians
Personalized Platinum & Gold LP Record
A platinum record they will never forget.
Donner DED-70 Electric Drum Set
No matter how skilled your family member is at drumming, they can now practice whenever they want.
MasterClass Subscription
Masterclass offers a range of professional online classes that musicians of all skill levels can take advantage of.
Gemini PianoProdigy 24-Key Smart Wireless Midi Keyboard
Aspiring musicians can have fun playing their favorite songs.
Gibson Guitar Care Kit
A crucial gift for any guitarists in your life.
Sony WH-1000XM6 Headphones
With studio-quality sound with advanced noise cancellation functionality, the WH-1000XM6 should be every artist’s go-to headphones.
MAONO PD200W Hybrid Wireless Podcast Microphone
A high quality mic for vocal recording, streaming and podcast creators.
Make Your Own Guitar Pick Punch
Now they can make a guitar pick out of anything they desire.
Lego Grand Piano
Build and watch a masterpiece in motion with 25 keys each connected to their own hammer, which can be manually played or connected to your phone to play music.
Guitar Center Gift Card
Not exactly sure what to get them? A gift card always works. From $25 to over $1,000, a gift card to Guitar Center is a major win for any musician.
Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar
Upgrade your home theater set up and save $300 in the process.
For more gifting recommendations, check out ShopBillboard‘s roundups of musician-themed Christmas ornaments and gifts for boyfriends.
Entertainment
Hilary Duff, Baby Keem, Megan Moroney & More: Which Is Your Favorite New Music Release This Week? Vote!
Now that the Grammys and Super Bowl are firmly in the rearview mirror, a lot of music’s most exciting names have unleashed highly anticipated and long-awaited new projects.
BTS Ramp Up Comeback Anticipation With Global 'What Is Your Love Song?' Installations in Seoul, New York and London
Baby Keem leads this New Music Friday with his star-studded Ca$ino album, which marks his first full-length offering since 2021’s The Melodic Blue. Featuring collaborations with Momo Boyd, Too $hort, Che Ecr and, of course, his older cousin Kendrick Lamar, Ca$ino is an immersive, frenetic listening experience that firmly reestablishes Keem as one of hip-hop’s most arresting artists.
Hilary Duff and Megan Moroney also shared new albums. Duff’s Luck… or Something arrives as her first album in more than a decade. Primarily produced by hubby Matthew Koma, the new record is stacked with familiar guitar-inflected pop anthems that trace the latest arc of the millennial icon’s life and career. Moroney, who was recently honored at the second annual She Is the Music event, dropped her Cloud Nine album, which features a potential smash in the Ed Sheeran-assisted “I Only Miss You.”
A busy day across genres, this New Music Friday also boasts new albums from Grammy-winning rockstar Yungblud (Idols II), Mumford & Sons (Prizefighter), Willow (Petal Rock Black), Little Mix alumna Leigh-Anne (My Ego Told Me To), ascendant pop star Absolutely (Paracosm), dancehall star Popcaan (Gyalentine’s) and the trio of Larry June, Curren$y and The Alchemist (Spiral Staircases).
Over on the singles side, SZA leads the day with her first piece of solo music since shattering practically every chart and touring record last year with her SOS/LANA era and coheadlining Grand National tour. And it happens to be a ballad called “Save the Day” for the upcoming Pixar animated film, Hoppers. Staying in the R&B sphere, Ty Dolla $ign tapped his three-time Grammy-winning protégé Leon Thomas for “Miss U 2,” the lead single from the Los Angeles native’s Girl Music Vol. 1 project. A mixture of R&B, jazz and hip-hop, Thundercat’s Mac Miller-assisted “She Knows Too Much” stands out among this week’s drops.
Other notable New Music Friday singles include selections from Lana Del Rey (“White Feather Hawk Tall Deer Hunter”), Yebba (“Yellow Eyes”), Jorja Smith (“Don’t Leave”), kwn (“Hopeless Romantic”), Jessie Ware (“Ride”), Luke Combs (“Be By You”), Bebe Rexha (“Çike Çike”), Maiya the Don (“Let’s Be Clear”), Yung Miami (“Tea Time”) and Jai’Len Josey (“Housewife”).
Which new release this week is you favorite? Vote — or share your own pick — in Billboard‘s New Music Friday poll below:
Bad Bunny is topping the charts in Canada for the first time.
The Puerto Rico native is No. 1 on Billboard Canadian Hot 100 with “DTMF,” which rises all the way from No. 16, while its namesake album, Debi Tirar Más Fotos, rises from No. 5 to No. 1 on the Billboard Canadian Albums chart — both dated Feb. 21.
The chart-topping feat follows the success of Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show, which drew in the fourth biggest audience ever for a halftime set. Dubbed the “Benito Bowl” the performance was a call for unity in America, featuring artists including Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin and featured a Canada namedrop.
It’s the first time a Spanish language works top both charts at the same time.
In the top 10 of the Canadian Hot 100, Bad Bunny lands three other songs, all of which he performed at the Super Bowl: “Nuevayol,” which bounds 33-3 for a new high, and “Baile Inolvidable,” up 38-7, also a new best. Plus, “Tití Me Preguntó,” from 2022’s Un Verano Sin Ti, soars 91-8.
“EOO” momentously rises 70-15 and “Voy A Llevarte Pa PR” climbs 80-20. “Monaco” re-enters at No. 42, “MIA” featuring Drake hits No. 44, “Velda” featuring Omar Courtz & Dei V emerges at No. 52, securing a new peak along with the Jhay Cortex-featuring “Dakiti” Bad Bunny at No. 48. “I Like It,” his collaboration with Cardi B and J. Balvin, moves in at No. 54, “Weltita” featuring Chuwi scores a new high at No. 70 and “Perfumito Nuevo” featuring RaiNao re-enters at No. 88.
Bad Bunny’s hop to No. 1 on the Canadian Hot 100 dethrones Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need,” — which ascended to the top last week after spending 24 weeks on the ranking — and Don Toliver’s Octane, which drops to No. 3 on Canadian Albums.
On Canadian Albums, he scores three additional entries as Un Verano Sin Ti climbs 7-4, 2023’s Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va A Pasar Manana re-enters at No. 53 and 2020’s YHLQMDLG emerges at No. 63.
Bad Bunny’s chart-topping week is a key indicator that Canadians are tuned into Latin music. In 2024, a national report found that the genre was on a red-hot rise, but highlighted its need for support in the music industry. To reflect this, the forthcoming Juno Awards includes a Latin music recording of the year category.
Read more on the chart feat here. — Heather Taylor-Singh
NBA Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Becomes Part-Owner of Hamilton’s TD Coliseum
Canadian basketball star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has now heavily invested in his hometown of Hamilton, purchasing an ownership stake in that city’s downtown arena, the recently rejuvenated TD Coliseum.
The facility’s developer, U.S. company Oak View Group (OVG), announced the investment did not reveal any financial terms. The 18,000-seat TD Coliseum, originally Copps Coliseum and FirstOntario Centre, was renamed last year after a $300-million renovation and reopened as a music-first venue. Next month it will host the 2026 Juno Awards.
The NBA’s reigning most valuable player and Billboard cover star, the 27-year-old Gilgeous-Alexander plays for the NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. His investment is made through his charitable organization, the SGA Foundation, and the partnership includes naming the Ares Atrium inside the venue, as a tribute to his son.
“His investment reflects a desire to help position Hamilton on the world stage and bring world-class entertainment and sports to the city,” touts OVG. Gilgeous-Alexander adds that “growing up in Hamilton shaped who I am, so having the opportunity to help build something special in my hometown means everything.”
As a kid, Gilgeous-Alexander used to travel to Toronto with his younger brother and mother to attend concerts; now, he has helped to bring mainstream music back to Hamilton itself as an investor in the venue, with artists like Nine Inch Nails, Charlie Puth and GIVĒON performing there this year. Last August, Hamilton offered its prodigal son the key to the city and named a street in his honour.
The partnership will include events and programming at the arena through the SGA foundation and a new music production program for kids through the Hamilton Music Collective [HMC]. In partnership with the Kiwanis Boys and Girls Club, HMC has launched the SGA/HMC Musical Futures Production Program, funded through the 2K Foundations SGA Music Program, which will give over 250 young people the opportunity to explore music creation with mentorship by producers, film composers, recording artists and DJs.
Read more here. — Kerry Doole
Executive of the Week: Margaret McGuffin, CEO of Music Publishers Canada on Intellectual Property in the Age of AI
Music publishing is one of the least visible but most powerful forces in the music industry. In Canada, it’s also often one of the most misunderstood.
Canadian artists like Tate McRae, Justin Bieber and The Weeknd are rightfully celebrated for topping the charts, but an equally important export story is unfolding behind the scenes — one driven by songwriters, composers and the publishers who help their work travel the world. As in many other creative fields, Canadian producers and songwriters are well-represented in the writing credits of the world’s biggest hits by artists like Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, Benson Boone, Lady Gaga and Kpop Demon Hunters — even if you don’t know their names.
Margaret McGuffin, CEO of Music Publishers Canada, represents companies responsible for the vast majority of songs heard across streaming platforms, social media, film, television and games. The company creates opportunities for publishers and their clients, educates the industry and public about their role, runs trade missions, advocates and educates through programming and, most crucially at this moment, makes sure their work is properly paid.
As AI threatens to upend copyright for Canadian artists and rightsholders, McGuffin has been a fierce advocate for proper licensing. It’s a stance that others, like SOCAN and many musicians across the country, have also adopted as AI music accelerates.
McGuffin is not against AI, she stresses. In fact, she sees it as a good business opportunity for those in the field. But she wants to ensure that copyright is respected and royalties are paid to the right people.
“The idea that it isn’t possible to license, this is a myth being driven by tech companies who do not want to invest in the creators who are supplying what they’re using,” she says.
As she argued recently in the House of Commons, that doesn’t require a massive overhaul of the legislation. In fact, as her argument goes, the law already covers it. Those suggesting it’s more complicated than that are doing so to avoid paying.
“There is no grey area. People who say there is, don’t want to license,” she says.
Read the full Executive of the Week conversation here. — Richard Trapunski
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