Black Business Month cannot be complete without celebrating Black-owned record labels and independent Black artists who are reshaping the music industry. These trailblazers are not only redefining how music is created, distributed, and experienced but are also challenging the status quo with innovative approaches that prioritize artistic control, cultural heritage, and social impact. Their influence is undeniable as they carve out new spaces and set trends that resonate across the globe.

Growing up knowing I was attracted to women from a young age, there weren't many mainstream pop acts I could listen to and truly relate to. As a certified pop girly in the mid-2000s, my playlist was filled with the usual suspects like the Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, and all the Disney Channel stars. However, it wasn't until I hit my late teens/early 20s that sapphic artists like Hayley Kiyoko and girl in red began to make a real impact in mainstream media.

Remember when you could snag a decent concert ticket with a few weeks of saving up, and the only worry you had was making sure you didn’t lose your place in line? Those days are starting to feel like a distant memory. As live music rebounds from the pandemic, it feels like attending a show has become an exclusive luxury that only the financially fortunate can afford. And honestly, it’s starting to sting, especially for those of us who’ve made concert-going a way of life.

The music industry has long been dominated by record labels, streaming platforms, and various intermediaries, often leaving artists at the mercy of complex contracts and opaque payment systems. However, the rise of blockchain technology promises to shake up this status quo, offering both opportunities and challenges for everyone involved.

One of the most exciting parts of my job as a concert photographer is sharing the content I've created on social media after a show. It's a pretty amazing feeling to post the work I'm proud of for everyone to experience. Key word: everyone. Anyone who uses social media should be able to access the content that is posted, which is why the accessibility aspects of what I post are so important.

I am sure many concert-goers may not agree, but the concert experience is undergoing a significant transformation with the rise of virtual concerts and immersive environments. As technology advances, the music industry is shifting. Gone are the days when fans had to be physically present to enjoy live music. Now, they can experience concerts from the comfort of their homes. This change is not just a temporary trend but a lasting evolution in the way we consume music.

BottleRock Napa Valley is a three-day music, food, wine, and brew festival held annually in Napa, California. This year's 2024 festival will take place from May 24 to 26 at the Napa Valley Expo.

As we step into the vibrant realm of 2024, the art world finds itself on the precipice of a thrilling metamorphosis. The ever-evolving landscape of creativity continues to be shaped by a wave of fresh talent, pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and redefining artistic expression. In this era of innovation and exploration, a new generation of visionaries is emerging, ready to captivate audiences with their unique perspectives and groundbreaking creations.

Hola! If you’re reading this, I’m guessing this question has crossed your mind at least once. To unravel it, we must dive deep into the rabbit hole. Luckily, I'm a music geek (by night), so I've dug up tons of info so you don't have to.

Welcome to the rhythm-infused realm of Next Wave Magazine's curated holiday gift guide for music lovers. As the holiday season approaches, we invite you to explore a harmonious selection of gifts that cater to the diverse tastes of music enthusiasts. Whether your loved ones are avid concert-goers, devoted vinyl collectors, or simply passionate about the art of sound, our curated list encompasses a melodic array of presents that resonate with the spirit of music.

Finding new music isn’t always easy. When you’re lucky, great bands and artists will come up on your FYP, but the best stuff often slips through the cracks of the algorithm. So, if you want to discover more than trending sounds on a regular basis, let us do the hard work so you don’t have to!