Spotify Leadership: Spotify promoted Joe Hadley to VP of Global Music Content and Partnerships, now overseeing both Music Editorial and Music Partnerships, while J.J. Italiano was named Head of Editorial for global curation and overall editorial strategy. Music & Social Impact: Warner Music and the Blavatnik Family Foundation Social Justice Fund announced its first 2026 grantees, nearly $6M for 17 organizations, including music-focused groups like Atlanta Music Project and Classical Pride. New Music Release: Erykah Badu returns with “Before the World Blows,” her first studio album in 16 years, featuring The Alchemist and guests including Westside Gunn, Earl Sweatshirt, Thundercat, Kamasi Washington, and Steve Lacy. Tour News (Pop): Take That unveiled major 2027 Dreamers Tour dates, including a planned Limerick show at Thomond Park and a new single, “Feel My Love,” featuring Michael Patrick Kelly. Italian Music in Sports: Italy’s ambassador in Bosnia attended the Italy vs Bosnia basketball qualifier in Tuzla, marking the day with a wreath-laying tribute tied to the Kapija massacre. Modernist Arts Fight: Protests erupted over the demolition of Tbilisi’s Rike Park Music Theatre and Exhibition Hall (“Rike Tubes”), designed by Italian architects Massimiliano and Doriana Fuksas.