Did you get to follow the latest about the music industry’s major issues around TikTok, AI and US politics during this week? If not, let us update you.
#1. Warner Music Is Building a Superfan App
Warner Music is stepping things up with a new app dedicated to superfans. Currently being tested by a small group of users, the platform aims to bring artists closer than ever to their most dedicated followers. And to kick things off? None other than Ed Sheeran, who’s already actively posting on the in-development version.
Designed as an exclusive space for fans, the app offers behind-the-scenes content, direct interactions, and could eventually include perks like early ticket access and personalized experiences. The project is being developed in-house by Warner’s tech team, with strong support from Elliot Grainge, the new CEO of Atlantic Records, who’s determined to shake things up.
Spotify is also working on a “deluxe” tier, with Universal Music is doubling down on artist-fan connections, and even Live Nation is getting in on the action.
#2. Bill Ackman Sounds the Alarm on Trump’s “Economic Nuclear War”
A surprising voice is raising the alarm: billionaire investor and second-largest individual shareholder of Universal Music Group (UMG), Bill Ackman, is warning of the potentially disastrous consequences of Donald Trump’s latest tariff policy. Despite having publicly supported the former president during the last campaign, Ackman now warns of an impending “economic nuclear winter” if the proposed tariffs go into effect on Wednesday, April 9.
Trump recently announced a minimum 10% tariff on all imports. Ackman—who has been a strong advocate for relocating UMG’s headquarters from Amsterdam to the U.S.—believes these decisions could shatter global confidence in the U.S. as a trade partner and investment destination. He’s calling for a 90-day pause to renegotiate trade agreements, cautioning that without it, the U.S. could be pushed into a deep recession.
#3. U.S. Congress Revives NO FAKES Act to Regulate Deepfakes
In response to the rapid rise of generative AI, the U.S. Congress has reintroduced the NO FAKES Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at protecting individuals’ vocal and visual identities. For the first time, the legislation would establish a federal right to image and voice, addressing the growing issue of unauthorized deepfakes.
Backed by both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, the bill has gained strong support from the music industry (UMG, Sony, Warner, Recording Academy) and now from major tech players like YouTube, Google, Adobe, and OpenAI. Under the proposed law, platforms would be shielded from legal liability if they promptly remove illicit content.
The bill also includes key exemptions for journalism and satire, safeguarding freedom of expression. As Harvey Mason Jr. of the Recording Academy put it, “AI should enhance – not replace – human creativity.” The NO FAKES Act represents a rare alignment between tech and the creative industries, marking a major step toward responsible AI that respects artists and protects personal identity.
#4. The Rise of Superfan Data in the Music Industry
The music industry is increasingly focusing on superfans, a rapidly growing sector expected to reach $4.1 billion by 2024. Labels are aiming to gain better control over fan data, but a lack of education on how to manage it is hindering progress. Fan data is crucial for targeting markets and maximizing revenue, but it is currently fragmented across multiple platforms. The isolation of data, coupled with fan fatigue from using too many platforms, makes managing it more challenging.
A lack of transparency and resources on data collection and usage is slowing the adoption of an effective strategy. The industry must move toward a more collaborative and transparent approach to optimize the use of superfan data.
#5. TikTok Sale Deadline is Extended, Again.
On April 4, a U.S. senator voiced concerns over the second extension of TikTok’s forced-sale deadline, calling it a “clear violation of the law.” Under legislation signed by President Biden, only one 90-day extension was permitted—not two.
This decision comes amid escalating tensions between the United States and China. Although a sale appeared imminent, negotiations reportedly fell apart after new sanctions were introduced by the White House. Senator Warner criticized the proposed terms of the deal, which would allow ByteDance to retain a stake in TikTok U.S., potentially compromising national security.
The key question now is: Will this political pressure impact Apple and Google, which continue to host the app in their stores despite the risk of major fines?
