UNLIMITED SUPPLY with Digital Music News Loyal service rewarded, music is better than sex, and AI vampires from actual Transylvania.
Nov 13, 2025
The discussion dives deep into AI's evolving presence in music, hinting at a future where machines might take the throne. Leadership shifts at major labels like Warner spark conversations about loyalty and talent promotion. A landmark ruling sees GEMA winning against OpenAI over unauthorized use of lyrics, shaking the industry. Also, a surprising survey reveals that many prefer music over intimate experiences. Lastly, the ongoing saga of NewJeans and Hybe takes center stage, highlighting the intricate relationships in the music world.
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Merlin Promotes From Within
- Charlie Lexton, Merlin's longtime COO, was promoted to CEO after years of loyal service to the indie label coalition.
- Lars Murray frames this as an example of 'loyal service rewarded' amid rising AI challenges facing DSPs and labels.
Warner's Executive Musical Chairs
- Warner reshuffled executives and moved Greg Nadel to president of A&R at Warner Bros. Records after Chris Lacey took charge at Warner Nashville.
- Murray describes this as another 'loyal service rewarded' move that reshapes leadership across Warner's labels.
NewJeans Returns To Hybe
- The NewJeans / Adore / Hybe saga concluded with NewJeans returning to the Adore-Hybe fold after a year and a half of legal and public drama.
- Lars Murray observes that loyalty can be costly in the music business and sometimes pragmatic reunions occur.