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Jan 9, 2026
The podcast dives into the implications of MTV's shutdown and the launch of MTV Rewind, reviving classic programs. It discusses Lucian Grainge's impactful annual memo focusing on AI and market trends. Ethiopia Habtemariam’s new role at Hybe America sparks interest, while James Stephen's career shift to Universal isn't overlooked. The conversation reveals UK streaming revenue stagnating amidst inflation, and critiques Spotify's reduced podcast payout thresholds as a strategic move to lower music industry payments.
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MTV's Cultural Funeral And A Fan Revival
- Lars Murray recounts social feeds mourning the death of MTV after Paramount cut secondary music channels.
- He highlights MTV Rewind as a fan-made simulation that preserves MTV-era programming while it lasts.
UMG Memo Signals AI And 'Streaming 2.0' Focus
- Lucian Grainge's memo emphasizes hits, AI, streaming 2.0, superfans, and market-share dominance as UMG priorities.
- The memo signals an industry focus on AI and platform-led growth strategies.
Executive Moves: Ethiopia Habtemariam And James Stephen
- Murray notes Ethiopia Habtemariam's hire as Hybe America's president of music and reconnects her with former colleagues from Motown and Quality Control.
- He also mentions James Stephen moving from Warner to Universal as another executive shuffle.