AIM Awards shortlist revealed
The shortlist for the sixth annual AIM Awards were revealed last night at an exclusive launch event at House of Vans London. A total of 47 artists are competing for nine artist awards, with Christine And The Queens, Field Music, Flume, Radiohead, Roots Manuva, Skepta and Wolf Alice all up for two awards each. The Independent Label of the Year Award meanwhile, will be contested by Because Music, Bella Union, Epitaph/ANTI, Moshi Moshi and Ninja Tune. The awards ceremony will take place at The Brewery, London, on September 6. (Music Week)
TuneCore UK unveils trio of key partnerships
TuneCore UK has announced key partnerships with listings and ticketing aggregator Ents24, emerging London music promoter HotVox and live music marketplace BandWagonGigs.com.Independent digital music distribution service TuneCore says it has forged these partnerships to help independent musicians create sustainable careers.
Ticketmaster signs deal with Orchard Media
Ticketmaster has signed a ticketing deal with Wales’s largest independent promoter, Orchard Media & Events Group, a deal which signals further growth for the Ticketmaster business in the UK. Orchard produces more than 200 shows a year across the UK in a variety of venues across all genres of music. Additionally, the group works closely with the Welsh Government, local authorities and public bodies on both a consultancy basis and through the delivery of major, signature events throughout Wales.
Instagram launches Instagram Stories
Instagram has launched Instagram Stories, a Snapchat-like new feature that makes it easy to capture and share users' daily moments. With Instagram Stories, photos and videos disappear after 24 hours and don't appear on profiles, and reactions and conversations stay private. In addition, stories are easy to share with just who users want and hide from who they want. Instagram Stories began rolling out globally yesterday on iOS and Android.
The O2 links with SignVideo to benefit hard of hearing customers
The O2 has announced a deal with SignVideo that promises bring huge benefits to deaf and hard of hearing customers that use British Sign Language (BSL). Fans wishing to book tickets or make enquiries to the London venue are now able to liaise directly with the venue’s customer service helpline through a link to SignVideo on The O2 website. This will connect them to a fully qualified SignVideo BSL interpreter who will relay the conversation in real time to The O2 customer service agent. The service is offered free to all customers requiring it. SignVideo is in addition to the Texttype facility already on offer and a dedicated accessible booking line that handles over 31,000 special access requests annually.
Cowell to return for second series of America's Got Talent
Simon Cowell is returning for the second series of America's Got Talent on NBC, alongside fellow judges Heidi Klum, Mel B and Howie Mandell, as well as host Nick Cannon. The current series has been the highest rated of the summer. Cowell created the franchise and serves ad executive producer. (Variety)
Former ARIA chairman joins Valleyarm board
Australian music industry veteran Ed St John has joined the board of directors at digital content distributor Valleyarm Digital. St John previously held roles as MD at BMG and CEO of Warner Music Australia, as well as chairman of record industry association ARIA.
Garage Sessions to go back to Brixton
Garage Sessions returns to Electric Brixton on Friday, September 30, after two consecutive sell-out shows at at the start of the year. The event has lined up live PAs from Elisabeth Troy, Kele Le Roc, Romeo (So Solid Crew) and special guest Donaeo. The line-up already boasted the likes of Artful Dodger, Luck & Neat and Oxide & Neutrino.
