Hi friends — I took an unplanned break last week, but I’m so happy to be back in your inbox the week of Thanksgiving. Thank you for being here and reading this newsletter. A few weeks ago, I was reading one of my favorite newsletters, SNOBHOP, and came across an edition about AI’s impact on the music industry. It got me thinking—while AI seems to be everywhere lately, I’d never really considered what it means for music specifically. The implications are fascinating and complex, both challenging and full of possibility. That’s why I’m excited to share my conversation with John Wright of John Wright, where we dive deep into music, marketing, and the questions AI raises for the industry. We explore things like: How do you handle logistics and royalties when AI gives a song like “21 Questions” a sudden resurgence? What role does race play in AI-generated music? What does all of this mean for artists, fans, and the future of music? Clipse album rollout, and their well-deserved Grammy nominations, artists like LaRussell, and how they promote their music, and so much more. Please check out the interview on video, or listen to it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube Podcasts or Pocketcasts. Also, be sure to subscribe to SNOBHOP which drops every Friday. Here are a few things I thought were worth sharing this week: THINGS TO READ: Telisha “Nikki” Jones who created the viral AI artist, Xania Monet, just landed a 7-figure music contract. Also, watch her interview with Gayle King which connects to what John and I discuss. Heart the Lover by Lily King was as emotional as people said it would be. I cried so hard reading it on Sunday that I gave myself a mild headache and could not sleep. While it’s devastating, I really enjoyed the writing and recommend you read it. If you do and/or have, let me know your thoughts. I wrote this on here a few years ago, and someone read it over the weekend so sharing it here: Tips on how to be a better reader. I have new tips for this, so will probably update this in the coming weeks. Loved this piece from my friend Kristen L. Berry on what she’s willing to give up for her dream. If you have not, be sure to purchase her debut novel, We Don’t Talk About Carol. I dibble dabble in Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, so naturally, I was intrigued about this article about how a black ex-Mormon seeing Layla from the show brings up some things from her past. Please read this newsletter from Ava DuVernay. THINGS TO LISTEN TO: I have not stopped listening to “It Must Be Magic,” by Teena Marie. It both put, and kept me in a great mood these past few days, so you should listen to it too. I don’t think I’ve mentioned Summer Walker’s new album, Finally Over It, but I love it. Truthfully, while her personal life is a little wild, musically, Summer never lets me down. Also, loving the new Wale album and Odeal’s new EP. Enjoyed Reese Witherspoon’s interview with Emma Grede on the Aspire podcast. If you’re watching “The Morning Show,” let’s discuss. Also enjoyed both the Arianna Grande and June Squibb interviews on the Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast (which is maybe my favorite podcast right now). That’s it for this week, I’ll catch you next week. Also, if you enjoy this newsletter and want to support it, I’m offering 50% off annual subscriptions through the holidays. It would mean the world to me—like, actual tears of gratitude. No pressure, but if you’ve been thinking about it, now’s a good time. Okay, love you. Get full access to Notes from Erin at notesfromerin.substack.com/subscribe
