When Myles Smith started uploading cover versions to TikTok, he had no idea that, before too long, he'd be a million-selling debut artist.
Even when RCA UK co-presidents Glyn Aikins and Stacey Tang first came across his music, they knew immediately that his potential was massive. But this?
Not even they could have foreseen such an emphatic start to life as a recording artist. This month, as the Luton-born singer/songwriter stars on our cover, as we get an audience with the UK industry's hottest property. We tell the story of Smith's breakout, from a Top 5 hit with 2024's Stargazing, to being crowned BBC Introducing Artist Of The Year and 2025’s BRITs Rising Star.
With help from Sony Music UK & Ireland CEO & chairman Jason Iley, Aikins and Tang, manager Eric Parker, Sony Music Publishing's David Ventura – and more – we go deep on a success story that has been years in the making and is, truly, one for the books.
Meanwhile, in The Music Week Interview this month, riot grrrl turned Music Week’s International Woman Of The Year Molly Neuman tells us all about her new role heading up CD Baby, shares her thoughts on Virgin Music’s proposed acquisition deal for Downtown Music Holdings and digs into the major issues dominating the music industry agenda right now.
Up next, DJ AG, alongside his manager Zeon Richards, digs into the viral success of his TikTok platform which has hosted the likes of Central Cee, Craig David, Skepta and more, holds court on artist development and gives us an insight into the duo's plans to promote new talent across the UK.
We also meet up with Spiritbox’s singer Courtney LaPlante, plus manager Jason Mageau and team BMG, ahead of the release of the Grammy-nominated metal band's brilliant second album Tsunami Sea to trace their unconventional journey through the industry so far.
Finally in our features section, LIVE CEO Jon Collins and chair Steve Lamacq reflect on a turbulent few years for the live music sector and dig into how the trade body’s LIVE Trust is set to play a significant role in supporting the grassroots music sector.
In the news section, Big Story looks at how the music industry came together in LA to raise money for the devastation caused by the recent wildfires, whilst elsewhere campaigners examine proposals from the UK government which could support live music and prevent profiteering.
For Hitmakers, star producer Cirkut details the origin story of Rosé and Bruno Mars’ APT, and recalls how a Korean drinking game inspired a billion-streaming global smash, whilst Nick Grimshaw tells tales of Rihanna and Robbie Williams as he officially takes over the Breakfast Show on 6 Music.
In the March edition of Mentor Me, Spotify’s associate manager of songwriter and publishing partnerships, Goodness Victor, offers up her top five tips on how to build a career in the industry for creatives and executives alike.
Also in the front section, Banks reveals the story behind her new record Off With Her Head, reminisces on working with Doechii and looks back on going independent in Incoming, whilst On The Radar sees record-breaking rapper Pozer tee up his global takeover with his unique blend of Jersey club, UK drill and grime. In Spotlight, meanwhile, Crispin Hunt talks AI and the need for global competition as he steps into his new position as PRS Members’ Council president.
Lastly, in our expanded monthly charts section, we present the Top 75 Singles and Albums of the previous month, accompanied by revamped analysis pages, plus a host of new listings. These include specialist genre Top 20s for Americana, Classical, Hip-Hop & R&B, Jazz, Country, Dance, Folk and Rock & Metal. The issue is also home to streaming, compilations and vinyl charts.
The new issue of Music Week is available from February 18.
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