By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The worst nightmare for musicians has come true, as AI 'artists' are now replacing them on Billboard charts. "AI music is no longer a fantasy or niche curiosity among internet sleuths; it’s here, and it’s already beginning to have an impact on Billboard’s charts," the music authority reported. "In just the past few months, at least six AI … [Read more...] about AI ‘Musicians’ Like Xania Monet Are Appearing on Billboard Charts
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Variety Reports Paramount Skydance to Lay Off 2,000+ Workers
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief More than 10% of Paramount's employees will be laid off in the coming weeks, as the newly merged Paramount Skydance company begins expected cost cutting measures. The news will come as a shock but not a surprise to affected employees, since major job cuts were expected well before the merger between Skydance Media and Paramount Global … [Read more...] about Variety Reports Paramount Skydance to Lay Off 2,000+ Workers
Spotify Working With Major Labels to Implement “Responsible” AI Tools
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Leading music streamer Spotify is working with major music labels to develop AI systems that empower musicians and protect their copyright. The move comes amid a wave of concern over the millions of AI-created songs being uploaded to music streamers. Around the world, high-profile musicians have spoken out about AI companies … [Read more...] about Spotify Working With Major Labels to Implement “Responsible” AI Tools
Potty-Mouthed Skibidi Toilet Brand Unveils New Global Partners
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Thanks to viral sensation Skibidi Toilet, the licensing world is about to get a little louder ... and a lot weirder. Global Merchandising Services, the agency behind some of the biggest names in music and lifestyle, has announced its first roster of licensing partners for Skibidi Toilet. Skibidi is the viral, and somewhat vile, YouTube and … [Read more...] about Potty-Mouthed Skibidi Toilet Brand Unveils New Global Partners
HPC and Little Dot Studios Expand with Digital Content Partnership
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Hidden Pigeon Company (HPC) has partnered with Little Dot Studios to expand the digital presence of its children's brands on YouTube. As part of the agreement, Little Dot Studios' US-based team will provide content strategy and channel management services to optimize the existing YouTube channel for Mo Willems Workshop. “Having a … [Read more...] about HPC and Little Dot Studios Expand with Digital Content Partnership
Lion Forge Partners with TalesVision for Lostlings Adaptation
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Lion Forge Entertainment has signed a licensing agreement to adapt TalesVision's short-form Lostlings YouTube series into a long-form live-action show. The long-form adaptation of the Lostlings IP will be executive produced by experienced professionals from the Lion Forge Entertainment studio. This includes the company's CEO and founder … [Read more...] about Lion Forge Partners with TalesVision for Lostlings Adaptation
NBCUniversal Launching New FAST Channels on LG Smart TVs
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief NBCUniversal and LG Electronics have announced an expanded partnership to bring more content to American audiences through LG smart TVs. The collaboration will offer entertainment, news, sports, Spanish-language programming, and true-crime content, as well as introduce new shoppable experiences for viewers. This initiative builds on … [Read more...] about NBCUniversal Launching New FAST Channels on LG Smart TVs
WildBrain Expands FAST Kids’ Channel Offerings Across Europe
TLL Staff WildBrain, a global leader in kids’ and family entertainment, has strengthened its presence in the FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) kids’ space with the launch of multiple new channels across Europe. The new FAST channels will feature popular properties such as Teletubbies, Strawberry Shortcake, and Degrassi. That's also a sign that licensing … [Read more...] about WildBrain Expands FAST Kids’ Channel Offerings Across Europe
Lion Forge’s Iyanu Brings a Global Opportunity to Toy Fair
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Once in a while we at TLL see a property that poses a great opportunity for licensees that we just have to point out. The BBC smash hit Bluey was a great example, as that program, which we featured heavily at successive Licensing Expos, has exploded to become one of the top children's shows in the world. A new show debuting on … [Read more...] about Lion Forge’s Iyanu Brings a Global Opportunity to Toy Fair
Diversity Sells, But The Entertainment Industry Still Has a Long Way to Go
By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief The Entertainment and Character sector drives more sales of licensed products and services than any other, so the characters you see depicted form a critical part of the licensing mix. According to recent research, however, both the entertainment and licensing industries are missing out on sales due to a lack of diversity in the mix … [Read more...] about Diversity Sells, But The Entertainment Industry Still Has a Long Way to Go