SEARCH DATE RANGE

SEARCH TERM OR WORD

 
Twenty-five years ago, EXIT Festival was born as a student movement for peace and freedom in Serbia and the Balkans. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s leading festivals and a global symbol of unity, positive social change, and youth empowerment.

Read the full statement below:
“Through music, creativity, and activism, EXIT has connected generations and nations, rebuilt broken ties, and built bridges where others route to divide. We have brought numerous European festival awards to our country and region, along with hundreds of millions of euros in tourism revenue and international recognition that global experts consider invaluable.
However, ever since we publicly stood with the students of Serbia in their fight for a freer and more just society, we have been subjected to immense financial and political pressures aimed at stripping us of our fundamental rights to freedom of thought and expression. Despite being completely cut off from public funding at all levels of government, and with some sponsors forced to withdraw under state pressure, we refuse to be silenced.
As a result, this year’s anniversary edition will be the last to take place in a Serbia where freedom of speech is systematically suppressed.
“This is the hardest decision in our 25-year history, but we believe that freedom has no price. With this act, we are defending not only EXIT, but the fundamental right to free expression for all cultural actors around the world. We invite them to stand with us in this fight" said Dušan Kovačević, founder and director of the EXIT Festival group.

While we know we are welcomed with open arms around the world, we owe our audience one last dance at the Petrovaradin Fortress. That is why our entire team is more determined than ever to make this year’s edition the most emotional and unforgettable yet.
EXIT 2025 will take place from July 10–13 in Novi Sad, when together with students we will mark 25 years of fighting for the better world. EXIT is not just a festival — EXIT is all of us who believe we can make a change. And just as we ignited the spark of change together a quarter of a century ago, today we once again defend the right to live freely.

If this truly is the last EXIT at the Fortress, let it be unforgettable. Let it be our strongest yet — a festival remembered not for its end, but for its unity. For love. For freedom.”

16 Jun 2025 | Press release

UMG / Downtown acquisition - former CMA Chief Economist calls on EC to conduct in-depth investigation

Executive Vice-President Teresa RiberaEuropean CommissionRue de la Loi / Wetstraat 2001049 BrusselsBelgium 12 June 2025   Dear Executive Vice-President Ribera, I am writing to urge DG Competition to conduct an in-depth investigation into the proposed acquisition of Downtown Music Holdings LLC (Downtown) by Universal...more

14 Jun 2025 | Press release

UD's Pamela McCormick awarded MBE for services to music education

Belfast-born founder of UD honoured for 25 years of work supporting young people and underrepresented talent   Pamela McCormick, founder and director of UD (formerly Urban Development), has been awarded a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the...more

14 Jun 2025 | Press release

Roger Daltrey & BPI Statements On Being Awarded A Knighthood

Roger Daltrey said: "It is a wonderful honour for me and especially for Teenage Cancer Trust. I accept this award not only for myself but on behalf of all the unsung heroes who have given their energy towards making the Teenage...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

dBs Institute of Sound & Digital Technologies announces Educator discount for music production postgraduate degrees

dBs Institute is offering a £1,000 discount on postgraduate degree programmes for educators who want to invest in their development. dBs Institute is pleased to announce that it is now offering a £1,000 discount to any currently practising music or music...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

Bandzoogle launches Merch Table Lite: a customizable commission-free online merch storefront for musicians

Musicians can now effortlessly set up a customized, commission-free online storefront using Bandzoogle’s new Merch Table Lite plan—without building a full website. Bandzoogle, the leading all-in-one website platform for musicians, is proud to announce the launch of Merch Table Lite—a new entry-level...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

Universal Music Group and WTSL Launch Joint Venture to Accelerate Commercial Opportunities for Artist-Led IP

Partnership led by Patrick Whitesell will develop new commercial pathways for UMG’s peerless roster and iconic catalog.   Universal Music Group (UMG), the world’s leading music-based entertainment company, and WTSL, the Silver Lake-backed investment firm founded by longtime entertainment leader Patrick Whitesell,...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

Alanis Morissette, The B-52's, and Stone Temple Pilots Release Iconic Albums as KiTalbums

KiTbetter and Rhino Records have partnered to release special edition KiTalbums for three landmark titles: Stone Temple Pilots’ Purple, Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill, and The B-52’s’ Cosmic Thing. Each reissue is presented in a collectible keepsake box that combines tangible physical elements...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

EXIT Festival Announces Final Edition in Serbia Due to Undemocratic Pressures

  Twenty-five years ago, EXIT Festival was born as a student movement for peace and freedom in Serbia and the Balkans. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s leading festivals and a global symbol of unity, positive social...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

Ninja Tune publishing company Just Isn't Music announce new deals with Jasmine.4.T, Marie Davisdon & Andreya Triana

PLUS, NINJA TUNE / JIM WIN 'SYNC OF THE YEAR' AWARD | KELLY BURKE JOINS PPL BOARD   Ninja Tune publishing company Just Isn't Music have announced a new deal with Jasmine.4.t, the first UK signee to Phoebe Bridgers label Saddest Factory...more

13 Jun 2025 | Press release

Brit School principal, Stuart Worden receives an OBE for his services to education leading the UK's iconic free arts school in Croydon

Stuart Worden, Principal of The BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology has been awarded an OBE for services to education in the King's Birthday Honours list 2025.  Stuart grew up in Chichester and joined The BRIT School from a career...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

Major new study of 18-25 year olds provides valuable insights into Gen Z's music listening and discovery habits

  New report from Blackstar, lemontank and BPI is thought to be one of the largest qualitative studies of its kind around Gen Z's attitudes towards music 500 18-25 year-olds across the UK provided unfiltered insights into their music listening, consumption and...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

Sony Music and LuxuryKSA Partner to Launch Saudi Talent on Global Stage

Partnership will build talent incubator in Saudi Arabia, designed to nurture and develop the next generation of stars    Sony Music Middle East today announced a new strategic partnership with Saudi-based entertainment company LuxuryKSA to develop and promote homegrown music talent from...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

Global appoints Jack Morlen as Director of Artist & Entertainment Relations

Global, the Media & Entertainment group, has today announced the promotion of Jack Morlen to Director of Artist & Entertainment Relations.   Morlen will lead Global’s artist and entertainment relations strategy across its portfolio of radio brands - including Capital, Heart and...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

UD reveals 2025 incubator class in partnership with PPL

UD’s Incubator programme returns for a third year, while the organisation launches a new Emerging Artist Residency at the Talent House National youth music organisation, UD, has revealed the nine talented young artists selected for its 2025 Incubator programme. Now in...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

The premier global celebration of music video creativity calls for submissions for 2025 edition

The UK Music Video Awards launches its call for submissions from today, June 11 2025, as it commences its search for this year’s standout creative and innovative work in music videos and music visual projects in 38 separate categories. The...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

NTIA Calls for Clarity as Spending Review Brings Mixed Signals Amid Autumn Budget Tax Increase Fears

  The UK’s night-time economy stands at a critical juncture following the Chancellor’s recent Spending Review, which announced unprecedented capital expenditure during this Parliament. While elements of the review offer cautious optimism, including long-term commitments to infrastructure and energy investment, many...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

UK Spending Review – Comment from Association of Independent Music

Following on from the UK music industry’s recent open letter to the government calling for £10m for music export, Gee Davy’s comment re-stresses the sector's need for long-term targeted investment:Gee Davy, Chief Executive of AIM, says: “The UK's music is a key...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

Statements on Brian Wilson's death

Sir Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO, Universal Music Group"Brian Wilson was one of the most talented singer-songwriters in the history of recorded music. Not only did his songs capture the spirit of youth, joy and longing in ways that still...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

Sony Music Publishing Nashville Launches New Podcast 'Thank a Songwriter' Featuring Award-Winning Hitmaker Ashley Gorley

First episode launches June 12 in celebration of Gorley's Songwriters Hall of Fame induction    Sony Music Publishing Nashville today announced the launch of Thank A Songwriter, a new podcast that celebrates the artistry and impact of songwriters shaping country music and...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

The Coca-Cola Company Launches real thing records., A New Record Label Empowering Rising Artists, in Partnership with Universal Music Group

French-New Zealand Singer-Songwriter Max Allais and Indian Singer-Songwriter and Producer Aksomaniac Among real thing records.' First Signees    The Coca-Cola Company is partnering with Universal Music Group (UMG) to launch real thing records. (rtr), a new record label dedicated to uplifting burgeoning artistry from around the world,...more

12 Jun 2025 | Press release

Haribo and Linkin Park are hitting the road together this summer with a limited edition fruit gummy mix

  +++ For music and candy lovers: HARIBO is launching an exclusive special edition for the global rock band LINKIN PARK. +++ The product features the band logo and personalized candy pieces for each band member. The six musicians, who are also HARIBO fans...more

11 Jun 2025 | Press release

O2 Silver Clef Awards 2025: Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Mika, The Last Dinner Party and Aurora announced as final wave of recipients

COUNTDOWN BEGINS FOR ONE OF MUSIC’S BIGGEST NIGHTS IN SUPPORT OF NORDOFF AND ROBBINS MUSIC THERAPY   Recipients join previously announced 2025 honourees David Gilmour, Rick Astley, Noah Kahan, Chase & Status, The Corrs and more Ceremony to be held on the evening...more

11 Jun 2025 | Press release

MITC announce new Online Tour Health and Welfare Coaching services

Flexible, Confidential Mental Health Support for Performers and Touring Professionals    The Music Industry Therapist Collective (MITC) has announced a new Online Tour Health and Welfare Coaching platform for artists, performers and touring professionals. The confidential new service offers short-notice expert-led coaching sessions designed to...more

10 Jun 2025 | Press release

Inaugural SXSW London Welcomed Attendees From 77 Countries and 800 Global Leaders

  Former Olympic community head likens SXSW London to 2012 Olympics in terms of long-term impact  Festival closed with premiere of LIFE OF CHUCK and Cactus Pears winning Grand Jury Prize in film category, and with final music performances from Idris Elba,...more

10 Jun 2025 | Press release

TikTok UK Song of the Summer Predictions

  Skye Newman – “Family Matters” What Skye Newman has achieved in such a short span is genuinely rare. This debut artist is rewriting the rules. Following viral success with her breakout “Hairdresser,” Skye Newman’s second single “Family Matters” has already broken...more

10 Jun 2025 | Press release

New report highlights emergence of a two-tier music streaming market favouring scale over diversity and flags need for urgent action

A new report “Combating the Emergence of a Two-Tier Music Streaming Market” has been published today. Analysing recent evolutions in the music streaming market, the report warns that a two-tier industry is emerging which requires “immediate attention”.The analysis has been carried...more

10 Jun 2025 | Press release

Forward Slash Founder Keturah Cummings Wins 'Music Entrepreneur of the Year' at 2025 Young Music Boss Awards

To be awarded in partnership with AIM on Thursday 12th June Keturah Cummings, founder of social media agency and content production studio Forward Slash, will be named Music Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2025 Young Music Boss (YMB) Awards, which...more

10 Jun 2025 | Press release

New festival Homestead cancels. AIF calls for Music Festival Tax Relief to mitigate closures and kickstart growth

39 UK festivals have fallen in 2025 to date - equalling half of the 78 that fell in 2024.    Somerset's new Homestead festival announced its cancellation today (Monday 9 June) and is the 39th festival to fall so far this year....more

09 Jun 2025 | Press release

LyricFind statements on Musixmatch motion to dismiss

Statements from Darryl Ballantyne (Founder & CEO of LyricFind) and Kellie Lerner (counsel for LyricFind) regarding Musixmatch's motion to dismiss LyricFind's antitrust lawsuit against them. "As revealed in our now unredacted complaint, we allege this was a classic 'buy or bury' scheme....more

09 Jun 2025 | Press release

Mick Hucknall and Lola Young to be honoured with prestigious ASCAP Awards

ASCAP GOLDEN NOTE AWARD TO BE PRESENTED TO MICK HUCKNALL TO MARK SIMPLY RED'S 40th ANNIVERSARY LOLA YOUNG TO RECEIVE ASCAP VANGUARD AWARD    ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, today announced that it will present two of its most prestigious awards to Mick...more

13 Jun 2025

  • Data (Use and Access) Bill passes without amendment (see News)

  • Has the time finally come for metered music experiences? (see Opinion)

12 Jun 2025

  • What moves the needle for artists in 2025? (see Features)

  • Tributes pour in for Brian Wilson (see News, Features, Showbiz&News)

  • These touts made millions - and claimed staff at big ticketing firms helped (see Features)

11 Jun 2025

  • Billboard names its Independent Power Players (see Features)

10 Jun 2025

  • New report highlights emergence of a two-tier music streaming market favouring scale over diversity and flags need for urgent action (see Reports)

09 Jun 2025

  • Ministers’ silence on threats to our creatives is bewildering (see News)

  • Sony Music Publishing set to acquire Hipgnosis Songs Group (see Business)

  • Manchester's Co-op Live to host the BRIT Awards (see News)

06 Jun 2025

  • Elliot Grainge has breathed new life into Atlantic Records (see Features)

  • BPI CEO addressed the SXSW London conference (see News)

05 Jun 2025

  • Elton John slams Labour over the AI act (see Opinion)

04 Jun 2025

  • Jim King's 30-year reign (see Features)

  • TikTok launches TikTok for Artists (see Digital)

  • Culture secretary Lisa Nandy talks AI policies and regulation (see News)

03 Jun 2025

  • A study from ICMP on music publishing revenues shows that digital now dominates (see Reports)

02 Jun 2025

  • Majors in talks to license music to AI firms Udio, Suno (see News)

  • Taylor Swift has bought back rights to her master recordings, a win for her but also a potentially major win for the industry (see Features)

  • UK music business power players: 2025 list revealed (see Reports)