Drop that stylus on this week’s stacked Executive Turntable, Billboard’s compendium of promotions, hirings, exits and firings — and all things in between — across music.

Read on for some very personnel news and don’t forget to cast your vote for the Power 100 Players’ Choice Award, plus peruse our annual list of the industry’s savviest financial advisers, our weekly interview series spotlighting a single c-suiter and our calendar of notable industry events.

SoCal concert promoter Goldenvoice, a subsidiary of AEG Presents, announced the retirement of its senior vice president, Susan Rosenbluth. With a career spanning six decades, Rosenbluth has worked with artists like Elton John, Talking Heads, BTS and Van Morrison, among others. She began her career at the Greek Theatre in 1978 and became its general manager by 1982. She later managed concert presentations at various venues for Nederlander, including the Pantages Theatre, the Pacific Amphitheatre and the Honda Center, and became a talent buyer in 1995. In 2003, Rosenbluth joined Goldenvoice, overseeing talent buying for concerts across California, Alaska, Hawaii and Arizona. She also spearheaded the Latin concert promotion division and became a key figure in promoting K-pop acts in North America, including BTS and BLACKPINK. She also co-chairs AEG’s Women’s Leadership Council and has received numerous awards, including from Billboard and Pollstar. “My work life has been filled with so many meaningful experiences, due to the Goldenvoice concert promotion team, artists and their crews who come together to present these events,” said Rosenbluth, “I am grateful to the people of the concert community.” Goldenvoice president Paul Tollett added: “Susan is a legend… that goes without saying. But she also charted a new course for Goldenvoice musically and made us better for it.”

Goldenvoice has promoted Lea Swanson to vp of talent, where she’ll oversee booking for the Mountain Winery, contribute to talent buying at key Los Angeles venues like the Peacock Theater and Shrine Auditorium, and book shows in across multiple markets in California and Hawaii. Based in San Diego, Swanson will report to COO Melissa Ormond. Swanson brings over 25 years of experience in talent buying, including 17 years with Goldenvoice parent AEG Presents. Her career began in 1999 at Viejas Casino, where she helped develop a 1,500-capacity concert venue. She has since booked a wide range of events, from small clubs to full-size arenas, and worked with venues like the Rady Shell, Humphreys Concerts by the Bay and Pechanga Resort Casino. Stoked for her new role, Swanson emphasized the can’t-pass-up opportunity to grow within the mega-market just north of her. “After over 17 years with AEG Presents in my home market of San Diego and supporting numerous casino clients, I feel fortunate to be in the right place at the right time to step into this elevated role,” she said. “A year after accepting the lead booking role at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga, having the chance to grow and promote shows in one of the primary music markets in North America was an opportunity I had to take.”

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Bill Walshe is Sphere Entertainment‘s new executive vp and global head of venue operations and development. The hospitality industry veteran will lead operations at the mothership in Las Vegas, while also running point on developing a global network of other orbs the world over. Reporting to Jennifer Koester, president and COO, Walshe will lean on his skillset to enhance the guest experience at Sphere. Walshe’s career includes leadership positions at Viceroy Hotel Group, The Doyle Collection and Jumeirah Group, where he oversaw sales, marketing, and innovation initiatives. Koester praised Walshe’s expertise in international markets, citing his ability to align with Sphere’s ambitious vision. “Sphere is a global destination for immersive experiences unlike anywhere else,” said Koester. “Bill’s expertise across premier brands in international markets will be an asset as we continue to deliver an unparalleled experience for guests, artists, and partners at our Las Vegas venue, while pursuing our long-term growth goals for this next-generation entertainment medium.”

The New York Philharmonic appointed Matías Tarnopolsky to president and CEO of the storied symphony, effective New Year’s Day. Currently leading The Philadelphia Orchestra and Ensemble Arts, Tarnopolsky has held prominent roles at Cal Performances, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra. He previously served as vice president of artistic planning at the New York Phil from 2005 to 2009. Board co-chairmen Peter W. May and Oscar L. Tang praised Tarnopolsky’s innovative leadership and strong relationships within the artistic community. Gustavo Dudamel, the Philharmonic’s incoming music and artistic director, expressed confidence in their shared vision for the orchestra.  “I vividly remember when Matías came to Caracas in 2006 and, from that moment, I knew that I had met someone who would become one of the most important leaders in our industry,” recalled Dudamel. Tarnopolsky said he looks forward to returning to the Phil, inspired by its newly renovated David Geffen Hall, Dudamel’s leadership and plans to elevate the Philharmonic’s cultural impact and foster inclusivity. “We will rededicate ourselves to the New York Philharmonic’s contemporary place in the cultural and civic life of New York, for all New Yorkers, to create an inclusive, expansive, and joyful musical future,“ he said. 

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Rachael Stoeltje will become chief of the Library of Congress‘s National Audio-Visual Conservation Center, beginning in January. She’ll oversee the Packard Campus in Virginia, managing the world’s largest collection of films, TV programs, radio broadcasts and sound recordings, focusing on acquisition, preservation and accessibility. Previously, Stoeltje directed Indiana University Libraries Moving Image Archive, leading its expansion and film digitization and preservation efforts. As president of the Association of Moving Image Archivists, she championed diversity and global cooperation in media preservation. Library of Congress associate librarian for researcher and collections services Hannah Sommers praised Stoeltje’s career as “visionary” and “laser-focused on the future and leading by example.” Stoeltje emphasized tackling challenges like AI’s impact on archival authenticity and global archival risks. “The big issues on the horizon are an important part of our future work, along with preserving and making accessible our nation’s moving image and sound recording cultural heritage,” she said.

Capitol Records tapped Sam Breslin as vice president of marketing, a bump-up from his previous role of senior director. In his elevated position, Breslin will continue crafting and implementing strategies for a wide array of newer and legacy artists at the legendary label. Having joined Capitol over a decade ago as a coordinator, he has since contributed to significant successes for Lewis Capaldi, The Beatles, Paul McCartney, Niall Horan, Norah Jones, Good Neighbours, Beck and more.

Venu Holding Corporation (VENU) named Terri Liebler as its chief marketing officer. With 30 years of experience in sports and entertainment, Liebler previously served as senior vp in Live Nation Entertainment’s media and sponsorship division, where she led strategic planning and innovative growth initiatives. During her 22-year tenure at Live Nation, she played a key role in expanding U.S. and international venue and festival platforms and cultivating partnerships. Liebler’s career also includes roles with the NBA’s Seattle SuperSonics and San Antonio Spurs, as well as work on the Premium Seat operations team for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. VENU’s founder and CEO, J.W. Roth, praised Liebler’s passion and leadership, anticipating she’ll bring with her “an unrelenting enthusiasm and dedication for our brands that will undoubtedly drive our unparalleled venues to new heights.”

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VENU also announced that Live Nation Entertainment veteran Will Hodgson has been its president since October. He spent 13 years at LNE, where he led House of Blues Entertainment, overseeing 20 venues, 17 restaurants, and seven cocktail lounges. His background also includes investment banking and developing ticketing solutions for major festivals. “Will is a rockstar, he will do an incredible job quarterbacking our strategic growth and operations,” said J.W. Roth. “His unique expertise across live music, finance, ticketing, food and beverage, and real estate development is a powerful fit for our vision.”

Nashville-based music publishing company Little Extra Music hired Victoria Goodvin to represent the company’s catalog. Goodvin’s career includes time at Song Factory Music, Wide Open Music, Liv Write Play and Row Entertainment. Also joining the team is Tristan Scaife (son of Little Extra Music co-founder Joe Scaife), who will work alongside Goodvin. LEM was founded in 2013 by Scaife and Lisa Ramsey-Perkins. The company’s catalog features more than 100 cuts, including the four-week Billboard Country Airplay chart-topper “She Got the Best of Me,” and the Walker Hayes-recorded “You Broke Up With Me. Writers Rob Snyder, Tia Sillers, Kylie Sackley, Will Bowen and Kelsey Waters are represented in the catalog. –Jessica Nicholson

NASHVILLE NOTES: PLA Media appointed Krista Dykes as senior media relations manager. Dykes began her career in 2007, contributing to communications projects in online insurance and inside the country music industry. She most recently served as media relations manager for the Country Music Association from 2015 to 2023, fostering relationships with national media and TV affiliates, and she’s the founder of the Secret Mom Hacks podcast and Mom Boss Mastermind, a virtual networking group for entrepreneurial mothers … O’Neil Hagaman, LLC promoted Tiffany Wiggers to principal, where she will influence the Nashville firm’s productivity and growth while continuing to serve her diverse client base. Wiggers, who began as an intern in 2004, is a current member of the Tennessee and Nashville Bar Association’s Entertainment Divisions, as well as the Gospel Music Association and the Country Music Association.

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Big Loud Rock appointed Jenn Essiembre as senior vp of A&R. Reporting to Big Loud partner Joey Moi and GM Lloyd Norman, Essiembre will lead the label’s A&R strategy, focusing on talent identification and development. Essiembre previously served as vp at 300 Publishing, a division of 300 Entertainment, where she signed and developed artists and songwriters like Sean Momberger, Hunxho and Spencer Jordan. Her career began at ole Music Publishing, where she facilitated placements for stars like Sam Smith, Justin Timberlake, and Maluma. Essiembre expressed enthusiasm for her new role, aligning with Big Loud Rock’s artist development values, while Moi praised her energy, expertise and vision. “From our first conversation, I knew she’d be the right fit for this role,” he said.

Independent publisher OTM Music has appointed Emmy Feldman as U.S. head of A&R. Feldman brings extensive music experience, having helped open the Brooklyn outpost of Rough Trade before spending seven years in A&R at Atlantic Records and Canvasback Music. She then moved to Heavy Duty, where she managed a roster of songwriters, producers, and artists, including Buddy Ross and BJ Burton. In July of this year, she joined OTM, managing a roster that includes Dot Da Genius, Metronomy, Sub Focus, Still Woozy and Hemlocke Springs. OTM Music, launched by CEO Alex Sheridan in 2017, supports a roster of songwriters who have collaborated with SZA, Travis Scott, and A$AP Rocky. Recent high-profile deals include Kid Cudi producer Dot Da Genius, Sub Focus, and partnerships with artists like Sudan Archives and HONNE. Operating in London, New York, and Los Angeles, OTM also named Kristin Genovese as U.S. Head of Sync and added Kate Sweetsur and Ethan Mizen to its UK A&R team.

Hook, a new AI-powered social music app centered on remixes and mashups, expanded its leadership team with four key appointments. Katerina Kosta, formerly of TikTok/ByteDance and Jukedeck, joined as head of AI to develop ethically-trained AI tools that enhance music creativity while ensuring fair artist treatment. Grammy-nominated engineer Prash Mistry is now head of audio development and UK general manager. Karan Bhatnagar, previously head of digital at Three Six Zero management, stepped in as head of artist and creator strategy to support artist campaigns. Ed Pak, with a decade of industry experience and involvement in Saavn’s acquisition by Reliance Jio, is taking on the role of head of business development and Partnerships. The app, launched on Apple’s App Store this fall, also announced new offices in Los Angeles and London.

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SILO Music appointed Marcy Bulkeley as head of sync A&R and music supervision of the publishing, management and sync house. Bulkeley will manage sync licensing and music supervision for film, TV, motion picture advertising and emerging media through her venture, Subtle Mother Music Supervision Services. With over 25 years of industry experience, she is known for her expertise in music curation and creative collaboration. Previously, as vp of sync A&R at Universal Music Group, she led custom music and remix projects, earning Clio awards and Guild of Music Supervisors nominations. SILO Music’s CEO, Jack Ormandy, praised Bulkeley’s innovative approach as aligning with the company’s mission to create elevated experiences through music. Under her leadership, SILO aims to expand its reach, delivering bar-none music curation and sync services to clients across multiple industries.

Bootleg, a company specializing in high-end concert recordings, appointed Rohan Adarkar as an equity advisor. The longtime entrepreneur is tasked with helping the company by leveraging his expertise in scaling entertainment tech products and building partnerships with global music stakeholders. In 2003, Adarkar co-founded txttunes, an early text-to-pay service for DRM-free MP3 downloads, which partnered with the American Association for Independent Musicians during the 50th Grammy Awards before its acquisition in 2007. Adarkar also founded totally different, a B2B consultancy, and advises the New Zealand government and its Ministry of Arts and Culture. He is a trustee of the Click Foundation, supporting education initiatives.

Splice appointed Jeff Roberto as senior vp of marketing, tasking him with leading global marketing initiatives and expanding the platform’s presence for musicians. Roberto brings extensive experience, including leadership roles at Nodle, DistroKid, and Picsart, where he helped drive a $130 million funding round and a $1 billion valuation. His career also spans Shazam, Napster, MAGNIFI and Astralwerks Records. Roberto aims to enhance Splice’s impact through innovative AI tools and brand growth. CEO Kakul Srivastava commended Roberto’s industry expertise and commitment to creative communities, emphasizing Splice’s AI roadmap as transformational.

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Various Artists Management elevated Rebecca Dixon to global head of marketing & general manager UK. Dixon, previously head of marketing and promotions, will now split her time between VAM’s London and LA offices, reporting to CEOs David Bianchi and Matt Luxon. In her expanded role, Dixon will oversee UK marketing and audience development, deepen her involvement in LA, and strengthen partnerships across Europe. Over her decade-long tenure with VAM, she has led innovative campaigns for artists like Ashnikko, Tom Grennan, and The Libertines. Her promotion follows her recognition as the Trailblazer: The Richard Antwi Award winner at the Music Business UK Awards.

Fixated, a digital entertainment company launched in early 2024 by former BMG North America president Zach Katz and creator economy exec Jason Wilhelm, has added key hires to its executive and talent management teams. Jeff Shaivitz (svp of business and sales), Kou Chaichian (vp of brand partnerships) and Daniel Coughlan (head of content development) bring extensive expertise to support the company’s growth. Additionally, new talent managers Anooj Desai, Kasia Turek and Kyle Rooney have joined to oversee Fixated’s growing roster of top digital creators.

ICYMI:


Cara Donatto
Cara Donatto
Cara Donatto is appointed evp of media strategy for Atlantic Music Group, overseeing publicity and communications strategy and execution … BMG promoted Katie Kerkhover to the role of svp of A&R, Frontline Recordings in North America … Troy “Tracker” Johnson is launching TRACK mgmt following nearly 10 years with Big Loud … Sony Music UK hired former UMG exec Azi Eftekhari as its COO, in charge of key areas, including the label’s Commercial Group. [KEEP READING]

Last Week’s Turntable: UMG Touts Liszt of Promotions in Classics Group

There’s nothing artificial about Mariah Carey, who has addressed rumors that her 2024 Spotify Wrapped video message to fans was AI-generated.

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“Bad lighting and a red lip have you all thinking this is AI??” the vocalist tweeted Thursday (Dec. 5), reposting the video in question from a fan account on X. “There’s a reason I’m not a fan of either of those things!”

In the video, Carey thanks her top listeners on the streaming service, addressing the camera in a Santa-inspired dress with white trim and festive crimson lipstick. “Your support through the years is the greatest gift I could ask for,” she says in the clip. “This year, we’re celebrating the 30th anniversary of my album Merry Christmas. I hope you enjoy listening to it, and I can’t wait to share new music with you soon.”

In the comments of the fan account’s original post, people were debating the video’s authenticity before Carey stepped in. “i can’t tell if this is ai,” one viewer wrote, while another person commented, “It must be hard being so gorgeous that nobody believes you’re real.”

The Songbird Supreme was one of many artists to record thank-you messages for their fans as part of 2024’s Spotify Wrapped, which rolled out Wednesday (Dec. 4). In addition to showing individual users their own personal top-streamed artists and songs, the platform also revealed its most popular musicians and tracks overall this past year. Taylor Swift, The Weeknd and Bad Bunny were among the most-listened artists, while Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso,” Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” and Eilish’s “Birds of a Feather” garnered the most plays among songs.

Carey is currently finishing out her 2024 holiday tour, with her next show slated for Saturday (Dec. 7) in Baltimore. The limited trek will end Dec. 17 with a performance in Brooklyn, N.Y.

The superstar’s evergreen holiday smash “All I Want for Christmas Is You” has also returned to the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 this week, jumping to No. 10 on the chart dated Dec. 7.

See Carey’s tweet below.

Rauw Alejandro is going on tour next year in support of his latest album, Cosa Nuestra. The Puerto Rican superstar unveiled the dates to his world tour on Friday (Dec. 6).

The Live Nation-produced stint is set to kick off April 5 in Seattle, and will then visit major cities including San Francisco, Chicago, Houston, Boston and New York before wrapping May 30 in Miami. According to the press release, fans can expect an “electrifying showcase of Rauw’s biggest hits and new music, delivering the genre-defying sound that has propelled him to global stardom.”

News of the tour comes just a few weeks after Rauw released Cosa Nuestra, an 18-track set that gave the singer-songwriter and rapper his first top 10-charting effort on the Billboard 200, as Cosa Nuestra debuted at No. 6 there. The LP landed atop the Top Latin Albums chart and Latin Rhythm Albums charts (dated Nov. 30).

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Cosa Nuestra boasts guest collaborators including Bad Bunny (“Qué Pasaría…”), Laura Pausini (“Se Fue”), Romeo Santos (“Khé?”) and Pharrell Williams (“Committed”). From salsa to R&B to reggaetón to electro-funk to kizomba, the album is a wide-ranging production that represents his most eclectic and ambitious work to date.

General onsale for tickets begins Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. local time on the Live Nation website. See Rauw Alejandro’s Cosa Nuestra U.S. dates below:

  • April 5 — Seattle — Climate Pledge Arena
  • April 8 — Sacramento, Calif. — Golden 1 Center
  • April 11 — Las Vegas — T-Mobile Arena
  • April 12 — San Francisco — Chase Center
  • April 13 — Fresno, Calif. — Save Mart Center at Fresno State
  • April 15 — Salt Lake City — Delta Center
  • April 17 — Denver — Ball Arena
  • April 23 — Phoenix — Footprint Center
  • April 25 — Inglewood, Calif. — Intuit Dome
  • April 30 — San Diego — Viejas Arena
  • May 1 — Anaheim, Calif. — Honda Center
  • May 3 — Dallas — American Airlines Center
  • May 6 — Houston — Toyota Center
  • May 9 — Chicago — United Center
  • May 14 — Baltimore, Md. — CFG Bank Arena
  • May 15 — Philadelphia — Wells Fargo Center
  • May 17 — Boston — TD Garden
  • May 20 — Brooklyn, N.Y. — Barclays Center
  • May 23 — Raleigh, N.C. — Lenovo Center
  • May 24 — Atlanta — State Farm Arena
  • May 27 — Orlando, Fla. — Kia Center
  • May 30 — Miami — Kaseya Center

In this year’s producer of the year, non-classical category, there is one notable absence — Jack Antonoff, who would have been nominated for his sixth consecutive year — and one welcome addition: R&B producer-musician Alissia, who becomes just the ninth woman (or team of women) in the history of the category to receive a nomination. Had Antonoff been nominated and won, he would have set a record as the only consecutive four-peat in the 50-year history of the award. Meanwhile, a woman has yet to take home the trophy.

The 2025 nominees also include superproducer Daniel Nigro, “Not Like Us” hit-maker Mustard and veteran producers Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II and Ian Fitchuk. Of the five, Alissia, Mustard and Fitchuk are first-time nominees in this category. Below, all five nominees reflect on being nominated.

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Alissia

Alissia
Alissia

Of your nominations, why is producer of the year so special?

I’ve worked so many years to really perfect my craft as a musician and then later as a producer, and just to be nominated as a producer of the year, it’s huge. It’s like all the endless sessions, late nights and nonstop working just really reminded me that, man, hard work pays off. And it was so crazy to me because my biggest inspiration as a producer passed away that week, Quincy Jones. So it was such an emotional week. He was such an inspiration for me to start arranging strings and everything. So [my nomination is] representing a lot more than just me.

You join a small class of women who have been nominated in this category. What extra significance or pressure does that add?

It’s very humbling to be the ninth woman ever being nominated in this category alongside some of my favorites like Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey and all these ladies who’ve really worked hard to pave the way for me to be nominated in this category. I don’t take that for granted. I see this as a big milestone for women producers in general. What really made me the most happy and emotional is that I started receiving so many DMs from young girls, producers and musicians and just women in general. It really warmed my heart up. It’s a big deal.

What would an ideal Grammy night celebration look like?

I have a party series called Boogie Nights. It’s going to be so much fun. I want to celebrate with everyone, and also celebrate everyone else because I saw so many of my friends that got nominated too. The goal of Boogie Nights is to connect artists and creatives with each other to hopefully, maybe, spark a collaboration or whatever comes naturally. It’s also just to have fun. So Los Angeles is the perfect place and the Grammys are the perfect time.

Dernst “D’Mile” Emile II

D'Mile
D’Mile

How did you find out and react to being nominated for producer of the year, non-classical?

This is my third year in a row being nominated. And to be honest, the first time we even tried and I got nominated, I was happy with that. I was like, “OK, I did it.” And then last year, I almost didn’t even bother trying to get my name submitted. But funny enough, Victoria Monét’s manager [Rachelle Jean-Louis] basically made me do it. And then this year, in a way, was similar. I was indifferent about if we should try or not — and I’m glad we did. I’m always just happy to be recognized… Of course, if I win, that would be amazing. But it was a good year for everybody.

How does this year’s class of nominees represent what’s resonating in music today?

I feel like it definitely resonates well. I feel like country music, to start, has had a great year with a whole bunch of artists that are already in the field or that have dabbled in it. Mustard had a great record with “Not Like Us,” so no surprise there. Me and Dan [Nigro] actually have spoken a couple times about it and joked, like, “Maybe next year we’ll go up against each other again.” I’m such a big fan of his and what he’s done with Olivia [Rodrigo] and Chappell [Roan]. I even voted for him the first round, like, “You got to be up there.” Alissia, I know her well. She’s an incredible musician. I was happy to see a female producer. I feel like [the nominees] actually translate well to the past year — all the hard work paying off.

“Die With a Smile” is your fourth song of the year nomination. You’ve won with Bruno Mars before, with “Leave the Door Open.” Are there any similarities between the two hits?

When [“Leave the Door Open”] came out, [it had] the same impact and similar reactions. It just felt like everybody knew it instantly, everybody seemed to love it instantly. So I still can’t tell which one they love more. But I mean, I think because it’s two powerhouses, Lady Gaga and Bruno, on a song like that, I’m sure that helps a lot. Gaga’s fans, The Monsters, and The Hooligans put together? Forget about it.

Ian Fitchuk

Ian Fitchuk
Ian Fitchuk

What does it mean to be nominated for producer of the year?

It means a lot to be recognized for the work that I’ve put in, not just this year, but kind of my whole career, which at this point has been about 24 years. And I feel like it’s also a celebration of all the people that I get to work with — the engineers, songwriters, producers. I feel like I share that nomination with friends of mine that have made me better at what I do and have put tons of work and time and energy into the projects that I’m associated with.

How does this year’s class of nominees represent what’s resonating in music today?

It’s an awesome representation of where music is — and I’m a fan of everybody else that’s in the category. I’m well aware of the work that they’ve been doing, and I think that it touches on all different genres. I love that it doesn’t feel heavy-handed in one space over another. I think it’s really cool. I love Dernst [“D’Mile”] and Dan and I’m not as familiar with Alissia, but Mustard, my son has made me more aware of him.

You worked on Kacey Musgraves’ Deeper Well and won your first two Grammys for her Golden Hour. Why is that relationship so special?

I would say this about everybody, but being able to record and make music that I would want to listen to is a gift, because I know that this is a hard world to work in and you don’t always get to make things that align with your tastes necessarily. And I like that I’ve been able to be true to who I am with the music that I get to make. To be trusted like that is awesome.

What would an ideal Grammy night celebration look like?

Probably a milkshake and in bed by 10 p.m.

Mustard

Mustard
Mustard

How did you find out and react to being nominated for producer of the year?

I wasn’t even expecting producer of the year. I was just on some “Not Like Us,” Faith of a Mustard Seed, “Parking Lot” [with Travis Scott], one of those things. I’m just waiting for [the category] to pass, to get to the other s–t, and then [they said], “Mustard” and I was like, “What the f–k?” My thought process wasn’t there. You know, the Grammys is a long time coming for me. I’ve always wanted to be nominated for producer of the year. But I just believe that things happen when God wants them to happen. So I was overly excited and screaming in the house and s–t, running around.

This is also your first nomination for record of the year. Why is “Not Like Us” a worthy contender?

Culturally, man, we did something that woke everybody in music, in the world, up. It’s going to be a piece of history. It’s one of the biggest songs just for the West Coast, and you know, it was really dark over here for a while. It’s more than the dis song part of it. It’s just bringing everybody together. I think everybody feels the West Coast right now. And the Dodgers won, so s–t. I think it helped.

Where’s the craziest place you’ve heard that song so far?

They performed it at my daughter’s school, and it was really crazy. It was the clean version, though, but it was just like, “You guys are doing a dance to this song?” She’s 9, so for me it was just like, “What the f–k?” It’s just some crazy s–t.

What would an ideal Grammy night celebration look like?

If I win producer of the year, I mean, s–t, I might be doing backflips all the way down Figueroa [Street].

Daniel Nigro

Daniel Nigro
Daniel Nigro

How did you find out and react to being nominated for producer of the year, non-classical?

My wife and I were walking our dog the morning of the announcements, so when my manager called and said, “Congratulations!” I responded with “For what!?” I was definitely hoping for a nomination this year but also didn’t want to get my hopes up because you just never know. I’m really excited about how things turned out. To celebrate, we had a very, very small get-together at the studio. We ordered some Papa John’s and had a cake.

This is your second time being nominated in this category, and your third time being nominated for song of the year, record of the year and album of the year. What’s your secret?

I wish there was a secret. I just feel so lucky that I get to work with such incredible artists and songwriters that get nominated. What I’d like to know is if there’s a secret to winning one of those categories, because it hasn’t happened yet.

You’ve also been involved in the debut albums from two best new artist nominees: Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan. What does it mean to be a part of an artist’s career from the start?

I feel very fortunate to have this happen twice for me. I get a lot of joy and satisfaction from being a part of the development process. As someone who once was a recording artist, I try to take the things I learned during those years and help other artists navigate the madness that is the music industry.

This story appears in the Dec. 7, 2024, issue of Billboard.

Lance Bass has had an eclectic career since *NSYNC went on hiatus in 2002. He’s acted on TV in 7th Heaven and Dancing With the Stars, in the movies in On the Line, Zoolander and I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry and on Broadway in Hairspray, as well as hosting the drive-time radio show Dirty Pop with Lance Bass and training for an (ultimately failed) chance to blast off into space.

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But the one thing the singer could not do, apparently, was play it straight for a sitcom at a time when he said that marriage equality was beginning to bubble up in the national conversation. In a chat this week on the Politickin’ podcast, the 45-year-old pop star opened up about his lost bid at a network role after he came out in 2006.

“I had a sitcom with The CW at the time, and we were about to shoot the pilot and this came out and they were like, ‘We can’t do the show anymore. Like, they have to believe that you’re straight to play a straight character,’” married father of twins Bass said about the unnamed show. “Every casting director I knew, they’re like, ‘Lance, we can’t cast you because they can’t look past… You’re too famous for being gay now that they can’t look at you as anything other than that.’ So, I lost everything, agents, everything.”

Bass called it a “crazy scary situation,” because, he said, “all the examples I’ve ever had of anyone coming out, especially in entertainment, was that it’s a career killer.” Bass came out in a People magazine story in 2006 and told the pod’s host, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Super Bowl champ Marshawn Lynch and agent Doug Hendrickson that he continued to struggle to find work in Hollywood afterwards, though some of those same people have since cast him in other projects.

“I mean, I knew I was gay since I was, you know, 5-years-old,” he said. “But also knew at a young age that was something I was going to have to hide my whole entire life because, you know, it was dangerous, especially growing up in a state like Mississippi where there’s not one gay person, not one out person at all, because it, again, was dangerous.”

The singer also talked about *NSYNC’s financial struggles in the early days and their battles with late manager Lou Pearlman to get paid, which prompted Newsom to bring up the legislation he signed in September — championed by Demi Lovato — that ensures that child and teenage performers who make online content are protected from financial abuse. “Always have a great group of people around you… you have to trust someone,” Bass said.

Alex Warren‘s breakthrough hit “Burning Down” just got even hotter. The singer/songwriter teamed up with Joe Jonas on Friday (Dec. 6) for a new version of the track via Atlantic Records, and Billboard is exclusively sharing a performance video the duo filmed to accompany the song.

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In the clip, Jonas and Warren trade lines of the driving track while standing opposite each other in the studio, with their voices seamlessly blending together before belting the chorus, “Said I’m the one who’s wanted for all the fires you started/ You knew the house was burning down, I had to get out.”

“It’s surreal that someone I grew up admiring connected with my music so deeply that they wanted to collaborate on a new take on the song,” Warren said of Jonas in a press statement. “Working with Joe has been amazing — not only because he’s incredibly talented and added a whole new layer to the record but also because he’s such an incredible human. We click both in and out of the studio, making this collaboration even more special to me. I can’t wait for you all to hear our voices together, and I hope you love this version of ‘Burning Down’ as much as we do.”

Jonas added of Warren, “His voice and songwriting are incredible. It’s been exciting to watch such a talented artist grow and come into his own. ‘Burning Down’ was already such a powerhouse song, so when he asked me to be a part of this version, I was honored. We had so much fun in the studio together and I hope that comes across when people hear it.”

Alex Warren x Joe Jonas
Alex Warren x Joe Jonas

The original “Burning Down,” released in September as a single from Warren’s debut album You’ll Be Alright, Kid (Chapter 1), marked his first Billboard Hot 100 entry, peaking at No. 69. In 2025, the 24-year-old social media star-turned-musician will embark on his Cheaper Than Therapy global tour, which kicks off Feb. 27 in Antwerp, Belgium, and wraps June 7 in Santa Ana, Calif.

Watch Warren and Jonas’ performance video for “Burning Down” exclusively via Billboard, below.

All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.

The holidays are here and Walmart has unveiled some of its top trending picks for the season.

In addition to a host of everyday gifts for the whole family, Walmart’s latest “gift finder” has turned up some bestselling celebrity products and musician-approved offerings.

From Snoop Dogg’s surprisingly stylish clothing line to Sabrina Carpenter’s favorite fragrance and a leopard print pick from Sofia Vergara, here’s a look at some of the best celebrity brands and gifts to pick up at Walmart right now.

Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Sabrina Carpenter Caramel Dream EDP Fragrance Gift Set

She may have sung about “Espresso,” but Sabrina Carpenter’s new fragrance features notes of caramel, dark chocolate, tangy citrus and almond. It’s sweet and a little spicy — just like the singer herself.

This Walmart deal gets you a three-piece set that includes the eau de parfum in a candy bar-shaped bottle, a mini travel size perfume and a lip gloss.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Ariana Grande Moonlight Gift Set

Of course, Carpenter isn’t the only starlet with her own perfume line — Ariana Grande has been super successful with her line of fragrances, including this “Moonlight” scent, which features notes of blackcurrant, plum, peonies, sandalwood, vanilla and “fluffy marshmallow.”

This two-piece gift set gets you a body mist and “body soufflee” cream for just $15.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Squishmallows Plush Wicked Glinda

$14.97

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Grande is currently starring in Wicked of course, and among all the Wicked merch online is this official Squishmallows collab, which features a plush version of Grande’s character, Glinda.

This plush toy measures 10 inches in height and weighs just under a pound. This is currently one of Walmart’s bestselling holiday gifts, with more than 500 people having bought this in the last 24 hours alone, per the Walmart site.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

OPI Nail Lacquer, Wicked Nail Polish Duo

$12.50 $23.99 48% off

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Speaking of Wicked, Walmart has this nail polish set with shades inspired by the movie. Choose a magenta shade inspired by Glinda and a green shade inspired by Elphaba. The shimmery colors are perfect for a Wicked viewing party or for dressing up for the holidays. OPI says the nail lacquers dry fast and are streak-free. This set comes in a collectible box with images from the movie too.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Dolly Parton x Lodge Cast Iron Seasoned Skillet

$24.90

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Dolly Parton released a cookbook this fall and recently released a meal kit collab with Home Chef. Now, aspiring cooks and Dolly fans alike can take to the kitchen with this Parton-approved cast iron pan.

The 10.25-inch skillet comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil and is an officially-licensed release from the singer. Made in Tennessee, the pan is great for home ovens and stoves, or for cooking over the campfire.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Martha Stewart Martha on the Mantel

$24.98

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Speaking of cooking, Martha Stewart is joining Snoop Dogg in releasing her own version of the popular “Elf on the Shelf” doll. “Martha on the Mantel” is a 10.5-inch posable doll that you can put on your shelf, table and yes, fireplace mantel too.

This boxed set gets you the plush Martha doll plus a set of accessories for you to dress up the TV host and her surroundings.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Hello Kitty Mini Fridge

$29.98

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From one icon to another, Hello Kitty celebrated her 50th anniversary this year, and Walmart has this Hello Kitty mini fridge available for gifting this holiday season.

The pink mini fridge has enough room to store up to six cans of soda (on their side) or a couple bottles of water (standing up). You can also use it as a beauty fridge to store all your skincare essentials and prevent them from going bad in the heat or sun.

This is an officially licensed Sanrio product and shoppers are loving it, with reviewers giving this Hello Kitty fridge almost full, five-star reviews.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Beautiful 9 Qt TriZone Air Fryer

Drew Barrymore’s home and kitchen brand, “Beautiful,” has gone viral for its aesthetic appliances and decor items for every budget and living style. One of the bestselling products is this nine-quart air fryer, which features two different cooking zones to let you prep two things at once.

Inviting friends over for a big holiday meal? The Beautiful Air Fryer can fit up to a 10-pound turkey when the interior basket is removed, with a temperature range up to 450°F. Choose from seven different colors, including this soft lavender shade seen here.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

W By Jake Paul Body Wash

$7.97

Buy Now

Guys will want to stay fresh with this new body wash from Jake Paul’s “W” skincare brand. The exfoliating and hydrating body wash is infused with jojoba oils for moisture, and an invigorating scent of lemon trees, green apple and fresh mint.

Walmart says all of the products in the “W” line are personally tested and approved by Paul, and given that the YouTube star recently got sweaty in the ring with Mike Tyson, we’ll take his word that this body wash holds up to daily use. A bonus: the 532 ml yellow bottle makes a great stocking stuffer too.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Sofia Vergara Home Classic Leopard Throw Blanket

Sofia Vergara’s Walmart clothing line has been a huge hit thanks to its wide range of bold colors and inclusive sizing. Now, fans of the actress can get the same maximalist look with this leopard print throw blanket, which looks great on the bed or couch.

The polyester-blend blanket measures 50 x 60 inches and is fully machine washable. It’s great for staying cozy by the fireplace or on the couch while watching your favorite Christmas movies. At just $18, it’s a great celeb-approved gift idea too.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Jessica Simpson Women’s Courtney Faux Leather Satchel Handbag

$19.99 $34 41% off

Buy Now

Walmart is home to Jessica Simpson’s bestselling clothing and accessories collection, which the site says combines “Cali boho” with “Texas charm.” Nowhere is that better represented than with this trendy satchel handbag, which features a slouchy silhouette seen on the arms of all the celebs in Hollywood, but with an under-$20 price.

Made from a eco-friendly vegan leather, this “Courtney” handbag features zipper and buckle detailing, tons of space for your stuff, and an adjustable strap that lets you carry this as a tote, as a shoulder bag or as a crossbody. Choose from three colors.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Dogg Supply Paisley Fleece Varsity Jacket

$12.01 $26.98 55% off

Buy Now

Snoop Dogg’s official clothing line at Walmart includes this super stylish varsity jacket, which features a paisley print with collegiate-style striping and button up closure. The lightweight jacket can be worn open with a T-shirt in the summer or closed as a layering piece in chiller temps. An embroidered Snoop Dogg logo on the arm offers a little branding without being too over the top. This is a great celeb-approved holiday gift idea for men. Choose from sizes XS to 3XL.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

Yellowstone Adjustable Snapback Trucker

$11.98

Buy Now

Yellowstone is one of the hottest TV shows of the year, and Walmart has this official Yellowstone Dutton Ranch trucker hat on sale for just $12. The cap features the show logo on the front with a pre-curved bill. The mesh back allows for breathability (no sweaty noggins here!) while an adjustable tab lets this fit most head sizes.


Best Walmart Celebrity Brands 2024: Top Products to Shop, Gift Ideas

HMD Barbie Phone

$129.99

Buy Now

Barbie merch was huge last holiday season and the juggernaut shows no signs of slowing down this year, with the release of the HMD Barbie Flip Phone, a retro-style device that works as a real cell phone.

The Barbie Phone comes in an iconic pink colorway and features two removable covers, stickers and a pendant with rhinestones and charms. The phone doesn’t have social media but does come with “digital wellbeing tips,” a beach-themed Malibu Snake, and a “Hi Barbie” voice to welcome you as you turn on the device. Everything is presented inside a keepsake jewelry box.


Dolly Parton wants to give you the chance to slip into her fabulous footsteps. On Thursday (Dec. 5), the country icon and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer announced an open internet casting call for her upcoming Broadway show, Dolly: An Original Musical.

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“Hey there, it’s Dolly, and I am so excited to share some big news with y’all,” she said in a video announcing the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “As you may have heard, my life story is coming to Broadway… and now, I’m announcing the search for Dolly. Now, whether you’re chasing your dreams from a small town or you’ve spent years performing on stages across the country, I want to give you the chance to help me bring my story to Broadway — and maybe even play me. This show is a celebration of my music, my life and all the amazing people who’ve been with me along the way.”

Parton, 78, stressed that the call was truly open to anyone. “We’re looking for talented performers who can capture the spirit of my journey, whether you’re an experienced theater professional or an undiscovered gem with that little special something.”

A select few will get to audition in person in front of the show’s casting director, with all interested performers encouraged to go to dollymusical.com to submit an audition, as well as post their audition online using the hashtag #SearchForDolly. “So what are you waiting for? This might be your big moment!” Parton said.

Back in June, Parton announced the musical — which was then referred to as Hello, I’m Dolly: An Original Musical — which she said was set to open in 2026. “I tried for years, how to do my life story and make it make sense. I needed to write some original music. I’m hoping you’re gonna laugh and cry,” Parton said at the time of the show that will featured her best-known songs as well as new ones penned for the musical.

Watch Parton’s casting call video below.

Chris Martin and Coldplay are giving all their love to Dick Van Dyke on the legendary performer’s 99th birthday.

On Friday (Dec. 6), the rock band unveiled a short-film-style music video for its Moon Music ballad “All My Love” focusing on the Hollywood icon’s life and career as Van Dyke celebrates his last double-digit trip around the sun. Directed by Spike Jonze and Mary Wigmore, the seven-minute visual shows the Mary Poppins star limberly dancing in a suit and bare feet, showing off his infectious sense of humor and offering up musings about his personal journey in between shots of Martin playing piano.

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“I’m acutely aware that I could go any day now,” Van Dyke says at one point while looking back on old family photos and heirlooms from his expansive filmography. “But I don’t know why, it doesn’t concern me. I’m not afraid of it. I have that feeling — totally against anything intellectual I have — that I’m gonna be all right.”

The project was filmed at the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang actor’s house in Malibu. Toward the end, he’s joined by his extended family, who applaud and give the patriarch hugs during the track’s high point.

On Thursday night, Martin and Van Dyke appeared side by side on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to share how the video came together. “To tell you the truth, I didn’t know who he was,” Van Dyke told Kimmel about the call to make the video with the band. “I didn’t know who you were,” Martin quipped back with a big smile. “I said, ‘we’re looking for an old guy. Who’s the oldest guy?’”

Martin then admitted that he’s a “super fan” of the Hollywood legend and revealed that Van Dyke is (kind of) a neighbor and one day a few years ago he invited the legend over for breakfast. In fact, the singer then busted out what he said is his one and only impression: the dry laugh that Van Dyke did as old banker Mr. Dawes in Mary Poppins, which cracked the actor up.

“This really may be the most fun thing I’ve ever done. It makes me so grateful,” Martin said. “It’s a big deal for me.”

A shorter version of the visual will arrive Dec. 13, the date Van Dyke officially turns 99.

The day prior, Coldplay will make its performance debut at the Billboard Music Awards live from the band’s Music of the Spheres World Tour stop in Australia. The “All My Love” music video comes about two months after Coldplay dropped its 10th studio album, Moon Music, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

Ariana Grande has been in the spotlight for more than half of her life. In an interview with YouTube personality Sally this week, the Wicked star got very candid about what that has felt like, specifically how it feels to constantly have strangers evaluating and judging her body. And, in a super honest moment, she had a simple message for people who do that.

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“There’s a comfortability people have with commenting on that [my body] that I think is really dangerous. And I think it’s dangerous for all parties involved,” she said, as her Wicked co-star, Cynthia Erivo, held the singer’s hand and comforted her as she appeared on the verge of tears while answering a question about the struggle for women to live up to society’s exacting, often unreasonable, beauty standards

“I’ve been kind of doing this in front of the public and kind of been a specimen in a petri dish since I was 16 or 17, so I have heard it all,” Grande said. “I’ve heard every version of it… of what’s wrong with me. And then you fix it, and then it’s wrong for different reasons. But that’s everything from – even just the simplest thing – your appearance, you know?”

Grande, 31, said it’s hard to protect yourself from that noise and it’s uncomfortable no matter where you experience such pressures. “Even if you go to Thanksgiving dinner, and someone’s granny says, ‘Oh my God, you look skinnier! What happened?’ or ‘You look heavier! What happened?’” she said. “That is something that’s uncomfortable and horrible no matter where it’s happening… and I think in today’s society there’s a comfortability that we shouldn’t have, at all, commenting on other’s looks, appearance, what they think is going on behind the scenes, or health, or how they present themselves.”

Getting animated, Grande said those kinds of judgements about what women are wearing and how their bodies and faces look are “dangerous.” She counted herself lucky to have a good support system that allows her to “know and trust that I am beautiful… but I do know what the pressure of that noise feels like… I just don’t invite it in anymore. It’s not welcome. I have work to do. I have a life to live. I have friends to love on, I have so much love and it’s not invited.”

She added that however you have to block that noise out, whether it’s deleting a toxic social app or blocking trolls online, “you keep yourself safe. Because no one has the right to say s–t!”

The latter comment drew a clap from host Sally, as well as an “amen” seconded by Erivo. “Can you tell I needed that today?” Grande said with a smile as Erivo grabbed her arm and displayed yet another example of the way the two women have openly supported and big-upped each other during the exhaustive press tour in support of the hit movie musical which has already rolled up $372.9 million in ticket sales so far.

Grande has spoken before about fans’ concerns over her appearance, including in a TikTok video last year in which she had similar thoughts about people’s concerns about her body.

“I think we should be gentler and less comfortable commenting on people’s bodies — no matter what. If you think you’re saying something good or well-intentioned, whatever it is. Healthy, unhealthy, big, small, this, that, sexy, not sexy, I don’t… We just shouldn’t. We should really work towards not doing that as much,” she said at the time.

“But I also just wanted to say one, there are many different kinds of beautiful,” she added. “There are many different ways to look healthy and beautiful. I know personally for me, the body that you’ve been comparing my current body to was the unhealthiest version of my body. I was on a lot of anti-depressants, and drinking on them and eating poorly, and at the lowest point of my life when I looked the way you consider my ‘healthy.’ But that, in fact, wasn’t my healthy. I know I shouldn’t have to explain that, but I do feel like maybe having an openness and some sort of vulnerability here, something good might come from it.”

Check out Grande and Erivo’s interview with Sally below.