MUSIC

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Colombian superstar Shakira gave a free concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday night, an event that the city’s mayor said drew 2 million people to one of the world’s most iconic waterfronts.

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The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is officially underway in Vienna, Austria, marking the competition’s 70th anniversary. Usually known for glittering performances, colourful costumes and a celebration of music and culture, this year’s contest has instead opened under the shadow of political controversy surrounding Israel’s participation.

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Spotify is launching a "Verified" badge to help users distinguish human musicians from AI-generated content. The streaming giant announced that a green checkmark and the text "Verified by Spotify" will now appear next to the names of artists who meet specific authenticity standards. To qualify, creators must provide "signals of a real artist," such as linked social media accounts, consistent listener activity, and evidence of real-world presence like merchandise sales or tour dates.

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Billie Eilish has spoken.

The 24-year-old—a self-proclaimed Survivor fan—has played a significant role in the show's 50th season, serving as the namesake for the "Billie Eilish Boomerang Idol. "Now she's explaining how the cameo came to be.

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Taylor Swift is taking legal steps to protect her voice and image from misuse in the age of artificial intelligence, according to newly filed trademark documents.

The singer has applied for federal protection of specific phrases closely associated with her voice, including “Hey, it’s Taylor Swift” and “Hey, it’s Taylor.” These filings fall under the rare “sound mark” category, typically used to safeguard distinctive audio identifiers.

The move is seen as a proactive response to the rise of AI-generated content, including deepfakes and synthetic audio that can imitate public figures without consent. By securing trademarks tied to her voice, Swift could strengthen her legal position against unauthorised content that mimics her identity.

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At a location once alive with music, energy, and global attention, a silent piece of history now stands neglected just a short distance away. The Faenol Estate, known for hosting massive cultural and musical events, is home to a Grade II listed mausoleum that has gradually fallen into disrepair despite its architectural and historical importance.