The Grateful Dead have launched Play Dead, a new streaming service featuring around 300 concert recordings. The platform includes 20 previously unreleased vault recordings and offers high-resolution audio of “the largest tape transfer project in the history of rock & roll” for any single band. The collaboration began digitizing multitrack tapes, reel-to-reels, and DAT tapes with archivist David Lemieux overseeing quality control. Unlike typical bootlegs that have been redubbed thousands of times, these recordings are professionally mastered. Play Dead offers curated selections, playlist creation, and user-friendly navigation of the band’s extensive catalog. Story URL
Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan firmly opposes artificial intelligence in songwriting, calling it “a deal with the devil” during a recent podcast interview. He expressed concern about advanced AI programs like Suno and Udio creating human-like songs. “I refuse, refuse, patently refuse to use A.I. in my music creation,” Corgan stated. “You’re literally leaning into the thing that will destroy you.” He believes songwriters need doubt and soul-searching as essential creative elements. Corgan predicts AI will eliminate generations of songwriters, comparing its impact to the transition from silent films to talking pictures. “This sh-t’s gonna wipe out a lot of people,” he warned. The artist fears the rise of AI operators who understand programming but lack musical knowledge. Story URL
Rock supergroup Iconic announced their new album II, set for release July 31st. The band features Nathan James, Michael Sweet, Joel Hoekstra, Tommy Aldridge, and Marco Mendoza (all veterans of groups like Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy, Stryper, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and Ozzy Osbourne’s solo band). They also released a lyric video for lead single “Cry No More.” Guitarist Hoekstra said it should give classic rock fans “something raw and real in terms of both playing and production.” Bassist Mendoza called working with the musicians “a blast and quite an honor.” The 11-track album showcases 75-year-old drummer Aldridge’s enduring energy, reminiscent of his work with Ozzy Osbourne. Story URL