Awards Debate: BTS says it won’t submit music for next year’s Grammys, sparking fresh arguments about whether awards should judge art beyond region and language. Artist Rights: Sonu Nigam renews his fight story, saying major labels like T-Series and Zee Music “banned” him after his royalty/copyright push—then later paid royalties once the law caught up. UK Music & Culture: Sir Brian May and New Order join a campaign to save Jodrell Bank Observatory after government funding cuts put jobs at risk. Pop Star Health & Backlash: Ariana Grande withdraws from London’s “Sunday in the Park with George,” citing a “step back” from public scrutiny after the “Petal” video reignited health concerns and fan backlash. New Music & Releases: Nora Fatehi drops “Slay to the Rhythm” as a summer “banger,” while Punjabi releases include Deep Bajwa’s “Saffra’n Ch” and Sharry Maan’s “College De Yaar.” Live Music & Community: Free “Summer Sessions Live” returns to Raphael Park in Romford every Sunday in August, and Norwalk’s Oyster Festival brings Lita Ford, Parmalee and more live acts Sept. 11–13. Industry Moves: Excel Entertainment launches “Excel Music” after Universal Music Group takes a 30% stake, aiming to distribute releases worldwide. Global Sound: Abuja hosts “Jazz Across Continents,” celebrating jazz as a universal bridge across cultures. Music & Tragedy: A pub in Scotland closes for good after its final music weekend, ending a long local run.