Algorithm Games: What do 'fake numbers' in the music industry mean?

The music industry is increasingly dominated by streaming platforms, which are projected to become a $41 billion sector by 2030. Spotify leads with 87 million users, followed by Apple Music and others like Deezer and Tidal. However, issues of fraud and manipulation are prevalent, with a significant percentage of listeners using pirated music. YouTube and other services face challenges with fake views and streams, affecting revenue and artist visibility. Legal and ethical questions arise regarding digital manipulation, with companies like Streamify selling followers, raising concerns about fair distribution of copyright revenue. The industry is adapting with curators and security systems to combat these issues, and artists are seeking to prove their presence and continue to exist on these platforms.

Istanbul's Urban Transformation Under Scrutiny

Istanbul, known for its geographical location and architectural history, faces challenges with haphazard urbanization and the loss of green spaces. The disappearance of neighborhood cultures is causing disappointment among residents. The urban transformation process, which accelerated in the 1960s, has led to the development of local neighborhood identities and turned Istanbul into a global player with its industrial economy. Architect Alexis Şanal suggests that many of Istanbul's vacant areas could be transformed into green neighborhood parks, emphasizing the need for innovative design tools to shape 21st-century cities and enhance shared experiences while maintaining ecological aspects. Projects designed with input from NGOs, activists, and citizens aim to revitalize cities as centers of attraction. Şanal, highlighting the lack of green spaces in Istanbul, points to cities like Melbourne, Seoul, and Berlin as examples of investing in culture, libraries, and entertainment centers, leading the way in civil architecture. Despite the challenges, Şanal remains hopeful about the future steps towards enriching public spaces in Istanbul.

Elevating the Cruise Experience with Exceptional Routes

The article suggests various cruise routes for those planning a cruise vacation in 2019, highlighting the Alaska Get Away Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska, the Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise with Royal Caribbean, a European cruise from Barcelona with Carnival, the Norwegian Fjords adventure starting from Copenhagen, and a French Getaway that includes Rome, Corsica, and Marseille. It emphasizes the unique experiences each destination offers, such as encountering wildlife in Alaska, enjoying water sports in CocoCay, and exploring historical sites in Europe.

Miami: The Rapidly Growing Investment Route for Turks in America

Miami, Florida, is not only a popular vacation destination but also an international investment hub, attracting real estate investors including Turks. Turkish citizens have shown increased interest in Miami, with a significant rise in E-2 investor visa applications over the past five years, particularly in e-commerce, retail, construction, and food sectors. Miami's real estate market is thriving with investment options for both rentals and sales, drawing attention from various countries. The Miami Association of Realtors reported that in 2017, foreigners invested $24 billion in Florida's real estate, with Miami accounting for 53% of these sales. Prominent Turkish figures like Rahmi Koç and Acun Ilıcalı have made investments in Miami, and the number of Turkish nationals registered in Florida is around 12,000. Zeynep Talu-Balcı from Douglas Elliman Real Estate anticipates continued Turkish investments in Miami's booming market.

Q + A with The National by Hayalsu Altinordu

In an interview with Discosalt, members of the band The National discuss various aspects of their music career, including their album 'High Violet'. They talk about their writing and recording process, which involves starting with musical sketches and developing them over many months. The band touches on the influence of New York City on their music, the inspiration behind their lyrics, and their personal preferences regarding live performances. They also mention their engagement with fans through social media and tour diaries. The drummer, Bryan, answers most of the questions, providing insights into the band's dynamics and creative process. The interview concludes with a mention of a few songs currently on their iPod shuffle.

Is Everything About Love?

Beyoncé and Jay-Z, one of the world's most valuable couples, announced their On The Run II (OTR) tour following Beyoncé's acclaimed Coachella performance. The tour, which began in Europe and ended in America, was observed to attract audiences primarily for Beyoncé's performance despite high production costs and expensive concert tickets. The couple's strategic marketing and powerful performances, including hits like '99 Problems' and 'Run the World (Girls)', have made the OTR tour one of the highest-grossing tours of 2018. Beyoncé's commitment to excellence and personal growth, as well as her support for black talent, were evident throughout the tour. The couple also addressed a recent incident in Atlanta where a fan attempted to confront Jay-Z, showing their strong bond and unity during the Miami concert.

Nevşin Mengü's Triathlon Passion Peaks with Ironman

Nevşin Mengü, a former star news anchor and reporter in Iran, has gained attention for her successful transition into sports, particularly triathlon. She shares her journey from her early influences, challenges faced in Iran, to her rigorous training schedule and the motivation behind her participation in triathlons. Mengü discusses her dietary habits as a vegan athlete, her experiences in Turkish triathlon events, and her significant improvement since her first Ironman race in 2015. She also touches on her social media presence and her desire to interview triathlete Tim Don.

Miami: A Guide to America's Extraordinary City in 25 Points

Miami is presented as an extraordinary city with a Latin influence and Art Deco paradise. The best time to visit is from November to March, avoiding the hurricane season. Highlights include the colorful street art of Wynwood Walls, the winning coffee shop Panther Coffee, the famous bakery Zak The Bakery, and the impressive Perez Art Museum. The Miami Design District is rapidly developing with luxury shops and galleries. Dining options range from Mandolin Aegean Restaurant's Turkish and Greek cuisine to Chotto Matte's Japanese-Peruvian fusion. Cultural experiences include Art Basel and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. The article also suggests enjoying nightlife at Lagniappe and Do Not Sit On The Furniture, and exploring books at Books & Books. The city's architecture is epitomized by the Art Deco style, and the Versace mansion offers a unique experience as a hotel and restaurant.

Q + A with Isabella Summers from Florence and the Machine

In an interview with Discoalt, Isabella Summers, known as the 'Machine' from Florence + The Machine, discusses her musical journey, collaboration with Florence Welch, and their experiences together, including touring and creating music. She reflects on the early influences of hip-hop on her career, her transition into producing, and the organic formation of their group. Summers shares anecdotes from their tours and the process of writing and producing songs, particularly from their album 'Lungs', which won a Brit award. She also comments on the future of the music industry, acknowledging the challenges but remaining optimistic about the role of the internet and the enduring need for music.