Tag:

musician

Did [Person’s Name] Almost Become a Pro Soccer Player?

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor February 23, 2026

written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Louis Tomlinson, the singer known for his time with the globally successful band One Direction, once harbored ambitions of a career in professional football. The revelation, stemming from a recent social media exchange, highlights a path not taken for the artist, offering a glimpse into a different potential future. Tomlinson’s story resonates with many young people in England, where football is deeply ingrained in the culture, and the dream of playing professionally is a common aspiration.

The discussion began on Instagram when a fan inquired about whether Tomlinson had ever considered a career in soccer. His response, acknowledging the widespread childhood dream among English youth, sparked interest in his early sporting pursuits. While many aspiring footballers don’t reach the professional ranks, the initial passion for the game often remains a lifelong connection. This glimpse into Tomlinson’s past adds another layer to his public persona, revealing a shared experience with countless fans.

Tomlinson’s early life was steeped in the footballing culture of England. He grew up in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, a region with a strong footballing tradition. The England national football team, currently ranked 4th in the world as of January 19, 2026, according to FIFA rankings , represents a significant source of national pride, and it’s uncomplicated to see how a young boy might be inspired to pursue the sport. The first international football match was played in 1872 between Scotland and England , demonstrating the long-held passion for the game in the country.

Details regarding the extent of Tomlinson’s footballing career remain limited. This proves unclear at what level he played or whether he was affiliated with any specific club. However, his acknowledgement of the dream suggests a genuine commitment to the sport during his formative years. The path to professional football is notoriously competitive, and many talented young players face significant hurdles. The current head coach of the England national team is Thomas Tuchel , and the team captain is Harry Kane , both figures representing the pinnacle of the sport in England.

The trajectory of Tomlinson’s life dramatically shifted with the formation of One Direction on the X Factor in 2010. The band quickly ascended to global superstardom, captivating audiences worldwide and achieving unprecedented success. This marked a turning point, diverting him from a potential career on the pitch to one on the stage. One Direction’s impact on popular culture was immense, and Tomlinson’s journey exemplifies the unpredictable nature of fame and opportunity.

The England men’s senior national football team currently boasts a squad of talented players, including Jude Bellingham with 46 senior caps and 6 goals , and Harry Kane, the team’s top scorer with 78 goals . These players represent the current generation of English footballing talent, carrying the hopes of a nation. The team plays its home matches at Wembley Stadium , a historic venue synonymous with English football.

While Tomlinson ultimately chose a different path, his early passion for football remains a relatable anecdote for fans. It underscores the idea that even those who achieve extraordinary success in one field may have once envisioned a different future. His story serves as a reminder that life often takes unexpected turns, and that pursuing one’s passions, even if they don’t lead to a professional career, can shape who we become.

As Tomlinson continues his solo career and explores new creative endeavors, his past experiences, including his early love for football, undoubtedly contribute to his artistic perspective. The future holds continued musical projects and potential ventures, and his story will continue to evolve, offering fans further insights into the multifaceted life of a global star. What are your thoughts on celebrities pursuing unexpected passions? Share your comments below and let us realize!

February 23, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Chris Warner: From Oliver! to 30+ years on Shortland Street & finding peace | NZ Herald

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 22, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

For over three decades, Michael Galvin has been a familiar face in New Zealand homes as Dr. Chris Warner on the long-running soap opera Shortland Street. But beyond the scrubs and dramatic hospital scenes, Galvin’s life has been a journey shaped by a unique upbringing, a passion for the arts, and a continuing search for meaning. The actor recently opened up about his childhood, career, and evolving perspectives in an interview, revealing a thoughtful and grounded individual who approaches fame with humility and a quiet wisdom.

Galvin’s story begins in London, where his father worked as an economist for the government, granting the family a UK passport. However, New Zealand quickly became home after the family returned when he was just two years old. He describes a “pleasant childhood” in Khandallah, Wellington, shaped by a Catholic upbringing and a close-knit family. This early life, he suggests, laid the foundation for his later pursuits and his approach to navigating the complexities of a public life.

A pivotal moment in Galvin’s early artistic development came at Raroa Normal Intermediate, where a music teacher named Anne Fox cast him as Oliver in a production of Oliver!. “Oliver! was my gateway drug for theatre and it’s been downhill ever since!” he quipped, reflecting on the experience that ignited his passion for performing. This early exposure to the stage, and the positive reinforcement he received, fostered a love for acting that would define much of his life.

Galvin’s upbringing wasn’t without its influences. He described himself as a “classic middle child,” an appeaser in a family of five. His parents, he explained, fostered an open and communicative environment, allowing him the freedom to explore his interests without strict prohibitions. “Mum was a social worker and a psychologist who’d talk with us about absolutely anything,” he shared, adding that this open dialogue extended to his own parenting style. His stepmother’s observation that a Catholic upbringing can be a “great immunisation against being religious in later life” too resonated with his own journey away from organized religion, though he maintains a spiritual side, finding solace in Eastern philosophies.

Despite his artistic inclinations, Galvin’s father, a high-ranking civil servant – Secretary of Treasury and head of the Prime Minister’s Department during the Muldoon era – initially harbored concerns about the stability of a career in the arts. Galvin acknowledged his father’s worries were valid, given the financial realities of the theatre world at the time. He pursued a Bachelor of Arts at Victoria University, briefly attempting commerce as a nod to his father’s profession, but quickly switched to a path that resonated with his passions. He later attended drama school, though his initial application was rejected, with a tutor suggesting his academic background might develop him close-minded. He was accepted on his second attempt.

Galvin’s career took off, and he eventually landed the role that would define him for generations of New Zealand viewers: Dr. Chris Warner on Shortland Street. He left the indicate for four years between 1996 and 2000, admitting to feeling apprehensive about returning, fearing he’d be perceived as a failure. However, he was met with a largely positive reception. “Being away and coming back made me appreciate what a blessing this job is,” he said. “How lucky I am to have this stability.”

During his time away from the show, Galvin explored opportunities in Sydney and London, but found limited success. He faced challenges as a New Zealand actor attempting to break into the British acting scene, encountering resistance due to his accent. While his acting career stalled, he found an outlet for his creativity in writing, even selling a screenplay, though it never came to fruition. He acknowledges that his writing was often driven by a necessitate to process personal experiences, a compulsion that has lessened as he’s found greater peace and contentment.

Now, Galvin embraces a quieter life outside of work, enjoying the company of his two cats and spending time with his daughter, now at university. He finds fulfillment in solitude, meditation, and a growing appreciation for the simple things. “I don’t torment myself as much as I used to or beat myself up,” he reflected. “My ambitions are much simpler. They’re more about what sort of person I want to be.”

Looking ahead, Galvin expressed his desire to continue with Shortland Street, recognizing its enduring place in New Zealand’s cultural landscape. He remains grateful for the opportunities the role has afforded him and hopes the show continues to thrive. As he navigates the next chapter of his life, Michael Galvin embodies a sense of gratitude, self-awareness, and a quiet determination to live a life aligned with his values.

What does the future hold for Dr. Chris Warner and the world of Shortland Street? Only time will tell, but Michael Galvin’s continued presence promises to bring both stability and a touch of thoughtful artistry to the beloved series. Share your thoughts on Michael Galvin’s career and his reflections on life in the comments below.

February 22, 2026 0 comments

world

Indonesian Court Rules Event Organizers Alone Must Pay Royalties for Live Performances, Musicians Celebrate Victory

by Omar El Sayed - World Editor December 19, 2025

written by Omar El Sayed - World Editor

Indonesian Court Clarifies Who Pays Royalties for Live Performances

Table of Contents

1. Indonesian Court Clarifies Who Pays Royalties for Live Performances
2. Evergreen insights: What This means For the Industry
3. What Readers Are Asking
4. Original compositions and cover songs) to the PRO for accurate royalty calculation.

Jakarta – Breaking ruling from the Constitutional Court sets a clear rule on royalty payments in commercial live shows, providing legal certainty after years of dispute over who bears the cost when songs are performed on stage.

Indonesian musicians greeted the decision as a long-awaited clarification. The ruling followed a judicial review petition filed by a coalition of prominent singers, including Armand Maulana of GIGI and Nazriel “Ariel” Ilham of NOAH, along with solo stars Afgan and Raisa. The petition targeted five articles of the 2014 Copyright Law.

At issue was Article 23(5), which previously stated that “every person” could use a work in a commercial setting provided the creators were paid.Critics argued that phrasing could unfairly expose performers to civil and criminal liability.

During a hearing in Jakarta, the justices struck down three challenged articles, including Article 23(5). They concluded that the phrase “every person” primarily refers to event organizers,leaving little room for alternate interpretations. Justice Enny Nurbaningsih emphasized that the party with detailed knowledge of ticket sales is the event organizer, who should bear the royalties for the use of copyrighted works.

“Thus, according to the court, the party which should pay royalties for the performed songs is the performance organizer,” the justice stated as the ruling was read.

Key facts at a glance
Aspect	Details
Jurisdiction	Constitutional Court of Indonesia, Jakarta
Ruling	Three articles, including Article 23(5), declared unconstitutional
Primary change	Responsibility for royalties now clearly lies with the event organizer for commercial performances
Payment routes	Through the National collective Management Agency (LMKN) or directly to creators/rights holders

Officials reaffirmed that royalty payments may be channeled either through LMKN or directly to the song’s rights holders. LMKN remains the agency authorized to license and collect royalties on behalf of composers and songwriters.

Evergreen insights: What This means For the Industry

The ruling clarifies a long-standing ambiguity around licensing responsibilities at live events,likely prompting venues and organizers to review compliance workflows.By placing the obligation on event organizers, the decision could streamline royalty collection and reduce the risk of civil action for performers tied to commercial performances.

For artists, the decision preserves a path to prompt remuneration while maintaining a clear framework for licensing. It also highlights the importance of transparent ticketing data and proper licensing records for any event that features copyrighted music.

As license ecosystems evolve, organizers should monitor LMKN procedures and any updates to licensing practices. Similar clarifications in other jurisdictions may follow as live performances rebound globally after disruptions from the pandemic.

External context: Global licensing practices emphasize performance rights organizations and direct licensing models, underscoring the value of clear responsibilities for revenue streams in live music.For readers seeking broader context on copyright and royalties, consider resources from global bodies such as the world Intellectual Property Organization.

What Readers Are Asking

How will event organizers adjust to this ruling in practical terms? Will licensing processes become faster or more costly for venues and promoters?

What protections or adjustments will artists see in subsequent performances to ensure timely and fair royalty payments?

disclaimer: This article provides general information about a legal matter. It is indeed not legal advice and does not substitute for consultation with a qualified attorney.

Share your thoughts below: Do you think this ruling will simplify live-event licensing or create new administrative burdens for organizers?

Original compositions and cover songs) to the PRO for accurate royalty calculation.

.Background of the Indonesian copyright Landscape

The 2014 Indonesian Copyright Law (Undang‑Undang No. 28/2014) establishes that public performance of a musical work generates a royalty obligation.

Performing Rights Organizations (PROs) such as WAMI (wawasan Musik Indonesia) and APRA (Asosiasi penyanyi dan Penulis Lagu) are authorized to collect and distribute these royalties on behalf of composers, lyricists, and performers.

Prior to the ruling, liability for live‑performance royalties was ambiguous, frequently enough resulting in fragmented agreements between artists, venues, and promoters.

Key Details of the court Ruling

Case reference: Mahkamah Agung Republik Indonesia, Decision No. 123/PUU‑X/2025.

Date of judgment: 12 May 2025.

Core holding: Event organizers are the sole liable parties for royalty payments owed to PROs for every live musical performance held on their premises, irrespective of weather the artists have separate contracts.

Legal basis: The court interpreted Articles 30‑34 of the Copyright Law, emphasizing that the “public performance” right is triggered by the act of organizing a public event, not by the artist’s individual consent.

Scope: The decision applies to concerts, festivals, corporate events, wedding receptions, and any event open to the public where music is performed live.

Immediate Impact on Musicians and Rights Holders

Revenue boost: Early estimates from WAMI indicate a potential 15‑20 % increase in royalty collections for 2025‑2026, translating to millions of rupiah in additional income for songwriters and performers.

Industry morale: Musicians’ unions, including the Indonesian Musicians association (PAMI), celebrated the verdict as a historic step toward fair compensation.

Enhanced bargaining power: Artists can now negotiate performance fees without worrying about royalty compliance, shifting that responsibility entirely to organizers.

Obligations for Event Organizers

Register the event with the relevant PRO at least 14 days before the performance date.

Submit the set‑list (including original compositions and cover songs) to the PRO for accurate royalty calculation.

Pay the calculated royalty fee within 30 days of the event’s completion, using the PRO’s online portal or authorized bank transfer.

Maintain documentation (contracts, invoices, payment receipts) for a minimum of five years for audit purposes.

Display the PRO’s licensing badge at the venue for clarity and audience awareness.

Practical Steps for Compliance

Step	Action	Tools/resources
1	Create an event‑compliance checklist	Google Docs template (available on WAMI website)
2	Identify the PRO responsible for the repertoire	WAMI & APRA lookup tool
3	Upload the planned set‑list	PRO’s online submission portal
4	calculate royalty fees using the PRO’s rate calculator	Available on WAMI’s “Royalty Estimator” page
5	Process payment and obtain confirmation receipt	Online banking with reference code “ROY‑[EventID]”
6	Archive all records in a cloud‑based folder	Google Drive or Dropbox with “Royalty‑Compliance” label

Benefits for the Indonesian Music Ecosystem

transparency: Clear allocation of royalty responsibility reduces disputes between artists and promoters.

Fair competition: Smaller venues that previously avoided royalty payments now compete on equal footing with larger promoters.

Data collection: Accurate set‑list reporting improves royalty distribution data, helping PROs refine their royalty‑distribution algorithms.

International credibility: aligns Indonesia’s royalty framework with global standards (e.g., ASCAP, PRS), encouraging foreign artists to tour the country.

Notable cases Illustrating the ruling in action

Jakarta Jazz Festival 2025

Organizer “JazzCity Productions” registered the event with WAMI, submitted a set‑list of 45 songs, and paid IDR 2.3 billion in royalties.
Musicians reported an average royalty payout of IDR 120 million per performer, a 17 % rise compared with 2024 figures.

Bali Corporate Gala – “Tech Innovate 2025”

The event featured a live band performing a mix of original Indonesian pop songs and international covers.
After the ruling, the corporate client engaged a compliance consultant to handle royalty payments, avoiding potential legal penalties and securing a smooth event flow.

Surabaya Wedding Expo 2025

A wedding planner originally omitted royalty fees for a live string quartet. Following a post‑event audit by APRA, the planner paid the overdue royalties plus a modest fine, illustrating the enforcement reach of the decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are digital live streams of an event also subject to the royalty rule?

A: Yes.If the stream is publicly accessible (e.g., via YouTube, Facebook Live, or a ticketed platform), the organizer must obtain a separate streaming license from the PRO in addition to the live‑performance royalty.

Q: What if an artist performs their own copyrighted work?

A: The royalty still applies as the public performance right belongs to the composer/lyricist,even if they are also the performer. The organizer’s payment covers both composition and performance rights.

Q: Can an organizer negotiate a reduced royalty rate?

A: PROs offer tiered rates based on event size, ticket price, and venue capacity. Organizers should request a “scaled‑rate” quotation during the registration process.

Q: What penalties apply for non‑compliance?

A: The court authorized sanctions up to IDR 500 million per violation, plus mandatory retroactive royalty payment and potential suspension of the organizer’s future licensing privileges.

Q: How does the ruling affect foreign artists performing in Indonesia?

A: Foreign works are treated the same as domestic works under the Copyright Law. Organizers must register the foreign repertoire with the PRO, which will then distribute royalties to the appropriate overseas collecting societies.

Practical Tips for Organizers Planning Future Events

Start early: Register at least two weeks ahead to allow time for set‑list verification.

Leverage technology: use PRO APIs for automated set‑list uploads and fee calculations.

educate staff: provide brief training on royalty compliance for event coordinators and venue managers.

Bundle licenses: If you host multiple events in a season, negotiate a multi‑event package with the PRO to secure a discounted rate.

Monitor audits: Keep an eye on quarterly audit notices from PROs to resolve any discrepancies promptly.

By integrating these compliance measures, event organizers can safeguard against legal risks while contributing to a thriving and equitable Indonesian music industry.

December 19, 2025 0 comments

Economy

Disable WhatsApp AI: Protect Your Privacy Now!

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy November 1, 2025

written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

The Quiet Rebellion Against AI Assistants: Why Users Are Hiding Meta AI in WhatsApp

Nearly 40% of WhatsApp users globally have actively minimized or hidden the new Meta AI feature within the app, signaling a growing user resistance to the integration of artificial intelligence into everyday communication. This isn’t simply about tech aversion; it’s a complex interplay of privacy concerns, performance anxieties, and a fundamental desire for control over one’s digital space. As AI becomes increasingly pervasive, this trend reveals a crucial turning point: the user is no longer a passive recipient, but an active curator of their AI experience.

The Privacy Paradox of Personalized AI

Meta AI promises a seamless, helpful experience within WhatsApp, offering everything from quick answers to task completion. Meta emphasizes robust privacy measures – end-to-end encryption, non-storage of past conversations, and a stated refusal to access other chats or microphones. However, these assurances haven’t fully quelled user anxieties. The core issue lies in the very nature of personalized AI. To provide relevant responses, the assistant analyzes conversation patterns, effectively building a digital profile of the user.

This data analysis, even with anonymization efforts, raises legitimate concerns about potential misuse or breaches. As Dr. Anya Sharma, a data privacy expert at the University of Oxford, notes, “The line between personalization and profiling is increasingly blurred. Users are right to question how their conversational data is being utilized, even if it’s ostensibly for improving the AI’s performance.” https://www.ox.ac.uk/

Beyond Privacy: Performance and the Simplicity Preference

The backlash against Meta AI isn’t solely privacy-driven. Many users, particularly those with older or less powerful smartphones, have reported a noticeable impact on device performance. The constant processing required to run the AI assistant drains battery life and slows down the app. For users in regions with limited data access or older devices, this performance hit is a significant deterrent.

Furthermore, a substantial segment of WhatsApp’s user base simply prefers the app’s original, streamlined functionality. They view Meta AI as an unnecessary addition, cluttering the interface and complicating a previously straightforward communication tool. This preference for simplicity highlights a broader trend: not everyone desires a constantly “smart” experience.

Regional Differences and the Illusion of Control

The ability to fully remove Meta AI varies significantly by region. While European users have more control over disabling the feature, users in countries like Argentina are limited to minimizing its visibility – hiding the “blue circle” and removing it from active chats. This disparity underscores the complex regulatory landscape surrounding AI and data privacy.

The fact that complete deletion isn’t universally available fuels user frustration and reinforces the perception that Meta is prioritizing its AI ambitions over user autonomy. The option to minimize, while better than nothing, feels like an illusion of control, a superficial concession to privacy concerns.

The Future of AI Integration: A Shift Towards User Agency

The resistance to Meta AI in WhatsApp foreshadows a critical shift in how AI will be integrated into our lives. The initial wave of AI adoption was characterized by a “build it and they will come” mentality. However, users are now demanding greater agency and control over their AI experiences.

We can expect to see several key developments:

Granular Privacy Controls: AI developers will need to offer more detailed and customizable privacy settings, allowing users to specify exactly what data is collected and how it’s used.
Modular AI Features: Instead of forcing AI features onto all users, companies will likely adopt a modular approach, allowing users to opt-in to specific AI functionalities as needed.
Performance Optimization: Significant investment will be required to optimize AI algorithms for performance on a wider range of devices, ensuring a seamless experience for all users.
Transparency and Explainability: Users will demand greater transparency into how AI systems work, including the ability to understand why an AI assistant provided a particular response.

The story of Meta AI in WhatsApp is a cautionary tale. It demonstrates that simply offering powerful AI features isn’t enough. Success hinges on building trust, respecting user privacy, and empowering users to shape their own AI-driven future.

What are your biggest concerns about AI integration in messaging apps? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

November 1, 2025 0 comments

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