Music News Today — August 22, 2026
Olivia Rodrigo Releases ‘Handmaid’s Tale’-Inspired Song, ‘Serena Joy,’ in a Tiny Run of CDs, With Digital Drop to Follow and more — today's music signal.
The entertainment industry is buzzing with exciting news and releases. In the music world, Olivia Rodrigo has dropped a new song called "Serena Joy," inspired by the hit TV show "The Handmaid's Tale." The song was initially released in a limited run of CDs, with a digital release to follow. This creative project showcases Rodrigo's ability to draw inspiration from popular culture and produce thought-provoking music. Meanwhile, My Morning Jacket and lead singer Jim James have signed a publishing deal with Peermusic, marking a significant move in the music industry.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, industry veterans are making headlines in the television world. Hollywood legends like Sally Field, Harrison Ford, and Martin Short are chasing Emmy history, adding to the excitement of the upcoming awards. With just five days left to vote, Emmy predictions are rolling in, speculating on potential surprises and snubs. On the business side, Vertical Media is on track to generate a staggering $150 billion in 2026, despite facing challenges in the crowded content field and high subscriber acquisition costs. Even the film world is abuzz, with a new high-concept comedy, "Spa Weekend," hitting theaters, featuring Leslie Mann and Isla Fisher. It's an exciting time for entertainment, with new releases, deals, and awards nominations making headlines.
Today's signal:
• Olivia Rodrigo Releases ‘Handmaid’s Tale’-Inspired Song, ‘Serena Joy,’ in a Tiny Run of CDs, With Digital Drop to Follow (variety.com)
• ‘Spa Weekend’ Review: Leslie Mann and Isla Fisher in a High-Concept Comedy Without the Comic Highs (variety.com)
• Vertical Media on Track to Generate $150 Billion in 2026 as the Booming Sector Fights Crowded Content Field and High Subscriber Acquisition Costs (variety.com)
• How Hollywood’s Veterans Are Chasing Emmy History: Sally Field, Harrison Ford, Martin Short and More (variety.com)
• Emmy Predictions: What Surprises Could Emerge With Five Days Left to Vote (variety.com)
• Music Industry Moves: My Morning Jacket and Jim James Sign Publishing Deal With Peermusic (variety.com)