Music News Today — October 23, 2026
‘The Notebook’ Musical Sets West End Run at Newly Renamed Judi Dench Theatre and more — today's music signal.
The world of music is abuzz with exciting news and announcements. In the UK, fans of romantic classics are in for a treat as a musical adaptation of 'The Notebook' is set to take the West End by storm, with a run at the newly renamed Judi Dench Theatre. Meanwhile, the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) has recognized outstanding works in music writing and broadcasts, including biographies of legendary composers John Williams and Bernard Herrmann.
In other news, Raye has taken home the coveted Mercury Prize for Album of the Year, solidifying her position as a rising star in the music industry. John Mayer is also making waves, having launched his own record label, Sob Rock Records, in partnership with Mercury, where he will release his first new solo music in five years. Additionally, music icon Chaka Khan is set to be honored at the Soul Train Awards, and industry executive Liz Morentin has launched Greenvalley Media & Marketing, marking a new chapter in her career. These updates showcase the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, with new projects, awards, and ventures emerging every day.
Today's signal:
• ‘The Notebook’ Musical Sets West End Run at Newly Renamed Judi Dench Theatre (variety.com)
• Biographies of John Williams and Bernard Herrmann Among Honored Works in ASCAP’s Awards for Music Writing and Broadcasts (variety.com)
• Raye Wins Mercury Prize for Album of the Year (variety.com)
• John Mayer Sets Up His Own Label, Sob Rock Records, in Partnership With Mercury to Release First New Solo Music in Five Years (variety.com)
• Chaka Khan to Be Honored at Soul Train Awards (TV News Roundup) (variety.com)
• Music Industry Moves: Liz Morentin Launches Greenvalley Media & Marketing (variety.com)