“In the symphony of sound, the future is not just composed; it’s co-created with algorithms and amplified by global echoes. As of July 2025, music isn’t merely heard, it’s experienced, built, and revolutionized.”

Melody Meets Machine: Decoding Global Music Trends in Mid-2025 – From AI Maestros to Indie Revolutionaries

Have you ever wondered what truly defines the rhythm of our lives today? What sounds echo loudest across continents, and which innovations are conducting the future of auditory experiences? As of Tue Jul 01 2025 21:00:43 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time), the global music landscape is a dynamic, pulsating entity, increasingly defined by ‘moment rather than genre.’ This fluidity is a testament to humanity’s boundless creativity and the relentless march of technological prowess. Forget rigid categories; today’s soundscape is a vibrant tapestry where traditional boundaries blur, creating an exhilarating fusion that resonates with listeners worldwide.

Last year, the discussions were largely theoretical: could AI genuinely compose? Would virtual concerts ever truly replicate the thrill of live performance? Fast forward to mid-2025, and these questions aren’t just answered; they’re actively shaping the industry. We’re witnessing a paradigm shift, a fascinating evolution where artists, producers, and even listeners are redefining what music means in a digitally interconnected world. This article will plunge deep into the core trends captivating the global music scene this July, offering insights, practical tips, and a glimpse into the psychological undercurrents driving this sonic revolution.

The AI Overture: Composing the Future, One Algorithm at a Time

The most profound shift rippling through the music industry in July 2025 is undoubtedly the accelerating integration of Artificial Intelligence. Generative AI tools are no longer niche curiosities; they are becoming formidable collaborators in music creation, production, and marketing. From composing intricate melodies to fine-tuning mixes and mastering tracks, AI offers artists unprecedented efficiency and creative latitude. It’s a powerful accelerant, allowing solo artists to achieve production values once reserved for major studios, and enabling established producers to experiment with sonic textures previously unimaginable.

Consider the sheer speed and iterative capability AI brings. A composer can input a mood, a genre, or even a few notes, and within moments, receive variations of melodies, harmonies, or rhythmic patterns. This isn’t about replacing human creativity, but augmenting it. AI can handle the tedious, repetitive tasks, freeing artists to focus on the emotional depth and unique artistic vision that only a human can truly imbue. This symbiotic relationship is disrupting formulaic genres, pushing artists to explore unconventional structures and unexpected sonic palettes, fostering a new era of experimental sound design.

The philosophical implications of AI in music are equally fascinating. If an AI can generate a hit song, who is the true artist? What does authenticity mean in an era where algorithms can emulate human emotion? These questions, as of July 2025, are actively being debated in academic circles, legal forums, and online artist communities. Some argue that the human input into AI—the data fed, the parameters set, the final edits made—is where the artistry truly lies. Others contend that true art must originate from human consciousness. Regardless of where one stands, AI compels us to redefine our relationship with creativity, pushing the boundaries of what we consider “original.” Consider the rapid advancements: just a few years ago, AI could only produce simplistic melodies; now, it can generate complex orchestrations that are virtually indistinguishable from human compositions for an untrained ear. This exponential growth suggests that within the next few years, AI will become an indispensable tool, almost like a highly advanced instrument or a sentient mixing engineer.

The ethical dimension is also paramount. Training AI models often involves feeding them vast amounts of existing music, raising complex copyright issues. Artists and rights holders are increasingly demanding transparency and fair compensation when their works are used to train these powerful algorithms. As the technology evolves, so too must the legal frameworks, ensuring that innovation doesn’t come at the expense of creators’ rights. This ongoing negotiation between technological progress and legal protection will shape the future of music intellectual property for decades to come.

Pros and Cons of AI in Music Production

• Pros:
  • Efficiency & Speed: Rapid prototyping of musical ideas, instant variations.
  • Accessibility: Lowers the barrier to entry for aspiring producers with limited resources.
  • Creative Augmentation: Provides inspiration, breaks creative blocks, suggests novel arrangements.
  • Cost Reduction: Potentially reduces reliance on extensive studio time or session musicians for initial drafts.
  • Disruption of Formulaic Music: Encourages experimentation and unique sounds.
• Cons:
  • Authenticity Concerns: Questions around the “soul” or “humanity” of AI-generated music.
  • Copyright & Ownership: Complex legal challenges regarding who owns AI-generated compositions.
  • Homogenization Risk: If misused, AI could lead to predictable or generic sounds.
  • Job Displacement: Potential impact on roles like session musicians, arrangers, and sound engineers.
  • Ethical Dilemmas: The use of existing artists’ work to train AI models raises ethical questions.

Tutorial: A Conceptual Look at AI Music Generation

While hands-on coding for a full AI music generator is beyond a short article, understanding the basic concept is crucial. Imagine you want to create a new synth-pop track. Traditionally, you’d spend hours programming drum patterns, writing basslines, and crafting synth melodies. With AI, the process is streamlined:

1. Input Parameters: You’d go to an AI music generation platform (like Amper Music, AIVA, or Google Magenta’s tools, if they were publicly robust enough for full track generation). You’d specify parameters: “Synth-pop,” “upbeat,” “BPM 120,” “mood: energetic,” “instruments: drums, bass, synth lead, pads.”
2. AI Processing: The AI, trained on vast datasets of existing music, analyzes these inputs. It then generates various melodic phrases, harmonic progressions, and rhythmic patterns that fit your criteria. It might even suggest different song structures (verse-chorus, bridge, etc.).
3. Refine & Iterate: The platform presents you with several short musical snippets or even full track drafts. You listen, select what you like, and then provide feedback: “Make the bassline more funky,” “Change the synth lead to a warmer tone,” or “Add a breakdown section.”
4. Human Touch: This is where the artist truly shines. You don’t just accept what the AI gives you. You might export the MIDI or audio files, bring them into your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) like Ableton Live or Logic Pro, and then add your own unique vocals, instrumental solos, sound design elements, and mix/master the track to perfection. The AI acts as a sophisticated brainstorming partner, a tireless assistant, but the final artistic vision remains yours.

Genre Fluidity & Global Rhythms: The World’s Dance Floor

The rigid boxes that once defined music genres are dissolving, giving way to an exhilarating era of genre fluidity. As of mid-2025, the global music scene is profoundly interconnected, fostering a more inclusive and diverse musical landscape. This isn’t just about fusion; it’s about a philosophical shift where artists feel unburdened by traditional classifications, embracing sounds from every corner of the globe to create something entirely new.

A notable aesthetic emerging is the “dirty aesthetics” or “imperfect subgenre aesthetics” in pop music. This refers to a deliberate embrace of raw, lo-fi, or slightly distorted sounds, moving away from overly polished, pristine productions. It’s a reaction, perhaps, to the perfection often associated with digital creation, injecting a human, sometimes gritty, feel back into the pop realm. This trend resonates psychologically by making music feel more authentic and less manufactured, fostering a deeper connection with listeners who appreciate honesty over synthetic flawlessness.

Simultaneously, genres like Afrohouse, Afrobeats, and Amapiano are not merely gaining traction; they are dominating international charts and influencing mainstream pop. Originating from diverse African nations, these rhythms offer infectious energy, intricate percussive layers, and compelling storytelling that transcends linguistic barriers. Their rise highlights a crucial global shift: music from previously marginalized regions is now at the forefront, shaping global tastes and challenging the historically Western-centric narrative of popular music. This cultural exchange is enriching, introducing new melodic structures, vocal styles, and rhythmic complexities to a worldwide audience.

The global embrace of Afrohouse, Afrobeats, and Amapiano is not just a passing trend; it’s a cultural phenomenon with deep roots and a profound impact. Afrohouse, born from the fusion of South African house music with traditional African rhythms, offers a soulful, percussive groove that has captivated dancefloors from Ibiza to Berlin. Afrobeats, a vibrant blend of West African sounds (like Ghanaian Highlife and Nigerian Fuji) with Western hip-hop, R&B, and dancehall, has produced global superstars and anthems that dominate radio waves. Amapiano, another South African innovation, is characterized by its deep house basslines, jazzy piano chords, and distinct log drum percussion, creating an irresistible, almost spiritual, club experience. The psychological appeal of these genres lies in their infectious rhythms, often conveying a sense of communal celebration and resilience, drawing listeners into a shared emotional space regardless of their origin.

Historically, Western music dominated global charts. However, the rise of digital distribution and social media platforms has leveled the playing field. Artists from Accra, Lagos, Johannesburg, and beyond can now directly connect with audiences in London, New York, and Tokyo, bypassing traditional gatekeepers. This has led to a richer, more diverse global soundtrack, challenging listeners to expand their tastes beyond familiar sounds. The “dirty aesthetics” discussed earlier often intertwine with these global sounds, as artists embrace less polished, more raw production techniques that feel authentic to their cultural roots, contrasting with the often slick, mass-produced sounds of mainstream pop.

Do’s and Don’ts of Genre Blending

• Do’s:
  • Do Understand Your Core Genres: Before blending, grasp the fundamentals and cultural nuances of each style.
  • Do Experiment Fearlessly: Try unexpected combinations. Sometimes the most disparate elements create the most unique sounds.
  • Do Focus on Cohesion: Ensure the blended track still feels like a unified piece, not just two songs awkwardly spliced together.
  • Do Embrace Authenticity: Let the blend feel organic, driven by artistic vision rather than just chasing a trend.
  • Do Respect Cultural Origins: If incorporating elements from specific cultural genres, do so with respect and understanding.
• Don’ts:
  • Don’t Force It: If a blend isn’t working, don’t try to force it. Some combinations just don’t click.
  • Don’t Be Superficial: Avoid simply adding a single element from another genre without integrating it meaningfully.
  • Don’t Forget the Hook: Even with complex genre blends, a strong hook or memorable melody is still key.
  • Don’t Alienate Your Audience (Unintentionally): While experimentation is good, consider if your audience will still connect with the new direction.
  • Don’t Claim Expertise You Don’t Have: If borrowing from deeply rooted cultural genres, avoid misrepresenting yourself as an expert if you’re not.

The Pulse of Live: From Stadiums to Screen-Side Mosh Pits

Despite the digital revolution, the craving for live music remains undiminished in July 2025. There’s a primal, almost tribal, need for collective experience, for feeling the bass vibrate through your chest, and for singing along in unison with thousands of strangers. This intrinsic value of live performance continues to drive massive ticket sales for stadium tours and intimate club gigs alike.

However, the definition of “live” has expanded dramatically. We’ve witnessed a surge in virtual concerts and live streaming, offering new, innovative avenues for artists to reach global audiences and interact with fans. These aren’t just glorified video calls; advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and interactive platforms have transformed virtual concerts into immersive, multi-sensory events. Fans can navigate virtual venues, customize avatars, interact with fellow concert-goers, and even get “front-row” views previously reserved for VIPs. This democratization of access is a significant psychological draw, allowing fans in remote locations or those with mobility challenges to participate in global musical events.

The underlying psychological reason for the enduring appeal of live music, both physical and virtual, is deeply ingrained in human nature: the need for shared experience and communal ritual. In a world that often feels fragmented and isolating, a concert provides a temporary escape into a collective state of euphoria. The synchronized movements, the shared singing, the palpable energy—these elements create a powerful sense of belonging and catharsis. Virtual concerts, despite the physical distance, tap into this same need by offering interactive features that mimic social engagement. Think of virtual mosh pits, avatar customization, and real-time chat with fellow fans from around the world. Companies like Wave XR and Roblox have pioneered sophisticated virtual concert environments, using advanced graphics and spatial audio to create genuinely immersive experiences. Artists like The Weeknd and Travis Scott have already pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in these digital realms, paving the way for a new era of performance that blends reality and virtuality seamlessly.

Looking back a few years ago, virtual concerts were a necessity born out of pandemic restrictions. Today, they are a deliberate artistic choice and a powerful business model. Artists can perform multiple virtual shows in a single day, reaching millions more than a physical tour could ever accommodate. This hybrid model—combining physical tours with strategically placed virtual events—is likely the future, maximizing reach and revenue while maintaining that essential human connection.

Streaming’s Evolution: Beyond Passive Listening

Streaming platforms continue to dominate music consumption as of July 2025, but the landscape is far from static. The initial models, often criticized for their low per-stream payouts to artists, are evolving. Industry discussions are heavily focused on creating more flexible and artist-friendly compensation structures, including user-centric payment models (where royalties are paid based on individual subscribers’ listening habits) and direct fan-to-artist patronage options integrated within streaming services. This shift reflects a growing recognition of artists as the bedrock of the industry, and a desire to foster more equitable distribution of revenue.

A significant tremor in the streaming world has been the ongoing conversation around the potential ban of TikTok in certain regions, notably the U.S. This uncertainty has prompted artists and marketers to aggressively explore alternative platforms for music promotion. While TikTok’s short-form video format undeniably launched countless viral hits and careers, the industry is now hedging its bets, investing heavily in:

• Instagram Reels: Meta’s robust answer to TikTok, offering seamless integration with Instagram’s vast existing user base and discovery features.
• YouTube Shorts: Leveraging YouTube’s immense reach and its established music ecosystem, Shorts provide a direct pathway for artists to convert short-form video viewers into long-form content subscribers.
• RedNote: An emerging platform gaining traction, specifically designed with artist monetization and fan engagement at its core, often featuring longer-form short videos and direct tipping features.

The discussion around a potential TikTok ban in the U.S. highlights a critical vulnerability for artists: over-reliance on a single platform. While TikTok’s algorithmic power for discovery is undeniable, its geopolitical entanglement serves as a stark reminder of the need for platform diversification. Instagram Reels has benefited immensely from this uncertainty, quickly becoming a primary alternative. Its integration with Instagram’s robust suite of features—from direct messaging to e-commerce—makes it a powerful tool for holistic artist development, not just viral moments. YouTube Shorts, on the other hand, leverages YouTube’s established position as the world’s largest music video platform. Its ability to seamlessly link short-form content to full-length music videos or artist channels provides a crucial funnel for audience retention and monetization. RedNote, while newer, is gaining a reputation for its artist-first approach, often providing better direct monetization options through tipping, subscriptions, and even NFT integrations, fostering a more direct economic relationship between artist and fan. The strategic implication for artists, as of July 2025, is clear: a multi-platform approach is not just advisable, it’s essential for resilience and broad audience reach.

The strategic diversification across these platforms isn’t just about mitigating risk; it’s about understanding the unique demographics and engagement patterns of each. A catchy snippet on Reels might drive initial discovery, while a more in-depth behind-the-scenes video on YouTube Shorts could convert casual listeners into dedicated fans. RedNote, with its artist-centric approach, might foster a more loyal, financially supportive community.

Pros and Cons of Different Promotion Platforms

• TikTok:
  • Pros: Massive viral potential, unparalleled discovery engine, youth demographic reach.
  • Cons: Regulatory uncertainty, short attention spans, potential for decontextualized music use.
• Instagram Reels:
  • Pros: Integrated with large existing user base, strong visual focus, good for lifestyle/brand building.
  • Cons: Can feel saturated, discovery algorithm can be challenging for new artists.
• YouTube Shorts:
  • Pros: Leverages YouTube’s music ecosystem, easy conversion to long-form content, strong analytics.
  • Cons: May require more video production effort, less emphasis on pure audio trends.
• RedNote:
  • Pros: Artist-friendly monetization, potentially higher fan engagement, less noise.
  • Cons: Smaller user base (as of July 2025), still building market presence, requires active community building.

Tutorial: Optimizing Your Music for Short-Form Video Platforms

In the rapid-fire world of Reels, Shorts, and RedNote, every second counts. Here’s how to make your music cut through the noise:

1. Identify Your “Hook”: What’s the most catchy, memorable 15-30 second snippet of your song? This could be a powerful vocal line, an infectious beat drop, or a unique instrumental riff. This is your content’s core.
2. Visual Storytelling: Don’t just show lyrics. Create engaging visuals that tell a micro-story, evoke emotion, or demonstrate a concept. This could be a quick dance trend, a behind-the-scenes glimpse, or a humorous skit.

   
           # Example Markdown for Video Concept
           ## Scene: "The Hook Drop"
           - **Visual:** Artist looking bored, then suddenly energized as the beat drops.
           - **Text Overlay:** "When the bass hits just right..."
           - **Sound:** Your song's catchy hook.
           

3. Engage with Trends: Keep an eye on trending sounds, challenges, and video formats. Can you adapt your music or its message to fit a popular trend? This massively boosts discoverability.
4. Clear Call to Action (CTA): In the caption or as a brief on-screen text, tell viewers what to do next: “Link in bio to stream full song!”, “Follow for more music!”, “What’s your favorite part of the track?”
5. Optimize Sound: Ensure your audio is clear, well-mixed, and stands out. Use the platform’s native audio tools if available.
6. Consistency is Key: Regular posting keeps your audience engaged and signals to algorithms that you’re an active creator.

The Indie Ascent: Music’s New Frontier

Perhaps one of the most empowering trends of the past decade, culminating in a significant force in July 2025, is the rise of independent artists. Digital platforms have truly democratized the music industry, enabling musicians to reach global audiences and maintain creative control without the traditional backing of major record labels. This is a story of liberation, resilience, and direct connection.

Historically, an artist’s path to success was almost exclusively through a record label, which provided funding, marketing, and distribution. While labels still hold considerable power, the internet has chipped away at their monopoly. Platforms like Bandcamp, DistroKid, TuneCore, and even directly via social media, allow artists to distribute their music, collect royalties, and build fan bases globally. This means more artists are retaining ownership of their masters and publishing rights, leading to potentially higher earnings and unparalleled artistic freedom.

The psychological impact on artists is profound: a sense of autonomy and direct agency over their careers. They no longer need to compromise their artistic vision to fit a label’s commercial mold. This freedom often translates into more authentic, boundary-pushing music that resonates deeply with audiences tired of mass-produced pop. Fans, in turn, feel a closer connection to indie artists, supporting them directly and participating in their journey rather than just consuming a product.

The indie artist ecosystem is thriving, not just because of distribution tools, but also due to a burgeoning support infrastructure. Online communities, independent PR agencies, music synchronization (sync) licensing opportunities, and crowdfunding platforms empower artists at every stage. For instance, platforms like Patreon allow fans to directly support artists through recurring subscriptions, fostering a deep sense of community and providing a stable income stream. Sync licensing, the placement of music in films, TV shows, commercials, and video games, has become a significant revenue stream for indie artists, allowing their music to reach vast new audiences. The shift in power dynamics means that artists are no longer waiting for a major label to “discover” them; they are actively building their own empires, leveraging digital tools and their entrepreneurial spirit.

Moreover, the concept of “micro-fame” is incredibly relevant for indie artists. You don’t need millions of fans to make a sustainable living. A dedicated fanbase of a few thousand “true fans” (as coined by Kevin Kelly) who are willing to buy merchandise, attend live streams, and support crowdfunding campaigns can be more valuable than millions of passive streamers. This psychological insight shifts the focus from chasing elusive viral hits to cultivating deep, meaningful relationships with a committed audience, leading to greater artistic freedom and financial stability.

Do’s and Don’ts for the Independent Artist

• Do’s:
  • Do Build a Strong Online Presence: Your website, social media profiles, and streaming platforms are your storefronts.
  • Do Understand Digital Distribution: Learn how services like DistroKid or TuneCore work to get your music on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
  • Do Engage with Your Fans: Respond to comments, run Q&As, share behind-the-scenes content. Your community is your strength.
  • Do Collaborate: Work with other indie artists, producers, or content creators. Cross-promotion is powerful.
  • Do Invest in Quality: Even on a budget, aim for good audio production, engaging visuals, and compelling songwriting.
  • Do Learn Basic Marketing: Understand social media algorithms, email marketing, and content strategy.
• Don’ts:
  • Don’t Neglect Legalities: Understand copyright, publishing, and licensing. Protect your work.
  • Don’t Expect Overnight Success: Building an indie career takes time, perseverance, and consistent effort.
  • Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: Join artist communities, seek mentors, and outsource tasks you’re not good at (e.g., mixing, mastering, graphic design).
  • Don’t Underestimate Networking: Connect with industry professionals and fellow artists, both online and in person.
  • Don’t Burn Out: Pacing yourself, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing mental health are crucial for longevity.

July 2025’s Soundtrack: New Releases Setting the Tone

Amidst these overarching trends, July 2025 also brings a fresh wave of highly anticipated music, showcasing the diversity and vitality of the current scene. These releases are not just new songs; they are cultural moments, reflecting the evolving tastes and innovative spirits of artists across various genres.

• Styx – “Circling From Above”: The iconic rock band Styx, known for their progressive rock anthems and power ballads, are set to release their new album, “Circling From Above.” This release is anticipated to blend their classic symphonic rock sound with contemporary production, proving that legendary acts can still innovate and captivate new generations of listeners. Fans are eager to hear how their signature harmonies and intricate instrumentation translate into the mid-2020s sonic landscape, perhaps even incorporating subtle AI-assisted elements for a fresh texture.
• The Alice Cooper Group – “The Revenge of Alice Cooper”: A thrilling return for the original Alice Cooper group, “The Revenge of Alice Cooper” promises to deliver the theatrical, hard-rocking shock rock that defined their legendary career. This album is more than just new music; it’s a statement, a nostalgic yet forward-looking dive into the dark and playful world of one of rock’s most enduring figures. It speaks to the enduring appeal of established artists who continue to push boundaries and entertain.
• Jethro Tull – “Still Living in the Past” (Remastered Edition): Fans of progressive folk-rock rejoice as Jethro Tull releases a meticulously remastered edition of “Still Living in the Past.” This release highlights the continued demand for high-fidelity reissues of classic albums, allowing both long-time devotees and new listeners to experience these seminal works with enhanced clarity and depth. It underscores the importance of sonic preservation and the timeless nature of truly great music.
• Värttinä – “Kyly”: Topping the Transglobal World Music Chart for July 2025, the Finnish band Värttinä’s album “Kyly” is a magnificent example of global integration. Blending ancient Karelian vocal traditions with contemporary folk arrangements, “Kyly” demonstrates the rich tapestry of world music and its growing appeal. Their success is a testament to the fact that authentic cultural sounds, when presented with artistic integrity and modern sensibilities, can resonate deeply with a worldwide audience, transcending language and geographical boundaries.

These releases, from classic rock stalwarts to groundbreaking world music ensembles, paint a vivid picture of July 2025’s diverse musical ecosystem. They underscore the trend that while technology pushes boundaries, the core human desire for compelling storytelling, innovative sound, and emotional connection through music remains constant.

Beyond the Horizon: What’s Next for Music?

As we navigate mid-2025, the trends we’ve explored are not merely fleeting fads but indicators of profound shifts. The interplay between human creativity and artificial intelligence will only deepen, prompting ongoing discussions about artistic authenticity and the evolving definition of “artist.” Genre boundaries will continue to erode, leading to even more eclectic and unexpected collaborations. The value of live experience, whether physical or virtual, will remain paramount, pushing innovators to create increasingly immersive and interactive platforms.

The indie artist revolution is far from over; it’s accelerating. Expect to see more sophisticated tools for self-distribution, hyper-targeted marketing for niche fanbases, and new models for direct artist-to-fan monetization. The battle for supremacy in short-form video will intensify, and platforms that best serve both creators and consumers with sustainable models will ultimately thrive.

Psychologically, music continues to serve as a mirror reflecting our collective consciousness. Its fluidity mirrors our increasingly globalized, interconnected identities. Its embrace of technology reflects our drive for efficiency and innovation, while its return to “dirty aesthetics” speaks to a yearning for authenticity in a polished digital world. The music of July 2025 is not just sound; it’s a profound cultural dialogue, a symphony of human experience interwoven with technological advancement.

Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Soundtrack of Our Lives

The global music industry in July 2025 is a testament to constant evolution. From the collaborative power of AI transforming creation to the vibrant explosion of genre-fluid sounds from every continent, and the enduring allure of live performances, music continues to adapt, innovate, and inspire. Independent artists are seizing control of their destinies, while streaming platforms are striving for more equitable models.

What actionable takeaways can we glean from this dynamic landscape? For artists, it’s a call to embrace technology as a tool, not a replacement. Experiment with AI, explore new platforms, and prioritize authentic connection with your audience. For industry professionals, it’s an imperative to foster equitable ecosystems and remain agile in the face of rapid technological shifts. And for listeners, it’s an invitation to expand your sonic palate, to delve into diverse genres, and to celebrate the boundless creativity that defines our world’s soundtrack.

The music of today and tomorrow isn’t just background noise; it’s the very pulse of our interconnected lives, constantly challenging us to listen deeper, feel more profoundly, and move to rhythms both familiar and wonderfully new. Are you ready to dance?

“Why did the musician get kicked out of the garden? Because he was always dropping the beet!”