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Linda Perry Partners with Kill Rock Stars for New Imprint and 2026 4 Non Blondes Release

Eric Alper
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Linda Perry Partners with Kill Rock Stars for New Imprint and 2026 4 Non Blondes Release

Iconic songwriter and producer Linda Perry has announced a major new partnership with the legendary indie label Kill Rock Stars, marking her return to the spotlight with the launch of her new imprint, 670 Records. The collaboration was sparked by the successful 2025 Record Store Day reissue of Perry’s debut solo album, ‘In Flight’, and has since evolved into a long-term creative alliance. Under this new banner, Perry is set to release a new solo album titled ‘Let It Die Here’ alongside the first 4 Non Blondes studio album in over 33 years, both scheduled for 2026. This partnership reflects a shared mission to champion “architects, sculptors, and musicians,” providing a dedicated home for Perry’s fearless and emotionally honest creative vision.

The 4 Non Blondes reunion brings together the original touring lineup, including co-founding bassist Christa Hillhouse, drummer Dawn Richardson, and guitarist Roger Rocha, for their first recordings since their 1992 platinum debut. The band’s resurgence follows a massive viral moment on TikTok, where a mashup of their anthem “What’s Up?” dominated trending charts with over three million user-created videos. After decades of shaping pop history from behind the scenes for artists like P!nk and Christina Aguilera, Perry describes the reunion as an organic manifestation of her desire to step back out as a performing artist. With a collection of new songs already written, the band is moving beyond nostalgia to establish a new chapter that honors their gritty, authentic roots.

Shaq’s Fun House Transforms the Cow Palace for Historic Big Game Weekend Kickoff

Eric Alper
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Shaq’s Fun House Transforms the Cow Palace for Historic Big Game Weekend Kickoff

The Official Unofficial Kickoff of Big Game Weekend is Back! The celebration created and produced by Medium Rare & Authentic Live, begins in unbeatable style with the return of the 8th Annual Shaq’s Fun House Presented by Credit One Bank, the larger-than-life spectacle that’s part festival, carnival, and circus. Created and hosted by NBA Hall of Famer and global showman Shaquille O’Neal, this legendary event will bring its signature high-octane energy to the Bay Area as Shaq transforms the historic Cow Palace. Guests will experience massive performances from T-Pain, Tiësto, Disco Lines, plus a full carnival midway packed with rides, games, and immersive interactive attractions – all designed to deliver the most extravagant celebration yet. All-Inclusive Open Bar Tickets start at $249.99, with premium VIP tickets and exclusive VIP Tables also available beginning this Friday at 10:00AM PT. Fans can pre-register for tickets beginning now to secure the lowest pricing at www.ShaqsFunHouse.com.

Brought to life by powerhouse brand partners such as Credit One Bank, Anheuser-Busch, Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, Pepsi, Verizon, BeatBox Beverages, and more, this oversized adult playground is unlike any traditional Big Game Weekend party. Now celebrating its eighth year, Shaq’s Fun House has earned its reputation as the unofficial kickoff to the weekend’s biggest celebrations.

Across nearly a decade, Shaq’s Fun House has cemented itself as one of the most exciting and star-powered events, delivering massive performances from legends like Lil Wayne, John Summit, Snoop Dogg, and Pitbull, along with an A-list guest year after year. Past attendees include Adam Levine, Jack Harlow, Jamie Foxx, Rob Gronkowski, Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes, Bert Kreischer, Alix Earle, Lamar Jackson, Floyd Mayweather, Tim Tebow, Michael Phelps, LeSean McCoy, Chad Johnson, Russell Wilson, Jeremy Renner, David Dobrik, Daymond John, Nate Diaz, Allen Iverson, Tiffany Haddish, Guy Fieri and many more.

World-Class Talent and Performances

Shaq’s Fun House presented by Credit One Bank is leveling up again with a powerhouse lineup! Leading the charge is the multi-platinum hitmaker and cultural trailblazer T-Pain. Hailed by critics and fans for his massive return to the forefront of music, T-Pain is hotter than ever, celebrating a powerful resurgence with an arsenal of fan-favorite classics that guarantee a party like no other. Joining the celebration is dance music icon Tïesto, the global dance-music icon whose legendary career, festival-shaking anthems, and high-energy sets have made him one of the most influential DJs of all time. Bringing the feel-good festival energy is special guest Disco Lines, the viral dance phenomenon whose infectious sound, fueled by the massive success of his hit “No Broke Boys,” continues to light up stages worldwide.

The man of the hour, DJ Diesel, will take over the decks with his signature blend of hard-hitting electronic beats and Shaq-sized fun. Myles O’Neal, the versatile DJ and style icon, will bring his dynamic sound and cutting-edge energy to the stage, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.

San Francisco: A Festival Like No Other

Shaq’s Fun House presented by Credit One Bank is taking over San Francisco with an all-new West Coast flair, transforming Big Game Weekend into an immersive, larger-than-life celebration. Guests will enjoy beverages from partners like Pepsi, Anheuser-Busch, and BeatBox Beverages and the experience will be elevated with Bay Area-inspired cuisine, premium hospitality, and the unmistakable energy that only Shaq can bring.

The event will feature oversized carnival rides, custom built experiential activations from brand partners, interactive games, circus performances, VIP hospitality, and more, creating a festival experience – creating a festival environment that captures the bold, creative spirit of San Francisco.

“From day one, I wanted Shaq’s Fun House to be the party for the people,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “A lot of Big Game events feel like they are only for VIPs. At my party, you buy a ticket and your night is taken care of. The music, the rides, the food, the open bar, the wild moments, it is all included so you can just show up and have fun. San Francisco is one of the best sports towns in the world, and I cannot wait to turn Cow Palace into the most fun place to be outside of the Big Game“

Newsworthy Brand Partners & Experiences

Shaq’s Fun House presented by Credit One Bank is teaming up with an elite roster of brand partners to deliver the most interactive, over-the-top Big Game Weekend experience San Francisco has ever seen. This year’s event at the legendary Cow Palace will feature massive experiential activation that improve the fan experience, carnival rides, immersive fan zones, custom mixology bars, VIP moments, and unforgettable appearances by SHAQ himself – all powered by some of the biggest brands in America.

Credit One Bank: Presenting Partner of Shaq’s Fun House

Credit One Bank joins Shaq’s Fun House as the presenting partner, bringing an all-new fan experience to Big Game Weekend. Credit One Bank will anchor the festival with a one-of-a-kind photo experience that invites fans to shoot a hoop and “Shaq Proof Your Credit.” People will be given branded basketballs with the top tips from Shaq and Credit One Bank on ways to protect or re-build your credit, then asked to take a shot on a “Shaq Proof” basketball backboard for an epic photo capture. This activation taps into the nostalgic insight that the professional basketball league had to create “Shaq Proof” backboards to withstand Shaq’s powerful slam dunks.

“We’re thrilled to bring a little fun to credit education with Shaq, who has long championed financial literacy through a simple to follow playbook,” said Amber Greenwalt, Senior Vice President of Brand & Advertising at Credit One Bank. “This partnership strategically pairs our purpose of being a force for financial momentum with Shaq’s passion for financial literacy. We can’t wait to see people “Shaq Proof” their credit with our activation and hope it inspires people to reimagine how they think about and manage their credit.”

Along with this high-energy fan activity designed to showcase the brand’s commitment to credit education and planning for what’s ahead, Credit One Bank will be distributing premium giveaways. Credit One Bank cardmembers will also enjoy expedited entry, offering a seamless arrival that lets them dive right into the Shaq’s Fun House experience.

Shaq-A-Licious: The Ultimate Candy Takeover

Building on the excitement of Shaquille O’Neal’s number one candy with The Hershey Company,Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies will turn Shaq’s Fun House into a candy playground fit for the world’s biggest kid. Fans can get their hands on the wildly popular gummies featuring Shaq’s larger-than-life face and step into the action with the Shaq-A-Licious Slam Dunk Photo Wall, a gravity-defying, social-ready moment where guests can jump, pose mid-air, and capture the perfect dunk.

Inside the Shaq-A-Licious zone, guests will also catch the first hints that something new and big is coming from Shaq and Hershey. No details yet, but the next Shaq-sized move in the candy aisle will allow guests at Shaq’s Fun House to be some of the first to try what’s next.

Pepsi: The Official Carbonated Soft Drink of Shaq’s Fun House

Shaq’s favorite cola is bringing big flavor. As Official Soda of Shaq’s Fun House, Pepsi will have a custom branded bar featuring exclusive Pepsi x Shaq’s Fun House cocktails and mocktails crafted with the iconic cola, its superior tasting Pepsi Zero Sugar, and more fan favorites. Complimentary Pepsi will also be available across the festival so guests can stay refreshed all night long.

Anheuser-Busch: A Returning Staple

Anheuser-Busch returns with its strongest showing yet, featuring NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, Bud Light, and Cutwater across every GA bar, VIP bar, and VIP table at the festival. Guests will enjoy a dedicated NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer festival bar and experience featuring premium product displays bringing Anheuser-Busch’s brands to life throughout Cow Palace.

Verizon: The Official Wireless Connectivity Partner

Stay connected during Shaq’s Fun House. Verizon has you covered as the exclusive wireless and cellular partner of Shaq’s Fun House. Verizon customers can score exclusive tickets to the event through Verizon Access on the My Verizon app and enjoy expedited entry via a dedicated fast lane – making it easier than ever to join the celebration.

BeatBox: The Official Party Punch Partner

BeatBox is turning Shaq’s Fun House into their biggest party punch moment yet with a larger-than-life, custom-branded carnival game that feels straight out of a music festival midway. The immersive setup brings BeatBox’s high-energy, live-show DNA to life and keeps the party going from DJ Diesel’s set to the very last spin. Guests can sip FREE BeatBox across GA and VIP, plus at the BeatBox activation and bar, making it the ultimate fuel for Shaq’s favorite night of the year.

Adam Richman and Joe Silberzweig, Co-Founders of Medium Rare, said, “There’s no other event during Big Game Weekend that combines the high-energy fun of carnival rides, games, circus performances, and world-class music in such a unique, all-inclusive experience. New Orleans brings the kind of energy and excitement that makes it the perfect place for Shaq’s Fun House, and we’re beyond excited to bring it to life in this incredible city.”

General admission tickets start at $249.99 (available in very limited quantities) and will increase as the event date nears. This is a 21+ event, and tickets are available online at www.ShaqsFunHouse.com.

Medium Rare produces Shaq’s Fun House in partnership with Authentic Brands Group. Medium Rare’s track record at Big Game Weekend is second to none with some of the most viral sold-out events in history, including Gronk Beach, SI The Party, Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and The Shaq Bowl.

King of Cups Delivers Gritty Holiday Spirit with “Naughty List All Year”

Eric Alper
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King of Cups Delivers Gritty Holiday Spirit with “Naughty List All Year”

King of Cups has injected a defiant energy into the holiday season with their latest pop-punk single, “Naughty List All Year.” The track blends fast-paced riffs and sharp hooks with a lyrical narrative that celebrates the outcasts and those who proudly embrace their spot on the naughty list. Maintaining the band’s signature “rough edge” while adding a seasonal twist, the release serves as a bridge for fans as the group builds momentum toward a larger, highly anticipated project slated for 2026. This festive anthem offers a high-octane alternative to traditional carols, ensuring the band’s defiant attitude stays front and center as the year concludes.

DaBaby Mentors the Next Generation in ‘Belly’-Inspired Video for “Letter to My YN”

Eric Alper
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DaBaby Mentors the Next Generation in ‘Belly’-Inspired Video for “Letter to My YN”

Multi-platinum rapper DaBaby has released a poignant new music video for his motivational single “Letter to My YN,” drawing visual inspiration from the 1998 cult classic film Belly. Directed by Nick Mays, the video features a deeply personal appearance by DaBaby’s nephew, Messiah—the son of his late brother, Glenn Johnson—and centers on a heartfelt conversation about avoiding the systemic traps that often derail young lives. The release follows a massive year for the Charlotte artist, who recently delivered a high-energy performance at the inaugural Rolling Loud India in Navi Mumbai, where he performed global hits like “Rockstar” and “Suge” for a historic crowd. These new singles, including the family-focused “PBJT,” serve as a foundation for his highly anticipated studio album slated to arrive in 2026.

Parallel to his musical output, DaBaby is deepening his commitment to community advocacy through the DaBaby Cares initiative, launched in memory of his brother Glenn to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The program recently reached a milestone at West Charlotte High School, where it distributed vital mental health resource toolkits and the “Youth Mental Health 101 Resource Guide” to hundreds of students. By merging his personal experiences with a platform that has amassed over 25 billion streams, DaBaby is using his 2025 releases to bridge the gap between street cinema aesthetics and real-world mentorship. As he prepares for his “Welcome Back” concert at the Bryce Jordan Center in January, the rapper remains focused on breaking cycles of trauma and normalizing mental health support within minority communities.

Alex G Announces 2026 Global Tour Following Major Label Debut ‘Headlights’

Eric Alper
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Alex G Announces 2026 Global Tour Following Major Label Debut ‘Headlights’

Alex G has announced an extensive 2026 headlining tour across New Zealand, Australia, Japan, and North America, beginning February 5th in Auckland. The run follows a landmark year for the artist, who recently released his tenth studio album and major label debut, ‘Headlights’, featuring the critically acclaimed singles “Afterlife” and “June Guitar.” The upcoming itinerary includes prestigious stops at the Sydney Opera House and the Kilby Block Party, alongside high-profile festival appearances at Laneway Festival and Coachella. This global trek builds on the momentum of his 2025 performances, which saw him sell out iconic venues like New York’s Radio City Music Hall and London’s Eventim Apollo.

For the North American leg of the tour, Alex G has partnered with the organization PLUS1, ensuring that $1 from every ticket sold supports local nonprofits dedicated to youth stability, education, and mental health care. Fans can expect a career-spanning set that highlights the indie-rock evolution showcased on his latest RCA Records release. General ticket sales begin on Thursday, December 18th, following a specialized presale period. From intimate theater dates in Japan to back-to-back nights at Portland’s Roseland Theater, the 2026 tour solidifies Alex G’s transition from an underground cult favorite to a premier global headliner.

Alex G 2026 Tour Dates:

Feb 5 – Auckland, New Zealand @ Laneway Festival
Feb 7 – Gold Coast, Australia @ Laneway Festival
Feb 8 – Sydney, Australia @ Laneway Festival
Feb 9 – Sydney, Australia @ Sydney Opera House
Feb 11 – Melbourne, Australia @ Palais Theatre
Feb 13 – Melbourne, Australia @ Laneway Festival
Feb 14 – Adelaide, Australia @ Laneway Festival
Feb 15 – Perth, Australia @ Laneway Festival
Feb 19 – Tokyo, Japan @ EX Theater
Feb 20 – Osaka, Japan @ Umeda Club Quattro
Apr 11 – Indio, CA @ Coachella
Apr 14 – Mexico City, Mexico @ Auditorio BB
Apr 18 – Indio, CA @ Coachella
May 7 – Sacramento, CA @ Channel 24
May 8 – San Jose, CA @ San Jose Civic
May 10 – Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater
May 11 – Portland, OR @ Roseland Theater
May 13 – Seattle, WA @ Showbox SoDo
May 14 – Seattle, WA @ Showbox SoDo
May 15 – Boise, ID @ Treefort Music Hall
May 16 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Kilby Block Party
May 18 – Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl

Oswald’s Revenge Reimagines Taylor Swift with Gritty Cover of “CANCELLED!”

Eric Alper
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Oswald’s Revenge Reimagines Taylor Swift with Gritty Cover of “CANCELLED!”

Rock trio Oswald’s Revenge has delivered a refreshing, high-energy edge to the Taylor Swift track “CANCELLED!”, released on December 12. Following the launch of their self-titled debut full-length, the band’s latest offering swaps pop polish for addictive rock hooks and gritty vocal performances. The group, known for their “serendipitous” chemistry and DIY passion, describes the cover as a playful nod to their connection with “TayTay” and a celebration of those who find themselves misunderstood by the elite. This release continues the momentum of their recent album, which features fan-favorite singles like “Turn the Lights Out!” and “Choking Me Sweetly.”

The self-titled record serves as a sonic journey for the band, documenting a transition from self-doubt to deep appreciation for others. Lyrically and musically, the album represents years of dedication from three artists who found common ground in their creative ideals, proving that the artistic path can be a source of joy rather than just a struggle. By blending the vulnerability found in original tracks like “Glow” and “Ghost” with the abrasive energy of their new Swift cover, Oswald’s Revenge is solidifying their place in the rock scene as a band that doesn’t take itself too seriously while still delivering powerful performances.

Joel Hoekstra Unveils Heavy New Single “You Can Give” from Upcoming Solo Album

Eric Alper
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Joel Hoekstra Unveils Heavy New Single “You Can Give” from Upcoming Solo Album

Whitesnake and Trans-Siberian Orchestra guitarist Joel Hoekstra has released “You Can Give,” the heavy, riff-driven lead single from his upcoming solo album ‘From The Fade’. Set for release on February 27, 2026, via Frontiers Music Srl, the track features an elite lineup of rock legends, including drummer Vinny Appice (Black Sabbath, Dio) and bassist Tony Franklin (The Firm). Hoekstra describes the song as a melodic hard rock anthem with a “heavier edge,” influenced by his recent time performing with Accept. With powerhouse vocals from rising star Girish Pradhan and keyboard work by virtuoso Derek Sherinian, “You Can Give” explores the complexities of a relentless work ethic through the lens of a “music itself singing to the artist” lyrical concept.

‘From The Fade’ marks the fourth studio outing for the Joel Hoekstra’s 13 project, delivering ten tracks that fuse classic hard rock with modern melodic metal precision. The album follows a whirlwind year for Hoekstra, which included performing with Cher at her Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and appearing on the SNL 50 Homecoming Concert. Known for his versatility—ranging from Broadway’s ‘Rock of Ages’ to stints with Foreigner and Night Ranger—Hoekstra built this collection from the guitar riffs up to ensure a contemporary yet tradition-rooted sound. Backed by the additional vocal textures of Jeff Scott Soto, this new record stands as a definitive statement of intent from one of the industry’s most respected guitarists and educators.

Big Big Train’s Alberto Bravin Delivers “Proggy” Holiday Gift with New Single

Eric Alper
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Big Big Train’s Alberto Bravin Delivers “Proggy” Holiday Gift with New Single

Big Big Train lead vocalist Alberto Bravin has released a transformative cover of the seasonal classic “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas,” available exclusively as a video release on YouTube. Recorded at his Green House studio in Trieste, Italy, the track features Bravin performing every instrument himself, infusing the 1944 Judy Garland standard with his signature progressive rock sensibilities. The accompanying video was filmed by Massimiliano Cernecca at Urban Recording Studios, the same location where Big Big Train tracked their acclaimed album ‘The Likes Of Us’. Described by Bravin as a “proggy” gift to thank fans for their unwavering support throughout 2025, the release serves as a creative palate cleanser following the completion of the band’s highly anticipated forthcoming album, ‘Woodcut’.

Toronto’s Wasting Time Delivers a 90s Punk Love Letter with “Ripped Blue Jeans”

Eric Alper
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Toronto’s Wasting Time Delivers a 90s Punk Love Letter with “Ripped Blue Jeans”

Toronto melodic punk staples Wasting Time have returned with their anthemic new single “Ripped Blue Jeans,” released December 12 via People of Punk Rock Records. Capturing the nostalgic rush of late-90s freedom, the track serves as a heartfelt tribute to the era of community-hall venues, stickered guitars, and the DIY spirit of the MTV generation. Mixed and mastered by Matt Gauthier at Arc Studios, the song marks the first preview of the band’s upcoming full-length album, ‘Are You Out Of Your God Damn Mind?’, slated for a 2026 release. It is a seasoned display of the sincerity and high-energy hooks that have become the band’s signature since their formation in 2017.

Building on the success of their previous LP ‘Hurry Up and Wait’, Wasting Time continues to carry the torch for the melodic punk tradition defined by genre giants like Alkaline Trio and No Use for a Name. The band has spent years honing their craft across international tours in Japan, Korea, and Canada, alongside standout festival appearances at Pouzza Fest and Rock La Cauze. Having shared stages with the likes of Smoking Popes and Unwritten Law, the quartet remains one of the most reliable forces in the Canadian scene. “Ripped Blue Jeans” isn’t merely an exercise in nostalgia; it is a powerful reminder of why the genre’s foundational melodies still resonate in the modern era.

GLIDDEEE Channels Environmental Hostility into Post-Hardcore Single “INHALER”

Eric Alper
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GLIDDEEE Channels Environmental Hostility into Post-Hardcore Single “INHALER”

Lebanese post-hardcore outfit GLIDDEEE has returned with their blistering new single “INHALER,” a raw and uncompromising track released ahead of their debut EP ‘Kinetic Flaw’. Written by vocalist Marco Bazerji, the song serves as a claustrophobic journey through sickness and isolation, set against a worldview of inherent hostility. The track opens with a grainy, mechanical sample of a camera mimicking a CPAP machine, immediately plunging the listener into a world where breathing is a struggle. Blending the grittiest elements of shoegaze, noise-punk, and post-rock, “INHALER” captures the volatile instability of life in Lebanon, moving from “chest-stabbing” guitar work to fragile moments of clarity that are ultimately shattered by a thumping, protesting heartbeat of bass and drums.

Since their debut with “SUPERTASTEUR,” the Beirut-based quartet has built a reputation for abrasive, emotive soundscapes and unpredictable live energy, notably opening “Dajjeh,” Lebanon’s premier underground punk showcase. Recorded at Tunefork Studios by Joy Moughanni, the new material intentionally rejects polished production in favor of a dirty, grounded sound reminiscent of classic punk ethics. With the full EP ‘Kinetic Flaw’ arriving by the end of 2025, GLIDDEEE is positioning themselves as a vital voice in the Middle Eastern alternative scene. Their music acts as a visceral mirror to internal and external conflict, reminding the listener what it truly means to fight for air in a space that feels like it’s slipping between crisis and destruction.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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