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Global Icons Collide on ‘KPopped (Apple TV+ Original Soundtrack, Vol. 1)’

Eric Alper
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Global Icons Collide on ‘KPopped (Apple TV+ Original Soundtrack, Vol. 1)’

Sony Music Masterworks has released KPopped (Apple TV+ Original Soundtrack, Vol. 1), the first installment of music from the high-stakes global song battle series. Executive produced by Megan Thee Stallion and Lionel Richie, the album captures the cross-cultural synergy of the show’s epic collaborative performances live from Seoul. This seven-track collection features Western legends like Patti LaBelle, TLC, and Boyz II Men joining forces with K-pop powerhouses such as Itzy, Kiss of Life, and Billlie to reimagine iconic hits. From a high-energy rendition of “Wannabe” featuring Mel B and Emma Bunton with Stayc, to a soul-stirring “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men and Jo1, the soundtrack reflects the innovative spirit of the series, which is hosted by K-pop pioneer Psy.

The soundtrack release follows the global premiere of the eight-episode series on Apple TV+, where audiences voted on these unique reinterpretations of chart-topping classics. Highlights of Volume 1 include the genre-bending “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice and Blackswan, and a fiery “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” featuring Eve and Kiss of Life. By blending the polished precision of K-pop with the timeless hooks of Western pop, R&B, and hip-hop, KPopped serves as a definitive musical bridge between East and West. With Volume 2 set to arrive later this month, this first volume establishes the series as a landmark cultural event that honors the legacy of legendary performers while showcasing the next generation of global superstars.

Crumb Delivers Atmospheric In-Studio Session for KEXP

Eric Alper
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Crumb Delivers Atmospheric In-Studio Session for KEXP

Psychedelic indie-rock quartet Crumb has released a mesmerizing full-session performance recorded live at the KEXP studios. Hosted by Evie Stokes, the set captures the band’s signature blend of jazz-inflected rhythms and dream-pop textures, featuring standout tracks from their latest album AMAMA alongside fan favorites like “Ghostride” and “Ice Melt.” The session showcases the tight-knit chemistry of Lila Ramani, Bri Aronow, Jesse Brotter, and Jonathan Gilad, blending intricate saxophone layers with hypnotic guitar riffs to create a live experience that is as fluid as it is technically precise.

Serious Child Explores the Joy of Discovery on New Album ‘What Lies Beneath’

Eric Alper
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Serious Child Explores the Joy of Discovery on New Album ‘What Lies Beneath’

West Sussex-based songwriter Alan Young, better known as Serious Child, has released his fourth studio album, What Lies Beneath, out now via all major platforms. A thematic exploration of the hidden layers of everyday life, the record draws inspiration from diverse sources ranging from Tony Harrison’s poetry to the Georgian lullaby “Iavnana.” Produced by longtime collaborator Chris Pepper, the album features a rich, acoustic-forward sound brought to life by classical violinist David Grubb and bass clarinettist Anna Perry. From stories of isolation to the thrill of personal expression, the collection serves as a musical excavation of the human experience, capturing both the unease of ancient burial chambers and the simple warmth of communal connection.

The album is led by the joyful single “First Tattoo,” a track Young describes as a “family affair” featuring backing vocals from his daughter Rosa and his partner Kate. The song’s whimsical interplay of clarinet and violin sets the tone for a narrative about midlife spontaneity, accompanied by a charming music video filmed in Brighton that follows Young’s own journey toward getting inked. Beyond the playfulness of the lead single, What Lies Beneath dives into more profound territory with tracks inspired by Robert Macfarlane’s Underland, tackling themes of discovery and what remains hidden beneath the surface of our routines. With its blend of folk storytelling and sophisticated arrangements, the album confirms Serious Child’s reputation as one of the UK’s most observant and empathetic songwriters.

Dave Stewart Honoring Bob Dylan in Season Two Premiere of ‘Recorded Live at Analog’

Eric Alper
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Dave Stewart Honoring Bob Dylan in Season Two Premiere of ‘Recorded Live at Analog’

Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and Eurythmics co-founder Dave Stewart has kicked off the second season of Recorded Live at Analog with an intimate performance dedicated to the music of Bob Dylan. Accompanied by Nashville’s Lockeland Strings and legendary harmonica player Mickey Raphael, Stewart delivers a setlist that balances iconic hits like “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” with deep cuts such as “Spanish Harlem Incident” and “Emotionally Yours.” The performance serves as a live extension of his project Dave Does Dylan, which was released across all streaming platforms via Surfdog Records earlier this year. Originally an exclusive Record Store Day vinyl, the 14-song collection features Stewart’s raw and inspired takes on Dylan’s catalog, culminating in a stirring live rendition of “To Ramona” that highlights Stewart’s deep connection to the folk legend’s songwriting legacy.

The Happy Fits Dive Into Emotional Surrender on Riotous New Single “Black Hole”

Eric Alper
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The Happy Fits Dive Into Emotional Surrender on Riotous New Single “Black Hole”

The Happy Fits have released their latest single, “Black Hole,” a riotous anthem that serves as a cornerstone of their acclaimed sophomore album, Lovesick. Built upon a foundation of theatrical strings, driving guitars, and a signature earworm chorus, the track explores the exhausting reality of losing one’s sense of self while trying to save a failing relationship. Frontman Calvin Langman describes the song as a lesson in the necessity of letting go, capturing the frustration of giving until there is nothing left to offer. “Black Hole” joins a string of successful singles from the project—including the “dance-punk” energy of “Wild In Love” and the orchestral “Do You See Me?”—which have earned the New Jersey trio praise from outlets like FLOOD Magazine and Earmilk. Accompanied by an immersive official video, the track perfectly encapsulates the “unhinged” and hopelessly romantic spirit that defines the band’s current creative era.

The Veer Union Unveils Hard-Hitting New Single “Caught in the Crossfire”

Eric Alper
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The Veer Union Unveils Hard-Hitting New Single “Caught in the Crossfire”

The Veer Union have made a powerful return with their latest single, “Caught in the Crossfire,” out now via Arising Empire. Blending the band’s signature emotional intensity with crushing riffs and soaring melodies, the track serves as a bridge between their legacy of 12 Billboard Rock Radio Top 40 hits and their future direction. As the first look at their upcoming full-length album, Reinvention—slated for release on February 20, 2026—the single underscores why the band has maintained an enduring presence in the rock world, amassing over 200 million global streams. Since their 2008 breakthrough with “Seasons,” the group has continued to evolve their sound, and “Caught in the Crossfire” stands as a defiant anthem that proves they are fully prepared for their next creative era.

Jenna Paulette Shares Grounded Love Song “Steady” and Expands CowboyGirl Line

Eric Alper
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Jenna Paulette Shares Grounded Love Song “Steady” and Expands CowboyGirl Line

Rising Leo33 country artist Jenna Paulette has released “Steady,” a heartfelt preview of her upcoming 2026 project. Written alongside Rhett Akins and Will Bundy, the track was inspired by a moment working cattle with her husband, where Paulette observed the parallels between his gentle hand on the reins and his dependable nature as a partner. Produced by Bundy, the studio version evolved from a slow work tape into an uptempo anthem defined by soaring steel guitar and grounded imagery of ranch houses and old oak trees. The single arrives as Paulette balances her momentum as a touring musician and a new mother, capturing what she describes as the “moving train” energy of her life and career.

In addition to the new music, Paulette is celebrating the one-year anniversary of her CowboyGirl women’s range wear collection in partnership with Ely Cattleman. The brand’s fall line launched on September 15, introducing autumn-oriented colors, seasonal plaids, and the debut of the Little CowboyGirl collection. This “mommy down” expansion allows for matching styles for mothers and daughters, further bridging Paulette’s authentic ranch lifestyle with her commercial ventures. Between the success of her apparel line and the release of “Steady,” Paulette continues to solidify her brand as a leading voice for the modern cowgirl.

Sam Kogon Reimagines The Nazz with Personally Approved Cover of “Open My Eyes”

Eric Alper
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Sam Kogon Reimagines The Nazz with Personally Approved Cover of “Open My Eyes”

Upstate New York-bred, LA-based singer-songwriter Sam Kogon has released a fresh take on Todd Rundgren’s iconic track “Open My Eyes,” out now via all digital platforms. Known for fronting the revived baroque pop legends The Left Banke and collaborating with Beach Boys icon Al Jardine, Kogon brings a modern edge to the 1968 classic with a version personally approved by Rundgren himself. The track serves as a bridge between Kogon’s East Coast heritage—having grown up near the legendary Bearsville and Utopia studios—and his current West Coast creative output. The release also carries historical weight as a collaboration with Eventide Audio, celebrating the song’s legacy as a catalyst for early tape flanging effects.

The project came together through producer Stuart Lerman, who met Kogon while he was acting in Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman. Kogon’s performance captures the distinctive style of the original while showcasing the vocal prowess that previously earned his single “Barbed Wire” the title of “Coolest Song In The World” on SiriusXM. This cover follows the critical success of his 2024 single “America” and sets the stage for his forthcoming full-length album, recorded with renowned producer John Agnello (Kurt Vile, Dinosaur Jr.) at the legendary Dreamland Studios. With the official blessing of both Eventide and Rundgren, “Open My Eyes” stands as both a heartfelt tribute and a bold statement of Kogon’s evolving artistic direction.

Beauty School Dropout Ignites a Rock Revival on Debut Album ‘WHERE DID ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GO?’

Eric Alper
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Beauty School Dropout Ignites a Rock Revival on Debut Album ‘WHERE DID ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GO?’

L.A. rock outfit Beauty School Dropout has officially unleashed their highly anticipated debut full-length album, WHERE DID ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GO?, out now via Verswire. Produced by the legendary Neal Avron (Fall Out Boy, Linkin Park), the record is a high-octane exploration of unrequited love and the hedonistic “party sh*t” that fills the void. Following a year of global touring alongside icons like blink-182 and Turnstile, members Colie Hutzler, Beepus, Bardo, and Colton Flurry returned to their roots to craft a raw, live-sounding collection. From the stadium-sized hooks of “CITY NEVER SLEEPS” to the vulnerable, stripped-back title track, the album captures a band determined to make rock music a communal, chaotic, and ultimately fun experience once again.

In celebration of the release, the band also debuted the official music video for “HEART AWAY,” a track they describe as a “club banger” designed to mend broken hearts on the dance floor. With heavy-hitting riffs and sticky hooks, the single exemplifies the album’s mission to blend traditional rock energy with cutting-edge synths. This milestone project arrives as the band continues their relentless momentum, currently bringing their “Evil Disco” energy to stages worldwide on a headline tour through Europe and the UK. WHERE DID ALL THE BUTTERFLIES GO? stands as a definitive mission statement for the quartet, proving that even in their most introspective moments, they remain one of the most explosive forces in the modern alternative scene.

The Weeknd Reclaims Global Stages with ‘After Hours Til Dawn’ 2026 Tour Expansion

Eric Alper
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The Weeknd Reclaims Global Stages with ‘After Hours Til Dawn’ 2026 Tour Expansion

Global superstar The Weeknd has officially extended his record-breaking After Hours Til Dawn Stadium Tour, announcing a massive string of dates across Mexico, Brazil, Europe, and the UK for 2026. This new leg kicks off on April 20, 2026, at Mexico City’s Estadio GNP Seguros, followed by major stadium stops in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. For the Latin American dates, Brazilian superstar Anitta will join as a special guest, while Playboi Carti is set to support all European and UK shows. The tour serves as a grand celebration of The Weeknd’s critically acclaimed album trilogy—After Hours (2020), Dawn FM (2022), and his final album under the moniker, Hurry Up Tomorrow (released January 31, 2025).

The expansion follows an unprecedented North American run that solidified The Weeknd as the top-grossing Black male artist in history at several major venues. The 2026 leg continues his commitment to philanthropy; partnering with Global Citizen and the United Nations World Food Programme, a portion of every ticket sold—€1 in Europe, £1 in the UK, and local equivalents in Mexico and Brazil—will be donated to the XO Humanitarian Fund and the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund. Beyond the music, fans can still experience the Samra Origins Vinyl Café in Soho, NYC, through mid-October, a curated space blending Ethiopian coffee culture with exclusive vinyl drops, including “Give Me Mercy” from the new album.

The tour’s scale matches the cinematic ambition of Hurry Up Tomorrow, which recently debuted at No. 1 globally and serves as a companion to a feature film of the same name. From breaking attendance records at London’s Wembley Stadium and Paris’ Stade de France to headlining the historic Croke Park in Dublin, the 2026 dates are poised to further cement the After Hours Til Dawn Tour as the biggest R&B tour in history. With general ticket sales already underway since September 2025, the trek represents the final chapter of Abel Tesfaye’s legendary persona, offering fans one last chance to witness the evolution of the “stutter house” and synth-pop soundscapes that defined a generation.

The Weeknd After Hours Til Dawn Stadium Tour 2026 Dates:

Apr 20 – Mexico City, MX @ Estadio GNP Seguros
Apr 21 – Mexico City, MX @ Estadio GNP Seguros
Apr 26 – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil @ Estádio Nilton Santos
Apr 30 – São Paulo, Brazil @ Estádio MorumBIS
May 1 – São Paulo, Brazil @ Estádio MorumBIS
July 10 – Paris, France @ Stade de France
July 17 – Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Johan Cruijff ArenA
July 21 – Nice, France @ Allianz Riviera
July 24 – Milan, Italy @ San Siro Stadium
July 30 – Frankfurt, Germany @ Deutsche Bank Park
Aug 4 – Warsaw, Poland @ PGE Narodowy
Aug 8 – Stockholm, Sweden @ Strawberry Arena
Aug 14 – London, UK @ Wembley Stadium
Aug 15 – London, UK @ Wembley Stadium
Aug 22 – Dublin, Ireland @ Croke Park
Aug 28 – Madrid, Spain @ Riyadh Air Metropolitano
Aug 29 – Madrid, Spain @ Riyadh Air Metropolitano

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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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