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‘Rythmetic: The Compositions of Norman McLaren’ Now Available to Purchase or Stream

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Starting November 29, 13 groundbreaking Norman McLaren compositions have been brought together for the first time in Rythmetic: The Compositions of Norman McLaren, released by Phantom Limb (UK/EU) and We Are Busy Bodies (US/Canada/world), in collaboration with the National Film Board of Canada (NFB).

Now available on vinyl, compact disc and streaming, Rythmetic: The Compositions of Norman McLaren represents an essential overview of the pioneering musical compositions of this legendary figure in animation, who has been called “the first electronic musician.”

Along with his genius visual storytelling, NFB animation founder McLaren was also a trailblazer in graphical or drawn sound. He ingeniously created synthetic sound and music by drawing, etching and photographing patterns directly onto the film soundtrack, becoming a pioneer of electronic music long before the invention of the synthesizer. These audio treasures formed the soundscapes for many of his most legendary films—while others were preserved in the NFB’s vaults, unheard, until now.

This new career retrospective has been released as a limited edition double vinyl album and compact disc, available from Bandcamp (purchase via UK/EU & US/CA pages) and better retailers.

It’s also available for streaming on such platforms as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and Bandcamp

Listen to lead single “Synchromy” on YouTube, taken from McLaren’s award-winning 1971 visual music animated short with the NFB.

To find out more, visit the NFB’s Norman McLaren channel featuring free streaming of all his classic works including Pen Point Percussion, a 1951 short doc where McLaren demonstrates how he makes synthetic sound on film.

Described by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and music theorist Milton Babbitt as “the first electronic musician,” Norman McLaren predated and forecasted the coming age of electronic music in his work from the 1940s to 1970s. The soundtracks McLaren created for his films display astonishing foresight, crystallizing his boundless creativity, wit and whimsy, and providing unique insights to his remarkable creative spirit.

Rythmetic: The Compositions of Norman McLaren marks the first time his soundtracks have been released on record, carefully curated from his most important works, hours of archival resources and multiple versions of the same key compositions—all sourced from the NFB’s state-of-the-art archives.

This collection represents an essential overview of McLaren as a composer, in neat dovetail with McLaren the filmmaker. Both are crucial figures in the respective developments of their fields, opening doors to a future that might not have existed without McLaren.

Track listing

1. Now Is the Time
2. Rythmetic
3. Neighbours
4. Synchromy
5. Unreleased composition, 1945–1946
6. Dots
7. Loops
8. Mosaic
9. Unreleased composition, 1945–1946
10. Unreleased composition, 1945–1948
11. Unreleased composition, 1969
12. Unreleased composition, 1964–1965
13. Opening Speech: Norman McLaren

IKKY Releases “I Like You” Featuring Late Punjabi Pop-Star Soni Pabla

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Renowned producer IKKY is back with new music. After the overwhelming response to “She’s the One,” released in 2022, he has come back with follow-up single, “I Like You,” featuring the late legendary Punjabi folk singer and pop-star Soni Pabla. This song revives Soni Pabla’s timeless charm with vibrant, modern production that resonates with both old and new fans alike. Listen here.

“I Like You” is a heartfelt tribute to Soni Pabla’s legacy, blending his warmth with catchy melodies and soulful lyrics. Alongside the single, the visualizer for the song offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh visuals. Watch here.

On the single Ikky says, “This is the follow up to ‘She’s the One’ that continues my tribute to the legacy of one South Asian’s greatest gift to music, Soni Pabla. I see ‘I Like You’ as living in the same world as ‘She’s the One’ about meeting that special woman that just has this magical spark that you’re digging and just can’t stop thinking about!”

On working on this song and the importance of his relationship with the late singer, he says, “Soni Pabla was one of the pioneers of Punjabi Pop and was an idol of mine when I was growing up. It was inspiring to see what a global force he was, and I loved the fact that he was from Toronto just like me! My continued love for music and creating feel-good hits, seemed aligned with the unforgettable vocals of the late Soni Pabla. With the support of Sarbjit Saroya, I can keep the legacy of his joy alive.”

Ikky is fresh off a successful run with Punjabi Takeover Radio on Apple Music, where he’s leading a new wave in Punjabi music. He is currently on a world tour with Karan Aujla, having already completed the Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand legs, with India coming up in December 2024. More than just an opening act, Ikky set the stage with an incredible interactive set and brought the full production and music direction into Ajula’s memorable live shows. Watch the epic live remix of “IDK How” x “Aja Sohniya” by Ikky – HERE

Ikky has become a driving force for Punjabi music having produced for the biggest names in the genre, creating the perfect mix of modern sounds fused with traditional Punjabi music. Ikky is a must watch artist as he continuously pushes the boundaries of music.

Canadian producer and composer Ikwinder Singh, popularly known as Ikky, has quickly risen to prominence in the global music scene with his distinctive fusion of hip-hop, pop, and Punjabi music. At only 23 years old, this Toronto-based artist has amassed over two billion streams worldwide, resonating with audiences across diverse cultures. Ikky is also a co-founder of 4N (pronounced “foreign”) Records, a label dedicated to spotlighting South Asian artists, along with its live event series, 4N Nights, which brings together fans for immersive music experiences. His mission is clear: to push Punjabi music to the forefront of the international stage. “I want to make sure that once the door opens for Punjabi music worldwide, it will flood the gates,” Ikky shares. With a keen eye for collaboration and innovation, he’s continually working on new projects and partnerships that reflect his commitment to bridging cultural boundaries through music.

Upcoming Tour Dates
(w/ Karan Aujula)

Dec. 07 – Chandigarh
Dec. 13 – Bengaluru
Dec. 15 – Delhi NCR
Dec 15 – Delhi NCR
Dec 19 – Delhi NCR
Dec. 21 – Mumbai
Dec 22 – Mumbai
Dec 24 – Kolkata
Dec 29 – Jaipur
Dec 31 – Ahmedabad
Jan -05 – Hyderabad

Roderick Porter Learns From His Past Mistakes on “Du$k”

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Roderick Porter has been steadily releasing new music this year that kicked off with the lo-fi sunsoaked track, “Not Again,” which was followed by the catchy and easy going single, “Phases.” Now, he returns with his anticipated new single “Du$k,” which is officially out today. Listen here and check out the accompanying visualizer here.

After teasing fans, even mashing up his track alongside some recognizable songs. The track made its full debut on On The Radar earlier this week – check out here. On “Du$k,” Porter details being scammed out of $40,000 by a shady financial advisor early in his career, but over a triumphant, soul-laced beat, he takes solace in remembering every misstep is part of the journey that brought him to where he is today. “It was an expensive lesson to learn, but I’m glad I learned it when I did and not when it was $1 million,” he says.

Porter has caught eyes and ears with his production skills and the way he’s been able to effortlessly pull samples directly from vinyl and mix them into his own music. “Du$k” was pulled from the 1970s single “Keep Your Faith to the Sky” by Willie Scott and The Birmingham Spirituals.” He’s known to share behind-the-scenes glimpses of this creative process online, which fans can check out here.

There’s more new music on the way – fans should stay tuned to see what Roderick has in store. Next year promises to be a breakthrough for him as he shares some of his most personal music yet, reaching out to new listeners.

Roderick Porter is a Canadian-born, LA-Based artist, producer, and multi-hyphenated creative. As a way of coping with depression and the small-town malaise Porter started posting wistfully hazy, diaristic tracks on SoundCloud as a mode of therapy. But he quickly attracted an audience — and even garnered a co-sign from Noah Cyrus. Porter’s natural gift for Internet marketing, amassed more than 190 million streams globally. Inspired by artists like Mac Miller, Tyler The Creator, Kanye West, and Smino – Roderick is a versatile artist who expresses heartfelt emotion via melody rapping, often infused with trance-like percussive drums layered with high-octane guitar loops and synths. Roderick’s refreshingly honest approach to his art combined with his natural prowess of marketing on the Internet, led to him creating multiple viral and trending moments for songs like “I Didn’t Realize How Empty My Bed Was Until You Left,” and “Ghost.” Most recently, Porter moved from Toronto to Los-Angeles and has been taking time to hone his craft and has put together some of his most vulnerable and honest tracks to date.

As he continues to evolve his sound and push the boundaries of his artistry, Roderick Porter stands as a beacon of talent and one of the most exciting artists to watch.

10 Ways Musicians Can Make Their Story Irresistible to the Media

Every great musician has a story—and it’s your job to make yours unforgettable. Here are 10 ways to craft a narrative that will have the media knocking on your door.

  • What’s the spark that lit your fire?
    Is it a life-changing moment, an intense emotion, or a unique view of the world? The best stories connect your music to what makes you you.
  • Take us into the studio—or the basement, or the car.
    Where did your music come to life? Was it a cozy cabin, a noisy coffee shop, or a late-night drive? Stories about the process bring the magic to life.
  • Your sound didn’t come out of nowhere.
    What artists, books, or movies made you who you are? Sharing your influences gives journalists the hooks they need to dive deeper into your story.
  • Your music says something. Let the world hear it.
    Is your song a reflection of heartbreak, hope, or social change? Talk about the meaning behind the music. The bigger the message, the louder it resonates.
  • Music isn’t made in a vacuum.
    Got a band? Collaborators? Tell us how your relationships shape the sound. People want to hear about the bonds behind the beats.
  • Your music is part of a bigger picture.
    Does your sound reflect a city, a culture, or a time in your life? Situating your art within a larger context adds layers to your story.
  • Details are everything.
    That time you wrote a song during a thunderstorm or recorded vocals at 3 a.m.? These little moments turn your story from ordinary to unforgettable.
  • Why does your music matter right now?
    What’s going on in the world—or in your life—that makes your music feel urgent and fresh? Connecting to the moment makes your story stand out.
  • Show us your heart.
    What challenges have you overcome? How has your music helped you grow? Vulnerability isn’t just brave—it’s what draws people in.
  • Help the media help you.
    Your story should be as easy to tell as it is exciting to read. Think about how your narrative aligns with the outlet and its audience—and make it impossible to ignore.

Your music might come from your heart, but your story is the soul, and one that only you have, no one else. Make it one that people can’t help but tell—and retell. For all your publicity needs, feel free to email Eric@ThatEricAlper.com or call me at 647-971-3742. With 25+ years of experience and a deep passion for connecting artists to audiences, I’m here to help you make an impact.

Your Album Deserves Its Own Podcast – Here’s How to Make It Happen

Your music tells a story—so why not let your audience in on the chapters they’ve never heard? Podcasts are exploding in popularity, and here’s the good news: they’re not just for true crime and comedians anymore. As a musician, a podcast is your secret weapon to promote your upcoming album while connecting with fans in a deeply personal way.

A weekly podcast can take listeners behind the scenes, one song or theme at a time, building anticipation for your album’s release. Sounds great, right?

Here’s how it could look:

Episode Ideas for Your Album Podcast

“The First Spark”
Talk about where the album began. What inspired the concept? Share the moments of magic (and chaos!) that led to your first notes.

Demo Diaries”
Play raw, unpolished demos and explain how they transformed into the final versions. Fans love hearing the evolution of a song!

“The Collaborators”
Bring in your producer, co-writers, or session musicians to chat about the creative process. Give fans a peek into your world.

The Stories Behind the Songs”
Dedicate an episode to each track. What’s the story, the emotion, or the memory behind it? Let your fans feel like they’re sitting in your studio with you.

Fan Q&A”
Ask your social media followers for questions about the album or your music. Answer them in an episode to build even more engagement.

The Road to Release”
Talk about the business side of things—what it’s like to release music as an indie artist. Celebrate milestones like the album going to mastering or the first shipment of vinyl arriving!

What’s Next?”
Close out the series with your plans post-release. A tour? A merch drop? Another project in the works? Share it all.

Podcasts aren’t just a way to talk about your music; they’re a way to connect. Your listeners will feel like they’re part of the journey, and that connection turns casual fans into lifelong supporters.

Even better? Podcast episodes live on forever, giving new fans a reason to dive deeper into your music long after the album drops.

So, what are you waiting for? Dust off that mic and start recording your story today! For all your publicity needs, feel free to email Eric@ThatEricAlper.com or call me at 647-971-3742. With 25+ years of experience and a deep passion for connecting artists to audiences, I’m here to help you make an impact.

5 Surprising Facts David Bowie’s ‘Station to Station’

David Bowie’s Station to Station is a record through chaos, brilliance, and reinvention. Released on January 23, 1976, it marked a pivotal moment in Bowie’s career as he introduced the enigmatic Thin White Duke persona. While fans know it as one of his greatest works, here are five lesser-known facts about this iconic album:

1. The Cocaine Chronicles
Bowie recorded Station to Station amidst a haze of heavy cocaine use, so much so that he later admitted he remembered almost nothing of the production. From surviving on a diet of peppers, milk, and drugs to burning black candles in paranoia, his state of mind was as extreme as his music.

2. A Thin White Inspiration
The Thin White Duke, the album’s central persona, was inspired by Bowie’s character in The Man Who Fell to Earth. The stark monochrome album cover even features a still from the film, emphasizing the alien fragility of his creation.

3. Krautrock Connection
Bowie’s experimentation with German krautrock bands like Kraftwerk and Neu! heavily influenced the album’s sound. Tracks like the sprawling title track foreshadow the avant-garde style that defined his Berlin Trilogy.

4. “Golden Years” Almost Went to Elvis
Bowie originally wrote the album’s lead single, “Golden Years,” for Elvis Presley, who ultimately turned it down. Imagine The King crooning this funk-infused classic!

5. A Tribute to Nina Simone
The haunting cover of “Wild Is the Wind” was inspired by Nina Simone’s rendition. Bowie met Simone and was so moved by her performance that he recorded the song as an homage to her.

Bowie’s Station to Station is a testament to his ability to turn personal chaos into timeless art. Whether it’s the surreal narrative of “TVC 15” or the gospel-tinged “Word on a Wing,” this album captures Bowie at his most enigmatic and experimental.

Band Turns Home Depot Into the Loudest Aisle in Town

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When Rock Meets Retail: Musician Vid Nelson and his band took live music to the aisles of Home Depot, delivering an impromptu walking rock show with wireless amps and a drummer on a flat cart. Dressed in Home Depot’s signature orange aprons, they brought some unexpected joy (and confusion) to employees and shoppers alike!

Canada’s Music Incubator and National Music Centre Announce 11 Participants of 2024 Artist Entrepreneur West

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Canada’s Music Incubator (CMI) and the National Music Centre (NMC) have revealed the 11 artists selected for the 2024 AE West (Artist Entrepreneur West) program, which is being hosted at CKUA Radio in Edmonton this year. The program kicks off today and will conclude with the AE West Artist Extravaganza Showcase, a free live concert featuring performances by all participating artists, taking place at Edmonton’s Yardbird Suite on December 5.

The 11 artists include Vancouver hip-hop/R&B duo Ato-Mik; R&B/soul artist Bella Cat from Nelson, BC; country singer-songwriter BERLYN hailing from Eckville, AB; Calgary soul/funk act CELIN; folk singer-songwriter CocoLarosa from Surrey, BC; Saskatoon synth-pop artist and producer Jordan Perry; country singer Martina Dawn from Devon, AB; Edmonton country-pop artist Robyn Ashley; Edmonton neo-soul singer Ru; country-rock singer-songwriter Travis Dolter from Bittern Lake, AB; and Vancouver art-pop act Wallgrin.

“AE West has become a pivotal stepping stone for many Western Canadian artists on their way to success,” said Stephanie Hutchinson, NMC’s Director of Programs. “We are especially excited to be hosting the program in Edmonton this year, which will provide an even broader opportunity for local and regional talent to access the program’s resources and mentorship.”

“At Canada’s Music Incubator, we are incredibly proud of the ongoing impact AE West has on the careers of emerging Western and Northern Canadian artists,” said Gianna Antonacci, Programs Manager, CMI. “The 2024 cohort is an exciting, diverse group, and we can’t wait to see them take the stage at the AE West Artist Showcase and beyond.”

AE West (Artist Entrepreneur West) is a month-long creative entrepreneurship program designed to empower emerging artists by providing them with the practical skills, knowledge, and resources needed to thrive in the music industry. The eighth edition of the AE West program takes place from November 4 to December 5, 2024 at CKUA Radio in Edmonton.

AE West is an extension of CMI’s highly regarded, Toronto-based Artist Entrepreneur program and represents a partnership between CMI, a national not-for profit organization, and NMC. The majority of costs for the program are offset thanks to the generous support of TD Ready Commitment, Stingray Radio, and the Government of Canada.

The free AE West Artist Extravaganza Showcase happens at Yardbird Suite on December 5. The evening will feature all 11 artists, each performing two songs. Learn more at yardbirdsuite.com.

Based on Canada’s Music Incubator’s long-running Artist Entrepreneur program (since 2012), AE West is designed to help emerging artists and bands from all genres build their businesses and careers. Artists will work closely with Canada’s Music Incubator and the National Music Centre team of social media, marketing, management, promotion, publicity, funding, touring, songwriting, and live performance experts. They will also be introduced to a wide range of active music industry professionals. Artists also have ongoing access to CMI mentors and industry resources post-program.

Canada’s Music Incubator (CMI) is a Toronto-based national not-for-profit organization specializing in professional development, ongoing mentorship and live events for artists, managers, and music companies. Launched in 2012, CMI supports 1,700+ emerging music entrepreneurs, across all genres, in the development of long-term careers and sustainable businesses. To date, CMI has provided 12,500+ hours of programs and mentorship. CMI Live works with private and community partners across the country curating paid performance opportunities. Some 2,000+ shows have been programmed, paying $3 million directly to artists. For more information, please visit canadasmusicincubator.com.

The National Music Centre (NMC) has a mission to amplify the love, sharing, and understanding of music. It is preserving and celebrating Canada’s music story inside its home at Studio Bell in the heart of the East Village in Mohkinstsis (Calgary) on Treaty 7 territory. NMC is the home to four Canadian music halls of fame, including the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Quebec’s ADISQ Hall of Fame. Featuring musical instruments, artifacts, recording equipment, and memorabilia, the NMC Collection spans over 450 years of music history and innovation. A registered charity with programs that include exhibitions, artist development, performance, and education, NMC is inspiring a new generation of music lovers. For more information about NMC’s onsite activities, please visit studiobell.ca. To check out the NMC experience online, including video-on-demand performances, made-in-Canada stories, and highly entertaining educational content, visit amplify.nmc.ca.

The 10 Most Iconic Music Videos That Changed The Industry Forever

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Some music videos don’t just accompany a song—they become a part of pop culture history. From jaw-dropping visuals to groundbreaking storytelling, these iconic clips have left a permanent mark on music and the world beyond. Let’s take a look at ten music videos that continue to inspire, entertain, and amaze.

1. Michael Jackson – “Thriller”
The granddaddy of all music videos, “Thriller” wasn’t just a video—it was a short film. With its epic choreography, spooky storyline, and Vincent Price’s haunting narration, it set the gold standard for what a music video could achieve.

2. Madonna – “Like a Prayer”
Controversial yet unforgettable, “Like a Prayer” pushed boundaries with its provocative imagery and religious themes. Madonna proved that music videos could spark cultural conversations while remaining unapologetically artistic.

3. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
Grunge got its visual anthem with this high-energy, chaotic gymnasium performance. Nirvana captured the spirit of the ’90s, cementing their legacy as the band that redefined rock.

4. Beyoncé – “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It)”
Who knew black-and-white minimalism could be so iconic? Beyoncé’s flawless moves and instantly recognizable choreography turned this video into a global phenomenon—and countless viral dance challenges.

5. A-ha – “Take On Me”
Blurring the lines between animation and live-action, this video pulled us into a comic book world of romance and adventure. Decades later, “Take On Me” remains a visual masterpiece.

6. OK Go – “Here It Goes Again”
Treadmills have never been cooler. OK Go’s inventive, one-take choreography proved you don’t need a huge budget to create an unforgettable music video—just creativity and timing.

7. Lady Gaga – “Bad Romance”
Avant-garde fashion, gripping visuals, and Gaga’s dramatic flair—“Bad Romance” redefined the idea of spectacle in a music video and remains a symbol of her artistic dominance.

8. Britney Spears – “…Baby One More Time”
The schoolgirl outfit. The choreography. The hallway walk. Britney’s debut video didn’t just introduce her to the world—it announced the arrival of a pop icon.

9. Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer”
A stop-motion masterpiece, “Sledgehammer” broke new ground with its surreal, creative visuals. Even today, it’s a reminder of how innovative the medium can be.

10. Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody”
The original trendsetter, this video’s layered visuals and operatic drama showed how music videos could be artistic expressions in their own right. It remains the blueprint for generations of artists.

Music videos have the power to tell stories, create movements, and make us see a song in a whole new light. Whether they’re breaking boundaries or simply making us dance, these iconic clips remind us why music is such a visual and emotional experience.

Roger Daltrey Announces 2025 UK Solo Tour Featuring The Who Classics, Solo Hits, and Fan Q&A Sessions

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Legendary rock singer Roger Daltrey will be hitting the road in 2025 on a special solo tour packed with classic The Who songs, solo hits and his now-famous Q&A sessions, in which he opens up to the fans who have been with him throughout the decades.

In a run of unmissable intimate shows, Daltrey will perform acoustic and semi-acoustic takes on gems from the legendary band and delve into a solo back catalogue that dates back nearly 50 years.

Accompanied by his incredible nine-piece band, the acclaimed group consists of regular Who collaborator Simon Townshend (guitar/ vocals) alongside John Hogg (bass), Doug Boyle (guitar), Steve Weston (harmonica), Jody Linscott (percussion), Billy Nicholls (Backing vocals), Katie Jacoby (violin), Geraint Watkins (keyboard), and Scott Devours (drums).

While showcasing one of the most famous voices in rock, Daltrey will also give the audience the floor, as he takes on questions about his storied career.

Roger says: “Here we go again! After touring the US with this band of phenomenal musicians, I can’t wait to get back on the road in the UK with these shows. It’s a joy to be on stage performing – up close and personal for the audience, chatting with them and playing familiar songs in an unfamiliar way.”

Daltrey’s solo career began in 1973 with the single ‘Giving It All Away’ which reached number 5 in the UK charts. His most recent album was 2018’s acclaimed top10 hit As Long As I Have You.

With The Who, he was the voice of timeless classics like ‘Substitute’, ‘Who Are You’, ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ and ‘Baba O’Riley’.

In 2024, Daltrey bowed out as figurehead for the Teenage Cancer Trust after 24 years – during which time he raised around £34 million with star-studded concerts at the Royal Albert Hall. He remains Honorary Patron of the charity and an active campaigner on their behalf.

This year also saw Daltrey contributing a harmonica part for Mark Knopfler’s all-star Guitar Heroes take on his song ‘Going Home (Theme from Local Hero)’ – released in aid of the charity, which builds and operates specialised wards for teenagers with cancer. The recording featured everyone from Slash to Joan Armatrading to Roger’s Who counterpart and guitarist Pete Townshend.

Roger Daltrey 2025 UK Tour (Tickets will be available here)
Apr 20 – Brighton – Brighton Dome
Apr 21 – London – London Palladium
Apr 23 – Southend-on-Sea – Cliffs Pavilion
Apr 24 – Wolverhampton – Univ. of Wolverhampton at the Halls
Apr 26 – Dundee – Caird Hall
Apr 28 – Glasgow – SEC Armadillo
Apr 30 – Edinburgh – The Usher Hall
May 01 – Gateshead – The Glasshouse
May 04 – Manchester – The Bridgewater Hall