Page 1031 – That Eric Alper

Melissa Etheridge, Amos Lee, And The Jayhawks to Headline 16th Annual 30A Songwriters Festival

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 9, 2025

Melissa Etheridge, Amos Lee, And The Jayhawks to Headline 16th Annual 30A Songwriters Festival

For the past 16 years, the 30A Songwriters Festival has attracted thousands of dedicated live music fans from around the world to hear original songwriters spanning multiple genres perform their songs. The beach resort towns along Scenic Highway 30A on the Gulf of Mexico become a music mecca featuring 30 venues presenting over 130 songwriters and 300+ solo, band, and in-the-round performances throughout the weekend of January 16 – 20, 2025. TICKET LINK

30A Songwriters Festival will celebrate its 16th year with performances on the main stage at presenting partner Grand Boulevard’s Town Center in Miramar Beach with headline performances by renowned artists MELISSA ETHERIDGE, AMOS LEE, THE JAYHAWKS, THE DEVON ALLMAN PROJECT, MAGGIE ROSE, and SECRET SISTERS.

The festival welcomes these artists for the first time to 30A: KATIE PRUITT, CHARLIE STARR & BENJI SHANKS (BLACKBERRY SMOKE), NATALIE HEMBY, BRANDY CLARK, THE dBs, CHUCK PROPHET & HIS CUMBIA SHOES, TYLER RAMSEY, LINDSAY LOU (BAND), BRETT DENNAN, The STEWS, LANGHORNE SLIM, CHRIS KNIGHT, JOSH JOPLIN GROUP, WILLI CARLISLE, BEE TAYLOR (BAND), JONTAVIOUS WILLIS, JOSH ROUSE, PAUL MCDONALD & THE MOURNING DOVES, ANDREA VON KAMPEN, JILL SOBULE, BURRIS, KYLE DAVIS, JADA CATO, BETH BOMBARA, MALLORY JOHNSON, JESSICA SHARMAN, DAVID BORNÉ, ANNA GRACE.

AND THESE SHOWCASING ARTISTS:

Shawn Mullins, Livingston Taylor, Gary Louris, Vicki Peterson & John Cowsill, John Paul White, Jeffrey Steele, Lilly Hiatt, Dan Navarro, Kim Richey, Ruthie Foster, Black Opry Revue, the Josh Joplin Group, Tommy Womack, John Fullbright, Susan Werner, The Stews, The Pink Stones, Darrell Scott, Hayes Carll, Holly Williams, Emerson Hart, David Ryan Harris, Chris Stills, Nigel Wearne, Chuck Cannon, Robby Hecht, Nora Jane Struthers, Cousin Curtiss, Steve Poltz, Kelly Willis, Bob Schneider, Mary Gauthier, Kristy Lee, Certainly So, Tommy Prine, Amy LaVere & Will Sexton, Adam Hood, Abe Partridge, Will Hoge, Ryanhood, Brian White, Karyn Williams, Will Kimbrough, Ellis Paul, Jeff Black, Dan Bern, Griffin House, Garrison Starr, John Driskell Hopkins, Charlie Mars, Randall Bramblett, Levi Lowrey and Wyatt Durrette (Yesterday’s Wine), Gurufish, Donnie Sundal, Boukou Groove, Alice Peacock, Jaimee Harris, Larry Mitchell, Katie Martin, Pete Muller, Josh Osborne, Jonathan Singleton, Gordie Sampson, Austin Jenckes, Tia Sellers, Hannah Dasher, Gina Venier, Gavin Lucas, Paul Sikes, Brent Anderson, Tony Lane, Kyle Sturrock, Mary Bragg, Martha’s Trouble, Diane Durrett, Florence Dore, Alice Wallace, The Krickets, Rachel Laven, Spencer LaJoye, Ethan Hulse, Jessica Willis Fisher, Sarah Clanton, Jack Barksdale, Eliot Bronson, Hayley Reardon, Mike Kinnebrew, Liz Longley, Harrison Prentice, Sara Jean Kelley, Antje Duvekot & Colin Forhan, Scott Crompton, Wildlife Specials, Alexa Rose, Whitehorse, Colton Bowlin, Cat Ridgeway, Lilly Winwood, Bradley Cole Smith & Nelson Nolan, Caitlin Cannon, Wyatt Espalin, Kurtis John, Casey LeVasseur, Anna Shinholster, Hannah Thomas, The Saunders Boyz, Jennifer Lynn Simpson, Sara Hells, Rogers, The Sand Ole Opry with Mike Whitty, Sammi Accola, Gileah Taylor, Kyle LaMonica, Dion Jones & The Neon Tears, Theo Von, Adam Klein.

VENUES INCLUDE: AJ’s Grayton Beach, ANR at Camp Creek Inn, Beach Happy Cafe, Bud & Alley’s Waterfront Restaurant & Bar, Caliza in Alys Beach, Central Square Records, Corcoran Reverie, Drive the Coast, Fish Out of Water (FISH), Fonville Press, Grand Boulevard (Main Stage), Grayton Beer Taproom, Havana Beach Bar & Grill at The Pearl, Raw & Juicy at Hibiscus (Grayton Beach) Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Hotel Effie – The Lobby Bar, Hyatt Place – The Placery, LaCo, North Beach Social, Old Florida Fish House, Pickle’s, Raw & Juicy (Alys Beach), Red Fish Taco, Rosemary Beach Town Hall, Seaside Lyceum, The Bay, The Big Chill, The REP Theatre, and WaterColor Lakehouse.

SPONSORS INCLUDE: Americana Music Association, ASCAP, Blue Green Landscaping, Capital City Bank, Cathead Distillery, Centennial Bank, Coca-Cola Bottling Company United, Corcoran Reverie, CPC Office Technologies, Destin Jeep Rentals, Douglas Elliman, Driftwood Wine & Spirits, Emerald Coast Luxury Transportation, Emerald Coast Magazine, Epic Western, Fisher’s Flowers, Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, Grand Boulevard, Grayton Beer Company, Hwy 331.com, Latitude Margaritaville, Nutrl, William Burns Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, Naumann Group Real Estate, National Music Publishers Association (NMPA), Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport, Odd Pelican, Ohana Day School, Panache Tent & Events, Panama City Golf Carts, Rosemary Beach Realty | Smith & Southern Collective, Silver Sands Premium Outlets, The Sorting Table, The Sound Wall / Opelika Songwriters Festival, Visit South Walton, Word of South, and 30A Company.

LODGING PARTNERS INCLUDE: 30A Beach Girls, Alys Beach, Camp Creek Inn, Courtyard by Marriott Grand Boulevard at Sandestin, Hibiscus Coffee & Guest House, Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort & Spa, Homeowner’s Collection, Hotel Effie, Hyatt Place Sandestin at Grand Boulevard Residence Inn Sandestin at Grand Boulevard, Rosemary Beach Cottage Rental Company, Rosemary Beach Inn, Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort, The Court, The Pearl Hotel, WaterColor Inn & Resort, and Vacasa.

The 30A Songwriters Festival production team transforms amphitheaters, town halls, restaurants, theaters, bars and covered patios into unique music venues with state-of-the-art sound systems with capacities ranging from 100 to 1000 seats indoors and 6,000 outdoors. WMOT, based in Nashville, will again interview and record select artists at the Festival for its World Cafe sessions aired throughout the year in conjunction with WXPN in Philadelphia.

The 30A Songwriters Festival is co-produced by Russell Carter Artist Management and the Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) of Walton, and net proceeds from the Festival support the CAA’s mission to advance the Arts in Walton County, Florida.

“I have had the good fortune to see Melissa Etheridge with her band several times on tour this summer with the Indigo Girls,” comments Russell Carter, President of Russell Carter Artist Management and Festival Co-Producer. “Melissa is one of the greatest female rock n roll vocalists ever, and her lean mean band is perfectly tuned to support her immense writing and performing talent.” Carter continues, “can I say how happy I am to get the Jayhawks to swing south all the way from Minneapolis to the panhandle to perform on the main stage – I know they are a favorite of many loyal 30A fans who have requested them for years: “I’m Going To Make You Love Me,” “Waiting For the Sun,” “Blue” and that’s just a start. We welcome the Jayhawks – arguably the best living, working Americana band in the country!”

“The Songwriters Festival stands apart in South Walton as the sole cultural event that brings most of the South Walton communities together, in harmony, to produce a four-day, around-the-clock presentation of extraordinary music.” says Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County President & CEO and Festival Co-Producer Jennifer Steele. “From Thursday, January 16th through Monday, January 20th, the 30A corridor will be full of music fans enjoying wall-to-wall music venues, world-class musicians, and fabulous food & wine. If you haven’t experienced this immersive melodic experience, join us in 2025.”

Adds Carter, “There is a direct correlation between the success of the 30A Songwriters Festival and the richness of cultural arts experiences led by the Cultural Arts Alliance, including an Art in Public Spaces program (murals and sculptures), the Underwater Museum of Art, a professional theater, arts education, the Flutterby Children’s Arts Festival, and the ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival.”

Festival Weekend Passes are currently available at www.30asongwritersfestival.com. VIP tickets that include premium seating and complimentary gourmet food and drinks in the VIP tent on Saturday and Sunday afternoons are also available. For a full description of each ticket package including VIP mainstage and full weekend transportation packages for groups of 2 up to 12, visit www.30asongwritersfestival.com.

The 30A Songwriters Festival is presented by Grand Boulevard with additional support from Visit South Walton, WaterColor Inn and Resort, and ASCAP.

The Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization that fosters the inclusive and collaborative advancement of the Arts and envisions a thriving Walton County where everyone experiences the power of the Arts. As the creative core of our community for 30 years, the CAA provides accessible opportunities for all forms of art, every variety of maker, all levels of learners and art lovers. Through support for and presentation of creative and educational programs and services, the CAA strives to connect the people of Walton County to a broader view, critical exploration and answers only the Arts have the power to provide. Members of the CAA receive a 10% discount off weekend passes and admission to an exclusive performance on Wednesday, January 12th. Call (850) 622-5970 to become a member and take advantage of the discount. www.culturalartsalliance.com.

Russell Carter Artist Management is a full-service artist management firm that has worked with national recording artists since 1990 currently including Indigo Girls, Shawn Mullins, Matthew Sweet, and Abe Partridge. Prior to forming RCAM, Russell Carter practiced entertainment law in Atlanta for ten years. He has been a board member of the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County (CAA) in Florida from 2012-2024. RCAM, based in the 4th Ward in Atlanta, books, promotes, and co-produces the 30A Songwriters Festival with the CAA and co-produces the Opelika Songwriters Festival in Alabama with the Sound Wall.

There is always something new and entertaining to do at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. The award-winning mixed-use center consistently offers the finest in shopping, dining, lodging and entertainment along the Emerald Coast. With a diverse mix of both first-to-market national brands and locally-owned retail stores and restaurants, there is something for everyone at this popular Town Center. Grand Boulevard is a Howard Group and Merchants Retail Partners property. Visit GrandBoulevard.com.

5 Surprising Facts About Yes’ “90125”

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Released on November 7, 1983, 90125 by Yes marked a bold new direction for the legendary progressive rock band. With its polished production, chart-topping single “Owner of a Lonely Heart,” and lineup changes that redefined their sound, the album introduced Yes to a new generation of fans. While many know about its massive success and Grammy-winning track “Cinema,” here are five lesser-known facts about 90125 that may surprise even the most devoted Yes fans.

1. The Album’s Name Is a Catalog Number
The title 90125 wasn’t chosen for its artistic flair—it’s simply the catalog number assigned by Atco Records. Initially, the band considered other titles, but they ultimately decided on the practical choice to emphasize the album’s fresh start and distinguish it from their progressive rock past. The cover art for Yes’s 90125 is a perfect visual representation of the album’s sound, signaling a clean break from the band’s progressive rock roots and embracing a sleek, modern identity. Designed by Garry Mouat, the artwork features bold, minimalist geometric shapes and a sharp color contrast, reflecting the album’s streamlined production and concise, pop-oriented tracks. Unlike the intricate and organic designs of earlier Yes albums by Roger Dean, the 90125 cover mirrors the music’s precision and clarity. Tracks like “Owner of a Lonely Heart” and “Leave It” are meticulously crafted, with no excess—much like the cover’s clean lines and deliberate simplicity. The design’s technological feel, achieved using cutting-edge Apple IIe graphics, also reflects the album’s forward-thinking production, including the use of drum machines, sampling, and digital synthesizers.

2. “Owner of a Lonely Heart” Was Almost Rejected
Trevor Rabin originally wrote the demo for “Owner of a Lonely Heart” in 1979, but it was almost shelved due to its “American rock” vibe. Producer Trevor Horn championed the song, convinced it could be a hit. He added the now-famous sample from Funk, Inc.’s “Kool Is Back,” making it one of the first songs to incorporate sampling as a breakbeat.

3. “Leave It” Took Weeks to Perfect
“Leave It,” the album’s second single, almost didn’t make it due to a technical mishap. During recording, an engineer accidentally removed the click track, causing synchronization issues. Trevor Rabin spent several days fixing the vocals using a Synclavier before re-recording the entire song. Its complex vocal harmonies remain a highlight of 90125.

4. A Song Written in the Bathroom
“Owner of a Lonely Heart” wasn’t just a demo—it was largely composed by Rabin during a bathroom break. From the riff to the chorus, the core elements of the track were finalized in a decidedly unconventional setting. The song went on to become Yes’s only No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.

5. The Album Almost Had a Different Keyboardist
Keyboardist Eddie Jobson of Roxy Music briefly joined the band during the production of 90125 and even appeared in the “Owner of a Lonely Heart” video. However, Tony Kaye returned just in time for the tour, and Jobson left, citing internal politics and creative differences.

With its innovative sound, 90125 redefined Yes for the 1980s and remains a landmark album in rock history.

The Zombies’ Isolated Vocals For “Tell Her No”

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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The Zombies’ Isolated Vocals For “Tell Her No”

The Zombies’ 1965 hit “Tell Her No” is a masterclass in catchy songwriting, featuring Rod Argent’s elegant melodies and Colin Blunstone’s haunting delivery of the word “No” a striking 63 times throughout the song.

Punk In The Park Arizona 2025 Brings Bad Religion, Pennywise, More to Wild Horse Pass

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Punk In The Park Arizona 2025 Brings Bad Religion, Pennywise, More to Wild Horse Pass

Punk In The Park returns to Arizona Saturday, April 12 for a day of music from punk rock legends along with craft beer tasting at Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds in Chandler, Arizona, just outside Phoenix.

Punk In The Park Arizona will feature sets from headliners Bad Religion, along with more fan favorites including Pennywise, Face To Face, Strung Out, The Casualties, Adolescents, Guttermouth, Manic Hispanic, Catbite, Dwarves, Cigar, The Last Gang, Implants and more to be announced. Punk In The Park will feature performances on two stages, with no overlapping set times.

North America’s premier outdoor punk rock and craft beer event will offer craft beer sampling as a $15 add-on purchase for those 21+, showcasing the best local, regional, and national craft beer, hard seltzer, and cider from Noon to 3:00 PM. Food will also be available for purchase from local food trucks and vendors in the General Admission and VIP areas, with vegan options included.

VIP and General Admission tickets for this all-ages event are on sale now at www.PunkInThePark.com. Fans are encouraged to buy early and save since prices will increase closer to the festival date.

Punk In The Park is produced by Brew Ha Ha Productions (BHHP), renowned for their diverse, award-winning beer-centric events and music festivals across the United States, including Punk In The Park and the landmark 2023-2024 Punk In Drublic presents NOFX Final Tour, among many others.

Event Details
Name: Punk In The Park
Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025
Location: Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds, Chandler, Arizona
Doors Open: Noon

Lineup
– Bad Religion
– Pennywise
– Face To Face
– Strung Out
– The Casualties
– Adolescents
– Guttermouth
– Manic Hispanic
– Catbite
– Dwarves
– Cigar
– The Last Gang
– Implants
– and more TBA

Location:
Wild Horse Pass Festival Grounds
5244 48th Street, Chandler, Arizona

Tickets:
-General Admission Tickets Start At: $54.99 + fees
-VIP Tickets Start At: $149.99 + fees
-All tickets provide access to music performances and the option for craft beer tasting as a $15 add-on purchase for 21+.

VIP Tickets Include Access To All GA Areas Plus:
*Commemorative VIP laminate
*Dedicated festival VIP entrance lanes
*Dedicated VIP main stage viewing area
*Access to VIP lounge with seating
*Upgraded restrooms
*Dedicated food and VIP bars

Beer Tasting Pass
– A Beer Tasting Pass can be purchased for $15
– The Tasting Pass includes beer samples from Noon-3:00 PM.
– The Tasting Pass must be accompanied by a General Admission or VIP ticket.
– No one under the age of 21 will be permitted to sample.

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Continue To Add Dates For 2025 Arena Tour

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats Continue To Add Dates For 2025 Arena Tour

Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats are making history—and music fans everywhere are here for it. Their milestone first arena tour continues to grow, with a newly added stop at Connecticut’s Mohegan Sun on March 23, joining a lineup that already features iconic venues like Madison Square Garden, Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, and Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena.

This is not just a tour; it’s a celebration of a band at the peak of their powers. If the first leg of the tour is any indication—think electrifying performances at Red Rocks, Chicago’s United Center, and St. Paul’s Xcel Energy Center—the energy and passion are unmatched. As the Pioneer Press raved, Rateliff’s “twangy voice exploding out of guitars and keyboards and horns into roaring, soaring choruses” leaves audiences spellbound.

Tickets for the newly announced Connecticut show go on sale starting Wednesday, January 8, at 10 A.M. (local time) with an artist presale. General on-sale begins Friday, January 10, at 10 A.M. Don’t wait—limited tickets for other dates are still available, but they’re going fast.

The band’s fourth full-length album, South of Here, is already a chart-topping phenomenon. With two #1 singles, “Heartless” and “Call Me (Whatever You Like),” dominating the Adult Alternative Chart, the album cements their legacy with a total of eight #1 hits to date. Critics and fans agree—this is Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats at their absolute best.

The album is out now via Stax—listen here. See the band perform “Heartless” on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert here, and watch an excerpt from their special on The Howard Stern Show here.

As if 2025 couldn’t get any bigger for Rateliff, he’s just been named the first-ever Newport Folk Steward—a role previously held by none other than Pete Seeger. Over the next three years, Rateliff will focus on artist advocacy and mentorship, ensuring that the festival’s spirit of community and activism carries on for generations to come.

South of Here Tracklist

David and Goliath
Heartless
Remember I Was a Dancer
Get Used to the Night
South of Here
Everybody Wants Something
Center of Me
Cars in the Desert
I Would Like to Heal
Call Me (Whatever You Like)
Time Makes Fools of Us All

SOUTH OF HERE TOUR—NATHANIEL RATELIFF & THE NIGHT SWEATS
February 13—Vancouver, BC—Rogers Arena*
February 15—Seattle, WA—Climate Pledge Arena*
February 16—Portland, OR—Moda Center*
February 18—Reno, NV—Grand Sierra Resort ±
February 21—Los Angeles, CA—Kia Forum ± #
February 22—San Francisco, CA—Bill Graham Civic Auditorium ±
March 11—Edmonton, AB—Rogers Place~
March 13—Calgary, AB—Scotiabank Saddledome~
March 15—Winnipeg, MB—Canada Life Centre~
March 18—Fishers, IN—Fishers Event Center~
March 19—Pittsburgh, PA—Petersen Events Center~
March 21—Toronto, ON—Scotiabank Arena~
March 22—Ottawa, ON—Canadian Tire Centre~
March 23— Uncasville, CT—Mohegan Sun~
March 24—Laval, QC—Place Bell~
March 27—New York, NY—Madison Square Garden+
March 28—Boston, MA—MGM Music Hall at Fenway
March 29—Boston, MA—MGM Music Hall at Fenway

+with support from Gregory Alan Isakov
*with support from Charley Crockett
±with support from Iron & Wine
#with support from Waxahatchee
~with support from The Teskey Brothers

Why The “I’m Tim” Documentary On Avicii Matters

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Why The “I’m Tim” Documentary On Avicii Matters

The release of I’m Tim, a new documentary about the late Swedish DJ and producer Avicii, has sparked renewed interest in his music and legacy. Available on Netflix, the film offers an intimate look into the life of one of the most influential figures in electronic dance music. Avicii, born Tim Bergling, was responsible for chart-topping hits like “Wake Me Up,” “The Nights,” and “Levels,” songs that became anthems across the world and set his place in pop culture. His innovative blending of electronic beats with folk and country influences reshaped the EDM landscape, making his impact undeniable, even years after his untimely death in 2018.

One of the reasons Avicii remains so relevant today is his ability to bridge genres and introduce electronic music to a broader audience. At the peak of his career, Avicii managed to combine the infectious energy of EDM with melodies that appealed to pop, rock, and country fans alike. His collaboration with Aloe Blacc on “Wake Me Up” was a game-changer, pushing the boundaries of what dance music could be and catapulting Avicii into global stardom. Through his music, he helped pave the way for the mainstream acceptance of electronic music, making it accessible to people who might have never stepped foot in a nightclub or festival.

However, Avicii’s influence extends beyond his musical achievements. His story also highlights the often overlooked mental health challenges faced by artists in the music industry. I’m Tim delves into the pressures that came with Avicii’s success, including the toll it took on his physical and emotional well-being. Despite his fame, Avicii struggled with burnout and anxiety, something many fans were unaware of at the time. His tragic death from suicide prompted an important conversation about the need for better mental health support for artists and the relentless pace of the music industry. Avicii’s openness in interviews and behind-the-scenes footage in the documentary reveals the human side of fame, a side often hidden from the public eye.

For people who may not know Avicii beyond his hits or who are just discovering his music, I’m Tim is a crucial exploration of an artist who changed the landscape of modern music. The documentary is not only a tribute to Avicii’s immense talent but also an invitation to reflect on the complexities of fame, success, and mental health. With a surge in streaming of his catalog, Avicii’s legacy continues to resonate, serving as a reminder of the power of music to connect people across the globe, while also offering a somber look at the realities of being a musical icon. For fans and newcomers alike, understanding Avicii’s story is important, as it encapsulates both the highs of creative success and the lows that often come with it.

Brandy’s Untold Story: The Memoir We’ve Been Waiting For

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Brandy’s Untold Story: The Memoir We’ve Been Waiting For

It’s finally happening. Brandy—the one and only Vocal Bible, the multiplatinum, Grammy Award–winning artist who redefined R&B, broke barriers, and became the soundtrack of countless lives—is ready to tell her story. Her untitled memoir, Brandy’s first-ever book, hits shelves on October 7, 2025, with an official release month of November 2025 through Harlequin. And if you’re anything like me, you’re already saving it to your wishlist.

From a little girl singing in church in McComb, Mississippi, to becoming one of the most iconic voices in music history, Brandy’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. At just 14 years old, she landed her first record deal. By 15, her self-titled debut album went platinum. And at 16, she was starring in Moesha, a hit sitcom that became a cultural phenomenon. She shattered glass ceilings as the first Black actress to portray Cinderella onscreen, starring alongside the legendary Whitney Houston. Brandy wasn’t just a superstar; she was a trailblazer.

But as we now know, the spotlight can be as harsh as it is bright. While the world marveled at her talent and poise, Brandy battled immense pressure to maintain perfection. She became a symbol of success, but the reality behind closed doors was far more complex.

Her untitled memoir promises to give us what we’ve never had before: an unfiltered look at Brandy’s life. She dives deep into the triumphs, the struggles, the heartbreak, and the moments of rediscovery. It’s a story of resilience, hope, and finding one’s true self in a world that often demands otherwise.

This isn’t just a book for Brandy fans—it’s for anyone who’s ever faced challenges, chased dreams, or searched for authenticity in the chaos of life. Her words are set to inspire, empower, and remind us why her voice—both her singing and her story—has always been one of a kind.

Mark your calendars for October 7, 2025, and get ready to rediscover Brandy. Because just like her music, her memoir is destined to be unforgettable.

Timothée Chalamet & Monica Barbaro Break Down Recreating ‘It Ain’t Me Babe’ by Bob Dylan & Joan Baez

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Timothée Chalamet & Monica Barbaro Break Down Recreating ‘It Ain’t Me Babe’ by Bob Dylan & Joan Baez

Timothée Chalamet, Monica Barbaro, and Director James Mangold break down the ‘It Ain’t Me Babe’ scene from ‘A Complete Unknown’ and dive into their transformative portrayals of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez in this episode of Variety’s Making a Scene.

And here’s more behind-the-scenes footage of creating the biopic.

5 Surprising Facts Depeche Mode’s “Construction Time Again”

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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5 Surprising Facts Depeche Mode’s “Construction Time Again”

Released on August 22, 1983, Construction Time Again marked a pivotal moment for Depeche Mode and marked their reputation as experimental pioneers. With Alan Wilder officially joining the lineup and the band diving into industrial and political themes, this album remains a cornerstone of their discography. Here are five lesser-known facts about this groundbreaking record.

1. Alan Wilder’s Bold Arrival

Alan Wilder wasn’t just the newest member of Depeche Mode; he also brought a fresh approach to songwriting. Two tracks on the album—“Two Minute Warning” and “The Landscape Is Changing”—were penned by Wilder, giving fans a glimpse of his distinct creative voice. His presence added depth and sophistication to the band’s sound, proving he was more than just a keyboardist.

2. A Journey to the Industrial Frontier

The seeds of the album’s industrial sound were planted when Martin Gore attended an Einstürzende Neubauten concert. Inspired by their use of unconventional “instruments,” Gore decided to infuse Construction Time Again with found sounds. From stones to toy instruments, these samples, manipulated through a Synclavier, gave the album its signature experimental edge.

3. Gareth Jones’ Reluctance

Producer Gareth Jones initially had misgivings about working with Depeche Mode, dismissing them as too commercial. Persuaded by John Foxx, Jones took on the project and became instrumental in shaping the album’s sonic identity. His work on Construction Time Again was so impactful that he continued collaborating with the band on future classics like Some Great Reward and Black Celebration.

4. “Pipeline” and Political Awakening

Martin Gore’s travels to Thailand inspired the socially conscious lyrics on the album, particularly the song “Pipeline.” This track not only incorporated raw, sampled sounds but also showcased the band’s shift toward addressing themes of inequality and environmental awareness—a major departure from their earlier, lighter pop anthems.

5. The Anthem That Defined an Era

“Everything Counts” became the album’s flagship single, reaching No. 6 on the UK charts. Its critique of corporate greed—expressed through the now-iconic lyrics “grabbing hands grab all they can”—resonated deeply in Thatcher-era Britain. The song’s blend of xylophone, melodica, and sampled sounds set the tone for Depeche Mode’s future explorations into socially conscious music.

Outro

Construction Time Again laid the groundwork for Depeche Mode’s ascent as one of the most innovative bands of the ’80s. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, revisiting this album is a reminder of the band’s daring creativity and Alan Wilder’s undeniable influence.

Old Dominion to Take Fans on a “Moon Crush Odies Beach Vacation” in Partnership with Topeka

Music

Eric Alper

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Jan 8, 2025

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Old Dominion to Take Fans on a “Moon Crush Odies Beach Vacation” in Partnership with Topeka

Today, Topeka and Messina Touring Group confirm they have teamed up with highly acclaimed, reigning 7X Academy of Country Music and 7X Country Music Association “Group of the Year” Old Dominion, who will be curating a brand new Moon Crush music vacation weekend on the beautiful gulf shores of Miramar Beach, Florida. Moon Crush “Odies Beach Vacation” is set to take place November 13 – 15, 2025.

Presale sign ups begin today at 2pm EST, and general on sale begins Tuesday, January 14 at 2pm EST. More info and to sign up for the Presale HERE.

“This isn’t a music festival, this is a music vacation full of fun, great music and as always, no bad vibes. We can’t wait to spend time with you all, soak in the sun and create memories together.” – Matthew Ramsey

Moon Crush “Odies Beach Vacation” will feature two special performances by Old Dominion, as well as sets from Brothers Osborne, Shaggy, Russell Dickerson, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Niko Moon and more.

Next year finds continued growth with Topeka expanding their offerings with a host of new artists coming to Miramar Beach to curate their very own experiences. Old Dominion joins the likes of My Morning Jacket, who are bringing “One Big Holiday” from Mexico to Miramar Beach for the first time ever (April 3-5, 2025). 2025 will also see popular podcasters LADYGANG and the inaugural LADYWORLD experience (September 26-28, 2025) as well as the landmark Moon Crush “Whiskey Moon” curated by Whiskey Myers (November 7-9, 2025).

There will also be returning weekends from Tedeschi Trucks Band for their “Sun, Sand and Soul Beach Weekend” (May 1 – 3, 2025), and the third installment of Brandi Carlile’s beloved “Mothership Weekend” (May 9 – 11, 2025).

Redefining the music festival experience, Topeka allows guests to immerse themselves in live music from the comfort of their own personal cove complete with delivery of all food, drinks and merchandise within 5 minutes at a 5,500 capacity open air green space venue a short walk from guests’ beach condos or homes. Offering a more intimate and unique experience, guests spend the day under the sun at the beach and nights under the stars seeing their favorite artists.

Old Dominion’s skyscraping anthems and electrifying live shows have put the Multi-Platinum-selling band prominently at the forefront of country music. Fusing clever lyrics and an infectious sound, their lyrical wit and hook-heavy songwriting has certainly proved to be a winning formula for Nashville’s hottest band. It’s no wonder Rolling Stone cited Old Dominion as “one of mainstream country music’s most popular live groups.” Since breaking onto the music scene, the band has notched nine No. 1 singles at country radio, surpassed five billion on-demand streams, earned a dozen RIAA Platinum and Gold single certifications, and headlined arenas and amphitheaters around the globe. The band recently debuted a greatest hits compilation Odies but Goodies on September 6th. The 31-track collection spans the band’s journey from lark to meaningful headliner in a way that pays tribute to what the fans ask for. The band are currently the reigning 7X ACM and 7X CMA “Group of the Year.” Most recently, they earned their seventh successive win for “Vocal Group of the Year” at the 2024 CMA Awards, breaking the record for most consecutive Vocal Group Award wins in CMA history. To celebrate this historic feat, the band will perform a seven-show residency at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium this February, with proceeds going towards the seven charities the band has been actively engaged with over their career.

Topeka delivers engaging U.S. based Music Vacation experiences amidst the backdrop of the beautiful white sand beaches of Miramar Beach, Florida. Topeka’s innovative approach offers a unique “Worry Free / No Line” live music experience where guests enjoy their favorite days at the beach and are a short walk from their beach condos, homes or villas to the intimate 5,500 guest open-air green space venue where they tune into their favorite artists each night.

Each guest enjoys the comforts of their own personal two, four or six person Cove for the course of the vacation event where they can stand, sit or dance each night. A variety of local culinary delights, beverages and merchandise are delivered on-demand right to guest’s Coves within 7 minutes or less ensuring they never miss a moment of music. Inspired by a scene from the movie Almost Famous, Topeka prioritizes forging real connections between bands and their fans and creating moments that become memories that last a lifetime all through the power of community and live music.

Whether a couple, a group of friends, a family or coming solo, the Topeka team looks after every guest with a passion to set the stage for an unparalleled blend of hospitality, music, beach and connection. Topeka was created by Andy Levine, Founder of Sixthman.

EXPERIENCE THE FEEL OF A TOPEKA MUSIC VACATION HERE.