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Beans, Rice, and Rock ‘n’ Roll: Flea’s Iconic 1991 Interview On MTV

Eric Alper
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Beans, Rice, and Rock ‘n’ Roll: Flea’s Iconic 1991 Interview On MTV

In a 1991 interview that became the stuff of legend, Flea, the wild and endlessly creative bassist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, offered fans a hilarious and down-to-earth moment when he declared his love for beans and rice on MTV.

Pop Music Meets Fried Chicken: Jewel’s 2003 Album Promo with KFC

Eric Alper
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Pop Music Meets Fried Chicken: Jewel’s 2003 Album Promo with KFC

In 2003, Jewel’s shift into a poppier sound with her album 0304 was as surprising as her collaboration with Kentucky Fried Chicken for the album’s promotion. This unexpected partnership, coined “PhillyKFC,” saw Jewel’s edgy, genre-defying pop album aligned with KFC’s famous brand, making for a unique crossover between music and fast food, matching the playful, bold energy of Jewel’s new sound.

Exploring the Open Road: Essentials for Planning the Perfect Road Trip Adventure

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

A road trip offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. Whether you’re cruising along coastal highways, winding through mountain ranges, or venturing into remote deserts, there’s something uniquely captivating about the open road. Yet, the thrill of a road trip isn’t just in the destination—it’s in the journey. With the right preparation and essentials, you can create an experience that’s both exciting and comfortable.

For motorcycle enthusiasts, road trips come with specific considerations, from packing light to protecting your vehicle when parked. Items like durable motorcycle covers are invaluable for keeping bikes safe from weather elements, especially when traveling through different climates. This guide delves into the essentials for planning a memorable road trip, covering everything from safety gear and travel tips to capturing memories along the way.

Why Road Trips are Rising in Popularity

Road trips have become increasingly popular, especially over the last few years. Many travelers have turned to the open road as a safe and flexible way to explore. According to a 2022 report from AAA, nearly 80% of Americans planned a road trip that year, with many opting for car or motorcycle travel over flying. This growing interest is attributed to the appeal of personal freedom, control over travel itineraries, and the desire to explore scenic landscapes up close.

In addition to being more economical, road trips offer opportunities to connect with nature, discover hidden gems, and travel at your own pace. The beauty of a road trip is that it allows for both spontaneity and planning, creating a unique experience tailored to your interests.

Must-Have Gear for a Safe and Enjoyable Road Trip

Packing the right gear can make all the difference on a road trip, especially for extended journeys that span multiple days or weeks. The essentials vary depending on your mode of transportation, whether you’re driving a car, riding a motorcycle, or even setting off in an RV. Here’s a list of must-have items to consider:

  1. Navigation tools: While GPS devices and smartphone apps are handy, having a physical map is essential, especially in remote areas with limited cell coverage. Maps also offer a visual way to see your route and nearby points of interest.
  2. Weather protection: For motorcycle riders, items like motorcycle covers help protect against rain, dust, and sun damage. Durable, waterproof covers are crucial when parking overnight or during unpredictable weather conditions.
  3. First-aid kit: Road trips often take you to isolated areas where medical help might be hours away. Stock a first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and other basic medical supplies.
  4. Portable power sources: Power banks and car chargers ensure that your devices remain charged for navigation, communication, and capturing memories.
  5. Snacks and hydration: Long stretches of road can mean limited access to food. Pack non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruits, along with plenty of water.
  6. Safety and repair tools: Basic tools like tire repair kits, jumper cables, and a flashlight can help prevent minor issues from becoming major setbacks. Motorcycle riders should also carry essential tools for quick adjustments on the go.

Tips for Planning a Scenic Route

One of the joys of a road trip is discovering scenic byways, hidden attractions, and local landmarks that you wouldn’t encounter on a plane. Planning a route that takes you through iconic landscapes and interesting stops can enrich your journey and create lasting memories. Here are a few tips to help plan an exciting route:

  • Research scenic byways: Many states have official scenic byways that highlight the best landscapes, from coastal routes to mountain vistas.
  • Include historic sites and local landmarks: Look for places of historical or cultural significance. Roadside markers, national parks, and quaint towns add character to your route.
  • Balance popular attractions with hidden gems: While it’s fun to visit famous spots, mix in lesser-known areas for a more diverse experience. Apps like Roadtrippers help you discover offbeat destinations along your route.
  • Account for rest areas and campsites: Plan your stops with rest in mind. If you’re in an RV or camping, map out suitable overnight locations, whether it’s a national park, campsite, or budget-friendly motel.

These steps ensure that your road trip is well-paced, memorable, and filled with rewarding sights.

Capturing Memories: How to Document Your Journey

One of the best parts of any road trip is the opportunity to capture memories along the way. Whether through photography, journaling, or creating digital keepsakes, documenting your journey allows you to look back and relive those moments long after the trip is over.

For those who enjoy a tangible reminder of their travels, photo books are a fantastic option. These personalized albums let you compile your best photos and add captions or notes, creating a visual narrative of your journey. You can organize photos by day, destination, or theme, making the photo book a treasured memento that brings your road trip memories to life.

Tips for Effective Travel Documentation

  1. Capture candid moments: The best photos often happen when you least expect them. Document the small details—scenic vistas, roadside cafes, and spontaneous laughter with travel companions.
  2. Use a travel journal: Keep a journal to note down interesting places, thoughts, and emotions as they happen. A quick paragraph each day can bring back vivid memories later.
  3. Collect mementos: If you enjoy scrapbooking, collect small souvenirs like postcards, local maps, or brochures. These items add a unique touch to your photo book or travel journal.
  4. Use apps for quick edits: Mobile apps like VSCO and Lightroom allow you to edit and organize photos on the go, making it easier to prepare your photo book or social media posts.
  5. Back up your photos: Losing digital photos can be a major disappointment, so ensure you’re regularly backing up images to cloud storage or an external drive.

Creating a photo book or travel journal helps preserve these precious memories and allows you to share your journey with friends and family.

Essential Safety Tips for Road Trips

Safety is paramount on any road trip, particularly for longer journeys that take you into remote or unfamiliar areas. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Plan for emergencies: Make sure someone knows your route and check-in points, especially if you’ll be traveling through isolated areas with limited phone service.
  • Inspect your vehicle: Before setting off, inspect your car or motorcycle to ensure it’s in good working order. Check tire pressure, oil levels, and brakes, and make sure your lights are functioning.
  • Be mindful of fatigue: Long stretches of driving can lead to fatigue. Take breaks every few hours, stretch, and switch drivers if possible.
  • Secure your belongings: Keep valuables out of sight to deter theft, particularly if you’ll be leaving your vehicle unattended. For motorcycle riders, this means securing gear and using motorcycle covers to protect against weather and potential theft.
  • Stay informed of local laws: Different states have unique driving laws and speed limits, so make sure you’re familiar with regulations for each area you’ll be passing through.

By staying prepared and vigilant, you’ll minimize risks and ensure a safer, smoother journey.

Conclusion: Embracing the Road with Preparedness and Adventure

Road trips offer the perfect blend of exploration, freedom, and self-discovery. Whether you’re driving a car or cruising on a motorcycle, the right combination of preparation and spontaneity can turn any road trip into an unforgettable experience. From carrying essential gear like motorcycle covers for vehicle protection to creating personalized photo books to document your adventure, thoughtful planning elevates the journey and leaves you with memories to cherish.

By focusing on both safety and enjoyment, you’ll be well-equipped to embrace the open road, discover new destinations, and return with stories, photos, and experiences that last a lifetime.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

5 Fun Facts About Lauryn Hill’s ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’

Eric Alper
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5 Fun Facts About Lauryn Hill’s ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’

Lauryn Hill’s The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is not only a groundbreaking neo-soul and R&B masterpiece but also one of the most successful albums in music history. Released in 1998, the album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, selling over 422,000 copies in its first week, a record for a female artist at the time. Lauryn Hill’s bold fusion of hip-hop, soul, reggae, and gospel struck a chord with audiences worldwide, ultimately selling over 20 million copies and earning her five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. More than just commercial success, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill became a cultural touchstone, hailed for its deeply personal lyrics on love, faith, and empowerment, and cemented Hill’s status as one of the most influential artists of her generation.

  1. John Legend’s Debut
    A then-unknown John Legend made his commercial debut by playing the piano on “Everything Is Everything,” marking one of the earliest professional appearances of the now-famous singer-songwriter.
  2. A Secret Tribute to Her Son
    The track “To Zion” is a heartfelt tribute to Lauryn Hill’s son, Zion, born during the creation of the album. Hill reflects on the challenges of choosing motherhood over career expectations, making this one of the most emotional tracks on the album.
  3. Inspired by an Education Book
    The album title was inspired by The Mis-Education of the Negro, a book written by Carter G. Woodson in 1933. Hill used the concept to explore how traditional education systems often fail to teach self-love, identity, and emotional growth.
  4. Recorded with a Live Studio Audience
    During recording sessions in Tuff Gong Studios in Jamaica, Hill often had a live audience of Marley family members, children, and friends. They were part of the atmosphere that inspired the creativity and community vibe captured on the album.
  5. Those Samples
    One of the coolest aspects of The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill is how Lauryn creatively blended different genres and iconic sounds into her tracks. She didn’t just craft original songs—she paid homage to some legendary artists along the way! For example, “Lost Ones” borrows the infectious rhythm from Toots and the Maytals’ reggae classic “Bam Bam,” while “Ex-Factor” incorporates elements from Wu-Tang Clan’s “Can It Be All So Simple,” giving us that perfect fusion of soul and hip-hop. In “To Zion,” she infused the soft acoustic vibes of José Feliciano’s “And the Feeling’s Good,” and even nodded to The Doors by weaving pieces of “Light My Fire” into “Superstar.” And if that wasn’t enough, she reimagined Bob Marley’s “Concrete Jungle” in “Forgive Them Father” and threw in some funk with David Axelrod’s “Tony Poem” in “Every Ghetto, Every City.”

Pre-Fame, Sissy Spacek Once Recorded A Song About John Lennon

Eric Alper
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Pre-Fame, Sissy Spacek Once Recorded A Song About John Lennon

Before Sissy Spacek became a household name for her unforgettable performances in films like Carrie, Badlands, and 3 Women, she had another dream: to become a singer. In the late 1960s, long before her Academy Award-winning acting career, Spacek pursued music under the stage name Rainbo and recorded a little-known single called “John, You Went Too Far This Time.”

Released in 1968, the song was a bold commentary on John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s infamous decision to pose nude on the cover of their avant-garde album Two Virgins. In the song, Spacek sings about her shock and disapproval of Lennon’s provocative move, humorously scolding the Beatle for “going too far this time.” While the track didn’t become a hit, it remains an intriguing part of pop culture history—one where the future Carrie star dared to make a statement about one of the most talked-about album covers of the era.

Spacek’s musical ambitions were short-lived. After the single failed to gain commercial traction, she was dropped by her record label. However, this setback ultimately led her to pivot toward acting, a career move that would define her legacy in Hollywood. She enrolled at the prestigious Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, where she honed the acting skills that would soon make her one of the most celebrated actresses of her generation.

MTV’s “Oddville” Pilot From 1997 Is Just As Bizarre As The Show Ever Was

Eric Alper
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MTV’s “Oddville” Pilot From 1997 Is Just As Bizarre As The Show Ever Was

In 1997, MTV premiered a truly unique variety show called Oddville, MTV, starring Rich Brown. The show, which first aired on June 16, was a spin-off of the popular New York City public-access series Beyond Vaudeville, also hosted by Brown from 1987 to 1996. Just like its predecessor, Oddville embraced an eccentric, offbeat style, featuring quirky guests and performances that kept viewers guessing what would happen next.

One of the show’s most memorable aspects was its cast of characters. Rich Brown played the lovable, oddball host Frank Hope, accompanied by silent co-host David, portrayed by David Greene, and Melissa Gabriel, who served as the announcer. The series also brought back fan-favorite puppets and Joey the Dancing Monkey, who appeared during musical segments with a fresh new look.

The guest lineup on Oddville was as bizarre as it was entertaining. For example, one episode featured a performer named Ian McGrady, who amazed the audience by throwing grapes into the ceiling and catching them in his mouth. In another, a “human carpet” read a manifesto explaining his need to be vacuumed, then stretched out on the floor while an assistant vacuumed him—just one of many bizarre acts that became synonymous with the show.

Dancing with the Stars: LIVE! Returns With A Spectacular Brand-New Show This Winter

Eric Alper
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Dancing with the Stars: LIVE! Returns With A Spectacular Brand-New Show This Winter

Following last year’s fan-frenzy that led to a sensational sold-out tour, Dancing with the Stars is back on tour to heat up the winter with a dazzling, sexy, high energy, brand-new live production! Launching January 7th at Altria Theater in Richmond, Virginia, this year’s all-new stage show will feature your favorite professional dancers from the hit television series performing glittering new numbers as well as some of the showstoppers featured in season 33.

Audiences at Dancing with the Stars: Live! will have the opportunity to experience the breathless excitement, the athleticism, and the artistry they see in the TV show’s famed ballroom live, up-close, and personal. The tour delivers an unforgettable night of electrifying dance performances from world-renowned dancers who topped the leaderboard, including  Emma Slater, Alan Bersten, Brandon Armstrong, Britt Stewart, Daniella Karagach, Gleb Savchenko, Pasha Pashkov, and Rylee Arnold.

“It is such a honor to be able to produce the DWTS live tour once again and get to collaborate with the sensational pro dancers, celebs, and creative team to bring this show to life. We love getting to see fans of all ages fill the venues and get to experience all the excitement that DWTS has to offer. We at faculty promise to deliver a brand-new next level show in 2025 that is sure to bring the ballroom to life in the fan’s hometown.” – Jared Paul, Faculty Inc.

Dancing with the Stars: Live! is also thrilled to announce that Emmy Award winner Mandy Moore (Taylor Swift’s The Eras Tour, La La Land) will be returning to choreograph and direct this year’s tour. “Directing this tour is one of my favorite times of the year. I have a long-standing history with the DWTS brand and these dancers, it’s like returning home to family. The collaboration with these world class performers presents an amazing opportunity to highlight their inimitable talent, their athleticism, and it’s what truly makes them artists.”– Mandy Moore

“Dancing with the Stars is massively popular with millions of fans watching our TV show each week, yet so few are able to come to Hollywood and secure a coveted seat in our live studio audience. With the DWTS Tour, we’re thrilled to unlock a rare and unique opportunity for our fans to experience live and in-person the magic they see each week on TV.  Watching the TV show is brilliant, but when you see gravity-defying feats right in front of you and feel the exhilaration of some of the most powerful performances ever seen on the dancefloor, it’s a whole new phenomenon,” – Ryan O’Dowd, Executive Vice President of Entertainment & Music at BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions and BBC Studios Executive Producer for Dancing with the Stars.

Tickets for “Dancing with the Stars: Live!” go on sale to the public on Friday October 11 at 10 AM local time at DWTSTour.com.

Fans who want first access to the best seats and VIP, can sign up for a Mirrorball Membership – this membership is FREE TO JOIN and includes exclusive presale, news updates, a sneak peek of the tour and more! Head to DWTSTour.com to sign up now.

VIP packages will be available and include Premium Tickets, Meet & Greet Photo Opportunity, interactive experience with members of the DWTS touring cast, Exclusive Merchandise and more. Details and info at dwtstour.com.

To purchase tickets and to get the full list of tour dates, please visit dwtstour.com.

“Dancing with the Stars: Live!” is produced by Faculty Productions in association with BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions and is promoted by Live Nation and NS2.

“Dancing with the Stars: Live!” Dates: 
January 7 – Richmond, VA – Altria Theater
January 9 – Baltimore, MD – Lyric Baltimore
January 10 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
January 11 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
January 12 – Morristown, NJ – Mayo Performing Arts Center (2 shows)
January 14 – Portland, ME – Merrill Auditorium at City Hall
January 15 – Manchester, NH – SNHU Arena
January 16 – Boston, MA – Boch Center Wang Theatre
January 18  – Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
January 19 – Lancaster, PA – American Music Theatre (2 shows)
January 21 – Buffalo, NY – Shea’s Buffalo Theatre
January 22 – Schenectady, NY – Proctors
January 23 – University Park, PA – Bryce Jordan Center
January 24 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor
January 25 – Bethlehem, PA – The Wind Creek Event Center (2 shows)
January 26 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark
January 28 – New Brunswick, NJ – State Theatre New Jersey
January 29 – Brookville, NY – Tilles Center for the Performing Arts
January 30 – White Plains, NY – The Westchester County Center
January 31 – Kitchener, ON – Centre in the Square
February 1 – Rama, ON – Casino Rama Resort – Entertainment Centre
February 2 – Verona, NY – Turning Stone Resort & Casino
February 4 – Pittsburgh, PA – Benedum Center for the Performing Arts
February 5 – Akron, OH  – Akron Civic Theatre
February 6 – Detroit, MI – FOX Theatre
February 7 – Columbus, OH – Mershon Auditorium
February 8 – Rosemont, IL – Rosemont Theatre
February 11 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre
February 12 – Milwaukee, WI – Miller High Life Theatre
February 13 – Ames, IA – Stephens Auditorium
February 14 – Minneapolis, MN – Northrop
February 15 – Madison, WI – The Orpheum Theater
February 16 – Grand Rapids, MI– DeVos Performance Hall
February 18 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
February 19 – Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J Brady Music Center
February 20 – Nashville, TN – Grand Ole Opry House
February 21 – Atlanta, GA – The Fox Theatre
February 22 – Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium
February 23 – Durham, NC – Durham Performing Arts Center
February 25 – Greensboro, NC – Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts
February 26 – Spartanburg, SC – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium
February 27 – Jacksonville, FL – Moran Theater
February 28 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
March 1 – Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall
March 2 – Orlando, FL – Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
March 4 – North Charleston, SC – North Charleston Performing Arts Center
March 5 – Huntsville, AL – Von Braun Center – Mark C. Smith Concert Hall
March 6 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre
March 7 – Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage Theatre
March 8 – Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage Theatre
March 9 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land
March 11 – Grand Prairie, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre
March 12 – Austin, TX – Bass Concert Hall
March 13 – San Antonio, TX – Majestic Theatre
March 14 – Durant, OK – Choctaw Casino & Resort
March 15 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena
March 16 – Denver, CO – Buell Theatre
March 18 – Boise, ID – Morrison Center For The Performing Arts
March 19 – Seattle, WA – Paramount Theatre
March 20 – Spokane, WA – First Interstate Center for the Arts
March 21 – Portland, OR – Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
March 22 – Redding, CA – Redding Civic Auditorium
March 23 – Santa Rosa, CA – Luther Burbank Center for the Arts
March 25 – San Jose, CA – San Jose Center for the Performing Arts
March 27 – Salt Lake City, UT – Eccles Theater
March 29 – Las Vegas, NV – The Smith Center for the Performing Arts
March 30 – Temecula, CA – Pechanga Resort Casino^ (2 shows)
April 2 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
April 3 – Santa Barbara, CA – Arlington Theatre
April 4 – Indio, CA – Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
April 5 – Los Angeles, CA – Dolby Theatre

“Dancing with the Stars” airs live Tuesday nights (8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT) on ABC, Disney+ and is available to stream the next day on Hulu

Global J-Pop Superstar Kenshi Yonezu Announces First Ever Performances In Europe, South Korea And The U.S.

Eric Alper
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Global J-Pop Superstar Kenshi Yonezu Announces First Ever Performances In Europe, South Korea And The U.S.

Today, the multitalented Japanese hitmaker and singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu announces the first U.S., South Korea and European performances of his career, with six historic shows produced by Live Nation. See full routing and ticketing information below.

Following an extensive 20-date run across Japan, Shanghai and Taipei, the tour continues in Seoul for two consecutive shows on March 22nd & March 23rd at INSPIRE Arena. The European leg begins March 30th at London’s Eventim Apollo and April 1st at Paris’ Zenith. The tour will then move to the U.S., with a performance at the world-famous Radio City Music Hall in New York on April 4th and at Los Angeles’ YouTube Theater on April 6th.

Yonezu is renowned for his unique songwriting style, which blends J-pop with elements of electronic and rock. His hit singles include “KICK BACK,” the opening theme for the anime series Chainsaw Man and the first Japanese-language song to receive RIAA Gold certification, as well as “Chikyuugi – Spinning Globe” – the theme song of The Boy and the Heron which won an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

A highlight of his new album LOST CORNER is Kenshi Yonezu’s remarkable collaborations. This album features his contributions to Final Fantasy FINAL FANTASY XVI, Ultraman ULTRAMAN, Chainsaw Man, and legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki film The Boy and the Heron. This year Kenshi Yonezu also announced an exclusive line of graphic tees in collaboration with Uniqlo, as part of their ongoing UT series celebrating pop culture from around the world. All captured on the canvas of UT, the Japanese Culture UT by Kenshi Yonezu became available in stores starting September 23rd

Kenshi Yonezu’s latest album, LOST CORNER, has achieved great success, reaching the Top 50 across three Billboard US charts (his highest-ranking effort to date in the US) and debuted at No. 7 on Spotify’s global weekly Top Albums list. In addition to these milestones, Yonezu recently announced “Azalea”, a song written as the theme song for the global Netflix series Beyond Goodbye (Teaser available now). The series has already made history as the first Japanese entry to be featured at this year’s Busan International Film Festival Onscreen Category, which honors outstanding streaming dramas. This series will begin streaming worldwide Thursday, November 14, 2024, on Netflix.

Kenshi Yonezu continues to reach new heights in his career. After 11 years, Hachi (Kenshi Yonezu), created a new illustration for the VOCALOID song “Donut Hole”, along with a fully animated music video based on the illustration (Watch Here). As part of a unique partnership, Godiva Japan released the “GODIVA x HACHI Donut Hole Collection” on October 1st. This marks the first time Godiva has created a chocolate collection lineup in collaboration with an artist.

SOUTH KOREA TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with a Live Nation presale beginning on Monday, October 14. The general onsale begins on Tuesday, October 15 at 12pm local time at https://tickets.interpark.com.

EUROPE TICKETS: Tickets will be available starting with partner presales (O2 and Mastercard) beginning on Wednesday, October 9. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning on Friday, October 11 at 12pm local time at Livenation.com.

U.S TICKETS: The general onsale begins on Friday, October 11 at 12pm local time at Livenation.com.

After gaining success with Vocaloid music under the stage name Hachi, Kenshi Yonezu began producing under his real name in 2012. In addition to music, he has attracted attention for his album cover illustrations and video productions. The video for his hit single “Lemon”, the long-running theme song for the TV series Unnatural, is the most-viewed music video in Japan, and topped Billboard Japan’s year-end charts for two consecutive years, leaving a mark on music history both in Japan and abroad.

His 2020 album STRAY SHEEP set a record of 1.9 million copies sold with the highest-placing Japanese artist ever to appear on the IFPI year-end global ranking chart. He continued to work tirelessly during the pandemic, including performing as the first Asian artist in a virtual concert hosted by the online game Fortnite. Collaborated globally with UNIQLO on their UT collection with the storefront collaboration displays in NY and other 8 UNIQLO stores worldwide. He was awarded an AAC Award, listed in Forbes’ 100 Asian Digital Stars, and received the Minister of NEWS RELEASE Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology’s Art Encouragement Prize for New Artists.

In 2022, he released “M87” as the theme song for the film Shin Ultraman, and “POP SONG” as the theme song for a PlayStation commercial. His single “KICK BACK,” the opening theme for the TV anime Chainsaw Man, made Spotify’s Global Top 50, and became the first Japanese-language song certified Gold by RIAA®. He was also selected as the first and only Japanese artist to be a part of the “RIAA Class of 2023”, with which the association summarized the artists who had flourished in the year.

In 2023, Yonezu released “Tsuki Wo Miteita – Moongazing” as the theme song for the RPG game Final Fantasy XVI, and “Chikyugi – Spinning Globe” – the theme song Studio Ghibli’s animated film The Boy and the Heron (Academy Award Winner for Best Animated Feature, 2024), directed by Hayao Miyazaki.

In 2024, Yonezu wrote “Garakuta – JUNK”, the theme song of the movie LAST MILE, and released his sixth studio album, LOST CORNER. Yonezu has also announced a new world tour – KENSHI YONEZU 2025 TOUR / JUNK – in which the J-pop icon will take his new album across the world with shows in Asia, including his first-ever dome performance in Japan and his first-ever headlining non-domestic dates.

As for Yonezu’s music videos, “Lemon” has surpassed 880 million views, continuing to break the records of Japanese artists.  It is one of the 16 music videos of his songs that garnered him a commanding record of surpassing 100 million views each (“Lemon,” “Eine Kleine,” “LOSER,” “Peace Sign,” “Haiirotoao (+Masaki Suda),” “orion,” “Flamingo,” “Kanden,” “Fireworks,” “Paprika,” “Shunrai,” “Uma to Shika,” “Spirits of the Sea,” “KICK BACK,” Foorin’s “Paprika” and Masaki Suda’s “Machigaisagashi”). He has over 7.34 million subscribers on his official YouTube channel.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:
Thu Jan 9 – Miyagi – Sekisui Heim Super Arena
Fri Jan 10 – Miyagi – Sekisui Heim Super Arena
Fri Jan 17 – Niigata – Toki Messe Niigata Convention Center
Sat Jan 18 – Niigata – Toki Messe Niigata Convention Center
Wed Jan 22 – Kanagawa – Yokohama Arena
Thu Jan 23 – Kanagawa – Yokohama Arena
Tue Jan 28 – Aichi – Aichi Sky Expo
Wed Jan 29 – Aichi – Aichi Sky Expo
Thu Jan 30 – Aichi – Aichi Sky Expo
Sat Feb 8 – Fukuoka – Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka
Sun Feb 9 – Fukuoka – Mizuho PayPay Dome Fukuoka
Sat Feb 15 – Osaka – Kyocera Dome Osaka
Sun Feb 16 – Osaka – Kyocera Dome Osaka
Fri Feb 21 – Hokkaido – Sapporo Dome
Wed Feb 26 – Tokyo – Tokyo Dome
Thu Feb 27 – Tokyo – Tokyo Dome
Sat March 8 – Shanghai – Mercedes Benz Arena
Sun March 9 – Shanghai – Mercedes Benz Arena
Sat March 15 – Taipei – Taipei Arena
Sun March 16 – Taipei – Taipei Arena
Sat March 22 – Seoul – INSPIRE Arena⁠
Sun March 23 – Seoul – INSPIRE Arena⁠
Sun Mar 30 – London, UK – Eventim Apollo
Tue Apr 1 – Paris, France – Zenith La Villette
Fri Apr 4 – New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall
Sun Apr 6 – Los Angeles, CA – YouTube Theater

Banding Back Together: Rascal Flatts to Embark on Life Is a Highway Tour

Eric Alper
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Banding Back Together: Rascal Flatts to Embark on Life Is a Highway Tour

Emerging from hiatus with renewed passion, country music icons and multi-platinum selling act Rascal Flatts will embark on their Life Is A Highway Tour in 2025, celebrating 25 years of hits and the impact of one of the most influential groups in country music. Taking care of unfinished business, the trio have plotted a 21-stop tour across the US, produced by Live Nation, delivering a thank you to the fans who have supported them throughout their over two decades-long career.

Tickets will go on sale this Friday, Oct. 4 at 10 AM local time, available for purchase HERE.

The group reflected: “In 2020, we announced the farewell tour after being on the road extensively for 20 years.  To put it simply, we needed a break. Then COVID hit and our plans came to a screeching halt, like the rest of the world.  Since then, we’ve been able to revisit our unique and special experience as a band and we’re ready to get out on the road again.  It’s hard to believe that next year will be the 25th anniversary of Rascal Flatts, and that felt like the perfect time to get back in front of the fans who have given us so much.”

Furthering anticipation for the upcoming tour, Rascal Flatts also shared that they will be inviting Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane to join them across the run. Together, the trio and their fans will reflect on their iconic catalog of hits including “Bless The Broken Road,” “My Wish,” and “What Hurts The Most” – always soulful, engaging and delivered with a positive, universal message – as well as a string of success that continues to place Rascal Flatts among the modern musical elite.

The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, invitation to the Rascal Flatts VIP Lounge, autographed, limited-edition tour poster, VIP exclusive gift item & more. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

Hailed as one of the most influential groups in modern country history, Rascal Flatts are a chart-topping trio created by vocalist Gary LeVox, multi-instrumentalist Jay DeMarcus and guitarist Joe Don Rooney. Since their founding in 2000, they’ve cemented their place in music history with genre-crossing hits like breakout hit, “Prayin’ for Daylight,” “Bless The Broken Road,” “What Hurts the Most,” and “Life Is a Highway.” Together the Grand Ole Opry members have racked up 17 Number One hits, over 23.4 million albums sold, 35 million digital downloads, and over 12 billion total lifetime streams, with 4.6 billion streams on Spotify alone, while also selling over 11 million concert tickets and earning more than 40 trophies from the ACA, ACM, AMA, CMA, People’s Choice and more, making them one of the most awarded country groups of the past two decades. Now emerging from hiatus with renewed passion, the trio is reuniting to take care of unfinished business on their Life Is A Highway Tour in 2025, celebrating 25 years of hits and the impact of one of the most influential groups in country music. For more information visit rascalflatts.com.

Grand Ole Opry member and Big Loud Records powerhouse Lauren Alaina is unlocking a new era with her debut EP on the label out now. The six-song set fittingly titled Unlockedreintroduces the multi-faceted star, stripping back every layer and allowing fans to know her more than ever before. Alaina has earned three chart-topping hits: RIAA Platinum-certified “Road Less Traveled,” 9X Platinum “What Ifs” with her childhood friend Kane Brown, and 3X Platinum “ONE BEER” with labelmate HARDY + Devin Dawson. The Georgia-born force, who American Songwriter notes is “on a seemingly limitless upward trajectory,” has shared the stage with Alan Jackson, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Martina McBride, and more. She’s headlined two raved-about tours, the sold-out That Girl Was Me Tour and bar-raising On Top Of The World Tour Presented by Maurices. The gold-medal vocalist has performed on some of the highest-profile stages in the world including PBS’ A Capitol Fourth, Dancing with the Stars, American Idol, CBS’ Beyond The Edge, ABC’s The Bachelorette, TODAY, Good Morning America, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, ABC’s CMA Fest specials, CMA and ACM Awards, Nickelodeon’s All That, Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day halftime performance, MLB’s World Series national anthem performance, a performance at the White House for President Obama, and more.

Introducing “a decidedly more country sound” (MusicRow), Chris Lane is launching his next chapter with current chart-rising single “Find Another Bar” featured on his EPs From Where I’m Sippin’ and the Deluxeedition (Red Street Records/Voyager Records). With a spree of releases in 2021 and 2022, Lane’s catalog expanded with hits like “Dancin’ In The Moonlight” with Lauren Alaina, “Howdy,” “Stop Coming Over,” “Summer Job Money,” “Fill Them Boots,” “Ain’t Even Met You Yet,” HIXTAPE: Vol. 2 smash “Small Town On It” with Scotty McCreery, plus Dustin Lynch summer jam “Tequila On A Boat,” all adding to his 2.2+ BILLION total career streams, three #1s – 2X PLATINUM “Big, Big Plans,” 3X PLATINUM “I Don’t Know About You,” and PLATINUM “Fix” – and five certified singles including 2X PLATINUM “Take Back Home Girl” with Tori Kelly. The Kernersville, NC, native has appeared on Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, TODAY, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and CONAN, and was featured in PEOPLE’s 2019 Sexiest Man Alive issue. He’s scored nominations at iHeartRadio Music Awards, ACM Awards, and Radio Disney Music Awards. Gearing up to hit the road as support on the 2025 Rascal Flatts Reunion Tour, he’s previously shared the bill with A-list acts like Florida Georgia Line, Brad Paisley, Dan + Shay, and Kane Brown.

LIFE IS A HIGHWAY TOUR Official Dates:
2/13 Evansville, IN- Ford Center
2/14 Charleston, WV- Charleston Coliseum
2/15 Grand Rapids, MI- Van Andel Arena
2/22 Durant, OK- Choctaw Grand Theater
2/27 Sioux Falls, SD- Denny Sanford Premier Center
2/28 Green Bay, WI- Resch Center
3/1 Moline, IL- Vibrant Arena
3/6 Columbus, OH- Nationwide Arena
3/7 Toledo, OH- Huntington Center
3/8 Youngstown, OH- Covelli Centre
3/13 Manchester, NH- SNHU Arena
3/14 Uncasville, CT- Mohegan Sun Arena
3/15 Allentown, PA- PPL Center
3/20 Huntsville, AL- Von Braun Center Propst Arena*
3/22 Savannah, GA- Enmarket Arena
3/27 Ft. Worth, TX- Dickies Arena
3/28 Lafayette, LA- CAJUNDOME
3/29 Little Rock, AR- Simmons Bank Arena
4/3 Estero, FL- Hertz Arena
4/4 Orlando, FL- Kia Center
4/5 Jacksonville, FL- Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena
* Tickets will be on sale starting Oct. 11 at 10 am local time

Mary J. Blige Unveils 2025 ‘The For My Fans Tour’ Dates

Eric Alper
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Mary J. Blige Unveils 2025 ‘The For My Fans Tour’ Dates

Grammy and Emmy award-winning and Oscar-nominated, “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” Mary J. Blige announced her 2025 “The For My Fans Tour” with special guests NE-YO and Mario. The tour comes on the heels of her new album “Gratitude,” releasing on November 15. The tour and album are a celebration of the love and gratitude that Mary has towards her life, family, friends, and her beloved fans.

Produced by Live Nation, the 27-city tour kicks off on January 30 at Greensboro Coliseum in Greensboro, NC making stops across North America in Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and more before wrapping up in Boston, MA at TD Garden on April 14.

“I am so excited to kick off this tour. I have amazing fans and am so grateful for all of the love and support they have given me throughout the years,” said Mary J. Blige. “This tour is for them, and I cannot wait to be able to travel to all these cities and see everyone. I am in such a place of immense gratitude and peace at this moment, so also having the chance to release my new album “Gratitude” on November 15th ahead of this tour is really special to me.”

Blige will release her new studio album, “Gratitude,” on Friday, November 15th, through her own Beautiful Life Productions and in partnership with 300 Entertainment. In August, she dropped the first single off the album, “Breathing” featuring Fabolous.

Ahead of both the album release and tour, Blige will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with the rest of the class of 2024 on October 19th in Cleveland.

VIP: The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets including reserved booths & tables, access to the VIP Lounge, exclusive VIP merch item, limited edition VIP poster & more. For more information, visit vipnation.com!

TICKETS:  Tickets will be available starting with artist presale beginning Tuesday, October 1. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, October 4 at 10AM local time at LiveNation.com.

PRESALE: Citi is the official card of The For My Fans Tour presale. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Wednesday, October 2 at 10AM local time until Thursday, October 3 at 11:59PM local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.

Iconic Grammy and Emmy Award-winning and Oscar-nominated artist, actress, producer, and entrepreneur Mary J. Blige is a figure of inspiration, transformation, and empowerment. With a track record of eight multi-platinum albums, nine Grammy Awards (37 nominations), an Emmy award, two Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, and a SAG nomination, Blige has cemented herself as a global superstar.

Influenced at an early age by the music of Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan and Gladys Knight, Blige brought her own gritty, urban-rooted style—fusing hip-hop, soul, and honest, frank lyrics—to the forefront on her 1992 debut album What’s the 411? Blige continued to redefine R&B and began forging a unique niche for herself on her second album, 1994’s My Life.

Each subsequent album she released reads like a chapter from an autobiography leading to February 2022, when Blige released Good Morning Gorgeous, which has since earned her six 2023 Grammy nominations including Album and Record of the Year. The album release led into a historic performance at the Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, CA alongside Dr. Dre, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Kendrick Lamar. Her performance earned her a 2022 Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live).

On the acting side, Blige starred as Florence Jackson in the 2017 Netflix breakout film Mudbound, to which she received critical acclaim including two Academy Award nominations for Best Support Actress and Best Original Song. She became the first person ever to be nominated in an acting and song category for the same film. Among many other credits, Blige is currently starring in STARZ’s POWER BOOK II: GHOST. The fourth and final season is currently airing on Starz and continues to break records for the network.

On the producing side, Blige launched her production company, Blue Butterfly, and signed a first-look TV deal with Lionsgate. Blige also signed a first-look non-scripted deal and a second-look scripted deal with BET. In 2021, Blige worked with Oscar-winning filmmaker Vanessa Roth and Amazon on her documentary Mary J. Blige’s My Life celebrating the 25th anniversary of her famed album My Life, of which she was the focus and EP. Following her 2023 Lifetime films “Real Love” and “Strength of a Woman,” Blige has signed on to executive produce multiple new projects for Lifetime, beginning with “Family Affair” (working title) coming in 2025.

NE-YO is a three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning R&B hitmaker, iconic songwriter, actor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist whose illustrious catalog has generated a combined total of 23 billion streams worldwide.

His debut single, 2005’s “So Sick,” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified quadruple-platinum. Since then, the Motown Records/Compound Entertainment recording artist has racked up a collection of global hits including “Sexy Love,” “Closer,” “Because of You,” “Miss Independent,” and “Push Back” [feat. Bebe Rexha and Stefflon Don].”

Additionally, NE-YO has proven to be as powerful with his pen as he is in the recording studio and on stage, penning bangers like Rihanna’s “Unfaithful,” “Russian Roulette,” and “Take a Bow,” along with Beyoncé’s 2006 breakup anthem “Irreplaceable” and songs for such artists as Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Carrie Underwood, Celine Dion and Mario among others.

The multihyphenate has also leveraged his platform as a musician to pivot into acting. His film and television credits include NBC’s World of Dance, Netflix’s Dance Monsters, Empire, Stomp the Yard, Save the Last Dance, Battle: Los Angeles, George Lucas’ Red Tails, The Wiz Live!, Starz’ Step Up: High Water, Hip Hop Family Christmas Wedding and The Sound of Christmas. He starred in the latest season of 50 Cent’s acclaimed drama series BMF on STARZ.

Mario is a GRAMMY-nominated, platinum-selling R&B singer, songwriter and hitmaker hailing from Baltimore, MD. A dominant 2000s run, which began after the church-bred singer was signed by Clive Davis to J Records during his teenage years, included Top 5 hit “Just A Friend,” and “Let Me Love You,” the generation-defining serenade that spent nine weeks at no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning the singer widespread acclaim. Mario’s subsequent album, Turning Point, generated a ‘Best Contemporary R&B Album’ GRAMMY nomination as well as two Billboard Awards, and is part of a robust catalog that includes four debuts inside the Top 5 of Billboard R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart, beginning with his gold-certified debut, Mario.

Mario’s hit-making prowess and status as a superior vocal performer led to a spot on Billboard’s ‘Artist of the Decade’ list. His expanded entertainment profile includes an independent label, New Citizen, launched in 2016, and a slew of marquee acting appearances, including major roles in blockbuster films and shows Step Up, Freedom Writers, and Empire. Mario will make his film production debut this holiday season, when his New Citizen-produced Christmas film, Style Me For Christmas, airs on BET.

This December, Mario releases his sixth studio album as part of his new deal with Epic Records, marking his first solo LP since 2018. Glad You Came, is executive-produced largely by James Fauntleroy, who worked for over a year on the project in-studio with Mario.

MARY J. BLIGE – THE FOR MY FANS TOUR 2025 DATES: 
Thu Jan 30 – Greensboro, NC – Greensboro Coliseum
Fri Jan 31 – Raleigh, NC – Lenovo Center
Mon Feb 03 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
Thu Feb 06 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
Sat Feb 08 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena
Tue Feb 11 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live
Fri Feb 14 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center
Tue Feb 18 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center
Fri Feb 21 – Ft. Worth, TX – Dickies Arena
Tue Feb 25 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena
Sat Mar 01 – Los Angeles, CA – Intuit Dome
Fri Mar 07 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center
Sat Mar 08 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center
Wed Mar 12 – St. Louis, MO – Enterprise Center
Fri Mar 14 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Sun Mar 16 – St. Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
Wed Mar 19 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena
Sat Mar 22 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center
Mon Mar 24 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Wed Mar 26 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena
Fri Mar 28 – Atlantic City, NJ – Boardwalk Hall
Wed Apr 02 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena
Fri Apr 04 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
Sun Apr 06 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center
Thu Apr 10 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Fri Apr 11 – Elmont, NY – UBS Arena
Mon Apr 14 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

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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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