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Universal Music Group Partners with Headcount, NAACP and Voter Resource Orgs to Mobilize Voters

Eric Alper
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Universal Music Group Partners with Headcount, NAACP and Voter Resource Orgs to Mobilize Voters

Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, announced today the launch of its 2024 USE YOUR VOICE campaign. Launched in 2020, this year’s voting initiative will use educational tools and other resources to mobilize eligible employees and other voters throughout UMG’s U.S. communities to vote in the 2024 U.S. general elections.

This year’s campaign is supported by UMG’s All Together Now Foundation, the company’s Task Force for Meaningful Change (TFMC) and °1824, UMG’s creative services division. 2024 USE YOUR VOICE will help register and transport voters to the polls. The campaign will also provide information, resources and digital tools to foster active participation in the political process.

Susan Mazo, EVP and Chief Impact Officer of UMG, said, “We’re proud to once again help communities across the country ‘use their voices’ at the polls. USE YOUR VOICE is a results-oriented, mission-driven initiative committed to educating employees and music fans across the UMG ecosystem about the voting process. Since we started the program in 2020, it has helped tens of thousands of voters get to the polls and vote with confidence. This year, it will do so again through the work of our colleagues, our passionate artists, songwriters and labels, and our incredible voter resource partner organizations.”

HeadCount, Executive Director Lucille Wenegieme said, “As we head into this pivotal election, our partnership with Universal Music Group through the ‘Use Your Voice’ campaign is about more than just registering voters. Together, we’re making sure that every voice is not just heard, but impossible to ignore.  At HeadCount, we partner with organizations that see the value of a multi-pronged approach to civic engagement to ensure we are reaching as many voters as possible – this is no different. We are so grateful for UMG’s strategic support during this election cycle. Together, we’re inspiring a new generation to actively participate in shaping their future.”

USE YOUR VOICE pursues its mission encouraging employees and communities to vote by providing information on the issues that matter most to them and helping to connect them with the resources necessary to use their power at the polls. This election year, USE YOUR VOICE, will help power the work of partner organizations including the ACLU, BallotReady, HeadCount, the NAACP, National Coalition of Black Civic Participation, the National Council for Negro Women (NCNW), the Voto Latino Foundation, When We All Vote and Xceleader.

The 2024 USE YOUR VOICE campaign includes:

  • USE YOUR VOICE and Vote About It – In partnership with HeadCount, this short-form digital content series discusses the issues that voters may see on their local ballots and highlights why voter participation is important. The series drives music fans and followers to the Use Your Voice And Vote About It Voter hub which provides information, resources, and digital tools to simplify the voting process.
  • USE YOUR VOICE and Vote About It Tote Bag – As an extension of the “USE YOUR VOICE and Vote About It” initiative, UMG has created a co-branded tote bag that will be exclusively sold on Social Goods beginning today. The tote bag benefits HeadCount.
  • Vote HBCU – As part of their ongoing partnership with HeadCount, UMG is supporting the organization’s Vote HBCU ‘Say It Louder’ Tour, which will visit 10 HBCU campuses this summer with the goal of registering 10,000+ students to vote for the upcoming election. The program was built in partnership with Xceleader, and will further collaborate with UMG to highlight the tour stops and amplify messaging around National Voter Registration Day (Sept 17th).
  • By the Numbers – A digital content series from °1824, UMG’s creative solutions team, that aims to drive visibility of the profound impact young people can have at the ballot box and empower them to check their registration status and vote in this year’s general election.
  • BallotReady x USE YOUR VOICE – Through a series of co-branded social assets, BallotReady x USE YOUR VOICE aims to make sure voters know what’s on their ballot. It will guide users to the BallotReady Hub to make their voting plan and to vote with confidence.

Additionally, earlier this year UMG and Island Records’ artist Sabrina Carpenter ran a Good To Vote Gov Ball sweepstakes with HeadCount. Through the campaign, more than 35,000 civic engagement actions were taken by eligible voters and more than 5,000 new voters were registered.

This year, HeadCount has also partnered with artists from UMG’s labels including AJR, Ariana Grande, Barenaked Ladies, Billie Eilish, Clairo, Chappell Roan, Chelsea Cutler, Em Beihold, Glass Animals, Gracie Abrams, Hootie & the Blowfish, Maggie Rogers, Mt. Joy, Noah Kahan, Olivia Rodrigo, Rapsody and Remi Wolf among others.

USE YOUR VOICE TO PULL UP TO THE POLLS

The TFMC has unveiled its 2024 PULL UP TO THE POLLS initiative that provides resources and support to voters across the country through:

  • Providing more than 15,000 rideshare codes to voters through organization partners NAACP, NCNW and When We All Vote to get voters to and from the polls.
  • Supporting voter registration with Voto Latino Foundation with the goal of registering over 7,200 eligible voters in honor of National Voter Registration Day.
  • Additional support to organizations helping to mobilize and educate communities including the ACLU, National Coalition of Black Civic Engagement/Black Women’s Roundtable and Black Voters Matter.

“The NAACP is proud to work with UMG in ensuring that democracy works, for everybody. Black voices matter, and we know that when our communities Pull up to the Polls, we’re heard,” said Dominik Whitehead, NAACP SVP of Campaigns and Mobilization. “That’s why partnerships like these are so important in bringing the resources and tools necessary to ensure that every vote is counted, and every voice is heard. Let’s make this an election to remember!”

NCNW Vice President of Advocacy and Policy Portia White said, “We are delighted to partner with UMG on a joint venture to elevate our outreach and effort to ensure people can get to the polls to vote.  Voting is most important in preserving democracy.   The power of just one vote is how we collectively use our voices for change.  For NCNW, we are encouraging Black women and youth (17-24) this election season to Pull up to The Polls.”

“Our vote is our voice and our power. When We All Vote is proud to partner with Universal Music Group to ease barriers to voting, like not having a ride to your local polling place,” said Beth Lynk, Executive Director of When We All Vote. “The rides we’re making available will ensure thousands of voters can Pull Up to the Polls ready to show up and show out to make their voices heard this election.”

“Voto Latino Foundation is excited to once again partner with Universal Music Group’s Taskforce for Meaningful Change and the Use Your Voice Campaign,” said Voto Latino Foundation Vice President of Communications Diana Castaneda. “Over 36 million Latinos are eligible to vote in November and we are doubling-down on our efforts to inform them about the relevant issues for our community and to register them to vote. Through collaborative and innovative voter outreach and engagement efforts with Universal Music Group’s leadership, employees, and talent, this partnership will make a significant impact in meeting the moment.”

PULL UP TO THE POLLS was launched in 2020 in honor of those throughout history who fought to win and defend the right to vote. The program provided 24,000 rides to the polls during the U.S. general election and Georgia special election through partnerships with the National Urban League, Voto Latino Foundation and Election Protection. The TFMC and UMG also supported Chefs for the Polls and World Central Kitchen providing 500,000 free meals to voters and families waiting in lines on Election Day at more than 730 polling locations across the country.

In 2022, the TFMC launched the second iteration of PULL UP TO THE POLLS for that year’s midterm elections registering 7,833 eligible voters on National Registration Day with Voto Latino Foundation and providing 13,081 rides to and from the polls during the early voting period with the YMCA. This year, PULL UP TO THE POLLS aims to support 15,000 rides to and from the polls and register 5,000 eligible voters.

In 2022, UMG announced that U.S. offices will be closed on Election Days moving forward to facilitate employees’ voter participation and Election Day volunteering.

Since 2020, UMG has partnered with leading organizations to help support voters through collaborations with the ACLU, BallotReady, The Brennan Center for Justice, Black Voters Matter, HeadCount, Higher Heights Leadership Fund, League of United Latin American Citizens, Spread the Vote, Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law + Election Protection, The Leadership Conference Education Fund, NAACP, National Coalition of Black Civic Participation, NCNW, National Urban League, VoteRiders, Voters Rights Alliance, Voto Latino Foundation, When We All Vote, YMCA and Xceleader.

Watch the trailer for TOM PETTY: HEARTBREAKERS BEACH PARTY, in cinemas worldwide October 17

Eric Alper
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Watch the trailer for TOM PETTY: HEARTBREAKERS BEACH PARTY, in cinemas worldwide October 17

Trafalgar Releasing and the Tom Petty Estate are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated big screen debut of TOM PETTY: HEARTBREAKERS BEACH PARTY. The lost 1983 cult classic documentary, directed by legendary Rolling Stone journalist and Academy Award-winning director Cameron Crowe (Almost Famous, Jerry Maguire), will screen in cinemas worldwide for two special nights only on October 17 and October 20 (on what would have been Tom Petty’s 74th birthday). Fans will experience Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers like never before with a new introduction from Crowe himself and an all-new 20-minute cut of unreleased outtakes from the acclaimed director. 

“Heartbreakers Beach Party occupies a special place in my heart,” says Crowe. “Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers leaned into the making of the film with a kind of hilarious music-filled honesty that still feels fresh forty years later. It was also my first experience as a director. Thanks to Adria Petty and the Petty Estate, along with our co-filmmakers Danny Bramson, Phil Savenick, Doug Dowdle and Greg Mariotti, I’m so happy we’re bringing it back in all its reckless glory. The fact that it was yanked from MTV after only one airing at 2:00 a.m. just shows that it was indeed an outlandish feast for fans in all the best ways. Let that sucker blast!”

Tickets for TOM PETTY: HEARTBREAKERS BEACH PARTY are available now at www.TomPettyFilm.com.

This cinematic event marks the first time TOM PETTY: HEARTBREAKERS BEACH PARTY has been seen on the big screen, fully remastered in 4K. Originally airing only once on MTV in February 1983, it was Crowe’s directorial debut and pirated versions have been coveted by fans ever since. Featuring a mix of in-depth interviews, electrifying live performances and unprecedented intimate access to Petty and the band—including Mike Campbell, Benmont Tench, Stan Lynch, and new addition Howie Epstein—the film’s influence can even be seen in Rob Reiner’s This Is Spinal Tap.

The film, now restored from its 16mm source by Crowe, reveals an era defining look at rock & roll in 1982 when Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers finished, promoted and toured around the groundbreaking album Long After Dark. Often misunderstood, this is the band’s third and final album with legendary rock producer Jimmy Iovine. Alongside the film an expansive reissue, Long After Dark (Deluxe Edition), featuring a collection of rediscovered and unheard songs will be released on October 18.

MTV, a relatively new network at the time, was instrumental in shaping music culture, and this film captures the essence of that era. The film features behind the scenes footage of the iconic apocalyptic western music video for “You Got Lucky,” directed by Jim Lenahan, which was groundbreaking and pioneering for its short film approach and futuristic style.

This is the second “Meet Up” for Tom Petty fans following the successful 2021 Trafalgar release of award-winning and critically acclaimed Tom Petty: Somewhere You Feel Free – The Making of Wildflowers.  

“This special cinematic event offers Tom Petty fans a unique opportunity to unite and honor the music that has deeply resonated with countless fans through many decades and generations,” says Kymberli Frueh, Senior Vice President for Programming and Content Acquisitions at Trafalgar Releasing. “The cinema platform offers a way for these fans to connect with one another and hopefully create new memories together.”

The Toronto Production of Disney’s THE LION KING Extends Performances Through April 27, 2025

Eric Alper
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The Toronto Production of Disney’s THE LION KING Extends Performances Through April 27, 2025

Today, Monday September 9, marks the first day of rehearsals for the new Toronto sit-down production of Disney’s The Lion King at the Princess of Wales Theatre.  The production is scheduled to begin performances on November 2, 2024.

The first block of tickets – November 2, 2024 to February 2, 2025 – are heavily sold. Due to popular demand, producers David and Hannah Mirvish are announcing an extension of performances.

Tickets for the new block – for performances from February 4 through April 27, 2025 – will go on sale at 10AM on Monday September 16.  Tickets will be available online at www.mirvish.com or by phone at 1-800-461-3333.

The cast consists of: Salvatore Antonio as Scar, Zama Magudulela as Rafiki, David D’Lancy Wilson as Mufasa, Will Jeffs as Zazu, Trevor Patt as Pumbaa, Brian Sills as Timon, Camille Eanga- Selenge as Nala, Aphiwe Nyezi as Simba, Jewelle Blackman as Shenzi, Joema Frith as Banzai and Simon Gallant as Ed.

The two roles of the lion cubs in the show will each be shared by three young actors. Young Nala will be performed by Zora Cameron, Ana Victoria Dinapo and Nendia Lewars, and Young Simba will be played by Lucien Duncan-Reid, Ira Nabong and Oliver Woon.

The ensemble includes: Caleb Ajao, Damien Broomes, Wade Buller, Krystle Chance, Lisa Michelle Cornelius, Isabel Dela Cruz, Vania DoDoo-Beals, Jordan Faye, Felander, Alex Furber, Katherine Gayle Kewsa, Tristan Ghostkeeper, Rose-Mary Harbans, Jasmine Huang, Rebaone Kgosimore, Lia Loewen, Lisakhanya Matrose, Adrienne Metivier, Khayaloxolo Mniki, Iteboge Modipane, Buhle Nkomo, Martina Ortiz Luis, Hugo Pimentel, Busisiwe Shezi, Elljay Timmangen, Luc Trottier, Trayvon Ward, Ocean Williams, Tenaj Williams, Zachary Williams, Oren Williamson, Zinzi Xalisa, Marlee Young and Angel Zuma.

The original Canadian production of the multi-award-winning internationally celebrated Disney musical opened in Toronto in March 2000 to critical acclaim and sold-out houses. It was the second production of The Lion King in North America, after the show’s Broadway premiere, and played a record-breaking 1,567 performances at the Princess of Wales Theatre, closing on January 4, 2004, having been seen by more than three million patrons. The Lion King created hundreds of jobs and launched the careers of dozens of local artists. It attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors to Toronto and Ontario, pumping an estimated $1.4 billion into the economy. (This figure is based upon a Touring Broadway League report which found that, on average, Broadway tours contribute an economic impact 3.27 times the gross ticket sales to the local metropolitan area’s economy.)

After the sit-down production ended, The Lion King touring productions visited the city three times – in 2011, 2014 and 2019 – each time selling out.

Next to Broadway, Toronto has hosted more performances of The Lion King than any other city in North America.

And now, Toronto becomes the first city in North America to have a second sit-down production of The Lion King.

Celebrating 26 landmark years on Broadway, The Lion King continues ascendant as one of the most popular stage musicals in the world. Since its premiere on November 13, 1997, 28 global productions have been seen by over 112 million people. Produced by Disney Theatrical Group, under the direction of Andrew Flatt, Anne Quart, and Thomas Schumacher, The Lion King has made theatrical history with three productions worldwide running 20 or more years and two others running 25 or more years.

Performed over its lifetime in nine different languages (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese), there are currently eight productions of The Lion King around the world: Broadway, London, Paris, Hamburg, Madrid, Tokyo, Sao Paulo and on tour across North America. The Lion King has played over 100 cities in 28 countries on every continent except Antarctica; its worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box office history.

The Lion King won six 1998 Tony Awards®: Best Musical, Best Scenic Design (Richard Hudson), Best Costume Design (Julie Taymor), Best Lighting Design (Donald Holder), Best Choreography (Garth Fagan) and Best Direction of a Musical. The Lion King has also earned more than 70 major arts awards including the 1998 NY Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, the 1999 Grammy® for Best Musical Show Album, the 1999 Evening Standard Award for Theatrical Event of the Year and the 1999 Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design.

Director, costume designer and mask co-designer Julie Taymor, the first woman to win a Tony Award for Best Director of a Musical, remains actively involved in the show, launching new productions and maintaining the flagship Broadway production.

The Broadway score features Elton John and Tim Rice’s songs from the Lion King animated film along with three new songs by John and Rice; additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer; and music from “Rhythm of the Pride Lands,” an album inspired by the original music in the film, written by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer. The resulting sound of The Lion King is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, ranging from the Academy Award-winning song “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” to Lebo M’s rich choral numbers.

Elton John, Lebo M, and Hans Zimmer all collaborated on the 2019 version of the film, executive produced by Julie Taymor and Thomas Schumacher, which has gone onto extraordinary worldwide success.

The book has been adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated The Lion King feature, and Irene Mecchi, who co-wrote the film’s screenplay. Other members of the creative team include: Michael Curry, who designed the masks and puppets with Taymor, Steve Canyon Kennedy (sound design), Michael Ward (hair and makeup design), Anthony Lyn (associate director), Marey Griffith (associate choreographer), Clement Ishmael (music supervisor), Lisa Dawn Cave (production supervisor), Thomas Schlenk (general manager) and ARC/Mark Brandon, CSA (casting). Anne Quart serves as executive producer.

The Toronto production also features casting by Stephanie Gorin, CSA, CDC, and music direction by Sean Mayes.

Photo Gallery: Stone Temple Pilots with Live and Soul Asylum at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage

Eric Alper
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Photo Gallery: Stone Temple Pilots with Live and Soul Asylum at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage

All photos by Mini’s Memories. You can contact her through Instagram or X.

Stone Temple Pilots
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Soul Asylum
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Underworld Welcomes You to Their New Album ‘Strawberry Hotel’

Eric Alper
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Underworld Welcomes You to Their New Album ‘Strawberry Hotel’

Welcome to Strawberry Hotel. Here, gleaming tensile techno forms clean, straight lines while scratchy acoustic guitars scuff up edges to produce ghostly audio. Poetry is snatched from the overhead, removed from the overheard; words borrowed from the ether are spun into dizzying new shapes, sometimes reappearing in new settings, twisted back to front, side to side. Each track a very different room – some soundtracked by little more than metronomic kick drum and robotic voice, others deep in layer upon layer of melody and euphoric noise – and each room unmistakably, uniquely Underworld. The only advice from Underworld’s Rick Smith and Karl Hyde upon entering: “Please don’t shuffle.” Strawberry Hotel features the singles and the colour red and denver luna, as well as new release Black Poppies – a celestial love song, a hymn to the universe and to boundless, positive change. Ambient and beatless, Black Poppies is a celebration of full dancefloors and the beauty of life itself.

EarFun Unveils Three New Wireless Audio Products for 2024: UBOOM X Speaker, OpenJump Earbuds, and Tune Pro ANC Headphones

Eric Alper
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EarFun Unveils Three New Wireless Audio Products for 2024: UBOOM X Speaker, OpenJump Earbuds, and Tune Pro ANC Headphones

EarFun is introducing three new exciting wireless audio products for the remainder of 2024. Including a powerful portable Bluetooth speaker with JumboBass sound, an innovative take on open-ear wireless earbuds, and a high performing hi-res noise canceling headphone. EarFun has pulled out all the stops to deliver incredible values and stellar wireless audio options for the last half of the year.

EarFun UBOOM X Portable Speaker:

The UBOOM X is EarFun’s latest powerful and highly portable wireless speaker. Sporting a rugged design, the Bluetooth speaker has two 20mm tweeter drivers and a pair of 4-inch mid-woofers, pushing 80W of power – it’s most powerful yet. Using the featured proprietary JumboBass technology, you can enjoy maximum bass that doesn’t drown out the crisp treble signature and clear mids. You can use a single speaker or add additional UBOOM X wireless speakers and broadcast using the Party Connect mode for up to 50 total speakers. Further customize the sound using EarFaun’s Audio App.

The rugged portable speaker is protected from  the  elements  by  IP67  Waterproof & Dustproof certification and EarFun’s Sweatshield technology, and easily brought along with its handy carrying strap and lightweight profile. Turn on the UBOOM X and you’ll notice a dynamic multi-color LED that you can toggle to your liking. Not only does the speaker play up to 30 hours on a full charge via the USB-C port, the UBOOM X can charge external devices. While connected, your smartphone can answer with the speaker’s built-in microphone for a hands-free call.

EarFun OpenJump Open-Ear Wireless Earbuds

An ultra-lightweight, open-ear wireless earbuds aptly called the OpenJump is EarFun’s sporty addition to its award-winning selection of true wireless earbuds. The EarFun OpenJump dons a secure, flexible hook design that is both comfortable to wear and holds reassuringly during physical activity. Audio performance starts with the brand new 14.2mm Wool Composite drivers that deliver a rich, natural sound that immerses you across a wide spectrum of genres. With Hi-Res Audio and 3D Surround Sound, you can enjoy the highest levels of music fidelity and engrossing cinematic and gaming experiences. When connected to gaming consoles, the EarFun keeps latency ultra-low at less than 50ms.

The OpenJump wireless earbuds also bring battery-efficient Google Fast Pair tech for seemingly instantaneous connection times with compatible Bluetooth devices with minimal user effort. With the EarFun Audio App the OpenJump can seamlessly connect and maintain simultaneous connection with two Bluetooth compatible devices. If you’re connected to a speaker or laptop, you can still take calls and benefit from the sophisticated AI algorithm and 4 microphones to enjoy conversations without strain or excessive environmental noise.

EarFun Tune Pro Over-Ear ANC Hi-Res Wireless Headphones

For its final magic trick, EarFun is releasing an active noise canceling (ANC) over-ear wireless headphones with Hi-Res Audio titled the Tune Pro. Bringing the latest is wireless audio tech, EarFun includes Bluetooth 5.4, the fastest, most secure version yet. And with a total playback time of 120 hours, the Pro is a fitting name for EarFun’s most advanced wireless headphones. Experience outstanding hybrid ANC performance up to a robust 40dB. The hybrid active noise canceling also benefits from the Hi-Res Audio certification. This wide frequency range is brought to life with the premium 40mm diaphragms plus a pair of 10mm drivers. And whether listening to hi-res music or streaming media, the Tune Pro has a Theater Mode that creates spatial audio to enhance the experience.

The new wireless ANC headphones provide excellent ergonomics, with its fresh, sleek design. Staying secure and comfortable for hours. Using the Multipoint Connection there is no need to remove your headphones as you can toggle between connected sources. The Tune Pro benefits from EarFun’s Audio App to give you further control and customization over audio, features, and device management. Through the audio app, you can access the Game Mode to enable low latency to keep visuals and audio in sync. The Tune Pro also gives you the option to use the embedded wired AUX port for a direct connection.

Ellie Goulding Received The Perfect World Foundation’s Honorary Conservation Award

Eric Alper
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Ellie Goulding Received The Perfect World Foundation’s Honorary Conservation Award

Ellie Goulding was announced as this year’s recipient of The Perfect World Foundation Award, following in the footsteps of previous recipients such as Sir David Attenborough, Dr. Jane Goodall, and HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco. This prestigious conservation award, presented annually by the wildlife and nature organization The Perfect World Foundation, honors individuals who have significantly contributed to the preservation of the planet’s wildlife and nature. The award ceremony took place on September 5 in Gothenburg, graced by the presence of Sarah, Duchess of York, who presented the award to Ellie Goulding.

With over 18 million albums and 140 million singles sold globally, resulting in 23 billion streams, Ellie Goulding has leveraged her significant social media presence of over 50 million followers combined to champion environmental causes. Her role as a Global Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and her active participation in major environmental summits, including three COPs, underscore her commitment to these issues.

Ellie Goulding’s passionate environmental activism was formally acknowledged by The Perfect World Foundation with the announcement as the recipient of one of the world’s most prestigious conservation awards, The Perfect World Foundation Award. The award is given annually to recognize a prominent individual for their significant contributions to conservation efforts and raising global awareness about the critical need to protect our planet’s wildlife, environment, and biodiversity. Ellie Goulding, the 11th recipient of this award, joined an esteemed group of past recipients including Sir David Attenborough, Dr. Jane Goodall, and HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco.

Upon being honored as this year’s recipient of the award, Ellie Goulding was also named as The Conservationist of the Year 2024. In a video accepting the award, Goulding expressed her humility, saying, “I don’t feel like I deserve it, but I will continue to do everything I can. The wildlife and biodiversity of this planet are under threat, with over 1 million species at the brink of extinction.”

Ragnhild Jacobsson, CEO and co-founder of The Perfect World Foundation, praised Goulding’s efforts: “Ellie Goulding is a respected force as a climate and nature champion. Her inspirational efforts to mobilize the youth in saving our planet’s biological diversity are admirable. We are proud to honor her as this year’s recipient.”

The award ceremony, which took place on September 5 in Gothenburg, was an event featuring celebrities, philanthropists, and conservationists gathering to celebrate Goulding’s philanthropy and raise awareness for global conservation efforts. Sarah, Duchess of York and global ambassador for The Perfect World Foundation, presented the award.

Ellie Goulding is passionate about reducing her own industry’s carbon and resource footprint and has worked hard to remove single-use plastic from physical album releases and merchandise. Her last UK tour was carbon neutral and she continues to set standards for decarbonisation and eco messaging in the music industry. She frequently incentivises eco action for her fans and believes strongly that everyone should be invited to choose a future on a healthy planet. `The climate and nature crisis is very serious,’ says Ellie, `but doom and gloom doesn’t work. We have solutions, ingenuity, community, and enthusiasm. I believe in positive action and in doing what you can right now.’

Established in Sweden in the early 2000s, The Perfect World Foundation focuses on supporting wildlife and nature in crisis and preserving local and global biodiversity. The organization actively spreads knowledge through various events and creates conditions for driving its own initiatives, as well as supporting a number of independent grassroots projects around the world.

The Perfect World Foundation Award has an impressive list of recipients: Ms. Kristin Davis (2023), HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco (2022), Dr. Dian Fossey (2021), Prof. Wangari Maathai (2020), Miss Greta Thunberg (2019), Sir David Attenborough (2018), Dr. Sylvia Earle (2017), Dr. Richard Leakey (2016), Dr. Jane Goodall (2015), and Mr. Mark Shand (2014).

Farm Aid 2024 to Be Broadcast Live on SiriusXM

Eric Alper
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Farm Aid 2024 to Be Broadcast Live on SiriusXM

Farm Aid announced today that its music, food and farm festival will be broadcast live on SiriusXM and streamed on FarmAid.org.

SiriusXM and FarmAid.org will feature music from the festival, as well as stories of New York farmers. Farm Aid 2024 is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 21, at Broadview Stage at Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, New York.

“Farm Aid welcomes the passionate and generous audience that joins us from home each year,” said Carolyn Mugar, executive director of Farm Aid. “We’re grateful for the continued support of SiriusXM and for the ability to share the music from the Farm Aid stage and farmer stories with family farm supporters and music lovers everywhere.”

Farm Aid board member Margo Price also announced that she will join the stellar Farm Aid 2024 line-up, which includes fellow board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, and Dave Matthews (with Tim Reynolds), as well as Mavis Staples, Lukas Nelson with The Travelin’ McCourys, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, Charley Crockett, Joy Oladokun, Southern Avenue, Cassandra Lewis, Jesse Welles, Kontiwennenha:Wi and the Wisdom Indian Dancers.

Beginning at 12 p.m. ET, SiriusXM subscribers will be able to listen to the full Farm Aid 2024 festival on SiriusXM’s Willie’s Roadhouse (channel 61) and Dave Matthews Band Radio (channel 30) via SiriusXM radio and on the SXM app. The live coverage also will include backstage interviews with artists and family farmers, hosted by SiriusXM’s Dallas Wayne and Ari Fink. All coverage will feature a behind-the-scenes look at Farm Aid 2024 and the organization’s year-round work to strengthen family farm agriculture. This marks the 15th year that SiriusXM has carried the show on satellite radio.

Farm Aid will livestream the full festival from the stage beginning at 11:30 a.m. ET with the Farm Aid press event at FarmAid.org and on Farm Aid’s YouTube channel. The press event, featuring Farm Aid artists and farmers from across New York, offers fans at home a special opportunity to experience a dynamic conversation between farmers and artists.

Farm Aid is partnering with digital fundraising platform Fandiem to inspire fans to give back for a chance to win the “Ultimate VIP Experience Trip.” Fans can donate to win online at Fandiem.com/farmaid for a chance at an all-expenses-paid trip to Farm Aid 2024, including two VIP Experience tickets with access to the VIP Experience club and more.

A very limited number of VIP Experience seats remain available and may be purchased online at farmaid.org/vip.

For event updates, follow Farm Aid on X (@FarmAid), Facebook (facebook.com/farmaid) and Instagram (instagram.com/farmaid), and visit farmaid.org/festival. Festivalgoers are encouraged to use the hashtags #FarmAid2024 and #Road2FarmAid to join the conversation on social media around this year’s festival.

Farm Aid’s mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America. Farm Aid artists and board members Willie Nelson, Neil Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and Margo Price host an annual festival to raise funds to support Farm Aid’s work with family farmers and to inspire people to choose family farm food. For more than 35 years, Farm Aid, with the support of the artists who contribute their performances each year, has raised nearly $80 million to support programs that help farmers thrive, expand the reach of the Good Food Movement, take action to change the dominant system of industrial agriculture and promote food from family farms.

Fender Introduces the Mustang Micro Plus, Expanding Innovative Pocket-Sized Amp Range

Eric Alper
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Fender Introduces the Mustang Micro Plus, Expanding Innovative Pocket-Sized Amp Range

Today, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) launches the latest addition to its widely-acclaimed Mustang amplifier series, with the release of the Mustang Micro Plus. Building on the success of the The Mustang Micro, this latest iteration takes affordable personal guitar amplification to the next level, right in your pocket, with a wide selection of innovative tones, amp models and effects from the acclaimed Mustang Series amps.

Forming that latest part of the acclaimed Mustang amp series, the Mustang Micro Plus is Fender’s most versatile on-the-go amplifier. With over four hours of continuous play time, it can be plugged directly into your favorite Fender guitar while connected to wired headphones, allowing you to play anywhere without disturbing others.

The Mustang Micro Plus takes everything players love about the Mustang Micro, to the next level. With 25 amp and 25 effects models straight from the Mustang Series of amps, it makes it quick and easy to get iconic Fender tones anywhere; players can effortlessly select from a variety of presets tailored to their musical style.

Boasting 100 fully editable preset slots with Fender Tone App support, the Mustang Micro Plus offers unparalleled customization. Featuring an integrated tuner and a clear display, this amp ensures everything a player needs to jam is right at their fingertips. The built-in Bluetooth audio streaming lets you play along with your favorite songs or videos in real-time. As the ultimate personal guitar amplifier, the Mustang Micro Plus delivers high-quality sound anywhere, anytime, without compromise.

“We’re incredibly excited to unveil the latest evolution of our widely-acclaimed Mustang amplifier series with the introduction of the Mustang Micro Plus”, said Justin Norvell, EVP Product at FMIC. “This new addition represents a significant leap forward in both technology and user experience, offering unparalleled versatility and tone in an incredibly portable package. The Mustang Micro Plus is designed to inspire musicians at every level, providing a powerful, intuitive, and accessible way to create and explore new sounds. We can’t wait to see how this innovative amp will ignite creativity and elevate performances around the world.”

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

  • 25 amp models and 25 effect models: Extensive combinations allow players to experiment with versatility to tailor their sound for any genre or style, from smooth jazz cleans to aggressive metal distortion, enhancing creativity and expression.
  • 100 editable presets: Musicians can save time and instantly recall their favorite amp and effect settings. This feature is particularly valuable for performers who need quick access to different sounds during a set, as well as for those who want to experiment and perfect their tones.
  • Integrated display with onboard tuner: The display makes it easy to navigate settings and presets, while the onboard tuner ensures that the guitar is always in tune, which is crucial for sound quality and note accuracy.
  • Compatible with Fender Tone: iOS and Android app as well as Bluetooth audio streaming with audio/ video sync for playing along in real time, enhancing practice sessions.

MUSTANG MICRO PLUS ($149.99 USD, £149, €169, $289 AUD, ¥23,100 JPY) Mustang Micro Plus takes everything players love about Mustang Micro to the next level. With 25 amps and 25 effects onboard, Mustang Micro Plus is the ultimate personal guitar amplifier. Micro Plus features 100 editable preset slots with Fender ToneApp support, an integrated tuner, and display. Everything you need to jam is built right in. Just plug Micro Plus directly into your guitar jack, connect a pair of ear buds or headphones, choose from a selection of amazing factory presets. And with built-in Bluetooth audio streaming, you can jam along to your favorite songs or guitar videos in real time.

Dierks Bentley To Introduce ROW 94 Whiskey

Eric Alper
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Dierks Bentley To Introduce ROW 94 Whiskey

Country music superstar Dierks Bentley is proud to introduce his first whiskey, ROW 94, made at the historic Green River Distilling Co. in Owensboro, KY. Using only Three Ingredients and The Truth, ROW 94 reflects Bentley’s dream to create a bourbon that he and his fans can enjoy on the big nights and everyday gatherings, amplifying the country in us all. ROW 94 ($39.99/750ml) launches this September across select states, including Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, Colorado, and Arizona, with additional states slated for 2025. It is also available nationwide for purchase at ROW94whiskey.com.

“A lot of years of thinking, researching and trying different whiskeys went into creating ROW 94,” says Bentley. “It’s been an evolution – from drinking basically any whiskey handed to me back in college, to it becoming something I enjoy tasting and sharing with friends. I knew I wanted 94 proof because I like some bite, and that I wanted it aged for at least four years since that’s when it starts to taste best to me. ROW 94 is a serious whiskey that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and I’m glad we finally get to share it.”

Distilled at Green River Distilling Co., founded in 1885 and renowned as the 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky, ROW 94 is crafted with Three Ingredients and The Truth – premium grain, purified Kentucky limestone water, and cultivated yeast. “Through the process, I visited a lot of distilleries and we ended up partnering with one of the greatest in Kentucky,” says Bentley. “It’s been so much fun to be part of the ‘backstage crew’ and learn what it takes from start to finish and get to know the people who work there – it’s a uniquely American process in a lot of ways.”

Made with 70% Kentucky-grown corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted and row barley, ROW 94 is a 94-proof whiskey aged for 4 years in new White Oak barrels with a level 4 char that penetrates deep into the staves for greater complexity and character. It boasts heavy notes of vanilla and toffee to start with a subtle green apple flavor underneath. The whiskey finishes with hints of honey and tobacco.

“Dierks’ passion for whiskey and doing things the right way was evident from the first time we met him,” says Mark Erwin, CEO Bardstown Bourbon Company and Green River. “He loves the Green River Distillery and wanted it to be the home for ROW 94.  We are excited to be partnering with him and his team on this great brand and look forward to seeing what they can do with this great liquid.”

ROW 94 is named in part for the year Bentley moved to Nashville and began his journey into storytelling and entertaining, as well as Nashville’s Music Row. It is where he still resides with his family. The brand logo is the thunderbird, a symbol near and dear to Bentley’s heart, which fans may still remember gracing his landmark album, Riser. The thunderbird is an emblem of strength and an ode to everyday people that believe in hard work, truth, pride, freedom, optimism, fun, and making the most of every day.

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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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