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The Value of Getting Formal Training at Music Production Schools: Unlocking Your Potential

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By Mitch Rice

Investing in formal training at music production schools can be a game-changer for your career. With structured courses, hands-on studio experience, and access to professional equipment, these schools provide a comprehensive education that is difficult to replicate on your own. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application ensures you develop the skills needed to excel in the industry.

Moreover, obtaining a certification or degree from a recognized institution could bolster your resume, making you a more attractive candidate for high-end audio and music industry jobs. These qualifications can open doors that might otherwise remain closed, giving you an edge over self-taught producers.

Attending a music production school also connects you with industry professionals and like-minded peers, fostering a network that can be invaluable throughout your career. This community not only offers support and collaboration opportunities but can also be a significant source of inspiration and growth.

Understanding Music Production Education

Formal training in music production offers numerous advantages including structured learning, mentorship, and industry-recognized qualifications. This section will explore the key benefits of formal education, compare degree programs and certificates, and provide tips for evaluating the curriculum.

Benefits of Formal Education

Formal education in music production offers a range of benefits. Structured learning helps build a strong foundation in music theory, sound design, and audio engineering. Mentorship from experienced professionals provides invaluable guidance.

Hands-on training with industry-standard equipment and software, such as DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations), enhances your technical skills. Additionally, formal education includes opportunities for collaboration with peers, fostering creativity and network-building.

Financial aid options are often available, making it easier to manage tuition costs. By obtaining a recognized qualification, you increase your chances of securing high-end audio and music industry jobs.

Degree Programs vs. Certificates

Degree programs in music production generally offer a more comprehensive education compared to certificate courses. Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs cover a range of subjects, from music theory to advanced sound design and audio engineering.

These programs usually last between two to four years and include in-depth courses that lead to a formal qualification.

Certificate programs, on the other hand, are typically shorter, ranging from a few months to a year, and are focused on specific skills and technical competencies.

Certificates offer a quicker way to gain specialized knowledge without the commitment of a longer degree. Deciding between the two often depends on your career goals, time availability, and financial resources.

Evaluating the Curriculum

When evaluating a music production curriculum, consider course content and whether it aligns with your career goals. Look for courses that cover a wide range of topics, including music production techniques, audio engineering, and sound design.

Check if the program offers hands-on training with professional-grade equipment and software. Internship opportunities and industry partnerships can also enhance your learning experience and provide real-world exposure.

It’s crucial to review the credentials and expertise of the faculty. Experienced instructors can provide high-quality education and valuable industry insights.

Lastly, review the student support services available, such as career counseling and financial aid options, to ensure you have the resources needed to succeed.

Hands-on Experience and Resources

Music production schools offer invaluable hands-on experience and access to high-quality resources that enhance your practical skills and knowledge in the field.

State-of-the-Art Equipment

Training with state-of-the-art equipment is a key benefit of attending a music production school. You get direct access to top-tier gear that includes professional-grade microphones, mixing consoles, and digital audio workstations (DAWs).

Learning in these well-equipped environments prepares you for real-world scenarios. You’ll work with industry-standard tools found in professional recording studios, such as SSL mixing desks, Neumann microphones, and Pro Tools software.

Having consistent access to such equipment significantly boosts your technical prowess.

Practical Applications

You will spend countless hours in recording studios, conducting activities such as recording, editing, mixing, and mastering tracks. This hands-on practice is crucial in understanding the nuances of sound engineering.

In these practical sessions, you’ll apply various microphone techniques, experiment with different sound effects, and produce high-quality audio projects.

Regular, practical exposure ensures that you’re not only theoretically knowledgeable but also technically proficient. This method of learning helps you gain confidence in your ability to manage complex production tasks.

Industry-Standard Software Training

Being proficient in industry-standard software is critical. Music production schools provide comprehensive training in software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools.

These tools are essential for tasks such as editing, mixing, and mastering. The curriculum often includes detailed tutorials, workshops, and hands-on assignments that familiarize you with the latest versions of these programs.

Effective software training ensures you’re capable of producing professional-quality music and keeping up with technological advancements in the industry.

Career Advancement through Networking

Formal training at music production schools not only sharpens your technical skills but also provides you with unique networking opportunities that can significantly boost your career in the music industry. You’ll gain valuable industry connections, engage in collaborative projects, and learn directly from notable alumni and guest speakers.

Building Industry Connections

Networking opportunities are a cornerstone of music production schools. Engaging with industry professionals, instructors, and fellow students helps you create a robust network of contacts.

Attending industry events, guest lectures, and workshops allows you to meet and interact with experts who can offer guidance and potential job opportunities. Because of these connections, you are more likely to hear about job openings and collaborations in the music production industry first.

Collaborative Projects and Real-World Experience

Participating in collaborative projects is crucial for hands-on learning and building a strong portfolio. These projects often involve working with peers on real-world assignments, giving you practical experience.

You might engage in tasks such as mixing tracks, producing demos, or even working on commercial projects. This real-world experience is invaluable when seeking job opportunities in the music business.

Moreover, collaborative efforts teach you how to communicate effectively within a team and manage project goals efficiently.

Notable Alumni and Guest Speakers

Music production schools often invite notable alumni and guest speakers from various sectors of the industry. These individuals share their career journeys and provide insights into what it takes to succeed.

Listening to and learning from their experiences can give you a clearer picture of industry expectations and career pathways. Furthermore, these interactions can lead to mentorship opportunities that are crucial for professional growth in the competitive music production industry.

Considering Financial and Personal Commitment

When deciding to enroll in a music production school, it’s crucial to evaluate the financial and personal commitments involved. You should consider factors such as cost versus value, available financial aid, and the flexibility required to balance your studies with other responsibilities.

Assessing Cost vs. Value

Determining the true value of music production education involves comparing the costs to the potential benefits. Tuition fees can vary widely based on the institution, duration of the course, and location.

Evaluate if the price aligns with the quality of training, access to industry-standard equipment, and networking opportunities. Keep in mind that the certification or degree can open doors to higher-end jobs in the industry, making the investment worthwhile.

Tuition and Financial Aid Options

The cost of tuition at music production schools can be substantial. It’s important to explore various financial aid options to reduce the burden. Scholarships, grants, and student loans are common sources of funding.

Some schools may also offer work-study programs to help offset the costs. Investigate each school’s financial aid office for specific details about available options and eligibility requirements.

Time Investment and Flexibility

Balancing school with other life commitments requires careful planning. Music production programs can demand significant time, ranging from one to multiple years.

Consider the flexibility of the programs offered. Some institutions provide part-time or online courses, which can be beneficial for those with jobs or family responsibilities. Assess your ability to manage the time commitment to ensure steady progress towards your goals.

Conclusion

Enrolling in a formal music production school offers numerous benefits. You gain a structured education that goes beyond self-teaching.

Certification or Degree
One of the key advantages is the qualification you receive. This certification can open doors to high-end jobs where a degree is necessary.

Hands-On Experience
You benefit from practical experience and hands-on training. Schools provide access to advanced studio equipment, allowing you to refine your skills.

Focused Skill Development
These programs offer a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical application. You learn foundational concepts and how to implement them in real-world scenarios.

Networking Opportunities
Attending a music production school also offers invaluable networking opportunities. You can connect with industry professionals and fellow students, forming relationships that can benefit your career.

Formal training equips you with the tools and knowledge to excel in the competitive music production industry. The blend of theoretical and practical education, along with networking opportunities, makes it a valuable investment.

How to Find the Best Deals on Home and Auto Insurance Bundles

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By Mitch Rice

In the quest for affordable insurance, many consumers overlook the potential savings achievable through bundling home and auto insurance policies. This strategy can often lead to significant reductions in annual premiums, making it a crucial consideration for budget-conscious homeowners and car owners alike. Below, we’ll explore the advantages of insurance bundles and how to navigate the process of securing the best deals.

Understanding Insurance Bundling

Insurance bundling simply refers to purchasing more than one type of insurance from the same company. This often includes homeowners and auto insurance, but can also extend to renters, life, and boat insurance policies. The primary benefit of this approach is cost savings, as many companies offer discounts to customers who choose to bundle their insurance products. Moreover, bundling can simplify your finances by consolidating multiple insurance bills into a single payment and reducing the complexity of managing different policies with various providers. For those living in areas prone to natural disasters, it’s also worth considering buying flood insurance in New Mexico, where specific coverage can protect against flood damage that standard home insurance might not cover.

The Benefits of Bundling Home and Auto Insurance

One of the key advantages of bundling home and auto insurance is the potential for substantial discounts. Insurance providers reward loyalty and the increased business volume generated by bundling with reduced rates, which can vary significantly between companies. Additionally, customers often find that managing their insurance needs is much easier when they have a single point of contact for their policies. This can be particularly beneficial in the event of overlapping claims, such as damage to a home and vehicle during a storm.

Simplified Management and Enhanced Coverage Options

Bundling policies not only helps reduce costs but can also offer enhanced coverage options. Some insurers provide unique add-ons or upgrades for bundled policies, which might not be available when policies are purchased separately. These enhancements can include higher coverage limits and fewer restrictions, providing better overall protection and peace of mind.

How to Secure the Best Bundle Deals

Finding the best deals on home and auto insurance bundles requires a bit of research and comparison. Here are some steps to guide you:

Compare Quotes from Multiple Sources

Begin by gathering quotes from several insurance providers. It’s essential to compare not only the prices but also the coverage details, deductibles, and customer service ratings of each insurer. Use these tools to get a baseline understanding of what you can expect to pay and what kind of coverage you will receive. Getting and comparing Citizens home Insurance quotes is a convenient way to check various options without committing to one immediately.

Evaluate Customer Service and Claims Satisfaction

Price isn’t everything when it comes to insurance. Ensure that the company you choose has a reputation for excellent customer service and a straightforward claims process. Read reviews and check ratings on trusted consumer websites to gauge previous customers’ experiences.

Look for Additional Discounts

Beyond the basic bundle discount, check if you qualify for additional reductions. These can include discounts for being claim-free, installing security systems in your home, or even for setting up automatic payments. Every little bit helps to lower your overall insurance costs.

A Special Note on Georgia’s Insurance Landscape

For residents of Georgia specifically, navigating the insurance market can come with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Websites like Young America Insurance can be particularly helpful. They provide localized information that can guide you in finding the most competitive rates and best coverage options in the state, tailored to meet the unique legal and environmental conditions prevalent in Georgia.

The Strategy

Bundling home and auto insurance is a strategy well worth considering for anyone looking to reduce their insurance expenses while simplifying policy management. By researching and comparing your options, considering the quality of customer service, and exploring additional discounts, you can secure a bundle that not only saves money but also enhances your coverage quality and convenience. Remember, the best insurance plan is one that provides peace of mind along with financial savings.

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

 

Online Casinos and the Mobile Gaming Revolution

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By Mitch Rice

The rise of mobile technology has significantly impacted the online gaming industry, compelling casinos to adapt their business models in order to meet the demand for mobile-compatible platforms. Consequently, many web-based casinos have invested heavily in creating mobile-responsive sites as well as developing dedicated mobile applications. This allows them to create seamless user experiences where players can enjoy their commonly played casino games anywhere and at any time.

Variety and Convenience with Mobile Games

The Stakers team demonstrates its ability to help players looking forward to exploring the diverse offerings of various casinos. Moreover, this change improves the quality of the quality of the playing experience and also makes it easier for gamblers to move through different product lists uninterrupted by these technical errors. 

Modern phone gambling has brought a full range of various games from famous casinos to your fingertips. Today’s portable devices offer such iconic amusements as traditional table games like roulette or blackjack, live dealer plays, or video slots. To match personal computers, developers are constantly innovating and creating interesting gambling activities.

The Pros and Cons of Smartphone Betting

One major benefit of owning a smartphone is how easy it has made gambling and using bonus codes for casinos. Players can participate while in transit, either during a trip or even when they choose to gamble from home, including during lunch break hours at work. Cellphone betting is increasingly becoming popular, thereby leading to rapid growth within the online casino niche.

At the same time, there are also considerable disadvantages to using these devices for gaming purposes. Sometimes, certain games lose their visual appeal due to the reduced screen resolution available on most phones today. Additionally, players are concerned about much longer battery life times and data usage when phones have limited storage capacities.

Ensuring Security and Privacy

In view of the increasing popularity of smartphone gaming today, online casinos have been compelled to put security first in terms of the user information provided therein by customers. For example, most websites rely upon powerful encryption technologies, such as transport layer, security layer, and secure socket layer, to secure data flowing in and out of their portals. This has played a big role in protecting sensitive information from exposure to cyberattacks.

Furthermore, reliable online casinos employ modern fraud detection systems that track all monetary transactions to prevent any unauthorized access to the system. The safety audits are done on a regular basis, as required by law for portable gaming platforms. 

Ways of Maximizing the Gaming Experience

In conclusion, there are several pointers and strategies one can follow to make the most of on-the-go gaming. Finding the right casino is a way of approaching this matter. Consider looking for sites with many games, simple navigation menus, and tight security measures. Additionally, checking through reviews and reputations with the prescribed casinos may help identify where good gambling lies.

Moreover, players should take advantage of bonuses and promotions, especially those targeting mobile phone or tablet gamers. In many instances, most online casino operators offer particular bonuses for people who either register themselves or play via apps such as cell phones or tablets, hence encouraging more action. Such incentives make one’s play time more valuable, thus making it better overall for him or her.

Balancing leisure with responsibility means that time and costs must be managed. This can be solved by regulating gambling hours or drawing up a budget for betting funds to avoid possible problems connected with too much play. Players can make the most of their gaming experiences when they adopt pragmatic advice but keep updated information so they can get convenience as well as excitement at personal disposal points.

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

Watch ZZ Top Make Their TV Debut On ‘The Tonight Show’ in 1986

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Legendary band ZZ Top rocked their television debut on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson in May 1986, delivering electrifying performances of “Sharp Dressed Man” and “Tush”! Even Doc Severinsen got in on the fun, donning a long fake beard while jamming with the band.

NIKI Announces Biggest World Tour To Date With Over 40 Shows

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Today, global icon and singer-songwriter NIKI announces her biggest tour to date spanning 41 markets in North America, Europe, the UK, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. These dates, produced by Live Nation, will celebrate the release of her ambitious and sonically-expansive upcoming album Buzz out August 9, 2024 via 88rising. Fellow singer-songwriters Allison Ponthier and Amy Allen will join as support in North America and Europe, respectively.

Earlier this month, Buzz was announced alongside a lead single “Too Much Of A Good Thing” which ushered in this flirty, confessional, and deeply relatable new era for NIKI. Read more about the track in The New York Times and UPROXX, and watch the accompanying music video shot on 16mm film HERE.

What eventually became Buzz, the third studio album by singer-songwriter and globally-renowned star NIKI, started with an urgent quake from the innermost core of her being. What surfaced in its wake was a collection of warm, stirring folk-rock songs, which crackle and flare like a bonfire between close confidantes. “I went through an identity crisis,” says the 25-year-old of Buzz. “It took a lot of trial and error, and I just stumbled upon pieces of myself along the way. I named it Buzz because it feels like I’m on the precipice of something about to happen.”

For NIKI, things have been happening progressively since she was a high schooler in Jakarta, Indonesia. As a student at an international academy, she cut her teeth scribbling lovesick poems in English class and performed acoustic guitar covers of American pop songs on YouTube. With a six-string in hand, and her family and classmates cheering her on from the audience, Nicole Zefanya then staked her claim to global stardom as NIKI.

And claim it she has – with over three billion streams worldwide, sold out shows on multiple continents, massive sets at festivals across the globe, front row seats at Paris Fashion Week, four songs on a Marvel film’s soundtrack, and some of the most phenomenal, confessional songs being released in 2024, NIKI has already established a veteran’s resume before the age of 25.

On Buzz, her songwriting remains as intimate as ever. In her initial sketches of songs for Buzz, NIKI took cues from other lane-paving women with confessional, honest lyricism soundtracked by guitars. “Joni Mitchell is my songwriting north star,” she says — and uncompromising feminist luminaries like Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon and Liz Phair. To match the wandering spirit of Buzz, NIKI cultivated her own elastic approach to guitar.

To further harness this creative and personal sea change, NIKI began enlisting producers who had worked with her favorite contemporary singer-songwriters. She tapped Tyler Chester, who’d captured tracks with Madison Cunningham and Sara Bareilles; she also recruited Ethan Gruska, who counts Fiona Apple and Phoebe Bridgers as collaborators.

Buzz reverberates with the hard-earned wisdom of a young woman who charges dauntlessly towards her dreams — but can still spare a laugh if she stumbles.

NORTH AMERICA

Sep 5, 2024 – Toronto ON – Budweiser Stage

Sep 7, 2024 – Boston MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

Sep 8, 2024 – Washington DC – The Anthem

Sep 12, 2024 – Philadelphia PA – The Met

Sep 13, 2024 – New York City NY – SummerStage in Central Park

Sep 16, 2024 – Charlotte NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre

Sep 17, 2024 – Atlanta GA – Coca-Cola Roxy

Sep 19, 2024 – Houston TX – 713 Music Hall

Sep 20, 2024 – Austin TX – Moody Amphitheatre

Sep 21, 2024 – Dallas TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

Sep 25, 2024 – Chicago IL – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

Sep 27, 2024 – Minneapolis MN – The Armory

Sep 29, 2024 – Denver CO – Fillmore Auditorium

Oct 1, 2024 – Salt Lake City UT – The Union Event Center

Oct 3, 2024 – Berkeley CA – The Greek Theatre *

Oct 8, 2024 – Phoenix AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

Oct 10, 2024 – Las Vegas NV – The Chelsea at the Cosmopolitan

Oct 11, 2024 – Los Angeles CA – The Greek Theatre

Oct 14, 2024 – San Diego CA – Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre

Oct 17, 2024 – Portland OR – Alaska Airlines’ Theater of the Clouds

Oct 18, 2024 – Seattle WA – WAMU Theater at Lumen Field

Oct 19, 2024 – Vancouver BC – Rogers Arena

* Non-Live Nation Date

EUROPE

Oct 27, 2024 – Brussels BE – La Madeleine

Oct 29, 2024 – Cologne DE – Palladium

Nov 1, 2024 – Paris FR – L’Olympia

Nov 2, 2024 – Rotterdam NL – Poppodium 013

Nov 6, 2024 – Manchester UK – O2 Apollo Manchester

Nov 7, 2024 – London UK – OVO Arena, Wembley

Nov 10, 2024 – Dublin IE – 3Olympia Theatre

ASIA

Feb 9, 2025 – Hong Kong

Feb 11, 2025 – Manila

Feb 12, 2025 – Manila

Feb 14, 2025 – Jakarta

Feb 15, 2025 – Jakarta

Feb 18, 2025 – Singapore

Feb 20, 2025 – Taipei

Feb 22, 2025 – Bangkok

Feb 25, 2025 – Kuala Lumpur

Feb 26, 2025 – Kuala Lumpur

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

Mar 5, 2025 – Perth AU

Mar 7, 2025 – Brisbane AU

Mar 9, 2025 – Sydney AU

Mar 13, 2025 – Melbourne AU

Mar 15, 2025 – Auckland NZ

(Buzz Album Cover — download HERE)

FOR MORE ON NIKI:

Lorna Shore Announces North American Headlining Tour

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Lorna Shore is thrilled to announce their upcoming North American tour with Whitechapel, Kublai Khan TX and Sanguisugabogg this September/October! Produced by Live Nation, this special run of headline shows, Lorna Shore will be playing their latest album, Pain Remains, in its entirety, making this is one show not to be missed!

Lorna Shore unleashed their groundbreaking fourth full-length, Pain Remains, in 2022, earning “album of the year” accolades upon its release (Loudwire) with media hailing it as “one of the best symphonic metal and deathcore albums”(Metal Injection). Recently, the quintet gave fans an instrumental edition of the record, as well as a full band playthrough video for the Pain Remains trilogy.

Lorna Shore North American Tour
w/ Whitechapel, Kublai Khan TX, Sanguisugabogg
Thu Sep 19 – Montreal, QC – MTELUS
Fri Sep 20 – Toronto, ON – HISTORY
Sat Sep 21 – Moon Township, PA – UPMC Events Center
Sun Sep 22 – Greensboro, NC – Greensboro Special Events Center
Tue Sep 24 – Orlando, FL – Hard Rock Live Orlando
Wed Sep 25 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
Fri Sep 27 – Louder Than Life Fest – Louisville, KY
Sat Sep 28 – St. Louis, MO – The Pageant
Sun Sep 29 – Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom
Mon Sep 30 – The Midland Theatre – Kansas City, MO
Wed Oct 2 – New Orleans, LA – The Fillmore New Orleans
Thu Oct 3 – Houston, TX – House Of Blues
Fri Oct 4 – San Antonio, TX – Boeing Center at Tech Port
Sat Oct 5 – Dallas, TX – Southside Ballroom
Mon Oct 7 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren
Tue Oct 8 – Las Vegas, NV – Brooklyn Bowl
Thu Oct 10 – Anaheim, CA – House Of Blues
Fri Oct 11 – Los Angeles, CA – The Wiltern
Sat Oct 12 – Aftershock Fest – Sacramento, CA
Mon Oct 14 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom
Tue Oct 15 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
Thu Oct 17 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
Fri Oct 18 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
Sat Oct 19 – Omaha, NE – Steelhouse Omaha
Sun Oct 20 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore Minneapolis
Tue Oct 22 – Chicago, IL – Radius
Wed Oct 23 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
Thu Oct 24 - Cleveland, OH – The Agora*
Fri Oct 25 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore Silver Spring
Sun Oct 27 – New York, NY – Hammerstein Ballroom
Mon Oct 28 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Tue Oct 29 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia
Wed Oct 30 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre

Meshell Ndegeocello Announces ‘No More Water: The Gospel Of James Baldwin’ To Be Released Aug. 2

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Meshell Ndegeocello has announced her second Blue Note album No More Water: The Gospel Of James Baldwin, a striking homage to the eminent writer and activist James Baldwin to be released on his Centennial: August 2, 2024. The visionary work is at once a musical experience, a church service, a celebration, a testimonial, and a call to action. With No More Water, Ndegeocello embarks on a prophetic musical odyssey that transcends boundaries and genres, delving headfirst into race, sexuality, religion, and other recurring themes explored in Baldwin’s canon. Following 2023’s The Omnichord Real Book, her acclaimed Blue Note debut which won the inaugural GRAMMY Award for Best Alternative Jazz Album, the multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and producer renders an immersive and palpable document that is as sagacious, unabashed, and introspective as Baldwin was in life.

Co-produced by Ndegeocello and guitarist Chris Bruce, No More Water features some of the bassist’s frequent collaborators including Bruce, vocalist Justin Hicks, saxophonist (and Omnichord producer) Josh Johnson, keyboardist Jebin Bruni, and drummer Abe Rounds. Also appearing on various songs are vocalist Kenita-Miller Hicks, keyboardists Jake Sherman and Julius Rodriguez, and Executive Director of the NYCPS Arts Office and trumpeter Paul Thompson. The album also showcases powerful spoken word by venerated poet Staceyann Chin and Pulitzer Prize-winning author and critic Hilton Als.

Nearly a decade in the making, the album’s origins began in 2016 during a performance at The Harlem Stage Gatehouse as part of their annual showcase honoring Baldwin. Ndegeocello had delved into Baldwin’s work the year before, including the seminal nonfiction work The Fire Next Time, which she considers “life-changing” and carries with her as a “spiritual text.” Ndegeocello says, “It was just a revelation to me, and it softened my heart in so many ways.”

“Inspired by Baldwin’s most well-known essay, Ndegeocello’s piece—often staged as a church service—employs music, sermon, text, images, and movement, all of which enter into conversation with Baldwin’s monumental and delicate essay about how black bodies were perceived not only by white Americans but by blacks themselves,” writes Als in the album’s liner notes. “The music you hear in No More Water, is Jimmy talking to Meshell and his words meeting the language of her sounds and then coming out again through a multitude of voices, a multitude of sounds and thoughts that bring Jimmy back and give him—finally—his whole and true self, that which he offered up, time and again, if only we knew then how to listen.”

Thematically, the album moves like a procession in a Black church—baptism, testimony, worship/praise, and ultimately, resurrection. For the album’s opening track and lead single, “Travel,” we are brought inside the mind of a man with suicidal thoughts, a recurring motif in much of Baldwin’s oeuvre. Setting a dystopian mood, Rodriguez’s organ and Chin’s echoing incantations help usher in Justin Hicks’ ominous vocals: “I’ll stay away with all the work to be done/I’ll be bleeding while you bake in the sun.

Raise The Roof” features Chin sans accompaniment as the intensity of her words captures the stark and harrowing reality of the pervasive racism we cannot seem to escape: “It must be in the fucking water being force-fed to the police, the prosecutor and the politicians who care nothing for Black bodies falling like leaves in late August…in Ferguson…in Cleveland…in Staten Island, only minutes away from where my own child sits, watching The Muppets take over Manhattan.

No More Water marks a significant moment of self-discovery for Ndegeocello. She adds that Baldwin entered her life at precisely the right time. “It came when I was ready to look in the mirror. I’ve had to play Plantation Lullabies at a few shows. Looking back, I had an interesting perspective, but the dialogue was limited. It was more like a cathartic experience for a young person of color, whereas now I’m going, ‘How can I get us all to love each other? How can I get us all to see this for what it is?’”

Beastie Boys Celebrate 30 Years Of ‘Ill Communication’ With Limited Edition 3LP Deluxe Vinyl & Cassette Out July 26

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Originally released 30 years ago today on May 31, 1994, Ill Communication was much more than the record that returned Beastie Boys to #1 on the Billboard 200. In short order, the fourth album from Michael “Mike D” Diamond, Adam “Adrock” Horovitz and Adam “MCA” Yauch would become a multi-platinum juggernaut that pervaded every aspect of pop culture. Ill Communication‘s charge to global domination was led by “Sabotage” and its unforgettable Spike Jonze/Nathanial Hornblower-directed tribute to ’70s cop shows, as Rolling Stone dubbed the album 1994’s “soundtrack for summer.” Fans and critics alike were equally and instantly floored by hip hop highlights like the opening “Sure Shot,” the classic Jimmy Smith homage “Root Down” and the Q-Tip collaboration “Get It Together,” while a Vibe cover story hailed Beastie Boys as “perhaps the most consistently innovative musicians to emerge out of hip hop.” It was a claim that Ill Communication continues to back up, as the album’s infectious sprawl enthralls multiple generations of listeners. From household name hits to sublime instrumentals (“Sabrosa,” “Ricky’s Theme”) to hardcore punk workouts (“Tough Guy,” “Heart Attack Man”) and realms beyond (“Bodhisattva Vow,” “Shambala”), Ill Communication has never stopped growing in stature and impact.

Grand Royal, Capitol Records and UMe are proud to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Ill Communication with the July 26 release of two limited edition versions of this Beastie Boys opus:

* A 3LP Deluxe Edition that resurrects a rare version of the album originally released as a limited run in 2009. Long out-of-print and sought after by fans and collectors, the Ill Communication 30th anniversary vinyl edition features lenticular cover art and includes a third LP with 12 bonus tracks (featuring rarities including a live version of “The Maestro” from 1992’s Check Your Head, “Mullet Head,” and ten more remixes, B-sides and assorted oddities), all housed in a rigid slipcase and pressed on 180g vinyl.

* A limited edition cassette of the original album, marking the first time in decades Ill Communication will be available in the format.

So fire up the turntable and dust off that Walkman, and join in the celebration of 30 years of Ill Communication with Beastie Boys and the album’s supporting cast of Mario Caldato Jr. (who co-produced the record with the band), Money Mark, Eric Bobo, Amery “AWOL” Smith, Eugene Gore, Q-Tip and Biz Markie. Because you can’t, you won’t and you don’t stop…

BEASTIE BOYS
ILL COMMUNICATION
30th Anniversary Tracklists

3LP Deluxe

Disc 1
• Sure Shot (Side A)
• Tough Guy (Side A)
• B-Boys Makin’ With The Freak Freak (Side A)
• Bobo On The Corner (Side A)
• Root Down (Side A)
• Sabotage (Side B)
• Get It Together (Side B)
• Sabrosa (Side B)
• The Update (Side B)
• Futterman’s Rule (Side B)

Disc 2
• Alright Hear This (Side C)
• Eugene’s Lament (Side C)
• Flute Loop (Side C)
• Do It (Side C)
• Ricky’s Theme (Side C)
• Heart Attack Man (Side D)
• The Scoop (Side D)
• Shambala (Side D)
• Bodhisattva Vow (Side D)
• Transitions (Side D)

Disc 3
• Root Down (Free Zone Mix) (Side E)
• Resolution Time (Side E)
• Get It Together (Buck-Wild Remix) (Side E)
• Dope Little Song (Side E)
• Sure Shot (European B-Boy Mix) (Side E)
• Heart Attack Man (Unplugged) (Side E)
• The Vibes (Side F)
• Atwater Basketball Association File No. 172-C (Side F)
• Heart Attack Man (Live) (Side F)
• The Maestro (Live) (Side F)
• Mullet Head (Side F)
• Sure Shot (European B-Boy Instrumental) (Side F)

Cassette
• Sure Shot (Side A)
• Tough Guy (Side A)
• B-Boys Makin’ With The Freak Freak (Side A)
• Bobo On The Corner (Side A)
• Root Down (Side A)
• Sabotage (Side A)
• Get It Together (Side A)
• Sabrosa (Side A)
• The Update (Side A)
• Futterman’s Rule (Side A)
• Alright Hear This (Side B)
• Eugene’s Lament (Side B)
• Flute Loop (Side B)
• Do It (Side B)
• Ricky’s Theme (Side B)
• Heart Attack Man (Side B)
• The Scoop (Side B)
• Shambala (Side B)
• Bodhisattva Vow (Side B)
• Transitions (Side B)

LCD Soundsystem Announces Los Angeles Residency

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LCD Soundsystem will bring its legendary residency experience back to Los Angeles for the first time in seven years, with an eight-date run to take place four nights each at two venues: October 31 through November 3 at Shrine Expo Hall, and November 7 through 10 at the Hollywood Palladium.

The newly announced shows mark the first LCD Soundsystem Los Angeles residency since the band’s five-night engagement at the Hollywood Palladium in 2017.

The return of the LCD Soundsystem residency to Los Angeles expands a 2024 itinerary that has included a trio of shows in Mexico, a headlining set at the Kilby Block Party in Salt Lake City, shows in select US cities including Bend, OR and Minneapolis, as well as four-night stands at Seattle’s Paramount Theatre and Chicago’s Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom. Prior to the Los Angeles residency, LCD Soundsystem will head overseas for a series of dates beginning June 26 at Malahide Castle in Dublin and making stops throughout the UK and Europe, before concluding September 1 at Forwards in Bristol UK.

Tickets for the eight new Los Angeles shows will go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, June 7th at 10am PT. American Express Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, June 4th at 10am PT through Thursday, June 6th at 10pm PT. Artist pre-sale begins Wednesday, June 5th at 10am PT. Pre-sale registration is open now at http://www.youareherela.com/.

SiriusXM to Launch Exclusive Avicii Channel

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SiriusXM announced today the launch of Avicii Radio, an exclusive channel dedicated to the life and legacy of Swedish artist, producer and songwriter Avicii. SiriusXM is producing the channel in collaboration with the Tim Bergling Foundation, created and led by Avicii’s family.

The exclusive channel will be available beginning Thursday, May 23, on the SiriusXM app.

Avicii Radio will commemorate Avicii’s groundbreaking career and impact on Dance and Electronic music and will showcase the love his family, friends and fans share for him. The channel will feature Avicii hits, remixes and never before heard music from past live performances as well as music by his friends, influences, collaborators and more. The channel will also include involvement from Avicii’s friends and collaborators Nicky Romero, Armin van Buuren, Laidback Luke and Avicii’s longtime collaborator, singer-songwriter Aloe Blacc, who will voice the channel as it launches with their joint track “Wake Me Up.”

Avicii Radio aims to continue the conversation around mental health with exclusive commentary from artists sharing their mental health journeys and advice. The channel’s central focus is to provide “Music For A Better Day,” ultimately inspiring listeners to build a better day through music. The channel will also include specialty programming highlighting events and concerts in Stockholm benefitting the Tim Bergling Foundation.

The channel’s launch coincides with the tenth anniversary of Avicii’s “The Days / Nights EP” as well as Mental Health Awareness Month. The channel will feature audio messaging from Vibrant Emotional Health, an innovative community of mental wellness programs for people at all stages of life.

“This is a great continuation of Tim’s relationship with SiriusXM and Geronimo, SiriusXM’s Vice President of Dance Music, who were supporters of his music very early on in his career,” said Klas Bergling, director of the Tim Bergling Foundation. “We appreciate their interest in promoting the emotional well-being of young people and of the Tim Bergling Foundation and its goals.”

“I can’t think of a better way to honor the life and legacy of Avicii,” said Aloe Blacc. “This SiriusXM radio channel dedicated to the music he made, played and inspired is a lasting testament to his massive influence.”

“Tim (Avicii) and I had a special friendship dating back to his early career, so to work with his family to observe and celebrate his legacy through music with Avicii Radio is something I am personally excited about and honored to bring to our listeners,” said Scott Greenstein, SiriusXM’s President and Chief Content Officer.

Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM for free. Go to siriusxm.com/GetSiriusXM3mos to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer. See Offer Details.