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Soundtracks of Major Sporting Events: How Music is Selected and Influences the Audience

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By Mitch Rice

Music and sports are intertwined in a way that amplifies the excitement, emotion, and atmosphere of sporting events. From the thumping anthems that get fans on their feet to the triumphant tunes accompanying victory laps, the soundtrack of a major sporting event plays a crucial role in shaping the experience for both athletes and spectators alike. But have you ever wondered how these soundtracks are selected and the impact they have on the audience? Let’s dive into the world of sports anthems, with a nod to the 1xbet app for those who like to amplify their sporting experience.

The Selection Process: Behind the Scenes

Choosing the right music for a major sporting event is a meticulous process that involves various stakeholders, including event organizers, music directors, and sometimes, the athletes themselves. The goal is to find songs that resonate with the event’s theme, enhance the atmosphere, and connect with a diverse audience.

Criteria for Selection

  1. Universality: The music must have a broad appeal, transcending age, gender, and nationality.
  2. Energy Level: Upbeat and dynamic tracks are preferred to keep the adrenaline flowing.
  3. Message: Songs with inspirational or motivational messages often make the cut, aligning with the spirit of competition and perseverance.

The Role of Music Directors

Music directors play a pivotal role in curating the event’s soundtrack. They scout for songs that not only meet the criteria but also ensure a smooth flow from the opening ceremony to the closing. Their expertise ensures that each moment of the event is musically underscored, enhancing the emotional weight of competitions and ceremonies.

The Impact on the Audience

The right soundtrack can transform the atmosphere of an event, evoking emotions and creating memorable experiences. Music acts as a universal language that can inspire, motivate, and bring people together.

Emotional Connection

Songs with uplifting messages or powerful beats can elevate the mood of the audience, creating a sense of unity and excitement. These tracks become the backdrop against which memorable moments are made, from breathtaking victories to heart-wrenching defeats.

Memory and Association

Certain songs become inextricably linked with specific events or moments, creating lasting memories. Whenever these tunes are played, they transport listeners back to the excitement and emotion of the original event.

Songs That Became Sports Anthems

Over the years, several songs have transcended their original contexts to become synonymous with sports. Here are a few notable examples:

  • “We Will Rock You” by Queen: A staple in stadiums worldwide, this song’s stomping beat and defiant lyrics have energized crowds for decades.
  • “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor: Immortalized by the “Rocky” films, this track is the quintessential anthem for perseverance and triumph against the odds.
  • “Wavin’ Flag” by K’naan: Originally about struggle and freedom, this song gained global recognition as Coca-Cola’s promotional anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

These songs, among others, have become iconic, reminding us of the power of music to unite and inspire in the context of sports.

Conclusion

The selection and impact of music at major sporting events highlight the profound connection between sound and spectacle. As organizers carefully curate soundtracks that resonate with audiences worldwide, they create a shared experience that elevates the event beyond mere competition. Whether it’s the stirring beat of a drum, the triumphant blast of a trumpet, or the collective chorus of fans singing along, music remains an essential element of the sports experience, uniting spectators and athletes in a symphony of competition and camaraderie.

As we reflect on the anthems that have become sports staples, it’s clear that the right soundtrack can turn a game into a legend, a moment into a memory, and a competition into a celebration of human spirit and unity.

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

The Junos Are This Weekend, And You Can Still Get Involved As An Artist (Without Leaving Your House…)

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The Canadian Academy of Arts and Sciences have announced the final lineup of artists set to perform at The 2024 JUNO Awards Broadcast hosted by Canadian pop icon, Nelly Furtado. Among the highlights, Alexandra Stréliski will pay homage to Karl Tremblay, the iconic lead singer and co-founder of Les Cowboys Fringants in a joint performance with Allison Russell and Aysanabee who will pay tribute to legendary artists Gordon Lightfoot and Robbie Robertson. Additionally, Jeremy Dutcher and Elisapie will take the stage with a powerful performance that will delight audiences.

This year’s winners will be unveiled in Halifax, Nova Scotia, first at the JUNO Opening Night Awards Presented by Music Canada on Saturday, March 23, followed by The JUNO Awards Broadcast on Sunday, March 24, live on CBC. Produced by Insight Productions (a Boat Rocker company), the 53rd JUNO Awards will be broadcast and streamed live from the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax, starting at 9 p.m AST/8 p.m EST on CBC TV, CBC Gem, CBC Radio One, CBC Music, CBC Listen, and globally at CBCMusic.ca/junos and CBC Music’s YouTube page.

If you’re an artist, and even if you didn’t get a nomination, you can still be part of the social media buzz, and show your support to the music industry, your friends and colleagues, and it’s going to make you feel good. Here are 5 reasons why:

Community Building: Supporting other artists, especially those nominated for big awards like the JUNOs, helps create a strong community in the music world. When artists cheer on and celebrate each other’s achievements, it makes for a friendly and supportive atmosphere that helps everyone feel good.

Networking Opportunities: When artists show support for JUNO nominees on social media, it can lead to making important connections. They can meet other musicians, people who work in the music industry, and fans who also like the nominees. These connections might lead to chances to work together, make deals, or get noticed in the future.

Reciprocity: By cheering on fellow musicians, artists often find that kindness comes back to them. When they actively support and celebrate other artists, they’re more likely to get similar support when they release new music, go on tour, or try new things in their careers. It’s like a friendly circle where everyone helps each other out.

Elevating the Industry: Adding to the excitement around the JUNO Awards and the artists nominated raises the whole music industry up. When Canadian artists and their music get more attention, it not only boosts the reputation of individual musicians but also highlights the variety and talent in Canadian music overall. This is good for all artists, whether they’re up for awards or not.

Inspiration and Motivation: Paying attention to the success of JUNO nominees can inspire and encourage artists who haven’t been nominated themselves. Seeing other musicians get recognized for their hard work can push artists to keep getting better and aim for their own successes. It shows that with dedication, hard work, and supporting each other, everyone can achieve their goals in music.

So, put the spotlight on your favourite nominee, performer or anything you can think of – it’ll be worth a post or two…

 

Kacey Musgraves Shares The Story Behind “Dinner with Friends”

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Kacey Musgraves’ sixth studio album, “Deeper Well,” dropped on March 15, 2024 behind by the release of two singles, “Deeper Well” and “Too Good to Be True,” with the album settings the stage for Musgraves’ upcoming Deeper Well World Tour scheduled for April 2024. In this video, she discusses the meaning behind just one of the great songs from the album, “Dinner With Friends.”

My Next Read: “No Machos Or Pop Stars: When the Leeds Art Experiment Went Punk” By Gavin Butt

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After punk’s arrival in 1976, many art students in the northern English city of Leeds traded their paintbrushes for guitars and synthesizers. In bands ranging from Gang of Four, Soft Cell, and Delta 5 to the Mekons, Scritti Politti, and Fad Gadget, these artists-turned-musicians challenged the limits of what was deemed possible in rock and pop music. Taking avant-garde ideas to the record-buying public, they created Situationist antirock and art punk, penned deconstructed pop ditties about Jacques Derrida, and took the aesthetics of collage and shock to dark, brooding electro-dance music. In No Machos or Pop Stars Gavin Butt tells the fascinating story of the post-punk scene in Leeds, showing how England’s state-funded education policy brought together art students from different social classes to create a fertile ground for musical experimentation. Drawing on extensive interviews with band members, their associates, and teachers, Butt details the groups who wanted to dismantle both art world and music industry hierarchies by making it possible to dance to their art. Their stories reveal the subversive influence of art school in a regional music scene of lasting international significance.

K-pop’s ‘aespa: WORLD TOUR in cinemas’ to be released worldwide on 24 & 27 April

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aespa and Trafalgar Releasing are proud to announce that aespa: WORLD TOUR in cinemas will be coming to the big screen worldwide across two nights on 24 & 27 April. For their debut concert film, audiences will witness the unparalleled energy of aespa’s live performance, captured from their electrifying show at London’s O2 Arena, their first-ever UK show. Tickets on sale from March 27 at 3pm GMT, visit aespaworldtourincinemas.com

From February to September 2023 the group’s first world tour, aespa LIVE TOUR 2023 SYNK : HYPER LINE, visited 21 venues across four continents. Now, step into the final chapter of their global tour journey with aespa: WORLD TOUR in cinemas.

With their futuristic stage visuals, high-energy choreography and captivating vocals, watch aespa fiercely command the stage at London’s O2 Arena, delivering fan favourites including ‘Next Level’, ‘Savage’, ‘Girls’, ‘Spicy’ and ‘Black Mamba’. The film also highlights individual performances by each member, complemented by exclusive behind-the-scenes interviews, offering a glimpse behind the curtain.

With over 2.8 billion YouTube views at NEXT LEVEL MV and much raved-about performances; the fierce foursome of KARINA, GISELLE, WINTER and NINGNING are rapidly cementing their status as killer performers on and off screen.

aespa said: “Since this is our first world tour, it will always hold a special place in our hearts as it gave us the opportunity to see MYs from all over the world. ‘Til we meet again… we hope you enjoy our first concert movie and keep an eye out for the exclusive content behind-the-scenes.”

CEO of Trafalgar Releasing, Marc Allenby, said: “We are pleased to announce the theatrical release of ‘aespa: WORLD TOUR in cinemas,’ a special cinematic presentation capturing the acclaimed global tour, aespa LIVE TOUR 2023 SYNK : HYPER LINE. Dedicated MY, as well as those curious to discover the global phenomenon, will appreciate the opportunity to witness the full artistry and energy of aespa’s captivating live show on the big screen.”

CEO of CJ 4DPLEX, Jongryul Kim, said: “We are pleased to release a live concert of global artist aespa’s first world tour as a movie in special formats. Our special formats, ScreenX and 4DX, will recreate the thrilling performance of aespa and fans in the theatre with immersion.”

Don’t miss this celebration of music and talent that captures the spirit and passion of aespa’s journey so far.

Experience even more with immersive special formats ScreenX, 4DX and ULTRA 4DX, available in select cinemas.

Tickets go on sale March 27. Visit aespaworldtourincinemas.com for screening details and full participating countries.

Release dates: Wednesday April 24, Saturday April 27, 2024

Please note some Asian territories will screen across April 24, 25, 26 & 27.

Additional screening dates may vary, check your local venues.

aespa: WORLD TOUR in cinemas

Cast: KARINA, GISELLE, WINTER, NINGNING

Directors: YOON DONG OH, HAMIN KIM

Runtime: 125 minutes approx.

aespa [KARINA, GISELLE, WINTER, AND NINGNING] is a fierce female K-Pop group, who in an unprecedented move secured the fastest climb to 100 million views on their debut video for any K-Pop group in YouTube history with their 2020 released, “Black Mamba.” aespa’s hit single “Next Level” followed, and has amassed over 200 million streams on Spotify alone. The group’s 2022 EP,Girls – The 2nd Mini Album debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart and crashed the Top 3 of the Billboard 200 – their highest to date. aespa’s 3rd Mini Album – MY WORLD, also debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales Chart. All of these milestones have led to aespa’s recently released 4th Mini Album – Drama.

The group has received praise from the likes of The New York Times, TIME, FORBES, Rolling Stone, Teen Vogue and more with UPROXX stating, “nothing is more exciting than a new aespa song.” aespa became the first K-Pop artists to play at the Governors Ball in June and Outside Lands in August before they headed off to continue their first global tour.

aespa’s name is derived from a combination of “ae” (avatar and experience) + “aspect.” Each of the four members of aespa has a correlating avatar in the virtual world created from their personal data.

Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, The Motels, And Naked Eyes Announce The “Abducted By The ’80s” Tour

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The 1980s were a unique, fun-filled era of music shaped in no small part by the emergence of MTV and the genre of New Wave. Fans will soon have a chance to step back in time to the electrifying era of the ’80s with a music tour that promises a nostalgic journey of iconic sounds and unforgettable melodies.

Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, The Motels, and Naked Eyes have joined forces to create a musical extravaganza that transports audiences to the heart of the neon-soaked, synth-driven decade with the impending launch of the Abducted by the ’80s Tour.

Get ready to dance, sing along, and relive the magic of the 80s with this unforgettable music tour, including mega-hits such as “Everybody Have Fun Tonight,” “Dance Hall Days,” “Let’s Go,” “To Live and Die in L.A.,” “Safety Dance,” “Pop Goes The World,” “Only The Lonely,” “Suddenly Last Summer,” “Take The L,” “Always Something There To Remind Me,” and “Promises, Promises.”

“I’m so excited to be reunited with Wang Chung and Naked Eyes for the Abducted by the Eighties tour this year,” says the Motels’ Martha Davis. “Nick, Jack, and Pete are some of my favorite people, not to mention amazing musicians! Hope to see you all there for some great nights and wonderful music.”

“For our brand new tour this Spring, we have put together a group of acts that fit together musically, thematically, and harmoniously,” adds Wang Chung’s Nick Feldman and Jack Hues. “We wanted to create a night of big hits, big songs from your favorite movies and numerous TV shows, plus a few deeper cuts too. So come along and see us, get Abducted by the 80s, and have some FUN TONIGHT as you relive that magical decade!”

Combined, Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, The Motels, and Naked Eyes have recorded 28 Billboard Top 100 hits including eight top 10 hits.

Come dance to the hits and get Abducted By the 80s!

Abducted by the ’80s Tour Dates:
05/17 – Kyle, TX @ The Railhouse *
05/18 – Katy, TX @ Wildcatter Saloon *
05/19 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues *
05/23 – St. Louis, MO @ City Winery #
05/24 – Oak Grove, KY @ Oak Grove ^
05/25 – Louisville, KY @ Mercury Ballroom %
06/06 – Marion, IL @ Marion CCC $
06/07 – Des Plaines, IL @ Des Plaines Theatre $
06/08 – Decatur, IL @ Devon Lakeshore Amp $
06/09 – Fort Wayne, IN @ The Clyde Theater &
06/13 – Morristown, NJ @ Mayo Performing Arts Center &
06/14 – Syracuse, NY @ Sharkey’s &
06/15 – Elmira, NY @ First Arena &
06/16 – Hampton, NH @ Bennie’s &
06/21 – Jacksonville, FL @ Florida Theatre $
06/22 – Clearwater, FL @ Ruth Eckerd Hall $
06/23 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL @ Broward Center $

* = Wang Chung, The Motels, and Naked Eyes
# = Wang Chung
^ = Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, The Motels, and Animotion
% = Wang Chung and Naked Eyes
$ = Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, The Motels, and Naked Eyes
& = Wang Chung, Men Without Hats, and Naked Eyes

Back To Black: Songs From Amy Winehouse Biopic Original Motion Picture To Be Released May 17, 2024

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UMR/Island Records/Universal Music Canada follow the opening of Sam Taylor-Johnson’s film BACK TO BLACK, based on the life of Amy Winehouse, one of the greatest artists of our time, with the release on May 17 of the compilation, Back To Black: Songs from the Original Motion Picture.

The standard twelve song set features three original recordings from Amy’s highly influential debut, Frank, three songs from Amy’s multi award-winning masterpiece Back To Black and includes a new track, “Song for Amy”, sung by Nick Cave. The film’s score was composed and recorded by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis.

A further 5 songs from artists who were an inspiration to Amy, The Shangri-Las, Billie Holiday, Minnie Riperton, Dinah Washington and Sarah Vaughan, whose voices all appear at key moments in the film, will also be featured on the album.

Amy Winehouse is rightly revered as one of the greatest artists in recent history, selling more than 30 million records worldwide, and today generating more than 80 million streams per month. Her 2006 masterpiece Back to Black, propelled her to global stardom, going on to win a (then) record breaking 5 Grammy Awards, including Record Of The Year and Song of The Year for hit single Rehab.

BACK TO BLACK is the highly anticipated feature film from acclaimed filmmaker and visual artist Sam Taylor-Johnson, to be released in cinemas across the UK & Ireland by STUDIOCANAL on April 12, 2024, and by Focus Features in the U.S on May 17, 2024.

Charting Winehouse’s personal and professional life in London and her extraordinary rise to fame, Taylor-Johnson directs break-out star Marisa Abela (Industry) as music icon Amy Winehouse.

Supporting Abela are BAFTA-winning actor Jack O’Connell, Eddie Marsan, Juliet Cowan and Golden Globe and Oscar-nominated actress Lesley Manville.

The film, and the music on this soundtrack, focusses on Amy Winehouse’s extraordinary genius, her unrivalled creativity and the raw honesty that infused everything she did. A truly phenomenal writer and performer, Amy was and remains a once in a generation talent.

Back To Black: Songs from the Original Motion Picture will be available on 140g black vinyl, limited edition peach coloured vinyl (D2C exclusive), double vinyl, single CD and double CD formats. The vinyl records are packaged with printed inner sleeves featuring a personal note from Sam Taylor-Johnson. The 2LP and 2CD formats will additionally feature stunning behind the scenes black and white photographs captured by Sam Taylor-Johnson on set during the making of the film. All physical formats will be releasing globally on May 17.

Digital versions of both standard and deluxe products will be releasing in line with the UK & Irish cinema release of BACK TO BLACK on the April 12, 2024.

Tracklist

1CD, 1LP and eAlbum

LP1 – Side A

Amy Winehouse – What Is It About Men
Amy Winehouse – Stronger Than Me
Amy Winehouse – Know You Now
The Shangri-Las – Leader Of The Pack
Billie Holiday – All Of Me
Amy Winehouse – Back To Black

LP1 – Side B

Minnie Riperton – Les Fleurs
Dinah Washington – Mad About The Boy
Amy Winehouse – Love Is A Losing Game
Sarah Vaughan featuring Clifford Brown – Embraceable You
Amy Winehouse – Tears Dry on Their Own
Nick Cave – Song For Amy

2CD, 2LP and eAlbum Deluxe

LP1 – Side A

Thelonious Monk – Straight, No Chaser
Amy Winehouse – What Is It About Men
Amy Winehouse – Stronger Than Me
Amy Winehouse – I Heard Love Is Blind
The Specials – Ghost Town
Amy Winehouse – Know You Now
Little Anthony & The Imperials – I’m On The Outside (Looking In)

LP1 – Side B

The Shangri-Las – Leader Of The Pack
Billie Holiday – All Of Me
The Shangri-Las – Dressed In Black
Donny Hathaway – I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know
The Libertines – Don’t Look Back Into The Sun
Amy Winehouse – Fuck Me Pumps

LP2 – Side C

Tony Bennett – Body & Soul
Amy Winehouse – Back To Black
Amy Winehouse – Valerie (Live Lounge version)
Minnie Riperton – Les Fleurs
Willie Nelson – That’s Life
Dinah Washington – Mad About The Boy
Amy Winehouse – (There Is) No Greater Love

LP2 – Side D

Amy Winehouse – Me & Mr Jones
Amy Winehouse – Love Is A Losing Game
Amy Winehouse – Rehab
Sarah Vaughan featuring Clifford Brown – Embraceable You
Amy Winehouse – Tears Dry On Their Own
Nick Cave – Song For Amy

Comprehensive Review of Feyachi BS98 Bore Sighting Laser with Enhanced Precision Shooting Technology

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By Mitch Rice

In the realm of shooting sports and firearm enthusiasts, achieving pinpoint accuracy is paramount. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a beginner honing your skills, having the right tools can make all the difference. Enter the Feyachi BS98 Bore Sighting Laser, a cutting-edge device designed to revolutionize the way you zero-in your optics or iron sights. In this comprehensive review, we delve deep into the features, advantages, and benefits of this precision instrument, exploring how it can elevate your shooting experience to new heights.

Unlocking Precision Aiming

At the heart of the Feyachi BS98 lies its exceptional aiming capabilities. Boasting a bright and clear red dot laser zeroing and aiming system, this bore sights ensures highly accurate targeting from distances ranging from 15 to 100 yards. Whether you’re fine-tuning your rifle scope or aligning your iron sights, the BS98 provides unparalleled precision, allowing you to hit your mark with confidence and consistency.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is paramount when it comes to laser devices, and the Feyachi BS98 doesn’t disappoint. Featuring a Class IIIA red laser with a power output of less than 5mW and a wavelength of 632-650nm, this boresighter guarantees safe and reliable operation. You can rest assured knowing that your shooting sessions will be conducted with utmost safety and compliance with industry standards.

Built to Last

Durability is another hallmark of the Feyachi BS98. Constructed from high-quality brass, this boresighting laser is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. Whether you’re out in the field or at the range, you can count on the BS98 to deliver consistent performance, shot after shot. Say goodbye to flimsy, unreliable boresighters – the BS98 is engineered for long-lasting durability and reliability.

Convenience at Your Fingertips

One of the standout features of the Feyachi BS98 is its user-friendly design. Compact and lightweight, this boresighter is easy to use and carry, making it the perfect accessory for shooters on the go. Additionally, the BS98 features a convenient tail switch that allows for effortless operation and helps conserve battery life. With just a simple toggle of the switch, you can activate the laser and enjoy precise aiming and targeting without any hassle.

Ammunition Conservation

In today’s climate of rising ammunition costs and scarcity, conserving ammo has never been more important. With the Feyachi BS98, you can adjust and zero-in your optics or iron sights without ever firing a round. This not only saves you money but also ensures that you don’t waste precious ammunition during your shooting sessions. Whether you’re practicing at the range or preparing for your next hunting expedition, the BS98 allows you to make the most of every shot.

Tailored for .223/5.56mm Firearms

The Feyachi BS98 is specifically designed to fit .223 chambers with caliber specification, ensuring compatibility and accuracy for your firearm. Whether you’re using a rifle, carbine, or shotgun chambered in .223/5.56mm, the BS98 is the perfect tool for achieving precise aiming and targeting.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Feyachi BS98 Bore Sighting Laser is a game-changer for shooters seeking unparalleled precision and accuracy. With its advanced features, durable construction, and user-friendly design, the BS98 is poised to become an essential tool in any shooter’s arsenal. Whether you’re a competitive marksman, a recreational shooter, or a seasoned hunter, the BS98 will take your shooting experience to new heights. Say goodbye to guesswork and inconsistency – with the Feyachi BS98, precision aiming has never been easier or more accessible.

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

Precision Beats: Exploring the Drum Plugin Toolkit of Mastering Experts

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By Mitch Rice

In the realm of music production, the impact of drum sounds on a track’s texture and rhythm is undeniable. These sounds serve as the backbone of music across genres, providing the foundational beats and vibes that engage listeners. Mastering engineers, the unsung heroes behind the scenes, play a pivotal role in refining these sounds to perfection. This article discusses the sophisticated world of drum plugins, as utilized by mastering engineers, to unveil how polished and dynamic drum tracks are achieved.

The Importance of Drum Sounds in Music Production

Drum sounds hold an unparalleled significance in the realm of music production, acting as the heartbeat of compositions across various genres. The power of a well-crafted drum sound lies in its ability to convey rhythm, pace, and energy, directly influencing the listener’s experience and emotional response. From the booming kick drums of hip-hop to the subtle, intricate patterns of jazz, the versatility of drum sounds contributes to the distinct identity of musical styles.

Historically, the journey from acoustic drum kits to their electronic and digital counterparts marks a revolution in sound production. Acoustic drums, with their rich, organic tones, provide a level of dynamic expression that forms the cornerstone of traditional music genres. However, the advent of electronic drums in the late 20th century introduced a new palette of synthetic tones, enabling artists to explore innovative soundscapes and rhythms. This transition was further accelerated by digital advancements, with software and plugins offering an almost limitless array of drum sounds and effects.

The production of drum sounds has evolved into an art form, where precision in recording, sampling, and synthesis plays a crucial role. Modern music producers and engineers have access to a vast library of drum sounds, from authentic samples of a vintage drum kit to entirely synthesized beats that push the boundaries of creativity. This evolution has democratized music production, allowing even home studio producers to achieve professional-quality drum sounds.

The critical importance of drum sounds in music production is also evident in the role they play in setting the foundation for a track. They dictate the tempo, add groove, and create a framework upon which melodies and harmonies can be built. The rhythm section, led by the drums, is often the first layer of a composition, guiding the arrangement and influencing the direction of the music. In essence, the choice and treatment of drum sounds are pivotal decisions that can make or break a song’s success.

Top Mastering Engineers and Their Preferred Drum Plugins

The mastering engineer’s role is critical in polishing the final sound of a track, with a specialized focus on drum sounds for many. Names like Bob Ludwig, Emily Lazar, and Greg Calbi stand out as masters of this craft. They are known for their meticulous attention to detail and the use of advanced plugins to achieve that perfect drum sound. The best plugins for drums such as Steven Slate Drums, Addictive Drums, and Superior Drummer are often cited as their tools of choice, providing a range of features that enhance drum tracks to meet the highest standards of quality.

Best Plugins for Drums: The Mastering Engineers’ Toolkit

Steven Slate Drums

This plugin is celebrated for its realistic drum sounds, offering users an extensive library of drum kits recorded in professional studios. Its intuitive interface and detailed customization options allow engineers to tweak every aspect of the drum sound, making it a favorite among professionals.

Addictive Drums

Known for its incredible realism and versatile sound-shaping capabilities, Addictive Drums is a powerful tool for creating dynamic drum tracks. The plugin offers a wide range of drum kits and a deep level of customization, from individual drum tuning to advanced processing effects.

Superior Drummer

Superior Drummer stands out for its expansive library and detailed editing features, enabling a mastering engineer to sculpt the perfect drum sound. The software’s ability to mimic room acoustics and microphone setups provides an added layer of realism to the drum tracks.

Understanding Drum VSTs and Their Role in Mastering

Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plugins have revolutionized the way we create drum sounds, offering a digital solution for achieving realistic drum tones. Top mastering engineers utilize these tools to refine and enhance the drum sound, ensuring they sit perfectly within the mix.

The Drum Track: From Recording to Mastering

The journey of a drum track from recording to mastering is a complex process that involves numerous steps. Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) play a crucial role in editing and preparing these tracks for the final mastering phase. Techniques such as light compression and EQ adjustments are commonly employed to polish the drum sounds.

Mastering for the Kick Drum and Drum Bus

The kick drum often requires specific attention during the mastering process to ensure it stands out clearly without overwhelming other elements in the mix. The concept of a drum bus allows engineers to process multiple drum tracks together, achieving a cohesive sound through bus processing techniques.

The Use of Room Mics in Drum Production

Room mics capture the natural ambiance of drum sounds, adding depth and space to the track. Mastering engineers skillfully utilize these recordings to enhance the overall sound, providing a more immersive listening experience.

Conclusion

The role of drum plugins in music production and the mastering process cannot be overstated. These tools enable mastering engineers to enhance the overall quality of music, making drums sound precise and impactful. As we’ve explored, the combination of skillful mastering and the use of advanced plugins can elevate the drum tracks to a level that resonates with listeners worldwide, reaffirming the artistry and technical prowess behind every beat.

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

Barenaked Ladies Exclusive SiriusXM Performance + Deluxe Edition of ‘In Flight’ Out This Friday

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Today, the legendary rockers Barenaked Ladies have announced “35 Live,” an exclusive performance for SiriusXM, recorded live at BNL’s 35th Anniversary Show at the El Mocambo in Toronto last October. Exclusively created for SiriusXM, the sixty minute show contains songs spanning BNL’s entire career, including their 1992 debut album Gordon (“If I Had $1,000,000” and “Hello City”), multi-platinum albums Stunt and Maroon, and all the way up to their newest album In Flight, released last September. BNL’s Ed Robertson says, “The 35th Anniversary show at the Legendary El Mocambo was a very special night. All of our friends and family were there, and hardcore fans traveled far and wide to be in the room for it. It was a chance to look back, AND to look forward. The energy in the room was incredible. We played songs that were nearly 35 years old, and songs that were barely 35 days old. Most important of all, we had a blast doing it!”

The exclusive show will premiere on SiriusXM’s PopRocks (ch. 6) on March 22 at 5pm ET, and will air throughout the weekend on March 22 at 11pm ET, March 23 at 10am ET, and March 24 at 2am ET. There will be an encore performance of “35 Live” on SiriusXM’s Iceberg channel the weekend of April 19. It will also be available to hear on the SiriusXM app.

In addition, BNL will be releasing a deluxe edition of their highly acclaimed new album, In Flight. The special version contains all 14 original songs, plus six live songs recorded at the 35th Anniversary Show in Toronto, only three of which are included on the SiriusXM special. This deluxe version will be released on March 22 and is only available digitally. Pre-save the album here.

Barenaked Ladies are also excited to announce a return to the road, embarking on a US tour this fall. The rockers will be reuniting with supporting act Toad the Wet Sprocket, who joined BNL on the 2022 run of the band’s ongoing, wildly successful Last Summer on Earth Tour. The upcoming BNL tour stretches across 30 shows throughout the States, including the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. Kicking off on September 16 in Cedar Rapids, information for all shows is available here. Tickets and VIP package pre-sales start on Wednesday, March 20 at 10am local exclusively through the Barenaked Bytes app, and Spotify Fans First access opens on Thursday, March 21. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, March 22 at 10am local. Barenaked Ladies will also be performing at this year’s Oceans Calling Festival on September 29.

Barenaked Bytes is the free, official Barenaked Ladies app, and it is where you’ll find BNL news, information, merch, and first access to VIP packages (which include soundcheck access, meet and greet and exclusive merch bundle) and presale tickets on Wednesday, March 20. Barenaked Bytes is available at the App Store and Google Play. It’s free to download and use here. In-app purchases available.

BNL and long-time sustainability partner REVERB (REVERB.org) will continue to build on their 20 years of environmental action on this year’s tour, working to reduce the footprint of live music and connecting with fans to take action for people and the planet. For the fall 2024 tour, BNL has partnered with REVERB and voter registration nonprofit, HeadCount, so that $1 per ticket goes to supporting environmental action and voter registration efforts.

Over the course of 35 years, the beloved quartet has sold over 15 million records worldwide and built up an arsenal of hits such as “If I Had $1,000,000,” “One Week,” “Pinch Me,” and “The Big Bang Theory Theme.” Widely acknowledged as one of the best live acts on the planet, BNL has hosted a cruise, had their own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavor, and participated in the first-ever “space-to-earth musical collaboration” with astronaut Chris Hadfield. To date, BNL has amassed eight JUNO Awards, garnered two GRAMMY nominations and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. In September of 2023, the band released “In Flight”, their 18th studio album.

Tour dates w/ Toad the Wet Sprocket
Sept 16 Cedar Rapids, IA @ McGrath Amphitheatre
Sept 17 Moorhead, MN @ Bluestem Center for the Arts Amphitheater
Sept 18 Lincoln, NE @ Pinewood Bowl Theater
Sept 20 Albuquerque, NM @ Revel
Sept 21 Colorado Springs, CO @ Sunset Amphitheater
Sept 22 Vail, CO @ Gerald Ford Amphitheater
Sept 24 Tulsa, OK @ Tulsa Theater
Sept 25 Chesterfield, MO @ The Factory at The District
Sept 27 Pittsburgh, PA @ Rivers Casino Event Center
Sept 28 Charles Town, WV @ Hollywood Casino Event Center
Sept 29 Ocean City, MD @ Oceans Calling Festival* (sold out)
Oct 1 Brookville, NY @ Tilles Center
Oct 2 Rochester, NY @ Kodak Center**
Oct 4 French Lick, IN @ French Lick Resort
Oct 6 Umatilla, OR @ Rock the Locks Festival*
Oct 17 Columbia, SC @ Township Auditorium
Oct 18 Asheville, NC @ Thomas Wolfe Auditorium
Oct 19 Augusta, GA @ Bell Auditorium
Oct 21 Pompano Beach, FL @ Pompano Beach Amphitheater
Oct 22 Ft. Myers, FL @ Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
Oct 23 Clearwater, FL @ The Sound at Coachman Park
Oct 25 Macon, GA @ Macon City Auditorium
Oct 26 Biloxi, MS @ Beau Rivage Resort & Casino
Oct 27 Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
Oct 29 Ames, IA @ Stephens Auditorium
Oct 30 Rochester, MN @ Mayo Civic Center Auditorium**
Nov 1 Peoria, IL @ Peoria Civic Center Theater
Nov 2 Salina, KS @ The Stiefel Theater
Nov 3 Sioux Falls, SD @ Washington Pavilion
Nov 6 Duluth, MN @ Symphony Hall
Nov 7 Madison, WI @ Overture Center for the Arts**
Nov 8 Mt. Pleasant, MI @ Soaring Eagle Casino (pre-sale/on-sale TBA)