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The North Sound And Sultans Of String Team Up To Sing The Sound Of The Prairies In “Sweet Alberta”

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“Sweet Alberta” is the new single off the Sultans of String album entitled Walking Through the Fire, the most ambitious and important project of their career, a CD and concert of collaborations with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists across Turtle Island. The song started as a poem penned by Grammy nominated and legendary Chippewa/Anishinaabe Elder Dr. Duke Redbird, set to music by Chris McKhool and Sultans of String.

This track features the gorgeous vocals of The North Sound, formed in 2014 by lead singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Forrest Eaglespeaker along with his wife Nevada Eaglespeaker who composes and provides vocal harmonies.

Keeping true to the traditions of Forrest’s heritage, The North Sound was created to share stories of Forrest’s Blackfoot identity and traditions from Treaty 7 Territory. This track was perfectly suited to these award-winning artists, with their connection to the land.

Says Forrest: “I’m originally from Calgary, and now I live in Saskatoon with my wife Nevada, and our kids and our horses and our cat and dog. My family comes from the Kainai Nation, which is in Treaty Seven. It’s Blackfoot people, the Blood Tribe. I have a strong connection to the territory but it’s important for me to identify as unregistered and non-status, due to intergenerational traumas.”

The connection to the land and music goes way back for Forrest: “My grandmother had this John Denver’s Greatest Hits CD, and it never left her vehicle. There’s a line in Country Roads and he says, ‘Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountain, Shenandoah River.’ And so, on first listen through this song, how Duke had so eloquently used the term Blue Ridge, it just immediately brought me to sitting in my grandma’s car in Calgary and brought me back to my childhood and immediately, the imagery that Duke painted with his lyrics, that’s what I grew up with, like I felt like the song was written from my childhood.”

Duke wrote the original poem when he lived in Alberta, in a time of extreme turmoil in Canada. “The Indigenous people were being really oppressed, especially in Alberta. There was actual starvation going on in many of the communities in the North, that couldn’t get food” he explains.

“The timber companies had gotten leases for forestry, which caused the moose and the elk and the deer and other food creatures to move away. And many of these communities were at the brink of starvation. It was real, it was the middle of winter, and the stores, the food that was supposed to have been delivered by the Federal Government through the Provincial Government just went missing.” he continues.

“But at that time, one chief by the name of Chief Small Boy decided to leave the Cree Reserve out there, and he took almost 300 followers with him into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, and the foothills of the Kootenai Mountains, and set up camp, and began to live off the land.” And they invited Duke to come along.

Duke learned from that period of time that he was there with the Indigenous people of Alberta, having the experience of what it must have been like before the settlers came in. “Out there in the foothills and getting up in the morning and giving thanks to the sun and the prayers that were… The community was connected in a relationship of love to the Mother Earth. And I thought about the fact that the province had been named Alberta, a woman’s name, but it was an English woman’s name. And I thought if their relationship with the province was the love that one has for Mother Earth, and by extension a beautiful woman, then they may have a chance to take care of that land.”

Sultans Of String Tour Dates:
April 15 – Markham Flato Markham Theatre – Education Show
April 16 – Markham Flato Markham Theatre – Education Show
April 18 – Mississauga Peel School Board Education
June 17 – Waterloo University of Waterloo
June 21 – Newmarket Old Town Hall
June 22 – Toronto Hughs Room

10 Things To Avoid When Promoting A Show As A Musician

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Promoting a live music show is a crucial aspect of a musician’s career, as it directly impacts attendance, audience engagement, and ultimately, the success of the event. However, navigating the world of promotion can be challenging, especially for independent artists or those new to the industry. To help musicians effectively promote their shows and avoid common pitfalls, here are a list of ten things to steer clear of when promoting a live music event. From neglecting planning and targeting to spamming followers and underpricing tickets, these tips will provide valuable insights into what not to do when promoting a show as a musician. By avoiding these missteps and implementing strategic promotion tactics, musicians can maximize their chances of attracting a larger audience and creating memorable live music experiences.

  1. Neglecting to plan ahead: Don’t wait until the last minute to start promoting your show. Give yourself enough time to create a comprehensive marketing strategy.
  2. Ignoring your target audience: Don’t promote your show blindly to everyone. Identify your target demographic and tailor your marketing efforts to reach them effectively.
  3. Overlooking the importance of visuals: Don’t rely solely on text-based promotions. Utilize eye-catching graphics, photos, and videos to capture attention and generate interest in your show.
  4. Spamming your followers: Don’t bombard your followers with constant promotional posts. Instead, aim for a balanced mix of promotional content and engaging, value-added posts.
  5. Underestimating the power of social media: Don’t neglect social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. These channels are essential for reaching and engaging with your audience.
  6. Failing to leverage email marketing: Don’t overlook the potential of email marketing to promote your show. Build an email list and send out targeted campaigns to your subscribers.
  7. Neglecting to collaborate with other artists or promoters: Don’t go it alone. Partnering with other musicians, bands, or promoters can help expand your reach and attract a larger audience.
  8. Underpricing or overpricing tickets: Don’t set ticket prices arbitrarily. Research the market, consider your target audience’s budget, and price your tickets accordingly to ensure they’re both attractive and profitable.
  9. Forgetting to follow up: Don’t assume that once you’ve promoted your show, your work is done. Follow up with your audience regularly to remind them about the event and build excitement.
  10. Underestimating the importance of engagement: Don’t just focus on promotion; focus on building relationships with your audience. Engage with fans, respond to comments and messages, and make them feel valued and connected to your music.

Omarion Announces “Omarion: Vbz on Vbz Tour” in Collaboration with the Black Promoters Collective

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Omarion, the Billboard chart-topping and Multi-platinum selling R&B sensation, is thrilled to announce his highly anticipated “Omarion: Vbz on Vbz Tour,” set to kick off this spring in partnership with the esteemed Black Promoters Collective. This R&B filled tour will feature an electrifying lineup including Vedo, Tone Stith, WanMor, and Jastin Martin promising an unforgettable experience for fans.

Omarion, known for his hits like “Ice Box” and “Post to Be,” is set to bring his smooth vocals and energy to stages across the country. With a career spanning over two decades, the Grammy nominated and multi-platinum artist has solidified his status as one of R&B’s most influential artists, delivering hit after hit with his distinctive sound and magnetic stage presence.

Recently, Omarion expanded his musical repertoire with the Full Circle Sonic Book Series. It’s first installment debuted at #1 on iTunes R&B Soul chart. The lead single, “Serious”, soared to #1 on Amazon and iTunes and #18 on Billboard’s R&B Airplay Chart. The highly anticipated Sonic Book Two mirrored its predecessor’s success by also debuting at #1 on both Amazon and iTunes R&B/Soul Charts.

Joining Omarion on the “Vbz on Vbz Tour” are some of the brightest talents in the industry. Vedo, the versatile double-platinum singer-songwriter known for his soulful melodies, will captivate audiences with his heartfelt performances. Tone Stith, hailed for his range and has co-written multiple hits for Chris Brown, is sure to bring the house down with his energy.

WanMor, the dynamic boy group known for their genre-blending sound and infectious hooks, will add an exciting dimension to the tour with their unique musical style. Rounding out the lineup is Jastin Martin, the rising star whose soulful voice and raw talent have garnered widespread acclaim.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of good vibes and R&B on this upcoming tour.

For more information, visit blackpromoterscollective.com or follow Omarion and the Black Promoters Collective on social media.

The Black Promoters Collective (BPC) is a coalition of six of the nation’s top independent concert promotion and event production companies. As a 100% Black-owned business, its mission is to be the world’s leading producer and provider of culturally relevant live entertainment experiences. To learn more, visit http://www.blackpromoterscollective.com.

Omarion has vibrantly painted the entertainment landscape as a chart-topping, multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated Recording Artist, Producer and Actor. Among the ranks of R&B’s elite, his unmistakable sound has driven the success of multiple Gold and Platinum albums and singles, selling over 20M records worldwide. Omarion has also left an indelible mark on Pop Culture grossing nearly $350M at the box office. Throughout his illustrious career, Omarion has been recognized with multiple honors and awards including AMA, BET, NAACP Image Award, MTV, Billboard Music Awards, iHeart Radio, Teen Choice Awards, a Grammy nomination for “Best Contemporary R&B Album” and The Lifetime Achievement Award from Carnival Choreographers Ball. Continuing his legacy, Omarion expanded his musical repertoire with the Full Circle Sonic Book Series. It’s first installment debuted at #1 on iTunes R&B Soul chart. A true multi-hyphenate talent, Omarion has made waves in touring as the co-founder and headliner of The Millennium Tour franchise, amassing over $45 million in revenue and earning consecutive nominations from Pollstar and a Billboard Music Award. Omarion’s creative ventures extend beyond music and touring, his captivating documentary, “Omega: The Gift & The Curse,” chronicling the exploits of the 2019 B2K reunion tour led to the development of the dramedy series “Involved,” slated to debut in 2025. He serves as co-creator, co-executive producer, and lead actor, showcasing his versatility. A true trailblazer, Omarion’s dynamic journey, marked by creative excellence and visionary leadership, resonates widely, transcending the boundaries of artistic expression.

From capturing the attention of R&B megastar Usher on NBC’s The Voice to writing for some of the biggest names in music, VEDO has proven he is a voice to be heard and ready to make his mark. The R&B singer & platinum-selling songwriters #1 hit, “You Got It” reached double platinum status with the help of fans on Tik-Tok while his prior albums “VEDO” “For You” “1320” “Mood Swings” and “7” remain on the R&B Charts from their 2019-2023 release. “The passion in the music is back, the love is back, the artistry is back.

Jersey-born R&B singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist (drums, guitar & piano) Tone Stith released his debut project Can We Talk in 2017, which garnered rave reviews from the likes of Complex, Billboard and more, and eventually led to Tone’s signing with RCA Records. Stith’s follow up EP in 2018, Good Company, included features from Swae Lee and Quavo and production from Stith, Bongo ByTheWay (Ty Dolla $ign, 50 Cent), The Audibles (Justin BieberChris Brown), Marcos “Kosine” Palacios (Ella MaiChristina Aguilera) and THE PRBLM SLVRS. As a songwriter, Tone has penned numerous chart-topping hits, writing and producing on Chris Brown’s “Liquor” and “Make Love” and co-writing “Undecided.” He has also opened for H.E.R. in 2018 on her I Used To Know Her Tour. In 2022 Tone released the fan favorite record “B.E.D” and went on his own sold out Set The Tone Tour, which hit 15 markets. Most recently, Tone has finished up his new project – coming soon this August – and just dropped the first single “Girls Like You.” With the anticipation building for his forthcoming EP, Tone Stith is ready to take his place as an R&B mainstay.

Jastin Martin’s minimalist trap-soul transports you straight to her Houston bedroom—one of the few intimate spaces she writes and records her evocative tell-alls. The self-taught singer-songwriter and producer rarely goes a day without creating something—a slippery beat, a shrewd lyric, a silvery guitar line. She’s been writing songs since age nine, and her consistent work ethic has taken her from the dorms of Louisiana’s Grambling State University to Houston’s freewheeling open mics to Def Jam’s star-studded roster. Born and raised in Houston, Martin got her best music education at home. Her family had wide-ranging interests: Her grandfather turned her on to Bob Marley and Brooks & Dunn, her mom to Lenny Kravitz and Evanescence, and her Louisiana grandmother to zydeco. In school, she cycled through a range of instruments, from the violin to the piano. At 15, she recorded her first song in a studio and was hooked. “On my 16th birthday, all I wanted to do was go to the studio,” she says. “I just never stopped.” While at Grambling, she would fly to Ohio on the weekends to record at a studio with a local producer, until her mom bought her a full recording setup of her own. Soon, music began to take her over. At 20, Martin picked up the guitar and eventually taught herself how to produce. She most recently released her debut album, Miss Me Yet?, a collection of songs that show off her vulnerability and versatility.

The seventies belonged to The Jackson Five, the game changed thanks to New Edition in the eighties, New Kids On The Block ruled the nineties, and Backstreet Boys and NSYNC ushered in the turn-of-the-century. All signs point to WanMor as the definitive boy group of the modern era though. They skyrocketed out of South Jersey and to the doorstep of superstardom in just a few short years. The quartet of blood brothers— Big Boy [19], Chulo [17], Tyvas [16], and Rocco [12]—recharge and reignite R&B with fresh fire and no shortage of timeless vibes and feels. After lighting up streaming platforms, collaborating with everyone from Stevie Wonder to Elmo, going coast-to-coast for Every Pretty Girl in the City Tour, and causing a frenzy everywhere they go, the group continue to soar higher than ever on their forthcoming full-length debut for Mary J. Blige’s imprint Beautiful Life Productions, Inc. under 300 Entertainment. WanMor initially made waves by powering five tracks from Lil Uzi Vert’s platinum-certified epic Eternal Atake in 2020. The quartet took over television, shining on America’s Most Musical FamilySesame Street, and Little Big ShotsGayle King even championed the boys for a special segment for CBS Mornings. They kicked off 2023 with a historic appearance at the 65th annual GRAMMY® Awards, sharing the stage with Stevie WonderChris Stapleton, and Smokey Robinson during the Motown Records tribute. Each move has put them one step closer, notching a nomination in the category of “Best Group” at the 2023 BET Awards and “Best New Artist” & “Best Group” at the 2023 BET Soul Train Awards.

Omarion: Vbz on Vbz Tour Dates:

Friday, April 5

Grand Prairie, TX

TTCUT

Saturday, April 6 

Houston, TX

Smart Financial Centre

Thursday, April 11

New York, NY

Kings Theatre

Friday, April 12 

Washington D.C.

DAR Constitution Hall

Sunday, April 14

Newark, NJ

NJPAC

Friday, April 19 

Chicago, IL

Arie Crown Theater

Saturday, April 20

St. Louis, MO

Stifel Theatre

Sunday, April 21

Detroit, MI

Masonic Temple

Friday, April 26

Los Angeles, CA

Peacock Theatre

Saturday, April 27

Oakland, CA

Paramount Theatre

Sunday, April 28

Las Vegas, NV 

Theater at Virgin Hotel

Friday, May 3

Philadelphia, PA

Liacouras Center

Saturday, May 4

Portsmouth, VA

Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion

Thursday, May 9 

Greensboro, NC

Tanger Theater

Friday, May 10

Charlotte, NC 

Ovens Auditorium

Saturday, May 11 

Baltimore, MD

Lyric Theater

Sunday, May 12

Cleveland, OH

Jacob’s Pavilion at Nautica

Friday, May 17

Richmond, VA 

Altria Theater

Saturday, May 18

Cary, NC

Koka Booth Amphitheatre

Sunday, May 19 

Atlanta, GA

Cobb Energy Center

 

George Michael Takes Centre Stage on Royal Mint Collectable Coin

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George Michael fans can today own a timeless piece of music history, as The Royal Mint unveils a new collectable coin celebrating the British singer-songwriter.

In a fitting tribute, the coin features Michael’s signature look and music from his debut solo album, and second single, “Faith”. The coin is the latest in The Royal Mint’s Music Legends series, following the likes of David BowieElton John and Queen.

Designed by artist and sculptor Sandra Deiana, the new collectable coin portrays the famous headshot of Michael wearing his trademark sunglasses and an engraving of the refrain of “Faith”. The colours black and red feature on a selection of the collectables, which were used prominently throughout his career.

The coin has been officially approved by George Michael’s estate and follows celebrations of WHAM!’s “Last Christmas” reaching number one in the UK charts 39 years after its initial release.

Sandra Deiana, designer of the George Michael coin said. “From the beginning of the project, I was clear about certain elements that I wanted to incorporate into the designI wanted a detailed portrait that captured his charismatic expression – I was particularly thinking of his iconic sunglasses. It’s amazing to be able to pay tribute to his music and what you see in the design is truly a piece of George Michael’s song.”

Rebecca Morgan, Director of Collector Services at The Royal Mint said: “From his debut with WHAM! to becoming one of the bestselling solo musicians of all time, George Michael is a global superstar whose work has inspired and influenced generations with his music and his unique style. Loved by millions of fans worldwide, we are delighted to be introducing an official UK coin celebrating his life and legacy.”

George Michael Entertainment said, ‘On behalf of George Michael, we are deeply honoured that the Royal Mint is paying tribute to him by creating a series of beautifully crafted coins. He would have been enormously proud and genuinely touched that a national institution should have decided to pay tribute to his memory in this way.’

Singer, Songwriter, Producer, Philanthropist and Creative Icon, George Michael is considered one of the most influential recording artists of all time. He rose to fame in the 1980’s as a member of the duo WHAM! selling over 30 million records. He later embarked on a solo career and sold over 125 million records worldwide and is one of the best-selling musicians of all time, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart eight times in the US and hitting the No.1 spot on the UK singles charts seven times as a solo artist and redefining pop music in the process.

The George Michael collectable coin is available as limited-edition precious metal proof finishes, Brilliant Uncirculated and colour versions. To view the full collection, visit The Royal Mint’s website.

The Portland Art Museum Announces ‘Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm’

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Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm is an unprecedented exhibition, revealing extraordinary photographs taken by the beloved musical icon. Organized by the National Portrait Gallery in London, the exhibition will open at the Portland Art Museum on September 14, 2024, and run through January 19, 2025.

Comprised of recently rediscovered photographs from Paul McCartney’s personal archive, more than 250 pictures invite visitors to intimately experience The Beatles’ meteoric rise from British sensation to international stardom. At a time when so many camera lenses were turned toward them, McCartney’s perspective from the inside out brings fresh insight into the band, their experiences, the fans, and the Beatlemania phenomenon. Through these photographs, along with video clips and archival material, visitors can witness the dawn of the “British Invasion” that fundamentally transformed rock and roll music and American society.

Captured by McCartney during a pivotal three-month period for The Beatles in late 1963 and early 1964, the photographs evoke an affectionate family album, picturing his fellow band members, John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, at a time when their lives were changing irrevocably. The exhibition gives visitors a highly personal glimpse into an extraordinary time with one of music’s enduring legends.

The exhibition also captures McCartney’s interest in the visual arts, with his photos reflecting the aesthetics and popular culture of the period. The range of work, from portraiture and landscape photos to documentary images, reveals McCartney’s familiarity with the formal styles of early 1960s photography. References to New Wave, documentary filmmaking, and photojournalism can be found across the exhibition.

“Looking at these photos now, decades after they were taken, I find there’s a sort of innocence about them,” said Paul McCartney. “Everything was new to us at this point. But I like to think I wouldn’t take them any differently today. They now bring back so many stories, a flood of special memories, which is one of the many reasons I love them all, and know that they will always fire my imagination.”

Paul McCartney Photographs 1963–64: Eyes of the Storm is curated by Paul McCartney with Sarah Brown on behalf of MPL Communications Limited and Rosie Broadley for the National Portrait Gallery, London, and organized for the Portland Art Museum by Julia Dolan, Ph.D., the Minor White Senior Curator of Photography.

Unveiling ‘Who Are You’: Behind the Scenes at The Who’s Legendary Ramport Studios, London

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The Who’s iconic single “Who Are You” stands as a cornerstone of their musical legacy, encapsulating the band’s unparalleled energy and creativity. Released in 1978 as the title track of their album of the same name, the song immediately grabbed listeners with its electrifying blend of rock, punk, and introspective lyrics. With Pete Townshend’s blistering guitar riffs, Roger Daltrey’s impassioned vocals, and Keith Moon’s thunderous drumming, “Who Are You” became an anthem for a generation grappling with questions of identity and purpose. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate, serving as a testament to The Who’s enduring influence on rock music. This is the promo film for the song, filmed at the band’s Ramport Studios in Battersea, London on May 4, 1978.

My Next Read: “Combat Love: A Story of Leaving, Longing, and Searching for Home” by Alisyn Camerota

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CNN Anchor Alisyn Camerota’s memoir Combat Love is her story of growing up longing for stability and attachment as the foundation of her family crumbled. Set on the Jersey Shore in the free-range 1980s, Camerota finds the belonging she craves courtesy of a local punk rock band named Shrapnel and their diehard fans. Combat Love chronicles her near-misses and misadventures at clubs like CBGB and Max’s Kansas City, coupled with the sex, drugs, and punk rock of 1980s New Jersey. By the time she leaves home at sixteen, it feels like home had left her long ago.

Combat Love is also the story of two women, mother and daughter, trying to forge their own paths and independence, and find their own happiness, success and wholeness. Camerota’s story searches for the linebetween shelter and risk, nurture and neglect, parenting and personal freedom. What are we willing to sacrifice for self-actualization and happiness? What if the answer is your mother, or your daughter?

The two-time Emmy-award-winning Camerota retraces her steps down an often gritty path toward her dream of becoming a journalist. At times heartbreaking and pulse-pounding, Combat Love is an inspiration for anyone who’s ever searched for that elusive place called home.

Comedian Ali Wong Extends Comedy Tour In 2024

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Renowned stand-up comedian and Emmy-nominated actress, Ali Wong, is excited to announce additional dates for her Ali Wong: Live comedy tour, in response to overwhelming demand. Produced by Live Nation, the tour has been extended by nine dates making additional stops in North America visiting San Antonio, Chicago and more now wrapping up in Philadelphia on April 5.

Having captivated audiences worldwide with her previous tours and hit Netflix specials, including “Baby Cobra”, “Hard Knock Wife”, and the Emmy-nominated “Don Wong”, Ali Wong has become a household name, celebrated for her fearless and relatable brand of comedy. Most recently, Wong starred in and executive produced the Netflix and A24 dark comedy series “Beef.” She received Emmy nominations both for her performance and for the show itself.

Wong explores her dating life post-divorce on her upcoming, recently-expanded comedy tour. Wong will debut never before heard material in 10 cities across the U.S. and Canada through April, 2024.

Ali Wong is a critically acclaimed actress, comedian, writer, and producer. Known for her hit Netflix specials including “Baby Cobra,” “Hard Knock Wife,” and Emmy-nominated “Don Wong,” Wong most recently starred in and executive produced the Netflix and A24 dark comedy series “Beef”, opposite Steven Yeun. She received an Emmy nomination for her performance in addition to the show being nominated for Best Comedy. The series premiered in April 2023 to widespread acclaim, with The New York Times calling it “one of the most invigorating, surprising and insightful debuts of the past year” and The Hollywood Reporter saying “Steven Yeun and Ali Wong dazzle… [Wong] has rarely been better than she is here.” “Beef” was the #1 show streamed on Netflix upon its release.

In May 2019, Wong co-wrote and starred in ALWAYS BE MY MAYBE, alongside Randall Park. She also executive produced and voiced the lead in the offbeat and zany animated sitcom “Tuca and Bertie”, and directed Sheng Wang’s 2022 comedy special “Sweet and Juicy”.

Wong’s other film and television highlights include Netflix’s “Big Mouth”, “Human Resources”, ABC’s “Fresh Off the Boat”, BIRDS OF PREY, Walt Disney Studios’ RALPH BREAKS THE INTERNET, and the Pixar animated film ONWARD.

In 2019, Wong released her New York Times bestselling autobiographical book, “Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets & Advice for Living Your Best Life”. The book features heartfelt and hilarious letters addressed to her daughters’ future selves.

2024 ALI WONG: LIVE TOUR DATE:
Sat Mar 23 | Chicago, IL | The Chicago Theatre
Wed Mar 27 | Toronto, ON | Meridian Hall
Mon Apr 01 | Newark, NJ | New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Wed Apr 03 | Red Bank, NJ | Count Basie Center
Fri Apr 05 | Philadelphia, PA | The Met

Larry David Announces :”A Conversation With…” Live Tour Dates In DC And Boston

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Writer, producer, and legendary comedian Larry David will be bringing A Conversation with Larry David live and on stage to Washington, DC at The Anthem on March 29 and Boston, MA at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway on April 1.

Joined by a moderator, the Live Nation-produced event will feature an informal discussion about his time on Seinfeld,Curb, and everything in between.

This comes on the heels of HBO’S announcement that Season 12 of Curb Your Enthusiasm, airing on Sunday, April 4, will be its final season.

“Hi everyone! It’s Larry. I’m really looking forward to seeing you all. Just so you know, I’ve recently had plastic surgery on my face and the doctor, who everyone raved about, totally botched it, leaving me devoid of all expression. So if I seem more sour than usual, that’s the reason, but don’t let it stop you from having fun!” – Larry David

Larry David co-created “Seinfeld,” which debuted in 1989 and ran for nine seasons. As head writer and executive producer, the pressure of delivering a weekly show led to his abuse of anabolic steroids, which contributed to his ill-temper and shrunken testicles. In 1999, HBO aired his one hour special, “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” which spawned the series. In it, he plays an incredibly gifted, loveable writer who spreads bonhomie and good cheer to everyone fortunate enough to encounter him. During one of “Curb’s” many long hiatuses, David created two new shows, “Girls” and “Orange is the New Black.” To better understand the motivation of his female characters, he began cross-dressing and moved into the Barbizon Hotel for Women. He was evicted after his true identity was uncovered when he evacuated naked from a fire started by his roommate who forgot to unplug her curling iron. After a spiritual sabbatical in Poland, he returned to the US in 2009 to star in Woody Allen’s comedy, “Whatever Works.” The movie garnered David the prestigious Gottlieb Award for “Best Actor with No Training and No Idea What He Was Doing.” Then in 2013, he co-wrote and starred in the HBO Films’ comedy, “Clear History,” elevating him to cult hero status amongst illiterates and diabetics. In 2015, he made his Broadway debut at the Cort Theater as an actor and playwright in “Fish in the Dark,” which he penned over a three-day span while sitting on the toilet. The play broke all Broadway records for most coughing by an audience during a performance. He’s currently pursuing his real estate license and can be contacted through the Inland Empire branch of “Century 21.”

Diamond-Selling Bands Train & REO Speedwagon Announce Epic Co-Headlining ‘Summer Road Trip’ 2024 North American Tour

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Today, iconic hitmakers Train and REO Speedwagon have announced they will be joining forces for this summer’s hottest co-headlining tour. The diamond-selling bands will be hitting the road on the Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour, bringing together Train’s critically-acclaimed catalog of global hits with REO Speedwagon’s vast collection of timeless classics for an unforgettable night of music, high energy, and fun that transcends generations. With more than 50 million albums sold worldwide, 32 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100, and 28 albums on the Billboard 200 albums chart between them, fans nationwide will have a chance to witness epic sets from two of the hardest-working, fun-loving, non-stop touring bands as they perform hours of hits featuring chart-topping anthems and timeless fan favorites.

Produced by Live Nation, the 44-city tour kicks off on July 8 in Somerset, WI at Somerset Amphitheater, making stops in Chicago, Toronto, New York, Houston, San Francisco, Los Angeles and more before wrapping up on September 11 in Phoenix, AZ at Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre. Joining Train and REO Speedwagon on the road as direct support on all dates is very special guest Yacht Rock Revue. Full tour routing can be found below.

To celebrate the highly anticipated Summer Road Trip 2024 Tour, Train and REO Speedwagon will take the stage at LA’s famed Whisky a Go Go nightclub on the Sunset Strip this Thursday, February 1 for an intimate sneak preview concert that is not to be missed. Tickets for the show go on sale today at 12pm PT here. Additionally, the bands will be stopping by Jimmy Kimmel Live! this Wednesday, January 31 for a very special collaboration, which marks their first-ever performance together on stage. Jimmy Kimmel Live! airs on ABC at 11:35p/10:35c, and is available next day on Hulu.

Of the tour, Train frontman Pat Monahan shared: “When I was younger I heard a band called REO Speedwagon and fell in love with their numerous, infectious hit songs. Years later I met Kevin Cronin, and thank goodness he’s as great a person as he is a songwriter. This tour won’t just be a great time with great people, but a tour that will have a ton of familiar songs to most generations. I will be wishing I was in the audience as much as I’ll love being on the stage.”

REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin said: “Pat Monahan and I have done several benefit shows over the years, and now we get to take out our bands for a summer full of music and fun. I love the idea of bringing together people of all ages, who share a common love for well-crafted songs and high energy live performances. The REO boys are stoked about this tour.”

Train is a multi-GRAMMY Award-winning, diamond-selling band from San Francisco that has had 14 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and 13 albums on the Billboard 200 chart. Train’s climb to the top began in 1994, as the original 5-member band tenaciously built a loyal hometown following, leading up to their debut self-titled album released by Columbia in 1998. The tumbling wordplay of “Meet Virginia” gave them their first unlikely radio hit, and 2001’s Drops of Jupiter broke them to multi-platinum status thanks to the double-GRAMMY-winning title song that spent 10 months in the Top 40, has been certified RIAA 7x platinum, and earned the 2001 GRAMMY Award for Best Rock Song. The group won another GRAMMY in 2011 for their global hit “Hey, Soul Sister” from their multi-platinum album Save Me, San Francisco(2009), which was the No.1 best-selling smash and most downloaded single of 2010, achieved RIAA Diamond status in 2021 and now 11x platinum, and in 2022 surpassed one billion streams on Spotify. Train has sold more than 10 million albums and 30 million tracks worldwide, with multiple platinum/gold citations, including three GRAMMY Awards, two Billboard Music Awards, and dozens of other honors. They’ve had 24 Top 10 songs across the Billboard charts and six Top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 chart including Drops of Jupiter (2001), My Private Nation (2003), California 37(2012), Bulletproof Picasso(2014), For Me, It’s You (2016), and a girl a bottle a boat (2017). Train released their critically acclaimed 11th studio album, AM Gold, in May 2022 and most recently released a new song “I Know” ft. Tenille Townes and Bryce Vine, which marked their 27th career entry on Billboard’s Adult Pop Airplay chart.

Train frontman, Pat Monahan, partakes in other ventures outside of music, including his award-winning wine portfolio, Save Me, San Francisco Wine Co, which was created in 2011 and has sold over 10 million bottles and won over 100 medals. Proceeds from his wine business support Family House, a San Francisco charity that supports families of children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.  Monahan has appeared on television and in film with credits that include the 2021 Hallmark Channel original movie, Christmas in Tahoe, inspired by Train’s album of the same name, which he executive produced and starred, Dr. Ken, 90210, CBS’s Hawaii Five-0 and Magnum P.I., The Voice, American Idol, and The Bachelor.
Formed in 1967, signed in 1971, and fronted by iconic vocalist Kevin Cronin since 1972, REO Speedwagon’s unrelenting drive, as well as non-stop touring and recording jump-started the burgeoning rock movement in the Midwest. Platinum albums and radio staples soon followed, setting the stage for the release of the band’s explosive Hi Infidelity in 1980, which contained the massive hit singles “Keep On Loving You” and “Take It On the Run.” That landmark album spent 15 weeks in the No. 1 slot and has since earned the RIAA’s coveted 10X Diamond Award for surpassing sales of 10 million units in the United States.

From 1977 to 1989, REO Speedwagon released nine consecutive albums all certified Platinum or higher. To date, REO Speedwagon has sold more than 40 million albums around the globe, and Cronin and bandmates Bruce Hall, Dave Amato, Bryan Hitt, Derek Hilland, and most recent addition Matt Bissonette, are electrifying audiences worldwide in concert with hits and fan-favorites such as “Ridin’ The Storm Out,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling,” “Time For Me To Fly,” “Roll With The Changes,” “Keep On Loving You,” “Take It On the Run,” and many, many more. More recently, REO has been featured in Season Three of the hit Netflix series, Ozark, with an episode entitled: “Kevin Cronin Was Here.” Cronin sang a duet with Dolly Parton on his number-one hit, “Keep on Loving You” for her star-studded Rockstar album, which featured a who’s who of rock luminaries including Sir Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Sting, to mention just a few. Cronin performed on the 2022 season finale of American Idol, is a regular guest with the Jim Irsay Collection band, and is currently putting the finishing touches on his memoir, “Roll With The Changes… my life within and without REO Speedwagon.” REO Speedwagon launched their first Las Vegas residency in November of 2023, the sold-out “An Evening of Hi Infidelity …and More!,” with return engagements set for May, and again in October of 2024. The band is active in numerous charitable endeavors including the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Music Drives Us, and Moffitt Cancer Center.

Step aboard a musical voyage like no other with Yacht Rock Revue! This talented group sets sail on a smooth-sailing journey through the nostalgic hits of the late ’70s and early ’80s, where soft rock and smooth grooves rule the waves. Featuring exceptional musicianship and tight harmonies, Yacht Rock Revue pays homage to the golden era of yacht rock, delivering pitch-perfect renditions of iconic classics from artists like Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, Toto, Michael McDonald, and more.

Yacht Rock Revue takes audiences back in time with their lush instrumentation, soulful voices, and tight jeans. Their infectious enthusiasm and engaging stage presence create a feel-good atmosphere that encourages everyone to sing along and dance the night away. So grab your captain’s hat and set course for an unforgettable evening of musical bliss, as Yacht Rock Revue transports you to a bygone era of breezy melodies and yacht rock magic.

Train and REO Speedwagon tour dates
July 8 at the Somerset Amphitheater in Somerset, WI
July 10 at the Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center in Noblesville, IN
July 11 at Stage AE in Pittsburgh, PA
July 12 at the Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati, OH
July 13 at the Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre in Tinley Park, IL
July 15 at the Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
July 16 at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre in St. Louis, MO
July 17 at the Starlight Theatre in Kansas City, MO
July 19 at the Artpark Outdoor Amphitheater in Lewiston, NY
July 20 at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto, ON, CA
July 21 at the Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston, MI
July 23 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, NY
July 24 at the Bethel Woods Center For The Arts in Bethel, NY
July 26 at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, NJ
July 27 at the Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, NY
July 28 at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford, NH
July 31 at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater in Syracuse, NY
Aug. 1 at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ
Aug. 3 at the Xfinity Theatre in Hartford, CT
Aug. 4 at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA
Aug. 6 at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, VA
Aug. 7 at the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater in Virginia Beach, VA
Aug. 9 at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park in Raleigh, NC
Aug. 10 at the PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte, NC
Aug. 11 at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion in Wilmington, NC
Aug. 16 at the Oak Mountain Amphitheatre in Pelham, AL
Aug. 17 at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, GA
Aug. 18 at the FirstBank Amphitheater in Franklin, TN
Aug. 20 at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa, FL
Aug. 21 at the iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach, FL
Aug. 22 at the Dailys Place Amphitheater in Jacksonville, FL
Aug. 23 at the Amphitheater at The Wharf in Orange Beach, AL
Aug. 25 at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, TX
Aug. 26 at the Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas, TX
Aug. 28 at the Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre in Greenwood Village, CO
Aug. 29 at the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre in Salt Lake City, UT
Aug. 31 at the White River Amphitheatre in Auburn, WA
Sept. 1 at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater in Bend, OR
Sept. 4 at the RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater in Ridgefield, WA
Sept. 6 at the Toyota Amphitheatre in Wheatland, CA
Sept. 7 at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA
Sept. 8 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA
Sept. 10 at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista, CA
Sept. 11 at the Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre in Phoenix, AZ
Train and REO Speedwagon tour dates
Feb. 1 at the Whisky A Go Go in Los Angeles, CA
July 8 at the Somerset Amphitheater in Somerset, WI
July 10 at the Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center in Noblesville, IN
July 11 at Stage AE in Pittsburgh, PA
July 12 at the Riverbend Music Center in Cincinnati, OH
July 13 at the Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre in Tinley Park, IL
July 15 at the Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls, OH
July 16 at the Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre in St. Louis, MO
July 17 at the Starlight Theatre in Kansas City, MO
July 19 at the Artpark Outdoor Amphitheater in Lewiston, NY
July 20 at the Budweiser Stage in Toronto, ON, CA
July 21 at the Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston, MI
July 23 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs, NY
July 24 at the Bethel Woods Center For The Arts in Bethel, NY
July 26 at the Freedom Mortgage Pavilion in Camden, NJ
July 27 at the Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, NY
July 28 at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion in Gilford, NH
July 31 at the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater in Syracuse, NY
Aug. 1 at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, NJ
Aug. 3 at the Xfinity Theatre in Hartford, CT
Aug. 4 at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield, MA
Aug. 6 at Jiffy Lube Live in Bristow, VA
Aug. 7 at the Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater in Virginia Beach, VA
Aug. 9 at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park in Raleigh, NC
Aug. 10 at the PNC Music Pavilion in Charlotte, NC
Aug. 11 at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion in Wilmington, NC
Aug. 16 at the Oak Mountain Amphitheatre in Pelham, AL
Aug. 17 at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre in Alpharetta, GA
Aug. 18 at the FirstBank Amphitheater in Franklin, TN
Aug. 20 at the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa, FL
Aug. 21 at the iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre in West Palm Beach, FL
Aug. 22 at the Dailys Place Amphitheater in Jacksonville, FL
Aug. 23 at the Amphitheater at The Wharf in Orange Beach, AL
Aug. 25 at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, TX
Aug. 26 at the Dos Equis Pavilion in Dallas, TX
Aug. 28 at the Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre in Greenwood Village, CO
Aug. 29 at the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre in Salt Lake City, UT
Aug. 31 at the White River Amphitheatre in Auburn, WA
Sept. 1 at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater in Bend, OR
Sept. 4 at the RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater in Ridgefield, WA
Sept. 6 at the Toyota Amphitheatre in Wheatland, CA
Sept. 7 at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, CA
Sept. 8 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, CA
Sept. 10 at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre in Chula Vista, CA
Sept. 11 at the Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre in Phoenix, AZ

About Train

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About REO Speedwagon

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About Yacht Rock Revue