Page 1235 – That Eric Alper

The Hold Steady Announce “Stay Positive” Children’s Book

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 28, 2024

The Hold Steady Announce “Stay Positive” Children’s Book

The Hold Steady are releasing a children’s book: Stay Positive: A Children’s Picture Book is out October 1 via Akashic Books, and features illustrations by David “El Dee” Espinosa. Stay Positive is a charming children’s picture book based on The Hold Steady song of the same name. The title track of the band’s fourth album (released in 2008), “Stay Positive” is a call to arms to stand strong and persevere during trying times. The song remains a fan favorite and a staple of The Hold Steady’s live shows.

The book follows the path of an adorable armadillo who discovers along the way how music can pull together a disparate cast of characters. It’s also a lesson in tenacity and maintaining a positive attitude when encountering adverse situations. The story ends up in a unified celebration that mirrors the joy of a Hold Steady performance.

Singer Craig Finn explains, “‘Stay Positive’ has a line that says, ‘The kids at the shows will have kids of their own,’ and it’s true: each year more Hold Steady fans become parents or grandparents. So I’m thrilled that we’re offering the children’s book version of ‘Stay Positive,’ which brings THS joy to the whole family.”

Justin Moore And Randy Houser Announce Co-Headlining ‘Country Round Here Tonight Tour’

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 27, 2024

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Justin Moore And Randy Houser Announce Co-Headlining ‘Country Round Here Tonight Tour’

Multi Platinum-selling country artists Randy Houser and Justin Moore announce their co-headlining ‘Country Round Here Tonight Tour,’ playing 12 shows across the South, Northeast and Midwest later this year.

Multi-Platinum hitmaker Justin Moore has built a loyal following over the past decade with his traditional country sound and captivating live shows. His deeply personal current single “This Is My Dirt” is currently climbing at Country Radio, and the Arkansas-native just notched his 12th No. 1 with “You, Me, and Whiskey,” a smoldering duet with Priscilla Block. Over his 10+ year career, Moore’s No. 1 hits have included “Point at You,” “Lettin’ The Night Roll” “If Heaven Wasn’t So Far Away,” “Small Town USA” and “Till My Last Day,” as well as Platinum-certified albums and singles. The Valory Music Co. recording artist has earned multiple ACM, ACA, People’s Choice, and ACC Awards nominations, as well as an ACM Award win. In addition to multiple festivals, headline shows and select direct-support dates, Moore has also been busy hosting his Justin Moore Podcast sponsored by Bobcat with tour manager JR, interviewing guests such as Oscar award-winning actor Matthew McConaughey; Country stars Tracy Lawrence, Jon Pardi, Brantley Gilbert; wrestling champion Diamond Dallas Page and ESPN’s Marty Smith. He also recently took on a new role as co-host on 103.7 The Buzz’s morning drive-time sports talk show, “Morning Mayhem,” where he spends his weekday mornings dishing out his never-ending sports knowledge on-air.

With an inimitable voice The New York Times describes as “wholly different, thicker and more throbbing, a caldron bubbling over,” Randy Houser racked up three consecutive No. 1 hits and more than four million in singles sales to date with his Stoney Creek Records album How Country Feels. He topped the charts with the title track, “Runnin’ Outta Moonlight” and “Goodnight Kiss” (also his first No. 1 as a songwriter) and earned critical acclaim for his powerful delivery of the Top 5 smash and CMA Song of the Year-nominated “Like A Cowboy.” Houser added a fourth No. 1 to his catalogue with “We Went” from his 2016 album, Fired Up. Houser’s sixth studio album Note To Self is available now via Magnolia Music Group and features 10 tracks all co-written by the Mississippi native. Lead single and title track “Note To Self” marked his “powerful return” following 2019’s critically-acclaimed album Magnolia, with MusicRow boasting the Mississippi native “remains one of country music’s very finest vocalists.” His latest single “Cancel” is available now.

Barbie The Movie: In Concert Announces North American Summer Tour Led By Macy Schmidt And The Barbie Land Sinfonietta

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 27, 2024

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Barbie The Movie: In Concert Announces North American Summer Tour Led By Macy Schmidt And The Barbie Land Sinfonietta

Live Nation and Mattel today announced Barbie The Movie: In Concert™, a live-to-film concert experience produced by Overture Global Entertainment that will bring Warner Bros. Pictures’ feature film Barbie—Mattel Film’s first theatrical production—to life with live music from The Barbie Land Sinfonietta, a special presentation from Orchestrator and Executive Producer Macy Schmidt’s all-women and majority women-of-color orchestra.

Kicking off July 2nd and traveling to 37 cities including the previously announced July 27 date at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, fans across North America will have the opportunity to be transported to Barbie Land this summer and experience Barbie like never before. The record-smashing film will be projected onto a giant LED screen above The Barbie Land Sinfonietta as they perform the film’s award-winning score. Fans of all ages can celebrate the music of 2023’s highest-grossing film in a one-of-a-kind immersive experience, with the tour also featuring specialty limited-edition merchandise, photo opportunities, and more.

The Barbie Land Sinfonietta is conducted by Tony Award winning producer Macy Schmidt. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Schmidt recently became the first woman of color orchestrator in Broadway history.

“We can’t wait for fans of all ages to join us in this immersive experience, celebrating the biggest movie of 2023 and bringing the magic of Barbie to life like never before.” said Josh Silverman, Chief Franchise Officer at Mattel. “The incredible talents of Macy Schmidt and The Barbie Land Sinfonietta guarantee an unparalleled and unforgettable adventure.”

“Music lends so much heart and excitement to the Barbie film; between the stunning and clever orchestral score and the upbeat iconic pop soundtrack, music is carrying us through the story,” said Macy Schmidt. “On top of getting to experience the film unlike ever before, Barbie The Movie: In Concert audiences will have the privilege of watching some of the world’s best musicians come together and do what they do best. Throughout this entire process, I’ve been so inspired by Mattel’s genuine commitment to everything this film stands for. I am particularly excited to be partnering with Mattel as I have long been inspired by Barbie’s purpose statement: ‘to inspire the limitless potential in every girl.’ It couldn’t be more aligned to have an all-women orchestra performing this film, bringing its message to life onstage.’”

Furthering the mission, Barbie The Movie: In Concert will include a touring road crew consisting of a veteran lineup of all-women technical and production professionals. For tour dates and more, please visit http://barbiethemovieinconcert.com.

The full-length feature film Barbie received more than 450 industry nominations and 120 wins, including eight Academy Award nominations. Music from Barbie was nominated for 11 GRAMMY Awards®, with three wins secured in key categories including Song of the Year and Best Song Written for Visual Media (Billie Eilish O’Connell and Finneas O’Connell, What Was I Made For?), and Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media.

Barbie was released worldwide on July 21, 2023, by Warner Bros. Pictures. The highest grossing film of 2023 and the highest grossing in Warner Bros. history, Barbie is directed by Greta Gerwig from a screenplay written by Gerwig & Noah Baumbach. It is Mattel Films’ first theatrical production. Warner Bros. Pictures Presents a Heyday Films Production, a LuckyChap Entertainment Production, an NB/GG Pictures Production, a Mattel Films Production, Barbie. The film is distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Barbie: The Movie In Concert Dates:
Date City Venue
July 2, 2024 Tampa, FL MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
July 3, 2024 Alpharetta, GA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
July 5, 2024 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union Music Park
July 6, 2024 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
July 7, 2024 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live
July 8, 2024 Virginia Beach, VA Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
July 9, 2024 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion
July 10, 2024 Burgettstown, PA The Pavilion at Star Lake
July 12, 2024 Milwaukee, WI American Family Insurance Amphitheatre
July 13, 2024 St. Louis, MO Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre
July 14, 2024 Noblesville, IN Ruoff Music Center
July 15, 2024 Kansas City, MO Starlight Theater
July 17, 2024 Denver, CO Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre
July 18, 2024 Salt Lake City, UT Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
July 20, 2024 Ridgefield, WA RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater
July 21, 2024 Auburn, WA White River Amphitheatre
July 25, 2024 Mountain View, CA Shoreline Amphitheatre
July 26, 2024 Wheatland, CA Toyota Amphitheater
July 27, 2024 Los Angeles, CA Hollywood Bowl
July 28, 2024 Chula Vista, CA North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
July 30, 2024 Phoenix, AZ Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
July 31, 2024 Albuquerque, NM Isleta Amphitheater
August 2, 2024 Houston, TX The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
August 3, 2024 Dallas, TX Dos Equis Pavilion
August 4, 2024 Rogers, AR Walmart AMP
August 6, 2024 Birmingham, AL Oak Mountain Amphitheatre
August 7, 2024 Nashville, TN Ascend Amphitheater
August 8, 2024 Tinley Park, IL Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
August 9, 2024 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center
August 10, 2024 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre
August 11, 2024 Toronto, ON Budweiser Stage
August 12, 2024 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Center
August 14, 2024 Darien Lake, NY Darien Lake Amphitheater
August 15, 2024 Hartford, CT The XFINITY Theatre
August 16, 2024 Mansfield, MA Xfinity Center
August 17, 2024 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center
August 18, 2024 Wantagh, NY Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater

My Next Read: “The Blues Brothers: An Epic Friendship, the Rise of Improv, and the Making of an American Film Classic”

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 26, 2024

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My Next Read: “The Blues Brothers: An Epic Friendship, the Rise of Improv, and the Making of an American Film Classic”

“They’re not going to catch us,” Dan Aykroyd, as Elwood Blues, tells his brother Jake, played by John Belushi. “We’re on a mission from God.” So opens the musical action comedy The Blues Brothers, which hit theaters on June 20, 1980. Their scripted mission was to save a local Chicago orphanage. But Aykroyd, who conceived and wrote much of the film, had a greater mission: to honor the then-seemingly forgotten tradition of rhythm and blues, some of whose greatest artists—Aretha Franklin, James Brown, John Lee Hooker, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles—made the film as unforgettable as its wild car chases. Much delayed and vastly over budget, beset by mercurial and oft drugged-out stars, The Blues Brothers opened to outraged reviews. However, in the 44 years since, it has been acknowledged a classic: it has been inducted into the National Film Registry for its cultural significance, even declared a “Catholic classic” by the Church itself, and re-aired thousands of times on television to huge worldwide audiences. It is, undeniably, one of the most significant films of the twentieth century.

The story behind any classic is rich; the saga behind The Blues Brothers, as Daniel de Visé reveals, is epic, encompassing the colorful childhoods of Belushi and Aykroyd; the comedic revolution sparked by Harvard’s Lampoon and Chicago’s Second City; the birth and anecdote-rich, drug-filled early years of Saturday Night Live, where the Blues Brothers were born as an act amidst turmoil and rivalry; and, of course, the indelible behind-the-scenes narrative of how the film was made, scene by memorable scene. Based on original research and dozens of interviews probing the memories of principals from director John Landis and producer Bob Weiss to Aykroyd himself, The Blues Brothers illuminates an American masterpiece while vividly portraying the creative geniuses behind modern comedy.

Spider-Man Safety Series: “What to Do about Drugs” From 1990

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 26, 2024

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Spider-Man Safety Series: “What to Do about Drugs” From 1990

Spider-Man Safety Series is a direct-to-video educational series that teaches kids on how to deal with problems like drugs, abuse, how to stay away from danger and much more with the help of Spider-Man. This series was considered lost media until 1 of the 4 tape have been found which was titled “Don’t Hide Abuse” and now “What to do about Drugs” has also been found too making 1/2 of the series found.

Watch The Ghostbusters Bloopers Reel From 1984

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 26, 2024

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Watch The Ghostbusters Bloopers Reel From 1984

Fans of the Ghostbusters franchise are going to love watching the chemistry among the Ghostbusters cast, featuring iconic actors such as Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis. The film’s blend of humor and supernatural elements undoubtedly led to numerous unexpected and hilarious moments during filming, adding an extra layer of excitement to the blooper reel.

30-Minutes Of Strawberry Fields, The Canceled CGI Beatles Movie From 1989

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 26, 2024

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30-Minutes Of Strawberry Fields, The Canceled CGI Beatles Movie From 1989

This is a half-hour WIP reel for the canceled animated film Strawberry Fields. Strawberry Fields, conceptualized in 1985, was supposed to be a psudeo-sequel to the film Yellow Submarine, produced by Al Brodax. Brodax had made a deal with the Computer Graphics Laboratory of the New York Institute of Technology to create a new feature length animated film done completely in CGI. It would feature songs by The Beatles the same was as Yellow Submarine had done, but be a new narrative with original characters, omitting the Beatles themselves entirely. Given that Apple Records no longer owned the rights to the Beatles catalog, Brodax had to make an agreement with Vestron and ITC Productions, two companies that promised that they could give the permission for their usage.

During production it was discovered that the technology was not advanced enough to be able to animate human beings properly. Because of this, it was decided that the characters would be 2D animated and placed on top of 3D rendered environments. The 2D animation was managed by Al Lowenheim and Lion’s Den Studios before it slowed down in 1989 when campus owner and founder Alexander Schure disagreed with the use of 2D animation. Attempts were made to switch it back to 3D animation, however when Vestron and ITC Productions confessed that they don’t actually have the rights, the film came to a halt in 1992.

There were a few pieces produced between 1989-1992 that are not included within this reel, however the majority of which that is known to exist is here.

There are some scenes that may seem confusing besides the fact that they are out of order. This is because, according to art director David Lubell, that CGL threw in some things that they had already animated beforehand into the reel because they thought it might fit. They might have also been included to gain the trust of potential investors in their impressive quality. For example, one of the beginning scenes with an ant constructing a sphere was taken from CGL’s previous feature film The Works, which was shelved in 1986.

The source of this tape would like to remain anonymous.

Despite previous rumors, Don Bluth was not part of this film. However, animator Jeff Merghart, who worked on An American Tale, was a key member of the animation team. Bluth’s style likely heavily influenced Merghart and therefore the look of the film.

The complete soundtrack was intended to be:
Michael Jackson – Come Together
Cyndi Lauper – Across the Unierse
Crosby, Stills & Nash – Blackbird
Robert Palmer – Baby, You’re a Rich Man
Siedah Garrett – Hey Jude
Cheap Trick – Magical Mystery Tour
Luther Vandross – Michelle
Stevie Ray Vaughan – Taxman
N/A – Strawberry Fields

A handful of these songs can be heard in the reel, a few of which were recorded specifically for it. Cyndi Lauper’s cover of Across The Universe is not included but can be found uploaded on YouTube as a bootleg copy. Jackson’s cover of Come Together is pulled from the same performance on the 1988 film Moonwalker.

Bassist Performs A Wicked Solo On His 360° Spinning Neck Guitar

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 26, 2024

0

Bassist Performs A Wicked Solo On His 360° Spinning Neck Guitar

Renowned musician Charles Berthoud showcased his exceptional talent by delivering a vibrant instrumental performance on a revolutionary Bluetooth-enabled guitar/bass hybrid, complete with a neck capable of spinning a full 360°. Crafted by the innovative Swedish musician Mattias Krantz, this one-of-a-kind instrument was generously loaned to Berthoud, adding a captivating dimension to his musical expression.

Government Increases Canada Music Fund by $32 Million

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 25, 2024

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Government Increases Canada Music Fund by $32 Million

Today, the federal government announced an increase to the Canada Music Fund of $32 million annually over the next two years. Given the government’s fiscal constraints, this is very welcomed news and marks the first increase to the Fund since 2019.

For decades the Canada Music Fund has been a critically important investment source for Canadian-owned music companies and artists. However, in recent years the explosive growth of the sector has greatly increased demands on the Fund beyond its current capacity. That is why, ahead of Budget 2024-25, music organizations nationwide joined forces to call for a permanent increase of the Canada Music Fund. While falling short of the government’s promise of $50 million, this increased investment signifies progress in bolstering the industry’s growth and stability.

“As the voice of the Canadian-owned music sector, CIMA applauds the government’s increased investment in the Canada Music Fund,” said Andrew Cash, CIMA President. “This is a recognition of music’s significant contribution to our cultural fabric and national economy. CIMA will continue to work closely with our government partners to ensure that the Canadian-owned music sector receives the investments necessary to continue to thrive both domestically and internationally.”

Founded in 1975 CIMA is the not-for-profit national trade association representing over 350 Canadian-owned music companies connected to over 6000 artists in every province and territory in Canada. CIMA’s membership ranges from individual artists and solopreneurs to Canadian-owned global music companies. CIMA’s mission is to empower and engage Canada’s music community to build and sustain equitable, inclusive, diverse, and successful global businesses and careers through advocacy, professional development, collaboration, networking, and celebration.

Winners announced for The 53rd Annual JUNO Awards

Music

Eric Alper

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Mar 25, 2024

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Winners announced for The 53rd Annual JUNO Awards

The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) and CBC celebrated Canada’s Biggest Night in Music this evening at The 53rd Annual JUNO Awards Broadcast. Hosted by legendary singer, songwriter and pop superstar Nelly Furtado, the awards were broadcast from Scotiabank Centre in Halifax on CBC TV, CBC Gem, CBC Radio One, CBC Music, CBC Listen, and globally at CBCMusic.ca/junos and CBC Music’s YouTube page.

JUNOS’ most decorated artist and Nova Scotian Anne Murray took to the stage to present the Group of the Year Presented by SiriusXM Canada to The Beaches. Following their win, The Beaches also took to the stage with a dynamic performance to cap off a stellar weekend for the band, winning Rock Album of the Year the previous night as well.

Two other performers went home with JUNO Awards this evening, TALK with Breakthrough Artist of the Year Presented by FACTOR, The Government of Canada and Canada’s Private Radio Broadcasters and Charlotte Cardin won Album of the Year Presented by Music Canada for her hit album “99 nights.” Charlotte also went home with Pop Album of the Year the previous night.

Canadians were given the option to vote for the TikTok JUNO Fan Choice, which was awarded to Karan Aujla.

The evening’s broadcast included the induction of Maestro Fresh Wes to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, his Induction was Presented by JUNOS Premier Sponsor, TD. The honour was presented to him by Kardinal Offishall who also introduced Maestro Fresh Wes ahead of his incredible performance.

The MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award, presented by Anthem Entertainment, was awarded to, Stephen Richardson (École St. Joseph School, Yellowknife, NT) not only for his impact on students in kindergarten through to grade 12 but also his dedication to the Yellowknife community and the music education field. He is the first educator from the Northwest Territories to win this award and has been nominated for this award three times before.

The 2024 JUNO Awards Broadcast featured additional performances from some of Canada’s brightest stars. Host Nelly Furtado took to the stage to wow the crowd with her performance followed by Karan Aujla (2024 Breakthrough Artist of the Year Presented by FACTOR, The Government of Canada and Canada’s Private Radio Broadcasters nominee) and Ikky who impressed the audience with their performance. A powerful performance from Jeremy Dutcher & 2024 JUNO Award winner Elisapie ft. the fiery Mi’kmaq fiddler Morgan Toney and artistic creator Sarah Prosper. A double award winner from the JUNO Opening Night Awards Presented by Music Canada, Songwriter of the Year Presented by SOCAN and Alternative Album of the Year, Aysanabee joined Alexandra Stréliski and Allison Russell, winner of the 2024 JUNO Award for Music Video of the Year. Country artist Josh Ross took to the stage to put on an exhilarating performance.

The evening’s star-studded roster of presenters included CBC’s This Hour Has 22 Minutes and Best in Miniature host, Aba Amuquandoh, Two-Spirit nurse practitioner and talented drag artist Anita LandBack, Canadian music legend Jim Cuddy, co-founder and executive director of the Wabanaki Two-Spirit Alliance John R Sylliboy, actor/comedian Jonny Harris from CBC’s Murdoch Mysteries and Still Standing, 2024 Single of the Year an Breakthrough Artist of the Year Presented by FACTOR, the Government of Canada and Canada’s private Radio broadcasters nominee and pop singer/songwriter LU KALA, R&B/dancehall fusion and 2024 Reggae Recording of the Year nominee Omega Mighty, Minister of Canadian Heritage The Honourable Pascale St-Onge and JUNO Award winner and 2024 nominee William Prince. Crash Adams were the 2024 TikTok JUNO Fan Choice Award presenters and CBC Music’s Odario Williams brought this Afterdark groove to the JUNO party as the Broadcast announcer.