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Chris Stapleton Confirms 2024 “All-American Road Show”

Eric Alper
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Chris Stapleton Confirms 2024 “All-American Road Show”

Chris Stapleton will continue his extensive “All-American Road Show” tour through next summer including newly confirmed shows at San Diego’s Petco Park, Minneapolis’ U.S. Bank Stadium, Seattle’s T-Mobile Park, Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl, Cleveland’s Blossom Music Center and Philadelphia’s Freedom Mortgage Pavilion among many others. Special guests on the tour, which is produced by Live Nation, include Sheryl Crow, Elle King, Marcus King, Nikki Lane, Willie Nelson and Family, Grace Potter, Allen Stone, Marty Stuart, Turnpike Troubadours, The War and Treaty and Lainey Wilson. See below for complete itinerary.

The upcoming performances add to yet another landmark year for the 8x Grammy, 15x CMA and 15x ACM Award-winner, who will release his highly anticipated new album, Higher, November 10. Produced by Dave Cobb, Morgane Stapleton and Chris Stapleton, Higher was recorded at Nashville’s RCA Studio A and showcases his supernatural voice and musical versatility across 14 songs that defy genre.

Already receiving critical attention, Stapleton has unveiled three album tracks ahead of the release: “It Takes A Woman,” “Think I’m In Love With You” and “White Horse,” of which Billboard praises “a hell-raising anthem, meant to be blared with windows down and enjoyed with ears ringing. ‘White Horse’ finds Stapleton pairing an outlaw swagger with some heaven-scraping vocals, going for the gusto throughout the chorus to try and match the guitar snarl.” Furthermore, Consequence declares, “‘White Horse’ certainly suggests that Stapleton is leaning into his strengths as a cross-genre act” and Brooklyn Vegan proclaims, “one of the most jaw-dropping singles yet from an artist who rarely if ever misses.”

Alongside Stapleton (vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, slide electric guitar), the new album features Cobb (acoustic guitar, eclectic guitar), J.T. Cure (bass), Paul Franklin (pedal steel), Derek Mixon (drums), Morgane (background vocals, synthesizer, tambourine) and Lee Pardini (organ, piano).

One of the country’s most respected and beloved musicians, in the past year Stapleton was named Entertainer of the Year at the 58th ACM Awards—resulting in a prestigious ACM Triple Crown Award—and Male Vocalist of the Year at the 2022 CMA Awards—his sixth time earning the award, setting the record for most wins ever in the category. Additionally, in February, he performed the National Anthem at Super Bowl LVII and has collaborated in recent years with Adele, Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars, Ed Sheeran, Justin Timberlake, P!nk, Sheryl Crow, Santana and many more.

The new album follows 2020’s acclaimed Starting Over, which went on to win three awards at the 67th Annual GRAMMYs: Best Country Album, Best Country Solo Performance (“You Should Probably Leave”) and Best Country Song (“Cold”) in addition to earning Album of the Year honors at both the CMA and ACM Awards. Called a “a sure-footed masterpiece” by the Associated Press, the album landed on “Best of 2020” lists at NPR Music, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Esquire, Vulture, The Tennessean and The New York Times, who declared, “Chris Stapleton’s roar isn’t designed to scare you off. It’s regal, an announcement of an alpha figure asserting his primacy…on this, his fourth album, the thrill is back.” Prior to Starting Over, Stapleton released a pair of Platinum-certified releases in 2017—From A Room: Volume 1 and From A Room: Volume 2—as well as his x5 Platinum breakthrough solo debut album in 2015, Traveller.

In addition to their work as musicians, the Stapletons are founders of the Outlaw State of Kind charitable fund, which supports a variety of causes that are close to their heart.

CHRIS STAPLETON CONFIRMED TOUR DATES
March 2, 2024—San Diego, CA—Petco Park‡
April 3, 2024—Winnipeg, MB—Canada Life Centre+
April 4, 2024—Grand Forks, ND—Alerus Center+
April 6, 2024—Minneapolis, MN—U.S. Bank Stadium^
May 4, 2024—Indianapolis, IN—Lucas Oil Stadium#
May 9, 2024—West Palm Beach, FL—iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre~
May 11, 2024—Jacksonville, FL—Everbank Stadium#
May 22, 2024—Rapid City, SD—The Monument**
May 25, 2024—Ames, IA—Jack Trice Stadium#
May 31, 2024—Cleveland, OH—Blossom Music Center**
June 1, 2024—Charlotte, NC—Bank of America Stadium#
June 6, 2024—Philadelphia, PA—Freedom Mortgage Pavilion††
June 7, 2024—Bristow, VA—Jiffy Lube Live††
June 8, 2024—East Rutherford, NJ—MetLife Stadium#
June 12, 2024—Kansas City, MO—T-Mobile Center‡‡
June 26, 2024—Los Angeles, CA—Hollywood Bowl++
June 29, 2024—Salt Lake City, UT—Rice-Eccles Stadium#
July 11, 2024—Buffalo, NY—Darien Lake Amphitheater††
July 12, 2024—Pittsburgh, PA—The Pavilion at Star Lake††
July 13, 2024—Detroit, MI—Ford Field#
July 18, 2024—Toledo, OH—Huntington Center††
July 19, 2024—Columbus, OH—Schottenstein Center††
July 20, 2024—Chicago, IL—Soldier Field#
July 25, 2024—Nampa, ID—Ford Idaho Center Arena^^
July 26, 2024—Portland, OR—RV Inn Styles Resort Amphitheater^^
July 27, 2024—Seattle, WA—T-Mobile Park##
August 1, 2024—Gilford, NH—BankNH Pavilion++
August 2, 2024—Gilford, NH—BankNH Pavilion++
August 9, 2024—Nashville, TN—Bridgestone Arena~~
August 21, 2024—Birmingham, AL—The Legacy Arena at the BJCC++
August 22, 2024—Little Rock, AR—Simmons Bank Arena++
October 16, 2024—Manchester, England—AO Arena++ (SOLD OUT)
October 17, 2024—Glasgow, Scotland—OVO Hydro Arena++ (SOLD OUT)
October 20, 2024—Dublin, Ireland—3Arena++ (SOLD OUT)
October 22, 2024—Birmingham, England—Utilita Arena++ (SOLD OUT)
October 23, 2024—London, England—The O2++ (SOLD OUT)
December 7, 2024—Las Vegas, NV—Allegiant Stadium#

*with special guests Charley Crockett and Nikki Lane
†with special guest Nikki Lane
‡with special guests Turnpike Troubadours and Elle King
+with special guests The War and Treaty and Allen Stone
^with special guests Lainey Wilson and Marcus King
#with George Strait and special guest Little Big Town
~with special guests Grace Potter and Nikki Lane
**with special guests Marcus King and The War and Treaty
††with special guests Marcus King and Nikki Lane
‡‡with special guests Marcus King and Allen Stone
++with special guests Grace Potter and Allen Stone
^^with special guests Nikki Lane and Allen Stone
##with special guests Willie Nelson and Family and Sheryl Crow
~~with special guests Marty Stuart and Nikki Lane

Lainey Wilson Announces 2024 “Country’s Cool Again” North American Tour

Eric Alper
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Lainey Wilson Announces 2024 “Country’s Cool Again” North American Tour

Today, multi-award-winning singer songwriter and breakthrough actress, Lainey Wilson announced she will be performing 35+ dates across North America on her headlining “Country’s Cool Again Tour” next year.

Already this year, Wilson has won four ACM Awards, two CMT Music Awards, three PCCA Awards, in addition to being honored as Billboard Women in Music’s 2023 “Rulebreaker,” and the most nominated artist at this year’s CMA Awards with a record breaking nine nominations.

Tickets will be available starting with the Wild Horses presale beginning Monday, October 23. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on sale beginning Friday, October 27 at 10am local time at LaineyWilson.com. Dates may vary by market. See website for more details.

“Nothing gets me buzzin’ like putting on a show and singing along with the crowd,” said Wilson. “I want to give a big thank you to all of the fans who have continuously showed up and showed out this year. We can’t wait to see you nationwide on the “Country’s Cool Again Tour!”

As the leading female nominee and winner at the 2023 ACM awards with, Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of The Year, Visual Media and Musical Event of the Year and reigning CMA 2022 Female Vocalist and New Artist of the Year, Lainey Wilson has earned the enthusiasm of the industry. Critically acclaimed and touted as a top “artist to watch,” to being crowned the most nominated artist at both the 2023 CMA Awards (with a record breaking nine nominations) and CMT Music Awards, the Louisiana native has made a name for herself in the industry as one of music’s hottest and most buzzed-about new artists. Landing her first No. 1 with her PLATINUM Certified ACM Song of the Year, “Things A Man Oughta Know,” nearly 10 years to the day after leaving her small farming community in a camper trailer to chase her dreams, she has won over legions of fans with her signature Bell Bottom Country sound and aesthetic, which blends traditional Country with a modern yet retro flare. A prolific and sought-after songwriter (having co-writer credits on songs by artists including Luke Combs, Flatland Calvary, and more), Lainey is a fresh, fierce voice in Nashville, delivering CMA-nominated album of the year with her label debut, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’. With a rockstar stage presence, her artistry has taken her across the globe, performing for sold-out crowds throughout the US, UK, and Germany with notable names like Jon Pardi, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, HARDY, Jason Aldean, Ashley McBryde, and more. After topping the country radio charts for a second time with the two-week No. 1 hit, “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell, she recently achieved her third and fourth No. 1 song with “Heart Like a Truck” and HARDY collaboration “wait in the truck”. Her current single “Watermelon Moonshine” topped the Country charts marking her fifth No. 1 single and making her the first female artist in two years to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Country airplay chart. Her critically acclaimed album, Bell Bottom Country, reached No. 9 on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart, quickly rose to No. 1 on iTunes charts and has amassed over 650 million streams to date. Wilson made her acting debut in Season 5 of the smash hit series “Yellowstone” as a musician character named Abby, where she premiered her original “Smell Like Smoke” as well as showcased other hits off her recent album including “Watermelon Moonshine” and “Hold My Halo”. Adding to her growing list of endeavors, Wilson was recently named “Tractor Supply Brand Ambassador,” was honored at Billboard’s Women in Music Awards with the Rulebreaker Award, and most recently joined forces with Wrangler as the face of their 2023 fall/winter women’s collection.

LAINEY WILSON “Country’s Cool Again” SCHEDULE
5/31 – Nashville, TN (Ascend Amphitheater) *^
6/14 – Camden, NJ (Freedom Mortgage Pavilion) *^
6/15 – Gilford, NH (Bank NH Pavilion) *^
6/20 – Saratoga Springs, NY (Broadview Stage at SPAC) *^
6/21 – Syracuse, NY (Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview) *^
6/26 – New York, NY (Radio City Music Hall) *^
6/28 – Bridgeport, CT (Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater) *^
6/29 – Bangor, ME (Maine Savings Amphitheater) *^
8/8 – Huntsville, AL (The Orion Amphitheater) *^
8/9 – Southaven, MS (BankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove) *^
8/10 – Rogers, AR (Walmart AMP) *^
8/22 – Prescott Valley, AZ (Findlay Toyota Center) +^
8/23 – Chula Vista, CA (North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre) +^
8/24 – Concord, CA (Toyota Pavilion at Concord) +^
9/1 – Los Angeles, CA (The Greek Theatre) +^
9/13 – Salt Lake City, UT (USANA Amphitheatre) +^
9/14 – Boise, ID (Ford Idaho Center) +^
9/15 – Missoula, MT (University of Montana – Adams Center) +^
9/19 – Fresno, CA (Save Mart Center) +% ON SALE NOV 3
9/20 – Lake Tahoe/Stateline, NV (Lake Tahoe Outdoor Arena at Harveys) + ^
9/26 – Vancouver, BC (Rogers Arena) + ^
9/27 – Auburn, WA (White River Amphitheatre) + ^ ON SALE DEC 1
9/28 – Ridgefield, WA (RV Inn Style Resorts Amphitheater) + ^ ON SALE NOV 17
10/10 – Lubbock, TX (United Supermarkets Arena) + ^
10/18 – Raleigh, NC (Red Hat Amphitheater) *^
10/19 – Alpharetta, GA (Ameris Bank Amphitheatre) *^
10/20 – Wilmington, NC (Live Oak Bank Pavilion) *^
10/24 – London, ON (Budweiser Gardens) *^
10/25 – Oshawa, ON (Tribute Communities Centre) *^
10/26 – Pittsburgh, PA (Petersen Events Center) *^
11/1 – Little Rock, AR (Simmons Bank Arena) + ^
11/2 – Evansville, IN (Ford Center) *^
11/3 – Charleston, WV (Charleston Coliseum) *^
11/7 – Oklahoma City, OK (Paycom Center) + ^
11/8 – Omaha, NE (CHI Health Center) + ^
11/9 – Sioux Falls, SD (Denny Sanford Premier Center) + ^ ON SALE NOV 17
11/15- Monroe, LA (Monroe Civic Center) *^
* – Ian Munsick
^ – Zach Top
+ – Jackson Dean
% – To Be Announced

SiriusXM NHL Network Radio Returns With Live Coverage Of The 2023-24 NHL Season

Eric Alper
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SiriusXM NHL Network Radio Returns With Live Coverage Of The 2023-24 NHL Season

SiriusXM Canada, the country’s leading audio entertainment company and the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NHL, today announced comprehensive coverage of the 2023-24 NHL season, right through the Stanley Cup Final. SiriusXM NHL Network Radio (ch. 91) will bring subscribers across North America compelling insight, expert analysis, special programming, interviews, and live-play-play of every game starting Tuesday, October 10.

SiriusXM NHL Network Radio is entering its 19th season offering listeners all the action across the ice and behind-the-scenes and welcomes a dynamic roster of former players bringing their knowledge and perspective on a daily basis, including Mike Johnson, Anthony Stewart, Mike Rupp, Martin Biron, Shane O’Brien, Mike McKenna and Andrew Raycroft.

Get expert opinion, analysis and season previews for all 32 NHL teams with the regular roster of listener favourites, including Gord Stellick, Scott Laughlin, Steve Kouleas, Boomer Gordon, Mick Kern, Linda Cohn and Dave McCarthy. Insiders Brian Burke, Elliotte Friedman, Bruce Boudreau, Dave Poulin, Craig Button, Jeff Marek and Dave Pagnotta also return every week for another season.

The season opens on Tuesday, October 10 with a tripleheader broadcast. The first puck drop is in Tampa Bay, where the Lightning host the Nashville Predators, followed by rookie sensation Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks taking on Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Night one concludes with the Vegas Golden Knights, the defending Stanley Cup champions, facing off against the Seattle Kraken.

In addition, SiriusXM NHL Network Radio will be offering subscribers comprehensive coverage of the 2023 Tim Hortons NHL Heritage Classic between the Calgary Flames and Edmonton Oilers on October 29.

SiriusXM NHL Network Radio is the only 24/7 audio channel dedicated to the NHL and is available to subscribers nationwide on SiriusXM radio (channel 91) and on the SiriusXM app (SiriusXM NHL Network Radio). For more SiriusXM NHL Network Radio programming, visit: SiriusXM.ca/SiriusXM-NHL-Network-Radio.

Fans can also search their favourite NHL team’s name in the SiriusXM app in their cars, at home and on the go for additional content including podcasts, player interview, press conferences, and more. The SiriusXM app offers 32 NHL team channels, each dedicated to carrying the official radio broadcast for each NHL team, making it easy for fans to find and listen to their favourite team’s announcers for every game. All 32 team channels are also available in vehicles equipped with SiriusXM’s latest-generation 360L radios. French-language broadcasts for all Montreal Canadians games will be available via Attitude Franco (ch.163).

For a schedule of NHL games on SiriusXM go to SiriusXM.ca/NHL Keep up with SiriusXM NHL Network Radio on X, formerly known as Twitter and Facebook.

Universal Music Group’s Science-Based Targets Validated By Science-Based Targets Initiative

Eric Alper
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Universal Music Group’s Science-Based Targets Validated By Science-Based Targets Initiative

In a first for a standalone major music company, Universal Music Group N.V. (EURONEXT: UMG), the world’s leading music-based entertainment company, today announced that its greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets have been approved by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the gold standard for establishing corporate climate goals.

UMG’s Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and President of Operations Boyd Muir said, “I am incredibly proud of the organization-wide efforts that have brought us to this milestone. By aligning our operations with science-based targets, we deepen our commitment to embed sustainability principles into our business practices and to innovate for a resilient future in which both global communities and music lovers thrive.”

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) has validated that the science-based greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets submitted by UMG conform with the SBTi Criteria and Recommendations (version 5).

Today’s milestone announcement reflects UMG’s dedication to addressing its environmental impacts and amplifies its determination to continue delivering pacesetting change on one of the most important public health issues of this era. UMG is also a founding member of the Music Climate Pact, the global platform of music companies engaged in collective action combating the climate crisis. The Company regularly works to assure its carbon reduction objectives are aligned with the latest scientific research.

Specifically, Universal Music Group N.V. has committed to achieving ambitious GHG emissions targets across all scopes and has outlined a pathway to:

  • Reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions 58% by 2032 from a 2019 base year, an ambition which is in line with a 1.5ᵒC trajectory; and
  • Reduce scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods & services, capital goods, fuel- and energy-related activities, upstream transportation and distribution, waste generated in operations, business travel, and employee commuting by 62% per EUR value added within the same timeframe.

The Greenhouse Gas Protocol defines “Scope 1” emissions as direct emissions from owned or controlled sources, “Scope 2” as emissions associated with the generation of electricity, heating/cooling, or steam purchased for the reporting organization’s own consumption, and “Scope 3” as indirect emissions other than those covered in scope 2 (such as a third-party supplier’s energy consumption, product manufacturing, and logistics).

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is a global body enabling companies and financial institutions to set ambitious emissions reduction targets in line with the latest climate science. The SBTi’s goal is to accelerate businesses across the world to support the global economy to halve emissions before 2030 and achieve net-zero before 2050.

The initiative is a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and one of the We Mean Business Coalition commitments. The SBTi defines and promotes best practice in science-based target setting, offers resources and guidance to reduce barriers to adoption, and independently assesses and approves companies’ targets. For more information, please visit sciencebasedtargets.org.

Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme Showcased In First-Ever Retrospective Special

Eric Alper
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Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme Showcased In First-Ever Retrospective Special

In an acclaimed career spanning over half a century of timeless entertainment, husband and wife Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme represented the very best in popular music, starting with youthful pop hits in the 1950s and 1960s (Go Away Little Girl, Blame It On The Bossa Nova) followed by their Grammy and Emmy-winning triumphs focusing on the Great American Songbook. Their musician son David Lawrence (High School Musical) hosts STEVE LAWRENCE & EYDIE GORME: MEMORIES OF MY MOM AND DAD, an all-new My Music special to debut the weekend of December 2, 2023 on Public Television stations nationwide, with encore airings through the holidays (check local listings).

“Long before doing doo-wop, folk and soul reunions, the show I most wanted to make was about Steve and Eydie. From the first time I heard Steve sing More and then discovered Eydie’s amazing voice, I knew their beautiful legacy deserved to be celebrated. Thanks to their son David and my team, spearheaded by Jim Pierson, it’s finally happening—Steve & Eydie are back!” exclaims Executive Producer TJ Lubinsky.

Beginning as regulars on Steve Allen’s Tonight Show in 1954, Steve and Eydie were television mainstays for decades, making hundreds of appearances on variety and talk shows as well as headlining their own series. Their 1970s specials devoted to the music of Cole Porter, Irving Berlin and the Gershwins further cemented the romantic and fun-loving couple’s place in the hearts of millions.

Steve and Eydie’s extraordinary life in song took them from Broadway to Las Vegas and all over the world until Eydie’s retirement in 2009. Now, for the first time, their remarkable career is celebrated with musical performances drawn from classic television appearances not seen in years. Joining their son is Carol Burnett, with whom Steve and Eydie enjoyed a longtime personal and professional relationship, and Ambassador of the American Songbook, vocalist Michael Feinstein. “Steve and Eydie were family and I’m so happy to be part of this tribute to my loving friends,” reflects Burnett. “Their work is as important for preservation as any great artists of the 20th century,” adds Feinstein.

STEVE LAWRENCE & EYDIE GORME: MEMORIES OF MY MOM AND DAD is a joyful look back at the dazzling showmanship, enduring hit songs, beloved showtunes and favorite standards by two of the greatest voices in popular music and the most successful husband-and-wife singing duo of all time.

PROGRAM PERFORMANCES

This Could Be The Start Of Something Big     
(Steve & Eydie)
I’ve Got You Under My Skin (Steve)
The Man I Love (Eydie)
What Now My Love (Steve)
Tonight I’ll Say A Prayer (Eydie)
Portrait Of My Love (Steve)
Blame It On The Bossa Nova (Eydie)
Sunrise, Sunset (Steve & Eydie)
More (Steve)
Sabor A Mi (Eydie)

A Room Without Windows (Steve)
Go Away Little Girl (Steve)
A House Is Not A Home (Eydie)
Darn It Baby, That’s Love (Steve & Eydie)
On A Clear Day (Steve)
I’ve Gotta Be Me (Steve)
What Did I Have That I Don’t Have (Eydie)
If He Walked Into My Life (Eydie)
Irving Berlin Song Medley
(Steve & Eydie with Carol Burnett & Sammy Davis Jr.)
As Time Goes By (Steve & Eydie)

HYBE x Geffen Records Reveal Final Members Of Unprecedented Global Girl Group, Katseye

Eric Alper
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HYBE x Geffen Records Reveal Final Members Of Unprecedented Global Girl Group, Katseye

Tonight, HYBE x Geffen Records revealed the final six members of the unprecedented global girl group as a result of “The Debut: Dream Academy” audition program: Daniela (USA), Yoonchae (South Korea), Lara (USA), Sophia (Philippines), Manon (Switzerland), Megan (USA). The group name, KATSEYE, was also unveiled. The announcement took place at a live event in Los Angeles and was live streamed simultaneously on HYBE LABELS YouTube Channel (Global), Weverse (Global), and ABEMA (Japan). During the finale, viewers watched the top 10 contestants’ final group performances where they each debuted an original and exclusive song: “Dirty Water”, “Girls Don’t Like”, and “All The Same”.

Click HERE to watch “The Debut: Dream Academy” – Live Finale.

For “Dirty Water” and “Girls Don’t Like, the 10 finalists were split into two groups of 5. They showcased not only their dancing and singing abilities, but also how they have grown as artists from their experience in The Dream Academy. These were the last performances that the remaining contestants were evaluated on.

“All The Same” was performed by all 10 finalists. Set against a dream-like and ethereal backdrop that compliments the song’s overall feel, the contestants exhibited unity and sisterhood, vocally supporting one another and through intricate and contemporary choreography. This song marks both the beginning and the end of their Dream Academy journey, as “All The Same” originally debuted in the art film that was presented at the press event where “The Debut: Dream Academy” was announced.

The name of the group, KATSEYE, was revealed at the finale as well. Feminine, powerful, and unique, KATSEYE perfectly encompasses each member of this unprecedented girl group. A semiprecious stone, cat’s eye shows off a variety of colors depending on its direction, much like the final members who are all different in their cultural backgrounds, but united as one under KATSEYE, glowing powerfully together. Cat’s eye gemstones are also used as a “lucky charm” bringing peace, success, and good fortune for a lifetime.

Music industry powerhouses HYBE and Geffen Records recently revealed the 20 contestants from around the world who competed for a spot in the first-ever HYBE x Geffen Records global girl group. The one-of-a-kind joint venture marks the first time a major U.S. record label and a K-pop entertainment leader have combined their expertise in artist discovery and music production to assemble, develop, and introduce an international girl group unlike any other. This also notably represents the first time a U.S.-based, truly global girl group will be created and modeled based on the world-renowned K-pop training and development system, under which the contestants have been quietly training over the last year in Los Angeles. The aspiring artists participated in a world-class audition program titled “The Debut: Dream Academy”, and fans have been following the contestants on their journey. The years-long process of creating this one-of-a-kind girl group will be the subject of an upcoming untitled Netflix documentary series, directed by Nadia Hallgren (Becoming). The series produced by HYBE, Interscope Films and Boardwalk Pictures is set to premiere in Summer 2024.

Bang Si-Hyuk (Chairman of HYBE) said, “This has been a long journey and an unprecedented collaboration between HYBE and Geffen. We are very proud of the results and of all the contestants who joined us in this project. We wish KATSEYE much success as we are sure they will inspire fans across the globe.”

John Janick (Chairman & CEO, IGA) states, “It has been so inspiring to see the dedication each of these incredible artists has brought to this process,” said John Janick, Chairman and CEO of Interscope Geffen A&M. “For the new members of KATSEYE, I truly believe there are no limits to what they can accomplish together.”

“The Debut: Dream Academy” global girl group audition program was comprised of three missions where the contestants were split into groups to showcase their vocal and dance abilities (mission announcement video here). The performance videos aired on HYBE LABELS YouTube Channel (Global) and ABEMA (Japan) and allowed fans to follow the journey and familiarize themselves with the contestants and their talents. After each mission, fans voted via Weverse and YouTube for their favorite contestants (voting info here). Alongside fan voting, a panel of experienced evaluators offer valuable feedback and guidance to the contestants, playing an essential role in shaping the growth and development of these talented young women.

The focus of Mission #1 was to level up their skills and demonstrate their ability to support one another as team members through their individual performances. After Mission #1, two participants were eliminated, and the remaining 18 contestants flew to Korea to prep for Mission #2, which took place at HYBE’s world-renowned Training & Development (T&D) facility where so many iconic K-Pop stars have trained. Mission #2’s focus was to enhance the contestants’ artistry and teamwork beyond basic individual skills. Four more girls were eliminated after Mission #2 after which the remaining contestants flew back to Los Angeles for Mission #3 where the focus was to demonstrate artistry while executing various musical concepts. The third elimination solidified the top 10 contestants who performed at the November 17th finale event. Performance videos from all three missions can be viewed here.

Following “The Debut: Dream Academy” – Live Finale, KATSEYE will begin working on their forthcoming album, which will be released in 2024. Additionally, the three original and exclusive songs that debuted at the finale event, “Dirty Water”, “Girls Don’t Like”, and “All The Same”, are available now on YouTube.

In February 2021, HYBE (formerly Big Hit Entertainment) and UMG’s Geffen Records officially announced their strategic joint venture partnership — an unprecedented collaboration between an esteemed U.S. record label and the leading K-pop and entertainment lifestyle platform company, brought together to create the world’s first U.S.-based, global girl group modeled on the world-renowned K-pop training & development system. This marked the first time a U.S. record label and a K-pop entertainment company were uniting to combine their expertise in artist discovery and development, and music production to assemble, develop, and introduce a group from ground zero. The November 2021 announcement of the first-ever HYBE x Geffen Global Girl Group Audition that followed kicked off the historic JV. Combining HYBE’s global expertise to lead the discovery, training, and development of the group, fan content production processes, and engagement with fans around the world, with Geffen Records’ extensive industry network and partners to oversee the music production, marketing, and global distribution operations, the JV aims to debut a new girl group that will transcend national, cultural, and artistic boundaries.

HYBE, rebranded from Big Hit Entertainment in March 2021, is a global entertainment lifestyle platform company that seeks boundless expansion in order to innovate the music industry. Ever since, HYBE has been expanding its multi-label system including BIGHIT MUSIC, BELIFT LAB, SOURCE MUSIC, PLEDIS Entertainment, KOZ ENTERTAINMENT, ADOR, HYBE LABELS JAPAN, NAECO, while HYBE AMERICA also manages its affiliate labels including Big Machine Label Group. In addition to the label business, HYBE established an integrated structure with its solution business that creates concert, video content, game, original story, and retail, as well as a platform business through Weverse, a global fandom platform. Composed of its three headquarters based in Korea, Japan, and the US, the company works towards bringing innovative change throughout the global music industry.

Toronto’s Night Economy Town Hall Is A Go, And You Might Want To Be Involved

Eric Alper
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0
Toronto’s Night Economy Town Hall Is A Go, And You Might Want To Be Involved

Help shape, plan and create a safe and vibrant Toronto nightlife by participating in the first-ever Night Economy Town Hall on January 17 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Night economy describes the social, cultural, and economic activities that take place between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m. in Toronto. These activities include entertainment such as attending concerts or going out to eat, practical necessities like grocery shopping, and performing actual employment. A major component of the night economy is the nighttime workforce, including those who help manage life at night, such as hospitality industry workers, bar owners, shift workers, and emergency services professionals. A healthy night economy supports all the needs of its residents at night.

Including the night economy in municipal planning is essential. Doing so allows more residents to access City services, run errands, and travel throughout the city at night. By taking a strategic approach to managing and planning for the night, Toronto can be proactive in addressing any concerns with increasing night activities – such as noise and safety.

The City of Toronto will strengthen Toronto’s nightlife over the next three years, using, and in some cases re-aligning, existing City resources through three main objectives:

  1. Plan the Night – Coordinate a strategic approach with municipal services, planning and policies to enhance 24-hour activity.
  2. Protect the Night – Provide support to Toronto’s nightlife to promote a safe, respectful, inclusive and positive environment for all residents, workers and visitors.
  3. Create the Night – Build a foundation that encourages a vibrant nightlife by supporting talented artists and entrepreneurs, creating jobs and spurring economic growth for Toronto.

To meet these objectives, the City of Toronto has formed the Night Economy Internal Working Group, which consists of senior representatives across City divisions who will work together with night industry stakeholders to make meaningful changes that will ensure Toronto’s night experience is safe and positive for everyone.

The City is looking for input from the general public and from groups including industry professionals, business owners, cultural event producers and residents.

As part of this review, the City intends to:

  • explore new ways to activate space and enhance livability for everyone who works at night or is interested in cultural or social experiences after dark
  • create strategies that promote safe and enjoyable communities for all
  • update the definitions, rules, and licensing for bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues
  • change regulations that define where these businesses can operate in Toronto

If you want to be a part of it (and it’s a great networking opportunity, too), it’s free with registration HERE.

“Forward”-Facing Indie Pop Artist Heyoka Gets Inspirational On New Single

Eric Alper
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“Forward”-Facing Indie Pop Artist Heyoka Gets Inspirational On New Single

Sometimes, a little push is all you need. And a push is what you’ll get from “Forward,” a slice of tender tough love from Belgian indie-popper Heyoka’s most recent EP, Mercure.

A hypnotically persuasive anthem that combines old-school symphonics with modern martial beats, “Forward” finds the high-minded Heyoka challenging us listeners to move beyond our bad mental habits. With an unassuming purr, he insinuates himself into our inner mind like the voice of an ancient conscience, then plants a message there that’s inspirational and aspirational – a wake-up call that a brighter day is coming if we want it.

It’s time to look into your lies
Can you tell me when you look into my eyes
That you’re happy about how you live your life?
I can’t help unless you let me in
I can’t say if you need me or not
I trust you I know you’ll be alright
Even if it’s hard sometime

It’s a soundtrack to self-improvement, a motivational hymn that’ll get the job done whether you’re working some things out or just working out. The accompanying music video ups the ante on physicality even further, showing three simply dressed dancers conveying the emotions behind the words via elegant movements devised in collaboration with choreographer Helène Duguy.

“As I write, compose and arrange all of my songs alone, letting other people enter into this project was an opportunity to open it to other influences,” Heyoka says. “It was incredible to see the choreography come to life as they were interpreting the song, which is about struggling to deal with what happens inside of us, needing help and being ready or not to accept it.”

That emotional weight is maintained throughout the introspective Mercure, a five-song stream of consciousness-raising that relies on stirring synths and quasi-military beats to get its point across. Tracks like “Prologue” and “Ghosts” balance the isolation of personal heartbreak with an almost cosmic sense that such vulnerabilities are what ultimately unite us all.

Heyoka himself has had to look inward to get to where he is now. Growing up in a household with no artistic role models to speak of, he began teaching himself how to play instruments and program musical software at age 9. Now a rising star on the Belgian indie scene, this part-time French teacher and full-time thinker might just have hit on the prescription for all our emotional ills. Get “Forward,” and start getting better.

Montreal Singer-Songwriter Annabel Gutherz Reveals Her New Single “Eclipse”

Eric Alper
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Montreal Singer-Songwriter Annabel Gutherz Reveals Her New Single “Eclipse”

Canadian singer and songwriter Annabel Gutherz reveals her new single, “Eclipse,” out today on all streaming platforms. Blending classic rock influences with modern pop sounds, “Eclipse” is a vivid and textured song that showcases an artist who has found her voice. The new single was co-written with and produced by Mikal Blue (OneRepublic, Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat) and Bret “Epic” Mazur (Crazy Town, Prince, The Black Eyed Peas).

“‘Eclipse’ is about my tendency to compare myself to others and the impact this has on my self-esteem,” Annabel says. “I would rather be concentrated on purpose than consumed by comparison despite how challenging it may be at times, especially given the ubiquitous nature of social media. This single showcases my desire to focus on my own path and nurture my inner confidence.”

Born and raised in Montreal, Annabel Gutherz creates timeless music that speaks to the soul of what it means to be human. Combining her compelling and diaristic storytelling with honeyed melodies, distinct vocals, and her keen musical intuition, Annabel’s songs take listeners on a heartfelt journey packed with raw honesty and emotional conviction.

Since the release of her 2021 album, Loose Ends, Annabel has continued to develop her sound by working with an array of esteemed collaborators, including Bleu McAuley (Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Jonas Brothers) and Bonnie Hayes (Bonnie Raitt, Bette Midler, David Crosby). Fiercely committed to her craft, Annabel also holds a baccalaureate and a master’s degree in songwriting from Berklee College of Music. With her undeniable talent and more music in the works for 2024, Annabel Gutherz is certainly an artist to keep on your radar.

Taylor Swift Tribute Show Returns To Toronto For 3rd Year: 35 Songs By 7 Artists!

Eric Alper
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Taylor Swift Tribute Show Returns To Toronto For 3rd Year: 35 Songs By 7 Artists!

Feeling 22 – A Live Tribute To Taylor Swift

Date: January 20, 2024

Performances at 3:00pm (all ages) and 9:00pm (19+)

The Rec Room: 255 Bremner Boulevard Toronto, ON M5V 3M9

Tickets: $30 general admission, $45 VIP (includes private preshow, meet and greet, early entry, other swag)

Tickets available at https://feeling22torontoallages.eventbrite.com and https://feeling22toronto19plus.eventbrite.com

Toronto Swifties may not need to wait until November to hear Taylor Swift’s hits live. Feeling 22 – A Live Tribute to Taylor Swift, a tribute concert that spans the superstar’s entire career, returns to The Rec Room at Roundhouse Park for a third straight year on January 20, 2024.

Feeling 22 features more than 35 songs performed over the course of three hours by some of Canada’s top indie country/pop artists, covering songs from every Taylor Swift album and matching the theme of a massive Eras Tour due to hit Toronto later this year.

“We started putting these shows together quite simply because we loved Taylor Swift,” said Armand Antony, co-founder of Part Of That Music, the music promo agency presenting the show. “But the response we’ve seen from our audiences from these shows has been bigger than we could have imagined. Our goal is to step it up each time, and with the hype of the Eras Tour, we wanted to match the excitement that Taylor Swift fans are feeling across the GTA right now.”

“All of the performers are huge Swifties, so they have as much fun as the audience. The energy is like nothing I’ve ever seen” added Nicole McCafferty, also a founder of Part Of That Music. “We’ll be making the entire show as big of an experience as possible, from visuals to what artists wear to even customized Eras-themed drinks. It’s a chance to dress up, dance, sing your heart out – it’s going to be explosive.”

This year’s show includes the introduction of an all-ages, family-friendly, matinee concert, giving all Swift fans a chance to take part in one of the biggest live Taylor Swift tribute shows in Canada. “We’re in the same boat as millions of others who may not get to see Taylor live, be it because of affordability or just being able to get our hands on tickets,” said Antony. “These shows offer a chance to take part in experiencing live music with friends and family, with Taylor Swift’s music at the heart of it.”

“It’s a much more affordable way to give a young person their first live show. Where else could you get three hours worth of their favourite songs live?” added McCafferty. “It’s the perfect Christmas gift for any Taylor fan and we hope it’ll be a night they’ll never forget.”

The performer lineup features Canadian singer-songwriters Paige Rutledge, Jessica Sole, Maddie Corinne, Broadtree, Peter Peres, and Jessica Towler, with Ontario roots-rock musician Greg Williams at the helm of the Feeling 22 house band.

Tickets for Feeling 22 are on sale now through Eventbrite for all ages and 19+ concerts.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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