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My Next Read: “The Half of It: A Memoir” By Madison Beer

Eric Alper
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My Next Read: “The Half of It: A Memoir” By Madison Beer

Discovered at twelve years old, Madison Beer was one of the first artists to have her entire life documented online. Over the past decade, she has navigated the spotlight as a child, through her teenage years, and now as a young woman in her twenties.

In The Half of It, Madison pulls back the curtain to show the behind-the-scenes of her journey, from reckoning with mass hate online and the time her private pictures were leaked, to battling suicidal thoughts while making her highly acclaimed debut album, Life Support, and her recovery since then. This memoir is an honest and unflinching account of self-love, mental health, and advocacy from one of the fastest-rising musical voices and most influential social media presences of her generation. It hammers home the point, more striking and urgent than ever, that no matter how close the internet may make us feel to people, we truly don’t know the half of it.

Vancouver Hard Rockers THE MIGHTY ONE Reimagines The Power Ballad For The Age Of Social Awareness With “Kickin’ Stones”

Eric Alper
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Vancouver Hard Rockers THE MIGHTY ONE Reimagines The Power Ballad For The Age Of Social Awareness With “Kickin’ Stones”

In their third album, “The Torch of Rock and Roll”, The Mighty One has chosen to go full tilt at the fragility and vulnerabilities we try to hide from all but a select few. The 5th single from this album “Kickin’ Stones,” out now, is a haunting tribute to Jeff Worobec, a dear friend of songwriter, guitarist and lead singer Tim Steinruck who harkened back to the bygone days of youth and boundless promise when writing this song. The Mighty One, rounded out with talented musicians Bob Wagner (drums), Chris Campbell (bass), Randy Robertson (lead guitar) and James Meyer (keyboards) tackle the often difficult to discuss parts of what it is that makes us human, by exploring themes of hopelessness, loneliness, isolation and suicide in this song that also manages to remind us of the days when epic power ballads produced by hard rock and metal bands ruled the airwaves.

In what feels like a trip back in time to the days before the rock and metal stranglehold on popular music was upended, “Kickin’ Stones” takes you on a journey from the soft key intro to the outro that soars to instrumental heights with lyrical imagery spread evenly between. The song continues the tradition of a strong message with tact and dignity while not being afraid to say words out loud that others might bury in poetry that could obscure the fundamental message of suicide prevention and awareness.

Steinruck explains, “Jeff was a real good-looking man but was famous for sabotaging his relationships. One day he came into the studio with that look on his face. ‘What happened?’ I asked. ‘She’s gone’ he said. ‘I sent her down the road kickin’ stones.’ In that moment something just clicked, and the story of his life became a song.”

The Mighty One was formed in 2007 and had chart success with their self-titled album, and its single “Reprieved” with both reaching the Top 10 and the 2009 video for “Reprieved” still enjoying regular rotation on Canada’s music channel Much Loud. Their sophomore album, SHiFT, with two singles “Waiting For You” and “Countdown to Ascension” had radio success and prompted invitations to SXSW in Austin, Texas and Canadian Music Week in Toronto, Ontario. Further success was found when “Waiting For You” was licensed to the NHL and Sirius XM to celebrate Sydney Crosby’s return after leave due to a concussion. Their most recent album, “The Torch of Rock and Roll” continues to spawn singles; garner nominations and awards including “International Songwriter, Album, and Band Of The Year” at the 2023 International Singer Songwriter Awards in Atlanta, Georgia; and exponentially grow their Canadian and international fan base. They have received attention through coverage in Rock Hard, Power Play, and Fireworks magazines and you can hear their music on A+E, MTV, NASCAR, and Discovery Channels.

Sarantos Drops Thought-Provoking Single ‘Never Trust a Happy Song’

Eric Alper
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Sarantos Drops Thought-Provoking Single ‘Never Trust a Happy Song’

Chicago-based independent artist Sarantos presents a new single, “Never Trust a Happy Song.” The anthemic, catchy song’s joyful tone belies its weighty message, with lyrics describing personal missteps, mistakes, and moments of isolation and abandonment. Sarantos ultimately prompts listeners to ask what lies beneath the smooth veneer—of a song, or of any other attractive thing that may not be what it seems.

The multifaceted and hyper productive Sarantos is dedicated to bringing his art to life, literally, by releasing new music and writing weekly, keeping his fans tuned in for constant surprises. In Sarantos’s path, no stone is left unturned, no genre unexplored, no feeling unexamined. And he’s been doing this for almost a decade, releasing 18 albums containing more than 200 original songs, building a catalog of 4,000 songs in total—alongside nine fiction/fantasy books—and garnering a social media following of over one million. His efforts have paid off, landing several top 10 independent chart placements, two Grammy considerations, and multiple TV and media placements.

With his latest pop tune, “Never Trust a Happy Song,” Sarantos asks us to probe deeper, and presents the challenge of doing so when surrounded by a rallying pop song and imagery showing off other people’s happiness. The music video accompanying the song is a supercut of beautiful young people grooving with their headphones on, playing guitar, and taking in the scenery of a beach at sunset or a city in winter. Taken together, the footage recalls ads for antidepressants, meant to show the ordinary contentment one may finally feel with the right dosage.

But life and its inherent struggles will still challenge us, as Sarantos reminds us with the lyrics: “I’ve lived so many lives / Lost track of countless nights / Died so many times / But I’ve yet to do one right.” The lyrics continue through to a cathartic, humbling acceptance: “The world cares nothing about me / It’ll lie to you / Maybe it’s right to doubt me / It won’t cry for you.” Maybe we’re on our own, he suggests, but what does that matter? We pick up the pieces and push through.

“Never Trust a Happy Song” is decidedly poppy and extremely catchy. Yet Sarantos gravitates away from the saccharine, steering instead toward an uncompromising sincerity. The lyrics are raw and introspective, but Sarantos reminds listeners that they don’t have to sulk through the tune by weaving in and out of an almost playful chorus. His stellar vocal delivery carries listeners through relatable emotionality while working in tandem with an innate musicality. The guitar solo drifts through the song’s upbeat verses like a bittersweet memory, reminding us that although the song is catchy, we still shouldn’t trust a happy song.

Indie Rockers The Petras Announce New Single ‘Sapphire’

Eric Alper
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Indie Rockers The Petras Announce New Single ‘Sapphire’

The Petras’ “Sapphire,” set the stage for what’s to come from this fresh all-women band out of Kingston, Ontario. “Sapphire” is a rousing indie rock banger that invites listeners to embrace their unique and wonderful selves that invokes the band’s inspirations: The Runaways and The Beaches.

Says The Petras vocalist Brielle LeBlanc, “We all have something that’s special about us, something that makes us shine. And we’ve all had the feeling of being misunderstood, judged, or envied for it. This song is about not being afraid to shine… to celebrate the “Sapphire’ in all of us!”

Sapphire walks in the room and the whole table turns
Out of pocket but she’ll never learn
On fire like a rocket in the night
Always gets anything she likes

Written by LeBlanc (also of rock band Luscious) and guitarist Rowan “Rogue” Picard and featuring Zoe Evans on bass and Madisen “Maddy” Benoit on drums, “Sapphire” was produced by Juno award winner and founding member of Glass Tiger, Michael Hanson at Altravox Studios. Ryan Lewis of Elevation Music Studio recorded and edited the track.

The Petras and Hanson are currently working on material for an EP.

M For The Movement Releases New Electrifying Single “Takeover” Featuring Snoop Dogg

Eric Alper
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M For The Movement Releases New Electrifying Single “Takeover” Featuring Snoop Dogg

Toronto pop-rap duo M For The Movement, comprised of J.Vision and Mega Sean, release their new single “Takeover” featuring Snoop Dogg, Alia Renee, Price da Boss, DT The Artist, and Methadist. This electrifying track promises to be a game-changer in the music industry, with a star-studded collaboration featuring some of the biggest names in the industry.

M For The Movement has been making waves since the release of their first unofficial EP, “The Night Before Christmas,” under the pseudonym “The Night Before M” in December 2020. With over 50,000 streams in the first two weeks, the group quickly gained recognition for their unique sound and style.

Having shared the stage with industry giants like Rihanna, D12, Wayne Wonder, and more, M For The Movement is no stranger to delivering electrifying live performances. Their summer 2023 appearances opening for Sean Paul and closing their tour with Sean Kingston and Nelly solidified their status as a rising force in the music scene.

“Takeover” is not just a song; it’s an experience that combines the cinematic storytelling prowess of J. Vision with Mega Sean’s authentic and powerful lyrical delivery. The track seamlessly blends genres, creating a sound that is uniquely M For The Movement. With a diverse range of influences, the duo brings a fresh perspective to the music scene.

“We had obtained the Snoop Dogg verse some time ago and sat on it for good reason, thinking of the perfect game plan on how to execute a song with a name like his attached to it,” Mega Sean said. “With this feature we wanted to spread love and show unity and lead by example by collaborating with some of Toronto’s best up incoming talent in the Hip Hop scene to help bring the city of Toronto together with the biggest artists from Los Angeles and also show unity in the music business on a universal scale.”

“Takeover” is just a taste of what M For The Movement has in store. With an official album on the horizon, collaborations with JUNO Award-winning artist Choclair, and featuring platinum-selling artist Snoop Dogg, the group is poised to leave their mark on the landscape.

Yovng Chimi Announces Five Limited-Run Tour Dates

Eric Alper
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Yovng Chimi Announces Five Limited-Run Tour Dates

Puerto Rican rapper Yovng Chimi announced he will hit stages across North America this summer with a limited run of tour dates, bringing fans in five different cities his unique brand of drill and trap. Produced by Live Nation, the limited run tour kicks off on June 21 at the Toyota Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford, CT making stops in Brooklyn, Philadelphia, and Mexico City**, before wrapping up in Orlando at the Kia Center on August 10.

Yovng Chimi will not be hitting the road alone! He is bringing fellow Puerto Rican talents Pressure 9×19 and Slayter along for the ride. This exciting lineup makes the tour a can’t-miss event for any US fan of Latin Drill and Trap. Get ready for a night of high-energy performances and the hottest sounds coming out of Puerto Rico’s music scene.

Fresh off the success of his debut album, WLGS (Whole Lotta Gvng Shit), Yovng Chimi is taking his influential energy and sound on the road. After erupting onto the scene in 2021, he has become a breakout star by not being afraid to push boundaries. Blending drill and trap with his raw lyrics, he’s carved a unique space in Latin music captivating audiences worldwide.

YOVNG CHIMI, is a rising star hailing from San Juan Puerto Rico – the new face of Latin Trap & Drill is known for

making waves with his distinct sound and genre-blending approach; his rise to prominence has been meteoric. Within just two years, he has cemented his place as a leading figure in Latin drill. Collaborations with industry heavyweights like Anuel AA, Ozuna, Eladio Carrion, and Arcangel showcase his versatility and ability to bridge the gap between hip-hop and Latin music seamlessly. It is this unique fusion that sets him apart, attracting a growing legion of fans worldwide.

Born in PR but raised in NY. SLAYTER began his music career as a rap artist coming out of NY. He slowly started to gain attention from many people in his area and outside of NY. Slayter, who was making waves with his sound, was able to work with artists such as GHerbo, Sada Baby, Ohgeesy and many more. About 8 months ago he decided to tap back into his Puerto Rican roots and transitioned to Latin Rap. He quickly gained attention from many artists out there especially Glizzy Gang’s own Yovngchimi who ended up signing him. Slayter has now worked with many Latin artist such as Casper Mágico, Pressure 9×19, Bryant Myers and many more

TOUR DATES:
Fri Jun 21 Wallingford, CT Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Mon Jun 24 Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Paramount
Tue Jun 25 Philadelphia, PA The Fillmore Philadelphia
Sat July 27 Mexico City, MX Carpa Velodromo
Sat Aug 10 Orlando, FL Kia Center

SiriusXM Canada Celebrates 15 Years Of Being Named One Of Canada’s Best Managed Companies

Eric Alper
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SiriusXM Canada Celebrates 15 Years Of Being Named One Of Canada’s Best Managed Companies

SiriusXM Canada, the country’s leading audio entertainment company, has been recognized for the 15th year in a row by receiving the prestigious 2024 Canada’s Best Managed Companies award.  Furthermore, the company is a 2024 winner of the Canada’s Best Managed Companies Platinum Club designation, having retained its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years or more.

Celebrating over 30 years, Canada’s Best Managed Companies program awards excellence in private Canadian-owned companies with revenues of $50 million or greater. To attain the designation, companies are evaluated on their leadership in the areas of strategy, culture and commitment, capabilities, and innovation, governance and financial performance.

“Being recognized as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies for 15 years in a row is a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes to the dedication, talent, and ingenuity of our team,” said Mark Redmond, President and CEO, SiriusXM Canada. “I am immensely proud to share this important milestone with our employees, whose unwavering commitment and hard work have been essential to our success. I know we will continue to focus on our mission to drive innovation, foster growth, and bring listeners closer to what they love, everyday.”

 Canada’s Best Managed Companies is one of the country’s leading business awards programs recognizing innovative and world‑class businesses. Every year, hundreds of entrepreneurial companies compete for this designation in a rigorous and independent evaluation process.

Applicants are evaluated by an independent panel of judges with representation from program sponsors and special guests.

The 2024 cohort of Best Managed companies share common themes such as having a people-centric culture, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to clients and customers, and accelerating operational digitization.

“Exploring new avenues for the advancement of tomorrow, this year’s Best Managed winners displayed courage, resourcefulness, and creativity,” said Lorrie King, Partner, Deloitte Private, Global Best Managed Leader and Co-Leader, Canada’s Best Managed Companies program. “We’re extremely proud to highlight the impressive achievements of companies such as SiriusXM Canada in a rapidly evolving business world. Their exceptional accomplishments leave you feeling inspired, celebrated, and connected.”

A New Tune For Mississauga Musicians With Musician Fair Pay Policy

Eric Alper
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A New Tune For Mississauga Musicians With Musician Fair Pay Policy

Today in Council, the City of Mississauga’s first Musician Fair Pay Policy was approved, marking a significant step towards recognizing and valuing the contributions of musicians within the local art scene.

The policy is one of the first in Canada to set a minimum payment for musicians that perform at City-produced events and results directly from the City’s first Music Strategy: 2022-2026. The strategy identifies 32 actions over the next five years to support the growth and development of Mississauga’s music industry.

“Musicians are the foundation of a strong music economy and help contribute to our city’s lively music scene,” says Kristina Zietsma, Director, Culture and Recreation. “By setting these standards, Mississauga not only acknowledges the professional status of musicians, but also sets a precedent for other municipalities to follow. This policy aims to ensure that all performers are compensated fairly for their talents and efforts, fostering a more sustainable and vibrant cultural ecosystem for years to come.”

Noted in a corporate report, the policy applies to City-produced events where musicians are contracted by staff for live performances and outlines clear guidelines for equitable remuneration. It was developed in collaboration with the local music community and industry stakeholders, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of musicians’ needs. It also reflects a broader commitment to supporting the arts, recognizing the essential role that music plays in enriching the community’s cultural life. This transparent approach aims to eliminate ambiguity, ensuring that artists are compensated appropriately for their work.

Rates are based on a minimum scale set in the current Tariff of Fees by the Toronto Musicians’ Association, Local 149 (TMA) – the local union branch of the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) for musicians in the Greater Toronto Area. The rates established by TMA 149 serve as the industry standard minimum payment rates for professional musicians.

The City’s Musician Fair Pay Policy will be posted in the coming weeks on the City’s website.

VAN HALEN Are Releasing Expanded Edition Of ‘For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge’

Eric Alper
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VAN HALEN Are Releasing Expanded Edition Of ‘For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge’

Van Halen’s ninth studio album, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge, debuted at #1 and stayed there for three weeks during the summer of 1991. It was the third consecutive #1 album from singer Sammy Hagar, guitarist Eddie Van Halen, drummer Alex Van Halen, and bassist Michael Anthony.

An Expanded Edition of the album is arriving this summer from Rhino, including a newly remastered version of the original, along with previously unreleased audio and video (INSERT HYPERLINK) footage from Van Halen’s December 4, 1991, concert in Dallas, Texas.

FOR UNLAWFUL CARNAL KNOWLEDGE (EXPANDED EDITION) will be available on July 12 and includes two LPs, two CDs, and a Blu-ray. You can order it here.

Fans who pre-order the collection from Rhino.com will have an exclusive bundle featuring the release and a set of four 7” singles, including “Poundcake” / “Pleasure Dome,” “Top Of The World” / “In ‘N’ Out,” “Right Now” (Organ Version) / “Man On A Mission,” and “Right Now” (Guitar Version) / “The Dream Is Over” (Instrumental Version).

Originally released in June 1991, For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge was an immediate success. It reached triple platinum certification and earned Van Halen its first Grammy® Award for Favorite Heavy Metal/Hard Rock Album. Producer and engineer Bernie Grundman expertly remastered and cut lacquers for this edition, ensuring pristine sound quality.

The Expanded Edition includes previously unreleased alternate versions of “Right Now” and “The Dream Is Over.” The main attraction, however, has to be the previously unreleased concert footage from Van Halen’s December 4, 1991, performance in Dallas. Captured during the “For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge Tour,” this electrifying show is a powerful example of Van Halen’s unparalleled stage presence.

The show’s setlist mixes new songs (“Judgement Day” and “Poundcake”) with songs from 5150 and OU812 (“Best Of Both Worlds” and “Finish What Ya Started”). The band also played “Panama,” a hit from its time with singer David Lee Roth, plus two of Hagar’s hits, “I Can’t Drive 55” and “There’s Only One Way To Rock.”

In addition, the Blu-ray includes the official music videos for “Poundcake,” “Runaround,” “Right Now,” and “Top Of The World.” Finally, the remastered album is included in the set as a double LP, featuring an etching of the Van Halen logo on the fourth side.

FOR UNLAWFUL CARNAL KNOWLEDGE (EXPANDED EDITION)
2-CD Track Listing

Disc One: Original Album Remastered
1. “Poundcake”
2. “Judgement Day”
3. “Spanked”
4. “Runaround”
5. “Pleasure Dome”
6. “In ’n’ Out”
7. “Man On A Mission”
8. “The Dream Is Over”
9. “Right Now”
10. “316”
11. “Top Of The World”

Disc Two: Rarities & Live
1. “Right Now” – Organ Version (Single Mix)
2. “The Dream Is Over” – Instrumental Version *
3. “Right Now” – Guitar Version (Single Mix) *
Live at the Westend Market, Dallas, TX (12/4/91)
4. “Poundcake” *
5. “Judgement Day” *
6. “There’s Only One Way To Rock” *
7. “Runaround” *
8. “Why Can’t This Be Love” *
9. “Panama” *
10. “A Apolitical Blues” *
11. “Finish What Ya Started” *
12. “I Can’t Drive 55” *
13. “Best Of Both Worlds” *
14. “Top Of The World” *

Blu-ray
Live at the Westend Market, Dallas, TX (12/4/91)
1. Poundcake” *
2. “Judgement Day” *
3. “There’s Only One Way To Rock” *
4. “Runaround” *
5. “Why Can’t This Be Love” *
6. “Panama” *
7. “A Apolitical Blues” *
8. “Finish What Ya Started” *
9. “I Can’t Drive 55” *
10. “Best Of Both Worlds” *
11. “Top Of The World” *
12. “Poundcake” – Promo Video
13. “Runaround” – Promo Video
14. “Right Now” – Promo Video
15. “Top Of The World” – Promo Video

LP: Original Album Remastered
2-LP Track Listing

LP One: Side One
1. “Poundcake”
2. “Judgement Day”
3. “Spanked”
4. “Runaround”

Side Two
1. “Pleasure Dome”
2. “In ’n’ Out”
3. “Man On A Mission”

LP Two: Side One
1. “The Dream Is Over”
2. “Right Now”
3. “316”
4. “Top Of The World”

Side Two
Van Halen Logo Etching

* previously unreleased

deadmau5 to be Inducted into CMW Music Industry Hall of Fame

Eric Alper
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deadmau5 to be Inducted into CMW Music Industry Hall of Fame

Canadian Music Week is proud to announce multi-platinum, JUNO Award-winning and GRAMMY-nominated Canadian artist deadmau5 will be inducted into the Music Industry Hall of Fame, during the Canadian Live Music Industry Awards, in partnership with the Canadian Live Music Association. The ceremony will take place June 4, 2024 at 5pm in the Frontenac Ballroom at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel.

To celebrate his remarkable 25-year career, Canadian Music Week is also thrilled to present an in-depth Fireside Chat with EDM legend deadmau5, and a headline concert from TESTPILOT, both from the brain of groundbreaking electronic music artist and producer Joel Zimmerman.

The previously announced TESTPILOT & Jauz concert will take place Saturday, June 1 at Rebel at part of the Canadian Music Week Festival. Tickets are on sale now at www.ticketweb.ca.

The Fireside Chat with deadmau5 will take place June 4 at 3pm at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel, ahead of the Hall of Fame induction at the Live Music Industry Awards. Interviewed by Billboard Canada’s Richard Trapunski, this intimate chat will delve into the creative process, career insights, and personal stories of one of the industry’s most influential figures. Registration is now open at www.cmw.net.

Joel Zimmerman, more commonly known as deadmau5 (pronounced ‘dead mouse’), is one of the world’s most respected electronic music producers of modern times. Enjoying international chart success with his 2x platinum-certified single “Ghosts ‘n’ Stuff,” as well as “Professional Griefers,” “Sofi Needs A Ladder” and “I Remember,” he has also released seven critically acclaimed albums. The multiple JUNO Award-winning and GRAMMY®-nominated artist’s ability to push the boundaries of his talent grows at an equal rate to his fan base, which counts 15 million and more over his combined social media channels. His latest music offerings include “Pomegranate” with The Neptunes, “Bridged By A Lightwave” with Kiesza, “Channel 43” with Wolfgang Gartner, “Hypnocurrency” with REZZ, “When The Summer Dies” with Lights, “Hyperlandia” featuring Foster The People, “this is fine.” with Portugal. The Man, “XYZ” and “My Heart Has Teeth” featuring Skylar Grey which appears on the Resident Evil soundtrack from the Netflix Series.

In 2022 deadmau5 teamed with longtime friend and collaborator Kaskade on new music project Kx5 releasing Top 40 smash and #1 dance music radio single “Escape” featuring Hayla and “Take Me High.”  In the live realm, his 2019/20 U.S. cubev3 tour featuring production of his own design and implementation ranked in the Top 10 of Pollstar’s top tours globally. This year he returns to the road for the ‘We Are Friends’ North American tour and as Kx5 will be headlining the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in December.  Beyond his music career, he is also a co-founder of gaming venture PIXELYNX and is an executive of HD streaming platform StreamVoodoo. 

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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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