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James Corden Joins SiriusXM To Launch Exclusive New Show ‘This Life Of Mine With James Corden’

Eric Alper
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James Corden Joins SiriusXM To Launch Exclusive New Show ‘This Life Of Mine With James Corden’

SiriusXM today announced a new agreement with actor, writer, producer and presenter James Corden, which brings the iconic host into audio for the first time with the launch of his new show, This Life of Mine with James Corden. The show will be available exclusively for SiriusXM subscribers in-car and on the SiriusXM app.

This Life of Mine with James Corden, which is expected to premiere in early 2024, will feature in-depth conversations with the world’s biggest stars, discussing the people, places, moments, and memories that made them who they are today. From favorite music and movies to books and advice, the show will seek to tell the untold stories of some of the most well-known public figures.

Throughout his career, Corden has regularly been at the vanguard of the entertainment industry. He has won 12 Emmy Awards as a host, writer, producer, and actor. He is a Tony Award-winner, multiple BAFTA Award-winner, in addition to a Golden Globe Award nominee. During Corden’s eight-year run as host of The Late Late Show, the series was nominated for 27 Emmys and was a pioneer in the digital space boasting five of the ten most watched late-night clips currently available online including Carpool Karaoke with Adele, One Direction, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars and Sia. Most recently, Corden starred in Jez Butterworth’s television series Mammals opposite Sally Hawkins.

Details on This Life of Mine will be included in SiriusXM’s Next Generation Industry & Press Preview event on November 8, in which the company will be debuting the new SiriusXM streaming app launching later this year, upcoming in-car innovations, new programming, branding, and more. Please register at nextgenlivestream.siriusxm.com for access.

“I am thrilled to be joining SiriusXM,” said James Corden. “Scott and the whole team have made me feel so welcome as I start this new chapter. It’s a dream to have a space to engage in deep conversations with the people whose work and talent I greatly admire.

“James Corden is an incredible talent who is always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible,” said Scott Greenstein, SiriusXM’s President and Chief Content Officer. “With a career that spans acting on stage and screen, developing and launching hit series such as Carpool Karaoke, and of course his iconic eight-year run as a late night host, James has been a trailblazer in the entertainment business. We’re so honored to welcome him to the SiriusXM family as he begins this next phase of his illustrious career and makes his mark in audio.”

Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM streaming for free. Click here to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer. See Offer Details.

James Corden is an Emmy Award winning host, writer, producer, and actor; a Tony Award winning and Golden Globe nominated actor; and a multiple BAFTA Award winner.

Corden recently starred in and executive-produced Jez Butterworth’s television series, MAMMALS opposite Sally Hawkins. The series, which was hailed as “absolutely sensational” by the Sunday Times Magazine, premiered in 2022 and is available globally on Amazon Prime.

Earlier this year, Corden wrapped his eight-year run as host of THE LATE LATE SHOW, which premiered on CBS in March 2015. The show garnered Corden four Emmy Award wins and an additional twenty-three Emmy Award nominations. In 2019, Corden was the most Emmy nominated performer/producer/writer, totaling seven nominations that year. Additionally, THE LATE LATE SHOW won two Critics Choice Awards and received two nominations for “Best Talk Show,” and was nominated for both the Writers Guild and Producers Guild Awards.  THE LATE LATE SHOW also set records in the digital space, boasting five of the ten most watched late-night clips currently available online – including Carpool Karaoke with Adele, One Direction, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, and Sia.

Corden is the co-creator and executive producer of CARPOOL KARAOKE: THE SERIES for Apple TV+. The series won five consecutive Emmy Awards and is currently nominated for 2023. The series also won three Producers Guild Awards, a Critics’ Choice Real TV Award and was nominated for a Writers Guild Award. Additionally, he served as executive producer of DROP THE MIC which aired on TBS.

THE 70th ANNUAL TONY AWARDS, hosted by Corden in 2016, drew 8.7 million viewers, the highest viewership in 15 years and garnered him an Emmy Award and additional nomination for writing. In 2019, he returned to host THE 73rd ANNUAL TONY AWARDS and was Emmy nominated for “Outstanding Variety Special (Live).” Additionally, Corden hosted the 59th and 60th ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS and received an Emmy nomination in 2018.  Corden also won two Emmy Awards for the Snapshot series, JAMES CORDEN’S NEXT JAMES CORDEN and he received an Emmy nomination for hosting THE WORLD’S BEST.

On stage, Corden starred in the acclaimed, ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS for which he won the 2012 Tony Award for “Best Leading Actor in a Play.” He first performed the play at The National Theatre in London prior to making its debut on Broadway. Previously, Corden starred as “Timms” in THE HISTORY BOYS on Broadway and in the 2016 feature film adaptation – all directed by Nicholas Hytner.

In film, Corden starred in Ryan Murphy’s THE PROM, opposite Meryl Streep and Nicole Kidman and received a 2021 Golden Globe nomination for “Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.” The film was nominated for the 2021 Golden Globe for “Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy” and the 2021 GLAAD Media Award for “Outstanding Film – Wide Release.” Corden’s other feature credits include: Rob Marshall’s Golden Globe nominated, INTO THE WOODS opposite Meryl Streep and Emily Blunt; Gary Ross’ OCEANS 8 alongside Cate Blanchett, Sandra Bullock, Anne Hathaway, Rihanna, and Awkafina; Ben Falcone’s SUPERINTELLIGENCE opposite Melissa McCarthy; John Carney’s BEGIN AGAIN with Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo; CINDERELLA (which he co-wrote and produced); THE THREE MUSKETEERS; GULLIVER’S TRAVELS; HOW TO LOSE FRIENDS AND ALIENATE PEOPLE with Jeff Bridges; and lent his voice to PETER RABBIT, PETER RABBIT 2, TROLLS, TROLLS WORLD TOUR and SMALLFOOT.

Well known for starring as ‘Smithy’ in the critically acclaimed BBC comedy series GAVIN AND STACEY, which he co-created and co-wrote with Ruth Jones, Corden, he won the BAFTA Television Award for “Best Male Comedy Performance,” the British Comedy Award for “Best Male Comedy Performer” and the series received the British Comedy Award for “Best TV Comedy” as well as the National Television Award for “Most Popular Comedy Programme.” In 2019, Corden co-wrote and starred in the GAVIN & STACEY CHRISTMAS SPECIAL which premiered on Christmas Day and was watched by 11.6 million people, breaking the show’s own viewership records, making it the highest watched holiday special in over a decade, and garnering him the 2020 BAFTA TV Award for “Must See Moment.”

In the UK, Corden hosted the BAFTA Award winning UK sports-themed comedy game show, A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN.  Additionally, he starred in, produced, and wrote the BAFTA nominated comedy thriller THE WRONG MANS for the BBC and was awarded the Royal Television Society Award for “Comedy Writer of the Year.” Other notable roles in the UK include FAT FRIENDS (garnering him a nomination for the 2000 Royal Television Society Award for “Network Newcomer On Screen”); and a recurring role in the popular BBC science fiction series DOCTOR WHO as ‘Craig Owens’, the Doctor’s roommate.

Corden served as host for the Brit Awards, the biggest event in the British music industry, from 2010 to 2014. Over the course of his career, Corden has been awarded the Writers’ Guild of Great Britain Award for “Comedy Writer of the Year;” the South Bank Show Award for Comedy; the TRIC Award for “Best Comedy;” the National Television Award for “Best Comedy;” and the 2015 BAFTA Britannia Award for “British Artist of the Year.”

Corden was awarded with an OBE (Order of the British Empire) for services to drama at Buckingham Palace in 2015.

Global Citizen And Pglang Announce ‘Move Afrika,’ A Long-term Vision To Pioneer A World Class Music Touring Circuit Across The African Continent

Eric Alper
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Global Citizen And Pglang Announce ‘Move Afrika,’ A Long-term Vision To Pioneer A World Class Music Touring Circuit Across The African Continent

International advocacy organization Global Citizen and creative imprint, pgLang today announced ‘Move Afrika: A Global Citizen Experience‘, a new long-term, large-scale effort to pioneer a first-of-its-kind international music touring circuit throughout the continent of Africa. Move Afrika’s first major music event, Move Afrika: Rwanda, will take place on December 6, 2023 at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda. Grammy Award, Pulitzer Prize winning artist and co-founder of pgLang, Kendrick Lamar will headline the event, and pgLang will serve as the Curator of Move Afrika for the next five years, from 2023 until 2028.

Move Afrika is Global Citizen’s latest effort to address the world’s inequities by creating job and entrepreneurship opportunities for the continent’s emerging generations through an annual series of world-class live events. Showcasing the best of Africa to the world, these events will drive transformative investments within local communities, engage local artists, vendors, agencies and crews, and provide opportunities for on-the-job skill development and training. Producing a world-class experience for fans and artists alike, Move Afrika will set a new gold-standard for entertainment touring events, increasing demand from international and regional artists to tour in the region and building local capacity within host cities across the continent.

In partnership with the Rwanda Development Board, Kigali, Rwanda will host Move Afrika every year for the next five years. Each year, additional countries will be added to the tour schedule, which aims to expand to five countries by 2025.

Move Afrika: Rwanda, taking place on Wednesday, December 6 at Kigali’s BK Arena, will be headlined by Kendrick Lamar, with more regional artists to be announced. The event will feature a citizen-led advocacy campaign calling for urgent action and bold commitments from world leaders on major issues across the continent. Key issues include: the need for increased funding for health, with a specific emphasis on women and girls; addressing the climate crisis and its impact on food security; tackling the lack of access to economic opportunities for future generations; and encouraging civic participation. To take action on these issues, text +250 790 008 555 on WhatsApp.

Information on how to get tickets can be found at moveafrika.org.

Move Afrika builds on Global Citizen’s previous campaigns and events across the continent that include: Global Citizen Festival: Mandela 100, which brought Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Ed Sheeran, Usher, Eddie Vedder and Chris Martin of Coldplay to Johannesburg, South Africa in 2018; Global Citizen Live: Lagos that featured Davido, Femi Kuti, and Tiwa Savage at Fela Kuti’s New Afrika Shrine in 2021; and Global Citizen Festival: Accra, which brought Usher, SZA, Stormzy, and TEMS to the iconic Black Star Square in 2022.

“Africa is driving culture and creativity globally, but the Continent has been left out of the global music touring circuit for too long. By moving from one-off events to the sustained commitment of an annual tour, Move Afrika will drive transformative investments across Africa through the pioneering of a world-class touring circuit. Move Afrika will pave the way for many more artists to tour the Continent, while generating new economic opportunities within the entertainment industry for Africa’s booming youth generation. We are incredibly excited to bring this vision to life with pgLang and Kendrick Lamar, and are grateful for our partnership with the Rwanda Development Board, who shares our belief in this vision,” said Hugh Evans, Co-Founder and CEO, Global Citizen.

“Our goal with Move Afrika is to inspire local youth and artists to unlock their creativity. We hope to curate an immersive experience that empowers various communities and cultures across Africa and around the world for a lifetime,” said pgLang.

“We are delighted to host Global Citizen and to provide a platform for Move Afrika. This is a unique collaboration that aims to showcase the best of African creative talent to the world, through curated memorable entertainment experiences that address development priorities of our continent. Creating employment and income generating initiatives of the private sector, with a spotlight on the youth, is Rwanda Development Board’s core mandate. Together with Global Citizen and Move Afrika, we will position Rwanda as an entertainment hub for all African countries to benefit from the global creative industry,” said Francis Gatare, Chief Executive Officer, Rwanda Development Board.

“I am honored and humbled to play a meaningful role that supports new age global efforts to deal with health inequity, challenge poverty, and empower women and girls. The neglect of these predicaments, including global warming, have a detrimental effect on the prospects of the citizens of Africa and this situation cannot be allowed to continue unabated. I am happy that the Global Citizen movement has reignited the debate about these critical matters and that it is continuing to keep Africa top of mind by having Move Afrika: Rwanda. Across the entire African continent there is huge excitement for driving economic development, tourism and world class entertainment. We look forward to announcing additional cities for 2024 and 2025 in the coming months,” said Tshepo Mahloele, Africa Patron, Global Citizen.

Since its inception in Australia in 2008, Global Citizen has grown to become the world’s leading advocacy organization and one of the largest, most visible platforms uniting people around the world to call on world leaders to end extreme poverty, defend the planet and address the inequity of women and girls. The organization has taken its action-based live music events and campaigns from New York City to India, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Nigeria, South Africa, Australia, Ghana, and Canada. Over the past 10 years, $43.6 billion in commitments announced on Global Citizen platforms has been deployed, impacting nearly 1.3 billion lives.

Music Production Software Market is to grow by USD 3.33 billion from 2022 – 2027

Eric Alper
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Music Production Software Market is to grow by USD 3.33 billion from 2022 – 2027

The “Music Production Software Market by Type (Editing, Mixing, and Recording), End-user (Professionals and Non-professionals), and Geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa) – Forecast and Analysis 2023-2027″ report has been added to Technavio’s offering. With ISO 9001:2015 certification, Technavio has proudly partnered with more than 100 Fortune 500 companies for over 16 years. The potential growth difference for the music production software market between 2022 and 2027 is USD 3.33  billion. The rising number of musicians and artists is notably driving the market growth. 

The global market for music production software has grown at a fast pace, with the increasing number of musicians and artists in the world. Musicians are also organizing music events through concert promoters or live event organizers to grab the attention of fans. However, musicians and artists are largely adopting music production software to improve the quality of their music. Prominent companies on the market are releasing new and improved versions of music production software with a view to exploiting such a trend.

The requirement of skillset to use music production software is a significant challenge hindering the market growth.  The primary use of music production software is in the field of musicians, artists, and recording companies. Music production is an intricate and time-consuming process, and therefore, the software plays a vital role in creating music in digital form. Nevertheless, most music producers don’t have sufficient skills in operating or using music production software.

The music production software market is segmented by type (Editing, Mixing, and Recording), end-user (Professionals and Non-professionals), and geography (North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East and Africa).

  • The market share growth by the editing segment will be significant during the forecast period. Music production software integrates several filters such as bandpass filters, equalization (EQ) filters, and high shelf filters to clean the audio by removing noise. Also, it incorporates a non-linear editing (NLE) system for editing audio and video content.
  • North America is estimated to account for 36% of the global market growth during the forecast period.

The karaoke market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.65% between 2022 and 2027. The size of the market is forecast to increase by USD 344.98 million.

The electronic musical instruments market size is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.13% between 2022 and 2027. The market size is forecast to increase by USD 551.01 million.

Fender Honors Bruno Mars With Artist Signature Stratocaster Guitar

Eric Alper
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Fender Honors Bruno Mars With Artist Signature Stratocaster Guitar

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation today announces the launch of the Bruno Mars Stratocaster, a limited-edition celebration of the chart-topping artist, multi-instrumentalist, performer, songwriter and producer Bruno Mars. The Bruno Mars Stratocaster guitar pays tribute to his trailblazing career, dazzling showmanship, and mastery of genre through the power of guitar. Bruno Mars’ catalog is defined by air tight songwriting, stunning musicianship and a fearlessness in the face of genre and at the foundation of this iconic body of work is a fundamental appreciation of versatile musicality. The Bruno Mars Signature Stratocaster has classic appeal with highly optimized features that keep the modern player in mind. Mars envisioned an instrument with class that could still appeal to the most technically driven shredders—and this signature guitar is just that.

Fourteen-time GRAMMY Award winner and thirty-time GRAMMY Award nominee Bruno Mars is a celebrated singer, songwriter, producer, and musician who has sold over 200 million singles worldwide, making him one of the best-selling artists of all time. The 17x Multi-Platinum has earned an astonishing eight No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Hot 100. In 2015, Bruno dominated music charts with the hit single “Uptown Funk,” which took home three GRAMMY Awards, including Record of the Year. In 2022, Mars and Anderson .Paak his Silk Sonic counterpart, took home four GRAMMY awards including Record Of The Year (“Leave The Door Open”), Song Of The Year (“Leave The Door Open”), Best R&B Performance (“Leave The Door Open”), and Best R&B Song (“Leave The Door Open”). Additionally, Mars became the first male and third act overall to have at least three top 5 Hot 100 hits from each of his first three albums, following only Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Honorably, Mars is one of the few artists to have written and produced all of his No. 1 hits and has had a No. 1 song on the Hot 100 from each of his first three studio albums.

About creating the guitar, Mars said “I don’t think of myself as a guitar player. I’m more of a frustrated songwriter. Every song is like a puzzle you have to solve, and a good guitar can bring something out of you that can help take you to the finish line. That’s what I wanted from this guitar.” He added, “It was also important to have a workhorse that I could depend on for performing live and writing in the studio, whether it be rhythm or lead.”

 

The Bruno Mars Signature Stratocaster is meticulously crafted with songwriters and performers in mind. It’s a guitar that empowers artists to unleash their creativity and self-expression. Featuring the newest addition to Fender’s vibrant library of colorways, the all new Mars Mocha Heirloom™ nitrocellulose lacquer finish, and Heirloom™ Aged Gold Hardware, gives this signature Strat a worn-in feel straight out of the case. An accurate recreation of Mars’ beloved 1969 Stratocaster neck shape, the Bruno Mars Signature Stratocaster features sleek, vintage elements, designed to be both played and admired. The 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo and Deluxe Locking Tuners provide enhanced tuning stability with modern convenience and the worn-in, Heirloom™ finish as well as the subtle leopard print accents, are nods to two of Mars’ guitar playing heroes—Jimi Hendrix and Prince. Finally, the model comes loaded with a set of custom-voiced Bruno Mars pickups that will allow players to emulate Mars’ buoyant tone and singing leads. With this Stratocaster design and sound, guitarists everywhere have access to unlock endless creativity that helped turn Mars the artist, producer and songwriter he is today.

“We wanted to fashion a guitar that shows Fender’s respect for the artists marking today’s musical hall of fame, as well as displays Bruno Mars’s supernova qualities,” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Product at FMIC. “Bruno has been a tried and true Fender player since the early days of his career and we’re thrilled to include his signature among our roster. Between the all-new finish to the custom-voiced pickups, we’re confident this will be one of our largest signature launches to date.”

In true tradition, Fender’s Artist Signature Series honors iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists. Crafted from resonant ash, this guitar features sculpted American Ultra body contours for unmatched comfort and seamless access to high notes, watch Artur Menezes the Limited Edition Bruno Mars Stratocaster for a test drive.

Bruno Mars Stratocaster Guitar ($2,999.99 USD, £3,149.00 GBP, €3,599.00EUR, $5,199.00 AUD, ¥431,200 JPY) Get ready to channel your inner 24K Magic with the irresistibly elegant Bruno Mars Stratocaster. The Bruno Mars Stratocaster is crafted from resonant ash with sculpted American Ultra body contours for superior comfort and unparalleled access to the upper registers of the fingerboard. The Mars Mocha Heirloom™ nitrocellulose lacquer finish creates a gracefully aged aesthetic while allowing for maximum resonance and pure tone. The 9.5″–12″ compound-radius maple fingerboard and stainless-steel frets provide a silky, polished feel for smooth bending and effortless playability. The custom Bruno Mars Stratocaster pickups are fine-tuned to achieve Bruno’s favorite tones for classic Strat sparkle and singing lead sounds. The 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo and Deluxe Locking Tuners provide enhanced tuning stability with modern convenience, while a full complement of Heirloom™ Aged Gold Hardware gives this high-performance guitar the broken-in look and feel of a well-used, treasured instrument. Also included are a custom leopard print strap and an extra 3-ply mint green pickguard. A guitar as bold and electrifying as the man himself, the Bruno Mars Stratocaster is a must-have for players seeking classic Strat sparkle with a silky twist.

Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) – whose portfolio of owned and licensed brands includes Fender, Squier, Gretsch guitars, Jackson, EVH, Charvel, Bigsby and PreSonus – follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest-quality instruments and digital experiences across genres. Since 2015, Fender’s digital arm has introduced a new ecosystem of products and interactive experiences to accompany players at every stage of their musical journey. This includes innovative apps and learning platforms designed to complement Fender guitars, amplifiers, effects pedals, accessories and pro-audio gear, and inspire players through an immersive musical experience. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of musical expression for all players, from beginners to history-making legends. In 2021, Fender celebrated 75 years of giving artists “wings to fly,” carrying on the vision of its founder, Leo Fender, and connecting players through a shared love of music.

The Billboard Music Awards Channel Plays Nonstop Music from 2023’s Chart-Toppers

Eric Alper
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The Billboard Music Awards Channel Plays Nonstop Music from 2023’s Chart-Toppers

Celebrate this year’s Billboard chart-toppers and 2023 Billboard Music Awards finalists on the Billboard Music Awards Channel! Listen on the SiriusXM app from November 8–21 and on channel 11 November 17–20.

Artists include Taylor Swift, Drake, Morgan Wallen, SZA, Foo Fighters, Miley Cyrus, Bad Bunny, Doja Cat, Jung Kook, Lainey Wilson, and more.

A reimagined 2023 Billboard Music Awards will bring fans up close and personal with their favorite artists on November 19. Delivering a fresh award show concept that will entertain with hours of music and exclusive content, including winner celebrations, behind-the-scenes moments, and performances created by the world’s biggest chart-topping artists. Winners are determined by year-end performance metrics on the Billboard charts, the ultimate authority of fan engagement with music.

Watch exclusive content — including winner celebrations, behind-the-scenes moments, and performance created by the world’s biggest chart-topping artists — November 19 at BBMAS.watch and on the BBMAs and Billboard social channels.

My Next Book: “Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions” By Francesca T. Royster

Eric Alper
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My Next Book: “Black Country Music: Listening for Revolutions” By Francesca T. Royster

After a century of racist whitewashing, country music is finally reckoning with its relationship to Black people. In this timely work-the first book on Black country music by a Black writer-Francesca Royster uncovers the Black performers and fans, including herself, who are exploring the pleasures and possibilities of the genre.

Informed by queer theory and Black feminist scholarship, Royster’s book elucidates the roots of the current moment found in records like Tina Turner’s first solo album, Tina Turns the Country On! She reckons with Black “bros” Charley Pride and Darius Rucker, then chases ghosts into the future with Valerie June. Indeed, it is the imagination of Royster and her artists that make this music so exciting for a genre that has long been obsessed with the past. The futures conjured by June and others can be melancholy, and are not free of racism, but by centering Black folk Royster begins to understand what her daughter hears in the banjo music of Our Native Daughters and the trap beat of Lil Nas X’s “Old Town Road.” A Black person claiming country music may still feel a bit like a queer person coming out, but, collectively, Black artists and fans are changing what country music looks and sounds like-and who gets to love it.

Nov 29 Flato Markham Theatre – Classic Lightfoot Live: A Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot with Dan Hill and Andy Kim

Eric Alper
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Nov 29 Flato Markham Theatre – Classic Lightfoot Live: A Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot with Dan Hill and Andy Kim

Classic Lightfoot Live: A Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot with

Special Guests Dan Hill and Andy Kim

Wednesday, November 29, 2023

Flato Markham Theatre – 71 Town Centre Blvd, Markham, ON

Tickets On Sale Here

Classic Lightfoot Live: A Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot is the best Gordon Lightfoot tribute show in Canada. Vocalist and guitarist John Stinson, bass guitarist and Gord’s nephew Steve Eyers, and lead guitarist Eric Kidd take you on a trip down memory lane to celebrate the music of the legendary folk rocker who inspired millions.

Playing six and twelve strings, just like Gord, Stinson has been widely praised for his uncanny sonic resemblance and his attention to replicating the original studio recordings. Trained and mentored by legendary guitarist Red Shea, Stinson is backed by a stellar band of seasoned musicians dedicated to delivering an enthusiastic and historically inspired show. Look no further than Classic Lightfoot Live for an authentic, sentimental, and emotional experience of all your favourite Lightfoot songs.

John Stinson – Vocals/Guitar
Steve Eyers – Bass Guitar
Eric Kidd – Lead Guitar
Malcolm Gould – Percussion
Bruce Campbell – Percussion
Liz Anderson – Keys

Joining the band this evening are two special guests. Nominated for a Grammy for Best Male Vocal, winner of a Grammy, winner of five Juno Awards, the Harold Moon Award, and inducted into the venerated Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame Award, Dan Hill, whose voice is “smooth softness, with a light warmth,” is an international music industry legend and one of Canada’s most distinguished, authentic, and multi-talented artists. Intelligent and thought-provoking, Dan is known for his heartfelt sensibility on the massive international hit Sometimes When We Touch, recognized as one of the Top 100 Songs of the Century and one of Top 100 Most Played Songs of All Time.

Dreamer, visionary, and songwriter extraordinaire Andy Kim was recently awarded the country’s top industry honours including the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame, a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame and the Order of Canada. In 1970, the very first JUNO Award ever given out was to Andy for Male Vocalist of the Year. Andy is a member of Songwriters Hall of Fame, was inducted into Billboard’s Hit Parade Hall of Fame, and in 2017, for the second time in their 70-year history, SOCAN honoured him with their Cultural Impact Award. Over his epic career, the Sugar, Sugar co-writer has sold over 30 million records and clocked over half a billion streams online.

“He sounds just like the voice on all of the records… with your eyes closed, you’d think you were in the room with Gord.” – ORILLIA PACKET AND TIMES

“The talent of Dan’s voice really seems to know how to address a romantic subject matter into a spectacular, easy listening piece of music that turns them into timeless classics.” – CLASSIC ROCK HISTORY

“Light-foot’s music really does reflect what it means to be Canadian. His lyrics tell stories – his stories, our stories. They reach out and touch audiences in deep emotional ways.” – JOHN STINSON

Houston’s Pop Rockers The Metal Byrds Release “Stop Motion”

Eric Alper
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Houston’s Pop Rockers The Metal Byrds Release “Stop Motion”

Soaring effortlessly through the shared airspace of rock and pop, Houston’s The Metal Byrds reach new heights on their just-released single, “Stop Motion.” Culled from their most recent EP album, Moments Before Sunrise, the track sees the hard-working band furthering their commitment to irresistible songcraft that doesn’t sacrifice an ounce of power in its quest for the ultimate singalong.

Guitarist Sly Rye peels off some Hendrixian pyrotechnics while bassist Mac Jacob and drummer Charlie “Breeze” Janto hammer out a relentless, propulsive rhythm. Over the top of it all, vocalist Suzanne Birdie applies her dual classic-rock and grunge influences to an aggressive earworm melody as infectious as the urgent lyric that accompanies it:

Stop Motion, non-stop commotion
The world’s spinning without emotion
Stop Motion, non-stop commotion
You move me

Strangely, the song was inspired by a colorful character guitarist Rye once knew who made his home in a self-storage container. One of his misadventures entitled driving to Texas at 90 miles an hour “loaded up on gold liquid” and, once he reached his destination, jumping out of the still-moving car.

“You meet a lot of interesting people when you’re in a band,” the group notes, slyly.

The video for the song is just as frenzied, with epilepsy-defying flashes of light illuminating Birdie and company as they literally leap for the sky.

“Jumping and twirling and throwing instruments around was the best time we ever could’ve had shooting a video,” they report.

Moments Before Sunrise is the sixth EP album the group has released since Birdie and Rye formed a musical partnership and personal friendship in 2018. (Jacob and Janto completed the lineup four years later.) Each new product drop has seen them continuing to pioneer a genre several DJs have termed “hard pop rock.” Listener response has been wildly positive: Of the three songs from the new EP album that have been picked up by indie radio, at least one has been in a top 10 chart at any given time.

“We’re not the typical cookie-cutter-sounding rock band, and if you listen closely, you’ll hear a sound like none other,” the group promises.

Natalie Exora’s Spellbinding Single ‘Perfect’ Redefines Pop: An Artistic Ode to Love in a Material World

Eric Alper
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Natalie Exora’s Spellbinding Single ‘Perfect’ Redefines Pop: An Artistic Ode to Love in a Material World

Fusing mood, anthemic, and pop elements, multitalented singer Natalie Exora presents her fresh single “Perfect” out now. Originally from Trinidad, and presently based in Toronto, the singer’s periodic inspiration draws from what she sees daily in society. In “Perfect” Natalie quite artistically crafts “today’s fascination for material things, but the most enduring of all things… is love,” in under 4 minutes.

Natalie Exora taps into a rich register in “Perfect” which easily exposes her raw emotions throughout the song. To top it off, the singer’s storytelling in her songwriting seals the deal.

“Two hearts together, we’re perfect (perfect) /One life, one love, one day you’ll come back home to stay/ Why, is it a crime?”

Natalie shares her provocation in writing this beautiful ballad, stating, “Like many kids with a dream, I was told no by my parents when I asked to pursue music. It wasn’t a safe or secure path. Upon moving away from home and losing two loved ones in a short space of time at a young age, this gave me a deep sense of time passing and inspired me to make the most of the time we have.

If there’s music or creative energy churning in you, it’s a shame to let it sleep or fall to the wayside and there’s no time like the present (no matter the age) to chase a lifelong dream.”

The singer’s musical inspiration derives from the storytelling era of the 80s, so it’s no wonder her distinct sound is composed of work “capturing the sweet nostalgia and fleeting moments of youth.”

“Perfect” was thought of and penned down all in the comfort of her home in Burlington. Natalie explains that it is easier to record in her comfort zone when Technology is a swipe away. She adds, “I can have a song idea and drop a voice note on my phone in the morning…record in the evening and mix online and edit on my phone by the weekend. The whole process is possible “between the cracks” of a day – through work, life, the day to day. It’s always possible to create and make music. How perfect.”

The release of her second single “Perfect” since her debut is another milestone added to her already boundless list. Natalie Exora’s musical journey dates to her teenage years, she became a part of a local band and opened for major acts at that time. Further grabbing opportunities to write and collaborate with Juno-nominated Canadian artists.

Her career-defining moment though, came during SongStudio, where she performed with a Canadian musical giant, Rik Emmett of Triumph. Who in return gave simple, yet life-changing advice, “You need to sing.”

Victoria Houser Unveils Her Latest Single ‘When You’re Sober’ – A Sobering Reflection on Fading Love Disguised in Revelry

Eric Alper
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Victoria Houser Unveils Her Latest Single ‘When You’re Sober’ – A Sobering Reflection on Fading Love Disguised in Revelry

Emerging singer-songwriter Victoria Houser, a talented, Toronto-based country/roots artist hailing from the tranquil coastal town of Hubbards, Nova Scotia, unveils her latest single, ‘When You’re Sober.’ This upbeat, unusually melancholic, and infectious track is the first single from her upcoming 4-song EP, titled ‘Somewhere Close to Home’, out now.

Accompanying the single launch is a music video, which was recorded with live audio from The Root Down in Toronto.

Victoria Houser’s musical journey began organically, influenced by her East Coast upbringing. She seamlessly combines country and folk elements with an East Coast flair, drawing inspiration from musical luminaries such as Gillian Welch, Neko Case, Lucinda Williams, and Anne Murray.

“Victoria Houser’s music is a rich blend of traditional country, modern folk, deep roots, and singer-songwriter influences, delivering authentic and heartfelt storytelling at its core.” ‘When You’re Sober’ perfectly reflects this blend, delivering a catchy country song everyone can relate to.

Victoria shares her inspiration behind ‘When You’re Sober’: ” I love to write songs that tell a story, and for ‘When You’re Sober, I aimed to tell a tale that would make listeners feel a little sad and a little amused, juxtaposed with a catchy melody, to showcase the complexities of relationships (and couples who drink) in a light-hearted way.”

This heartfelt single was born out of a challenging relationship. Still, it captures the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to heal. ‘When You’re Sober’ is a testament to music’s magic in expressing those emotions and experiences that words alone cannot capture.

Victoria adds, “The song touches on something many of us can relate to–staying blind to problems in a relationship… at all costs.”

Victoria’s musical talent shines through in ‘When You’re Sober,’ with each instrument acting as a character in her story, including Victoria’s delicate, warm vocals. The single and soon-to-be-released EP features an entirely Canadian team, with key collaborators like Toronto-based musician Chris Staig who co-produced the EP. The song, a snapshot of a couple’s night out at the bar, is a candid exploration of the complexities of human emotions and relationships.

Musically, ‘When You’re Sober’ delivers a warm palette of sounds. Acoustic guitars are accompanied by walking bass, bell-like electrics, train track drums, Calexico-style trumpets, and dancing fiddles.

Layered at the top of the track are Victoria’s lyrics, which, in her own words, “explore the idea that a drink at the bar can feel like the comfort of old friends, and will leave you wondering if you should laugh or cry.”

Her songs offer a unique blend of storytelling and musical artistry. Victoria’s favourite lines of the track appear in verse two.

“The comfort of some old friends who’ve seen us through time and again.
I’ll take a Bulleit to the heart, Jack and Jamie do your part.
Don’t you leave us all alone,
’cause if we go home, it’ll all fall apart.”

‘When You’re Sober’ is set against an addictive melody that will stay with you long after the song ends. Its humour and honesty make it a captivating addition to Victoria Houser’s growing repertoire.

Key members and musicians on this sonic adventure include Victoria on lead/background vocals and acoustic guitar, Chris Staig on electric and acoustic guitars, Dennis Mohammed on bass, David MacDougall on drums, Shelley Coopersmith on fiddle, and Tim Hamel on trumpet. The recording took place at the Lincoln County Social Club in Toronto, Ontario, with sound engineering and mixing duties taken up by John Dinsmore with mastering expertise from Andrew Seok. The music video was shot and directed by Joy Webster and Nick Tiringer, with sound engineering by Michael Legere.

“Beneath the whiskey and wine-soaked facade of ‘When You’re Sober’ lies a poignant narrative of a relationship held together by a fun night out, even as it teeters on the brink of collapse,” says Victoria.

The song cleverly disguises a tale of love’s demise with the cheerful clinking of glasses and lively tunes, offering a humorous glimpse into the fragile veneer of a failing romance.

Victoria Houser’s ”When You’re Sober.’ is a refreshing and authentic take on the complexities of love and relationships, wrapped in an unforgettable americana melody. Be prepared to embark on a musical journey that will make you laugh and tug at your heartstrings This is an artist to watch in roots and country music.

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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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