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Mariah Carey Reimagines ‘The Emancipation of Mimi’ for 20th Anniversary

Eric Alper
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Mariah Carey Reimagines ‘The Emancipation of Mimi’ for 20th Anniversary

Award-winning international superstar, songwriter, singer, New York Times best-selling author, current Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame nominee and the best-selling female artist of all time, Mariah Carey, is continuing the 20th anniversary celebration of her iconic, multi-platinum 10th album, The Emancipation of Mimi, home to era-defining pop/R&B singles “It’s Like That,” “We Belong Together,” “Shake It Off,” “Say Somethin’,” “Fly Like A Bird,” and “Get Your Number,” with a 20th anniversary suite of definitive, expanded deluxe releases of her modern classic.

Arriving May 30 via Def Jam Records/UMe, the marquee release of The Emancipation of Mimi (20th Anniversary Edition) collection is a gorgeous, limited edition 5LP vinyl box set, personally compiled by Mariah to bring together the musical world she created, and continues to create, around this masterwork. As elaborate as it is all-encompassing, this ultimate fan-must have combines the original album and beloved tracks from the Ultra Platinum Edition, such as the hit single “Don’t Forget About Us,” “Makin’ It Last All Night (What It Do),” “Secret Love,” and “Sprung,” with dozens of bonus tracks, spanning from Emancipation era dance remixes, artist collabs, instrumentals, acapellas, and edits, culled from various CD singles and maxi singles, to brand new remixes by the likes of KAYTRANADA and Esentrik. Housed in a beautiful slipcase, the expansive 5LP vinyl collection features exclusive packaging with a 28-page booklet with stunning photos of Mariah as well as a personal letter from the legendary singer to her fans about the significance of this unprecedented album in her extraordinary career. A deluxe 2LP vinyl set will also be available.

“I’m really happy to celebrate ‘Mimi’s Emancipation’ with this special anniversary re-release,” says Mariah. “While working on this edition, I got to relive all the memories from this pivotal moment in my personal and professional life. This album has some of my biggest hits to date, as well as some personal favorites that are very special to me. Forgotten gems, unreleased bonus tracks and different remixes with incredible collaborators – all of these and more are now available in one place for the first time ever!”

Ahead of the release, fans can watch the visualizer for longtime fan KAYTRANADA’s simmering and sultry spin on “Don’t Forget About Us,” available to stream everywhere now: https://mariahcarey.lnk.to/DontForgetAboutUsRemixPR

An extended Digital Deluxe Edition of The Emancipation of Mimi (20th Anniversary Edition) will also be available on May 30 with an exclusive selection of songs from the box set plus additional tracks exclusive to digital. The full tracklisting will be revealed at a later date.

Pre-order The Emancipation of Mimi (20th Anniversary Edition) here: MariahCarey.lnk.to/Mimi20PR

Check out Mariah Carey’s Amazon Store to purchase the new 20th anniversary editions along with special anniversary merch and stay tuned to the newly launched site, Mimi20.com, a nod to Mariah’s old fanclub website honeybfly.com, to get updates about this exciting project.

The 45-track comprehensive 5LP box will include a slew of previously unreleased musical treats guaranteed to excite both longtime fans and those just discovering Mariah’s genius, highlighted by the long-awaited, fan-requested official release of “When I Feel It,” a standout song originally intended for The Emancipation of Mimi but ultimately unreleased due to sample clearance issues; Mariah’s 2021’s inspired late night jam session, “We Belong Together (Mimi’s Late Night Valentine’s Mix); and Mariah’s unforgettable performance of “Don’t Forget About Us” / “We Belong Together” from the 2024 American Music Awards 50th Anniversary Special, the first of many 20th anniversary festivities around The Emancipation of Mimi. Other unreleased treasures include “We Belong Together (Instrumental),” “Shake It Off (Acapella),” and “Circles (Acapella).”

From the original album to the Ultra Platinum Edition, released just seven months later due to the global smash success of Emancipation, to the many singles loaded with vivacious and effervescent dance, house and club remixes, sumptuous instrumentals, jaw-dropping acapellas, and thrilling collaborations with an incredible array of guests artists, including Jay Z, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Cam’ron, Juelz Santana, N.O.R.E., Fabolous, Style P, and others, Mariah presented, evolved and refreshed the music of The Emancipation of Mimi in unique and innovative ways. This lavish box set fully encapsulates the breadth of this exciting era while also offering fans new creations alongside unheard rarities.

Released on April 12, 2005, through Island/Def Jam Records, The Emancipation of Mimi found Mariah collaborating with the era’s most sought-after talent, including Jermaine Dupri, Snoop Dogg, Kanye West, Twista, Nelly, Pharrell Williams and The Neptunes, and James “Big Jim” Wright. It is widely regarded by fans as her critically acclaimed “comeback” project.

An overwhelming triumph on both a personal and professional level, The Emancipation of Mimi marked Mariah’s reclamation of her throne as the reigning queen of pop and R&B. From the bass-rattling beats and sparkling vocals in opener “It’s Like That” to the slinky mid-tempo “Shake It Off” and the all-time romantic ballad “We Belong Together” (which topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a whopping 14 weeks –   the longest of any song during the 2000s – and was later declared by the magazine “song of the decade”), The Emancipation of Mimi was not so much about recounting her industry struggles as it was a pop icon doing what she does best. In that way, The Emancipation of Mimi was a masterclass in “show, don’t tell,” as Mariah and a trusted group of peers rolled out 14 tracks with breezy beats, soaring powerhouse vocals, and of-the-moment production that sounds as fresh in 2025 as it did in 2005.

Soaring to No. 1 with more than 404,000 copies sold in its first week of release, The Emancipation of Mimi was Mariah’s first album since 1997’s Butterfly to debut at the top of the Billboard 200 chart,  ultimately becoming the best-selling album of 2005 in the U.S with nearly five million units sold. Globally, it was the world’s second best-selling album of the year and it reached the top five in Canada, Denmark, France, and Japan. The Ultra Platinum Edition, released in November 2005 with several new tracks, including the towering “Don’t Forget About Us,” would keep the album in the top 5 for many more months and give Mariah her 17th No. 1 hit, trying her with Elvis Presley for the most No. 1 singles by a solo artist (a record she’d eventually surpass). Collectively, the two albums would earn her ten GRAMMY Award nominations: eight in 2006 for the original release (the most received by Mariah in a single year), including the big three: Album of the Year, Record of the Year and Song of the Year (“We Belong Together); and two in 2007 for the Ultra Platinum Edition. In 2006, Mariah took home trophies for Best Contemporary R&B album and Best R&B Song and Best Female Vocal Performance for “We Belong Together.”

Today, The Emancipation of Mimi has sold more than 15 million copies worldwide, making it both the best-selling album of Mariah’s career and one of the best-selling albums of the 21st century.

With the resounding success of her 24-show Las Vegas residency, “The Celebration of Mimi,” which wrapped in February and will continue as a worldwide tour this year with stops in England, Brazil, Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines, with more cities to come, and now this stunning new box set, The Emancipation of Mimi continues to remain as relevant and vital two decades after the legendary, and current Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominee, Mariah Carey, freed herself from the constrictions and expectations of the industry and listened to her heart to create a timeless masterpiece filled with heart, soul and her incredible, peerless vocals.

Mariah Carey is the best-selling female artist of all time with more than 200 million albums sold to date and 19 Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 singles (18 self-penned), more than any solo artist in history. Her memoir, “The Meaning of Mariah Carey,” debuted at No. 1 on the New York Times Best Seller list. A two-time Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame nominee and an inductee to the Songwriters Hall of Fame, Carey is a multi-hyphenate singer, songwriter, and producer who has been recognized with five Grammy Awards (and 34 nominations), ten American Music Awards (and 39 nominations), three Guinness World Record titles, Billboard’s “Artist of the Decade” Award, Billboard’s “Icon Award,” the World Music Award for “World’s Best Selling Female Artist of the Millennium,” the Ivor Novello Award for “PRS for Music Special International Award,” and BMI’s “Icon Award” for her outstanding achievements in songwriting, to name a few. As the globally recognized “Queen Of Christmas,” Carey’s beloved 1994 yuletide hit “All I Want For Christmas Is You” has become one of the longest-charting singles in any genre, spending 65 weeks on Billboard’s Hot 100. In 2015, she was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and in 2023, Carey became one of the first 13 recipients of the BRIT Billion Award for surpassing one billion streams in the United Kingdom.

With her distinct five-octave vocal range, prolific songwriting, and producing talent, Carey is truly the template of the modern pop performance. Carey’s ongoing impact has transcended the music industry to leave an indelible imprint upon the world at large. In 2009, Carey was recognized with the Breakthrough Performance Award at the Palm Springs International Film Festival for her critically acclaimed role in Lee Daniels’ “Precious.” Carey went on to appear in Daniels’ ensemble piece “The Butler” in 2013. A Congressional Award recipient, Carey has generously donated her time and energy to a range of philanthropic causes near to her heart, including Save the Music, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, World Hunger Relief, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, among many others. A tremendous supporter of children’s charities, both domestic and international, Carey founded Camp Mariah in partnership with the Fresh Air Fund, a retreat for inner city children to explore career development.

The Emancipation of Mimi (20th Anniversary Edition) Tracklistings:

5LP LIMITED EDITION BOX SET

Side A
1. It’s Like That
2. We Belong Together
3. Shake It Off
4. Mine Again
5. Say Somethin’

Side B
1. Stay The Night
2. Get Your Number
3. One And Only
4. Circles
5. Your Girl

Side C
1. I Wish You Knew
2. To The Floor
3. Joy Ride
4. Fly Like A Bird
5. Don’t Forget About Us

Side D
1. Makin’ It Last All Night (What It Do)
2. We Belong Together (Remix)
3. Secret Love
4. Sprung
5. We Belong Together (Mimi’s Late Night Valentine’s Mix)

Side E
1. It’s Like That (No Rap)
2. It’s Like That (David Morales Classic Mix)
3. It’s Like That Remix (Scott Storch, Fat Joe)
4. It’s Like That Instrumental

Side F
1. We Belong Together Peter Rauhofer Radio Mix
2. We Belong Together Atlantic Soul Radio Mix
3. We Belong Together (Mimi’s Late Night Valentine Mix) [Extended]
4. We Belong Together Instrumental *

Side G
1. Shake It Off (Remix) Jay Z & Jeezy
2. Shake It Off (Instrumental)
3. Shake It Off (Acapella) *

Side H
1. So Lonely (One & Only Pt. II)
2. Say Somethin’ feat. Dem Franchize Boyz – So So Def Remix Radio Edit
3. Say Somethin’ – David Morales Radio Edit
4. Say Somethin’ – Instrumental
5. Circles (Acapella) *

Side I
1. Your Girl (Diplomat Remix) feat. Cam’ron & Juelz Santa
2. Your Girl (Remix) feat. N.O.R.E.
3. Don’t Forget About Us – Desert Storm Remix feat. Fabolous & Styles P
4. Don’t Forget About Us Remix – ft. Juelz Santana and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony
5. Don’t Forget About Us – Ralphi Rosario & Craig J. Martini at XO vocal edit

Side J
1. When I Feel It *
2. It’s Like That (Esentrik Remix) *
3. Don’t Forget About Us/We Belong Together (Live from the American Music Awards) *
4. Don’t Forget About Us (KAYTRANADA Remix) *

* Previously unreleased

2LP DELUXE EDITION
Side A
1. It’s Like That
2. We Belong Together
3. Shake It Off
4. Mine Again
5. Say Somethin

Side B
1. Stay The Night
2. Get Your Number
3. One And Only
4. Circles
5. Your Girl

Side C
1. I Wish You Knew
2. To The Floor
3. Joy Ride
4. Fly Like A Bird
5. Don’t Forget About Us

Side D
1. Makin’ It Last All Night (What It Do)
2. We Belong Together (Remix)
3. Secret Love
4. Sprung
5. We Belong Together (Mimi’s Late Night Valentine’s Mix)

 

Lana Del Rey Unveils Haunting New Single “Henry, come on” Ahead of Sold-Out Stadium Tour

Eric Alper
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Lana Del Rey Unveils Haunting New Single “Henry, come on” Ahead of Sold-Out Stadium Tour

Lana Del Rey releases her new single, ‘Henry, come on’. The single is out now via Polydor Records.

‘Henry, come on’ was written by Lana Del Rey and Luke Laird. The pair also produced the record together with Drew Erickson.

2025 will also see Lana Del Rey embark upon a sold-out UK & Ireland summer tour which will see her play dates in London, Dublin, Liverpool, Glasgow, and Cardiff. It is her first UK & IE stadium tour, including two dates at Wembley Stadium. This month, Lana Del Rey will also play Stagecoach Festival in Indio, California on Friday 25th April.

Full tour dates can be found below, and tickets can be purchased HERE.

LANA DEL REY 2025 TOUR DATES:
Friday 25th April, Stagecoach Festival, Indio USA
Monday 23rd June, Principality Stadium, Cardiff UK
Thursday 26th June, Hampden Park, Glasgow UK
Saturday 28th June, Anfield Stadium, Liverpool UK
Monday 30th June, Aviva Stadium, Dubin IE
Thursday 3rd July, Wembley Stadium, London UK
Friday 4th July, Wembley Stadium, London UK

Quavo and Lil Baby Cement Their Legacy with Triumphant New Single “Legends”

Eric Alper
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Quavo and Lil Baby Cement Their Legacy with Triumphant New Single “Legends”

Grammy-nominated recording artist Quavo has teamed up with fellow QC megastar Lil Baby to deliver his latest single and music video, “Legends,” via Quality Control Music/Motown Records. The new single comes as Quavo’s second official release of the year and follows a monumental 2024, during which he was honored with the Variety Hitmakers Humanitarian of the Year Award for his work with the Rocket Foundation and his efforts to combat gun violence in America. The heavily anticipated collaboration sees the two chart-topping artists trading bars about legacy, resilience, and the journey from struggle to superstardom. Blending Quavo’s melodic delivery with Lil Baby’s sharp lyricism, “Legends” is a triumphant anthem that celebrates their rise while cementing their status as icons of Atlanta’s rap scene.

Directed by Hidji, the accompanying music video opens with the duo rapping in a garage full of luxury cars, setting the tone for a celebration of success. Scenes of yacht parties, poolside glamour, and high-speed cruises through the city showcase the opulence they’ve earned, while both artists reflect on their come-up and the trials they’ve overcome—reminding listeners why they remain two of the brightest stars in the rap game.

Ichika Nito Shreds “Für Elise” Into a Face-Melting Metal Masterpiece on Carbon Ibanez Guitar

Eric Alper
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Ichika Nito Shreds “Für Elise” Into a Face-Melting Metal Masterpiece on Carbon Ibanez Guitar

What happens when Beethoven meets Ibanez? Ichika Nito turns “Für Elise” into a headbanging masterpiece. Proof that even the classics love a good guitar solo.

My Chemical Romance Reissues ‘Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge’ as Deluxe Edition with Rare BBC Live Tracks

Eric Alper
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My Chemical Romance Reissues ‘Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge’ as Deluxe Edition with Rare BBC Live Tracks

Today, My Chemical Romance proudly announce Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge (Deluxe Edition), an expanded edition of their 3x-platinum certified sophomore album, out on June 6, 2025 – exactly 11 years to the original release date. The Deluxe Edition is remixed and remastered and will be available on CD, multiple colored vinyl variants, including a stunning zoetrope 2LP, and digitally. The 2 LP vinyl formats are 3-sided, with Side 4 boasting a special etching, making them collector’s items for the MCRmy.

To commemorate the band’s beloved 2004 album, GRAMMY Award-winning producer Rich Costey has done new mixes for the Deluxe Edition. It is also presented with brand new artwork. The collection features four bonus tracks recorded for BBC in 2005: previously unreleased live versions of “I’m Not Okay (I Promise),” “Helena,” and “The Ghost Of You,” plus a live take on “You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison” – originally released as a B-side on the limited edition UK CD single of “I’m Not Okay (I Promise).” Full track listings are below.

The first bonus track – “I’m Not OK (I Promise) [Live for BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up”, 2005]” – is available digitally now.

Additionally, the official music video for “I’m Not OK (I Promise)” has been film restored.

Powered by signature generational anthems such as “Helena” (4x-platinum), “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” (3x-platinum), “The Ghost Of You” (platinum), “Thank You For The Venom” (gold), and “You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison” (gold), the record emerged as a commercial and critical high watermark for the band, garnering a platinum-certification less than a year after its release. Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge redefined the 21st-century rock genre and catapulted MCR into global stardom. Rolling Stone touted it on the “40 Greatest Emo Albums Of All Time”, proclaiming the band’s “purposeful revolution started here. The record landed on Spin’s “The 300 Best Albums of the Past 30 Years (1985–2014)” list and NME’s “20 Emo Albums That Have Resolutely Stood The Test Of Time” list. Alternative Press hailed it as their “best album” and “the definitive MCR LP from their discography.” Not to mention, Pitchfork described it as “an operatic pop-rock behemoth that became an icon for outcasts,” attesting that “My Chemical Romance thrived because they came to the realization that emotional outcasts deserved something to cheer for, even if their victories were imaginary.” To date, the record has sold over 7 million copies worldwide.

The band’s impact continues to reverberate from one generaion to the next—and that influence shows no signs of diminishing. If anything, My Chemical Romance’s upcoming sold-out 2025 North American stadium tour – “Long Live”: The Black Parade – proves just that. The entire tour sold out merely hours after tickets went on sale.

All tour dates can be found HERE.

Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge (Deluxe Edition) Artwork
CD TRACK LISTING:
ORIGINAL ALBUM
1. Helena
2. Give ‘Em Hell, Kid
3. To the End
4. You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison
5. I’m Not Okay (I Promise)
6. The Ghost of You
7. The Jetset Life Is Gonna Kill You
8. Interlude
9. Thank You for the Venom
10. Hang ‘Em High
11. It’s Not a Fashion Statement, It’s a Deathwish
12. Cemetery Drive
13. I Never Told You What I Do for a Living
DELUXE EDITION BONUS TRACKS
14. I’m Not Okay (I Promise)*
15. Helena*
16. The Ghost of You*
17. You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison (Live)*
* (Recorded Live In London For BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up” January 23, 2005)

VINYL TRACK LISTING:

ORIGINAL ALBUM

SIDE A:
Helena
Give ‘Em Hell, Kid
To The End
You Know What They Do To Guys Like Us In Prison
I’m Not Ok (I Promise)
The Ghost Of You
The Jetset Life Is Gonna Kill You

SIDE B:
Interlude
Thank You For The Venom
Hang ‘Em High
It’s Not A Fashion Statement, It’s A Deathwish
Cemetery Drive
I Never Told You What I Do For A Living
DELUXE EDITION BONUS TRACKS

SIDE C:
I’m Not Ok (I Promise)*
Helena*
The Ghost Of You*
You Know What They Do To Guys Like Us In Prison*
* (Recorded Live In London For BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up” January 23, 2005)

SIDE D:
Etching (No Audio)

DIGITAL TRACK LISTING:
1. Helena
2. Give ‘Em Hell, Kid
3. To the End
4. You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison
5. I’m Not Okay (I Promise)
6. The Ghost of You
7. The Jetset Life Is Gonna Kill You
8. Interlude
9. Thank You for the Venom
10. Hang ‘Em High
11. It’s Not a Fashion Statement, It’s a Deathwish
12. Cemetery Drive
13. I Never Told You What I Do for a Living
14. I’m Not Okay (I Promise) [Live for BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up”, 2005]
15. Helena (Live for BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up”, 2005)
16. The Ghost of You (Live for BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up”, 2005)
17. You Know What They Do to Guys Like Us in Prison (Live for BBC Radio 1’s “The Lock Up”, 2005)

Why So Many Brilliant Musicians Are on the Autism Spectrum

Eric Alper
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Why So Many Brilliant Musicians Are on the Autism Spectrum

There’s something remarkable that happens when music meets the neurodivergent mind. For many people on the autism spectrum, music isn’t just sound—it’s a lifeline. It’s structure, safety, emotional translation, and self-expression all at once. From a scientific perspective, autistic brains often show heightened sensitivity to auditory detail, rhythmic memory, and emotional nuance through music. From a musical perspective? It just means some of the most brilliant, genre-bending, soul-shaking artists happen to be wired a little differently—and beautifully so. These are the voices that show us what it means to feel everything.

Sia
In 2022, Sia shared that she is on the autism spectrum. Her music, known for its soaring vocals and cinematic emotion, often reflects a deeply internal world. She’s spoken about the healing power of music and how it helps her navigate life’s sensory overload. Her choice to step out of the spotlight and let the music speak says a lot. Sia’s vulnerability, now matched by her honesty, has helped so many feel seen. Her songs remind us that sensitivity is a strength, not a flaw.

Dan Aykroyd
Yes, the Ghostbusters legend—and one-half of The Blues Brothers—has Asperger’s. He’s said his special interests in ghosts and law enforcement literally created his biggest success stories. Known for his focus and quick wit, Aykroyd also has a lifelong love for rhythm and music. His role in The Blues Brothers was more than a performance—it was a celebration of connection through sound. He remains an advocate for neurodiversity. His story shows us that what others call obsession can actually become legacy.

Gary Numan
Synth-pop pioneer Gary Numan has publicly spoken about his experiences with what he believes to be Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism. While he never received a formal diagnosis, he has described it as a “positive advantage” that has shaped his music and career. He says he has always felt different—and credits that difference for his groundbreaking sound. He’s said repetition, control, and structure give him comfort both in music and in life. His lyrics explore identity, isolation, and the human condition in ways that resonate deeply with neurodivergent listeners. Numan’s futuristic music came from a mind that saw things the rest of us missed.

David Byrne
David Byrne, frontman of Talking Heads, has never been diagnosed—but he’s described himself as socially awkward, obsessively focused, and deeply analytical. Sounds familiar, right? He’s spoken about relating to autism traits and how his view of the world informs everything from songwriting to visual art. Byrne sees systems where others see chaos—and turns them into beauty. His lyrics often come from the outside looking in. That perspective has made him one of the most important artists of our time.

Tony DeBlois
Tony DeBlois is blind, autistic, and a musical savant. He plays over 20 instruments and has memorized thousands of pieces. Diagnosed at a young age, he began playing piano at two years old—and never stopped. Tony’s story has been shared in books and documentaries because it’s not just inspirational, it’s astonishing. He connects through music in ways words can’t reach. His talent is a reminder of just how extraordinary the neurodivergent brain can be.

Matt Savage
Jazz pianist Matt Savage was diagnosed with autism as a toddler and started composing before he turned 7. He’s performed with Chick Corea and Wynton Marsalis and graduated from Berklee College of Music. Matt says he sees music like patterns—beautiful, logical, flowing systems that make sense. He’s proof that musical genius doesn’t always look traditional. He’s broken barriers, reshaped expectations, and never stopped swinging.

Adam Young (Owl City)
Adam Young has never been officially diagnosed, but he’s spoken openly about his social anxiety, sensory overwhelm, and autism-like traits. Owl City became his safe haven—where he built whole worlds out of imagination, wonder, and layered synths. “Fireflies” became a massive hit, not just because it was catchy, but because it felt true. For many neurodivergent listeners, Young’s music sounds like their inner monologue. He gave introverts an anthem.

Courtney Love
Courtney Love has said in interviews that she may be on the autism spectrum. Her music is raw, emotionally intense, and sometimes chaotic—but behind that chaos is an incredibly focused and creative mind. She’s described obsessive focus and social difficulty—traits that many neurodivergent women recognize all too well. Her place in rock history is undeniable. Courtney shows that being different doesn’t mean being fragile—it can mean being fierce.

Derek Paravicini
Derek Paravicini is a blind autistic pianist with perfect pitch who can play anything after hearing it once. He began playing piano at two and gave his first concert at nine. Despite facing learning challenges, music became his first and most fluent language. His improvisations are jaw-dropping and full of emotion. Derek doesn’t just play music—he channels it. His brilliance is a reminder that every mind is a world of potential.

Jacob Velazquez
Diagnosed at age four, Jacob Velazquez is a piano prodigy who’s played with symphonies and appeared on national TV. His learning speed and attention to musical detail stunned teachers and producers alike. Jacob has described music as a place where he feels confident and connected. His story offers hope for families navigating early autism diagnoses. He shows that support, talent, and passion are a powerful trio.

James Durbin
A finalist on American Idol, James Durbin has Tourette’s and Asperger’s and never let either stop him. Music helped him focus, express emotion, and build self-esteem. His rock vocals blew audiences away, and he’s continued to tour and release music ever since. Durbin has used his platform to advocate for autism awareness. He proves that different isn’t just okay—it’s electric.

Peter Tork
Peter Tork of The Monkees spoke later in life about traits he believed aligned with autism. He was introspective, deeply into music theory, and preferred staying out of the spotlight. While others grabbed attention, he grounded the band with musical skill and quiet strength. He proved that brilliance doesn’t need to be loud. Tork’s journey reminds us that great musicianship often comes from within.

Joe Walsh
Joe Walsh of the Eagles has said he’s “on the spectrum,” and has also lived with ADD and dyslexia. Music gave him order in a chaotic world. His humor, riffs, and honesty shaped rock history—and helped him survive personal battles. Joe talks openly about his brain working differently, and how music helped him thrive. His story is a loud, proud anthem for neurodivergent resilience.

Science tells us that autistic brains process sound differently—more precisely, more intensely, and sometimes more beautifully. Music, for many on the spectrum, is more than expression. It’s therapy. It’s a map. It’s connection. These artists didn’t overcome their autism to create—they created because of how their brains work. That’s not something to pity. That’s something to celebrate.

So the next time you hear a song that gives you goosebumps, remember: someone out there might have heard it first in a way you never could—and they gave it to you. What a gift that is.

Rod Stewart to Release First-Ever Solo Career-Spanning Collection ‘Ultimate Hits’ Ahead of Glastonbury Legends Set

Eric Alper
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Rod Stewart to Release First-Ever Solo Career-Spanning Collection ‘Ultimate Hits’ Ahead of Glastonbury Legends Set

Sir Rod Stewart is proud to announce the release of his first-ever solo-career spanning hits collection. Due out on 27 June 2025, Ultimate Hits will land just days before Stewart takes to the Pyramid Stage at this year’s Glastonbury Festival, where he will perform before an estimated crowd of 80,000 people during the coveted Sunday evening “Legends” slot.

Released as part of Stewart’s ongoing 80th-birthday celebrations, Ultimate Hits presents stand-out moments from the legendary singer’s remarkable solo career. Starting with his signature breakthrough songs ‘Handbags and Gladrags’ and ‘Maggie May’, the collection also includes the bold social commentary of ‘The Killing of George (Part I and II)’ and ‘Young Turks’, the dancefloor-detonating disco smash ‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?’, raucous rave-ups such as ‘Hot Legs’ and ‘Baby Jane’, and the masterful ballads ‘Sailing’, ‘Rhythm of My Heart’ and ‘For the First Time’. A 2CD deluxe edition will bring the story bang up to date with ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’’ and ‘Almost Like Being in Love’, highlights from 2024’s Swing Fever album, Stewart’s UK No. 1 collaboration with Jools Holland.

Unifying all these stylistic switches is that voice: an instrument in its own right which has made Stewart of the most distinctive singers in rock history.

As Stewart prepares to hit the road throughout 2025, his own history is now the stuff of legend. Inspired by original US rock’n’rollers such as Little Richard and Bill Haley & The Comets, Stewart was at the forefront of the UK rock’n’roll explosion when he

formed his own skiffle group in the 1950s. And he’s remained at the head of the pack ever since, whether performing with British blues legends Long John Baldry and Jeff Beck, cementing his “Rod the Mod” credentials as frontman of Faces in the early 1970s, or filling stadiums around the world as a solo star in his own right.

Many of the songs included on Ultimate Hits have made Stewart’s live shows must see events for decades. ‘Maggie May’ kickstarted it all when it went to No. 1 on both sides of the Atlantic, and since then Stewart has topped the UK charts a further five times (‘You Wear It Well’, ‘Sailing’, the double A-side release ‘I Don’t Want to Talk About It’/‘The First Cut is The Deepest’, ‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?’, ‘Baby Jane’) while also shooting to the US top spot with ‘Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)’ and ‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?’. With Top 5 hits worldwide in each consecutive decade, and multi-platinum sales in both the US and the UK, Stewart can rightly claim to be one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Now, with 11 UK and four US No. 1 albums to his name – not to mention BRIT and Grammy Awards, and a double induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Stewart’s remarkable career continues to peak. In 2025, highlights include the return of his highly anticipated One Last Time tour, which launches another European leg on 23 April; a return to his record-breaking Las Vegas residency, The Encore Shows, in May and September; and bringing his One Last Time tour to North America, South America and back to Europe to close out the year. The tour, which has been thrilling audiences across Europe, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, is a box-office smash, grossing among the Top 20 global concert tours of 2024. In addition, Stewart will reunite with Billy Joel at Yankee Stadium, New York City, on 18 July, and at Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, on 20 September.

Amid all this, Ultimate Hits will serve as a reminder of the undeniable impact that Stewart has had on music. And he’s not done yet. Those hot legs have got plenty more in them…

Tickets for Rod Stewart’s 2025 tour dates can be bought here.

Ultimate Hits is available from Warner Music, in association with Iconic Artists Group, in an array of formats, including collector’s 2LP green vinyl and ½ & ½ green-and-white vinyl variants, a 1CD and 2CD deluxe edition, store-exclusive alternative-cover variants, and limited-edition cassette and Blu-ray audio, as well as being available digitally.

Tracklisting:
‘Handbags and Gladrags’
‘Maggie May’
‘In a Broken Dream’ (by Python Lee Jackson)
‘You Wear It Well’
‘Sailing’
‘I Don’t Want to Talk About It’
Tonight’s the Night (Gonna Be Alright)’
‘The First Cut is the Deepest’
‘The Killing of Georgie (Part I and II)’
‘You’re in My Heart (The Final Acclaim)’
‘Hot Legs’
‘Da Ya Think I’m Sexy?’
‘Young Turks’
‘Baby Jane’
‘Some Guys Have All the Luck’
‘Forever Young’
‘Downtown Train’
‘Have I Told You Lately’
‘Rhythm of My Heart’
‘For the First Time’
2CD deluxe-edition bonus tracks
‘Oh! No Not My Baby’
‘I Was Only Joking’
‘Every Beat of My Heart’
‘The Motown Song’ (with The Temptations) ‘Sometimes When We Touch’
‘Have You Ever Seen the Rain’
‘One More Time’
‘Hold On’
‘Ain’t Misbehavin’’
‘Almost Like Being in Love’

Kingfishr Add Second 3Arena Show as Global Buzz Grows Around New Single “Gloria”

Eric Alper
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Kingfishr Add Second 3Arena Show as Global Buzz Grows Around New Single “Gloria”

Kingfishr are going global. Their popularity in Ireland, the UK and now US has gone from strength-to-strength, first selling all 23,000 tickets for last autumn’s headline tour and then another 30,000 for their summer shows. More soon followed as they sold-out their first ever headline arena show at Dublin’s 3Arena in a matter of hours – and that phenomenal demand has resulted in a second night being added. The trio also made their first major Irish chart impact as “Killeagh” kept ascending to reach #2 on the Official Singles Chart, making them the only Irish artist in the Top 10. There are more big moments on the schedule too, with their sold-out debut North American tour commencing later this month ahead of their first European headline run in May.

It’s the perfect time for Kingfishr to bring new fans into their ever-growing following, something which they’re set to achieve with the release of the new single “Gloria”. It’s a song that’s indicative of the emotional turmoil that Kingfishr excel at evocating: an atmosphere of sorrow and melancholy, but one with a tangible hope for a brighter future. Their melting point of anthemic indie-folk and the Irish trad sound is topped as ever by Eddie Keogh’s gritty baritone, a voice of pure feeling. The song was written by the band and was produced by David Curley.

Eddie says, “‘Gloria’ is about giving in to the pressures around you, and whether you can live with yourself for doing it. The song represents a yearning to break free.”

Completed by bandmates Eoin ‘Fitz’ Fitzgibbon (bass) and Eoghan ‘McGoo’ McGrath (banjo), Kingfishr’s fanbase has largely been built the old-fashioned way. Their shows have continually scaled upwards in their short history, with fans coming back for more and spreading their gospel by word-of-mouth. But you’re also just as likely to find them in intimate settings, regularly dropping in to play house parties or joining impromptu pub jams wherever they go. A taste of their live experience can be seen with a stripped-back acoustic performance of their recent single “Man On The Moon”.

That’s not to say they’re rooted in the past. Their accomplished musicianship and easy-going charm gives them a natural appeal via socials, while their classic songwriting is exploding on streaming platforms – with over 90 million streams without yet releasing a studio album for evidence. Their one album release so far, Live From Dublin, went straight to #1 on the Irish Independent Chart. Acclaim is mounting too. They won the Music Moves Europe Award at the start of this year and were nominated for Irish Breakthrough Artist at the RTÉ Choice Music Prize Awards.

Beyond their own shows, Kingfishr have been a hit on tour with James Bay (including an OVO Wembley Arena date) as well as supporting Bruce Springsteen, George Ezra, Tom Walker and Snow Patrol. They have also played the Glastonbury, Reading, Leeds, TRNSMT, Electric Picnic, Isle of Wight and Rock Werchter festivals – with many more to follow this summer.

The band’s touring schedule now runs as below.

APRIL
22nd – Washington, DC, Songbyrd (SOLD OUT)
23rd – Philadelphia, PA, World Cafe Live (SOLD OUT)
24th – New York, NY, Bowery Ballroom (SOLD OUT)
26th – Boston, MA, Brighton Music Hall (SOLD OUT)
28th – Toronto, ON, Velvet Underground (SOLD OUT)
30th – Chicago, IL, Martyrs’ (SOLD OUT)
MAY
2nd – Denver, CO, Lost Lake (SOLD OUT)
4th – San Francisco, CA, Brick & Mortar Music Hall (SOLD OUT)
5th – Los Angeles, CA, Hotel Cafe (SOLD OUT)
24th – Live At Leeds
24th – Warrington, Neighbourhood Weekender
26th – Paris, Les Etoiles
27th – Cologne, Luxor (SOLD OUT)
28th – Berlin, Frannz Club
30th – Amsterdam, Paradiso Tolhuistuin (SOLD OUT)
31st – Hellendoorn, Dauwpop Festival
JUNE
1st – Hulst, Vestrock Festival
3rd- Copenhagen, Pumpehuset
4th – Oslo, John Dee
5th – Stockholm, Nalen Klubb
7th – Nijmegen, Doornroosje (SOLD OUT)
21st – Dublin, Fairview Park (SOLD OUT)
JULY
10th – Madrid, Mad Cool Festival
16th – Cork, The Marquee (SOLD OUT)
19th – Nottingham, Splendour Festival
20th – Galway, Heineken Big Top (SOLD OUT)
24th – Cork, The Marquee (SOLD OUT)
24th-27th – Oxfordshire, Truck Festival
26th – Southwold, Latitude Festival
AUGUST
7th – Belfast, Custom House SQ (LOW TICKETS)
11th – Budapest, Sziget
13th – St. Polten, Frequency
15th – Bidinghuizen, Lowlands
16th – Hamburg, MS Dockville
22nd – Limerick, Live At The Docks (SOLD OUT)
DECEMBER
18th – Dublin, 3Arena (ADDED DATE)
19th – Dublin, 3Arena (SOLD OUT)

Avery Anna Turns Fan Letters into Songs on Deeply Personal Album ‘let go letters’ Out May 16

Eric Alper
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Avery Anna Turns Fan Letters into Songs on Deeply Personal Album ‘let go letters’ Out May 16

oday, Warner Music Nashville songstress Avery Anna announced her sophomore album, let go letters, out May 16. Watch the let go letters trailer below and pre-order the album HERE.

Every song on the record is inspired by real-life situations that Avery’s fans shared with her in a letter series, which has long been a safe place for her listener community to ‘let go’ of experiences that may be troubling them by writing them down and sending them off. Avery read these letters and took the general themes—anything from body dysmorphia, depression, alcoholism in the family, self-esteem, etc.—and turned them into songs, making her fans’ experiences the center of the project to let them know they’re heard, seen, and not alone.

To accompany the announcement, Avery has released a new song from the project, “danny don’t.” Written solely by Avery, “danny don’t” is the singer’s response to a fan-written letter she received at a show from a man struggling with the weight of life and contemplating giving it up entirely. The stripped-down track serves as Avery’s letter back to him, where she pleads with soaring vocals that he keep going. The song delves into the typically unsung topic of men’s mental health. Avery expands on the experience, the ‘let go letters’ concept, and provides a trigger warning in a video she posted—watch here.

“I’ve learned that everyone wants to escape the hard things that are going on in their lives. I see it every time I play a show—people carrying so many burdens,” the Arizona-born singer-songwriter says. “It was really hard for me to know that the people at my shows are going through similar things that I’m going through because they are singing the songs with me, and they relate to them. But I have a way to deal with that by singing about my experiences on stage, and they may not have that outlet. So, I encouraged everyone to write these things called Let Go Letters, and many people did it. They trusted me with these letters and the things they’re going through, and because of that, my entire life and perspective on people has changed.”

“Reading thes letters was super heavy,” she adds. “There were so many topics that I don’t know if they could say them out loud, but they could write them down. It inspired me so much that I started writing songs about their experiences myself, and then this album came to life. My biggest hope is that people will hear it and they’ll feel understood. I think the highest form of love is to be understood. People are going through a lot, and they think they’re going through it alone, but they’re not.”

let go letters features 15 tracks all penned or co-penned by Avery and follows the singer-songwriter’s celebrated 2024 debut album, Breakup Over Breakfast. The new project includes her recently released “Wish You Well,” which MusicRow praised as an “audio delight,” noting that the “twinkling, upbeat track disguises the abuse she suffered as she sings of forgiveness and moving on.” “Mr. Predictable,” another previously released track on the highly anticipated project, has quickly become a fan favorite. Holler lauded that the song “doubles down on the powerful, deeply vulnerable and conversational ambiance the country prodigy has always laced into her music…that feels like she’s drawing straight from her journal.”

A member of the Opry NextStage class of 2025, Avery is currently climbing the radio charts with Sam Barber on their viral duet, “Indigo.” The pair shared a performance of the track on The Kelly Clarkson Show earlier this year.

With more than 530 million global streams to date, the Arizona native has quickly become an in-demand touring artist. Avery brought her electric live show to the main stage at C2C festival

across London, Belfast, and Glasgow last month. Entertainment Focus praised her performance as “the biggest surprise of the weekend,” claiming “she took the opportunity to announce herself to an international crowd and absolutely grabbed it by the scruff of the neck, slapped it in the face a couple of times and walked away with a strut as we were left breathless, dazed and desperate for more.”

She’s set to take the stage at Nashville’s The Pinnacle on April 17, where she’ll open for Ian Munsick, followed by an appearance at the Grand Ole Opry on April 18. Avery will return to Stagecoach this spring before joining Luke Bryan’s Country Song Came On Tour and Brad Paisley’s Truck Still Works World Tour for select dates this summer.

Depeche Mode Announces Theatrical Film ‘M’ Inspired by Memento Mori Tour and Mexico City Shows

Eric Alper
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Depeche Mode Announces Theatrical Film ‘M’ Inspired by Memento Mori Tour and Mexico City Shows

Depeche Mode has announced an expressive and dynamic cinematic film titled Depeche Mode: M, featuring interstitials and archival footage from the band’s Mexico City shows on the 2023-2024 Memento Mori Tour.

The feature-length film, conceptualized and directed by award-winning filmmaker Fernando Frias, takes audiences on a profound musical journey, using nearly 200,000 Mexican fans’ fervent connection with the band as a window into the band’s timeless global influence, and a powerful tribute to the unbreakable connection between music, tradition and the human spirit.

Through Frias’ creative lens, the cinematic experience weaves footage from the three sold-out shows at Mexico City’s Foro Sol Stadium to explore the parallels between the themes on Depeche Mode’s latest album Memento Mori and the deep connection to death and mortality in Mexican culture. Frias is best known for his award-winning film I’m No Longer Here, which won Mexico’s prestigious Ariel Academy Awards with 10 wins, including Best Picture and Best Direction. The film also earned Frias a DGA nomination for Outstanding Directorial Achievement. Additionally, it was Mexico’s submission to the Oscars in 2021 and was shortlisted for Best International Feature. His latest film, I Don’t Expect Anyone to Believe Me, premiered to critical acclaim.

Depeche Mode: M will premiere in theaters later this year and follows the band during its Mexico City stop during the Memento Mori Tour, which saw them play to more than 3 million fans at 112 shows around the world and was hailed by Rolling Stone as “a stunning celebration of life and music.” The tour followed Depeche Mode’s 15th studio album, Memento Mori, released in 2023 to wide critical acclaim. An indelible inspiration to fans, critics and artists alike, Depeche Mode continues to forge ahead, with the Memento Mori album and tour representing just the latest chapter of a peerless and ongoing legacy.

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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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