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Michael Marcagi Announces ‘Midwest Kid’ EP and Tour Dates with The Lumineers and Rainbow Kitten Surprise

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Continuing to make waves this year, breakout singer, songwriter and celebrated storytellerĀ Michael MarcagiĀ unveils an introspective and nostalgic new single entitledĀ ā€œFollows Youā€Ā ā€“ listenĀ HEREĀ viaĀ Warner Records. It heralds the arrival of his upcomingĀ Midwest KidĀ EP, arrivingĀ April 18.

About the song,Ā MarcagiĀ commented,Ā ā€œI’d say one of my biggest red flags is not dealing with my problems head-on. Constantly being on the road and touring can make it very easy for me to brush them aside and ignore the underlying issues.Ā ā€˜Follows You’ illustrates that it doesn’t matter how far you run away, life’s personal challenges will always catch up. They’re just like your shadow. Sometimes you may not be able to see it, but it’s always following you.”

Just last night,Ā MichaelĀ delivered an impassioned performance of recent singleĀ ā€œFlyover Stateā€Ā onĀ Jimmy Kimmel Live!Ā Watch itĀ HERE.

ā€œFlyover Stateā€Ā landed just last month, and has already generated overĀ 1 millionĀ Spotify streams and counting. Not to mention,Ā he dropped byĀ CBS MorningsĀ to perform it onĀ Saturday Sessions.

Weeks before,Ā HollerĀ hailedĀ ā€œMidwest Kidā€Ā as a ā€œnostalgic, uptempo earworm,ā€ before noting, ā€œMichael MarcagiĀ continues to cement himself as one of the most exciting new voices in the folk landscape.ā€

ā€œMidwest Kidā€Ā followed a trio of recent singlesĀ ā€œKeep Me Honest,ā€Ā ā€œGood Enoughā€ā€”which was co-written byĀ Wesley SchultzĀ ofĀ The Lumineers—andĀ ā€œTear It All Apart.ā€Ā OfĀ ā€œTear It All Apart,ā€Ā HITSĀ professed,Ā ā€œIts melancholy verses give way to a rousing,Ā redemptive chorus. The buzz onĀ MarcagiĀ is getting louder; he’s a true-blue story teller.ā€Ā Flaunt MagazineĀ observed, ā€œQuite the lyricist, evoking an inspiring and relatable feeling – resonating deeply, and immediately , with those who hear it.ā€Ā Ā 

MarcagiĀ announced his arrival as a solo artist in 2024 with hisĀ Warner RecordsĀ debut EPĀ American Romance. Its Platinum-certified lead single,Ā ā€œScared to Start,ā€Ā reachedĀ #5Ā on theĀ BillboardĀ Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart, amassing more thanĀ 4 billionĀ TikTok views andĀ nearlyĀ 800 millionĀ global streams in the process.Ā This past June,Ā MarcagiĀ made his late-night TV debut performing the hit onĀ Late Night With Seth Meyers.

MarcagiĀ is currently on the road for a run of US headline dates. Shortly after wrapping up in the US,Ā MarcagiĀ will be supportingĀ The LumineersĀ on their EU/UK arena tour in April and May, and then will joinĀ Rainbow Kitten SurpriseĀ across the Southeastern US in June. ClickĀ HEREĀ for tour and ticket details.

Michael Marcagi 2025 Tour Dates
*with The Lumineers
^with Rainbow Kitten Surprise
Mar 21Ā Ā Los Angeles, CAĀ Ā Ā The Fonda Theatre
Mar 22Ā Ā San Diego, CAĀ Ā Ā Music Box
Apr 23Ā Ā Vienna, AustriaĀ Ā Ā Stadthalle*
Apr 24Ā Ā Prague, Czech RepublicĀ Ā Ā O2 Arena*
Apr 26Ā Ā Munich, GermanyĀ Ā Ā Olympiahalle*
Apr 27Ā Ā Milan, ItalyĀ Ā Ā Unipol Forum*
Apr 30Ā Ā Bilbao, SpainĀ Ā Ā Bilbao Arena*
May 02Ā Ā Lisbon, PortugalĀ Ā Ā MEO Arena*
May 03Ā Ā Madrid, SpainĀ Ā Ā WiZink*
May 06Ā Ā Luxembourg,Ā LuxembourgĀ Ā Rockhal*
May 08Ā Ā Berlin, GermanyĀ Ā Ā Velodrom*
May 09Ā Ā Copenhagen, DenmarkĀ Ā Ā Royal Arena*
May 11Ā Ā Oslo, NorwayĀ Ā Ā Oslo Spektrum*
May 14Ā Ā Hamburg, GermanyĀ Ā Ā Barclays Arena*
May 15Ā Ā Cologne, GermanyĀ Ā Ā LANXESS Arena*
May 17Ā Ā Amsterdam, NetherlandsĀ Ā Ā AFAS Live*
May 19Ā Ā Brussels,Ā BelgiumĀ Forest National*
May 20Ā Ā Paris, FranceĀ Ā Ā Adidas Arena*
May 22Ā Ā Cardiff, UKĀ Ā Ā Utilita Arena*
May 24Ā Ā London, UKĀ Ā Ā The O2*
May 25Ā Ā Manchester, UKĀ Ā Ā AO Arena*
May 28Ā Ā Birmingham, UKĀ Ā Ā Utilita Arena*
May 29Ā Ā Glasgow, UKĀ Ā Ā OVO Hydro*
May 31Ā Dublin, IrelandĀ Ā St. Anne’s Park*
Jun 14Ā Birmingham, ALĀ Avondale Brewing Company^
Jun 17Ā Ft. Lauderdale, FLĀ FTL War Memorial^
Jun 18Ā Clearwater, FLĀ The Sound at Coachman Park^
Jun 20Ā Wilmington, NCĀ Live Oak Bank Pavilion^
Jun 21Ā Simpsonville, SCĀ CCNB Amphitheatre at Heritage Park^
Aug 03Ā Saint Charles, IAĀ Hinterland Music Festival
Sep 11Ā Louisville, KYĀ Bourbon & Beyond Festival

Avery Anna Releases New Single “Wish You Well,” Announces Tour Dates with Luke Bryan and Brad Paisley

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Powerhouse vocalist and savvy songwriterĀ Avery AnnaĀ released her latest song today, ā€œWish You Well.ā€ In the new track written by Avery along with David Fanning and Jon Hume, the songstress finds the high road and chooses forgiveness in the aftermath of a rocky relationship.

ā€œā€˜Wish You Well’ is about forgiveness—not forgetting—but letting someone go, and letting yourself get over the things that people did to you, to hurt you, which is something that I’ve had to do recently in my life,ā€ Avery said. ā€œI hope that it helps you forgive you.ā€

Last week, Avery shared her rock-tinged take on the Patsy Cline classic, ā€œCrazy.ā€ Her soaring vocals are front and center on the cover, available to stream exclusively on Amazon Music (LISTEN HERE). Earlier this year, Avery debuted ā€œMr. Predictableā€ (LISTEN HERE), marking a new era of music as her first solo song since her celebrated 2024 debut album,Ā Breakup Over Breakfast.Ā HollerĀ noted that the track ā€œdoubles 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.ā€

Recently announced as a member of theĀ Opry NextStage class of 2025, Avery is also currently climbing the radio charts with Sam Barber on their viral duet, ā€œIndigo.ā€ The pair shared a performance of the track on The Kelly Clarkson Show last month (WATCH HERE).

With more than 500 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 this past week.Ā Entertainment FocusĀ praised her performance as ā€œthe biggest surprise of the weekend,ā€ claiming ā€œshe 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.ā€

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.

Jake Wesley Rogers Announces Debut Album ‘In the Key of Love’ Out May 9

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Today, visionary pop artistĀ Jake Wesley RogersĀ debuts the cathartic anthemĀ ā€œHot Gospelā€Ā ā€” listenĀ HEREĀ viaĀ Facet Records / Warner RecordsĀ and watch theĀ ā€œLive From a Lodgeā€Ā performanceĀ HERE. The hopeful track hails from the Missouri-born powerhouse’s debut full-length album,Ā In the Key of Love, arrivingĀ May 9. Pre-order / saveĀ HERE.

ā€œHot Gospelā€Ā is a soaring pop song that offers up a little visceral release. Amid the driving drums, pounding piano, and swaying backup vocals,Ā JakeĀ urges anyone going through a tough time to throw up their hands, lift up their feet, and get carried away by whatever spirit moves them:Ā ā€œDo the hot gospel / Do the bad believer / Do the broken healer / Do the saint, do the spell / Do the heaven, do the hell / Baby, do the hot gospel / … / Do the H-O-T G-O-S-P-E-L!ā€

The striking song is the third riveting glimpse ofĀ In the Key of LoveĀ following the soulful, celebratory, and subversiveĀ ā€œGod Blessā€Ā and the sparkling glam-rock triumphĀ ā€œLoser.ā€

JakeĀ will be taking his captivating live show to stages across North America, supportingĀ Cyndi LauperĀ on herĀ Girls Just Wanna Have FunĀ Farewell TourĀ this summer, including a two-night finale at The Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. See the full list of dates below and purchase ticketsĀ HERE.

Discovered by hit songwriterĀ Justin TranterĀ in 2020,Ā JakeĀ began his path to stardom the following year when Apple Music’sĀ Zane LoweĀ premieredĀ ā€œMiddle of Loveā€Ā and called him ā€œwildly talented.ā€ That opinion was soon shared by countless tastemakers includingĀ People,Ā Billboard,Ā Rolling Stone,Ā American Songwriter,Ā PAPER, andĀ Vogue. He then made a whole new army of fans with: the release of 2021’sĀ PlutoĀ EP, a run of North American tour dates supportingĀ Panic! at the Disco,Ā and unforgettable performances onĀ Good Morning America, The Late Late Show with James Corden,Ā The Ellen DeGeneres Show, andĀ Late Night with Seth Meyers.Ā 

In 2022,Ā RogersĀ shared hisĀ LoveĀ EP, which included numerous standout tracks such asĀ ā€œLavender Forever,ā€Ā ā€œHindsight,ā€Ā andĀ ā€œDark Bird.ā€Ā In 2023, he hit the road to supportĀ KeshaĀ on her Noth American tour, releasing the healing anthemĀ ā€œWindowā€Ā around that time. Now, with an entire album’s worth of new music on the horizon,Ā RogersĀ returns to his mission of sharing a message of love, defiance, and — most importantly — hope.

Jake Wesley Rogers 2025 Tour Dates:
All dates supporting Cyndi Lauper
July 15 — Darien Center, NY @ Darien Lake Amphitheater
July 16 — Mansfield, MA @ Xfinity Center
July 19 — Wantagh, NY @ Northwell at Jones Beach Theater
July 20 — Philadelphia, PA @ The Mann Center
July 22 — Raleigh, NC @ Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
July 24 — Bristow, VA @ Jiffy Lube Live
July 25 — Bethel, NY @ Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
July 27 — Toronto, ON @ Budweiser Stage
July 29 — Cincinnati, OH @ Riverbend Music Center
July 30 — Cuyahoga Falls, OH @ Blossom Music Center
Aug 1 — Clarkston, MI @ Pine Knob Music Theatre
Aug 3 — Milwaukee, WI @ American Family Insurance Amphitheater
Aug 5 — Tinley Park, IL @ Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
Aug 7 — Noblesville, IN @ Ruoff Music Center
Aug 9 — Kansas City, MO @ Azure Amphitheater
Aug 12 — Denver, CO @ Fiddler’s Green
Aug 14 — Salt Lake City, UT @ Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
Aug 17 — Ridgefield, WA @ Cascades Amphitheater
Aug 19 — Auburn, WA @ White River Amphitheatre
Aug 21 — Vancouver, BC @ Rogers Arena
Aug 23 — Wheatland, CA @ Toyota Amphitheater
Aug 24 — Mountain View, CA @ Shoreline Amphitheatre
Aug 26 — Concord, CA @ Toyota Pavilion at Concord
Aug 29 — Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl
Aug 30 — Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Bowl

Blue Rodeo Marks 40 Years with ‘Greatest Hits: Vol. 2’ and Award-Winning Documentary ‘Lost Together’

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Canadian music icons Blue Rodeo are celebrating 40 years together with the release ofĀ Greatest Hits: Vol. 2Ā and the award-winning documentaryĀ Blue Rodeo: Lost Together,Ā both out now.

Greatest Hits: Vol. 2Ā draws from the band’s extensive catalogue to bring a comprehensive overview of the band’s prolific output.Ā Celebrate 40 years of Blue Rodeo with this latest collection of Blue Rodeo’s best loved songs featuring fan-favourites from their debut album,Ā Outskirts, to their most recent release,Ā Many a Mile.

The documentaryĀ Blue Rodeo: Lost Together, directed by Dale Heslip, delves into the band’s history, exploring their creative process, personal challenges, and enduring friendships. Featuring interviews with band members past and present along with industry insiders, the film provides an intimate portrait of Blue Rodeo’s journey, highlighting their impact on the Canadian music landscape. It’s the ultimate tribute to Blue Rodeo’s legacy, and a story that will resonate with everyone who believes in the power of music to transform lives.

Blue Rodeo: Lost TogetherĀ won the 2024 Audience Award for a feature-length film at the Whistler Film Festival, and was the #1 Canadian film in Canada this week.Ā The feature-length documentary premiered February 19 on the free CBC Gem streaming platform where it is still available for on-demand viewing, and the CBC Docs YouTube channel, followed by a national broadcast on CBC TV on March 23.

GMINXR Drops New Single ā€œWEEKENDā€ and Announces Debut Solo EP Hit List

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B.C. producer GMINXR has been one of the driving forces behind the global rise of Punjabi-Canadian Hip Hop and last month announced his debut solo EPĀ Hit ListĀ is due April 18 via 91 North Records. The EP was made in collaboration with BC duo Zehr Vibe and Australian-Indian singer/rapper Tegi Pannu and following the release of first singleĀ ā€œLIFESTYLEā€,Ā he shares more newĀ music with ā€œWEEKENDā€ out now.

ā€œWEEKENDā€ sonically features GMINXR’s signature sound blending classic Hip Hop beats alongside classic Punjabi elements. The track celebrates the feeling of finally getting through the work week and ready to go out and party for the weekend. On the single he says ā€œWeekendĀ is all about the balance between hustle and celebration—the grind throughout the week and the well-earned moments of release when the weekend arrives. The track embodies that contrast, capturing the energy of long days spent chasing success and the vibrant nights that follow. Myself, Tegi Pannu, and Zehr Vibe came together with a shared vision, ensuring every element—from the production to the melodies—reflects that duality. The creative process was fluid and intentional, with each of us bringing our own flair to craft an anthem for those who put in the work and know how to enjoy the rewards.ā€

In more exciting news, it was announced that GMINXR will be performing alongside Chani Nattan, Inderpal Moga and Jazzy B at the live broadcast of the JUNO Awards on March 30th. The performance will be a celebration of South Asian music in Canada and a nod to the brand new category that was introduced to the awards program this year.

HIT LISTĀ further demonstrates GMINXR’s versatility, seamlessly blending genres from ’90s and 2000s hip-hop, pop, UK garage, R&B, and house. The EP is envisioned as a timeless project, solidifying his community’s place in music history and drawing inspiration from classic albums like Kendrick Lamar’sĀ Section.80Ā and J. Cole’sĀ Born Sinner.Ā HIT LISTĀ represents GMINXR’s commitment to creating music with lasting impact.

Producer GMINXR is a driving force behind the global rise of Punjabi-Canadian hip-hop. After beginning his career crafting hits for artists like AP Dhillon and Gurinder Gill, GMINXR is launching his solo career with his EPĀ HIT LIST, a collection of tracks inspired by golden-era hip-hop and Punjabi folk music, blended with trap-infused beats.Ā In 2019, GMINXR came together with AP Dhillon, Gurinder Gill and Shinda Kahlon to co-found Run-Up Records. Their 2020 viral hit “Brown Munde,” produced by GMINXR, became a viral sensation with over 248 million Spotify streams and 659 million YouTube views, defining a global sonic movement. GMINXR currently has over 5 million monthly Spotify listeners. His upcoming EP showcases a blend of hip-hop, pop, UK garage, R&B, and house influences, and was created alongside Zehr Vibe and Tegi.Ā As GMINXR’s journey unfolds, time will tell the story of his impact on the global music stage

91 North Records, a groundbreaking joint venture between Warner Music Canada and Warner Music India, capitalizes on the explosive growth of Punjabi music consumption. With a multi-territorial infrastructure, the label connects and amplifies the vast potential of fan bases in both Eastern and Western markets. Recognizing Canada as a creative hub for contemporary Punjabi pop and hip-hop, 91 North Records is dedicated to showcasing artists influenced by their South Asian heritage, providing a global platform to celebrate and elevate this exciting new generation of talent.

Reuben and the Bullhorn Singers Announce Debut EP ‘All These Roads’ Set for Release May 2

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Today, Reuben and The Bullhorn Singers announce their anticipated debut album All These Roads will be released on May 2nd, presave HERE. The album will feature the first single ā€œPowerful,ā€ alongside the latest title track ā€œAll These Roadsā€ out today.

The album features six tracks that beautifully meld together two different genres and cultures to create an important and sonically stunning project. The group has expressed that the album is symbolic of the conversation that happens after reconciliation and moving forward together. Reuben’s heartfelt vocal delivery paired with the striking vocals of the Bullhorn Singers pow-wow style will leave a lasting emotional impact on listeners. Describing the importance of coming together to make this album, the Bullhorn Singer leader Billy Wadsworth explains:

ā€œThe collaboration between the Bullhorn Singers and Reuben has been a beautiful and powerful experience, both musically and personally. When we come together, the music flows organically and effortlessly, transcending typical musical genres. We’ve both had to step outside our comfort zones and explore new musical territories, resulting in something fresh and unique.Our connection extends beyond the music; we’re close as human beings, sharing a genuine bond and similar views on the world. We recognize the harsh realities of life and aim to counteract that negativity through our music. Our collaboration is built on positivity and good vibes, and we hope to spread that energy to our listeners. We want our music to be a source of healing, positivity, and rest. In a world that can often be harsh and threatening, we hope to create a space where people can feel safe and experience something beautiful, new, and different.ā€

Today the band premiered this stunning visual for the new single, featuring traditional dancers and members of the Kainai Nation, Nevada Ouellette and Sofia Eaglehead Baptiste and directed and shot by Brock Mitchell. View it here.

Earlier this month, the group announced their very special All These Roads Tour this spring, sponsored by ATCO Space Labs. The tour will highlight personal stories about Indigenous lands and music’s role in healing. The tour includes stops in Victoria, Calgary, Winnipeg and more – along with dates at several First Nation Reserve communities and schools across the country. This tour aims to amplify the group’s powerful message, as ā€˜the conversation after reconciliation,’ and showcase their one-of-a-kind live experience blending Indie Folk with Indigenous pow-wow music.Ā  To get a sense of what to expect, watch this beautiful and chilling performance video of the first single ā€œPowerful,ā€ filmed at OCL Studios in Calgary. Watch here.

In 2021 at The Calgary Stampede mainstage, acclaimed indie-folk artist Reuben and the Dark brought out Blackfoot pow-wow champion singing group, Bullhorn Singers lead by Billy Wadsworth, for an unforgettable live performance that stopped the audience, and the artists themselves, in their tracks. What was an impromptu performance and unlikely union of culture, life experience and sound in front of a crowd of thousands was electric and the birth of something special. This led to the brand new collaborative project, Reuben and the Bullhorn Singers. Watch Reuben and Billy discuss the partnership on q with Tom Power on CBC here.

Stay tuned for more new music forthcoming in the next coming months from them.

TOUR DATES
May 2 – Fernie, BC @ Knox on 2nd
May 3 – Rossland, BC @ The Flying Steamshovel
May 4 – Kelowna, BC @ Red Bird Brewing
May 5 – Kelowna, BC @ Mount Boucherie Secondary School*
May 6 – Vancouver, BC @ The Pearl
May 7 – Victoria, BC @ Wicket Hall
May 8 – Nanaimo, BC @ The Queen’s
May 9 – Penticton, BC @ Dream Cafe
May 10 – Kamloops, BC @ Night Shift on Fifth
May 11 – Canmore, AB @ Communitea Cafe
May 12 – Kainai, AB @ Red Crow College*
May 13 – Red Deer, AB @ Bo’s Bar and Stage
May 13 – Ponoka, AB @ Mamawi Atosketan Native School*
May 15 – Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room
May 16 – Calgary, AB @ Bella Concert Hall
May 17 – Saskatoon, SK @ Louis’ Pub
May 18 – Winnipeg, MB @ The Park Theatre
June 5 – Manawan, QC*Ā 
June 14 – Uxbridge, ON @ Springtide Music Festival
+More TBA
*First Nations Schools or Reservations
Tickets Available HERE

Reuben Bullock, is a multifaceted artist, best known for his role as the lead vocalist and songwriter of the acclaimed indie-folk band Reuben and The Dark. The inspirational release, sees the unlikely union of culture, life experience, and sound friendship and artistic collaboration between Reuben and The Dark and Southern Alberta Kainai/Blood traditional pow-wow champion Bullhorn Singers, since their collaboration for a performance at the Calgary Stampede mainstage in 2021. The spirited folk-rock sounds led by Reuben Bullock, whose music blends introspective lyrics with the irrepressible pulse and harmonies of his band, sees a single that combines Native American singing with resounding themes of emotive storytelling.

Reuben Bullock is a multifaceted artist, renowned for his role as the lead vocalist and songwriter of the acclaimed indie-folk band, Reuben and the Dark. The career of Reuben, a Calgary-born, currently Victoria-based singer-songwriter, skateboarder, carpenter, and preacher’s son is marked by a series of milestones that underscore his profound impact on the Canadian music landscape over the last 10 years. The band looks ahead to new music in 2025 as well as extensive touring and collaboration in partnership with Bullhorn Singers.

Bullhorn Singers is led by Iskotoah’ka William (Billy) Wadsworth and brings powerful songs to the powwow music scene. Stemming from the Blood Tribe, Kainai Nation of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Billy is a member of the Motois’pitaiks ā€œAll Tall Peoplesā€ Clan and a member of the Kaanaa’tsimiitaiks ā€œBrave Dogā€ society of the Blood Tribe. Bullhorn Singers were created by Billy and his late brother Blaine Wadsworth who began singing as kids and they then began to build the group including their family members and extended family. Since 1998, the group has traveled throughout the U.S and Canada competing at contests and have won several championships.

 

Skylar Blatt Goes ā€œMajor Leagueā€ on Swaggering New Single

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Today, Cincinnati rapper and singer Skylar Blatt returns to the brash bars that put her on the map with ā€œMajor League,ā€ out today on ILWT / Saint KaSh / Arista Records. The speaker-busting track plays like a victory lap following the versatile vocalist’s winning melodic turn last year, including her slick ā€œWake Upā€ which racked up over 60 million streams to date and broke into the Top 10 on Urban and Rhythmic Radio.

ā€œMajor Leagueā€ slaps from the start, with the sound of jangling jewels mixed in with booming bass, sharp percussion, and ominous synth. Skylar trades in her striking singing voice for a gruff delivery that strikes a balance between off-the-cuff and laser sharp. She sounds like she can’t be bothered to consider the other side, but her lines hit their mark: ā€œI’m in a AMG, I made some Gs before I learned my ABC’s / F— it, I’m putting it in they face, the s— they hate to see.ā€

On putting the track together, Blatt shares:

ā€œ’Major League’Ā is a record that has a bop to it – like as soon as you hear it you want to dance lol. The first time I heard the beat in the studio I got extremely excited. Whenever I’m excited by a beat, I know it’s going to be a hit! I love a good catchy yet simple hook, especially when it has anything to do with ā€˜balling.’ Everyone wants to ā€˜ball’ whether it’s at work, in the gym or while watching a basketball game. The lifestyle that most people are chasing is what I consider ‘balling.’ I love the saying ā€œball ā€˜til I fallā€ I think everyone can relate to that.”

Fans will recognize the same swagger, humor, and heat that Skylar’s brought to past team-ups like ā€œF**k Fame, Pt. 2ā€ featuring Lola Brooke, ā€œSuper Bowlā€ with Doe Boy, and ā€œGod Forbidā€ with Icewear Vezzo. Her most recent single, ā€œHold Me Down,ā€ put her melodic charm on full display over a sexy drill-inspired production — a fitting followup to R&B-inflected ā€œWake Up,ā€ whose official video (shot at Brown’s mansion) recently surpassed 12 million views.

The latter dropped in late April to much fanfare, with TMZ Hip-Hop calling it an early entry to the ā€œsong of the summerā€ contest, ESSENCE crowning the ā€œbangerā€ as one of the ā€œBest New Musicā€ releases that week, and Angela Yee tapping Skylar for a wide-ranging chat on Lip Service. Meanwhile, Billboard selected ā€œHold Me Downā€ as one of its R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks, writing, ā€œBlatt is always cool, calm and collected. No matter the tempo of a track, the Cincinnati-bred artist remains in control of the steering wheel.ā€ Before that came ā€œLaughin to tha Bank.ā€

Raised by a single mother as one of six, Skylar turned to hip-hop to escape the troubles of her youth, developing a style derived from the best east coast and midwest rappers. She first gained attention with freestyles she posted on her Instagram, eventually earning an early co-sign from Meek Mill and a glowing profile from Lyrical Lemonade. In October 2023, Skylar shared her mixtape Blatt SZN, home to ā€œGod Forbidā€ and 10 other certified Cincy slappers.

Now signed to Arista and Saint Ka$h Records, Skylar is looking to become the next midwest rapper to break things open. With more music on the way, the Queen City queen is ready for her takeover. As she drops more hits, the Sky is the limit.

Bon Jovi’s ‘Forever’ Anthology Hits Bookstores In September, 2025

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Genesis Publications announces that Bon Jovi’s official Anthology ‘Bon Jovi: Forever’ will be released as a hardback bookstore edition on September 23rd 2025. The news comes after it was announced that the limited edition version became the fastest-selling book in the highly respected, family-run British publishing house’s 50-year history.

Bon Jovi: Forever is the definitive anthology of one of the world’s most iconic rock bands, offering an unparalleled glimpse into their extraordinary journey through rare artifacts, stunning photography, and the personal insights of Jon Bon Jovi himself.

With unprecedented access to Bon Jovi’s extensive archive, this official book chronicles the band’s remarkable 40-year history. From their meteoric rise with chart-topping hits like ‘Livin’ On a Prayer’, ‘You Give Love a Bad Name’, ‘It’s My Life’, and ‘Have a Nice Day’, to their relentless touring schedule that has seen them perform over 2,700 shows for 34 million fans across more than 50 countries, Bon Jovi: Forever captures the essence of a band that defined a generation.

This meticulously curated collection showcases a treasure trove of memorabilia, including handwritten lyrics, iconic stage costumes, guitars, studio track lists, and personal photographs from the band’s private collections. Complemented by an array of vivid images that capture Bon Jovi live, backstage, on tour, and in the studio, this book offers fans a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the band’s enduring legacy.

“As band members, you share a unique bond that no one else can truly understand, not even family. That brotherhood comes with a long career like ours. We all felt part of something special, trusted each other, and they trusted me. I never let them down. It was always a give-and-take.” – Jon Bon Jovi

Jon Bon Jovi shares the intimate stories behind the artifacts, shedding light on the creative process behind their songwriting, the making of their legendary albums, and the key performances that cemented their place in rock history. His candid reflections offer a deeper understanding of the band’s brotherhood, their distinctive style, and the unwavering trust that fuelled their success.

Salt-N-Pepa Celebrate 35 Years of Classic ‘Blacks’ Magic’ Album

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Salt-N-Pepa proudly celebrates the 35th anniversary of their iconic album Blacks’ Magic. This record cemented their status as hip-hop pioneers and empowered generations with timeless messages of strength, independence, and self-expression.

Originally released in 1990, Blacks’ Magic delivered five powerful singles – “Expression,” “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Independent,” “You Showed Me,” and “Do You Want Me” – each of which spoke to important cultural themes that remain relevant today. The album’s lead single, “Expression,” was notably produced by Cheryl “Salt” James herself, making her the first female MC to produce her own platinum record. Salt also produced the empowering anthem “Independent,” which remains a declaration of self-sufficiency and empowerment.

“Blacks’ Magic was about creating something meaningful that spoke to who we were as women, as artists, and as Black voices,” said Cheryl “Salt” James. “It was empowering to produce tracks like ‘Expression’ and ‘Independent’ that encouraged self-love, independence, and boldness. We wanted our fans to feel seen and powerful.”

Meanwhile, Sandra “Pepa” Denton played a pivotal role in amplifying the group’s bold, unapologetic voice and signature style, helping Salt-N-Pepa become cultural icons recognized for their fearless image and empowering lyrics. As an outspoken advocate for female empowerment, Pepa has remained a vocal presence in entertainment and social causes, earning her continued respect as a trailblazer in the industry.

“Blacks’ Magic was a celebration of women standing strong in their truth,” said Sandra “Pepa” Denton. “We didn’t shy away from topics people thought were taboo. We wanted to educate, uplift, and make people feel good. Looking back, I’m proud we did just that.”

DJ Williams Unveils ‘Gravity & Grace’ and 2025 Tour Dates

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Renowned multi-instrumentalist and producerĀ DJ WilliamsĀ returns with his highly anticipated album,Ā Gravity & Grace, set for release on June 3, 2025. Written, performed, recorded, and engineered entirely by Williams himself,Ā Gravity & Grace is a fearless sonic journey that blends deep grooves, soaring guitar work, and the raw intensity of rock at its purest form.

ā€œThis album is the result of late-night sparks, relentless groove, and the beautiful chaos of creation,ā€ says Williams. ā€œIt’s the rock album I’ve always wanted to make. No safety nets, no boundaries—just music in its purest form.ā€

To celebrate the release, Williams will embark on a massive spring and summer tour, bringing his electrifying live show to audiences across the country. Known for his dynamic performances and deep-pocket rhythms, fans can expect an unforgettable night of soulful storytelling and thrilling musicianship at every stop.

SPRING TOUR DATES

March

Ā Ā Ā  14 – The B. Bar – Omaha, NE
15 – Zoo Bar – Lincoln, NE

April

Ā Ā Ā  4 – Appaloosa – Denver, CO
10 – Winston’s – San Diego, CA
11 – Hotel Cafe – Los Angeles, CA
12 – Goldsteins – Fresno, CA
16 – Liquid Gravity – San Luis Obispo, CA
17 – Music City – San Francisco, CA
18 – Berryessa Brewery – Winters, CA
19 – Ivy Room – Albany, CA
20 – Peri’s Tavern – Fairfax, CA
24 – Torch Club – Sacramento, CA
25-26 – Liberty Bar – Mammoth, CA
27 – Divided Sky – Lake Tahoe, CA

May

Ā Ā Ā  2 – Tres Litros – Salida, CO
3 – The Lariat – Buena Vista, CO
10 – Goosetown Station – Golden, CO
24 – Pittsburgh Winery – Pittsburgh, PA
25 – Private Event – Pittsburgh, PA

June

Ā Ā Ā  3 – Gravity & Grace Album Release
7 – Odell Brewing – Fort Collins, CO
11 – Anthem Park – Broomfield, CO
13 – Roots Music Project – Boulder, CO
20 – Cervantes – Denver, CO

Additional East Coast dates will be announced soon.

Gravity & GraceĀ showcases DJ Williams’ evolving artistry and unwavering commitment to musical exploration. Pre-save the album now and purchase tickets for the upcoming shows at:Ā www.djwilliamsmusic.com