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Jill Scott Announces Who Is Jill Scott? Words & Sounds Vol. 1 23rd Anniversary Tour

Eric Alper
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Jill Scott Announces Who Is Jill Scott? Words & Sounds Vol. 1 23rd Anniversary Tour

What started as the 20th-anniversary tour of Jill Scott’s chart-topping, genre-defining album, Who Is Scott?: Words and Sounds Vol I in 2020 ended prematurely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But good news prevails: in 2023, the tour will resume, electrifying auditoriums, theaters, and music halls throughout the nation in celebration of a moment and movement that continues to enthrall music lovers of all ages and backgrounds. Scott will play the iconic album front to back, with hits from her iconic debut album, such as “Gettin’ in the Way,” “A Long Walk” and other musical stories. The tour, produced by Live Nation Urban, will play in over 20 markets across the country, with special multi-show residencies in Washington, D.C. at the MGM National Harbor on Mother’s Day weekend and Scott’s hometown of Philadelphia at The MET Philadelphia, marking the first time the North Philadelphia native will play at the storied North Philadelphia venue. The Philadelphia stop also includes a fundraiser at the Arden Theatre in support of her non-profit, the Blues Babe Foundation.

“My band and I were so excited three years ago, but that damn COVID shut us down,” said Scott. “Now, we outside! Come see me. Come feel again. Relive your favorite moments. Ya’ll ready to settle down and get with this?!? It’s a lot of love here.”

Though Scott had to pause performances during the pandemic, she celebrated the milestone virtually and continued building her brand as a multimedia entrepreneur, launching “Jill Scott Presents: J.ill the Podcast” in November 2020 alongside co-hosts Laiya St.Clair and Aja Graydon-Dantzler. The universally-loved podcast currently has 80 episodes and continues to grow in popularity and influence. Scott also participated in the first woman vs. woman Verzuzbattle in May 2020, starred in Lifetime’s Highway to Heaven and BET+’s The First Wives Club, and in September 2021, she became the faceof Nationwide, bringing a fresh take on a familiar campaign and putting her soulful spin on the iconic jingle.

Scott released her much-anticipated debut record Who is Jill Scott? Words & Sounds, Vol. 1 in July 2000, which became a double platinum album that earned Scott several Grammy nominatios, including Best New Artist (2001), Best R&B Album (2001), and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for three years in a row (2001-2003). The album also cracked Billboard top 10 for R&B/Hip-Hop Albums (2001).
Pre-sales for the Who is Jill Scott? Words & Souds Vol. 1 23rd Anniversary Tour begin on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, and public on sale begins on Friday, December 9, 2022 at 10am local time.

WHO IS JILL SCOTT? WORDS & SOUNDS VOL. 1 TOUR DATES:
Tue Feb 28 — Augusta, GA — Bell Auditorium
Thu Mar 02 — Macon, GA — City Auditorium at Macon Centreplex
Sat Mar 04 — Columbia, SC — The Township Auditorium
Tue Mar 07 — Jacksonville, FL — Moran Theater
Thu Mar 16 — Philadelphia, PA — The Met
Sat Mar 18 — Philadelphia, PA — The Met
Thu Mar 23 — Brooklyn, NY — Kings Theatre
Mon Mar 27 — Newark, NJ — New Jersey Performing Arts Center
Wed Mar 29 — Boston, MA — MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Fri Mar 31 — Detroit, MI — Fox Theatre
Sat Apr 01 — Cleveland, OH — MGM Northfield Park
Sun Apr 23 — Nashville, TN — Nashville Municipal Auditorium
Wed Apr 26 — Memphis, TN — Orpheum Theatre
Fri Apr 28 — Chattanooga, TN — Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Auditorium
Wed May 03 — Savannah, GA — Johnny Mercer Theatre
Fri May 05 — Greensboro, NC — Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts
Sat May 06 — Atlanta, GA — Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park
Thu May 11 — Washington DC — The Theater at MGM National Harbor
Sun May 14 — Washington DC — The Theater at MGM National Harbor
Thu Jun 22 — Los Angeles, CA — The Hollywood Bowl

Silverstein Announce Misery Made Me 2023 North American Tour

Eric Alper
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Silverstein Announce Misery Made Me 2023 North American Tour

JUNO Award-nominated Canadian rock band Silverstein are thrilled to announce the Misery Made Me 2023 North American Tour. Known for their incredible, high-energy sets, Silverstein is ready to kick off what’s sure to be another stellar year for them with this not-to-be-missed headlining tour.

Beginning on Thursday, March 23rd in Ottawa, ON at Bronson, the band will be visiting over 25 cities across North America including stops in Pittsburgh, New Orleans, Las Vegas, San Diego, Cleveland and more before wrapping up in Grand Rapids on Sunday, May 7th at The Intersection. Joining them on this run are special guests: Dayseeker, Seeyouspacecowboy and One Step Closer.

Silverstein released their latest studio album, Misery Made Me, earlier this year via UNFD. Inspired by the past two years, Misery Made Me is a depiction of Silverstein – and world at large’s – collective turmoil, frustration, and anxiety. It’s a record that is a product of the moment in time in which it was created yet doesn’t feel like it will date itself anytime soon, as many of its topics of loneliness, anxiety and isolation are eternal human struggles.

Silverstein has continued to build on their already-wide reaching impact. Immersing themselves in new technologies like TikTok, Discord, the metaverse and Twitch (even holding public writing sessions with fans over the latter) during its formation, the band have confirmed their unique ability to adapt and connect in all cycles of their career.

It’s both intriguing and inspiring that a band – who could have merely rested on the impressive legacy they’ve already cemented – would continue to dig deep and find the inspiration to reach people in meaningful new ways. Misery Made Me is a campaign hinged on Silverstein’s reflection and gratitude for their roots, their honouring of their earliest fans, and their staunch desire to explore forward-thinking
and adventurous ways to connect with new ones.

TOUR DATES
March 30 – Ottawa, ON – Bronson
March 31 – Quebec City QC – Imperial Bell
April 01 – Hartford, CT – Webster
April 02 – Stroudsburg, PA – Sherman Theater
April 04 – Pittsburgh, PA – Mr Smalls
April 05 – Wilmington, DE – The Queen
April 07 – Norfolk, VA – The Norva
April 08 – Myrtle Beach, SC – House of Blues
April 09 – Raleigh, NC – Ritz
April 11 – Pensacola, FL – Vinyl
April 12 – New Orleans, LA – Joy Theater
April 14 – Austin, TX – Mohawk
April 15 – Oklahoma City, OK – Diamond Ballroom
April 16 – Albuquerque, NM – Sunshine Theater
April 18 – Tucson, AZ – Rialto
April 19 – Las Vegas, NV – Brooklyn Bowl
April 21 – Riverside, CA – RMC
April 22 – San Diego, CA – Observatory
April 23 – San Francisco, CA – The Regency
April 25 – Tacoma, WA – Alma
April 26 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore
April 28 – Edmonton, AB – Midway
April 29 – Calgary, AB – Palace Theatre
April 30 – Saskatoon, SK – Coors Event Centre
May 02 – Winnipeg, MB – Park Theatre
May 04 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave
May 05 – Cincinnati, OH – Bogarts
May 06 – Cleveland, OH – Agora
May 07 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Intersection

MasterClass Announces John Legend to Teach Songwriting

Eric Alper
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MasterClass Announces John Legend to Teach Songwriting

MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world’s best across a wide range of subjects, today announced that John Legend will teach a class on songwriting. In his class, Legend will break down his songwriting process from start to finish, giving members a framework for finding their voice and writing with purpose. Legend will also give members a firsthand look into the creation of his song “Free,” which he first performed at the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in April. The class is available now exclusively on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 150+ instructors with an annual membership.

“John’s ability to craft songs that resonate in both intimate moments and timely movements makes him one of the most accomplished songwriters of the time,” said David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass. “In his class, he brings members into his songwriting process, teaching them how to use their own experiences to write songs that have the ability to change the world.”

In his class, Legend teaches members how to capture experiences, convey feelings and inspire a movement through music. Using his hit songs “All of Me,” “Again” and “Dope” as case studies, he shares how he uses mumble tracks to write melodies and how he structures songs to tell a story. Whether members want to write about intimate moments or start a movement, Legend will help them find inspiration in the world around them and turn their personal experiences into unique songs. To demonstrate how to use music to spark movement, Legend provides a behind-the-scenes look into his writing process for the Oscar-winning song “Glory” for the film Selma. He will also walk members through the importance of being a strong collaborator, as well as how to blend musical genres and record background vocals. He’ll also provide tips for performing live. After taking members through the creation of “Free,” Legend ends the class with a powerful performance of the song with a gospel choir. Members will come away with a framework for creating songs that capture personal moments and speak to timely events to inspire action.

“Songs are core to who we are and are such an important part of humanity,” Legend said. “My class will give you the tools to find your voice, figure out who you are and establish yourself with longevity so you can make a real impact through music.”

Multi-platinum artist John Legend has garnered 12 Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award, a Tony Award and an Emmy Award, making him the first Black man to earn an EGOT. During the course of his career, Legend has released seven celebrated albums; his eighth studio album, Legend, will be released Sept. 9. Last weekend, Legend began the second leg of his critically acclaimed Las Vegas residency, entitled “Love in Las Vegas,” which runs through October at Zappos Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. This fall, Legend will also return to NBC’s popular singing competition The Voice, where he has served as a coach since 2019.

Twisted Sister Makeup Collection Launched by Rock and Roll Beauty

Eric Alper
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Twisted Sister Makeup Collection Launched by Rock and Roll Beauty

Rock and Roll Beauty announces the release of the Twisted Sister limited-edition beauty collection. Known for their outrageous glam rock style and rebellious heavy metal music, Twisted Sister rose to super stardom thanks to their hit music videos, while their rousing live shows cemented their legacy.

Through a unique collaboration with Twisted Sister, the licensing agent Epic Rights, and the design team at Rock and Roll Beauty, comes this brash and unique color cosmetic collection. The stars of this line are the Twisted Sister logo eye shadow palette, lip kit, 3-pack eye liner, and blush palette featuring bold colors and metallic shades. To help set the stage, the collection also includes cosmetic bags, a mirror, candles, and nail decals. All products are specially designed to create a glam look that screams, “you can’t stop rock ‘n’ roll.”

Product exclusively available at www.rockandrollbeauty.com and internationally at www.revolutionbeauty.com/uk.

February 14, 2023, marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of Twisted Sister! Following a legendary 10-year apprenticeship in the NY/NJ bar scene (1973-1982) the band signed with Atlantic Records in 1983. Their massive hits “We’re Not Gonna Take It” & “I Wanna Rock” are two of the most commercially licensed heavy metal anthems in history! Along with their groundbreaking videos and incendiary live performances, the band was inducted into the Long Island Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2006 and will be inducted into the Heavy Metal Hall of Fame in 2023. Since the band’s inception they have performed over 9,200 shows, headlined in 40 countries & sold over 25 million records. The band consists of founder/guitarist Jay Jay French, lead vocalist Dee Snider, guitarist Eddie ‘Fingers’ Ojeda, bassist Mark “The Animal” Mendoza and the late drummer AJ Pero.

Donner Releases New DED-20 Roll Up Electric Drum Pad With Built-in Speaker

Eric Alper
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Donner Releases New DED-20 Roll Up Electric Drum Pad With Built-in Speaker

Donner, leading manufacturer of innovative and feature-rich musical instruments, has rolled out the new DED-20 Electric Drum Pad. An innovative practice device for drummers on-the-go, the high-performance DED-20 features a built-in speaker that boasts high-quality sound source samples taken from real acoustic drums. Featuring seven drum sounds — including one snare, one crash, one ride, one hi-hat and three toms — the DED-20 also offers 12 demonstration songs and nine accompaniments set up to accommodate the needs of live performance.

TAKE YOUR PRACTICE TO NEW HEIGHTS

The DED-20’s two stereo speakers deliver powerful, impactful sound that reach the volume level of an electric drum kit and can be adjusted to nine different volume levels, so drummers can easily adjust accordingly to their current volume setting.

Crafted from high-quality, soft silicone, players can roll up the pad and carry it with them in a backpack to practice wherever, whenever. The soft silicone construction also reduces noise when drumming. For even quieter practice, the DED-20 supports a 3.5-mm headphone output, so players can practice with headphones.

Additionally, a 3-minute-long (180-second) recording function can capture a drummer’s moment of inspiration, enhancing their creative potential.

Available standard with a MIDI-out jack and USB MIDI-out jack, drummers can connect the DED-20 to their computer to produce music or play games, as well as connect external speakers for live entertainment.

AN ALL-IN-ONE PRACTICE PACK

The DED-20 comes complete with one electronic drum pad with mobile power charging support, one power adapter, one USB data cable, one 3.5-mm audio cable, a pair of drumsticks and two drum pedals. With all these accessories included, the DED-20 also makes a great starter pack for kids or adults wanting to learn how to play the drums.

DED-20 Key Features:

  • Built-in speaker boasting high-quality sound source samples taken from a real drum source.
  • Two stereo speakers delivering the powerful sound that reaches the volume of an electric drum kit and can be adjusted to nine different volume levels.
  • 3-minute-long recording function to capture in-the-moment musical inspiration.
  • High-quality soft silicone construction so the pad can be easily rolled up and transported.
  • 3.5-mm headphone output.
  • Comes complete with one power adapter, one USB data cable, a pair of drumsticks and two drum pedals.
  • Free 40 Drum Lessons by Melodics

With a street price of $69.99 and a up to 30% off discount for now, Donner DED-20 Drum Pad is now available on Donner’s official stores of Amazon Marketplace, WalMart and eBay.

SiriusXM Decks The Halls With Biggest Lineup Of Holiday Music Channels Ever

Eric Alper
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SiriusXM Decks The Halls With Biggest Lineup Of Holiday Music Channels Ever

SiriusXM unveiled its extensive holiday music lineup with 22 holiday-themed channels, including new to 2022 channels: Jingle Jamz, Cool Jazz Christmas, and Kids Christmas. The holiday season officially kicks off today on SiriusXM with many of the popular channels live now and streaming on the SXM App.

SiriusXM brings listeners the most extensive collection of holiday channels to-date with a soundtrack to celebrate every holiday occasion. Hear beloved holiday tunes, traditional Christmas carols, and Hanukkah music, or put a twist on the classics with contemporary favorites or our genre-specific channels like holiday pop, seasonal soul, or country Christmas.

SiriusXM’s holiday channels are available to subscribers nationwide in their car and on the SXM App. The SXM App is available to subscribers on mobile devices and a wide variety of connected platforms in the home including smart speakers, smart TVs and streaming media players. Streaming access is included with all of SiriusXM’s audio trials and most popular plans.

SiriusXM’s Holiday Channel Line-Up

70s/80s Holidays: Sing-along to the biggest and most familiar Christmas and holiday songs from the 1970s & 80s. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Acoustic Christmas: Unplug this holiday season with nothing but acoustic Christmas tunes. Hear new and classic holiday songs stripped down for a relaxing seasonal vibe. Available on the SXM App now through December 27 and on channel 6 beginning December 24 through December 25.

Christmas Spirit: Christmas music and holiday favorites exclusively from contemporary Christian artists. Here, the reason for the season is not just remembered, He’s celebrated in song, commercial free! Available on the SXM App now through December 27 and on channel 63 beginning December 7 through December 27.

Cool Jazz Christmas: A jazzy holiday soundtrack that is everything you need for a cool yule! Pour the eggnog and let the festivities begin with Christmas classics from some of the greatest contemporary jazz instrumentalists including Dave Koz, David Benoit, Jonathan Butler and Kenny G, plus a sprinkling of some of the smoothest vocals of the season from the likes of Anita Baker, Diana Krall, Take 6, and Natalie Cole. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Country Christmas: Spanning the generations of country Christmas music, including Garth Brooks, Carrie Underwood and George Strait. Available on the SXM App and on channel 55 now through December 27.

Hallmark Channel Radio: Hallmark Channel Radio is back for the holidays featuring timeless Christmas music and carols that celebrate the joy of the season hosted by Lacey Chabert. Hear the songs you love brought to you by beloved Hallmark Channel stars like Jonathan Bennett, Brooke D’Orsay and Tyler Hynes who will share their favorite holiday songs, traditions and more. They’ll also take you behind the scenes of their new Countdown to Christmas movies. Hallmark Channel Radio is the perfect way to embrace the wonder of the season with loved ones near and far. Listen all season long. Available on the SXM App and on channel 105 now through December 27.

Holiday Chill-Out: SiriusXM brings you the first ever 24/7 Holiday Chill-Out channel featuring downtempo, chilled-out holiday favorites. Tis the season to relax. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Holiday Instrumentals: Holiday favorites but the vocals are replaced with instruments. String, piano, orchestra versions and more of your favorite holiday hits. Feel free to sing along with holiday hits instrumental style. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Holiday Pops: Classical Christmas carols and holiday favorites performed by the greatest classical artists of all-time, including Andrea Bocelli, The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, Luciano Pavarotti, New York Philharmonic, The Choir of King’s College, Boston Pops Orchestra, and the Philadelphia Orchestra.

Available on the SXM App now through December 27 and on channel 76 beginning December 24 through December 25.

Holiday Soul: Classic soul and Motown holiday music from the 60s and 70s, along with R&B holiday favorites from the 80’s including Aretha Franklin, Temptations, James Brown, Lou Rawls, Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick, The Jackson 5, the Four Tops, The Supremes and many more. Available on the SXM App now through December 27 and on channel 49 beginning December 7 through December 28.

Holiday Traditions: Traditional holiday recordings that you can sing along with by well-known vocalists from the ‘40s through the ‘60s such as Bing Crosby, Andy Williams, Peggy Lee, The Carpenters and Nat King Cole. Available now on the SXM App and on channel 71 through December 27.

Holly: Contemporary holiday hits featuring songs by Mariah Carey, Michael Bublé, Kelly Clarkson, Pentatonix, Rod Stewart, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Josh Groban, Madonna, John Legend and more. Available on the SXM App and on channel 104 now through December 27.

Jingle Jamz: Jingle Jamz is a mix of R&B and Hip Hop artists from 1990 to now, singing and rapping about the holidays.  There will be artist takeovers and specials. You’ll hear Alicia Keys, Boyz II Men, Mary J. Blige, TLC, Brian McKnight, Mariah Carey, Ashanti, Babyface, Ludacris, El DeBarge, Run-D.M.C., Musiq Soulchild, Jodeci, Gucci Mane, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson, DMX and Kurtis Blow. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Jolly Christmas: Upbeat, energetic holiday tunes from Alvin and the Chipmunks and Gene Autry to Mariah Carey and José Feliciano. Feel-good and sing-along with songs that bring smiles to the season! Always a holiday hit…on Jolly Christmas. Available on the SXM App now through December 27 and on channel 14 beginning November 11 through December 27.

Kids Christmas: The soundtrack for the most magical time of year! Welcome the holiday season with songs the whole family will love. From holiday classics to today’s most jingle-jangling tunes: It’s all here on Kid’s Christmas! Rudolph, Santa Claus, and Frosty the Snowman take over the airwaves to delight both kids and kids-at-heart all season long. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Navidad: Traditional Latin Holiday classics and popular treats of today!  Featuring songs by Ricky Martin, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, Gloria Estefan, José Feliciano, Tito El Bambino, Marco Antonio Solís and Fania All-Stars.  Celebrate “Navidad” with this annual soundtrack leading to Three Kings Day. Available on the SXM App now through January 6.

New Year’s Nation: New Year’s Nation is custom curated to serve as your ultimate New Year’s celebration playlist powering your party with the best pop, rhythm, dance and hip-hop hits from across the nation to ring in 2023. Featuring songs from Harry Styles, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Lizzo, Sam Smith, Doja Cat, Post Malone, Dua Lipa, Lil Nas X, Rihanna and more. Available on the SXM App and on channel 104 beginning December 27 through January 3.

Noël Incontournable: Holiday music channel featuring Francophone Christmas classics and contemporary holiday hits from the ‘60s to today with music from Ginette Reno, Bruno Pelletier and Laurence Nerbonne. Available year-round on the SXM App.

Mannheim Steamroller Channel: Celebrate the holidays with Mannheim Steamroller featuring their signature blend of symphonic, new age and rock inspired Christmas music. Hosted by founder Chip Davis; explore more than three decades of their majestic sounds plus Chip’s groundbreaking Fresh Aire music. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Radio Hanukkah: Extensive collection of Hanukkah-themed music, including contemporary, traditional and children’s selections as well as daily reflections and prayers related to the holiday. Available on the SXM App beginning December 16 through December 27.

Real Jazz Holiday: Bop and swing under the mistletoe with some of the most memorable Christmas classics that make for a “real” jazz holiday!  Hear jazz masters like Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole and the Count Basie Orchestra to today’s stars like Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, Norah Jones and Christian McBride. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Rockin’ Xmas: SiriusXM’s Rockin’ Xmas Channel features classic Christmas songs that rock including hits from AC/DC, Paul McCartney, Bon Jovi, U2, Tom Petty, REO Speedwagon, Bruce Springsteen, Pearl Jam, Eagles and more.  Plus, some humorous tunes from Cheech & Chong, Adam Sandler and others. Available on the SXM App now through December 27.

Andy Cohen’s Radio Andy Expands to Serve as the Definitive Home for Pop Culture on SiriusXM as Part of Multi-Year Contract Extension

Eric Alper
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Andy Cohen’s Radio Andy Expands to Serve as the Definitive Home for Pop Culture on SiriusXM as Part of Multi-Year Contract Extension

SiriusXM (that’s home to my show @ThatEricAlper on Channel 167!) announced today that Andy Cohen, producer, television and radio host has signed a three-year contract extension with SiriusXM. Andy Cohen’s exclusive SiriusXM channel Radio Andy, will now serve as the audio subscription service’s definitive home for pop culture with Andy Cohen Live and Smith Sisters Live expanding to daily shows.

Cohen, the creator and content curator of SiriusXM’s Radio Andy (channel 102), will continue to host his show Andy Cohen Live, which will now air Mondays through Fridays from 10:00 am – 11:00 am ET.

“SiriusXM allows me to dig deeply into two of my passions – pop culture on Radio Andy and music on the Kiki Lounge. I’m so proud of what we’ve developed over the last seven years on Radio Andy; I’ve loved programming the channel, and my longform interviews with celebrities and authors feed my soul. Programming the Kiki Lounge brought me incredible joy during the pandemic and listening to it is a romp through my expansive music vocabulary,” said Andy Cohen.

“We are thrilled to have Andy Cohen staying in the SiriusXM family. Seven years ago, Andy Cohen created Radio Andy, and it instantly became a spot for pop culture and news-breaking conversations,” said Scott Greenstein, SiriusXM’s President and Chief Content Officer. “Andy continues to deliver a full lineup of talent on Radio Andy that excites our subscribers nationwide, while also curating Andy Cohen’s Kiki Lounge with a non-stop eclectic mix of music for all music lovers.”

Additionally, Smith Sisters Live, hosted by Lauren, Rachel and Mariah Smith will air Mondays through Fridays at 9:00 am ET leading into Andy Cohen Live. Smith Sisters Live features entertainment experts and pop culture super fans, Lauren, Rachel, and Mariah Smith taking a daily, detail-obsessed deep dive into the biggest pop culture moments happening right now. The wildly entertaining morning show brings the sister’s encyclopedic knowledge of pop culture to discussions on the day’s trending pop culture stories and the greatest (and worst) moments from reality TV and beyond.

Also joining the SiriusXM Radio Andy lineup includes Gayle King in the House, The Jess Cagle Show with Julia Cunningham and It’s Me, Tinx. 

Radio Andy will continue to broadcast the channel’s suite of programs including Jeff Lewis Live, Reality Checked with Amy Phillips, Bevelations with Bevy Smith, Make It Nice with Dorinda Medley, Sandyland with Sandra Bernhard and others.

Over the past seven years Andy Cohen has sat down with special guests for many exclusive news-making interviews on his SiriusXM channel. Past star-studded guests have included Nicole Kidman, Lil Nas X, Lizzo, Sarah Jessica Parker, John Mayer, Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato, Dolly Parton, Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Lopez, Keanu Reeves, Will Ferrell, Kelly Ripa, Jane Fonda, Jon Bon Jovi, Mick Fleetwood, Jennifer Coolidge and many more.

Andy Cohen also continues to curate his exclusive SiriusXM music channel, Andy Cohen’s Kiki Lounge. The channel features a personally crafted eclectic mix of music, reflecting Andy’s musical palette across a variety of moods and occasions enjoyable for his loyal fans and worthy of music lovers. Subscribers will hear music from Madonna, John Mayer, Cher, U2, Diana Ross, B-52s, Aretha Franklin and many more.

SiriusXM’s Radio Andy features 24/7 content produced and curated by Andy Cohen, and features the latest in pop culture, celebrities, lifestyle, news and more.

SiriusXM’s Radio Andy is available to subscribers nationwide in their car and on the SXM App. The SXM App is available to subscribers on mobile devices and a wide variety of connected platforms in the home including smart speakers, smart TVs and streaming media players. Streaming access is included with all of SiriusXM’s audio trials and most popular plans.

Taylor Simpson Moves Forward With “Lies Beneath ft. Eden Sterling”

Eric Alper
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Taylor Simpson Moves Forward With “Lies Beneath ft. Eden Sterling”

Indie folk-rock singer Taylor Simpson is on a roll. Shortly after releasing the well-received full-length debut, Learning to Live with Precious Time, he returned to the studio to record the six new tracks for New Sights in A Familiar Place.

https://youtu.be/GvMcgl643xU

While the Toronto native’s debut encompassed his earlier life experience, his latest work, recorded at Stone Roof Studios in Woodbridge, has a more immediate focus, finding him negotiating the pandemic, new relationships and fresh losses. While candid about his growing pains, a resolute optimism pervades the tracks on New Sights in A Familiar Place, which were produced by Simpson’s friend and fellow musician Adriano Loparco.

“I want to create a safe space/community for my listeners, who may be dealing with similar issues in their lives. Whether it’s mental health related, relationships, alcoholism, losses (loved ones or love itself) or anything in that realm.” Simpson, no stranger to loss, says of the collection. “I want them to know they’re not alone and there are so many others that are willing to listen and help.”

Simpson makes good on that wish, demonstrating through his words and music, how to move gracefully through life’s contradictions and challenges. He asks for nothing on ‘Bitter Apology,’ though his heart is clearly sore. “Maybe one day I’ll see a better side of you/Maybe one day, you’ll see a better side of me,” he sings, sounding a bit like John Mayer. ‘Holding On’, a driving rocker,’ is a bit edgier, haunted by the dissolution of a relationship. “I’ll keep holding on,” his vocals soar as electric guitars swirl against a brisk drumbeat, “Until the pain is gone.”

The first single from the collection ‘Long Time Coming,’ is likewise redemptive, the music moving him forward as Simpson contends with feeling stuck at crossroads. ‘Wishful Feeling’ is a jangly ode to learning to find silver linings in experience and putting the past in the rear-view. Even as he wrestles with the long shadow of grief on the ‘Lies Beneath,’ Simpson doesn’t stay down for long.

“Focused on moving forward/Pushing past this blurry state/ Open up all the doors, setting out to a different shore/ Realizing it’s never too late,” he sings, joined by guest vocalist Eden Sterling, the music a balm for his, and his listeners’ souls.

Taylor Simpson is an indie folk-rock singer songwriter from Toronto, Canada. He released his debut full-length album ‘Learning to Live with Precious Time’ in early 2022, with the single ‘Pretending’ garnering over 40,000 streams within the first 3 months of the release. His songs bristle with acoustic and electric guitar, steady drums and potent lyrics which leave his audience members in a state of nostalgia whilst dancing, singing, and clapping along.

Track Listing
1 Bitter Apology
2 Holding On
3 North From Here
4 Lies Beneath ft. Eden Sterling
5 Long Time Coming
6 Wishful Feeling

Midnight Sparrows, The New Solo Project From Métis, Cree, and Dene Musician Blair Bellerose Releases ‘Born In The City’ Album

Eric Alper
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Midnight Sparrows, The New Solo Project From Métis, Cree, and Dene Musician Blair Bellerose Releases ‘Born In The City’ Album

Hot on the heels of the Native American Music Award nominated Rock & Roll City, Midnight Sparrows – the brainchild of Métis, Cree, and Dene musician Blair Bellerose – is releasing its much-anticipated follow-up, Born in the City.

Identifying as Métis his entire life, the Vancouver-based musician is now also a proud member of Fort McKay First Nation thanks to a successful, women-led challenge to the Indian Act, which allows for more significant gender equity in passing on Indian status through the maternal family line. However, Blair also proudly retains his Métis identity.

Midnight Sparrows play guitar-driven hard rock that combines elements of classic rock, power pop and old-school heavy metal. Engineered and mixed by Juno and Western Canadian Music Award winner Sheldon Zaharko, Born in the City is a six-song guitar rocker that proves the magic and power of rock & roll is alive, well, and stronger than ever.

Thanks to a generous funding contribution from Fort McKay First Nation, Bellerose was able to make Midnight Sparrows’ first-ever music video for the song “Butterfly Wings.”

Bellerose wrote the track as a tribute honor to his mother, an Indigenous elder and residential school survivor, who passed away last year at 87.

“Spread your butterfly wings,” sings Bellerose, “I want to see you be divine / you are divine.”

Writing “Butterfly Wings” allowed Bellerose to hold on to the lessons his mother taught him about living life to its fullest as he processed letting go of the one he held so dear, allowing her to peacefully transition into the spirit world while his life continued to move forward here on earth.

The title track is one of Bellerose’s most personal songs as he reflects on his lived experience of urban Indigeneity.

“I grew up in the city / and it’s probably where I’ll die / but don’t forget that my people came / from the land under the Red River Sky.”

Having lived, worked, and studied in the urban Aboriginal community his entire life, this is a subject that Bellerose is very passionate about, even writing his recent master’s thesis on how government policies impact urban Indigenous non-profit organizations.

“I was born in the city / do you think that I’d be better off dead / like all them Hollywood Indians / with bullets in their chests.”

“Born in the City” defiantly challenges the notion that living in a city renders one’s Indigeneity inauthentic.

Lorraine Klaasen and Mongezi Ntaka Collaborate On New Album “Ukubonga [Gratitude]” Out Now

Eric Alper
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Lorraine Klaasen and Mongezi Ntaka Collaborate On New Album “Ukubonga [Gratitude]” Out Now

Ukubonga [Gratitude], the new recording from South African singer Lorraine Klaasen and South African guitarist, composer, arranger, musical director and producer Mongezi Ntaka is a collection of songs from the Southern Africa’s Township music songbook and features songs written by some of Southern Africa’s celebrated singers and composers. Lorraine & Mongezi decided to show gratitude to the dedicated artists who endured and survived some of the most brutal and humiliating experiences a human can experience while pursuing their musical careers to support their families.

Township music is the soundtrack of South Africa and much of the Southern African region. This sound comes from a people who have endured and triumphed over very difficult times. Township music has preserved a lot of indigenous cultures of Africa through its flexibility in adapting to new technologies and has also influenced political and social change. Lorraine & Mongezi had professional association, personal friendships and family ties with some of the artists and composers whose songs are performed on Ukubonga [Gratitude], .

At the heart of this album are messages of African romantic courtships, wedding songs, social & political commentary, consciousness and cultural pride that is full of the elder’s wisdom. The inspiration for this album came through Lorraine & Mongezi’s desire to increase awareness of a musical culture that is as good as any other in the world. Sadly, almost all the artists whose songs are included on this project have passed on and have left this incredible body of work that should still remind the children of African the importance Ukubonga [Gratitude].

Lorraine tells the story behind the creation of “Ukubonga [Gratitude]”:

“As an artist I never realized how important music is in my life and how my music has impacted my fans until the Coronavirus pandemic arrived in the beginning of 2020. During this period, I reflected on the direction I should take in my music career and suddenly an idea to collaborate with my dear friend Mongezi Ntaka came along. Over the past decade or so, I have been performing a duo live show of just an acoustic guitar and voice with Mongezi Ntaka and my record company suggested that we record that show in the studio in order to share that experience with more listeners.

Mongezi suggested that we go into the South African songbook and select some of the most memorable songs in the Township music genre. Mongezi and I decided on ‘Ukubonga’ [Gratitude] as the title of the album in appreciation of the work that all the artists who created the music genre we now call South African Township music. This album also includes works by some of the women I dearly respect and adore. My musical influences range from groups like the Mahotella Queens, Dark City Sisters to artists like Dorothy Masuka, Margaret M’cingana (Singana), my mom Thandi Klaasen and Miriam Makeba. On this album, I am using several Township music vocal styles including those by Busi Mhlongo who is one of the greatest influences in my vocal style.

Thanks to my recording company Justin Time for their support and having an open mind when listening to my ideas. I am also very grateful to my entire family for their unconditional love and support. Most of all I thank my God, Jehovah for the wonderful gift of music. I hope my music brings joy in your life.”

In order to maintain the integrity of the music, Lorraine & Mongezi performed the music live in the studio and kept most of the imperfections in the performance. Every song recorded on this album was recording in one take and then vocal and acoustic guitar overdubs were done immediately after every song was recorded. This was done to keep the tradition in which the original recordings were captured. It is a great pleasure, honor and appreciation for Lorraine Klaasen and Mongezi Ntaka to share this timeless music with the rest of the world.

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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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