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King Cruff Announces Debut EP “What Have I ‘Don” Coming November 14
Today, fast-rising visionary artist King Cruff announces his long-awaited debut EP WHAT HAVE I ‘DON releasing November 14th via Tuff Gong Collective/Universal Music Canada, the country’s leading music company. Known for his poetic lyricism and innovative sound that blends elements of hip-hop, dancehall, reggae and funk, King Cruff’s debut project promises to further solidify him as an artist to watch.
With his potent new single “EASY!”, out today, King Cruff pays homage to Y2K hip-hop and reveals a bold, braggadocious side of his artistry. “‘EASY!’ is another shade of Cruff that I’m introducing to my audience,” says King Cruff. “It’s a lot more rugged, a lot more aggressive than previous releases. It’s more of me beating my chest, which I think people would attribute to an earlier version of my sound. ‘EASY!’ carries that feel that is undoubtedly early 2000s with the performance being very Missy Elliott and Busta Rhymes-esque, and the production being reminiscent of The Neptunes. On top of that, the delivery itself is still very dancehall. I’m trying to show people that there are so many ways to create with the dancehall sound, it just needs that experimentation.”
“EASY!” marks King Cruff’s third collaboration with Grammy and Latin Grammy-nominated duo Banx & Ranx, following the dancehall/reggae track “FALLBACK” (which was named one of Billboard’s Reggae/Dancehall Fresh Picks of the Month) and their summer smash “PROPPA GHANDA”, which is still charting at Top 40 radio since its release in May. “More and more, I see my collaborations with Banx & Ranx becoming recognized as one of those iconic artist-producer duos, like Future and Metro, or Smino and Monte Booker,” says King Cruff. “When we’re in the studio, we just don’t miss.”
“EASY!” marks King Cruff’s third collaboration with Grammy and Latin Grammy-nominated duo Banx & Ranx, following the dancehall/reggae track “FALLBACK” (which was named one of Billboard’s Reggae/Dancehall Fresh Picks of the Month) and their summer smash “PROPPA GHANDA”, which is still charting at Top 40 radio since its release in May. “More and more, I see my collaborations with Banx & Ranx becoming recognized as one of those iconic artist-producer duos, like Future and Metro, or Smino and Monte Booker,” says King Cruff. “When we’re in the studio, we just don’t miss.”
MusiCares Is Here to Help Music Professionals Affected by Recent Hurricanes
As music professionals navigate the ongoing challenges brought by this severe hurricane season, MusiCares serves as a vital resource, providing support for Hurricanes Helene and Milton and a broad spectrum of other crises. Whether it’s a natural disaster, personal emergency, or unexpected hardship, MusiCares provides critical support through financial assistance, mental health services, and essential aid.
For more than three decades, MusiCares has been a steadfast partner to the music industry during times of need, offering relief in response to a variety of disasters. From the Las Vegas Route 91 shooting and the COVID-19 pandemic to Superstorm Sandy, Hurricane Katrina, and the California and Maui wildfires, MusiCares is here to help—no matter the size or scope of the crisis.
“MusiCares is committed to ensuring that no music professional feels alone in times of crisis,” said Laura Segura, Executive Director of MusiCares. “Our swift and compassionate disaster relief response allows those affected to focus on rebuilding their lives without the added fear of losing their livelihoods. We’re here to help them every step of the way.”
Our Comprehensive Support Includes:
- Emergency financial assistance
- Mental health and emotional support
- Medical and housing resources
- Support around basic living expenses
MusiCares’ wide-ranging relief efforts have helped music professionals through:
- Superstorm Sandy
- Nashville floods
- California wildfires
- Maui wildfires
- Hurricane Katrina, Harvey, Irma, and Ida
- Las Vegas Route 91 shooting
- Louisiana Floods (2016)
For Assistance:
If you or someone you know has been affected by Hurricane Helene or another crisis, visit https://musicares.org/get-help to apply for relief today.
Unlock Your Best Night’s Sleep with Loop Dream Earplugs
Are you ready to experience the most restful sleep of your life? Whether you’re battling nighttime noise, a snoring partner, or simply seeking serenity, Loop Dream earplugs are designed to give you the comfort and quiet you deserve.
Why Loop Dream?
Loop Dream earplugs are engineered specifically for sleep, delivering powerful noise reduction while maintaining unmatched comfort. With their innovative design, they offer the ideal solution for side-sleepers, restless sleepers, or anyone seeking relief from noisy environments.
Sleep-Specific Comfort
The innovative closed-loop shape of Loop Dream earplugs is made with our softest silicone to reduce pressure on the ear, allowing you to drift off without discomfort. The design is perfect for side-sleepers, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit that lasts all night long.
Perfect Fit with Loop Dream Ear Tips
Unlike other earplugs, Loop Dream features oval foam-silicone ear tips that follow the natural shape of your ear for a seamless, secure fit. This design helps keep the earplugs in place, ensuring uninterrupted sleep, no matter how much you move.
Maximum Noise Reduction for Uninterrupted Sleep
Say goodbye to snoring partners, traffic noise, and any other disturbances. Loop Dream™ provides 27 dB (SNR) of noise reduction, so you can enjoy peaceful, restful nights. Whether you’re trying to sleep in a noisy environment or need to block out disruptive sounds, Loop Dream™ earplugs have got you covered.
Proven Results
- 91% of users reported an improvement in their sleep quality with Loop Dream.
- 87% felt more focused throughout the day after using these earplugs.
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What Makes Loop Dream Stand Out?
- Cloud-like Comfort for Side-Sleeping: Designed with a soft body and an optimized shape to reduce pressure on the ear.
- Secure Fit for All-Night Wear: The oval ear tips mold perfectly to your ears, ensuring a secure fit, even if you’re a restless sleeper.
- Powerful Noise Reduction: Block out nighttime noises and snoring with 27 dB of noise reduction, helping you wake up refreshed every morning.
Why Choose Loop Dream?
When it comes to sleep, nothing should get in the way of your comfort. Loop Dream earplugs have been engineered for those who prioritize both sound reduction and sleeping comfort. With millions of satisfied customers and rave reviews, they’re the ultimate solution for achieving better, deeper sleep.
Ready to transform your nights? Choose Loop Dream earplugs and wake up feeling fully rested and ready to take on the day. You can get them here.
Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill Break Into ‘Rebel Fight Song’ Mid-Interview During Empire Strikes Back Junket In 1980
In a delightful surprise, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill burst into the impromptu ‘Rebel Fight Song’ at 5:45 during their Empire Strikes Back junket interview. Their playful duet offered fans a rare glimpse of their off-screen camaraderie, showing their fun-loving chemistry. The unscripted moment became a legendary highlight for Star Wars fans, adding even more charm to their iconic roles.
Eric Wareheim’s Emo Band Elements of Need Brings Raw Energy to the Stage in 1994
Before his comedic fame in Tim and Eric, Eric Wareheim rocked the stage as a guitarist in the emo band Elements of Need. In 1994, the group delivered intense live performances, blending heartfelt lyrics with a raw, unfiltered sound. With Wareheim’s passion for music on full display, the band’s shows became a memorable chapter in the underground emo scene.
The Jackson 5 Add a Sweet Beat to Post Alpha-Bits in 1970 Commercials
In 1970, The Jackson 5 brought their infectious energy to Post Alpha-Bits cereal commercials, charming audiences with their iconic harmonies and playful vibe. The ads featured the group singing an original jingle, making breakfast fun with their signature style. These beloved commercials became an instant hit, blending music and nostalgia, and showcasing the Jackson 5’s star power beyond the stage.
Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration – Theatrical Premiere in Canada Starts on November 8
– Mercury Studios and Fathom today announced the Canadian theatrical release date for iconic Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli’s concert film, Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration. The film, which chronicles Bocelli’s three-day July concert event in Italy honoring his 30th anniversary in music, is set to be released in Canadian theatres starting on Friday, November 8. Fathom will also release the film globally over additional dates in November. Click HERE for dates and information.
This marks the second time that Fathom has partnered with Bocelli – last year they released THE JOURNEY: A Music Special from Andrea Bocelli. THE JOURNEY captivated audiences nationwide and landed in Fathom’s top 10 highest grossing films of 2023.
Tickets are on sale NOW.
Journey to the Teatro del Silenzio (Theater of Silence) in Lajatico, a breathtaking natural amphitheater in Tuscany, as Andrea Bocelli returns to his hometown to mark his 30th anniversary with a three-day concert event attended by more than 30,000 guests from around the world. The homecoming not only honors Bocelli’s illustrious career, but it holds profound significance for him – Teatro del Silenzio is the very place where his love of music first began and where he holds annual concerts paying homage to his Italian roots.
The once-in-a-lifetime concert showcases Bocelli’s beloved and genre-spanning repertoire, alongside captivating duets with an unprecedented cast of global superstars, including Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain, Jon Batiste, Brian May, Sofia Vergara, David Foster & Katharine McPhee, Matteo Bocelli, Sofia Carson, Lauren Daigle, Eros Ramazzotti, and more, as well as special appearances by Kim & Khloe Kardashian. With extraordinary staging, production and visuals, set against a landscape of unparalleled beauty amongst the Tuscan hills, Andrea Bocelli’s sensational career comes to life in a truly unforgettable experience.
Directed by Grammy-nominee and Emmy Award-winner Sam Wrench (Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, Billie Eilish: Live at The O2), the film is a celebration of an international icon and revered classical voice, with a grandeur and scale that reaches new heights.
Bocelli’s 30th anniversary celebration is set to continue with the release of his new album, Duets, out October 25th via Decca Records / Sugar Music. The 32-track collection includes many of Bocelli’s most beloved collaborations with Ed Sheeran, Céline Dion, Dua Lipa, Jennifer Lopez, and Luciano Pavarotti, and more, as well as new superstar duets recorded especially for the album with Shania Twain, Chris Stapleton, Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, Karol G, Matteo Bocelli, Hans Zimmer, and more. You can listen to “Da Stanotte In Poi (From This Moment On)” ft. Shania Twain HERE and “Vivo Por Ella” with Karol G HERE.
With nearly 90 million records sold worldwide, and one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment industry, Andrea Bocelli has sold out arena-sized concert events and performed record-breaking live-streams. Bocelli has shared his talents at many major events including the Olympic Games, the World Cup, and Global Citizen. He has earned a Golden Globe, seven Classical BRITs and seven World Music Awards, plus a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Sam Wrench is a Grammy nominated & Emmy award winning Director working across live events, music, documentary and branded content. Sam works in both the U.S & UK and is freelance. His Mary J. Blige feature documentary premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and, after much critical acclaim, his 90’ film capturing the amazing personal story behind Blur’s unexpected recent reunion won an NME Award for Best Music Film. Features with Mumford & Sons as well as Biffy Clyro have also had critical acclaim. In 2023 he was Grammy nominated for Billie Eilish Live at the O2. He has created live performance films with Billie Eilish, Lizzo, and BTS, amongst others for most major broadcasters and platforms. In 2023 he directed Taylor Swift – The Eras Tour which, upon opening weekend, became the highest grossing concert film of all time. From artist centric documentary films for MasterCard to the world’s first VR Single Performance Live Stream for Samsung with Years & Years. He has directed branded content for Footlocker, Adidas, Toyota, NBA, McDonald’s and Converse amongst others. In 2023 he also delivered Brandi Carlile: Live at IMAX utilising an innovative one shot concept.
Jake Vaadeland to be Named Youngest Ever Recipient to Receive Road Gold Certification from CIMA
Fresh from his trek through Europe which included stops in Germany, Denmark, Netherlands and the United Kingdom, Jake Vaadeland will receive CIMA’s Road Gold Certification for his the ‘Retro Man … More and More’ tour at Dakota Tavern on September 23, 2024 as he rounds out his tour. Established in 2015, CIMA’s Road Gold Certification program recognizes the perseverance and dedication of Canadian touring artists who expand their fan bases through public performances. Artists achieve Road Gold certification by demonstrating sales of 25,000 tickets or more during Canadian tours over any 12-month period. Jake Vaadeland will be the youngest recipient to receive this distinction.
Jake, who won the Emerging Artist Contest at Edmonton Folk Festival recently is looking forward to receiving the honour, ‘The Sturgeon River Boys and I love to be on the road and it is great to be recognized for all the hard work we have put in the last few years,’ says Vaadeland. Both CIMA and Road Gold’s program partner, Tixr, will be on hand to present the award.
2024 has proven to be a landmark year for the singer/songwriter, in addition to his Road Gold Certification, he has toured in six countries, released his album ‘Retro Man … More and More’ (Expanded Edition) which quickly reached #3 on iTunes Canada, landed several editorial playlists, garnered radio play in Canada, the U.S., the U.K. All of this led to a publishing deal with Toronto based Arts & Crafts Publishing, home of artists such as Feist and Broken Social Scene. Along with that, Jake Vaadeland and the Sturgeon River Boys collaborated with platinum selling Canadian country artist Tebey on ‘Wake Me Up’ (The Bluegrass Rendition).
In addition to this, Jake Vaadeland has earned an incredible 4 x Sask Country Music Awards, earned a Western Canadian Music Association nomination and received rave reviews for his three sold out showcases at The Great Escape Festival, taking place each year in Brighton, U.K.
With a growing social media presence, an emerging worldwide audience, and a long list of recent achievements, Jake Vaadeland is quickly becoming Canada’s biggest up and coming musical export.
Billie Eilish Debuts TikTok’s New Flip Story Feature Is Now Live
On TikTok, creators share their creativity across a variety of formats, from multi-part Playlists to Stitches to LIVE videos. To expand on the ways creators share and connect, we’re introducing Flip Story – a new feature that allows creators to add a second side to every story that can be unlocked with a flip.
Flip Story opens new opportunities for connection and engagement between creators and their follower communities. Whether it’s before-and-after photos or exclusive announcements and sneak peeks, Flip Story adds a layer of fun and surprise to storytelling on TikTok.
How it works
To upload a Flip Story, tap the “+” button to access the Create page and toggle to Story, or select the “+” button on your Profile photo. You’ll see the option to add a Flip Story, which requires creators to upload two sides to their Story.
You’ll have the option to snap content for Flip Stories directly from the Create page or upload images to a Flip Story from your device. Flip Stories supports only image uploads.
To view a Flip Story, simply press the “Hold to Flip” button on the first side of a Flip Story to reveal the hidden content, which will play for a few seconds. Creators will be able to see a separate list of viewers for those that unveiled the second side. All content shared in Flip Stories will go through the same moderation process applied to Stories that are uploaded to TikTok.
Billie Eilish’s Flip Story reveal
Billie Eilish surprised fans this week with a Flip Story that revealed a before-and-after look at the build up to HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR. Artists like Billie can now use Flip Stories to connect with fans and surprise them with content drops that can only be unlocked on TikTok.
This past May, TikTok again collaborated with Billie Eilish to launch an exclusive in-app experience celebrating the release of the album. As part of the collaboration, Billie was the first artist to use TikTok’s Fan Spotlight feature, which allows artists to showcase fan videos at the top of their music tab for up to a week.
TikTok is also toasting Billie Eilish by launching a new in-app experience throughout the North American leg of HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR. Each week, fans can complete tasks to unlock rewards, including a special tour-themed profile frame & exclusive content from Billie.
New Formats for Storytelling
We’re always exploring new ways to equip creators, artists and brands with tools to share exciting moments and dynamic content with engaged fan communities on TikTok. With Flip Story, we’re excited to offer another format for self-expression and connection, expanding the ways stories can be created and shared on TikTok.