DJ Cummerbund has just released “Weird Betty”, a mind-boggling mashup that combines the classic Ram Jam song Black Betty with Tubthumping by Chumbawamba, Wanna Be Startin’ Something by Michael Jackson, Hey Bulldog by The Beatles, and – why not? – throws in Lead Belly, Tom Jones and Soundgarden.
My Next Read: Crossroads: In Search of the Moments that Changed Music By Mark Radcliffe
Standing at the crossroads―the Mississippi crossroads of Robert Johnson and the devil’s infamous meeting―Mark Radcliffe found himself facing his own personal crunch point. Aged sixty, he had just mourned the death of his father, only to be handed a diagnosis of mouth and throat cancer.
This momentous time in his life, and being at the most famous junction in music history, led Radcliffe to think about the pivotal tracks in music and how the musicians who wrote and performed them―from Woodie Guthrie to Gloria Gaynor, Kurt Cobain to Bob Marley―had reached the crossroads that led to such epoch-changing music.
In this warm, intimate account of music and its power to transform our lives, Radcliffe takes a personal journey through these touchstone tracks, looking at the story behind the records and his own experiences as he goes in search of these moments.
The Most Iconic Hairstyles Ever Worn By Musicians
We all know that making catchy and interesting songs is only one half of being a musician… the other half is all about the look. Like it or not, musicians are scrutinized not just for their new singles, but also their new hairstyles. Over the years there has been some hits and misses, but amidst all those, there have also been some truly iconic hairstyles that have made their mark on the music world and in everyday life.
These are some of the most iconic hairstyles that caused millions across the planet to rush to their nearest hairdresser in order to get the same look.
Elvis Presley’s pompadour
Before tattoos, piercings, black t-shirts and long hair entered the fray, rock ‘n’ roll was all about having a nice, clean shaven face and an epic pompadour haircut. Elvis was The King of many things, but his hairstyle – neat back and sides and a big quiff at the front – was and still is a classy men’s hairstyle for men and doesn’t take too much maintenance with the right tips and tricks. Following in Elvis’s footsteps, Johnny Cash, Alex Turner, and even Bruno Mars have all looked awesome with the pompadour.
Diana Ross’ beehive
A queen of the stage, Diana Ross always looked and sounded the part, but it’s not just her beautiful voice that will go down in history. The beehive took a lot of effort and time to get right, not to mention quite a bit of hairspray and wax, but why not go for something big and bold if you want to stand out? Some artists took it as a bit of a personal challenge to go for the largest beehive hairstyle and outclass everyone else, but Ross’ hairstyle is still the chicest of them all.
The Beatles’ mop top
Although it seems unusual now, the mop top was considered incredibly edgy and rebellious back when it took to prominence in the early 60s. Many bands will likely state that they were the first to rock the mop top, but let’s be honest, The Beatles owned the image through and through at the start of their music career. The mop top is still fairly prevalent these days, although it is probably starting to die out somewhat. The emo phase gave it a bit of a resurgence, not to mention Bieber’s early days, but if you like longer, messy hair and that sweeping look, then you really can’t go wrong with a mop top.
Robert Smith’s backcombed hair
Big hair, no care. Vocalist for The Cure, Robert Smith’s iconic singing style is equally matched by his impressive hairstyle. Backcombed hair is all about giving long hair a lot of volume with a hairbrush and making it stick with hairspray, blow-dryers and several other styling products if you’ve got the time! The 80s was the perfect era for backcombed hair, but it wasn’t just Smith who loved the big, wild hairstyle of the decade, but also Alice Cooper, Mötley Crüe, Kiss, Iron Maiden, Twisted Sister, Madonna, Jon Bon Jovi, and countless more. Often matched with hairbands, tight leather pants, metal studs, denim, and even a fair bit of makeup, backcombed hair takes time but is worth it for the stage performance and promo pictures. Remember these golden rules if you want to bring back the look yourself.
Awaken the Musical Genius in Your Kids with these Easy-to-Play Guitars
For a parent, there is nothing quite like watching your child having fun while simultaneously developing their skills. By learning to play an instrument, your child will have an opportunity to express themselves while developing greater physical and mental capabilities.
If you truly want to encourage your child to learn to play the guitar, you will want to purchase the right instrument for them to practice on. With hundreds of guitars available, the shopping process can quickly become overwhelming. To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the best guitars designed specifically for kids and beginners.
You can find more information about kids guitars at guitarsumo.com, but in the meantime check out the following guitars that are especially accommodating for kids who are just learning how to play.
Yamaha JR1 FG Acoustic Guitar
Cost: $149.99
Features:
- Top: Spruce
- Back and Sides: Meranti
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Bridge: Rosewood
- Scale: 21.25”
- Tuning Machines: Opened Chrome
- Finish: Natural
There’s no need to compromise on sound when accommodating smaller players. The Yamaha JR1 is easier for new players to work with yet still provides the tone of a full-size acoustic guitar. The JR1 features a spruce top and a meranti body and its overall was inspired by Yamaha’s renowned FG folk guitar series.
The JR1 by Yamaha is a great option for young, aspiring guitarists, players with small hands, and any guitarist who wants an instrument that is easy to travel with.
Fender CC-60S Concert Pack
Cost: $199.99
Features:
- Top: Spruce
- Back and Sides: Laminated Mahogany
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Walnut
- Bridge: Walnut
- Scale: 25.3”
- Tuning Machines: Chrome Die-Cast
- Finish: Gloss Polyurethane
The CC-60S is an exceptional option for anyone who is just beginning to learn to play the guitar, and is an ideal choice for kids. The Concert Pack includes the guitar, a strap, picks, a gig bag, an extra set of strings, and a 3-month subscription to Fender Play. For one reasonable price, you get everything you could possibly need to begin your guitar-playing journey.
The CC-60S was designed with comfort in mind. The easy-to-play nato neck, walnut fingerboard, and rolled fretboard edges make this guitar comfortable to play, even after hours of practice. You might be surprised to find out just how much your child enjoys playing the CC-60S.
Ibanez PN12E Mahogany Electro-Acoustic
Cost: $199.99
Features:
- Top: Sapele
- Back and Sides: Nato
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Nandu
- Bridge: Nandu
- Scale: 24.41”
- Tuning Machines: Chrome Die-Cast
- Finish: Gloss
If you are looking for a fantastic acoustic-electric guitar that your kid can use to learn to play, without breaking the bank, the Ibanez PN12E is the one. The sapele top and nato back and sides allow this guitar to project warm, balanced tone no matter where you are or how you play. The parlor-sized body makes it easier for smaller players to hold and allows for more comfortable strumming while sitting down.
For an incredibly reasonable price, you can get your hands on a guitar that will not only awaken the musical genius in your child, but will encourage them to continue to pursue their dreams of becoming a famous guitarist.
Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar
Cost: $349.99
Features:
- Top: Sitka Spruce
- Back and Sides: High-Pressure Laminate (HPL)
- Neck: Rust Birch Laminate
- Fingerboard: FSC Certified Richlite
- Bridge: FSC Certified Richlite
- Scale: 23”
- Tuning Machines: Chrome-Enclosed
- Finish: Natural
The LX1 Little Martin is the smallest guitar made by Martin, but they didn’t compromise on tone. The LX1 model, with a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany high-pressure laminate back and sides, this guitar is big on tone, quality, and versatility.
Kids and beginner guitarists are big fans of the LX1 Little Martin not only because of its size, but because it projects sound that makes even their first few picks sound like those from a true professional.
Despite the slightly higher price tag, the LX1 Little Martin by Martin is a worthy investment for a budding guitarist.
Loog Mini
Cost: $79.00
Features:
- Top: Basswood
- Back and Sides: Basswood
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Maple
- Bridge: Maple
- Scale: 15.6”
- Tuning Machines: Chrome
- Finish: Gloss (Six Colors Available)
For true beginners, particularly younger children, the Loog Mini just may be the best and easiest-to-play acoustic guitar on the market. In fact, the Loog Mini features an award-winning design that is approved by educators. Because it features just three strings, it’s great for the small hands of beginner guitarists who want to learn how to play without feeling overwhelmed.
The Loog Mini is available in six fun colors: green, red, yellow, black, white, and pink. Unlike most guitars at this price point, the Loog Mini has a basswood body and maple neck, which means it feels and sounds like an authentic acoustic guitar.
The Loog Mini comes with an app that helps children learn how to play. This guitar is a nearly perfect option for parents who want to encourage their kids to learn how to play the guitar, without intimidating them by going straight for a full-sized acoustic or electric guitar.
Encourage Your Child to Stick with It
Learning a new instrument isn’t easy. It can be frustrating and will often take longer than one would expect. As a parent, you will want to encourage your child to continue practicing and not give up when things become difficult. By practicing on the right instrument, your child can become a magnificent guitarist. Just make sure you set them up for success and continue to encourage them along the way.
LEGO Art revealed as mosaic sets of The Beatles now available
If you’re a Beatles fan, LEGO has the perfect set for you. Build 1 of 4 unique portraits of the iconic band members with this LEGO Art The Beatles set and relish a creative escape from everyday life.
Create 1 of 4 detailed wall art portraits of your favorite Beatle, whether it’s John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison or Ringo Starr, with this 2,933-piece set. While building, listen to the included Soundtrack and let it immerse you in stories and unexpected details about the band. Finish the build with a ‘The Beatles’ signature tile and display it on a wall or shelf.
You don’t need to be an artist or have a collection of LEGO models to enjoy the satisfaction of completing this wall art kit. Once done, you’ll have a piece to display with pride. This LEGO Art set is part of a collection of building kits focused on music, art, design and architecture. The sets also make a great gift for anyone (including yourself) seeking a new project.
- Build this stunning LEGO® Art The Beatles (31198) canvas art set, featuring a model with 4 build options. You can display your passion for The Beatles on your wall or shelf after creating any 1 of the 4 portraits.
- Escape the daily grind with this 2,933-piece LEGO® set for adults, which includes 9 canvas wall decor plates, a ‘The Beatles’ signature tile, a brick-built LEGO frame, unique new hanging element and piece separator.
- This set immerses you in your passion for arts and crafts while you make a creative piece of art. With the included Soundtrack, you can really dive into the set and learn unexpected details as you build.
- Celebrate your love of music and The Beatles by building and displaying this unique set. It also makes an imaginative birthday present for yourself or other DIY enthusiasts in your life who love creative projects.
- This 4in1 art piece measures over 15.5” (40cm) square. It displays beautifully on a wall or shelf and its details will ensure it stands out in your collection. This clever LEGO® set offers 4 different building options.
- You don’t need batteries – this art set for adults offers a stress-relieving, immersive build with LEGO® pieces and a unique Soundtrack. Escape your daily routine and create a gorgeous wall display piece.
- The coffee-table-quality instructions help guide you through the project and start with a deep dive into the art before you start building. Once you begin, enjoy the Soundtrack experience that’s customized for this set.
- Perfect for display on a wall or shelf, LEGO® Art models of iconic artworks, musicians, Super Heroes and Sith Lords offer you a rewarding building experience while you explore your passion for creative arts and crafts.
- LEGO® building pieces meet exacting quality standards, which ensures they are consistent, compatible and work every time – it’s been that way since 1958.
- LEGO® pieces are tested to ensure that every LEGO Art building set meets strict safety standards, which helps ensure The Beatles wall decor piece is as robust as it is beautiful.
LEGI
Toni Basil Is Going To Teach You To Dance!
Toni Basil presents a 1960s Gogo dance zoom series with dances steps songs and film clips.
Myles Erlick Releases Major-Label Debut Single, “sweat”
Today, Canadian singer/songwriter, producer, dancer, Myles Erlick, releases his major label debut single “Sweat”, out now.
Erlick initially gained recognition as the title star Billy in Billy Elliot the Musical on Broadway and next as a series regular playing Noah on world-wide hit television series The Next Step. He then caught the eye of director Steven Spielberg and was cast as an ensemble lead role in the upcoming remake of West Side Story. This role of a lifetime couldn’t stop the grind, “it was a good opportunity to help inspire and perfect my craft,” says Erlick. “If I wasn’t on set or rehearsing, then I was in the recording studio.”
The first result from this furtive creative period is “Sweat.” A blood-pumping banger, “Sweat” is the debut of what Erlick calls “Myles 2.0.” This new era will surprise and delight fans with tight production, and raw physicality.
Myles Erlick is a Canadian singer/songwriter, music producer, actor and dancer. Making his professional debut at 11, starring in Billy Elliot: The Musical on Broadway, the quadruple threat has since featured in the Disney series, The Next Step, and is set to take centre stage in Steven Spielberg’s film adaptation of West Side Story.
But from the moment his grandmother first taught the young Erlick to play classical piano, it’s been a love and appreciation for music that captured his heart.
With his 2017 single, “Serious,” (over 1.2 million views on YouTube) the budding artist proved his musical chops were as tight as his dance moves. A debut album, “ME,” soon followed, charting on iTunes’ Top 100 global pop albums.
It was around this time that he caught the eye of uber-director Steven Spielberg, who cast the heartthrob as an ensemble lead Jet in his upcoming remake of the classic musical, West Side Story.
In typical fashion, not even a role of a lifetime could stop the budding artist’s grind: if he wasn’t on set or rehearsing, Erlick was in the recording studio, perfecting his craft. The first result from this furtive creative period is “Sweat.” A blood-pumping banger, the track is the genesis of a sonic and visual evolution; the debut of what Erlick calls “Myles 2.0.” Inspired by Justin Timberlake and Michael Jackson, this new era will surprise and delight fans with crisp production, impressive choreography and raw physicality.
National Music Centre launches Legacy Vinyl fundraiser
The National Music Centre is excited to launch the Legacy Vinyl Campaign on July 1, and give supporters another opportunity to add their name to the iconic Studio Bell building, known as the home for music in Canada.
The fundraising campaign begins alongside Canada’s 153rd birthday and Studio Bell’s 4th anniversary, and will run until December 31, 2020. Music fans are invited to support Canada’s music legacy and inscribe their names on a vinyl record that will be placed on the walls of Studio Bell.
By donating to the Legacy Vinyl Campaign, NMC supporters can purchase a custom 7-inch or 12-inch record and engrave a special message on it. Vinyl record displays will remain mounted across multiple levels within Studio Bell for a duration of 10 years.
Consider supporting through the following tiers:
- 45 RPM Single Vinyl ($250): 7-inch vinyl, 20-character inscription, 10-year display duration, tax receipt
- Gold Vinyl ($500): 12-inch vinyl, 30-character inscription, 10-year display duration, tax receipt
- Platinum Vinyl ($1,000): 12-inch vinyl, 50-character inscription, 10-year display duration, tax receipt
- Diamond Vinyl ($2,000): 12-inch vinyl, 50-character inscription, 10-year display duration, tax receipt, exclusive Level 5 ‘Best of Canada’ location
NMC has made many significant impacts on the community since opening Studio Bell in 2016. In 2019 alone, NMC welcomed nearly 183,000 guest visits to Studio Bell (up 21% from 2018), enriching the lives of visitors through music and drawing cultural tourism to the city. NMC inspired over 15,500 school students to learn through music, presented over 240 concerts and events, hosted over 40 artists for professional development programs and residencies, and launched three major exhibitions, among many other achievements.
“We want to thank our community for their support and resilience over these past few months. Before closing the doors of Studio Bell in March, NMC had just celebrated its most successful year yet. It will take time to get back to where we were before the pandemic, but we are confident that we’ll get there in time with the support of our community,” said Andrew Mosker, NMC President and CEO. “Your purchase of a vinyl record helps support the vibrancy and sustainability of NMC and ensures that we can continue to amplify the love, sharing, and understanding of music for many years to come.”
Visit studiobell.ca/legacy-vinyl on July 1 to buy your custom vinyl record and support Canada’s music legacy.
The 10 album Polaris Music Prize Short List will be unveiled on July 15
The 10 album Polaris Music Prize Short List will be unveiled live on a CBC Music nationwide radio broadcast on July 15.
The Polaris Prize Short List radio special will air from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. ET/CT/MT/PT (3 p.m. AT, 3:30 p.m. NT) across Canada via CBC Music and the CBC Listen app, and will be hosted by CBC Music’s Angeline Tetteh-Wayoe. The special will feature one Short List nominee revealed every 15 minutes along with music from the nominated albums and insight from Polaris jurors.
For the safety and well-being of the Polaris community, Polaris has chosen to not host a winner Gala event this year. Instead, we will be celebrating the Short List with a special cinematic tribute happening October 19, to be broadcast in Canada on the CBC Gem streaming service, CBC Music’s Facebook, Twitter and YouTube pages and around the globe at CBCMusic.ca/Polaris. The 2020 Polaris-winning album will be revealed live at the end of this event.
For this special, Polaris will be actively considering Canadian filmmakers to create commissioned films honouring each Short List-nominated album. An application form for interested filmmakers along with more detailed information about this project can be found at the Polaris Music Prize website.
The Polaris Music Prize awards $50,000 to the artist who creates the Canadian Album of the Year, judged solely on artistic merit, without consideration for genre or record sales. Additionally, the nine other nominated acts whose albums make the 2020 Short List will receive $3,000 each courtesy of Slaight Music.
Albums eligible for 2020 Polaris Music Prize consideration must be released between May 1, 2019 and May 31, 2020. An independent jury of music journalists, broadcasters and bloggers from across Canada determines the Long List and Short List. Eleven people from the larger jury pool are then chosen to serve on the Grand Jury. This Grand Jury will select the Polaris Music Prize winner.
The past winners are Haviah Mighty (2019), Jeremy Dutcher (2018), Lido Pimienta (2017), Kaytranada (2016), Buffy Sainte-Marie (2015), Tanya Tagaq (2014), Godspeed You! Black Emperor (2013), Feist (2012), Arcade Fire (2011), Karkwa (2010), Fucked Up (2009), Caribou (2008), Patrick Watson (2007) and Final Fantasy / Owen Pallett (2006).
