Page 1945 – That Eric Alper

Musicians Still Aren’t Getting The Help They Need For Substance Abuse, Addictions Help

Music

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Jan 27, 2020

ASCAP, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, announces the official launch of the ASCAP Wellness Program to meet the evolving wellness needs of music creators. With this new program, ASCAP becomes the first US performing rights organization to focus heavily on its members’ physical and mental well-being to support their creativity, life balance and longevity.

“Creating music is an all-consuming passion and a labor of love, but you’ve got to take care of your instrument — in the case of music creators, your body, mind and spirit,” said ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams. “ASCAP has a long commitment to supporting the livelihoods of its songwriters and composers. With our new Wellness Program, we’re taking that one step further. If creating music is your life, we are here to provide the resources you need to be at your creative best. This is just the beginning, and we will roll out more services in the months to come.”

As part of ASCAP’s commitment to the needs of its members, the organization commissioned an extensive research survey to be conducted on an annual basis: “The US Music Creator Wellness Study.” The inaugural 2019 report revealed that music creators:

Have health and wellness needs that significantly exceed those of the general population
Do not feel that they have good access to wellness services
Are almost a third more likely than the general population to feel that their wellness has a major impact on their career

Fueled by the findings of the study, ASCAP has developed the Wellness Program (www.ascap.com/wellness) to include:

Innovative Wellness Services

ASCAP members will receive a range of benefits including access to and significant discounts on innovative services that support mental health, mindfulness, exercise and nutrition. Key strategic partners in the ASCAP Wellness Program include:

Aaptiv: music-powered, coach-guided digital audio workouts
BetterHelp: easy, affordable, anywhere access to therapists and mental health resources via your digital devices
Daily Burn: access to thousands of workout videos available from your home
Motiv: a fitness and sleep tracker housed in a ring
Shine: a self-care app with easy exercises and a supportive community

Recovery Support

The ASCAP Wellness Program also announces a strategic partnership with MusiCares®, a charitable arm of the Recording Academy®, that provides critical assistance to music people in times of need. Together with ASCAP, MusiCares will launch recovery-focused support groups in multiple cities as well as a digital support group that offers services to creators in any location. MusiCares will also serve as an official advisor on ASCAP’s recovery and mental health programs.

Wellness Events

Given music creators’ focus on both community and their health (see survey results below), the ASCAP Wellness Program will host wellness events for ASCAP members throughout the year in multiple cities. Wellness Program events will launch at the organization’s New York City headquarters on January 6 with a “sound bath,” an immersive group meditation experience that utilizes sound from a range of instruments to benefit a participant’s mind, body and spirit. Similar events in Los Angeles and Nashville will follow.

Additionally, the organization is planning a dedicated wellness programming track at the upcoming 2020 ASCAP Experience in Los Angeles, April 1 – 3. It has also hosted a number of other activities over the past month to preview the ASCAP Wellness Program, including a post-ASCAP Country Music Awards “ASCAP x Barry’s” workout in Nashville (featuring an all-ASCAP playlist), and “Mind Your Business: Mental Health in the Music Industry,” an ASCAP Urban panel discussion in LA.

Content Initiatives

As part of the effort, ASCAP will launch a new wellness content initiative, including today’s debut of a bonus episode of VERSED: The ASCAP Podcast featuring an interview with Paul Williams on the subjects of recovery and well-being as it relates to music creators. The ASCAP Wellness Program will also introduce #WellnessWednesday on all of its social media presences, featuring advice, inspiration and ASCAP members sharing their wellness activities.

ASCAP members are already voicing their enthusiasm for ASCAP’s commitment to their well-being through the Wellness Program:

“My wellness is more than being in the best shape I physically can be in for running around on stage each night,” said Michael Franti, a musician, humanitarian, filmmaker and activist. “It’s equally about eating well, getting enough sleep and being able to grow with the challenges that life on the road brings, without becoming so stressed that I can’t show up for my wife, kids and touring family in the way that I want to each day. Throughout my adult life I’ve battled depression and anxiety, and the music business has no shortage of pressures that can drag me down if I don’t have healthy habits in place. I’m super excited and grateful that ASCAP has made a commitment to helping artists be mindful stewards of their own bodies and hearts, so that they can be the best musical messengers of optimism, wellness and healing possible.”

SURVEY RESULTS

ASCAP’s 2019 US Music Creator Wellness Survey found that:

Music creators are 31% more likely than the general population to say that their health and wellness have a major impact on their careers
While creators are three times more likely than the general population to feel creative, inspired and brave, they are two to three times more likely to feel alone, disappointed and ignored
As a result, music creators place high importance on:
- Mental health and balance:
  - 83% more likely than the general population to say “meditating or practicing mindfulness” is very important to them
  - 55% more likely to say “therapy or coaching for self-improvement” is very important to them
- Exercise: Creators are 31% more likely than the general population to say that “exercising” is very important to them
- Community: Creators are 42% more likely to say “feeling connected to others” is very important to them
Music creators are four times less likely than the general population to feel like they have good access to services that can help with substance abuse and other addictions

ASCAP’s 2019 US Music Creator Wellness Study was conducted by Whitman Insight Strategies in Fall 2019.

The Flaming Lips Announce Spring 2020 West Coast Tour Dates

Music

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Jan 27, 2020

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The Flaming Lips Announce Spring 2020 West Coast Tour Dates

The Flaming Lips announce a brief run of west coast tour dates for 2020, targeting intimate theater shows beginning April 14th, in Spokane, WA.

Recently, The Flaming Lips released The Soft Bulletin Recorded Live At Red Rocks With The Colorado Symphony Orchestra, recorded May 26, 2016, at the prestigious Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado. As the title indicates, The Lips (Wayne Coyne, Steven Drozd, Michael Ivins, Derek Brown, Jake Ingalls, Matt Kirksey and Nicholas Ley) performed their universally acclaimed 1999 Warner Records album The Soft Bulletin in its entirety accompanied by a 69-piece orchestra and 56-strong chorus. The performance was conducted by the internationally celebrated conductor Andre de Ridder.

The album is available now. Click here to purchase.

Tour dates below will cover music from The Lips entire catalog which means, expect the unexpected.

2020 TOUR DATES:
April 14 Spokane, WA Fox Theatre
April 15 Missoula, MT The Wilma
June 12 Denver, CO Mission Ballroom
June 17 Los Angeles, CA The Wiltern
June 18 San Francisco, CA The Warfield Theatre
June 21 Vancouver, BC The Commodore Ballroom

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for 2020

Music

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Jan 26, 2020

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Valentine’s Day aka the holiday of love is upon us! Whether you are a fortunate victim of the cuffing season or a valentine’s veteran, finding a present for your beloved is always a struggle.

Even if you classify Valentine’s Day as commercial propaganda, there’s no harm in celebrating your love. And if your better half is an ardent Valentine’s devotee, you especially need to prepare yourself.

Is the finding-the-perfect-gift panic kicking in? Don’t worry! Consider us as your honorary guardian angels. Check out our curated gift guide to find something better than done-to-death chocolates and flowers.

Plan a romantic date

Surprise your partner with a romantic date. This doesn’t mean making a reservation at a restaurant and calling it a day. Plan a date that includes doing a fun activity together followed by a delectable meal.

To take it up a notch, decorate your terrace or backyard with balloons and fairy lights and cook dinner yourself.

Luxurious skincare

The past couple of years has seen a growing interest in skincare in both men and women. Skincare can be pricey, which is why one might not buy it for themselves. So you can swoop in and treat your spouse with luxurious skincare products. La Mer, Drunk Elephant, Sunday Riley and Fresh are some excellent skincare brands.

Concert tickets

If you’re more into gifting something experiential, then there’s nothing better than concert tickets. Imagine this, you and your girlfriend or boyfriend dancing the night away at a Jonas Brothers’ concert or feeling the love with James Blunt’s mesmerising tunes. It’s the recipe for the perfect date night.

Smartwatch

Not everyone is into frivolous or sentimental presents. A smartwatch is perfect for those who appreciate a practical gift.

Jewellery

Did you leave gift hunting for the very last minute? Jewellery is your fool-proof solution. You can never go wrong with a beautiful piece of jewellery. You can even get it engraved with a special message to personalise it.

Curated subscription box

Subscription boxes are the gifts which give on giving, literally. There are a variety of options available such as beauty boxes, meal boxes, snack boxes, fitness boxes, stationery boxes and more. You can customise them to match your partner’s taste and preferences.

Bath hampers

Does your spouse love to unwind with a bath? Make this relaxing routine more enjoyable with a bath gift hamper. Lush and Jo Malone offer some incredible bath products that will definitely win you several brownie points.

Makeup

Every makeup enthusiast loves to get their hands on the newest products. Surprise your makeup-loving partner with the latest products from Fenty Beauty, Glossier or Hourglass. If you’re not sure what to buy, you can cop out with a Sephora or Ulta gift card.

Customised map art

For all the sentimental lovers out there, customised map art will prompt several awws and maybe even a few tears. An art pinpointing the place you met for the first time, your first date and other significant locations makes a thoughtful gift.

Personalised scrapbook

A good gift doesn’t always have to burn a hole through your wallet. If you’re looking for something affordable yet meaningful, make a personalised scrapbook. Fill it with your favourite pictures, memories, notes and other details.

Gift a class

If your partner always wanted to learn a skill, give them an opportunity to do that. Cooking classes, pottery lessons and dance lessons are some great options. Also, you can offer to take these classes with them.

Record player

In the age of streaming music, there is something quite special about a record player. You can give it along with a few iconic vinyl albums and maybe have an impromptu dance party.

Photo Gallery: Frankie Ballard at Niagara Falls’ Fallsview Casino

Music

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Jan 26, 2020

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Photo Gallery: Frankie Ballard at Niagara Falls’ Fallsview Casino

All photos by Mini’s Memories. You can contact her at minismemories@hotmail.com

Guns n’ Roses: Back and Stronger Than Ever

Music

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Jan 25, 2020

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When asked which rock legends are truly deserving of ‘icon’ status, few people would hesitate to include Guns n’ Roses in their reply. The band, fronted by Axl Rose and Slash, are among the most widely-celebrated and critically-acclaimed acts in music history, leaving a mark on the genre of rock that will continue to influence new artists for generations to come.

Their hard rock hits such as Welcome to the Jungle, Sweet Child o’ Mine, and Paradise City are enjoyed by countless millions of fans and continue to be among the most streamed songs ever on platforms such as Spotify and YouTube. While long-time fans will be aware of the continuing success of Guns n’ Roses since the abrupt end of their two-decade hiatus, others may be less aware of what the band has been up to since their heyday. Read on to find out exactly why Guns n’ Roses are back with a vengeance.

The Guns n’ Roses Empire

Although the band initially parted ways over twenty years ago, rarely appearing together in public during their hiatus, they did manage to build one of the most successful and lucrative rock empires of all time. Their merchandise empire is reported to be one of the most valuable in the world, with the band selling clothes, vinyl, badges, posters, and even home products such as Christmas baubles and flasks to millions of eager customers.

In the gaming world, their legacy is even more pronounced. For example, major real-money online gaming platforms such as Genesis Casino video slots offer an official Guns n’ Roses game, where fans can re-live all of the greatest hits via a 5-reel slot. In addition, band members have reportedly made hundreds of thousands of dollars licensing their music to video game franchises such as Guitar Hero. Arguably, it is the business-savvy empire that the band has created that has helped keep their legacy alive.

The Tour to End All Tours

Of course, the story doesn’t end there. Last year, the band made headlines around the world by announcing that they would be coming back together for a mammoth world tour across two dozen countries. Since kicking off back in 2016, the Not in This Lifetime Tour has gone on to become one of the highest-grossing ventures of all time, generating a staggering $563.3 million. Massive arenas sold out in seconds, as fans flocked for a chance to see Axl and Slash together on stage again, despite them both saying a few years previously that such a thing would never happen.

The extensive tour continues until July 2020, making the four-year stretch one of the longest in rock history. One of their next big appearances will be at the Superbowl Music Fest in Miami at the end of January, where RnB legend Snoop Dog will be opening for them in front of thousands of people.

Other legends that have had the honor of opening for Guns n’ Roses on the tour include ZZ Top, Billy Talent, Lenny Kravitz, and Alice in Chains. The fact that A-list artists are still falling over themselves for a chance to share the stage with Axl and Slash is a testament to their staying power.

The Guns n’ Roses tour may be ending this year, but that doesn’t mean they’re going anywhere. Watch this space for

How to Prepare Your Car for Winter Season?

Music

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Jan 25, 2020

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In winter season, winter roads can be dangerous for car drivers especially during a winter storm. Proper servicing of your car preparation is compulsory along with an emergency winter kit to protect you and your family during the winter season. Car conditions have great values in the winter season, and to meet with different circumstances on behalf of the well efficient resources. Best remedies and treatments can help for the people to get ready to follow the useful tips and tricks efficiently to best manage their cars even for a winter storm. A number of threats to the health of your car badly impact the values and the overall condition of a car to handle the specific situations efficiently. Before the arrival of winter seasons, ensure your car operates successfully. Buy the best quality spare parts online shop Rexbo.co.uk. Maintenance, preparation, and arrangement of required tools help to people to make sure about the best available resources to meet with swear winter season efficiently.

Useful Tips and Tricks to Winterize your Car

Make sure your tire tread and inspect your tires properly
Cooling system Maintenance
Inspection of your car battery
Fix your car heater properly without any damage
Check air pressure in your all tires and fill up air properly in your tires to run car on dangerous winter roads
Regular maintenance is compulsory to carefully inspect your car conditions to face the different circumstances efficiently before arrival of Winter season
Brake and transmission fluid are also be confirmed
Emergency flares or reflectors
Stay alert, in control, and slow down
Choose fruit and veggies and best food during your drive on Winter roads
Always prefer to use a high-quality filter for your car
your engine coolant and antifreeze levels should be confirmed to face the actual conditions and to handle the operations during winter season
Use winter windshield wiper fluid
Always wear your seatbelt properly
Remove snow or ice from your car
Arrange Gloves, Blanket and other winter clothing

Stay Active, Comfortable and Relaxed by Advance Arrangements in Winter Season

Winter driving safety operations and acknowledgment about the useful tips and tricks can save lives and help people to prepare ready to face the winter effects with their best preparation. Winter driving safety is the best tricks to efficiently manage the conditions to adopt the follow the useful suggestions and ideas to get ready and to handle the specific issues. Spending your best time to prepare yourself in the winter season is the best to efficiently manage the operations in winter seasons. Best preparation means having useful acknowledgment to meet with different circumstances efficiently. Prepare yourself and do everything to face the situations and to handle the sudden situations on behalf of your full active mind and having acknowledgment to best manage yourself to face the swear effects of winter. During drives and heavy snow falling, roads can be closed or your car stay inside your cars so advance level preparation is must before your long drives to go anywhere where sudden situations can occur.

Learn how Björk worked with AI on her new composition, Kórsafn

Music

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Jan 25, 2020

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Learn how Björk worked with AI on her new composition, Kórsafn

Björk brings her choral arrangements to Sister City hotel in a generative soundscape powered by Microsoft AI. The installation builds off of Julianna Barwick’s 2019 installation for Sister City, but pushes the technology even further.