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Kylie Minogue Celebrates 10 Years of Holiday Magic with ‘Kylie Christmas (Fully Wrapped)’

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Kylie Minogue has released ‘Kylie Christmas (Fully Wrapped)’, a glittering 10th-anniversary expansion of her festive catalog via Warner Records and Rhino. This definitive 2025 edition features the original album’s favorites alongside four brand-new recordings: “Hot In December,” “This Time Of Year,” “Office Party,” and the viral Amazon Music Original “XMAS.” The lead single, which features a surprise cameo from ABBA’s Björn Ulvaeus in its campy music video, has already sparked a global social media dance trend and propelled the album to a historic Number 1 debut on the UK Official Albums Chart. The milestone release marks Kylie’s 11th chart-topping album and her first Christmas Number 1 single, outperforming seasonal classics from Wham! and Mariah Carey.

The anniversary project is available in a variety of limited-edition physical formats, including candy cane, pink-and-white marble, and 12-inch Zoetrope vinyl pressings. To support the launch, Minogue headlined Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball at London’s O2 Arena on December 7, delivering the live debut of “XMAS” alongside a career-spanning set of hits for a sold-out crowd. The campaign’s success was further bolstered by an exclusive partnership with Amazon Music, providing “XMAS” with a unique digital edge that helped secure Kylie’s most successful sales week since 2002. From sisterly duets with Dannii Minogue to new party anthems, ‘Fully Wrapped’ solidifies Minogue’s enduring status as a holiday icon, blending high-fashion glamour with the timeless spirit of the season.

Lindsey Stirling and Sixthman Announce 2027 ‘Master of Tides Cruise: Roundtable Rival Edition’

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Multi-platinum pop-violinist and entertainer Lindsey Stirling has partnered with Sixthman to announce the 2027 return of her immersive musical voyage, Lindsey Stirling’s Master of Tides Cruise: Roundtable Rival Edition. Sailing January 29–February 2, 2027, aboard the Norwegian Jewel, the four-night journey departs from Miami, Florida, to the turquoise waters of Cozumel, Mexico. This second edition of the cruise follows a highly successful 2025 inaugural sailing that raised over $148,000 for Stirling’s charity, The Upside Fund. The “Roundtable Rival” theme promises a Wild West-inspired adventure at sea, featuring two headlining pool deck performances by Stirling, interactive workshops with her band, and fan-favorite activities like line dancing and “Saloon-style” karaoke. Fans who act quickly during the final presale signups, which conclude December 15, 2025, can access a $100 discount, while the first 400 cabins booked will receive an exclusive intimate performance and a pre-cruise Zoom session with Stirling herself.

The voyage serves as a major fundraising platform for The Upside Fund, which Stirling founded to help those burdened by medical debt and to increase access to mental health resources. Onboard the Norwegian Jewel, guests can participate in “Dining with Purpose,” an intimate multi-course event where Stirling shares insights into the fund’s impact, or bid on rare memorabilia during a dedicated silent auction. Beyond the star-studded entertainment, the ship offers luxury amenities including the Mandara Spa, a full sports court, and multiple dining options, while shore excursions in Cozumel provide opportunities for exploring Mayan ruins and world-class snorkeling. Public on-sales begin Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 2 pm ET, exclusively through the official Master of Tides Cruise website.

Watch Neil Peart’s Iconic “Drum Solo Week” Performance on Letterman

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In June 2011, the late Neil Peart delivered a masterclass in percussion during the inaugural “Drum Solo Week” on Late Night with David Letterman. Appearing to promote the 30th-anniversary edition of Rush’s seminal 1981 album Moving Pictures, Peart performed a “mentally edited” four-minute version of his legendary Time Machine Tour solo. The performance, which showcased his transition toward a more deliberate improvisational style, closed out a week of elite drumming that featured icons like Sheila E and Roy Haynes.

Beth Snapp Embraces Her Roots With Bluegrass-Infused Single “I Thought of You”

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Tennessee singer-songwriter Beth Snapp has released her latest single, “I Thought of You,” a heartfelt track that trades her signature “Popalachian” fusion for a stripped-back, traditional bluegrass sound. Inspired by a reflective drive along Southwest Virginia’s historic Crooked Road, the self-produced song captures the quiet intimacy of missing a loved one amidst the backdrop of rolling mountains and small-town views. To achieve the track’s authentic picking and warm harmonies, Snapp collaborated with Shawn Lane, Tim Stafford, and Wayne Taylor of the Grammy-nominated powerhouse Blue Highway. This release follows Snapp’s recent success as a co-writer on Blue Highway’s #1 hit “Is Now the Time,” further solidifying her deep-rooted connection to the bluegrass community while showcasing her versatility as an artist who can pivot from jazz-tinged pop to soulful, mountain-inspired storytelling.

Gregg McKella Releases Debut Solo Album ‘Songs From The Underground’

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Brighton-based singer-songwriter Gregg McKella has released his debut solo album, ‘Songs from the Underground’, a 17-track collection originally written during his years busking across London in the 1990s. Recorded and produced by Martin Litmus, the album features a unique blend of folk-driven rhythms and psychedelic blues that McKella has dubbed “space-folk.” The project, released on December 5, 2025, features a rich instrumental palette including glissando guitar, mellotron, and clarinet, with guest contributions from Nick Pynn, Jeanette Murphy, and Paradise 9 bandmate Tyrone Thomas. Completion of the record took on a newfound urgency following McKella’s 2022 diagnosis and successful recovery from prostate cancer; he now utilizes his live performances to advocate for early detection, urging men over 40 to request a PSA blood test. The album captures the “light and shade” of city life, serving as both a musical retrospective and a vital personal milestone for the multi-instrumentalist.

Blacklite District Enters Mature New Era With Noir-Inspired Single “Paper Towels”

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Blacklite District, the prolific project led by Kyle Pfeiffer, has released its most introspective single to date, “Paper Towels.” Accompanied by a noir-inspired music video directed by Travis Boles, the track signals a significant artistic evolution for Pfeiffer, trading high-energy fusion for a more mature, atmospheric sound. The song draws deeply from Pfeiffer’s personal journey through adversity, utilizing raw lyricism and cinematic production to anchor a new chapter of authenticity following his landmark partnership with Duetti. Reflecting its high-concept visual storytelling, the music video has already been named an official selection of the Miami Beach Film Festival and is currently entered in several other national festivals. This release follows the continued success of Pfeiffer’s long-standing collaboration with Minecraft creator Rainimator, whose latest saga episode for “Fine Right Here” premiered in November 2025 to massive fanfare. With over 1 billion global streams, Pfeiffer is using “Paper Towels” as the cornerstone for a forthcoming album in 2026 that promises to explore more reflective, story-driven themes shaped by his recent life experiences.

LL Cool J’s Rock The Bells Cruise Returns In 2026 With Massive Ship Upgrade And Jamaica Debut

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Following three consecutive sold-out years, Rock The Bells has announced the return of its premier hip-hop vacation, ‘Rock The Bells Cruise: A Hip-Hop Experience’, sailing November 1–6, 2026. This edition marks a massive evolution for the franchise, moving to the state-of-the-art Norwegian Joy, a vessel twice the size of previous ships, and extending the voyage with an additional day at sea. For the first time, the five-day journey will sail from Miami to Montego Bay, Jamaica, where guests can immerse themselves in local island culture and beach vibes. The 2026 lineup features a heavyweight roster of legends including T.I., Public Enemy, E-40, Warren G, and Too $hort, alongside elite turntablists like DJ Jazzy Jeff and DJ Spinderella. Beyond the music, the “family reunion” atmosphere is heightened by a comedy slate featuring Bill Bellamy and Kym Whitley, hosted by icons Roxanne Shanté and Torae.

The move to Norwegian Joy introduces a new level of luxury to the hip-hop community, featuring modernized staterooms, an outdoor go-kart track, a cutting-edge thermal spa, and over twenty diverse dining and bar options. Founder LL Cool J emphasizes that the cruise “hits different” because of the intimate connection between artists and fans, offering once-in-a-lifetime interactions throughout the ship’s world-class amenities. In addition to the entertainment, the 2026 cruise is committed to social impact; a portion of every booking will automatically support relief efforts in Jamaica via Jamaica’s Promise, aiding recovery from the impact of Hurricane Melissa. Presales for this immersive cultural pilgrimage are currently underway, with the general public on-sale beginning Thursday, December 11th, at 2 pm ET via the official Rock The Bells Cruise website.

Randy Travis Extends Highly Emotional ‘More Life Tour’ Into Spring 2026

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Country music legend Randy Travis has announced a massive spring 2026 extension of his ‘More Life Tour’ following a record-breaking 2025 run that saw him perform for over 60,000 fans. The tour features Travis’s original touring band alongside special guest vocalist James Dupré, who delivers pitch-perfect renditions of iconic chart-toppers like “Forever and Ever, Amen,” “On the Other Hand,” and “Three Wooden Crosses.” While Travis does not sing due to the effects of his 2013 stroke, he remains a central presence on stage throughout the evening, appearing alongside his wife, Mary, to interact with the audience and celebrate the timeless catalog that defined the neo-traditional country movement. This upcoming leg kicks off on March 12 in Muskegon, Michigan, and includes stops at historic venues such as the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix and the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills, providing fans a unique opportunity to honor one of the most resilient and influential figures in music history.

Randy Travis 2026 More Life Tour Dates:

Mar 12 – Muskegon, MI @ Frauenthal Center
Mar 13 – Lafayette, IN @ Long Center for the Performing Arts
Mar 14 – Marietta, OH @ The Tower Event Center
Mar 19 – Poplar Bluff, MO @ Rodgers Theatre
Mar 20 – Tuscaloosa, AL @ Bama Theatre
Mar 21 – Prestonsburg, KY @ Mountain Arts Center
Mar 26 – Monroe, LA @ Jack Howard Theatre
Mar 27 – Baton Rouge, LA @ River Center Theatre
Mar 28 – Texarkana, TX @ Perot Theatre
Apr 10 – Louisville, KY @ The Brown Theatre
Apr 11 – Anderson, IN @ Paramount Theatre
Apr 12 – St. Louis, MO @ Touhill PAC
Apr 17 – Mobile, AL @ Saenger Theatre Mobile
Apr 18 – Lake Charles, LA @ Rosa Hart Theatre
Apr 19 – Georgetown, TX @ Two Step Inn
Apr 20 – Midland, TX @ Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center
Apr 22 – Phoenix, AZ @ Orpheum Theatre
Apr 23 – Escondido, CA @ Center for the Arts Escondido
Apr 24 – Beverly Hill, CA @ Saban Theatre
May 22 – Fayetteville, GA @ Trilith Live
May 23 – Spartanburg, SC @ Memorial Auditorium

Ellie Walker Releases Introspective New EP ‘Balance’

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Cambridgeshire-based indie-folk artist Ellie Walker has released her highly anticipated EP ‘Balance’, a four-track collection that serves as her most personal and stylistically confident work to date. Following her acclaimed 2023 debut ‘Sink or Swim’, Walker spent 2025 releasing a series of singles that culminate in this project, which beautifully blends the warmth of acoustic arrangements with the playfulness of chamber-pop. Recorded at The Sick Room in Norfolk with producer Owen Turner, the EP navigates themes of family life, mental health, and forgiveness, featuring the jaunty, recorder-led title track alongside the hauntingly introspective “The Old Oak.” Drawing inspiration from Carole King and Joni Mitchell, as well as literary figures like Emma Morley from ‘One Day’, Walker’s music continues to earn widespread support from BBC Introducing and Radio X for its emotional vulnerability and “unfiltered” production. To celebrate the release, Walker and her band—Michael Chalmers, Max Wherlock, Mark Boxall, and Carly Cole—performed a special EP launch show at The Plough in Shepreth on December 12th.

Depeche Mode Releases ‘DEPECHE MODE: M’ Film and ‘Mexico City’ Live Album

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Depeche Mode has officially released the physical and digital editions of their landmark cinematic project ‘DEPECHE MODE: M’ alongside the accompanying live album ‘MEMENTO MORI: MEXICO CITY’. Directed by award-winning Mexican filmmaker Fernando Frías, the documentary explores the profound intersection of the band’s music with Mexican culture’s relationship to mortality, captured during their record-breaking three-night residency at Mexico City’s Foro Sol Stadium. The physical bundles, available in CD/DVD and CD/Blu-ray formats via Columbia Records, feature the ‘M’ feature film on Disc 1 and a dedicated full-length concert movie on Disc 2. This release follows a successful limited theatrical and IMAX run earlier this autumn, documenting a tour that reached over 3 million fans worldwide and solidified the band’s status as a peerless force in the global music landscape.

The comprehensive live album, ‘MEMENTO MORI: MEXICO CITY’, is now available in standalone 4LP vinyl, 2CD, cassette, and digital formats, featuring over two hours of live music from the 2023 tour. Significantly, all formats include four previously unreleased tracks from the ‘Memento Mori’ studio sessions: “Survive,” “Life 2.0,” “Give Yourself To Me,” and the goth-pop standout “In The End.” The latter has already garnered critical acclaim for its atmospheric synth layers and poignant themes of impermanence. For fans looking to stream the experience, both the documentary and the concert film will be available for digital rental and download starting December 17th, with the project slated to make its subscription streaming debut on Netflix in January 2026.

Depeche Mode’s Memento Mori World Tour was heralded as a “stunning celebration of life,” and these new releases provide the definitive document of that journey. By weaving together high-definition concert footage, archival materials, and cultural interstitials, Fernando Frías has created more than just a tour film; he has crafted a spiritual exploration of the band’s enduring legacy. As a celebratory bonus for the launch, a new live video for “Precious” recorded at Foro Sol is now streaming on the band’s official channels. Whether through the expansive 4LP vinyl set or the intimate cinematic documentary, this collection offers a deep dive into the “sacred meeting point” where the music of Depeche Mode and the traditions of Mexico become one.

MEMENTO MORI: MEXICO CITY Tracklist (Physical & Digital)

  1. Intro
  2. My Cosmos Is Mine
  3. Wagging Tongue
  4. Walking In My Shoes
  5. It’s No Good
  6. Sister Of Night
  7. In Your Room
  8. Everything Counts
  9. Precious
  10. Speak To Me
  11. Home
  12. Soul With Me
  13. Ghosts Again
  14. I Feel You
  15. A Pain That I’m Used To
  16. World In My Eyes
  17. Wrong
  18. Stripped
  19. John the Revelator
  20. Enjoy The Silence
  21. Waiting for the Night
  22. Just Can’t Get Enough
  23. Never Let Me Down Again
  24. Personal Jesus
  25. Survive (Memento Mori Session)
  26. Life 2.0 (Memento Mori Session)
  27. Give Yourself To Me (Memento Mori Session)
  28. In The End (Memento Mori Session)