Home Blog Page 20

5 Surprising Facts About Isaac Hayes’ ‘Shaft’

When Isaac Hayes stepped into the studio to record the soundtrack for Shaft in 1971, he was not just making movie music. He was creating a cultural phenomenon that would define the sound of soul and funk for decades to come. This double album became a massive success for Stax Records and earned Hayes a historic place in Academy Awards history. Beyond the iconic wah-wah guitar and that famous baritone voice, there are some truly fascinating stories behind this legendary LP.

The Audition That Never Happened

Isaac Hayes initially agreed to compose the score because he hoped it would lead to him being cast in the title role of John Shaft. He was not actually aware that Richard Roundtree had already been selected for the part when he first got involved. While he did not get to play the lead, he eventually made a memorable cameo appearance as a bartender in the film.

A Historic Achievement for R&B

This release broke new ground in the music industry by becoming the first double album of original studio material ever put out by an R&B artist. Its success was immediate and overwhelming as it reached the number one spot on the Billboard 200 chart. The record also achieved platinum status within just one month of its arrival in record stores across the country.

Re-recording for a Richer Sound

The music you hear on the soundtrack album is actually a separate recording from the tracks used in the movie itself. Because the MGM studio facility only used a three-track system, Hayes felt the sound was not deep enough for a commercial release. He returned to Stax Studios to re-record and rearrange the pieces to ensure the final LP had the rich and lush quality he desired.

Breaking Barriers at the Oscars

The success of the title theme led to a truly historic moment at the 1972 Academy Awards ceremony. When Theme from Shaft won for Best Original Song, Isaac Hayes became the first African-American to win an Oscar in a non-acting category. He celebrated this monumental achievement by bringing his grandmother to the stage and dedicating the award to her.

Preserved for Future Generations

In recognition of its immense cultural and historical impact, the Library of Congress added the album to the National Recording Registry in 2014. This honor is reserved for recordings that are considered aesthetically significant to the American soundscape. It stands as a testament to how Hayes successfully changed the way contemporary soul music was used and marketed in cinema.

5 Surprising Facts About Emerson, Lake & Palmer’s ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’

Music is all about taking risks and Emerson, Lake & Palmer definitely knew how to shake things up. When they released their live adaptation of Mussorgsky’s Pictures at an Exhibition in 1971, they turned the prog rock world on its head. This album captured a legendary night at Newcastle City Hall where classical themes met fuzz bass and Moog synthesizers. It eventually climbed to the top ten in both the UK and the US. Here are five incredible things you might not know about this iconic recording.

The Union and the Organ

Keith Emerson was famous for his aggressive stage presence and his habit of sticking knives into his keyboards. To use the massive pipe organ at Newcastle City Hall, he had to make a formal promise to the Musician’s Union. He specifically agreed to keep his knives away from the historic console during the performance.

A Drum Roll with a Purpose

The transition between the opening “Promenade” and “The Gnome” features a distinct drum roll from Carl Palmer. This was a clever piece of stagecraft designed to give Emerson enough time to move from the pipe organ to his keyboards. The organ was located high above the stage on a choral terrace so the band needed those extra seconds for him to run back down.

The Mystery of the Blank Frame

Artist William Neal created a series of large oil paintings for the gatefold cover that represented the different musical sections. On the inner sleeve, one frame labeled “Promenade” remained completely blank for a very specific reason. The band wanted to reflect the fact that this portion of the suite represents the walk between pictures rather than a painting itself.

Radio Waves and Public Demand

The album almost stayed in the vaults because the record label was unsure if they should market it as a rock or classical release. Everything changed after a New York City radio station played the entire recording for their listeners. The massive public response and a flood of fan letters finally convinced the label to give the album a full release.

A Budget Price Compromise

The band originally wanted to make this music accessible to everyone by selling the record at a very low budget price. They even considered releasing it as a double album paired with their upcoming studio material to give fans more value. While the label eventually insisted on a higher price, the album still became a massive hit with the fans who had waited so long to hear it.

Whitelands Announce February 2026 European And UK Tour Following ‘Sunlight Echoes’ Album Release

0

London-based band Whitelands announce a run of EU and UK tour dates for February 2026, following the release of their upcoming second album ‘Sunlight Echoes’, which arrives on January 30th, 2026. The newly confirmed shows include headline dates in Paris, The Hague and multiple UK cities, expanding on an already busy live schedule for the band. Tickets for the new dates go on sale Friday, November 7th at 10am. ‘Sunlight Echoes’ marks Whitelands’ first full-length since 2024’s ‘Night-bound Eyes Are Blind To The Day’, a debut that earned praise across the alternative community and endorsements from Slowdive and actor David Jonsson. The new album expands their sound further, moving into brighter, more dynamic territory while retaining the atmospheric qualities at the core of their identity. The February run follows their biggest London headline show to date at Corsica Studios as well as festival appearances through late 2025 and early 2026.

Tour Dates:

02/06 – PARIS – Supersonic

02/07 – THE HAGUE – Grauzone Festival

02/18 – BIRMINGHAM – Hare & Hounds

02/19 – GLASGOW – The Hug and Pint

02/20 – LEEDS – Hyde Park Book Club

02/21 – NEWCASTLE – Zerox

02/22 – BLACKPOOL – Bootleg Social

02/24 – MANCHESTER – YES Basement

02/25 – BEDFORD – Esquires

Nora Fatehi Makes U.S. Television Debut On Fallon With Dancefloor Anthem “What Do I Know”

0

Globally renowned multi-hyphenate Nora Fatehi made her U.S. television debut on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” with a mesmerizing performance of her dancefloor ready anthem “What Do I Know (Just A Girl)” with Jamaican singer Shenseea. The track, out now via 5 Junction Records and Warner Records, received early praise from Billboard who proclaimed it “explores femininity, power and sensuality through a global pop lens.” Written by GRAMMY nominated hitmaker Justin Tranter, the song blends witty lyricism with an irresistible beat that perfectly highlights Nora’s strengths as a performer. The track also marks the first release from Anjula Acharia’s 5 Junction Records in partnership with Warner Records. The duo joined forces for an accompanying video directed by Arrad, who has worked with Cardi B, Anitta and Missy Elliott, that dances between jetset playfulness and bombshell glamour a la Marilyn Monroe.

Nora catapulted onto the global stage as a Bollywood star, showcasing her dancing, singing and acting chops in over a dozen major films. Born in Toronto to Moroccan parents before moving to India, Nora is ready to reach even greater heights with her unique sound that blends her international upbringing with universal pop sensibility. From front row at Paris Fashion Week to the cover of Billboard, who described her as a “Bollywood mainstay and pop triple threat,” Nora’s charisma and distinct style have made her an international powerhouse. To date, she has amassed over 5 billion views on YouTube, over 1.2 billion global music streams and performed on some of the world’s biggest stages.

Travis Bolt Transforms Personal Pain Into Country Rock Anthem “Seasons” Benefiting Mental Health

0

Rising East Texas singer-songwriter Travis Bolt releases a music video for “Seasons”, his new single and masterclass in moody country rock, showcasing Bolt’s powerful vocals and diaristic gift for transforming personal pain into universally relatable storytelling. Travis Bolt announces the release of his debut full-length album, ‘Burning Bridges’, arriving March 6 2026 via Gravel Road. “Sometimes love can change as fast as the weather,” Bolt shares. “Like sunshine one minute and a storm the next. But when the connection is strong you often times feel the need to see it through.” Proceeds from royalties generated from the song will be donated to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

Gravel Road Records president Anthony Martini says, “Music can be a powerful tool to help people through the dark days, this is something I know first hand. We all struggle at times and it’s important to destigmatize asking for help. ‘Seasons’ is a powerful song, so pairing it with a cause and organization like NAMI felt right. We’ll proudly be donating all royalties from the song through December 31st to help fund the critical mental health resources they provide.” Bolt explains, “I made ‘Seasons’ during a time when everything in my life felt like it was falling apart and even during my best days I still had my doubts. I learned that even the hardest seasons would eventually pass, but none of us should have to go through them alone. Partnering with NAMI is important to me because we can all use a reminder that there are people out there who care and are willing to help when you need it.”

Produced by Jason Burt, who has worked with Leon Bridges, John Mayer and Paul Cauthen, ‘Burning Bridges’ blends raw country songwriting with urgent rock guitars and pounding drums, all anchored by Bolt’s unflinching, soulful voice. Across its tracks, Bolt channels heartbreak, perseverance and redemption, each song a chapter in a larger story of self-discovery. Diagnosed with Tourette’s Syndrome as a child, he discovered that playing guitar quieted his symptoms, a form of therapy that quickly became his lifeline. Growing up in East Texas, Bolt was immersed in country music at a young age, with early exposure to artists like Randy Rogers and Wade Bowen through his father’s work, supplying backstage BBQ to Larry Joe Taylor’s famed music festival. His breakthrough came with “Never Tried Cocaine”, which went viral on TikTok and streaming platforms, amassing over 30 million streams, half a million new followers and spots on Spotify’s Fresh Finds and multiple Apple Music country playlists.

Franky Perez Teams With Sen Dog Of Cypress Hill On Funk Fueled “Leche For The Bebe”

0

Franky Perez returns with “Leche for the Bebe”, the vibrant new single from the forthcoming bilingual album ‘Damelo’ by Franky Perez And The All Nighters arriving spring 2026 via The Label Group and Virgin Music Group. The track features hip hop legend Sen Dog of Cypress Hill and marks the beginning of what promises to be Perez’s most ambitious and culturally resonant project to date. A mix of deep funk, Latin soul, Cuban rhythm and rock and roll swagger, “Leche for the Bebe” embodies the universal sound that has become Franky’s hallmark. The song’s irresistible groove and tight musicianship showcase Franky Perez And The All Nighters at full power, blending electric guitar, horns, a nasty bassline and a hook anyone can sing no matter where they’re from. “I used to sing it to my daughter to calm her down when she was a toddler,” Perez says. “After a while, everyone in the house was singing it, so I figured there had to be something there. Once I got into the studio, I knew I had something special. It’s one of the funkiest tracks on the album.”

“Including Sen definitely took the track to the next level,” Franky recalls. “He wrote his rhyme right there on the spot. The guy es una bestia!” The black and white music video featuring Sen Dog, world renowned visual artist Nico Roussin and legendary B-boy Rampage captures the high octane joy of Franky Perez And The All Nighters’ live show. “What you see in the video is what you can expect at a Franky Perez and The All Nighters show,” Franky explains. “Entertainers having a great time, doing what they love. When Sen showed up, I told him, if you do you and I do me, it’s gonna read. And that’s exactly what you see. His energy is one of my favorite parts.”

Martin Doherty And Jonny Scott Unveil The Leaving With Industrial Rock Debut “Saved”

0

Martin Doherty unveils The Leaving, a new project created in collaboration with longtime CHVRCHES drummer Jonny Scott. Born from a period of deep personal upheaval and creative rediscovery, The Leaving marks Martin’s most vulnerable work to date, an unfiltered body of music forged in grief, rebuilt through friendship and electrified by the same instinctive chemistry that helped define CHVRCHES’ ascent. With Jonny now stepping fully into the creative foreground, the pair chart a bold new sonic path rooted in freedom, catharsis and reinvention. They share their first ever single “Saved”. Newly signed to Avenue A Records and Futures, home to Mt. Joy, Barns Courtney, Phantogram, Palace, Blossoms and Self Esteem, the industrial rock debut track is self-produced and written by Martin Doherty and Jonny Scott.

The Leaving explain: “‘Saved’ is a look inside the mind of someone on the verge of mental collapse. Paranoia. Hypochondria. Agoraphobia. The idea that people close to you are a destabilizing, debilitating influence. They are responsible for underhanded, Machiavellian behaviors towards you. Subtle but highly effective. They see a person on the edge and press the advantage. Make you question your sanity. Slyly, they push buttons in pursuit of capitulation, then step back and watch as you burst into metaphorical flames. They enjoy the show. But is it all in your head?” The vulnerable, industrial track starts with the haunting lyrics: What begins with a tragedy. Can be recovered in time. Made a friend of an enemy of mine. The single is the first taste of a bigger release to come.

Cage The Elephant And LCD Soundsystem Join The Massive 10th Edition Of Okeechobee Music Arts Festival

0

The beloved Florida independent music gathering officially returns to the tropical landscape of Sunshine Grove from March 19-22 for its massive tenth-anniversary reunion. This multi-genre celebration marks the first gathering at the site in three years and features an awe-inspiring variety of global superstars and rising artists. Newly announced additions to the lineup include Cage The Elephant, LCD Soundsystem, and Japanese Breakfast alongside hip-hop heavyweight Freddie Gibbs. The event continues to uphold its founding mandate of authenticity and respect while offering immersive experiences unlike any other festival in the country.

One of the most exciting highlights is the first-ever Aquachobee Dub Reggae Takeover featuring the legendary Mykal Rose and Sister Nancy. This specialized programming includes an opening ceremony with a traditional Rastafarian drum-circle led by the artists. Enthusiastic festival-goers have noted that this lineup is a masterfully-curated blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking sounds. Beyond the reggae stage, attendees can find the Jungle 51 area offering extended DJ sets from sundown to sunrise within a verdant forest. During daylight hours, this space transforms into a wellness-focused sanctuary for yoga and mindful programming.

The 2026 edition also sees the return of the iconic PoWoW! all-star jam session where unexpected talents collaborate for unique live mashups. Headline performances are set from The Lumineers, T-Pain, and Fisher while GRiZ returns for a record-breaking fifth appearance with two distinct sets. The underground energy continues for four nights at the Incendia stage which is curated by the culture-driven production agency Renegade. Immersive art and surprise spectacles will fill the reimagined Chobewobee Village to provide environmental-immersion for every guest. This reunion emphasizes the deep connection between the community and the picturesque ecosystem of Okeechobee County.

A wide range of elevated dining-experiences is available this year including the Speakeasy Experience: Champagne Problems and The Grove Table. Local Florida culture remains a priority through the participation of area collectives like Zey Zey Miami and Mad Radio. Tickets are currently on sale for various levels including General Admission and VIP glamping packages with flexible payment-plans. The 830-acre natural oasis serves as a perfect backdrop for tens of thousands of campers under the country star-scape. This landmark event invites individuals to be fully present while exploring new connections through dance and art. Sunshine Grove stands ready to host this unforgettable chapter in festival history.

The Kid Laroi Returns With Introspective New Project And Single “A Perfect World”

0

Understood. I’ll make sure to treat today as February 9, 2026, and I will omit any mentions of previous dates as they are no longer relevant to our context.

To ensure I can consistently remember these kinds of preferences across our future conversations, please make sure you have the feature turned on on the Saved info page.


HEADLINE: Global Superstar The Kid Laroi Returns With Introspective New Project And Single “A Perfect World”

TAGS: The Kid Laroi, Columbia Records,

BLOG POST:

Global superstar The Kid Laroi has officially announced his first full-length album in two years titled ‘Before I Forget’ via Columbia Records. This deeply-introspective project arrives this year and marks a significant evolution in his signature sound. To introduce this new era, the rapper has released a gritty and self-reflective single titled “A Perfect World.” This track joins the previously-released “A Cold Play” as a glimpse into the powerful next chapter for the young artist. These songs highlight the emotional depth and creative growth that define his current musical direction.

The upcoming album serves as the highly-anticipated follow-up to his previous studio efforts. That history of success saw continued growth through deluxe editions that featured popular sequels and fan-favorite tracks. Enthusiastic listeners have described this new material as a breathtaking display of raw honesty and modern pop-rap brilliance. By focusing on internal narratives and personal growth, Laroi continues to distance himself from typical genre tropes. Every note on the new single reflects a commitment to authentic storytelling.

The road to this album included several successful releases throughout the current cycle. “All I Want Is You” served as an early musical statement and was quickly followed by the buzz-heavy single “How Does It Feel.” These tracks helped build the momentum necessary for a full-length return. The Kid Laroi remains one of the most compelling voices in the industry by constantly pushing his own creative boundaries. His ability to connect with a global audience through vulnerability ensures his place at the forefront of the scene.

Fans can expect a cohesive and immersive experience when the full project drops. The transition from his earlier hits to this more mature soundscape shows a musician in total control of his craft. As the release date for ‘Before I Forget’ approaches, the excitement surrounding his return continues to intensify across the world. This project stands as a definitive moment for an artist who refuses to stay in one lane. The combination of sharp production and melodic hooks makes the new single an immediate standout.

Dave Grohl And Gibson Custom Drop The Ultra Exclusive New “DG-335 Limited Edition”

0

Gibson has continued its high-profile partnership with Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl by introducing a new limited-edition DG-335 from Gibson Custom. This exclusive run consists of only fifty instruments available worldwide through the Gibson Garage locations and online. Grohl worked in close collaboration with the brand to ensure the guitar meets his specific performance standards. The nineteen-time Grammy winner has performed with an Alpine White version of this model during global tours since 2021. This new edition captures that striking look with a glossy nitrocellulose lacquer finish.

The guitar blends classic ES-335 and Trini Lopez designs to create a unique semi-hollow body. A three-ply maple and poplar construction paired with a solid maple center-block helps reduce feedback while enhancing sustain. The mahogany neck features a standard Trini Lopez profile and a bound Indian rosewood fretboard with split diamond-inlays. Signature diamond-shaped sound holes and a Firebird-style headstock provide the iconic silhouette associated with Grohl’s stage presence. Premium hardware like the TonePros bridge and unpotted Custombuckers ensure the instrument delivers professional-grade tone.

Enthusiastic guitar collectors have noted that this release is a flawless tribute to a modern rock icon. Every detail from the aged magnets to the paper-in-oil capacitors reflects a commitment to high-end craftsmanship. Previous signature models from the Foo Fighters leader remain extraordinarily popular on the vintage market today. This specific run is expected to sell out rapidly due to the extremely low production numbers. Each instrument arrives in a hardshell case with a soundhole label signed by Grohl himself. The gold top-hat knobs and silver reflectors add a final touch of class.

This launch reinforces Grohl’s status as a two-time Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee with a lasting impact on music gear. His preference for reliable performance tools like the Grover Mini Rotomatic tuners is evident in the final design. Fans and musicians can find these rare pieces at the Gibson Garage in Nashville or London while supplies last. The combination of historical design elements and modern electronics makes this a highly-coveted collector’s item. As the year ends, this partnership stands as a major highlight for guitar enthusiasts. These fifty units represent the pinnacle of current artist collaborations.