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ennessee Launches Sound Bites Pairing Music And Food Across The State

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The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development has launched Sound Bites, a statewide campaign that pairs two of Tennessee’s defining traditions, music and food, into one immersive experience. Rather than treating music as background noise, Sound Bites positions it as a core ingredient of the meal, inviting visitors to savor dishes alongside specially created original songs.

At the center of the campaign is the concept of “sonic seasoning,” a term rooted in research by Oxford experimental psychologist Charles Spence. His studies show that tempo, pitch and instrumentation can influence how the brain perceives sweet, sour, salty, bitter and umami flavors. Sound Bites brings that science to life through chef and artist collaborations across the state.

Three short-form films now streaming at TNSoundBites.com spotlight regional pairings. In East Tennessee, Lee Brice, David Tolliver and Billy Montana collaborate with Chef Jeff Carter of Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro. In Middle Tennessee, Ben Rector teams with Chef Philip Krajeck of Rolf and Daughters. In West Tennessee, DJ Paul, Southern Avenue, Lil Wyte and Boo Mitchell join Chef Felicia Willett of Felicia Suzanne’s.

“For centuries, people have paired food with wine. Now, we’re asking, ‘Why not food and music?’” said Commissioner Mark Ezell. An interactive tool on TNSoundBites.com allows users to enter a dish, identify its flavor profile and receive curated Tennessee playlists designed to enhance the tasting experience, turning every bite into a soundtrack-driven memory.

Run Remedy Reimagines Rick Springfield’s “Jessie’s Girl” With Queer Alt-Pop Spin

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Alt-pop artist Run Remedy has released a bold reinterpretation of Rick Springfield’s 1981 hit “Jessie’s Girl,” transforming the classic into a soft, sapphic daydream. The Manchester-based, American-born songwriter, born Robin Koob, reshapes the original’s longing into an intimate, queer slow-burn, layering lush instrumentation and playful key changes over the song’s unmistakable riff.

“I swear if I’m back home driving around South Jersey, ‘Jessie’s Girl’ will come on within the hour,” Koob says. “That level of cringey yearning is timeless, so obviously I had to make my own sapphic spinoff.” In this version, all the characters are women, shifting the narrative into tender territory while maintaining the emotional pull that made the original a pop staple.

Run Remedy swaps the iconic guitar solo for banjo, changes the key twice, and injects witty lyrical twists without losing the hook that fans recognize instantly. “The original video is pure camp, so I basically Weird Al’d it with rainbow kids,” she explains, describing a one-day shoot around Manchester that recreated the spirit of the original with a playful queer lens.

Following the release, Run Remedy will perform at The New Colossus Festival in New York City on March 3–4, support Charlotte Carpenter at The Eagle Inn in Manchester on April 23, join Katie Rigby at 45 Vinyl Café in York on May 2, and appear at Kendal Calling Festival in Cumbria on August 2. Her debut album Xtian Skate Night, released in June 2025, introduced her blend of confessional lyricism and atmospheric indie textures, laying the groundwork for this inventive new chapter.

SoundExchange Expands Global Reach With 17 New International CMO Agreements

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SoundExchange has added 17 new agreements with collective management organizations worldwide, expanding its global neighboring rights coverage to more than 91% of the available market. The latest signings, spanning Kenya, Barbados, Panama, Paraguay and key European territories, bring the nonprofit’s total portfolio to over 90 agreements.

Most of the new agreements were reached in 2025, including rights owner pacts with Barbados’ Copyright Society Of Composers Authors & Publishers, Paraguay’s Sociedad de Gestión de Productores Fonográficos del Paraguay and Kenya’s Kenya Association of Music Producers. Entering 2026, SoundExchange finalized performer agreements with Kenya’s KAMP and Norway’s Gramo, strengthening its international performer representation.

“Expanding our network of agreements with partner CMOs throughout the world bolsters our ability to offer premier international neighboring rights services,” said Michael Huppe, President and CEO of SoundExchange. “This growth strengthens our global reach and reinforces our mission to deliver transparency and efficiency for artists and rights holders worldwide.”

SoundExchange, the largest neighboring rights collective globally, represents nearly 500,000 artists and rights owners and has distributed more than $12 billion in digital performance royalties since 2003. Through its SX Direct portal, performers and rights holders can collect all available global royalties or select individual territories, streamlining international collections with one centralized partner.

The Jim Henson Company Celebrates 40 Years Of Labyrinth With Robust Consumer Products Collection

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Jim Henson’s fantasy musical Labyrinth turns 40 this year, celebrating a film that continues to enchant audiences worldwide. Starring David Bowie as Jareth the Goblin King and Jennifer Connelly as Sarah, the coming-of-age adventure remains a defining 1980s cult classic. Its soundtrack, fashion, creatures and imaginative world still resonate, connecting generations through music, fantasy and nostalgia.

The anniversary year began with nationwide screenings presented by Fathom Events in hundreds of U.S. theaters. Labyrinth in Concert, featuring a live band performing alongside the film, is currently touring the U.K. through April and will return to the U.S. in September for a multi-city run, drawing sold-out crowds eager to relive the magic on the big screen.

A wide slate of new and returning licensees is rolling out products to mark the milestone. New partners include Bit Bot Media, Bottleneck Gallery, Buffalo Games, Bullairs, Cosmic Beauty, EXO-6 and WOLFpak, offering everything from collectible figures and puzzles to apparel, sneakers and accessories. Returning brands such as Cavity Colors, Insight Editions, Plastic Meatball and Truffle Shuffle x Loungefly are also debuting fresh collections.

“The Labyrinth franchise has continued to grow year over year for forty years, and it will continue to flourish,” said Melissa Segal, Head of Global Consumer Products for The Jim Henson Company. With more global initiatives on the horizon and expanded licensing opportunities, the 40th anniversary underscores the film’s enduring cultural impact.

LG And will.i.am Launch xboom Buds Plus And Buds Lite

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LG Electronics has reunited with nine-time Grammy winner will.i.am to introduce the latest additions to the xboom lineup: the LG xboom Buds Plus and LG xboom Buds Lite. Available now at LG.com and authorized retailers nationwide, Buds Plus retail for $179.99, while Buds Lite are priced at $69.99. The launch continues the “xboom by will.i.am” collaboration, with the artist serving as experiential architect for the brand.

Expertly tuned and approved by will.i.am, the new earbuds reflect his signature balanced warm tones and focus on immersive sound. The Buds Plus feature Active Noise Cancelling, 3D Spatial Audio, multi-point connection and up to 30 hours of total playtime, including 10 hours from the earbuds and 20 from the charging case. The UVnano+ charging case uses UV-C light to reduce bacteria on the earbud mesh, emphasizing a cleaner listening experience.

The Buds Plus also include a built-in Bluetooth transmitter for use with wired audio sources such as in-flight systems and treadmills, along with customizable EQ settings and an IPX4 water resistance rating. For everyday portability, the Buds Lite offer up to 35 hours of total playtime, 11.5 hours from the earbuds and 23.5 hours from the case, while retaining customizable EQ and IPX4 protection.

Guided by will.i.am’s belief that sound enriches experience, the expanded xboom lineup blends high-end audio performance with user-focused innovation. Both models are available now, extending LG’s commitment to delivering versatile listening solutions for music, travel and fitness.

The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale And Gibson Launch Oceanfront Guitar Experience

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This spring, The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale will debut the Gibson Guitar Experience, a resort-wide collaboration with iconic music brand Gibson, celebrating over 130 years. From April 10 through May 10, timed with Tortuga Music Festival, the takeover transforms the oceanfront resort into an immersive sound-meets-the-sea escape.  Select elements of the experience, including Burlock Coast Seafare & SpiritsThe Ritz-Carlton Spa, Fort Lauderdale, and Sea La Vie Sundeck, are open to both non-hotel guests and hotel visitors, while guests reserving Club Lounge accommodations can enjoy additional amenities.

The collaboration supports Gibson Gives, the philanthropic division of Gibson supporting musicians worldwide, with proceeds from a custom-wrapped guitar benefiting the foundation.  The one-of-a-kind guitar features artwork by digital artist Kenneth Kudulis, who will be available to meet guests on April 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and April 11 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and provide print giveaways.   A silent auction will be available all month long for the opportunity to take home the Gibson memorabilia. 

Guests reserving Club Lounge will receive a Gibson x The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale guitar pick keepsake, and handcrafted dark chocolate guitar. The Club Lounge serves as the centerpiece featuring select Gibson guitars for guests to play, live music on select evenings; and culinary offerings inspired from Gibson’s hometown of Nashville including warm biscuits and jam, smoke-infused craft cocktails, Goldtop Hot Gulf Shrimp and Appalachian Spoon Bread Dumplings.

Evenings continue at Burlock Coast with Smoke & Strings, a four-course tasting menu with cocktail pairings ($199pp++) featuring items such as Southern BiscuitsRoasted Local Beets, Country-Fried Fish, Whiskey-Bathed Cowboy Steak and Smoked S’mores Tart; accompanied by cocktails including Rum Tide Punch and Tennessee Whiskey Wood Barrel Old Fashioned.

At The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Fort Lauderdale, sound becomes a pathway to relaxation through the Harmonic Heat Therapy ($380pp excluding gratuity), an 80-minute ritual combining infrared heat, sound immersion, and stress-relief massage.  Outdoors, the experience extends to Sea La Vie Sundeck, where live music on select Saturdays pairs with elevated poolside service and Gibson-inspired cocktails.

“Our partnership with Gibson allows us to bring a new dimension to the resort experience through the universal language of music,” said General Manager Jose Torres of The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale. “By pairing Gibson’s legendary craftsmanship and sound with our oceanfront setting, culinary offerings and restorative spa offerings, we’re creating a getaway that resonates well beyond the stay.”

“Gibson has always believed in the power of music to create meaningful moments, and our collaboration with The Ritz Carlton, Fort Lauderdale brings that philosophy to life,” says Beth Heidt, Chief Marketing Officer at Gibson. “The Gibson Guitar Experience reflects the heart of our brand and invites guests to connect with music on a deeper level.”

Jung Kook Joins Hublot As Global Brand Ambassador For Big Bang Original Unico

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Hublot proudly welcomes Jung Kook, global artist, performer, and member of 21st century pop icons, BTS, as its new Global Brand Ambassador. The announcement has been celebrated in Seoul, marking the fusion of two worlds that have redefined what it means to be original: a watchmaker that reshaped modern horology and an artist who reshaped the sound and rhythm of a generation. From the first fusion of gold and rubber in 1980, to the shockwave of the Big Bang in 2005 and now the reinvention of the Big Bang Original Unico, Hublot has turned innovation into identity. Jung Kook mirrors that same spirit: blending genres, creativity, emotions and instinct. The collaboration is not a coincidence; it is a convergence. Both the artist and Hublot go back to their origins, carrying with them the unmistakable DNA that makes them stand apart.

On the partnership, Jung Kook stated: “Performing Dreamers at the FIFA World Cup in 2022, with Hublot as Official Timekeeper of the competition, was a moment where time and music felt connected. Now, collaborating with Hublot feels like that moment coming full circle. I’ve always admired the brand’s confidence, its craftsmanship, its way of creating its own path. 

Julien Tornare, Hublot CEO, affirmed: Jung Kook is one of the most influential artists of his generation. His precision, his passion and his willingness to push boundaries reflect the very spirit of Hublot. Just as we continuously rethink, refine and re-engineer our creations, from the fusion of materials to the mastery of our in-house movements, Jung Kook carries the spirit of evolution, always transforming, always original. We are honored to welcome him into the Hublot family.”

BEYOND APPEARANCES: THE INNER ESSENCE WITHIN JUNG KOOK X HUBLOT 
Just as Hublot has evolved through innovation and reinvention, both are defined by depth and substance. In the same way, Hublot reveals its essence through mastery of its manufacture, the fusion of materials and technologies and the creation of its in-house Unico movement.

In 2005, Hublot did more than introduce a watch: it ignited a modern revolution. With the Big Bang, Hublot took fusion and turned it into modern alchemy, created a new visual language and established a design that that has marked two decades, defining Hublot’s legacy and continuing to shape what’s next. Since 2013, the year of his debut on stage, Jung Kook has blended genres, creativity and emotions, shaping a voice unmistakably his own. Today, with the 2026 announcement of Jung Kook as Global Brand Ambassador, Hublot celebrates the meeting of an artist who redefines originality and a watch that has just returned to its own beginnings with the Big Bang Original Unico.

WHY THE BIG BANG ORIGINAL UNICO BELONGS ON JUNG KOOK‘S WRIST
The Big Bang Original Unico, launched in January 2026, carries twenty years of Hublot mastery, from the very first fusion in 1980, to the design revolution of 2005, to its reinvention in 2026. It is built layer by layer, just as the artist builds himself song by song. Jung Kook’s career reflects a journey defined by ongoing growth and artistic exploration. His work continues to evolve in ways that build on past achievements while opening new creative possibilities. In this context, the Big Bang Original Unico serves as a meaningful partner that aligns with his individual style and artistic direction—rather than a symbol of any singular narrative. This is why the Big Bang Original Unico is not just a timepiece on his wrist. It is an extension of his creative code.

HUBLOT

In 1980 and for the first time, a watch dared to put a gold case on a rubber strap, turning the luxury watch world upside down in the process. Named for the porthole-shaped bezel with its exposed screws, Hublot was born and with it, the Art of Fusion.

In 2005 the brand took this exercise in creative thinking to a new level with the Big Bang and its iconic design, size and layered construction case. That same year, Hublot received the Best Design award at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève. Since then, spurred by this revolutionary mindset, the Big Bang has never stopped reinventing itself. The twenty-first century has its first watch Icon.

The concept of fusion is omnipresent, the guiding principle for every collection. Big Bang timepieces reshape the geometries of time; Classic Fusion balances boldness and restraint, while the Exceptional Timepieces overwrite expectations to create unprecedented horological objects. With its disruptive approach of challenging convention, Hublot’s DNA is transcribed in the Unico, Meca-10 and tourbillon in-house movements, to add another tier of meaning to the Art of Fusion.

Alchemy is ingrained into Hublot and not just at La Manufacture. Magic can take place on a football pitch, producing partnerships with major events (UEFA Champions League and UEFA Euro™). Sometimes it happens at a concert, a basketball match, an artistic performance or at a unique gastronomic experience with Hublot’s family of starred Chefs. And so, the Hublot Vibes come to life, through shared moments of exaltation amongst the Hublotistas, its very own community of proud Hublot owners. The Art of Fusion goes beyond the tangible. It is a way of being, the Hublot way of life.

THE UNIQUENESS OF THE HUBLOT UNICO IN-HOUSE MOVEMENT

Born in 2010, the Unico was the first movement entirely designed, developed and manufactured in-house by Hublot, marking a new era of independence, innovation and identity for the brand. Over the years, it has evolved into a bold and unmistakable signature of Hublot watchmaking, known for its robust and revolutionary chronograph design.

With standout features like a front-facing column wheel, silicon escapement, the Unico movement is a mechanical force that’s as visually striking as it is technically advanced. It’s not just what powers the watch, it’s what defines it.

Key features include an integrated flyback chronograph precise to 1/8th of a second for instant reset and restart, an accuracy of -2/+4 seconds per day, a 72-hour power reserve. The movement also holds five patented innovations, covering: dual oscillating clutches, an anti-trembling system, a “zero friction” ratchet wheel blocker, a fine balance wheel adjustment system and constant-pressure friction system for the minute counter all rigorously tested through Hublot’s Chronofiable® protocol to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and precision.

Harry Chapin Foundation Receives $250,000 Gift Honoring National Guitar Day Legacy

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 In celebration of National Guitar Day, people across the world are encouraged to pick up a guitar and let their voices be heard. No singer-songwriter has exemplified this rallying cry more through life and legacy than Harry Chapin.

Today, the Harry Chapin Foundation is proud to announce a $250,000 donation from the estate of Patricia (“Pat”) LoTurco, a lifelong fan and New York resident inspired by Chapin’s music and his humanitarian work toward ending hunger. This major contribution, planned by LoTurco years before her recent passing, marks a milestone in the foundation’s 45-year history and provides resources to support innovative grassroots nonprofit organizations across the United States.

It is deeply moving to see how my father’s music and his commitment to social justice continue to resonate so many years later,” said Josh Chapin, board member of the Harry Chapin Foundation and son of Harry and Sandy Chapin. “Pat didn’t just listen to the music; she took Harry’s message to heart and made it part of her own life’s plan. By designating the foundation as the beneficiary of her life insurance policy, she has provided an enduring gift that will help keep Harry’s dreams alive — ensuring his mission for human rights, human needs, and human dignity will thrive for generations to come.”

Since its inception following the legendary singer-songwriter-humanitarian’s passing in 1981, the Harry Chapin Foundation has remained dedicated to Chapin’s credo: When in doubt, do something.” To date, the foundation has successfully awarded 807 grants totaling $2,894,942.36. This $250,000 gift is the largest in its history and significantly increases the foundation’s endowment, enabling it to further its mission to support organizations that provide agricultural, environmental, community, and arts-in-education programs that dramatically improve people’s lives and livelihoods.

Beloved for timeless hits such as “Taxi” and “W.O.L.D.,” Chapin’s musical influence remains as strong as ever. His signature number one hit song, “Cat’s in the Cradle,” was recently the focus of the 2025 documentary Cat’s in the Cradle: The Song That Changed Our Lives, marking the 50th anniversary of its release.

Beyond his music, Chapin maintained a tireless commitment to raising and giving away millions of dollars to support nonprofit organizations and causes, and since 1981, the Harry Chapin Foundation has awarded grants to 430 nonprofit organizations across the U.S., including WhyHunger, co-founded by Chapin to address the root causes of hunger and poverty and build grassroots movements for food justice globally; Long Island Cares, the regional food bank he established in New York in 1980 to serve his home community; and the Harry Chapin Food Bank of Southwest Florida, the largest hunger-relief nonprofit in its region, named in his honor.

LoTurco’s historic gift helps the Foundation to champion high-impact, community-based organizations across the U.S. that turn Chapin’s ‘do something’ philosophy into reality.

Pat was a true community connector,” said Michael Misvesky, LoTurco’s nephew. “She believed deeply in helping others and in the power of humanitarian work, and she held Harry Chapin’s legacy and spirit of service in the highest regard. Supporting causes that reflected compassion, generosity, and social responsibility was central to who she was.

5 Legendary Family Music Bands That Kept It All in the Family

Blood is thicker than water, but harmony might be even tighter. From sibling rivalries turned chart-topping gold to living room jam sessions that grew into global fame, these family bands turned shared DNA into shared stages. Here are five legendary family acts who made music history together.

The Jackson 5

Brothers Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon, and Michael Jackson became Motown superstars in the late 1960s. They made history as the first group whose first four singles – “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There” – all hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. “I’ll Be There” became one of Motown’s biggest-selling singles ever, and the group scored 17 Top 40 hits in just five years.

  1. The Beach Boys

Founded by brothers Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson, cousin Mike Love, and friend Al Jardine, The Beach Boys defined the California sound. They placed 36 songs in the Billboard Top 40, including three #1 hits: “I Get Around,” “Help Me, Rhonda,” and “Good Vibrations.” The 1966 album Pet Sounds is frequently cited among the greatest albums ever made and helped revolutionize studio production.

  1. The Bee Gees

Brothers Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb became global hitmakers across three decades. They scored nine #1 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including “How Can You Mend a Broken Heart,” “Stayin’ Alive,” and “Night Fever.” The Saturday Night Fever soundtrack sold more than 40 million copies worldwide, and the Bee Gees wrote or produced over 1,000 songs recorded by other artists.

  1. The Osmonds

The Osmonds – Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, Donny, and later sister Marie Osmond – became teen idols in the early 1970s. They earned six Top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including the #1 smash “One Bad Apple.” Donny Osmond also scored solo hits like “Go Away Little Girl,” while Donny and Marie’s variety show drew millions of weekly viewers.

  1. HAIM

Sisters Este, Danielle, and Alana Haim broke through with their 2013 debut Days Are Gone, featuring the singles “The Wire” and “If I Could Change Your Mind.” Their 2020 album Women in Music Pt. III debuted at #1 in the U.K. and earned two Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year. Known for tight harmonies and sharp musicianship, they have headlined major festivals and toured globally.

Nathaniel Rateliff Joins Farm Aid Board Alongside Willie Nelson And Neil Young

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 Farm Aid announced today that Americana award-winning artist Nathaniel Rateliff has joined its Board of Directors. After a unanimous vote, Rateliff will work alongside founders Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp, fellow artist board members Dave Matthews and Margo Price and a team of industry professionals. Rateliff is the third artist to be added to Farm Aid’s Board since its original founding.

“Farm Aid has made a huge impact on me,” Rateliff shared. “It is always one of my favorite events of the year. It is an honor and a privilege to join my heroes and peers as a Farm Aid board member. I look forward to working together to continue educating the public on the struggles family farmers face and to raise money to support them for a better future.”

The Farm Aid Board has guided the organization for 40 years, working year-round to build an agricultural system that values family farmers, good food, healthy soil and water, and strong rural communities. Deeply committed to Farm Aid’s mission, the Board artists anchor the annual festival — an event that offers unforgettable music while also raising critical funds, growing public awareness, celebrating family farmers and galvanizing support for them across the country. These artist-leaders stay closely connected to the people and places they support, elevating the voices of farmers from diverse backgrounds and using their own voices to amplify the urgent issues shaping the future of agriculture.

Rateliff is a steadfast ally of Farm Aid, first performing for Farm Aid’s community of loyal supporters at Farm Aid Eve in 2013 and then returning repeatedly to the stage since 2016. Over the years, he has shown up not just as a performer, but as an advocate off the main stage, appearing frequently as a featured speaker on the FarmYard Stage and lending his voice through interviews, podcasts and other opportunities to elevate the organization’s mission.

Raised in Hermann, Missouri, and now based in Colorado, Rateliff has long felt a deep connection to the land and the people who steward it. His music career began playing drums in his family’s church band. Following a decade of performing mostly as a folk-inspired solo act, Rateliff formed the rock outfit Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats. Since their 2015 self-titled breakthrough album, the band has established themselves as generational talents through their dynamic live performances and growing catalog of essential studio recordings, including Platinum and Gold RIAA certifications.

After The Night Sweats first played Farm Aid in 2016, Rateliff immediately knew that it was a place he wanted to return to year after year. Since then, he has only leaned further into the work, using the annual festival not only as a performance opportunity but as a space to learn — especially about the challenges farmers face and the vital role they play in sustaining their communities. That ongoing experience helped spark a deeper conversation within his own team and ultimately inspired the creation of The Marigold Project, his foundation dedicated to funding strategies that confront income inequality, boost civic engagement, expand equitable access to growing and eating good food, and advance gender and racial justice.