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Kēvens Earns Grammy Consideration for ‘Call To Balance’ in Album of the Year and Global Album of the Year Categories

Eric Alper
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Kēvens Earns Grammy Consideration for ‘Call To Balance’ in Album of the Year and Global Album of the Year Categories

Visionary artist Kēvens has earned Grammy Awards consideration for his groundbreaking album ‘Call To Balance’ in the categories of Album of the Year and Global Album of the Year, recognizing his genre-defying blend of reggae, electronic, and world music that continues to inspire unity and transcend borders.

A bold, cinematic body of work, ‘Call To Balance’ weaves together powerful rhythms, immersive production, and deeply human storytelling. Across standout tracks including “Battle for Peace,” “Soñadores Legales,” “World Is Burning,” and “Sweet Lady Liberty,” Kēvens fuses the spiritual and the political into a sound that feels both timeless and urgently modern. His music, described as ReggaeEDM, is a testament to his lifelong mission: to bring people together through vibration, vision, and voice.

Born in Miami’s vibrant club scene and mentored by Cedella Marley Booker, mother of reggae legend Bob Marley, Kēvens’ career reflects a rare synthesis of heritage and innovation. From his early days performing with the Marley family’s Le Coup to sharing stages with icons like Steven Tyler, Carlos Santana, Tiësto, and Daft Punk, he has built a global following drawn to his message of positivity, spiritual awareness, and cultural connection.

“Music is my ministry,” says Kēvens. “I create to unite souls—to remind humanity that we share one rhythm, one heartbeat.” That ethos pulses through ‘Call To Balance’, which balances modern electronic textures with reggae’s organic roots, resulting in a transcendent listening experience that defies genre.

Praised by critics for its sonic craftsmanship and cultural relevance, ‘Call To Balance’ positions Kēvens as one of today’s most innovative and globally minded artists. The album’s seamless fusion of world rhythms, emotional storytelling, and masterful production exemplifies the kind of borderless artistry celebrated by the Recording Academy’s global categories.

As he continues his mission to bring light and balance through music, Kēvens’ nomination consideration marks not only a personal milestone but a recognition of a movement — one grounded in love, unity, and transformation.

“Positivity is a necessity,” Kēvens reminds us. “Music has the power to heal, to bridge divides, and to remind us of our shared humanity.”

Men Without Hats Announce New Album ‘On the Moon’ and Electrifying Single “In Glorious Days”

Eric Alper
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Men Without Hats Announce New Album ‘On the Moon’ and Electrifying Single “In Glorious Days”

Men Without Hats—one of Canada’s most enduring and beloved new wave bands—are back with their upcoming album ‘On the Moon,’ out November 14, 2025. Their latest single, “In Glorious Days,” out now, continues the group’s exciting new chapter, following the viral success of “I ❤️ The 80s,” which has earned over two million views and streams in just three months.

Written by frontman Ivan Doroschuk and Grammy and Juno Award-winning producer Brian Howes, “In Glorious Days” represents the band’s first experience with true creative collaboration. The track captures the spirit of classic Men Without Hats while embracing a modern synthwave aesthetic that bridges the past and future of their sound. “Working with Brian was effortless—the song came together naturally,” Ivan says. “It’s a hybrid of the classic MWH sound with a fresh sonic sensibility. I can’t wait to play it live—it’s going to be a new crowd favourite.”

‘On the Moon’ was recorded in two sessions—first at Howes’ studio in Comox Valley, Vancouver Island, where the pair collaborated on “I ❤️ The 80s” and “In Glorious Days,” and then in Victoria, BC, where Ivan and longtime producer, engineer, and guitarist Sho Murray captured the album’s more intimate moments. With additional vocals from Sahara Sloan and mastering by industry legends Mark Needham and Howie Weinberg, the record is both polished and deeply personal—a sonic journey through reflection, resilience, and renewal.

“In Glorious Days” is an anthem for anyone reclaiming their fire. With pulsing synths, driving percussion, and Ivan’s unmistakable voice, it evokes both nostalgia and transformation. Lyrically, it explores the tension between passion and self-preservation—capturing the exuberant, defiant spirit that made Men Without Hats global icons of individuality and joy.

Formed in Montreal in 1977 by Ivan Doroschuk, Men Without Hats became a cornerstone of the New Wave era with hits like “The Safety Dance” and “Pop Goes the World,” songs that have transcended generations and soundtracked everything from Super Bowl campaigns to global soccer chants. Inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020, the band’s influence continues to ripple through pop culture.

Today’s lineup—featuring Ivan Doroschuk (vocals), Sahara Sloan (keyboards, vocals), Sho Murray (guitar), and Adrian White (drums)—embodies the band’s signature balance of innovation and nostalgia. With over 31 million YouTube views, 9.9 million Spotify listeners, and fans spanning continents, Men Without Hats remain one of Canada’s most recognized and enduring musical exports.

In support of ‘On the Moon,’ Men Without Hats will embark on their highly anticipated Canadian tour and promises a high-energy mix of new material, classic hits, and fan-favourite deep cuts—all delivered with the wit, warmth, and flair that have defined their legacy.

Men Without Hats Tour Dates – Tickets Available at safetydance.com:
OCTOBER 2025

Oct 16 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL – The Parker

Oct 17 – Miami, FL – Moss Centre

Oct 18 – Ft. Pierce, FL – Sunrise Theatre

Oct 19 – Jacksonville, FL – Florida Theatre

NOVEMBER 2025

Nov 7 – Sands Resort – Cancun

Nov 18 – Ottawa, ON – Algonquin Commons

Nov 19 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwell’s

Nov 20 – Toronto, ON – Mod Club

Nov 21 – Oshawa, ON – Biltmore Theatre

Nov 22 – Brampton, ON – The Rose Brampton

DECEMBER 2025

Dec 27 – Ocean’s Casino Resort – Atlantic City, NJ (Totally Tubular)

Dec 28 – Foxwoods Casino Resort – Connecticut (Totally Tubular)

Dec 29 – Palladium Times Square – New York, NY (Totally Tubular)

Dec 31 – Casablanca Resort – Las Vegas, NV

JANUARY 2026

Jan 18 – Winnipeg, MB – Club Regent

Jan 20 – Calgary, AB – Bell Concert Hall

Jan 22 – Edmonton, AB – Pure Casino

Jan 24 – Coquitlam, BC – Great Canadian Casino

FEBRUARY 2026

Feb 5 – Pechanga Casino – California

Feb 6 – Anaheim – House of Blues

Feb 7 – Menlo Park – Guild Theatre

Feb 27 – Mar 6 – Florida – The 80’s Cruise

As they prepare for the release of ‘On the Moon,’ Men Without Hats continue to evolve while honouring their roots—blending innovation, melody, and nostalgia in equal measure. With “In Glorious Days,” the band proves that their creative spark still burns brightly, offering a powerful reminder that great songs—and great spirits—never go out of style.

Kid DET & Sad Classes Turn the Past Into Power With New Single “Rearview”

Eric Alper
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Kid DET & Sad Classes Turn the Past Into Power With New Single “Rearview”

Toronto’s genre-blending duo Kid DET and Sad Classes are bringing melodic rap to new heights with “Rearview”—a powerful and emotionally charged first single from their upcoming project ‘Soul Food II: At The Cabin’, arriving October 17, 2025. The track’s energy, honesty, and cinematic flair mark a major moment for two artists whose friendship and shared story continue to define a new wave of Canadian hip-hop.

From the first beat, “Rearview” pulls listeners into a mood both reflective and resilient. The duo trades verses over smooth, melancholic production that glows with late-night drive energy. It’s the perfect start to ‘Soul Food II: At The Cabin,’ a project that continues the journey of escape, evolution, and emotional growth first introduced in their earlier work.

For Kid DET, music began as therapy. Starting to write songs at just 12 years old, he found a creative outlet for his anxiety and a path toward self-understanding. ‘Music gave me relief and helped me make sense of what I was feeling,’ he shares. That early spark grew into a lifelong mission—to make songs that help others feel seen and less alone.

Sad Classes, who began writing and rapping at the same age, came from a world where hip-hop was more than expression—it was survival. ‘I grew up in an environment where the stories you hear in gangster rap were real,’ he explains. ‘Music was how I got out, how I found peace.’ When the two met in high school—ironically the same one Drake attended—they discovered that despite their very different upbringings, music was their common ground.

Their first collaboration sparked the three-part ‘Soul Food’ concept album—a storytelling arc about self-discovery and escape. Volume II, ‘At The Cabin,’ is split into two sides: one with high-energy tracks for movement and celebration, and another that dives deep into the emotions that come when the party fades. ‘Rearview’ sets the tone, balancing introspection with momentum.

‘We made “Rearview” in one take,’ says Sad Classes. ‘We hit record on a voice memo, and what you hear today is almost exactly what came out that moment.’ That authenticity carries through to the song’s music video, directed by Fatty Soprano, whose visual flair captures the track’s mood and message perfectly.

Produced by Kid DET and Sad Classes themselves, with compositions by Conor Fitzgerald and Theevoni Theevoni, ‘Rearview’ showcases their evolution as artists and producers under Finest Edge Music Inc. The chemistry between the two has never been stronger—grounded in years of collaboration, respect, and creative growth.

‘We wanted to make something that feels like freedom,’ says Kid DET. ‘A song you can drive to, think to, and feel with. It’s about looking back only to move forward.’

As hip-hop continues to embrace melodic storytelling, Kid DET and Sad Classes stand poised to make a global impact. Their mix of raw lyricism, smooth flow, and emotionally intelligent songwriting connects across genres—bridging hip-hop, R&B, and alternative pop into one unified sound.

With ‘Rearview’ now streaming on Spotify and YouTube, and ‘Soul Food II: At The Cabin’ set for release on October 17, 2025, Kid DET and Sad Classes are driving full speed into their next chapter—one that feels both personal and universal, rooted in growth, and ready for the world to hear.

Guelph, ON’s Arshia Shah Wins Canada’s Teen Jam Toronto 2025

Eric Alper
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Guelph, ON’s Arshia Shah Wins Canada’s Teen Jam Toronto 2025

– Sixteen-year-old Guelph musician Arshia Shah has been named the winner of Canada’s Teen Jam Toronto 2025, held at TD Music Hall on September 18. The national showcase, presented by United Van Lines Canada, highlights the country’s most promising young musicians, bringing together original artists from across genres and provinces.

Shah’s performance stood out among hundreds of submissions and ten live finalists, earning her the top title at this year’s Toronto event. Her original song captured both the jury and the audience with its thoughtful songwriting and emotional honesty, marking her as a standout voice among a new generation of Canadian artists.

Canada’s Teen Jam, created by veteran live music producer Mark Higgins, continues to provide a platform for emerging musicians aged 13 to 19. The program emphasizes originality, artistry, and community, helping young creators gain experience on professional stages while connecting with audiences across the country.

The 2025 Toronto showcase featured performances spanning pop, rock, folk, and R&B, reaffirming the strength and diversity of Canada’s musical youth. As winner, Shah joins an alumni network of young artists whose work reflects the depth and creativity driving the nation’s next wave of talent.

Tickets and submission details for future rounds of Canada’s Teen Jam can be found at canadasteenjam.com.

Odario Announces New Single “Double Up” with Mad Professor

Eric Alper
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Odario Announces New Single “Double Up” with Mad Professor

Building on the momentum of his acclaimed single “The Situation” with Mad Professor and Yolanda Sargeant, hip-hop storyteller, broadcaster, and curator Odario unveils his next chapter with “Double Up.” The track marks the latest collaboration with UK dub legend Mad Professor and Toronto producer Chaix, blending the raw poetics of hip-hop with the deep textures of dub for a striking sound rooted in authenticity and evolution.

With his upcoming album Good Things Take Time set for release in the new year, Odario positions himself at the intersection of two musical worlds that have shaped him from childhood. Produced by Chaix, mixed by longtime collaborator Tim Abraham, and mastered by João Carvalho, “Double Up” arrives as a bold declaration of Odario’s place within Canada’s hip-hop landscape, while reinforcing his connection to dub culture.

Born in Guyana and raised in Winnipeg, Odario emerged as a pioneer in the city’s early hip-hop community before moving to Toronto, where he continues to create across multiple disciplines. A founding voice of the genre-bending band Grand Analog, he has spent nearly two decades crafting music infused with jazz, funk, and reggae influences. His career includes performances across North America and Europe, showcases at SXSW, The Reeperbahn Festival, and The Great Escape, and music placements in over 80 films, TV shows, and campaigns.

Odario’s artistry extends beyond the stage. He currently hosts CBC Music’s Afterdark, curating late-night soundscapes with his signature voice. His creative journey reflects a lifelong dedication to storytelling, from writing his first rhymes in Winnipeg to recording in Mad Professor’s Ariwa Studios in South London.

“In my music, I’ve always wanted to bridge the sound of my upbringing with where I’m headed,” says Odario. “Double Up is personal—it merges the reggae and dub I grew up with through my father’s records, and the hip-hop culture that shaped me as a writer. It feels like I’m standing in both worlds at once, finally connecting the dots.”

He continues: “Working with Mad Professor is like studying at the highest level. Every time we’re in the studio, I’m reminded that analog sound carries a soul of its own. Double Up is about growth, freedom, and doubling down on the promises I’ve made to myself as an artist.”

Across the track, Odario’s lyrics embody resilience and transformation: “One for the money, yes uh, two for the growth / Three for that freedom ringing high to the slopes.” Later, he reflects on legacy and purpose: “They say you might die twice, but only live once – I double down.”

Elsewhere, his verses confront change with clarity: “Love is love – chase it, full of fire – let it buzz / A foundation broken down by changes, particles up in the air like vapours.” These lines showcase an evolution in tone—confident yet grounded, celebratory yet reflective.

The tour follows spring showcases in Toronto and Montreal tied to “The Situation” and sets the stage for Odario’s full-length project Good Things Take Time in 2026. With each release and performance, Odario continues to refine a sound that is both forward-looking and deeply rooted in the traditions that shaped him.

As “Double Up” reaches audiences this fall, Odario’s journey points toward a landmark year ahead—where hip-hop and dub converge, and where his voice continues to expand the possibilities of Canadian music.

Spite Announce New Album ‘New World Killer’ and Drop Furious Single ‘Looking Glass’ Featuring Boundaries

Eric Alper
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Spite Announce New Album ‘New World Killer’ and Drop Furious Single ‘Looking Glass’ Featuring Boundaries

Southern California quintet SPITE will unleash their new album NEW WORLD KILLER on 31st October 2025 via Rise Records. Pre-order it here.

Today, the band dropped the visualiser for new single “LOOKING GLASS” (Feat. Boundaries). It’s an under-three-minute and gnarly blast of fury and power, the kind Spite are known for.

“This song is about coping with the passing of my father,” shares Darius. “Being robbed of grief and carrying an anger with nowhere to go. I’m grateful Matt McDougal was able to sing on such an important song with me.”

This new visualiser follows the NSFW video for the first single “LIGHTS OUT.” Watch it here. It also follows the video for the title track, which can be viewed here.

Dancing With the Stars Takes the Ballroom on the Road With Massive 2026 North American Tour

Eric Alper
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Dancing With the Stars Takes the Ballroom on the Road With Massive 2026 North American Tour

Dancing with the Stars is hotter than ever — and now it’s hitting the road with a 74-date tour across North America! After a sold-out tour earlier this year, DWTS returns in 2026 with a brand-new live show, launching January 22 at the Akron Civic Theatre in Akron, Ohio. This year’s stage spectacular will feature fan-favorite professional dancers from the #1 hit television series in a mix of standout routines from DWTS’ record-breaking Season 34 and fresh performances created just for the stage.

With more than 35 million votes cast weekly by viewers, Dancing with the Stars: Live! jumps from screen to stage with an all-star cast of professional dancers: Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Valentin Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Daniella Karagach, Pasha Pashkov, Emma Slater, Ezra Sosa, Britt Stewart and Hailey Bills. Under the direction of Emmy Award- winning choreographer Mandy Moore (La La Land, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour), these fan favorites bring the artistry and athleticism of the ballroom to life in an unforgettable live experience.

The momentum comes at a high point for the franchise: the Season 34 premiere ranked as the #1 most mentioned show on social media across all broadcast and cable, and generated more than double the number of audience votes compared to the Season 33 premiere. That passion now extends beyond the ballroom, offering audiences nationwide the rare opportunity to experience the energy, excitement, and star power of Dancing with the Stars live on stage.

“We cannot wait for all the fans of DWTS to come out and enjoy the show we have dreamed up for this year’s tour. These dancers are simply the best in the world at what they do, and we hope that everyone is as thrilled as we are to enjoy this one-of-a kind all-new show that brings the tv show we all love to life LIVE in venues across North America.” – Jared Paul, Faculty Inc

“Dancing with the Stars has been captivating fans for two decades, and the passion for the show has never been stronger. Last year, the tour sold out in every city for the first time in franchise history, so we extended the run—and sold those shows out as well. More than anything, it’s incredible to see the fandom and energy on the road. The tour gives our professional dancers the chance to connect and directly interact with the very people who cheer for them and vote for them each week. That connection, coupled with the exhilaration of experiencing these performances live, makes the tour a truly unforgettable experience for fans nationwide,” 

– Ryan O’Dowd, President of Unscripted, BBC Studios, and Executive Producer on Dancing with the Stars

TICKETS: Tickets for “Dancing with the Stars: Live!” go on sale to the public on Friday October 10 at 10 AM local time at DWTSTour.com.

MIRRORBALL MEMBER PRESALE: Fans who want first access to the best seats and VIP, can sign up for a Mirrorball Membership – this membership is FREE TO JOIN and includes exclusive presale, news updates, a sneak peek of the tour and more! Mirrorball Member Presale starts this Wednesday, October 8 at 10 AM local time. Head to DWTSTour.com to sign up now.

VIP: VIP packages will be available and include Premium Tickets, Meet & Greet Photo Opportunity, interactive experience with members of the DWTS touring cast, Exclusive Merchandise and more. Details and info at dwtstour.com.

For the full list of tour dates and tickets, please visit dwtstour.com.

“Dancing with the Stars: Live!” is produced by Faculty Productions in association with BBC Studios Los Angeles Productions and is promoted by Live Nation and NS2.

“Dancing with the Stars: Live!” Dates: 

January 22 – Akron, OH – Akron Civic Theatre

January 23 – Verona, NY – Turning Stone Resort Casino^

January 24 – Boston, MA – Boch Center – Wang Theater

January 27 – Bangor, ME – Cross Insurance Center

January 29 – Manchester, NH – SNHU Arena

January 30 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena^

January 31 – Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena^

February 1 – Niagara Falls, ON – OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino^

February 3 – Buffalo, NY – Shea’s Buffalo Theatre

February 4 – University Park, PA – Bryce Jordan Center

February 5 – Hershey, PA – GIANT Center

February 6 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark

February 7 – Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa^

February 10 – White Plains, NY – Westchester County Center

February 12 – Schenectady, NY – Proctors

February 13 – Williamsport, PA – Community Arts Center

February 14 – Newark, NJ – New Jersey PAC

February 15 – New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall

February 17 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center^

February 18 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center^

February 19 – Baltimore, MD – Hippodrome

February 20 – National Harbor, MD – The Theater at MGM National Harbor

February 22 – Pittsburgh, PA – Petersen Events Center

February 24 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre

February 25 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Centre

February 26 – Ames, IA – Stephens Auditorium

February 27 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre

February 28 – Cincinnati, OH – Andrew J. Brady

March 1 – Peoria, IL – Prairie Home Alliance Theater

March 3 – Milwaukee, WI – Miller High Life Theatre

March 4 – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory

March 5 – Kansas City, MO – Kansas City Music Hall

March 6 – Rosemont, IL – Rosemont Theatre

March 8 – Grand Rapids, MI – DeVos Performance Hall

March 10 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center

March 11 – Nashville, TN – Opry House

March 12 – Knoxville, TN – Knoxville Civic Auditorium

March 13 – Richmond, VA – Altria Theater

March 14 – Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium

March 15 – Durham, NC – DPAC

March 17 – Virginia Beach, VA – The Dome

March 18 – Greensboro, NC – Steven Tanger Center

March 19 – North Charleston, SC – North Charleston PAC

March 20 – Spartanburg, SC – Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium

March 21 – Huntsville, AL – VBC Mark C. Smith Concert Hall

March 22 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC Concert Hall

March 24 – Jacksonville, FL – Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts

March 25 – Daytona Beach, FL – Peabody Auditorium

March 26 – Orlando, FL – Addition Financial Arena

March 27 – Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall

March 28 – Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall

March 29 – Hollywood, FL – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino^

March 31 – Atlanta, GA – Fox Theatre

April 1 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre

April 2 – North Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena

April 3 – Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage^

April 4 – Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage^

April 9 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

April 10 – Irving, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

April 11 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena

April 12 – Denver, CO – Bellco Theatre

April 15 – Seattle, WA – WAMU Theater

April 16 – Portland, OR – Theater of the Clouds

April 17 – Eugene, OR – Hult Center for the Performing Arts

April 18 – San Jose, CA – San Jose Civic

April 19 – Reno, NV – Grand Theatre^

April 21 – Sacramento, CA – SAFE Credit Union PAC

April 22 – San Diego, CA – San Diego Civic Theatre

April 23 – Costa Mesa, CA – Segerstrom Center for the Arts

April 24 – Las Vegas, NV – Fontainebleau Las Vegas

April 25 – Los Angeles, CA – Dolby Theatre

April 30 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre

May 2 – Salt Lake City, UT – Eccles Theater

*Cast subject to change. | ^Not a Live Nation date.

 “Dancing with the Stars” airs live Tuesday nights (8:00pm ET / 5:00pm PT) on ABC, Disney+ and is available to stream the next day on Hulu

Sam Barber Shares Stirring New Single ‘Home Tonight’ and Announces EP ‘Music for the Soul’

Eric Alper
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Sam Barber Shares Stirring New Single ‘Home Tonight’ and Announces EP ‘Music for the Soul’

2x RIAA Platinum-certified singer-songwriter Sam Barber has shared his latest single, “Home Tonight,” available now via Atlantic Records. Produced by GRAMMY Award-winner Ryan Hewitt (The Lumineers, Noah Kahan) and Joe Becker, the deeply moving track heralds the arrival of Barber’s eagerly anticipated new EP, Music for the Soul, dout now, and is accompanied by a live performance video.

Earlier this week, Barber quietly teased “Home Tonight” via his fan-first platform, Sam Barber Files, giving his most dedicated followers an intimate first listen. The evolving digital space offers a rare, unfiltered look into Barber’s world, featuring unreleased content, personal visuals, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his creative process.

Music for the Soul begins an unforgettable new chapter for Barber following the breakout success of his 2024 debut album, Restless Mind. The EP includes the soul-baring anthem, “Man of the Year,” available everywhere now alongside an official live performance video streaming now on YouTube HERE. With its cascade of shadowy textures and darkly hypnotic guitar tones, “Man of the Year” was met by immediate critical applause from such publications as Billboard, which named it one of “6 Must-Hear New Country Songs,” writing, “This gritty track, written solely by Barber, finds him pondering the existential anguish he sees threaded throughout world events, and emotionally embedded in people around him. “Is it in my mind or are we all just sinking?” he muses, his quietly commanding voice ringing out over sparse but captivating production, and shedding light on a generation’s anxieties and fears.”

Drake Milligan Saddles Up for New Album ‘Tumbleweed’ and Drops Heartfelt Single ‘Old Flames, Old Whiskey’

Eric Alper
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Drake Milligan Saddles Up for New Album ‘Tumbleweed’ and Drops Heartfelt Single ‘Old Flames, Old Whiskey’

Critically acclaimed country artist Drake Milligan announces his new album, Tumbleweed, will be available on November 7th. In celebration, he drops a new song, “Old Flames, Old Whiskey.” Produced by Trent Willmon, Tumbleweed will include 14 tracks that perfectly combine traditional Texas country, Western swing, and modern Nashville stylings, while showcasing Milligan’s timeless musicality. The title track, which was released last month, hit No. 12 on the UK Country Radio Airplay chart in only its second week. Milligan will be celebrating on the Grand Ole Opry stage tonight (Fri, Oct 17th).

Written by Brett and Jim Beavers, “Old Flames, Old Whiskey” leans into Milligan’s smooth baritone as he weaves a tale of memory, regret, and the trouble that comes when heartbreak meets a bottle. The new song captures the spirit of country’s golden era while firmly establishing Milligan’s place as one of the genre’s most compelling new voices.

Having been on the road throughout 2025 opening for Lainey Wilson, Blake Shelton, and Luke Bryan, Milligan will kick off The Tumbleweed World Tour at his headlining show at Nashville’s Brooklyn Bowl on November 11th, which will also serve as his official album release party. The tour will include all forthcoming shows, including dates in Paris and Brussels in March 2026 and the C2C Festival in Rotterdam, Berlin, London, Glasgow, and Belfast. Milligan is also announcing a pop-up performance at Ole Red in Orlando, FL, on Saturday, November 8th, a second show in the market as he’ll be onstage at the Kia Center opening for Lainey Wilson earlier that night. Attendees will get an intimate glimpse into his re-imagined show ahead of The Tumbleweed World Tour.

1. Cryin’ Shoulder
2. Hearts Together
3. Tumbleweed
4. Turn It Off
5. Like The Moon
6. Good As Gone
7. Slow Dancing To A Fast Song
8. Old Flames, Old Whiskey
9. Girl Like You
10. Hard Headed Cowboy
11. Lonely:30
12. Goodbye Ain’t All That Bad
13. Talk Texas
14. How Much Beer with Randall King

Joe Bonamassa Expands B.B. King’s 100th Birthday Tribute With ‘Blues Summit 100 Vol. II’

Eric Alper
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Joe Bonamassa Expands B.B. King’s 100th Birthday Tribute With ‘Blues Summit 100 Vol. II’

Following the powerful launch of B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100 last month – to celebrate B.B. King’s 100th birthday – Joe Bonamassa returns with the next six songs of the landmark tribute project. Out now via KTBA Records, the new release adds six standout tracks to the growing collection, with performances that span generations and genres, all rooted in a shared reverence for the King of the Blues. The full 32-track album will be released on February 6th, in digital, double CD, and triple vinyl formats.

At the heart of Vol. II is “Chains And Things,” featuring Gary Clark Jr. “I reached out to Gary early in the planning and threw out this tune and he immediately said it was his favourite (especially the Live in Japan version),” says Josh Smith, Co-Producer. “He killed this track. You can tell how much the song means to him in his performance vocally, and the guitar playing is a perfect balance of homage to B.B. while staying true to his unique style. Again, the subject matter of this song demands a certain gravitas and he brought it in spades!!!”

Another unexpected gem is “Think It Over,” featuring Train’s Pat Monahan and guitarist Chris Buck. “When I added this song to the list we knew it would be a good choice as a curveball for some of the more rock or pop artists we hoped to include,” Smith explains. “When Pat’s name came up it seemed the perfect fit, and it really worked out that way. This was always one of my favourites under the radar B.B. songs and Pat killed it. Chris Buck added a guitar solo—he’s one of the top young players on the scene today. Together they turned this into a standout.”

“I can’t sound like B.B. King. So, I had no choice but to just be me on that, on Think It Over,” says Monahan. “You know, blues is part of rock and roll, and rock is what I came up with. And blues was probably the most influential part of it. Like, I grew up a big Led Zeppelin fan. All they cared about was blues. And so, I kind of approached it, maybe like Robert Plant would have, tried to sing a B.B. King song instead of try to be like B.B., just be what I know how to be like.”

Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith’s longtime friend Keb’ Mo’ brings warmth and depth to “I’ll Survive.” “I had Keb’ Mo marked for this song right from my initial wish list,” says Smith. “I’ve always loved this song, and I just felt he would really own it. He did more than that. It’s a perfect pairing. I’ve known Keb since I was 14 years old and he is truly one of the kindest and most genuine people I’ve ever met. It’s an honour to call him a friend and to have him included. He’s one of the most important blues artists of the last 30 years.”

“I met B.B. King in probably 1972 or ‘73, while out on the road with Papa John Creach,” Keb’ Mo’ reflects. “Did a show with B.B. King and the Average White Band. That’s when I met him, but I’ve been listening to B.B. King my whole life.”

Joanne Shaw Taylor delivers one of the most fun and vibrant moments on the record with “Bad Case of Love.” “Joanne chose this one,” Smith shares. “It’s one of the most fun songs in B.B.’s catalogue. She did an amazing job of bringing her thing to the track. It turned into such a vibe. The band is also killing this track!”

“Not only was B.B. King one of my earliest and most important influences,” says Taylor, “He was also incredibly encouraging towards me as a youngster who was fortunate enough to open up for him on multiple occasions. I’m so thankful Joe asked me to be part of this project in honour of him and this important birthday.”

Paul Rodgers lends his iconic voice to “Night Life,” a song that holds deep significance for both artists. “We had tracked Night Life to pitch to Paul, and he came back to us asking for the Blues Is King version,” Smith recalls. “I loved that because it showed a true love for the original, and Blues Is King is my personal favourite B.B. live album. Paul is such a legend and to hear the amount of respect and importance he placed on this track is amazing. A true honour to have him included and his performance is amazing.”

The new release closes with “So Excited” featuring Aloe Blacc, who infuses the song with soulful energy and contemporary flair. “This is one of B.B.‘s most energetic songs and we needed someone to bring that fire,” says Smith. “Aloe was the guy!! It’s so cool to hear his unique take and spin on it coming from more of a modern pop/R&B background. Also, Joe is killing the guitar solos and Jeff Babko with killing the organ solo.”

B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100 launched last month, with five tracks that honored the centennial of B.B. King’s birth. That first volume featured Michael McDonald, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, Bobby Rush, George Benson, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and D.K. Harrell, and set the tone for what would become an expansive, months-long celebration of King’s enduring influence.

The idea for the project emerged when Bonamassa realized that no formal tribute had been announced for the blues legend’s 100th birthday. With the blessing of the B.B. King estate, The B.B. King Music Company, Bonamassa and co-producer Josh Smith set out to build something lasting – an intergenerational gathering of artists united by King’s spirit and sound. Each was carefully matched with material that reflected their personal connection to the man and his music.

“When B.B. was alive and active, he was the blues – he was the sun which all planets rotated around,” adds Bonamassa. “You only get one shot to do this correctly. And I think we nailed it.”

The full project features contributions from Buddy Guy, Shemekia Copeland, Slash, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Marcus King, Larkin Poe, Jimmie Vaughan, Warren Haynes, Dion, Train, Marc Broussard, and many others. Several of the most powerful performances come from unexpected pairings, reinforcing King’s role not just as a blues icon but as a universal influence.

The album title nods to B.B. ‘s Grammy-winning 1993 Blues Summit project, and the scope of Blues Summit 100 reflects that same collaborative spirit on an even grander scale. For Bonamassa, it’s both a tribute and a statement of purpose. “B.B. ‘s only wish was, ‘Do what you can to keep the blues alive,’” he says. “Well, hopefully this album gives a B12 shot to his legacy – and to the legacy of the blues.”

New tracks will continue to arrive monthly until the full release on February 6th.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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