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William Endfield Steinberg Dies At 75 Leaving Behind 25 Songs That Shaped Modern Pop

Eric Alper

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Feb 18, 2026

William Endfield Steinberg Dies At 75 Leaving Behind 25 Songs That Shaped Modern Pop

When Billy Steinberg died on February 16, 2026, the music world lost one of its great craftsmen.

He wasn’t the face on the poster. He wasn’t the one on stage under the lights. But if you grew up in the 1980s, 90s, or 2000s, you lived inside his songs.

From arena power ballads to fearless pop anthems, Steinberg had a rare gift. He wrote songs that felt personal and massive at the same time. Many of his biggest hits came with longtime partner Tom Kelly, and later with writers like Rick Nowels and Josh Alexander. Across decades, he kept finding new voices and helping them tell their stories.

Here are 25 of the greatest songs he wrote or co wrote, the ones that defined careers, topped charts, and still hold up.

“Like a Virgin” by Madonna (1984)

This was the earthquake. Written after a painful breakup, Steinberg poured real vulnerability into a lyric about feeling renewed. When Madonna recorded it, it became a cultural reset. Six weeks at No. 1. A career defining anthem. A pop line that still gets quoted four decades later.

“True Colors” by Cyndi Lauper (1986)

Tender and direct, this song showed Steinberg’s softer side. It became Lauper’s signature ballad and, over time, an anthem for authenticity and acceptance.

“Eternal Flame” by The Bangles (1989)

Co written with Susanna Hoffs, this is pure pop perfection. Quiet verses. A soaring chorus. One of the most enduring love songs of the late 80s.

“So Emotional” by Whitney Houston (1987)

Big hair, bigger vocals. Steinberg understood how to write for power. This track let Houston explode vocally while keeping the hook razor sharp.

“Alone” by Heart (1987)

Originally recorded by i Ten, but it was Heart’s version that turned it into a No. 1 power ballad classic. That chorus still gives people chills.

“I Drove All Night” by Roy Orbison and Cyndi Lauper (1987 and 1989)

Written as a cinematic rush of longing. Orbison recorded it first. Lauper released it first. Later, Celine Dion took it to another generation.

“I Touch Myself” by Divinyls (1990)

Bold. Direct. Ahead of its time. Steinberg later performed an acoustic version in the documentary Sticky A Self Love Story, reminding people that underneath the shock value was a perfectly structured pop song.

“I’ll Stand by You” by The Pretenders (1994)

A promise set to music. Co written with Chrissie Hynde, it became a wedding staple and a song of comfort in hard times.

“Falling Into You” by Celine Dion (1996)

With Rick Nowels, Steinberg helped Dion craft one of her signature mid 90s hits. Romantic, dramatic, unmistakably adult contemporary in the best way.

“One and One” by Edyta Górniak (1997)

A major European hit that made Górniak the first Polish artist to top the European Radio Top 50 airplay chart. Steinberg’s reach was global.

“All About Us” by t.A.T.u. (2005)

A sharp, modern pop rock comeback that proved Steinberg could write for a new era.

“Too Little Too Late” by JoJo (2006)

Teen heartbreak with real bite. It shot up the Billboard charts and introduced a new generation to his writing.

“Over It” by Katharine McPhee (2007)

A polished, radio ready post breakup anthem.

“Give Your Heart a Break” by Demi Lovato (2012)

One of Lovato’s defining hits. Emotional, urgent, and hook driven.

“Precious Time” by Pat Benatar (1981)

Before the mega hits, Steinberg was already writing album defining material for rock radio.

“Fire and Ice” by Pat Benatar (1981)

He began writing with Tom Kelly around this era. The chemistry was immediate.

“How Do I Make You?” by Linda Ronstadt (1980)

Ronstadt heard his band Billy Thermal and turned this into a Top 10 hit. It opened the door.

“I’m Gonna Follow You” by Pat Benatar (1980)

A hard driving rock cut that showed his early edge.

“Sex as a Weapon” by Pat Benatar (1985)

Confident, provocative, and built for the 80s.

“Look Me in the Heart” by Tina Turner (1989)

A classic late 80s pop rock gem delivered by one of the great voices.

“In Your Room” by The Bangles (1988)

Glossy, romantic, unmistakably radio gold.

“When It All Falls Apart” by The Veronicas (2005)

A punchy pop rock single that showed he could still write for young artists in the 2000s.

“Don’t Hold Your Breath” by Nicole Scherzinger (2011)

A sleek, radio ready empowerment anthem.

“High Maintenance” by Miranda Cosgrove (2011)

Co written with Rivers Cuomo, this track blended pop polish with playful edge.

“My Stupid Heart” by Tini Stoessel (2016)

One of his later works, proof that he never stopped writing.

Steinberg grew up in California, worked in his father’s grape business, studied at Bard College, and built a second passion collecting rare African and ancient beads. He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2011 alongside Tom Kelly and received a Golden Palm Star in Palm Springs.

But the real legacy is simpler.

He wrote songs people sing at weddings. Songs they scream in cars. Songs they play after breakups. Songs they hold onto.

As his son Ezra said after his passing, he believed in building things that last.

He did.

And if you turn on the radio long enough, you’ll hear it.

The best game providers working with Bizzo Casino

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

0

By Mitch Rice

In the vast universe of online casinos, Bizzo casino shines as a bright star, capturing the attention of players worldwide with its dazzling array of games and thrilling opportunities. However, beyond the allure of Bizzo Casino’s name and reputation lies a crucial element that often goes unnoticed: the game providers. These unsung heroes are the masterminds behind the captivating experiences that keep players like you and me coming back for more.

As someone deeply immersed in the iGaming world, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that game providers have on the overall player experience. It’s not just about the casino’s brand; it’s about the quality, innovation, and sheer entertainment value that each game brings to the table. From industry giants to rising stars, the diversity of providers is staggering, each with its unique style, mechanics, and cutting-edge features.

I will guide you through the fascinating world of Bizzo Casino’s game providers.

What to Look For in an Online Casino Provider

When venturing into the world of online casinos, it’s crucial to understand what to look for in a provider. Not all platforms are created equal, and focusing on key aspects ensures a secure and enjoyable gaming experience.

Game Fairness: At the core of any reputable online casino is game fairness. This boils down to the Random Number Generator (RNG), a technical system that ensures every game outcome is random and unbiased. Independent testing agencies regularly audit these RNGs to guarantee fair play. Look for casinos that display certifications from these agencies, a clear indication they prioritize transparency.

RTP (Return to Player): RTP is the percentage of all wagered money a game is expected to pay back to players over time. For example, a game with a 96% RTP will theoretically return $96 for every $100 wagered. Higher RTPs generally favor the player. Many online casinos publish the RTP for each game, usually found within the game’s information section. Knowing this figure helps in making informed decisions.

Volatility: Volatility, also known as variance, refers to the risk level of a game. High volatility games offer the potential for large payouts, but wins are less frequent. Low volatility games provide more consistent, smaller wins. Identifying a game’s volatility is crucial for managing bankroll and choosing games that align with your risk tolerance. Game reviews and casino guides often provide information on game volatility.

Game Design and Technical Execution: The quality of game design significantly impacts the overall experience. Smooth animations, engaging sound effects, and an intuitive interface are hallmarks of a well-designed game. Technical execution is equally important. Games should load quickly, function flawlessly across different devices, and be free from glitches. Reputable providers invest heavily in both design and technical aspects to deliver a premium gaming experience.

Overview of Bizzo Casino’s Game Provider Ecosystem

Bizzo Casino throws open the doors to a dizzying array of gaming experiences, a testament to its collaboration with a vast network of game providers. Navigating their platform feels like stepping into a colossal arcade, where flashing lights and enticing sounds emanate from every corner. Slots reign supreme, with a seemingly endless selection of themes, paylines, and bonus features vying for attention. From classic fruit machines to cutting-edge video slots bursting with cinematic graphics, there’s a slot to satisfy every preference.

But Bizzo Casino is more than just slots. The live casino section crackles with atmosphere, bringing the thrill of real-time gambling directly to you. Professional dealers host games of blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker, all streamed in high definition. For those who prefer a more solitary pursuit, the table games section offers digital versions of these classics, alongside craps, sic bo, and various other casino staples. The sheer number of providers contributing to Bizzo Casino’s library ensures that boredom is simply not an option. Each provider brings its unique style and flair, resulting in a diverse and constantly evolving gaming landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned high-roller or a casual player looking for some lighthearted fun, Bizzo Casino has something to pique your interest.

Spotlight on Top-Tier Providers at Bizzo Casino

Bizzo Casino boasts a rich tapestry of games, woven together by the threads of some truly exceptional leading game providers. These aren’t just companies churning out digital slots; they’re innovators, artists, and architects of the iGaming world. Let’s pull back the curtain and peek at a few of the stars that light up Bizzo Casino.

First up, consider NetEnt, a name synonymous with quality and innovation. They’ve been around since the dawn of online casinos, consistently pushing boundaries with striking visuals and engaging gameplay. Titles like Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest are practically cultural landmarks, instantly recognizable and endlessly playable. There’s a reason why Starburst is so popular – the vibrant colors and simple mechanics make it an easy game to pick up, yet it still offers that thrill of a potential big win.

Then there’s Microgaming, a true giant in the industry. They possess a massive library, covering everything from classic slots to progressive jackpots that can change lives in a single spin. Microgaming has a knack for licensed content, bringing beloved characters and franchises to the reels. Playing one of their games is like stepping into a familiar world with a fresh, exciting twist.

Finally, to complete this short list, Evolution Gaming stand as undisputed kings of live dealer games. They’ve transformed the online casino experience, bringing the atmosphere of a real casino directly to your screen. Their professional dealers, sleek studios, and innovative game formats create an immersive and authentic experience. Although slots are tempting, spending time in a gripping game of live poker reminds of what makes gambling enjoyable!

Highlighting Emerging and Innovative Providers

Beyond the industry giants, a vibrant ecosystem of emerging game providers is injecting fresh ideas and unique experiences into the online casino world. These up-and-coming studios often focus on innovation, crafting games with distinctive themes, novel mechanics, and features that set them apart. Bizzo Casino, in its commitment to offering a diverse gaming library, provides a platform for some of these exciting niche providers.

One such studio is Spinberry. While not a household name yet, Spinberry is making waves with its focus on high-volatility slots and eye-catching visual design. Their games often feature a modern, almost futuristic aesthetic, coupled with engaging sound design that amplifies the thrill of each spin. Spinberry is definitely a studio to keep an eye on, especially if the player appreciates a bit of risk with the reward.

Another provider adding diversity to Bizzo Casino is Onlyplay, they bring the instant win games with engaging mechanics and features. With fresh approach to online casino games they bring different emotion and experience.

These are just a couple of examples of the smaller, innovative game providers contributing to the dynamic gaming landscape. As they continue to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues, players can expect even more exciting and unconventional gaming experiences in the future. Bizzo Casino’s dedication to showcasing these emerging talents ensures its players are always at the forefront of gaming innovation.

The Importance of Game Variety and Innovation

In the dynamic world of online casinos, game variety is not just a perk; it’s a necessity. A diverse selection of games acts as a magnet, attracting a wider audience with differing tastes and preferences. Imagine stepping into an online casino and being greeted by the same handful of tired titles – the experience quickly becomes monotonous, and players are likely to seek entertainment elsewhere.

The beauty of game variety lies in its ability to cater to different player profiles. Some players may be drawn to the strategic depth of poker or blackjack, while others prefer the fast-paced thrill of slots or the social interaction of live dealer games. By offering a rich tapestry of gaming options, online casinos can ensure that there’s something for everyone. You should have numerous options to stay engaged and enthralled.

Innovation is the lifeblood of the iGaming industry. It injects fresh ideas, novel mechanics, and cutting-edge technology into the gaming experience. Think about the evolution of slot games, from classic three-reel machines to visually stunning video slots with immersive storylines and bonus features. Or consider the rise of virtual reality (VR) casinos, which transport players to a simulated casino environment, blurring the lines between the virtual and real worlds. These innovations not only enhance the entertainment value but also demonstrate a commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

New releases and original concepts are just as essential as diverse game options. You want to see you casino provider is up to date and cares about your experience. Without them, you are stuck with the same old product.

How to Evaluate Game Providers Yourself

Choosing the right game provider is crucial for a great gaming experience. Instead of blindly trusting recommendations, equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Consider this your personal checklist for evaluating game providers:

RTP Analysis: Return to Player (RTP) is a key indicator of potential returns. Investigate the provider’s RTP percentages. While a higher RTP is generally better, remember it’s a theoretical number calculated over many game rounds. Look for transparency – does the provider openly publish RTP information for their games?
Volatility Assessment: Volatility, or variance, dictates the risk level of a game. High volatility games offer larger but less frequent payouts, while low volatility games provide smaller, more consistent wins. Understand your preference and check if the provider offers games that match it. Many experienced players explore communities and forums to gather information.
Game Features: What makes a game stand out? Explore beyond the graphics. Look at bonus rounds, special symbols, and innovative mechanics. A provider that consistently introduces fresh and engaging features demonstrates a commitment to quality and innovation.
Reputation Check: Do your homework on the provider’s reputation. Read reviews, check player forums, and see if they have received any awards and recognitions in the industry. A provider with a long track record of fair play and customer satisfaction is a safer bet.

By using these criteria, you can confidently navigate the world of game providers and discover games that suit your taste and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the landscape of game providers at Bizzo Casino is more than just knowing the names behind the games; it’s about unlocking a richer, more informed, and ultimately more enjoyable iGaming experience. These providers, with their unique styles and gaming engines, are the architects of your entertainment. By familiarizing yourself with them, you gain the power to make informed choices, selecting games that align with your preferences and risk appetite.

This knowledge empowers you to navigate the vast selection of Bizzo Casino with confidence. You’ll be able to identify games with higher RTPs, explore unique bonus features, and discover entirely new genres that you might have otherwise overlooked. It is about understanding odds and making informed choices, not just spinning reels.

Remember, responsible gaming is paramount. Understanding the game mechanics and the providers’ reputation ensures that your entertainment remains just that – entertainment. Set limits, be mindful of your spending, and never chase losses.

Now, armed with this knowledge, you’re invited to delve into the diverse world of Bizzo Casino’s game providers. I personally enjoy “Wolf Gold” by Pragmatic Play for its stunning visuals and exciting bonus rounds. Explore, discover, and find your own favorites! Your next big win might just be a provider away.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Berlin Avant-Pop Auteur Ocher Unveils Stark Piano Statement ‘Weimar’

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

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Berlin Avant-Pop Auteur Ocher Unveils Stark Piano Statement ‘Weimar’

Berlin-based artist Ocher returns with ‘Weimar,’ a striking piano record written on a classic instrument from the 1870s. The release marks a clear shift from her recent explorations of post-punk, krautrock, ambient, and field recordings. Drawing on 20th-century minimalism, chamber-pop, and modern classical traditions, the album narrows its focus without losing the emotional intensity that defines her work.

The title references both a cultural era and a political warning. ‘Weimar’ gestures toward the collapse of the Weimar Republic and the rise of fascism that followed, framing the record within today’s climate of nationalism and censorship. Ocher’s writing continues to examine identity, fear, and belonging with precision and resolve.

Born in Moscow to Jewish-Ukrainian parents and raised in Tel Aviv, Ocher refused the draft at twenty and relocated to Berlin, where she became a key underground figure known for merging music, art, politics, and sharp cultural criticism. Her collaborators have included Mogwai, King Khan, Die Tödliche Doris, Roberto Cacciapaglia, and Felix Kubin, alongside tribute projects honoring Delia Derbyshire, Dorothy Ashby, and Omar Khayyam.

Following extensive touring across Europe, the UK, Australia, North America, and New Zealand, Ocher now brings ‘Weimar’ to the stage. Upcoming live dates include:

13.03.26 – Berlin
15.03.26 – Brighton
17.03.26 – London
18.03.26 – Glasgow
19.03.26 – Newcastle
20.03.26 – Leeds
21.03.26 – Bristol
01.04.26 – Zagreb
02.04.26 – Ljubljana
03.04.26 – Vicenza
18.06.26 – Ghent
19.06.26 – Brussels
21.06.26 – Marseille
26.06.26 – Svitavy
03.10.26 – Nantes
16.10.26 – Leipzig

Florida Rockers Gunshine Drop “Valentine” Ahead Of ‘Grand Rising’

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

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Florida Rockers Gunshine Drop “Valentine” Ahead Of ‘Grand Rising’

Florida rock band Gunshine have released their second single, “Valentine,” offering a new preview of their forthcoming full-length album, ‘Grand Rising,’ due digitally July 24 via vnclm_ and Create Music Group. The official music video premiered February 14, fittingly landing on Valentine’s Day.

While the digital release arrives later this summer, fans can already purchase physical editions. Limited CD and double vinyl pressings of ‘Grand Rising,’ along with exclusive merchandise, are available online and will also be sold at upcoming live shows. The album features 13 tracks and marks the band’s latest studio statement.

“It’s the oldest song in my collection and I’m glad it made the cut. The lyrics were written when I was 15 years old,” says Jordan Benson. “The song was written about the kind of relationship I wanted to have, perfectly in love. Regardless of life problems, the love between a couple should always be the easiest.” Austin Ingerman adds that he envisioned “a dramatic, epic 80’s kind of vibe,” incorporating a Phil Collins inspired drum loop, Boston inspired lead guitar using the Rockman, and layered vocals.

The majority of the album was tracked in Las Vegas with producer and mixer Chris Collier (Korn, Mick Mars, Whitesnake, Lynchmob). “‘Valentine’ was one of the last songs we tracked,” the band explains, noting Collier added string arrangements and handled bass, drums, mixing, and mastering. Hailing from Pensacola, Gunshine blend raw rock attitude with melodic hooks, and ‘Grand Rising’ continues that evolution with bold, genre-crossing ambition.

Kentucky Traditionalist Alex Miller Doubles Down With ‘MORE COUNTRY THAN YOU’

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

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Kentucky Traditionalist Alex Miller Doubles Down With ‘MORE COUNTRY THAN YOU’

Traditional Country torchbearer Alex Miller returns April 10 with his forthcoming album, ‘MORE COUNTRY THAN YOU.’ The 10-song collection leans fully into his classic influences, pairing steel guitar twang with straight-shooting storytelling. It opens with Miller’s take on “Too Much Fun,” the 1995 Top 5 hit made famous by the late Daryle Singletary, a rowdy anthem that premiered earlier this week on Dillon Weldon’s socials.

The title track, “More Country Than You,” finds Miller trading lines with rising star Emily Ann Roberts in a playful male-female back and forth. “The Byrd,” featuring Tracy Byrd, delivers a high-energy duet nodding to classic country pairings while grounded in Miller’s modern delivery. Elsewhere, “Secondhand Smoke,” his current radio single, keeps his honky-tonk instincts front and center.

The album also highlights deeper emotional cuts. “As Far As His Mem’ry Lets Her Go” is a long-shelved tearjerker about how past heartbreak limits new love. “Just A Mom” honors the strength of mothers, while “Why Does My Heart Ache” poses a timeless question about healing and loss. “Memories And Gin” leans into fiddle and steel, and “Money Well Wasted” brings humor and tempo to the mix.

The record closes with “The Ones That Take Me Home,” Miller’s love letter to Country music and the memories that shape it. ‘MORE COUNTRY THAN YOU’ presents a young artist rooted in tradition and unafraid to wear it proudly.

TRACK LIST:

“Too Much Fun” (Jeff Knight, Curtis Wright)
“More Country Than You” (Alex Miller, Emily Ann Roberts, Bill Whyte)
“As Far As His Mem’ry Lets Her Go” (Doodle Owens, Jerry Salley)
“Just A Mom” (Wood Newton, Steve Williams)
“The Byrd” (Alex Miller, Jerry Salley)
“Why Does My Heart Ache” (Alex Miller, Jerry Salley)
“Money Well Wasted” (Robert Arthur, Alex Miller, Conner Sweet)
“Secondhand Smoke” (Alan Jackson, Jim McBride)
“Memories And Gin” (Alex Miller, Bill Whyte)
“The Ones That Take Me Home” (Mark BonDurant, Alex Miller, Jerry Salley)

Nashville Indie Folk Trio The Lone Bellow Ignite New Era With ‘What a Time to be Alive’

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

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Nashville Indie Folk Trio The Lone Bellow Ignite New Era With ‘What a Time to be Alive’

Indie-folk favorites The Lone Bellow have released their sixth studio album, ‘What a Time to be Alive,’ available now via Soundly and Thirty Tigers. Recorded in Muscle Shoals and created collaboratively with their full touring ensemble for the first time, the record captures the raw spark and communal spirit that has defined their live show for more than a decade.

Founding members Zach Williams, Brian Elmquist, and Kanene Pipkin are joined by drummer Julian Dorio and multi-instrumentalist Tyler Geertsma. The project was written in Henderson, Kentucky, at producer Peter Barbee’s converted firehouse studio before moving to Muscle Shoals to track the foundations live in one room together. Elmquist led production, with the band improvising instrumental beds before developing lyrics.

The group also shared the official video for “Staring At The Sun.” “Sometimes it’s hard to really connect with the people you love,” the band explains. “But if you can push through that, and remember that you’re worthy of love, you’re reminded that none of us are strangers anymore.” Additional highlights include “Common Folk,” “No Getting Over You,” “Night Goes Black,” “I Did It For Love,” and “You Were Leaving,” along with their recorded version of the live favorite “Islands In The Stream.”

The album’s creation was shaped by both spontaneity and resilience. Writing began in Henderson, Kentucky, at producer Peter Barbee’s converted firehouse studio before moving to Muscle Shoals to track live foundations together in one room. After a devastating tour theft erased early recordings, fans rallied to help the band return to the studio within hours. “This record encapsulates everything we love and respect about each other,” says Williams. The result stands as a powerful testament to friendship, perseverance, and the enduring bond between band and audience.

Psych Pop Visionary Marlon Funaki Unveils “Skin” And ‘Half Moon’ EP

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

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Psych Pop Visionary Marlon Funaki Unveils “Skin” And ‘Half Moon’ EP

California psych-pop shapeshifter Marlon Funaki shares his immersive new single “Skin” and announces the forthcoming ‘Half Moon’ EP, out March 6 via Warner Records. Blending indie rock, psychedelia, and soulful R&B, Funaki continues to build a sound that feels fluid and unmistakably his own. “Skin” follows last month’s velvety “Let You In,” setting the stage for a five-track release that captures his restless creative energy.

Built from instruments he recorded himself, “Skin” channels his live dynamism into a studio setting. The groove deepens as layers of guitar textures swirl, then the song slips into a psychedelic blues passage midway through. “The song ‘Skin’ explores the reality of finding oneself,” Funaki explains. “Rather than encouraging that person to change who they are, the song emphasizes self-acceptance.”

Raised in Redlands, California, Funaki funded his early recordings by busking and working at Guitar Center, building a home studio piece by piece. His Japanese and Chicano heritage informs a wide musical lens that stretches from 2020’s The Universal Language EP to 2022’s Monterey Village. By 2025, he earned the “Artist on the Rise” slot at Luck Reunion Festival and toured with Billy Currington and Palace, surpassing 1.2 million monthly listeners.

The ‘Half Moon’ EP tracklisting is as follows:

“Let You In”
“Skin”
“Wish You Well”
“Million Things”
“Time and Place”

Funaki’s 2026 live dates include:

3/21 – Okeechobee, FL – Okeechobee Music & Arts Festival
3/27 – Park City, UT – Peaks & Beats – Canyons Village
4/14 – Phoenix, AZ – Crescent Ballroom
4/15 – Tucson, AZ – 191 Toole
4/16 – El Paso, TX – The Lowbrow Palace
4/18 – Fort Worth, TX – Tulips
4/19 – Austin, TX – Antone’s Nightclub
4/21 – Tulsa, OK – The Vanguard
4/22 – Fayetteville, AR – George’s Majestic Lounge
4/24 – Birmingham, AL – WorkPlay – Theatre
4/25 – Athens, GA – 40 Watt Club
4/28 – Asheville, NC – Eulogy
4/30 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Pour House
5/01 – Wilmington, NC – Bowstring Burgers & Brewyard
5/02 – Norfolk, VA – The Annex
5/04 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia – The Foundry
5/14 – Brighton, UK – The Great Escape
5/15 – Amsterdam, NL – London Calling – Paradiso
5/16 – Berlin, DE – Baketown
5/19 – Paris, FR – Supersonic
5/23 – Bristol, UK – Dot to Dot
5/24 – Nottingham, UK – Dot to Dot
5/27 – London, UK – The Lexington

Blues Rockers Delta Generators Drop Gritty New Album ‘ON & ON’ May 22

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

0

Blues Rockers Delta Generators Drop Gritty New Album ‘ON & ON’ May 22

Boston blues-rock mainstays Delta Generators will release their new studio album ‘ON & ON’ globally on May 22. The band also unveiled the official video for “I Got You,” directed by Jim Foster of Red 13. The track sets the tone for a record rooted in live performance and unfiltered energy. As the band puts it, “The theme is one we all can relate to, simply exploring the omnipresent reality everyone has their demons.”

‘ON & ON’ was written, arranged, and rehearsed in just eight days, then recorded live over two days at Power Station N.E. in Waterford, CT by Evan Bakke, known for his work with Warren Haynes and Prince. No overthinking, no studio polish overload. Blues drives the vehicle, rock fuels the engine, and the result feels immediate and alive.

Brothers Charlie and Rick O’Neal have played together since their teens, including time in Benjamin Orr’s band of The Cars. Their chemistry anchors the group, alongside drummer Jeff Armstrong and the wider creative circle that shaped the band’s evolution since winning the Boston Blues Challenge in 2008. The lineup has forged a sound that is raw, road-tested, and unmistakably their own.

Armstrong says, “Unlike the previous record, which was more of a compilation of great songs, this new record stands in itself as a complete cohesive work.” Charlie O’Neal adds, “ON & ON perfectly captures the live spirit of the band and is by far sonically superior to any of our previous albums.” Catch them live at the dates below as they bring that spirit to the stage.

Tour Dates:

02/14 – Des Moines, IA – Winter Blues Fest 2026 – Marriott Downtown
02/21 – Shirley, MA – Bull Run
03/06 – Cambridge, MA – Lizard Lounge
05/22 – Plymouth, MA – Spire Center for Performing Arts

UK Soul Icon Sarah Jane Morris Honors Trailblazers On ‘The Sisterhood 2’

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

0

UK Soul Icon Sarah Jane Morris Honors Trailblazers On ‘The Sisterhood 2’

Acclaimed UK vocalist Sarah Jane Morris and guitarist Tony Rémy unveil ‘The Sisterhood 2’, arriving on March 6th ahead of International Women’s Day with 11 new tracks celebrating the most influential female singer-songwriters of our time. The first single, ‘The Edge is Where The Magic Is Found’ written for Amy Winehouse is out today.

Many will be aware of The Sisterhood, the project Sarah Jane Morris and Tony Rémy unveiled in 2024, in which ten of the most notable female singer-songwriters of the Twentieth Century were the subjects of a unique song cycle. Morris and Rémy were already aware that ten was insufficient – others had to be included.

The momentum of writing and creating did not falter, and by the time of its earliest performance The Sisterhood had become twelve, with ink-undried songs for Patti Smith and the then so recently and so tragically departed Sinéad O’Connor being added to the ten originals. Since then, another nine have been written. Peggy Seeger, Etta James, Joan Baez, Dolly Parton, Bonnie Raitt, Joan Armatrading, Janis Ian, Tracy Chapman and Amy Winehouse have become part of the project, brought together in a second volume of unsurpassed quality.

Morris says that there are three qualifying factors for a singer to be included in the sisterhood. First, all must be artists of excellence and originality. Next, they must be writers as well as interpreters. Lastly, almost all have understood that talent and success give them voices to communicate on subjects of conscience. They have accepted the responsibility which goes with opportunity, to act as witnesses, spokeswomen and champions for those whose voices are unheard. All possess courage and lead by example.

Longing To Be Free (for Peggy Seeger) is a powerful feminist anthem and biographical narrative of the events, relationships and causes of a legendary life in musical activism. For Sinéad O’Connor, Oh Mother My Mother is both Celtic elegy and Ovidian dream, in which Sinéad and her mother are reunited as birds beside an imaginary lake and attempt non-temporal reconciliation. For Tracy Chapman, I Can Hear Jesus Weeping, melodically enchanting, expresses a bitter reproach for the abandonment of those most in need of protection: ‘Pity us and pity those who cannot hear the children cry’. For Amy Winehouse, The Edge is Where the Magic is Found (out now) is a jazz ballad in which Amy herself would have delighted, and which focuses on the young singer’s artistry touching lightly on the tragedy of her fall. Love Wit & Stardust (for Dolly Parton) pays tribute to the woman who, perhaps more effectively than any other, communicates universal human values of inclusion, generosity and moral clarity to everyone, ‘from Heaven to the Grand Old Opry’. Joan Baez’s song, Always Both and Never, describes the paradox that militant non-violence risks deadly reprisal; this song recalls the heroism and sacrifice that co-existed with the hedonism of the Sixties. Sweet Mama Raitt (for Bonnie Raitt) is adorned with a perfectly fashioned vocal tribute: ‘Your songs make me feel like I’ve been talking with you’ – and pays special regard to Raitt’s extraordinary song about organ donation. The song for Joan Armatrading, Let Only Love Remain is a musical tour-de-force which displays subtle understanding of Armatrading’s art, while wrapping the enigma of her fiercely guarded privacy. The song for Patti Smith, Crazy Angel, is a beautifully sustained piece of performance poetry which owes quite a lot to Patti herself, but which is sharply expressive of intention. Patti’s art, in Morris’s hand, becomes a mirror of Smith’s own magnificence Also Known as Etta James (for Etta James) is a dark, pulsing number full of the atmosphere of danger which characterised the life of an uncompromising black artist in the America of her time. Janis Ian’s story, The Dignity of Love, artfully proclaiming human love in all its diversity, plays the album out with a gloriously sustained finale lasting over nine minutes, leaving the listener aching for more.

Sarah Jane Morris is aware of the power and quality of her vocal instrument, undiminished as she commands the stage through her fifth decade as an internationally acclaimed singer. Her intelligence, range and command of narrative structure and emotional truth are at their height. Her dramatic training enables her to deliver extended, super-demanding lyrics with flawless intelligibility. ‘The Sisterhood 2’ provides startling new material such gifts demand. With Tony Rémy (a friend and colleague since the nineteen eighties) she has found the ideal creative partner. They know each other so well, a mutual recognition of superlative standards and world-class practice, that their work proceeds with smooth understanding and absolute trust. Tony has long been regarded as one of the leading and most versatile guitarists anywhere in the world; he once replaced Clapton in Jack Bruce’s band, is a master of Soul, Jazz, Funk and African Blues and a composer of invention and originality. His role in The Sisterhood as co-writer and co-producer is the other half of a magical equation – the voice, the words, the guitar, the shared expertise, the endless knowledge of what is needed, and where to go for the answer to that need – Morris and Rémy have it all, and ‘The Sisterhood 2’ is their latest masterwork.

According to Sarah Jane, The Sisterhood is all about the passing of the torch from sister to sister. As we listen to these wonderful songs, we are quickly convinced of Sarah Jane as a bearer of that torch, and that this project is the definitive evidence of her rightful place among the very best.

See The Sisterhood performed live at 229 Great Portland St on International Women’s Day March 8th with a 12-piece band and a 30-piece masterclass choir. Tickets on sale now.

Saddle Up For Lasso Montreal 2026

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 17, 2026

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The annual boots-and-brims celebration Lasso Montreal returns with a stacked 2026 lineup set for Parc Jean-Drapeau. The three-day summer festival blends country hitmakers with roots-driven favorites, drawing tens of thousands to Montreal’s Île Sainte-Hélène for a weekend of wide-open sounds and late-summer energy.

Thomas Rhett headlines Saturday, August 15, while Mumford & Sons close out the festival on Sunday, August 16. Friday’s bill features Jon Pardi, Koe Wetzel, and Waylon Wyatt. On Saturday, Old Dominion, the Turnpike Troubadours, and Zach Chico join the lineup, filling the island with twang, grit, and singalong choruses.

In 2025, the festival welcomed more than 51,500 fans, reinforcing its place as a major stop on the country calendar. The crowd size speaks volumes, and the atmosphere delivers from the first chord to the final encore.

This year’s edition opens with “Lasso in the City” on Friday night, followed by two full days on the island. General admission two-day tickets start at $250, offering fans a full weekend of country, folk, and festival spirit in the heart of Montreal.