This year’s NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE: NASHVILLE’S BIG BASH official watch party will take place at Luke Combs’ Category 10, kicking off at 6PM on Wednesday, December 31. Grammy-award winning country superstar Dwight Yoakam will take the stage to perform his biggest hits, with special appearances by Cody Alan and Caylee Hammack to ring in 2025.
The official watch party is free and open to fans 21 and older on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors open at 6 PM. Guaranteed entry tickets and VIP upgrade options can be purchased in advance HERE.
For those unable to make it to Category 10 or the main show at Bicentennial Park, NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE: NASHVILLE’S BIG BASH will air live on Wednesday, Dec. 31 (8:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT, 10:30 PM-1:30 AM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+*.
As previously announced, the star-studded entertainment special will feature high-energy performances from country music’s hottest superstars live from Bicentennial Park in Nashville, including Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson and Bailey Zimmerman, as well as special guests CeCe Winans and the Fisk Jubilee Singers. The five-hour event will air across multiple time zones, with the traditional countdown at midnight Eastern time as well as the renowned Nashville Music Note Drop and celebratory firework display at midnight Central time. Additional performers will be announced at a later date.
NEW YEAR’S EVE LIVE: NASHVILLE’S BIG BASH is executive produced by Robert Deaton and Mary Hilliard Harrington in partnership with Music City Inc., the foundation of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. The special will be directed by Sandra Restrepo.
*Paramount+ Premium plan subscribers will have access to stream live via the live feed of their local CBS affiliate on the service, as well as on-demand. Paramount+ Essential subscribers will not have the option to stream live, but will have access to on-demand the day after the special airs.
Dwight Yoakam is one of the most influential and innovative voices in American music, celebrated for a career that has reshaped the sound of modern country while extending far beyond its boundaries. With more than 25 million albums sold worldwide, Yoakam is a 21-time GRAMMY nominee and multiple GRAMMY® Award winner. His catalog includes 12 gold albums and 9 platinum or multi-platinum releases, with five reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and 14 placing in the Top 10. Nearly 40 of his singles have charted on Billboard, including 14 Top 10 hits. He is a recipient of the Americana Music Association’s Artist of the Year Award and BMI Country Music’s President’s Award, and in 2019 was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, further cementing his standing as a defining voice in American songwriting. Yoakam’s most recent release, Brighter Days (Via Records/Thirty Tigers), arrived in November 2024 and marked his first album of new material in nine years. Written and recorded over a multi-year period, the collection includes twelve original songs written or co-written by Yoakam, along with covers of “Keep On the Sunny Side,” “Bound Away,” and Chris Hillman’s “Time Between,” all rendered in his unmistakable, genre-blending style that spans honky-tonk, Bakersfield country, bluegrass, rock & roll, and Americana traditions. A dedicated steward of musical heritage, Yoakam launched his SiriusXM channel, Dwight Yoakam and The Bakersfield Beat: Where Country Went Mod, in 2018. The channel celebrates the Bakersfield sound and its lasting influence, featuring music, interviews, archival recordings, and guest appearances from artists such as Post Malone, Lukas Nelson, Beck, Chris Hillman, Jakob Dylan, and Jackie DeShannon. Yoakam’s versatility extends to film and television, with more than 40 appearances to his credit. From his iconic feature debut in Sling Blade, Yoakam has gone on to deliver standout performances in Steven Soderbergh’s Logan Lucky, Clint Eastwood’s Cry Macho, and David Fincher’s Panic Room. Whether on stage or screen, Dwight Yoakam is a singular force in American culture, whose work has reshaped country music and inspired generations of artists.
Country Superstar Dwight Yoakam Headlines Official Nashville New Year’s Eve Watch Party
J.I.D Shares Personal Story Behind The Track “Glory”
Hip-hop artist J.I.D is sharing the powerful, personal meaning behind his track “Glory” in a new episode of Soundcheck. The single is not just a song, but a compelling story where J.I.D opens up about his family, faith, and roots in Atlanta and Tuskegee. He reveals the lessons passed down from his grandmother and discusses his brother’s struggles, explaining that these stories shaped “Glory.”
Comedy Musician Weird Al Announces Massive ‘Bigger and Weirder Tour’
Weird Al is taking his show back on the road in 2026 with the massive “Bigger and Weirder Tour.” This exciting run features a full multimedia show, a super-sized eight-piece band, and special guest Puddles Pity Party. A new comedy-packed clip shows the musician facing shocking conditions as assistants scramble, making fans wonder if the show will go on.
Thomas Rhett Captures Sold-Out Debut With Live Album ‘THOMAS RHETT LIVE FROM FENWAY PARK’
Multi-Platinum country superstar Thomas Rhett has delivered the electrifying experience of his sold-out headlining debut with the release of the live EP, ‘THOMAS RHETT LIVE FROM FENWAY PARK’. Recorded before over 35,000 fans at Boston’s iconic ballpark, the EP captures the unparalleled energy, stadium roar, and sing-alongs of the unforgettable night. The RIAA certified the track “Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman,” featuring Teddy Swims, as Platinum, cementing its hit status. The release of this live collection caps off a major year for the superstar, whose seventh studio album was recently expanded into ‘ABOUT A WOMAN (Deluxe)’.
The expansive 25-song collection showcases a slate of standout collaborations, including “Small Town Girls” with Tucker Wetmore, “Ain’t A Bad Life” featuring Jordan Davis, and “Old Tricks” featuring Blake Shelton. Thomas Rhett’s momentum carried onto the charts with “After All the Bars Are Closed” spending three weeks at No. One, marking his 24th career chart-topper. In a milestone moment at Fenway, RIAA Chairman & CEO Mitch Glazier surprised him with a Diamond award for “Die A Happy Man,” making it one of only 15 country songs in history to reach the coveted 10-million-unit mark.
Thomas Rhett shares his deep history with the town in his heartfelt “Letter to Boston,” recalling opening for Toby Keith and Kenny Chesney, eating his weight in lobster rolls, and attending his fair share of Red Sox games. Next summer, he will join Morgan Wallen for four dates on the Still The Problem Tour and make a highly anticipated return to the UK, appearing with Luke Combs for a three-night run at Wembley Stadium.
‘THOMAS RHETT LIVE FROM FENWAY PARK’ Track List:
- Make Me Wanna
- Somethin’ ‘Bout A Woman (featuring Teddy Swims)
- She Had Me At Heads Carolina
- Letter To Boston
- Beautiful As You
- T-Shirt
- Die A Happy Man
Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. Discovery In Massive $82.7 Billion Deal
Today, Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Netflix will acquire Warner Bros., including its film and television studios, HBO Max and HBO.
The cash and stock transaction is valued at $27.75 per WBD share (subject to a collar as detailed below), with a total enterprise value of approximately $82.7 billion (equity value of $72.0 billion). The transaction is expected to close after the previously announced separation of WBD’s Global Networks division, Discovery Global, into a new publicly-traded company, which is now expected to be completed in Q3 2026.
This acquisition brings together two pioneering entertainment businesses, combining Netflix’s innovation, global reach and best-in-class streaming service with Warner Bros.’ century-long legacy of world-class storytelling. Beloved franchises, shows and movies such as The Big Bang Theory, The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, The Wizard of Oz and the DC Universe will join Netflix’s extensive portfolio including Wednesday, Money Heist, Bridgerton, Adolescenceand Extraction, creating an extraordinary entertainment offering for audiences worldwide.
“Our mission has always been to entertain the world,” said Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix. “By combining Warner Bros.’ incredible library of shows and movies—from timeless classics like Casablancaand Citizen Kaneto modern favorites like Harry Potter and Friends—with our culture-defining titles like Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters and Squid Game, we’ll be able to do that even better. Together, we can give audiences more of what they love and help define the next century of storytelling.”
“This acquisition will improve our offering and accelerate our business for decades to come,” continued Greg Peters, co-CEO of Netflix. “Warner Bros. has helped define entertainment for more than a century and continues to do so with phenomenal creative executives and production capabilities. With our global reach and proven business model, we can introduce a broader audience to the worlds they create—giving our members more options, attracting more fans to our best-in-class streaming service, strengthening the entire entertainment industry and creating more value for shareholders.”
“Today’s announcement combines two of the greatest storytelling companies in the world to bring to even more people the entertainment they love to watch the most,” said David Zaslav, President and CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery. “For more than a century, Warner Bros. has thrilled audiences, captured the world’s attention, and shaped our culture. By coming together with Netflix, we will ensure people everywhere will continue to enjoy the world’s most resonant stories for generations to come.”
Combination Will Offer More Choice, More Opportunities, More Value
- Complementary strengths and assets: Warner Bros.’ studios are world-class, with Warner Bros. recognized as a leading supplier of television titles and filmed entertainment. HBO and HBO Max also provide a compelling, complementary offering for consumers. Netflix expects to maintain Warner Bros.’ current operations and build on its strengths, including theatrical releases for films.
- More choice and greater value for consumers: By adding the deep film and TV libraries and HBO and HBO Max programming, Netflix members will have even more high-quality titles from which to choose. This also allows Netflix to optimize its plans for consumers, enhancing viewing options and expanding access to content.
- A stronger entertainment industry: This acquisition will enhance Netflix’s studio capabilities, allowing the Company to significantly expand U.S. production capacity and continue to grow investment in original content over the long term which will create jobs and strengthen the entertainment industry.
- More opportunities for the creative community: By uniting Netflix’s member experience and global reach with Warner Bros.’ renowned franchises and extensive library, the Company will create greater value for talent—offering more opportunities to work with beloved intellectual property, tell new stories and connect with a wider audience than ever before.
- More value for shareholders: By offering members a wider selection of quality series and films, Netflix expects to attract and retain more members, drive more engagement and generate incremental revenue and operating income. The Company also expects to realize at least $2-3 billion of cost savings per year by the third year and expects the transaction to be accretive to GAAP earnings per share by year two.
Transaction Details and Timing
Under the terms of the agreement, each WBD shareholder will receive $23.25 in cash and $4.501 in shares of Netflix common stock for each share of WBD common stock outstanding at the closing of the transaction. The transaction values Warner Bros. Discovery at $27.75 per share, implying a total equity value of approximately $72.0 billion and an enterprise value of approximately $82.7 billion.
In June 2025, WBD announced plans to separate(opens in a new window) its Streaming & Studios and Global Networks divisions into two separate publicly traded companies. This separation is now expected to be completed in Q3 2026, prior to the closing of this transaction. The newly separated publicly traded company holding the Global Networks division, Discovery Global, will include premier entertainment, sports and news television brands around the world including CNN, TNT Sports in the U.S., and Discovery, free-to-air channels across Europe, and digital products such as Discovery+ and Bleacher Report.
The stock component is subject to a collar under which WBD shareholders will receive Netflix stock valued at $4.50 per share, provided the 15-day volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of Netflix stock price (measured three trading days prior to closing) falls between $97.91 and $119.67. If the VWAP is below $97.91, WBD shareholders will receive 0.0460 Netflix shares for each WBD share. If the VWAP is above $119.67, WBD shareholders will receive 0.0376 Netflix shares for each WBD share.
The transaction was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both Netflix and WBD. In addition to the completion of the separation of Discovery Global (WBD’s Global Networks business), completion of the transaction is subject to required regulatory approvals, approval of WBD shareholders and other customary closing conditions. The transaction is expected to close in 12-18 months.
Creative Minds Need Recovery Too: Natural Ways to Reset Your Energy
By Mitch Rice
Ask any artist, writer, musician, or creator—burnout isn’t just real, it sneaks up quietly. One minute you’re in the flow, knocking out your best ideas; the next, your brain feels like static. That kind of fatigue isn’t always physical—it’s mental, emotional, and creative all at once.
In creative industries, where inspiration is currency, we often assume energy will just be there when we need it. But creative minds need recovery, too. The difference is, instead of just resting our bodies, we also need to recharge the mental and emotional parts of ourselves that fuel new ideas.
One way some people are supporting this kind of balance is through natural tools and rituals. For example, some creatives turn to gentle, plant-based options like a kratom and kava shot—which are used by individuals seeking calm focus or a clearer mindset during intense work periods. These kinds of products are part of a larger lifestyle shift toward sustainable energy and intentional recovery, without relying on synthetic boosters or all-day stimulants.
Why Creatives Burn Out Differently
When your work depends on new ideas, burnout hits differently. It’s not just “I’m tired,” it’s “I have nothing left in the tank.” You might still be technically awake, but your thoughts are scattered, and your creative instincts feel dulled.
That’s not surprising. Studies show that creativity requires cognitive flexibility, emotional sensitivity, and the ability to make unusual connections. All of those things rely on a rested, regulated brain—which is harder to come by when you’re skipping breaks or constantly switching tasks.
According to The Creative Independent, many artists report that their best work comes after periods of intentional stillness, not constant productivity. The hustle might feel satisfying in the moment, but sustainable creativity often comes from slowing down and building in space to recover.
Natural Ways to Reset Without Disconnecting from Your Craft
Here are a few simple, non-invasive ways creatives can recharge—without losing their connection to the process.
1. Ritual Over Routine
Instead of forcing a strict schedule, many creatives find more energy by building rituals that signal to the brain it’s time to work—or rest. That could be lighting a candle, putting on a certain playlist, or drinking tea before sitting down to write or sketch.
Rituals offer comfort and structure without rigidity, helping ease you back into flow.
2. Short Breaks with Purpose
When you’re drained, stepping away can feel like defeat. But stepping away on purpose can be a powerful reset. Whether it’s 10 minutes outside, journaling, or just sitting in silence, the key is intentional rest—not mindless scrolling.
Give your mind a chance to process and recalibrate without more noise.
3. Creative Nutrition
What you eat (or drink) has a direct impact on focus and clarity. Instead of sugary quick-fixes or bottomless coffee, try slow-release snacks like nuts, fruit, or whole grains. Stay hydrated, too—even minor dehydration can reduce mental clarity.
Some people also integrate botanical support as part of their day. Plant-based options like green tea, rhodiola, or kratom and kava shots are used by individuals looking to support a calm, focused mindset—especially when bouncing back from a creative crash. These aren’t magic solutions, but part of a bigger picture of balance.
4. Move (Without Measuring)
You don’t have to “work out” to move your body. A walk around the block, dancing to your favorite album, or stretching on the floor can help rewire your focus.
The trick is to move without goals—just movement for its own sake. It helps release stuck energy and clears space for ideas to start flowing again.
5. Let Go of the Pressure to Produce
Creative burnout often comes from feeling like every session has to result in something good. But the truth is, the best ideas usually come when you’re not trying so hard.
Give yourself permission to write junk, sketch nonsense, or make music no one hears. Creative play—without a deadline or purpose—is often the gateway to new breakthroughs.
Final Thought: Rest Is Part of the Process
For creative people, rest isn’t the opposite of work—it’s part of the cycle. Refilling your mental and emotional reserves allows your creativity to show up more consistently, and with more ease.
By building in space for intentional recovery—whether through quiet rituals, movement, or natural tools like plant-based support—you give your brain the environment it needs to create. Not just once, but again and again.
Because at the end of the day, creative energy isn’t infinite—but it is renewable.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
Beyond Pixels: How Phenomenon Studio Masters the Art and Science of Product Design
By Mitch Rice
In today’s competitive digital world, building a product that truly stands out requires far more than stunning visuals. Success is shaped by a deep understanding of human behavior, seamless functionality, and the strategic clarity to meet real business objectives. Phenomenon Studio, a leading design-driven agency, has earned its reputation as one of the best product design companies by consistently delivering solutions that balance creativity, usability, and measurable results.
What Defines a Leading Product Design Agency?
When organizations search for product design companies near them, they’re rarely looking for just an interface designer. They want a partner—someone who understands their vision, challenges, industry, and long-term goals.
A top-tier product design agency doesn’t simply create beautiful screens. Instead, it shapes the entire product journey, guiding clients from early research and concept development to market-ready execution. Phenomenon Studio’s holistic method demonstrates that exceptional product design emerges not from trends but from a meaningful understanding of the people who will use the product.
Industry Insight
Research shows that companies prioritizing design experience:
32% higher revenue growth
56% higher shareholder return
This confirms that investing in high-quality product design services is not just aesthetic—it’s a strategic business decision.
The Evolution of Modern Product Design
Today, product design encompasses far more than visual interfaces. It includes every layer of user interaction—from discovery to long-term engagement and brand trust.
Phenomenon Studio’s approach to digital product design reflects this expanded perspective. They treat each project as an interconnected ecosystem where design, emotion, functionality, and brand expression work together to create meaningful user experiences.
Phenomenon Studio’s Integrated Service Model
What sets Phenomenon Studio apart from other product design firms is their seamless combination of design, strategy, and technology. As both a design agency and an MVP development services provider, they ensure every product is both visually compelling and technically reliable.
1. Strategic Discovery & Research
Their process begins with deep competitive analysis, stakeholder interviews, and user research. This ensures each product is grounded in real-world needs and business priorities.
2. Human-Centered Design
Every decision during the design phase is driven by user motivations, pain points, and behaviors. This results in intuitive, empathetic experiences that feel natural and effortless.
3. Technical Implementation
As a full-service product development agency, Phenomenon Studio bridges the gap between design and engineering. Their development teams translate design concepts into scalable, high-performing digital products.
Expertise Across Diverse and Complex Industries
Phenomenon Studio’s portfolio spans multiple industries, each with unique demands. Their ability to adapt their design methodology showcases their depth and versatility.
Medical Product Design: Precision Meets Compassion
Healthcare products require strict compliance, clarity, and user trust. Phenomenon Studio blends regulatory understanding with thoughtful design to create medical interfaces that enhance clinical accuracy while supporting patient comfort and confidence.
AI-Driven Solutions: Designing for Intelligent Experiences
AI is reshaping industries, and designing AI-powered products requires specialized expertise. Phenomenon Studio’s advanced understanding of AI product design allows them to create systems that learn from user behavior, personalize experiences, and deliver added value over time.
Performance Metrics That Matter
89% client retention
3.2× average ROI on design investments
42% faster time-to-market
These numbers demonstrate the tangible impact of their integrated design and development capabilities.
Why Integrated Services Deliver Superior Results
Unlike traditional design consultancies, Phenomenon Studio connects strategy, UX/UI design, engineering, and branding into a single, unified workflow. As both a creative and technical MVP development services provider, they reduce friction, shorten timelines, and ensure that every touchpoint feels cohesive and purposeful.
Cohesive Experiences Across the Entire User Journey
From product UI to brand assets and marketing materials, Phenomenon Studio ensures that every element reinforces a consistent message, building trust and recognition at every stage.
The Future of Product Design
As technology evolves, several key trends are redefining how digital products are conceived and built. Phenomenon Studio remains at the forefront of these shifts.
AI-Enhanced Design Workflows
Artificial intelligence is becoming a tool for designers—empowering faster iteration, deeper user insights, and smarter solutions.
Sustainable Design Practices
Environmental considerations are now essential in the product development lifecycle, influencing materials, energy use, and long-term product impact.
Inclusive and Accessible Design
Modern users expect digital experiences to be accessible to everyone. Phenomenon Studio integrates inclusive design principles to make products usable for diverse audiences worldwide.
Measuring the True ROI of Product Design
For many companies, understanding the real impact of design investment is crucial. Phenomenon Studio uses data-driven frameworks to measure:
User engagement
Conversion improvements
Customer satisfaction
Business performance metrics
This ensures that product design and development services directly contribute to business success.
Conclusion: The Power of Holistic, Strategic Design
In today’s rapidly evolving digital environment, product success requires a seamless blend of design, functionality, and technology. Phenomenon Studio exemplifies this new standard—an integrated product design and development agency that combines world-class creativity with technical excellence and strategic insight.
By unifying the roles of design agency, development partner, and innovation consultant, they help organizations launch products that are not only beautiful and functional but also meaningful, scalable, and aligned with long-term business strategy.
As design continues to drive competitive advantage, companies partnering with leaders like Phenomenon Studio position themselves to thrive in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
Brazilian Rock Powerhouse MALVADA Unveils Party Anthem Single “After”
Brazilian rock powerhouses MALVADA are continuing their incredible rise with the unveiling of their new single and official video, “After.” The track is taken from their self-titled album, released earlier this year via Frontiers Music Srl. This song, which the band calls one of the coolest on the record, is a high-energy anthem about enjoying life and having fun with the people you love. The band comments that “Rock ‘n’ roll is also about partying and enjoying life as it is. We are really excited to show this new video to the world.”
The self-titled album is the result of two years of work and growth, which the band believes is their best work yet, showcasing their “real essence.” The new album, produced by Grammy-award-winning producer Giu Daga, promises a powerful and exciting musical experience. It is MALVADA’s first work featuring tracks in English and Portuguese, aiming to conquer a global audience following their signing to the prestigious Italian label Frontiers Music Srl.
MALVADA, composed of Indira Castillo, Bruna Tsuruda, Rafaela Reoli, and Juliana Salgado, has solidified their position in the rock scene since their formation in 2020. They have played over a hundred shows in Brazil, including huge festivals like Rock in Rio and Best of Blues and Rock. They have shared the stage with national and international legends, including Pitty, Angra, and Tom Morello, establishing themselves as the rising star of Brazilian rock ready to take over the world.
Jon Stewart Reveals Secret Hobby Joins Band Church and State™ at Age 62
Jon Stewart has a secret life that involves a drum kit and rock and roll swagger, and he just shared the full story on The Daily Show. The 62-year-old comedy icon revealed to his audience that he has taken up drumming as a serious hobby and, even more remarkably, has joined a band called Church and State™. This unexpected venture highlights a different, more relaxed side of the famous political satirist, who began taking lessons after his first departure from The Daily Show in 2015.
The band features Stewart’s drum teacher, Andy Bova, alongside singer Rick Barry, and bassist Jim Bova, and they have been quietly gigging around New Jersey. Church and State™ recently took their low-key rock grooves to the legendary Stone Pony in Asbury Park for a high-profile show, proving Stewart is serious about his pursuit. Though they keep a deliberately low profile and typically only rehearse once a week, the band is already reportedly working on their debut album, channeling Stewart’s punk roots from his days as a bartender at Trenton’s legendary rock club, City Gardens.
Get Ready to Headbang as Ozzy Meets Hall and Oates in Unexpected Holiday Mashup
Mashup master Bill McClintock has delivered the ultimate holiday curveball: a seamless stitch of Ozzy Osbourne’s power ballad “Mama I’m Coming Home” with the smooth festive tones of Hall and Oates singing the classic “Jingle Bell Rock.” This creation, unlike McClintock’s previous complex mashups, uses only these two songs, resulting in an experience that is both chaotic and perfectly harmonious. The video editor created this tribute hoping the late, great Ozzy would have had a good laugh at the bizarre blend. It’s a truly unique, genre-bending holiday gem that demands a listen.