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The Forgotten Homeless Initiative Unites Toronto Artists and Community Leaders to Address City’s Growing Housing Crisis

Eric Alper
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The Forgotten Homeless Initiative Unites Toronto Artists and Community Leaders to Address City’s Growing Housing Crisis

Toronto’s arts and advocacy communities are joining forces in a bold new initiative to confront one of the city’s most urgent challenges: homelessness. At the heart of this effort is “The Forgotten Homeless,” a powerful musical and social campaign created by Toronto singer-songwriter Richard Todd, whose message of empathy, action, and hope is resonating across Canada.

The initiative’s impact extends beyond the recording studio. Todd’s guitar, lyric sheet, and the accompanying music video for “The Forgotten Homeless” are now part of the City of Toronto’s Market Gallery exhibition, ‘At Home in Toronto’, which runs through November 30.

“Visitors are drawn to Todd’s guitar on display, often stopping to listen to the original song and view the handwritten lyrics,” says Kendra Campbell, Museum Administrator of the City’s Museum & Heritage Services. “It’s a vivid example of how art can illuminate the housing crisis while celebrating community-driven solutions.”

According to a 2024 Street Needs Assessment by the City of Toronto, the city’s homeless population has more than doubled since 2021 — from approximately 7,300 to 15,400 people. This rise reflects complex social factors, including a lack of affordable housing, limited income support, and gaps in health and refugee services. Within this reality, “The Forgotten Homeless” brings together artists, advocates, and citizens to build awareness and inspire change through creativity, compassion, and collaboration.

Written by Todd and performed by his ensemble Artists Against Homelessness, the song serves as both a tribute and a call to action. The group includes acclaimed Toronto artists such as Chris Birkett, Sarah Siddiqui, David Moses, Anna Goldsmith, Luciana Santaguida, Michael Quattro, Shari Tallon, and others.

All streaming royalties from the project are being donated to WoodGreen Community Services’ UNMET Needs Campaign, which supports those experiencing homelessness. The museum installation also features a QR code that enables visitors to stream the song, providing additional support for WoodGreen’s programs.

“I’m very grateful to the City of Toronto and WoodGreen for their dedication to this cause,” says Todd. “Music has the power to unite people. Through this song, we want to remind everyone that homelessness affects us all, and that each act of kindness makes a difference.”

Todd’s artistic journey underscores his deep commitment to community. Best known as the lead singer, guitarist, and songwriter for the Toronto band Redpath Traffic, he is also the founder of Warm it Up! — a grassroots outreach initiative that provides essential items such as socks, gloves, and coffee cards to people in need. To date, the program’s volunteers have assisted more than 3,800 individuals in Toronto and beyond.

Producer Chris Birkett, a Juno Award–winning musician known for his work with Sinead O’Connor, Talking Heads, and Alison Moyet, brought his world-class expertise to the project. “Richard’s song stands out because it comes from genuine empathy,” says Birkett. “This initiative turns music into a tool for healing and social impact.”

By uniting artists, advocates, and audiences, “The Forgotten Homeless” exemplifies how the arts community can mobilize compassion into tangible change. The project continues to grow in scope, with media coverage, museum inclusion, and partnerships ensuring that its message reaches new audiences across Canada.

Through melody, storytelling, and collective purpose, Richard Todd and Artists Against Homelessness offer not only awareness but also action — reminding Toronto that every voice, every note, and every gesture of humanity can help bring lasting change.

Jon Mullane Captures the Magic of the Moment with New Single “Remember in November”

Eric Alper
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Jon Mullane Captures the Magic of the Moment with New Single “Remember in November”

Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter Jon Mullane is setting the airwaves ablaze once again with his heartfelt new single, “Remember in November.” The track, co-written with Grammy-nominated hitmakers Michael Dulaney (Faith Hill, Blake Shelton, Kenny Chesney) and Michael Jay (Celine Dion, Martika, Eminem), is the first release from his forthcoming EP ‘The Road’, and showcases Mullane’s unmistakable blend of rock, pop, and cinematic storytelling.

Written in Nashville’s legendary Peer Music Publishing studio, “Remember in November” is a warm, reflective anthem about connection, change, and memory — a song that feels like the golden glow of late summer, wrapped in melody and nostalgia. With shimmering harmonies and laid-back grooves that nod to the classic sound of the Eagles, the track channels timeless songwriting through a modern pop-rock lens. Produced by Toronto’s Creighton Doane, it’s a perfect reminder of why Mullane remains one of Canada’s most consistently compelling voices in contemporary pop-rock.

Hailing from Halifax and splitting his time between Mahone Bay and Los Angeles, Mullane has carved a global career rooted in authenticity and melody. His track record includes multiple Top 40 Billboard radio singles in Canada and the U.S., with hits like “My New American Girl” breaking into the Top 40 at #32 on the U.S. Hot AC chart. His music has also soundtracked major moments, from NBC’s Olympic Games coverage to prime-time TV and film placements — proof that his songs connect across audiences and borders.


With “Remember in November,” Mullane captures the fleeting sweetness of a moment you never want to end. As he sings, “Here in a moment, the sun will disappear into the ocean, but we will still be here,” he paints a vivid scene of timeless romance. The chorus glows with hope and longing:

“I will remember in November / When these golden skies turn grey / We were together, felt like forever / I won’t let it fade away.”

That poetic heart is matched by a sweeping production that balances the intimacy of Mullane’s voice with the spaciousness of a live band. It’s the sound of summer giving way to fall — and a reminder that even as the seasons change, the memories remain.

“‘Remember in November’ came together so naturally,” Mullane shares. “Writing with Michael Dulaney and Michael Jay was an incredible experience — three worlds colliding in one afternoon. We wanted to capture that exact feeling when you know something special is happening and you want to hold onto it forever.”

He continues, “Music has always been about connection for me — finding that spark that makes you feel alive. This song is about remembering the light, even when the days get shorter.”

“Remember in November” carries the unmistakable warmth and optimism that defines Mullane’s career. It’s an anthem for dreamers, for believers, and for anyone who still finds beauty in the changing tides of life. With ‘The Road’ arriving in early 2026, Jon Mullane’s next chapter is wide open — and it’s already shining bright.

Internationally Acclaimed Italian-Canadian Soprano GIORGIA FUMANTI Brings Cinematic Magic to Life with ‘Cinema II’

Eric Alper
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Internationally Acclaimed Italian-Canadian Soprano GIORGIA FUMANTI Brings Cinematic Magic to Life with ‘Cinema II’

Internationally acclaimed Italian-Canadian soprano Giorgia Fumanti returns with her highly anticipated new album ‘Cinema II’, a luminous celebration of the world’s most beloved movie songs. Following the success of her Cinema Collection Deluxe Edition, this new project arrives on October 24, 2025, preceded by the single “Who Wants to Live Forever”— out now on all major platforms including Spotify, SoundCloud, and YouTube.

For Giorgia, ‘Cinema II’ represents a continuation of her artistic dialogue with film and music—an invitation to dream, to remember, and to feel. “I was always a fan of Queen’s music, and especially of Freddie Mercury’s voice,” Giorgia shares. “Recording ‘Who Wants To Live Forever’ was a natural choice, a perfect fit for this collection of songs that celebrate timeless emotion.”

The new album, produced and arranged by her long-time collaborator Stefano Galante, brings Giorgia’s signature vocal purity and expressive warmth to reimagined classics from The Lion King, Titanic, The Godfather, Mulan, Life Is Beautiful, The Bodyguard, and more. “The songs remind me of memories from my childhood in Italy,” she explains. “They’re not opera; they’re not pop—they’re in between. I can start like a pop singer, then go high like a soprano. It’s a style that feels completely natural to me.”

Her rendition of “Who Wants To Live Forever” is accompanied by a striking video inspired by the flow of time—an elegant meditation on love and eternity. The lyrics echo Giorgia’s own philosophy: “Touch my world with your fingertips, and we can love forever. Forever is our today.”

Throughout ‘Cinema II’, Giorgia approaches each song as both storyteller and interpreter. “Choosing the songs is a beautiful exercise,” she says. “I follow the feelings the music brings. These are not copies of the originals—they are new creations arranged with love and care.” Her voice moves seamlessly from the intimate to the majestic, offering listeners a soundscape of hope, light, and cinematic wonder.

A classically trained soprano born in Tuscany and now based in Québec’s Laurentians, Giorgia has graced some of the world’s most prestigious stages—from London’s Royal Albert Hall to New York’s Times Square and Beijing’s Olympic celebrations. With more than 1.5 million albums sold and 45 million streams worldwide, she continues to enchant global audiences with a sound that transcends genre and language.

As she looks ahead to international performances and new creative projects, Giorgia remains guided by her simple mission: to uplift and connect. “Music is my passion, my joy, my therapy,” she says. “It’s the bridge between my heart and the hearts of others. I hope this album reminds people that beauty and love are everywhere, in every moment.”

‘Cinema II’ will be available on all major streaming platforms on October 24, 2025, through Virgin Music / Universal Music. The single “Who Wants To Live Forever” is out now, accompanied by a cinematic music video.

JUNO Nominee Chris McKhool Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Family Music With “A Place in the Choir”

Eric Alper
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JUNO Nominee Chris McKhool Celebrates 30th Anniversary of Family Music With “A Place in the Choir”

“A Place in the Choir” is the second single from 3x Parent’s Choice Award Winner Chris McKhool’s upcoming family album entitled “Little Leaf”.

“’A Place in the Choir’ sings of belonging, where every creature – large or small, ordinary or strange – has a note to add to life’s great chorus” says Chris. “The variety of animal voices is a metaphor for the many shapes of human difference, and reminds us that what seems odd or uncommon is beautiful when joined with others.”

This song is a celebration of community: the magic that emerges when each distinct voice, instead of being hidden, is woven into a shared harmony. Chris continues: “In today’s fractured world, where everyone is living in their silos, diversity can seem like a challenge, but is actually the very source of strength and joy in society”.

“A Place in the Choir” features musicians from Chris’ friends in 3x JUNO nominated Sultans of String, with Chris Coole on banjo, gorgeous backing vocals from singer-to-the-stars Rebecca Campbell and a children’s chorus. The song is produced by Chris along with Kevin Laliberté and Grammy/JUNO Award winning John ‘Beetle’ Bailey, with the accompanying video shot by Micah Sky at De Mazenov Farm, tucked away in Ancaster Ontario.

CHRIS MCKHOOL BIO:

Chris is a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal recipient for creating community through music.  One of Canada’s hottest musicians for kids, he has been hailed as a “Children’s musical star” (National Post) and “Canada’s greatest eco-troubadour for young people” (Mississauga Living Arts Centre). Everything Chris does comes from the heart, and he has been delighting audiences with his joyful songs and exotic world instruments for three decades, reaching over 1 million children live in concert, with hit performances on YTV’s Treehouse, TVO’s Crawlspace, Mr. Dressup, CITY-TV and the CBC.

A champion of environmental issues, Chris created the World Largest Bicycle Bell Orchestra at Yonge-Dundas Square with over 800 bell ringers! He was nominated for a JUNO Award for Best Children’s Album, and won the Canadian Folk Music Award for Children’s Album of the Year! He’s also a multiple Parents’ Choice Award Winner and a Green Toronto Award Winner. Chris was just also inducted into the Burlington Performing Artist Centre Hall of Fame, and Burlington’s mayor awarded him the Key to the City.

The accompanying concert tour is part musical performance, part environmentalism and 100% fun!  The show is fully interactive, as kids join the band on stage playing percussion instruments from around the globe, dance to the global grooves, and sing songs about taking care of our planet. For three decades, Chris has taken his audience beyond the 3 R’s of ecology (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) to a new level of understanding of our global connection to forests, air, water and animals. Everyone leaves with the feeling that they can really make a difference!

CHRIS MCKHOOL TOUR:
2025

Nov 16 – 1:00 pm – Burlington Performing Arts Centre

Nov 18 – Richmond Hill Centre for the Performing Arts **

Nov 19 – Sanderson Centre in Brantford **

Dec 13 – 1:00 pm – Burlington Performing Arts Centre

Dec 21 – 2:00 pm – McMichael Gallery, Kleinburg 

2026

Jan 26 – Flato Markham Theatre **

Jan 27 – Flato Markham Theatre **

Jan 28 – Flato Markham Theatre **

Jan 29 – Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts **

Mar 6 – 6:00 pm – Kingston Road United Church, Toronto

Apr 12 – 2:00 pm – Razzamataz Kids’ Shows, Haliburton

Apr 13 – THEOP, Mackenzie Community School – Deep River **

Apr 22 – 6:00 pm –  Iroquois Falls Arts Council – Boyle Community Auditorium

Apr 23 – 6:30 pm – Kirkland Lake Entertainment Series – Northern College Auditorium

Apr 24 – 6:30 pm – Pied Piper Kidshow, Classic TheatreCobalt

Apr 26 – 2:00 pm – Over the Rainbow – Korah Collegiate HS, Sault Ste Marie

Apr 28 – Geraldton Children’s Series – Our Lady of Fatima School, Longlac **

Apr 29 – Geraldton Children’s Series – Geraldton High School,  Geraldton **

Apr 30 – 6:30 pm – Kids Kaleidoscope – Sioux North High School, Sioux Lookout

May 1 – 6:30 pm – Dryden Youth Entertainment Series – Dryden Regional Cultural Centre

May 3 – 11:00 am – Sunday Smiles Family Entertainment Series – St John Paul II School, Kenora

May 4 – 6:30 pm – Kids and Company – Townshend Theatre, Fort Frances

May 5 – 6:30 pm – Atikokan Children’s Entertainment Series – St Patrick’s School, Atikokan

TICKET DETAILS:  https://fiddlefire.com

** Education Shows for students and teachers

AJ Lee & Blue Summit Reimagine Bluegrass Classics on New EP ‘Cover To Cover V1’

Eric Alper
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AJ Lee & Blue Summit Reimagine Bluegrass Classics on New EP ‘Cover To Cover V1’

Acclaimed Santa Cruz, California string band AJ Lee & Blue Summit have announced their new EP, Cover To Cover V1, arriving digitally October 17 via Signature Sounds. The release is now available for pre-save. The band’s extensive tour continues this summer with performances at RockyGrass, Bluegrass in La Roche, Bourbon and Beyond, and Pickin’ in the Pines, followed by a co-headlining tour with East Nash Grass in November.

“Cover To Cover V1 breathes new life into five of our most beloved songs with tasteful interpretations, modern acoustic textures, and some special personal touches,” says AJ Lee. “New tempos, jammed-out or stretched psychedelically, each track pays tribute to some of our favorite artists and songwriters. Even with deep roots in bluegrass, we have very broad musical interests throughout the band. This project is about reimagining songs we love, mixing in our personal connection to the genre, and giving them a fresh, down-home twist.”

Today, the band releases the EP’s third single, “Glendale Train,” featuring Kyle Tuttle. Written by New Riders of the Purple Sage’s John Dawson, the song has been a longtime favorite of Lee’s, evolving from backyard jams to live performances. The track’s high-energy start shifts into a slow, groovy breakdown, creating a dynamic journey that nods to the original while carrying the band’s unique flair.

AJ Lee & Blue Summit were recently nominated for IBMA New Artist of the Year, with AJ Lee also earning a nomination for Female Vocalist of the Year. Earlier this year, the group launched their inaugural Sierragrass Festival, curating a world-class folk lineup in California’s Sierra foothills.

Cover To Cover V1 tracklist:

  1. Tear My Stillhouse Down (Feat. Lindsay Lou) (Gillian Welch)
  2. I’m a Believer (Neil Diamond)
  3. Glendale Train (Feat. Kyle Tuttle) (John Dawson)
  4. It Takes One to Know One (Harlan Howard and Freddie Hart)
  5. Who Walks In When I Walk Out (Feat. Anh Phung & Trey Hensley) (Ralph Freed)

AJ Lee & Blue Summit are known for their luminous harmonies, masterful musicianship, and ability to blend tradition with innovation. The Santa Cruz-based ensemble—AJ Lee, Jan Purat, Sean Newman, Scott Gates, and Sullivan Tuttle—continues to expand the boundaries of bluegrass with their energy, emotion, and authenticity.

AJ Lee & Blue Summit Tour Dates:

NOV 6 THU     Neighborhood Theatre  Charlotte, NC

NOV 7 FRI      Cat’s Cradle  Carrboro, NC

NOV 8 SAT     The Grey Eagle  Asheville, NC

NOV 9 SUN    The Ramkat & Gas Hill Drinking Room  Winston-Salem, NC

NOV 13 THU  Jefferson Theater  Charlottesville, VA

NOV 14 FRI    Union Craft Brewing  Baltimore, MD

NOV 15 SAT   F. M. Kirby Center   Wilkes-barre, PA

NOV 16 SUN   Ardmore Music Hall   Ardmore, PA

NOV 19 WED  Portland House Of Music and Events (HOME)  Portland, ME

NOV 20 THU   Narrows Center For The Arts   Fall River, MA

NOV 21 FRI    The Sinclair   Cambridge, MA

NOV 22 SAT    Colony   Woodstock, NY

NOV 23 SUN   Music Hall of Williamsburg   Brooklyn, NY

LØLØ Joins Fearless Records With Fiery New Pop-Punk Single “the devil wears converse”

Eric Alper
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LØLØ Joins Fearless Records With Fiery New Pop-Punk Single “the devil wears converse”

Rising alt-rock and pop-punk artist LØLØ has officially joined the Fearless Records family and marks the occasion with the release of her fiery new single “the devil wears converse.” The track serves as a relatable anthem for anyone who’s fallen for the wrong person in the coolest shoes. It’s catchy, bold, and brimming with attitude — a perfect debut for her next chapter under one of the world’s most iconic rock labels.

“‘the devil wears converse’ is a fun, playful song about giving into temptation,” says LØLØ. “It tells the story of being drawn to someone you know is bad for you, but you don’t think you can resist. It’s about the pull of desire, where your better judgment loses to the prettiest monster in the room. Who knew the devil himself actually looked so damn cute?”

Fearless Records President Andy Serrao shares, “We are thrilled to have LØLØ as part of the Fearless family. She’s a smart and sophisticated songwriter and vocalist and a proven live performer. We are excited about being part of this next phase of her career.”

LØLØ’s new era kicks off as she performs at Vans Warped Tour Long Beach this weekend, followed by her “Bigger Than You Think!” U.S. tour supporting Simple Plan, along with 3OH!3 and Bowling for Soup. Later this fall, she will embark on the final leg of her own U.S. headline run, with stops across major cities including Buffalo, Orlando, and Indianapolis. Fans can find tickets and VIP packages at lolomusic.com.

With over 150 million global streams and praise from outlets including Notion, PAPER, Rock Sound, Kerrang!, and Ones To Watch, LØLØ continues to prove herself as one of the most exciting voices in modern alternative music. Her deluxe debut album “falling for robots and wishing I was one” set the stage for this next evolution — one defined by sharp lyricism, fearless storytelling, and an undeniable pop-punk edge.

Blue Rodeo Mark 40 Years With Vinyl Reissue of ‘Greatest Hits Vol. 1’ and Documentary Celebration

Eric Alper
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Blue Rodeo Mark 40 Years With Vinyl Reissue of ‘Greatest Hits Vol. 1’ and Documentary Celebration

As part of their 40th anniversary celebrations, Canadian music legends Blue Rodeo have announced the highly anticipated double-LP vinyl release of Greatest Hits Vol. 1, out mpw. This marks the first time this beloved collection will be available on vinyl, a moment fans have eagerly awaited for years. The album features the original, unchanged track listing, allowing listeners to experience the band’s foundational hits in a classic format. Greatest Hits Vol. 1 vinyl pressing follows the band’s release of Greatest Hits Vol. 2 earlier this year.  Click here to order Greatest Hits Vol. 1 now.  

Further enhancing their 40th-anniversary celebrations, earlier this year, Canada Post paid tribute to the band’s legacy by issuing a commemorative stamp featuring a collage of studio portraits of Blue Rodeo’s lineup.  In addition to this, the band released the award-winning documentary Blue Rodeo: Lost Together, directed by Dale Heslip.  The film offers an intimate look into the band’s history, creative process, personal challenges, and enduring friendships. Featuring interviews with band members past and present, alongside industry insiders, the documentary provides a compelling portrait of Blue Rodeo’s journey and their significant impact on the Canadian music landscape. Blue Rodeo: Lost Together was the #1 Canadian film in theaters during its theatrical run and won the 2024 Audience Award for a feature-length film at the Whistler Film Festival. It is available to stream now on the free CBC Gem streaming platform and on the CBC Docs YouTube channel.

Blue Rodeo’s journey began in 1984, when high school friends Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor formed what they called a “psychedelic country band” in an era dominated by other musical trends.  After facing challenges in New York, their return to a thriving Toronto inspired them to craft music that resonated with their true artistic vision. Joined by bandmates Bazil Donovan, Cleave Anderson, and Bobby Wiseman, Blue Rodeo quickly gained momentum, filling venues and ascending to the top of the charts. Their unwavering commitment to authenticity and a distinctive sound became the cornerstone of their enduring success in the Canadian music scene.

Now celebrating their 40th anniversary, Blue Rodeo has solidified its place as one of Canada’s most enduring and important bands. Their rise in the late 1980s and early 1990s helped spark a roots and country-rock music revival in Canada, influencing a new generation of musicians. The magic of Blue Rodeo’s sound stems from the distinct yet complementary songwriting styles of its lead singers, paired with the exceptional musicianship of its members, including original member Bazil Donovan, drummer Glenn Milchem, keyboardist Michael Boguski, guitarist Colin Cripps, and multi-instrumentalist Jimmy Bowskill. This unique blend of country, rock, and roots has created a body of work that stands as a benchmark in Canadian music, weaving deeply resonant, distinctly Canadian stories that have influenced countless songwriters and become woven into the fabric of the nation’s cultural identity. Blue Rodeo continues to prove their relevance and importance, maintaining an enduring love affair with Canadians through four decades of timeless music.

Blue Rodeo – Greatest Hits Vol. 1 Tracklisting:

1. To Love Somebody
2. Rose-Coloured Glasses
3. Try
4. Diamond Mine
5. Til I Am Myself Again
6. Trust Yourself
7. Lost Together
8. 5 Days in May
9. Hasn’t Hit Me Yet
10. Bad Timing
11. Dark Angel
12. Side of the Road
13. It Could Happen to You
14. After the Rain

Spotify Swings Into Fun With Interactive ‘Happy Gilmore 2 Tournament’ Game Experience

Eric Alper
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Spotify Swings Into Fun With Interactive ‘Happy Gilmore 2 Tournament’ Game Experience

Just in time for the release of Happy Gilmore 2, Netflix is turning to Spotify to bring fans a brand-new way to swing into the action. Literally.

Starting today, anyone can step onto the green for The Happy Gilmore 2 Tournament, the first-ever golf-inspired game built inside Spotify. It’s an audio-visual experience designed to tap into your love for the film, while introducing a whole new kind of storytelling. It’s immersive, interactive, and just the right amount of silly.

Developed in partnership with MiK Studio, this showcases what’s possible when teaming up with Spotify Advertising and how brands can thrive in Spotify’s creative playground. Whether you’re a seasoned golf pro (in spirit) or just here for nostalgia, The Happy Gilmore 2 Tournament lets you play through a series of film-inspired holes, no golf cart required.

Here’s how it works:

  • Users will find the experience within the Spotify app or via a link on mobile.
  • Players tilt their phones to take one swing per hole across three rounds, navigating signature moments from the film, like the alligator or Happy’s boots.
  • Players then advance to mid- and long-range shots, with a visible Happy Gilmore 2 score tracker and fun audio clips from the film played after each hole.

“At Spotify, we design every campaign to feel true to the moment, connected to culture, and most importantly, resonant with our highly engaged audience.,” said Ann Piper, Spotify’s Head of North America Sales. “These aren’t one-size-fits-all executions. They’re high-impact experiences that show how Spotify can be a creative canvas for consumers and brands as well.”

To bring the fun beyond the game, the launch also includes plenty of surprises across Spotify. Think custom playlists, eye-catching videos, and special podcast moments, including a voiceover from  Bill Simmons. It’s all designed to make you feel like you’re part of the action, whether you’re playing through the course or just vibing to the soundtrack.

Neon Owl Launches New Label ‘Neon Owl Records’ With Uplifting Debut Single “Fallen Angel”

Eric Alper
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0
Neon Owl Launches New Label ‘Neon Owl Records’ With Uplifting Debut Single “Fallen Angel”

Celebrating over a decade as one of electronic music’s most trusted artist development communities, Bay Area-based collective Neon Owl, founded by siblings Elaine and Raymond Huang, proudly announces the launch of its new imprint: Neon Owl Records. The label expands on the group’s mission to uplift and develop emerging artists through community, mentorship, and connection.

Built on the foundation of Neon Owl’s acclaimed Open Door Sessions (ODS) — events that have empowered artists to land label signings, festival bookings, and industry partnerships — the new label continues that legacy by giving talented creators a home for their music.

The debut release, “Fallen Angel,” comes from Hidden Axis, a producer who first joined Open Door Sessions virtually during the pandemic. With support from Neon Owl, she went on to release music through Paradise Music, remix for HALIENE on Ophelia Records, and collaborate with KEPIK on SLANDER’s Heaven Sent imprint. Teaming up with WISNER, whose powerful vocals bring the track to life, “Fallen Angel” captures the emotional energy and spirit of the label’s mission.

“I’m super proud and excited to have Julie and Blake be the first release on the label because both are such insanely talented artists,” says Elaine Huang, co-founder of Neon Owl. “From the first moment I met Julie at her first Open Door Sessions Virtual, I knew she was something special. Paired with Blake, who has one of the most versatile voices that cuts you to the core, I think ‘Fallen Angel’ is a song that will make people feel something.”

Neon Owl has built a global reputation for pairing artist development with social impact, supporting causes such as animal rescue, mental health advocacy, and global relief efforts. The collective has partnered with organizations including Groove Cruise, Winter Music Conference, ADE, Anjunabeats, Create Music Group, The Whet Foundation, and LabelWorx to connect music with meaningful change.

As with all of Neon Owl’s work, philanthropy remains central to the label’s identity, with portions of proceeds from releases and events continuing to support charitable initiatives.

Jonah Kagen Unveils Soulful Debut Album ‘Sunflowers and Leather’ and New Single “You Again”

Eric Alper
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0
Jonah Kagen Unveils Soulful Debut Album ‘Sunflowers and Leather’ and New Single “You Again”

Rising singer-songwriter and guitarist Jonah Kagen announces his highly anticipated debut album Sunflowers and Leather, out now via Arista Records. Alongside the announcement, he releases a brand-new single, “You Again,” a stirring exploration of heartbreak, memory, and the long shadow of lost love.

“It’s the most honest song I’ve ever written,” says Kagen. “After a relationship ended, I spent a year by myself with my dog. Every time I tried to open up to someone new, I felt that same sinking feeling. This song is about not being able to shake someone, even after they’re gone.”

“You Again” offers a glimpse into the sound and soul of Sunflowers and Leather — an album written, recorded, and produced entirely by Kagen while traveling across the American South and West in a self-built Airstream studio. The title captures the duality at the heart of his music: “Sunflowers” representing joy and growth, “Leather” representing pain and resilience.

With over 450 million global streams, 3.5 million monthly listeners, and a #1 Alternative Radio hit with “God Needs the Devil,” Kagen’s ascent continues as he joins tours with Vance Joy, Sam Barber, Wyatt Flores, and Cameron Whitcomb throughout 2025. His journey, both musical and personal, unfolds in an upcoming Sunflowers and Leather documentary filmed on 16mm by David O’Donohue (Noah Kahan, Lainey Wilson, James Bay).

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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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