For indie musicians, getting paid for your music isn’t just about streams or ticket sales—it’s about making sure your songs are properly registered so you can collect royalties when they’re played live, on the radio, or even at your favorite coffee shop. That’s where Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) step in. If you’ve ever wondered about ASCAP, SOCAN, or BMI, this guide will help break it down.
What is a PRO?
A Performance Rights Organization is a group that makes sure songwriters, composers, and publishers get paid when their music is performed publicly. “Public performance” can mean radio airplay, a TV commercial, background music in a store, or a live show. Instead of chasing down every venue or broadcaster, PROs collect licensing fees from businesses, then distribute that money back to the creators.
The Big Players
ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers)
Founded: 1914
Where: U.S.
Who they serve: Songwriters, composers, and publishers across all genres.
Membership: One-time $50 fee for songwriters.
Notable feature: Run by its members (it’s a non-profit).
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.)
Founded: 1939
Where: U.S.
Who they serve: Songwriters and publishers.
Membership: Free for songwriters, fees apply for publishers.
Notable feature: Known for being more indie-friendly early on and representing a wide range of genres.
SOCAN (Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada)
Founded: 1990 (through a merger of two earlier Canadian groups)
Where: Canada
Who they serve: Canadian songwriters, composers, and publishers.
Membership: Free to join.
Notable feature: Covers both performance royalties and, through partnerships, reproduction royalties.
Why They Matter for Indie Musicians
Even if you’re not on the radio, PROs make sure you get paid for things you might not expect:
Live gigs: Playing your own songs at a bar, café, or festival? You may be entitled to royalties.
Streaming and radio: Internet and satellite radio stations report plays.
TV and film: If your music is synced, PROs track usage.
For indie artists, these royalties can add up to an important income stream—especially when you’re touring or getting airplay on smaller stations.
How to Choose the Right One
If you’re U.S.-based: You’ll likely join either ASCAP or BMI (you can only join one at a time). Both are reputable, so compare fee structures and payout schedules.
If you’re Canada-based: SOCAN is the go-to choice.
If you perform internationally: Many PROs have reciprocal agreements, so SOCAN members get royalties collected in the U.S. and vice versa.
Joining a PRO is one of the most important steps an indie musician can take to protect their rights and earn money from their songs. Whether you’re strumming in coffeehouses or landing syncs in indie films, these organizations make sure your work is valued wherever it’s heard.
Tip: Sign up early. The sooner you’re registered, the sooner you start collecting royalties that might otherwise slip away.
Sydney has its fair share of energy — bright lights, lively streets, and an endless rush that rarely stops. Yet, a short drive in any direction reveals a softer side of New South Wales. Families who want a breath of fresh air don’t need to plan elaborate weekends away. Within an hour or two, there are spots that feel worlds apart from city life: beaches, farms, national parks, and quiet country towns.
Parents often search for something simple — a place where the kids can run, the adults can relax, and everyone returns home with a story to tell. Sydney’s surroundings make that possible. The city’s radius offers an unmatched mix of coastlines, farmlands, and mountain trails that cater to all ages.
The best part is how accessible it all is. No need to book accommodation or deal with airports. Just fill the tank, pack a lunch, and set out for a proper day of fun.
Fruitful Adventures: A Sweet Day of Cherry Picking
There’s something timeless about walking through an orchard with a bucket in hand, tasting fruit straight from the tree. Families in Sydney have embraced cherry picking Sydney as a yearly ritual, especially during summer when cherries reach their peak sweetness. It’s an experience that’s part exploration, part education, and part indulgence.
The main destinations for cherry picking are around the towns of Young, Orange, and Bathurst, typically two to four hours from Sydney. The drive itself is part of the joy — rolling hills, rural scenery, and small cafés perfect for a morning stop. Once at the orchards, families can roam freely between rows of trees, tasting and filling baskets as they go.
For children, it’s more than a fun outing. It teaches them where food really comes from. Many farms encourage kids to weigh their pickings and even label their own punnets. The sense of reward at the end of the day — sticky fingers, red smiles, and full buckets — is priceless.
Tips for a great cherry-picking trip:
Visit between late November and early January, depending on the weather.
Bring hats, sunscreen, and wipes — cherries stain faster than you think.
Most farms charge per kilogram, so let the kids know that every handful counts.
Stop by nearby farm gates to grab other produce — apples, plums, and homemade jams often share the same season.
It’s a wholesome escape that bridges the city and the countryside — a day that leaves the car boot full and the mood light.
Coastal Escapes: Beaches and Rock Pools for Every Family
If the idea of driving inland feels too warm, Sydney’s coastline is the perfect alternative. The city has over 100 beaches, many of which cater beautifully to families with children. The challenge isn’t finding a good beach — it’s deciding which one to visit first.
Here’s a quick guide to a few standouts:
Beach
Highlights
Best For
Palm Beach
Calm water, scenic drive through the Northern Beaches, nearby Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk
Families who love a mix of sunbathing and exploring
Coogee Beach
Enclosed rock pools, shaded playground, cafés within walking distance
Younger children and prams
Cronulla
Large open beach with train access, surf schools, and plenty of space
Families who want convenience and activity
Balmoral Beach
Netted swimming area, shaded picnic lawns, calm water
Toddlers and picnics
Each of these beaches offers something slightly different — but they all share the same easygoing charm. Rock pools, in particular, are great for kids still nervous around waves. They can spot small crabs, tiny fish, and shells in shallow water without worrying about surf.
For parents, it’s a rare chance to unwind while the children stay engaged. A few sandwiches, a cooler of drinks, and a beach umbrella turn an ordinary Sunday into a mini holiday. And when the sun dips low, there’s no better sight than sleepy kids wrapped in towels, sandy and content, on the way home.
Bushland Walks and Scenic Picnics
Families who crave a bit of greenery have plenty to enjoy beyond Sydney’s suburbs. New South Wales is dotted with trails that are both safe and spectacular — walks that give just enough adventure without wearing little legs out.
The Royal National Park, only an hour south of Sydney, is one of the best places for families to experience the bush without heading deep into the outback. Picnic areas like Audley offer BBQs, canoe hire, and plenty of open space. For a short and easy trail, the Forest Path provides an accessible loop surrounded by rainforest.
In the north, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park offers short walks leading to impressive views like West Head Lookout, overlooking Pittwater and the Central Coast. It’s ideal for a morning adventure before a riverside lunch.
Further west, the Blue Mountains is a classic favourite for families who want a bit more grandeur. The Leura Cascades track is short yet scenic, with the sound of waterfalls echoing through the trees. Older kids can tackle short climbs near Echo Point, while younger ones can enjoy the picnic areas near Katoomba Falls.
Sample day itinerary for a bush picnic:
Leave Sydney early with breakfast packed.
Stop at a bakery in Glenbrook or Leura for supplies.
Walk a short trail before the midday sun hits.
Find a shaded spot for lunch — picnic blanket, fruit, and plenty of water.
Finish the day with a lookout stop before driving home.
A bushwalk day is inexpensive, peaceful, and endlessly memorable. The rhythm of nature slows the mind — something every Sydney family could use once in a while.
Animal Encounters and Farm Visits
Not every outdoor trip needs a long walk or beach gear. Some of the most enjoyable family days near Sydney come from getting up close with animals. The region offers a range of wildlife parks and farm experiences that blend fun with education.
At Calmsley Hill City Farm in Abbotsbury, kids can bottle-feed lambs, milk cows, and even ride tractors. It’s a working farm close to the city, so families can easily make it a half-day outing. The atmosphere is friendly, and the staff take time to explain how farming works — something few city children get to see.
Further south, Symbio Wildlife Park near Helensburgh lets families meet koalas, feed kangaroos, and see exotic animals like meerkats and red pandas. The park also has water play areas, making it perfect for warm days.
In western Sydney, Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park remains one of the best-known attractions. It’s home to Australia’s largest collection of native wildlife and offers interactive experiences where children can hand-feed wallabies or meet wombats up close.
Each location delivers something slightly different:
Calmsley Hill – authentic farm setting and hands-on fun.
Symbio – wildlife encounters with a splash of adventure.
Featherdale – an educational day with plenty of photo moments.
Animal encounters are perfect for families who prefer structured days with short travel times. There’s no long hiking or heavy packing — just curiosity, excitement, and a few snacks for the road.
Adventure Parks and Playgrounds Worth the Drive
Sometimes, kids just need to climb, swing, and burn energy — and Sydney delivers on that front too. Beyond local playgrounds, there are destination-style adventure parks that make the drive worthwhile. These spaces combine nature, play, and design in a way that feels fresh every visit.
Top Family Adventure Spots Near Sydney:
Treetops Adventure Western Sydney (Plough & Harrow Park, Abbotsbury) – High ropes, zip lines, and obstacle courses suspended among gum trees. There are courses tailored to children as young as three, making it a safe but thrilling experience.
Fagan Park (Galston) – A blend of gardens, play zones, and walking paths. The large adventure playground has slides, tunnels, and climbing structures, with plenty of shade and BBQ areas for parents.
Sydney Olympic Park Playground (Blaxland Riverside Park) – A modern, vibrant playground packed with tunnels, nets, slides, and water features. It’s a favourite among families because there’s space for everyone — from toddlers to teens.
St Ives Showground Playground – Surrounded by bushland, it includes nature-inspired play elements and even a small bike track.
For parents, these places offer easy facilities — toilets, picnic shelters, cafés — while giving children the kind of freedom city parks can’t match. Visiting one of these adventure hubs once a month keeps weekends interesting and guarantees good sleep that night.
Historical Towns and Cultural Discoveries
A scenic drive out of Sydney often leads to towns frozen in time. Old railway stations, cobbled streets, and cosy bakeries invite families to slow down and enjoy a simpler day. These trips mix light sightseeing with food, history, and a few hidden gems.
Some top historical day-trip towns include:
Town
Travel Time from Sydney
Why Families Love It
Berry
Around 2 hours south
Great cafés, local markets, famous donuts, and calm countryside charm.
Berrima
Around 90 minutes south-west
Well-preserved colonial architecture, antique shops, and riverside picnic spots.
Windsor
Around 1 hour north-west
One of Australia’s oldest towns, offering museums and riverside walks along the Hawkesbury.
Kurrajong
Around 75 minutes north-west
Gateway to the Blue Mountains, scenic lookouts, and boutique farms.
Walking around these towns offers more than photo opportunities. Parents enjoy the local history and boutique stores, while kids often find joy in the smallest things — ice cream shops, duck ponds, or street musicians.
A good trick is to pair the visit with a nearby nature stop. For example, families heading to Berry can add Seven Mile Beach National Park to the itinerary, or those exploring Windsor can visit the nearby Scheyville National Park for a short bushwalk. It keeps the day varied without adding much travel time.
How Many Adventures Fit in a Year?
Sydney’s surroundings are generous. Within two hours in any direction, there are beaches, farms, mountains, parks, and historical towns waiting for exploration. Family day trips don’t have to be expensive or complicated. With a little planning, a good map, and a packed lunch, the city’s edges turn into playgrounds for every age.
Parents often overthink weekend plans, but the truth is simple — fresh air, sunlight, and a bit of spontaneity go a long way. The joy of finding cherries on a tree, seeing kangaroos up close, or having a picnic beside a waterfall stays with children far longer than the trip itself.
So the next time the weekend rolls in and the city feels too loud, pick a direction and go. Sydney’s best adventures are often the ones closest to home.
Step into Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa and it feels like you’re walking into a greatest-hits album—every experience and room is bold, memorable, and designed to keep you coming back for an encore. It’s the city’s only casino, and it not only plays the game, it changes it.
Let’s start with the food. The Hard Rock Café is pure rock-and-roll comfort. Legendary burgers stacked high, fries you’ll be telling your friends about, and signature cocktails that make every sip feel like a chart-topper. The walls are alive with memorabilia – guitars, jackets, photos – pieces of music history that turn every table into a front-row seat. Then there’s Council Oak Steaks & Seafood, a refined spin on the classic steakhouse where perfectly seared cuts meet fresh seafood and an award-winning wine list. Think candlelight, clinking glasses, and a playlist curated by the universe itself.
The casino floor hums like a sold-out arena. With over 1,500 slot machines and every table game you could ask for—Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, Baccarat—it’s a non-stop setlist of thrills. High-rollers and first-timers alike find their rhythm here, chasing jackpots or just soaking up the neon-lit energy that never quits. Open 24/7, 365 days a year, the vibe is electric no matter when you arrive.
And then, the stage lights go up. Hard Rock Live brings the legends to town, with upcoming performances from acts like Nazareth, Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening, Nate Smith, and Old Dominion. It’s an astonishing casino, but also a concert hall, a place where the night explodes into music that shakes the walls and fills the soul.
When it’s time to recharge, the hotel delivers a backstage pass to comfort. With 150 sleek rooms and 22 luxurious suites, every stay feels like an upgrade. The Deluxe King is perfect for a quiet escape, while the Gold Suite is VIP living at its finest—more space, more style, more story to tell. And because this is Hard Rock, every corner hums with bold design and impeccable service – splurge on the suite as the bathrooms complete with standalone bath and massive shower are worth the extra.
Unity by Hard Rock ties it all together, letting guests earn rewards, unlock perks, and take the Hard Rock spirit with them wherever they go. Pair that with online gaming options, exclusive promos, and local partnerships—even discounts with the Ottawa Senators—and suddenly your weekend escape becomes a lifestyle.
From the moment you check in with one-of-a-kind painted portraits of Gord Downie, Natalie MacMaster, and other Canadian legends on the walls around you, you know you’re in for a special treat staying here.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Ottawa is going to be my only destination in the city from now on, a place that plays like your favorite song: familiar, electric, and impossible not to hit repeat.
It’s understandable—bands break up. They’re like families, full of big personalities, long hours, and constant creative push and pull. Some part ways quietly, others with fireworks, but each leaves behind music that continues to inspire. Here are twelve bands whose time together felt too short, shared in alphabetical order.
ABBA Though they’ve reunited in recent years, the original run of ABBA wrapped in 1982. Their dazzling harmonies and glittering pop classics continue to soundtrack celebrations across generations.
The Beatles The Beatles parted ways in 1970 after transforming the very idea of what a band could be. Their brief decade together left a catalogue that still shapes modern music.
Big Star Memphis legends Big Star dissolved in the mid-’70s, but their jangly, heartfelt songs remain a blueprint for power pop and indie rock.
The Clash By the mid-’80s, The Clash had gone their separate ways, but not before giving the world politically charged anthems and fiery punk energy.
Destiny’s Child One of the most successful girl groups of all time, Destiny’s Child brought powerhouse vocals and unforgettable hits. Their breakup in 2006 left fans celebrating their legacy while wishing for more.
The Fugees The trio of Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel created a singular blend of hip-hop and soul. Their split left fans hoping for more beyond The Score.
The Go-Go’s Trailblazers of the ’80s new wave scene, The Go-Go’s made history as the first all-female band to top the Billboard 200 writing their own songs and playing their own instruments. Their breakup in 1985 left fans wishing for more of their joyful, high-energy sound.
OutKast André 3000 and Big Boi brought Southern hip-hop to the world with creativity and charisma. Their decision to focus on solo work left listeners wishing for more collaborations.
R.E.M. Known for poetic lyrics and jangly guitars, R.E.M. quietly ended their run in 2011. Their decades-long career still feels like it had more to give.
The Smiths The Smiths burned bright in the 1980s, crafting a sound that defined a generation. Their split left an unmistakable gap in alternative music.
Talking Heads Blending art rock, funk, and new wave, Talking Heads created music that felt ahead of its time. Their split in the early ’90s left listeners imagining what more they could have explored together.
The White Stripes Jack and Meg White parted ways in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of raw, minimalist rock and some of the catchiest riffs of the 2000s.
Bands may part ways, but the music they leave behind stays forever. Each of these groups ended their journey earlier than fans might have wished, yet their songs continue to bring joy, spark memories, and inspire new generations of musicians.
Crowdfunding continues to be a powerful way for artists to connect with fans while bringing their creative visions to life. In 2025, the landscape is more vibrant than ever, with fresh tools and trends shaping how musicians share their journeys and grow their communities. Here are five ways crowdfunding thrives today in music.
1. Exclusive Experiences
Fans love being part of the creative process. Offering studio livestreams, personalized song dedications, or behind-the-scenes Q&A sessions gives supporters a deeper bond with the artist. These experiences make fans feel like true collaborators.
2. Tangible Collectibles
Vinyl pressings, handwritten lyric sheets, and limited-edition merch continue to be highly valued. Crowdfunding campaigns that include physical keepsakes give fans something meaningful to treasure while directly supporting the music.
3. Community-First Platforms
Musicians are leaning into platforms that prioritize interaction. Whether through built-in fan forums or integrated chat spaces, the emphasis on community makes crowdfunding campaigns feel like ongoing celebrations rather than one-time events.
4. Storytelling Through Updates
Artists who share regular updates, progress notes, and candid stories create momentum. Supporters feel part of the journey when they can see how a project grows step by step, building excitement for the final release.
5. Collaborative Stretch Goals
Stretch goals are becoming creative opportunities. Fans might unlock an acoustic EP, a surprise cover, or a bonus music video when funding passes certain milestones. These goals inspire communities to keep building together.
Crowdfunding in 2025 shows how music fans and artists can thrive side by side. When supporters feel seen and artists feel uplifted, the result is more than an album or a show—it’s a living, growing community that celebrates creativity at every stage.
John Oates will return with a new solo album this summer: the self-titled Oates is out now. Nearly all original new songs, Oates finds the music legend flexing his deep love for the craft of songwriting, masterful guitar work and finely aged voice with a touch of rasp bringing listeners on a delightful and fresh musical voyage. The sound of his new album will remind fans of the classic groove-oriented R&B and pop he produced in the 70s and 80s, and is another exciting addition to Oates’ eclectic and dynamic body of work.
Oates was inspired in part by a bright new generation of talents that have caught his ear – including Clyde and Gracie Lawrence, who front the NYC 8-piece soul pop band Lawrence, and soul singer-songwriter Devon Gilfillian. After hearing Lawrence’s music, Oates was moved to write a song, and asked them to guest on it. “Enough Is Enough” kicks off the album with a feeling of joy and warmth over a funky plucked bassline and three-part harmonies, Gilfillian, who, like Oates, has strong ties to Philadelphia, also worked with Oates on the record, co-writing “Real Thing” and co-writing and singing on “Mending” (which was inspired by reading the word “Mend” on a random pluck from a deck of tarot cards). Oates says that he didn’t realize it at the time, but his work with Gilfillian would help bring this new full length album into focus.
Other album highlights include the previously released “Pushin’ A Rock.” The Sisyphean parts of life have never sounded so smooth, over a smoldering groove and slinky synths, with Oates empowering us to “roll with it” when things get rough. “A Ways Away” illustrates the album’s softer side, shimmering acoustic guitars and a soaring chorus. Oates also explores global sounds, inspired by his love of Bossa Nova and Carlos Jobim (“Dreaming Of Brazil” featuring Wendy Moten on vocals), and “Bajo La Luz De La Luna,” a song he penned for Gringa, a feature film that takes place in Mexico. Oates memorialized our collective experience of the pandemic on “Disconnected,” and imagines how it would feel to be completely alone on “World’s Gone Wrong,” a beautiful song that reminds us to be grateful for our loved ones. The album closes with Oates’ take on “Walking In Memphis,” as well as a remixed bonus track of the song by American electronic music producer Grabbitz.
The album was recorded almost entirely in Nashville, including at Sound Emporium, Curb Studios and Addiction Sound, and at The Hit Factory (“Enough Is Enough”) in NYC. It was produced by Oates and David Kalmusky (a multi-platinum producer who has worked with everyone from Keith Urban and Shawn Mendes to Carrie Underwood and Meghan Trainor), and mixed by Kalmusky.
L-Acoustics, the leading creator of professional audio technology, in collaboration with Black Meteor, today launched “The Art of Sound,” an illuminating three-part documentary series that merges scientific discovery with artistic insight to explore sound’s fundamental role in human evolution and its continuing influence on our daily lives.
Directed by Andrew Lancaster (Accidents Happen, starring Geena Davis; The Lost Aviator; and Joud), the series premiere, “Sound is Fundamental,” debuts today on The Art of Sound by L-Acoustics channel on YouTube. The episode features musician, performer, writer, and multidisciplinary artist David Byrne alongside researchers Robyn Landau (Kinda Studios) and Dr. Erica Warp as they investigate our primal connection to sound and its fundamental role in human experience. Through innovative EEG research conducted at L-Acoustics London, the episode reveals how our brains and emotions respond to various soundscapes and their impact on our wellbeing – a crucial insight for our modern world, where humans spend 90% of their lives in constructed acoustic environments.
“It’s remarkable how much we can orient ourselves based on sound,” said Byrne. “We can’t close off our ears because that way, we can tell if something or someone is approaching. With your eyes closed, you can tell what kind of space you’re in, what kind of room you’re in, and what kind of landscape you’re in. I think sound probably affects us emotionally and physically. You can sense something you can’t see.”
“With the release of ‘The Art of Sound,’ we aim to take viewers on a journey that not only celebrates the artistic and scientific elements of sound but emphasizes its profound impact on our collective experience,” said Amber Mundinger, Global Director of Creative Engagement at L-Acoustics. “Sound is everywhere – it shapes our emotions, influences our well-being, and connects us as a community. As we explore how our relationship with sound influences everything from architecture to entertainment, we invite audiences to reflect on the often-overlooked power of this invisible force and its ability to bring us together.”
From the whisper of wind through trees to the thunderous roar of a stadium concert, “The Art of Sound” reveals how sound shapes our perceptions, emotions, and collective experiences. Each episode reveals new dimensions of our acoustic world, challenging viewers to listen more deeply to the world around them.
L-Acoustics has been shaping the future of sound since 1984 through trailblazing innovation. Our European-designed and manufactured solutions deliver premium sound experiences from the most intimate immersive spaces to the largest stages. L-Acoustics is the #1 brand chosen by the world’s largest music festivals and installed in over 13,000 premium venues from music halls, theaters, and sports entertainment to wellness, hospitality, homes and yachts.
Our team of 1000+ employees, including 20% in design, research, and development, conceives the industry’s most award-winning and transformative sound reinforcement technologies, including the modern line source array V-DOSC, L-ISA immersive hyperreal solutions, and the eco-conscious, performance-leading L-Series. These technologies have led to the company being honored with a Decibels d’Or and featured in Fast Company’s most innovative companies.
With major hubs in Paris, Los Angeles, London, and Singapore, and a network of trained service providers present in 80 countries, our technologies power the most demanding live events and memorable sound experiences: from Adele’s Las Vegas residency to the world’s largest sports events, from the Zaha Hadid-designed Guangzhou Opera House to the Philharmonie de Paris Concert Hall.
Chaco, leading sandal footwear brand, is proud to announce a collaboration with the Marley Family to launch a limited-edition collection inspired by the legendary Bob Marley. The collaboration pays tribute to Marley’s enduring message of love, unity and connection through designs that encourage people to embrace every step with purpose.
Rooted in Marley’s philosophy and style, the collection features updated versions of Chaco’s classic Z/1 sandal, crafted to celebrate moments that bring people together and inspire movement–both physically and spiritually.
“Bob Marley’s vision extended far beyond his music,” says Rose Fulbright, Chaco Marketing Director. “This collaboration is an opportunity to carry forward his philosophy of living with purpose and appreciating the natural world.”
Updating the footwear brand’s signature Z/1 design, the new collection offers two styles inspired by Marley’s philosophy: Harmony Hues and One Love Lines. Harmony Hues features a green, gold and red colorway, while One Love Lines features a minimalist black design with subtle accents, including the Marley name woven into the reverse side. Each pair includes a “Marley” badge and a symbolic woven tag, representing pride and unity.
The collection also includes a matching dog collar and leash set for four-legged companions, so adventurers of all kinds can walk together in harmony.
“My father believed in walking through life with purpose, celebrating not just the unity of people, but also the profound connection we share with the planet,” said Cedella Marley, CEO of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, Grammy-winning singer, author, designer, and Marley’s daughter. “Collaborating with Chaco allows us to bring that philosophy to life in a meaningful way—creating designs that inspire others to move through the world in harmony, honoring his legacy with every step taken.”
The Chaco x Bob Marley limited-edition collection will be available for purchase on chacos.com.
Continuing their sustainability mission, Coldplay are re-releasing all of their albums as clear 140g EcoRecords made from recycled plastic bottles, produced using injection-moulding technology which reduces carbon emissions during manufacture by an impressive 85% compared with traditional vinyl production.
An EcoRecord sounds and looks as great as a traditional vinyl record, but it has been manufactured using 100% recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a lightweight and durable material that is easily recyclable and designed for a circular economy, significantly contributing to reduced shipping emissions and end-of-life environmental impact.
Each 140g injection-moulded LP is made from, on average, nine recycled PET plastic bottles. These bottles are recovered from consumers as part of a process known as post-consumer recycling (PCR), where they are cleaned, processed into small pellets and then molded into new items. While EcoRecords can be made using either virgin PET or recycled PET (rPET), Coldplay has chosen to use only rPET for all their EcoRecord products.
This pioneering move follows the successful launch of the band’s 10th album, Moon Music, last year, which was already released on 100% recycled PET EcoRecords, the world’s first album released as a 140g EcoRecord rPET LP. Coldplay continues to lead the charge in making music more sustainable, building on efforts such as cutting the carbon footprint of their Music Of The Spheres World Tour by 59% to date.
Jen Ivory, Managing Director, Parlophone, says: “We are incredibly proud to partner with artists such as Coldplay who share our commitment to a more sustainable future for music. The shift to EcoRecord LP for their releases is a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets intention. It’s not just about a new product; it’s about pioneering manufacturing that significantly reduces environmental impact, providing fans with the same high-quality audio experience while setting a new standard for physical music production.”
Discover Puerto Rico, the Island’s Destination Marketing Organization, unveils the latest installment of its Return the Love initiative: a video campaign starring Los Angeles Dodgers Puerto Rican player Kike Hernández, celebrating the Island’s rich musical and sports culture while promoting conscious travel. Set in a baseball stadium and narrated by Hernández, the video invites visitors to experience Puerto Rico not just as tourists, but as thoughtful guests immersed in the sounds, traditions, and spirit of the Island.
The video marks the third phase of the Return the Love campaign, Discover Puerto Rico’s ongoing effort to encourage respectful and community-centered tourism ahead of big music and sports events that will drive visitors to the Island. Following earlier installments featuring actor Amaury Nolasco and a collective of Puerto Rican experts, this new piece offers tangible tips for responsible travel while tapping into the cultural energy of the Island’s summer season, when visitors are flocking to experience its music, events, and vibrant local traditions. The video features an original song, expertly crafted and mixed by Grammy and Latin Grammy Award-winning engineer Harold Wendell Sanders, known for his work with internationally recognized artists.
Known for his dynamic presence on and off the field and adored by fans for his big personality, Hernández brings his charisma and passion to this campaign, celebrating Puerto Rico’s musical and sports heritage while advocating for mindful travel experiences. Kike’s influence promises to resonate with audiences, inspiring them to embrace the Island’s culture with the same enthusiasm he exhibits on the field.
“In Puerto Rico, music and sports are more than entertainment – they’re pillars of our pride, passion, and corazón,” said Hernández. “I’m proud to share that vibrant spirit with the world, and to help show visitors how they can connect with the Island in meaningful, respectful ways that truly celebrate and honor its essence.”
From the rhythmic repiques del pandero to the pulse of reggaetón, the video captures how music and movement shape everyday life in Puerto Rico — in the stands, the streets, and the hearts of its people. It’s both a love letter and a guide, encouraging visitors to shop and consume local, and to experience the Island’s culture with curiosity, respect, and joy.
“This launch is a celebration of the Island’s musical spirit and another opportunity for us to champion conscious tourism,” said Glorianna Yamin, Vice President of Marketing for Discover Puerto Rico. “Puerto Rico is culture, sports, and music. Kike brings this message to life with authenticity, pride, and energy that mirrors everything we love about Puerto Rico. We hope it inspires travelers to experience the Boricua spirit and carry it with intention.”
Along with the video, Discover Puerto Rico releases a rapid-fire Q&A with Kike and his curated playlist of pre-game favorites inspired by Puerto Rico’s musical heartbeat.
