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Jacob Moon Brings Rush, Troubadours, and Timeless Classics to Ontario Stages in 2025

Eric Alper
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Jacob Moon Brings Rush, Troubadours, and Timeless Classics to Ontario Stages in 2025

Jacob Moon is a master performer whose concerts fuse technical brilliance with heartfelt storytelling. Known for his soaring vocals, virtuosic guitar work, and innovative live looping, Moon doesn’t just perform songs—he builds worlds on stage. Audiences across Canada and beyond have come to know his shows as nights of unforgettable music, where classic songs are reimagined and timeless stories are retold with passion and authenticity.

Moon’s career has earned the respect of music legends like Rush, Marillion, and Gordon Lightfoot, who have praised his artistry and invited him to share their stages. With 12 albums released and countless tours across Canada, the US, and Europe, he has built a reputation not as an imitator, but as a unique interpretive voice and a creator of powerful concert experiences that resonate long after the final note.

In 2025, Jacob Moon will bring a series of dynamic shows to stages across Ontario, each with its own distinctive theme. These concerts are not simply tributes, but reinventions—crafted with care to give fans and newcomers alike a chance to experience beloved music in new ways.

Jacob Plays PROG! The Songs of RUSH and More!

Nov. 15, 2025 – Old Town Hall, Waterford, ON

Classic Troubadours: The Songs of Sheryl Crow & Stevie Nicks

Oct. 18, 2025 – First Ontario Arts Centre, Milton, ON

Oct. 25, 2025 – Wingham Town Hall Theatre, Wingham, ON

Nov. 8, 2025 – McIntyre Performing Arts Centre, Hamilton, ON

Shake It Up: The Songs of Elvis Costello & The Cars

Sept. 27, 2025 – The Aeolian, London, ON

Oct. 1, 2025 – The Registry Theatre, Kitchener, ON

Classic Troubadours Live: The Songs of James, Joni, Jackson & Carole

Sept. 24, 2025 – Flato Academy Theatre, Lindsay, ON

Oct. 3, 2025 – NewRoads Performing Arts Centre, Newmarket, ON

Oct. 15, 2025 – Meaford Hall Opera House, Meaford, ON

Oct. 17, 2025 – Stocky Centre for the Performing Arts, Parry Sound, ON

Oct. 24, 2025 – Roselawn Theatre, Port Colborne, ON

Nov. 1, 2025 – #ForParis Centre, Paris, ON

Nov. 7, 2025 – Midland Cultural Centre, Midland, ON

Nov. 28, 2025 – First Ontario Performing Arts Centre, St. Catharines, ON

Jacob Moon’s 2025 tour offers more than concerts—it offers journeys through the soundtracks of our lives. Each show is carefully crafted to deliver both nostalgia and discovery, performed with the artistry and soul that have made Moon one of Canada’s most respected performers. For tickets and more information, visit www.jacobmoon.com.

Timmy McKeever Leans Into 1950s-Inspired Country Soul on New Single “Break My Heart Tonight”

Eric Alper
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Timmy McKeever Leans Into 1950s-Inspired Country Soul on New Single “Break My Heart Tonight”

ne of Nashville’s most buzzed-about newcomers Timmy McKeever is showing a raw and unfiltered side of heartbreak with the release of his brand-new song, “Break My Heart Tonight,” available everywhere now. Listen here.

“I wanted this song to feel like one of those late-night conversations where there’s no use sugarcoating anything anymore,” McKeever shares. “It’s about facing heartbreak head-on, without the games, without the drama. Sonically, it’s a little left-of-center for me, leaning into this nostalgic, 1950s-inspired vibe that I haven’t really explored before. I can’t wait for my fans to hear it.”

Written with sharp honesty and delivered through McKeever’s signature soulful vocals, “Break My Heart Tonight” strips away the dramatics of a breakup and instead embraces the painful truth head-on. The track balances tender vulnerability with bold delivery as McKeever pleads for honesty over prolonging the inevitable.

The release of “Break My Heart Tonight” comes on the heels of McKeever’s recent single “Hold You To It” and a run of tour dates with Gabby Barrett, as he prepares to join Ryan Hurd on his tour this fall.

Upcoming Timmy McKeever Tour Dates

October 3 – Ocean City, MD – Country Calling

October 13 – New York, NY (Ryan Hurd Tour Kickoff)* – Gramercy Theatre

October 14 – Washington, DC* – The Hamilton

November 6 – Wyandotte, MI* – District 142

November 7 – Chicago, IL* – Joe’s on Weed Street

November 8 – Grand Rapids, MI* – The Intersection

November 13 – Nashville, TN* – Cannery Hall

*indicates opening for Ryan Hurd

ABOUT TIMMY MCKEEVER

Rapidly emerging as one of country music’s most compelling new voices, Timmy McKeever is stepping confidently into his next chapter with two major announcements: a signing to powerhouse label Big Loud, and the release of new music. His latest single, “Break My Heart Tonight,” is out now, showcasing his raw, emotional storytelling and further cementing his reputation as a rising star. Earlier this summer, he released his label debut single, “Hold You To It” (August 1), marking his official introduction under the Big Loud banner and placing him among the label’s chart-topping roster that includes Morgan Wallen and HARDY. Blending modern country production with grounded, honest songwriting, McKeever began shaping his sound and stage presence in his home state of California, performing at venues like The Maverick and House of Blues Anaheim. Since relocating to Nashville in June 2024, his momentum has skyrocketed, earning him national attention and bigger stages. Since the release of his debut album Devils & Angels on December 6, McKeever has racked up nearly 20 million streams, with over half of that total coming post-album. On social media, he continues to generate serious buzz, consistently reaching more than 5 million monthly impressions and 600,000+ interactions, underscoring his growing grassroots fanbase and national reach. A seasoned performer, McKeever has logged over 400 live shows, including opening slots for Cody Johnson, Ashley Cooke, Gabby Barrett, Lee Greenwood, Dylan Scott, Chris Janson, and Drew Baldridge. His streaming success is matched by over 30 featured placements on DSP-curated playlists, including Spotify’s Next From Nashville, Fresh Finds, Fresh Finds Country, and New Music Friday Country, Amazon’s Breakthrough Country, and Apple Music’s New in Country. Since Devils & Angels, McKeever has continued to deliver fan-favorite releases, including the emotional “I’ve Known Better” (video released March 21), “Tennessee Orange (Breakup Version)” (March 28), a reimagined take on Megan Moroney’s Tennessee Orange, and the high-octane full-length video for “Lightning Speed” (June 23), which captures the chaos and thrill of chasing a dream. With “Break My Heart Tonight” now available and “Hold You To It” ushering in a bold new era under Big Loud, Timmy McKeever’s rise is only just beginning.

Foo Fighters Shake Up San Luis Obispo with Ilan Rubin Debut Before Announcing Santa Ana Show

Eric Alper
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Foo Fighters Shake Up San Luis Obispo with Ilan Rubin Debut Before Announcing Santa Ana Show

The 3.7 earthquake a few miles west of Atascadero wasn’t the only seismic activity to rock San Luis Obispo County last night, as Foo Fighters treated a capacity crowd of FF faithful at the Fremont Theater — many of whom camped out overnight for tickets — to a career-spanning set featuring the thunderous debut of new FF drummer Ilan Rubin.

And they’re doing it again — as announced this morning, Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Pat Smear, Chris Shiflett, Rami Jaffee and Ilan Rubin will play their second show of 2025 Monday, September 15 at the Observatory in Santa Ana, CA.

For Santa Ana ticket info, doors, showtime and more, go to https://foofighters.com/news/live-in-santa-ana-monday-sept-15

Peter Santenello’s Viral Video Explores Life in the Twin Saults Across the Border

Eric Alper
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Peter Santenello’s Viral Video Explores Life in the Twin Saults Across the Border

The border between Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan and Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario has long shaped how the twin cities see themselves. In a new viral video, travel creator Peter Santenello explores this divide by speaking directly with locals on both sides. From an employee at the Tower of History who hasn’t crossed the bridge in decades to a city commissioner balancing civic duty with shifts at Zorba’s Greek American Restaurant, the Michigan perspective often emphasizes cheaper goods and stricter regulations. Across the river, Rotaryfest provides a backdrop for Ontarians reflecting on downtown vibrancy, steel mill challenges, and the arrival of new immigrant communities.

The film captures stark contrasts: one side boasts cleaner streets and festivals, the other points to environmental oversight and economic struggles. Opinions on governance, law enforcement, and cultural pride vary wildly, but together they paint a vivid picture of two cities bound by history yet shaped by national identity. With more than a million views in under a week, the video proves how everyday voices can illuminate the complexity of life in border towns.

Tiny Chef Fans Rally After Nickelodeon Cancellation with Crowdfunding and Community

Eric Alper
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Tiny Chef Fans Rally After Nickelodeon Cancellation with Crowdfunding and Community

The end of Tiny Chef’s Nickelodeon run sparked a new chapter for the pint-sized vegan cook and his team. When creators Rachel Larsen and Ozlem Akturk shared a short video of Chef being “fired” by a fictional Mickelfodeon, fans immediately responded. The clip, which has topped more than a million views on YouTube, transformed a tough moment into a groundswell of support. Within days, crowdfunding campaigns raised $140,000 and the relaunched “Fwiends Club” subscription drew 10,000 members, proving the character’s charm reaches far beyond a single network.

What makes this moment so important is how clearly it shows the shifting power dynamic in media. By speaking directly to their audience, Larsen and Akturk demonstrated that creators don’t have to rely solely on traditional platforms to survive. Instead, they can build loyalty, attract brand partnerships, and chart their own course. Tiny Chef’s future may look different, but with this level of community behind him, it’s clear his story is far from over.

Panda Bear Brings Experimental Indie Pop to NPR’s Tiny Desk with Full Band Debut

Eric Alper
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Panda Bear Brings Experimental Indie Pop to NPR’s Tiny Desk with Full Band Debut

Panda Bear beams as his layered soundscapes finally get the live treatment. “Ferry Lady” glitters with wistful energy, while “Defense” swells with harmony. By the closing “Song for Ariel,” the set feels rare and radiant.



Jake Worthington Delivers Pure Honky-Tonk Gold on New Country Album ‘When I Write The Song’

Eric Alper
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Jake Worthington Delivers Pure Honky-Tonk Gold on New Country Album ‘When I Write The Song’

Today Big Loud Texas country traditionalist Jake Worthington releases his sophomore album When I Write The Song, a 14-song jaunt made for barrooms and honky tonks. A follow up to his critically acclaimed debut album, the new record features all-star collaborations with Miranda Lambert, Marty Stuart and Mae Estes. 

“When I Write The Song is just a testament to myself and for the better or worse it’s who I am and what I do and it’s what I love,” Worthington shares. “When I get behind the old pen and paper, it’s not always the good things that come to mind that I find the easiest to say. I revere the songwriter more than I revere anybody else in the music industry and I’m proud to have had a hand at writing these songs on this record.”

Worthington’s new album doubles down on the authentic country sound he is known for that Texas Monthly defines as “gorgeous beer-joint purism.” When I Write The Song was produced by esteemed hitmakers Joey Moi, Jon Randall and Chuck Ainlay – the forces behind some of country music’s most beloved records. The ethos of the album, sonically reminiscent of greats like Jones, Jennings and Strait, can be summed up as, “music undaunted by time” (The Tennesseean).

Unforgettable songs on the album have begun to carve out a space in the cultural ecosystem from viral “It Ain’t The Whiskey” that has racked up over 40 million listens and is nominated for Texas Country Music Association’s Country Single of the Year toditty “My Home’s In Oklahoma” that led Saving Country Music to claim, the “singles have been lights out.” Home to defining songs like Lambert collab “Hello Shitty Day,” “I’m The One (feat. Marty Stuart)” and the immensely witty “Two First Names,” the title track shines as the product of a solo write by Worthington that MusicRow describes as “a honky-tonk ballad that he invests with heart and a beautifully phrased, bent-note vocal.”

Displaying his honky-tonk stylings on stage, Billboard declared that a recent live set of Worthington’s, “conjured up the ghosts of country legends like George Jones and Waylon Jennings with his twangy, authentic traditionalism and big voice.” He will continue to bring pure country anthems to venues across North America, joining Zach Top as direct support on all dates of the Cold Beer & Country Music Tour, followed by supporting slots on Jon Pardi‘s Honkytonk Hollywood Tour. For tour dates, visit jakeworthington.com.

When I Write The Song Tracklist

  1. It Ain’t The Whiskey (Jake Worthington, Will Banister, Jeff Hyde, Roger Springer)
  2. Hello Shitty Day (feat. Miranda Lambert) (Dean Dillon, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jesse Frasure, Miranda Lambert)
  3. Too Much To Think (Jake Worthington, Monty Holmes, Roger Springer)
  4. King Of The World (Jake Worthington, Roger Springer, Jacob Boyd Weinschenk)
  5. I’m The One (feat. Marty Stuart) (Jake Worthington, Jenna LaMaster, Marty Stuart)
  6. Drownin’ In Whiskey (Jake Worthington, Clint Daniels, Jeff Hyde, Roger Springer)
  7. Not Like I Used To (Jake Worthington, Monty Criswell, Derek George)
  8. When I Write The Song (Jake Worthington)*
  9. Two First Names (Jake Worthington, Wyatt McCubbin, Brett Tyler)
  10. I Only Drink When It Rains (Jake Worthington, Roger Springer, Jacob Boyd Weinschenk)
  11. I Still Believe In Miracles (Jake Worthington, Robert Arthur, Roger Springer)*
  12. I Feel You (feat. Mae Estes) (Jake Worthington, Roger Springer, Jacob Boyd Weinschenk)*
  13. My Home’s In Oklahoma (Jake Worthington, Will Banister, Roger Springer)*
  14. Get Gone Too (Jake Worthington, Clint Daniels, Jeff Hyde, Roger Springer)

Produced by Joey Moi and Chuck Ainlay

*Produced by Jon Randall and Chuck Ainlay

Madison McFerrin Performs at NPR’s Tiny Desk with Loop-Driven Soul and Family in Harmony

Eric Alper
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Madison McFerrin Performs at NPR’s Tiny Desk with Loop-Driven Soul and Family in Harmony

Madison McFerrin stacks harmonies live, building worlds out of her voice and pure feeling. “I Don’t” lands with humor and heart as she dishes McFerrin family tea between songs. Every moment is precise, playful, and entirely her own.



20 Amazing Facts About Hermeto Pascoal, the Sorcerer of Sound

Eric Alper
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20 Amazing Facts About Hermeto Pascoal, the Sorcerer of Sound

Brazilian musical visionary Hermeto Pascoal has died at the age of 89, surrounded by family and fellow musicians. A once-in-a-century talent, he rose from rural poverty in Alagoas to international acclaim, dazzling audiences with his boundless creativity and deep connection to sound in all its forms. Miles Davis once called him “the most impressive musician in the world” — and anyone who’s ever heard Hermeto solo on a teapot knows exactly why. To celebrate his legacy, here are 20 amazing, true facts about the life and music of “o Bruxo” — the Sorcerer.

  1. Hermeto Pascoal was born in Lagoa da Canoa, Alagoas, in northeastern Brazil — in a region without electricity at the time.
  2. He was born with albinism and couldn’t work in the fields, so he stayed indoors and taught himself music.
  3. His first instrument was the button accordion, taught by his father, Pascoal José da Costa.
  4. By the age of 8, he was already playing flute, and by 11 he was performing live with his brother and father.
  5. In 1960, he picked up the saxophone and later formed the group Som Quatro.
  6. His early recordings in the 1960s featured Brazilian legends like Edu Lobo, Elis Regina, and Cesar Camargo Mariano.
  7. In 1966, he joined Sambrasa Trio with Airto Moreira and Humberto Clayber, releasing one influential album.
  8. He later joined Quarteto Novo, whose 1967 album launched the careers of both Pascoal and Moreira.
  9. In 1971, he appeared on Miles Davis’s Live-Evil album, performing and composing three tracks.
  10. Miles Davis allegedly called Hermeto “the most impressive musician in the world.”
  11. He played at the Montreux Jazz Festival in 1979 and led his own ensembles for decades afterward.
  12. His performances used everything from melodicas and saxophones to teapots, toys, and live animals.
  13. He famously created Música da Lagoa, a composition played partly underwater in a lagoon.
  14. Nature and rural Brazilian folk music were constant inspirations in his music.
  15. Between 1996 and 1997, he wrote Calendário do Som — a book of 366 songs, one for each day of the year.
  16. He lived in Jabour, a neighborhood in Rio, where he hosted musicians from around the world.
  17. In 2019, he won a Latin Grammy for Hermeto Pascoal e Sua Visão Original do Forró.
  18. He was married to Ilza da Silva from 1954 until her passing in 2000; they had six children together.
  19. From 2003 to 2016, he was married to singer Aline Morena while living in Curitiba.
  20. Hermeto Pascoal passed away on September 13, 2025, from multiple organ failure — but his music will play forever.

MrBeast’s ‘7 Days Stranded at Sea’ Just Broke a YouTube Record and We’re All Just Living in His Algorithm

Eric Alper
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0
MrBeast’s ‘7 Days Stranded at Sea’ Just Broke a YouTube Record and We’re All Just Living in His Algorithm

It’s official: MrBeast has broken the record for most views in 24 hours on a non-music video. The YouTube king — whose channel now towers past 174 million subscribers — dropped a video called 7 Days Stranded at Sea and watched the views roll in like waves. After just one day? 46 million views. To put that in perspective, that’s almost half the audience of the Super Bowl. For a guy drinking seawater on a raft.

Jimmy Donaldson (aka MrBeast) called it a dream come true. “I’m living the life I would dream of every night when I was 13,” he posted on X. It’s a classic MrBeast formula: take an absurd challenge, drop a jaw-dropping title, and deliver spectacle with heart. His last few videos have all passed 100 million views, and his Squid Game recreation sits at around 475 million. At this point, he’s not just a creator — he’s a global media empire in a T-shirt.

And sure, it’s not technically “music,” but MrBeast’s view count is proof that spectacle is the new pop. A floating survival story with a billion-dollar attention span. A thumbnail that fuels group chats. A challenge that turns into a milestone. The most-viewed YouTuber just added another trophy to the shelf — and he’s not even dry yet.

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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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