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Pepsi National Battle Of The Bands Premieres New Film Honoring HBCU Marching Band Excellence

Eric Alper
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Pepsi National Battle Of The Bands Premieres New Film Honoring HBCU Marching Band Excellence

The Pepsi National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) announces the airing of The Best of the Battles, the sixth installment of its nationally televised film series celebrating the legacy, excellence, and cultural impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands. Airing January 31 through March 1, 2026, the film honors Black History Month by spotlighting the sound, discipline, and pageantry that define HBCU band culture.

Spanning 15 years and spotlighting more than 30 HBCU marching bands, The Best of the Battles chronicles the evolution of the National Battle of the Bands, capturing unforgettable performances, defining moments, and the lasting cultural influence of HBCU band culture from Charlotte to Houston, and culminating in the 2026 showcase in The Palm Beaches. Narrated by Milan Davis, a Southern University alumna and member of the Famous Dancing Dolls, the film features exclusive interviews while revisiting standout moments that have shaped NBOTB into one of the most impactful HBCU cultural platforms in the country.

The six HBCU marching bands that took the field during the 2026 Pepsi National Battle of the Bands in The Palm Beaches over Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend a few weeks ago include:

  • Bethune-Cookman University — Marching Wildcats
  • Florida Memorial University — The ROAR
  • Florida A&M University — The Marching “100”
  • North Carolina A&T State University — Blue & Gold Marching Machine
  • South Carolina State University — Marching 101
  • Southern University — Human Jukebox

“This film is a celebration of where we’ve been and where we’re going,” said Derek Webber, Executive Producer and Creator of the National Battle of the Bands. “The Best of the Battles honors more than a decade of HBCU excellence; the students, the institutions, the culture, and the communities that continue to fuel this movement year after year.”

As part of Black History Month programming, The Best of the Battles serves as both a retrospective and a forward-looking tribute, reinforcing the role of HBCU marching bands as cultural ambassadors whose influence extends far beyond the field, from national stages to global audiences.

Airing in select markets nationwide, viewers can find a complete schedule of dates and times at NationalBattleoftheBands.com/films, where trailers and participating broadcast stations are also listed.

Lainey Wilson And Whataburger Proclaim Today As ‘National Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit’ Day

Eric Alper
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Lainey Wilson And Whataburger Proclaim Today As ‘National Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit’ Day

Some things are so nice, you’ve got to do it twice. And that means free Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits again! Grammy Award-winning music artist Lainey Wilson and the beloved burger chain are proclaiming Wednesday, Feb. 4 National Whataburger Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit Day, cementing the iconic menu item’s place in history with its very own holiday. The announcement honors the crave-worthy classic that’s earned its place at breakfast tables, on road trips and in the moments that turn routine into traditions.

To mark the occasion, Lainey and Whataburger will treat fans to a FREE Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit, on Wednesday, Feb. 4, from 6 a.m. (or 7 a.m. dependent on store hours) to 11 a.m., at participating locations only. This offer can be redeemed on orders placed at the counter, the drive-thru and online orders via the Whataburger app and website. No purchase necessary, limit one per person.

A longtime fan favorite, the Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit delivers an irresistible balance of sweet and savory, featuring a crispy, all-white meat chicken strip tucked inside a warm, fluffy buttermilk biscuit and finished with a generous drizzle of Whataburger’s signature Honey Butter sauce. What began as a humble breakfast staple grew into a legend with a feverishly loyal following who run to Whataburger to satisfy late night cravings or find some early morning comfort. 

“If you know me, you know I don’t need much of an excuse to celebrate a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit,” said Lainey Wilson. “It’s about time it got a moment of its own! Whataburger has been part of so many moments in my life, and this biscuit has seen me through early mornings and long nights more times than I can count.”

In 2025, Whataburger and Lainey Wilson teamed up to celebrate their partnership by surprising fans with free Honey Butter Chicken Biscuits — and fans showed up hungry, flooding breakfast hours in droves and turning the morning rush into a full-blown phenomenon. Building on that standout response, the celebration returns in an even bigger way for 2026, with Lainey renewing her partnership with Whataburger and the free-biscuit offer expanding to include online orders as well, making it easier than ever for fans to join in on a moment that blends shared values, authentic storytelling and craveable comfort.

“National Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit Day goes beyond the biscuit – it celebrates the traditions that keep guests coming back,” said Debbie Stroud, president and CEO of Whataburger. “For generations, Whataburger has delivered signature flavors and heartfelt hospitality, cementing its role in Texas culture and beyond. Lainey embodies those same qualities which made continuing our relationship an easy and authentic choice.”

Throughout the year, Lainey’s ongoing collaboration with Whataburger will highlight even more craveable food and a few special surprises, amplifying what the two legends do best: showing up for their fans and creating moments that never lose their magic.

Robert Earl Keen Named 2026 Texan Of The Year For Historic Flood Relief Efforts

Eric Alper
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Robert Earl Keen Named 2026 Texan Of The Year For Historic Flood Relief Efforts

 Robert Earl Keen has been named the 2026 Texan of the Year by the Texas Legislative Conference, the renowned annual statewide policy and business forum celebrating its 60th year on March 26-27, 2026.

The Texas Legislative Conference, a nonpartisan assembly of Texas business and political leaders, convenes annually in New Braunfels to discuss key public policy issues impacting the state. The 2026 conference will feature panel discussions and conversations focused on timely and relevant topics shaping Texas’ future.

Keen will join a distinguished list of past honorees, including presidents, U.S. senators, entertainers, governors, and business icons. He will be celebrated as the 52nd recipient of the Texan of the Year award on March 26 at the New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center.

“Robert Earl Keen embodies the heart and spirit of Texas,” said Conference Chair AJ Rodriguez. “When devastating floods struck our state on the Fourth of July, he stepped forward not only as a beloved Texas musician, but as a leader who mobilized compassion, resources, and action. His commitment to helping communities recover reflects the very best of what it means to be a Texan.”

In the aftermath of the July 2025 flooding, Keen organized REK and Friends: Applause for the Cause, a powerful fundraising event that united more than 40 artists in support of Texas communities impacted by the disaster. The concert was live streamed globally on Amazon, YouTube, DirecTV, Veeps, and Roku, extending its reach to audiences around the world and amplifying awareness of the urgent need for relief. The effort raised more than $3.2 million to support flood recovery, relief, and rebuilding efforts across Texas.

Long celebrated as a Texas cultural icon, Keen’s career spans decades as a singer, songwriter, and storyteller whose music captures the soul of the state. His selection as Texan of the Year recognizes not only his artistic legacy, but also his deep sense of responsibility to serve Texans in times of need.

“I can safely say being named Texan of the Year is an honor I never imagined! Humbly, I accept this prestigious title, on behalf of not only myself, but the family and friends, the educators and counselors, and Texans past and present who continue to strengthen the Community of caring and friendship across our Lone Star State.”

Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Opens Elite New York City Workshop For Historic Public Tours

Eric Alper
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Jim Henson’s Creature Shop Opens Elite New York City Workshop For Historic Public Tours

 Jim Henson’s Creature Shop is opening its doors for a truly unique opportunity to tour its elite puppet-building workshop in Queens, New York City, where legendary characters from film and television have been created and built for decades. The 80-minute tours take place multiple times throughout the day each Saturday, beginning on February 14, 2026. Tickets include a walk-through of the award-winning Creature Shop, founded by legendary puppeteer and director Jim Henson, as well as special photo opportunities of beloved and iconic characters, a puppetry demonstration from an actual Henson puppeteer, a meet and greet with one of the Creature Shop’s talented puppet builders, and special surprises. Tickets are $150 (plus tax and fees) and are on sale now. Visit www.JimHensonExperiences.com for tickets and additional information.

Jim Henson’s Creature Shop is the celebrated creative hub where award-winning artists and makers have created hundreds of the world’s most famous puppet characters including stars from Fraggle Rock, The Muppet Show, Sesame Street, Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas, and many more. New York City is the original and longest home to the workshop and specializes in the renowned Henson style of puppets and walkaround characters.  

Emily Scott Robinson Delivers Hard Won Perspective On New Studio Album ‘Appalachia’

Eric Alper
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Emily Scott Robinson Delivers Hard Won Perspective On New Studio Album ‘Appalachia’

Critically-acclaimed songwriter Emily Scott Robinson released her ten-song collection ‘Appalachia’ today through Oh Boy Records. Produced by Josh Kaufman at Dreamland Recording Studios, the record pairs incisive songwriting with warm-sounding organic production. This body of work functions as a deeply-human meditation on the intersection of grief and community. Alongside the album launch, Robinson debuted a new video for “Cast Iron Heart”, a duet featuring John Paul White. This collaboration captures a resilient-style love forged through time and trust.

Robinson describes the project as a record for anyone currently in the thick of a struggle. On the intention behind the music, Robinson states: “This is often a dark world, but we can be lights for each other. I hope my music can be a light for you in the days to come.” The tracks navigate personal narratives against the backdrop of a shifting American landscape. This album is a fearless and tender triumph of modern storytelling. Robinson explains that the songs are for “the misfits and f*** ups and shattered perfectionists and freshly humbled.”

Waking Stone Unleashes Visceral New Single “Make Money” As A Critique Of Greed

Eric Alper
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Waking Stone Unleashes Visceral New Single “Make Money” As A Critique Of Greed

Modern rock-outfit Waking Stone has released “Make Money”, a sharp-edged single that critiques the pervasive greed of the current era. As the fourth track from their upcoming album, the song presents a stark vision of a society where corporate ambition is prioritized over human welfare. While the band’s previous three singles leaned into an upbeat-and-hopeful protest style, this new release adopts a more intense and visceral tone. Critics have already noted the group’s ability to forge a unique path in the modern scene through music that provides a sense of palpable freedom. This latest anthem serves as a high-energy rallying cry that confronts the unhinged nature of billionaires gambling with the future.

Netflix Travels Back To Hawkins With New Animated ‘Stranger Things’ Series This April

Eric Alper
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Netflix Travels Back To Hawkins With New Animated ‘Stranger Things’ Series This April

Netflix expands the Hawkins universe with a new animated spin-off premiering on April 23, 2026. This series rewinds the timeline to the winter period between the second and third seasons of the original show. The plot examines the aftermath of a creature escaping the Upside Down following Eleven’s efforts to close the gate. By focusing on this specific gap, the project offers a fresh look at the characters during their younger years. This production is a nostalgic and essential addition to the supernatural franchise.

Kent Nishimura Displays Acoustic Guitar Mastery With Stunning New Cover Of Toto’s “Rosanna”

Eric Alper
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Kent Nishimura Displays Acoustic Guitar Mastery With Stunning New Cover Of Toto’s “Rosanna”

Acoustic guitarist Kent Nishimura has delivered a breathtaking solo rendition of the 1982 Toto hit “Rosanna”. Performing with just a single guitar, Nishimura manages to replicate the intricate layers of the original pop-rock anthem through extraordinary fingerstyle technique.

Ben Reel Reaffirms The Power Of Love On His Twelfth Album ‘Spirit’s Not Broken’

Eric Alper
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Ben Reel Reaffirms The Power Of Love On His Twelfth Album ‘Spirit’s Not Broken’

Irish troubadour Ben Reel released his twelfth studio album ‘Spirit’s Not Broken’ on January 23, 2026, through Mars Music Group. The record launches with raw rock energy before transitioning into soulful R&B-infused grooves. This musical evolution evokes the spirits of Otis Redding and Van Morrison while maintaining Reel’s signature sound. The focus track “Better Be Better” utilizes pounding drums and sixty-inspired guitars to narrate a desperate plea for relationship survival. This project marks another chapter in a career spanning over thirty-five years, which began in 1989 with the band Promised Land during the Troubles in Northern Ireland.

The album serves as a reminder of human connection in a world facing conflict and climate anxiety. Regarding the central theme, Reel states: “In the chaos, love is our anchor. It starts within—facing our fears, learning to love ourselves—so we can care for others.” This body of work is an uplifting and deeply-human collection that prioritizes internal growth. Reel notes that “at the end of the day, love and connection are all we truly have.” The songs move from high-intensity rock to reflective passages that highlight his distinctive vocal style.

Reel has built a vast international reputation by blending rock, folk, soul, and reggae across his discography. He has collaborated with industry veterans like Garry W. Tallent of the E Street Band and supported legendary acts including The Cranberries and Jools Holland. His tireless work ethic has led to four studio albums in the current decade alone. From Nashville’s Bluebird Café to major festivals in the Netherlands and Spain, Reel continues to perform for a loyal global fan base. This new release confirms his status as one of the most enduring voices in the Irish music scene.

Bristol Rock Trio Sunglasz Vendor Release Eerie New Single “Was On Fire” Before February Tour

Eric Alper
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0
Bristol Rock Trio Sunglasz Vendor Release Eerie New Single “Was On Fire” Before February Tour

 Bristol-based rock trio Sunglasz Vendor have released their new single “Was On Fire”, a track that explores the depths of romantic solitude and unrequited love. The song opens with harsh mechanical screeching before settling into a stop-start rhythm that allows singer-guitarist Rafi Cohen to unpack themes of despair. Recorded with producer Joseph Futak in Hither Green, this release sees the band embracing a more maximalist sound compared to their previous work. The group formed in early 2023 from members of Bristol’s avant-garde scene including Bingo Fury and Ex-Agent.

On the new single, Cohen offers: “’Was On Fire’ documents the feeling of being past it – like the best is behind you and the only way is down.” The lyrics present bleak visions of lonesome life interspersed with sardonic wordplay. This track is the second single from their recent recording sessions, following the success of “I’ll Do To You Yourself” which received support from BBC 6 Music and KEXP. This record is a daringly skittish and raw explosion of rock energy. The band combines the familiar hooks of rock radio with a sense of free-form anarchy.

The trio will mark the release with a four-date tour across the United Kingdom this February. Their live performances have previously earned them opening slots for notable acts such as The Breeders and Squid. The band features a classic guitar-bass-drums lineup where all elements grate against each other to create an anthemic cacophony. Following their debut album ‘Unwinding’, which arrived in May of last year, the group continues to gain momentum within the indie-rock landscape. Fans can catch their impassioned sets in York, Sheffield, Cardiff, and Bristol throughout the month.

Live Dates:

February 6 – York, Young Thugs Studio

February 7 – Sheffield, Hatch

February 12 – Cardiff, Porter’s

February 24 – Bristol, The Croft

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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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