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Bon Jovi Unites with Bruce Springsteen, Jelly Roll, Avril Lavigne and More on ‘Forever (Legendary Edition)’ Out October 24

Eric Alper
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Bon Jovi Unites with Bruce Springsteen, Jelly Roll, Avril Lavigne and More on ‘Forever (Legendary Edition)’ Out October 24

Bon Jovi will release its long-awaited Forever duets project on October 24th via Island Records. Forever (Legendary Edition) features the 2024 LP with some of music’s biggest stars. Bruce Springsteen, Jelly Roll, James Bay, Robbie Williams, Jason Isbell, Ryan Tedder, The War and Treaty, Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott, Lainey Wilson, Avril Lavigne, and Marcus King are among the guest artists.

The new song, “Red, White and Jersey,” and “Hollow Man” with Springsteen will be released on Friday, August 29th.

“This album is more than just a collection of collaborations; it is an album borne out of necessity. My vocal cord rehab was a well-documented journey that played out while releasing Forever in 2024. I was singing well in the studio for recording, but the vocal demands and rigors of touring were still slightly out of reach for me. Without an ability to tour at that time, I continued working in the studio and called on some friends, great singers, artists, musicians and also just great people,” Jon Bon Jovi says in a statement.

He continues, “The result is an album with a new viewpoint and new spirit – a collaboration album that proves we all get by in this world with a little help from our friends. I feel tremendous joy and gratitude in releasing this album, and I think it shows in the music. I can say with certainty that there is always something bigger than ME, and that’s WE.”

Last June, the band released Forever via Island Records. The album features the blockbuster single “Legendary” along with “Living Proof.” Upon its release in March 2024, “Legendary” vaulted to the top of the Billboard Digital Song Sales Chart and No. 2 on the Rock Digital Song Sales Chart, climbing to the Top 20 on the Adult Pop Airplay Chart. A duets edition is reportedly in the works.

In June, the band performed an intimate private Nashville show in conjunction with Jon Bon Jovi’s Runaway Tours. In its first show since April 2022, the band hosted a three-day, two-night luxury event in Music City, which featured admission to the private phone-free performance, a Bon Jovi Forever Party at JBJ’s Nashville, and more.

Last year saw the group let cameras inside their lives for the career-spanning four-part docuseries Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story on Hulu. The series was made with full cooperation from all past and present members of Bon Jovi. The docu-series is a ROS production, the banner of filmmaker Gotham Chopra.

1. Red, White & Jersey
2. Legendary featuring James Bay
3. We Made It Look Easy featuring Robbie Williams
4. Living Proof featuring Jelly Roll
5. Waves featuring Jason Isbell
6. Seeds featuring Ryan Tedder
7. Kiss The Bride featuring Billy Falcon
8. The People’s House featuring The War & Treaty
9. Walls Of Jericho featuring Joe Elliott
10. I Wrote You A Song featuring Lainey Wilson
11. Living In Paradise featuring Avril Lavigne
12. My First Guitar featuring Marcus King
13. Hollow Man featuring Bruce Springsteen
14. We Made It Look Easy/Hicimos Que Pareciera Fácil featuring Carin León

Ben Gallaher Announces Heartland-Rock Album ‘Time’ Out September 26 with New Single “Rearview”

Eric Alper
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Ben Gallaher Announces Heartland-Rock Album ‘Time’ Out September 26 with New Single “Rearview”

QHMG/Stone Country Records’ triple-threat singer, songwriter and guitarist, Ben Gallaher, will release a new 13-track high-octane, heartland-rock album, Time, on September 26th.

This Friday, August 29th, Gallaher will release album teaser track “Rearview,” a four-on-the-floor, windows-down singalong about makin’ memories with the one you love.

Produced by Neil Thrasher and Patrick Thrasher, Time is an arena-ready album stacked high with Telecaster twang and southern storytelling, delivering a next-level showcase for the melody-driven country-rock hybrid that’s become Gallaher’s calling card. The modern-day guitar hero plays every lead guitar solo on the album and co-wrote five of its thirteen songs, including the standout, melodic title track, on which Gallaher sings the universally relatable, heartbreaking line, I wish I could move on like time.

“When we were trying to figure out what I wanted to name the album, this idea came to me, because it’s much bigger than just the song ‘Time’ itself,” says Gallaher. “It’s about how every song and every guitar riff and every live show only come with time. And that’s exactly what went into making this record: time. These songs take me to different moments in my life and in my journey, all leading to finally making the record that I’ve always wanted to make.”

Unreleased album highlights include the focus track “I’ll Take You,” a nothing-beats-you love song originally written as a ballad but transformed in the studio by Gallaher and producers Neil and Patrick Thrasher into a radio-friendly tempo track centered around a driving guitar riff. Another rousing earworm, “Betcha Money,” rocks out what Gallaher describes as “a classic story of a girl falling for a country boy.” “Where Do You Go” lays down a softer, pulsing groove while Gallaher’s smoky vocals ask for direction because his girl is gone.

Previously released album highlights include the summer blockbuster, end-credit-worthy ballad “Bullet,” whose heart-stopping, high-stakes official music video catapulted into CMT Music’s 12 Pack Countdown. “Cuts Like a Knife” is a ripping, must-hear cover of Bryan Adams’ classic No. 1 smash, on which Gallaher plays every lead guitar part, including the song’s iconic Stratocaster solo. “Stomp” is a swampy, front-porch party song inspired by Gallaher’s guitar riff that became a viral sensation, generating more than 36 million organic social views and earning the rising star more than 400,000 social media followers.

Supporting Gallaher’s soaring lead-guitar work on Time are some of Nashville’s top session musicians on rhythm guitar. They include four-time Academy of Country Music Guitar Player of the Year Tom Bukovac, who has played on albums for more than 1,200 artists from Glen Campbell and Hank Williams, Jr. to Vince Gill and Morgan Wallen. Other notable guitarists playing rhythm on Gallaher’s album are Jedd Hughes (Brandy Clark, Rodney Crowell, Dierks Bentley), Justin Ostrander (Luke Bryan, Cody Johnson, Riley Green), Adam Shoenfeld (Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, Alabama) and Ilya Toshinskiy (Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn).

To celebrate his album announcement, Gallaher will perform “Stomp” live in-studio on WGN-TV Chicago’s Midday News this Friday, August 29th, ahead of his headlining show that night at Carol’s Pub in Chicago as part of his 2025 Bullet Tour. Upcoming tour dates include Decatur, Georgia, on September 11th, and Green Bay, Wisconsin, on September 18th.

1. I’ll Take You (Neil Thrasher, Wendell Mobley, Tony Martin)
2. Rearview (Chris DeStefano, Travis Wood, Casey Brown, Jordan Minton)
3. Bullet (Ben Gallaher, Chris August, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher)
4. Betcha Money (Neil Thrasher, Wendell Mobley, Lee Thomas Miller)
5. Where Do You Go (Neil Thrasher, Josh Thompson, Kelley Lovelace)
6. Dirt Ones (Tony Martin, Neil Thrasher)
7. Time (Ben Gallaher, Neil Thrasher, Tony Martin)
8. Mistakes (Ben Gallaher, Tony Martin, Neil Thrasher)
9. Kinda Can’t Say No (Lee Thomas Miller, Wendell Mobley, Neil Thrasher)
10. Love Is Hard (Neil Thrasher, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, Tony Martin)
11. Cuts Like a Knife (Bryan Adams, Jim Vallance)
12. Whiskey on a Wound (Ben Gallaher, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher)
13. Stomp (Ben Gallaher, Neil Thrasher, Patrick Thrasher, Wendell Mobley)

Amanda Shires Unveils Rock-Driven “Piece of Mind” Ahead of New Album ‘Nobody’s Girl’

Eric Alper
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Amanda Shires Unveils Rock-Driven “Piece of Mind” Ahead of New Album ‘Nobody’s Girl’

Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Amanda Shires has shared her latest single, “Piece of Mind.” The music video was directed by Taylor Kelly. “Piece of Mind” is the second track to be released ahead of her anticipated new album, Nobody’s Girl, out September 26th on ATO Records.

Written by Amanda and produced by Lawrence Rothman, “Piece of Mind” is a bold and emotionally charged, rock-driven anthem. Its raw energy is highlighted by Amanda’s signature fiddle playing, and themes of unapologetic liberation from the past, survival, and clarity in the face of feeling dismissed.

Shires says, “This one came when I was finally done being polite about pain. I wrote this song because I never got closure. Piece of Mind became the place I said everything I didn’t get to say. Writing it gave me an ending. Not tidy. Not bitter. Just mine.”

Produced by Lawrence Rothman, Nobody’s Girl is a meticulously crafted collection of songs spanning folk, rock, roots and country influences. A deeply personal body of work, its themes deal with heartbreak and loss, resilience, self-discovery and empowerment. The album was recorded at Sound Emporium Studios in Nashville and Rotham Recorders in Nashville.

This fall, Shires will be supporting Aly & AJ on an extensive North American tour kicking off September 19th in Los Angeles. She will also be performing at AmericanaFest in Nashville on September 11th at Exit/In, and making a guest appearance at Musicians Corner on September 12th. Later this fall, Amanda will also join the Allman Betts Family Revival Tour.

OMG Girlz Serve Confidence in Fierce New “Tea” Video and Announce First-Ever Headline Tour

Eric Alper
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OMG Girlz Serve Confidence in Fierce New “Tea” Video and Announce First-Ever Headline Tour

Powerhouse Atlanta female R&B trio OMG Girlz are owning who they are and what they’ve got in the new official music video for their latest single “Tea.” Blending dynamic dance sequences with head-turning choreography under the creative direction of Anthony Burrell, Zonnique “Star” Pullins, Bahja “Beauty” Rodriguez, and Breaunna “Babydoll” Womack are serving body “Tea” in the Vision Mob-directed clip out now.

Produced by Tommy Brown, Damare “Mob” Mobley, and Pacific-Joshua “Glitch” Zagabe, the track’s thick bassline thumps and wobbles while breathy vocals dip in and out of hypnotic claps. Once the beat kicks in, the ladies spit some game, “You can take a seat / And I’ll teach you a lesson.” Picking up the pace, they boost the bars with boasts à la “Know I’m hot across the States / From Atlanta to LA” and “I’m the baddest – The baddest in the room.” It all culminates in a chantable chorus punctuated by the trio’s charisma, attitude, and spirit. Meant to empower, “Tea” – written by Rodriguez, Womack, Pullins, Serrin Joy Scrutchings, and Alivia “Blue” Roberts – is a reminder to never stop celebrating who you are. As such, it also picks up a thread from their formative material, championing femininity and unapologetic confidence always.

Readying to next bring “Tea” to the stage, OMG Girlz launches the group’s first-ever headline run, The Name Stays Tour presented by Coca-Cola and Pretty Hustle, with a hometown kickoff at Vinyl in Atlanta on Saturday, August 30th. The limited trek hits major cities before wrapping on September 12th at The Echo Lounge & Music Hall in Dallas.

Sean Paul Reinvents the Music Video with AI-Directed “Ginger,” Blending Dancehall and Cinematic Fantasy

Eric Alper
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Sean Paul Reinvents the Music Video with AI-Directed “Ginger,” Blending Dancehall and Cinematic Fantasy

For the first time in his career, Grammy Award-winning global superstar Sean Paul steps behind the lens with the release of his AI-directed music video for his smash single “Ginger,” a bold fusion of dancehall, cinema, and cutting-edge technology.

Always one to innovate, Sean Paul wanted “Ginger” to be more than a performance piece. With AI as his tool, he created a visual universe impossible to capture with traditional filmmaking. The result is a groundbreaking, cinematic experience where each frame resonates with power, color, and unforgettable imagery.

The video reimagines Sean Paul as the lead in some of Hollywood’s most iconic films—a concept that blends nostalgia with fantasy. From the adventurous world of Indiana Jones to the high-tech spectacle of Iron Man, the romance of Titanic, the swashbuckling spirit of Pirates of the Caribbean, and the adrenaline of Mission Impossible, Sean Paul embodies these roles with charm and humor, stepping outside his traditional persona in music videos.

The journey begins aboard the Titanic, with Sean Paul taking on the lead role opposite a mysterious young woman with striking ginger-colored hair—a symbolic nod to the song’s title. Each scene builds in scale and imagination, transporting viewers into a world of striking, surreal visuals.

As creative director, Sean Paul demonstrates not only his versatility as an artist but also his willingness to push creative boundaries.

“AI is here, and I wanted to do something different,” says Sean Paul. I think it’s funny to have me in all those different epic films and TV shows as the hero figure. Suggesting that I am the hero for the special ‘ginger’ I am singing to. But literally “Ginger” is just ode to all the spicey ladies out there in the universe. Nuff love every time to all my ladies.”

With “Ginger,” Sean Paul reaffirms his role as a pioneer in global music—blending innovation, entertainment, and cultural impact into an unforgettable visual statement.

Ellefson-Soto Unleash Metal Fury with “Vengeance” Featuring Tim “Ripper” Owens from New Album ‘Unbreakable’

Eric Alper
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Ellefson-Soto Unleash Metal Fury with “Vengeance” Featuring Tim “Ripper” Owens from New Album ‘Unbreakable’

Former Megadeth Grammy Award-winning bassist David Ellefson and acclaimed metal vocalist Jeff Scott Soto have unleashed the official music video for “Vengeance,” featuring guest vocals from former Judas Priest and current KK’s Priest frontman Tim “Ripper” Owens.

The track comes from Ellefson-Soto’s highly anticipated sophomore album Unbreakable, out now via Rat Pak Records. “Vengeance” showcases the band’s heavier, more aggressive sound while highlighting the commanding presence of Owens, whose dynamic performance adds an electrifying layer to the song, driving you into a true dark nightmare.

“One of the darker tracks from our new album. We are honored to have Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens with us on this one as he and Jeff tell the savory story of sweet revenge,” says Ellefson.

“I loved this song when I was the only singer on it, but I loved it even more when we got our friend Tim ‘Ripper’ Owens to duet with me on it. It’s heavy, tons of attitude and full metal assault!” adds Soto.

The duo Ellefson-Soto is joined by Italian guitarist Andy Martongelli and Paolo Caridi on drums. Unbreakable features 11 studio tracks.

Recorded at Rogue Studios in Wembley, UK, by Alessio Garavello and produced by Chris Collier (Mick Mars, Korn, Flat Black), “Unbreakable” is a sonic assault packed with catchy riffs, melodic vocals, and thoughtful lyrics that blend their classic metal roots with modern rock intensity.

Moon Allure Unveils Soulful New Version of “Erykah’s Interlude” Featuring Grammy Nominated Rapper D Smoke

Eric Alper
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Moon Allure Unveils Soulful New Version of “Erykah’s Interlude” Featuring Grammy Nominated Rapper D Smoke

Rising R&B and neo-soul artist Moon Allure returns with an intoxicating update to her fan favourite track Erykah’s Interlude, now featuring the lyrical genius and poetic flow of Grammy-nominated rapper D Smoke. This collaboration blends Moon Allure’s hypnotic vocals and lush production with D Smoke’s bilingual lyricism, creating a fresh sonic experience that is both timeless and deeply personal.

Originally released in 2023, Erykah’s Interlude quickly became a listener favourite for its smoky, late-night groove and soulful nod to the eclectic spirit of Erykah Badu. In this new rendition, D Smoke weaves verses that broaden the track’s narrative, offering reflections on love, self-discovery, and resilience.

Speaking on the making of the track, Moon Allure says, “Erykah’s Interlude is about the sacred space two people create in love, a space that holds grace no matter where life takes you. It’s about honoring the layers you discover in someone over time. This song reminds me how beautiful and warm being in love feels.”

Representing Compton, California, Moon Allure delivers R&B that’s as smooth and soulful as it is cinematic. A filmmaker and artist, she directs all her own visuals, creating music that feels like a full sensory experience, turning each song into a piece of art. As the founder of Young MovieMakers of America, she’s taught hundreds of kids the power of storytelling, proving that creativity isn’t just her craft, it’s her calling. Moon Allure is here to leave her mark on R&B and show the world the stories, soul, and artistry that Compton creates.

Her single Erykah’s Interlude has become one of Moon Allure’s highest-streaming tracks to date, independently surpassing two million streams on Spotify alone. A new version featuring Grammy-nominated rapper D Smoke adds a fresh dimension to the record.

Moon Allure says, “Having D Smoke on this track was really something special. I really appreciate his poetic approach; his verse paints vivid pictures of moments with someone he loves. I believe his verse really complemented my feminine energy and the way I speak on love in the song. His honest and artistic contribution really added another layer to the listening experience.”

Collaborating with an artist who also represents Los Angeles makes the song even more meaningful. This release marks another bold step in Moon Allure’s growing impact on the R&B scene.

Lisa Brokop and Joe Wood Celebrated in New Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame Exhibition

Eric Alper
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Lisa Brokop and Joe Wood Celebrated in New Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame Exhibition

National Music Centre (NMC), in partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA), will reveal the updated Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame exhibition celebrating this year’s inductees: B.C.- born country star Lisa Brokop (Artist) and independent country music champion Joe Wood (Stan Klees Builder). Opening September 10 in Calgary, the exhibition launches just as Country Music Week takes over Kelowna (September 10–13).

Over her 35-year career, Artist inductee Lisa Brokop has earned three independent CCMA wins,13 consecutive CCMA female vocalist nominations, an ACM nod, multiple Gold records, recorded 10 studio albums, and charted 43 North American singles. She’s also written songs for artists like Reba McEntire, Pam Tillis, and Terri Clark. With deep respect for the legendary women of country music, Brokop has carried their stories forward through her own career. In 2016, she launched The Patsy Cline Project, an album paying homage to the American country legend with covers and original songs. Hot on the heels of the album’s success, she created Legendary Ladies of Country, a show touring North America featuring songs by female country greats and her personal inspirations, including Loretta Lynn, Tammy Wynette, and Emmylou Harris. The updated exhibition features treasures from Brokop’s multifaceted career, including her very first handwritten lyrics for the 1985 song “Country is the Best to Me!”, and the wedding dress she wore on the cover of The Patsy Cline Project album.

“Being welcomed into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame has been the greatest honour of my career and I’m truly humbled by it,” said Lisa Brokop. “I have such gratitude to every person who has ever bought a ticket to a show, bought an album or T-shirt or given me their love and support in some way over these past decades, and I share this honour with you! I am thrilled that these pieces will be on display in this exhibition. They hold so many memories and dreams, and I can’t wait for people to see them and join me in the celebration!”

Stan Klees Builder inductee Joe Wood has spent nearly five decades championing independent Canadian country artists, helping deliver more than 10,000 songs to radio. With his wife Trudy, he co-founded RDR Music Group and broke new ground in music distribution, creating the first Canadian compilation CD, leading early digital delivery with Yangaroo/DMDS, and continually adapting to industry change. During his time in the industry, he has supported artists such as Gord Bamford, Tenille Townes, The Reklaws, Michelle Wright, Ian Tyson, Brett Kissel, and even Garth Brooks.

“To be recognized in the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame is beyond anything I ever imagined when I first started out,” said Joe Wood. “This honour is really a celebration of the artists I’ve had the privilege to support, and the enduring spirit of independent country music in Canada. Stan Klees, the industry builder who this award was named after, was a friend of mine. Stan would have approved.”

The exhibition highlights Wood’s resilience in the music industry through personal stories, and a copy of 1989’s Promopak 1—the first-ever Canadian independent artist compilation CD.

“The National Music Centre is proud to honour Lisa Brokop and Joe Wood with this updated exhibition,” said Andrew Mosker, President and CEO, NMC. “Their stories reflect the passion, artistry, and perseverance that continue to shape Canada’s country music landscape.”

“We are proud to honour Lisa Brokop and Joe Wood for their remarkable contributions to Canadian country music,” said Amy Jeninga, President, CCMA. “The CCMA is thrilled to celebrate their induction as both recognition of all they have accomplished and a tribute to the legacy they continue to build. This exhibition with the National Music Centre ensures their impact will be recognized for years to come.”

As the official permanent home of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, National Music Centre is the custodian of more than 2,000 artifacts (textiles, instruments, and photos) within the CCMHF collection. Dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and legacy of Canadian country music, the exhibition incorporates items from the 2025 inductees, as well as past honourees including k.d. lang, Jason McCoy, Rita MacNeil, Terri Clark, Paul Brandt, Hank Snow, Michelle Wright, Ian Tyson, and others. 

R&B Rising Star Danni Baylor Unveils Bold Debut EP ‘Things About The World That Burden Me’

Eric Alper
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R&B Rising Star Danni Baylor Unveils Bold Debut EP ‘Things About The World That Burden Me’

DMV-born and bred R&B artist and songwriter, Danni Baylor shares her surprise, vibrant debut EP Things About The World That Burden Me today via Global 7 Entertainment. Things About The World That Burden Me (TATWTBM) is alt‑R&B journey through overstimulation, disconnection, and finding peace in the noise. With soulful vocals and cinematic production, Danni unpacks the pressures of fame, social media, and image in today’s culture, giving her listeners “an opportunity to feel seen, to feel less alone, and maybe even to pause long enough to really listen — to the music, to themselves, to each other,” says Danni. 

Danni’s music offers a raw, relatable take on how digital presence often overshadows real human connection wrapped in playful, irresistibly catchy melodies. Things About The World That Burden Me cements Danni Baylor as a bold storyteller unafraid to blend cultural commentary with infectious rhythms.

‘Things About the World That Burden Me’ is me putting my thoughts and heart on record. I’ve always been the kind of person who feels the weight of what’s happening around me. These songs are my way of naming those burdens and finding the light inside them. Every track is a snapshot of how I see the world right now, but also how I choose to move through it — with honesty, warmth, and faith.”

Danni’s sound blends soulful melodies with lyrical depth, creating a space where listeners can connect with her personal experiences. Grounded in themes of love, heartbreak, self-discovery, and personal empowerment, Danni’s music is a reflection of her own journey. She began singing at the age of 5 in her family’s church and developed an early love for music inspired by artists such as Mary Mary, Brandy, James Taylor, Carole King, Stevie Wonder, Karen Carpenter, India.Arie, Lauryn Hill, and more. Danni later toured as a background vocalist for gospel star Tye Tribbett and wrote for Fantasia Barrino and Billboard hitmaker Jason Nelson. She recently supported Grammy-winner Melanie Fiona on her “Say Yes” Tour. A BMI Trailblazer Award recipient, NAACP Image Award winning songwriter, and Billboard chart-topping lyricist, Danni is undeniably one to watch. Danni has received acclaim from BET, Baller Alert, Ratings Game Music, Ones to Watch, Sicka Vision and more. Stay tuned for more from Danni Baylor soon. 

THINGS ABOUT THE WORLD THAT BURDEN ME TRACKLIST:

“KOOLADE”

“LIAR LIAR”

“DISTRACTIONS”

“DND (Do Not Disturb)”

“INSATIABLE”

“Warm”

“GO HOME RODGER”

Surf Ballroom Opens New Music Experience Center with Immersive ‘Not Fade Away’ Journey

Eric Alper
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Surf Ballroom Opens New Music Experience Center with Immersive ‘Not Fade Away’ Journey

The public is invited to help celebrate the official opening of the Surf Music Experience Center beginning Friday, September 5. Located next door to the legendary ballroom, the Music Experience Center (MEC) will be open and FREE to the public this weekend only, from Sept 5 through Sept 7 – Buddy Holly’s birthday. 

In addition to newly-acquired artifacts, the MEC’s highlight is Not Fade Away: The Surf Ballroom Immersive Experience. More than an exhibit or video, it’s a transformative, multi-sensory journey through the birth of rock ‘n’ roll and the timeless sound that changed American music forever. Through immersive digital storytelling, historic artifacts, restored audio, and original archival materials, guests will walk in the footsteps of legends.

Celebrations to mark the historic occasion will include:

Thursday, September 4, 5:30: Exclusive sneak preview, guided memorial site tour and author Tommy Canale signing his book, Shadows Over Clear Lake: The Tragic Tale of the 1959 Winter Dance Party. VIP tickets for this event can be purchased on the Surf Ballroom website. 

Friday, September 5, 12 noon: After local students tour the new MEC, doors will be open to the public until 8 pm, when the Surf Ballroom hosts the Brothers Osborne show. Admission to MEC is FREE all day.

Saturday, September 6, 10 am – 6 pm: MEC is again open all day with FREE admission to the public. Rocker Richie Lee & the Fabulous 50s will perform a FREE concert next door at the Surf Ballroom beginning at 6:30.

Sunday, September 7, 12 noon: Official ribbon cutting ceremony marks the opening of the Surf Music Experience Center. Remarks by family, board members and city officials will be followed by a celebration of Buddy Holly’s 88th birthday this day. MEC will be open 12 noon until 6 pm.

The 10,000-square foot Surf MEC will function as a visitors center for the Surf District, with exhibits of never-before-seen artifacts related to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, and the groundbreaking fully-immersive experience, Not Fade Away. The MEC also includes:

  • Rooms for private music lessons
  • Spacious green room for artists and performers
  • Historical artifact exhibits
  • State-of-the-art immersive theater
  • The Palms Rooftop Cabana cocktail bar
  • The Palms Ballroom event space

The legendary Surf Ballroom & Museum is one of only four music venues in the United States designated as a National Historic Landmark. Best known as the final performance site of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper, the Surf has welcomed generations of musical artists and fans since 1933. Today, it is a vibrant year-round venue that amplifies the legacy of music culture, education and performance – it’s where the music lives. The Surf is operated by the North Iowa Cultural Center & Museum, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and will expand its offerings with the new Music Experience Center (MEC), an immersive attraction, artifact exhibit and event space, opening September 2025.

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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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