Jerry Portnoy grew up in Chicago hearing the blues being played outside his father’s rug store on famed Maxwell Street during the late 1940s and early ’50s.
After dropping out of college, he became immersed in the colorful world of pool hustlers like Cornbread Red, and Minnesota Fats as he managed the largest pool hall in Chicago. During a stint as a paratrooper early in the Vietnam war, he applied for discharge as a conscientious objector, and lived in San Francisco during 1967’s “summer of love.” While bumming around Europe the following year, Portnoy heard the blues again on a record by Sonny Boy Williamson and instantly became obsessed with mastering blues harmonica.
He returned to Chicago and in 1974 he was playing in small Black clubs at night when Muddy Waters plucked him from his day job at Cook County Jail to fill the historic harmonica chair in his fabled band. Eric Clapton followed suit in 1991. In a career that took him from ghetto taverns to the White House and the Royal Albert Hall, he went from the raggedy vans and cheap roadside motels of the blues world to the private jets and five-star hotels of the rock world. Between those two very different gigs was a struggle to survive the vagaries of the music business and the pressures of life on the road. In a remarkable life, he also assisted in surgery, lodged in a Moroccan house of ill repute, and dined at Giorgio Armani’s.
Dancing with Muddy details the surprising, lively, and sometimes bumpy ride of a blues harmonica legend.
‘Dancing with Muddy’ Tells Jerry Portnoy’s Wild Journey from Chicago Streets to Muddy Waters, Eric Clapton, and Beyond
Jack Antonoff, Teddy Swims, and Sony Music Publishing Shine at 2025 ASCAP Pop Music Awards
Recognizing the songwriters and publishers behind the hottest pop music hits of the past year, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) celebrates its 2025 winning Pop Music Songwriters.
Renowned for his culture-shifting collaborations, acclaimed songwriter, producer and artist Jack Antonoff adds another trophy to his collection as ASCAP Pop Music Songwriter of the Year. The hitmaker co-wrote six of ASCAP’s most-performed songs of the past year including Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please Please Please” and Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero,” “Fortnight,” “I Can Do It with a Broken Heart,” “Is It Over Now? (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)” and “Karma.”
“Lose Control” is the ASCAP Pop Music Song of the Year. Co-written by ASCAP songwriter Joshua “Ammo” Coleman, Teddy Swims’s breakthrough hit dominated the charts in 2024 and continues to see success, breaking the record for longest-running song in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 at 58 weeks. The record-breaking smash, which captivated listeners with its eclectic mix of soul, rock and Motown-style R&B, is published by Kobalt Music and Top Notch High Quality Music.
ASCAP Pop Music Publisher of the Year goes to Sony Music Publishing. The publishing powerhouse takes home the prestigious recognition for its contributions to pop music over the past year. Among their impressive list of works are “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” (Shaboozey), “Hot to Go!” (Chappell Roan), “Houdini” (Dua Lipa), “Not Like Us” (Kendrick Lamar), “Stick Season” (Noah Kahan), “Texas Hold ‘Em” (Beyoncé) and more.
Other 2025 ASCAP Pop Music Award-winning songwriters include Amy Allen (“Espresso,” “Feather,” more), Beyoncé (“Texas Hold ‘Em”), Chappell Roan (“Good Luck, Babe!,” “Hot to Go!”), Dan Nigro (“get him back!”, “Good Luck, Babe!,” more), Dua Lipa (“Houdini,” “Illusion”), Justin Timberlake (“Selfish”), Justin Tranter (“Good Luck, Babe!”), Noah Kahan (“Stick Season”), Olivia Rodrigo (“get him back!”), Shaboozey (“A Bar Song (Tipsy)”) and Victoria Monét (“On My Mama”).
ASCAP, the only US PRO founded and governed by music creators, celebrates the significant contributions and achievements of its songwriting and publishing community with an exclusive event in Los Angeles tonight to honor this year’s ASCAP Pop Music Award winners.
The ASCAP Pop Music Awards honor the songwriters and publishers of the most-performed ASCAP pop songs of 2024. The winning songs are determined by data for terrestrial and satellite radio and for programmed and on-demand audio streams, all provided by Luminate Data LLC in accordance with ASCAP’s publicly available rules.
Reba McEntire Brings Heart and Humor to Realtor.com’s New ‘Nearly Home’ Campaign
Buying a home in America has never felt more emotionally fraught or economically complex, and that is why today, Realtor.com is launching a new campaign, “Nearly Home,” which features beloved country music star and sitcom veteran Reba McEntire to offer something many homebuyers haven’t felt in years: optimism.
“With this campaign, our goal is to make home search feel more human, more hopeful and less overwhelming—especially for a generation of buyers who’ve been navigating a complex market,” said Mickey Neuberger, chief marketing officer at Realtor.com.. “As the most trusted brand in real estate and the brand most trusted by real estate professionals, partnering with Reba McEntire was an easy choice. She’s got the trust, the charm and the boots-on-the-ground wisdom to bring a genuine sense of reassurance, and a little humor, to our message. She helps us remind people that finding a home shouldn’t feel impossible—it should feel like coming home.”
Reba McEntire, America’s Queen of Country and sitcom legend, brings her one-of-a-kind warmth and comedic charm to Realtor.com ‘s series of sitcom-inspired ads which will be the biggest real estate campaign of the year. The campaign highlights the relatable ups and downs of the home buying and selling process, making it feel more accessible and less daunting. Drawing from real homebuyers’ experiences, the ads offer digestible solutions to common problems, providing viewers with the tools they need to take the next step in their home search with confidence.
“As I learned more about Realtor.com, I saw how they have amazing tools for home buyers and sellers, are the most trusted site by real estate professionals and have over 500,000 new listings a month – and I was sold… pun intended!” says Reba McEntire. “A home brings a sense of comfort, relief and belonging that everyone deserves. This new campaign will help people become more positive, energized and hopeful about their home search. When it comes to something as important as your home, you want the best team on your side.”
The first episode of this campaign, called “The One without the Break-Up,” highlights the very real drama that often comes along with buying a home. In this episode, a young couple is faced with common challenges experienced by home buyers that often test relationships. As they argue over their need for “more space,” Reba enters with relatable real-talk to help uncomplicate the couple’s search and home-buying process with Realtor.com. In the end of the episode, Reba’s tough-love charm and Realtor.com’s best-in-class tools like RealListings, RealCommute, RealChoice Selling, and RealView Maps turn real-world tension into real solutions, showing that the right help can make all the difference.
Realtor.com’s Nearly Home campaign taps into the aspirations of home buyers at a time when homeownership remains a defining goal for many Americans. A 2024 Realtor.com survey revealed that 75% of Americans believe homeownership is an essential aspect of the American dream, and nearly two out of three Americans (64%) consider it one of their top life goals.
This campaign will launch with a cross-channel push which is anticipated to reach 1-in-2 Americans. “Nearly Home” is Realtor.com’s largest brand investment in its nearly 30-year history—and a direct response to the anxiety, confusion and doubt that define today’s housing market.
This campaign builds on the success of Realtor.com’s most recent campaign, which leaned into their status as the leading app real estate professionals rely on and showcases expert insights and best-in-class tools.
KIDZ BOP Brings Doggyland Along for a Colorful, Musical Summer Tour Adventure
KIDZ BOP, the #1 music brand for kids, announce Doggyland as the opening act of the KIDZ BOP Live Certified BOP tour in partnership with Live Nation. Doggyland, the popular 3D animated series, will join the first 28 dates of the summer tour. The cast of colorful dogs will sing, dance and rap their viral hits such as “Affirmations”, before the KIDZ BOP Kids take to the stage.
“Doggyland and KIDZ BOP are teamin’ up for a special tour like no other. We’re takin’ our animated world and bringing it to you in real life, ya dig? We invite lil kids, big kids, mamas, daddies, uncles, aunties – to join us for life lessons and some family fun – everybody’s gonna be movin’, groovin’, and gettin’ their dance on. When Doggyland links with KIDZ BOP, it’s a musical journey you will never forget. Let’s go!” – Snoop Dogg, Co-creator, Doggyland
The KIDZ BOP Live Certified Bop Tour comes on the heels of the release of ‘KIDZ BOP 50’, a milestone album for the brand. The KIDZ BOP Kids – Aleah, Cliff, Matty and Shila – will take the stage to perform the biggest BOPs from the album including, “espresso” and “HOT TO GO!” as well as KIDZ BOP classics. The show features eye-popping new stage design and interactive elements kids will love, as well as the return of the popular (and hilarious!) Daddy Dance Off. The tour is sponsored by Spin Master’s fantasy adventure series, Unicorn Academy™, streaming now on Netflix.
“We’re excited to have Doggyland join the KIDZ BOP Live Certified BOP Tour this summer as our special show opener. Doggyland’s hip hop take on classic kid’s songs, as well their new hits like the viral sensation, ‘Affirmations Song,’ will make a fun addition to our live concert events,” added Sasha Junk, President of KIDZ BOP.
| KIDZ BOP LIVE Certified BOP Tour Dates | ||
| Date | City | Venue |
| Saturday, June 14, 2025 | Stamford, CT (2 Shows)* | The Palace |
| Thursday, June 19, 2025 | Hershey, PA* | Giant Center |
| Friday, June 20, 2025 | Raleigh, NC* | Coastal Credit Union |
| Saturday, June 21, 2025 | Charlotte, NC* | PNC Music Pavilion |
| Sunday, June 22, 2025 | Greensboro, NC* | White Oak Amphitheater |
| Thursday, June 26, 2025 | West Palm Beach, FL* | iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre |
| Friday, June 27, 2025 | Jacksonville, FL* | Daily’s Place |
| Saturday, June 28, 2025 | Alpharetta, GA* | Ameris Bank Amphitheatre |
| Sunday, June 29, 2025 | Franklin, TN* | FirstBank Amphitheater |
| Thursday, July 3, 2025 | Gilford, NH* | Bank of NH Pavilion |
| Saturday, July 5, 2025 | Bangor, ME* | Maine Savings Bank |
| Sunday, July 6, 2025 | Bethel, NY* | Bethel Woods |
| Thursday, July 10, 2025 | Richmond, VA* | Allianz Amphitheater |
| Friday, July 11, 2025 | Wantagh, NY* | Northwell Health at Jones Beach |
| Saturday, July 12, 2025 | Holmdel, NJ* | PNC Bank Arts Center |
| Thursday, July 17, 2025 | Wilmington, NC* | Live Oak Bank Pavilion |
| Friday, July 18, 2025 | Baltimore, MD* | Pier Six Pavilion |
| Saturday, July 19, 2025 | Boston, MA (2 Shows)* | Leader Bank Pavilion |
| Sunday, July 20, 2025 | Wallingford, CT* | Toyota Oakdale Theater |
| Wednesday, July 23, 2025 | Columbus, OH* | Ohio State Fair |
| Thursday, July 24, 2025 | Clarkston, MI* | Pine Knob Music Center |
| Friday, July 25, 2025 | Noblesville, IN* | Ruoff Music Center |
| Sunday, July 27, 2025 | Cincinnati, OH* | PNC Pavilion at Riverbend |
| Friday, August 1, 2025 | Saratoga Springs, NY* | Broadview Stage at SPAC |
| Saturday, August 2, 2025 | Camden, NJ* | Freedom Mortgage Pavilion |
| Tuesday, August 5, 2025 | West Allis, WI* | Wisconsin State Fair |
| Friday, August 8, 2025 | Macon, GA* | Macon Amphitheater |
| Saturday, August 9, 2025 | Tampa, FL* | MIDFLORDIA Credit Union Amphitheatre |
| Friday, August 15, 2025 | Tinley Park, IL | Credit Union 1 Amphitheater |
| Saturday, August 16, 2025 | Kansas City, MO | Starlight Theatre |
| Sunday, August 17, 2025 | Des Moines, IA | Iowa State Fair |
| Wednesday, August 20, 2025 | Grand Rapids, MI | Devos Hall |
| Thursday, August 21, 2025 | Toronto, ON | Budweiser Stage |
| Friday, August 22, 2025 | Toledo, OH | Toledo Zoo Amphitheater |
| Saturday, August 23, 2025 | Syracuse, NY | New York State Fair |
| Thursday, August 28, 2025 | San Diego, CA | Cal Coast Credit Union |
| Friday, August 29, 2025 | Phoenix, AZ | Arizona Financial Theatre |
| Saturday, August 30, 2025 | Anaheim, CA | Honda Center |
| Sunday, August 31, 2025 | Mountain View, CA | Shoreline Amphitheater |
| Friday, September 5, 2025 | Irving, TX | Toyota Music Factory |
| Sunday, September 7, 2025 | Houston, TX | Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion |
| Wednesday, September 10, 2025 | Puyallup, WA | Washington State Fair |
Wolverine and Jordan Davis Team Up for First-Ever Trades Tour Supporting America’s Skilled Workers
Wolverine, the 142-year-old work boot and apparel company, is excited to announce a first-of-its-kind nationwide tour with multi-platinum country music star Jordan Davis to support American skilled tradespeople. Kicking off today – National Skilled Trades Day – the Wolverine x Jordan Davis Trades Tour will provide eight American skilled trades businesses with capital and resources to support their critical work.
“For more than 140 years, Wolverine has supported those whose work we couldn’t live without – American tradesmen and women,” said Lauren King, Senior Director of Marketing for Wolverine. “We want to give trades businesses the confidence to thrive – especially in uncertain economic times – and the Wolverine x Jordan Davis Trades Tour celebrates their hard work, resilience, and impact.“
“I come from a long line of tradesmen and being able to recognize today’s generation of workers for all they do feels like home,” said Jordan Davis. “Supporting American trades businesses with financial support and trusted gear that’s comfortable, versatile, and will help them get the job done, day in and day out is truly an honor.”
Wolverine recently launched the “Jordan Davis Picks” collection featuring Davis’s favorite Wolverine boots, apparel, and accessories, available on Wolverine.com and at select retailers across the country. Later this year, Davis is collaborating with Wolverine on a brand-new custom collection set to launch this fall.
Infinix Unveils Futuristic AI Buds with Real-Time Translation in 162 Languages via Global Indiegogo Launch
Infinix, a trendy tech brand crafted for young consumers, officially announced the launch of its groundbreaking Infinix AI Buds via a global crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo. These innovative earbuds transcend language barriers by supporting real-time translation in an impressive 162 languages, while delivering premium sound quality, adaptive noise cancellation, and a stylish transparent charging case with an interactive touchscreen. Tech enthusiasts worldwide are invited to join the Indiegogo campaign and experience firsthand how the Infinix AI Buds redefine global communication.
Industry-Leading AI Translation in 162 Languages
Infinix AI Buds offer real-time translation capabilities across 162 languages, enabling seamless multilingual conversations without external devices. Powered by Infinix’s proprietary CogLabs AI engine, the earbuds feature Conversation Translation mode for smooth face-to-face dialogues and Real-Time Interpretation mode for simultaneous translation of speeches and audio. Additionally, the speech-to-text transcription function provides reliable text records of meetings and lectures. Recognized for its accuracy, Infinix’s translation technology simplifies global communication, making interactions effortless and precise.
Futuristic Transparent Design with Interactive Touchscreen
Encased in a sleek transparent charging case featuring an integrated interactive touchscreen, the Infinix AI Buds combine cutting-edge aesthetics with intuitive functionality. Users can control music, adjust volume, and manage playback directly from the touchscreen without reaching for their phones. The case also conveniently displays time, battery levels, and allows users to fine-tune settings such as noise cancellation, blending style and convenience seamlessly.
Adaptive Dual Noise Cancellation for Crystal-Clear Audio
Designed to deliver exceptional audio clarity in any environment, the Infinix AI Buds incorporate adaptive Hybrid Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) for calls. Utilizing AI algorithms, the earbuds dynamically reduce up to 45dB of external noise, adapting automatically to surroundings—ideal for crowded cafes, air travel, or busy streets. Dual microphones work in tandem with ENC to ensure crystal-clear phone conversations, even in noisy settings, providing users with an immersive, uninterrupted listening experience.
Long-Lasting Battery Life for Uninterrupted Use
The Infinix AI Buds boast outstanding battery life, providing up to 36 hours of playback on a single charge (ANC off), or around 25 hours with noise cancellation active. Ideal for extended daily use, business travel, and entertainment, these earbuds ensure uninterrupted performance. Whether you’re relying on real-time translations during meetings or enjoying your favorite playlists, charging becomes the least of your worries.
Smart AI Voice Assistant (Coming via OTA Update)
Further enhancing convenience, the Infinix AI Buds will introduce the smart AI voice assistant, Folax, via an over-the-air (OTA) software update after launch. Activated by simply saying “Hi Folax,” users can manage tasks such as adjusting volume, changing tracks, checking weather, or initiating translations hands-free, transforming the AI Buds into an intuitive, voice-responsive wearable.
Join the Global Indiegogo Campaign
Infinix proudly invites global audiences to participate in its first-ever crowdfunding initiative on Indiegogo. Visit the Infinix AI Buds Indiegogo page now, subscribe for campaign updates, and secure exclusive early-bird offers. Don’t miss the chance to be among the first to “Hear the World through AI” and explore how the Infinix AI Buds are reshaping the future of communication and connectivity.
Pricing & Availability
The Infinix AI Buds will be available starting at $79 on the Indiegogo campaign page, offering global consumers early access to groundbreaking smart audio technology. Post-campaign, detailed retail availability information will be shared. Stay tuned!
Ten Stunning Outfits You Can Wear To a Music Festival
By Mitch Rice
Music festivals are more than just a celebration of sound. They’re an opportunity to express your personal style and embrace the carefree energy of the season. From laid-back bohemian to glitter-laced glam, the right outfit sets the tone for your entire festival experience.
With comfort and creativity at the core, here’s a curated list of ten stunning outfit ideas that blend function with fashion. Whether you’re dancing under the sun or chilling by a bonfire, these festival-ready looks are sure to make a statement.
1. Crochet Crop Top and High-Waisted Denim Shorts
Crochet is a summer staple that never goes out of style. Pair a colorful or neutral crochet crop top with high-waisted denim shorts for a classic look that stays cool in the heat. Throw in some lace-up sandals and a fringe crossbody bag to complete the ensemble. This look works well for both daytime and early evening shows, offering breathability and boho appeal.
2. Sheer Maxi Dress Over a Bold Bodysuit
For an edgy twist, layer a sheer maxi dress over a printed or metallic bodysuit. This contrast between transparency and coverage lets you show some skin without feeling overly exposed. Chunky boots and layered necklaces add an extra dose of cool. Opt for a belt bag to keep your hands free and your essentials close.
3. Two-Piece Sets for Effortless Coordination
Matching sets are an easy way to look put-together without overthinking it. A bold patterned two-piece, like a crop top and mini skirt combo or a bralette and palazzo pants, offers maximum visual impact with minimal effort. The cohesive look makes mixing and matching a breeze across multi-day festivals. For trendy and eye-catching two-piece sets, check out Ellae Lisque for designs that strike a perfect balance between comfort and statement.
4. Band Tee with Bike Shorts and an Oversized Shirt
This laid-back look blends practicality with a hint of punk. Start with a vintage band tee and pair it with high-rise bike shorts for mobility and comfort. Layer with an oversized flannel or denim shirt tied around your waist or worn open. Sneakers or combat boots keep things grounded, and mirrored sunglasses add a modern edge.
5. Flowy Romper with Western Accessories
Rompers are the unsung heroes of festival dressing. A lightweight, flowy romper in a floral or tie-dye print offers all-day comfort and freedom to move. Elevate the outfit with Western-inspired accessories like a wide-brim hat, ankle boots, and a leather belt. Add a hint of shimmer with metallic body chains or a stack of mixed-metal bangles.
6. Denim Overalls with a Bralette and Statement Sunglasses
Denim overalls bring an effortlessly cool vibe to any music festival. Worn with a bright bralette or bandeau underneath, this outfit strikes a perfect balance between tomboy and trendy. Finish the look with chunky platform sandals and statement sunglasses. Think oversized, colorful lenses or geometric frames. It’s practical, easy to move in, and ideal for long festival days.
7. Sequin Skirt with a Graphic Tank
When the sun goes down, it’s time to sparkle. Pair a high-waisted sequin skirt with a graphic tank top for a high-impact look that’s still easy to wear. A moto jacket can be thrown on when it gets chilly at night, and high-top sneakers or ankle boots keep the look grounded. Don’t forget glow-in-the-dark accessories or temporary tattoos for added flair.
8. Kimono with a Slip Dress and Layered Jewelry
A silky slip dress is equal parts sleek and comfortable. Layer it under a vibrant kimono for a breezy yet put-together festival outfit. Choose kimonos with bold prints or fringe detailing to up the visual interest. Add chunky layered necklaces, hoop earrings, and lace-up sandals for an elevated boho look that transitions effortlessly from day to night.
9. Mesh Top with Cargo Pants and Sporty Accessories
For a modern streetwear take on festival dressing, combine a mesh or fishnet top with high-waisted cargo pants. This outfit offers great ventilation and plenty of pocket space. Sporty sunglasses, a bucket hat, and statement sneakers tie the look together. Go monochrome for a sleek vibe or mix vibrant colors for extra punch.
10. Maxi Skirt with a Bandeau and Denim Jacket
This feminine-meets-edgy outfit is all about balance. Start with a flowy, printed maxi skirt and a fitted bandeau top, then top it off with a cropped denim jacket. Worn-in boots add a little grit, while a woven satchel and floral hair clips bring back the romance. It’s the perfect transitional outfit for festivals that run from morning into cooler evening hours.
Final Thoughts
Festival fashion is all about personal expression, but comfort, creativity, and versatility are key to making the most of your experience. Whether you lean toward edgy, romantic, retro, or relaxed styles, the right outfit will carry you through the music, the crowds, and all the unforgettable moments in between. Remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about feeling your best and having fun. So get dressed, turn up the music, and let your style shine.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
5 Surprising Facts About Kate Bush’s ‘The Sensual World’
When Kate Bush opened the door to The Sensual World in 1989, she invited listeners into a lush garden of sound where literature, myth, and raw emotion intertwined. It’s an album that hums like the earth itself — intimate, grounding, and endlessly surprising. Let’s wander barefoot through its fields and discover five treasures tucked inside.
1. A love letter to James Joyce
The title track carries the spirit of Molly Bloom from Ulysses, stepping out of Joyce’s words into music. Kate originally wanted to use Joyce’s text but created her own lyrical mirror when permission wasn’t granted. Decades later, she returned to the song as “Flower of the Mountain,” finally weaving Molly’s soliloquy into her tapestry.
2. Trio Bulgarka’s soulful echoes
Three voices from Bulgaria — Yanka Rupkina, Eva Georgieva, and Stoyanka Boneva — gave the album its earthy grounding. Their harmonies on “Deeper Understanding,” “Never Be Mine,” and “Rocket’s Tail” root Kate’s ethereal world in centuries-old folk tradition, as if the soil itself is singing back.
3. David Gilmour’s guitar fire
Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour lends his unmistakable fretwork to “Love and Anger.” His guitar converses, like sparks dancing on water. Together, Kate and Gilmour weave a track that feels both cosmic and deeply human.
4. A song born for the movies
“This Woman’s Work” was originally written for John Hughes’ She’s Having a Baby. Its quiet power later bloomed beyond the film, becoming a hymn for vulnerability, reflection, and healing. Few songs feel as tenderly human — it’s as though Kate bottled a sigh and gave it melody.
5. A Macedonian thread
The chorus melody of the title song draws from “Antice, džanam, dušice,” a traditional Macedonian piece. Played on uilleann pipes by Davy Spillane, the sound feels both ancient and immediate — a reminder that folk traditions can blossom into new life through unexpected hands.
The Sensual World is a grounding ritual, a reminder that art can pull us closer to the earth while lifting us into the sky. Put it on again, let your senses unfurl, and step into Kate’s garden where words, voices, and melodies live in bloom forever.
5 Surprising Facts About Minutemen’s ‘Double Nickels on the Dime’
The Minutemen threw a Molotov cocktail into what a punk record could be on Double Nickels on the Dime — they . Forty-five songs, a double LP, funk grooves crashing into country twang, spoken-word poetry with basslines that never quit. It’s wild, it’s joyful, it’s pure DIY fire. Let’s rip open the hood and find five gems hiding inside this punk rock masterpiece.
1. Born from a friendly spark with Hüsker Dü
When the band saw labelmates Hüsker Dü drop Zen Arcade, they thought: why not us? Inspired, they expanded their record into a double album, not out of rivalry but in celebration of creativity. Their liner note joke “Take that, Hüskers!” was really a high-five across the punk cosmos.
2. Each member claimed a side
The sequencing wasn’t random chaos. D. Boon, Mike Watt, and George Hurley each got their own side to curate, like mixtapes from three different brains. The fourth side? Officially dubbed “Side Chaff,” a catch-all for leftovers — except these leftovers still sizzled.
3. Lyrics gifted by friends in the scene
The Minutemen kept their doors open. Punk comrades Henry Rollins, Jack Brewer, and Joe Carducci all contributed words, weaving their voices into the chaos. It turned the record into more than an album — it became a community zine pressed onto vinyl.
4. “Corona” started on a Fourth of July road trip
One of the band’s most iconic songs came from a day trip to Mexico on Independence Day. That journey gave birth to “Corona,” a protest song with polka beats and passion. Decades later, it found new life as the theme song for Jackass. That’s DIY immortality.
5. The cover: 55 mph of punk philosophy
The album title and artwork poke fun at Sammy Hagar’s “I Can’t Drive 55.” Mike Watt posed in his Volkswagen, the speedometer locked at 55, a San Pedro sign looming. The message? True rebellion isn’t about speeding — it’s about driving your own road and writing your own songs.
With thrift, wit, and a refusal to play by anyone else’s rules, Double Nickels on the Dime remains a beacon for punks and dreamers. Drop the needle, feel the basslines shake the floor, and let it remind you that music can be a revolution made on your own terms.
5 Surprising Facts About Sinéad O’Connor’s ‘The Lion And The Cobra’
When Sinéad O’Connor released The Lion and the Cobra in 1987, the world met a voice that could move mountains and whisper secrets in the same breath. Every track glows with fearless creativity, but behind the music are stories as bold and captivating as the songs themselves.
1. Recorded with a new life on the way
Sinéad was in the later stages of pregnancy with her first child during the recording sessions. This chapter in her life brought a deep sense of urgency and emotional richness to the music, creating a debut filled with raw connection and personal triumph.
2. A title with powerful roots
The album’s name comes straight from Psalm 91:13 — “You will tread upon the lion and cobra.” That fierce, spiritual imagery perfectly matches the music’s intensity, offering a poetic frame for the fearless energy running through every song.
3. Enya’s surprise cameo
Before enchanting the world with her own music, Enya appeared on the album’s opening track, “Never Get Old,” delivering a recital of Psalm 91 in Irish. It’s an elegant, almost hidden moment that layers ancient tradition into a modern, genre-blurring debut.
4. A cover shoot by a pop culture chameleon
The striking album cover was captured by Kate Garner, once part of the new wave pop group Haysi Fantayzee. Her creative eye brought a blend of theatrical flair and stark beauty, turning Sinéad’s image into an instant icon before a note was even played.
5. A fearless cross-genre collaboration
“I Want Your (Hands on Me)” became a groundbreaking remix when Sinéad invited rapper MC Lyte to add her voice. The result was a bold meeting of two trailblazing women from different musical worlds, opening doors for future cross-genre collaborations.
From biblical inspiration to unexpected guest stars, The Lion and the Cobra is more than a debut — it’s a fearless declaration of artistry. Put it on again, let Sinéad’s voice wrap around you, and discover new magic in a record that still roars today.