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Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. Discovery In Massive $82.7 Billion Deal

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 5, 2025

Netflix Acquires Warner Bros. Discovery In Massive $82.7 Billion Deal

Today, Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Netflix will acquire Warner Bros., including its film and television studios, HBO Max and HBO.

The cash and stock transaction is valued at $27.75 per WBD share (subject to a collar as detailed below), with a total enterprise value of approximately $82.7 billion (equity value of $72.0 billion). The transaction is expected to close after the previously announced separation of WBD’s Global Networks division, Discovery Global, into a new publicly-traded company, which is now expected to be completed in Q3 2026.

This acquisition brings together two pioneering entertainment businesses, combining Netflix’s innovation, global reach and best-in-class streaming service with Warner Bros.’ century-long legacy of world-class storytelling. Beloved franchises, shows and movies such as The Big Bang Theory, The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, The Wizard of Oz and the DC Universe will join Netflix’s extensive portfolio including Wednesday, Money Heist, Bridgerton, Adolescenceand Extraction, creating an extraordinary entertainment offering for audiences worldwide.

“Our mission has always been to entertain the world,” said Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix. “By combining Warner Bros.’ incredible library of shows and movies—from timeless classics like Casablancaand Citizen Kaneto modern favorites like Harry Potter and Friends—with our culture-defining titles like Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters and Squid Game, we’ll be able to do that even better. Together, we can give audiences more of what they love and help define the next century of storytelling.”

“This acquisition will improve our offering and accelerate our business for decades to come,” continued Greg Peters, co-CEO of Netflix. “Warner Bros. has helped define entertainment for more than a century and continues to do so with phenomenal creative executives and production capabilities. With our global reach and proven business model, we can introduce a broader audience to the worlds they create—giving our members more options, attracting more fans to our best-in-class streaming service, strengthening the entire entertainment industry and creating more value for shareholders.”

“Today’s announcement combines two of the greatest storytelling companies in the world to bring to even more people the entertainment they love to watch the most,” said David Zaslav, President and CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery. “For more than a century, Warner Bros. has thrilled audiences, captured the world’s attention, and shaped our culture. By coming together with Netflix, we will ensure people everywhere will continue to enjoy the world’s most resonant stories for generations to come.”

Combination Will Offer More Choice, More Opportunities, More Value

Complementary strengths and assets: Warner Bros.’ studios are world-class, with Warner Bros. recognized as a leading supplier of television titles and filmed entertainment. HBO and HBO Max also provide a compelling, complementary offering for consumers. Netflix expects to maintain Warner Bros.’ current operations and build on its strengths, including theatrical releases for films.
More choice and greater value for consumers: By adding the deep film and TV libraries and HBO and HBO Max programming, Netflix members will have even more high-quality titles from which to choose. This also allows Netflix to optimize its plans for consumers, enhancing viewing options and expanding access to content.
A stronger entertainment industry: This acquisition will enhance Netflix’s studio capabilities, allowing the Company to significantly expand U.S. production capacity and continue to grow investment in original content over the long term which will create jobs and strengthen the entertainment industry.
More opportunities for the creative community: By uniting Netflix’s member experience and global reach with Warner Bros.’ renowned franchises and extensive library, the Company will create greater value for talent—offering more opportunities to work with beloved intellectual property, tell new stories and connect with a wider audience than ever before.
More value for shareholders: By offering members a wider selection of quality series and films, Netflix expects to attract and retain more members, drive more engagement and generate incremental revenue and operating income. The Company also expects to realize at least $2-3 billion of cost savings per year by the third year and expects the transaction to be accretive to GAAP earnings per share by year two.

Transaction Details and Timing

Under the terms of the agreement, each WBD shareholder will receive $23.25 in cash and $4.50¹ in shares of Netflix common stock for each share of WBD common stock outstanding at the closing of the transaction. The transaction values Warner Bros. Discovery at $27.75 per share, implying a total equity value of approximately $72.0 billion and an enterprise value of approximately $82.7 billion.

In June 2025, WBD announced plans to separate(opens in a new window) its Streaming & Studios and Global Networks divisions into two separate publicly traded companies. This separation is now expected to be completed in Q3 2026, prior to the closing of this transaction. The newly separated publicly traded company holding the Global Networks division, Discovery Global, will include premier entertainment, sports and news television brands around the world including CNN, TNT Sports in the U.S., and Discovery, free-to-air channels across Europe, and digital products such as Discovery+ and Bleacher Report.

The stock component is subject to a collar under which WBD shareholders will receive Netflix stock valued at $4.50 per share, provided the 15-day volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) of Netflix stock price (measured three trading days prior to closing) falls between $97.91 and $119.67. If the VWAP is below $97.91, WBD shareholders will receive 0.0460 Netflix shares for each WBD share. If the VWAP is above $119.67, WBD shareholders will receive 0.0376 Netflix shares for each WBD share.

The transaction was unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both Netflix and WBD. In addition to the completion of the separation of Discovery Global (WBD’s Global Networks business), completion of the transaction is subject to required regulatory approvals, approval of WBD shareholders and other customary closing conditions. The transaction is expected to close in 12-18 months.

Creative Minds Need Recovery Too: Natural Ways to Reset Your Energy

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

0

By Mitch Rice

Ask any artist, writer, musician, or creator—burnout isn’t just real, it sneaks up quietly. One minute you’re in the flow, knocking out your best ideas; the next, your brain feels like static. That kind of fatigue isn’t always physical—it’s mental, emotional, and creative all at once.

In creative industries, where inspiration is currency, we often assume energy will just be there when we need it. But creative minds need recovery, too. The difference is, instead of just resting our bodies, we also need to recharge the mental and emotional parts of ourselves that fuel new ideas.

One way some people are supporting this kind of balance is through natural tools and rituals. For example, some creatives turn to gentle, plant-based options like a kratom and kava shot—which are used by individuals seeking calm focus or a clearer mindset during intense work periods. These kinds of products are part of a larger lifestyle shift toward sustainable energy and intentional recovery, without relying on synthetic boosters or all-day stimulants.

Why Creatives Burn Out Differently

When your work depends on new ideas, burnout hits differently. It’s not just “I’m tired,” it’s “I have nothing left in the tank.” You might still be technically awake, but your thoughts are scattered, and your creative instincts feel dulled.

That’s not surprising. Studies show that creativity requires cognitive flexibility, emotional sensitivity, and the ability to make unusual connections. All of those things rely on a rested, regulated brain—which is harder to come by when you’re skipping breaks or constantly switching tasks.

According to The Creative Independent, many artists report that their best work comes after periods of intentional stillness, not constant productivity. The hustle might feel satisfying in the moment, but sustainable creativity often comes from slowing down and building in space to recover.

Natural Ways to Reset Without Disconnecting from Your Craft

Here are a few simple, non-invasive ways creatives can recharge—without losing their connection to the process.

1. Ritual Over Routine

Instead of forcing a strict schedule, many creatives find more energy by building rituals that signal to the brain it’s time to work—or rest. That could be lighting a candle, putting on a certain playlist, or drinking tea before sitting down to write or sketch.

Rituals offer comfort and structure without rigidity, helping ease you back into flow.

2. Short Breaks with Purpose

When you’re drained, stepping away can feel like defeat. But stepping away on purpose can be a powerful reset. Whether it’s 10 minutes outside, journaling, or just sitting in silence, the key is intentional rest—not mindless scrolling.

Give your mind a chance to process and recalibrate without more noise.

3. Creative Nutrition

What you eat (or drink) has a direct impact on focus and clarity. Instead of sugary quick-fixes or bottomless coffee, try slow-release snacks like nuts, fruit, or whole grains. Stay hydrated, too—even minor dehydration can reduce mental clarity.

Some people also integrate botanical support as part of their day. Plant-based options like green tea, rhodiola, or kratom and kava shots are used by individuals looking to support a calm, focused mindset—especially when bouncing back from a creative crash. These aren’t magic solutions, but part of a bigger picture of balance.

4. Move (Without Measuring)

You don’t have to “work out” to move your body. A walk around the block, dancing to your favorite album, or stretching on the floor can help rewire your focus.

The trick is to move without goals—just movement for its own sake. It helps release stuck energy and clears space for ideas to start flowing again.

5. Let Go of the Pressure to Produce

Creative burnout often comes from feeling like every session has to result in something good. But the truth is, the best ideas usually come when you’re not trying so hard.

Give yourself permission to write junk, sketch nonsense, or make music no one hears. Creative play—without a deadline or purpose—is often the gateway to new breakthroughs.

Final Thought: Rest Is Part of the Process

For creative people, rest isn’t the opposite of work—it’s part of the cycle. Refilling your mental and emotional reserves allows your creativity to show up more consistently, and with more ease.

By building in space for intentional recovery—whether through quiet rituals, movement, or natural tools like plant-based support—you give your brain the environment it needs to create. Not just once, but again and again.

Because at the end of the day, creative energy isn’t infinite—but it is renewable.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Beyond Pixels: How Phenomenon Studio Masters the Art and Science of Product Design

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

0

By Mitch Rice

In today’s competitive digital world, building a product that truly stands out requires far more than stunning visuals. Success is shaped by a deep understanding of human behavior, seamless functionality, and the strategic clarity to meet real business objectives. Phenomenon Studio, a leading design-driven agency, has earned its reputation as one of the best product design companies by consistently delivering solutions that balance creativity, usability, and measurable results.

What Defines a Leading Product Design Agency?

When organizations search for product design companies near them, they’re rarely looking for just an interface designer. They want a partner—someone who understands their vision, challenges, industry, and long-term goals.

A top-tier product design agency doesn’t simply create beautiful screens. Instead, it shapes the entire product journey, guiding clients from early research and concept development to market-ready execution. Phenomenon Studio’s holistic method demonstrates that exceptional product design emerges not from trends but from a meaningful understanding of the people who will use the product.

Industry Insight

Research shows that companies prioritizing design experience:

32% higher revenue growth

56% higher shareholder return

This confirms that investing in high-quality product design services is not just aesthetic—it’s a strategic business decision.

The Evolution of Modern Product Design

Today, product design encompasses far more than visual interfaces. It includes every layer of user interaction—from discovery to long-term engagement and brand trust.

Phenomenon Studio’s approach to digital product design reflects this expanded perspective. They treat each project as an interconnected ecosystem where design, emotion, functionality, and brand expression work together to create meaningful user experiences.

Phenomenon Studio’s Integrated Service Model

What sets Phenomenon Studio apart from other product design firms is their seamless combination of design, strategy, and technology. As both a design agency and an MVP development services provider, they ensure every product is both visually compelling and technically reliable.

1. Strategic Discovery & Research

Their process begins with deep competitive analysis, stakeholder interviews, and user research. This ensures each product is grounded in real-world needs and business priorities.

2. Human-Centered Design

Every decision during the design phase is driven by user motivations, pain points, and behaviors. This results in intuitive, empathetic experiences that feel natural and effortless.

3. Technical Implementation

As a full-service product development agency, Phenomenon Studio bridges the gap between design and engineering. Their development teams translate design concepts into scalable, high-performing digital products.

Expertise Across Diverse and Complex Industries

Phenomenon Studio’s portfolio spans multiple industries, each with unique demands. Their ability to adapt their design methodology showcases their depth and versatility.

Medical Product Design: Precision Meets Compassion

Healthcare products require strict compliance, clarity, and user trust. Phenomenon Studio blends regulatory understanding with thoughtful design to create medical interfaces that enhance clinical accuracy while supporting patient comfort and confidence.

AI-Driven Solutions: Designing for Intelligent Experiences

AI is reshaping industries, and designing AI-powered products requires specialized expertise. Phenomenon Studio’s advanced understanding of AI product design allows them to create systems that learn from user behavior, personalize experiences, and deliver added value over time.

Performance Metrics That Matter

89% client retention

3.2× average ROI on design investments

42% faster time-to-market

These numbers demonstrate the tangible impact of their integrated design and development capabilities.

Why Integrated Services Deliver Superior Results

Unlike traditional design consultancies, Phenomenon Studio connects strategy, UX/UI design, engineering, and branding into a single, unified workflow. As both a creative and technical MVP development services provider, they reduce friction, shorten timelines, and ensure that every touchpoint feels cohesive and purposeful.

Cohesive Experiences Across the Entire User Journey

From product UI to brand assets and marketing materials, Phenomenon Studio ensures that every element reinforces a consistent message, building trust and recognition at every stage.

The Future of Product Design

As technology evolves, several key trends are redefining how digital products are conceived and built. Phenomenon Studio remains at the forefront of these shifts.

AI-Enhanced Design Workflows

Artificial intelligence is becoming a tool for designers—empowering faster iteration, deeper user insights, and smarter solutions.

Sustainable Design Practices

Environmental considerations are now essential in the product development lifecycle, influencing materials, energy use, and long-term product impact.

Inclusive and Accessible Design

Modern users expect digital experiences to be accessible to everyone. Phenomenon Studio integrates inclusive design principles to make products usable for diverse audiences worldwide.

Measuring the True ROI of Product Design

For many companies, understanding the real impact of design investment is crucial. Phenomenon Studio uses data-driven frameworks to measure:

User engagement

Conversion improvements

Customer satisfaction

Business performance metrics

This ensures that product design and development services directly contribute to business success.

Conclusion: The Power of Holistic, Strategic Design

In today’s rapidly evolving digital environment, product success requires a seamless blend of design, functionality, and technology. Phenomenon Studio exemplifies this new standard—an integrated product design and development agency that combines world-class creativity with technical excellence and strategic insight.

By unifying the roles of design agency, development partner, and innovation consultant, they help organizations launch products that are not only beautiful and functional but also meaningful, scalable, and aligned with long-term business strategy.

As design continues to drive competitive advantage, companies partnering with leaders like Phenomenon Studio position themselves to thrive in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Brazilian Rock Powerhouse MALVADA Unveils Party Anthem Single “After”

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

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Brazilian Rock Powerhouse MALVADA Unveils Party Anthem Single “After”

Brazilian rock powerhouses MALVADA are continuing their incredible rise with the unveiling of their new single and official video, “After.” The track is taken from their self-titled album, released earlier this year via Frontiers Music Srl. This song, which the band calls one of the coolest on the record, is a high-energy anthem about enjoying life and having fun with the people you love. The band comments that “Rock ‘n’ roll is also about partying and enjoying life as it is. We are really excited to show this new video to the world.”

The self-titled album is the result of two years of work and growth, which the band believes is their best work yet, showcasing their “real essence.” The new album, produced by Grammy-award-winning producer Giu Daga, promises a powerful and exciting musical experience. It is MALVADA’s first work featuring tracks in English and Portuguese, aiming to conquer a global audience following their signing to the prestigious Italian label Frontiers Music Srl.

MALVADA, composed of Indira Castillo, Bruna Tsuruda, Rafaela Reoli, and Juliana Salgado, has solidified their position in the rock scene since their formation in 2020. They have played over a hundred shows in Brazil, including huge festivals like Rock in Rio and Best of Blues and Rock. They have shared the stage with national and international legends, including Pitty, Angra, and Tom Morello, establishing themselves as the rising star of Brazilian rock ready to take over the world.

Jon Stewart Reveals Secret Hobby Joins Band Church and State™ at Age 62

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

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Jon Stewart Reveals Secret Hobby Joins Band Church and State™ at Age 62

Jon Stewart has a secret life that involves a drum kit and rock and roll swagger, and he just shared the full story on The Daily Show. The 62-year-old comedy icon revealed to his audience that he has taken up drumming as a serious hobby and, even more remarkably, has joined a band called Church and State™. This unexpected venture highlights a different, more relaxed side of the famous political satirist, who began taking lessons after his first departure from The Daily Show in 2015.

The band features Stewart’s drum teacher, Andy Bova, alongside singer Rick Barry, and bassist Jim Bova, and they have been quietly gigging around New Jersey. Church and State™ recently took their low-key rock grooves to the legendary Stone Pony in Asbury Park for a high-profile show, proving Stewart is serious about his pursuit. Though they keep a deliberately low profile and typically only rehearse once a week, the band is already reportedly working on their debut album, channeling Stewart’s punk roots from his days as a bartender at Trenton’s legendary rock club, City Gardens.

Get Ready to Headbang as Ozzy Meets Hall and Oates in Unexpected Holiday Mashup

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

0

Get Ready to Headbang as Ozzy Meets Hall and Oates in Unexpected Holiday Mashup

Mashup master Bill McClintock has delivered the ultimate holiday curveball: a seamless stitch of Ozzy Osbourne’s power ballad “Mama I’m Coming Home” with the smooth festive tones of Hall and Oates singing the classic “Jingle Bell Rock.” This creation, unlike McClintock’s previous complex mashups, uses only these two songs, resulting in an experience that is both chaotic and perfectly harmonious. The video editor created this tribute hoping the late, great Ozzy would have had a good laugh at the bizarre blend. It’s a truly unique, genre-bending holiday gem that demands a listen.

Hunter Hayes Announces New Album ‘Evergreen’ and Spring 2026 Headlining Tour

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

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Hunter Hayes Announces New Album ‘Evergreen’ and Spring 2026 Headlining Tour

Five-time GRAMMY nominated, PLATINUM-selling multi-instrumentalist Hunter Hayes has announced his new album, ‘Evergreen’, set for release on March 6, 2026. This highly anticipated project features pop, country, R&B, and indie rock-infused elements, all while exploring uplifting themes of growth, connection, and joy. Recorded with Alex Flagstad, ‘Evergreen’ captures the full scope of Hayes’ creativity with songs that are as emotionally rich as they are musically daring. Previous singles like the buoyant “Around the Sun,” the vulnerable “Every Piece,” and the infectious “Wait” reveal Hayes as a songwriter in constant evolution, whose heart-forward storytelling continues to resonate across generations.

Hayes shared that the record started as a series of letters from his future self, acting as both a prayer and a manifestation. He explained: “Evergreen started as a series of letters from my future self. In some ways a prayer, and in some ways manifestation. I wanted to make a project from the future. It’s full of hope, optimism, light and love. It’s an escape from reality as well as a new way to appreciate the good things in our everyday life, and how every experience shapes us to better and brighter versions of ourselves as we create a better version of our future.” The album is a warm, cinematic statement on growth, renewal, and self-discovery, blending hope and emotional clarity into a deeply personal yet universally resonant collection, guided by his motto, “Be good to yourself and the world around you.”

To support the release, Hayes also revealed details for The Evergreen Tour, his 2026 headlining run that kicks off on March 25 in Hopewell, VA. Fans can expect to hear new music, old favorites, and surprises along the way, with stops including New York, Portland, Chicago, Atlanta, and Nashville, among many others across the U.S. Hunter Hayes has brought on BLÜ EYES and Franklin Jonas & The Byzantines as special guests for the tour, with BLÜ EYES supporting the first half and Franklin Jonas & The Byzantines supporting the second half. The general on-sale for tickets launches Friday, December 12 at 10:00AM local time.

‘Evergreen’ Tracklist

“Evergreen”
“Until She Comes Along”
“Wait”
“Dream About”
“Fragile”
“Every Piece”
“Too Late”
“The Ones You Love”
“Human Again”
“Around The Sun”

The Evergreen Tour Dates

March 25th, 2026 – Hopewell, VA – Beacon Theatre*
March 27th, 2026 – Millvale, PA – Mr. Smalls Theatre*
March 28th, 2026 – Ardmore, PA – Ardmore Music Hall*
March 29th, 2026 – Newton, NJ – Newton Theatre*
March 31st, 2026 – Cambridge, MA – The Sinclair*
April 2nd, 2026 – New York, NY – Gramercy Theatre*
April 3rd, 2026 – Asbury Park, NJ – The Stone Pony*
April 4th, 2026 – Portland, ME – Aura*
April 7th, 2026 – Cleveland, OH – HOB*
April 9th, 2026 – Detroit, MI – Saint Andrews Hall*
April 10th, 2026 – Grand Rapids, MI – Elevation*
April 11th, 2026 – Chicago, IL – House of Blues+
April 12th, 2026 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line+
April 14th, 2026 – Indianapolis, IN – The Vogue+
April 16th, 2026 – Cincinnati, OH – Taft Theatre+
April 17th, 2026 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom+
April 18th, 2026 – Huntingdon, TN – The Dixie Carter PAC+
April 19th, 2026 – Knoxville, TN – Bijou Theatre+
April 22nd, 2026 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage Theater+
April 23rd, 2026 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl+
April 24th, 2026 – Cornelius, NC – Cain Center for the Arts+
April 26th, 2026 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Music Hall+

*with support from BLÜ EYES +with support from Franklin Jonas & The Byzantines

Vanessa Carlton Unveils New Single “Animal” Ahead of Upcoming Album ‘Veils’

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

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Vanessa Carlton Unveils New Single “Animal” Ahead of Upcoming Album ‘Veils’

Vanessa Carlton is embracing a new era in her storied career, thrilling fans by unveiling the music video for her new single “Animal.” The track is an early look at her upcoming album, ‘Veils’, scheduled for a spring 2026 release and produced by the acclaimed Dave Fridmann. The video itself was filmed and edited by Interiorstate, providing a compelling visual counterpart to the song’s intense introspection. Carlton is not slowing down, having recently scored her first film, Wish You Were Here, with husband John McCauley of Deer Tick, directed by Julia Stiles.

The new single delves into profound themes of acceptance and internal conflict. Vanessa Carlton explains: “Animal” is about stoicism. The idea of knowing we cannot control external forces; she is being hunted and she accepts the reality of what is happening. The acceptance allows her to truly see the animal. Does she even identify with this creature? Every human has an animal within them. Are you hunting? Are you being hunted? Who is the animal?” She continues to challenge expectations, having made her Broadway debut as Carole King and constantly evolving her artistic identity since her massive hit “A Thousand Miles.” Carlton will support the new music with a 2026 U.S. Tour, with tickets on sale now, and one dollar from each ticket sold will go to the Save The Music Foundation.

Track Listing

“Animal” (Previously Released Track)
“A Thousand Miles” (Mentioned)

‘Veils’ 2026 Tour Dates

April 24 Pittsburgh, PA @ City Winery
April 25 Pittsburgh, PA @ City Winery
April 26 Cincinnati, OH @ Ludlow Garage
April 28 Chicago, IL @ City Winery
April 29 Chicago, IL @ City Winery
May 1 St Louis, MO @ City Winery
May 2 St Louis, MO @ City Winery
May 3 Nashville, TN @ City Winery
May 5 Atlanta @ City Winery
May 6 Atlanta @ City Winery
May 8 Alexandria, VA @ The Birchmere
May 9 Philadelphia, PA @ City Winery
May 10 Philadelphia, PA @ City Winery
May 12 Boston, MA @ City Winery
May 13 Boston, MA @ City Winery
May 15 New York, NY @ City Winery
May 16 New York, NY @ City Winery

2026 U.K. Festival Dates

July 23-26 Southwold, United Kingdom @ Latitude Festival
July 23-26 Sheffield, United Kingdom @ Tramlines
July 23-26 Hill Farm Oxfordshire, England @ Truck Festival
July 31-Aug 2 Derby, United Kingdom @ Y NOT Festival 2026

Hardcore Legends Converge Share Intense New Single “Love Is Not Enough”

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

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Hardcore Legends Converge Share Intense New Single “Love Is Not Enough”

Post-hardcore legends Converge, comprised of vocalist Jacob Bannon, guitarist/producer Kurt Ballou, bassist/vocalist Nate Newton, and drummer Ben Koller, have released their intense title track and music video, “Love Is Not Enough.” This new single is the first look at their upcoming eleventh album, ‘Love Is Not Enough’. For more than three decades, the band has delivered musical and emotional catharsis, creating some of the most compelling music and art of the 21st century, and putting purpose before perception. “Love Is Not Enough” lyrically explores “what it means to remain empathetic and compassionate in the modern world,” comments Bannon, adding that it’s “A reckoning with who we are today and hope to be in the future.”

The album, which was recorded and mixed by Kurt Ballou at God City in Salem, Massachusetts, hones the band’s collective strengths to a razor’s edge. Bannon notes that the record features “no special guests, no studio trickery,” explaining, “realism is missing from a lot of modern music of any genre… Sometimes the perfect take is the one that has some wildness to it.” Unlike albums that adhere to a standard sequencing format, ‘Love Is Not Enough’ is all about momentum. Bannon says, “It does a thing that no other Converge record does – it keeps ramping up,” calling that “definitely by design.”

Converge continues their reputation as an essential underground force and they are bringing their legendary live show to the masses. They will perform at Saddest Day fest on December 13 in Boston with Touché Amoré, Coalesce, The Hope Conspiracy, and more. Following that, they are scheduled to appear at UK and EU festivals, including Jera on Air on June 25, 2026, and Outbreak Festival on June 27, 2026.

Country Powerhouse Jacquie Roar Drops Fiery Holiday Breakup Anthem “Christmas Miss Me”

Music

Eric Alper

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Dec 4, 2025

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Country Powerhouse Jacquie Roar Drops Fiery Holiday Breakup Anthem “Christmas Miss Me”

Country powerhouse Jacquie Roar is kicking off the season with a sparkle, a strut, and a whole lot of self-respect with the release of her brand-new holiday single, “Christmas Miss Me.” Co-written with hitmaker Steve Fee (Max McNown, “A Lot More Free”), the track is a festive, feel-good breakup anthem designed to empower anyone spending the holidays healing, celebrating, and moving on.

Equal parts sass and seasonal cheer, “Christmas Miss Me” blends classic Christmas charm with bold, modern confidence, reminding listeners that sometimes the best gift you can give yourself is closure. With cheeky lyrics such as, “I returned those gifts I got for you and bought a dress, no it won’t be a silent night ’cause baby I confess, I’ll be rocking around the Xmas tree but it ain’t gonna be with you,” the song captures Jacquie’s signature fire while delivering a message of hope: heartbreak doesn’t stand a chance when you remember who you are.

“The holidays have a way of cranking your emotions up to a hundred,” Jacquie shares. “I wrote ‘Christmas Miss Me’ to say: go ahead, cry for a minute…but then fix your hair, put on that dress, and remember you’re the gift. The season can still be merry, and so can you.”

With “Christmas Miss Me,” Jacquie Roar reminds us that even the chill of winter can’t dim the glow of a woman who knows her worth.

Jacquie Roar is a powerhouse in country music, known for her dynamic vocals and electrifying stage presence. She has shared the stage with icons like Reba McEntire, Martina McBride, Kelsea Ballerini, Gary Allan, Cody Johnson, Riley Green, Jackson Dean, and even hip-hop legend Nelly, proving herself as a force to be reckoned with.

Her journey to national fame began on The Voice Season 24, where she wowed audiences with her rendition of “Here for the Party” by Gretchen Wilson, earning a coveted Four-Chair Turn. Fighting her way through the competition, she secured a spot in the finale and finished in the top four.

In 2024, Jacquie made her highly anticipated Music City debut, performing at CMA Fest, the Grand Ole Opry Plaza, and Nashville’s legendary Whiskey Jam, delivering a standout performance alongside Jamie O’Neal.

Most recently, Jacquie made history performing alongside Jelly Roll at the Oregon State Penitentiary—the first live music event on the prison yard in over two decades. Whether performing in a stadium or an intimate setting, Jacquie’s ability to connect with audiences defines her as a captivating and fearless performer.