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“Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe” Hits Cinemas Globally Sept 21 via Trafalgar Releasing

Eric Alper
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“Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe” Hits Cinemas Globally Sept 21 via Trafalgar Releasing

Trafalgar Releasing, the global leader in Event Cinema, has acquired worldwide theatrical rights from Lionsgate to distribute Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe to cinemas around the world from September 21, 2025.

Tickets go on sale from July 16 at AndreaBocelli.com/cinema.

The beautifully crafted film offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the life of one of the world’s greatest singers. Blending archival footage and interviews with candid, fly-on-the-wall moments, the film traces the journey of a voice that has moved millions, from humble beginnings to sold-out shows around the world.

With unprecedented access into the celebrated tenor’s life, director Cosima Spender followed Andrea Bocelli beyond the footlights to reveal an uncompromising artist and devoted family man with a fearless passion for living, and for the first time allowing Bocelli to tell his story in his own words. The film weaves together heartfelt narratives from friends, family and close associates, offering an enchantingly intimate look into his life, and creating a truly inspirational film for his fans to come together and enjoy on the big screen.

Maestro Andrea Bocelli said ‘The reason I welcomed with enthusiasm and gratitude the proposal to capture my entire life on film by Cosima — in its entirety, without filters — is reflected in the very title of the documentary: Because I Believe. I believe in people, in life, and in our Heavenly Father who gave it to us. I believe in the power of love — the force that moves the world — a love I have humbly tried to witness through my music and my life. It is for the sake of this message — of which I remain but a modest messenger — that I hope this film will be seen.‘

Cosima Spender, the director of Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe, said ‘My aim in this film is to evoke the atmosphere of Andrea’s world. To hear how music permeates every moment of his everyday life, to feel the force of his voice when he’s warming up, to witness his undeniable optimism, and hear him telling a good story in the way he tells it to his oldest friends. It’s been a great privilege to be able to capture this.’

‘This film was born from the desire to offer a more intimate and profound portrait of Maestro Bocelli beyond the stages, beyond the applause,’ said Veronica Berti and Francesco Pasquero, co-managers of the artist. ‘We’ve had the privilege of knowing him not only as a global icon, but as the man behind the music. With this film, we wanted the world to meet the real Andrea, and we thank Cosima for portraying him with such honesty and grace.’

‘Partnering with this amazing filmmaking team to bring a slice of Andrea Bocelli’s extraordinary life and music to the big screen has been a once in a lifetime experience,’ said Helen Lee-Kim, Lionsgate’s President, Global Film Sales, Motion Picture Group. ‘Trafalgar Releasing provides a premium destination for audiences around the world to enjoy this acclaimed film, chronicling the life of one of the globe’s greatest living tenors.’

Marc Allenby, CEO of Trafalgar Releasing said, ‘We’re very pleased to partner with Lionsgate for the first time to bring this insightful and cinematic documentary to the big screen. Andrea Bocelli is one of the most successful singers of all time and this beautifully shot film will bring fans together to celebrate his extraordinary life story at cinemas across the globe.’

With nearly 90 million records sold worldwide, and one of the most recognisable voices in the entertainment industry, Andrea Bocelli has sold out arena-sized concert events and performed record-breaking live-streams. He has shared his talents at many major events including the Olympic Games, the World Cup, and Global Citizen. He has also earned a Golden Globe, seven Classical BRITs and seven World Music Awards, plus a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Bocelli recently released his Duets album on Decca Records / Sugar Music to commemorate 30 years in music, with collaborations including Ed Sheeran, Céline Dion, Luciano Pavarotti, KAROL G, Shania Twain, Matteo Bocelli, and more.

The film’s production was led by the multi award-winning UK team of Jan Younghusband: Producer; Malcolm Gerrie and Matt Pritchard: Executive Producers; and US Executive Producers: Geno McDermott and Tara Long. Filming was in the US, Italy, and the UK, with editing and post-production in London. Michael Meyer negotiated the deal on behalf of Lionsgate and Marc Allenby for Trafalgar Releasing.

Andrea Bocelli: Because I Believe premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on 26 September, 2024 and is a powerful celebration of a man who continues to touch the hearts of millions of people across the globe. The film is in cinemas from September 21, 2025, tickets go on sale on July 16 at AndreaBocelli.com/cinema.

“TRON: Ares (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” by Nine Inch Nails Arrives Sept 19 with First Single & Global Tour

Eric Alper
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“TRON: Ares (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” by Nine Inch Nails Arrives Sept 19 with First Single & Global Tour

TRON: Ares (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack), featuring all original music by Nine Inch Nails, will be released on September 19 via Interscope Records. Created for the third installment in the groundbreaking TRON film franchise, TRON: Ares stands among Nine Inch Nails’ most compelling albums, humming with menace, melancholy and momentum as analog soul and digital dread collide. It also marks the first-ever film score by the pioneering band although bandmates Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross have composed 20 scores under their own names, winning two Oscars, three Golden Globes, a GRAMMY and an Emmy in the process. In this exclusive Empire feature, Reznor delves into why they approached TRON: Ares as a Nine Inch Nails project. Pre-order / pre-save TRON: Ares (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) HERE. See below for track listing.

Today, Nine Inch Nails dropped “As Alive As You Need Me To Be” – the album’s first single and the first official music from the band in five years. Listen to “As Alive As You Need Me To Be” and view the visualizer HERE. The track is featured in the new trailer for TRON: Ares, which was unveiled today. Disney’s TRON: Ares releases in U.S. theaters on October 10.

Nine Inch Nails will kick off the North American leg of their acclaimed “Peel It Back” world tour on August 6 at Oakland Arena in Oakland, CA. The 26-date, sold-out run will include two-night stands at United Center in Chicago (August 19 and 20), Barclays Center in Brooklyn (September 2 and 3) and the Kia Forum in Los Angeles (September 18 and 19). Boys Noize will support on all dates. See below for itinerary. Due to fan demand and overwhelming response to the production debuted on the European tour, a number of limited view tickets will be released across all dates this Friday, July 18, at 9AM PT/12PM ET at NIN.com.

The arena tour, which marks the band’s first live outing since 2022, launched at Dublin’s 3Arena in June. The Times, in an opening night review, said, “The show was a revelation — a thrilling onslaught that combined angst, sincerity and a nightmarish otherworldliness…” NME noted, “[The band] delivered a stacked setlist of huge hits and rarities.” Kerrang hailed the tour as “mind-blowing” while Evening Standard proclaimed, “Trent Reznor is the last great art rock star.”

Founded in 1988 by Reznor, Nine Inch Nails is widely considered one of the most innovative, influential acts in modern music. Known for fusing industrial, electronic, rock and ambient sounds into emotionally raw and sonically aggressive compositions, the band has won two GRAMMY® Awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2020. Nine Inch Nails’ multi-Platinum studio albums include their 1989 debut, Pretty Hate Machine, The Downward Spiral (1994) and The Fragile (1999), which was their first album to reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200, a feat repeated by With Teeth (2005).

In 2008, Reznor and Ross launched a prolific career in composing music for film. Their first project, David Fincher’s The Social Network, earned the pair an Oscar and a Golden Globe. They’ve gone on to compose music for a diverse array of film and television projects, including the Watchmen series for HBO, which earned the duo an Emmy for Outstanding Music Composition for a series. Their score for the 2020 animated Pixar film Soul. won numerous awards, including an Oscar, GRAMMY, Golden Globe and British Academy Film Award. In the same year, their score for Fincher’s MANK received nominations for many of the same awards. Recent projects have included Sam Mendes’ Empire of Light, Fincher’s The Killer and a trio of projects with director Luca Guadagnino – Bones and All, Challengers and Queer.

Earlier this year, Reznor and Ross announced Future Ruins, a one-day music festival created and curated by the duo. Celebrating the visionary composers shaping the sound of modern cinema and television, the event features live performances across three stages—including select sets with full orchestra. Held on November 8, 2025, at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, Future Ruins invites audiences to experience the duo’s groundbreaking score work—and that of their peers—not as background, but as the main event. The music tells the story. Tickets are on sale now at FutureRuins.com.

As a work by Nine Inch Nails, TRON: Ares is a bracing departure from these acclaimed scores. Its architecture in sound: pulsating synths, distorted textures, and haunting melodies. Not one second of orchestra. Instead, the album erupts with the full force of Nine Inch Nails, breaking boundaries and redefining what a score can be.

Track Listing – TRON: Ares (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
1. INIT
2. FORKED REALITY
3. AS ALIVE AS YOU NEED ME TO BE
4. ECHOES
5. THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING
6. IN THE IMAGE OF
7. I KNOW YOU CAN FEEL IT
8. PERMANENCE
9. INFILTRATOR
10. 100% EXPENDABLE
11. STILL REMAINS
12. WHO WANTS TO LIVE FOREVER?
13. BUILDING BETTER WORLDS
14. TARGET IDENTIFIED
15. DAEMONIZE
16. EMPATHETIC RESPONSE
17. WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?
18. A QUESTION OF TRUST
19. GHOST IN THE MACHINE
20. NO GOING BACK
21. NEMESIS
22. NEW DIRECTIVE
23. OUT IN THE WORLD
24. SHADOW OVER ME

An Evening With Randy Travis Set for August 5 at Grammy Museum Mississippi, Featuring James Dupré and Mary Travis

Eric Alper
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An Evening With Randy Travis Set for August 5 at Grammy Museum Mississippi, Featuring James Dupré and Mary Travis

Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, and actor Randy Travis will make a special appearance at the Grammy Museum Mississippi on Tuesday, August 5th as part of its An Evening With series. He will be joined by his wife, Mary Travis, along with special guest vocalist James Dupré, who will perform during the evening. Tickets to An Evening With Randy Travis are currently only open to Museum Members.

Sponsored by Needle Specialty Products, the event will take place on Tuesday, August 5th, at 7 pm in the Sanders Soundstage in the museum. A reception will take place before the event at 6 pm, featuring a cash bar and light hors d’oeuvres. Additional support is provided by Visit Mississippi, SouthGroup, Robinson Electric, Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, SuperTalk Mississippi, and Regions.

Travis is among the honorees at the 18th Academy of Country Music Honors on August 20th in Nashville. Lori Badgett, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Mac McAnally, Rissi Palmer, Twisters, and Ben Vaughn will also be celebrated during the event that features an unforgettable evening of live music and tributes.

Almost 12 years ago, Travis suffered a debilitating stroke, but he continues to release original music with the aid of new technologies. In 2024, Travis released “Where That Came From,” which marked the neo-traditionalist’s first charted song in two decades. The song made history as Travis authorized his longtime producer, Kyle Lehning, to use a revolutionary AI-powered voice model to release his first new music in over a decade. With the help of two amazing songwriters, John Scott Sherrill and Scotty Emerick, Lehning, the musicians who helped make his songs so iconic for decades of recording, and special guest vocalist James Dupré, provided a new musician credit “vocal bed” for the song.

Earlier this year, Travis released “Horses In Heaven.” The song, penned by Jon Randall and Matt Nolen, had quite the journey to Country Music Hall of Famer. It’s a perfect fit for the artist who has been horseback since he was a baby. Harold Traywick, Randy’s late father, was a renowned horse trainer in North Carolina and ensured that his children inherited his skills.

Travis, a seven-time Grammy winner, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, and multi-platinum country artist, was recently recognized for his work championing fair compensation and protections for artists in the evolving digital age. In 2024, he testified on Capitol Hill in support of the American Music Fairness Act, which aims to ensure artists are fairly compensated when their songs air on AM/FM radio. He is also committed to promoting the ethical use of AI, ensuring it serves as a tool to empower and protect the creative integrity of artists.

Travis will be the subject of a biopic entitled Forever And Ever, Amen. Andrew Hyatt will direct off of his own script. Travis and his wife Mary Travis will executive produce, alongside country music star Clay Walker, who will portray Travis in his 40s and 50s. The film is currently in the casting stage with no production or release date announced, as of press time.

CMT Live – Nate Smith at Busch Country: One Night Only Premieres July 30 on Paramount+

Eric Alper
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CMT Live – Nate Smith at Busch Country: One Night Only Premieres July 30 on Paramount+

Busch Light and CMT are setting the country music “World on Fire” by bringing the unforgettable concert series, Busch Country: One Night Only, with award-winning artist, Nate Smith, to country fans everywhere. The special episode, CMT Live – Nate Smith at Busch Country: One Night Only, can be streamed starting on July 30th on Paramount+.

Busch Country: One Night Only brings fans closer than ever to their favorite country artists, providing a rare chance to experience intimate, private shows where the only way in is to win…until now!

For the first time, CMT is now giving country fans an inside look at Busch Country: One Night Only in a special that captures the most riveting moments during Nate Smith’s memorable show in Cleveland this past May.

CMT Live – Nate Smith at Busch Country: One Night Only captures the on-stage energy and front-row fandom, diving deep into the soul of country music through Nate Smith’s powerful performance. From performing his latest single, “Dads Don’t Die,” for the first time live, to fan favorites like “Whiskey On You” and “World on Fire,” the night ended with an electrifying encore that left fans wanting more.

“Unbreakable” by Ellefson-Soto Drops August 15 with Guest Spots by Tim Ripper Owens & Laura Guldemond

Eric Alper
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“Unbreakable” by Ellefson-Soto Drops August 15 with Guest Spots by Tim Ripper Owens & Laura Guldemond

Grammy Award-winning and former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson and acclaimed metal vocalist Jeff Scott Soto have once again joined forces and are set to release their highly anticipated second album, Unbreakable, on August 15th, via Rat Pak Records. Alongside the album announcement, the duo has unveiled a powerful new music video for the title track “Unbreakable,” giving fans a first taste of the record’s sound.

The duo Ellefson-Soto is joined by Italian guitarist Andy Martongelli and Paolo Caridi on drums and features 11 studio tracks with guest appearances from Tim Ripper Owens (KK’s Priest) and Burning Witches front-woman Laura Guldemond.

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 blends their classic metal roots with modern rock intensity.

“This album digs even deeper,” says Ellefson. “It’s heavier, more personal, and shaped by everything we’ve experienced on and off the stage.” Soto adds, “The energy we poured into this one—it’s the sound of two lifetimes colliding in riffs, rage, and redemption.”

Ellefson further comments, “One of the things I like most is I feel like you can hear a real sense of brotherhood on our records, that we’re really in the creative process together as a band. The consistency of our sound has remained intact while allowing us to further build upon each other’s strengths from our debut album. It’s an honest, organic approach that blends well and lets us explore new sounds and musical paths. At the end of the day, I don’t think there is anything that an artist desires more than that!”

“Unbreakable” drops August 15th, and will be available on all major streaming platforms with limited edition autographed vinyl, CD, and cassette bundles exclusively through Rat Pak Records.

1. Unbreakable
2. SOAB
3. Shout
4. Hate You, Hate Me
5. Poison Tears featuring Laura Guldemond of Burning Witches
6. Ghosts
7. Vengeance featuring Tim Ripper Owens of KK’s Priest
8. Snakes and Bastards
9. It’s Over When I Say It’s Over
10. The Day We Built Rome
11. Death on Two Legs (CD/LP Bonus Track)

“Up All Night” by Alice Cooper Group Roars Ahead of ‘The Revenge of Alice Cooper’ Album & Global Livestream

Eric Alper
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“Up All Night” by Alice Cooper Group Roars Ahead of ‘The Revenge of Alice Cooper’ Album & Global Livestream

Just one week ahead of the highly anticipated new album The Revenge of Alice Cooper, the reunited original Alice Cooper Group releases their latest single, “Up All Night,” a defiant, riff-heavy anthem that captures the chaos, danger, and thrill of rock ’n’ roll after dark.

“Up All Night” is a full-throttle celebration of youthful mischief, the trouble you don’t regret. With snarling guitars, pounding rhythms, and Alice’s unmistakable growl, the track feels like a direct transmission from 1971 – raw, loud, and unapologetically alive. It’s a fitting final teaser before the full album drops on July 25th.

With the album just around the corner, excitement builds for a once-in-a-lifetime pre-release event in London, bringing the original band – Alice Cooper, Dennis Dunaway, Neal Smith, and Michael Smith – together on stage for an unforgettable evening.

The album playback and Q&A will be hosted by none other than Sir Tim Rice and will feature a very special appearance by producer and honorary sixth band member, Bob Ezrin, whose legendary partnership with the band helped define the sound of an era. The night will include a world-exclusive pre-listening session of the full album and an in-depth conversation with the band about the making of The Revenge of Alice Cooper.

The album playback event, which sold out within 24 hours, will be streamed live globally on July 24th at 2 pm ET with Q&A from 3–4:30 pm ET via the Alice Cooper and earMUSIC YouTube channels, as well as on TalkShopLive, ensuring no fan misses out on this historic reunion and giving audiences everywhere a front-row seat.

Recorded in an old-school Connecticut studio with Bob Ezrin at the helm, The Revenge of Alice Cooper brings the spirit of classic Alice Cooper into the present with venomous riffs, theatrical storytelling, and vintage horror flair. The album even features a posthumous guitar appearance from Glen Buxton on “What Happened To You,” preserving his legacy within the band’s rebirth.

From the primal swagger of “Black Mamba,” to the rebel howl of “Wild Ones,” and now the late-night roar of “Up All Night,” the record is a loud, wild reminder that true rock never dies.

Keith Urban Drops Live “Long Hot Summer” on July 25, Teases Fall Album Amid High and Alive World Tour

Eric Alper
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Keith Urban Drops Live “Long Hot Summer” on July 25, Teases Fall Album Amid High and Alive World Tour

Four-time Grammy Award winner Keith Urban is known as one of the best live performers in the world. His concerts are musical parties packed with No. 1 songs that are highlighted by jaw-dropping musicianship. Whether from the stage, in the aisles, between seats, or in the crowd, Urban delivers unforgettable shows that are candy for the eyes and music for the soul.

On July 25th, the Australian native will release “Long Hot Summer,” the first live recording from an as-of-yet-unnamed live album slated to come this fall via MCA. The 2011 release, from his album Get Closer, hit No. 1 in the U.S. and Canada. The track has also been certified platinum in Australia.

Urban’s current High and Alive World Tour has been in full swing since May featuring support by Chase Matthew, Alana Springsteen, and Karley Scott Collins. His palpable spontaneity and unpredictability have ignited moments including a poignant interaction with a blind fan, a performance with a cast member from Urban’s forthcoming CBS show The Road and an impromptu performance of the Jeopardy theme.

“6 Months Later” by Megan Moroney Gets a Hilarious Karma Hotline Video, Pop-Up Party & Big Chart Debuts

Eric Alper
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“6 Months Later” by Megan Moroney Gets a Hilarious Karma Hotline Video, Pop-Up Party & Big Chart Debuts

Answering the call, country phenomenon Megan Moroney runs a revenge hotline in the hilarious romance-comedy-inspired music video for her buzzing single “6 Months Later.” She co-directed the visual alongside CeCe Dawson, marking her third time behind the camera and continuing what has fast become a tradition of big screen-worthy videos from the award-winning multi-platinum Sony Music Nashville/Columbia Records singer/songwriter.

The clip opens on a post-breakup Moroney as she channels-surfs with an old school clicker, curlers in her hair, and a bowl of popcorn. She catches a commercial for the “Karma Now! Hotline,” which promises “GUARANTEED RESULTS IN 6 MONTHS” and is sponsored by “Emo Cowgirl.” She grabs the receiver on a bejeweled rotary phone and orders her revenge on-demand. One unforgettable vignette after another follows as her toxic ex gets his due with a surprise “Ice Cold” shower, “Expired” milk in the fridge, “Bad Meat” on a date, and “Trash” on his morning run. She relishes each moment, dancing on the bed during the finale.

If your summer has been ruined by a cheating, lying, and undeserving dude, it may be time for you to call the “Karma Now! Hotline” too…

Fans gathered at The Emo Cowgirl – a first-of-its-kind pop-up bar at The Westin Nashville’s L27 Rooftop Lounge – yesterday (Tues, July 15th) for an early screening of the video, complete with popcorn and special signed takeaways. Meanwhile, “6 Months Later” just impacted country radio this week. It joins her headline-making radio single “You Had To Be There” (a collaboration with country legend Kenny Chesney, who enlisted Moroney as support for his stadium-filling Sun Goes Down 2024 Tour), which continues to rise.

Upon its release in June, “6 Months Later” made major waves. It vaulted to No. 1 on the Spotify All-Genre Top Song Debut chart in its first three-day frame and achieved her highest chart position ever across streaming platforms. On Apple Music, it catapulted to No. 15 All-Genre. Plus, it impressively tallied her best debut on the Billboard Hot 100, surging in the Top 30.

This summer, Moroney’s blockbuster sold-out Am I Okay? Tour continues with dates scheduled through October 12th.

“Discover Women in Jazz” Returns for Season Five on JAZZ.FM91, Spotlighting Five Dynamic Artists from the GTA

Eric Alper
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“Discover Women in Jazz” Returns for Season Five on JAZZ.FM91, Spotlighting Five Dynamic Artists from the GTA

JAZZ.FM91 proudly presents the fifth season of Discover Women in Jazz, in collaboration with the Pat and Tony Adams Freedom Fund for the Arts and support from the Brian Facey and Julie Soloway Fund for the Arts. 

JAZZ.FM91 is committed to entertaining, inspiring, and connecting our community through inclusive, high-quality programming, education, and storytelling. As Canada’s only 24/7 all-jazz radio broadcaster and a charitable arts organization, we embrace our responsibility to champion greater equity and diversity in the arts.

This concert series promotes, champions and highlights women’s contributions to jazz as musicians, composers, lyricists and bandleaders and has featured artists such as Joy Lapps, Debi Botos, Joanna Majoko, Virginia MacDonald and more. 

Discover Women in Jazz features five artists from the Greater Toronto Area selected by an informed panel consisting of artist/educator/JAZZ.FM91 Board member Shirantha Beddage, former educator/former JAZZ.FM91 Board member Catherine Mitro, former Discover Women in Jazz featured artists Virginia MacDonald and Joy Lapps-Lewis, and former Jazzology featured artist Ewen Farncombe. 

Through this program, JAZZ.FM91 offers these talented women support, space, funding and marketing to foster their careers.

One concert will be broadcast live to air and live-streamed to YouTube each week from Thursday, July 31 through Thursday, Aug 28. Concert dates are: July 31st, August 8, August 14, August 21, and August 28. Each concert will take place between 8 to 9 p.m. ET.

Plus, tune in to Jazzology, supported by RBC Foundation on JAZZ.FM91 each Wednesday at 9 p.m. and Sunday at 8 a.m. ET between July 30 and August 31 to get to know more about this year’s artists leading up to their concerts. 

MEET THE ARTISTS
Madelein ertel – July 31st
Madeleine Ertel is a trumpeter, composer, and arranger known for her melodic approach. She earned a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Trumpet Performance from the University of Toronto (2020) and became active in the Toronto music scene, playing in ensembles like Brodie West’s Eucalyptus. A two-time finalist for the Toronto Arts Foundation’s Emerging Jazz Artist Award (2022, 2023), she studied composition with David Braid and attended the Engelsholm Jazz Workshop. In 2021, she participated in the Banff Musicians in Residence program. She is currently pursuing a Masters in Jazz Composition at the Jazz-Institut Berlin.

Racha Moukalled – August 7th

Racha Moukalled is a Lebanese vibraphonist and pianist based in Toronto. Originally studying jazz piano at York University, she discovered a passion for the vibraphone and improvisation. Inspired by artists like Bobby Hutcherson, Joel Ross, and Ziad El Rahbani, her music blends emotional expression with playful experimentation. Her work often explores the intersection of sound and visual art, as seen in her 2022 Women from Space Festival project inspired by Hilma af Klint. A self-taught musician for much of her life, Racha now teaches privately and performs with local groups including The Shop, Orbital Ensemble, Never Was, and Triio.

Micaela Rae – August 14th

Micaela Rae is a Toronto-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for her lyrically rich and intricate compositions. Beginning her musical journey at age ten, she later studied jazz voice at Humber Polytechnic, drawing inspiration from vocalists like Sarah Vaughan and Cecile McLorin Salvant. Her debut EP “Saccharine” (2024) showcases four originals and a reimagined jazz standard, highlighting her expressive guitar work. Influenced by artists such as Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen, Micaela performs regularly in Toronto and is excited to join the 2025 Discover Women in Jazz series.

Grace Jiji Gayle – August 21st

Grace ‘Jiji’ Gayle is a powerhouse vocalist whose roots began in the West Toronto Church of God. A graduate of Humber College’s Vocal Jazz program, she’s become a sought-after collaborator, performing with artists like Daniel Caesar, Jully Black, and Kim Burrell, and sharing stages with legends including Stevie Wonder and Mariah Carey. Her voice has been featured in film, TV, and commercial projects, and in 2021 she released her debut album Living, Loving, Learning. Grace is also a member of the Juno Award-winning Sharon Riley and Faith Chorale.

Aretha Tilloston – August 28

Aretha Tillotson is a Canadian bassist, composer, and bandleader, known for her dynamic performances and thoughtful compositions. She has toured across North America with artists like Kris Davis, Walter Smith III, and the Jensen sisters. Her debut album Introducing Aretha Tillotson (Bent River Records) won the 2024 Western Canadian Music Award for Jazz Artist of the Year. Her upcoming release, Kinda Out West (Nov 2025), features Ingrid and Christine Jensen and Dave Laing. A Berklee Global Jazz Masters graduate, Aretha studied with John Patitucci and Linda May Han Oh. She has performed with Mick Flannery and in the Broadway and Mirvish Theatre productions of SIX, and currently teaches bass and theory at MacEwan University.

Mādahòkì Farm Launches New Visitor Experiences Featuring Ojibwe Spirit Horses and Year-Round Indigenous Programming

Eric Alper
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Mādahòkì Farm Launches New Visitor Experiences Featuring Ojibwe Spirit Horses and Year-Round Indigenous Programming

On Thursday, Mādahòkì Farm hosted a special event to celebrate the launch of new Visitor Experiences which provide greater access to immersive and authentic Indigenous programming. This programming was made possible thanks to funding from the Government of Canada, Ottawa Tourism, as well as a $200,000 Resilient Communities Fund grant awarded to Aboriginal Experiences, Arts and Culture to support the development of the Mishtadim (Equine Assisted Learning) program, one of the new experiences offered.

Previously reserved for school, tour and corporate groups, Visitor Experiences are now open to individuals and families, offering unique opportunities to connect with Indigenous culture through land, animals and storytelling.

“I’m proud to see the Ontario Trillium Foundation support such meaningful work at Mādahòkì Farm. The Mishtadim experience not only helps preserve the cultural and ecological legacy of the Ojibwe Spirit Horses, but also provides a powerful opportunity for people of all backgrounds to connect with Indigenous heritage in a respectful and engaging way,” said Tyler Watt, MPP for Nepean.

Mishtadim (Equine Assisted Learning) is an experiential, learner-based approach that uses guided interactions with the rare Ojibwe Spirit Horses as guides to build confidence, leadership and emotional resilience. The program is led by nationally certified facilitators and delivered through an Indigenous lens rooted in traditional storytelling and the Seven Grandfather Teachings, all within a culturally safe and supportive environment. Mishtadim helps participants reconnect with the land, develop life skills and experience healing through meaningful connection with these sacred animals.

“The support from the Ontario Trillium Foundation has been instrumental in helping us expand our vision for Mādahòkì Farm. We’ve been able to bring the Mishtadim experience to life and add it to the new small-group programming for families and individuals. This is a major step forward in making Indigenous culture accessible, engaging, and welcoming to all visitors year-round,” said Trina Mather-Simard, CEO of Mādahòkì Farm.

This expanded summer and year-round programming received support from the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).

“Supporting the expansion of Mādahòkì Farm’s Indigenous tourism programming reflects our

commitment to building a Canadian tourism sector that embodies our shared national values.

Advancing reconciliation, education, and economic opportunity for Indigenous partners is a

priority for our new government,” said the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial

Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic

Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

“The expansion of Mādahòkì Farm’s Indigenous tourism programming is a meaningful step forward for the development of Indigenous tourism in our region. Through the Destination Development Fund, Ottawa Tourism is proud to support initiatives that elevate Indigenous voices and create new, year-round cultural experiences for visitors that strengthen our destination as a whole,” said Michael Crockatt, President and CEO of Ottawa Tourism.

July & August Programming

  • Mishtadim (Equine Assisted Learning): Close encounter sessions with the rare and endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Held on Thursdays.
  • Creation Workshop: A short introduction to Indigenous culture with a mini tour of the cultural displays and gardens of Mādahòkì Farm, followed by creating your own traditional dreamcatcher. Held on Fridays and Sundays.
  • Farm Play: Personal meet and greet with many of the farm’s favourite farm animals – snuggle goats, feed the small animals, pet bunnies and have a personal tour meeting the Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Held on Saturdays.
  • Indigenous Marketplace: Features over 60 Indigenous vendors, with one-of-a-kind products ranging from apparel, jewelry, home decor, traditional crafts, food and more. New to the Marketplace are Grab & Go Indigenous food, drinks and snacks prepared by the Mādahòkì culinary team.
  • Legacy Trail: Walk the scenic Legacy Trail to spot traditional plants and medicines and learn about the Seven Grandfather Teachings.

Year-Round Programming – Starting September 15, 2025

  • Trail of the Native Ponies: A self-guided walking tour across Mādahòkì Farm centred around the rare and endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Along the trail, visitors will hear Elders’ and Knowledge Keepers’ stories and teachings, explore interactive Indigenous art installations, browse historical stories and documents, and experience the Spirit Horses in a whole new way through an immersive augmented reality encounter. Held Thursdays to Sundays.
  • Spirit Horse Connections: A 3.5-hour cultural journey featuring a Traditional Welcome, Trail of the Native Ponies, tea & bannock, and a private walk with the rare Ojibwe Spirit Horses. Held daily – pre-booking required.

The new programming is part of Mādahòkì Farm’s evolution into a year-round destination, taking place both outdoors and inside the newly refurbished Mamawii Lodge. The farm’s two newest additions to the Ojibwe Spirit Horse herd were also unveiled during the launch event: a filly named Nesewin, meaning “air” or “to breathe” in Anishinaabemowin, and a colt named Mashkodewashk, which means sage, one of the four sacred medicines. For more information and bookings, visit madahoki.ca/visitor-experiences,

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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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