Before they became TV legends, Bert and Ernie were almost never a duo. In the documentary Henson’s Place, Jim Henson reveals how Frank Oz initially rejected Bert for being too dull—only to later embrace the role and help shape a friendship that defined a generation. Just another reminder: sometimes genius starts with doubt.
National Music Centre Announces Return Of ‘CIBC Summer Series’ With Stacked Lineup At The King Eddy
The National Music Centre (NMC) is excited to announce the return of the CIBC Summer Series at the King Eddy, featuring a lineup stacked with some of the most exciting talent lighting up Canada’s music scene.
“We’re thrilled to bring the CIBC Summer Series back to the King Eddy with a dynamic roster of acts,” said Stephanie Hutchinson, NMC’s Director of Programs. “This series is about celebrating a wide spectrum of voices and genres on one of Calgary’s most storied stages.”
CIBC Summer Series schedule:
- July 31 – Samantha Savage Smith with Damase Elis
- August 1 – L’omelette with Stolen Moon
- August 7 – Mariel Buckley with Tyson Ray Borsboom
- August 8 – Arlo Maverick with Skinny Blaiz
- August 13 – Chevy Beaulieu with Chelsie Young
- August 14 – Deep Love Revival with Hip Hip Thursday
- August 22 – Bijaan with Femi
- August 23 – SHY FRiEND with Sunset Sabotage
- August 28 – Dallas Rodin with Edwardson
- August 29 – Pat Clifton with TBC
- September 4 – Clea Anaïs with (un)decided
- September 9 – Aladean Kheroufi with Former Lovers
- September 18 – Laura Hickli with Kindé
- September 19 – Brett Cassidy & The Corduroy Cowboys with Education Party
The series will kick off on July 31 withCalgary singer-songwriter Samantha Savage Smith, known for her glistening pop tunes that blend confessional lyrics with playful charm, alongside fellow Calgarian Damase Elis, a singer-songwriter whose adoration for indie, folk, blues, and jazz fuels a drive to tell queer stories through song.
Next up on August 1 is L’omelette, the Calgary art-rockers who dart between prog, new wave, and sax-led dance pop; and Stolen Moon, a psych-rock trio that delivers high-octane energy, and irresistible riffs.
OnAugust 7,Alberta favourite Mariel Buckley brings her fearless blend of Americana to the King Eddy stage. Tyson Ray Borsboom willjoin the bill,harnessing the best parts of country, indie, folk, and alt-rock into one magnetic sound.
Performing on August 8 is Arlo Maverick, an elder statesman of Canada’s underground hip-hop scene, who melds brainy wit into his wordplay and far-reaching influences, from jazz and soul to electro. Nigerian-Canadian Afropop artist Skinny Blaiz will also perform, sharing sounds that transcend borders.
On August 13, Chevy Beaulieu, acountry singer-songwriter who makes music that reflects his small-town roots, will share the stage with Chelsie Young, the self-described “tomboy country” artist that is blazing her own path in her own rough and tumble way.
Next up on August 14 is Deep Love Revival, the five-piece disco-rock and sunshine-soul group that delivers original, empowering anthems. The band will be joined by Hip Hip Thursday, who balance the improvisational essence of jazz with the rhythmic and lyrical depth of hip-hop into six-piece arrangements.
Merging old-school ‘90s hip-hop influences with new school swagger, Bijaan will perform on August 22 with Femi, a Nigerian-Canadian artist who leans towards the melodic side of rap.
Taking the stage on August 23 is SHY FRiEND, an alt-pop project that rose out of a group of classical and jazz musicians, celebrated for their emotive soundscapes and captivating live shows; and Sunset Sabotage, a genre-blending thrill ride through the many moods of alternative music.
Boundary-pushing Toronto pop artist Dallas Rodin is up next on August 28 with opener Edwardson, a rising alt-pop singer-songwriter quickly gaining attention as one to watch.
On August 29, songwriter, producer, and musician Pat Clifton brings his infectious grooves and intimate narratives to the King Eddy. He’ll be joined by another yet-to-be-determined act.
Purveyor of lush, nostalgic pop Clea Anaïs performs on September 4 with opener (un)decided, the eight-piece neo-soul and hip-hop collective.
On September 9, Aladean Kheroufi, the Edmonton-by-way-of-Algeria musician, will share his soulful and idiosyncratic tunes, alongside Former Lovers, a band of prairie pals hailing from Prince Albert and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, whose driving rhythms and infectious hooks are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Performing on September 18 is Laura Hickli, the progressive art-pop artist known for dreamy, tightly-arranged soundscapes and powerful live shows. Also joining the bill is Kindé, whose music brings together her gospel roots, and R&B, Afro-fusion, and hip-hop influences.
Closing out the series on September 19 is folk-country outfit Brett Cassidy & The Corduroy Cowboys, alongside openers Education Party, an electronic folk ensemble whose spirit-stirring sound strikes a deep emotional chord.
Tickets for the CIBC Summer Series are $15 at studiobell.ca/whats-on and $10 for NMC Members. Become an NMC Member at studiobell.ca/become-a-member and start saving on concerts and events.
Coors Light Launches Fake Label ‘Coors Light Records’ To Give One Fan Rockstar Access At OSHEAGA
Today, Coors Light announces the launch of Coors Light Records, a new, completely fake, totally made-up record label created specifically to give one lucky Coors Light fan the rockstar treatment at one of Canada’s biggest music festivals, OSHEAGA Music & Arts Festival.
As a sponsor of OSHEAGA since 2007, Coors Light really wanted to partner with a headlining artist of the festival to launch their Chill on Shuffle music platform this year. The problem is, beer brands typically aren’t allowed to partner with artists or celebrities in Canada.
But you know who we can “sign”? You. Yeah. You. So the brand has taken matters into their own hands, to turn one of their fans into the hottest new “artist” to grace Parc Jean-Drapeau and get the rockstar treatment for a weekend.
“Signing” an “artist contract” with Coors Light Records unlocks an OSHEAGA experience fit for a headliner, reserved only for our first-ever “artist”.
The best part? Since getting “signed” is just as fake as the record label itself, there’s no talent required. So whether you’re the queen of karaoke or still searching for the right note, anyone has an equal chance of getting signed with Coors Light Records. That could quite possibly make Coors Light Records the chillest record label ever. We’ll check with our lawyers.
Fans who get signed get some serious rockstar status perks, including:
- Exclusive access at OSHEAGA including daily side stage access, a backstage tour and seriously chill perks with a Defender Platinum ticket
- An exclusive meet-and-greet with Shaboozey
- OSHEAGA afterparty access
- Celebrity-level treatment like first class travel and accommodations
- A photoshoot on-site with professional hair and makeup
- A visit to OSHEAGA Artist World, the backstage hangout for headliners and performers
- A personal rider kit with tons of Coors Light swag
- Oh, and did we mention you can bring a friend? We suggest you start referring to them as your manager now.
“This year, we’re excited to introduce our new, multi-year music platform Chill on Shuffle, which is all about shuffling up the way we experience live music,” says Leslie Malcolm, Vice President of Marketing of Molson Coors Beverage Company. “And what better way to shuffle things up than by unlocking a festival experience that’s typically reserved for artists by turning a regular Coors Light fan into an “artist” themselves?”
We’re really not kidding about these perks. Here’s what Nick Farkas, Senior Vice President, Bookings, OSHEAGA has to say. “OSHEAGA and Coors Light have been proud partners since 2007. This year, thanks to Coors Light Records, one lucky winner will be able to experience OSHEAGA similar to how a real artist would.”
Ready for your fifteen minutes of fame? Just head to coorslightrecords.ca between July 10th to the 23rd to enter for a chance to become the first-ever “artist” signed to Coors Light Records and experience OSHEAGA like the (off-key) rockstar that you are.
Yungblud Announces Theatrical Release of New Documentary ‘YUNGBLUD. ARE YOU READY, BOY?’
YUNGBLUD. ARE YOU READY, BOY?, the new documentary film featuring the globally recognized British artist Yungblud, will receive its worldwide theatrical release with screenings on August 20 & 24, courtesy of Trafalgar Releasing. Visit Yungblud.film to find out more, sign up for updates and get tickets when they go on sale on July 17.
The feature-length documentary, directed by three-time Grammy Award-nominated, Emmy and BAFTA-winning filmmaker Paul Dugdale (Adele: One Night Only, Elton John Live: Farewell From Dodger Stadium, The Prodigy ‘Worlds on Fire’, Glastonbury Festival: Live at Worthy Farm) was shot at the legendary Hansa Studios Building in Berlin, the birthplace of David Bowie’s Heroes, U2’s Achtung Baby! and countless other iconic albums.
A personal journey of change, confidence and rock-and-roll chaos, set against a city that has always celebrated counterculture and creativity, YUNGBLUD. ARE YOU READY, BOY? is a revealing and uncompromising documentary about a generational artist finding his own voice.
Presented in B&W and colour, including stunning sequences shot in 16mm, the two-hour-long documentary shows Yungblud at a pivotal moment in his career. The film follows the artist as he relocates to the historic Berlin studio with his band to record live performances of tracks from his brand-new album, Idols, for the very first time. His most personal record to date, Idols was released in June 2025 to critical acclaim, becoming Yungblud’s third consecutive no. 1 album in the UK. With cameras rolling throughout the entire process and no live audience present, the project removes any artifice, presenting a truthful and unapologetic behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the performances in its purest form, highlighting the intimate relationships and dynamic between Dom, the band and the music.
Speaking about the process of making the film, Yungblud said “I wanted to make a film that truly documents where we are right now, at this moment, around the release of my most ambitious album to date. Berlin has always radiated complete, unfiltered truth. Every time I’ve visited Hansa Studios, it’s just f*cking iconic.”
He added, “You can feel the history in Hansa; it’s in the silence between takes, the ceiling looming over you. You’re standing in the shadows of all these legends and asking yourself ‘who the f*ck am I? And what am I gonna leave behind?’”
Produced by B.R.A.T Productions in association with Aldgate Pictures, the film offers a never-before-seen insight into Yungblud’s creative process, including its trials and tribulations, against the backdrop of a city steeped in cultural history.
Speaking about the release, Marc Allenby, Trafalgar CEO said, “We’re so pleased to bring this visionary film to cinemas around the world for a limited time only. We are so proud to share this portrait of an incredible artist by acclaimed director Paul Dugdale, and can’t wait for audiences worldwide to experience Yungblud’s life and music on the big screen.”
YUNGBLUD. ARE YOU READY, BOY? will screen in 30 countries across the globe, including across 150 UK cinemas.
Speaking about the project, director Paul Dugdale explained, “When we made this film, it was in that special twilight zone between the record being finished and people hearing it for the first time. I always think of that moment before a release as such a unique time for an artist and it’s an extraordinary period to document because we can enter into it without any external noise or pre-conception. It allowed us to make something unaffected by the outside world, and there’s a really pleasing purity about that. We got to live in a moment with Dom, free of any external opinion and start a relationship from a totally blank canvas.”
He added, “The opportunity to capture Yungblud at such a turbulent but rewarding moment of change, was an absolute privilege. Dom gave himself completely to the filmmaking process and I feel so proud of what we achieved together.”
In this love letter to Berlin, YUNGBLUD. ARE YOU READY, BOY? features 12 brand new performances of tracks from Yungblud’s fourth studio album, Idols.
Good Neighbours Announce Debut Album Blue Sky Mentality After Glastonbury Success And Mumford And Sons Tour
Fresh off the back of their hugely successful Glastonbury debut and a storming North American tour with Mumford & Sons, Good Neighbours are back to announce their highly anticipated debut album Blue Sky Mentality, which lands on September 26th via Polydor Records.
The announcement comes alongside the release of new single ‘Suburbs’ which premiered as BBC Radio 1’s Hottest Record last night as is the band’s latest glimpse of what’s to come from the debut LP.
‘Suburbs’ is a widescreen burst of nostalgia and defiance – pairing Good Neighbours’ signature sun-drenched euphoria with a coming-of-age clarity. Anchored by soaring vocals and luminous synths, it’s a bold, bittersweet anthem about shaking off small-town shackles and believing in The Dream.
The band say of the song: “Suburbs is a message back to our younger selves. Coming from small towns outside of London, it was hard to dream big without getting shot down. This track is our anthem for breaking free from that mindset and chasing something bigger.”
This album news arrived with a sense of full-circle occasion as Scott and Olil marked the occasion with a tiny, packed-to-the-rafters live show at the Sebright Arms in London last night – the very same venue that hosted their debut gig just 18 months ago, in November 2023.
Written during a year that saw Scott and Oli navigating new cities, late nights, and long-haul flights, Blue Sky Mentality captures the delicate feeling of distance and of returning home. Retaining connection with the people you love and with the person you once were. It’s a record bursting with songs that feel as cinematic and far-reaching as they are grounded in everyday realities: indie-pop nostalgia washed in shimmering choruses, hopeful charm and introspective clarity. The 14-track collection includes the band’s breakout hit ‘Home’, alongside previous singles ‘Ripple’, and ‘Starry Eyed’, and is available to pre-order now on digital, vinyl and CD.
Speaking on the album, the band share: “Blue Sky Mentality has been our motto since day one. Our band began as a kind of light relief – a creative outlet to break from jobs that we couldn’t stand and some tough personal times. Over the last year, we ran with that feeling, writing our debut album on the road – in the back of tour buses, hotel rooms, and scattered corners of the world. That’s what Blue Sky Mentality means to us – finding light, friendship and a sense of escapism wherever you are.”
Blue Sky Mentality tracklist:
1. Keep It Up
2. Skipping Stones
3. Ripple
4. found u/me*
5. Walk Walk Walk
6. Kids Can’t Sleep
7. Home
8. Small Town
9. Starry Eyed
10. People Need People
11. Left Hand Man
12. Suburbs
13. Wonderful Life
14. The Buzz
*Vinyl edition includes ‘Somebody’ instead of ‘found u/me’
Currently enjoying a run of huge summer festivals including Glastonbury (UK), Osheaga (CA), Outside Lands (US), Rock en Seine (FR) and Reading & Leeds (UK), Good Neighbours will be back on home soil around Blue Sky Mentality’s release to play a run of intimate shows at select indie stores – tickets go on sale on Friday July 11th at 10am HERE.
UK Indie Store tour dates:
22/09 – Rough Trade, Bristol
23/09 – HMV, The Vault, Birmingham
25/09 – Banquet / Pryzm, Kingston
26/09 – Jacaranda, Baltic, Liverpool
27/09 – Crash Records, Wardrobe, Leeds
29/09 – Assai, Caves, Edinburgh
30/09 – Rough Trade, The Saltbox, Nottingham
Justin Bieber Is Dropping a New Album This Friday—Here’s Why That Matters
It’s official—Justin Bieber is back. The Hollywood Reporter confirmed today that Bieber’s long-awaited seventh studio album will be released this Friday, July 11, via Def Jam. That’s four years since his last full-length, Justice, and based on everything we’ve heard so far, he’s not just returning—he’s recalibrating. The record includes collaborations with Gunna, Sexyy Red, and Cash Cobain, and sources say it was born in both the frosty quiet of Iceland and the jam-packed energy of Los Angeles house sessions. The duality? Pure Bieber.
Let’s rewind a little. According to THR, Bieber’s musical comeback started in Iceland this past April. He flew out to “vibe out” with collaborators in the kind of isolated creativity bubble artists dream of. The album may or may not be called Swag—thanks to mysterious billboards now popping up in Reykjavík and Los Angeles—but one thing’s for sure: this is Bieber reentering the chat with something to prove, especially after a few quieter years in the public eye.
In the time since Justice, Bieber’s world has shifted: he became a father, ended his longtime professional relationship with Scooter Braun, and settled financial tensions over his canceled tour. But he never stopped working. He hosted jam sessions in L.A. with DJ Tay James, HARV, and SZA producer Carter Lang. He brought in international talent like U.K. singer Sekou and hitmakers like Dylan Wiggins. This is a collaborative album made in the age of group chats, voice notes, and spontaneous DMs—and that modern, fluid energy will likely be felt all over the record.
The features alone signal a sonic departure. Sexyy Red and Cash Cobain aren’t names traditionally associated with Bieber’s pop leanings—this is a pivot into the raw, genre-crossing world of hip-hop-adjacent cool. Bieber has always had an ear for what’s next: remember Purpose? Where Are Ü Now? Peaches? He’s not chasing trends here—he’s setting the tone again.
Bieber’s rocky relationship with fame has been well-documented—relentless paparazzi, public scrutiny from a young age, and intense pressure led to struggles with mental health and burnout. At times, it seemed like the weight of celebrity might pull him away from music altogether. But his decision to stay, to keep creating and evolving despite it all, is a testament to his resilience. In an industry that can easily chew artists up, Bieber continuing to share his voice feels not just like a comeback—but a commitment to growth, artistry, and healing in public.
It also can’t go unnoticed that Bieber’s return coincides with a rare moment of reinvention across the music industry. Gen Z is leaning into nostalgia and chaos, AI is reshaping how music gets made, and artists are more independent—and genreless—than ever. Bieber seems to be threading that needle: working outside of traditional systems while staying as chart-ready as ever. He’s done this dance before. He just has a new set of shoes.
So this Friday, don’t be surprised if the conversation shifts. Justin Bieber isn’t here to remind us of his past success—he’s here to rewrite what pop sounds like in 2025. And if those Icelandic “Swag” billboards are any indication, he’s doing it his way, on his terms, with the kind of quiet confidence you only get from being the guy for nearly 15 years.
15 Music Videos That Deserve a Movie Deal
Some music videos are fully formed cinematic universes waiting for someone in Hollywood to wise up and give them 90 minutes and a budget. Artists are already writing with film in mind, directors are storyboarding like it’s Sundance, and fans? We’ve been ready. If Barbie can go billion-dollar, surely these deserve at least a greenlight. Here are 15 music videos so rich in narrative, worldbuilding, and aesthetic ambition, they practically beg for a movie deal.
Billie Eilish – “bury a friend”
Eilish’s horror-noir mind palace of body horror and shadow creatures could easily anchor an A24 psychological thriller. Imagine Black Swan meets Get Out, but soundtracked entirely by synths and whispers.
Childish Gambino – “This Is America”
A razor-sharp commentary on race, distraction, and violence in America. The layered symbolism and shifting tone could carry a feature-length political satire or dystopian allegory—Jordan Peele, call your people.
The 1975 – “I’m In Love With You”
Shot like a monochrome musical dream, this video feels like La La Land with circus paint and awkward glances. The romantic tension and nostalgic whimsy scream for an indie rom-com treatment.
Beyoncé – “Haunted”
This Gothic fever dream from the BEYONCÉ visual album drips with haunted mansion intrigue, cults, and slow-burn tension. Think Eyes Wide Shut meets Suspiria, with Queen Bey as the final girl or the puppet master.
Doja Cat – “Attention”
A slick noir slow-burn where celebrity becomes a chase sequence, both literal and existential. Give this one the Requiem for a Dream lens and let Doja narrate fame’s fever dream from inside the belly of the beast.
Hozier – “Take Me to Church”
Already a short film in its own right, this story of forbidden love and violent repression could expand into a sweeping, tragic love story—one with teeth, fire, and a haunting score.
Harry Styles – “Adore You”
Boy befriends magical fish and becomes an island legend. It’s Wes Anderson meets The Shape of Water, with a little Monty Python absurdity for good measure. Why is this not already a quirky indie hit?
Rosalía – “SAOKO”
Neon, motorcycles, and a fiercely defiant energy—Rosalía’s gritty, hyperstylized vision would make for an explosive post-apocalyptic action flick. Think Mad Max: Reggaetón Road.
Florence + The Machine – “Big God”
Cinematic movement, spectral lighting, and ritualistic beauty. A surrealist dance-horror drama could bloom from this visual language, like The Cell but for spiritually conflicted poets.
Kendrick Lamar – “ELEMENT.”
Every shot is frame-worthy, drawn from street photography, fine art, and poetic realism. Kendrick’s visual vocabulary could power a coming-of-age film drenched in metaphor and West Coast grit.
FKA twigs – “Cellophane”
An emotionally devastating climb through a collapsing dreamspace. As a film, it’d be a body-bending exploration of vulnerability, like Black Swan meets Annihilation, with choreography as its weapon.
Rina Sawayama – “XS”
A dystopian shopping channel unravels into a slick critique of capitalism. Blow it up into a satirical sci-fi thriller about beauty, biotech, and the human cost of excess—The Menu with better outfits.
Tyler, The Creator – “EARFQUAKE”
Tyler’s pastel-colored chaos, emotional unravelling, and ‘50s variety show aesthetic deserves a dark comedy feature with him as a heartbreak clown who might just burn the set down.
Lady Gaga – “911”
An operatic crash into mental health and identity. It’s already structured like a short film, and with Gaga’s full commitment, this could evolve into a genre-bending psychological fantasy.
AJR – “World’s Smallest Violin”
A chaotic Rube Goldberg breakdown of performance pressure and generational angst. Picture this as an absurdist dramedy where a band races to finish one last show before their stage literally explodes.
Music videos are already mini-movies. All they need now is a script, a studio, and a few million dollars. Until then, we’ll keep watching these on repeat and dreaming up the trailers in our heads.
10 Tips for Touring Sustainably as a DIY Artist
Touring is a rite of passage for any artist—but doing it sustainably? That’s the next level. Whether you’re playing basements or building up to theatres, being eco-conscious on the road isn’t just about saving the planet—it’s about saving your budget, your energy, and your sanity. From someone who’s seen the inside of more vans than venues, here are 10 practical, industry-informed tips to keep your tour green, lean, and DIY-credible.
1. Plan Routing Like a Pro
A smart tour map saves you fuel and stress. Cluster your dates by region and avoid zig-zagging the country—your wallet (and the environment) will thank you. Use tools like Bandsintown for Artists, Indie on the Move, or even Google Maps batch routing to optimize travel days.
2. Ditch Single-Use, Embrace Reusables
Water bottles, coffee cups, utensils—bring your own. Venues are getting better at refill stations, and fans notice when you lead by example. Bonus: no waking up in a sea of plastic the next morning.
3. Digital Over Paper (Unless You’re Selling It)
Promote with QR codes, geo-targeted posts, and digital flyers. Save paper for merch with a margin—like lyric zines or art prints. They’re keepsakes, not waste.
4. Offset Your Emissions
You probably can’t afford an electric van, but you can offset your tour’s carbon footprint. Platforms like Cool Effect or Carbonfund.org let you invest in verified environmental projects. Add a note on your tour poster or merch table: “Carbon offset included.” Fans love transparency.
5. Bundle Your Merch Runs
Order merch in bulk and locally to your tour launch city. Fewer shipping miles = fewer emissions and fewer headaches. Plus, tote bags and upcycled shirts are crowd-pleasers with a message.
6. Use Hospitality Riders Wisely
Even if you’re just getting drink tickets, ask venues to minimize plastic backstage. Request snacks in bulk, plant-based meals, or local produce. Being respectful and sustainable builds long-term relationships.
7. Sleep Strategically
Choose eco-certified hotels or crash with friends and fans to reduce hotel energy usage. Bonus: you save money and sometimes gain breakfast and laundry access.
8. Share the Load
Tour with other artists when you can—shared rides, shared gear, shared costs. Multi-band bills can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and increase draw for small venues.
9. Repurpose, Recycle, Reimagine
Need gear cases? Reuse thrift store luggage. Need stage decor? DIY with recyclables. The punk scene knew it decades ago—resourcefulness is rebellion.
10. Make Sustainability Part of the Story
Let your audience in on what you’re doing. Post about your offset program, tag venues with good green practices, or offer a merch discount for fans who bring reusable containers. Touring is performance—but it’s also platform.
You don’t have to be Coldplay to tour consciously. With a little intention, you can build a touring career that’s good for your music and the world it lives in. After all, the road goes on forever—but only if we take care of it.
15 Bear-Themed Songs Worth Roaring About For Teddy Bear Day
Whether you’re 5 or 55, this is your official excuse to drag your old stuffed bear out of the closet and into the sunshine. July 10 is Teddy Bears’ Picnic Day — a delightfully oddball day where nostalgia meets imagination, and you can let your inner child dine al fresco with a fictional forest friend. So in honour of bears big, small, wild, animated, and plush, here are 15 songs that celebrate them — with whimsy, wit, and sometimes a touch of melancholy.
1. “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” – Anne Murray
The quintessential bear tune. It’s charming and playful on the surface… but something about it always feels just a little off, right?
2. “(Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear” – Elvis Presley
Elvis turns cuddly in this rock ’n’ roll classic, offering himself up as a huggable heartthrob. Simpler times.
3. “Rupert The Bear” – Jackie Lee
Stripy trousers. Psychedelic side characters. This British children’s theme hits all the right nostalgic buttons.
4. “House at Pooh Corner” – Loggins & Messina
Kenny Loggins aches for a simpler time through the lens of Winnie the Pooh, in one of the most bittersweet children’s songs ever written.
5. “Birdmad Girl” – The Cure
Robert Smith wishes he were a polar bear. It’s whimsical, melancholic, and deeply Cure-core.
6. “The Grizzly Bear” – Shel Silverstein
Forget metaphors — Shel is the grizzly bear. Wild, loud, and probably chewing the mic.
7. “Gus: The Polar Bear From Central Park” – The Tragically Hip
A devastating tribute to a captive polar bear and a reflection on mental health — even among animals.
8. “Dakota The Dancing Bear Part 2” – David Allan Coe
A darkly funny tale about exploitation, showbiz, and dancing bears. Cynical, biting, brilliant.
9. “Les Ours” – Nick Cave & Warren Ellis
Atmospheric and haunting, this cinematic piece evokes the quiet power of bears in the wild.
10. “Grizzly Bear Blues” – Corb Lund
You won’t learn much survival advice here, but you’ll laugh the whole way through.
11. “Bear By The Bonfire” – Mudslide
70s-style rock chaos meets campfire horror — and possibly real gore. Approach with caution.
12. “Bear on the Beach” – A Camp (Nina Persson)
Moody, poetic, and open to interpretation. A bear? A memory? A metaphor? Yes.
13. “L’Ours” – Christophe Maé & Youssou N’Dour
A heartbreaking ode to the polar bear and the shrinking ice it calls home. Timely and poignant.
14. “The Right to Arm Bears” – Paul Westerberg
It’s exactly what it sounds like. Legal satire, Americana weirdness, and a visual you won’t shake.
15. “Bears” – Zebra
A hard rock plea to remember the bears, wrapped in 80s riffs and arena-sized sincerity.
Lenny Kravitz’s Isolated Vocals For “Fly Away”
When Lenny Kravitz plugged in a guitar to test an amp, he accidentally wrote a jet-fueled rock anthem. “Fly Away” wasn’t even supposed to make the album 5, but it took off—and never looked back.