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55 Surprising Facts for 55 Years of American Top 40

Eric Alper
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55 Surprising Facts for 55 Years of American Top 40

“Here We Go With the Top 40 Hits…”

Those words, first spoken by Casey Kasem on July 4, 1970, would go on to define generations of pop culture and radio history. For over five decades, American Top 40 has counted down the biggest hits across the globe—bridging the vinyl era to the streaming age, from Elvis and The Beatles to Olivia Rodrigo and The Weeknd.

As the show celebrates its 55th anniversary, we’re turning the spotlight back on AT40 itself with 55 facts—from unforgettable dedications and chart milestones to behind-the-scenes trivia and unforgettable hosting eras. Whether you grew up with Kasem’s warm storytelling, Shadoe Stevens’ booming presence, or Ryan Seacrest’s sleek countdowns, American Top 40 has always had its finger on the pulse of pop. Now, on with the countdown…

  1. American Top 40 debuted on July 4, 1970, on just seven stations.
  2. The show’s first host was Casey Kasem, who remained the voice of the show until 1988 and again from 1998 to 2004.
  3. The first #1 song ever played on AT40 was “Mama Told Me (Not to Come)” by Three Dog Night.
  4. The inaugural episode included both The Beatles and Elvis Presley in the Top 10—one of the last times they shared the charts.
  5. AT40 was co-created by Casey Kasem, Don Bustany, Tom Rounds, and Ron Jacobs.
  6. The show was originally produced by Watermark Inc., later acquired by ABC Radio.
  7. The original show used Billboard’s Hot 100 as its source for chart data.
  8. “Shuckatoom” became the show’s signature theme music from 1975 to 1984.
  9. In 1978, AT40 expanded from three hours to four hours due to the longer average length of singles.
  10. Kasem’s signature sign-off: “Keep your feet on the ground, and keep reaching for the stars.”
  11. The popular “Long Distance Dedication” segment debuted on August 26, 1978.
  12. The first LDD was Neil Diamond’s “Desiree”, dedicated to a girlfriend moving to Germany.
  13. The show had “number jingles” for each chart position, like “Number 17!”—a fan-favorite feature.
  14. AT40 mentioned great affiliate stations each hour, like “American Top 40 is heard coast-to-coast on great stations like…”
  15. By the early 1980s, AT40 was airing on over 1,000 stations in more than 50 countries.
  16. In 1982, Watermark was sold to ABC, and AT40 became part of the ABC Contemporary Radio Network.
  17. The show aired in mono until 1973 when it began being distributed in stereo vinyl.
  18. AT40 began international syndication early on, including the UK, Australia, and Canada.
  19. Shadoe Stevens replaced Kasem as host on August 13, 1988.
  20. During Stevens’ era, AT40 switched from Billboard to other charts like Hot 100 Airplay and Mainstream Top 40.
  21. In 1995, the original AT40 ended, but it continued internationally via Radio Express.
  22. Casey’s Top 40, launched in 1989, was Kasem’s competitor show after leaving AT40.
  23. In 1998, AT40 was revived with Casey Kasem returning as host, using the Radio & Records chart.
  24. AT40 switched to Mediabase as its chart source after 2009.
  25. In 2004, Ryan Seacrest took over as host and remains today.
  26. The first #1 song of the Seacrest era was “Hey Ya!” by OutKast.
  27. The show introduced new features under Seacrest, like AT40 Extra, listener shoutouts, and social media interaction.
  28. Taio Cruz’s “Dynamite” holds a longevity record, spending 72 weeks on the chart.
  29. That record was broken in 2024 by “Calm Down” by Rema & Selena Gomez, with 75 weeks.
  30. On the Hot AC version, “Use Somebody” by Kings of Leon spent 117 consecutive weeks on the chart.
  31. American Top 40: The 70s and The 80s air digitally remastered reruns of Kasem’s original shows each weekend.
  32. XM Satellite Radio began airing classic shows in 2006.
  33. SiriusXM’s “70s on 7” and “80s on 8” feature archived AT40 episodes weekly.
  34. In 2024, a digital stream titled American Top 40 with Casey Kasem: 90s and 2000s launched on iHeartRadio.
  35. AT40 sometimes compiled its own year-end charts, independent of Billboard’s official lists.
  36. The show had a TV spinoff, America’s Top 10, hosted by Kasem from 1980 to 1989 and again from 1991 to 1992.
  37. The country music version, American Country Countdown, launched in 1973 and is still on the air.
  38. AT40 Flashback, airing 1980s reruns, ran from 2000 to 2002.
  39. The longest AT40 show ever was the two-part Top 100 of the 1980s countdown.
  40. In 2020, Seacrest hosted AT40 from home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
  41. AT40’s 50th anniversary in 2020 included a new vinyl-style logo and special tributes.
  42. Seacrest’s AT40 includes “AT40 Breakout” songs and “AT40 on the Verge” picks.
  43. The show has two versions: one for CHR/Top 40, and another for Hot Adult Contemporary stations.
  44. No distinction is made on-air between the CHR and Hot AC editions.
  45. AT40’s iconic chart countdown format has been widely copied by other shows, including Rick Dees Weekly Top 40.
  46. AT40 has been broadcast in more than 150 countries.
  47. In Canada, more than 50 stations currently air AT40, often through iHeartRadio Canada.
  48. AT40 is syndicated by Premiere Networks, a division of iHeartMedia.
  49. In the show’s early days, California strawberry farmer Tom Driscoll helped fund its launch.
  50. Kasem was inspired by the Make Believe Ballroom radio show from the 1940s.
  51. Guest hosts were never allowed to use Kasem’s sign-off line.
  52. Casey Kasem passed away in 2014, but his legacy continues through classic show rebroadcasts.
  53. The show continues to celebrate musical milestones, artist anniversaries, and chart trivia on air.
  54. Seacrest also produces a daily AT40 Top 5 mini-countdown as part of On Air with Ryan Seacrest.
  55. More than five decades later, American Top 40 remains the world’s most iconic countdown show, still starting every week with the simple phrase: “Now, on with the countdown.”

Foreigner Celebrates 50 Years with Massive ‘4’ Deluxe Reissue Featuring Unreleased Tracks and Tour with Lou Gramm

Eric Alper
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Foreigner Celebrates 50 Years with Massive ‘4’ Deluxe Reissue Featuring Unreleased Tracks and Tour with Lou Gramm

As a frontrunner to the 50th Anniversary for Rock & Roll Hall of Famers FOREIGNER, the band is excited to announce the September 12, 2025 release of extensive super deluxe editions of its 1981 smash multi-Platinum album 4. Pre-order HERE.

Recorded at the famed Electric Lady Studios in New York City alongside respected music producer Mutt Lange (Def Leppard, AC/DC), FOREIGNER 4 Deluxe Editions will be available in black vinyl and various other formats on September 12 via Rhino. The release will encompass newly remastered Stereo and ATMOS versions, and a five-disc CD/Blu-ray package that includes a booklet containing over 60 exclusive photos, five previously unreleased songs, 14 early and alternate versions of various songs, 15 instrumentals, and 15 live performances from across the globe, spanning the band’s 1981 and 1982 “4” World Tour. The digital deluxe release will also contain alternate versions, instrumentals, and live performances from the era, including a previously unfinished track from the original F4 recording sessions that features the original band with a newly written and recorded verse by Lou Gramm. As the first single off of the project, “Fool If You Love Him” is available now digitally. Listen HERE.

Originally released July 2, 1981, 4 spent more weeks at #1 on the Billboard charts than any artist in the history of Atlantic Records, including AC/DC, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, and went on to sell more than ten million albums worldwide. 4 is certified 6x Platinum in the U.S. (RIAA), 4x Platinum in Canada (Music Canada), Platinum in Australia (ARIA) and Germany (BVMI), and Gold in 7 additional countries. It spawned three Billboard Hot 100 singles: “Waiting For A Girl Like You”, “Urgent”, and “Juke Box Hero.” “Foreigner 4”, as it’s often referred to, is the fourth studio album by the legendary British-American rock band released during a time of transition as they famously went from six members to four.

To coincide with the deluxe package release, FOREIGNER—Luis Maldonado (lead vocals/guitar), Jeff Pilson (bass), Michael Bluestein (keyboards), Bruce Watson (guitars), Chris Frazier (drums) will celebrate half a century of music with a new round of headlining tour dates which will include original lead singer Lou Gramm guesting on some of the songs he helped create almost forty five years ago. The upcoming “Foreigner 4 Deluxe” Tour signals yet another important transition for the band as these new dates will be the first major US shows featuring FOREIGNER’s Luis Maldonado on lead vocals. On the season finale of The Voice, it was announced that this year’s Summer tour would be the last for Kelly Hansen. You can view their showstopping live performance and Kelly’s heartfelt farewell message HERE. Tickets for the “Foreigner 4 Deluxe” Tour are available HERE.  

Of the transition, Luis Maldonado had this to say: “Earlier this year, we toured Mexico and South America with the incredible Lou Gramm. We all had such a fantastic time performing and being together, and it’s with that same excitement I look forward to working with Lou again. He was an integral part of the writing and recording of the Foreigner 4 album and his presence will add a historic dimension to our forthcoming tour.”

Released in 1977, FOREIGNER‘s debut album produced the hits “Feels Like The First Time,” “Cold As Ice” and “Long, Long Way From Home.” The albums Double Vision and Head Games followed with more hits including “Hot Blooded”, “Blue Morning, Blue Day” and “Dirty White Boy”. Then came “Urgent,” “Juke Box Hero” and “Waiting For A Girl Like You.” Those songs helped give FOREIGNER‘s next album, 4, its impressive 10-week run at #1 on the Billboard chart. At the zenith of ‘80s sound, FOREIGNER‘s fifth album, Agent Provacateur, gave the world the incredible #1 global hit,” I Want To Know What Love Is.” This musical milestone followed the record-breaking song “Waiting For A Girl Like You.” 

Check out the FOREIGNER 4 DELUXE show at any of the following tour stops:

December 3 Port Chester, NY – Capitol Theatre

December 4 Port Chester, NY – Capitol Theatre

December 6 Staten Island, NY – St. George Theatre

December 7 Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Theater

December 9 Wallingford, CT – Oakdale Theatre

December 11 Montclair, NJ – Wellmont Theater

December 12 Montclair, NJ – Wellmont Theater

December 13 Williamsport, PA – Community Arts Center

FOREIGNER 4 DELUXE

Track Listing

1LP STEREO REMIX

Side 1

  1. Night Life 
  2. Juke Box Hero 
  3. Break It Up 
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You 
  5. Luanne  

Side 2

  1. Urgent 
  2. I’m Gonna Win 
  3. Woman In Black  
  4. Girl On The Moon  
  5. Don’t Let Go  

5 DISC CD/BLU-RAY

DISC 1: “4” STEREO REMIX

  1. Night Life  
  2. Juke Box Hero  
  3. Break It Up  
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You  
  5. Luanne 
  6. Urgent 
  7. I’m Gonna Win  
  8. Woman In Black 
  9. Girl On The Moon  
  10. Don’t Let Go 

DISC 2:

UNRELEASED SONGS / ALTERNATIVE VERSIONS

  1. Fool If You Love Him  
  2. Love So Much Better  
  3. Knockout Power  
  4. Don’t Say No (Don’t Let Go early version)  
  5. Jealous Lover 

EARLY VERSIONS & ALTERNATIVE MIXES

  1. Night Life 
  2. Take One Guitar (Juke Box Hero early version)  
  3. Juke Box Hero 
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You (vocal & piano)  
  5. Waiting For A Girl Like You (early version) 
  6. Luanne (early version)  
  7. Urgent (vocals on chorus only) 
  8. I’m Gonna Win  
  9. I’m Gonna Win (early version) 
  10. Woman In Black (early version 1) 
  11. Woman In Black (early version 2) 
  12. Alone Again (Girl On The Moon early version) 
  13. Girl On The Moon (early version) 
  14. Don’t Let Go 

DISC 3: INSTRUMENTAL ROUGH MIXES

  1. Night Life  
  2. Juke Box Hero  
  3. Break It Up 
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You 
  5. Luanne 
  6. Urgent (bass version 1) 
  7. Urgent (bass version 2) 
  8. I’m Gonna Win (version 1) 
  9. I’m Gonna Win (version 2) 
  10. Woman In Black (with intro) 
  11. Woman In Black (version 2) 
  12. Girl On The Moon 
  13. Don’t Let Go  
  14. Fool If You Love Him  
  15. Love So Much Better  

DISC 4: “4” LIVE TOUR 1981-82

  1. Long, Long Way From Home (Live in Birmingham 1981)  
  2. Dirty White Boy (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  3. Blue Morning, Blue Day (Live in Anaheim 1982)  
  4. Luanne (Live in Anaheim 1982)
  5. Cold As Ice (Live in Germany 1981) 
  6. Waiting For A Girl Like You (Live in Germany 1981)
  7. Head Games (Live in Germany 1981) 
  8. Starrider (with Prelude) (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  9. Woman In Black (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  10. Urgent (Live in Birmingham 1981) 
  11. Double Vision (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  12. Juke Box Hero (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  13. Feels Like The First Time (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  14. Hot Blooded (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  15. Night Life (Live in Anaheim 1982)

DISC 5: BLU-RAY 

FOREIGNER “4” ATMOS

  1. Night Life 
  2. Juke Box Hero 
  3. Break It Up 
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You
  5. Luanne 
  6. Urgent  
  7. I’m Gonna Win  
  8. Woman In Black 
  9. Girl On The Moon 
  10. Don’t Let Go  

FOREIGNER “4” STEREO REMIX

  1. Night Life  
  2. Juke Box Hero  
  3. Break It Up  
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You  
  5. Luanne  
  6. Urgent  
  7. I’m Gonna Win 
  8. Woman In Black  
  9. Girl On The Moon  
  10. Don’t Let Go 
  11. Fool If You Love Him BONUS STEREO TRACK

DIGITAL DELUXE ALBUM

STEREO REMIX

  1. Night Life (Stereo Remix)  
  2. Juke Box Hero (Stereo Remix) 
  3. Break It Up (Stereo Remix)  
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You (Stereo Remix) 
  5. Luanne (Stereo Remix) 
  6. Urgent (Stereo Remix) 
  7. I’m Gonna Win (Stereo Remix) 
  8. Woman In Black (Stereo Remix) 
  9. Girl On The Moon (Stereo Remix) 
  10. Don’t Let Go (Stereo Remix) 
  11. Fool If You Love Him 
  12. Love So Much Better 
  13. Knockout Power 
  14. Don’t Say No (Don’t Let Go early version) 
  15. Jealous Lover 
  16. Night Life 
  17. Take One Guitar (Juke Box Hero early version) 
  18. Juke Box Hero 
  19. Waiting For A Girl Like You (vocal & piano) 
  20. Waiting For A Girl Like You (early version) 
  21. Luanne (early version) 
  22. Urgent (vocals on chorus only) 
  23. I’m Gonna Win
  24. I’m Gonna Win (early version) 
  25. Woman In Black (early version 1) 
  26. Woman In Black (early version 2) 
  27. Alone Again (Girl On The Moon early version) 
  28. Girl On The Moon (early version) 
  29. Don’t Let Go 
  30. Night Life (Instrumental) 
  31. Juke Box Hero (Instrumental) 
  32. Break It Up (Instrumental) 
  33. Waiting For A Girl Like You (Instrumental) 
  34. Luanne (Instrumental) 
  35. Urgent (bass version 1) 
  36. Urgent (bass version 2) 
  37. I’m Gonna Win (version 1) 
  38. I’m Gonna Win (version 2) 
  39. Woman In Black (with intro) 
  40. Woman In Black (version 2) 
  41. Girl On The Moon (Instrumental) 
  42. Don’t Let Go (Instrumental) 
  43. Fool If You Love Him (Instrumental) 
  44. Love So Much Better (Instrumental) 
  45. Long, Long Way From Home (Live in Birmingham 1981) 
  46. Dirty White Boy (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  47. Blue Morning, Blue Day (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  48. Luanne (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  49. Cold As Ice (Live in Germany 1981) 
  50. Waiting For A Girl Like You (Live in Germany 1981) 
  51. Head Games (Live in Germany 1981) 
  52. Starrider (with Prelude) (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  53. Woman In Black (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  54. Urgent (Live in Birmingham 1981) 
  55. Double Vision (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  56. Juke Box Hero (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  57. Feels Like The First Time (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  58. Hot Blooded (Live in Anaheim 1982) 
  59. Night Life (Live in Anaheim 1982) 

ATMOS ALBUM (Digital Only)

  1. Night Life
  2. Juke Box Hero
  3. Break It Up 
  4. Waiting For A Girl Like You 
  5. Luanne 
  6. Urgent 
  7. I’m Gonna Win 
  8. Woman In Black 
  9. Girl On The Moon 
  10. Don’t Let Go 

thiarajxtt and Bir Blend Afrobeat and Punjabi Soul on New Single “Jogi”

Eric Alper
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thiarajxtt and Bir Blend Afrobeat and Punjabi Soul on New Single “Jogi”

 thiarajxtt – one of the most in-demand Punjabi artists and super-producers – releases his new single ”Jogi” featuring Bir today.

The new release blends Afrobeat with R&B and marks thiarajxtt’s latest collaboration with Bir. The two artists have worked together frequently over the years, including on the hit track “Afterhours,” which has amassed hundreds of millions of streams across platforms.

“Jogi” is a Punjabi ballad, wherein Bir is deeply captivated by his beloved’s beauty and divine aura. He frames his emotions as all-consuming and destined, making references to the tragic love story Heer Ranjha. His partner’s charm is so intense that Bir sings it could drive him to become a jogi – a wandering ascetic – leaving the material world behind.

About the new single, thiarajxtt says, “’Jogi’ is special – it’s a romantic, soulful vibe. It’s one of those essentials for my listeners who’ve been riding with me for the Punjabi-Afrobeat sound. I wanted to give my fans something smooth and meaningful for the summer. This one just feels right.”

“Jogi” is thiarajxtt’s second official release of 2025, following his Coke Studio India collaboration “Punjab Vekh Ke” with Gulab Sidhu, Jassa Dhillon, and Raaginder, which has surpassed 21 million views on YouTube alone. Given thiara’s proven track record with Bir, the summer smash is sure to make waves across the globe.

ast year, thiarajxtt began his new chapter with Universal Music Canada, releasing his debut EP If The Sun Had A Dark Side, featuring tracks with his twin brother Irman, close collaborator Indrr Bajwa, and others. Previously, the super-producer made his mark on the industry via his contributions to Diljit Dosanjh’s album Ghost, of which he produced 17 songs. Ghost peaked at #3 on the Top Albums Debut Global Spotify chart, and at #5 on Billboard’s Top 100 Albums chart in Canada.A global hitmaker with over 575 million streams to his name, thiarajxtt is revolutionizing the Punjabi music industry one song at a time, sharing the stage with legendary and emerging artists alike. He is twice Gold-certified for “Kinni Kinni” with Diljit Dosanjh and “SPAIN” with Jassa Dhillon, and has co-produced chart-topping hits for Shubh, Jerry, Channi Nattan, and more. He is poised to continue his takeover all throughout 2025.
Photo credit: Irman Thiara


Propaganda Return with Star-Studded Remix Album ‘Remix Encounters’ Featuring Moby, Tangerine Dream, and More

Eric Alper
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Propaganda Return with Star-Studded Remix Album ‘Remix Encounters’ Featuring Moby, Tangerine Dream, and More

Legendary art-synth auteurs Propaganda return with Remix Encounters, for release on Bureau B on September 19th. Remix Encounters is a thrilling reimagining of the band’s latest work, reflecting enthusiasm for their return after three decades of silence. Featuring contributions from Moby, Tangerine Dream, Rhys Fulber, Schiller and others, the album is a celebration of Propaganda’s enduring influence and the vibrant, evolving electronic landscape they helped shape.

Since breaking new ground with their seminal 1985 debut A Secret Wish and its pioneering remix companion Wishful Thinking, Propaganda have thrived on transformation. Yet rather than revisiting the past, Remix Encounters looks forward, building on the vitality of last year’s album and celebrating its widespread critical and fan acclaim.

What began as a remix request from Finnish electronic maestro Jori Hulkkonen, returning the favour after Ralf Dörper’s contribution to his last album, quickly blossomed into an international collaboration, drawing in luminaries such as Moby, Tangerine Dream, Rhys Fulber (Front Line Assembly, Delerium), and Schiller.

A thrilling journey through electronic subgenres
​Embracing openness, Propaganda spent the fourth quarter of 2024 encouraging the wide range of musicians inspired by their triumphant return to offer their own interpretations. Each brought their distinctive voice to the material, resulting in a thrilling journey through electronic subgenres, from EBM and industrial to rave, ambient, house, and beyond.

Rhys Fulber opens the album with a brooding, machine-funk reinvention of “They Call Me Nocebo,” evolving from a sleek, sinuous introduction into a relentless pneumatic stomp. Next, Schiller offers a powerful remix of “Distant” that balances raw electro-house and techno energy with the emotional depth of EBM, before Moby transforms “Purveyor of Pleasure” into a furious early-’90s rave anthem, fusing breakbeats and rolling basslines that pulse with nostalgic urgency yet feel unmistakably modern

Elsewhere, Finnish polymath Jimi Tenor infuses “Vicious Circle” with cosmic jazz and dub textures, while Pyrolator, a key figure in Düsseldorf’s avant-garde scene, delivers a shadowy reinterpretation of “LoveCraft.”

Cult With No Name also contribute a brooding electro-ballad version of the same track. Propaganda’s own Michael Mertens teams up with longtime collaborator Hans Steingen to re-envision “Dystopian Waltz,” shifting its time signature to a gripping 4/4 and intensifying its ominous mood for darker dance floors. The range of remixers speaks volumes: from industrial punks Gewalt and synth purists Metroland to ambient pioneers Tangerine Dream, Remix Encounters unites an eclectic group of electronic artists bound by a shared reverence for innovation and Propaganda’s distinctive voice.

Recorded and remixed across creative hubs from Düsseldorf to Los Angeles, Helsinki to Paris, Remix Encounters is far more than a companion piece. It is a celebration of Propaganda’s enduring influence and the vibrant, evolving electronic landscape they helped shape. Each artist engaged deeply with the band’s richly textured and cinematic sound world, reinterpreting it with enthusiasm and respect, producing a collection as diverse as it is cohesive.

2-LP Tracklist

A1 – Purveyor Of Pleasure (Moby Remix)

A2 – Distant (Schiller Remix)

A3 – Dystopian (Steingen & Mertens Remix)

B1 – They Call Me Nocebo (Rhys Fulber Remix)

B2 – They Call Me Nocebo (Metroland Remix)

B3 – They Call Me Nocebo (Tangerine Dream Remix)

C1 – Tipping Point (Jori Hulkkonnen Remix)

C2 – Love:Craft (Cult With No Name Remix)

C3 – Vicious Circle (Jimi Tenor Remix)

D1 – Distant (Gewalt Remix)

D2 – Love:Craft (Pyrolator Remix)

D3 – Vicious Circle (Thunder Bae Remix)

CD Tracklist

01 – They Call Me Nocebo (Rhys Fulber Remix)

02 – Distant (Schiller Remix)

03 – Purveyor Of Pleasure (Moby Remix)

04 – Tipping Point (Jori Hulkkonnen Remix)

05 – Love:Craft (Pyrolator Remix)

06 – Vicious Circle (Jimi Tenor Remix)

07 – They Call Me Nocebo (Tangerine Dream Remix)

08 – Distant (Gewalt Remix)

09 – Dystopian (Steingen & Mertens Remix)

10 – Love:Craft (Cult With No Name Remix)

11 – They Call Me Nocebo (Metroland Remix)

​Bureau B is platform for exciting varieties of electronic, free-spirited music. The spectrum ranges from pop to avant-garde, and the label has amassed an impressive catalogue of reissues and new productions in recent years, including classics from the genre of electronic music in the 1970s and early 1980s popularly classified as Krautrock (Cluster, Roedelius, Moebius, Plank, Schnitzler), alongside new recordings by such formative artists as Faust, Kreidler, Roedelius, Tietchens, Moebius, to name just a few. Bureau B is based in Hamburg, Germany.

Prince’s 21-Minute “America” Remix Arrives Digitally for the First Time

Eric Alper
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Prince’s 21-Minute “America” Remix Arrives Digitally for the First Time

NPG Records and Paisley Park Enterprises, in partnership with Warner Records and Legacy Recordings, are pleased to announce the first-ever digital release of the newly remastered extended version of “America” taken from Prince And The Revolution’s groundbreaking Billboard #1 album Around The World In A Day, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

Originally released in October 1985, “America”, which Prince described as “straightforwardly patriotic”, was the fourth and final single to be taken from Around The World In A Day, released five months earlier. The 12” version of the track weighs in at 21 minutes 41 seconds and has been newly remastered in stereo by Bernie Grundman for its first-ever streaming release. The single and album versions of the song were edited down from this epic performance, which was only cut short as the tape ran out.

“America” has also been meticulously mixed in a new Dolby Atmos presentation from the original multi-track master tapes by Prince’s protege and Best Engineered Grammy nominee Chris James. 

“America” was recorded in the Summer of 1984, before the Purple Rain Tour, and made its live debut in February 1985 at The Forum in Los Angeles as the final song of the night. The song would regularly return to Prince’s shows throughout the 1990s and the 2000s.

In addition, at Paisley Park (Prince Museum), there will be a special spotlight exhibit that highlights the single “America” from Prince’s Around The World In A Day album. This Paisley Park spotlight exhibit will be on display from July 4th until July 10th.

Bold, iconic, and unmistakably Prince. In conjunction with the music release, the Prince team also offers new merchandise with The America Tee featuring artwork inspired by the original single from Around the World In A Day. Order yours exclusively at the Official Prince Store.

Prince was an iconic American musician, singer, songwriter, bandleader, performer, multi-instrumentalist, record producer, actor, and a pioneer in artists’ rights and freedoms. Born Prince Rogers Nelson in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he released his debut LP, For You, in 1978 and went on to become one of the most successful recording artists of all time, eventually selling more than 150 million albums.  

Over his 40-year career, his work received unprecedented critical praise as well as official recognition of his achievements including seven Grammy Awards, seven Brit Awards, six American Music Awards, four MTV Video Music Awards, NAACP Awards, a Grammy President’s Merit Award, a Billboard Icon Award, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award (for Best Original Song Score for the film Purple Rain). His albums, 1999 (1982), Purple Rain (1984), and Sign O’ The Times (1987) frequently appear in rankings of the greatest albums of all time. He was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the U.K. Music Hall of Fame, the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, and more.

Prince was a leader in philanthropy, giving privately and without fanfare to countless charities and causes that he championed, and a trailblazer in music, fashion, art, and practically all forms of entertainment. Prince is considered by many to be the greatest artist of all time.

Paul Weller and Robert Plant Unite on Haunting Folk-Blues Gem “Clive’s Song”

Eric Alper
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Paul Weller and Robert Plant Unite on Haunting Folk-Blues Gem “Clive’s Song”

Paul Weller releases a fourth track from his hotly anticipated new album Find El Dorado. Featuring none other than Robert Plant, “Clive’s Song” reflects Paul’s escalating fascination with the vanguard of folk and blues artists who emerged in Britain and Ireland in the 1960s and early 1970s. Clive Palmer – founding member of Incredible String Band – wrote “Clive’s Song” for Hamish Imlach, who recorded it on his 1971 album Old Rarity.

Though the song remains relatively undiscovered, avowed folk and blues aficionado Robert Plant didn’t need persuading when Paul invited him to Black Barn Studio for the resulting session. For fellow West Midlander, Steve Cradock, it all amounted to an indisputable highlight.

Plant is a walking treasury of tales that stretch way back before Led Zeppelin. He regaled everyone present with tales of going to see Son House and Sonny Terry & Brownie McGhee when the American Folk Blues Festival reached Birmingham Town Hall in 1967. And then when the music started, he and Paul swapped between harmonies and lead vocals, pausing only for Robert to grab one of many harmonicas he had brought with him and unleash a solo that billows through the song like a gust front through a wheat field.

“Clive’s Song” follows the release of “I Started A Joke” and “Lawdy Rolla”/ “Pinball,” available now on limited edition 7″ vinyl. Click HERE to order.

Find El Dorado is a bold and personal collection of reinterpretations that shine new light on some of the songs that have shaped Paul Weller. It isn’t just a covers album – it’s a tribute to the music that’s guided Weller through his life and career. Revisiting songs that have long lived in the corners of his memory, he infuses each one with fresh meaning, reverence, and emotional insight.

Step Inside the Magic: Bobby Carter Gives a Behind-the-Scenes Tour of NPR’s Tiny Desk

Eric Alper
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Step Inside the Magic: Bobby Carter Gives a Behind-the-Scenes Tour of NPR’s Tiny Desk

It started with a desk, a dream, and a mic. Now Bobby Carter invites us into the cozy chaos of NPR’s Tiny Desk—a space where legends are made, coffee mugs are sacred, and sound fills every inch.









Puddles Pity Party Gives Blondie’s “Dreaming” a Melancholy Makeover

Eric Alper
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Puddles Pity Party Gives Blondie’s “Dreaming” a Melancholy Makeover

Only Puddles Pity Party could take Blondie’s shimmering “Dreaming” and turn it into a sad, sweet summer lullaby. With cardboard guitar in hand and velvet voice on full display, he makes heartbreak sound like a breeze.












JT Turns Up the Heat with “Ran Out (KAYTRANADA Remix)” After NYC Pride Debut

Eric Alper
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JT Turns Up the Heat with “Ran Out (KAYTRANADA Remix)” After NYC Pride Debut

Doubling down on the song of the summer, JT levels up with the “Ran Out (KAYTRANADA Remix),” bringing her bold and fiery energy to the producer’s trademark exciting, inventive beats for a statement summer anthem.

Fans will be thrilled by the remix’s release after JT teased the track during her celebrated headlining set at NYC Pride at The Rooftop at Pier 17. After opening with “Ran Out,” JT delivered a scorching set that included a lively rendition of “Alter Ego,” her hit collaboration with Doechii, and even brought her niece to the stage in an adorable family moment. The performance drew wide acclaim, with many observers praising JT’s commanding stage presence, proving her dynamism both in the booth and on the stage

Listen to “Ran Out (KAYTRANADA Remix)” HERE.

After a breakout year with her 2024 mixtape City Cinderella and its sold-out tour, “Ran Out” kickstarted JT’s next chapter with its music video, directed by INDIANA420BITCH, in which JT and her girls look to wreak havoc with their confident, flashy swagger that’s a guaranteed soundtrack for anyone looking to run the summer. For her upcoming era, JT will further embrace her hometown’s signature sound. Expect fast-paced flow, bass-heavy production, electronic influences and sharp, no-filter lyricism as JT combines her personal story and the legendary Miami sound for a fresh, fearless chapter in her artistic evolution.

Recently featured as a cover star for the relaunch of I-Ds Unknown Issue, JT owns her latest iteration of self and looks to continue to evolve. “I’m always going to be an It girl. I’ve been one before I was a rapper—all five mugshots,” she says in her newest interview. JT also continues to thrive in the fashion world, where she attended a private party thrown by icon fashion designer Rick Owens and his partner, Michele Lamy.

JT’s unrelenting work ethic has paid off this year, as many publications lauded the Miami superstar for her project City Cinderella. Essence glorified the project in their review, saying: “The City Cinderella soundscape is contemporary and nostalgic, blending classic Miami influences with modern forces,” while Billboard noted City Cinderella is an impressive manifesto for the next stage of JT’s career.  Chart-wise, City Cinderella enjoyed a splashy debut, entering at No. 3 on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums and debuting at No. 5 on the Top R&B /Hip-Hop Albums chart.

J.I.D Drops Star-Studded ‘GDLU (Preluxe)’ Mixtape Featuring Eminem, Lil Yachty, and 6lack

Eric Alper
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J.I.D Drops Star-Studded ‘GDLU (Preluxe)’ Mixtape Featuring Eminem, Lil Yachty, and 6lack

Platinum selling rapper and GRAMMY nominated artist, J.I.D has released a four track mixtape titled GDLU (Preluxe). Featuring multi-Grammy winning artist Eminem as well as fellow Atlanta superstars Lil Yachty and 6lack, the Preluxe primes the stage for J.I.D to continue his streak as one of rap’s most versatile pens. Listen to GDLU Preluxe HERE.

Tracklist:
1. “Behold”
2. “Knew Better” (with Lil Yachty)
3. “Lisa” (with 6lack)
4. “Animals” (Pt. 1) with Eminem


GDLU Preluxe was also released following the drop of his most recent freestyle “32” (listen here) earlier this week. The stacked body of work is meant to serve as a taste of what fans and critics can expect from the lyrical mastermind on upcoming fifth studio album, God Does Like Ugly (out August 8th). The album is available for pre-order/save now and will be available on vinyl, which fans can also pre-order now.

PRE-SAVE ALBUM HERE | PRE-ORDER PHYSICAL VINYL HERE

The new releases also come on the back of his stellar contribution to Offset’s new single, “Bodies,” track which debuted on Billboard Top 100 charts at #72. His verse was even selected by Complex as one of the year’s best rap verses of the year — maintaining his consistency as one of music’s favourite (and chart setting) features.

Born and raised in East Atlanta, Grammy nominated J.I.D grew up on his parents’ collection of classic Born and raised in East Atlanta, Grammy nominated J.I.D grew up on his parents’ collection of classic funk/soul LPs, and broke onto the scene with his 2015 EP, DiCaprio. The EP saw him collaborating with hip-hop duo EARTHGANG, whom he’d previously joined on a 2014 tour. Spotted here by J. Cole, J.I.D was promptly signed to Dreamville/Interscope Records. Soon after the signing, J.I.D made his major-label debut with the widely celebrated The Never Story (2017) which was quickly followed by the critically acclaimed album DiCaprio 2 (2018). The sophomore project received major looks from press and tastemakers like Rolling Stone, Billboard, FADER, NPR and helped induct the rapper to the year’s XXL’s Freshmen class. In 2019, J.I.D continued his momentumas rap’s most exciting additions with stellar contributions on Dreamville’s Platinum certified compilation Revenge of the Dreamers III which went on to debut #1 on the Billboard Top 200 charts and received multiple GRAMMY nominations including “Best Rap Album” and “Best Rap Performance.” J.I.D began working on his follow up eort The Forever Story (2022) during this time all while selling out venues and festival stages across the world and lending his rap stylings to peer projects including the Grammy nominated Planet HER by Doja Cat as well as Dua Lipa, Denzel Curry and more recently John Legend and Joey Badass. The Forever Story debuted at #12 on the Billboard Hot 200 has been critically acclaimed as a “classic” (Clash) and one of the year’s “best rap albums” (GQ, The Ringer). Almost a year after its release, a cut from the record — the infectious track “Surround Sound” — soar to viral acclaim with its own TikTok challenge and ended the year in the #1 position across Billboard Viral 50, TikTok Viral and TikTok 50. The song featuring Atlanta natives 21 Savage and Baby Tate re-entered the Billboard Hot 100 charts and is certified 3x Platinum. A highly anticipated live performer, J.I.D has sold out venues across the globe and played some of the biggest festival stages including Coachella, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, Splendour in The Grass and more. J.I.D’s nimble, head-nodding lyricism and lightning fast flow has awarded him a loyal and cult-like fanbase and his dedication to perfecting the art is sportsman-like, leaving room for him to be one of rap’s greatest in the making.

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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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