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ZupaNova and Young Retro Team Up for “Holiday” Theme Song to New Film ‘A Heart Full of Hope’

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“Holiday” by ZupaNova featuring Young Retro is the theme song for the upcoming film A Heart Full of Hope, scheduled for release in November 2025. The track was produced by Davy Brown and written collaboratively by Roycel Cooks, Davy Brown, Young Retro, and Iakopo.

A Heart Full of Hope is a heartwarming holiday film produced by Nicole Mendez of the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation and co-produced by Suzanne DeLaurentiis.

Both the song’s lyrics and the feature film aim to raise awareness about kidney disease, transplantation, and living donation within African American, Latino, and Native American communities.

“It was a privilege to collaborate with such a gifted ensemble of musical artists, whose contributions not only provided exceptional entertainment for audiences, but also effectively elevated awareness for this important cause,” says Nicole Mendez.

MNITF will hold its annual star-studded holiday gala fundraiser on November 2nd in Beverly Hills, California.

For more information about the Mendez National Institute of Transplantation Foundation go to: http://mnitf.org

Roycel Cooks, known professionally as Rawcel, is a Los Angeles-based artist, songwriter, producer, actor, and President of ZupaLove International 501(c)(3). As co-founder of the international duo ZupaNova, He has built a dynamic career in music, performance, and mentorship. A longtime collaborator with the Black Eyed Peas—where he contributed as a producer, songwriter, and touring member—Rawcel also introduced Fergie to the group. His credits span work with industry icons like Ray J, Randy Jackson, Macy Gray, David Foster, and Sevyn Streeter. ZupaNova gained international acclaim with tours across the U.S., Asia, and two Mediabase Top 40 hits: “Pop Pop” and “ZupaHot.” His contributions to music and community outreach have earned honors from the State of California Senate, NAACP, and more. He now expands into acting with a lead role in the upcoming film A Heart Full of Hope (2025), alongside ZupaNova’s new single “Holiday,” releasing this Independence Day on Tazmania Records.

Davy Brown is a Southern California native and multi-genre producer, recording artist, multi-instrumentalist, and audio engineer whose boundary-pushing sound has earned him acclaim across the music industry. Raised in a musically gifted family, Davy was inspired early on by his father, a Latin jazz vocalist, and his older brother, a multi-instrumentalist and DJ. By mastering piano, drums, bass, guitar, and various wind and brass instruments, Davy developed a unique ability to blend genres—ranging from hip-hop to EDM, pop, and jazz. His production skills and musical versatility led to collaborations with top talent, eventually forming the dynamic duo ZupaNova alongside Rawcel. Together, they crafted a genre-bending sound that earned two back-to-back Top 40 hits in the U.S. and a Top 10 single in South America. Their innovative music has taken them on multiple world tours, winning fans across continents. Davy continues to lead with creative vision and technical mastery, cementing his reputation as a genre-blending trailblazer in today’s global music scene.

“Holiday” Produced by Davy Brown Written by Roycel Cooks, Davy Brown, Young Retro, and Iakopo.

J Star Uses Music as a Tool for Healing Empathy and Social Change

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In an age where musical trends frequently reflect the chaos of modern life, one independent artist is charting a different path. Performing under the name J. Star, Jeff Williams is using his voice and platform to create songs with intention, offering emotionally grounded, socially conscious music that addresses core human struggles and calls for unity across divides.

His catalog, rooted in a fusion of R&B and pop, avoids sensational themes common in commercial radio. Instead, J. Star’s work tackles systemic and personal trauma, aiming to reach listeners through empathy, honesty, and artistic authenticity. His mission: to provide a musical alternative focused on healing rather than harm.

J. Star’s tracks are steeped in the belief that music can be a tool for transformation. Rather than chase trends, he crafts lyrics that confront difficult but necessary conversations: the pain of domestic abuse, the ongoing struggle against racism, and the corrosive effects of hatred. These topics are treated not as slogans but as lived realities, voiced with compassion and care.

One of the central motifs in his work is the concept of emotional restoration. His lyrics seek to remind listeners that peace is still possible, even in a world defined by division. For him, music is more than sound; it’s a means to provoke thought, inspire hope, and affirm the dignity of those whose stories are often ignored.

“I want people to listen to my music and feel seen,” said J. Star. “There are so many hurting people. If my music can help even one of them believe in something better, then I’m doing my part.”

The artist’s stage name, J. Star, is no accident. It stands for “Stand Tall Against Racism,” a principle that defines much of his creative identity. Rather than isolate specific acts of injustice, his music tackles structural inequity from a human-centered perspective. He views prejudice and discrimination as not only societal failures but personal wounds, and addresses them in a way that invites healing, not retaliation.

This thematic commitment is evident across his discography. In tracks that echo the cadence of R&B legends but carry the clarity of present-day activism, J. Star blends melody with message. His songs speak not just to pain but to possibility, suggesting that empathy, resilience, and shared experience can transcend conflict.

Operating outside the constraints of major labels, J. Star retains full creative control over his work. This independence allows him to remain true to his message without the pressure to conform to prevailing trends. His production is self-directed, and he handles distribution via digital platforms, using tools like YouTube, Instagram, and ArtistPR to maintain direct contact with his audience.

This approach reflects a broader movement in music: a growing number of artists are bypassing traditional gatekeepers to tell more honest, grounded stories. Independent creators like J. Star are leveraging technology to amplify perspectives that are often underrepresented in mainstream entertainment.

Industry analysts note that this shift toward authenticity is particularly resonant among younger listeners. In an era dominated by algorithmic content and curated personas, audiences are increasingly drawn to raw, intentional art. J. Star’s music, which rejects performative outrage in favor of genuine compassion, offers a much-needed alternative.

J. Star views his role as more than that of an entertainer. He believes in music’s unique power to reach across borders and ideologies. To him, melody and rhythm are tools that can bypass social filters and speak to the core of human experience.

“Music is the one thing almost everyone connects with, no matter where they live or what they’ve been through,” he said. “It’s something the world shares in common.”

That belief underpins his global perspective. Although currently residing in Pittsburgh, he prefers to be identified with Houston, Texas, his birthplace and cultural foundation. More than geographic affiliation, this choice signals his desire to operate on a national and international stage, rather than be boxed into a local identity.

Mainstream music often relies on formulaic hooks and provocative content to drive visibility. While this model has proven commercially effective, it leaves little room for artists interested in more nuanced, introspective storytelling. J. Star is part of a growing class of musicians who see this not as a limitation, but as an opportunity to fill a void.

He is not alone in this belief. Scholars of music and culture have long argued that artistic output reflects broader social currents. In times of unrest, meaningful music can provide comfort, clarity, or even quiet resistance. Whether during the Civil Rights movement or more recent social justice movements, artists have historically played pivotal roles in shaping public sentiment.

J. Star’s approach, centering music on dignity, peace, and mutual care, falls within this lineage. It’s a form of advocacy through art, where the medium doesn’t just entertain but invites action.

J. Star’s growing following reflects a hunger for content that acknowledges hardship without exploiting it. His audiences include listeners facing personal trials, survivors of abuse, individuals battling prejudice, and those seeking emotional clarity in a time of cultural overload.

Social media has played a key role in connecting J. Star to this base. His platforms, including Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, serve as digital gathering spaces where fans can engage with his message and each other.

His videos and lyrics often generate discussion, not just about music, but about the conditions that inspired it. This dynamic makes his content feel less like a product and more like a conversation, one built around mutual respect and shared aspirations.

While many artists chase visibility, J. Star remains focused on evolution, both personal and societal. He considers his music a living project, constantly responding to new insights, events, and emotional truths. This adaptability is central to his authenticity and reflects a genuine commitment to growth.

“I’m not trying to be perfect,” he said. “I’m just trying to be real and help others do the same.”

This philosophy informs not only his creative decisions but also his approach to outreach. Whether through community events, digital Q&As, or live performances, he prioritizes genuine engagement over curated personas. His audience, in turn, supports him not because of hype but because of honesty.

In the coming months, J. Star plans to release additional tracks that continue to explore themes of renewal, empathy, and resilience. While he has no interest in chasing chart placement or awards, he hopes to expand his reach, connecting with new listeners who are ready for music that affirms rather than divides.

He remains open to collaboration but is selective, choosing partners who align with his values. For now, he is focused on refining his sound, expanding his message, and remaining a steady voice in a shifting industry.

Those interested in learning more about his work can explore his official ArtistPR profile, where tracks and project updates are regularly posted. His presence across social platforms continues to grow, signaling a movement that’s less about virality and more about values.

In a world increasingly shaped by division and noise, artists like J. Star remind us that music still holds the potential to do more. His work is a call to reflection and an invitation to see one another with compassion. It is a quiet resistance against the trends that dominate our cultural discourse, and a testament to the enduring power of conscious creativity.

Catch The Young Drops “Ideal Type” Single Ahead of Album and Summer Festival Tour

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Korean rock band Catch The Young has released a new digital single, “이상형 (Ideal Type),” to cool down the summer heat with its refreshing, youthful sound. Following the band’s first instrumental single, “The Young Wave,” which was released on April 29th, “이상형 (Ideal Type)” is their second release of 2025. The band’s newest single describes an awkward yet honest feeling that a youth can have when taking one step closer to confessing love.

“We’re currently putting extra care into preparing our album for release later this year. To keep our promise with fans, we’re doing our best to create a more complete and well-crafted album. The process is taking longer than we expected, but we hope that this new single can help ease the wait, even just a little.” – Sani, Bassist and Leader of Catch The Young

On Catch The Young’s social media ahead of the official release, they shared a teaser from the music video that was released today, showing the five members traveling and playing instruments together. With visual elements like bright sunshine, a grassy field, and a lighthouse in front of the ocean, the video for “이상형 (Ideal Type)” captures the pure moments of youth with its cinematic scenes, along with the track’s honest and direct message of confession. With this latest single, Catch The Young shares their steadily built presence of being a group that creates and writes music about the magic of youth and dreams.

“Catch The Young’s summer anthem for 2025 embraces the synth-rock genre. While their previous release, the 6-minute-and-18-second instrumental track “The Young Wave,” leaned heavily into progressive rock and served as an experimental showcase, their new single, “이상형 (Ideal Type),” is another bold exploration fueled by confidence and artistic pride. Their latest mission? A pop alchemy experiment in pursuit of the golden combination of pop and rock.” – Lim Heeyun, Music Critic and Author

Besides the release of the new single, Catch The Young will also be proving their continuously growing musicality and artistry by once again performing at the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival and the 2025 Jeonju Ultimate Music Festival for the second year in a row. And for the first time, they will also be performing at the 2025 Sound Planet Festival. By exploring a wider variety of genres and styles while performing for diverse audiences, Catch The Young is determined to showcase their emotional lyricism and musical maturity once again with the latest digital single.

Catch The Young is a South Korean alternative pop-rock boy band under Evermore Entertainment that debuted on November 1st, 2023, with their first mini album, Catch The Young : Fragments of Youth. The group comprises five members: Sani, Kihoon, Namhyun, Junyong, and Jungmo. The band calls its music genre ‘Youth Pop-Rock,’ encapsulating the core topic of youth and the band’s strength in harmony, multi-vocal, and performance skills. In less than a year since their debut, they performed at the biggest music festivals in Korea, including the Incheon Pentaport Rock Festival and Jeonju Ultimate Music Festival in 2024, which they’ll perform for the second time in a row in 2025. As the next generation K-Rock band, they plan to take on new challenges and expand their activities globally in 2025 by releasing a full-length album, promoting in Japan, and touring in the Americas and Europe.

LaTocha to Headline Fibroid Fighters Your Health in Full Bloom Event in Times Square

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Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and author LaTocha, renowned as a member of the multi-platinum R&B quartet Xscape, will bring her powerhouse vocals to the stage as a featured musical guest at Fibroid Fighters’ “Your Health in Full Bloom” awareness event and concert reception. The star-studded evening— billed as NYC’s hottest night— will take place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in Times Square, with doors opening at 5:00 p.m. EST.

The evening will begin with an expert health panel, followed by a VIP banquet dinner and a high-energy concert. LaTocha’s performance is eagerly anticipated, as she joins a legacy of dynamic artists, like past headliners Lil’ Mo and Sevyn Streeter, who have supported this cause, dedicated to raising awareness about fibroid disease and promoting health and wellness in the community.

“We are thrilled to welcome LaTocha to the ‘Your Health in Full Bloom’ stage,” said Cynthia Bailey, RHOA actress who is cohosting the event for Fibroid Fighters with celebrity makeup artist Kym Lee. “Her musical legacy, coupled with her passion for health and dedication to inspiring others, makes her a perfect voice for our evening. Her presence, joined by other notables including Toya Johnson, MTV’s Challenge star Cara Maria Sorbello, will help us ignite a health movement.”

LaTocha rose to fame in 1993 with the iconic R&B group Xscape. As a pivotal member, she contributed to a string of six consecutive top-10 hits, including classics like “Just Kickin’ It,” “Understanding,” and “Who Can I Run To?,” and helped the group achieve three consecutive platinum albums. Known for her soulful, gospel-rooted voice, LaTocha has recently captivated audiences once again with her new solo single, “Love Changes.”

Beyond her musical accolades, LaTocha is a staunch advocate for health and wellness, making her participation in the Fibroid Fighters’ event deeply personal. After facing years of commentary about her body in the media and witnessing her father’s battle with diabetes, she embarked on a transformative health journey. Adopting a plant-based lifestyle inspired her to launch the wellness brand “Made Girl”, create a fitness athleisure line, and publish her first cookbook. Her work is dedicated to empowering others to take control of their health.

“I’m at a place where I can help somebody else, and I don’t want to dim the light— I want the light to shine,” LaTocha has stated. “When you go through things, it’s not just for you. You have to be there for someone else.”

The evening promises to be a show-stopping experience, where wellness meets fabulous, combining vital health education with world-class entertainment to inspire and empower all attendees.

Secure your tickets and find more information about the “Your Health in Full Bloom” event. Please visit Eventbrite here. For more information about Fibroid Fighters, visit their website at https://www.fibroidfighters.org/.

Living Legends Foundation Honors Jimmy Jam Terry Lewis and James L Winston at 2025 Gala in Atlanta

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The Living Legends Foundation, Inc. (LLF) is proud to announce that music icons Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and media advocate James L. Winston will receive top honors at the 2025 Annual Awards Dinner and Gala. This year’s event will mark a new chapter in the Foundation’s legacy as it heads to Atlanta, Georgia, for the first time, taking place Friday, October 3, 2025, at Flourish by Legendary.

“Receiving the Ray Harris Lifetime Achievement Award is truly a beautiful full-circle moment for us,” stated Music icons, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. “Ray saw potential in young artists like us over 40 years ago as members of The Time at Warner Bros Records. When we were fired from The Time, our first Jam and Lewis productions were for Ray who had moved to SOLAR Records. So, being honored with an award named after someone who championed us in our early career feels incredibly special. It’s also particularly meaningful to be recognized in the same lineage as our friend and mentor, ‘The Black Godfather’ Clarence Avant, who also received a Living Legends Foundation Award. Clarence taught us the concept of using our power to break barriers and nurture Black talent in our industry. Finally, it’s also appropriately full circle being honored in Atlanta where a snowstorm changed our lives forever.”

In keeping with the Foundation’s mission to uplift and recognize trailblazers whose work has left an indelible mark on the industry, this year’s award recipients represent the very best of leadership, vision, and enduring influence in Black music, broadcasting, and media.

Ray Harris Lifetime Achievement Award: Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Legendary Producers & Songwriters, Flyte Tyme Productions

From redefining the sound of contemporary R&B to collaborating with a who’s who of global superstars, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis are widely considered one of the most influential and successful producing duos in music history. The multi GRAMMY® Award-winners and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees have collaborated with a diverse array of artists including Prince, Michael Jackson, Boyz II Men, Sting, Elton John, Mary J Blige, Usher, Beyonce, Rihanna, Earth, Wind & Fire, Mariah Carey, New Edition, Morris Day, The Time, and Janet Jackson to name a few. Their creative genius, pioneering spirit, and chart-topping hits have shaped generations, set new standards, and inspired countless artists and producers.

“It is both an honor and a thrill for the Living Legends Foundation to present the 2025 Ray Harris Lifetime Achievement Award to the incomparable Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis,” said Azim Rashid, President of LLF. “For decades, their groundbreaking production, songwriting, and commitment to excellence have helped shape the very fabric of modern music. Their influence spans generations, genres, and global charts, and their legacy inspires artists and executives alike. We are proud to recognize their monumental contributions to the industry and celebrate the enduring impact of their work.”

Chairman’s Award: James L. Winston, President & CEO, National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB)
A tireless advocate and leading voice for diversity in media ownership and access, James L. Winston has championed opportunities and empowered Black broadcasters throughout his career. As President of NABOB, he has been instrumental in fostering sustainable growth and representation for Black-owned radio and television stations across the country. In recognition of his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication, the Living Legends Foundation will present James L. Winston with the 2025 Chairman’s Award.

David C. Linton, Chairman of LLF stated, “When choosing the Chairman’s Award, I look for a person whose leadership has had a profound impact on our culture. Jim Winston is such a person. Black radio has been the backbone of Black music’s exposure from day one and later television. Black ownership allowed our music to flourish when others didn’t see its value. NABOB, under Jim’s leadership, has given black broadcasters a voice in D.C. by bringing Black owners together as a united force. Broadcast ownership means so much to our people. We are honored to salute him.”

These honorees join an extraordinary slate of six women who will also be recognized at this year’s dinner, as previously announced. This occasion marks a historic milestone for the Living Legends Foundation—as, for the first time in its thirty-four-year history, the organization will honor six women. The list includes: Kashon Powell, Radio Executive (Jerry Boulding Radio Executive Award); DeDe McGuire, Host of the Nationally Syndicated “DeDe In The Morning” Radio Show (Frankie Crocker Radio Personality Award); Samantha Selolwane, Head of Promotions, RCA (Music Executive Award); Cynthia Horner, Publisher, Right On! Digital (Media Icon Award); Carole Carper, Broadcast & Music Industry Executive (Mike Bernardo Female Executive Award) and Louise West, CEO, West Entertainment Services (Kendall Minter Entertainment Advocate Award).

Carl Ray Releases Gospel-Driven Bluegrass Single Get On Board on Sucarnoochee Records

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Acclaimed independent country and bluegrass recording artist Carl Ray has released his powerful new single on Sucarnoochee Records. “Get On Board,” produced by Grammy Award-winner Greg Cole, Ray delivers a compelling gospel message wrapped in masterful bluegrass instrumentation and spiritual urgency. This latest release marks yet another milestone in Ray’s evolution as an artist whose music consistently uplifts, heals, challenges, and inspires. A heartfelt call to salvation, “Get On Board” urges listeners to reflect, repent, and rise—rooted in faith and driven by a melodic tightly sung chorus: “This train is leaving for Heaven / Get on board…”

The single features an all-star lineup of bluegrass musicians:

Darrin Vincent of the duo Dailey and Vincent – Upright Bass
BJ Cherryhomes – Fiddle
Seth Mulder – Guitar
Josh Swift – Dobro

Described by many as “a spiritual journey on wheels,” “Get On Board” invites the listener to board a train bound for Heaven. From the conductor’s first call—“All aboard!”—to the opening guitar strum and final harmony, the song moves like a locomotive of faith.
The rhythm mirrors a smooth steady hum of steel wheels on iron tracks, beckoning weary hearts to lay down their burdens and step into the light of redemption.

Listeners will feel the urgency—not with a big push, but through the empathy in Ray’s voice. It’s a final boarding call to turn away from sin and embrace grace. The fiddle cries out like a distant whistle, echoing the call of the Spirit, while the dobro slides like a train rounding a bend into the golden sunrise of salvation.
As the chorus builds, it rushes past the listener like wind through an open window—fresh, freeing, and full of hope. It’s more than a song; it’s a plea to leave the old life behind and journey toward peace that surpasses understanding. Whether you’re worn down by life’s journey or searching for a new beginning, “Get On Board” is a musical masterpiece—your spiritual boarding pass. A ride of faith powered by conviction, carried by bluegrass tradition, and fueled by grace. Get on board!

This independent artist is a chart-topping country and bluegrass artist known for his inspirational storytelling, powerful stage presence, and an unwavering message of hope. With a voice often likened to Vince Gill for its rich tenor quality, Ray embodies the heart and soul of American country music. His career has been defined by soulful songwriting, dynamic collaborations, and multiple #1 hits across genres. A gifted singer, songwriter, and performer, Ray brings not only his extraordinary talent but also his handsome smile, genuine warmth, and hypnotic voice to every stage and studio session. His musical journey blends traditional country values with modern spiritual vision, making him a distinctive voice in today’s music landscape.

Whitney Houston Celebrated with Eleven New RIAA Certifications in Her 40th Anniversary Year

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The Estate of Whitney E. Houston today announces the eleven new certifications by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) of the global icon Whitney Houston. This year marks the historic 40th Anniversary of Houston’s career in music and entertainment (February 14, 2025 through February 14, 2026).

In the era of digital streaming, Whitney Houston still remains on top with record-breaking sales from her Arista Records music recordings, including her combined physical sales, digital downloads, and on demand audio and video streams. Houston’s eleven new U.S. RIAA certifications include one album, THE BODYGUARD: ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK ALBUM (19x Platinum) and ten of her biggest and most iconic songs: “I Will Always Love You,” (11x Platinum); “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me),” (8x Platinum); “I Have Nothing” (4x Platinum); “Higher Love” with Kygo [released on Kygo/RCA Records] and “How Will I Know” (each song is 3x Platinum); “Heartbreak Hotel,” “My Love Is Your Love” and “Saving All My Love” (each song is 2x Platinum); and “Run To You” and “Count On Me” (each song is Platinum).

Additionally, Houston is the first African American artist to have three RIAA Diamond-certified albums (10x Platinum for each album) including her self-titled debut album, WHITNEY HOUSTON; her second studio album, WHITNEY, and THE BODYGUARD: ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK ALBUM.

These new RIAA certifications only include the U.S. numbers and do not include certifications from the 195 countries worldwide. In the U.S. alone, Houston’s RIAA certified units total 114.5 across 38 titles (27 singles plus 11 albums).

“We are honored to share this great news with Whitney’s fans,” says Pat Houston, the executor of The Estate of Whitney E. Houston and the president of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation. “I know that Whitney would be happy to know of the impact that her music has made globally. She always had a generous heart and a loving spirit. She would want us to say thank you to every person that contributed to her recordings, her productions, and the marketing of all her records, especially to Clive Davis and the extraordinary team of Arista Records through her many years at the label.”

Pat Houston continues: “Whitney would also want to say thank you to our partners, Primary Wave Music and her label home, Sony Music Entertainment and Legacy Recordings. She would be delighted to know that her loyal and worldwide fans have continued to love her and carry on her musical legacy through the generations. On behalf of her family and The Estate of Whitney E. Houston, we thank you for celebrating Whitney’s fortieth anniversary with us and for giving her your many years of love and support.”

RIAA President and Chief Operating Officer Michele Ballantyne says: “Whitney Houston’s iconic voice and powerful songs have carried her legacy across generations. With eleven new certifications, RIAA is proud to celebrate how her enduring impact is still felt throughout the music industry and as the Estate’s partnership with Sony finds moments to reach new fans. We are grateful for the remarkable gift Whitney left for us all!”

James Hood Unleashes Quantum Mind Carnival a Sonic Odyssey Redefining Immersive Music

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On July 11th 2025 composer, musician and Grammy Nominated immersive pioneer James Hood will bring a new chapter of sound to listeners with the release of his new album, Quantum Mind Carnival: A Sonic Collage for the Entertainment and Delight of the Human Mind.

So, who exactly is James Hood? Not only did he spend some formative time drumming with the Pretenders, but Hood established an early ambient foothold with Moodswings, the electronica duo he formed with fellow producer Grant Showbiz (The Smiths, Billy Bragg). Moodswings dropped the perennially influential Moodfood album which boasts the chart topping single “Spiritual High (State of Independence) Part II” with Chrissie Hynde on lead vocals.

Hood has reached for the stars and, in the process, made an indelible mark in the cosmos. Globally speaking, over 2 million tickets have been sold to his 360° multi-sensory theatre/planetarium immersive experiences known as Mesmerica and Beautifica, making him the #1 immersive artist in the world. In addition to those pulse-pounding, planetarium projects, Hood also hit #1 on the iTunes World Music Charts with his 2014 album Ceremony and then achieved #1 status again in 2015 & 2017 with his LP’s Pure Ceremony & Mesmerica.

Describing the forthcoming album, Hood explains, “Quantum Mind Carnival is a balm for your soul. It might make you laugh, or cry or it might relax you”… a trojan horse that can explode and change people’s lives, it includes Salsa, Reggae, Opera, Blues and Folk genres that help you enter another world that lets your imagination encapsulate everything.

Quantum Mind Carnival also features found sounds and short segments of speech that have been culled from history. A wildly stylized Debussy’s Claire DeLune is a highlight, explains Hood “ The calm mind is like a clear lake. You can listen to this on repeat, like a tunnel, it is deep. The intention is to utilize every trick in the book, the full spectrum of music and what it can instill.”

“I am talking about the flowering of human consciousness. The human being today is more sensitive to the 6 senses and is growing sharper and faster as we near a quickening. The best way to listen to the music is with headphones so that you get the full spectrum of the sound. My music always sounds very wide; I love things that are outside of the speakers that are an immersive experience sensitizing our ears.”

When asked what the intention was for creating Quantum Mind Carnival, Hood responds: “I want it to be a transcendental mainline directly into the heart of your awareness. It is a sonic collage, a neo classical orchestral concept album unlike anything else anyone has heard. Even if you have been bored with music for the last 20 years, this is the reason to buy new speakers”.

Eylsia Releases Debut Country Single “Pull Me to the Light” After Remarkable Journey of Resilience

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Eylsia, a remarkable Filipina singer-songwriter, is set to make waves in the music industry with her debut country single, “Pull Me To The Light.” Her inspiring journey—marked by resilience and transformation—demonstrates how life’s hardships can become powerful catalysts for reinvention.

“At ten, I was competing in international tennis tournaments, including Wimbledon and the US Open,” says Eylsia. “But after a serious injury, I had to let go of that dream.” Pivoting from sports, she transitioned into the corporate world and later became a senior vice president at Deco Disc, a record company that partnered with Handleman, the largest audio-visual distributor in the U.S. at the time.

“The company’s CD format featured legendary artists like Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, Kenny Rogers, and Luciano Pavarotti,” Eylsia notes. “It was an incredible time to be learning about the music industry from the business side.”

Despite becoming one of the youngest college presidents in the country, her love for music never faded. “I had success as an executive, but deep down, music was always calling me,” she says. That calling grew stronger after she suffered a severe reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine, which left her with permanent vocal damage. “It made me ask, ‘Why is medicine always trying to make you normal?’”

Rather than retreat, Eylsia explored experimental voice restoration techniques. “I began to imagine a future where I could have a ‘bionic voice’ – something that would help me express my musical compositions,” she explains.

With the support of a specialized medical team and groundbreaking technology, Eylsia experienced a vocal recovery that exceeded her expectations. “Honestly, if I had this voice when I was a kid, I never would have done anything else,” she shares.

Her debut country single, “Pull Me to the Light,” is already resonating with early listeners. “It sounds like an instant classic,” says Lisa Pamintuan, president of Nicolas of Palm Beach. “There’s emotional depth in Eylsia’s voice that connects with people immediately.” The track is available on streaming platforms and can be requested on smart assistants like Alexa—though Eylsia jokes, “It still can’t pronounce my name correctly!”

She describes the transformation as nothing short of miraculous: “It’s like I have a bionic voice. I can do anything I want with it. Maybe this is what Elon Musk wants to give people through Neuralink,” she laughs. “I hope so, because this feels like a miracle.”

While fans and critics alike praise her vocals, Eylsia remains reflective: “People say I’ll win awards for singing, but I remind them—this isn’t a voice I was born with. It’s the result of science, ambition, and maybe a little bit of God’s hand.”

“Pull Me to the Light” is more than just a debut—it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the possibilities that emerge when innovation and artistry meet. I want this song to give people hope,” Eylsia says. “We all go through dark times, but there’s always a path forward—even if it looks different than we imagined.”

Nyki Lindsay King Releases Powerful New Music Video “Running Out of Time” Blending Funk, Soul, and Reggae

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Acclaimed solo artist Nyki Lindsay King, a multi-talented musician from Montreal, Canada, is thrilled to announce the release of his latest music video, “Running Out of Time” via Curtain Call Records. The powerful visual showcases Nyki’s signature blend of Funk, Soul, R&B, and Reggae, delivering a sincere and dynamic performance that is more than a music video, it is a heartfelt plea for hope and change in a troubled world.

‘Running Out of Time’ is my call to action,” Nyki shares. “It’s about recognizing the world’s pain and choosing to fight for something better with love and purpose.” “Running Out of Time” is a stirring reflection on society’s struggles, blending passionate lyrics with Nyki’s dynamic vocal delivery. Lines like “I’m running out of time. And I’m trying to save a life. We’ve been holding onto light. It’s the hardest to face.” capture his urgency to inspire healing and unity. “‘Running Out of Time’ is about waking up to the world’s struggles and doing something about it,” Nyki says.

“I want my music to inspire people to face challenges with courage and love.” The video amplifies the track with a message portraying society on the edge of collapse through its vivid imagery and emotional depth. Nyki’s ability to channel real-life experiences make this release impactful and moving.

Nyki’s musical journey began in 1983 under the mentorship of his father, Eric George Lindsay, a renowned Studio One reggae artist known for the classic “Rasta Nah Run.” At just seven years old, Nyki took the stage alongside his brothers as part of “The Kings Brothers,” performing with reggae legends such as Ken Boothe, Alton Ellis, John Holt, U-Roy, and Paula Clarke. These early experiences shaped Nyki’s passion and laid the foundation for his eclectic and soulful sound.

Drawing inspiration from musical icons like Eddie Vedder, Kurt Cobain, and Chester Bennington, Nyki has crafted a sound that is both unique and versatile. His music, often compared to bands like Linkin Park, Three Days Grace, and Our Lady Peace, seamlessly weaves raw emotion with skillful instrumentation. As a guitarist, songwriter, and lyricist, Nyki pens every note and word, creating songs that reflect real-life strife, and aims to inspire and uplift his audience.

“Running Out of Time” is a testament to Nyki’s artistry, blending introspective lyrics with infectious melodies. The music video captures the essence of his storytelling, offering a glimpse into the authenticity that defines his work. With each new track, Nyki continues to effortlessly navigate and blend diverse musical styles while staying true to his mission of connecting with his listeners through shared human experiences.

Nyki Lindsay King is brimming with talent and heart, and “Running Out of Time” is poised to captivate audiences around the world.