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Diana Ross Named Godmother of Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas Ahead of August 2025 Debut

Eric Alper
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Diana Ross Named Godmother of Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas Ahead of August 2025 Debut

The ultimate family vacation is getting ready to set sail, and a star-studded godmother is leading the way. Royal Caribbean has announced musical icon Diana Ross as the official godmother of Star of the Seas when the revolutionary Icon Class ship debuts August 2025. With her music inspiring generations of families, Ms. Ross will take the stage to welcome the newest family vacation sailing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, and visiting the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

As godmother, Ms. Ross will join a longstanding maritime tradition of bestowing safekeeping onto the ship, its crew and the millions who will make memories on the ultimate family vacation for years to come. To celebrate the unveiling of Star, Ms. Ross will take part in an iconic naming ceremony in the ship’s AquaTheater, located in the transformational AquaDome neighborhood surrounded by wraparound ocean views. Fans can stay tuned to learn more on how they can join the celebration on Royal Caribbean’s Instagram page.

“I am truly honored to join the Royal Caribbean family,” said Diana Ross. “Having spent years of creating beautiful music and memories and bringing people together from all over the world, this feels like a perfect continuation of my journey as godmother of Star of the Seas.”

The celebration will set the tone for what’s in store on Star, welcoming families and vacationers of all ages to experience the record-setting Icon Class lineup. Star combines the best of beach retreats, resort escapes and theme park adventures across eight neighborhoods that are destinations in themselves to deliver the world’s best family vacation. With adrenaline-pumping thrills at Category 6 waterpark, unrivaled ways to chill at seven pools, jaw-dropping entertainment – including the cult-classic movie turned instant-hit musical “Back to the Future: The Musical” – and more than 40 ways to dine and drink including Lincoln Park Supper Club and so much more, Star is where every type of family and vacationer can make memories together and on their own without compromise.

“We are thrilled to have Diana Ross join us for the debut of Star of the Seas, the next bold vacation in our revolutionary Icon Class designed to encompass the best a vacation experience can offer,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean. “We couldn’t imagine a more fitting godmother for Star than Diana Ross, who is a true icon known for creating music that transcends generations while celebrating life and bringing people together. We can’t wait to welcome Ms. Ross, our guests and crew to celebrate the arrival of Star this August.”

As the next world’s best family vacation from Orlando, Star will deliver 7-night vacations to the most sought-after destinations in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including the vacation brand’s top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. Royal Caribbean has more standout experiences in store across its expanding lineup of destinations from the ultimate beach day at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in December 2025 to incredible destinations in Mexico at Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026 and Perfect Day Mexico in fall 2027.

The Ways That Casino Games Remain Popular 

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

Casinos have existed for many years, developing a range of thrilling entertainment experiences from their earliest origins. The draw of casino games attracts players globally.

According to Statista, their market size reached $292.1 billion in 2023. Grand View Research also indicates that casino games will gain 11.5% more players annually between 2022 and 2030. 

The article looks into why online casino games have and will remain popular.

1. Engaging Gameplay and Variety 

Players flock to casino games online because they deliver interactive play options. Each game type brings fresh experiences, from slots to cards and even traditional poker tables.

Research by a regulatory body in the UK shows that 42% of adults in the UK tried gaming activities during 2022 because of the wide selection of casino options they enjoyed. The different gameplay types and theme options drove many to try casino games online.

Established gaming establishments like Bally Casino offer traditional card games and modern slot machine technology to fulfil all player preferences. The shift from land-based casinos to online spaces has created new gaming options for players.

Game developers always bring new releases and gameplay ideas to the gaming industry. The online gaming industry earned $66.72 billion in 2020, but experts predict this total will grow to $153.65 billion by 2027.

The industry keeps changing to keep players interested in trying fresh, exciting games. 

2. Accessibility and Convenience

Digital technology makes it easier for gamers to play the games they love. Today’s online gaming platforms allow people to play various gaming titles from anywhere and anytime.

The easy access to these games influences players’ enthusiasm for gaming activities. Here is a bit of a breakdown:

  • Instant Access: Online Casino platforms let players sign in and play games immediately without needing to leave home.
  • Mobile-Friendly Options: Thanks to the platforms’ smartphone-responsive designs, users can play casino games online through smartphones or other mobile devices.
  • Wide Availability: More players now choose gaming because it is simple to access.

The rise of online platforms has made gaming accessible to a broader audience. In 2023, Internet gaming platforms generated 85% of the UK’s gaming revenues, according to a Statista report.

It shows that online casino availability allows players to enjoy their favorite games anytime through all their available devices, keeping the casino industry thriving.

3. Social Interaction and Community

Many gamers enjoy playing casino games because they allow them to create connections with others, making their time more rewarding.

A recent UK-based report shows approximately 23.6 million adults gambled in 2022 in the U.K. 57% of these players according to that report viewed social interaction as the main reason they enjoy online gaming.

Casino gaming connects players through both offline and online platforms. Gamers at online casinos can talk with each other through built-in chat tools as they play their games.

As more people enter the gaming world, they gain opportunities to meet and connect with new friends. Arguably, social features are an essential component of modern-day casino gaming.

4. Impact of Marketing Strategies

Casino games continue to be popular because of successful marketing efforts. According to Fortune Business Insights data, the online casino advertising market reached $11.4 billion in 2021, with expectations showing steady market expansion through 2028.

But what are some of these offers and programs that entice players to engage with casino games online:

  • Welcome Bonuses: New players find these promotions extremely attractive.
  • Loyalty Programs: Casinos reward regular gamers to improve their playing experience.
  • Special Promotions: Discounts and promotions excite players to act.

In addition, social media has become a powerful tool for engaging players through:

  • Interactive Campaigns: Social media is a leading brand platform to organize promotional events.
  • Real-Time Updates: Social channels show players all-new gaming titles and promotional deals.
  • Engagement: Effective social media methods keep players actively involved in the platform.

5. Continuous Innovation 

The gaming sector stands out through regular product improvements that keep players hooked. Game developers regularly try new forms and tech to make casino gaming exciting for everyone. 

Virtual reality and live dealer games join a growing list of choices for customer entertainment. A new research presentation shows that live casino games online now account for 13% of the global online gaming market.

As developers release new updates and the gaming software market worth continue rising, casino players are assured on new, innovative casino gaming features.

 Established platforms like Bally Casino provide players with powerful technology and engaging gameplay.

The casinos’ keen focus on innovation ensures their online casino games remain popular among players. 

Conclusion

Online casino games hold their place in history for multiple reasons, including their background and evolution. People stay interested in casino games because of well-designed play experiences and easy access.

Casinos work tirelessly to attract players through brilliant promotion efforts and regular updates. The promotions keep players coming to join in on the gameplay fun.

The industry will most likely keep producing fresh casino gaming content, which will maintain player interest in the future.

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

The Songs You Didn’t Know Jim Steinman Wrote: Beyond Meat Loaf’s ‘Bat Out of Hell’

Eric Alper
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The Songs You Didn’t Know Jim Steinman Wrote: Beyond Meat Loaf’s ‘Bat Out of Hell’

James Richard Steinman (1947–2021) was more than just the genius behind Meat Loaf’s iconic Bat Out of Hell albums. A prolific composer, lyricist, and producer, Steinman’s reach extended far beyond those rock anthems. From power ballads to theatrical rock, he lent his unique storytelling and grandiose style to a wide range of artists and genres. Let’s dive into some of the unforgettable songs Steinman wrote that you might not have realized bear his signature flair.

Yvonne Elliman – Food of Love (1973):
“Happy Ending” is a lesser-known gem from early in Steinman’s career. With lush arrangements and Elliman’s soulful delivery, it hints at the epic drama Steinman would become known for.

Barry Manilow – Greatest Hits, Vol. II (1983):
“Read ‘Em and Weep” showcases Steinman’s knack for soaring melodies and emotional storytelling, fitting seamlessly into Manilow’s repertoire of heartfelt classics.

Air Supply – Greatest Hits (1983):
The powerhouse ballad “Making Love Out of Nothing at All” has Steinman’s fingerprints all over it—dramatic, romantic, and impossibly catchy, it became a defining moment for the duo.

Bonnie Tyler – Footloose Soundtrack (1984):
“Holding Out for a Hero” has become an anthem for strength and urgency, perfectly marrying Tyler’s raspy voice with Steinman’s high-octane writing. A timeless track that still gets adrenaline pumping.

Fire Inc. – Streets of Fire Soundtrack (1984):
“Nowhere Fast” is pure Steinman theatrical rock—big, bold, and emotionally charged—offering a perfect soundtrack moment for the film’s edgy vibe.

Barbra Streisand – Emotion (1984):
“Left in the Dark” and “Tonight Is What It Means to Be Young” bring Steinman’s grandiose style into the adult contemporary realm, with Streisand’s vocal power elevating the drama and intensity.

Meat Loaf – Bad Attitude (1985):
“Nowhere Fast” gets a second life with Meat Loaf, maintaining Steinman’s signature bombast and emotional urgency.

Various Artists – The Wrestling Album (1985):
Steinman wrote the “Hulk Hogan’s Theme,” blending rock energy with the larger-than-life persona of wrestling’s biggest star.

The Sisters of Mercy – Floodland (1987):
“This Corrosion” is a gothic rock powerhouse that blends Steinman’s theatrical sensibilities with a darker edge, a unique but fitting chapter in his songwriting legacy.

The Mission – Carved in Sand (1990):
“More” carries the emotional depth and epic scale that fans of Steinman’s work recognize, wrapped in a brooding rock package.

Taylor Dayne – The Shadow Soundtrack (1994):
“Original Sin,” co-written with Steinman, fits perfectly with Dayne’s powerhouse vocals and the film’s mysterious mood.

Bonnie Tyler – Free Spirit (1995):
Tyler revisits Steinman’s dramatic flair with a fresh take on “Making Love Out of Nothing at All,” proving the timelessness of their collaboration.

Celine Dion – Falling into You (1996):
“It’s All Coming Back to Me Now” stands tall as one of the greatest power ballads of the ’90s, Steinman’s theatrical storytelling given new life by Dion’s unmatched vocal performance.

Boyzone – Where We Belong (1998):
“No Matter What” became a huge hit, blending Steinman’s epic songwriting style with Boyzone’s pop sensibilities to create an unforgettable anthem of devotion.

Russell Watson – Reprise (2002):
“Is Nothing Sacred” shows Steinman’s ability to craft songs that resonate in classical crossover, with Watson’s operatic vocals adding gravitas.

The Everly Brothers – On the Wings of a Nightingale: The Mercury Studio Recordings (2005):
“A Kiss Is a Terrible Thing to Waste” highlights Steinman’s versatility, writing for legends in the pop and rock canon with his signature storytelling twist.

Meat Loaf – Bat Out of Hell III: The Monster Is Loose (2006):
Songs like “Bad for Good,” “In the Land of the Pig, the Butcher is King,” and “Seize the Night” continue the epic saga Steinman created, full of dark fantasy and powerful emotion.

Jim Steinman’s catalogue stretches across decades and genres, his songs creating a dramatic, emotional landscape that few other songwriters have dared to explore. Whether with rock giants, pop divas, or gothic anthems, Steinman’s songs keep living on, proving his unmatched ability to turn music into a theatrical experience.

So next time you hear a soaring ballad or a theatrical rock epic, check the credits—you just might find Jim Steinman’s name, quietly shaping the soundtrack of our lives.

KIDZ BOP and SiriusXM Bring the Ultimate “Daddy Dance Off” to the 2025 Certified BOP Tour

Eric Alper
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KIDZ BOP and SiriusXM Bring the Ultimate “Daddy Dance Off” to the 2025 Certified BOP Tour

 KIDZ BOP, the #1 music brand for kids, announce that several SiriusXM personalities will serve as the “Daddy Dance Off” hosts at the KIDZ BOP LIVE Certified BOP Tour. The energetic virtual hosts include Radio Andy’s Andy Cohen, 90s on 9’s Downtown Julie Brown, SiriusXM Hits 1 The Morning Mash Up’s Ryan Sampson, Nicole Ryan, and Stanley T and Pop2K’s Rich Davis.

Expanding on the long-lasting KIDZ BOP Radio channel, KIDZ BOP and SiriusXM are elevating the beloved and hilarious show segment–the “Daddy Dance Off”–where four dads from the audience take the stage to flaunt their best (and funniest) moves in the ultimate dance battle. Andy Cohen and the other hosts will appear in on-screen videos to introduce the dads and the iconic BOPS they will be dancing to. The collaboration also includes custom content from the hosts, a social campaign highlighting the best dads of the tour and laughs from moms, dads and kids in the audience.

The KIDZ BOP Kids are back in 2025 with their all new KIDZ BOP LIVE Certified BOP Tour, in partnership with Live Nation. Sing and dance along to today’s biggest BOPs live on the big stage including “espresso,” “HOT TO GO!,” & “Dance Monkey.” Join us for the ultimate pop concert experience for kids (and their grown-ups!) with eye-popping new stage design and interactive elements kids will love, the return of the popular (and hilarious!) “Daddy Dance Off”. Plus, special guest, Snoop Dogg’s “DOGGYLAND” will be the opening act for the first 28 dates of the summer tour. The colorful cast of dogs will sing, dance and rap their viral hits such as “Affirmations,” before the KIDZ BOP Kids take to the stage! Spin Master’s fantasy adventure children’s franchise, Unicorn Academy™, returns as an official sponsor of KIDZ BOP LIVE and will be providing prizes for the “Daddy Dance Off” winners.

For tour dates and ticket info, visit kidzbop.com/tour.

Listen to SiriusXM’s KIDZ BOP Radio, where “it’s all KIDZ BOP, all the time!” on channel 135 and any time on the SiriusXM app.

Montreal RISE Reggae Festival Brings Caribbean Vibes to Bassin Peel This August

Eric Alper
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Montreal RISE Reggae Festival Brings Caribbean Vibes to Bassin Peel This August

Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean music at the inaugural Montreal RISE Reggae Festival! The three-night festival, running from August 8 to 10 2025, at Bassin Peel quay in Griffintown, will feature electrifying performances from top artists in reggae, dancehall, and soca. The event is co-presented by Taste of the Caribbean (TOTC) and Nouvelle Vie, in co-production with The Mahaba Youth Alliance. 

“Bringing RISE Reggae to Montréal is a dream come true,” says Orlando Newton, CEO of Nouvelle Vie. “We’ve watched this city’s appetite for authentic Caribbean culture grow, and Bassin Peel is the perfect stage to unite communities through music and create memories that last a lifetime.”

The festival will offer an intimate yet full-scale production featuring major international headliners, including:

  • Anthony B, Kranium, Gramps Morgan and Romain Virgo, all straight from Jamaica;
  • Soca queens Alison Hinds (Barbados) and Patrice Roberts (Trinidad & Tobago), and Skinny Fabulous (St. Vincent and the Grenadines), powered by Duracell; 
  • Dancehall icons Demarco, the legendary Sister (what a bam bam) Nancy, Lady G and Massive B.

Each evening will also spotlight special performances by Quebecois and Canadian artists, celebrating local talent alongside global stars.

Now on sale at montrealrisereggaefestival.ca and local outlets in Montréal, Ottawa & Toronto. Visit the website for the full schedule, official ticket vendors, parking details and more.

South Korea’s dotmill Makes History Producing Content for Las Vegas Sphere’s Immersive LED Display

Eric Alper
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South Korea’s dotmill Makes History Producing Content for Las Vegas Sphere’s Immersive LED Display

South Korea’s immersive content specialist dotmill participated in the content direction and production for the world’s largest spherical LED display, the Sphere, located in Las Vegas, USA. This project was carried out in partnership with Galaxy Corporation, making dotmill the first Korean company to directly produce content for the Sphere.

The Sphere is an ultra-large spherical media façade measuring 157 meters in diameter and 111 meters in height. It stands as the world’s only immersive LED screen capable of a full 360-degree panoramic display. Due to its enveloping structure and curved surface, the platform demands sophisticated graphic design and spatial analysis, making it an iconic stage accessible to only a few global content producers.

dotmill collaborated closely with Galaxy Corporation across the entire project spectrum—from planning and direction to production—crafting a new form of immersive content optimized for the Sphere’s structural characteristics and immersive environment.

The final content serves as part of a major Korean financial group’s brand campaign. It opens with a scene where the “Daisy” motif and logo, symbolic of the brand’s model, visually converge in outer space. Viewers are then immersed in the brand message through expressive digital artwork and cinematic production techniques.

“The Sphere is not merely a colossal screen but a platform that requires an entirely new approach to content, both in terms of its physical structure and viewing environment. This project demanded technical interpretation and visual strategies vastly different from traditional video production processes, and we believe it is highly meaningful that we were able to meet those challenges successfully. Through our collaboration with Galaxy Corporation, we were able to demonstrate that dotmill’s technological prowess and creativity are truly competitive on the global stage,” a dotmill spokesperson commented.

dotmill is a South Korean media-tech firm specializing in immersive content, including extended reality (XR), interactive media, and production and operations of theme attractions powered by digital twin technology. With a strong portfolio spanning major exhibition halls, urban content, and multi-purpose cultural spaces, the company plans to further solidify its global market position following the Sphere project.

Founded in 2015, dotmill is a leading South Korean immersive content specialist that plans, produces, and operates content based on extended reality (XR), interactive media, and digital twin technologies. With a unique blend of technical expertise and creative storytelling, dotmill is driving innovation in the global immersive content industry.

The company has built a strong global reputation through a diverse portfolio of high-profile projects. These include content production for BLACKPINK’s debut stage in 2016, holographic stage direction for BTS at the 2017 Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA), immersive content production for the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics, and the planning and production of the BTS exhibition series from 2023 to 2024. More recently, dotmill directed content for Samsung Electronics’ THE WALL showcased at ISE 2025 and participated in the Las Vegas Sphere content project in 2025—further cementing its position as a pioneer in immersive media on the global stage.

In addition to commissioned works, dotmill develops and operates its own immersive attraction IPs, including Lunafall, OPCI, Glow Safari, and Waterworld, offering innovative experiences that seamlessly blend physical spaces with digital content.

Mick Jagger’s Legendary Collaborations That Shaped Music History

Eric Alper
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Mick Jagger’s Legendary Collaborations That Shaped Music History

Few rock icons have shaped music history quite like Mick Jagger. Beyond his legendary work with The Rolling Stones, Mick’s magnetic presence has graced an eclectic array of artists and genres, making each collaboration a gem. Here’s a fun and wholesome journey through all of Mick’s notable guest appearances — a testament to his restless creativity and timeless charm.

1966 – The Art of Chris Farlowe
Early on, Mick lent his unmistakable voice to Chris Farlowe’s album, providing backing vocals and even stepping into the producer’s shoes. A youthful glimpse of his burgeoning talent.

1967 – Magical Mystery Tour by The Beatles
On the iconic track “All You Need Is Love,” Mick joined forces with Keith Richards, Marianne Faithfull, Eric Clapton, and others for backing vocals — a true meeting of musical legends at the heart of the Summer of Love.

1972 – No Secrets by Carly Simon
Mick subtly enriched Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain” with his backing vocals on the second chorus, adding a layer of cool mystique to one of pop’s most enduring hits.

1984 – Victory by The Jacksons
The collaboration took a thrilling turn when Mick shared co-lead vocals with Michael Jackson on “State of Shock,” blending rock swagger and pop royalty in an explosive duet.

1995 – The Long Black Veil by The Chieftains
Showing off his versatility, Mick took the lead vocals on the title track, embracing Irish folk roots and proving his knack for heartfelt storytelling.

2002 – Sleepless by Peter Wolf
A soulful duet on “Nothing But The Wheel” with Peter Wolf saw Mick explore bluesy textures, reminding us why his voice fits just about any mood.

2004 – Alfie (film soundtrack)
Mick teamed up with Sheryl Crow and David A. Stewart for the evocative “Old Habits Die Hard,” blending their voices in a song as timeless as the film itself.

2006 – The Essential Chieftains Compilation
The Stones joined The Chieftains once again on “The Rocky Road to Dublin,” fusing rock and traditional Irish sounds into a rollicking celebration of musical camaraderie.

2006 – Last Man Standing by Jerry Lee Lewis
On “Evening Gown,” Mick shared co-lead vocals with the legendary Jerry Lee Lewis, with Ron Wood’s steel guitar weaving a honky-tonk magic all its own.

2006 – Paint It Black by the London Symphony Orchestra
This symphonic reinterpretation featured Mick alongside Michael Hutchence and Marianne Faithfull, a sweeping homage that blended orchestral grandeur with rock edge.

2007 – Putamayo Presents World Hits
In a vibrant twist, Mick duetted with reggae legend Peter Tosh on a cover of Smokey Robinson’s “(You Gotta Walk And) Don’t Look Back,” bridging genres with effortless style.

2010 – Mean Old Man by Jerry Lee Lewis
Mick returned to Jerry Lee Lewis’s world with co-lead vocals on the haunting “Dead Flowers,” delivering a raw and emotional performance that lingered long after the last note.

2015 – Cass County by Don Henley
Taking to the country blues lane, Mick played harmonica and led vocals on “Bramble Rose,” showcasing a different shade of his musical persona alongside the Eagles’ co-founder.

2017 – All the Best by Chris Jagger
Joining his brother Chris, Mick added backing vocals to “DJ Blues,” a family affair that highlights the Jagger legacy’s rich musical tapestry.

2018 – The Blues Is Alive and Well by Buddy Guy
On “You Did The Crime,” Mick’s gritty vocals paired perfectly with Buddy Guy’s legendary blues guitar. Keith Richards and Jeff Beck also contributed, making this a blues-rock summit of the highest order.

From rock royalty to blues legends, folk ensembles to pop icons, Mick Jagger’s collaborative spirit shines as brightly as ever. His voice, charisma, and musical curiosity have enriched countless tracks across decades and styles. Every partnership tells a story — of friendship, respect, and pure love for the craft.

Here’s to Mick, the ultimate collaborator, reminding us all that music is, above all, a shared journey.

Anderson .Paak’s DJ Pee .Wee Ignites Mumbai Stage at Jameson Connects Distilled Sounds

Eric Alper
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Anderson .Paak’s DJ Pee .Wee Ignites Mumbai Stage at Jameson Connects Distilled Sounds

Music lovers in Mumbai were treated to an unforgettable evening as Jameson Connects brought its signature global experience, Distilled Sounds, to India’s cultural capital with an electrifying night of rhythm, soul, and connection. Headlining the showcase was none other than Grammy Award-winning artist Anderson .Paak as DJ Pee .Wee, who took over Famous Studios, Mumbai, for a high-voltage, electrifying up-close performance that brought unmatched energy to this thrilling chapter of Jameson Connects.

DJ Pee .Wee, the dynamic alter ego of Anderson .Paak, delivered a high-energy DJ set that showcased his impeccable taste and versatility behind the console. Known for his genre-blending sound that merges hip-hop, soul, funk, and R&B, Anderson .Paak additionally treated audiences to an intimate live performance towards the end, captivating them with his rich musicality and vibrant presence.

Adding to the evening’s vibrant soundscape was a duo who need little introduction — Seedhe Maut. Fresh off the release of their eighth project DL91 FM, the genre-defying Delhi-based icons brought their razor-sharp lyrics and explosive live energy. Joining them was South African powerhouse Shekhinah, celebrated for her soulful vocals and signature fusion of R&B and pop. Together, they formed a thrilling trifecta of artistry that embodies Jameson’s spirit of fearless creativity and community.

With each edition, Jameson Connects continues to raise the bar in crafting immersive cultural experiences that merge music, community, and creativity. Known for spotlighting boundary-breaking talent from around the world while championing local voices, the platform has become a space where global artistry meets homegrown expression. The upcoming Mumbai showcase is set to be no different-an intimate yet high-impact gathering that celebrates the spirit of connection, the power of live performance, and the magic that unfolds when diverse creative energies come together under one roof.

More than just a music event, Jameson Connects delivered a curated celebration of culture, community, and connection. From eclectic pop-ups by homegrown brands to vibrant F&B experiences and the thoughtfully curated zones, every element is designed to spark conversations and camaraderie.

JME Leads UK’s Strade Base Revolution With Fractional Streaming Royalties Platform

Eric Alper
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JME Leads UK’s Strade Base Revolution With Fractional Streaming Royalties Platform

Strade Base is a pioneering platform at the intersection of fintech and music, revolutionising how artists, fans, and investors engage with streaming royalties.

UK Grime icon JME is the first artist to launch on Strade Base and within seconds of dropping, fans snapped up his offer of 100 shares to his track Integrity for £1 a share to celebrate the song’s 10 year anniversary.

At its core, Strade Base is about empowerment—giving artists greater control over their earnings, while inviting fans and supporters to participate directly in their success.

While similar concepts have been teased by global music moguls like Jay Z, Strade Base proudly leads the charge from the UK, bringing innovation and opportunity to the forefront of our homegrown music scene. Jay Z’s platform with Musicow received lots of hype earlier this year but doesn’t appear to have actually made it to market.

The team behind the platform include entrepreneur Dwight Okechukwu- British Grime royalty Skepta’s business partner, and UK grime icon JME as an advisor.

While fractional ownership is not a new concept, Strade Base is the first to offer it in an accessible, user-friendly format tailored for everyday fans, where the music artist is directly in control- not the labels.

Unlike traditional distribution model Strade Base provides artists with a new way to monetise their catalogue—immediately and transparently—while fostering a direct and meaningful connection with their audience. Each purchase comes with a digital, tradable ‘card’ representing royalty ownership, and users can trade these cards within the community, much like collectible items. Cards can be physical or virtual and may include unique artist rewards like concert access or exclusive merchandise, deepening fan engagement and support.

With over £3 million in investment and 3.5 years in development, Strade Base is built on passion and purpose.

For advisor and first artist on the platform JME, this isn’t just about innovation—it’s about justice. He is passionate about returning ownership to the hands of creators and sees Strade Base as a lifeline for emerging artists. With traditional industry models often delaying earnings for years, many talented musicians are forced to abandon their dreams or fall into debt. Strade Base offers a real alternative: a platform where new artists can share music and begin earning from day one.

JME is of course brother of famed MC, Skepta and between them and their record label ‘Boy Better Know’, they steered grime’s second wave, helping to build the success of British rap. They have played huge stages at Glastonbury and Wireless and are legends in the British grime and rap scene.

Strade Base will be announcing big artist drops monthly.

Dos Equis and Fuerza Regida Ignite ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ Campaign Celebrating Fearless Self-Expression

Eric Alper
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Dos Equis and Fuerza Regida Ignite ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ Campaign Celebrating Fearless Self-Expression

Dos Equis is proud to announce its latest campaign, ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ a bold celebration of unapologetic self-expression through music, art, and style. Inspired by those who live fearlessly, ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ (‘neither forgiveness, nor permission’) is a cultural expression rooted in Hispanic tradition that honors and applauds the act of authentically expressing oneself; where Dos Equis has adopted through the lens of music, celebrating artists who ‘own the stage’ by showcasing their fearless originality without needing permission.

Embracing its Mexican roots, Dos Equis adopts this familiar phrase through the inspiring power of music, in partnership with the influential Southern California-based musical group Fuerza Regida. The campaign encourages individuals to boldly embrace their unique stories, chase experiences beyond the ordinary, and pursue their passions fearlessly, without apology or the need for validation.

Fuerza Regida, known for their genre-bending sound and fearless authenticity, brings their influence to the forefront of the campaign. As pioneers of the evolving Música Mexicana category, their powerful voices and barrier-breaking artistry perfectly embody the ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ spirit. Fuerza Regida recently debuted at No. 1 on both the Apple Music All-Genre and Latin Albums charts, while making Billboard history with a No. 2 debut on the Billboard 200—before quickly rising to No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart a few days after. This popularity demonstrates their powerful connection with fans which is deeply rooted in Mexican-American identity, perfectly reflecting the campaign’s core message: authentic self expression isn’t just a choice – it’s the only real way to live.

“‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ is more than a campaign – it’s a movement rooted in the spirit of embracing individuality,” said Alison Payne, Chief Marketing Officer for HEINEKEN USA, importer of Dos Equis. “It’s about championing the power of owning your truth and owning the stage, especially through the universal language of music. Fuerza Regida’s fearless authenticity embodies this movement, and we couldn’t ask for better partners to bring that vision to life as Dos Equis makes its mark on the vibrant world of Música Mexicana.”

“‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ is all about unapologetic authenticity,” says JOP of Fuerza Regida. “We believe in the power of music to break boundaries and connect with people on a real level. This campaign with Dos Equis is our call to everyone to step up, own their voice, and live without hesitation.”

At the heart of the campaign is an exciting opportunity to co-create the ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ anthem through the Jam Session. Starting June 9, Dos Equis and Fuerza Regida are inviting fans to submit their vocal or instrumental tracks via social media for a chance to win an incredible experience: a trip to an exclusive Fuerza Regida performance and a signed vinyl featuring their bold musical creation alongside the band.

To participate in the Jam Session, fans must first visit the Dos Equis’ Instagram (@DosEquis) and follow these steps:

  • Locate the designated Jam Session reel.
  • Tap the three dots on the bottom right of the screen and select the ‘sequence’ option.
  • Record your vocal or instrumental contribution while being stitched next to the original video.
  • Edit your content in-app as desired and post using the hashtags #NiPerdonNiPermisoJam and #Contest

Stay connected with the ‘Ni Perdón Ni Permiso’ movement by following @DosEquis on Instagram for exclusive behind-the-scenes content, updates on the Jam Session, and opportunities to engage with this powerful celebration of authentic self-expression.

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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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