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Linganore Winecellars Rebrands Longest-Running Festival as Summer Soca Wine & Music Fest

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Linganore Winecellars opens public ticket sales for their newly named festival, the Summer Soca Wine & Music Festival (previously the Summer Reggae Wine & Music Festival) to be held on July 19th and July 20th, 2025. The Maryland Winery believes this shift better portrays the musical offerings and general vibe of their sensational summer festival.

Eric Aellen, Vice President and Vineyard Manager, reflects on the name change of the festival, saying “The decision to change the name of our reggae festival was a tough one. It is our longest running festival here at Linganore Winecellars, but over the years our dedicated festival goers have enjoyed the more upbeat dance-oriented Soca. Our wines have always reflected summer fun, and we want to continue this in the parties we host. Please come and enjoy!”

Tickets are available for purchase via eventbrite.com, with various ticket options such as early gate access, general admission, and VIP tickets. Optional discounts are also available for active and retired military, designated drivers, and children ages 18-20. Children under 18 are free.

Tickets include live performances by local bands and DJ Sprang International, authentic island cuisine, local artisan vendors, and tastings of 19 Linganore wines and multiple Red Shedman beers.

Linganore recommends the use of Tixel for anyone looking to sell their already purchased tickets, or for guests looking to purchase tickets that have sold out.

Tickets are available to purchase at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-summer-soca-wine-music-festival-tickets-1205382213649?aff=PressRelease

ROKFORM Launches G-ROK PRO Bluetooth Golf Speaker with 30W Sound, 24-Hour Battery, and 45lb Magnetic Mount

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ROKFORM, a leader in premium mobile accessories engineered for performance and durability, today announced the launch of the G-ROK PRO Bluetooth Golf Speaker — the next evolution of its best-selling G-ROK golf speaker. Built for golfers who demand more from their gear, the G-ROK PRO delivers powerful audio, unmatched mounting strength, and extreme durability to perform in any weather or terrain.

Designed to raise the bar, the G-ROK PRO features an enhanced magnetic mounting system with 10 rare earth magnets and over 45 pounds of pull force, 30% stronger than the original G-ROK. It stays locked in place on golf carts, even through rough rides, sharp turns, and rugged conditions. Rated IPX7 waterproof and dustproof, it’s designed to handle rain, mud, sand, and other elements on the course.

With 30 watts of immersive sound, the G-ROK PRO delivers crisp highs, deep bass, and rich mid-tones via a high-performance setup that includes a 20-watt subwoofer, dual passive radiators, and a 10-watt tweeter. Whether you’re teeing off or driving to the next hole, the sound experience is consistently loud and clear.

Golfers can enjoy up to 24 hours of continuous play due to the massive 7500mAh battery — enough for five full rounds at typical golf course volume. Plus, the G-ROK PRO doubles as a power bank, for emergency phone charging on the course.

The G-ROK PRO supports Bluetooth V5.2 and LE Audio, allowing users to pair up to 100 speakers for an extended surround sound experience — ideal for tournaments or group events. For areas with poor connectivity, an integrated SD card slot lets users preload music for offline playback.

Mounting options are unmatched in the industry with four versatile options: ROKFORM’s patented Twist Lock system, a ÂĽ-20 threaded bottom, powerful magnets, or the included removable carabiner.

The G-ROK PRO is available now at rokform.com.

Stephen Schwartz and Chandrika Tandon to Receive Champion Award at ASCAP Foundation’s 50th Anniversary Gala

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The ASCAP Foundation, a charitable organization dedicated to supporting American music creators—and the giving arm of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers—has announced that legendary Broadway composer and humanitarian Stephen Schwartz, and acclaimed artist and philanthropist Chandrika Tandon, will be honored with the ASCAP Foundation Champion Award at its 50th Anniversary Celebration on June 10, 2025.

The intimate event will take place at the New York City home of Tony-winning composer Adam Guettel (Floyd Collins, The Light in the PiazzaTo Kill a MockingbirdDays of Wine and Roses) and will bring together music industry leaders, philanthropists and arts advocates to celebrate these two trailblazers and support the Foundation’s continued mission to empower the next generation of music creators.

Composers and lyricists Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (Dear Evan Hansen, La La Land) will perform a tribute to Stephen Schwartz. Composer, pianist and singer-songwriter Emily Bear (Moana 2, The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical) will perform and talk about her creative journey and The ASCAP Foundation.

Founded in 1975 with a bequest from the estate of Tin Pan Alley songwriter Jack Norworth—the songwriter behind “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”—The ASCAP Foundation has supported American music creators through music education, talent development and humanitarian programs for five decades. In 2024 alone, its programs reached more than 300,000 individuals, including 60,000 K–12 students, through scholarships, mentorship initiatives and educational programs. Included in these are songwriting workshops, grants, scholarships, awards and community outreach programs like “Children Will Listen,” which takes children from underserved communities to what may be their first Broadway show. The ASCAP Foundation is supported by contributions from ASCAP members and music lovers throughout the United States. It has a reputation for recognizing major talent like Lin-Manuel Miranda, Pasek & Paul (Dear Evan Hansen), Emily Bear (Moana 2) and Shaina Taub (SUFFS) early in their careers.

The ASCAP Foundation Champion Award recognizes ASCAP members who have made a significant impact through social action and humanitarian efforts. Schwartz and Tandon are both celebrated not only for their creative excellence but for their longstanding commitment to causes beyond the stage. Previous recipients of ASCAP’s Champion Award include Billy Joel, Natalie Merchant, Judy Collins, Arlo Guthrie and Ne-Yo.

The ASCAP Foundation President Paul Williams said, “As we celebrate 50 years of The ASCAP Foundation’s work empowering music creators and uplifting communities, it is an honor to recognize Stephen and Chandrika—two extraordinary individuals whose artistry and humanitarianism have inspired countless creatives. Their passion reflects the very spirit of our mission, and we are proud to honor them as Champions.”

Tickets to the ASCAP Foundation’s 50th Anniversary Gala honoring Stephen Schwartz and Chandrika Tandon can be purchased at https://give.ascapfoundation.org/50years.

Stephen Schwartz, a titan of musical theatre, is best known for composing and writing lyrics for the Broadway and film phenomenon Wicked, as well as GodspellPippin and Children of Eden. His work spans stage, film and opera, including Oscar-winning contributions to Disney’s Pocahontas and DreamWorks’ The Prince of Egypt. A passionate advocate for arts mentorship and education, Schwartz has led The ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Workshops for over two decades and continues to champion new voices globally.

Chandrika Tandon, a Grammy-winning artist, business leader and humanitarian, is known for her pursuit of elevating human happiness through music education, the arts and emotional well-being. A two-time Grammy nominee, she won “Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Album” for her 6th release, Triveni, in 2025. She is a passionate advocate for education, mental health and community empowerment, serving on the boards of NYU and the New York Academy of Sciences, and is the founder and patron of Madras Christian College’s Boyd Tandon School of Business.

Toyota Teams Up With Colombian Pop Sensation Ela Taubert for Year-Long Latin Music Campaign

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To kick off this year’s Latin music journey, Toyota announced a year-long partnership with Colombian pop phenom, Ela Taubert, who recently released her highly acclaimed debut album ‘Preguntas A Las 11:11′. The dynamic collaboration aims to redefine the journey of music discovery for young fans while providing a genuine connection with Toyota’s commitment to supporting emerging artists on their road to success.

The vibrant partnership aims to engage with Toyota fans and provide them with opportunities to experience Ela Taubert’s melodic sounds, that mixes anglo pop with Latin, and gain access to her music throughout the year, including as the presenting sponsor of her much anticipated international tour, which coincides with the release of the album by the same name ‘Preguntas a las 11:11′, with U.S. tour stops to be announced soon.

“Our partnership with Ela Taubert is an exhilarating step forward in our commitment to innovation and cultural connection,” said Dedra DeLilli, vice president marketing communications, Toyota. “We are thrilled to be joining her on this blossoming musical path to bring an immersive music experience that resonates with the passions of the next generation.” 

Most recently, Ela Taubert joined Toyota at the Sueños Music Festival, as the featured artist performing a special set at the Toyota Music Den (TMD), an intimate experiential space giving fans a front row seat to some of the most talented emerging artists. Held in Chicago, Illinois, other artists joining the lineup at the TMD included Latin boy band sensation, DND (Do Not Disturb) from Miami, California singer/songwriter Eddie Zuko, Venezuelan artist Kobi Cantillo, and DJs Gio Sandz, Chava and Latin EDM DJ and producer 2Deep.

Along with the music stage, the TMD space featured numerous fan activities, including vehicle activations – showcasing the Land Cruiser and Prius Prime plug-in – that bring music to life and include fan favorite giveaways.

Ela Taubert’s musical sounds will continue to be featured in other Toyota projects this year.  She will appear on Sounds of the Road, presented by Toyota and SiriusXM, an exclusive performance and interview series featuring emerging and established artists. Her episode, launching later this year, will be in Spanish and the first time the series features a Latin artist.

New Film Celebrates HBCU Marching Bands as Living Legacy of Pride, Power, and Perseverance

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The PEPSI National Battle of the Bands (NBOTB) is celebrating Black Music Month with the re-airing of its documentary, “Celebrating Champions of Culture,” spotlighting the talent, tradition, and transformative power of HBCU marching bands.

Beginning May 31, the film will air on select stations nationwide throughout June, transporting audiences back to the electrifying energy of the 2024 PEPSI NBOTB 10th anniversary celebration, held last August in Houston, Texas. Created to honor this milestone year, the fifth installment in the series encapsulates a decade of excellence, capturing the spirit, sound, and cultural legacy of the bands that have defined the event and shaped Black musical expression for generations.

“HBCU marching bands are more than halftime shows—they’re living archives of a legacy of pride, power, and perseverance, carrying the soul of our history with every step, every note,” said Derek Webber, Executive Producer of the National Battle of the Bands and CEO of Webber Marketing. “With this film, we celebrate not just their music, but their meaning—and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring their legacy lives on through the next generation of student leaders.”

The documentary dives into the world of HBCU marching bands, highlighting their discipline, creativity, and their vital role in the legacy and evolution of Black musical history. These bands—renowned for appearances at major events like the Super Bowl, presidential inaugurations, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade—are cultural icons in their own right.

The film features performances and interviews from the following bands, recorded live during the 10th-anniversary celebration:

  • Bethune-Cookman University – Marching Wildcats
  • Jackson State University – Sonic Boom of the South
  • Miles College – Purple Marching Machine
  • Prairie View A&M University – Marching Storm
  • Southern University – Human Jukebox
  • Tennessee State University – Aristocrat of Bands
  • Texas Southern University – Ocean of Soul
  • Tuskegee University – Marching Crimson Pipers

In addition to celebrating culture, NBOTB is committed to building a future where student musicians have the tools and support to succeed—from the classroom to the national stage.

Celebrating Champions of Culture re-airs beginning May 31. For a complete list of air dates, stations, and exclusive content—including the official trailer—visit www.nationalbattleofthebands.com/films.

The 2025 PEPSI National Battle of the Bands will take place on Saturday, August 23, at NRG Stadium in Houston. For tickets and event details, visit www.nationalbattleofthebands.com.

BEMF Revives Keiser’s Octavia With Lavish Staging and GRAMMY-Winning Ensemble

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The virtuous Empress Octavia is betrayed by her increasingly erratic husband, Nero, putting all of Rome on the brink of rebellion in the GRAMMY-winning Boston Early Music Festival’s fully staged production of Reinhard Keiser’s Octavia. Written for the famed Hamburg Opera in 1705, Octavia brings lavish spectacle and brilliant orchestration to a nuanced tale of the corruption of power and the resilience of love. The Centerpiece Opera of a weeklong Festival of Early Music, BEMF will offer four fully staged performances, June 8, 11, 13, and 15, 2025 at the Emerson Cutler Majestic Theatre (219 Tremont Street, Boston, MA).

GRAMMY-winning Musical Directors Paul O’Dette and Stephen Stubbs and acclaimed Stage Director Gilbert Blin lead the fully staged North American premiere in a production replete with opulent stagecraft and impeccable musicianship. As Rome breaks out in open rebellion, a fantastical parade of philosophers, clowns, ghosts, and despots comes alive on the stage as noble Octavia struggles to survive the turmoil and cruelty swirling around her. Breathtaking sets, sumptuous, period-inspired costumes, exquisite Baroque dance, and beautifully evocative music combine in an operatic feast sure to delight.

Joining the directorial team will be Orchestra Director Robert Mealy, Dance Director Marie-Nathalie Lacoursière, Choreographer Hubert Hazebroucq, Set Designer Alexander McCargar, Costume Designer Anna Kjellsdotter, Lighting Designer Kelly Martin, Assistant Stage Director Ellen Hargis, and Executive Producer Kathleen Fay. BEMF has assembled an outstanding cast of 11 singers, with GRAMMY-nominated soprano EmĹ‘ke Baráth in the title role alongside BEMF favorites bass-baritone Douglas Ray Williams as Nero, sopranos Amanda Forsythe and Sherezade Panthaki, and GRAMMY-winning tenor Aaron Sheehan among others.

Tickets are priced at $30, $67, $87, $117, $153, and $250. Tickets and subscription packages are available through the BEMF Box Office at 617-661-1812 or BEMF.org.

EARPEACE Launches EVERYDAY Earplugs to Combat Noise Pollution in Style

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Today, high-fidelity earplug brand EARPEACE announced the release of EVERYDAY, its latest innovation in the lifestyle space. Designed for daily use, the new, stylish, barely-there earplug features EARPEACE’s triple-patented technology to protect users from everyday noise pollution, helping them to regain focus and take control. With lightweight travel-size cases in four fashionable neutral colors – including black, cream, navy and forest – EVERYDAY is the perfect on-the-go accessory for any lifestyle.

EARPEACE’s introduction of EVERYDAY advances the brand’s mission to prevent Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). The World Health Organization reports that by 2050, one in every 10 people will develop some degree of hearing loss. EARPEACE continues to provide a solution to this global health problem with the launch of earplugs intended for everyday use. With easily accessible and discreet earplugs, EVERYDAY will enhance the overall experience of traveling, attending live events, working out, commuting, meditating and other daily activities that result in exposure to noise pollution.

“Our events, commutes, workouts, and even our families (who we love) are sometimes just too loud. When people think about personal wellness, hearing health often is overlooked but, in fact, over 10% of the population will experience hearing loss. EARPEACE launched EVERYDAY to offer a discreet and comfortable solution to protect people from the noise that compromises our focus. EVERYDAY is intended to put you back in control,” said Jay Clark, EARPEACE Founder & CEO. “We put a lot of thought and intention into designing EVERYDAY – from the earplug’s innovative, triple-patented technology to its secure and stylish travel-size case – and we look forward to improving people’s lives by helping them combat day-to-day noise pollution and unwanted distractions.”

EVERYDAY prioritizes wellness, comfort and convenience through its new features:

  • Decibel reduction: Optimal for noise sensitivity, EVERYDAY helps users regain focus and take control with tailored decibel reduction. Whether at work, traveling or simply needing to find peace in a loud environment, EARPEACE’s custom noise filtration reduces noise without cutting off awareness.
  • Triple-patented design: Engineered with EARPEACE’s triple-patented technology, EVERYDAY earplugs conform to the natural shape of the ear for all-day comfort.
  • Four sleek color variations with matching cases: With four fashionable, neutral color options – black, cream, navy and forest – and lightweight, travel-sized cases that match any fit, EVERYDAY is an every-occasion essential. 

EVERYDAY earplugs are now available at $33.95 on EARPEACE.com, and at select retailers including Amazon.

Havas Elevates Sound Strategy With Expanded Creative Leadership

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Havas proudly introduces Art of Sound (AOS), a sonic marketing agency redefining brand storytelling through the emotional power of sound. AOS reinforces the network’s creative vision and strengthens its position as an industry disruptor. Rooted in the belief that sound is the most emotional and impactful way to connect with audiences, AOS partners with Havas brands and agencies to build distinctive sonic identities, drive cultural relevance, and resonate across generations.

As an extension of Havas’ integrated approach, AOS merges marketing innovation with deep expertise in sonic branding, audio production, and strategic sonic storytelling. The agency helps brands navigate an evolving and oversaturated media landscape by creating meaningful auditory experiences across multiple platforms — enabling them to break through the noise and leave a lasting impression.

AOS is already serving as the sonic agency of record (AOR) for several brands — an innovative model that brings strategy and consistency to how sound is used across the entire brand ecosystem. From advertising and digital to retail and product, AOS ensures that sound is more than a creative layer — it’s a core, unified expression of the brand itself.

“Sound has become essential to driving brand awareness and cultural relevance,” said Damien Escobar, CEO of Art of Sound. “As an agency that has been on the forefront of creating cutting edge service offerings for our clients, we built AOS to meet that demand and enable us to bring our capabilities to more brands across the network and globally.”

AOS has already made waves with its ‘OG WHO? OGX’ brand refresh campaign for OGX, the #1 hair repair brand – partnering with Demi Lovato. The campaign’s sonic-led strategy generated 1.2 billion impressions, and an earned media value of $4.2M to date.

Escobar, Havas’ first-ever Global Chief Music Officer, brings over two decades of experience as a two-time Emmy-winning musician and creative leader. Widely recognized as one of the most influential violinists of his generation, he’s built a career at the intersection of music, culture, and brand strategy. Before founding AOS, he served as SVP, Director of Music & Culture at Arnold Worldwide. His leadership and belief in music as a strategic brand asset led to his global appointment at Havas — all while continuing to top charts as an artist, including his #1 Billboard Jazz single “Taboo.” 

In his dual role, Escobar will continue to serve as Global Chief Music Officer for Havas while leading the future of Art of Sound â€” ensuring that music and sound remain central to how brands show up in culture across the entire network.

Most recently, Escobar was appointed to the Music & Entertainment Jury for the 2025 Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, a reflection of his creative leadership and further proof of AOS and Havas’ role in shaping the future of sonic marketing.

“With the rapid rise of new creators and influencers — and the meteoric advances in AI — the power of sound in all its forms has never been more apparent,” says Donna Murphy, Global CEO of Havas Creative and Health Networks. “Sound is a powerful emotional driver, and when approached innovatively, it enables brands to amplify their messaging in meaningful ways. We know Damien and his team of experts bring a unique perspective, passion, and experience to our clients, and we are thrilled to welcome them into these new and expanded roles within Havas.”

TILT Returns to Grace Cathedral for Summer Solstice Spectacle

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On the longest day of the year, Grace Cathedral invites you to experience TILT. This intimate and immersive concert event celebrates the summer solstice through light, sound, and community. On Friday, June 20, this extraordinary evening honors the joy of creative expression and the beauty of shared experiences.

Named for the tilt of the Earth’s axis that gives rise to the summer solstice, TILT transforms Grace Cathedral’s sacred space into a radiant celebration of light, artistry, and global unity.

Now in its sixth year, TILT continues to dazzle audiences with world-renowned talent in one of San Francisco’s most awe-inspiring settings—and this year is no different.

Leah Crocetto is a Grammy Award-winning opera virtuoso, celebrated for her radiant tone, vocal agility, and emotional depth. Praised by The New York Times for her “full, penetrating sound” and “agile coloratura technique,” Crocetto has appeared on many of the world’s most prestigious stages, including The Metropolitan Opera, San Francisco Opera, Washington National Opera, and Teatro Municipal de Santiago. Her concert performances include appearances at Carnegie Hall, alongside the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and on the Grammy-nominated Mahler 8 recording with Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil (Deutsche Grammophon). Her presence at TILT promises a performance of extraordinary artistry.

Ronny Michael Greenberg returns as the pianist and music director of TILT. He is an internationally acclaimed pianist, producer, founder of Taste of Talent, and musical visionary in the San Francisco Bay Area.

“TILT is more than a concert—it’s a multi-sensory experience that honors the power of music, light, and community to bring us closer together,” said Greenberg.

Event Highlights:

  • The Warm-Up (Reception):
    Begin your evening at sunset with summer spritzers and seasonal canapés, set to the vibrant global rhythms of Wobbly World, a musical collective of master artists worldwide.
  • Main Concert:
    As daylight filters through the cathedral’s stained glass, bask in a stunning performance by acclaimed soprano Leah Crocetto and pianist/director Ronny Michael Greenberg. Their genre-spanning program will stir the soul and elevate the spirit with unmatched artistry and depth.
  • Visual Light Immersion:
    The evening culminates in a mesmerizing indoor “sunset” courtesy of Mad Alchemy, San Francisco’s legendary analog liquid light show, illuminating the cathedral in dazzling, psychedelic light.

Event Details:

What: TILT – A Summer Solstice Concert
When: Friday, June 20, 2025 | Doors open at 7:30 pm for General, Sponsors at 6:30 pm
Where: Grace Cathedral, 1100 California Street, San Francisco
Tickets & Info: gracecathedral.org/tilt

Hurley Teams With Travis Barker for Global Capsule Drop

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 Hurley, the global apparel and lifestyle brand, and Travis Barker, the world-renowned drummer and producer, just lit the fuse on the most exciting collab of 2025! Get ready, because this isn’t your average surf brand capsule—it’s the counterculture spirit of Southern California.

As both the first brand ambassador and the creative force behind the capsule collection, Barker’s distinct influence is woven throughout every element of the limited-edition drop and innovative campaign. The collection includes tees and sweatshirts adorned with camo print, skull motifs, old English graphics, checker print, and more; while classic chino pants, shorts, and overalls evoke Barker’s wardrobe staples. Punk-inspired surf and swim featuring Hurley’s award-winning boardshort technology, as well as accessories including sunglasses, footwear, and headwear round out the collection.

An artist who needs no introduction, Barker’s connection with the Hurley brand spans decades and is rooted in a shared history of the Southern California pop-punk and surf scenes. When Blink-182 was blowing up stages on Warped Tour in the early 2000s, Travis wasn’t just wearing Hurley tees—he was living the California cool lifestyle that defined the era (and style) of the time. Now, over twenty years later, Hurley and Travis are making it official with the Hurley x Travis Barker collection.

“This collaboration is special for us as it showcases the synergy between the spirit and excitement of Hurley in its early days with who we are now as an internationally established brand with the power to do something really loud and exciting,” says Joey Gabbay, CEO at Bluestar Alliance, Hurley’s parent company. “Hurley has always believed that music and art are the common threads that bring us all together and having a legendary artist like Travis create custom designs and fits based on his own personal style sealed the deal for us. We strive for authenticity in everything we do, and this collaboration is a perfect symbol of that dedication.”

Shot at his recording studio and on the streets of California, the campaign captures the synergy and chemistry between Hurley and Barker. Photographed among the musical instruments that Barker has used to become the force he is today, mixed with his personal collectibles including cars, bikes, and motorcycles, these details highlight Barker’s storied career and rebellious personal style while emphasizing the enthusiasm both Barker and Hurley share for creativity and innovation.

“This collection represents everything I love about the lifestyle I’ve carved out for myself,” says Barker. “It’s tattooed and poetic, chaotic and precise—a beautiful contradiction that just works. It’s made for people like me, the punk kids, the surf community and the people who can’t help but create. I love the freedom I was given with this process and believe that really comes through in the product and designs.”

The Hurley x Travis Barker Collection is now available globally at hurley.com and select retailers with prices ranging from $50 – $125. For more information, visit https://www.hurley.com/