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Nemo, Loreen, Marina Satti, BABIE LATO, and ENNIO Reimagine Eurovision Classics for Spotify Singles Series

Eric Alper
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Nemo, Loreen, Marina Satti, BABIE LATO, and ENNIO Reimagine Eurovision Classics for Spotify Singles Series

As Europe gears up for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, Spotify is celebrating the spirit of unity and musical legacy with a new series of Spotify Singles. Five artists from across the continent—Nemo, Loreen, Marina Satti, BABIE LATO, and ENNIO—have come together to reimagine iconic Eurovision hits.

With anticipation building for this year’s contest, Spotify’s Eurovision 2025 playlist has already been streamed for more than 6.7 million hours by eager fans since its launch in February. These newly released Spotify Singles, recorded at their Stockholm Studio, will amp up the excitement even further, breathing new life into beloved classics from the competition.

“The Eurovision Song Contest brings all of Europe together in a celebration of music and culture,” said Federica Tremolada, EU General Manager at Spotify. “Our new Spotify Singles aim to unite Europeans across different countries and generations to showcase the lasting impact of Eurovision. The contest provides a launchpad for some of Europe’s brightest artists who continue to shape the sound of the continent. I’m proud that Spotify provides a further platform to amplify these artists and fuel the export of European culture.”

Dive into each new track and its history below.

“Satellite” by Nemo

Fresh off their Eurovision win for Switzerland last year, Nemo is putting their unique spin on Lena’s quirky pop hit “Satellite,” which won the contest for Germany in 2010.

“I had so much fun recording in Stockholm,” said Nemo. “I’m thrilled to share my extraterrestrial spin on Lena’s ‘Satellite’ as the first Swiss Spotify Single.”

Stream Nemo’s cover.

“Arcade” by Loreen

Swedish pop phenomenon and two-time Eurovision winner Loreen lends her signature style to Duncan Laurence’s haunting ballad “Arcade,” which brought victory to the Netherlands in 2019 and has since become a global streaming phenomenon.

Stream Loreen’s cover.

“Fovame” by Marina Satti

Marina Satti, a former Eurovision contestant representing Greece, brings her distinctive sound to “Fovame,” a rendition of MARO’s atmospheric track “saudade, saudade,” which represented Portugal in 2022.

“The days we spent at the Spotify Studios in Stockholm were truly unforgettable, and the studio experience was crazy,” recalled Marina. “I’m beyond excited to share with you my rendition of ‘Saudade’ as the first-ever Greek Spotify Single. I can’t wait for you to hear it!”

Stream Marina Satti’s cover.

“Tattoo” by BABIE LATO

BABIE LATO is a project by Polish artists Margaret, Sara James, and Zalia. The trio tackles Loreen’s history-making hit, “Tattoo,” adding a Polish touch to the Eurovision-winning track from 2023.

“‘Tattoo’ by Loreen really struck a deep chord in our Polish- and Eurovision-loving hearts,” they said. “We had so much fun reworking this track—discovering a new sound and weaving in a touch of Polish nostalgia made us fall in love with it even more.”

Stream BABIE LATO’s cover.

“Wunder gibt es immer wieder” by ENNIO

German indie artist ENNIO introduces a new generation to the classic European pop tune “Wunder gibt es immer wieder,” originally performed by Katja Ebstein for Germany at the 1970 Eurovision Song Contest.

“Recording this Spotify Single allowed me to honor a classic while making it my own,” ENNIO said. “It means a lot to me. Thank you Spotify!”

Stream ENNIO’s cover.

These new releases are a testament to the creativity and artistry of Europe’s music scene. Check out the Eurovision 2025 playlist to hear this year’s official song entries.

Spotify Rolls Out New Features to Put Listeners in Control of Discovery and Playlists

Eric Alper
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Spotify Rolls Out New Features to Put Listeners in Control of Discovery and Playlists

Spotify is making music discovery feel even more effortless with a fresh wave of features designed to give users greater control over their listening experience. Starting today, a gradual rollout is introducing updates focused on playlist customization, intuitive discovery tools, and streamlined mobile controls—all aimed at enhancing how users connect with the music they love.

For Premium users, the Queue feature—the familiar three lines at the bottom of the Now Playing view—has received a major design upgrade. The refreshed interface includes easy access to Shuffle, Smart Shuffle, Repeat, and the Sleep Timer, offering greater control over playback. Users will also now see which songs Spotify recommends after their queued tracks finish, making it easier to decide what plays next. For those who prefer a strictly personal playlist, Autoplay and Smart Shuffle can be toggled off in Settings.

To further tailor the listening experience, Spotify is improving the Hide button and testing a new feature called Snooze. The updated Hide button now ensures that once a track is hidden from a playlist, it stays hidden across all devices. Meanwhile, the new 30-day Snooze feature allows users to temporarily remove a song from their recommendations—ideal for taking a short break from overplayed tracks without removing them permanently. This feature is currently being tested with Premium users and will expand soon.

Spotify is also unveiling updated mobile playlist management tools. At the top of every playlist, users will now find clear options to Add, Sort, and Edit tracks. These features make it easier to adjust playlist names, update cover art, and reorder tracks for the perfect vibe.

A new update for Liked Songs gives users in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S. even more flexibility. Tracks from the Liked Songs list can now be filtered by genre and instantly turned into standalone playlists—a streamlined way to spin off a new mix from existing favorites.

The Create button, located in the bottom-right corner of the mobile app, has also become a hub for music curation. With a single tap, users can start new playlists, collaborate with friends, or join a Blend. Premium users in supported markets can also quickly access Jam for real-time group listening or use AI Playlist to craft playlists based on creative prompts and ideas. With AI Playlist now available in more markets, users can unlock even more possibilities for personalized playlist creation.

For those wondering about the whereabouts of their Library, it’s still available—just in a slightly different place. On mobile devices, it can now be found as the third icon along the bottom navigation bar, keeping all personalized content just a tap away.

With these new tools and tests, Spotify continues to evolve its platform to meet the changing needs of its global audience—empowering every listener to build a soundtrack that’s uniquely their own.

Ed Sheeran Unveils Emotional “Old Phone” Video from Upcoming Album ‘Play’

Eric Alper
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Ed Sheeran Unveils Emotional “Old Phone” Video from Upcoming Album ‘Play’

Multiple-GRAMMY winning, Diamond-certified, global superstar Ed Sheeran has unveiled the official music video for his recently released single ‘Old Phone,’  the second song – following lead single ‘Azizam’ – that Sheeran has shared from his forthcoming album ‘Play’, arriving everywhere via Gingerbread Man Records/Atlantic Records on September 12th and available for pre-order now. 

 

 

Directed by Emil Nava, the ‘Old Phone’ music video is a touching tribute to the beauty of connection and memory. In a heartfelt introduction, Ed talks about the background to the song, delving into the bittersweet memories evoked by rediscovering an old phone, unearthing text messages and photos from cherished moments with people who are no longer here. 

To bring the song to life, Ed conceived the idea of building the Old Phone Pub in Ipswich, Massachusetts, creating a space to connect with his fans and their stories. As Ed puts it, “ I thought I’d build a pub somewhere, and do a gig, and I put it out there to my fans, and said do you want to come to this gig, go on your old phone and find a message that means a lot to you, or a video that means a lot to you” 

The video artfully weaves together moments of Ed reflecting on his own memories —with scenes of the Old Phone pub’s construction. Fans are introduced to the heartfelt community spirit as Ed interacts with locals, practices for the gig, and hears personal stories from attendees…from a fan’s video of her two young daughters playing, to a clip of friends enjoying the snow after a breakup, or a poignant memory of dancing with a grandmother who has since passed, each story shared by fans becomes a testament to the emotional power of memory and music. The climax of the video showcases an intimate live performance at the Old Phone Pub. 

Ahead of the song’s release last week, Sheeran announced the arrival of ‘Old Phone by launching @teddysoldphone, an Instagram account featuring never before seen photos from Ed’s actual old phone, which he stopped using in 2015, before moving solely to email. Ed has been teasing the track over the past few weeks, including an impromptu performance of the song on the Tonight Show couch while chatting with Jimmy Fallon, as part of his set at his pop up pub during Coachella, and most recently playing it as a duet with Noah Kahan at Santa’s Pub in Nashville. Ed was recently featured on the cover of this year’s TIME100 as one of the world’s most influential people. 

LEGO + Lilo & Stitch = ‘Ohana-Fueled Fun Just in Time for the Movie!

Eric Alper
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LEGO + Lilo & Stitch = ‘Ohana-Fueled Fun Just in Time for the Movie!

Today’s the day Stitch fans and brickheads unite—because LEGO and Disney just dropped the ultimate build-it-yourself vacation. Ahead of the May 23, 2025 theatrical release of the highly anticipated live-action Lilo & Stitch, LEGO has released a trio of enchanting new sets that bring your favourite blue alien, his human best friend, and their Hawaiian escapades right to your living room floor.

Why wait for the movie when you can build your own island adventure today? Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or introducing your kids to the magic for the first time, these new sets are a perfect mix of play, display, and full-on nostalgia. They’re available now at LEGO.ca/Disney, in LEGO stores, and at select retailers across Canada.

First up, say aloha to the LEGO Stitch set (SKU 43249). With 730 pieces and priced at $84.99 CAD, it lets you build a posable figure of Stitch—complete with movable ears, a rotating head, and even his iconic Hawaiian shirt. It includes accessories like a flower and an ice cream cone, and with support from the LEGO Builder app, you’ll have help every step of the way. Whether you’re nine or ninety-nine, this set is a must-have for any fan of the little blue troublemaker.

Next, the LEGO Lilo and Stitch Beach House (SKU 43268) is a two-level tropical paradise. At $139.99 CAD and boasting 834 pieces, this set is packed with play potential: six rooms, a rooftop observatory, surfboards, a record player, a mini guitar, and even a brick-built spaceship. The set features minifigures of Lilo, Stitch, Nani, David, and Mr. Bubbles—ready for any kind of island chaos or calm.

 

For collectors or anyone with limited shelf space, the LEGO BrickHeadz Stitch (SKU 40674) delivers maximum cuteness in a compact package. At just over 3 inches tall and 152 pieces, this $12.99 CAD figure is a fun, stylized version of Stitch in five shades of blue and comes with its own baseplate for display.

These sets don’t just let you build scenes from a beloved story—they invite you to live them. It’s storytelling in 3D, with bricks and imagination replacing screens and remotes. They’re perfect for playdates, rainy afternoons, or quiet bonding moments between generations of fans who all fell in love with the message of ‘ohana.

And let’s be real—parents who grew up watching the original Lilo & Stitch might just “accidentally” buy a set for themselves. No judgment. That’s the power of LEGO and Disney together: they connect the dots between generations through play, creativity, and a little blue alien who just wants a family.

So as we count down the days until the new film hits theatres, you don’t need to wait to be part of the action. These sets are your ticket to island life, alien mischief, and unforgettable memories. Ready to build your way to paradise?

Full details and ordering info at LEGO.ca/Disney

j-hope Brings His Global Tour Finale to Cinemas with HOPE ON THE STAGE Live from Osaka

Eric Alper
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j-hope Brings His Global Tour Finale to Cinemas with HOPE ON THE STAGE Live from Osaka

Tickets are on sale now for j-hope Tour ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE’ in JAPAN: LIVE VIEWING at  j-hopeliveviewing.com.

Following its February kickoff in Seoul and spanning across North America and Asia, j-hope’s first solo world tour -‘HOPE ON THE STAGE’- captivated audiences in 15 regions with 31 concerts. Now, the grand finale of the blockbuster tour will be broadcast live from Osaka Japan’s Kyocera Dome to cinemas worldwide on May 31 as j-hope Tour ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE’ in JAPAN: LIVE VIEWING.

This live cinema broadcast provides a rare chance for audiences to witness j-hope’s inspiring artistry on the big screen. Witness the powerful moment of j-hope as he shares his hopes, wishes, and dreams with audiences. This highly anticipated cinema event offers a unique opportunity to experience the electrifying energy of his performances, featuring iconic title tracks from his solo albums – including “MORE,” “Arson,” and “NEURON (with Gaeko, yoonmirae)” – alongside recent releases first unveiled on this tour, such as “Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)” and “MONA LISA.”

j-hope (Jeong, Hoseok) is a South Korean rapper, dancer, songwriter, music producer and member of 21st century pop icons, BTS. Known as the ‘lead dancer’ of the group, j-hope boasts his performance skills that are nearly perfect. His originality in music as an artist also comes from the fact that he learned music through dance. j-hope has been participating in making music such as “Intro : Boy Meets Evil” and “MAMA” in WINGS, and his solo works.  j-hope’s first mixtape Hope World (March 2018) expressed his honest emotions and personal narratives, suggesting his vision as an artist. Globally-famed “Chicken Noodle Soup (feat. Becky G)” released in 2019 showcased his own musical personality with exhilarating energy and performance. j-hope also validated his capability as a creative director by leading all aspects—from music to concept and visual elements—of his solo album, Jack In The Box (July 2022), which addresses his passion and agony he goes through as an artist. In 2022, j-hope made history as the first South Korean act to headline a main stage at Lollapalooza. j-hope released a special album HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1 alongside docuseries ‘HOPE ON THE STREET’ in March 2024. In March 2025, j-hope released a series of solo singles “Sweet Dreams (feat. Miguel)” and “MONA LISA,” further cementing his global presence. In April 2025, j-hope headlined BMO Stadium in Los Angeles as part of his first solo world tour ‘HOPE ON THE STAGE,’ becoming the first South Korean male artist ever to headline a stadium concert in North America.

Create AI Videos from Photos – Free on Vidwud

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

There has never been a greater need for captivating images in the content-driven world of today. While photos still hold power, videos have become the gold standard for grabbing attention online. But what if you could effortlessly turn your static photos into professional-grade videos—without editing skills, expensive software, or even spending a dime? That’s exactly what you can do with Vidwud, the ultimate image to video AI free tool available at vidwud.com.

What Is Vidwud?

Vidwud is an AI-powered video creation platform that lets users convert images into animated videos within minutes. Whether you’re a digital marketer, small business owner, social media enthusiast, or someone who wants to document memories in a more dynamic format, Vidwud simplifies video creation through automation and smart design.

Best of all, it offers a completely free plan that provides impressive functionality without compromising quality.

Why AI-Powered Video Creation Matters

Creating compelling videos from scratch often requires time, technical knowledge, and expensive software. Vidwud removes all those barriers using artificial intelligence. With just a few clicks, it transforms a series of static images into engaging videos complete with animations, transitions, music, and text.

Here’s why AI-based video creation is a game-changer:

  • Speed: Generate a high-quality video in minutes, not hours.
  • Simplicity: No need for editing experience—just upload and go.
  • Cost-Efficiency: Completely free to use with no watermarks on the basic plan.
  • Scalability: Create multiple videos quickly for campaigns, social media, or business presentations.

Key Features of Vidwud

Vidwud offers a range of features designed to make video creation easy and enjoyable:

1. Smart Image Animation

Vidwud uses AI to animate still photos by adding smooth transitions, camera movements (like zoom and pan), and fade effects to make your video feel alive.

2. Music and Sound Integration

Choose from a library of royalty-free background tracks or upload your own. The AI syncs the visuals with the audio for a seamless experience.

3. Text Overlays and Captions

Add titles, quotes, or calls-to-action to guide your audience through the video. Perfect for branding or storytelling.

4. Prebuilt Video Templates

Select from various templates tailored to different purposes—marketing, portfolios, event recaps, product promotions, and more.

5. Instant Download and Sharing

Once your video is generated, download it in HD quality or share directly to your favorite social platforms.

How to Use Vidwud – Step-by-Step

Creating a video with Vidwud is straightforward. Here’s how:

Step 1: Visit www.vidwud.com

Go to the official website and sign up for a free account.

Step 2: Upload Your Photos

Choose the images you want to include in the video. Multiple files can be uploaded simultaneously.

Step 3: Select a Template

Pick a video style that matches your theme or objective—whether it’s romantic, professional, bold, or minimalist.

Step 4: Customize

Add background music, insert text, and choose transition effects. You don’t have to do much—the AI makes most of the decisions based on your inputs.

Step 5: Generate and Download

Click on “Create Video” and let Vidwud do the rest. In a few moments, your animated video will be ready for download or sharing.

Who Can Benefit from Vidwud?

Vidwud’s image to video AI free platform is versatile and suitable for a wide range of users:

  • Content Creators: Quickly generate engaging videos for YouTube, Instagram Reels, or TikTok.
  • Marketers: Create product highlights, promotional videos, and ad content in minutes.
  • Small Business Owners: Make brand introductions or customer testimonials with minimal effort.
  • Educators: Design informative visuals from classroom materials or lesson slides.
  • Event Planners: Compile photo highlights from weddings, birthdays, or conferences into elegant videos.

Real-World Applications

Here are a few creative ways people are using Vidwud:

  • Photo Slideshows with Flair: For birthdays, weddings, and graduations.
  • E-Commerce Product Showcases: Turn product images into scroll-stopping video ads.
  • Testimonial Videos: Use customer photos and reviews to create trust-building content.
  • Portfolio Showreels: Artists and designers can animate their work into a shareable format.
  • Social Campaigns: Convert photo-based campaigns into more engaging videos for better reach.

SEO and Digital Marketing Edge

From a digital marketing standpoint, video content is critical. Search engines prioritize websites with video, and social platforms give video posts greater reach and visibility. By leveraging Vidwud’s image to video AI free features, you can produce more content faster—without the budget or staff of a production team.

Additionally, videos help reduce bounce rates, improve user engagement, and drive more conversions. Embedding a short product or explainer video on your landing page can significantly enhance its performance.

Why Choose www.vidwud.com?

While there are many video creation tools out there, few offer the combination of power, simplicity, and affordability that Vidwud does. Here’s what sets www.vidwud.com apart:

  • 100% Free Plan Available
    You can create and download high-quality videos without hidden costs.
  • No Software Installation Needed
    It’s web-based, meaning you can use it anywhere, anytime.
  • AI-Powered Convenience
    Let intelligent automation do the hard work while you focus on your message.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Even beginners can navigate and create videos easily.

Final Thoughts

In the age of visual storytelling, having the ability to turn images into high-quality videos is a major advantage. With Vidwud’s free AI-powered video creator, you no longer need to rely on complicated tools or professional editors to make beautiful content. Whether for business, education, or personal projects, Vidwud empowers anyone to create stunning videos in minutes.

Visit www.vidwud.com today and see how easy and powerful video creation can be. Try it once, and you’ll wonder how you ever did content without it.

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

20 of the Best First Solo Albums: When Breaking Free Made Music History

Eric Alper
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20 of the Best First Solo Albums: When Breaking Free Made Music History

Sometimes the only way forward is on your own. These 20 artists left the bands that made them famous—and in many cases, proved they were just getting started.

1. George Harrison – All Things Must Pass (1970)
Tired of being limited to two songs per Beatles album, George burst out of the gate with a triple LP masterpiece. It had jams, it had soul, it had “My Sweet Lord.” This wasn’t just a debut—it was a liberation.

2. Peter Gabriel – Peter Gabriel (1977)
Leaving Genesis meant ditching masks and prog excess. Gabriel’s first solo album felt raw, theatrical, and completely his own. “Solsbury Hill” said it best—it was a breakup song with a band.

3. Phil Collins – Face Value (1981)
Written in the shadow of his crumbling marriage, Face Value mixed heartbreak, pop, and a drum machine that would define the decade. “In the Air Tonight” made sure you’d never forget it—or that drum fill.

4. Dio – Holy Diver (1983)
Ronnie James Dio had already fronted Rainbow and Sabbath. Now it was his turn. Holy Diver brought fantasy, fury, and the metal anthem of a lifetime. The horns went up—and stayed up.

5. Ozzy Osbourne – Blizzard of Ozz (1980)
Kicked out of Black Sabbath and written off as a burnout, Ozzy came back swinging. With Randy Rhoads on guitar, he unleashed “Crazy Train” and proved he was far from finished. A solo debut that roared louder than anyone expected.

6. Sting – The Dream of the Blue Turtles (1985)
Sting didn’t just step away from The Police—he dove headfirst into jazz. With Branford Marsalis in the band and “If You Love Somebody Set Them Free” on the charts, he never looked back. It was cool, complex, and a smash.

7. Paul Simon – Paul Simon (1972)
After the split with Garfunkel, Simon doubled down on groove, rhythm, and world music. “Me and Julio” and “Mother and Child Reunion” made sure his new sound was unforgettable. This was where his solo journey really began.

8. Janis Joplin – I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! (1969)
Janis ditched Big Brother and went full soul singer. With horns, grit, and powerhouse vocals, she showed another side of herself. It wasn’t Cheap Thrills—it was something deeper.

9. Keith Richards – Talk Is Cheap (1988)
With the Stones in limbo and Jagger chasing pop, Keith called in some friends and made the kind of raw, bluesy rock record that fans had been craving for years. “Take It So Hard” sounded like the Stones… but hungrier.

10. David Lee Roth – Eat ‘Em and Smile (1986)
Leaving Van Halen was a gamble. But Roth came out swinging with a guitar god (Steve Vai), a killer band, and full theatrical flair. It was outrageous. It was fun. It was very, very Diamond Dave.

11. Roger Waters – The Pros and Cons of Hitch Hiking (1984)
Pink Floyd had become his personal playground, but Waters officially stepped out with a concept album that felt like a solo sequel to The Wall. It was heady, dense, and deeply personal.

12. Beyoncé – Dangerously in Love (2003)
Beyoncé was already a superstar with Destiny’s Child. But Dangerously in Love announced her as a solo icon. “Crazy in Love” became a pop landmark—and so did she. Independent woman? Try the woman.

13. Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (1998)
One album. Infinite impact. Lauryn Hill fused soul, hip-hop, and gospel into a genre-defining masterpiece. It won five Grammys and never needed a follow-up to prove its genius.

14. Mick Jagger – She’s the Boss (1985)
Jagger’s first solo outing wasn’t a Stones clone—it was glossy, funky, and aimed squarely at the ‘80s charts. “Just Another Night” turned heads, but the tension with Keith made bigger headlines. A bold step that shook the world’s greatest rock ‘n’ roll band.

15. Gwen Stefani – Love. Angel. Music. Baby. (2004)
Fresh out of No Doubt, Gwen dove into electro-pop, fashion, and full-on Harajuku style. “Hollaback Girl” became the first digital song to sell a million copies. B-A-N-A-N-A-S, indeed.

16. Steven Tyler – We’re All Somebody from Somewhere (2016)
Yes, it came decades after Aerosmith’s heyday—but Steven Tyler’s country-tinged solo debut was a heartfelt curveball. With pedal steel, twang, and that unmistakable voice, he dove into Nashville. It was less “Dude (Looks Like a Lady),” more outlaw storyteller.

17.Annie Lennox – Diva (1992)
Fresh off her Eurythmics success, Annie Lennox stepped into a world of elegance, art, and emotional range. Diva gave us “Why,” “Walking on Broken Glass,” and a masterclass in reinvention. It was theatrical, soulful—and utterly commanding.

18. Eric Clapton – Eric Clapton (1970)
After Cream, Blind Faith, and Derek and the Dominos, Clapton’s solo debut felt refreshingly laid-back. With Delaney & Bonnie’s band behind him, he blended blues, rock, and gospel with ease. “Let It Rain” still feels like a summer drive with the windows down.

19. Robbie Robertson – Robbie Robertson (1987)
After years in The Band, Robertson returned with a solo debut steeped in Americana, cinematic sounds, and collaborations with U2 and Peter Gabriel. It wasn’t The Band—but it was a powerful next chapter.

20. Björk – Debut (1993)
She’d fronted The Sugarcubes, but Debut was the moment Björk became Björk. Mixing electronic, jazz, and house with her one-of-a-kind voice, she carved out a totally new lane. The avant-pop revolution had officially begun.

5 Surprising Facts About Peter Gabriel’s ‘So’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Peter Gabriel’s ‘So’

You know So — you’ve heard “Sledgehammer,” you’ve wept to “Don’t Give Up,” and maybe you’ve even danced your heart out to “Big Time.” But beneath the surface of Peter Gabriel’s smash-hit 1986 album are layers of stories, quirks, and studio experiments that make the record even more fascinating. Here are 5 lesser-known facts about the album that turned the former Genesis frontman into a global pop icon:

1. “Sledgehammer” Almost Didn’t Make the Album
Believe it or not, Sledgehammer, the track that rocketed to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spawned the most decorated MTV music video of all time, was a last-minute addition. The band was literally packing up their gear when Gabriel asked them to hang back and jam through one more idea. What they captured was a soul-infused, horn-blasted funk monster that sounded nothing like anything Gabriel had done before. It was inspired by Otis Redding and built in a single explosive session — and we’re all better for it.

2. He Nailed the Studio Door Shut
Gabriel was notorious for procrastinating when it came to lyrics — so much so that producer Daniel Lanois once nailed the door to the studio shut to force him to finish writing. It wasn’t the only time Lanois resorted to unorthodox motivation methods. On another occasion, he destroyed Gabriel’s telephone in the woods to eliminate distractions. The result? An album filled with lyrical beauty, poetic political commentary, and some of Gabriel’s most personal writing.

3. “In Your Eyes” Was Supposed to Be the Final Track… But the Vinyl Said No
“In Your Eyes,” Gabriel’s soaring love song that famously soundtracked Say Anything, was originally intended to close So. But its deep bassline proved problematic for vinyl pressings — tracks at the end of a side needed to avoid too much low-end to prevent skipping. So, it got bumped earlier in the tracklist for the LP. When CDs took over, Gabriel finally got his wish, restoring “In Your Eyes” to its rightful place as the album’s emotional finale.

4. The Secret Ingredient in “Don’t Give Up” Was a Baby Diaper
To achieve the soft, muted tone in “Don’t Give Up,” bassist Tony Levin did something unexpected: he stuffed a baby nappy behind his bass strings. He had brought them along for his two-month-old daughter, but they ended up shaping the sonic texture of one of Gabriel’s most heartfelt tracks. The rest of the song was just as intimate: inspired by Depression-era photography and sung as a duet with Kate Bush, it almost featured Dolly Parton — who declined the offer.

5. The Album Was Almost Called Good
Peter Gabriel’s So is the title that stuck — a minimalist, almost accidental name that defied industry expectations. But before it was So, it was briefly going to be titled Good. Gabriel has always hated naming albums, preferring his work to speak through the artwork or the music itself. The “anti-title” So became an iconic part of his branding, with cover art by Peter Saville that was designed to break from his past and present him as “grown-up,” approachable, and yes, ready for the pop charts.

Peter Gabriel’s So is more than just a chart-topping, genre-defying album — it’s a masterclass in creative tension, spontaneous genius, and joyful experimentation. And somehow, even after all this time, it still sounds as fresh as when it was first released.

5 Surprising Facts About Neil Young’s ‘Rust Never Sleeps’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Neil Young’s ‘Rust Never Sleeps’

There are albums… and then there are lightning bolts captured on vinyl. Rust Never Sleeps, Neil Young’s tenth studio album and third with Crazy Horse, is more than a landmark of rock music—it’s a jolt to the soul, a full-blown artistic exorcism. But even if you’ve worn out the grooves of “Hey Hey, My My” and lost yourself in “Powderfinger,” there’s still more to uncover. Here are 5 facts about Rust Never Sleeps that even the biggest Young fans may not know.

1. “Thrasher” Was Written in the Front Seat of a Car in New Mexico
While filming Human Highway with Dennis Hopper, Young left Taos with a Native American friend named Carpio. As they drove through the desert, the majestic New Mexico landscape unfolded before them. Inspired by eagles, canyons, and the road ahead, Young wrote “Thrasher” in a single stream-of-consciousness moment in the front seat. It was a farewell to Crosby, Stills & Nash—and a lyrical embrace of artistic freedom on his own terms.

2. “Powderfinger” Took Eight Years to Write and Was Almost a Skynyrd Song
Young started writing “Powderfinger” in 1967 and didn’t finish until 1975. He later gave the song to Ronnie Van Zant of Lynyrd Skynyrd, intending for them to record it. Tragically, the band’s plane crash in 1977 meant that never happened. The song—an explosive meditation on youth, violence, and fate—finally appeared on Rust Never Sleeps and became a cornerstone of Young’s electric mythos.

3. The Title Came From a Rust-Proofing Slogan and a Punk Collaboration
“Rust never sleeps” wasn’t just poetic—it was practical. Devo’s Mark Mothersbaugh remembered the slogan from an ad for Rust-Oleum during their 1978 collaboration with Young. The phrase found its way into the lyrics of “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)” and became the album’s central metaphor: either evolve creatively, or let time corrode your relevance.

4. Young Wanted Crazy Horse to Play Like Devo
The raw energy of the album’s electric side? It’s no accident. After recording with Devo for Human Highway, Young asked Crazy Horse to match their intensity in the studio. That influence turned “Sedan Delivery” into a snarling, punk-inspired rocket and redefined Young’s sonic edge for the post-punk era. In fact, much of the material predated the Sex Pistols—Young was already ahead of the curve.

5. “My My, Hey Hey” Changed Rock History—And Nearly Broke Young’s Heart
The lyric “It’s better to burn out than to fade away” became immortal. But its legacy was double-edged. When Kurt Cobain quoted it in his 1994 suicide note, Young was devastated, later dedicating Sleeps with Angels to the fallen Nirvana frontman. Despite the grief, Young continued to perform the song, understanding its power and pain as part of rock’s eternal push-and-pull with mortality.

Neil Young laid down a challenge to himself and to every artist that came after: stay vital, stay hungry, and never let the rust settle in. Rust Never Sleeps was a battle cry. And decades later, we’re still listening.

Above & Beyond Announce ‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ Tour With Dazzling New Stage Show

Eric Alper
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Above & Beyond Announce ‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ Tour With Dazzling New Stage Show

GRAMMY-nominated electronic trio Above & Beyond return to North America this summer for a 13-date amphitheater tour in support of their forthcoming studio album, ‘Bigger Than All Of Us.’

Presented by Live Nation and spanning three months, the tour marks the group’s first full album tour in North America since 2018’s ‘Common Ground.’ It kicks off on August 15 in Vancouver and concludes on October 4 at the iconic Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View. Other stops include major cities such as New York City, Chicago, Toronto, Boston, and Atlanta, among others.

‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ explores the theme of reconnection—a message that will come to life on this tour, both musically and visually, through a bold new stage concept. Debuted to tens of thousands of fans across two weekends at Coachella, the brand-new stage production elevates the band’s live show experience like never before (watch: Above & Beyond live from Coachella 2025.

This striking production features a ‘spaceship’-inspired DJ booth, designed to immerse the audience in a fluid, circular environment. Born from a vision by the band and further developed by longtime collaborators Dylan Byrne and Neil Marsh, the concept aims to break away from the rigidity of traditional stage design. A dynamic LED ring interacts with the screen behind it, creating a sense of movement, warmth, and connection that mirrors the organic, nature-inspired qualities of Above & Beyond’s music.

“Our music has always been about togetherness, connection, and the shared emotional experience,” the band says. “This tour—and this stage—is a celebration of that feeling, brought to life in a new way.”

The pre-sale opens on Wednesday, April 30, at 10 am local time, with the general sale beginning on Friday, May 2, at 10 am local time. Fans can sign up now for early access HERE. VIP packages will also be available; more information will be shared soon.

Above & Beyond has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 from every ticket sold goes to support organizations working to protect the environment, end the loneliness epidemic, and provide access to mental health care.

‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ is available for pre-order on vinyl and CD, as well as on limited-edition colored vinyl and picture disc through the Anjuna Music Store. Pre-order the vinyl, CD, and limited merch bundles HERE.

New music from the album is already rolling out. The single “Quicksand (Don’t Go)” with Zoë Johnston is now available on Anjunabeats, with the follow-up track “Carry Me Home” with Zoë Johnston arriving this Friday, April 25.

‘Bigger Than All Of Us’ is released July 18 on Anjunabeats

‘BIGGER THAN ALL OF US’ NORTH AMERICAN TOUR DATES
Aug 15 –  Deer Lake Park – Vancouver, BC
Aug 16 – Cascades Amphitheater – Ridgefield, WA
Aug 22 – Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island – Chicago, IL
Aug 29 – Budweiser Stage – Toronto, ON
Sept 5 – Forest Hills Stadium – New York, NY
Sept 6 – Leader Bank Pavilion – Boston, MA
Sept 12 – Orlando Amphitheater – Orlando, FL
Sept 13 – Lakewood Amphitheatre – Atlanta, GA
Sept 19 – Germania Insurance Amphitheater – Austin, TX
Sept 20 – Dos Equis Pavillion – Dallas, TX
Sept 27 – Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre – Denver, CO
Oct 2 – The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park – San Diego, CA
Oct 4 – Shoreline Amphitheatre – Mountain View, CA

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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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