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Nathan McEuen Releases Emotionally Rich EP ‘My One and Only’ Featuring Mason Williams and Chris Caswell

Eric Alper
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Nathan McEuen Releases Emotionally Rich EP ‘My One and Only’ Featuring Mason Williams and Chris Caswell

Mesa/Bluemoon Recordings has released My One and Only, a five-song EP from singer/songwriter Nathan McEuen. Distribution for My One and Only will be through Virgin Music Group for digital release and Burnside Distribution (BDC) for physical.

The songs on the new EP were all written or co-written by Nathan, including the title track, which he collaborated on with acclaimed songwriter/artist Mason Williams (Classical Gas, Smothers Brothers, SNL).

“In 2017, I reached out to my friend Mason Williams with an idea to write a song together; to my Delight, he agreed and invited me to his home in Oregon,” recalls Nathan McEuen about the genesis of the song. “Our initial plan was to create a single song for a movie. After a week of collaboration—filled with writing and invaluable mentoring—we did it! As luck would have it, we had some extra time in the studio and began working on a second song. We didn’t have the lyrics yet, so we focused on chords, melodic ideas, and a basic structure for what would become a second song.

“Fast forward seven years. After meeting the love of my life, getting married, and finding the inspiration I needed, I finally completed that second song and called it ‘My One and Only’ as a tribute to my beautiful wife, Tracy. My only hope after finishing it was that she would love it. It took about 20 tries to play it through without either of us crying—and that’s when I knew. Despite the tears, I could tell the song meant as much to her as it did to me.

“Months later, I began including ‘My One and Only’ in my live performances. It immediately resonated with audiences, who started asking where they could buy or stream it. That’s when I decided to record it in the studio, collaborating with the incredible Chris Caswell on piano (known for his work with The Muppets, Daft Punk, Tron, and John Denver). In just one take, we captured the essence of the song and brought my newest single, ‘My One and Only,’ to life.

“After sharing the recording with Mesa/Bluemoon, the idea for an EP came together. The project includes new versions of fan favorites like ‘Lately’ and ‘Up to No Good,’ as well as remixes of some of my most popular songs, including ‘Beautiful Night.’ I was humbled when Steve Martin, himself, said that “’’Beautiful Night’ is a song worthy of Jobim…great work!” This EP is a reflection of my journey, and I’m excited to share it with everyone.”

Nathan McEuen grew up surrounded by incredible music and talented musicians. By age four he started performing with his father, John McEuen (Nitty Gritty Dirt Band founder), and Nathan soon became a natural showman. With over 40 years of touring, more than 3,000 shows, and appearances on American Idol, The Stagecoach Festival, and the Grand Ole Opry, The Tonight Show, Music City Roots, Austin City Limits, XM/Sirius Radio, his music has reached audiences around the world.

Held in the highest esteem by his musical colleagues, Nathan has shared the stage with an impressive lineup of artists, including Bon Jovi, Steve Martin, Kris Kristofferson, Willie Nelson, Kenny Loggins, Leon Russell, Mason Williams, Vassar Clements, Jay Leno, Billy Bob Thornton, John Carter Cash, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Albert Lee, David Grisman, The Dillards, Dwight Yoakam, Carols Santana, Kiss, Dave Mason, Jim Messina, Gabriel Iglesias, John Denver, John Jorgenson, Michael Martin Murphey, David Crosby, Shawn Colvin, Colin Hay, Chris Stills, Richard Paige, Chris Issak, Jason Mraz, Steve Postell, Chris Hillman, Herb Peterson, John Oates, Kevin Nealon, John Hartford, Brett Dennen, Garfunkel & Oates, Jennifer Warnes, Blind Boys of Alabama, John Mayall and the Bluesbreakers, Malcolm McDowell, Paul Williams, Abe Laboriel, Ann-Margret, Ronny Cox, Chris Thile, Van Dyke Parks, Laurie Lewis, Gary Morris, Gonzo the Muppet, and Russi Taylor (Voice of Minnie Mouse) and Hanna-McEuen (w/ his brother Jonathan, and cousin Jaime Hanna).

Alongside his EP, My One and Only for Mesa Bluemoon Recordings, Nathan co-produced The McEuen Sessions – For All the Good for the label in 2011 that was with his dad and his brother, Jonathan.  He has also released several acclaimed albums through his independent label, Lint Records, including Grand Design, Festival, Scrapbook, McEuen Sessions, and Side by Side.

With a rich musical heritage, a lifelong passion for songwriting (200+ songs to date), and a love for storytelling, Nathan’s engaging performances showcase his artistry and dedication to his craft. Whether on stage or in the studio, his music continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

My One and Only Track Listing and Credits
My One And Only (3:15)
(Lyrics by: Nathan McEuen
Music by: Nathan McEuen, Mason Williams, Chris Caswell)
Nathan McEuen: guitars, vocal
Chris Caswell: piano
Produced by: Nathan McEuen

Lately (2:58)
(Written by: Nathan McEuen, Chelsea Williams)
Nathan McEuen: guitar, vocals
Jimmy Calire: piano
Steve Nelson: upright bass
Mario Calire: drums, percussion
Produced by: Paul Allen

Up To No Good (2:51)
(Written by: Nathan McEuen, Chelsea Williams)
Nathan McEuen: guitar, vocal
Jimmy Calire: piano
Steve Nelson: upright bass
Mario Calire: drums
Jesse Siebenberg: slide guitar
Produced by: Nathan McEuen

Sticks & Stones (2:56)
(Written by: Ed Berghoff, Chuck Hailes, Nathan McEuen, Jesse Siebenberg, Frank Sunseri)
Nathan McEuen: guitars, vocals
Jesse Siebenberg: B-3, bass, drums, slide guitar, BG vocals
Produced by: Nathan McEuen & Jesse Siebenberg

Beautiful Night (4:20)
(Written by: Nathan McEuen)
Nathan McEuen: guitars, vocals
Jimmy Calire: piano
Randy Tico: bass
Mario Calire: drums
Jonathan McEuen: guitar, BG vocal
John McEuen: mandolin
Phil Salazar: solo fiddle
Chris Caswell: string arrangement
Marcy Vaj: violin 1
Pam Gates: violin 2
Novi Novog: viola
Vahe Hayrikyan: cello
Produced by: Nathan McEuen, Randall Richman, Jonathan McEuen, Sean Ingoldsby

Social Music App Hook Secures $3M in Additional Funding from Investors

Eric Alper
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Social Music App Hook Secures $3M in Additional Funding from Investors

Hook, the platform where users can easily and legally remix songs by some of the top musicians in the world while earning income, today announces the closing of $3M in additional funding, bringing its total funding to $6M. The round includes new investments from Khosla Ventures, Kygo’s Palm Tree Crew, and The Raine Group, alongside continued support from existing investors, including Imaginary Ventures, Steve Cohen’s Point72 Ventures, KSHMR, and Waverley Capital, co-founded by former Warner Music Group CEO Edgar Bronfman, Jr.

Hook addresses the most critical challenge in the music industry today: the proliferation of unlicensed content across social media platforms. With 40% of music consumed on social media coming from remixes and mashups, often created without proper licensing, Hook provides a legitimate solution for creators while ensuring that rights holders maintain control and monetization of their content.

“We have built music’s new ecosystem, where creativity and rights can finally coexist. For too long, the industry has been stuck choosing between protecting artists’ rights and enabling creative expression. Hook creates a future where fans and creators can freely express themselves, artists and labels can properly monetize their work, and the entire music community thrives together,” said Gaurav Sharma, Founder & CEO of Hook. “This isn’t just about fixing a broken system – it’s about building the foundation for music’s next chapter.”

The new funding will accelerate Hook’s marketing efforts and strategic hiring, with a focus on user acquisition. The platform is the first specialized AI-powered tool for creating and distributing licensed remixed music content in short-form formats, filling the gap that existing editing tools haven’t addressed for the music industry.

“We are incredibly excited to invest in Hook and support its mission to innovate how artists and creators engage with their work and interact with their fans. We look forward to working with and supporting Gaurav and his team on this journey,” said Michael Diaz, CEO of Palm Tree Crew.

Hook goes beyond traditional music creation tools, it is an expression platform that enables creators to produce legitimate, monetizable content while ensuring proper compensation for rights holders. This approach creates a sustainable model for the future of music creation and distribution in the social media era. In just four months, the company has partnered with 16 music partners and features music from over 1,200 artists such as Justin Bieber, Teddy Swims, BLOND:ISH, Playboi Carti, Ty Dolla $ign, KSHMR, Hardwell, Swae Lee, Big Sean, Migos, Soulja Boy, Sadie Jean, Jaden Smith, Killer Mike and Cash Cobain to create authorized remixes from their songs/catalog.

Hook is transforming music creation through its innovative AI and Machine Learning technologies that power creative remix tools, including genre and mood-changing filters and mashups. Hook’s commitment to ethical AI practices includes never training algorithms on artists’ music, an approach that has earned it industry recognition with Universal Music Group including Hook in its MusicForAI initiative as an approved, ethically-sound AI platform.

Since the app’s launch in October 2024, Hook has continued to expand its features for music fans with better discovery and recommendations and improved music remixing and video editing tools that make it easier than ever for fans and creators to express their music creativity and increase their viral potential. To support the music creator economy, Hook is pioneering short-form music monetization through its new creator monetization program. Music creators can now earn money based on engagement, referrals, and bonuses, empowering them to turn their passion into a sustainable income stream. Additionally, artists can now promote their catalog through on and off-platform promotions and Remix Challenges that allow creators and fans to interact with music in creative ways and win prizes.

Gayle F. Wald’s ‘This Is Rhythm’ Book Explores the Untold Legacy of Children’s Music Icon and Civil Rights Trailblazer Ella Jenkins

Eric Alper
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Gayle F. Wald’s ‘This Is Rhythm’ Book Explores the Untold Legacy of Children’s Music Icon and Civil Rights Trailblazer Ella Jenkins

Ella Jenkins was one of the most influential musicians of the twentieth century. Her songs “You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song” and “Who Fed the Chickens?” are classics in the world of children’s music. In a career spanning more than sixty years, she recorded forty albums, won a lifetime-achievement Grammy, and became the best-selling individual artist in the history of Smithsonian Folkways Records, the independent label that played a significant role in the 1960s folk revival movement and introduced listeners to Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger. During her remarkable career, Jenkins joined forces with twentieth-century luminaries such as Odetta, Big Bill Broonzy, Armando Peraza, Bayard Rustin, and Fred Rogers. Despite her wide-reaching influence on children’s music, Ella Jenkins’s sonic civil rights activism isn’t widely known today.

Based on dozens of interviews and access to Ella Jenkins’s personal archives, Gayle F. Wald’s This Is Rhythm shares how Jenkins, a “rhythm specialist” with no formal musical training, became the most prolific and significant American children’s musician of the twentieth century, creating a beloved catalog of songs grounded in values of community-building, antiracism, and cultural pluralism. Wald traces how the daughter of southern migrants translated the music of her own Black girlhood on the South Side of Chicago into a form of civil rights activism—a musical education that empowered children by introducing them to Black history, African diasporic rhythms, and a participatory, community-centered approach to music. Wald also discusses how, beginning in 1961, Jenkins built a life with a female partner who supported her materially and emotionally. Although Jenkins did not talk publicly about her sixty-three-year relationship, she opened up to Wald, offering insight into how a “private” Black woman in the public eye negotiated sexuality in an era before gay and lesbian liberation movements. Throughout her career, her innovative music found its way into thousands of community centers, classrooms, and concert venues, and her “call-and-response” method has influenced and empowered generations of children and adults.

A beautifully written tribute to Ella Jenkins’s legacy, this biography illustrates her impact on children’s music and expands our understanding of folk music’s relationship with social justice. Jenkins used music to build a new world in which children—and adults—are encouraged to listen to each other’s distinct rhythms.

JESSIA Unleashes Empowering New Single “Moved Around You” After Headline Tour

Eric Alper
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JESSIA Unleashes Empowering New Single “Moved Around You” After Headline Tour

Pop powerhouse JESSIA returns with her latest single “Moved Around You,” a self-empowered reflection wrapped in melody and vulnerability. The release arrives hot on the heels of her first headline tour across the U.S. and Canada, which energized fans and solidified her rising status on the global pop stage.

Blending bold pop production with her emotionally raw lyricism, “Moved Around You” captures the pain of investing in someone who doesn’t give the same energy back. But rather than dwell in the heartbreak, the track celebrates emotional bravery.

“‘Moved Around You’ is for anyone who’s fallen too hard in a casual relationship,” says JESSIA. “It always hurts to care more than the other person, but this song takes that pain and turns it into power—celebrating the fact that we were brave enough to put our hearts on the line.”

The track is yet another example of JESSIA’s gift for creating music that strikes a balance between catharsis and catchiness. Known for her ability to voice unspoken feelings, she’s amassed over 400 million streams by turning complex emotions into resonant, empowering pop anthems.

Since her breakout moment in 2021 with the viral hit “I’m not Pretty,” the Vancouver-born, LA-based artist has continued to evolve. Her debut EP How Are You? earned her the 2022 Juno Award for Breakthrough Artist. Now, following her independently released sophomore EP Okay With Every Part, JESSIA is building on that momentum with “Moved Around You,” a track that affirms her as one of the most relatable and honest voices in pop today.

Springtide Music Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with Cuff The Duke, Casper Skulls, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar, and More

Eric Alper
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Springtide Music Festival Unveils 2025 Lineup with Cuff The Duke, Casper Skulls, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar, and More

Springtide Music Festival is proud to announce the next wave of artists for the 2025 festival lineup taking place June 12-14, 2025 in Uxbridge, Ontario. Springtide Music Festival is an annual collection of over 12 live music stages in multiple venues along a 750m strip of downtown Uxbridge with intimate performances in restaurants, bars, shops, and an outdoor main stage in a brewery beer garden.

Springtide Music Festival will kick off with a Launch Party on Thursday, June 12 at St. Andrew’s – Chalmers Church with Toronto’s soul band Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar, Plains Cree singer-songwriter Wyatt C. Louis, and Uxbridge’s own jazz artist Whitney Ross-Barris.

New this year, Springtide will offer single venue ticket options for featured mainstage, matinee, and after party showcases. Included in the mix are evening mainstage acts Päter, Casper Skulls, Cuff The Duke, Reuben & The Bullhorn Singers on June 14. The Free as Folk Matinee on June 14 will feature performances by Quique Escamilla, The Barrel Boys, Basset, and Sarah Beatty; and the After Party showcases at Wixan’s Bridge will feature Status/Non-Status, Torrance, The Burning Hell, and Your Mom on June 13, and Altered by Mom, Casper Skulls, Hollowsage & the Three Mile Islanders, and Lost Faculty at June 14.

“We have added some exciting new options to our ticket offering in 2025, with access to single venue curated shows,” said Tania Joy Co-founder, Executive Director/Artistic Director of Springtide Music Festival. “We hope this provides another level of affordability for festival goers that allows them to check out their favourite acts, and a preview of the festival without having to commit to a whole day or weekend pass.”

The current Springtide Music Festival lineup includes:
Abbey Road, Altered by Mom, Band of Weeds, Barn Cat, The Barrel Boys, Basset, Black Spruce, Braden Lam, Brian Wride, Brodie Bell, The Burning Hell, Burs, Casper Skulls, Cassie Noble, Claire Hunter, Cuff The Duke, Daniel Raymond, David Owen, Dawna Marie & The Slim Pickins, Derek Virgo, Django Junkies, Dylan Menzie, The East Pointers, Eight Five Two, Else Langhans, Equal, Eunice Keitan, fried wire, Hollowsage & The Three Mile Islanders, Jerome Tucker Band, Julia Middleton, Julien Kelland, Kendall Lily, Land Heart Song, Larra Skye, Lindy Vopnfjord, Lost Faculty, Make it to Friday, Near Dawn, The Pairs, Päter, Quique Escamilla, Reuben & The Bullhorn Singers, Rudi Urbach, Samantha Martin and Delta Sugar, Sarah Beatty, Status/Non-Status, Tim Bastmeyer, Torrance, The Vaudevillian, Wavy Dave Haines, Wayne Madder, Whitney Ross-Barris, Wyatt C. Louis, The Youngstars, and Your Mom.

Springtide Music Festival venues for 2025 include The Second Wedge Brewing Co.; Corner House Pub and Grill; Wixan’s Bridge Restaurant; Col. McGrady’s Pub & Grill; 9 by Tin; The Bridge Social; Blue Heron Books; Fig Kitchen & Market; Mani Tea; Gangster Cheese; Bounty from the Boonies; and H. Bee Architecture. Speciality stages include FREE interactive Workshops for kids, the FREE Springtide Youth Stage showcase, and Artist Workshop stages.

In anticipation of the June festival, Springtide will also present a music series every Sunday from May 4 to June 8 at Uxbridge Farmers’ Market, featuring two Springtide artists performing each week from 10am to 1pm at The Second Wedge Brewing Co. in Uxbridge.

Folk-Roots artist Tania Joy is the Co-founder, Executive Director/Artistic Director of Springtide Music Festival, a non-profit organization led by a volunteer team of business leaders and local musicians which draws over 60 acts to various venues from breweries and bistros to bookstores and clothing shops in historic downtown Uxbridge, northeast of Toronto. Springtide recognizes that live music venues in small cities and rural towns serve as a vivacious cultural hub for their communities and is committed to creating a platform to support and celebrate local talent, while fostering performance opportunities that introduce Canadian artists outside of the region to new audiences.

Since 2023 Springtide has partnered with Music Declares Emergency Canada (MDE Canada) to bring the climate conversation to festival audiences. MDE Canada is an independent group, created by artists, music industry professionals and organisations concerned at the lack of a cohesive, industry-wide response to the climate emergency. MDE Canada believes in the power of music to promote the cultural change needed to create a better future.

FIFTY FIFTY Returns with Dreamy New Single “Perfect Crime,” Ahead of New EP ‘Day & Night’

Eric Alper
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FIFTY FIFTY Returns with Dreamy New Single “Perfect Crime,” Ahead of New EP ‘Day & Night’

K-pop phenomenon FIFTY FIFTY returns to their lover-girl roots with their latest single, “Perfect Crime,” now available across all digital streaming platforms via Arista Records. By showcasing their multilingual abilities in the track, the quintet continues to expand their global fanbase, making their music more accessible to fans all over the world. Marking their first original release in 2025, this record sets the tone for an exciting year ahead, following the launch of their “Love Tune: Rewired (Remixes)” album in January, and serves as a pre-release ahead of their highly anticipated new EP, Day & Night, set to drop on April 29.

This mesmerizing track embraces the group’s signature synth-driven sound, delivering a slower-paced, atmospheric pop experience enriched with breathy background vocals and stunning harmonies. The song’s retro-pop feel, along with its smooth melodies and lush harmonies, transports listeners into a neon-lit dreamscape, balancing its emotional intensity with a cool, airy sound. The message of love continues on “Perfect Crime,” but this time, it is about the restless emotions of longing and anticipation in a relationship. The song’s dreamy, hypnotic production mirrors the push-and-pull of waiting for someone who always seems just out of reach.

The beloved girl group has been making significant strides in the global music scene. Their breakout hit, “Cupid”, not only became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 15 consecutive weeks but also made them the first female K-pop act to reach the top 10 on the UK Singles Chart, peaking at number nine. The group further solidified their rising star status by winning the K-Pop Song of the Year for “Cupid (Twin Version)” at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards. Further solidifying their position as a global force in the music industry, they captivated audiences with sold-out shows during their U.S. tour last year.

FIFTY FIFTY continues to expand their artistic horizons while staying true to the heartfelt storytelling that defines their music. With a variety of on-going music projects in the upcoming months, the group aspires to demonstrate their versatility as artists and work hard to build upon their growing success.

FIFTY FIFTY debuted in Nov 2022 and experienced a commercial breakthrough with their song “Cupid”, which became the longest-charting K-pop song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 25 consecutive weeks (peaking #17) and reached #2 on the Billboard Global 200. The song became popular on TikTok due to a dance trend launched by the group, with over 2 million video creations on the ‘twin’ version and more on sped-up audios. Rather than most K-pop groups which focus initially on the local market and Korean-language repertoire, FIFTY FIFTY’s songs leaned more heavily into Western pop sounds and English-language hooks, as seen in other tracks like “SOS” and “Gravity.” Just last year, they inked a U.S. record deal with Arista Records and released their comeback EP Love Tune. So far, the group has released two EPs – The FIFTY and Love Tune – along with one LP, The Beginning. They also contributed a song to the soundtrack of the blockbuster Barbie movie.

Ellise Announces Debut Headlining “The PRETTY EVIL Tour”

Eric Alper
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Ellise Announces Debut Headlining “The PRETTY EVIL Tour”

– Today, Ellise, whose breakout single “911” seismically redefined the pop scene – amassing over 440 million global streams, announces her debut headlining “The PRETTY EVIL Tour”, kicking off July 31 in Pittsburgh, PA, at the Thunderbird Music Hall. The tour follows the highly anticipated release of Ellise’s sophomore album of the same name which received praise from Ones To Watch which adored, “her fearless, transformative artistry [that] is reshaping modern pop.”

“PRETTY EVIL as an album has pushed me beyond what I thought my creative limits were.” Elise added, “My debut headline tour will take me and my audience deep into the world I’ve created for us, and I can barely contain my excitement. The PRETTY EVIL tour will be a reflection of my proudest body of work, breathed to life.”

Ellise marked her return with PRETTY EVIL, a dark pop confessional that fully embodies her raw, unfiltered vision. Dripping with lust, heartache, jealousy, and more, the album pulls listeners into a hypnotic spiral of love and loss revealing that Ellise held the double-edged dagger all along. Executive produced by Arthur Besna (Nessa Barret, Baby Storme, Bludnymph), the album was heralded for its haunting tracks including “leech,” which landed Ellise the cover of SALT on Spotify. Additionally, the album’s third single “valentine,” became a fan favorite during her performances on Madison Beer’s Spinnin’ tour. Experience the full journey of PRETTY EVIL now.

The upcoming dates follow the record’s debut show on the Bishop Briggs The Tell My Therapist I’m Fine Tour which Ellise joined as a special guest performer. Music Junkie’s recent feature story applauded “her magnetic stage presence and a voice that cuts straight to the soul,” exclaiming that “Ellise has firmly claimed her spot in the music scene.”

With her breakout hit “911,” Iraqi-American artist Ellise has carved herself a spot in the dark pop scene becoming renowned for the haunting vulnerability and distinct cinematic quality of her artistry that continues to garner her a cult-like fanbase. Over the years, her journey has been molded by personal battles with mental health struggles that have perfected her ability to portray raw and earnest emotional depth eloquently through her music. Now, Ellise is making a comeback with her latest singles “dead2me” and “bite”, which have been adored by fans and industry players alike, with “dead2me” landing the cover of SALT on Spotify for release week. The otherworldly tracks set the tone for her sophomore album “PRETTY EVIL” – created with Arthur Besna, Ella Boh, JT Foley, and Madi Yanofsky – described as her most cohesive and ambitious work to date, which heralds a new era for Ellise. Her final single from the album, “valentine” has become a fan favorite following its live performance on Madison Beer’s Spinnin’ tour. Looking ahead to 2025, Ellise is set to capitalize on her momentum with major live performances as she joins Bishop Briggs on tour this month.

Ellise – THE PRETTY EVIL TOUR 2025:
July 31 – Pittsburgh, PA – Thunderbird Music Hall
August 1 – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues, Cambridge Room
August 2 – Toronto, ON – The Drake
August 5 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge
August 6 – Boston, MA – Middle East Upstairs
August 8 – Philadelphia, PA – World Café Live
August 9 – Washington, DC – Songbyrd
August 11 – St. Louis, MO – Off Broadway
August 12 – Chicago, IL – Subterranean
August 13 – Minneapolis, MN – Entry
August 15 – Denver, CO – Globe Hall
August 18 – Seattle, WA – Barboza
August 19 – Portland, OR – Holocene
August 21 – San Francisco, CA – Café Du Nord
August 23 – Los Angeles, CA – Moroccan Lounge

Christone “Kingfish” Ingram Launches ‘The Hard Road World’ Tour Ahead of New Album

Eric Alper
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Christone “Kingfish” Ingram Launches ‘The Hard Road World’ Tour Ahead of New Album

April 8, 2025 – Grammy-winning guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter Christone “Kingfish” Ingram is back on the road with The Hard Road World Tour. Fresh off a triumphant run with the Experience Hendrix Tour, Kingfish is set to bring his incendiary, impassioned performances to fans around the globe.

This highly anticipated international headline tour kicks off on April 11 at the Tampa Bay Blues Festival and will travel across Australia, North America, Europe, and the United Kingdom, running through Thanksgiving. Fans can expect a celebration of Kingfish’s journey from local juke joints and blues clubs to international stages.

“I’m really looking forward to The Hard Road Tour,” said Ingram. “I’m grateful for the chance to make and play the music I love. These shows will be a celebration of both the long, sometimes tough journey I’ve taken in this industry and the amazing fans who’ve supported me every step of the way. I’ve got new songs to share and some great friends joining me. I’m truly ready to party with y’all.”

Fans attending The Hard Road World Tour will be among the first to hear tracks from Kingfish’s upcoming album – his first since his Grammy Award-winning 662. The new record, due out later this year, marks the debut release from Red Zero Records, the label co-founded by Kingfish and his longtime manager Ric Whitney.

“We’re excited to share that new Kingfish music is on the horizon,” said Whitney. “Launching the record label and releasing his third studio album is a huge milestone. It highlights the significance of The Hard Road Tour – a celebration of where Kingfish has been and where he’s going.”

In just six years since his GRAMMY-nominated debut album Kingfish, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram has become a global blues sensation. Born and raised in Clarksdale, Mississippi — a town steeped in blues history — Ingram grew up just 10 miles from the legendary crossroads of Highways 61 and 49. Surrounded by a family of singers and musicians, his passion for music ignited at a young age. Starting with drums and bass, he soon found his true voice on the guitar.

Through classes at the Delta Blues Museum, Kingfish not only learned the rich history of the blues, but also honed his technical skills. Mentored by Richard “Daddy Rich” Crisman and the late Bill “Howl-N-Madd” Perry, he developed his own distinctive sound, blending influences from Robert Johnson, Lightnin’ Hopkins, B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Jimi Hendrix, and Prince. Perry also gave him the now-iconic “Kingfish” moniker. His talent quickly took him from local stages at Clarksdale’s Ground Zero Blues Club and Red’s Lounge to venues across the U.S. and abroad — all while still in high school.

Kingfish’s rise to fame was fueled by his electrifying live performances and viral videos, which amassed millions of views even before his debut album. One of several breakout moments came when his performance videos caught the eye of the Luke Cage producers, leading to a guest spot in the show and a subsequent NPR Tiny Desk Concert appearance alongside rap legend Rakim.

After his debut album Kingfish topped the Billboard Blues Chart for 91 weeks and earned a GRAMMY nomination, Ingram followed up with his 2021 release 662, which also debuted at #1. The album earned him his first GRAMMY for Best Contemporary Blues Album and was hailed by NPR as “astounding.” Since then, Kingfish has been honored with 12 Blues Music Awards and 11 Living Blues Awards.

In 2023, Kingfish continued to solidify his place in contemporary blues with the release of Live in London. Capturing the raw energy and passion of his live shows, the album showcases his powerful guitar work, soul-stirring vocals, and the connection he forges with his audience. Praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, Live in London stands as a testament to Kingfish’s growing influence and his ability to bring modern blues to a global audience.

Kingfish’s natural talent continues to flourish through his relentless touring, writing, and recording. With his jaw-dropping guitar prowess and captivating vocals, he delivers contemporary blues that resonate with audiences worldwide. Whether headlining his own tours or sharing stages with legends like Buddy Guy, Jason Isbell, and The Rolling Stones, Kingfish remains a dynamic force in modern blues — a young artist who respects the past while blazing his own trail.

CHRISTONE “KINGFISH” INGRAM TOUR DATES:
Apr 11 Tampa, FL Tampa Bay Blues Festival
Apr 17 Bryon Bay, AU Byron Bay Blues Festival
Apr 18 Bryon Bay, AU Byron Bay Blues Festival
Apr 20 Sydney, AU Metro Theatre
Apr 21 Melbourne, AU Northcote Theatre
Apr 26 Austin, TX Austin Blues Festival
May 4 New Orleans, LA New Orleans Jazz Festival
Jun 1 Lexington, KY Railbird Music Festival
Jun 7 Chicago, IL Chicago Blues Fest
Jun 14 San Jose, CA Fountain Blues & Brews Festival
Jun 18 Amagansett, NY Stephen Talkhouse
Jun 20 Selbyville, DE Freeman Arts Pavilion
Jun 21 Vienna, VA Wolf Trap
Jun 28 Aspen, CO JAS Aspen Snowmass
Jun 29 Winter Park, CO Blues From the Top
Jul 9 Ottawa, ON Ottawa Bluesfest
Jul 25 Tucson, AZ Rialto Theatre
Aug 30 Bremerton, WA Kitsap Blues Festival
Sep 4 Charleston, SC Charleston Music Hall
Sep 5 Carrboro, NC Cat’s Cradle
Sep 6 Charlotte, NC Neighborhood Theatre
Sep 7 Asheville, NC The Orange Peel
Sep 9 Knoxville, TN Bijou Theatre
Sep 12 Atlanta, GA Buckhead Theatre
Sep 13 Birmingham, AL Iron City
Sep 16 Kansas City, MO Knuckleheads Saloon
Sep 17 St. Louis, MO The Factory
Sep 19 Chicago, IL Park West
Sep 20 Detroit, MI St Andrew’s Hall
Sep 24 Baltimore, MD Baltimore Soundstage
Sep 25 Philadelphia, PA Union Transfer
Sep 27 New York, NY Irving Plaza
Sep 28 Asbury Park, NJ Stone Pony
Oct 1 Boston, MA Paradise Rock Club
Oct 2 Burlington, VT Higher Ground Ballroom
Oct 3 Montreal, QC Théâtre Beanfield
Oct 4 Toronto, ON Danforth Music Hall
Oct 8 Cincinnati, OH Taft Theatre
Oct 9 Nashville, TN Cannery Hall (Mainstage)
Oct 10 Memphis, TN Memphis Country Blues Festival
Oct 16 Los Angeles, CA TBD
Oct 18 San Francisco, CA The Fillmore
Oct 19 Napa, CA Uptown Theatre
Oct 20 Grass Valley, CA Center for the Arts
Oct 24 San Diego, CA The Observatory North Park
Oct 25-Nov 1 San Diego, CA Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise
Nov 7 Berlin, DE Columbia Theatre
Nov 9 Munich, DE Technikum
Nov 10 Zurich, CH Kaufleuten
Nov 11 Leverkusen, DE Leverkusener Jazztage
Nov 13 Hamburg, DE Fabrik
Nov 14 Amsterdam, NL Melkweg
Nov 16 Paris, FR La Cigale
Nov 18 London, UK Kentish Town Forum
Nov 19 Manchester, UK Albert Hall
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Kyle Ray Fuses Grit, Grace, and Heartache on Soulful New Single “Love Me Tonight”

Eric Alper
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Kyle Ray Fuses Grit, Grace, and Heartache on Soulful New Single “Love Me Tonight”

 From the rolling hills of Barren County, Kentucky, Kyle Ray carves his own path through the Americana landscape, fusing the grit of outlaw country with the soul-stirring harmonies of bluegrass, folk, and soul. With a raw, unbridled sound and a pen steeped in both beauty and heartbreak, Kyle’s music cuts to the core of the human experience — honest, unapologetic, and deeply felt. He moves effortlessly between weary acoustic ballads and raucous, foot-stomping anthems, capturing the full spectrum of grit and grace.

Today, Kyle delivers his soulful, wistful fourth single, “Love Me Tonight.” The track was inspired by the frustration of a ‘right person, wrong time’ scenario. “I was crushing on a girl who, unfortunately, had a boyfriend,” Kyle reveals. “We had a bit of history, and I could tell she liked me back, but she never admitted it. I remember thinking, ‘Well hell, better write about this while the feeling is fresh. Might get something out of it at least.’”

In 2024, he introduced his sound with three striking singles: the high-energy, moonshine-fueled romp “If It’s Taxed, It Ain’t Shine,” the rebellious storytelling of “The Band of Robbers,” and the ethereal, deeply personal ballad “The Angel Poet.” Whether delivering an unfiltered confession or an outlaw’s anthem, Kyle Ray brings a new attitude to Americana — one rooted in tradition but unafraid to break the rules.

Raised on a rich tapestry of sound, Kyle’s childhood was steeped in everything from doo-wop and Motown to southern soul and classic rock. Meanwhile, the church his family attended was filled with the unfiltered sounds of hill-folk bluegrass. Growing up in the same town that birthed Cage the Elephant, Kyle and his childhood friends found inspiration in bands like Alabama Shakes, The Strokes, and their hometown heroes. At the same time, they cut their teeth on Zeppelin, the Eagles, Skynyrd, and Sabbath — soaking up classic rock’s raw, untamed energy. Layering that foundation with the storytelling grit of Chris Stapleton, Glen Campbell, Johnny Cash, and Tyler Childers, Kyle forged a sound that bridges the soulful swagger of rock with the heart and honesty of Americana and country.

“I grew up broke and experienced a lot of tragedy in my early life, so I gravitated to music that was in search of truth and spoke of struggle,” Kyle reflects.

Kyle’s songwriting is intensely personal, drawing from his experiences of hardship, beauty, and faith. “Whether that be the beauty I’ve found, the hurt I’ve felt, or the comfort in the Lord I’ve experienced, I want it written,” he says. His music reflects a range of influences, from his father — “a killer vocalist and a grease monkey” who would sing along to the radio in the garage — to the mountain folk of his church.

Photo Credit: Remington Sage Strecker

Some of his most cherished performance moments include playing Bourbon & Beyond in 2024, where he saw his family in the audience — the first time he had played in his home state in five years. Another unforgettable night was opening for Angel Olsen in September of that year. “There was a young girl who had driven over an hour to see me and my band for her 16th birthday,” he shares. “After we played our set, the boys and I snuck into the audience to watch Angel’s set and just so happened to sit right in front of her. I wrote her a little happy birthday note on a napkin and took a picture with her. So sweet, and so cool. Made my year.”

As Kyle looks ahead, he hopes his music resonates with listeners on a deeper level. “I hope that people find hope and peace in my music, or answers to questions that no one around them can answer,” he expresses. “At the very least, I hope my music makes people feel seen. I’ve spent a lot of my life feeling like no one really knows or sees me. I know how important it is to feel that.”

Kyle is gearing up for a big year in 2025, setting the stage for an even bigger 2026, packed with new music, captivating performances, and more chances to connect with his ever-growing audience. With graduation from Berklee College of Music this May, he’s setting his sights on Nashville, eager to carve out his place in the music scene. “There’s going to be more music, more shows, and hopefully more of y’all. I hope to meet y’all soon,” Kyle concludes, inviting his fans to delve into the intricate tapestry of his sound and join him as his musical mosaic continues to unfold.

Corey Congilio Unleashes a Revitalized Take on Otis Rush’s “Me”

Eric Alper
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Corey Congilio Unleashes a Revitalized Take on Otis Rush’s “Me”

Nashville songwriter and guitarist Corey Congilio has released an electrifying new single, “Me,” as a representation of his commitment to betting on himself.

A sneak peek at the project that will serve as testament to the genre that shaped him, the track breathes new life into the 1969 classic blues track originally recorded by Otis Rush. This revamped rendition is shaped by Corey’s powerful vocals and guitar-slinging talent, making the song all his own while paying homage to one of the greats of the genre. “Me” will be a part of a six-track cover EP, due out this summer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRx_mEQXTk4

“Not only did I love the groove and the playing but the lyrics really grabbed me as it tells a story about life’s struggles and how often the only friend we have is ourselves,” Corey reveals. “Sometimes a song feels like it was written from your perspective even when it predates you by a number of years! The song was actually written by Mike Bloomfield and Nick Gravenites who were staples of the American Blues Rock scene in the 60’s and 70’s, so this song is loaded with blues history which I hope to honor with my version.”

On Wednesday, February 9, Corey released “She’s Like The Weather,” a playful original single that draws inspiration from a life coach’s analogy that relationships are like the weather: when it rains, grab an umbrella; when it snows, pick up a shovel. It’s the expectation that all relationships will have their ups and downs, but it’s the solutions that decide how strong they become. Corey’s powerful vocals smoothly lay down lyrics of a complicated person to love, with a funky bass line driving the groove into a classic blues world. He recently sat down with the Tennessee Star to discuss the track, offering a sneak peek into Corey’s evolving sound that has hints of a lifetime of influences.

The humorous music video casts Corey as a hapless weatherman, flailing through June snowstorms and tornadoes tearing across his green screen. It’s a wild, chaotic ride — just like love itself.

For 25 years, this guitar-slinging hired gun has been the quiet force behind the scenes — touring guitarist, session musician, educator, and presenter. Now Corey’s stepping into the spotlight, wielding his six-string stories like a weapon aimed at your soul. To celebrate the single, Corey is hosting a giveaway on socials, and the winner receives a personal guitar lesson from Corey himself.

“My journey started with saxophone in my elementary and high school bands until the age of 13 when I bought my first guitar,” he shares. Encouraged by his father and uncles, all of whom played guitar or bass, he recalls, “As much as I thought I’d be different by playing sax, I couldn’t get the guitar off my mind. I saved pennies, shopped weekly at my local guitar shop, and got my first guitar. Once I brought it home, music and guitar became my sole focus.”

Early on, Congilio found inspiration in legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Robben Ford, finding solace in their writing and guitar mastery. However, his influences span far beyond the blues, encompassing iconic artists like Prince, Daniel Lanois, Butch Walker, and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers — figures he admires for their “undeniable identity.” Beyond music, literature and television have also left their mark. “I have a tattoo inspired by Seth Godin’s The Icarus Deception, which taught me that not only is it okay to be an artist, people need your art, too,” Corey explains.

His extensive resume includes performances alongside renowned artists like Joss Stone, David Lee Murphy, Lucie Silvas, Radney Foster, Cassadee Pope, Derek St. Holmes, Danielle Bradbery, Laura Bell Bundy, and Barbara Blue. After cutting his teeth on stages all over the world, Corey still felt something was missing, and found himself searching for ways to express himself musically beyond playing songs written by others.

Eventually, Corey leaned into songwriting, pulling out his 1967 Gibson ES-335 to craft songs that teeter on the line of traditional blues and fresh rock and roll. “It took years of building confidence to call myself a writer,” he admits. “Having a completed song expressing one’s thoughts is a feeling like no other. I realized I had something to say that I couldn’t express by just being a sideman. Watching other artists navigate the music business made me think I had as much of a shot as anyone to create music that an audience would want to hear.”

Photo Credit: Jon Karr

Finding a home base in Nashville, TN, Corey credits Music City’s vibrant community for shaping his music and career. “Virtually every aspect of living in Nashville has inspired me — whether it’s playing, writing, singing, educating or performing,” he shares. He’s taken every lesson from behind the curtain with stride, applying what he’s learned to create a music career that will last.

Corey’s impact extends far beyond the stage. Since 2010, he has authored over 30 instructional guitar courses, helping players of all levels refine their craft. His platform, WorkingClassGuitar.com — along with his popular YouTube channel that boasts 111k subscribers — offers weekly lessons, performances, and gear reviews.

Through his music, teaching, and collaborations, Corey embraces the philosophy of betting on oneself. “I’ve always felt like the underdog,” he says, “and I’m continuing to put those feelings into songs. I want listeners to take the risk and bet on themselves — whether they’re a musician, videographer, small business owner, or anything else. You have nothing to lose, and you might just succeed.”

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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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