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Spotify Expands Audiobooks in Premium to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein with 350,000 Titles

Eric Alper
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Spotify Expands Audiobooks in Premium to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein with 350,000 Titles

As the world’s most popular audio-streaming subscription service, Spotify is committed to expanding the audiobook industry, enabling more listeners than ever to discover and engage, and paving the way for future innovation.

The company saw early adoption of podcasts and audiobooks in Germany, with labels and fans embracing both formats. Recognizing this potential, Spotify engaged directly with users and began innovating and building its podcast infrastructure globally.

There’s already a strong appetite for audiobooks across German-speaking markets. With millions of people enjoying audiobooks on Spotify in Germany, the platform is enhancing this experience by providing a Premium experience for users of Spotify Individual and Duo or Family Plan Managers.

Today, Spotify launches an enhanced audiobooks offering in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Eligible Premium listeners in these countries will now have access to 350,000 audiobooks, including titles in German, French, and Italian.

Eligible Premium subscribers will receive 12 hours of audiobook listening each month, with additional 10-hour allocations available for purchase starting at €9.99. Listeners without an eligible Premium subscription can still access audiobooks a la carte, paying individually to unlock titles.

Germany has a rich tradition of storytelling and Hörspiele (audio plays), which has paved the way for the widespread popularity of audiobooks. Today, audiobooks are an important part of the cultural landscape, preserving and promoting literature in a modern format.

With Audiobooks in Premium, Spotify users will benefit from a wide range of features that improve the listening experience. Along with an expanded catalog—including titles like Tintenherz by Cornelia Funke, 22 Bahnen by Caroline Wahl, and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros—listeners can:

  • Search more easily via the dedicated Audiobooks tab

  • Explore recommendations on the Home feed

  • Access a curated hub featuring top titles selected by Spotify’s editorial team

  • Save progress in an audiobook to pick up right where they left off

  • Pre-save upcoming releases with Countdown Pages

  • Use the Spotify Sleep Timer to avoid losing their place

Find your next great read by browsing the Audiobooks hub on Spotify.

Aisha Bowe Curates Spotify Playlist ‘Lift Off & Let Go’ To Celebrate Historic All-Female Spaceflight

Eric Alper
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Aisha Bowe Curates Spotify Playlist ‘Lift Off & Let Go’ To Celebrate Historic All-Female Spaceflight

On Monday, April 14, the sky wasn’t the limit—it was just the beginning. Blue Origin’s NS-31 mission took off from Launch Site One in West Texas, marking the 11th human flight for the New Shepard program and the 31st in its history. But this wasn’t just any launch. This was history in motion, as the mission became the first all-female spaceflight crew since Valentina Tereshkova’s solo trip to space in 1963.

So who was on board this cosmic moment? A dream team of brilliance, talent, and trailblazing energy: former NASA rocket scientist Aisha Bowe, bioastronautics research scientist Amanda Nguyễn, CBS Mornings cohost Gayle King, pop icon Katy Perry, award-winning filmmaker Kerianne Flynn, and journalist/pilot Lauren Sánchez, who brought the mission together like a captain gathering her crew of legends.

And because every great mission needs a soundtrack, Aisha Bowe curated a special Spotify playlist—Lift Off & Let Go—a sonic journey to inspire, reflect, and remind you that dreams are worth chasing at full throttle.

Click here to read more about the mission. And here to hear Aisha Bowe share what this historic flight means to her—and why the future of space should belong to everyone.

History was made. Music was played. And the stars, it seems, are just getting started.

 

How to Register at Uptown Pokies Online Casino?

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

If you’re an Aussie player looking to dive into a world of exciting pokies, massive bonuses, and 24/7 entertainment, Uptown Pokies Online Casino is a great place to start. But before you can spin the reels or claim any welcome offers, you’ll need to create an account—and the good news is, it’s quick, easy, and totally secure.

Whether you’re on desktop or mobile, signing up only takes a few minutes. Below is the step-by-step process so you can start playing in no time.

Step-by-Step Guide to Registering at Uptown Pokies

1. Visit the Official Website

Start by heading over to the official site:
👉 uptown pokies online

Here, you’ll find all the latest promotions, game offerings, and secure access to your future account.

2. Click the ‘Sign Up’ Button

On the homepage, you’ll see a bright and clear ‘Sign Up’ or ‘Register’ button—usually located in the upper right corner. Click it to launch the registration form.

3. Fill in Your Details

You’ll need to provide some basic personal information, including:

  • Full name
  • Date of birth (to verify you’re 18+)
  • Email address
  • Mobile number
  • Residential address

Make sure all info is accurate to avoid verification issues later on.

4. Create a Username & Password

Choose a secure password and a username that’s easy for you to remember. Your account credentials will be used for future logins, so be sure to keep them safe.

5. Choose Your Preferred Currency

Since the platform is Aussie-friendly, you can choose AUD as your default currency for both deposits and withdrawals.

6. Accept the Terms and Confirm

Before finishing the process, tick the box confirming you accept the casino’s terms and conditions. You may also opt in for promotional emails if you’d like to receive bonus updates.

Then, hit “Create Account” or “Submit”.

7. Verify Your Email

In most cases, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Simply click the verification link to activate your account and you’re ready to go!

What to Do After Registering

Once your account is live, here’s what you can do next:

  • Claim your welcome bonus: Uptown Pokies offers a generous multi-part welcome package with bonus cash and free spins.
  • Make your first deposit: Use secure methods like Visa, Bitcoin, or Neosurf.
  • Start playing: Explore hundreds of pokies, including progressives and new releases.
  • Access support: 24/7 live chat is available if you run into any issues.

Final Thoughts

Registering at Uptown Pokies is a smooth, straightforward process designed with Aussie players in mind. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some casual spinning or chase big real-money jackpots, it all starts with a simple sign-up.

Ready to get started? Visit the official site at uptown pokies online and create your account today—it only takes a few minutes to join the action.

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

Blake Shelton Gears Up For For ‘Recreational Use Only’ With New Track “Stay Country or Die Tryin’”

Eric Alper
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Blake Shelton Gears Up For For ‘Recreational Use Only’ With New Track “Stay Country or Die Tryin’”

The countdown continues to Blake Shelton’s highly anticipated new album For Recreational Use Only, available May 9 on BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville.

Leading the album rollout is the hit single “Texas,” which has soared into the Top 10 and continues to climb both radio and streaming charts. Shelton also recently unveiled “Let Him In Anyway,” a soul-stirring ballad that Billboard praised as having “the makings of an enduring Shelton classic.”

Today, Shelton delivers another taste of the album with the release of the electrifying new track “Stay Country Or Die Tryin,'” written by Drew Parker, Graham Barham, Sam Ellis and Beau Bailey.

“When I heard ‘Stay Country or Die Tryin,” it took me back to the first time I heard ‘Ol’ Red’ or ‘God’s Country,'” says Shelton. “It’s got so much energy and is full of those little catchphrases and things we say out in the country. I absolutely fell in love with it. I’m proud of this recording-and I love singing it live even more. Hopefully, you’ll come catch a show and sing it with us.”

For Recreational Use Only spans 12 tracks that capture life’s highs and lows with Shelton’s signature blend of authentic storytelling, raw emotion, and unforgettable melodies. The album also boasts guest appearances from music superstar Gwen Stefani, country legend John Anderson, and Shelton’s longtime friend and tourmate Craig Morgan.

With For Recreational Use Only, Blake Shelton strengthens his status as one of country music’s most compelling voices, delivering a deeply personal yet universally relatable collection that celebrates love, resilience, and staying true to your roots.

For Recreational Use Only Tracklist:
1. Stay Country or Die Tryin’ – (Drew Parker, Graham Barham, Sam Ellis, Beau Bailey)
2. Texas – (Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr, Lalo Guzman)
3. Hangin’ On (feat. Gwen Stefani) – (Sam Ellis, Charles Kelley, Greylan James)
4. Strangers – (Michael Hardy, Zach Crowell, Jameson Rodgers)
5. Let Him In Anyway – (Michael Hardy, Zach Abend, Kyle Clark, Carson Wallace)
6. Heaven Sweet Home (feat. Craig Morgan) – (Chris Tompkins, Sarah Buxton, Jake Rose)
7. Life’s Been Comin’ Too Fast – (Craig Wiseman, David Lee Murphy, Lindsay Rimes)
8. Don’t Mississippi – (Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman, Ben Hayslip, Josh Osborne)
9. All of My Love – (Colton Swon, Zach Swon)
10. Cold Can – (Bobby Pinson, Josh Osborne, Andrew DeRoberts)
11. The Keys – (Jay Brunswick, Brock Berryhill, Bobby Pinson)
12. Years (feat. John Anderson) – (Pat McLaughlin, John Anderson, David Ferguson, Daniel Auerbach)

Kolby Cooper Releases Gritty, Heartfelt New Album ‘Love You, Goodnight’

Eric Alper
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Kolby Cooper Releases Gritty, Heartfelt New Album ‘Love You, Goodnight’

Dubbed “Country music’s newest badass” by People, Kolby Cooper returns with Love You, Goodnight-a no-holds-barred, emotionally charged album that hits like a shot of whiskey and stays with you like a scar that sparks a good story. Fueled by raw honesty, gritty vocals and a rebel spirit that refuses to play it safe, it’s a thrill ride through heartbreak, redemption and everything in between.

“Making this album really kicked my ass. It took longer than I wanted it to, yet we dug down deep on this one and I think it really gives a glimpse into my life over the last few years,” shares Cooper. “There’s the part of me that is focused on being a great husband and dad to my wife and kids and then there’s the other side that is trying to make this dream happen out here on the road…and with all of that I think you will feel that there is an underlying theme of brokenness on this album that maybe writing and singing about it helps others not feel quite so alone.”

Establishing himself as a skilled songwriter, Cooper has been recognized as “the current buzzworthy artist in country music” (People) and is making waves with his 2025 headlining tour. At just 25 years old, he has spent the past six years captivating audiences and is “well on his way to headlining shows at Yankee Stadium and Red Rocks Amphitheatre” (Sounds Like Nashville).

Jennifer Alvarado Unveils Raw, Reflective New Single “Something ’Bout A Boy”

Eric Alper
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Jennifer Alvarado Unveils Raw, Reflective New Single “Something ’Bout A Boy”

Alternative country artist Jennifer Alvarado releases new single “Something ‘Bout A Boy.” The single is now available on all digital streaming platforms.

The song doesn’t just tell a story – it pulls you into its gravity. Alvarado’s lyrics cut through the noise with sharp precision, like “Four years of putting him first / Every word he said hurt a little worse” and “Never strong enough to tell him goodbye / Until one night the truth was glaring.”

These lines set the stage for a relationship marked by suffocating cycles and unspoken truths. But as the narrative shifts, empowerment emerges in the lyrics: “She always thought her love could save him / By finally letting go she found herself again.” The song tells a true story of Alvarado’s exploration of self-rediscovery through shedding what (and who) holds you back.

“Something ‘Bout A Boy” isn’t afraid to dive into uncomfortable truths, capturing the messiness of real life without offering easy answers. Alvarado’s songwriting stands out for its unapologetic honesty, painting vivid pictures without filtering the complexities of human emotion. With this track, she stakes her claim as a voice in country music, unafraid to tackle difficult subjects head-on. If you’re looking for music that cuts through the superficial, this song is a raw, emotional ride that leaves a lasting impact.

Going Bananas! ESPN and Disney Platforms Set for a Summer of Savannah Bananas Baseball

Eric Alper
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Going Bananas! ESPN and Disney Platforms Set for a Summer of Savannah Bananas Baseball

ESPN and the Savannah Bananas are joining forces for a summer filled of Banana Ball, providing fans an opportunity to witness one of sports’ fastest growing sensations across ESPN and Disney platforms, beginning in April and continuing each month through August. MLB and football stadiums will host each of the ten games of the new agreement, including historic Fenway Park, picturesque Camden Yards and raucous Memorial Stadium, home of the Clemson Tigers, adding to the electrifying atmosphere that has become synonymous with Banana Ball.

The summer of the Savannah Bananas will be showcased on Friday and Saturday nights on ESPN or ESPN2, with all ten games also simulcast live on Disney+ and ESPN+.

“The Savannah Bananas have mastered the art of blending baseball with entertainment, creating an experience that resonates with fans of all ages, regardless of their baseball knowledge,” said Brent Colborne, ESPN Vice President of Programming & Content Strategy. “Their unique approach embodies two of ESPN’s key goals: reaching new audiences and inspiring the next generation of youth athletes. With Banana Ball showcased on ESPN and Disney linear and streaming platforms, we are confident new, avid fans will be created.”

“Our relationship with ESPN has been outstanding for the Savannah Bananas and for the sport of Banana Ball,” said Jesse Cole, founder and CEO of the Savannah Bananas. “As the “Greatest Show in Sports” makes its way to sold out MLB, College Football and NFL Stadiums, ESPN is the perfect place to showcase the electricity of the game as we near the launch of the Banana Ball Championship League in 2026.”

ESPN’s summer of Banana Ball will begin with a Savannah Bananas record-breaking crowd on Saturday, April 26, when over 80,000 fans fill Memorial Stadium, on the campus of Clemson University, the first of three consecutive games played in football stadiums. In May, the traveling-team will stop at Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans, before an early-June stop in Charlotte to play at Bank of America Stadium, the home of the Carolina Panthers.

The seven remaining games will all be played in MLB stadiums, beginning at Nationals Park on Saturday, June 28, before playing at Fenway Park and Citizens Bank Park in July. August features four games in 15 days with stops at Camden Yards, Coors Field and Guaranteed Rate Field. The Fenway Park and the first game at Camden Yards will be showcased in primetime on ESPN.

All of The Savannah Banana games feature the team taking on The Party Animals, The Firefighters or The Texas Tailgaters.

Banana Ball, which rose to national prominence in 2020, is committed to delivering a high-octane, entertainment-packed experience. Banana Ball commentators Josh Talevski and Biko Skalla will be in the booth for each game, analyzing and educating fans. For the full rules of Banana Ball, click here.

  • Saturday, Apr. 26 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Memorial Stadium (Clemson)

  • Saturday, May 10 – 8 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Nissan Stadium (Tennessee)

  • Saturday, June 7 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte)

  • Saturday, June 28 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Nationals Park (Washington, DC)

  • Saturday, July 5 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN, Disney+, ESPN+
    Fenway Park (Boston)

  • Saturday, July 26 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Citizens Bank Park (Philadelphia)

  • Friday, Aug. 1 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN, Disney+, ESPN+
    Camden Yards (Baltimore)

  • Saturday, Aug. 2 – 7 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Camden Yards (Baltimore)

  • Saturday, Aug. 9 – 9 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Coors Field (Denver)

  • Friday, Aug. 15 – 8 p.m. ET
    ESPN2, Disney+, ESPN+
    Guaranteed Rate Field (Chicago)

Dierks Bentley Channels His Bluegrass Roots With New Single “Well Well Whiskey” From ‘BROKEN BRANCHES’ Album

Eric Alper
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0
Dierks Bentley Channels His Bluegrass Roots With New Single “Well Well Whiskey” From ‘BROKEN BRANCHES’ Album

Following this week’s announcement of his 11th studio album BROKEN BRANCHES out June 13, multi-Platinum singer/songwriter Dierks Bentley returns to his bluegrass-tinged roots with the release of “Well Well Whiskey,” available everywhere today.

“Well Well Whiskey” finds Bentley face-to-face with the bottle and all the trouble it brings with a foot-stomping beat and standout solo from acclaimed guitarist Bryan Sutton.

“When I first heard ‘Well Well Whiskey,’ it made me think of my UP ON THE RIDGE album, which leaned heavily on the power of acoustic instruments. I heard a lot of the same opportunity for the guys in the studio to contribute ideas and collaborate together in the same spirit of that earlier project,” Bentley explains. “There is nothing more fun than turning the musicians loose on a track like this and seeing what they come up with. I definitely see this one making it into our live show this summer.”

The new track is the third release from BROKEN BRANCHES, following its already Top 30 lead single “She Hates Me,” which marked the biggest radio debut of Bentley’s career and has hailed for being “classic, comedic Bentley” (Billboard) with “anthemic energy” (Country Central). Described as “a song that celebrates fixing things – from busted alternators to broken hearts” (Rolling Stone), “Cold Beer Can” quickly struck a chord with fans and critics alike, saluting “blue-collar friendship, family ties, brotherhood, and life’s best moments” (Music Row). Like those before it, “Well Well Whiskey” finds Bentley doubling down on what makes his music stick: well crafted songs with dynamic musicianship and a commitment to doing things a little differently.

Known for his “raucous” and “electrifying” live performances (Whiskey Riff), Bentley is set to bring new music from the 11-song collection as well as fan favorite hits on the road this summer. Kicking off on May 29 in Austin, Texas, the BROKEN BRANCHES TOUR will feature support from rising country star Zach Top and new Warner Music duo The Band Loula. Continuing the path built from the ground up, as an entrepreneur, he has opened four locations of the gastropub and live music venue “Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row,” has a Flag & Anthem lifestyle collection “Desert Son” and recently released ROW 94 – a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey crafted with only “three ingredients and the truth” at Kentucky’s Green River Distilling Co.

Ashley Cooke Drops Playful, Heartfelt New Single “the f word” While Touring With Kane Brown

Eric Alper
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Ashley Cooke Drops Playful, Heartfelt New Single “the f word” While Touring With Kane Brown

Big Loud’s powerhouse country songstress and breakout star Ashley Cooke has released her latest track, “the f word”, available everywhere today.

The song finds a lovestruck Cooke aching and regretting saying the F word in front of a paramour’s mother, only to reveal that the F word isn’t the notorious expletive but rather…forever. Ashley, deeply enamored, tells her partner, “I’m going to spend forever with you” even though the early declaration causes her to cringe.

“This song immediately caught my attention from the title,” shares Ashley Cooke. “It’s brilliantly written and resonates with an experience I had in a past relationship…The song starts with ‘I try not to swear,’ which cracks me up because I have the mouth of a sailor, often using many f-words.”

Ashley, who is currently opening for Kane Brown on his arena tour, first teased the track during her performance at Nashville’s legendary Bridgestone Arena, treating the crowd of 20,000 fans to a first listen. See the videos and hear the crowds’ enthusiastic reaction here. She also performed the song to strong response at the Country Radio Seminar (CRS).

Fans are in luck, as many will get to hear “the f word” live, as Ashley, who is known for her energetic live performances, continues to open for Kane Brown on his arena tour this spring. Additionally, Ashley also has several of her own headlining shows, plus festival appearances.

Jenna DeVries Unleashes Heartbreak Anthem “Someone’s Gotta Give” With Raw Power And ’90s Flair

Eric Alper
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Jenna DeVries Unleashes Heartbreak Anthem “Someone’s Gotta Give” With Raw Power And ’90s Flair

Nashville-based singer-songwriter Jenna DeVries releases highly-anticipated new single “Someone’s Gotta Give.” The single is out now on all digital streaming platforms. The single debuted on All New Country on Spotify, and New in Country on Apple Music.

Jenna DeVries doesn’t just nod to the ’90s country legends – she channels their passion. “Someone’s Gotta Give” is a steel-toed heartbreak anthem that could sit alongside the greats like Trisha Yearwood or Shania Twain, but it’s undeniably DeVries’s own storm to sing through.

With lines like, “Our therapist is choosing sides / I’m not sure it’s yours or mine / We’re two wrongs without a right,” DeVries sets the tone: this isn’t a breakup ballad; it’s a battlefield confessional. Her voice is equal parts velvet and venom, holding space for those brutal moments of realization in a fractured relationship. She twists the knife with poetic sharpness: “Part poet and masochist / Waging war on a pacifist / Ironic isn’t it, right?” – and just when you think she might pull back, she doubles down with a pre-chorus that speaks to all the lessons we thought we learned: “I thought I’d live and learn / But what do I know?”

The production, helmed by Don Miggs (known for work with Dolly Parton, Mick Fleetwood, and more), wraps DeVries’ raw vocals in a warm, rootsy glow that lets every word hit with weight. It’s the kind of track that feels like both a throwback and a breakthrough – a barroom ballad built for blasting in your car with tears in your eyes and fire in your soul. “Someone’s Gotta Give” is DeVries at her boldest yet – proof that country’s future is safe in the hands of women who aren’t afraid to write what hurts.

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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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