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Soft Egg Revolver Blaster Fun

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By Mitch Rice

Soft egg blasters, particularly revolver-style soft egg guns, offer an engaging, safe, and versatile play experience for all ages. With realistic designs, easy operation, and gentle foam ammunition, these toy revolvers balance authenticity with safety. Reviews highlight their durability, fun “plinking” action, and suitability for indoor and outdoor games. Whether you’re introducing classic revolver gun play to young children or hosting target-shooting contests with teens, soft egg revolvers deliver hours of entertainment without the mess of real projectiles.

Why Soft Egg Revolver Toys Are Fun

Interactive and Engaging Play

Soft egg revolver toys encourage active play, combining the nostalgia of classic cowboy and action-hero themes with modern safety. Kids love the tactile feel of spinning the cylinder and pulling the trigger, mimicking real firearms in a harmless way. The satisfying “plink” when a foam egg is launched makes each shot rewarding, turning ordinary backyards into dynamic play zones.

Safe and Mess-Free Ammunition

Unlike water balloons or paint-filled eggs, soft foam and squishy ammo won’t stain clothing or leave broken shells behind. Foam eggs are lightweight and soft, reducing the risk of injury during fast-paced games and enabling play in living rooms or hallways. Their gentle impact makes these toys a popular pick for family gatherings and birthday parties.

Key Features of Soft Egg Revolver Guns

Realistic Design

Many models feature metal-look finishes and authentic grips, making play feel more immersive. Holsters, faux wood accents, and rotating cylinders add to the authenticity, enhancing role-play and dress-up possibilities.

Ease of Use

Most soft egg revolvers use simple spring-loading or manual priming, allowing children as young as six to load and fire with minimal effort. Clear chambers help track ammo count, and ergonomic grips ensure comfortable handling during extended play sessions.

Durability and Build Quality

While some entry-level models have reported loose barrels and occasional jamming under heavy use, well-constructed revolver toys withstand dozens of play sessions without issue. Metal-reinforced frames and sturdy plastics help maintain alignment and performance over time.

Benefits for Different Age Groups

For Younger Children

Soft egg revolvers introduce basic hand-eye coordination and motor skills as kids learn to aim, load, and fire. The forgiving foam ammo builds confidence without fear of pain or property damage.

For Teens and Adults

Older players enjoy advanced target setups—tin can pyramids, popup targets, or even timed challenges. Competitive “plinking” contests foster social interaction and can be customized with obstacle courses or themed scenarios.

Tips for Maximizing Fun

Target Practice Games

Set up a variety of targets at increasing distances to challenge accuracy and introduce scoring systems for friendly competitions. Incorporate moving targets or obstacle courses for extra excitement.

Themed Role-Play

Pair revolver blasters with cowboy hats, pirate outfits, or sci-fi costumes to create immersive storylines. Encourage team-based missions—capture the flag, defend the fort, or galaxy quests.

Looking to expand your collection? Check out specialty ammo packs and accessory holsters at M416GelBlasters.com for great deals and fast shipping!

Conclusion:
Soft egg revolver toys blend safe, mess-free ammunition with immersive, realistic design to create hours of fun for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re plinking cans in the backyard or staging elaborate role-play adventures, these blasters deliver excitement without risk—making them a must-try addition to your toy arsenal.

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

Keke Palmer Announced as Keynote Speaker for Black Tech Week 2025

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Black Tech Week is thrilled to announce that award-winning actress, singer, producer, and entrepreneur Keke Palmer will headline the 2025 conference as the keynote speaker. The event will take place July 14-16 in Cincinnati, Ohio, bringing together founders, investors, and tech professionals for three days of networking, innovation, and thought leadership.

A dynamic force in entertainment, Palmer has continually broken barriers across film, television, music, and media. She gained recognition for her breakout role in Akeelah and the Bee and has since starred in hit projects such as Hustlers (2019) and Jordan Peele’s Nope (2022). Beyond acting, Keke is a passionate advocate for creativity, self-empowerment, and entrepreneurship, exemplified by the founding of her own media network, KeyTV which is dedicated to educating, entertaining, and democratizing the entertainment industry. Palmer is the ideal voice to inspire and captivate the Black Tech Week audience.

Palmer’s presence at Black Tech Week comes at an exciting time in her career, following the success of One of Them Days (2025) which reached No. 1 comedy in the country, and the recent release of her second book, the NY Times best-selling Master of Me: The Secret to Controlling Your Narrative (2024), where she shares insights on personal growth and navigating success. She also continues to engage audiences through her hit podcast, Baby, This is Keke Palmer.

Black Tech Week is a global award-winning event presented by Lightship Foundation, known for its mission to empower and elevate Black tech professionals and entrepreneurs. In partnership with JobsOhio, the state’s economic development corporation, this year’s event will host 7,000+ attendees and more than 100 sessions, workshops, and networking events throughout Cincinnati.

“We are beyond excited to welcome Keke Palmer as our keynote speaker,” said Candice Matthews Brackeen, founder and CEO of Lightship Foundation. “Her career, advocacy, and entrepreneurial spirit align perfectly with our mission to celebrate our incredible community of founders in technology, media, and beyond.”

Black Tech Week will be held at the Aronoff Center for the Arts in Cincinnati, Ohio, from July 14-16. Early bird Black Tech Week 2025 tickets are on sale now through April 30th. For more information and to register, visit www.blacktechweek.com.

Paris Hilton’s 11:11 Media Extends Partnership with WOW Vegas in Multi-Year Deal

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In a major announcement for the world of digital entertainment and social gaming, WOW Vegas has confirmed the extension of its partnership with global entrepreneur, media personality, and pop culture icon Paris Hilton, in collaboration with Hilton’s next-gen media and lifestyle company 11:11 Media. The new arrangement, which spans a further two years, will see Hilton continue in her role as the face of the brand.

As part of the renewed agreement, Hilton will headline a fresh wave of marketing campaigns, with the forthcoming creative to be developed and produced by 11:11 Media. The collaboration builds on a successful initial partnership which helped position WOW Vegas as one of the most exciting and recognizable brands in the social casino space.

Speaking on the renewal, Paris Hilton commented, “WOW Vegas delivers premium entertainment, innovation, and a sense of community – all that we strive for at 11:11 Media, which is why I’m excited to bring even more sparkle to the next phase of our journey together,” said Paris Hilton.

The next iteration of the campaign is set to launch later this year, showcasing Hilton in a series of high-energy, visually striking adverts designed to resonate with a broad and digitally engaged audience. With 11:11 Media at the creative helm, the project promises to deliver high-quality, standout content that merges the worlds of celebrity, gaming, and lifestyle culture.

Richard Skelhorn, co-founder of WOW Vegas, said, “Paris is a genuine force of nature—her creativity, professionalism and cultural reach are second to none. We’ve forged a fantastic working relationship, and we’re delighted to be building on that with this renewed commitment. The campaign we’ve got in the works is ambitious, entertaining and completely in tune with what our players love.”

In support of the new marketing push, WOW Vegas has also appointed TokenMind, a newly launched digital media company founded by Skelhorn, to oversee digital media buying and strategy. TokenMind will focus on scaling advertising efforts across Meta, X (formerly Twitter), and a range of performance-driven digital platforms, ensuring the campaign reaches audiences across the United States at scale.

The extended partnership with Hilton marks a significant moment for WOW Vegas, as the company continues to evolve its brand, deepen engagement with its growing player base, and redefine what’s possible in the realm of social gaming entertainment.

11:11 Media is a global, next-gen entertainment company at the center of pop culture – connecting content, community and commerce – founded by Paris Hilton and entertainment industry veteran Bruce Gersh in 2021.

The company spans a broad array of businesses, including film, TV, audio, music, books, consumer products, and digital, with passion points around lifestyle, fashion, beauty, wellness, art, travel and more. Elevating brands, building communities, and driving social impact through the power of storytelling, experience, and products is the core mission of 11:11 Media.

The Garcia Project Hits the Road to Honor Jerry Garcia’s Legacy on 15th Anniversary Tour

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This spring, The Garcia Project embarks on a powerful, soul-stirring tour across the country. As the band marks their 15th anniversary as a band, we also commemorate the 30th anniversary of Jerry Garcia’s passing. It is their honor to carry on this music—celebrating the spirit, joy, and healing power of Jerry’s songs with each of you.

Special Two-Night Celebrations

Salt Lake City, UT – May 9 & 10
Each night opens with a very special acoustic Grateful Dead set featuring Mike Lookinland (Bobby Brady from The Brady Bunch). Mike brings heart and soul to this timeless music in an intimate performance you won’t want to miss.

Minneapolis, MN – May 23 & 24
We return to one of our favorite cities for a weekend of deep grooves and pure Jerry vibes. Expect an abundance of classic Jerry Garcia Band magic—come be part of it!

But this tour is more than just a series of shows—it’s a gathering of our community. A chance to connect, heal, dance, and remember the man whose music continues to light our way. Each night will feature full classic Jerry Garcia Band setlist recreations from 1976 to 1995, bringing you the love, energy, and inspiration that only this music can provide.

Tour Dates

5/9 & 5/10 – Salt Lake City, UT

    5/11 – Grand Junction, CO

    5/14 – Fort Collins, CO

5/15 – Boulder, CO

5/16 – Colorado Springs, CO

5/17 – Evergreen, CO

5/18 – Denver, CO

5/21 – Kansas City, MO

5/23 & 5/24 – Minneapolis, MN

5/25 – Madison, WI

5/26 – Chicago, IL

    5/27 – Cincinnati, OH

    5/28 – Cleveland, OH

5/29 – Buffalo, NY

5/30 – Rochester, NY

5/31 – Lake George, NY

Tickets are going fast—visit www.thegarciaproject.com to grab yours and join us on this beautiful ride. Let the music fill your heart as we celebrate this enduring legacy together.

The Garcia Project stands as a premier tribute band dedicated to faithfully recreating the legendary performances of the Jerry Garcia Band. With meticulous attention to detail, they reconstruct not only the beloved setlists but also the distinctive tempos and arrangements, even using replica guitars and gear to capture the essence of Jerry Garcia’s sound.

Comprising dedicated musicians who are also passionate fans of Jerry Garcia’s solo work, The Garcia Project transports audiences back to the intimate, transformative concerts that defined the Jerry Garcia Band. From soulful ballads like “Mission In The Rain” to electrifying jams like “Deal,” every performance is a journey through Garcia’s musical universe, recreated with precision and reverence.

Through their commitment to authenticity and musical craftsmanship, The Garcia Project ensures each show is far more than a nostalgic trip—it’s a vibrant celebration of Jerry Garcia’s enduring legacy. By meticulously channeling the gear and the groove of the Jerry Garcia Band, The Garcia Project honors Garcia’s spirit of improvisation and exploration, ensuring his music continues to inspire and resonate with fans everywhere.

‘Oasis: The Masterplan’ Book By Kevin Cummins Reveals the Visual Blueprint Behind Britpop’s Biggest Band

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A riveting visual evolution of Oasis captured by Kevin Cummins and featuring Noel Gallagher in his own words.

How does a band come into being? What are the myriad forces that shape the sound, look, and identity of an emerging band?

Oasis The Masterplan tells the story of how Oasis cemented their identity. At the center of this enterprise was Kevin Cummins, who was well aware of the intersection between the visual and the sonic and was brought on board to help the band find a look that fitted their sound. Drawing on the first six months of 1994, we follow Cummins as he photographs the band in various locations such as London, Manchester, and the Netherlands.

Using many unseen images as well as more well-known iconic shots, Cummins guides us through the ways a band can be shaped and designed, such as the famous photographs of the Gallagher brothers in Manchester City shirts – emblazoned with the Brother logo (a Japanese electronics company) which helped provoke worldwide interest in the band. With input from Noel Gallagher, we see how they played with fashion, were taught how to pose, and present themselves as they approached the summer of that year when their first album, Definitely Maybe was released on August 29th. The story from that moment on is well-known and this book reveals just how effective the masterplan was to get them to that point.

This sleek, hardbound music photography book is a must-have for any Oasis fan, packed with never-before-seen images capturing the band in their early days, just before they exploded onto the UK alternative scene. Through the lens of legendary photographer Kevin Cummins—renowned for his work with Joy Division, The Smiths, and New Order—readers are treated to stunning visuals that chronicle the rise of Oasis from their raw beginnings. With insightful commentary from Noel Gallagher, the band’s co-lead vocalist, songwriter, and lead guitarist, this book offers a rare, insider’s look at one of the most iconic rock acts of the ’90s. A perfect addition to any music lover’s collection, it’s a treasure to view, reflect on, and gift.

10 of the Best Karaoke Songs of All Time

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There are two kinds of people in this world: those who love karaoke, and those who haven’t had enough drinks yet. Whether you can belt like Beyoncé or mumble like Bob Dylan, here are 10 songs that bring the party every single time—no vocal training required.

1. “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey
This song is karaoke’s national anthem. Everyone knows the words. Everyone becomes Steve Perry. Bonus points if you are actually born and raised in South Detroit.

2. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
It’s dramatic. It’s chaotic. It’s six minutes long and you will need backup singers. But if you can make it through the operatic middle without bursting into laughter, you’re a legend.

3. “I Want It That Way” – Backstreet Boys
Boy band ballads never go out of style. Grab four friends, harmonize poorly, and feel every emotion like you’re on TRL in 1999. Tell me why this isn’t always in your karaoke rotation.

4. “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond
This one’s not even about singing—it’s about shouting BAH BAH BAH like your life depends on it. A guaranteed crowd singalong, especially after two pitchers of beer.

5. “Tequila” – The Champs
You only need to say one word. No really, just one: “Tequila.” And yet, it brings the house down every time. Perfect for shy singers or comedians in disguise.

6. “Shallow” – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper
For the dramatic duo in the room. It starts tender, ends in a scream, and if you’re not reenacting the A Star Is Born movie poster by the end, did you even do it right?

7. “Mr. Brightside” – The Killers
The emo millennial anthem that turned into an eternal banger. Everyone knows every word, and if you’re shouting them through clenched teeth, you’re doing it right.

8. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” – Bonnie Tyler
Ballads that are this dramatic deserve their own wind machine. Belt it like your ex is in the audience and you just saw them with someone new. Goosebumps guaranteed.

9. “Living on a Prayer” – Bon Jovi
It starts with a story, ends with a scream. By the time you get to Ohhhh we’re halfway there, the bar’s on fire (metaphorically). Or literally, depending on your local dive.

10. “Since U Been Gone” – Kelly Clarkson
This one’s for the people with something to prove. Shout it, scream it, heal a little. Kelly gave us a breakup song we didn’t know we needed. And yes, the high note is mandatory.

Whether you’re singing your heart out or just yelling “Tequila!” into the mic, karaoke isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, letting loose, and maybe losing your voice for a good reason.

The Role of Steel in Sustainable Construction with Metal Buildings

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By Mitch Rice

In the world of sustainable construction, steel-framed metal buildings—like garages, workshops, storage buildings, and home-based outbuildings—are becoming a popular choice for eco-conscious homeowners and businesses. Unlike towering skyscrapers or large industrial warehouses, these steel buildings serve practical everyday purposes but still pack a powerful environmental punch. 

With steel as the core material, these structures offer durability, energy efficiency, and adaptability that align well with long-term sustainability goals.

Built to Last: Durability as a Green Asset

Steel buildings are incredibly strong and resistant to many of the common issues that plague wood structures, such as rot, termites, mold, and warping. This resilience means fewer repairs, fewer replacements, and far less material waste over time. When a building lasts for decades with minimal maintenance, its environmental footprint is significantly reduced. It’s a form of sustainability that doesn’t rely on futuristic tech—it’s built into the material itself.

Recycled and Recyclable

Steel is one of the most recyclable materials on Earth. Many steel metal buildings are made from recycled steel, and when they eventually reach the end of their life, nearly 100% of the steel can be recycled again. That circular lifecycle keeps steel out of landfills and reduces the demand for mining virgin resources. Using steel not only prevents waste—it reduces the need for extracting new materials from the environment.

Low-Waste Construction

Traditional construction often leads to piles of waste, but metal buildings are typically prefabricated off-site and delivered ready to assemble. That means fewer scraps, less sawdust, and less mess. The precise design of steel structures allows for accurate material use, which minimizes waste from start to finish. For property owners, that also translates to faster builds and lower cleanup costs.

Energy Efficiency Through Smart Design

Modern metal buildings with steel framing can be insulated with energy-efficient materials that reduce heating and cooling demands. Roof panels can be coated to reflect sunlight, keeping interior spaces cooler in warm months. 

These buildings are also well-suited for solar panel integration, allowing property owners to generate their own clean energy. Combined, these features help reduce the carbon footprint of a structure over its lifetime.

Adaptable for Multiple Uses

A key part of sustainability is extending a building’s purpose beyond just one function. Steel-framed metal buildings can be transformed from equipment storage units to workshops, hobby studios, or even home gyms. 

Their open layout and modular design make them easy to repurpose, expand, or reconfigure without tearing everything down and starting from scratch. That kind of adaptability reduces the need for building additional structures, conserving resources over time.

Fewer Chemicals and Maintenance

Because steel doesn’t rot or attract insects, there’s no need for chemical treatments like pesticides, preservatives, or waterproofing sealants. This not only makes the structure safer for people and pets, but also eliminates harmful runoff that might otherwise seep into soil or water systems.

Conclusion

When you choose a metal building in Elk Grove constructed from steel, you’re not just getting a strong and functional space—you’re making a choice that supports long-term sustainability. 

From its recyclable nature and low-maintenance qualities to its energy-saving potential and waste-reducing construction methods, steel plays a central role in eco-friendly building practices. For homeowners, farmers, small business owners, or hobbyists, steel-framed outbuildings are a smart, sustainable investment that stands the test of time.

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

The Soundtrack of Sports: How Music Shapes the Game-Day Experience

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By Mitch Rice

Music pulses through the veins of modern sports culture, influencing everything from an athlete’s mindset to the roaring energy of a stadium. More than just background noise, music amplifies tension, celebration, unity, and anticipation at every level of competition. From globally recognized stadium anthems to emotionally charged pre-game hype tracks, music has become a central force in shaping game-day experiences for players and fans alike. This article explores how specific soundtracks, iconic collaborations, and dedicated professionals are changing the way the world experiences sports.

Enhancing Athletic Performance

Music is not just a psychological stimulant; it actively contributes to athletic excellence. According to prezi.com, scientific studies have shown that listening to music can significantly enhance physical performance by increasing endurance, improving speed, and amplifying strength output. Athletes use carefully selected playlists during training and competition to sustain intensity and delay fatigue. The rhythm and tempo of songs help regulate breathing and pace, which is particularly vital in endurance-based sports like marathon running, cycling, and swimming. By creating a mental state conducive to peak performance, music becomes as essential as any piece of sports equipment.

Creating Emotional Atmosphere

Soundtracks are crafted to do more than fill silence—they evoke emotion and shape the psychological climate of entire sporting events. Musiccrowns.org emphasizes the deliberate use of songs to enhance emotional engagement for fans. From the heart-thumping bass of an entry track to the euphoric burst of post-goal celebrations, these moments are transformed through sound. Teams often use music to build narrative arcs over a game, escalating tension or highlighting triumph. Music becomes a storytelling tool, making fans feel like part of something greater than the score alone can express.

Cultural and Psychological Impact

Sporting events offer a rare fusion of tribal allegiance and collective emotion, and music plays a crucial role in uniting these elements. According to eonmusic.co.uk, shared musical experiences in stadiums and arenas create a unique sense of community. Chants, national anthems, and iconic team songs act as sonic markers of identity. Fans from diverse backgrounds come together to sing in unison, breaking barriers of language and geography. Music allows a fanbase to express passion in harmony, turning individual spectators into a unified, emotionally synchronized force.

Event Organizers and DJs

At the forefront of crafting immersive sports experiences is Leslie Dufaux, the head of “sports presentation” at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As reported by Le Monde.fr, Dufaux’s role involves the meticulous curation of sound and visual elements to amplify the crowd’s energy and synchronize the event’s emotional flow. Her work includes choosing the right tracks for athlete introductions, transition moments, and medal ceremonies—decisions that influence not just energy levels but also viewer memory and media highlights. This approach transforms passive viewing into a shared cultural event of global resonance.

Musicians and Composers

When cinematic music genius Hans Zimmer teamed up with the Seattle Kraken, a new era of sports sound was born. As highlighted by Axios, Zimmer composed original hype music for the NHL team, introducing a fusion of orchestral storytelling and arena energy. Known for his dramatic film scores, Zimmer brought gravitas and emotion to the pre-game and intermission sequences, elevating the experience from a standard hockey match to a sensory spectacle. This collaboration is a blueprint for how music composition can deepen fan investment and enhance branding through emotional resonance.

Public Perception

The global embrace of music in sports is not limited to curated performances—it extends to iconic tracks that transcend the game itself. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, for example, has evolved into a global chant recognized across soccer stadiums, Olympic events, and championship celebrations. As Wikipedia notes, its instantly recognizable riff has become a universal sports anthem. Fans from Rome to Rio chant it instinctively, regardless of team allegiance. NFL picks and draft boards may change daily with every trade rumor and scouting update, but the soundtrack of sports remains a constant—rallying fans through every moment of uncertainty, celebration, and heartbreak.

From Major League Baseball batters to UFC fighters entering the octagon, walk-up songs are carefully chosen soundtracks of self-expression. These tracks provide psychological boosts, reinforce personal branding, and engage the crowd. The beat, lyrics, or cultural reference may be an inside joke, a message to the opponent, or a nod to a player’s roots. These moments allow fans to form connections with players beyond athletic performance, humanizing them and making their entrance memorable before the first pitch or punch is thrown.

Synchronization and Timing

Timing is everything in sports—and that includes the music. Whether it is pumping up a crowd during a timeout or cooling the atmosphere after a high-intensity moment, DJs and stadium operators synchronize songs with live action to sustain audience engagement. This timing affects how fans perceive momentum and helps reinforce team narratives. A high-energy track after a clutch three-pointer or a classic victory anthem following a last-minute goal creates lasting emotional memories.

Technological Integration

Modern venues are now equipped with surround sound systems and acoustics designed for high-impact musical delivery. The implementation of 3D audio, sound mapping, and customizable bass levels gives event organizers unprecedented control over fan experience. Smart stadiums are blending music with lighting, pyrotechnics, and visual displays to create multi-sensory events that rival major concerts in intensity. These technological innovations ensure that music is not just heard but felt throughout the venue.

Emotional Recovery and Transition

Sound also plays a subtle but powerful role during transitions, losses, and exits. A carefully selected track after a home team defeat helps fans process disappointment, while triumphant tunes after a win reinforce celebratory emotions. These musical interludes act as emotional decompression tools, easing fans through the highs and lows of the game. Music serves as a shared medium for grief, joy, anticipation, and reflection.

Looking Forward: The Future of Sports Soundscapes

The influence of music on sports is poised to grow with deeper artist-athlete collaborations, AI-generated soundtracks, and fan-controlled music experiences. As teams experiment with gamified audio selection and blockchain-based music licensing, fans may soon vote on entrance songs or create collaborative playlists in real-time. These integrations offer fresh possibilities for ownership and engagement, placing music at the core of the evolving sports entertainment ecosystem.

Music is no longer a supplement to sports—it is an essential component. From boosting athlete output to uniting global audiences, each note contributes to the drama, energy, and identity of the game. Whether curated by experts like Leslie Dufaux or composed by cinematic legends like Hans Zimmer, the soundtrack of sports resonates far beyond the final whistle.

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

SiriusXM and CCMA Reveal Finalists for 2025 Top of the Country Competition

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Today, SiriusXM Canada and the Canadian Country Music Association are thrilled to announce the three finalists for the 2025 SiriusXM Top of the Country competition. Following a nationwide vote—open to Canadian music fans and industry experts—three standout country artists are moving forward to the final stage.

The top three have earned exclusive mentorship opportunities and will perform at major live events across the country, culminating at Country Music Week 2025 in September. Here, our finalists will perform live on stage, and one will be crowned this year’s SiriusXM Top of the Country champion, awarded a grand prize of $25,000, with the two runners-up taking home $10,000 each.

The 2025 SiriusXM Top of the Country finalists are:

  • Sully Burrows – Parry Sound, Ontario
  • Noeline Hofmann – Bow Island, Alberta
  • Jake Vaadeland – Cut Knife, Saskatchewan

“This year’s voting period was a fantastic show of support for Canadian country music, and the caliber of talent only amplified this sense of national pride, driving more fans to vote,” says Michelle Mearns, SVP of Programming & Operations, SiriusXM Canada. “This competition is a true testament to our shared commitment to homegrown music from coast to coast. We’re excited to see fans continue cheering on these artists as they race toward the finale!”

The finalists will continue their journey with a trip to the capital of country music—Nashville—for CMA Fest this June, where they’ll connect with top industry experts and prepare for their upcoming live performances. In August, they’ll take the stage at Montréal’s LASSO country music festival—a key moment on the road to crowning the 2025 SiriusXM Top of the Country champion in Kelowna, BC during Country Music Week 2025 this September.

Broadcast live on SiriusXM’s Top of the Country Radio (Ch. 171), the finale will feature unforgettable performances from all three finalists — but only one will take home the crown!

“We’re incredibly excited to see this year’s competition unfold,” says Amy Jeninga, President, CCMA. “The country music scene in Canada and around the world continues to expand every year, and it’s an incredible honour to elevate and celebrate the passionate artists and fans across the country who make SiriusXM’s Top of the Country possible.”

SiriusXM’s Top of the Country in partnership with the CCMA is part of SiriusXM’s ongoing tradition of promoting and elevating the best emerging Canadian music. SiriusXM continues to offer a leading platform for Canadian artists through its significant financial contributions and North American-wide reach.

5 Surprising Facts About Elton John’s ‘Honky Château’

Before the stadiums, the sequin suits, and the record-breaking farewell tours, there was a French château, a funky cat, and a rocket to the stars. Honky Château, Elton John’s fifth studio album, wasn’t just a turning point — it was liftoff. Here are five facts you (probably) didn’t know about the album that turned a mansion into a music landmark.

1. It really was a château — and yes, it was probably haunted.
Elton John didn’t just name Honky Château after a fancy French estate for the aesthetic — he actually recorded the whole thing at Château d’Hérouville, an 18th-century mansion turned studio just outside Paris. The place had a wild history, hosting classical legends like Chopin and wild rock stars like David Bowie. Musicians said it was haunted, and Elton’s producer Gus Dudgeon even called it “The House of Hits.” Despite the creaky floorboards and spectral whispers, Elton and the band moved in, jammed in their slippers, and turned the place into a hit-making headquarters. It was less Abbey Road and more Scooby-Doo with a piano.

2. “Rocket Man” wasn’t just a hit — it was a full-blown cosmic breakthrough.
Bernie Taupin got the idea for “Rocket Man” on a quiet drive home after seeing what might’ve been a shooting star or just a plane blinking in the night sky. He was thinking about Ray Bradbury’s short story of the same name — a tale of an astronaut’s emotional distance — and had to repeat the opening lines to himself for two hours so he wouldn’t forget them. It became Elton’s first major U.S. hit, cracked the UK Top 3, and introduced the world to his now-signature backing vocal trio. As of 2024, “Rocket Man” is triple platinum on both sides of the Atlantic and has passed one billion streams. Not bad for a song written in a car and recorded in a château.

3. This was the first album where Elton trusted his band over the suits — and it paid off.
Before Honky Château, Elton’s label insisted on using slick session musicians in the studio, letting his road band contribute only one song each on previous albums. But here, for the first time, bassist Dee Murray, drummer Nigel Olsson, and guitarist Davey Johnstone were the core players from start to finish. The chemistry was electric — literally. Johnstone didn’t just shred on guitar, he brought banjo, mandolin, sitar, and rich vocal harmonies into the mix, helping build the classic Elton John band sound. That decision kicked off a run of U.S. number one albums and a whole new era for Elton — less buttoned-up pop star, more swaggering stage icon.

4. A third single was ready to launch — but got lost on the launchpad.
Everyone knows “Rocket Man” and “Honky Cat” were the singles that carried Honky Château to the top of the charts, but there was a third song quietly waiting in the wings. “Hercules” was prepped for release as a single, complete with a B-side version of “Slave” that was faster, louder, and more piano-driven than the album version. But at the last minute, the single was scrapped, and the alternate “Slave” was shelved for over two decades until it resurfaced on the Rare Masters compilation in 1992. It’s a shame — “Hercules” had hit potential, and “Slave” in its original form is pure, unfiltered Elton fire.

5. Honky Château marked the start of something huge — and no one saw it coming.
Released on May 19, 1972, Honky Château was Elton’s fifth studio album, but the first to hit number one in the U.S. Billboard 200 — the beginning of an incredible streak of seven consecutive number one albums in America. It was also the final Elton album released on the Uni label before MCA consolidated their brands, making it the end of one chapter and the start of another. Critics didn’t know what to make of it at first, but over time it’s been hailed as one of his finest — rising from No. 357 to No. 251 on Rolling Stone’s Greatest Albums list. It was funky, folky, spacey, and soulful. It didn’t follow trends — it created them. And it all started in a chateau, with a cat, a rocket, and a band finally set free.

From haunted hallways to harmony-laced hooks, Honky Château was where Elton John found his groove and never looked back. It wasn’t just an album — it was a launchpad. And now, more than 50 years later, its legacy is still orbiting the hearts of music lovers everywhere.