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Celldweller Drops Christmas Track “What Child Is This?” From New EP

Eric Alper
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Celldweller Drops Christmas Track “What Child Is This?” From New EP

The pioneering electronic-rock project Celldweller has officially gone Christmas with the release of the first track off the new EP, ‘An Offworld Christmas’, dropping the classic carol “What Child Is This?” now available from FiXT. Celldweller, the mastermind of Klayton, reimagines the timeless holiday song through the distinct lens of his ‘Offworld’ style, boldly combining influences of shoegaze and alternative rock with beautiful orchestral strings and rich synth textures in a powerful modern arrangement that perfectly captures the wonder and true spirit of the season.

Klayton has been forging the electronic-rock sound for over twenty years, inspiring tens of millions of listeners across a global community of fans, content creators, and brands, racking up over 750 million streams and hundreds of placements in major films, TV shows, and video games like Westworld, Suicide Squad, John Wick, and Deadpool.

Hamilton Rocks: TD Coliseum Unveils $300M Transformation With Paul McCartney Opener

Eric Alper
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Hamilton Rocks: TD Coliseum Unveils $300M Transformation With Paul McCartney Opener

Leaders from across Ontario came together today to celebrate the official opening of the newly transformed TD Coliseum. Following an 18-month, $300-million redevelopment, the venue will make its debut with a sold-out performance by Sir Paul McCartney on Friday, November 21. Led by Oak View Group, the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services including venue development, venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales, the transformation of the 463,000-square-foot venue in the heart of downtown Hamilton blends technology, design, and hospitality that will raise the bar on delivering an unprecedented guest experience.

“TD Coliseum is more than a venue —it’s a space built with the community in mind,” said Chris Granger, Interim CEO, Oak View Group. “From premium hospitality and innovative service to programming that fills our venues and fuels the local economy, this arena shows what’s possible when partnerships, vision, and bold ideas come together to create an unforgettable experience for every guest.”

Community leaders, partners, and dignitaries from across the region came together to celebrate this milestone moment for Hamilton.

“As Hamilton continues to grow, TD Coliseum is a world-class venue that will draw visitors from around the world,” said Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “This venue will be a game-changer for the city’s economy, helping revitalize the downtown and generating tens of millions of dollars in economic growth.”

“We’re incredibly proud of our commitment to the communities we serve, and the opening of TD Coliseum is the latest example of how we bring that support to life,” said Raymond Chun, Group President and CEO, TD Bank Group. “At TD, we believe music has the power to inspire, connect cultures, and create moments that bring people together. Supporting music isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about strengthening our communities and celebrating what makes them unique.”

TD Coliseum debuts with a fully reimagined fan experience, combining cutting-edge technology, elevated hospitality, and premium amenities throughout the venue. Guests will enjoy a more seamless journey from arrival to encore through the TD Coliseum Mobile App, digital wayfinding, high-speed Wi-Fi, and new frictionless food and beverage options. The arena’s expanded culinary program celebrates Hamilton’s local flavors alongside nationally recognized partners, while upgraded premium clubs, lounges, and suites offer next-level comfort and service. Backstage, touring artists and productions benefit from modernized infrastructure, enhanced acoustics, and robust loading capabilities designed for world-class shows. With sustainability woven into its operations and a strong network of partners supporting every aspect of the venue, TD Coliseum sets a new standard for live entertainment in Canada.

“What a momentous day for Hamilton, for our community. After much anticipation and years of planning, the moment has finally arrived,” said City of Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath. “This world-class arena is a cornerstone of our downtown revitalization. Investments like this create new energy in our core, strengthen our economy, and open opportunities for local businesses – from restaurants and shops to hotels and cultural organizations. I have been anxiously awaiting this day, so that we can begin to welcome families, fans, artists and athletes back to this iconic venue. TD Coliseum will be a powerful economic and cultural driver for Hamilton, and today, our future feels brighter than ever.”

Wayne Zronik, President of Business Operations, Live Nation Canada, said: “The revitalization of TD Coliseum means that we will be able to bring the biggest names in Canadian and international talent here for decades to come. We know concerts drive tourism and economic activity with ripple effects across hotels, restaurants and other local businesses and we are proud to be making this investment in Hamilton.”

Nick DeLuco, SVP and General Manager, TD Coliseum, added: “Today is an incredible milestone for Hamilton and for everyone who has poured their heart into bringing TD Coliseum to life. This arena was designed to be a place where guests, families, artists, and athletes can come together and feel the energy of a truly world-class experience. We’re proud to open our doors and welcome Ontario to a venue that reflects the spirit of this city and the passion of its people.”

Ian Harrison Drops Emotionally Charged New Track “If You Ever Loved Me”

Eric Alper
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Ian Harrison Drops Emotionally Charged New Track “If You Ever Loved Me”

Ian Harrison has just released his latest track, “If You Ever Loved Me,” and it is absolutely captivating. The song arrives with lush, expansive production, a cathartic chorus, and a lamenting melody that makes the experience equal parts demanding and deeply melancholy for the listener. The lyrics detail the final, crushing showdown at the end of a relationship, essentially serving as a plea for an elusive sense of closure, begging a former love for one final act of mercy before the inevitable separation.

Harrison shared the powerful inspiration behind the track, saying, “If You Ever Loved Me’ is a song inspired by the feeling of letting go. The push and pull of slowly growing apart resulting in one person giving the last act of love someone can: leaving. An idea that stems from the saying ‘if you love them, let them go.’ Holding on might suffocate a person and not give them the ability to grow and change. When it all comes down to the end, distance can be a bittersweet gesture of affection.” This thoughtful reflection reveals the deep emotional intelligence driving the song’s narrative.

The track showcases Harrison’s ability to take a painful moment and translate it into a compelling piece of music, full of dynamic shifts and melodic strength. It is a song that rewards listeners who appreciate honest, reflective lyricism paired with sophisticated musical arrangements. The demanding chorus and melancholic core ensure “If You Ever Loved Me” resonates long after the final note fades.

Myles from Home Release Personal, Rhythmic New Single “You’re Gonna Go Far”

Eric Alper
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Myles from Home Release Personal, Rhythmic New Single “You’re Gonna Go Far”

Vancouver’s indie folk-rock group Myles from Home makes a memorable return with their emotionally charged new single, “You’re Gonna Go Far,” now available on all digital streaming platforms. This is a wonderfully moving track rooted deeply in memory, profound gratitude, and the unmistakable, electric rush of childhood possibility. The release marks the band’s third single of the year, following the reflective tones of September’s “I Remember” and the groovy, rhythmic foundation of February’s “Almost Everything.”

The song is anchored by frontman Myles Hildebrand’s warm, inviting vocals and the band’s signature fusion of folk-rock with funk and jazz-tinged textures. “You’re Gonna Go Far” stands out as one of their most intimate and expansive songs to date, swelling with genuine nostalgic warmth while simultaneously pulsing with the trio’s trademark rhythmic inventiveness. Hildebrand shared the deep personal inspiration behind the track, saying, “This song is about my Dad, and a moment from my childhood that I’ll remember for the rest of my life. It’s about feeling like you have the world at your feet. This moment kept coming back up, and since my Dad is my number one fan, I felt very inspired to turn the memory of that moment into a song. Every time we play it live, I’m emotional and the crowd is too.”

Myles from Home is known across Canada and internationally for their genre-defying songwriting and truly immersive, high-energy live performances. Critics have consistently praised their eclectic sound and inventive approach. Honk Magazine spotlighted their “refusal to stick to one genre,” while Lost in the Manor (UK) described their productions as “quirky, funny, and filled with clean electric guitars that impress with their ability to fill the room with sound.” Their singles have consistently earned attention from dozens of international outlets, with reviewers calling their music “playful, uplifting and relatable,” “quietly confident,” and “an introspective yet euphoric slice of indie rock.”

With nearly fifty shows successfully completed and over 140,000 streams across platforms, the Vancouver trio has built a dedicated reputation for pushing indie music into exciting, unexpected spaces. They consistently find imaginative ways to connect with fans, ranging from Mario Kart–style video shoots to unique canoe performances staged at Kits Beach. Do604 noted the singular nature of their hometown album celebration, writing that, “It wasn’t just a concert; it was a celebration of community, artistry, and the joy of sharing music together.” “You’re Gonna Go Far” represents the latest step in a year of powerful creative momentum for the band as they continue shaping what modern Canadian indie music can truly sound like: tender, adventurous, deeply human, and completely unafraid to experiment with sound.

Josh Groban Returns Down Under ‘For Gems’ World Tour In 2026

Eric Alper
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Josh Groban Returns Down Under ‘For Gems’ World Tour In 2026

Music fans across Australia and New Zealand have fantastic news today: Josh Groban is making his highly anticipated return to the region! MG Live, Arena Touring, and Frontier Touring are delighted to announce the ‘Gems World Tour’ will hit stages across both countries in February and March 2026, marking his first concert run in this part of the world in an entire decade.

Groban, known globally as one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music, brings with him an unmatched catalogue of incredible songs. He was last in Australia for his 2016 ‘Stages World Tour’ and visited New Zealand as part of the 2013 ‘All That Echoes World Tour’. His return is met with unanimous excitement and serves as a major highlight on the 2026 concert calendar, promising intimate performances filled with powerful, emotive vocal delivery.

The tour kicks off in New Zealand, starting at Auckland’s Spark Arena on February 25th. Groban then makes his way back to Australia for a comprehensive run of shows across the mainland. The Australian leg begins at the ICC Sydney Theatre on February 28th, followed by a beautiful performance at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne on March 1st. He then travels north for a show at the QPAC Concert Hall in Brisbane on March 4th.

The journey continues to Thebarton Theatre in Adelaide on March 7th. The entire run concludes with a final show at Perth’s Riverside Theatre on March 9th. Presales for these highly sought-after performances started yesterday, Thursday, November 27th at 1 pm local time, ahead of the general sale which is set to begin on Monday, December 1st at 2 pm local time. This is truly a special opportunity to witness one of the world’s great vocalists live.

Josh Groban 2026 Gems Australia & New Zealand World Tour

  • Feb 25 – Auckland, NZ @ Spark Arena
  • Feb 28 – Sydney, NSW @ ICC Sydney Theatre
  • Mar 1 – Melbourne, VIC @ Sidney Myer Music Bowl
  • Mar 4 – Brisbane, QLD @ QPAC
  • Mar 7 – Adelaide, SA @ Thebarton Theatre
  • Mar 9 – Perth, WA @ Riverside Theatre

Halestorm And Paul Rodgers Reimagine Bad Company’s “Shooting Star”

Eric Alper
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Halestorm And Paul Rodgers Reimagine Bad Company’s “Shooting Star”

Hard rock powerhouse Halestorm has delivered an absolute gem, releasing the video for their powerful take on the Bad Company standard, “Shooting Star.” This highly anticipated cover is a featured track on the new compilation, ‘Can’t Get Enough: A Tribute to Bad Company’, which is available now from Primary Wave Music. What makes this recording truly special is the inclusion of the song’s original writer, Paul Rodgers, a 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductee.

The legendary rocker did not just give his blessing to the cover; he actively participated in the performance. Rodgers joined Lzzy Hale on background vocals while also lending his distinctive electric and acoustic guitar skills to the track, making this an intergenerational performance to remember. Lzzy Hale absolutely commands the spotlight with her incredible vocals, showing deep reverence for the source material. She spoke about the profound influence Rodgers had on the band’s sound, noting, “Rock n’ Roll with a soul wouldn’t exist without Paul Rodgers. We grew up on the songs and sounds he gifted to the world, and we are honored to be on this record paying tribute to one of the greatest singers of all time.”

This new tribute album is a magnificent celebration of Bad Company, the iconic band founded by Mick Ralphs and Paul Rodgers in 1973. The project drew contributions from a stunning range of musicians, mixing contemporary stars with classic icons across rock, country, and Americana—genres where Bad Company’s influence runs deep. The sheer talent on the compilation is undeniable, featuring fresh interpretations from artists like Hardy, The Pretty Reckless, Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott and Phil Collen, and a massive track from Slash featuring Myles Kennedy and The Conspirators.

Metal Hall Of Fame Announces Legendary Class Of 2026 Inductees

Eric Alper
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Metal Hall Of Fame Announces Legendary Class Of 2026 Inductees

The Metal Hall Of Fame has officially announced its monumental Class of 2026 inductees, set to be celebrated at a special event at the legendary Roxy Theater in Hollywood, California on January 21, 2026. This is a massive night for 80s metal history, hosted by the dynamic duo of Eddie Trunk and entertainment personality Cathy Rankin.

The list of honorees reads like an all-star roster of rock royalty: Tracii Guns, the co-founder of Guns N’ Roses and L.A. Guns, the one and only Chris Holmes, the guitar wizard Warren DeMartini from RATT, the voice of a generation Riki Rachtman from MTV’s Headbangers Ball, and Poison’s Rikki Rockett. Chris Holmes will even be inducted by Carlos Cavazo, adding another layer of rock star greatness.

The entire celebration begins with a celebrity red carpet at the iconic Rainbow Bar And Grill before the action moves to the Roxy for the main ceremony, which culminates in a historic all-star jam session that closes out the legendary night of metal greatness.

Pop Queen Robyn Is Back: Spotify and Acne Studios Host Triumphant LA Show

Eric Alper
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0
Pop Queen Robyn Is Back: Spotify and Acne Studios Host Triumphant LA Show

The long-awaited return of pop queen Robyn to the stage finally happened this week, and it was a magnificent event. Spotify and Acne Studios collaborated to bring friends and top fans together for an unforgettable evening at the legendary Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, marking a true celebration of one of music’s most influential artists.

The spectacular night began with high-energy sets from Isabella Lovestory and BROWNSKINHAZEL, perfectly setting the stage for the headliner. Robyn then delivered a high-octane show, thrilling the audience with fan favorites that included the powerful anthems “Missing You” and the universally beloved “Dancing on My Own.” The highlight of the evening for many listeners was the live debut of her exciting new single, “Dopamine,” a moment that cemented her triumphant return to the live performance circuit. The enthusiastic crowd included a number of notable guests, such as Anya Taylor-Joy, Adela, Steve Lacy, Becky and the Birds, Sky Ferreira, Empress Of, Griff, Lykke Li, and Magdalena Bay.

In fantastic news for her global fanbase, this entire one-night-only performance will be released exclusively on Spotify in early 2026. This special release will give listeners around the world a chance to relive the incredible energy and atmosphere of the Swedish pop icon’s return to the stage. To mark this special occasion, Robyn, Spotify, and Acne Studios also teamed up for an exclusive merchandise drop. This limited-edition shirt features lyrics from the new single “Dopamine,” and it is now available online via Acne Studios and in select stores in both New York City and Los Angeles.

This event marks the next chapter in the successful ongoing partnership between Spotify and Acne Studios, a collaboration dedicated to amplifying artistic expression and bringing artists and fans together through codesigned merchandise, immersive live events, and exclusive content. The collaboration began earlier this year with an intimate WILLOW performance and merch drop in London. These brands will keep bringing more unforgettable experiences to music and fashion lovers everywhere, and this Robyn show proves the partnership is capable of creating truly special, high-impact musical moments.

The Black Standard: Why AC/DC’s ‘Back In Black’ is the Ultimate Acoustic Test

Eric Alper
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The Black Standard: Why AC/DC’s ‘Back In Black’ is the Ultimate Acoustic Test

You walk into a world-class recording studio. The walls are sound-treated, the console gleams, and the speakers are top-of-the-line. You’re about to record the next masterpiece, but first, the sound engineer must perform a critical ritual: the acoustic room test.

And what rock ‘n’ roll masterpiece do they drop to calibrate these million-dollar rooms? A gentle jazz piece? A complex orchestral work?

Nope. They crank AC/DC’s ‘Back In Black.’

That’s right. The riff-heavy, sweat-soaked anthem of hard rock is, ironically, the gold standard benchmark for acoustic perfection in studios and audiophile circles worldwide. But why?

The Flawless Mix

The album’s sound quality—specifically the title track, but the entire album applies—is considered flawless. It’s a testament to the masterful work of legendary producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange and engineer Tony Platt.

Here’s why this 1980 rock classic is the sonic equivalent of a perfectly cut diamond:

1. The Drum Sound: Clarity and Punch

Phil Rudd’s drums are perhaps the biggest testament to the mix’s brilliance.

  • It’s Huge, But Contained: The kick drum has an enormous, visceral thump that never sounds boomy or muddy. When you play ‘Back in Black’ in a well-treated room, you should feel the kick drum hit you in the chest, but the quick attack of the beater must remain sharp.
  • The Snare Snap: The snare drum is perfectly balanced. It has a satisfying, crisp crack without sounding overly processed. If your room is struggling with unwanted reflections (flutter echo), the snare will sound smeared or weak.

2. Angus’s Guitar Tone: A Lesson in Space

Angus Young’s iconic guitar tone on this track is one of the most famous sounds in history.

  • The Midrange Test: The tone is driven primarily by the crucial midrange frequencies. If your speakers or room have an unnatural bump or dip in the mids, Angus’s riff will sound either nasal and harsh or thin and lifeless. A perfect room reproduces the glorious crunch just right.
  • Definition: Despite the distortion, every note remains distinct. If the mix sounds like a wall of undifferentiated noise, your acoustics are blurring the crucial detail.

3. The Bass/Guitar Harmony: Low-End Lock

Cliff Williams’s bass guitar is perfectly interwoven with Malcolm Young’s rhythm guitar. They lock into a deep, powerful groove.

  • The 100 Hz Test: The low-end energy is powerful, but extremely tight. A poorly tuned room will excite the low frequencies too much, making the whole mix sound muddy and boomy. In a perfect room, the bass is felt, not just heard, and it never overwhelms the guitars. The clarity here is paramount.

4. The Vocal Presence: Front and Center

Brian Johnson’s unmistakable rasp is mixed to be perfectly present and upfront.

  • Immunity to Reverb: The vocals are relatively dry (meaning minimal added reverb). This puts them right in the listener’s face. If your room is adding its own unwanted reflections, Johnson’s voice will sound diffuse or slightly disconnected from the instruments—it breaks the “illusion” of him standing right there.

The Verdict: A Masterpiece of Dynamics and Discipline

The genius of the ‘Back in Black’ mix is its simplicity and dynamic restraint. There are only a handful of instruments, yet the sound is massive. Mutt Lange and Tony Platt mastered the art of giving every element its own pocket of space, creating a huge sonic picture that never sacrifices clarity.

So, the next time you drop the needle on ‘Back in Black,’ remember you’re not just listening to rock history. You’re listening to an acoustic ruler—a legendary mix that demands the absolute best from any sound system, making it the one song that lets a studio know:

“You’ve passed the test. You are truly… back in black!”

30 Of The Best Christmas Songs You Still Hear While Shopping

Eric Alper
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30 Of The Best Christmas Songs You Still Hear While Shopping

Some Christmas songs feel like background noise. These ones feel like coming home. They are the songs you hear in grocery store aisles and crowded malls, in family kitchens and quiet car rides, and somehow they make everything softer, brighter, a little more magical. They remind us of first snows and last trains, of people we miss and people we love. From giddy party anthems to slow, reflective ballads, these tracks have become part of how we mark the season, year after year.

“All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey
Instant joy in song form, this one feels like running through fresh snow to hug someone at the door.

“Blue Christmas” – Elvis Presley
For anyone who has ever spent a holiday missing someone, this is the sound of lonely lights on a quiet street.

“Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Darlene Love
Bursting with emotion, it feels like a last, hopeful plea shouted into a winter night.

“Christmas in Hollis” – Run D.M.C.
Fun, funny, and full of personality, this is Christmas on the city sidewalk, warm and loud and alive.

“Christmas Time Is Here” – JJ Heller
Soft and hushed, like a late night by the tree when the world finally slows down.

“Christmas Wrapping” – The Waitresses
A whole holiday rom com in one song, full of missed connections, chaos, and a perfect happy ending.

“Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Band Aid
A reminder that the season is also about looking outward, sending care far beyond our own homes.

“Fairytale of New York” – Kirsty MacColl & The Pogues
Messy, tender, and human, it captures Christmas the way it really feels for a lot of people.

“Feliz Navidad” – Jose Feliciano
Pure celebration, the musical equivalent of a crowded living room, good food, and everyone singing along.

“Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” – John Lennon & Yoko Ono
Gentle and hopeful, like a wish whispered over a candle that the new year will be kinder.

“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Frank Sinatra
A bittersweet toast to hanging on and making the best of where you are, with whoever you have.

“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” – Michael Buble
Like walking through a decorated downtown, spotting wreaths, toy stores, and that first sparkle of the season.

“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – Andy Williams
Big, bright, and overflowing with cheer, this is the soundtrack to wrapping presents and baking cookies.

“Jingle Bell Rock” – Bobby Helms
Playful and bouncy, it feels like dancing around the living room in socks while the tree lights blink.

“Last Christmas” – Wham!
Snowy heartbreak, all glitter and tears, perfect for late night drives and reflective walks.

“Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” – Dean Martin
Cozy and romantic, like staying in with someone you love while the world outside disappears in white.

“Little Saint Nick” – The Beach Boys
Sunshine on a winter day, this is Christmas with surfboards, smiles, and jingling sleigh bells.

“Merry Christmas Baby” – Otis Redding
Slow, warm, and soulful, it feels like dim lights, a crackling record, and a glass raised in gratitude.

“Mistletoe” – Justin Bieber
The sound of young love at Christmas, all shy smiles, twinkling lights, and shared scarves.

“O Little Town Of Bethlehem” – John Dawson
A gentle, heartfelt take on a beloved carol, Dawson’s version feels calm and candlelit. His warm delivery turns the song into a quiet moment of reflection amid the holiday rush.

“Please Come Home for Christmas” – Eagles
A quiet, aching wish for one person to walk back through the door and make everything feel right again.

“Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” – Brenda Lee
The ultimate house party song, it practically begs you to grab a cookie and join the dance.

“Run Rudolph Run” – Chuck Berry
Fast, fun, and wild, this is Christmas from the point of view of the reindeer out front.

“Santa Baby” – Eartha Kitt
Flirty and sly, this one turns the tree into a spotlight and the holiday into a playful performance.

“Santa Tell Me” – Ariana Grande
A modern holiday crush anthem, wondering if love will last longer than the tinsel.

“Silent Night” – Nat King Cole
Still and reverent, the kind of song that makes you lower your voice and just listen.

“Sleigh Ride” – The Ronettes
Like a snow globe come to life, full of jingles, laughter, and shared excitement.

“Step Into Christmas” – Elton John
An open invitation to jump headfirst into the season, from the first ornament to the last sparkler.

“Underneath the Tree” – Kelly Clarkson
Big, joyful, and glowing, it captures that feeling that the best gift is the person standing beside you.

“White Christmas” – Bing Crosby
Soft and dreamlike, this is the forever soundtrack of snowy mornings and childhood memories.

“Wonderful Christmastime” – Paul McCartney
Simple, looping, and happy, like a neighborhood gathering where everyone is a little silly and very content.

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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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