Lgmusicpub Publishing Agency Int’l LLC is proud to announce the exclusive signing of “Phenomenal”, a standout track by Lgmusicpub Creative & Virginia-based record producer, Brian Elliott Smith, CEO of 804 Music / Bard Up Entertainment. Performed by recording artist, It’s K.I., featuring Primetime Emmy Award-Winning Recipient for Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show and Hollywood Walk of Fame Star, Snoop Dogg, the signing and acquisition further expands the company’s growing portfolio of legendary music assets. The acquisition, finalized in Quarter 2 of 2024, reinforces Lgmusicpub’s commitment to securing premier music rights and empowering artists worldwide.
Snoop Dogg, a towering figure in hip-hop and entertainment, has cemented his legacy with an illustrious career spanning over three decades. A cultural pioneer and business mogul, Snoop has received numerous accolades, including the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (2018), the “I Am Hip-Hop Icon” Award (2016), a Primetime Emmy for the Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show (2022), and a BET Lifetime Achievement Award (2023). His influence extends beyond music, with a portfolio of successful ventures in film, television, cannabis, and technology, positioning him as one of the most versatile and enduring figures in entertainment history.
“Phenomenal” showcases Snoop Dogg’s signature style, lyrical prowess, and ability to connect with audiences globally. By adding this dynamic track to its catalog, Lgmusicpub continues to deliver on its mission to provide high-caliber music publishing and global rights management services that amplify the value of legendary compositions.
“Securing ‘Phenomenal’ is a defining moment for Lgmusicpub,” said Konnea Mcandrew, Founder, President & CEO of Lgmusicpub. “Snoop Dogg’s impact on the industry is unparalleled, and we are honored to play a role in preserving and elevating his artistic legacy. This acquisition strengthens our ability to bring timeless music to new audiences and generations.”
Mcandrew further added, “Brian is one of our top creatives and producers in North America, producing and securing producer credits and placements with the likes of GRAMMY-Nominated, BET Award-winning hip-hop, Georgia legend, Young Jeezy, Snoop Dogg and many others; pivoting into sync licensing with his own unique twist. We’re thrilled to continue serving Brian in a global capacity, including our vast roster of over 125+ creatives worldwide across three continents – including North America, Europe and Australia, and look forward to assisting him with reaching new international heights with his catalog.”
As Lgmusicpub accelerates its expansion, the company remains dedicated to supporting both legendary and emerging artists, leveraging cutting-edge technologies and publishing strategies to maximize creative and financial success in the ever-evolving music industry.
According to Valuates, the Global Pro Audio Equipment Market revenue was USD 4496.8 Million in 2022 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 6231.1 Million by 2029 with a CAGR of 4.8% during the forecast period (2023-2029).
Major Factors Driving the Growth of Pro Audio Equipment Market:
The pro audio equipment market continues to expand as diverse sectors recognize the value of high-quality sound. Live performances, broadcasting, and content creation demand reliable gear that captures nuances and ensures audience engagement. Competitive differentiation often hinges on producing equipment with enhanced durability, superior fidelity, and user-friendly features. Manufacturers collaborate with influencers and industry experts to refine designs, resulting in a wider range of specialized solutions. As consumer expectations evolve, integration with smart devices and seamless connectivity options have become increasingly essential. Premium brands, mid-tier companies, and niche players all compete for market share, fostering a robust environment of innovation. These conditions confirm the growing significance of professional audio gear across various industries worldwide.
TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE PRO AUDIO EQUIPMENT MARKET:
Wireless microphones facilitate flexible stage movements, enabling performers to connect with audiences without being constrained by cables. This freedom expands creative possibilities in live events, concerts, and broadcasting, fueling a higher demand for advanced audio capture tools. In educational and conference settings, wireless setups ensure streamlined communication, minimizing clutter and allowing instructors to move around more effectively. Additionally, the convenience of hassle-free setup shortens transition time between speakers or acts, enhancing efficiency. Wireless technology continues to improve in reliability and battery life, making it an appealing choice for professionals seeking clear, uninterrupted transmissions. As user expectations grow for clear audio performance, wireless microphones are increasingly recognized as essential components within the evolving pro audio ecosystem. Thus boosting onstage confidence.
Mixers play a pivotal role in combining and processing audio signals from multiple sources, ensuring balanced, clear, and high-quality sound output. With the rising popularity of live performances, studio recording, and broadcast production, the demand for versatile mixers has intensified among musicians, audio engineers, and event organizers. The ability to adjust volume levels, equalize frequencies, and add effects fosters creativity and precision in delivering immersive audio experiences. As consumer expectations for professional-grade sound grow, advanced digital mixers with intuitive interfaces and scalability are becoming mainstream, supporting complex setups in both large venues and smaller studios. Enhanced connectivity features, including remote control options, further boost operational efficiency. Mixers remain essential to delivering polished, engaging outputs, sustaining market growth across varied sectors.
Consumer audio products encompass a range of devices, from headphones and home theater systems to portable speakers. Their widespread adoption influences the pro audio equipment market by raising general awareness about sound quality and fidelity. As individuals become more discerning listeners, interest in professional-grade audio solutions increases for recording, streaming, and content creation. This heightened awareness extends beyond casual listening, prompting users to seek more robust and precise products. The rise of podcasts, independent music production, and gaming also drives demand for equipment that can deliver crystal-clear output. Manufacturers respond by bridging the gap between consumer and pro-level features, offering improved interfaces and durability. Ultimately, consumer audio trends fuel innovation and expand the user base for specialized equipment. Accelerating demand.
Concerts, festivals, and corporate gatherings are becoming increasingly frequent, creating a sustained demand for professional audio equipment. Organizers seek reliable tools that deliver high-fidelity sound to enhance audience engagement and meet performer expectations. This surge in live events necessitates robust systems capable of handling complex environments, varying venue sizes, and diverse musical or speech-based content. Furthermore, organizers look for technology that can minimize setup time and reduce technical difficulties. As audiences grow more discerning, the need for precise audio coverage and intelligibility intensifies, prompting investments in advanced microphones, speakers, and sound consoles. Market players that develop durable, user-centric products gain a competitive edge. This trend in large-scale events consistently boosts the requirement for cutting-edge pro audio solutions.
The popularity of podcasts, vlogs, and independent music production has introduced a new wave of audio enthusiasts, all seeking professional-grade gear. Many creators operate from home studios or small production spaces, requiring compact but powerful equipment. The focus on high audio fidelity drives demand for mixers, audio interfaces, and microphones tailored to these environments. User-friendly features, such as automated mixing presets and easy connectivity, attract beginners and seasoned professionals alike. As social media and streaming platforms grow, creators strive to produce content that stands out, fueling steady investment in reliable pro audio solutions. This shift expands the market beyond traditional broadcasting and live events, making professional equipment more accessible and relevant to a broader demographic of users.
A growing number of end-users, from hobbyists to experienced professionals, desire audio equipment that offers both simplicity and sophisticated functionality. Intuitive controls, touchscreens, and straightforward setup processes reduce learning curves, encouraging broader adoption across diverse markets. Compact digital consoles and software-based solutions cater to evolving consumer needs, allowing easy customization of sound profiles and presets. This accessibility benefits event organizers, small venue owners, and independent content creators who prioritize efficiency. Manufacturers compete by integrating advanced capabilities into devices that remain approachable for non-experts. Simplified connectivity through USB or wireless protocols further lowers barriers seamlessly. By prioritizing usability, pro audio brands empower a wider audience to leverage professional-grade sound without extensive technical training, pushing the market toward steady expansion.
Competitive gaming events and online streaming platforms have fueled a surge in demand for high-quality audio solutions that enhance player experiences and audience engagement. Clear communication is critical for teams coordinating strategies in real time, driving the requirement for premium headsets and microphones that minimize latency and noise. Spectators also seek immersive sound, prompting event organizers to integrate professional-grade speakers and mixing consoles that deliver impactful audio. As e-sports audiences grow, sponsors and advertisers invest in improving production values, including the quality of broadcasts. This steady influx of funding supports ongoing innovation in pro audio technology tailored to gaming needs. Consequently, e-sports and gaming trends create new market opportunities for brands offering cutting-edge, reliable audio equipment.
PRO AUDIO EQUIPMENT MARKET SHARE
Global key players of pro audio equipment include Shure, Sennheiser, TOA, etc. The top three players hold a share of about 21%. North America is the largest market, with a share of about 34%, followed by China and Europe, with share 25% and 19%, separately.
Internationally renowned composer, rockstar, philanthropist, and fashion icon YOSHIKI has been selected by Major League Baseball to perform the American and Japanese national anthems at the monumental 2025 MLB Opening Day in Tokyo. This historic event, taking place at Tokyo Dome on March 18, will see YOSHIKI take center stage before a global audience, setting the tone for one of the most anticipated games in MLB history – a high-stakes showdown between the reigning World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Chicago Cubs.
MLB’s 2024 World Series champions, The Los Angeles Dodgers, includes three Japanese players—Shohei Ohtani, Roki Sasaki, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto— who will return to their home country for this historic game. The Cubs will also showcase two Japanese stars, Seiya Suzuki and Shota Imanaga, making the event especially meaningful for fans worldwide.
YOSHIKI’s performance marks his first public performance since undergoing a third major neck surgery in October 2024, following decades of physically intense performances as a rock drummer and classical pianist. The performance is set to be a moment of triumph, resilience, and unity, symbolizing the unbreakable bond between the United States and Japan through the universal language of music and sport.
YOSHIKI is no stranger to monumental moments in history. He was chosen to compose and perform his song “Anniversary” for the 10th anniversary of His Majesty the Emperor of Japan’s accession to the throne, a performance that took place in front of the Tokyo Imperial Palace in 1999. His cultural impact transcends music, as evidenced by his groundbreaking achievement in 2023 – becoming the first Japanese artist to be immortalized in the 100-year history of Hollywood’s TCL Chinese Theatre – placing his hand and footprints alongside the world’s most legendary stars.
YOSHIKI said, “I feel honored to be part of this major event. I’ve performed the American anthem at Dodger Stadium and Carnegie Hall, but this will be my first time performing the Japanese national anthem in front of a live audience. This will also be my first performance since my neck surgery, but I will do my best to honor these beautiful songs and contribute to the special bond between the U.S., Japan, and the rest of the world.”
YOSHIKI is a groundbreaking Japanese superstar known for his contributions to music, fashion, film, and beyond. A composer, classically trained pianist, rock drummer, and leader of the legendary rock band X Japan, he has been recognized as “one of the most influential musicians and composers in Japanese history” by Consequence and described as “a musical innovator” by Billboard.
In March 2024, Variety honored YOSHIKI with the International Achievement in Music Award. In late 2023, he became the first and only Japanese artist in the 100-year history of the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood to receive a hand and footprint ceremony, cementing his legacy on the global stage.
In 2023, YOSHIKI made his directorial debut with the feature film YOSHIKI: Under the Sky, which premiered in New York, Tokyo, London, and Los Angeles before expanding to over 130 theaters across the U.S., Europe, and Japan. The film is now available for streaming in the U.S. on Amazon Prime.
His global musical achievements include composing a song for the 10th anniversary of the Emperor of Japan’s reign, writing the official theme song for the World Expo, scoring Hollywood film soundtracks, and composing the official theme song for the Golden Globe Awards. As the leader of X Japan, YOSHIKI has sold over 30 million albums and singles and holds the record for 18 sold-out concerts at the 55,000-seat Tokyo Dome. He has also performed at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, including Madison Square Garden, Wembley Arena, and Carnegie Hall, as a solo artist.
A recognized fashion icon, YOSHIKI became the first Japanese male to appear on the cover of Vogue Japan. In 2024, he launched his high-fashion brand, MAISON YOSHIKI PARIS, which debuted on the official calendar of Milan Fashion Week, followed by its presentation at Paris Fashion Week. He also founded Yoshikimono in 2009, blending traditional kimono craftsmanship with modern innovation. The brand has been featured in exhibitions at the prestigious V&A Museum in London and the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac in Paris, alongside designs from other globally renowned fashion houses. Since 2015, Yoshikimono has headlined Tokyo Fashion Week multiple times.
Beyond fashion, YOSHIKI has collaborated with French luxury crystal maker Baccarat, launching a new collection of crystal stemware. His partnership with Baccarat began in 2021 when he was selected as a designer for the brand’s 180th-anniversary collection. He is also the visionary behind Y by YOSHIKI wine, created in collaboration with the Mondavi family in Napa, California, and has launched his own premium Champagne brand in partnership with the renowned French house POMMERY.
Well known ground-breaking film director John Waters will be receiving the prestigious Mendez Award at the opening night of the Maryland International Film Festival-Hagerstown, on Thursday March 20th. The award will be presented at the historic Maryland Theatre in Downtown Hagerstown.
John Waters, Director (photo credit: Greg Gorman)
Film Festival Board of Directors President Nicole Houser said, “The Mendez Award is awarded to someone who has succeeded and made a positive impact in the Television, Film, and Broadcast Industries, or has supported film and television and has given back to the community. Director John Waters has been a vociferous champion for Maryland filmmaking and is always known as one of the most ‘adventuresome’ directors in the nation.” Houser pointed out that Waters wrote and directed such films as “Hairspray” and “Pink Flamingos,” and both have been named to the U.S. Library of Congress’ National Film Registry.
John Waters will be appearing at the Maryland Theatre via video, accepting the award. He has a prior commitment on the other side of the country.
Waters is the author of ten books: Shock Value, Crackpot, Pink Flamingos and Other Trash, Hairspray,Female Trouble and Multiple Maniacs, Art: A Sex Book (co-written with Bruce Hainley), RoleModels, Carsick, Make Trouble, Mr. Know-It-All, and in May, 2022 his first novel, Liarmouth: AFeel Bad Romance. In 2022 Liarmouth was optioned by Village Roadshow Pictures for John to write and direct the movie.
Two music compilation CDs have been released by New Line Records, “A John Waters Christmas” (2004) followed up by “A Date with John Waters” (2007). In 2017 Third Man Records released a 7″ EP of Waters reading “Make Trouble” and in 2021 Sub Pop records distributed his “Prayer to Pasolini” as part of its Singles Club. John’s audiobooks “Carsick” and “Mr. Know-It-All” were both nominated for Grammy Awards in the Best-Spoken Word Album category. Sub Pop Records released the 7″ single, “It’s in the Book,” in 2022, which is Waters’ cover of a 1952 hit comedy recording by Johnny Standley. Sub Pop released a new 7″ single, “John Waters Covers ‘The Singing Dogs’ “Jingle Bells'” b/w “It’s a Punk Rock Christmas,” in November 2024.
John Waters is a member of The Academy of Motion Picture, Arts and Sciences and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Additionally, he is a past member of the Andy Warhol Foundation Board and the Wexner Center International Arts Advisory Council. He is currently on the Board of Trustees for the Baltimore Museum of Art as well as the Maryland Film Festival Board and has been a key advisor to the Provincetown International Film Festival since it began in 1999, the same year Waters was honored as the first recipient of PIFF’s “Filmmaker on the Edge” award.
In September 2014 Film Society of Lincoln Center honored John Waters’ filmmaking with a 10- day celebration entitled “Fifty Years of John Waters: How Much Can You Take?” featuring a complete retrospective of his work. The next year the British Film Institute also honored John’s contribution to cinema. In 2015, Waters was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and the same by the Maryland Institute College of Arts (MICA) in May 2016, as well as two by School of Visual Arts (SVA), in 2020 and 2022. The French Minister of Culture bestowed the rank of Officer in the Order of Arts and Letters to Mr. Waters in 2015. In February 2017 John Waters was honored with the Writers Guild of America East’sIan McLellan Hunter Award for his body of work as a writer in motion pictures. In September 2023, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures opened “John Waters: Pope of Trash,” the first comprehensive exhibition dedicated to John Waters’ contributions to cinema, and he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. American Cinema Editors selected Waters to receive the ACE Golden Eddie Filmmaker of the Year Award in 2024.
Waters is a photographer whose work has been shown in galleries all over the world. In 2011 he was selected as a juror for the Venice Biennale. He’s performed his one man spoken-word lectures entitled “End of the World”, “This Filthy World”, “False Negative”, “Naked Truth” or “Make Trouble” and his annual Christmas show, “A John Waters Christmas”, at colleges, museums, film festivals and comedy clubs around the world. Waters appeared in many motion pictures and television shows including Jonathan Demme’s Something Wild, Woody Allen’s Sweet and Lowdown, Seed of Chucky, Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip. The Simpsons, Ryan Murphy’s Feud, The Blacklist, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Search Party and the Chucky TV Series. He also was one of the faces of a Nike campaign in 2019 and the Saint Laurent fall/winter 2020 menswear campaign in both 2020 and 2024, and John Waters was featured with Mink Stole in the 2022 Calvin Klein Pride campaign.
“John Waters is one of the best-known film directors who came from Maryland. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame,” said Maryland International Film Festival-Hagerstown co-founder Tom Riford. “John Waters has testified in favor of State of Maryland assistance for filmmaking. He is one of the most recognized independent filmmakers in the nation.” Riford also praised John Water’s dedication to helping the arts. “We also want to thank the Mendez Family for being such steadfast supporters of the film festival, and for continually presenting the annual award.” Former CIA agent and award-winning author Jonna Mendez will be presenting this year’s award.
The first official Mendez Award was named for and was awarded in 2013 to Antonio “Tony” Mendez, CIA Master of Disguise, Founder of the Spy Museum, and Award-Winning Author and Painter. The award was given one month after “ARGO” won the Best Picture Academy Award. On stage that night, to help accept the first Mendez Award included wife of Tony Mendez, Jonna Mendez.
Other award recipients have included: in 2014, Joe Carnahan, Film Director and Producer, known as one of the most prolific filmmakers in Hollywood, and for his ongoing support of MIFF-H as the volunteer Creative Director.
In 2015, Nora Roberts, Author and Entrepreneur, known as the world’s most famous Romance Writer, best-selling author, and contributor for Washington County’s economic development and tourism. Many of her books have been turned into films and television movies.
In 2016, then-Frederick County Councilman Billy Shreve, known for his advocacy in supporting film in Maryland, and for being the driving force behind Classmates4Life (an anti-drug film festival for all school students in Frederick County, beginning a state-wide pilot program). The contest received national recognition for its public awareness campaign.
In 2017, Kerry Cahill, award-winning actress from AMC’s The Walking Dead. Cahill was also a supporting actress in the Oscar nominated film Mudbound (2017). She was also recognized for her work with veterans’ organizations.
In 2018, Amir Arison, an award-winning actor, from NBC’s The Blacklist. Arison was recognized for his ongoing support for Arts nonprofits, and for his work supporting treatment and help for people with mental illness and his passion for helping animal rescue and animal adoption.
In 2019, then-Maryland Governor Larry Hogan was recognized for his leadership in assisting the film industry in Maryland. Governor Hogan was also recognized for his efforts in supporting the Historic Maryland Theatre expansion, the expansion of the Barbara Ingram School for the Arts, and the expansion of the University System of Maryland Hagerstown. He signed into law the Maryland Film Incentive Program, which helps independent filmmaking, and provides increased tax incentives for the film industry. While being a national leader during the Covid Pandemic, Governor Larry Hogan is a humanitarian and additionally has helped many non-profit organizations.
Barry Ratcliffe, who received the award in 2021, was recognized for his work in film and television, and for his considerable nonprofit work. He is known as “Hollywood’s Auctioneer,” and has appeared in numerous films and television series. He is active in community drama and arts, volunteering to teach classes and does motivational talks. He is very active in drug-free programs and has been a national social issue spokesperson.
In 2022, Hollywood actress Ann Mahoney was recognized for her contributions to filmmaking and television, and for her women’s rights advocacy. She additionally was recognized for her work as a university professor of drama and acting.
The Mendez Award in 2023 was presented to Stephen Schupak, Maryland Public Television’s statewide network’s executive vice president and station manager. During his 20-plus year tenure at MPT, the network earned several television industry honors for productions including Star-Spangled Spectacular: The Bicentennial of our National Anthem and its long-running series MotorWeek, plus the two-part documentary Music of Ireland, Potomac by Air, annual Chesapeake Bay Week® programming, and popular weekly series Maryland Farm & Harvest. The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences’ National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter inducted Schupak into its prestigious Silver Circle in 2020. Additionally, Schupak was honored for his community support and involvement in numerous issues.
In 2024, the Hall of Fame broadcaster Johnny Holliday was recognized with the Mendez Award. This was for his more than 50 years in radio, television, film and stage, and for his humanitarian work helping numerous nonprofits and charities.
For more information about the Maryland International Film Festival-Hagerstown, see: http://www.marylandiff.org.
The non-profit Maryland International Film Festival-Hagerstown partners with several local organizations, businesses, and individuals. The major sponsors include: the City of Hagerstown, Hagerstown-Washington County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Maryland Film Office (a division of the Maryland Department of Commerce), Washington County Arts Council, Nora Roberts Foundation, Ed Lough and Northwestern Insurance, University System of Maryland Hagerstown, Washington County Free Library, Emmet and Mary Anne Burke, and Tom Riford.
Spiritune, a leading therapeutic music app, is proud to announce the publication of its research into the PLoS ONE scientific journal, marking a significant advancement in the field of music neuroscience and mental health. The peer-reviewed study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting music’s potential as a digital therapeutic for improving mental health outcomes.
The study revealed that Spiritune’s science-driven approach to music composition is 4 times more effective at reducing negative emotional states compared to other audio conditions, including mainstream music and playlists that claim cognitive benefits. It also demonstrated Spiritune’s unique ability to improve processing speed during listening – setting it apart as the only music intervention to achieve this outcome.
The findings highlight a crucial distinction: not all therapeutic music is created equal. While many playlists claim stress-relief or performance benefits, Spiritune’s study shows that music composed using principles from music neuroscience and music therapy yields measurable therapeutic outcomes.
“Music is powerful, but therapeutic outcomes require more than marketing promises,” said Jamie Pabst, Founder of Spiritune. “This study validates what we’ve always believed in: music needs to be intentionally created and scientifically grounded to truly impact mental health. Spiritune represents the next frontier in mental health by turning music into medicine.”
“This study validates the capacity of simple music listening during daily routines to effectively modulate core dimensions of mental health” said Daniel Bowling, a neuroscientist at Stanford and co-author on the paper. “It further shows that principles from music neuroscience and music therapy can be systematically applied to guide original compositions towards specific therapeutic goals in the general population.”
As mental health challenges continue to rise globally, this research emphasizes the potential of music to augment other forms of treatment, providing listeners with a safe way to feel better that is available on demand. Spiritune’s long-term commitment to scientific research and its mission to create and redefine music’s role in popular culture and the mental health ecosystem shine through this landmark achievement.
The study was recently published in PLoS One on February 12, 2025. It provides further details about Spiritune’s innovative approach to music creation and application, as well as methodology and results to drive further progress and understanding. While more remains to be done, Spiritune’s research offers actionable insights for mental health professionals and anyone seeking to integrate effective music-based therapies into daily life or health care practices.
Flerish Hydration, a new innovative player in the beverage industry, today announced its official partnership with Rolling Loud, the World’s Largest Hip-Hop Festival. Flerish will serve as the hydration partner for Rolling Loud Los Angeles 2025 from March 15 – 16, 2025.
Flerish will be available at concessions, offering samplings for fans, and activating backstage to provide tastings to artists and VIPs. Attendees can look forward to a weekend featuring top artists such as A$AP Rocky, Playboi Carti, Peso Pluma, YG, Quavo, BossMan Dlow, Sexyy Red, Ken Carson, and more performing throughout the festival.
Flerish is the only 35-calorie watermelon-based hydration drink that provides essential vitamins and electrolytes without artificial sweeteners. Designed for holistic hydration, it supports physical and mental wellness, embodying a complete lifestyle focused on enjoyment and well-being.
“At Rolling Loud, we are always reminding fans that staying hydrated is a must,” say co-founders Matt Zingler and Tariq Cherif. “So it only made sense to team up with Flerish Hydration to keep fans fueled all weekend long. It’s all about balancing the energy of the festival with taking care of yourself.”
Flerish differentiates itself with a low-sugar formulation using real cane sugar and a transparent ingredient list featuring L-Theanine, Magnesium, Zinc, and essential vitamins. This nutrient-dense drink supports bone and skin health, cognitive function, and immunity, redefining hydration with natural ingredients.
Flerish embodies the fearless and ambitious spirit of young people, inspiring them to pursue their goals. Founded by Avery Johnson Jr. and Nicholas Nevins, Flerish emerged from a passion for athletics and a desire to fill the gap in the hydration market for healthier options.
“We’re excited to partner with Rolling Loud,” says Flerish co-founders Avery Johnson Jr. and Nicholas Nevins. “With Flerish, fans can stay energized during remarkable performances, blending health and music seamlessly.”
Flerish is an enhanced hydration drink designed for the modern, health-conscious individual. Our mission is to empower you to thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually, supporting your journey toward achieving your goals. With essential vitamins and electrolytes, Flerish represents a holistic approach to wellness—living a complete and fulfilling life.
Founded in Dallas Texas, by former Alabama athlete Avery Johnson Jr. and Nicholas Nevins, son of the founder of Perrier North America, Flerish brings a fresh perspective to the hydration industry. Inspired by LA’s vibrant culture and diverse wellness practices, we crafted a multidimensional hydration solution that resonates with athletes, wellness enthusiasts, and the Gen Z and Alpha generations. Each bottle of Flerish embodies a commitment to physical vitality, mental clarity, and spiritual balance.
Founded in 2015 by childhood friends and Miami natives, Matt Zingler and Tariq Cherif (8x Billboard Hip-Hop Power Players), Rolling Loud was built out of a flourishing South Florida hip-hop community that the pair cultivated through years of concert promotions. In a time where live hip-hop entertainment wasn’t being taken seriously by the pop music machine, Rolling Loud shattered expectations from the jump – prompting them to expand at an unprecedented rate from Miami to Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Australia within 5 years and to Portugal, The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Toronto and Thailand within 10 years. The festival not only brings hip-hop to fans around the world, it is where hip-hop history is made. From Lil Uzi Vert’s iconic stage dive in 2017 to Ice Spice’s first ever performance in 2022 to Future and Metro Boomin kicking off the Kendrick Lamar x Drake battle in 2024, the Rolling Loud stage is where it all goes down.
Rolling Loud’s advancement is largely credited to its dedication to cultivating community in every market they touch, paving an opportunity for them to be revered as more than just a festival – it’s a lifestyle brand. With a booming fashion and merchandising business that outsells some of the biggest artists in the world, a thriving media and production arm that creates content for other world-renown brands, and an unprecedented web3 model that integrates experience with digital ownership, Rolling Loud has built a 360º brand that fans, brands, and artists alike respect for its ingenuity and authenticity. Rolling Loud is the World’s Largest Hip-Hop Festival, point blank period. Many have tried, but none have prevailed like Rolling Loud.
Willy and the Poor Boys, released in 1969, was Creedence Clearwater Revival at their peak, blending swampy Southern rock, protest anthems, and working-class storytelling into one unforgettable record. From the foot-stomping energy of “Down on the Corner” to the fiery rebellion of “Fortunate Son” and the eerie resignation of “Effigy,” every track carried a purpose, a mood, and a message. Here are five incredible facts that make Willy and the Poor Boys even more legendary than you thought.
1. The Album Was Almost a Full Concept Record
John Fogerty originally envisioned Willy and the Poor Boys as a full-on concept album, centering on a fictional jug band that played on street corners to spread joy. The album cover, featuring CCR in character outside Duck Kee Market in Oakland, was meant to reinforce the idea. While only a couple of tracks, “Down on the Corner” and “Poorboy Shuffle,” stuck with the theme, the spirit of the album still feels like a band of misfits bringing people together through music. In the end, it wasn’t just a concept—it was a feeling, and it resonated deeply.
2. “Fortunate Son” Was Written in Just 20 Minutes
“Fortunate Son” is one of the greatest protest songs in rock history, a fiery critique of privilege and the Vietnam War. But did you know it came together in less than 20 minutes? Fueled by his frustration with the draft and politicians’ kids avoiding war, Fogerty wrote the song in a single burst of inspiration. The urgency in its lyrics and guitar riffs wasn’t just performance—it was real, raw anger transformed into one of the most iconic anthems of rebellion ever recorded.
3. The Album Features Two Lead Belly Classics
John Fogerty’s deep love for folk and blues music shines through in Willy and the Poor Boys, especially with the inclusion of “Cotton Fields” and “The Midnight Special.” Both songs were originally popularized by blues legend Lead Belly, and CCR’s versions helped introduce a new generation to his music. “Lead Belly was a big influence,” Fogerty later said. “When you listen to those guys, you’re getting down to the root of the tree.” The band didn’t just borrow from history—they kept it alive.
4. “It Came Out of the Sky” Took a Swipe at Politicians
Buried among the album’s more well-known tracks is “It Came Out of the Sky,” a rocking, Chuck Berry-style tale of a farmer who stumbles upon a mysterious object that falls from the sky. But listen closely, and you’ll catch the biting satire: the song pokes fun at politicians, religious leaders, and the media, all scrambling to claim the discovery for their own benefit. Ronald Reagan, the Pope, and even Vice President Spiro Agnew all get called out. It was CCR’s way of showing how ridiculous power and greed could be—without losing their rock ‘n’ roll swagger.
5. “Effigy” Was Fogerty’s Final Blow to Nixon
The haunting closer to the album, “Effigy,” is one of CCR’s most underrated songs, but it carried some of the album’s sharpest political messages. Inspired by an incident where President Nixon dismissed anti-war protestors outside the White House, the song drips with frustration and cynicism. With its slow-burning intensity, “Effigy” felt like a funeral march for American idealism—Fogerty’s final shot at a leader he despised. It wasn’t just a song; it was a reckoning.
Why Willy and the Poor Boys Still Matters
Some albums are a time capsule, forever tied to the era they were born in. Others, like Willy and the Poor Boys, never stop being relevant. From the foot-stomping joy of “Down on the Corner” to the defiant rage of “Fortunate Son,” this album captured both the beauty and the unrest of America in the late ‘60s. And decades later, it still speaks loud and clear. So if you haven’t given it a spin lately, now’s the time—because the poor boys are still playing, and the message still matters.
Some albums redefine a band. Some redefine a genre. Tommy did both. Released in 1969, The Who’s ambitious double album was a rock opera, an audacious concept that changed music forever. Here are these five fascinating facts that make Tommy even more legendary than you thought.
1. The Album’s Title Wasn’t Final Until the Last Minute
Before Tommy became Tommy, Pete Townshend and The Who cycled through several potential names. Early working titles included Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Boy, The Brain Opera, and Amazing Journey. Townshend eventually settled on Tommy because it was short, simple, and memorable. The name also nodded to the British soldiers of World War I, commonly referred to as “Tommies.” The decision proved to be a stroke of genius, making the album’s concept and character instantly recognizable worldwide.
2. Pinball Wizard Was Written as a Last-Minute Gimmick
It’s hard to imagine Tommy without “Pinball Wizard,” but believe it or not, the song was a late addition. Pete Townshend wrote it purely to impress rock critic Nik Cohn, a huge pinball fan, hoping for a better review. The gamble worked—Cohn called Tommy a masterpiece, and “Pinball Wizard” became one of The Who’s most iconic tracks. Not bad for what Townshend later called “the most clumsy piece of writing I’ve ever done.”
3. Keith Moon’s Drums Were Too Destructive for the Studio
Keith Moon’s drumming was legendary for its power and unpredictability—so much so that it caused problems during Tommy‘s recording. After Moon repeatedly destroyed drum kits, Premier Drums refused to lend him any more equipment. The solution? Roadie Tony Haslam lent Moon his own double bass drum kit. That thunderous sound you hear on Tommy? It was partly the result of a desperate attempt to keep the sessions going without breaking more gear.
4. The Acid Queen Was a Symbol of More Than Just Drugs
“The Acid Queen” stands out as one of Tommy’s most intense moments, but its meaning goes far beyond psychedelics. Pete Townshend saw the character as a representation of mindless self-indulgence, not just drug culture, but excess in all its forms—sex, alcohol, and hedonism. Over the years, the song has been powerfully covered by artists like Tina Turner, Patti LaBelle, and Bette Midler, proving its lasting impact beyond the album.
5. The Who Had to Tour Tommy to Stay Afloat
By 1968, The Who was in financial trouble. Their stage shows, including Pete Townshend’s signature guitar-smashing and Keith Moon’s drum destruction, had left them in deep debt. Tommy became their saving grace. The album’s success led to a relentless tour schedule, with groundbreaking performances at Woodstock, the Isle of Wight Festival, and even the Metropolitan Opera House. These shows cemented Tommy as not just an album but a live spectacle that pushed rock music into uncharted territory.
Tommy turned rock into theater, challenged the boundaries of storytelling in music, and inspired generations of artists to think bigger. From concept albums to rock operas to Broadway musicals, its influence is everywhere.
Tommy wasn’t just an album—it was a revolution. It turned rock into theater, challenged the boundaries of storytelling in music, and inspired generations of artists to think bigger. From concept albums to rock operas to Broadway musicals, its influence is everywhere
Some albums shake up a scene. Some kick the door down and demand attention. Dig Me Out did both. Sleater-Kinney’s 1997 breakthrough was was a full-throttle mission statement of feminist rage, blistering guitars, and raw emotion. But you already knew that. What you might not know are these five incredible facts that make Dig Me Out even more iconic than you thought.
1. The Album’s Title Wasn’t Just a Metaphor—It Was Reality
Recording Dig Me Out wasn’t just an emotional storm—it happened during an actual one. The band was hit by a brutal snowstorm in Seattle during recording sessions in December 1996. They literally had to dig out the studio just to get inside and record. That battle with nature became the perfect metaphor for the album’s themes of struggle, survival, and reinvention. It was a fight from the start, and you can hear it in every riff.
2. Janet Weiss’ Drumming Completed the Band’s Sound
Before Dig Me Out, Sleater-Kinney had cycled through a series of drummers, but Janet Weiss’ arrival changed everything. Corin Tucker and Carrie Brownstein have both said that Weiss was the missing piece, giving the band a more powerful backbone. Her style—rooted in classic rock influences like the Rolling Stones and The Kinks—brought a raw, propulsive energy that elevated every track. She wasn’t just keeping the beat; she was shaping the band’s future.
3. A Song That Transformed Pain Into Power
“One More Hour” isn’t just a breakup song—it’s a testament to emotional strength. Inspired by personal experiences, the track channels heartache into catharsis, proving that music can turn vulnerability into something powerful. The interplay between Tucker’s and Brownstein’s vocals adds intensity, creating a song that resonates far beyond its lyrics. It’s a moment of raw honesty, but also one of resilience—proof that from difficult times, great art can emerge.
4. The Album Was a Testament to Strength and Friendship
Despite the emotional weight behind Dig Me Out, the album stands as a testament to the band’s resilience and deep creative bond. Even with personal challenges, Tucker and Brownstein turned their experiences into music that resonated with thousands. Instead of falling apart, they grew stronger, channeling raw feelings into anthems of empowerment. The result? An album that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike with its fearless energy and uncompromising honesty.
5. The Album Cover Is a Homage to Rock Royalty
Look at Dig Me Out’s album cover, then take a look at The Kink Kontroversy by The Kinks. Notice anything? That’s right—Sleater-Kinney’s cover is a direct tribute to the 1965 classic, swapping in their own faces and guitars. The nod wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was a statement that Sleater-Kinney saw themselves as part of rock’s lineage. They weren’t just indie upstarts—they were making music worthy of standing alongside the greats.
Dig Me Out redefined what punk could sound like, what an all-women rock band could achieve, and how raw emotions could be turned into fire. More than 25 years later, it still punches you in the gut with every drum hit, every tangled guitar riff, every wail from Corin Tucker. If you haven’t listened in a while, consider this your invitation to turn it up loud—because some records never lose their power.
Some albums define a genre. Some redefine an era. And then there’s Electric Warrior, the 1971 masterpiece by T. Rex, which did both. Marc Bolan was reshaping rock, injecting glam, swagger, and a touch of the surreal into every groove. But you already knew that. What you might not know are these five mind-blowing facts about the album that put glitter on rock’s leather jacket.
1. The Album Was Almost a Double LP
Believe it or not, Electric Warrior started as a far bigger beast than what eventually hit record stores. Marc Bolan and producer Tony Visconti had enough material to release a double album, thanks to marathon sessions in London, Hollywood, and New York. Outtakes like “Raw Ramp” and “There Was A Time” ended up as B-sides, while other songs were left in the vaults entirely. Bolan was known for moving fast—his philosophy was to keep writing and never look back—which meant that some of the discarded tracks might have been hits in another timeline.
2. A Future Prog Rock Titan Played on It
Rick Wakeman—yes, the Rick Wakeman from Yes—laid down the piano part on “Get It On.” At the time, he was still a session musician, playing on everything from Bowie’s Hunky Dory to Elton John’s early work. Wakeman later admitted that he got paid in beer for his Electric Warrior contribution, but there’s no bitterness—he always recognized that Bolan had an uncanny ability to make even the simplest rock and roll sound revolutionary.
3. Marc Bolan Had a Love-Hate Relationship With His Own Success
By the time Electric Warrior hit number one in the UK, Bolan had already begun to feel the weight of fame. He famously told a journalist that he didn’t want to be “the biggest thing in the world”—he just wanted to be big enough to keep making music on his terms. Ironically, the more he tried to stay grounded, the more extravagant his performances became. His glittering, otherworldly stage presence wasn’t just a persona—it was his armor against the pressures of being a rock icon.
4. The Cover Art Was Inspired by a Happening Moment
That striking black-and-gold cover of Electric Warrior wasn’t some carefully staged studio shoot. It was snapped by photographer Kieron “Spud” Murphy during a live gig in Nottingham on May 14, 1971. The image captured Bolan in his full glam glory, mid-performance, completely lost in the music. The raw power of that moment made it the perfect visual for an album that was all about turning rock ‘n’ roll into something magical.
5. It Influenced More Than Just Rock Music
Glam rock wasn’t the only movement to take notes from Electric Warrior. French electronic duo Justice credited the album’s artwork as a direct inspiration for their 2007 debut, †. That towering silhouette of Marc Bolan with his Les Paul became a blueprint for how to mix raw power with mystique. Even decades later, Bolan’s ability to fuse simplicity with spectacle continues to ripple through music and design.
Fifty years later, Electric Warrior still stands as a shimmering beacon of what rock and roll can be—playful, seductive, larger than life. Marc Bolan didn’t just make music; he made moments. And every time you drop the needle on this album, you’re stepping into one. So go ahead, turn it up, and let the boogie take over. Because as Bolan himself once said, “Whatever happened to the teenage dream?” It never ended. It just put on more glitter.
