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Heineken House Returns to Coachella 2025 with Pusha T, Afrojack, Cordae, The Pharcyde & More

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With over two decades of creating legendary musical memories, Heineken is back at Coachella to bring both its iconic brews and beats with an impressive lineup at the festival favorite Heineken House.

Boasting two weekends of performances, Heineken House will be stocked with must-see shows and brews during Weekend 1 and 2. Featuring sets by legendary headliners Pusha T, Afrojack, Cordae, The Pharcyde and more across both weekends, alongside a roster of hip-hop, rap, EDM artists and more, this year’s refreshed Heineken House will once again be the must-stop-by stage in the desert.

Heineken House Line-Up:
Weekend 1:

  • Friday, April 11: The Pharcyde, DJ Premier, Autograf, Kilmanjargo, Mexican Institute of Sound, Lovra
  • Saturday, April 12Pusha T, Qveen Herby, Southside, Murda Beatz, Zeemuffin, Miramar
  • Sunday, April 13Afrojack, Digitalism, Badger, Wuki, Mojave Grey, Anatta

Weekend 2:

  • Friday, April 18: Cordae, DJ Premier, Autograf, Kilimanjaro, Mexican Institute of Sound, Lovra
  • Saturday, April 19Pusha T, Qveen Herby, Southside, Murda Beatz, Zeemuffin, Miramar
  • Sunday, April 20Afrojack, Chevelle, Badger, Wuki, Mojave Grey, Anatta

“Coming off the smash success of T-Pain as our headliner last year, we’re looking forward to continuing to shine a light on beloved artists, while leveraging our long-standing platform to drive attention to up and coming musicians,” said Christine Karimi, Director, Partnerships and Consumer Experience at HEINEKEN USA. “Heineken is proud to provide legendary brews that every festivalgoer is looking to enjoy, alongside the performances that everyone will remember.”

From an experiential standpoint, this year’s Heineken House will bring the spirit of Coachella to the brew-filled beer garden alongside vinyl record elements intertwined within the space, showcasing the brand’s deep rooted history in both music and the festival. In addition to a bustling dance floor, there will be areas of retreat from the heat, making Heineken House the ultimate destination for a world class experience all weekend long.

Alongside Heineken House, the full portfolio of Heineken brews and more will be available across festival grounds.

  • Heineken Original, the brew that started it all with the red star, perfect for those looking to enjoy a classic, all-premium malt lager.
  • Heineken Silver, a world-class light beer with lower carbs & lower calories, the perfect sip for festival goers that are seeking a brew that’s extra crisp and refreshing.
  • Heineken 0.0, the premiere alcohol-free brew, great for those looking for 100% taste but 0% alcohol and helping to support responsible consumption on festival grounds.
  • Additionally, other items from the HEINEKEN USA portfolio including Dos Equis Lager, Dos Equis Lime and Salt, and Lagunitas will be available on festival grounds.

Festival-goers are invited to visit the Heineken House April 11-13 and 18-20, 2025, to experience the best beats beer has to offer.

Rolling Stone and Sonesta Announce Expansion of ‘Musicians on Musicians’ Event Series with a Five-City Tour in 2025

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Today, Rolling Stone and Sonesta International Hotels announced the expansion of their Musicians on Musicians partnership: a satellite event series which brings the pages of Rolling Stone’s signature issue to life. Building on last year’s success, the series will grow to a five-city tour in 2025, bringing even more unforgettable artist conversations and exclusive performances to new fans and cities across the United States.

Musicians on Musicians, Rolling Stone’s iconic franchise, pairs established and emerging artists together to discuss their unique creative journeys, life and more. Curated by Rolling Stone editors, the 2025 event series will feature intimate conversations and special performances showcasing artists deeply connected to each city’s unique culture and sound. This bespoke lineup ensures each event is profoundly personal and reflective of each locale’s vibrant musical heritage.

“By expanding to a five-city tour with our partners at Sonesta, we’re bringing unforgettable performances and conversations to some of America’s most musically vibrant cities,” said Gus Wenner, CEO of Rolling Stone. “Musicians on Musicians events give artists a space to share their stories and their mutual admiration, and we’re giving audiences a front-row seat to those moments.”

The tour will kick off on March 24 in Austin, TX, featuring country and Americana artists Charley Crockett and Noeline Hofmann. Fresh off his first Grammy nomination for his album $10 CowboyTexas-native Charley Crockett is set to release his highly anticipated album Lonesome Drifter on March 14. Joining Crockett is rapidly rising country music newcomer Noeline Hofmann, known for her recent hit duet with Zach Bryan, “Purple Gas.” In addition to sharing the stage at the Musicians on Musicians event, Hofmann is opening for Crockett on his $10 Cowboy Tour.

Musicians on Musicians Tour Dates and Locations:

  • March 24 | Austin, TX | The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
  • May New Orleans, LA | Royal Sonesta New Orleans
  • June | Washington, DC | The Royal Sonesta Washington, DC
  • September | New York, NY | The Shelburne Sonesta New York
  • November | Portland, OR | Royal Sonesta Portland Downtown

Each event, hosted at a unique and memorable Sonesta hotel, is designed to be an intimate setting where musicians delve into thoughtful conversations about their influences, creative processes, and personal journeys, complemented by unique performances.

“Music plays a vital role in travel, shaping our experiences and memories along the way. It has the power to enhance our journeys, adding depth and emotion to every destination. Through this partnership with Rolling Stone, Sonesta Travel Pass members can further connect with music and travel in a meaningful way,” said John MurraySonesta President & CEO. “Music enriches the travel experience, making each trip even more memorable.”

While access to the event is invite-only, Sonesta Travel Pass members can reserve their spot through exclusive packaging that unlocks a world of elevated experiences, from priority access and premium seating to bespoke perks.

Last year’s Musicians on Musicians series, presented by Sonesta, featured a sold-out event at the iconic Apollo Theater in New York City, featuring Busta Rhymes, GloRilla, Brittany Howard, and Doechii, as well as satellite events in Chicago at The Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Downtown and in Miami at the Nautilus Sonesta Miami Beach, spotlighting artists such as Common, Noname, Juanes, and Goyo.

America’s Sweethearts: Consumers Ranked Zendaya, Dolly, Snoop, Peyton Manning, and Sabrina Carpenter as the Most Relatable Celebrities

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Hirsch Leatherwood, a leading strategic communications and market research firm, today unveiled its “2025 Celebrity Influence Index,” a comprehensive study revealing how celebrity influence has evolved in an era of fragmented media and changing consumer expectations.

The research, which surveyed hundreds of U.S. consumers, provides insight into the public figures that matter most to today’s audiences. The inaugural study compiled consumer sentiment on the top forty most relatable personas in entertainment across film, music, sports, media, and culture. The rankings offer decision-makers and brands a snapshot of who the public trusts and who makes consumers feel seen.

According to hundreds of Americans, the top five most-relatable celebrities include:

  • Zendaya: Ranked the #1 most relatable celebrity by consumers, Zendaya is a child actor turned full cultural icon. The ranking comes following her performances last year in Challengers and the Best-Picture-nominated Dune 2.
  • Dolly Parton: At number two, Dolly Parton proves that old-fashioned Southern charm still has a place in the hearts of today’s audiences. Her ranking comes just in time for her Broadway show, Dolly, to premiere later this year.
  • Snoop Dogg: Third most relatable, Snoop Dogg is known for his crossover appeal, the rare superstar who can collaborate with country music stars, host a youth football league, and headline major corporate events without it feeling forced.
  • Peyton ManningRanked the fourth most relatable celebrity in the country, Manning is the top athlete on the list— beating out LeBron James and both Kelce brothers. His younger brother, Eli, ranks as #30 and co-hosts ESPN’s Emmy-winning “ManningCast” each week during the NFL season.
  • Sabrina Carpenter: The fifth spot goes to global pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter, who dominated 2024 with her chart-topping album Short ‘n’ Sweet and back-to-back Billboard No. 1 hits, “Espresso” and “Please Please Please.”

Other names on the list include Ryan Reynolds (#8, whose 2024 Deadpool and Wolverine became the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time) Taylor Swift (at her lucky #13), Nicole Kidman (#14, following her starring role in 2024’s Babygirl), Timothee Chalamet (#17, who was up for his third Oscar nomination this weekend for his performance in A Complete Unknown) and Joe Rogan (#20, the most influential podcaster in the country).

“We’re living in an era where celebrity influence extends far beyond entertainment,” said Steve Hirsch, CEO. “Whether they’re launching businesses, leading cultural conversations, or shaping brand narratives, the right public figures can make or break a connection with your audience.”

Duetti Expands Catalog Services to Include Royalty and Publishing Deals with $200M Funding

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Duetti, the leading music financing and catalog services company, is today announcing it is expanding its offerings to support royalty and publishing catalog deals along with masters deals. In addition to purchasing royalty and publishing rights, this expansion provides catalog management and marketing opportunities for a broader set of recording artists, songwriters, producers, and other collaborators, allowing them to unlock financial value from their work through simple, transparent cash deals – ultimately making it easier for independent creators to earn money.

This expansion is fueled by $200 million in new debt funding, secured across two new credit facilities: a $150 million bank facility led by Truist Securities Inc., with participation from Truist Bank, alongside City National Bank and Regions Bank as Joint Lead Arrangers; and a $50 million side facility from Viola Credit. These funds will drive Duetti’s continued growth and enable more music creators to access financial freedom and career-enhancing support.

“As the only financial and catalog services platform navigating the complexities of multiple types of rights, Duetti is continuing to put independent music creators first – many of whom have historically been locked out of traditional catalog deals,” said Lior Tibon, Duetti CEO and Co-Founder. “With the introduction of royalty and publishing deals, we are now able to help even more creators maximize their potential. Our mission remains simple: offer fast, transparent cash deals and help independent musicians grow their careers.”

With Duetti’s royalty and publishing cash deals, in addition to its existing masters deals, independent creators who earn at least $2,000 annually from their music rights can now access Duetti’s innovative deal structure to sell their rights, royalty shares, or portions of their catalog – all on their own terms. The company’s transparent breakdown of revenue streams makes it easier than ever for artists to unlock financial opportunities, giving creators the flexibility to decide what to sell, when to sell, and receive upfront, lump-sum payments with no hidden fees or long term commitments – all while benefiting from Duetti’s catalog management and marketing support.

Beyond financing, artists gain access to catalog growth and custom marketing opportunities, including distribution playlisting, sync, advertising, press, and fan activations. With its latest funding and expanded offerings, the company is set to become the go-to platform for all independent music creators looking to monetize their catalogs, navigate an evolving industry, and take control of their financial future.

“Duetti’s support was a total game-changer,” said singer-songwriter and Duetti artist partner Anuhea. “Not only did they help fund the creation of new music, but their marketing team also helped Come Over Love go viral on TikTok—Giving fresh life to one of my classics from 14 years ago!! It’s amazing to see them working with even more songwriters and producers, and I highly recommend other music creators check them out.”

Since launching in 2022, Duetti has raised over $435M in funding, securing a position as one of the fastest-growing start-ups in the creator economy. Duetti’s growing team of 45 full-time employees across New YorkLos AngelesMiami, and London has partnered with over 700 artists, driving incredible financial opportunities for the independent artist community. Artists can learn more about partnering with Duetti here.

Duetti was founded by Lior Tibon, former COO of TIDAL, and Christopher Nolte, former Business Development executive at Apple Music, with the mission of getting a wide range of artists quick and easy access to catalog sales and unlocking new investment opportunities. Leveraging their experience in streaming and support from innovative music and technology investors including Flexpoint Ford, Nyca Partners, Viola Ventures, and Roc Nation, Duetti’s music platform has provided over 700 artists up to $7 million per transaction. The proprietary model provides data-driven prices for established tracks, allowing artists to sell individual tracks or even parts thereof, while Duetti then markets those tracks going forward using proprietary ROI-focused techniques.

Mood Media Launches AI-Powered Messaging Copilot for Seamless In-Store Audio Creation

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Mood Media, the global leader in experiential media solutions that motivate consumers and drive brand connections, today announced the launch of Messaging Copilot, an innovative feature within its Harmony Messaging platform that revolutionizes how retailers create and manage in-store audio communications. This cutting-edge solution combines artificial intelligence with professional voice talent so businesses can produce high-quality audio messages quickly and efficiently.

Messaging Copilot streamlines the traditionally complex process of creating in-store audio messages into a simple, two-step workflow. The platform features an AI-powered script generation system and a diverse library of professional voice talents. For example, retailers can choose an upbeat voice for sales promotions or a softer tone for store updates, tailoring regional accents to match their local demographics. This ensures consistent brand messaging while creating content that truly resonates with their audience—delivered in minutes instead of hours or days.

“Whether announcing a promotion, sharing key information, or enhancing the customer experience, Messaging Copilot makes in-store communication effortless and accessible to users of all technical backgrounds,” said Trey Courtney, Chief Product & Partnerships Officer at Mood Media. “In today’s fast-paced retail environment, real-time messaging is essential for our clients’ success. By combining advanced AI with an intuitive interface, Messaging Copilot streamlines the process, saving time and resources while enabling retailers to deliver personalized, locally relevant content at scale.”

The launch comes as retailers increasingly use audio and digital technology to enhance in-store experiences. Mood Media research shows 42% of shoppers engage with video and audio messages, with 37% making purchases as a result. Additionally, two in three consumers enter stores without a set shopping list, instead seeking inspiration—a prime opportunity for brands to influence purchases with tailored messaging.

Additional features of Messaging Copilot include:

  • Professional Voice Selection: Access a diverse range of human-recorded voices with regional accents and dialects for authentic local messaging.
  • Message Studio: Edit messages and voices instantly through an intuitive interface.
  • AI-Powered Creativity: Leverage AI to generate message suggestions in various styles, overcoming creative blocks.
  • Voice Synthesis & Voice Lab: Emotion-based AI text-to-speech engine enabling nuanced voice customization and brand-aligned tone.

Messaging Copilot’s technological foundation enables businesses to create targeted, localized content that speaks directly to their customers. To transform your in-store communications today, visit https://us.moodmedia.com/staging/messaging-copilot/ to schedule a demo and discover how AI-powered messaging can elevate your customer experience.

Joan Osborne Releases Sultry Live Performance of Bob Dylan’s “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35”

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Acclaimed vocalist and songwriter Joan Osborne has released a live, swinging blues rendition of Bob Dylan’s “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35.” The track appears on her forthcoming album Dylanology Live, which comes out on April 25th via Womanly Hips Records. Osborne’s sultry performance of the classic features special guest Jackie Green on organ. Listen to “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” HERE.

Dylanology Live features eight captivating performances of Bob Dylan songs chosen by the Grammy-nominated artist featuring special guests Greene, Amy Helm, and Robert Randolph.

In 2017, Joan Osborne released the critically acclaimed album, Songs of Bob Dylan. Her creative and deeply soulful renditions of select Dylan material was an eye-opening moment in a celebrated career. Eight years after the beloved studio recording, Osborne’s exhilarating live performances offer even more expansive and creative interpretations full of passion and emotion. Songs include “Spanish Harlem Incident,” “Buckets Of Rain,” “Masters Of War,” “Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here With You,” and “High Water (For Charley Patton).”

Dates for the upcoming Dylanology Tour will feature special guests Nicki Bluhm, Gail Ann Dorsey (David Bowie), Cindy Cashdollar (Bob Dylan, Van Morrison) and Anders Osborne. See a detailed list of dates below.

Throughout her three-decade, multi-Grammy nominated career, Joan Osborne has never been an artist confined to one space as she continues to seamlessly blend into any genre. Her incredible and distinctive voice always shines through her own songs, while she has also become one of her generation’s finest interpreters. Dylanology Live is yet another testament to her artistic range.

Joan Osborne Tour Dates

Featuring the songs of Bob Dylan and more

April 10 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Universal Preservation Hall
April 11 – Port Washington, NY – Landmark on Main Street
April 12 – Turner Falls, MA – Shea Theater Arts Center
April 17 – Buffalo, NY – Kleinhans Music Hall
April 18 – Rochester, NY – JCC Hart Theater
April 25 & 26 – New Orleans, LA – Café Istanbul

Performs Dylanology with Special Guests

May 29 – Westerly, RI – United Theater *
May 31 – New York, NY – Adler Hall *
June 1 – Concord, NH – Chubb Theatre @ Capitol Center for the Arts *
June 3 – Pittsburgh, PA – Carnegie Lecture Hall #
June 4 – Glenside, PA – Keswick Theatre #
June 6 – Rahway, NJ – Union County PAC #
June 7 – Beverly, MA – Cabot Theater #
June 8 – Tarrytown, NY – Tarrytown Music Hall #

* with special guests Nicki Bluhm, Gail Ann Dorsey & Cindy Cashdollar
# with special guests Anders Osborne, Gail Ann Dorsey & Cindy Cashdollar

Does THCP Gummies Work for Inflammation?

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By Mitch Rice

Do THCP Gummies work for inflammation? This question has been on the minds of many looking for natural ways to manage chronic pain and inflammation. As we continue to explore the vast world of cannabinoids, THCP has emerged as a powerful contender in the fight against inflammation. With the rise of THCP gummies, many are curious about their effectiveness and how they stack up against other anti-inflammatory options. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what THCP is, how it interacts with the body to reduce inflammation, and whether THCP gummies are the right solution for your needs.

What are THCP Gummies?

THCP gummies are edibles infused with Tetrahydrocannabiphorol (THCP), a lesser-known but potent cannabinoid found in cannabis. The psychoactive compound THC, which gives marijuana its “high,” is closely related to THCP..” THCP, however, has a much stronger effect, even at lower doses.

When formulated into gummies, THCP provides a discreet and tasty way to consume this powerful cannabinoid. THCP gummies come in various flavors and strengths, making them a popular choice for those who prefer the ease and convenience of edibles over smoking or vaping.

The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) controls many bodily functions, including pain, mood, and inflammation. While THC binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, THCP is thought to bind more effectively to these receptors, potentially leading to enhanced therapeutic effects.

THCP and Its Effects on Inflammation

Normally, inflammation occurs when the body responds to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can cause a number of health issues. Conditions like arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and even chronic back pain are often associated with persistent inflammation.

The endocannabinoid system is responsible for maintaining balance (homeostasis) within the body, and cannabinoids like THCP play a crucial role in this process. THCP has shown promise as an anti-inflammatory agent, with early studies suggesting that it may help reduce inflammation by interacting with both CB1 and CB2 receptors.

In the brain and central nervous system, CB1 receptors are located, while CB2 receptors are located in the peripheral nervous system and immune system. Research indicates that THCP’s ability to bind more strongly to these receptors may contribute to its enhanced anti-inflammatory effects. By reducing the inflammatory response at the cellular level, THCP may provide relief from the discomfort and pain associated with chronic inflammation.

What are the Benefits of THCP Gummies for Inflammation?

THCP gummies have numerous benefits when it comes to managing inflammation. 

Here is a breakdown of how these gummies might help:

1. Effective Pain Relief

THCP’s anti-inflammatory properties may be useful in relieving pain caused by inflammation. You may be able to reduce the discomfort caused by inflammation with THCP gummies, regardless of whether you have arthritis, muscle soreness, or chronic pain from an injury.

2. Non-Psychoactive (At Low Doses)

While THCP is more potent than THC, gummies typically contain a controlled dose that minimizes the risk of psychoactive effects. In this way, THCP gummies are appealing to those who want cannabinoids’ benefits without feeling “high.”

3. Long-lasting Effects

Unlike smoking or vaping cannabis, which can provide quick relief but wear off quickly, THCP gummies are metabolized more slowly by the body. This means their effects can last longer, helping to manage inflammation throughout the day or night.

4. Convenience and Discreetness

Gummies are convenient, portable, and discreet. This is especially important for those who need to manage their inflammation on the go or in social situations where smoking or vaping might not be an option.

5. Promotes Overall Well-Being

In addition to reducing inflammation, THCP may also help with mood regulation, stress reduction, and sleep. Chronic inflammation is often associated with other health issues like anxiety and sleep disturbances, so THCP gummies may provide a holistic solution for managing multiple symptoms.

How to Choose the Right THCP Gummies for Inflammation

Choosing the right THCP gummies is crucial to getting the most out of their anti-inflammatory benefits. 

The following factors should be considered when choosing THCP gummies:

1. Potency

The potency of THCP gummies varies, so choose a dose that meets your needs. If you’re new to THCP or cannabinoids in general, start with a lower dose to gauge how your body reacts. The dose can always be increased later if needed.

2. Quality of Ingredients

Look for gummies made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Ideally, the THCP used in the gummies should come from a reputable source that provides lab-tested products for purity and potency. Avoid gummies with excessive sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

3. Third-Party Lab Testing

The potency and purity of gummies manufactured by a reputable brand will be confirmed by third-party lab tests. A brand’s website or packaging should make it easy to access these test results. Lab testing ensures that the gummies contain the advertised amount of THCP and are free from contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals.

4. Flavor and Texture

Since gummies are meant to be a tasty treat, the flavor and texture are essential for the overall experience. Choose gummies that appeal to your taste preferences and are easy to consume. Many people find that fruity flavors make taking their daily dose of THCP more enjoyable.

5. Brand Reputation

Choose THCP gummies from a reputable brand with positive customer reviews. Brands that are transparent about their manufacturing process, ingredients, and testing are more likely to produce high-quality, effective products.

Legal and Safety Considerations for THCP Gummies

Legal and safety considerations should be considered before purchasing THCP gummies.

1. Legal Status of THCP

The legal status of THCP varies depending on where you live. In the United States, THCP is a relatively new cannabinoid, and its legal status is not as clear-cut as THC or CBD. Despite the fact that hemp-derived products with less than 0.3% THC are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, some states may have stricter regulations on cannabinoids like THCP. Make sure you check your local laws before purchasing or using THCP gummies.

2. Safety and Side Effects

In general, THCP is considered safe when used responsibly, but you should be aware of its potential side effects. Occasionally, individuals may experience mild euphoria or dizziness after taking higher doses. You should consult your healthcare provider if you are concerned or have pre-existing conditions.

THCP Gummies vs Other Cannabinoids for Inflammation Relief

When considering THCP gummies for inflammation, it helps to compare them to other cannabinoids like CBD, THC, and CBG. THCP stands out among these cannabinoids for its potency and potential for inflammation relief.

1. CBD

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a popular cannabinoid with anti-inflammatory properties. However, CBD is not as potent as THCP, and it may require larger doses to achieve the same effects. THCP may offer faster and more noticeable relief, especially for those dealing with severe inflammation.

2. THC

THC is another cannabinoid with anti-inflammatory properties, but it also has psychoactive properties, which may not be desirable to everyone. THCP, on the other hand, provides similar inflammation relief but with potentially fewer psychoactive effects at low doses.

3. CBG

The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of CBG (cannabigerol) are less potent than those of THCP. While CBG may help with mild inflammation, THCP could be a more effective option for those dealing with chronic or severe inflammatory conditions.

Where to Buy THCP Gummies Online?

Creating Better Days is recognized as a reliable provider of THCP Gummies online. This brand has carved a niche in the cannabis market with its high-quality THCP Gummies. Independent third-party lab tests confirm the safety and purity of their products, and customers can access these Certificates of Analysis (COAs) to verify the product’s integrity. Reviews from users frequently highlight the premium effects and quality of Creating Better Days THCP gummies, affirming their reputation as a top-tier source of cannabis products.

Conclusion

As a result, THCP gummies offer significant promise as a natural solution to inflammation. Whether you’re dealing with arthritis, muscle pain, or other inflammatory conditions, THCP may offer a potent and effective alternative to traditional treatments. By choosing the right gummies, understanding the effects of THCP, and considering safety and legal factors, you can harness the power of this powerful cannabinoid to improve your overall well-being.

You should consult your doctor before taking THCP gummies, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medications.

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

Frank Meyer and Cherie Currie Team Up for “Piece of Me” Ahead of ‘Living Between The Lines’ Album

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Punk veteran Frank Meyer has just released his new duet with The Runaways’ Cherie Currie entitled “Piece Of Me”. The track comes from Frank’s forthcoming solo debut album, “Living Between The Lines” that is set to hit on March 25th.

“People tell me they like my music. People tell Cherie she changed their lives,” says punk stalwart Frank Meyer about Cherie Currie of The Runaways. “I get it. She certainly changed mine.” While it’s common for normal everyday people to fanboy/fangirl over their favorite musicians, it’s always refreshing to hear celebs gushing over other celebs. So when he was writing his new single “Piece of Me” from his solo debut, he asked Cherie to sing with him. “It was an honor to have her write and sing this duet with me.”

“The Runaways were a gigantic early influence on me and she has been instrumental in my music career,” he says. “At one of the earliest gigs by my band the Streetwalkin’ Cheetahs, Cherie jumped onstage with us and sang her hit ‘Cherry Bomb’ and shortly after asked us to support her and be her backing band on the road.”

Adds Cherie, “We just clicked when I met Frank at a Sandy West show at the Coconut Teaser in the early ’90s. Frank has turned me on to so many memorial gigs, sessions, and people during our three decades of friendship. He is an exceptional player, performer, singer and songwriter. A selfless human being that I am so proud to call one of my very best friends!”

While the late-night sway of “Piece of Me” hearkens last call in a dive bar while the final song is playing on the juke, the narrative of the song relates more to the push and pull of social media. “When I wrote the first pass at ‘Piece of Me,’ I was thinking about social media and how addicted we all have become to sharing our lives. It’s as if we are constantly giving a piece of ourselves away. But what do we keep for ourselves? At what point do we give it all away? What’s left?”

When Frank sent an early demo to her to help him finish out the lyrics, he kept the theme of the song close to his chest, resulting in musical kismet. “I didn’t tell her what inspired my parts,” he explains, “I just gave it to her to interpret on her own. When I got her parts back, I was blown away. When I read her lyrics, I felt like she was commenting on fame. Like, she has given so much of herself away on stage and in music and acting for so many years, what’s left for her?”

One of three duets with renowned musicians (the other two are “Partners in Crime” featuring Supersuckers’ Eddie Spaghetti and “Living Between the Lines” featuring Bellrays’ Lisa Kekaula), “Piece of Me” joins the other ten albums track in Frank’s first foray into solo material. While he has fronted seminal West Coast punk bands The Streetwalkin’ Cheetahs and Trading Aces and played sideman in FEAR, Wayne Kramer and Cheetah Chrome, and lead vocalist for James Williamson (Iggy & The Stooges), Frank’s debut album fully displays his wide-ranging musical prowess which Rebel Noise calls “high-energy rock roots by adding shades of blues and soul.”

Pat Travers Unearths 1982 Live Gem with ‘Statesboro Blues (Live In Baltimore)’

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Legendary hard rock guitarist Pat Travers’ acclaimed series of archive live performances has already served up some exhilarating performances. But the latest, Statesboro Blues (Live In Baltimore 1982), is sure to be ranked among the greatest yet, and while we await its April 4 release, the title track peels off as a thrilling new single.

Of course Blind Willie McTell blues was long ago proclaimed a classic, with the Allman Brothers having already granted it an incendiary work-up at the dawn of the 70s. It was Travers, however, who made the song his own, and this version illustrates why.

Musically, Travers was truly in his prime.  “I’d added some people to my live band and recording band,” he explains.  “I had a keyboard player and another guy who sang backing vocals so I had a five piece band behind me.

“I was trying to do something a little more sophisticated,” he continues with a laugh, and his then-latest album, Black Pearl, bore that out.  “For me, that was one of my best records with the playing and the production.”  Its opening number, “I La La La Love You” (included here, of course) was a smash even before it was included in the cult movie Valley Girl.

By the time this show was recorded, in Baltimore just three weeks before Christmas, Travers and the band had been on the road for most of the year, a back-breaking outing that had long since been aptly nicknamed The Steelworkers Ball.

Tonight, however, the line-up welcomed a very special guest as Buck Dharma, guitarist for the Blue Oyster Cult, took the stage first to introduce the band (“some good friends of mine and the Blue Oyster Cult’s”), and then for the final song, an epic take on Cream’s “Sunshine Of Your Love.”  “It was a great version,” muses Travers, but it was also no more than the natural culmination to a show that still blazes in the mind, from the moment the band strikes up the tempest that was their interpretation of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.

Black Pearl dominates the set, naturally, but there was plenty of room for the oldies, too – “Life in London,” written and recorded while Travers was living in that city during 1976-1977, and capturing both the mood and the madness of the city as it braced itself for the incoming punk scene; “Snortin’ Whiskey, Drinkin’ Cocaine,” another Travers great that would one day make the movies (Alexander Payne’s 2004 classic Sideways); Little Walter’s blues leviathan “Boom Boom, Out Goes The Lights”; and all leading up to that stunning multi-guitar layered climax.

Travers himself is thrilled that this show is finally seeing the light of day. “I had nothing to do with the recording, but I’m glad they did it, as it captures a very interesting time.

“It sounds live,” he says. It may be a little rough compared to some of the over-produced and much over dubbed live albums that are out there, but “I’ve found that people often prefer a rougher sounding live mix, even if they don’t know it.  They’re not conscious of it, ‘this one’s too high fidelity’, but when it’s a little trashy, it has more energy and sounds more urgent.

“Rock’n’roll is not supposed to be clean and slick live. It’s got to have an edginess to it, and not be too predictable. There should always be surprises. Especially unintentional ones.”

Music Sustainability Summit 2025 Announces Speakers and Program

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The Music Sustainability Alliance (MSA), the industry’s green association, has announced the program and speakers for its upcoming summit, to be held April 15, at Solotech Studios in Hollywood, Calif.

The Music Sustainability Summit 2025 is a daylong event focusing on a broad range of issues affecting all sectors of the music business. The event includes mainstage presentations, hands-on actionable workshops, and generous networking opportunities. We are proud to announce Billboard Magazine as our esteemed media partner.

Among the featured speakers are Maggie Baird, mother of Grammy Award-winning artists Billie Eilish and FINNEAS, and founder of Support + Feed, a food security and climate change nonprofit; Rev Lennox Yearwood, Jr., a  minister, community activist, and president of the Hip Hop Caucus, which empowers young people to participate in elections, policymaking and service projects; and John Fernandez and Norhan Bayomi, co-founders of the MIT Climate Machine, who will be presenting the first sneak peek at their comprehensive study of the live music industry’s carbon footprint – funded and supported by Warner Music Group, Live Nation, Coldplay and Hope Solutions – to be released in April.

Additional speakers include artists, tour managers, venue operators, logistics professionals, waste reduction experts, merchandise producers, and many others at the forefront of sustainable music production. They include leaders from AEG, Black Pearl, C3 Presents, ECOfashion Corp., Grandstand Media, Hip Hop Caucus, KPOP4PLANET, Live Nation, Overdrive Energy Solutions, REVERB, Showpower, Sound Future, Spotify, STURDY,  Support+Feed, Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group.

“The music industry is still in its early stages of embracing sustainable practices throughout its operations and supply chains, but the pace of change is accelerating, as is the industry’s impact,” said Amy Morrison, MSA’s Co-founder and CEO. “The 2025 Summit goes to the heart of our mission, to empower the music business to leverage its platform to tackle the climate crisis. Now is the time for collective action.”

Among the topics to be discussed are: Live Music Emissions in the UK and US; Behind the Tracks: Music Production, Delivery, and Consumption; Beyond Backlash: The High Stakes of Climate Advocacy; Can Live Music Weather the Storm?; Designing for Impact: The Critical Role of Production; Entertainment Allies: Strategies in Film, Sports and Broadway; Power Shift: The Evolving Landscape of Clean Energy; Recipe for Success: Why Menus Matter Most; and Wear the Change: Rethinking Merch.