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National Music Centre Launches Exhibition Dedicated to International Pop-Punk Legends SUM 41 on March 26

Eric Alper
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National Music Centre Launches Exhibition Dedicated to International Pop-Punk Legends SUM 41 on March 26

On March 26, the National Music Centre will unveil a new exhibition at Studio Bell, in partnership with The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, celebrating internationally renowned pop-punk legends SUM 41 as they accept their invitation into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

From their early days in Ajax, Ontario to becoming global pop-punk rock icons, SUM 41 has spent close to 30 years delivering All Killer, No Filler anthems. With over 15 million albums sold worldwide, multiple Billboard-charting releases, a Grammy nomination, two JUNO Awards, a Kerrang! Award, several Alternative Press Music Awards, and countless other accolades, SUM 41 has left an undeniable mark on rock history.

Formed in 1996 by founding members Deryck Whibley and Steve Jocz (later joined by Dave Baksh and Jason “Cone” McCaslin), SUM 41 catapulted to fame with their breakthrough debut studio album, All Killer No Filler. A multi-platinum smash, the record propelled them to international stardom almost overnight, and their breakout hit “Fat Lip,” remains their biggest to date. With a fearless blend of rock, punk, pop, and alternative metal, their music became an unapologetic soundtrack of rebellion, resilience, and redemption, capturing both irreverent humour and raw vulnerability in a single album.

Now, as the band prepares to take their final bow from performing live, the National Music Centre is honouring their legacy with a new exhibition packed with rare memorabilia, compelling storytelling, and never-before-seen artifacts, including the original VHS cassette, or “Home Made EPK,” that helped land them their first record deal.

“We’ve kept so many memories over the years – from tour footage and stage outfits to the VHS tape that kicked everything off,” said SUM 41 frontman Deryck Whibley. “We can’t wait to see these pieces come together in one place, and we hope fans enjoy this look back as much as we’ve enjoyed the ride.”

After wrapping up their final world tour, SUM 41 will take the stage one last time for an unforgettable farewell performance at The 2025 JUNO Awards Broadcast in Vancouver this weekend on March 30, 2025. While the band may be saying goodbye, fans can relive their most epic moments through this special exhibition at Studio Bell.

“SUM 41’s influence stretches far beyond Canada,” said Andrew Mosker, President and CEO of the National Music Centre. “We’re excited to celebrate their legacy at NMC and give fans an up-close look at the band’s journey and rise as global rock icons.”

“SUM 41 has had a global impact on music, and their farewell performance at The JUNO Awards Broadcast will be epic,” said Allan Reid, President & CEO, CARAS/The JUNO Awards. “We’re thrilled to celebrate their career with this exhibition at the National Music Centre that honours their lasting influence on rock music.”

The 2025 Canadian Music Hall of Fame Inductee: SUM 41 exhibition is accessible with paid admission to Studio Bell and will run from March 26, 2025 until February 2026. 

The National Music Centre (NMC) has a mission to amplify the love, sharing, and understanding of music. It is preserving and celebrating Canada’s music story inside its home at Studio Bell in the heart of the East Village in Mohkinstsis (Calgary) on Treaty 7 territory. NMC is the home to four Canadian music halls of fame, including the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Quebec’s ADISQ Hall of Fame. Featuring musical instruments, artifacts, recording equipment, and memorabilia, the NMC Collection spans over 450 years of music history and innovation. A registered charity with programs that include exhibitions, artist development, performance, and education, NMC is inspiring a new generation of music lovers. For more information about NMC’s onsite activities, please visit studiobell.ca. To check out the NMC experience online, including video-on-demand performances, made-in-Canada stories, and highly entertaining educational content, visit amplify.nmc.ca.

The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) is a not-for-profit organization created to preserve and enhance the Canadian music industry and promote higher artistic and industry standards. CARAS’ mandate is comprised of four key pillars: Educate through our music education charity, MusiCounts, programs and initiatives; Develop emerging artists through mentorship and development programs; Celebrate Canadian artists with year-round JUNO Awards showcasing; and Honour music industry icons through the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The 54th annual JUNO Awards Broadcast will take place in Vancouver at Rogers Arena on Sunday, March 30, 2025. For more information on the JUNO Awards or The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) please visit junoawards.ca.

The Canadian Music Hall of Fame was established in 1978 and recognizes Canadian artists that have attained commercial success while having a positive impact on the Canadian music scene here at home and around the world. Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre in Calgary, is the physical home to the Canadian Music Hall of Fame collection. NMC works closely with the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) to collect and exhibit items within the collection. As the governing body for the Hall of Fame, CARAS makes annual inductions in the artist, industry, and humanitarian categories each year at the JUNO Awards. For more information, please visit canadianmusichalloffame.ca.

2025 NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships Coverage Airs on SiriusXM

Eric Alper
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2025 NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships Coverage Airs on SiriusXM

SiriusXM will offer listeners nationwide baseline-to-baseline coverage of NCAA March Madness, the most exciting month on the calendar for college basketball fans. SiriusXM listeners will get access to every game of the 2025 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship, and for the 2025 NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship, listeners will get every game from the Sweet 16 round through the championship game, plus multiple early round matchups.

All of the Men’s NCAA Tournament game broadcasts, and the Women’s NCAA Tournament game broadcasts from the Sweet 16 through the National Championship, are provided to SiriusXM by Westwood One, the official network audio partner of the NCAA.

The men’s tournament begins with the First Four® on March 18-19 and continues through the Men’s Final Four® semifinal and National Championship game on April 5 and 7 in San Antonio, TX. The NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship runs from the First Four matchups on March 19-20 through the Women’s Final Four semifinal and National Championship game, to be played April 3 and 6 in Tampa, FL. Game broadcasts will be available in SiriusXM-enabled vehicles and on the SiriusXM app. Channel assignments will be posted at siriusxm.com/sports starting Monday, March 17.

Beyond the action on the court, fans will also get the most in-depth expert analysis leading up to and throughout the tournament on SiriusXM’s multiple sports talk channels, which offer daily expert analysis from former players, coaches and other college sports insiders. These channels will be a place for fans to call in and discuss their favorite teams’ performances, and will offer special programming on Selection Sunday and Final Four weekend.

“Basketball and Beyond with Coach K”

Hall of Famer and five-time national champion former head coach of the Duke Blue Devils Mike Krzyzewski will host his SiriusXM show, “Basketball and Beyond with Coach K,” twice a week during the tournament run on the SiriusXM College Sports Radio channel and on the SiriusXM app. Coach K will share his insight into what teams face as they prepare to play on college basketball’s biggest stage, and react to performances by players and teams as they advance through the bracket.

Selection Sunday

On Selection Sunday, March 16, SiriusXM listeners will get up-to-the-moment coverage as tournament teams and first round matchups are revealed:

  • On Mad Dog Sports Radio (SiriusXM channel 82), Chris “Mad Dog” Russo and Steve Torre will host special Selection Sunday coverage live from 5 – 9 pm ET.
  • SiriusXM College Sports Radio (SiriusXM channel 84) will air Selection Sunday specials from 5 – 11 pm ET. At 5 pm ET, Kris Budden will host coverage of the men’s bracket reveal, then Chris Plank and Nicole Auerbach will take over as the women’s bracket is announced at 8 pm ET.
  • The official NCAA Tournament Selection Show produced by Westwood One will air on Sirius ch. 106, XM ch. 201 and on the SiriusXM app from 6 – 9 pm ET. Hosts Jason Horowitz, PJ Carlesimo and Debbie Antonelli will cover the reveal of both the men’s and women’s tournament brackets.

Final Four Programming

In addition to the games, SiriusXM will also have live programming originating from both the Men’s and Women’s Final Four cities, with pregame shows on location in San Antonio and Tampa, as well as live coverage of the Naismith Awards Brunch, where the Women’s and Men’s Player of the Year, Coach of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year awards are announced. Nicole Auerbach will be on location for SiriusXM’s Women’s Final Four coverage in Tampa. Matt McCall and Dalen Cuff will host SiriusXM’s Men’s Final Four coverage in San Antonio.

Otis Redding Foundation Announces Opening of Center for the Arts

Eric Alper
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Otis Redding Foundation Announces Opening of Center for the Arts

Today, the Otis Redding Foundation announced the opening of the Otis Redding Center for the Arts (ORCA) located in the heart of downtown in Macon, GA. ORCA will serve young people in Central Georgia between the ages of 5 and 18 who are interested in music and the arts, with plans to roll out programming for toddlers and senior citizens later this year. Its programs, which incorporate music and the arts with the latest technologies, include spaces for private lessons, workshops, and summer camps intended to foster confidence and creativity in its students. The curriculum will cover various aspects of both the creative and business sides of music, including content creation, performing, entertainment law, engineering, graphic design and touring. Additionally, ORCA has entered into special partnerships with the Bibb County School District, Roberts Academy at Mercer University, and several other schools and organizations in the community.

Established in honor of the late, great music artist, entrepreneur, philanthropist and Macon native, Otis Redding, ORCA is a culmination of Redding’s and the Otis Redding Foundation’s commitment to giving back to their community and enriching young people through the arts.

Education was extremely important to Mr. Redding. During his lifetime, he provided scholarships to students through the Otis Redding Scholarship Fund, financed local educational initiatives and hosted a summer camp for underserved youth on his 300 acre ranch. He had a vision of one day creating a place like ORCA. Since Redding’s untimely death in 1967, his widow and President / Founder of the Otis Redding Foundation, Zelma Redding, has managed the expansive Otis Redding estate and music catalogue, while continuing his charitable work through the foundation. Mrs. Redding has been at the helm of bringing their vision to fruition, even contributing the lead investment to the performing art center’s initial funding. On what building ORCA in their hometown means to her, Mrs. Redding says, “This is a dream that my husband and I shared. And being able to turn that dream into a reality with the help of my children, grandchildren, and all of those who support us, means more to me than words can express.”

The 15,000 square feet, state-of-the-art facility features seven creative labs, five private lesson rooms, an amphitheater, and the O3 Recording Studio, named after Otis Redding, III, who passed away in April, 2023. The famed Otis Redding Statue, which was once located in Gateway Park, will sit outside of ORCA at the corner of Cotton Avenue and Cherry Street just steps away from the Otis Redding Museum located at 339 Cotton Avenue.

ORCA’s opening activities begin on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Redding family, Mayor of Macon, Lester Miller, the Macon Chamber of Commerce, city council members, and other special invited guests. The public grand opening will be held Saturday, March 22nd. Following the grand opening, ORCA will host two of the Otis Redding Foundation’s signature programs, the Otis Music Camp (June 2 – 20, 2025) and Camp Dream (July 14 – 25, 2025).

ORCA is a testament to the enduring legacy of Otis Redding, who was not only one of the greatest musical artists that the world has ever known, but also a humanitarian and philanthropist who was passionate about empowering young people through education. Vice President / Executive Director of the Otis Redding Foundation, Karla Redding-Andrews, shares, “Education and giving back to the community were very important to my father. So we are honored and excited to be able to add another piece to his legacy and continue serving our community through the center.”

Recently, Otis Redding was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in October, 2024. A biopic entitled Otis & Zelma, starring John Boyega and Danielle Deadwyler, is currently in pre-production.

For more details on the Center and its upcoming programs, visit www.orcamacon.org.

Canada Cuba Summer Jazz Academy Launches in 2025: A Life-Changing Musical and Cultural Experience for Young Musicians

Eric Alper
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Canada Cuba Summer Jazz Academy Launches in 2025: A Life-Changing Musical and Cultural Experience for Young Musicians

The inaugural Canada Cuba Summer Jazz Academy (CCSJA) is set to take place July 1st-8th, 2025, in Varadero, Cuba, offering an unparalleled opportunity for high school musicians to immerse themselves in Afro-Cuban music, culture, and history.

A collaboration between Canadian and Cuban music educators, CCSJA is designed to provide young musicians with hands-on workshops, masterclasses, and performance opportunities led by top Cuban and Canadian artists. Participants will explore the rich traditions of Mambo, Rumba, and Son Cubano, guided by Daya Aceituno Rodríguez, one of Cuba’s foremost music educators. The weeklong program will also feature daily excursions to culturally significant sites, including a full-day trip to Havana, providing students with a deep understanding of the island’s history and its profound influence on jazz music.

“This is more than just a music program—it’s a life-changing experience,” says Jules Estrin, CCSJA Artistic Director. “Students will not only refine their musicianship but also gain a deep appreciation for Cuban culture through direct engagement with its music and people.”

CCSJA builds upon the 25-year history of Canada Cuba Sports and Cultural Festivals, which has successfully introduced thousands of Canadian students to Cuban arts, culture, and education through immersive travel programs. The Academy will be hosted at the Hotel ROC Arenas Doradas in Varadero, an all-inclusive resort offering a comfortable and inspiring environment for students to learn, collaborate, and perform.

Program Highlights Include:

  • Masterclasses & Workshops with expert Cuban musicians
  • Afro-Cuban Drumming & Dance instruction
  • Rehearsals & Performances with local Cuban artists
  • Excursions to historical and cultural sites, including a full day in Havana
  • Salsa Dancing & Cultural Exchange opportunities

Parents are also welcome to travel with their children, making this a unique experience for families looking to explore Cuba together.

The cost for the program is $2,395 CAD, which includes round-trip airfare from Toronto, accommodation, all meals, ground transportation, and program fees. A deposit is due by December 20, 2024, with final payments due by April 15, 2025.

For more information or to register, visit the CCSJA website at: https://canadacuba.com/summer-jazz-academy/

Rex Linn to Host Western Heritage Awards at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Eric Alper
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Rex Linn to Host Western Heritage Awards at National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is pleased to announce that Rex Linn—who has appeared in more than 50 feature films and 45 television shows—will once again emcee the Western Heritage Awards ceremony on Saturday, April 12, 2025.

Beyond his on-screen achievements, Texas-born, Oklahoma-raised actor Linn is a passionate advocate for preserving and celebrating Western culture. He has proven to be a delightful addition to the premier event honoring individuals who have made remarkable contributions to Western heritage through their creative endeavors in literature, music, television and film.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to welcome Rex back to The Cowboy,” said National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum President and CEO Pat Fitzgerald. “He has a very special connection to Oklahoma, the Museum, and, most importantly, the West, which makes him the perfect choice again for this year’s awards.”

The star-studded awards ceremony and dinner also serves as the induction ceremony for the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum’s Hall of Great Westerners and Hall of Great Western Performers, as well as the presentation of esteemed honors such as the Lifetime Achievement Award and Chester A. Reynolds Award, named after the museum’s founder.

Presenters scheduled to appear at the ceremony include Bailey Chase, Mo Brings Plenty, Bruce Boxleitner and more.

This year’s Western Heritage Awards are presented by the National Western Stock Show’s Honoring the Legacy Campaign.

In addition to the Saturday night awards ceremony, the Museum will host several events over the weekend tied to the Western Heritage Awards.

Full List of Events

Western Heritage Awards Ceremony, presented by the National Western Stock Show’s Honoring the Legacy Campaign

  • Saturday, April 12, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Tickets are sold out.
  • To join the waitlist if tickets become available: WHA Ceremony Ticket Waitlist

Kickoff Party, presented by Pendleton Whisky

  • Friday, April 11, 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
  • Includes complimentary cocktails and live entertainment
  • $70 Museum Member, $85 General Admission
  • Tickets can be purchased here: WHA Kickoff Party Tickets

Additional Programs

Western Heritage Awards Workshop, “Rescuing Classic Westerns and How to Become a Filmmaker” with 2025 Honoree Bob Terry and Johnie Terry

  • Friday, April 11, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
  • Free with Museum Admission

Inductee Panel Discussion with Brooks & Dunn and Graham Greene

  • Saturday, April 12, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Free with Museum Admission

Shopping Opportunities

Lucchese Bootmaker Custom Boot Fittings

  • Thursday, April 10, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Friday, April 11, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., 5 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 12, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Persimmon Hill, the Museum’s store for Western goods, will host designer trunk shows

  • Friday, April 11, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 12, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Cara Brown Designs (jewelry)
  • The Bohlin Company (custom buckles)
  • Hallett Peak (jewelry and leather goods)
  • Mahota Textiles (blankets, pillows, accessories)
  • Phoebe Duncan (jewelry)

For more information, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org/western-heritage-awards.

Rex Linn’s acting career has been nothing short of prolific. Over the last 25 years, Rex has appeared in over 50 feature films and 45 television shows.

Adding to his extensive career, Linn can currently be seen in recurring roles on the critically acclaimed series Better Call Saul, CBS’s hit sitcom Young Sheldon, and Nicole Kidman’s Apple TV+ series Roar. Linn’s additional key television credits include recurring roles on HBO’s The Brink, Netflix’s Golden Globe winner The Kominsky Method, FOX’s hit series Lethal Weapon and a ten-year series regular role on CSI: Miami. Linn also co-starred opposite Reba McEntire in the true-life inspired Lifetime original feature film, The Hammer, as well as the ABC series Big Sky.

Linn is currently co-starring in the number one sitcom on television, NBC’s hit series Happy’s Place. Linn plays Emmett, the gruff but popular short order cook.

Linn’s past film credits include many prestigious projects, such as Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained and Ed Harris’s Appaloosa. He is also known for the classic blockbusters Cliffhanger, Clear and Present Danger, Tin Cup and Rush Hour, to name a few. Linn’s comedy chops have also allowed him to work with some of the greats, including Walter Matthau and Jack Lemmon in Neil Simon’s Odd Couple II, Steve Martin in Cheaper by the Dozen and John Lithgow in 3rd Rock From the Sun.

Linn was born and raised in Texas and Oklahoma and is based in Los Angeles. He is represented by Fourward.

About Bob and Johnie Terry

Bob and Johnie Terry are dedicated to preserving the American West. Since 2009, they have worked in the film industry, producing original Western-based productions while also preserving and hosting classic Western films.

In 2017, they began producing The Forsaken Westerns, a TV series dedicated to rescuing and broadcasting rare, unsold Western TV show pilots, Western anthology series, Western-focused episodes of TV series and Western movies. Many of these were transferred from 8mm and 16mm film and were thought to have been lost forever.

Since 2020, they have worked on Red Steagall’s Somewhere West of Wall Street TV show, with Bob serving as director, cinematographer and editor, while Johnie has been assistant director, cinematographer and closed-caption creator.

Bob Terry’s documentary, Playing Cowboy, is being honored at this year’s Western Heritage Awards.

Western Heritage Awards Honorees

Western Lifestyle Program: The Roundup: A Cowboy State Daily Podcast With ‘Longmire’ Author Craig Johnson, hosted by Wendy Corr and produced by Jimmy Orr.
Theatrical Motion Picture: Tokyo Cowboy, starring Arata Iura, directed by Marc Marriott, written by Dave Boyle.
Documentary: Playing Cowboy, directed by Bob Terry, produced by Westerns on The Web Productions.
Fictional Drama: Desire Is All You Need (from Yellowstone), directed by Christina Alexandra Voros, produced by Taylor Sheridan.
Nonfiction Book: The Colfax County War: Violence and Corruption in Territorial New Mexico, by Corey Recko, published by University of North Texas Press.
Art Book: Making the Unknown Known: Women in Early Texas Art, by Victoria H. & Light Townsend Cummins, published by Texas A&M University Press.
Juvenile Book: Glory Be! It’s Punkin’s Story! by Carolyn Wills (self-published).
Magazine Article: After Birth, by Kathryn Wilder, published by The Missouri Review.
Western Novel: Malas, by Marcela Fuentes, published by Viking.
Poetry Book: Earl’s Own Dakota Odyssey, by Bruce Roseland, published by Scurfpea Publishing.
Original Western Composition: I Am a Cowboy, recording artist Caleb Martin, composed by Montie Carol Montgomery.
Traditional Western Album: On the Trail With the Lonesome Pines, recording artist Hilary Gardner.

Western Heritage Awards Inductees and Lifetime Achievement Honorees

Hall of Great Westerners
Louise S. O’Connor
Dr. Baxter Black (1945–2022)

Hall of Great Western Performers
Graham Greene
Anthony Quinn (1915–2001)

Chester A. Reynolds Award
Warner Glenn

Lifetime Achievement Award
Brooks & Dunn

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is America’s premier institution of Western history, art, and culture. Founded in 1955, the museum collects, preserves, and exhibits an internationally renowned collection of Western art and artifacts while sponsoring dynamic educational programs to stimulate interest in the enduring legacy of the American West. For more information, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org.

Lizzo Drops New Single “Still Bad” Ahead of Highly Anticipated Album ‘Love In Real Life’

Eric Alper
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Lizzo Drops New Single “Still Bad” Ahead of Highly Anticipated Album ‘Love In Real Life’

urning up the heat yet again, 4x GRAMMY Award and Emmy award winning, RIAA multi-platinum certified superstar Lizzo serves up her new single, “Still Bad”, available now on all streaming platforms via Nice Life Recording Company/Atlantic Records. Listen here and watch the official music video directed by Collin Tilley.

Lizzo remains as unapologetic as ever on the enthusiastic and self-assured anthem. A thumping bass line sets the tempo for the track between pulsating eighties-style keys and  head-nodding claps. She comes to a realization on the chorus,  “I don’t need him. I need a drink , ”  giving way to fiery funk guitar. Embracing confidence, charisma, and her power, she incites an irresistible chant,  “After everything, I’m still surviving and I’m still bad, baby, so bitch I can’t complain . ”  The music video translates this energy to the screen!

She’s not just “Still Bad;” there’s no one badder in 2025…

The track lands in the wake of “Love In Real Life,” which took flight as her first solo release in three years since 2022. Its Colin Tilley-directed music video has already amassed over 7 million YouTube views and counting, while the song has posted up north of 2 million Spotify streams so far.

“Love In Real Life” has also incited widespread critical applause. People applauded how, “Sonically, ‘Love in Real Life’ finds Lizzo channeling her late mentor Prince as she sings lyrics about overcoming hardship to enjoy a night out over funky upbeat production inspired by the rock icon’s ‘Let’s Go Crazy’.” Pitchfork professed, “Lizzo is back,” and The FADER stated, “‘Love In Real Life’ is filled with fuzzy guitar riffs and agile drums.” HYPEBEAST raved, “Exploring the complexities of both self-love and romantic relationships, ‘Love In Real Life’ delivers an uplifting message through Lizzo’s powerhouse vocals and dynamic instrumentation.” Billboard christened it a “rollicking, uptempo pop rock tune.” 

EUPHORIA. declared, “A little bit of pop, a little bit of soul and a little bit of rock was what it took to make ‘Love In Real Life,’ and if you’re not dancing, nodding your head, or tapping your feet as the high tempo song plays, what kind of person are you?” 

Everything heralds the arrival of her fifth full-length LP and one of the most anticipated albums of 2025, Love In Real Life. To celebrate the start of this chapter, Lizzo is performing three super intimate fan shows. She just graced the stage of The Wiltern in Los Angeles this week and will rock Irving Plaza in New York, NY on March 16 and First Avenue in Minneapolis, MN on March 18.

In February, she ignited social media by teasing “Love In Real Life.” First up, she bid “farewell” to her Special era in a viral post followed by the reveal of a flute-soundtracked trailer for “Love In Real Life,” generating hundreds of thousands of views and “likes.” Rolling Stone noted, “She 

is entering a ‘new era’ of music,” and Billboard excitedly proclaimed, “It’s about damn time for some new Lizzo music.” 

Lizzo delivers now.

Stay tuned for more music and surprises soon.

This chapter is all about love, life, and Lizzo…

MARINA Celebrates FROOT’s 10th Anniversary with Limited Edition Vinyl Featuring an Unreleased Track

Eric Alper
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MARINA Celebrates FROOT’s 10th Anniversary with Limited Edition Vinyl Featuring an Unreleased Track

Platinum-selling artist MARINA marks the 10th anniversary of her critically acclaimed third album FROOT with a special Limited Edition Red EcoRecord, set for release on 25th July 2025.

Originally released in 2015, FROOT was a turning point in MARINA’s career, showcasing her songwriting and artistic independence. The album debuted at #10 on the Billboard 200, making it her highest-charting release at the time, and included fan-favorite tracks such as Happy, Forget, Blue, and the title track FROOT. Praised for its lush production and introspective lyricism, the record remains a cornerstone of MARINA’s discography, celebrating themes of growth, love, and self-discovery.

To honor its milestone anniversary, this EcoRecord will include a Tropical scented Sticker and features the unreleased track ‘I’m Not Hungry Anymore’ from the FROOT era.

MARINA burst on to the scene in 2009, and has since released five acclaimed albums including Electra Heart (2012), which debuted at Number 1 on the UK’s Official Charts, FROOT (2015), Love + Fear (2019), which debuted TOP 5 in the UK and Top 10 on the U.S. Albums chart, and most recently Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land (2021), which featured the Ivor Novello nominated hit “Man’s World”. Each of MARINA’s records have been accompanied by global sell-out headline tours with shows at some of the most prestigious venues in the UK and US. With her latest single “Butterfly” (Listen | Watch) marking a new and exciting era for the internationally acclaimed, award-winning artist and author, MARINA will be bringing her live show to the stage at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, World Pride Music Festival in Washington D.C., The Governors Ball in New York, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, TN and Osheaga Music and Arts Festival in Montreal this year.

5 Surprising Facts About Beastie Boys’ ‘Licensed To Ill’

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Beastie Boys’ ‘Licensed To Ill’

Some albums don’t just change the game—they are the game. Licensed to Ill, the Beastie Boys’ 1986 debut, didn’t just introduce hip-hop to the mainstream; it bulldozed its way into history. The first rap album to ever hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200, it blended rock and hip-hop in a way no one had dared before, making it a blueprint for countless artists that followed. But for all its accolades, there are still stories hidden beneath its legendary beats that will make you fight for your right to party.

  1. The Beastie Boys Originally Started as a Hardcore Punk Band

Before they became hip-hop pioneers, the Beastie Boys were a punk band. In the early 1980s, they were part of New York’s thriving hardcore scene, playing gritty, fast-paced music inspired by bands like Bad Brains and Minor Threat. Their 1982 EP Polly Wog Stew is a full-on punk record, featuring thrashing guitars, shouted vocals, and absolutely zero rap. It wasn’t until they started experimenting with turntables and beats—thanks in part to meeting Rick Rubin—that they transitioned into hip-hop. But their punk roots never faded, fueling their rebellious attitude and raw energy throughout their career.

  1. Fight for Your Right Was a Joke That Became a Party Anthem

When Fight for Your Right (To Party) was written, it wasn’t meant to be an anthem for frat boys and wild nights—it was a parody of exactly that culture. The Beastie Boys had crafted the track as a satire of rock songs that glorified excess, poking fun at the party-hard attitude of bands like Mötley Crüe and Twisted Sister. But irony was lost on the masses. Instead of realizing it was a mockery, the same party bros the song ridiculed embraced it as their personal soundtrack. Mike D later admitted that the band was shocked by how seriously people took the song, saying, “There were tons of guys singing along to Fight for Your Right who were oblivious to the fact that it was a total goof on them.”

  1. Kerry King of Slayer Shredded on Two Tracks

Hip-hop and metal had collided before, but Licensed to Ill took it to another level. Slayer’s lead guitarist, Kerry King, played blistering guitar solos on No Sleep Till Brooklyn and Fight for Your Right, adding a layer of rock intensity that helped the album appeal to hard rock audiences. The collaboration happened because Rick Rubin was producing both Slayer and Beastie Boys at the same time. King also appeared in the No Sleep Till Brooklyn music video, reinforcing the band’s rock-rap crossover appeal. His aggressive guitar work helped solidify Beastie Boys as more than just a rap group—they were a force that transcended genres.

  1. The Backwards Drumbeat on Paul Revere Was an Accident

One of the most iconic beats on Licensed to Ill came from a studio experiment gone wrong—or right, depending on how you look at it. During a recording session, Adam Yauch (MCA) suggested flipping a standard drumbeat backwards to see what it would sound like. The result was the hypnotic, looped beat that drives Paul Revere, giving the track its distinct, futuristic groove. Run-D.M.C.’s Joseph Simmons (Run) was there when it happened and immediately recognized its potential. Yauch’s outside-the-box thinking created a beat that remains one of hip-hop’s most unique and recognizable.

  1. The Beatles Blocked One of the Album’s Tracks

Beastie Boys originally planned to include a cover of The Beatles’ I’m Down on the album, complete with sampled elements from the original track. However, they ran into an unexpected roadblock: Michael Jackson. At the time, Jackson owned the publishing rights to The Beatles’ catalog and refused to grant permission for the sample’s use. As a result, I’m Down was cut from the final tracklist, though bootleg versions of the Beasties’ take on the song have since surfaced online. Given their later legal battles over sampling, it’s ironic that their first major copyright clash came from a pop superstar rather than the record industry itself.

Licensed to Ill opened doors for rap’s mainstream takeover, and redefined what hip-hop could be. Behind every track is a story of innovation, rebellion, and, let’s be honest, a bit of accidental genius. Next time you crank up Brass Monkey or No Sleep Till Brooklyn, just remember: it’s not just an album—it’s a chaotic, beer-soaked, punk-fueled, history-making masterpiece. And if you ever find yourself in a bar fight, just ask yourself—what would the Beastie Boys do? (Hint: Probably throw a pie and run.)

Spotify Launches Ramadan Hub with Curated Playlists and Podcasts for Reflection, Wellness, and Celebration

Eric Alper
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Spotify Launches Ramadan Hub with Curated Playlists and Podcasts for Reflection, Wellness, and Celebration

Ramadan, a period of profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide, is a time for fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Enrich your experience this year with Spotify, where you can discover content designed to nourish your soul, stimulate your mind, and energize your body. Explore our curated recommendations below and find your perfect audio companion in the Ramadan hub.

Nourishing the soul: Spiritual sounds for Ramadan

Music can be a powerful tool for reflection and connection. Spotify offers a variety of Ramadan-inspired playlists to enhance your spiritual journey.

  • Ramadaniyat captures the cultural and spiritual essence of the month with traditional Islamic songs focused on pure vocals and spiritual lyrics.
  • Featuring the soothing sounds of the oud, Chill-oud is ideal for unwinding after a day of fasting and enhancing the tranquility of your Ramadan evenings.
  • For moments of contemplation between prayers, Duaa features a selection of supplications, an integral part of Islamic worship.
  • South Asian Sufi presents Sufi devotional music, known for its rich adaptations of Sufi poetry and enigmatic themes, creating a profound spiritual experience.
  • Titrat features soundtracks from popular Ramadan TV series, a blend of dramatic scores, comedic beats, and poignant melodies that reflect the rich cultural fabric of the Arab world.
  • As the sun sets, the Iftar playlist provides a serene atmosphere, mirroring the gratitude and connection shared as families and friends gather for the fast-breaking meal.

Enriching the mind: Podcasts for reflection and inspiration

Spotify’s podcast selection offers thought-provoking content to stimulate your mind during Ramadan.

  • Finjan with Abdul Rahman Abu Maleh invites listeners to explore new perspectives and gain insights into a variety of topics, from technology and entrepreneurship to personal stories and cultural discussions.
  • Omam Podcast puts a unique spin on the stories of the Holy Quran, allowing listeners to experience these narratives through sensory, evocative storytelling.
  • In Indonesia, video podcast creators are embracing Ramadan with special segments designed to inspire and entertain. Check out Biar Ga Nyesel for mindfulness tips, Rapot for lighthearted iftar inspiration, and PODCAST ANCUR for heartfelt stories from Indonesians living abroad.

Strengthening the body: Music for movement and preparation

Taking care of your physical well-being is also an important aspect of the sacred month. Here are some playlists to help you stay active and energized.

  • As you prepare your suhoor and iftar meals, Cooking Time and the Laper Parah mood mix provide uplifting and catchy soundtracks to enhance your kitchen experience.
  • Need an energy boost during your Ramadan workout? Hit play on Fitness and Health. And to stay energized for a more productive day while fasting, check out the Lebih Produktif di Ramadan mood mix.

Head to the Ramadan hub to discover a world of audio inspiration.

Spotify Audiobooks Launches a New Publishing Program for Independent Authors

Eric Alper
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Spotify Audiobooks Launches a New Publishing Program for Independent Authors

Spotify continues to work daily to lift up new voices, providing creators with opportunities to live off their art. Through Spotify Audiobooks, its in-house publishing imprint, the platform has partnered with various publishers and authors to license and produce hundreds of titles.

Starting today, Spotify Audiobooks is launching a new website encouraging independent authors to submit short-form stories for audiobook creation and publishing consideration.

“Spotify Audiobooks is thrilled to be opening submissions for short-form content written by independent authors who are as passionate about audiobooks as we are,” said Leah Kleynhans, Spotify Audiobooks Producer. “We know Spotify users will love exploring these intense, bite-sized listens, and expanding our audiobooks catalog in this way gives fans even more choice in the content they love to consume on our platform.”

This is a global program, open to any author with an English-language short-form story who controls their own audio rights for that work.

If Spotify chooses to move forward with an author’s submission, Spotify will publish the audiobook, handling all aspects of production, distribution to major audiobook retailers, and payment of an advance and royalties.

How to Submit a Short-Form Story to Spotify Audiobooks:

  • Visit the short-form audiobooks site, which includes frequently asked questions and a link to the submission page.
  • Ensure the story is a novelette of approximately 10,000-20,000 words.
  • Focus on one of three genres: romance, mystery/thriller, or sci-fi/fantasy.
  • Cross-genre works such as romantasy, dark romance thriller, mystery sci-fi, or psychological thriller are encouraged.
  • Do not submit erotica or children’s content.
  • Submissions will be chosen on a rolling basis.

Spotify remains committed to lowering the barrier to entry so that more authors than ever can have their books heard. As part of this initiative, Spotify is also encouraging independent authors who prefer self-publication to upload existing short-form audiobooks via Findaway Voices. With Spotify Audiobooks, authors have the opportunity to have their books produced and distributed through Spotify, while Findaway Voices offers a path for existing content to reach new fans.

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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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