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Zach Top and Billy Strings Team Up for ‘Me & Billy’ — Now Streaming Everywhere

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Zach Top has releases Me & Billy-a three-song EP featuring 2x Grammy Award-winning artist Billy Strings. Previously released last fall as an Apple Music exclusive, the EP can now be streamed everywhere and finds the pair reimagining versions of Top’s original tracks “Bad Luck” and “Things To Do” along with a cover of Ricky Skaggs’ “Don’t Cheat In Our Home Town.”

Of the collaboration with Strings, Top shares, “We had a lot of fun, traded back and forth some playing and whatnot. It’s so fun to watch him play. And I feel like he’s known so much for a player that it gets passed over sometimes how freaking good of a singer he is too. It was so fun to get to sing with him and him kind enough to come in on a couple of my songs and sing a second verse, sing a little harmony, do that kind of thing. It was a blast.”

The new release adds to a breakout year for Top, who was recently named “the future of country music” by Billboard, nominated for New Artist of the Year at the 58th Annual CMA Awards and was named Discovery Artist of the Year at the 2024 MusicRow Awards. He released his widely praised debut album, Cold Beer & Country Music, last spring. Produced by Carson Chamberlain (Billy Currington, Easton Corbin), the record garnered over 3.5 million streams in just its first week and received widespread acclaim. The Tennessean said it’s full of “star-making tunes,” while Country Central praised, “Cold Beer & Country Music is a masterclass in traditional country music…With a record this strong, Zach Top has proven himself as a standout rising star in this format and a premier vocalist in country music.”

Furthermore, Top’s “Cold Beer & Country Music” headline tour completely sold out just hours after tickets went on sale and features stops at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium (two nights), New York’s Terminal 5 and Boston’s MGM Music Hall at Fenway among many others. Additionally, Top is supporting select dates with Alan Jackson on his “Last Call Tour” and will join Dierks Bentley’s “Broken Branches Tour,” kicking off in May.

Raised in Sunnyside, WA, Top grew up on classic country music around the family farm. At the age of seven, he formed a band with his siblings which set the stage for his musical ambitions. Throughout his teenage years and early twenties, Top honed his craft by playing in various bluegrass bands before moving to Nashville in 2021, where he has been steadily making his mark as an artist to watch.

ZACH TOP TOUR DATES
February 28-Nashville, TN-Ryman Auditorium^ (SOLD OUT)
March 1-Nashville, TN-Ryman Auditorium+ (SOLD OUT)
March 5-Jacksonville, FL-Daily’s Place+ (SOLD OUT)
March 7-Orlando, FL-Kia Center#
March 8-Atlanta, GA-Buckhead Theatre+ (SOLD OUT)
March 11-Houston, TX-NRG Rodeo Houston
March 21-23-Willowbank, Australia-CMC Rocks
April 2-Oxford, MS-The Lyric Oxford~
April 3-Starkville, MS-Rick’s Cafe~
April 4-Starkville, MS-Rick’s Cafe~
April 5-New Orleans, LA-Hogs for the Cause 2025
April 10-Columbia, SC-Township Auditorium~
April 11-Winterville, GA-Athens Fairgrounds
April 12-Opelika, AL-Sistrunk Farms
April 24-Wilmington, NC-Live Oak Bank Pavilion^
April 25-Statesboro, GA-The Blue Room^
April 26-Tampa, FL-Amalie Arena#
May 1-New York, NY-Terminal 5^
May 2-Siver Spring, MD-The Fillmore^
May 3-Philadelphia, PA-The Fillmore Philadelphia^
May 4-Boston, MA-MGM Music Hall at Fenway^
May 15-Pikeville, KY-Appalachian Wireless Arena~
May 16-Indianapolis, IN-Everwisse Amphitheater at White River State Park~
May 17-Milwaukee, WI-Fiserv Forum#
May 29-Austin, TX-Moody Center*
May 30-Dallas, TX-Dos Equis Pavilion*
May 31-Tulsa, OK-BOK Center*
June 5-Alpharetta, GA-Ameris Bank Amphitheatre*
June 6-Tampa, FL-MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre*
June 7-iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre*
June 11-North Lawrence, OH-The Country Fest 2025
June 12-Toronto, ON-Budweiser Stage*
June 14-Tinley Park, IL-Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
June 19-Chula Vista, CA-North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
June 20-Phoenix, AZ-Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre
June 21-Albuquerque, NM-Isleta Amphitheater
June 22-Telluride, CO-Telluride Bluegrass Festival 2025
June 26-Los Angeles, CA-Intuit Dome*
June 27-Wheatland, CA-Toyota Amphitheatre*
June 28-Mountain View, CA-Shoreline Amphitheatre
July 10-Virginia Beach, VA-Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater
July 11-Bristow, VA-Jiffy Libe Live
July 12-Mansfield, MA-Xfinity Center
July 13-Clearfield, PA-Clearfield County Fairgrounds
July 17-Twin Lakes, WI-Shadow Hill Ranch
July 18-Cincinnati, OH-Riverbend Music Center
July 19-Noblesville, IN-Ruoff Music Center
July 31-Salt Lake City, UT-Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
August 1-Nampa, ID-Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
August 2-Quincy, WA-Watershed Festival
August 7-Camden, NJ-Freedom Mortgage Pavilion*
August 8-Raleigh, NC-Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
August 9-Charlotte, NC-PNC Music Pavilion
August 14-Darrien Center, NY-Darrien Lake Amphitheater*
August 15-Holmdel, NJ-PNC Bank Arts Center
August 16-Bethel, NY-Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
August 21-Savannah, GA-Enmarket Arena
August 22-Birmingham, AL-Coca-Cola Amphitheater
August 23-Biloxi, MS-Mississippi Coast Coliseum*
August 28-New York, NY-Madison Square Garden Arena*
August 29-Burgettstown, PA-The Pavilion at Star Lake*
August 30-Clarkston, MI-Pine Knob Music Theatre*
+with special guest Cole Goodwin
#supporting Alan Jackson
^with special guest Jake Worthington
~with special guest Lauren Watkins
*supporting Dierks Bentley

Jeff Bridges Unearths ‘Slow Magic, 1977-1978’ — A Long-Lost Chapter of His Musical Journey

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Light in the Attic (LITA) proudly presents Slow Magic, 1977-1978, a collection of never-before-heard songs that Jeff Bridges wrote and recorded with a band of his oldest and closest friends. At turns unruly, inventive, vulnerable, and joyfully weird, the tapes capture him singing and playing with total joy and abandon. The ragtag exuberance of these recordings not only evokes LA at a specific place and time-they reveal a missing link in the life of Bridges, an actor who has always considered himself a musician.

A native of West Los Angeles, Bridges was born into a showbiz family that happily encouraged him to follow them into movies and television. “I had other interests like music, painting, ceramics, all different kinds of things,” he says. “And my dad would say, ‘Jeff, don’t be ridiculous. That’s one of the great things about acting. You’re going to be called upon to tap into all the talent and different interests you have.'”

Even after being nominated for an Academy Award at age 22 for his role in 1971’s The Last Picture Show, Bridges was uncertain if acting would his path. He bought a ramshackle house in the hills above Malibu, which became a clubhouse for a group of close friends who had been the misfits of University High School, class of 1967. Among them were Stan Ayeroff (a guitar virtuoso who later wrote books about Django Reinhardt and Charlie Christian); David Greenwalt (a guitarist and songwriter who later started writing scripts and eventually co-produced Buffy The Vampire Slayer); Matthew Bright (a bassist who went onto to direct Reese Witherspoon in the gonzo cult film Freeway); and Steve Baim (their fearless leader, famous for his spontaneous art-making, taking over 300 acid trips, and auditioning to be James Brown’s drummer).

At the Malibu pad, they surfed and flew kites and soaked in the hot tub and sweated in the sauna that Jeff installed. Everyone played music. Songwriting was just an extension of the hang-as effortless as dancing or sharing a joint. While Bridges worshipped Bob Dylan and the Beatles, his approach to making music was spiked with weirdness-he loved Captain Beefheart and Moondog.

After Jeff finished 1976’s blockbuster remake of King Kong, he and his friends rented a warehouse in Venice, CA, where they recorded a set of songs that included “Obnoxious,” a gloriously chaotic waltz that satirizes self-consciousness, and “Slow Magic,” a sweet shuffle about stoned enlightenment. The sessions were overseen by songwriter and orchestrator Ken Lauber, who had recently relocated to LA to work with Bob Dylan and The Band at Shangri-La studio in Malibu. He and Bridges met when Lauber did the soundtrack for Hearts of The West. “Jeff was going to Est seminars with Werner Erhard, and that enabled him to get in touch with these psychological underpinnings of his life experiences up to this point,” says Lauber. “I thought he’d honed his writing and singing to a point where it could be recognized as a commercial venture.”

An assortment of old friends and LA oddballs floated through the sessions. Horns were played by Sam “Sluggo” Phipps or Billy Superball-both members of the guerilla theater troupe The Mystic Knights of Oingo Boingo, which later morphed into Oingo Boingo, led by composer Danny Elfman. While Jeff was recording at Village Recorder, the storied studio soon to be taken over by Fleetwood Mac for Tusk, he ran into the legendary character actor Burgess Meredith, who wrote and directed Jeff’s second film-the surreal thriller The Yin & Yang of Mr. Go (1970). Meredith was an early supporter of Jeff’s music and encouraged him to contribute original songs to the film. A few years later, fresh off his role as Mickey in Rocky (1976), Meredith added extraordinary monologues to “Kong” and “Here On This Island,” two mind-bending slices of mutant disco. The inspiration for “Kong” came from Jeff’s concept for a sequel to Kong (1976)-when producer Dino De Laurentiis rejected his pitch, Jeff turned it into a song.

At times, their music occupied the same airspace as Arthur Russell, or Talking Heads, or Frank Zappa-or all of them playing together. Still, they were aware that their tastes might be too weird or vulnerable for public consumption. After the sessions were shelved, Jeff and his friends continued to meet privately for “The Wednesday Night Jam,” a drug-fueled, free-form ritual held every Wednesday night at Steve Baim’s storefront art studio in Culver City. The rules were simple: 1) No songs, 2) No blues, 3) No preparation. The racket they made together could be disastrous or glorious. Either way, they loved it. For Jeff, it was a refuge from the pressure of movie stardom, a place where he was allowed to totally lose himself, surrounded by the old friends he trusted most. The atmospheric instrumental collages of “Space #1” and “Space #2” come from that space.

As Jeff’s fame grew, the old friends continued to meet, generating new songs and accumulating self-recorded tapes traded among themselves like Dead Heads. Meanwhile, his movie career and his music started to converge. He and T-Bone Burnett became lifelong friends and collaborators after meeting on the set of Heaven’s Gate (1980). Burnett and Bridges worked closely to develop the character and music of Crazy Heart (2010), for which Jeff won the Oscar for Best Actor. Burnett went on to produce Jeff’s self-titled 2011 album, the follow-up to his first solo album, Be Here Soon (2000). Following Crazy Heart, Jeff started touring with The Abiders, who have been his live band ever since.

After collaborating with Jeff on the 2015 ambient spoken word album Sleeping Tapes, Keefus Ciancia was in the studio with Jeff when he happened to pull up some old recordings from the 1970s. Ciancia was blown away. He said that the old tapes sounded like “The Band playing at CBGB with the Exploding Plastic Inevitable” and quietly tipped LITA to the existence of Jeff’s archive.

The music on Slow Magic, 1977-1978 comes from a single decaying cassette labeled “July 1978.” It represents a cross-section of those lost 1970s sessions. Keefus Ciancia, Jean Sievers, and Matt Sullivan spent the second half of 2024 working closely with Bridges to prep the music for release. Though he’s on a tight filming schedule, Bridges completely devoted himself to every aspect of this release-sharing stories for countless hours, studying mixes and sequences, and even hand-drawing a version of the LITA logo for the artwork.

Whether films, music, or visual art, his process has always been to joyfully immerse himself in whatever opportunity surfaces in the moment. He just never thought that opportunity would emerge for these tapes. “Pretty wild that this thing that happened around 50 years ago wants to bloom,” says Jeff. “I guess weirdness is what’s happening these days. You never can tell what’s gonna happen.” The spirit of these rediscovered tapes is connected to Emergent Behavior, a series of raw, unpolished songs that Jeff has been recording and releasing in recent years. The music is available directly through jeffbridges.com.

Pressed at RTI on transparent blue vinyl, Slow Magic, 1977-1978 will be available exclusively for Record Store Day (April 12) at participating independent retailers. Additionally, the album will arrive on digital platforms on the same day. All physical formats include extensive liner notes by Sam Sweet featuring a new interview with Jeff Bridges and a treasure trove of never-before-seen archival photos courtesy of photographers Loretta Ayeroff and Candy Clark. The album features eleven previously unreleased tracks newly mastered by multi-Grammy nominated engineer John Baldwin, with lacquers cut by John Golden at Golden Mastering. Designed by Darry Norsen, the LP edition features a 20-page booklet.

Ahead of the album’s release, digital single “Obnoxious” is streaming on all platforms today (Feb. 28). Behind the scenes, filmmakers Isaac Gale, Paul Lovelace, and Ben Wu (the team behind the acclaimed 2025 documentary, Swamp Dogg Gets His Pool Painted) have produced a series of short docs surrounding the project slated for release this spring.

Liner notes writer Sam Sweet conducted countless hours of interviews and research, working directly with Jeff Bridges and in partnership with Light in the Attic. Sweet is best known for All Night Menu, an ongoing series of microhistories of Los Angeles. The project encompasses books, archival collections, and an interview series. The mission of All Night Menu is to make the invisible equal to the visible.

Slow Magic, 1977-1978 LP/Digital Tracklist:

Side A
He’s Here
Obnoxious
Attitude
Space #1
Slow Magic
Here On This Island (feat. Burgess Meredith)

Side B
Light Blues
This Is The One
Space #2
You Could Be Ready
Kong (feat. Burgess Meredith)

Bryan Ferry and Amelia Barratt Unveil ‘Florist,’ a Cinematic Prelude to Their Collaborative Album ‘Loose Talk’

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Bryan Ferry and performance artist, writer and painter Amelia Barratt release ‘Florist’, the latest work from their upcoming collaborative album Loose Talk, due for release on March 28.

Following the richly detailed and transportive ‘Orchestra’, ‘Florist’ invites the listener deeper into the cinematic world of Loose Talk. The accompanying video was shot and directed by Bryan Ferry.

Loose Talk signals the beginning of a new creative chapter for Bryan Ferry, blurring the lines between music, poetry and art. Fifty-three years since Roxy Music’s iconic debut album arrived like a bolt-from-the-blue, his latest project is just as startlingly unexpected. The sounds and shapes, and the spoken words they are set to, are unlike any previous Bryan Ferry album. At the same time, the mood that Loose Talk captures is rooted in Ferry’s past half-century of work.

Loose Talk marks the first time Ferry has created new music for another writer’s words. The album consists of eleven texts, composed by Amelia Barratt, creating fascinating micro-fictions, simultaneously fragmentary and self-contained.

The album balances refined minimalism and abstraction with an experimental and youthful energy. Ferry’s music and Barratt’s texts each hold their own codes. As those codes pulse as one, the album discovers its own language – two monologues begin a conversation that becomes a duet.

Discussing Loose Talk, Bryan Ferry said: “The whole experience of making Loose Talk has had an interesting newness about it. It seems to have opened a whole new chapter in my work. There’s a really strong mood to the work that Amelia does and I was very conscious of not getting in the way of her words. Hopefully, together, we’ve created something neither could do on our own.

The nearest I ever got to doing pieces like this before would maybe be back in Roxy with “In Every Dream Home A Heartache,” and “Mother Of Pearl”. To some extent, those are kind of spoken monologues. I’m pleased that when we’ve played Loose Talk to people, they’ve said, “Oh, this sounds really different.” That’s what I’ve always wanted with everything I’ve done, or been involved in, to be: different. Different to what you’ve heard before, or seen before. That’s the whole point of being an artist: trying to create a new thing, a new world.”

Amelia Barratt said: “Loose Talk is a conversation between two artists: a collaborative album of music by Bryan Ferry with spoken texts by me. It’s cinematic; music put to pictures.

There’s possibility for experimentation within a frame. And there’s a freedom in knowing exactly what my part to play is, then being able to pass a baton, stretching out creatively and knowing there is someone on the other side to take it further. Nothing feels off limits.”

Bryan Ferry and Amelia Barratt were first connected via their separate involvements in the art world. The collaboration began with a chance meeting at an exhibition opening, where Ferry grew intrigued to learn Barratt had started working with writing and performance in parallel with her painting. Both artists share an art school background – Bryan Ferry studied painting at Newcastle University in the 1960s, Barratt at Glasgow School of Art and the Slade School of Art, where she received an MFA in 2016 – but it’s the differences between them that animate Loose Talk and create unmapped territory.

Bryan Ferry’s collaboration with Amelia Barratt was first teased with the release of ‘Star’ in 2024 – presented as the latest composition on the newly released 81 track career-spanning collection, Retrospective: Selected Recordings 1973-2023. ‘Star’ was described with “smouldering brilliance” by Uncut Magazine, “a sinister sequel to Dance Away” by MOJO, “remarkable, crunching, frosted, sub-zero electronics” by CLASH Magazine and “a trippy new single” by the NME.

Why Does Every Content Creator Need a Free Video Generator in Their Toolkit?

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By Mitch Rice

In today’s fast-paced digital world, video content is king. Whether you’re a marketer, educator, or social media influencer, high-quality videos are essential for engagement and brand growth. But not everyone has the time or budget for professional video editing. That’s where a free AI video generator becomes a game-changer. It streamlines the video creation process, allowing content creators to generate professional-grade videos effortlessly.

With tools like CapCut Commerce Pro, you can transform raw content into polished, high-performing videos without needing advanced editing skills. From automated captions to AI-driven enhancements, these tools save time and resources, making them a must-have in every creator’s toolkit. In this article, we’ll explore why a free AI video generator is indispensable for modern content creation.

What is a free AI video generator and its benefits? 

A free AI video generator is a smart tool that automates video creation, helping content creators produce high-quality videos without requiring advanced editing skills. With features like automatic scene transitions, text-to-video conversion, AI voiceovers, and smart effects, these tools simplify the editing process while maintaining professional quality.

Platforms like CapCut Commerce Pro make video production effortless, whether for marketing, tutorials, or social media content. Many creators also use this tool as a YouTube video editor to refine their videos further, ensuring they are optimized for engagement and seamless publishing.

Benefits of a free AI video generator

  • Saves time & effort: Automates editing tasks like trimming, transitions, and captions, reducing manual work.
  • Cost-effective: Eliminates the need for expensive editing software or hiring professional video editors.
  • User-friendly: Intuitive interfaces make it easy for beginners to create high-quality videos effortlessly.
  • AI-powered enhancements: Features like auto-captions, smart effects, and background removal enhance video quality.
  • Faster content creation: Speeds up video production, making it ideal for social media, marketing, and promotions.

Why content creators should use CapCut Commerce Pro?

CapCut Commerce Pro is a game-changer for content creators, offering AI-powered tools that make video editing faster, easier, and more professional. Whether you’re creating promotional content, social media reels, or product videos, this tool streamlines the process without requiring advanced editing skills.

Key reasons to use CapCut Commerce Pro

  • AI-generated captions & subtitles: Automatically adds accurate captions to enhance accessibility and engagement.
  • Smart background removal: Removes backgrounds effortlessly, perfect for product showcases and branding.
  • High-quality AI voiceovers: Converts text into natural-sounding voiceovers, eliminating the need for manual narration.
  • Built-in royalty-free assets: It provides access to a vast library of music, effects, and stock footage for creative flexibility.
  • AI video generation: Easily creates AI-powered videos with product links, smart templates and automated enhancements.

With CapCut Commerce Pro, content creators can elevate their video production without spending hours on editing. Below are the steps to using CapCut Commerce Pro to generate AI videos.

Steps to generate videos using CapCut Commerce Pro

Step 1: Add a product link or upload media

Launch the application and go to the “Video Generator” feature, where you can paste a product link or upload media like images and videos. The AI then extracts key product details, including names, features, and images, while the “Auto Enhance” option optimizes visuals for a polished look. You can further customize your video by selecting “Advanced Settings,” which allows you to modify scripts, avatars, voiceovers, and aspect ratios. For a more engaging result, incorporate AI-suggested stock assets and adjust video elements to suit your content style. Once satisfied, click “Confirm” and hit “Generate” to let the AI bring your vision to life.

 

Step 2: Create AI videos in clicks

Once your video is generated, explore various theme-based categories like product highlights, memes, text overlays, and TikTok trends. To refine your selection, hover over a template and click “Quick Edit” for easy customization. In the editing panel, modify the script, AI avatars, voice settings, text, and font styles to align with your creative vision. For advanced editing, click “Edit More” to adjust the aspect ratio, add elements, insert stock images, include background music, and fine-tune playback settings. With AI-powered smart tools, you can seamlessly enhance your video for a professional and engaging final result.

 

Step 3: Export your video

Once you’re satisfied with your AI video, click the “Export” button in the top right corner. You can either “Publish” your video directly to social media platforms or “Download” it to your computer. If downloading, choose your preferred resolution, quality settings, frame rate, and format before finalizing the export. This ensures your video is optimized for the best viewing experience across different platforms.

 

Best use cases for AI video generators

  • Social media content creation: Quickly generate eye-catching videos for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Facebook Stories.
  • E-commerce product showcases: Create professional-looking product videos with AI-generated scripts, voiceovers, and transitions.
  • Marketing & advertisements: Produce engaging promo videos, ad campaigns, and brand storytelling content with minimal effort.
  • Educational & training videos: Generate tutorial videos, explainer content, and e-learning modules using AI voiceovers and animations.
  • Corporate presentations & pitches: Convert text-based presentations into visually appealing videos with smooth transitions and AI-powered graphics.

Conclusion

A free AI video generator is an essential tool for content creators looking to streamline their workflow and enhance video quality effortlessly. With powerful automation, AI-driven enhancements, and user-friendly editing features, tools like CapCut Commerce Pro make professional video creation accessible to everyone. Whether for social media, marketing, or product showcases, AI video generators help save time, reduce costs, and boost engagement. Start leveraging AI-powered video editing today to elevate your content game!

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

Tournaments at Golden Crown Casino – types and rules of participation

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By Mitch Rice

Golden Crown Casino offers a variety of exciting tournaments that attract players from around the world. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, there are events tailored to every skill level. In this article, we will explore the different types of tournaments available at Golden Crown, as well as the essential rules for participation to help you enhance your gaming experience.

Types of Tournaments at Golden Crown Casino

Golden Crown Casino offers a variety of tournaments designed to cater to the preferences and skills of different players. These tournaments create an exciting and competitive atmosphere where participants can showcase their abilities and win attractive prizes. Understanding the various types of tournaments available is essential for players looking to maximize their experience.

The tournaments at Golden Crown Casino primarily fall into three categories: slot tournaments, poker tournaments, and table game tournaments. Each type has its own unique rules and participation requirements, ensuring that players can find an event that suits their interests.

Overview of Tournament Types

  • Slot Tournaments: 

These tournaments focus on popular slot games where players compete for the highest number of credits accumulated over a set period. Participants are usually given a specific number of spins, and the player with the highest score at the end wins.

  • Poker Tournaments: 

Golden Crown Casino hosts various poker formats, including Texas Hold’em and Omaha. Players compete against each other in a series of hands, with the goal of winning chips and ultimately the tournament prize. Buy-in amounts and blind structures can vary, creating different levels of difficulty.

  • Table Game Tournaments: 

These tournaments involve classic table games such as blackjack and roulette. Players compete based on their ability to accumulate chips or bets over a series of rounds. The winners are determined based on their performance and overall ranking at the tournament’s conclusion.

Each tournament type provides an exciting opportunity for players to engage with the casino environment in different ways. Participants are encouraged to check the specific rules and schedules for each tournament to enhance their chances of success.

Prize Pool and Prize Distribution

The prize pool in tournaments at Golden Crown Casino is designed to reward participants based on their performance and engagement throughout the event. The total prize pool is derived from the entry fees collected from participants, which ensures that the rewards are generated directly from the contributions of the players. This system not only incentivizes participation but also enhances the competitive atmosphere of the tournaments.

Understanding how the prize distribution works is crucial for participants, as it affects their strategy and expectations. The distribution is typically structured to reward the top performers proportionally, with larger payouts awarded to higher placements. Below is a breakdown of the common prize distribution model used in many tournaments:

Place Percentage of Prize Pool
1st Place 40%
2nd Place 25%
3rd Place 15%
4th-5th Place 10%
6th-10th Place 10%

In addition to cash prizes, Golden Crown Casino often offers additional incentives such as bonuses, free spins, or exclusive memberships for high-ranking participants. The specific details of the prize distribution may vary from one tournament to another, so it is advisable for players to review the tournament rules and guidelines for precise information.

Popular Games Available in Tournaments

Golden Crown Casino offers a diverse array of games for tournament participants, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Whether you are a fan of strategy, luck, or skill, the tournament lineup caters to a wide range of preferences and playing styles. Players can engage in friendly competition and aim for exciting prizes while enjoying their favorite games.

Each tournament features specific games that players can enter, often highlighting the classics along with newer titles. Here are some popular games to look out for in the upcoming tournaments:

  • Video Poker: A staple in any casino, video poker tournaments challenge players to showcase their skills and strategies against others for the highest payout.
  • Blackjack: Known for its combination of skill and luck, blackjack tournaments draw competitors who aim to outsmart their opponents while maximizing their winnings.
  • Slot Machines: Slot tournaments provide a fast-paced environment where players compete for spins and bonuses, all while seeking the biggest jackpots.
  • Roulette: Roulette tournaments come with their own set of rules, allowing players to place bets in hopes of predicting the winning number or color.

Moreover, tournaments may feature popular themed games that enhance the gaming experience:

  1. Fruits & Stars – A vibrant slot game with lively graphics and themes that appeals to a wide audience.
  2. Mystery Treasure – An adventure-themed game that offers unique bonuses during tournament play.
  3. Lucky 7’s Blackjack – A variation of traditional blackjack that can be particularly exciting in a competitive setting.

With such a variety of games available, participants can select their preferred format and strategy, making each tournament an engaging and thrilling experience at Golden Crown Casino.

Tips for Successful Participation in Tournaments

Participating in tournaments at Golden Crown Casino can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, success in these competitions requires more than just luck; preparation and strategy play vital roles. By following the tips outlined below, players can enhance their performance and increase their chances of winning.

Understanding the game mechanics, rules, and tournament structure is crucial. Familiarize yourself with specific game strategies and adapt your approach based on the type of tournament you enter. Below are practical tips to help you prepare effectively.

  • Research Tournament Rules: Make sure you understand the specific rules and regulations of the tournament you are entering. Each tournament may have different formats, scoring systems, and conditions.
  • Practice Regularly: Spend time practicing the games featured in the tournament. The more familiar you are with the gameplay and strategies, the more comfortable you will be during the competition.
  • Manage Your Bankroll: Set a budget for your tournament participation. Effective bankroll management will allow you to play without risking more than you can afford.
  • Stay Calm and Focused: Maintaining a clear mindset during the tournament is essential. Avoid getting overly emotional or distracted, as this can affect your decision-making and performance.
  • Observe Other Players: Pay attention to the strategies used by your opponents. Learning from their tactics can help refine your own gameplay and improve your chances of success.
  • Network with Other Players: Engaging with fellow participants can provide valuable insights and tips. Building connections within the gaming community can also lead to future opportunities.

In conclusion, participating in tournaments at Golden Crown Casino can be a thrilling endeavor filled with potential rewards. By thoroughly preparing, practicing, and remaining focused during competitions, participants can significantly enhance their overall gaming experience and increase their odds of success. Best of luck in your tournament journey!

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

Top Social Casinos to Explore: Fun, Free, and Exciting Gaming Experiences

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By Mitch Rice

The world of online gaming has seen a significant shift in recent years with the rise of social casinos. Unlike real-money gambling platforms, social casinos offer players the thrill of casino games without the financial risks. Whether you enjoy slots, poker, blackjack, or roulette, these platforms provide an engaging and entertaining way to play.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top social casinos to try in 2025, highlighting their features, gameplay options, and why they are gaining popularity. We’ll also discuss how platforms like BestSocialCasinos.com help players find the most exciting social casino experiences.

What Are Social Casinos?

Social casinos are online gaming platforms that mimic traditional casino games but do not involve real-money gambling. Instead of wagering actual cash, players use virtual coins or tokens to play. These coins can be earned through gameplay, in-game rewards, or optional purchases.

Why Are Social Casinos Popular?

 No Financial Risk – Players can enjoy games without the worry of losing real money, as there’s no actual gambling involved.

 Play for Fun – Social casinos prioritize entertainment, offering a relaxed gaming experience.

 Exciting Features – Many social casinos provide daily bonuses, leaderboards, tournaments, and opportunities for social interaction.

 Available on Multiple Devices – Most platforms are accessible via both desktop and mobile apps.

With millions of players around the globe, social casinos offer a fantastic way to enjoy the excitement of gaming without any financial concerns.

 

Top Social Casinos to Explore in 2025

While there are numerous social casino platforms out there, not all deliver the same level of enjoyment, fairness, and variety. Here are some of the top social casinos worth checking out in 2025.

1. BestSocialCasinos.com – Your Ultimate Social Casino Guide

For those seeking the best social casinos, BestSocialCasinos.com is the go-to resource. This platform features comprehensive reviews, ratings, and comparisons of various social casinos, helping you find the perfect match for your gaming preferences.

Why Choose BestSocialCasinos.com?

 Expert Reviews – Get in-depth insights into game selections, features, and overall gameplay quality.

 

 Up-to-Date Rankings – Keep yourself updated on the latest and most popular social casinos.

Exclusive Bonuses – Discover special promotions and rewards that are only available through our site.

 Safe & Fair Gaming – All listed casinos are thoroughly verified for fair play and security.

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If you’re a fan of slot machines, LuckyLand Slots is a social casino you shouldn’t miss. It features a vast array of slot games, each boasting vibrant graphics and unique bonus features.

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From Ottawa to Manhattan: Folk Artist Christophe Elie Joins Peace Train for United Nations Meetings on Nuclear Disarmament

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Fresh from performing at Folk Alliance International (FAI) in Montreal, Ottawa-based acclaimed folk artist Christophe Elie now sets his sights on another profound journey of music and activism. On March 2, Elie will board the Peace Train, traveling from Montreal to New York City alongside Green Party Leader Elizabeth May and other peace advocates to participate in the Third Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons at the United Nations (March 3-7, 2025).

Elie was honored to perform two showcases at this year’s Folk Alliance International (FAI), sharing the stage with fellow artists and debuting new material from his upcoming album. FAI—one of the world’s largest folk music gatherings—provided Elie with the opportunity to connect with global industry professionals, songwriters, and DJs from over 50 countries. His sets featured songs from his forthcoming album, his latest release Columbia, and the re-release of Trump’s Tweets.

As a DJ for CKCU, where he hosts Songs for the Revolution, Elie also used his time at FAI to capture moments to share with his listeners back home. Now, he transitions from the vibrant folk music community in Montreal to the global peace movement in New York City.

Elie’s next stop is a meaningful one—joining the Peace Train on March 2, traveling from Montreal to NYC for the UN Meetings on Nuclear Disarmament.

The Peace Train movement, which previously made an impact in Canada with events in Ottawa, unites artists, activists, and political leaders to advocate for nuclear disarmament through music and dialogue. Inspired by Yusuf Islam’s (Cat Stevens) legendary song Peace Train, Elie is working to organize a performance in New York City—Peace Train: A Night of Music and Words for World Peace.

“When I received the invite for this trip, my only thought was—how am I going to make this happen? Peace has always colored my art and found its way into my songs. From Firekeeper, the fictitious story of a soldier from Whitby, to Mirrors, set in the now-destroyed Gaza city, and my latest release Columbia, the question for peace is always the same: ‘Where do you hide?’” – Christophe Elie

In addition to his performances and activism, Elie is currently working on his next album, produced by Juno-nominated Gareth Auden Hole (Jack Pine and The Fire). The album explores themes of peace, immigration, protest, and the fragile state of our world today. With six songs already recorded, Elie is shaping a collection that reflects both the urgency of the present and the timelessness of folk storytelling.

One of the Peace Train’s key events is An Evening of Music and Words for World Peace, featuring live performances and speakers:

🕊️ Event: Peace Train Canada – An Evening of Music & Words for World Peace
📅 Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
📍 Location: The Common Ditch Social – 74 Broad St., 2nd Floor, Manhattan
🎶 Performers:

  • Christophe Elie (Political Folk Singer, CKCU Host) – Event Host
  • Friends of Kolker (NY-based folk artists)
  • Spook Handy (Acclaimed Civil Rights & Folk Singer)
  • Alyson Faith
  • Additional folk artists TBA

🎙️ Speakers:

  • Peace Train Canada
  • Amnesty International (TBC)
  • Project Ploughshares

🎟️ Tickets: $15 or PWYC (Pay What You Can). A portion of the proceeds will go to a peace-related charity.

On Sunday, March 2, the Peace Train, carrying Green Party leader Elizabeth May and 10 peace advocates from across Canada, will depart from the historic Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal—where John Lennon and Yoko Ono famously asked the world to “Give Peace a Chance”—and arrive at New York’s Penn Station on the Adirondack. The group will then attend the UN Meetings on the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW)—a treaty Canada is not a party to, but Peace Train Canada is urging the Canadian government to at least take the first step of becoming an Observer.

With music as a force for change, Christophe Elie is ready to bring his voice and songs to this vital international conversation.

5 Surprising Facts About Public Enemy’s ‘Fear of a Black Planet’

If hip-hop had a Mount Rushmore of revolutionary albums, Fear of a Black Planet would be carved into the stone. Released in 1990, Public Enemy’s third studio album featured The Bomb Squad’s frenetic production, Chuck D’s booming call to action, and Flavor Flav’s unpredictable energy combined into a sonic Molotov cocktail that tackled race, media manipulation, and Black empowerment with a ferocity unmatched in mainstream rap at the time. The album pushed hip-hop forward, proving that rap was about the beats, the battle cries, about shaking the status quo, about making sure the world heard every syllable of the truth.

Here are five little-known facts about Fear of a Black Planet, each one as layered as the beats that defined it:

1. It Was Hip-Hop’s First Concept Album on Race and Power

Before Fear of a Black Planet, hip-hop albums were often collections of tracks without a singular, overarching message. Public Enemy changed that. Chuck D and The Bomb Squad approached the record as a fully realized concept, exploring the fear, resistance, and resilience of Black communities in America. The title itself was a direct challenge to racial paranoia, flipping the script on who should really be afraid. From the dense production to the interwoven themes of unity and power, the album wasn’t just a collection of songs—it was a manifesto.

2. The Bomb Squad Created a Sonic Earthquake with Over 150 Samples

Before sample clearance laws tightened, The Bomb Squad was an army of sonic architects. They layered up to 200 samples across the album, creating a chaotic, dense wall of sound that mirrored the world Public Enemy saw—relentless, noisy, and impossible to ignore. From James Brown to Funkadelic to rock and jazz records, the album was an intricate puzzle of sound bites, sirens, and screeching guitars, redefining hip-hop production. Today, an album like Fear of a Black Planet would cost millions to clear—back then, it was an act of sonic defiance.

3. NASA Helped Create the Album’s Cover Art

Hip-hop albums usually featured artists front and center on their covers—but Fear of a Black Planet went in an entirely different direction. The group commissioned B.E. Johnson, a NASA illustrator, to design the now-iconic image of a black planet eclipsing Earth. The visual played into Chuck D’s central theme: that white fear of Black power was an unnecessary and constructed paranoia, one that needed to be dismantled rather than fueled. The artwork remains one of the most striking and politically charged in hip-hop history.

4. “Fight the Power” Was Originally a Movie Soundtrack Cut—But Became an Anthem

Spike Lee personally asked Public Enemy to write a song for Do the Right Thing, and Chuck D delivered. But “Fight the Power” became much bigger than a movie track—it became the defining anthem of the era. Its bold indictment of American icons like Elvis Presley and John Wayne wasn’t just a throwaway line; it was a calculated strike against mainstream narratives that ignored Black contributions to culture. The song was so powerful that it overshadowed the album itself—people still talk about Fear of a Black Planet, but everyone knows “Fight the Power.”

5. Flavor Flav’s “911 Is a Joke” Was Originally a Joke—Until It Wasn’t

Flavor Flav, the group’s wild card, wrote “911 Is a Joke” in a haze of frustration after realizing how slowly emergency services responded to calls in Black neighborhoods. What started as an inside joke turned into a biting critique of systemic neglect. The song’s humor masked real anger, and it resonated with audiences who knew firsthand what it felt like to wait for an ambulance that never showed up. It became one of the album’s biggest hits—proof that even the comic relief in Public Enemy had something urgent to say.

Fear of a Black Planet was an education, a political statement, and a sonic war cry all rolled into one. It made hip-hop bigger, bolder, and impossible to ignore. More than three decades later, it remains a towering achievement, a reminder that rap at its best is a force of resistance.

Want to start a revolution? Put this album on repeat.

5 Surprising Facts About Nirvana’s ‘In Utero’

Nirvana’s In Utero, released in 1993, was a full-throated rejection of the commercial polish of their last album Nevermind in favor of raw, unfiltered artistry. From Steve Albini’s abrasive production to the haunting lyrics that seemed to foreshadow Kurt Cobain’s tragic end, In Utero is a masterclass in controlled chaos. But beyond the distorted guitars and eerie cello strains, there are some wild facts about the album that even die-hard fans might not know.

1. The Album Almost Had a Controversial Title That Would Have Changed Everything

Kurt Cobain initially wanted to call In Utero I Hate Myself and I Want to Die—a phrase he often used sarcastically when people asked how he was doing. While it was meant as a joke, bassist Krist Novoselic talked him out of it, fearing that it would be misinterpreted, especially by the band’s younger fans. Instead, they landed on In Utero, a phrase taken from a poem written by Courtney Love. Had they gone with the original title, the album might have been met with even more industry resistance and controversy than it already faced.

2. Steve Albini Was Paid a Flat Fee—And Rejected Hundreds of Thousands in Royalties

Steve Albini, known for his no-nonsense attitude toward the music industry, took a flat $100,000 fee for recording In Utero and refused any royalties from sales. This decision likely cost him over $500,000 in potential earnings, but Albini stood by his principle that producers should be paid for their work upfront rather than profiting off an artist’s long-term success. Albini’s raw, hands-off production approach gave Nirvana the unfiltered sound they craved—though it sparked a major conflict with their record label.

3. The Band’s Label Thought the Album Was “Unreleasable”

When Nirvana turned in In Utero, executives at DGC Records were shocked. The album was abrasive, unpolished, and intentionally raw, a stark contrast to the radio-friendly sheen of Nevermind. Industry insiders worried it wouldn’t be commercially viable, and some even whispered that the label might refuse to release it altogether. In the end, compromise was made: Scott Litt was brought in to remix “Heart-Shaped Box” and “All Apologies” to make them more palatable for radio. Albini wasn’t thrilled about the revisions, but the album was finally greenlit.

4. A Hidden Track Was Added to the International Release as a “Devalued American Dollar Purchase Incentive”

European and Australian versions of In Utero included a hidden track: “Gallons of Rubbing Alcohol Flow Through the Strip”—a noisy, improvised jam session that Nirvana had recorded in Brazil. The band had a sense of humor about it, referring to the track in the liner notes as a “Devalued American Dollar Purchase Incentive” to justify its inclusion. This off-the-cuff recording gave international fans a unique bonus that wasn’t available in the U.S.

5. Wal-Mart and Kmart Banned the Album, Forcing Nirvana to Change the Artwork

Big-box retailers Wal-Mart and Kmart refused to stock In Utero due to its graphic back cover and the song title “Rape Me.” Wanting their music to be available to as many fans as possible—including those without access to indie record stores—Nirvana agreed to alter the album art and rename “Rape Me” as “Waif Me” for these retailers. They also swapped in Scott Litt’s remix of “Pennyroyal Tea” to make the album slightly more “radio-friendly.” While many fans bristled at the censorship, Nirvana justified the changes by emphasizing their desire for accessibility.

With In Utero, Nirvana set out to create an album that was the opposite of Nevermind—and they succeeded beyond anyone’s expectations. It’s a raw, powerful, and deeply personal record that still resonates decades later. Even though it was their last studio album, In Utero solidified Nirvana’s legacy as one of the most important and uncompromising bands in rock history.

Vampire Weekend Announce 2025 North American Tour Dates

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Following an undeniably triumphant 2024 tour, Vampire Weekend have today announced their return to global stages this summer.

Since the release of their rapturously received fifth studio album, Only God Was Above Us, Vampire Weekend launched their live run under an eclipsed sky in Austin, graced stages everywhere from a surprise set at Coachella, a sold out Hollywood Bowl and Red Rocks, as well as amphitheater and arena stops across the country highlighted by a two sold out show stand at the famed Madison Square Garden. With no plans to slow down in 2025, the band is set to dominate festival stages and solo dates spanning the US including Philadelphia, Miami, Charleston and more. Additionally, Vampire Weekend have kept their promise of returning to the city of Asheville after postponing their initial date due to the devastating Hurricane Helene.

Support on all dates will come from Geese, with the exception of the final two shows of the run. Audiences in Jacksonville and Miami will be warmed up by Florida’s own Turnstiles, the Billy Joel tribute band that opened Vampire Weekend’s sold out Madison Square Garden doubleheader.

Vampire Weekend continues to treat fans to the inner workings of the band as they release the latest episode of their sensational podcast Vampire Campfire. On the seventh installment of VC Koenig, Baio, and Tomson discuss the year ahead: OGWAU Tour Part 2, festivals old and new, a Frog on the Bass Drum revival, and much more. 2025 will be full of surprises, that’s a promise.

Citi is the official card of the Vampire Weekend Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Tuesday, February 25 at 10 AM local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.

Fans are encouraged to sign up now for early access to the band’s presales at vampireweekend.com. Those presales start Wednesday February 26 at 10 AM local time. The general on sale will begin Friday, February 28 at 10 AM local time at vampireweekend.com.

VAMPIRE WEEKEND Only God Was Above Us Tour 2025 

Sat May 10 – Pasadena, CA – Just Like Heaven
Sun May 25 – Boston, MA – Boston Calling
Tue May 27 – Burlington, VT – Midway Lawn *
Thu May 29 – Portland, ME – Thompson’s Point *
Fri May 30 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark *
Sat May 31 – Philadelphia, PA – The Met Philadelphia presented by Highmark *
Mon Jun 02 – Columbus, OH – KEMBA Live! *
Tue Jun 03 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE *
Wed Jun 04 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC *
Fri Jun 06 – Charleston, SC – Firefly Distillery *
Mon Jun 09 – Asheville, NC – Asheville Yards Amphitheater *
Thu Jun 12 – Jacksonville, FL – Daily’s Place +
Fri Jun 13 – Miami, FL – FPL Solar Amphitheater +
Sun Jun 15 – Manchester, TN – Bonnaroo
Aug 13-16– Paredes De Coura, Portugal – Paredes De Coura Festival
Fri Aug 15 – Hasselt, Belgium – Pukkelpop
Aug 15-17 – Biddinghuizen, Netherlands – Lowlands
Sun Aug 17 – Charleville-Mezieres, France – Cabaret Vert
Thu Aug 21 – Paris, France – Rock En Seine
Sat Aug 23 – Portsmouth, UK – Victorious Festival
Sep 12-14 – East Aurora, NY – Borderland Festival
Sep 20-21 – Richmond, VA – Iron Blossom Festival
Sat Sep 27 – Ocean City, MD – Oceans Calling

Festivals in bold
*Geese support
+Turnstiles support