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Blues Traveler, Gin Blossoms, and Spin Doctors Announce Massive 30-Date Summer Tour

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Blues Traveler and Gin Blossoms have joined forces for an electrifying co-headlining summer tour. Currently headlining The 90s Cruise at sea, the bands behind iconic hits like “Run-Around” and “Hey Jealousy” have announced a 30-date tour set to kick off on Friday, July 4 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The trek, wrapping up on Sunday, September 14 at Bourbon & Beyond Festival, will bring their high-energy performances to amphitheaters and theater stages across the U.S.

Blues Traveler – currently celebrating 30 years since the release of their GRAMMY Award-winning breakthrough hit “Run-Around” – and Gin Blossoms will be joined on the tour by legendary alternative rock band Spin Doctors, best known for their chart-topping and GRAMMY-nominated hit “Two Princes.”

John Popper of Blues Traveler shares, “Getting to play with dear old friends like Gin Blossoms and the Spin Doctors is one of the great benefits of a touring career that spans almost four decades now. These are exceptional players and performers, and they push us to play even harder. Everybody digs in and makes each other better. We are looking forward to a great year of music!”

“We can’t wait to rock this summer with our old friends Gin Blossoms and Spin Doctors,” Chan Kinchla of Blues Traveler adds. “It’s gonna be a great run, lots of hits, lots of jammin’ and I’m sure plenty of cross pollinating. We are looking forward to seeing everyone all around the country this summer!”

Robin Wilson of Gin Blossoms says, “We have a long and colorful history with Spin Doctors, and have crossed paths with Blues Traveler many times. A lot of people have great memories with these three bands. It will be a really fun summer.”

“Hitting the road with our friends Blues Traveler is going to be an absolute blast,” Jesse Valenzuela of Gin Blossoms continues. “These shows will be packed with great songs, good vibes, and the kind of summer nights you never forget.” Gin Blossoms’ Scott Johnson adds, “There’s nothing like the energy of a summer tour – great crowds, killer music, and the open road ahead.” We’re beyond excited to hit the stage with Blues Traveler.”

Spin Doctors’ guitarist Eric Schenkman shares, “We are absolutely stoked to hit the road this summer with our old pals and 90’s cohorts Gin Blossoms and Blues Traveler. It’s gonna be epic.”

Friday, July 4 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre*
Sunday, July 6 – Omaha, NE – The Astro Amphitheater
Monday, July 7 – Cedar Rapids, IA – McGrath Amphitheatre
Friday, July 11 – Rochester, MI – Meadow Brook Amphitheatre
Saturday, July 12 – Huber Heights, OH – Rose Music Center
Sunday, July 13 – Creighton, PA – Iron City Stage
Thursday, July 17 – Hyannis, MA – Cape Cod Melody Tent^
Friday, July 18 – Wallingford, CT – Toyota Oakdale Theatre
Saturday, July 19 – Atlantic City, NJ – Ocean Casino Resort – Ovation Hall
Monday, July 21 – Harrington, DE – Delaware State Fair
Saturday, July 26 – Highland Park, IL – Ravinia Festival
Sunday, July 27 – Green Bay, WI – Capital Credit Union Park
Thursday, August 7 – Chesterfield, MO – Chesterfield Amphitheater
Friday, August 8 – Sedalia, MO – Missouri State Fair
Saturday, August 9 – El Reno, OK – Lucky Star Amphitheater
Thursday, August 14 – Las Vegas, NV – Red Rock Casino
Friday, August 15 – Costa Mesa, CA – The Pacific Amphitheatre
Saturday, August 16 – San Diego, CA – Gallagher Square at Petco Park
Tuesday, August 19 – Saratoga, CA – The Mountain Winery
Thursday, August 21 – Ridgefield, WA – ilani Cowlitz Ballroom
Friday, August 22 – Seattle, WA – TBD
Saturday, August 23 – Airway Heights, WA – BECU Live at Northern Quest
Tuesday, August 26 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater
Thursday, August 28 – Park City, UT – Concerts in the Slopes at Canyons Village^
Saturday, August 30 – Scottsdale, AZ – Talking Stick Resort
Thursday, September 4 – Andover, KS – Capitol Federal Amphitheater
Friday, September 5 – Thackerville, OK – WinStar World Casino
Saturday, September 6 – New Braunfels, TX – Whitewater Amphitheater
Friday, September 12 – Albertville, AL – Sand Mountain Amphitheater
Saturday, September 13 – Atlanta, GA – TBD
Sunday, September 14 – Louisville, KY – Bourbon & Beyond Festival
* Blues Traveler Headline
^ No Spin Doctors

DJ Cummerbund Unites Music Legends in Epic 14-Minute That’s the Way I Like It Mashup Featuring EVERYBODY And KC and the Sunshine Band

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DJ Cummerbund just took That’s the Way I Like It to another level—14 minutes, countless artists, and one massive mashup. If music is a time machine, this one blasts you straight onto the disco floor with legends from every era!

Los Angeles Musicians Unite for I Love LA Eaton Fire Relief Concert Featuring Andrew Bird, Bright Eyes, Dawes & More

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Sid The Cat, Mike Viola, and Tyler Chester are proud to present “I Love LA” Eaton Fire Relief, an extraordinary evening of music and unity dedicated to supporting those impacted by the Eaton Fire. The benefit concert will take place on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Glendale Presbyterian Church (125 S Louise St., Glendale, CA 91205). Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

In the wake of devastating wildfires that caused unimaginable loss and ongoing hardship for many Angelenos, a generous ensemble of acclaimed artists are coming together for one special night to uplift the community and raise essential funds for fire relief. The show will feature performances by:

  • Andrew Bird
  • Bright Eyes
  • David Longstreth (of Dirty Projectors)
  • Dawes
  • Delicate Steve
  • Ethan Tasch
  • Jim James
  • Jeff Parker / Gregory Uhlmann / Anna Butterss / Ben Lumsdaine
  • John C. Reilly
  • Katie Gavin
  • Kelcey Ayer
  • Kevin Morby
  • Lucius
  • Madison Cunningham
  • Molly Burch
  • Strawberry Guy
  • The Milk Carton Kids
  • Uwade
  • Watkins Family Hour
  • Plus Special Guests!

Proceeds from “I Love LA” Eaton Fire Relief will go to Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, benefitting the many musicians whose livelihoods have been directly impacted by the flames. “The Los Angeles wildfires were a profound shock for everyone in the city and beyond,” says Sid The Cat. “The resulting outpouring of compassion is a testament to the spirit of this community—one that we hope to nurture and strengthen with this event.”

Bringing together iconic voices, beloved songwriters, and rising talent, “I Love LA” stands as a reminder of Los Angeles’s resilience and capacity for collective action. With the support of artists, community members, and music lovers alike, we can help rebuild and offer relief to those who lost so much.

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
  • Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
  • Venue: Glendale Presbyterian Church (125 S Louise St., Glendale, CA 91205)
  • Tickets: Available HERE
  • Beneficiary: Sweet Relief Musicians Fund

Exploring Card Games: Pusoy Dos on GameZone Platform

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By Mitch Rice

Pusoy Dos has found a new home on GameZone, the Philippines’ leading card game developer. This digital adaptation has breathed new life into the traditional game, offering players a convenient and engaging way to enjoy this uniquely Filipino pastime.

Pusoy Dos has long been a staple in Filipino social gatherings. The game’s popularity stems from its perfect balance of strategy and luck, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. Now, thanks to GameZone’s innovative platform, Pusoy Dos enthusiasts can indulge in their favorite game anytime, anywhere.

GameZone’s version of Pusoy Dos stays true to the game’s roots while incorporating modern elements that enhance the overall gaming experience. The platform accommodates two to four players, mirroring the flexibility of the traditional card game. Each player receives 13 cards at the start of the game, with the goal being to discard all cards or have the fewest remaining.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Pusoy Dos is its unique card ranking system. Unlike traditional poker, in Pusoy Dos, 2 is the highest card, followed by Ace, King, Queen, Jack, 10, and so on down to 3, which is the lowest. The suit order also differs, with diamonds being the highest, followed by hearts, spades, and clubs. This distinctive ranking system adds an extra layer of strategy to the game, challenging players to think differently about card combinations.

GameZone’s digital adaptation introduces exciting features that elevate the gaming experience. A central pot system adds to the thrill, with players contributing before each round. The introduction of a crown icon for round winners adds a visual element of achievement and raises the stakes for consecutive wins.

The online version of Pusoy Dos card game on GameZone has been praised for its user-friendly interface and smooth gameplay. Players appreciate the platform’s ability to recreate the social aspect of the game, allowing them to connect with friends and family or match with other enthusiasts from across the Philippines and beyond.

For those looking to improve their Pusoy Dos online free skills, the online platform offers an excellent opportunity for practice and learning. Experts recommend mastering the basics, including understanding card rankings and valid combinations. Strategic gameplay is crucial, with experienced players advising newcomers to play weak cards early and save strong cards for crucial moments.

Observation is another key skill in Pusoy Dos online. In the absence of physical cues in online play, paying close attention to opponents’ moves becomes even more critical. This aspect of the game adds an exciting psychological element, as players must deduce their opponents’ strategies based solely on their actions within the game.

The popularity of Pusoy Dos rules on GameZone reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry, where traditional games are finding new life in the digital realm. This transition not only preserves cultural pastimes but also introduces them to a new generation of players who might not have encountered them otherwise.

GameZone’s success with how to play Pusoy Dos has not gone unnoticed in the industry. The platform’s ability to create an authentic and engaging digital version of the game has set a new standard for online card game adaptations. Other developers are taking note, potentially leading to a renaissance of traditional card games in the digital space.

As Pusoy Dos continues to gain traction on GameZone, it’s clear that the game’s appeal extends far beyond its traditional roots. The combination of strategic depth, cultural significance, and now digital accessibility has positioned Pusoy Dos as a frontrunner in the online gaming world.

For Filipino gamers and card game enthusiasts around the world, the availability of Pusoy Dos on GameZone represents more than just a new way to play a beloved game. It’s a bridge between tradition and innovation, a testament to the enduring appeal of Filipino gaming culture, and a glimpse into the future of digital entertainment.

The game’s digital transformation has also opened up new possibilities for competitive play. Online tournaments and leaderboards on GameZone have created a thriving community of Pusoy Dos pattern players, fostering healthy competition and allowing skilled players to showcase their abilities on a larger stage. This competitive aspect has added an extra layer of excitement to the game, encouraging players to continually refine their strategies and skills.

Moreover, the accessibility of Pusoy Dos on GameZone has played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Filipino cultural heritage. As younger generations increasingly turn to digital platforms for entertainment, having traditional games like Pusoy Dos available online ensures that these cultural touchstones are not lost. It allows Filipino expatriates to maintain a connection to their roots and introduces non-Filipino players to an important aspect of Philippine culture.

The success of Pusoy Dos strategy on GameZone has also sparked interest in other traditional Filipino card games. There’s growing anticipation for digital adaptations of games like Tong-its and Sakla, which could further enrich the online Filipino gaming landscape. This trend highlights the potential for technology to serve as a vehicle for cultural preservation and dissemination.

From an educational perspective, the digital version of Pusoy Dos offers unique learning opportunities. The game’s complex rules and strategies can help players develop critical thinking skills, probabilistic reasoning, and quick decision-making abilities. Some educators are even exploring the potential of using digital card games like Pusoy Dos as teaching tools in mathematics and probability classes.

The economic impact of Pusoy Dos’s digital success is also noteworthy. GameZone’s growth has created jobs in game development, design, and customer support, contributing to the Philippines’ burgeoning tech industry. Furthermore, the popularity of the game has attracted advertisers and sponsors, creating new revenue streams within the digital gaming ecosystem.

As GameZone continues to refine and expand its offerings, players can look forward to even more exciting developments in the world of online Pusoy Dos. There are talks of introducing AI opponents for solo play, implementing virtual reality features for a more immersive experience, and creating cross-platform compatibility to reach an even wider audience.

The future of Pusoy Dos in the digital realm looks bright. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative features that enhance the gaming experience while staying true to the game’s traditional roots. The success of Pusoy Dos on GameZone serves as a model for how other traditional games can be successfully adapted for the digital age, preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern technology.

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

The Allman Betts Band Announces ‘Lucky Sevens’ Tour, Their Only 2025 Tour

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The Allman Betts Band is thrilled to announce their “Lucky Sevens Tour” – celebrating seven years of The Allman Betts Band. The tour kicks off on June 6 in Charleston, SC, and will bring the band throughout the South, Midwest, and East Coast before wrapping on June 29 in Augusta, NJ. The Allman Betts Band will welcome special guests Greg Koch and Mattie Schell on select dates as support. Tommy Prine will make an appearance as direct support on June 7 in LaGrange, GA and The Record Company will share the bill with The Allman Betts Band at Ravinia for a co-headline performance.

The newly announced tour will also be the only Allman Betts Band tour of 2025. The Allman Betts Band, fronted by Devon Allman and Duane Betts, the sons of legendary Allman Brothers Band founders Gregg Allman and Dickey Betts, is celebrating seven years of making music and their road dog style of touring around the world.

Known for their signature mix of classic rock, blues, soul, country, jazz, and jam influences, the band takes audiences on a musical journey through their two BMG albums, Down to the River and Bless Your Heart. Fans of Allman Brothers music will get a fair share of the classic songs with an evening filled with that familiar sound that is part of their family’s legacy.

The Allman Betts Band is rounded out by a talented lineup including Alex Orbison (son of Roy Orbison) on drums, Justin Corgan on bass, slide guitarist Johnny Stachela, Hammond B3 organist John Ginty, and drummer John Lum.

THE ALLMAN BETTS BAND “LUCKY SEVENS TOUR”
June 6 – The Refinery – Charleston, SC*
June 7 – Sweetland Amphitheatre – LaGrange, GA*!
June 8 – Walhalla Performing Arts Center – Walhalla, SC*
June 9 – Walker Theater – Chattanooga, TN*
June 11 – Vogue – Indianapolis, IN*
June 12 – Ravinia Festival – Highland Park, IL**
June 13 – Blue Gate PAC – Shipshewana, IN*
June 14 – MGM – Northfield, OH*
June 15 – Midland Theatre – Newark, OH*
June 17 – Riverfront Live – Cincinnati, OH*
June 18 – Englert Theater – Iowa City, IA*
June 20 – Carnegie of Homestead Music Hall – Munhall, PA^
June 21 – Music Box at Borgata – Atlantic City, NJ^
June 22 – Portsmouth Music Hall – Portsmouth, NH^
June 24 – Ridgefield Playhouse – Ridgefield, CT^
June 25 – The State Theatre – State College, PA^
June 26 – The Grand Opera House – Wilmington, DE^
June 27 – Batavia Downs – Batavia, NY^
June 28 – Back Home Festival – New Martinsville, WV
June 29 -Rock, Ribs and Ridges Festival – Augusta, NJ^
*w/ Greg Koch
**Co-bill w/ The Record Company, support from Greg Koch
! w/ Tommy Prine as direct support
^w/ Mattie Schell

The Black Keys Announce ‘No Rain No Flowers’ 2025 Tour Dates

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Grammy-winning rock duo The Black Keys jut announced the spring leg of their No Rain No Flowers Tour rolling through over a dozen iconic venues.

Citi is the official card of the No Rain No Flowers Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets, for select U.S. dates only, beginning Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 10 am until Thursday, Feb. 6 at 10 pm through the Citi Entertainment program. For Citi presale details visit www.citientertainment.com. Tickets go on sale to the public at 10 am on Friday, Feb. 7. Standard ticket prices range from $39.50 – $99.50 plus applicable fees.

The “No Rain No Flowers Tour” will be an especially meaningful return to the road for The Black Keys, who were forced to cancel their 2024 North American Tour following a dispute with their former management company. Now with a fresh outlook and fire to return to the road, the duo is primed to bring a renewed energy to the stage, where they’ll pull from their critically acclaimed two-decade deep catalog.

Fans can also expect a new album later this year via Easy Eye Sound / Warner Records.

“After the tour was canceled, the consensus was, … you just have to move through it,’” drummer Patrick Carney says. “We were already on a creative streak, and the best thing we could do, rather than sit at home, was just go back in the studio. Get back to work. So, that’s how the record started.”

“Writing and recording has always been therapy for us, from the very beginning. We communicate best that way,” adds guitarist Dan Auerbach. “It has always been the thing that’s brought us together, so I’m not surprised at all that we ended up back there so quickly after the last album.”

The forthcoming project’s eclectic, at times unexpected sound also draws from the duo’s wildly popular Record Hangs, where they introduce fans to deep vinyl cuts at high-energy, meticulously curated dance parties. That energy made its way into this new project, which the band says has a heavy emphasis on grooves and danceability.

“We’ve been collecting hundreds of these obscure records [for the Record Hangs], and the one thing they all have in common is that they have to work on the dance floor,” Auerbach says. “It’s really, really been focused on that, and you can definitely hear that influence in what’s coming.”

Formed in Akron, Ohio in 2001, The Black Keys are singer/guitarist Auerbach and drummer Carney. The Black Keys have been called ‘rock royalty’ by the Associated Press and ‘one of the best rock ‘n’ roll bands on the planet’ by Uncut. Cutting their teeth playing small clubs, the band has gone on to sell out arena tours and has released twelve previous studio albums: the debut The Big Come Up(2002), followed by Thickfreakness (2003) and Rubber Factory (2004), along with their releases on Nonesuch Records: Magic Potion (2006), Attack & Release (2008), Brothers (2010), El Camino(2011), Turn Blue (2014), “Let’s Rock” (2019), Delta Kream (2021), Dropout Boogie (2022) and Ohio Players (2024).The band has won six Grammy Awards, a BRIT Award and headlined festivals in North America, South America, Mexico, Australia and Europe.

NO RAIN NO FLOWERS TOUR ROUTING

* Indicates a previously announced EU/UK/LATAM tour date
+ Indicates support from Hermanos Gutiérrez
= Indicates support from The Heavy Heavy
^ Indicates previously announced UK date featuring support from Miles Kane

LATAM/INTL DATES

*3/27 – Lima, Peru – Arena 1
*3/29 – Bogota, Colombia – Estereo Picnic Festival
*4/2 – Mexico City, Mexico – Pepsi Center
*4/5 – Monterrey, Mexico – Tecate Pa’l Norte

NORTH AMERICAN DATES

5/23 – Durant, OK – Choctaw Casino & Resort Durant – Grand Theater
+ 5/25 – Colorado Springs, CO – Ford Amphitheater
+ 5/27 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre
+ 5/29 – Bonner, MT – Kettlehouse Amphitheater
+ 5/30 – Boise, ID – Outlaw Field at the Idaho Botanical Garden
+ 5/31 – Bend, OR – Hayden Homes Amphitheater
= 6/01 – Berkeley, CA – Greek Theatre at UC Berkeley
= 6/03 – Los Angeles, CA – The Greek Theatre
= 6/07 – Austin, TX – Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park
= 6/08 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP
= 6/11 – Wilmington, NC – Live Oak Bank Pavilion
= 6/12 – Raleigh, NC – Red Hat Amphitheater
= 6/14 – Asbury Park, NJ – Stone Pony Summer Stage

Rilo Kiley Confirms 2025 Headlining Dates

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Following the confirmation of their Just Like Heaven Festival appearance, Rilo Kiley has announced a run of headlining North American dates and festival performances that will include stops across the western half of the U.S. and Canada.

The band is thrilled to confirm that the May 14th date at Red Rocks Amphitheatre will include special guests Julien Baker and TORRES; support for other dates to be announced. Tickets for the May leg of shows go on sale February 7th and will be available for purchase here.

“It’s going to be wonderful for us, like going back to the purest version of yourself, that early ’20s place where everything is possible,” says Lewis. “You’re in a van and Jason’s got the map, Pierre is behind the wheel, and I’m on the shitty acoustic guitar on the bench seat working out a new song with Blake. I don’t think it’s ever been as good as that, when it was just us against the world.”

Alongside the highly anticipated touring news, Rilo Kiley has also revealed that they will be releasing a special reissue of their landmark album The Execution of All Things. Arriving April 25th via Saddle Creek, The Execution of All Things (Frozen Lake Edition) will be available in three configurations––a deluxe LP ( cloudy transparent and cream vinyl) + bonus limited edition 7-inch (transparent vinyl), LP (cloudy clear vinyl) and CD and available for pre-order here.

RILO KILEY 2025 LIVE DATES
5/05/25 – San Luis Obispo, CA – Fremont Theatre
5/07/25 – Ojai, CA – Libbey Bowl
5/10/25 – Pasadena, CA – Just Like Heaven
5/12/25 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren
5/14/25 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre * w/ Julien Baker & TORRES
5/16/25 – Salt Lake City, UT – Kilby Block Party
5/17/25 – Boise, ID – Treefort Music Fest
5/19/25 – Jackson, WY – Center for the Arts
5/21/25 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
5/23/25 – Portland, OR – McMenamins Grand Lodge

How to Prepare for Long Drives in Indiana During Winter

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By Mitch Rice

Driving is a challenging experience on its own, especially nowadays with so many different risks that driving poses. Speeding is quite common as well as aggressive driving. But now, imagine having to drive in tough winter conditions on top of all of that. Well, the residents of Indiana know the feeling quite well.

Winter driving in Indiana can be quite the adventure, especially for those embarking on long trips. The combination of heavy snowfall, icy roads, and unpredictable weather conditions requires careful planning and preparation. Without proper precautions, long drives in winter can become hazardous, leading to accidents, vehicle breakdowns, or delays. 

Whether traveling for work, visiting family, or taking a road trip, ensuring that you are well-prepared can make the difference between a smooth journey and a challenging ordeal. During winter, many accidents happen as drivers fail to bring the proper equipment or they completely disregard the recommendations of safe driving. 

In the guide we’ve prepared, we’ll help you understand Indiana’s winter conditions and provide detailed steps on how to prepare for a long drive during the cold months and avoid getting into any type of road accidents.

Understanding Indiana winters

What is it that makes Indiana winters so dangerous for drivers? Indiana winters are known for their harsh conditions, with temperatures often dipping below freezing and heavy snowfall affecting roadways. The state experiences lake-effect snow, particularly in the northern regions near Lake Michigan, making driving even more challenging.

Indiana isn’t the only state that faces this problem. In fact, there’s an estimate that more than 1,300 people are killed in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement each year. 

Ice storms and freezing rain are common, creating slick roads and reducing visibility. The wind chill factor can make it feel even colder than the actual temperature, increasing the risk of frostbite for those stranded outside. 

So, when you get behind the wheel, it’s extremely important to be prepared for all of these scenarios and drive with caution.

The best way to prepare for a long drive

There are several things you can do to ensure that you’re prepared for a long drive in Indiana. First of all, if you’re not certain of your driving skills, it’s always best to look for another method of transport. Maybe you could use a bus or train to get to work instead of driving all by yourself? 

Always make sure to explore other options before getting behind the wheel. Additionally, try to keep to well-maintained roads. Use the highway if possible and avoid rural roads as these are usually not that well-maintained, especially in wintertime. 

It’s quite easy to get into an accident on these roads and if such a thing were to happen, you have the right to contact a car accident attorney to explain the situation. As the circumstances are a bit specific, considering the fact that it’s not your fault the roads were not well maintained, you probably aren’t the only liable party. 

On top of that, there are other measures you can take:

Check the weather forecast and road conditions 

Before heading out on a long drive, always check the weather forecast and road conditions. Indiana’s Department of Transportation provides real-time updates on road closures, accidents, and weather conditions. 

If severe weather is expected, consider delaying your trip or altering your route. Being aware of potential storms or icy patches can help you avoid dangerous situations.

Prepare an emergency kit

An emergency kit is essential for winter travel. Pack blankets, extra warm clothing, non-perishable snacks, bottled water, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger. 

It’s also a good idea to carry a bag of sand or cat litter to provide traction if your car gets stuck in snow. A small shovel, an ice scraper, and jumper cables should also be part of your kit to handle any unexpected challenges on the road.

Ensure your vehicle is winter-proof

Your vehicle should be in top condition before setting out on a winter journey. Check the battery, as cold temperatures can weaken it, making it harder for your car to start. Ensure that the antifreeze levels are sufficient to prevent the engine from freezing.

Keep the gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel lines from freezing. Winter tires or all-season tires with good tread depth can significantly improve traction on icy roads.

Drive cautiously and adjust your speed

It’s important to adjust your driving to the road. If necessary, leave earlier than usual so you aren’t in a rush and don’t have the need for speeding. 

Winter roads require a different approach to driving. Reduce your speed and increase your following distance to allow more reaction time. Sudden braking or sharp turns can cause skidding, so apply brakes gently and avoid cruise control on slippery roads. Be extra cautious on bridges and overpasses, as they tend to freeze before other parts of the road.

Plan your route ahead

Before setting off, plan your route carefully and check for any road closures or detours. As mentioned, stick to main roads and highways, as they are more likely to be cleared of snow and ice. 

It might also be a good idea to inform a friend or family member of your travel plans, including your estimated arrival time and route. In case of an emergency, someone will know where to look for you.

The final word

As you can see, driving long distances in snowy Indiana weather is not that easy of a task. It requires thorough preparation and a cautious mindset. Harsh weather conditions, icy roads, and unexpected delays can turn a routine trip into a dangerous experience if you don’t handle the situation properly.

As a driver, you need to check the weather before departing, prepare an emergency kit, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready, and practice safe driving habits. By doing all of this, you can drastically reduce your chances of getting into a car accident while on the road.

Winter driving in Indiana can be challenging, but with the right precautions, you can confidently navigate the roads and reach your destination safely.

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

Official Spotify Fan Engagement Guide 2025 Published

Every artist’s audience goals are unique, and having the right tools can unlock deeper fandom at every stage. Spotify has just released their official Fan Engagement Guide for 2025:

Music goals come in all shapes and sizes – from attracting new fans with a debut album to deepening connections with long-time listeners ahead of a tour. That’s where Campaign Kit comes in.

With tools like playlist pitching, Discovery Mode, Marquee, and Showcase, Campaign Kit is designed to help you turn any listeners into “super listeners” – aka your most engaged fans from the past 28 days who come back to your music time and time again. In fact, our 2023 Fan Study found that over two-thirds of super listeners will still be streaming your music after a six-month stretch.

Purpose-built to achieve three audience goals — growth, reactivation, and engagement — Campaign Kit helps to create and nurture loyal fans.

Goal #1: Grow your audience

Bringing new listeners into your musical orbit is the first stop on the fan journey. Campaign Kit helps connect your music with the right potential audiences to get things moving.

Use: Playlist pitching

In 2024, 74% of artists added to an editorial playlist had fewer than 100K monthly listeners. Playlist pitching is a free tool that artists of all sizes and stages in their career can use to help get their new releases heard.

  • How it works: Submit unreleased tracks to our editors to be considered for curated playlists – where listeners discover new music.
  • Measure: New listeners.
  • Success story: Latin artist Jay Wheeler’s song, “TRAPPii,” landed on Spotify’s Trap Land playlist, driving 100,000 streams.

Use: Discovery Mode

In 2024, 35% of all discoveries on Spotify happened via personalized recommendations in algorithmic contexts. With Discovery Mode, artists now have a say in how their songs are surfaced to listeners in these contexts.

  • How it works: Amplify the reach of your songs via Spotify Mixes, Radio, and Autoplay.
  • Measure: Streams, new listeners.
  • Success story: Pop artist NERIAH reached nearly half a million new listeners in the three months preceding her debut album — representing nearly 25% of her listeners during that time.

Use: Marquee and Showcase

On average, our research shows that combining Marquee and Showcase generates 40x more new active listeners—5x more than using Marquee alone.

  • How they work: Introduce your music to listeners who are most likely to stream the promoted release after seeing the campaign – even if they’re new to your music.
  • Target: Programmed and/or potential audience.
  • Measure: New active listeners, new listeners.
  • Success story: Nearly half of the listeners reached through EDM artist William Black’s Showcase were new to his music.

Goal #2: Reactivate listeners who haven’t streamed recently

Re-engaging past listeners keeps your music in their rotation. Without engagement, over half of the listeners in an artist’s previously active audience stop streaming within three months, on average.

Use: Marquee and Showcase

On average, we’ve seen that new releases promoted with Marquee drive a 6x lift in reactivated listeners.

  • How they work: Hone-in on listeners who haven’t streamed you recently with new or catalog music.
  • Target: Previously active audience.
  • Measure: Reactivated listeners.
  • Success story: Over 10% of previously active listeners who streamed indie artist Goth Babe’s single from his Showcase campaign saved it to their library or added it to a personal playlist. And nearly 20% of those listeners went on to stream other releases by Goth Babe.

Goal #3: Deepen connections with active fans

Your most engaged listeners – aka your “active audience” – go beyond just streaming your music once. They save and playlist add tracks, and return to stream again and again. They even support you with live shows and merch sales. Deepening fandom with this valuable set of listeners is an investment in long-term success.

Use: Discovery Mode

On average, we’ve seen that artists see a +50% increase in saves, +44% in playlist adds, and +37% in follows in the first month using Discovery Mode.

  • How it works: Amplify your reach with existing fans and increase actions that lead to long-term fandom – like saves, playlist adds, and follows.
  • Measure: Streams.
  • Success story: Over a 15-month period, after activating Discovery Mode for 11 tracks, R&B artist thuy’s listeners saved and added her songs to playlists over 200,000 times.

Use: Marquee and Showcase

On average, we’ve seen that new releases promoted with Marquee drive a 2x lift in amplified listeners.

  • How they work: Hone in on your most engaged listeners to encourage them to dive even deeper into your world.
  • Target: Active audience.
  • Measure: Amplified listeners.
  • Success story: After 30 days, active listeners who viewed pop artist Jillian Rossi’s Marquee streamed about 30x more than similar listeners who did not see the campaign.

How to get started with Campaign Kit tools

Campaign Kit is available in the Campaigns tab on Spotify for Artists (desktop). Playlist pitching is open to all artists, Discovery Mode is live in 90+ markets, and Showcase and Marquee are available in ten—with more regions and features on the way.

Combine these tools with Clips, Canvas, and Countdown Pages to maximize your reach and connect with fans in fresh, creative ways.

Ready to amplify your next release? Visit the Campaigns tab and start your campaign today.

Spotify for Artists helps you to develop the fanbase you need to reach your goals.

5 Surprising Facts About R.E.M.’s “Automatic for the People”

Few albums capture the weight of nostalgia, loss, and reflection quite like Automatic for the People. Released in 1992, R.E.M.’s eighth studio album defied expectations, moving away from the bright jangle-pop and folk-rock of their earlier years and diving deep into orchestral textures, unconventional instrumentation, and poignant lyricism. With its sweeping arrangements—courtesy of former Led Zeppelin bassist John Paul Jones—the album became an introspective masterpiece that continues to resonate decades later. Here are five lesser-known facts that make Automatic for the People even more fascinating.

1. The Unexpected Influence Behind “Drive” – and an Unexpected Extra

“Drive,” the album’s haunting lead single, is one of R.E.M.’s most brooding and enigmatic songs. While many assumed it was a straight political anthem, the track’s title actually nods to the Motor Voter Bill, which aimed to increase voter registration. Musically, it pays homage to David Essex’s 1973 hit Rock On, mirroring its sparse arrangement and echoing vocal delivery. Producer Scott Litt later revealed that Peter Buck and Mike Mills—both huge Queen fans—were also inspired by the band’s dramatic approach to arrangement. Adding to the song’s lore, Drive‘s music video, shot at the Sepulveda Dam, features a blink-and-you-miss-it appearance from future Parks and Recreation star Adam Scott, who worked as an extra.

2. “Nightswimming” and the Legendary Piano That Played “Layla”

A centerpiece of the album’s wistful nostalgia, “Nightswimming” stands apart as one of R.E.M.’s most delicate and evocative ballads. Unlike the rest of the album, which features layered arrangements, the track is stripped down to just Mike Mills’ piano, Michael Stipe’s voice, and an orchestral arrangement by John Paul Jones. Mills originally dismissed the song’s circular piano riff, playing it absentmindedly during sessions—until Stipe immediately latched onto it. The piano itself has its own legend: Mills recorded the final version at Criteria Studios in Miami, on the same instrument used for Derek and the Dominos’ Layla.

3. The Album Was Supposed to Be More Rock-Oriented

After the folk-leaning Out of Time, R.E.M. initially set out to make a louder, more aggressive follow-up. Early rehearsals focused on writing uptempo rock songs, but the band found themselves gravitating toward melancholic, atmospheric material instead. Out of the 30 songs they demoed, only three could be considered “rockers”: “Ignoreland,” “The Sidewinder Sleeps Tonite,” and “Man on the Moon.” The result was an album that seemed quiet and introspective, but was, in many ways, more emotionally raw and intense than anything they’d done before.

4. The Lost Album Title and the Star That Survived a Hurricane

Automatic for the People wasn’t always the planned title. At one point, the band considered naming the album Star, a reference to the striking Sputnik-like ornament on the cover. That object was originally part of the sign for the Sinbad Motel in Miami, near where the band recorded. Although the motel itself still stands, the star was damaged in Hurricane Andrew and removed. In an alternate reality, we could be talking about Star as one of the greatest albums of the ’90s.

5. A Secret Nazareth Connection in “Everybody Hurts”

“Everybody Hurts” became one of R.E.M.’s most enduring anthems, known for its direct, comforting lyrics. Unlike most R.E.M. songs, which feature cryptic or abstract storytelling, this track was written with straightforward lyrics to ensure its message reached listeners—especially teenagers struggling with mental health. What’s lesser-known is that the song’s melody and tone were heavily inspired by Nazareth’s 1975 power ballad Love Hurts, a song Stipe had long admired. Initially, Stipe wanted Patti Smith to sing on the track, but the collaboration never materialized.

Automatic for the People was a turning point for R.E.M., a reflection on change, mortality, and the inevitable passage of time. More than 30 years later, it remains one of the defining records of its era, proving that sometimes, the quietest moments leave the loudest impact.