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October London & Tamar Braxton Announce “The October Nights: Calling All Lovers” Tour

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Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Grammy-nominated artist October London and platinum-selling Grammy-nominated powerhouse Tamar Braxton, two of the most dynamic voices in contemporary R&B, announce their highly anticipated 24-city “The October Nights: Calling All Lovers” Tour. Produced by Black Promoters Collective (BPC), the tour promises to deliver an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and passion, with a unique blend of soulful melodies, emotive storytelling, and high-energy performances. With stops in some of the country’s most iconic cities, this tour is a journey through the best contemporary R&B.

Kicking off on April 17th at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, VA, the tour will take these R&B stars across the U.S., hitting major cities including New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and Los Angeles, before concluding on May 31st at the Paramount Theater in Oakland, CA.

Presale tickets for local, venue, and promoter partners will be available starting Thursday, January 30th, at 10 AM local time. The promoter presale code is BPC. General public tickets will go on sale Friday, January 31st, at 10 AM local time. Fans can secure their tickets here.

Joining the powerhouse duo is Ro James, a Grammy-nominated and platinum-selling artist known for his smooth, sultry sound. Ro’s powerful presence and chart-topping hits will add even more magic to an already star-studded evening.

With their unmatched vocal talents and undeniable stage presence, October London, Tamar Braxton, and Ro James promise a night filled with sultry melodies, emotive storytelling, and high-energy performances that will leave fans breathless. This tour celebrates what it means to love, live, and groove—an experience no R&B fan will want to miss.

October London is quickly becoming one of R&B’s brightest rising stars. With his Grammy-nominated releases and genre-blending style, October is redefining the sound of contemporary R&B, delivering deeply emotional performances that resonate with fans worldwide.

Tamar Braxton has long been a beloved force in R&B, known for her powerhouse vocals and vibrant stage presence. With hits like the two times Grammy-nominated “Love and War,” Tamar continues to captivate audiences with her unmatched artistry and charisma.

Ro James, the man behind the Grammy-nominated hit “Permission,” has earned a reputation for his smooth blend of soul and modern R&B. Ro’s dynamic performances and unique style will add a distinct flavor to this epic lineup.

The Black Promoters Collective (BPC) is a coalition that produces culturally relevant, high-quality live entertainment experiences for diverse audiences. Through their commitment to artists and communities, BPC continues to be a trailblazer in the live event industry.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of “The October Nights: Calling All Lovers” Tour! It’s a journey through the best contemporary R&B—passionate, powerful, and unforgettable.

October London & Tamar Braxton The October Nights: Calling All Lovers Tour dates:
Apr 17 – Norfolk, VA – Chrysler Hall*
Apr 18 – Washington, D.C. – DAR Constitution Hall*
Apr 19 – Philadelphia, PA – Liacouras Center
Apr 24 – Baltimore, MD – Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena
Apr 25 – Raleigh, NC – Durham Performing Arts Center
Apr 26 – Greensboro, NC – Steven Tanger Center for the Performing Arts
Apr 27 – Columbia, SC – Township Auditorium
May 1 – Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre*
May 2 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle
May 3 – Milwaukee, WI – Riverside Theater
May 4 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
May 8 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre*
May 9 – Dallas, TX – Texas Trust CU Theatre
May 10 – Houston, TX – Smart Financial Centre
May 11 – Memphis, TN – Orpheum Theatre
May 15 – Atlanta, GA – Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
May 18 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
May 22 – Indianapolis, IN – Clowes Memorial Hall
May 23 – Detroit, MI – Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre
May 24 – Cleveland, OH – Jacobs Pavilion
May 25 – New York, NY – Beacon Theatre
May 28 – Los Angeles, CA – Peacock Theater
May 29 – Phoenix, AZ – Celebrity Theatre*
May 31 – Oakland, CA – Paramount Theater

*On-sale date TBA

Jazz in the Gardens 2025 Announces Star-Studded Lineup Led by Lauryn Hill and New Edition

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The much-anticipated Jazz in the Gardens (JITG) music festival, a beloved tradition in its 18th annual celebration, is set to return on Saturday, March 8th, and Sunday, March 9th, 2025, at the iconic Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. Following a successful 2024, the JITG music festival hosted by the City of Miami Gardens will once again be produced by the Black Promoters Collective (BPC). This year’s festival boasts a stellar lineup featuring some of the most iconic names in music across a wide range of genres.

Headlining the festival on Saturday, March 8, is the multi-platinum-selling, five-time Grammy-award-winning icon Ms. Lauryn Hill. MLH has curated a very special Diaspora Calling! set featuring Wyclef Jean and YG Marley, with special guest Doechii, and performances by Busta Rhymes, Samara Cyn, Foggieraw, Mannywellz, and Zion Marley.

Sunday, March 9, the legendary multi-platinum-selling R&B supergroup New Edition, an American Music Award-winning and Grammy-nominated group with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is headlining the festival.

The event will be a celebration of the diverse spectrum of Black Music, including megastar Toni Braxton, DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic Live!, Beenie Man, Xscape, Coco Jones, Kem, Tye Tribbett, Dru Hill, DJ Nasty’s Miami House Party Set Featuring Uncle Luke, Doug E. Fresh, Mike Smiff, Pretty Procelain, 69 Boyz, Yung Joc, And More, Jeff Bradshaw & Friends Featuring a Special Performance by Eric Roberson, with more to be announced! There’s something for everyone at JITG 2025.

Tickets range from $250.00 for a 2-day general admission to $1500.00 for a 2-day Titanium pass and are on sale now at JazzintheGardens.com.

Mayor Rodney Harris shared this sentiment: “We are thrilled to host the 18th anniversary of Jazz in the Gardens and welcome visitors from near and far to our city. This milestone is a testament to the enduring impact this festival has on our community. It brings people together, enriches the quality of life for our residents and visitors, and stimulates our economy. We look forward to this celebration of creativity and culture, together, in the City of Miami Gardens.”

Troy Brown, BPC Partner, and CMO, expressed his excitement: “Exceeding our own expectations, BPC’s first year of working with JITG in 2024 set a new standard for live events. We are thrilled to create even more unforgettable memories for the city of Miami Gardens by partnering with JITG for its 18th anniversary in 2025.”

Don’t miss out on this vibrant and culturally rich celebration. Get your tickets now and join us at the Hard Rock Stadium for the 18th annual JITG Music festival.

In Miami Gardens, the largest Black City in the State of Florida, Jazz in the Gardens 2025 is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and connection. Don’t miss this iconic event—a weekend to remember for music lovers everywhere.

Country Music Hall of Fame Unveils American Currents Exhibit Showcasing 2024’s Biggest Moments

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The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will offer perspective on country music’s latest chapter with the opening of American Currents: State of the Music on Wednesday, March 5. The exhibit, which is included with museum admission, runs through January 2026 in the museum’s ACM Gallery.

Presented annually, American Currents takes a broad view of the genre over the past year to explore musical developments, artist achievements and notable events, as determined by the museum’s curators and editorial staff.

“The museum’s annual American Currents exhibition examines a wide variety of music and events that took place the prior year,” said Kyle Young, chief executive officer of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “Last year, we witnessed innovative collaborations, well-deserved honors and the continued expansion of country and roots-inspired music’s reach to broader audiences. American Currents allows us to highlight these significant moments within the context of music history.”

Featured in American Currents is a selection of artists, musicians and songwriters who figured prominently in country music in 2024. Artists represented with artifacts this year include Jessi Alexander, Kelsea Ballerini, Kane Brown, Luke Combs, HARDY, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, Amythyst Kiah, Carin León, Shelby Lynne, Megan Moroney, Orville Peck, Post Malone, The Red Clay Strays, Shaboozey, Chris Stapleton, Billy Strings, Taylor Swift, Turnpike Troubadours, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson.

A section of the exhibit titled “Unbroken Circle” will highlight musical connections between younger artists and those who have influenced them or share their musical perspective. Featured artifact pairings include Wyatt Ellis and Sierra Hull, Jamey Johnson and Ella Langley, Zach Top and Keith Whitley and Kaitlin Butts and Miranda Lambert.

American Currents will also explore important country music moments in 2024, including Beyoncé’s release of Cowboy Carter, as well as the year’s chart-topping country albums and singles and highest-grossing tours. The exhibit features a video compilation of significant performances and events from the past year, including some of the artists mentioned above as well as Zach Bryan, Dasha, Sierra Ferrell, Rosie Flores, Wyatt Flores, Sturgill Simpson and Country Music Hall of Fame members Joe Bonsall, Toby Keith and Kris Kristofferson; as well as a touchscreen interactive highlighting key awards show moments.

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum collects, preserves and interprets country music and its history for the education and entertainment of diverse audiences. In exhibitions, publications, digital media and educational programs, the museum explores the cultural importance and enduring beauty of the art form. Among the most-visited history museums in the United States, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum was awarded the country’s highest honor in the arts, the National Medal of Arts, in 2024. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the museum is operated by the Country Music Foundation, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization chartered by the state of Tennessee in 1964. The Country Music Foundation operates Historic RCA Studio B, Hatch Show Print poster shop, Haley Gallery, CMA Theater, CMF Records, the Frist Library and Archive and CMF Press. Museum programs are supported in part by Metro Arts and Tennessee Arts Commission.

Save The Music Goes Independent And Expands Music Education Initiatives

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Save The Music – formerly VH1 Save the Music, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports music education in 285+ school districts nationwide – announced today that it will begin a new chapter as a fully independent nonprofit separate from Paramount Global.

An independent Save The Music will remain dedicated to its vision of every student in every school making music – by providing schools with instruments and technology, training and supporting teachers, and funding and convening community-based music organizations.

As part of this transition, Save The Music has launched a $10 million endowment fund, with nearly $4 million already raised. The new endowment will ensure the cultural institution’s sustainability and long-term support for music education, empowering future generations of students with access to the transformative power of making music.

While the formal partnership with Paramount is ending, the relationship will remain, as the company has pledged an initial six-figure donation to the endowment.

This milestone marks the completion of a process that began in 2019 when the organization rebranded, removing the VH1 name. This was the first step of a strategy designed to reduce reliance on a single funding source and instead embrace a more broad-based approach to financial support.

Over the past five years, Save The Music has attracted a diverse group of funders, with 95% of the organizational budget in 2024 coming from non-Paramount sources, including community-based foundations, individual donations, and contributions from the music industry.

Notable funders include major record labels, talent agencies, Live Nation, AEG Presents, and tech giants such as Amazon, TikTok, and Meta. In 2021 Save The Music also received a $2 million grant – the largest in the organization’s history – from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

Since its inception, STM has invested over $75 million in more than 2,800 school music programs. Since 2019 it has doubled the number of schools it reaches, funding more than 600 new programs in U.S. cities such as New York, Newark, Atlanta, Miami, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Nashville and Columbus; as well as significant regional projects in West Virginia and the Mississippi Delta.

“Going independent is a huge step forward for us – and the culmination of a five-year effort from our team, partners, and boards,” says Executive Director Henry Donahue. “In every school I visit – from the Bronx to Miami, Philadelphia to Los Angeles, Detroit to Columbus, Memphis to New Orleans – I find that the music room is a special place. The students are excited to be there, and they are creative, thoughtful, and optimistic in a way that should give us all hope for the future.”

Save The Music has also strengthened its artist partnerships, led by internal leadership and the Save The Music Advisory Board, which includes Eric Wong (President, East West Records & Head of Global A&R, Warner Recorded Music), Caroline Abs (Head of Marketing, Sony Latin-Iberia Region), Jonathan Azu (Founder & CEO, Culture Collective), and Gurj Bassi (Head of Music Marketing & Partnerships, SiriusXM), among others. Recent Artist Ambassador campaigns have been led by Ed Sheeran, Becky G, and Jelly Roll and STM has also collaborated with Breland, Brittney Spencer, Young The Giant, Tank (Tank and The Bangas), Durand Bernarr, Ed Sheeran, Lawernce (the band), Chelsea Cutler, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, and Infinity Song.

STM’s widespread industry support was on display last fall at its signature Nashville event, the fifth annual Hometown to Hometown benefit. The evening raised more than $300,000 for music education programs in under-resourced public high schools and honored Maren Morris, Brittney Spencer, and Live Nation Women’s Ali Harnell as the 2024 “Champions of the Year.”

To mark this exciting new chapter, Save The Music has rallied an incredible lineup of artists for an exclusive giveaway campaign hosted on the Propeller platform. Now through the end of February, fans can bid on over a dozen unique auction prizes from talents like Sabrina Carpenter, The War And Treaty, Denzel Curry, GHOST, Common x Pete Rock, Patti LaBelle, Blake Shelton, and more! Proceeds from the auction will directly support the creation of new music programs across the country as Save The Music proudly steps into its new era as an independent organization. Check out the auction here.

In 2025, Save The Music plans to further grow the scope of its K-12 music education grants to meet demand from students and educators for investment in hip hop and Latin music programs. STM’s J Dilla Music Tech Grant, which launched in 2018 in partnership with Pharrell’s agency I AM OTHER, Pay Jay Productions, Inc., and the Estate of James DeWitt Yancey is now live in over 100 schools nationwide.  The grant supports high school programs focused on electronic music production, appealing to students interested in cutting-edge music technology.

Additionally, building on the success of their mariachi programs, STM will expand their middle school grants to include more Latin music genres, adding more percussion and other instruments for students and teachers exploring the culturally rich world of Latin music..

The success of the J Dilla Music Tech Grants and the expansion of the Latin music program exemplify STM’s commitment to empowering students nationwide through music programs that reflect the needs of their partner communities.

Save The Music Foundation is a 501(c)(3) music education nonprofit that helps students, schools, and communities reach their full potential through the power of making music. For more than 25 years, Save The Music (STM) has addressed systemic inequities in music education by investing in culturally rich communities across the U.S. Since its inception, STM has garnered a four-star/99 out of 100 Charity Navigator rating, and has donated more than $75M worth of instruments and technology to more than 2,800 schools, impacting the lives of millions of students. The organization is further committed to driving innovation by offering K-12 programming, with Music Technology and Career Pathways as a new focus.

Global Ticket Market to Surge by $554.2B with AI, Digital Payments, and Contactless Solutions

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The global ticket market size is estimated to grow by USD 554.2 billion from 2025-2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 29.7% during the forecast period. Success of movies due to increasing use of animation is driving market growth, with a trend towards high utilization of social media in selling tickets. However, growing threat of terrorism and occurrence of war between nations poses a challenge. Key market players include AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc., Anschutz Entertainment Group Inc., Big Tree Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., Cinemark Holdings Inc., Citizen Ticket Ltd., Coast To Coast Tickets LLC, Comcast Corp., CTS Eventim AG and Co. KGaA, Cvent Holding Corp., eBay Inc., Eventbee Inc., Eventbrite Inc., Ideabud LLC, Live Nation Entertainment Inc., Lyte Inc., One97 Communications Ltd., Softjourn Corp., TickPick LLC, Viagogo Entertainment Inc., and Zoonga.

Ticket Market is trending with the integration of artificial intelligence in convenient ticketing solutions. Credit amounts can now be stored on wearables like smartwatches and NFC cards for contactless electronic ticket purchases. Operational efficiencies are increased through hardware like tap-off readers and RFID tags. Virtual reality maps offer experiences for event ticketing, while buses and parking lots adopt electronic ticketing for cashless transactions. Component manufacturers are developing ticket validators with Wi-Fi modules, GPS, and IR sensors for public transportation networks. Smart cards and smart ticketing are replacing traditional paper tickets, providing premium experiences for customers. Digital transformation in the public sector includes mobile ticketing, contactless transactions, and ticketless entry through wristbands. Sports, movies, and entertainment events are utilizing digital ticketing platforms, offering deals, discounts, and pre-sales to expand their customer base. Fintech companies like Mastercard are partnering with service providers to ensure secure transactions and customer satisfaction. The entertainment industry is embracing digital ticketing for convenience, safety, and accessibility, with programming alternatives on Android and digital wallets for mobile payment platforms. Surveys show that customers prefer the user experience of mobile ticketing and online purchasing for leisure services, special presentations, and event marketing. Pre-recorded programs and 3-d content are enhancing the patronage of music concerts and movies. The future of ticketing is digital, offering a more convenient, hygienic, and accessible solution for all.

Social media plays a significant role in today’s business world, particularly for event organizers and moviemakers. They utilize social computing tools for various purposes, including branding, marketing, and ticket selling. By creating accounts on social networking sites like Twitter and Facebook, vendors can reach a broader audience and gather valuable feedback through blogs and social media interactions. Sentiment analysis and behavioral analytics are increasingly important, driving cost-effective collaborations with the public. These advanced techniques enable businesses to understand consumer preferences and tailor their offerings accordingly. In summary, social media provides a cost-efficient platform for vendors to engage with their audience, gather feedback, and ultimately, grow their business.

In today’s digital world, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the ticketing industry. From convenient electronic ticketing for public transportation like buses and NFC cards, to event ticketing for sports, movies, and entertainment, the challenges are numerous. Credit amount management, hardware like tap-off readers and card readers, and operational efficiencies are key considerations. Wearables and RFID tags offer contactless ticketing experiences, while virtual reality maps and satellite delivery enhance the customer experience. Component manufacturers supply ticket validators, Wi-Fi modules, and GPS for smart ticketing systems. Operational efficiencies are further improved through mobile ticketing, cashless transactions, and digital payment services. Customer satisfaction is paramount, and digital transformation in the public sector is essential for staying competitive. Smarter ticketing solutions include ticketless entry through wristbands, deals, and discounts for internet users. Event organizers benefit from event ticketing software, online ticket purchase platforms, and digital wallets. Safety and accessibility are crucial, with hygiene a growing concern. Fintech companies like Mastercard are leading the way in digital ticketing and online purchasing. The entertainment industry, from music concerts to special presentations, is embracing digital ticketing for premium experiences. Programming alternatives on Android devices, pre-sales, and barcode scanning make ticket purchases seamless. Pre-recorded programs and online event ticketing offer convenience and access to a wider customer base. The future of ticketing is digital, and the challenges are many, but the rewards are great.

The global rise in terrorist activities poses significant challenges for event organizers, particularly those hosting large gatherings in special venues or crowded places. These incidents often target tourists and foreign delegates, leading to increased security concerns and border clearance issues. As a result, tighter inspections and delays at borders have become common. This trend has negatively impacted participation in events, particularly in countries like the US, the UK, France, and Germany, where the threat level is perceived to be high. Despite investments in advanced security technologies, the fear of terrorist attacks continues to deter potential attendees.

The primary segment of the global ticket market is the largest and most dynamic, driven by the increasing number of movies and professional events. Primary tickets are sold through both online and offline platforms by event organizers and third-party providers. Movies, with their increasing visual and special effects, are a significant contributor to this growth, as is the expanding roster of professional events in various industries. End-users have diverse expectations, leading to intense competition among vendors. The adoption of AI and changes in consumer preferences will further boost demand for primary tickets. Additionally, the rise of sports events, mobile devices, and Internet penetration are catalysts for growth. The corporate segment, including private organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and political parties, is another major driver. Technavio anticipates a shift from in-person event attendance to digitally delivered content during the forecast period, which will increase the primary segment’s market share.

Entertainment ticketing and transit ticketing are two essential components of the modern mobility landscape. The entertainment ticketing industry offers seamless solutions for booking tickets to concerts, sports events, and other attractions, while transit ticketing focuses on optimizing the passenger experience through innovative technologies. Journey management and operational efficiency are key priorities in transit ticketing. Contactless and NFC ticketing, real-time transit information, and integrated ticketing systems are transforming the industry, enabling connected transportation and multimodal mobility. Public transport innovation includes fare collection systems, transit infrastructure improvements, and smart city initiatives. Durable ticketing solutions, ticket transfer, and ticket recovery are essential for ensuring a user-friendly experience. Transit automation, transit data analytics, and secure ticketing are crucial for enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring a seamless passenger journey. Transit technology advancements, such as RFID ticketing, digital fare media, and transit accessibility features, are making transportation more accessible and sustainable. The future of transportation includes fast ticketing, ticket platform solutions, event ticketing, and social media marketing. Event ticketing solutions, event ticketing APIs, and event management software are revolutionizing the way we plan and attend events. Smart mobility solutions, parking ticketing, and transit planning are also essential components of the evolving transportation landscape.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the ticketing industry, offering convenient and contactless ticketing solutions for various sectors. Wearables, such as smartwatches and wristbands, integrated with NFC chips and RFID tags, are becoming popular for sports, entertainment, and transportation events. Electronic ticketing systems, including mobile ticketing and smart cards, provide operational efficiencies and customer satisfaction through cashless transactions and ticketless entry. Hardware components, like ticket validators, card readers, and tap-off readers, ensure secure and accurate transactions. Virtual reality maps and GPS-enabled transportation networks offer enhanced customer experiences. Component manufacturers and service providers collaborate to deliver innovative ticketing solutions, integrating Wi-Fi modules and satellite delivery for seamless online ticket purchases and event discovery. Digital transformation in the public sector has led to the adoption of smart ticketing systems, reducing marketing costs and offering premium experiences through deals, discounts, and personalized recommendations. Event ticketing software caters to various industries, including movies, music concerts, and special presentations, providing digital projection, 3-d content, and alternative entertainment options. Digital devices, fintech companies, and digital payment services enable secure and convenient transactions, enhancing the overall user experience. Safety and accessibility are essential considerations, with hygiene becoming increasingly important in the post-pandemic world. The ticketing industry continues to evolve, offering a wide range of ticketing experiences for internet users and patronage growth for event organizers.

Global Movie Production Market Set to Surge with Digital Expansion and Streaming Boom

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The global movie production market size is estimated to grow by USD 90.4 billion from 2025-2029, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  14.6%  during the forecast period. Growing popularity of global box office is driving market growth, with a trend towards increased focus on digital movie screens. However, growing threat of piracy  poses a challenge. Key market players include A24 Films LLC, Annapurna Productions LLC, Anonymous Content, Dharma Productions Pvt. Ltd., Eros International Media Ltd., Legend Pictures LLC, Lions Gate Entertainment Corp., MGM Studios, Paramount Global, RatPac Entertainment LLC, Red Chillies Entertainments Pvt. Ltd., Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc., Storyteller Distribution Co. LLC, Technicolor SA, The Walt Disney Co., UltraV Holdings LLC, Universal Pictures, Village Roadshow Ltd., Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc., and Yash Raj Films Pvt. Ltd..

Movie production market is witnessing significant trends in 2021. Theaters are reopening with safety protocols, but the shift to digital platforms continues. 3D films and virtual reality (VR) are gaining popularity. IPTV, Digital newspapers, DTH, and digital cable are competing with streaming platforms for audience engagement. Millennials prefer online streaming market for movies, music & videos. Film distributors are collaborating with streaming services and social media platforms. Hollywood dominates the screens, but Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Philippine, Vietnamese, Australian, and general entertainment movies & music are making their mark. Production companies, distribution companies, film studios, broadcasters, cinema chains, and OTT platforms are adapting to the new mode of watching. Smart devices like tablets, laptops, and mobile phones are the new cinema halls. Creative writing, music, TV shows, and social media are driving content creation. Streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ are leading the charge with original content. Squid Games is a recent hit on OTT platforms. Stay tuned for more updates on this dynamic market!

The global movie production market is experiencing significant growth due to several key factors. One of the most significant contributors is the expansion of digital movie screens globally. The availability of a diverse range of films from various regions, languages, and genres, coupled with rising disposable incomes, is driving consumers to movie theaters. This trend is particularly noticeable in emerging markets. As a result, investments in establishing new digital movie theaters have increased. The primary format for films today is Digital Cinema Packages (DCPs), which have replaced traditional 35-mm film prints. A DCP is a collection of digital files used for movie projection in theaters. This shift to digital technology has streamlined the movie production process and enhanced the overall cinema experience for audiences.

The movie production market faces numerous challenges in today’s digital age. Traditional theaters compete with live streaming services like IPTV, Digital cable, DTH, and streaming platforms. Millennials prefer watching movies and TV shows on their smart devices, including tablets, laptops, and mobile phones. 3D films and virtual reality (VR) are disrupting the industry, offering experiences. Film distributors, including Hollywood studios and local production houses, must adapt to these changes. Box office revenues are being impacted by the rise of online streaming market, where movies, music, and videos are available on-demand. Cinema chains and broadcasters are also embracing OTT platforms and social media to reach wider audiences. Production companies and distribution companies are collaborating to produce creative content for various modes of watching, including cinema, television, and online streaming. Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Philippine, Vietnamese, Australian, and general entertainment movies and music are all vying for attention in this crowded marketplace. Streaming services and social media platforms are becoming major players, with shows like Squid Games and movies from various genres and regions gaining popularity. The future of movie production is digital and interactive, requiring studios and production houses to stay agile and innovative.

Film piracy is an unlawful act that involves the unauthorized distribution or sharing of copyrighted movies or TV shows. With the growing popularity of online movie ticket booking services, the occurrence of film piracy has increased. These platforms provide a convenient avenue for individuals to access and download pirated content. In the global movie production market, film piracy negatively impacts profitability. Pirated content is often free, diverting potential paying customers from legal movie watching channels. This can significantly harm the movie production industry’s revenue.

 The English movie production market is dominated by key players such as Warner Bros and Walt Disney, who collectively produce a vast array of live-action and animated movies. Walt Disney Studios, in particular, boasts a film library of over 5,500 films, spanning a century of movie production history. In 2023, Disney’s Studios Division introduced about fifty films and thirty television shows to their direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform. Additionally, Disney’s Fox brands offer a diverse range of scripted, reality, and documentary English movies, broadcast globally. Advanced tools and technologies, like 360-degree videos and virtual reality (VR), are revolutionizing English movie production. For instance, 360-degree videos capture all angles of a movie set, providing an experience. These videos are increasingly popular for movie promotion. VR is the latest trend in digital entertainment, offering a fully movie experience. These technological advancements are expected to fuel the growth of the English movie production market.

The Movie Production Market is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, encompassing various modes of watching and content genres. Theaters continue to be a traditional hub for cinematic experiences, while digital platforms like IPTV, Digital cable, Streaming platforms, and Online streaming are revolutionizing the way audiences consume content. 3D films and Virtual Reality (VR) are pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling, providing experiences. The rise of digital newspapers and DTH services has made news and entertainment more accessible than ever. The market is a melting pot of cultures, with Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Philippine, Vietnamese, Australian, and general entertainment movies and music, all vying for attention. Productions houses churn out TV shows and movies, while creative writing and music play crucial roles in storytelling. Recent phenomena like “Squid Games” have taken the world by storm, highlighting the industry’s ability to captivate global audiences. The future of movie production lies in continuous innovation and catering to diverse consumer preferences.

The movie production market is experiencing a significant shift as traditional theaters face competition from various digital platforms. Livemint reports that 3D films and virtual reality (VR) are revolutionizing the cinematic experience, while IPTV, Digital newspapers, DTH, and Digital cable cater to residential and commercial audiences. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ are dominating the online streaming market with millions of subscribers, especially among millennials. Television and Internet continue to be key modes of watching movies and TV shows. Production companies, distribution companies, film studios, broadcasters, cinema chains, and OTT platforms are all jostling for market share. Squid Games is a recent example of a successful series that gained popularity through streaming services. Smart devices, tablets, laptops, and mobile phones have become essential tools for accessing this content. Music & videos, Chinese movies & music, Japanese movies & music, Indian movies & music, Philippine movies & music, Vietnamese movies & music, Australian movies & music, and general entertainment movies are all available on these platforms. Creative writing and social media platforms are also playing a role in the production and promotion of movies and TV shows.

The Largest Rockabilly Festival in the U.S. Returns: Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend Celebrates 28 Years, April 24-27, 2025

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The Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend, the longest-running music festival in Las Vegas and the largest rockabilly event in the U.S., celebrates its 28th year from April 24–27, 2025, at The Orleans Hotel and Casino.

This four-day festival draws 9,000 fans from over 20 countries, with up to 15,000 attendees for its legendary Saturday Classic Car Show. Known for its stylish, head-turning crowd and unparalleled retro-inspired entertainment, VLV is a celebration of music, fashion, and culture.

The 2025 lineup features 75 bands and 25 DJs from all over the globe spanning rockabilly, rhythm & blues, and vintage rock ‘n’ roll. Highlights include Dublin, Ireland’s Imelda May performing her iconic rockabilly hits, the highly anticipated first Chop Tops reunion in a decade, Les Green, the powerhouse voice of Little Richard in the 2022 blockbuster ELVIS, Japanese sensation Johnny Pandora who ignites audiences with explosive energy and a modern twist on 1950s rockabilly, and Bobby Brooks Wilson, whose stunning voice mirrors the electrifying tones and soulful vibrancy of his legendary father, Jackie Wilson. Joining the lineup are Alton and Jimmy, one of the last remaining original rockabilly acts from the legendary Sun Records, offering fans a rare and authentic link to the golden era of 1950s rockabilly music.

One of the most exciting elements this year is the VLV RnB Showcase, featuring an international supergroup performing classic RnB hits from the ’50s. There’s also buzz around many young rockabilly acts in their 20s carrying the genre’s torch into the future.

The Viva Las Vegas Classic Car Show is among the largest in North America, featuring 800–1,000 vintage cars, all pre-1964, alongside famous movie cars. The event also includes the annual VLV Pin-Up Contest and live performances from five bands. Tickets for the car show are available as a standalone option, with children under 15 admitted free with an adult.

Festival-goers can enjoy a burlesque showcase and competition, a vintage fashion show, three days of Tiki Pool Parties, dance lessons and contests, burlesque bingo, a tattoo lounge, vintage shopping with over 120 vendors, and record hops until 7 a.m. Special meetups for singles, sober attendees, and LGBTQ+ guests ensure an inclusive experience for all.

The Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend takes place at The Orleans Hotel and Casino, 4500 West Tropicana Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89103. Tickets for the festival and car show are available now at www.vivalasvegas.net.

Jerry Cantrell Launches North American Tour, Releases Deluxe ‘I Want Blood’ Album

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Alice In Chains star Jerry Cantrell kicked off his first North American tour in support of his recently released album, I Want Blood, last night in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The tour launch coincides with the arrival of a deluxe version of the nine-track collection.

Featuring spoken word versions of each of the songs on I Want Blood, the Cantrell-narrated pieces also feature their own unique score with contributions from producer Joe Barresi, engineer Maxwell Urasky, Greg Puciato (Better Lovers, The Black Queen), Roy Mayorga (Ministry), Gil Sharone (Stolen Babies, Team Sleep), Rani Sharone (Stolen Babies), George Adrian (The Maybirds), composer Vincent Jones, and producer Michael Rozon.

“I wanted to do something special and I’ve never done a spoken word recitation of the lyrics, and I thought it might be kind of cool to have it on the B-side of ‘Vilified,'” Cantrell recalls in a recent interview with Scott Lipps. “I thought maybe it needs some music or something, and I was sitting there with Maxwell Urasky, my demo partner. He’s a really talented musician, and he said ‘Let me mess around with it for a night.’ He came back the next day with that piece of music, and it sounded killer. I brought it in to Joe Barresi and he said, ‘Man, you should do this with all of them.’ I got this creative stew going of sending the lyrics out to people, having them come up with the music, and sending it back. We ended up with nine pieces of really interesting takes on the lyrics, but the music is done by creative partners of mine, and it has nothing to do with the real music, so it is truly a standalone piece.”

I Want Blood was recorded at Barresi’s JHOC Studio in Pasadena, Calif., and features contributions from Duff McKagan (Guns N’Roses), Mike Bordin (Faith No More), Robert Trujillo (Metallica), Greg Puciato (Better Lovers, ex-Dillinger Escape Plan), Gil Sharone (Team Sleep, Stolen Babies), and Lola Colette.

An animated video series featuring graphics from Boy Tillekens can be viewed below.

Tour Dates:
January 31 Niagara Falls, ON Fallsview Casino Resort
February 1 Sayreville, NJ Starland Ballroom
February 2 Portland, ME Aura
February 4 Boston, MA Citizens House of Blues Boston
February 5 New York, NY Irving Plaza
February 7 Silver Spring, MD The Fillmore – Silver Spring
February 8 Bensalem, PA Parx Xcite Center
February 11 Huntington, NY The Paramount
February 12 Norfolk, VA The NorVa
February 14 Raleigh, NC The Ritz
February 15 Atlanta, GA Buckhead Theatre
February 16 Louisville, KY Mercury Ballroom
February 18 Columbus, OH The Bluestone
February 19 Indianapolis, IN Murat Egyptian Room at Old National Centre
February 22 St. Louis, MO The Hawthorn
February 23 Chicago, IL The Vic Theatre
February 25 Tulsa, OK Tulsa Theater
February 26 Houston, TX House of Blues Houston
February 27 San Antonio, TX The Aztec Theatre
March 1 Mesa, AZ The Nile Theater
March 2 Las Vegas, NV House of Blues Las Vegas
March 4 Los Angeles, CA The Belasco
March 5 Ventura, CA The Majestic Ventura Theater
March 7 Spokane, WA Knitting Factory – Spokane
March 8 Portland, OR Wonder Ballroom
March 9 Seattle, WA Moore Theatre
May 31 Padua, IT Hall
June 1 Milan, IT Magazzini Generali
June 4 Krakow, PL Mystic Festival
June 6 Berlin, DE Columbia Theater
June 7 Nüremberg, DE Rock im Park
June 8 Nürnberg, DE Rock am Ring
June 10 Zagreb, HR The Culture Factory
June 12 Nickelsdorf, AT Nova Rock Festival
June 13 Hradec Kralove, CZ Rock The People
June 14 – 15 Donington Park, UK Download Festival
June 17 London, UK O2 Forum Kentish Town
June 19 Amsterdam, NL Melkweg
June 20 Dessel, BE Graspop Metal Meeting
June 22 Clisson, FR Hellfest Open Air Festival
June 24 Paris, FR La Machine du Moulin Rouge
June 25 Nijmegen, NL Doornroosje
June 26 Hamburg, DE Gruenspan
June 28 Oslo, NO Tons of Rock

Bryan Ferry Unveils Experimental Album ‘Loose Talk’ with Amelia Barratt

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Introducing Loose Talk, the new collaborative album of music by Bryan Ferry with spoken texts by performance artist, writer and painter Amelia Barratt, due for release on March 28, 2025. Pre-order/save HERE.

Richly detailed and transportive, ‘Orchestra’ is released today – the first piece to be revealed from the album 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.

Kacey Musgraves Unveils Mini-Doc on ‘Deeper Well’ Recording Process

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Kacey Musgraves has released a new mini-documentary chronicling the recording of her critically lauded album “Deeper Well.” The film, “Kacey Musgraves – Deeper Well (The Making of the Album),” visits with Kacey and her co-producers Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk laboring at NYC’s famed Electric Lady studios over the course of months.

An intimate look at the creative process as the album comes together, the film also features footage of Kacey in frigid Iceland filming the music video for the album’s title track.

“Deeper Well” has garnered four 2025 Grammy Award nominations for Best Country Album, Best Country Song, Best Country Solo Performance and Best Engineered Album Non-Classical. Musgraves fifth 2025 Grammy Award nomination is in the category Best Americana Performance for the song “Don’t Do Me Good,” with Madi Diaz. In 2023 Musgraves achieved her first Hot 100 #1 for “I Remember Everything,” a duet with Zach Bryan. In 2024 the song won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song by a Duo or Group making Kacey the only artist ever to receive a Grammy Award for Best Country Album, Best Country Song, Best Country Solo performance and Best Country Duo or Group performance. “I Remember Everything” is the first country music duet in 40 years since Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers “Islands in the Stream” (1983) to reach #1 on the Hot 100.

Kacey recently completed her “Deeper Well World Tour” with sold-out shows across the globe including Nashville, London, Los Angeles, New York, Amsterdam, Brussels, Chicago and more.