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Oasis Announces 25th Anniversary Reissue of Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants and Massive Live ’25 Tour

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Oasis announce the 25th anniversary reissue of their fourth studio album, Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants – available on limited edition vinyl including silver LP and official store exclusive blue and purple marble LP on the anniversary of the original release date, February 28th. Today’s news is accompanied by a new lyric video for the album’s first single “Go Let It Out,” originally released 25 years ago today.

A pivotal moment in Oasis’ storied history, Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants marked the start of a new era for the band. “Go Let It Out” was the first release on Noel and Liam Gallagher’s own label Big Brother Recordings Ltd, established in January 2000 following the sudden closure of Oasis’ former UK label Creation Records. Big Brother’s debut release was rushed into production and released on February 7th, 2000, only seven weeks after the label’s inception.

Set up by Noel and Liam, together with their management team and entirely self-financed, Big Brother was the only real option for one of the most independently minded bands in the UK. Including the rights for the band’s existing catalogue as well as new releases, in the 25 years since its birth, Big Brother has gone on to be responsible for 10 No. 1 albums and over 15 billion streams globally.

Following the meteoric global success of Definitely Maybe (1994), What’s The Story (Morning Glory?) (1995) and Be Here Now (1997), with Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants, Oasis embraced a bold development in their sound. Noel Gallagher took a broader and more experimental approach to recording, resulting in a departure from their earlier sounds towards a modern psychedelic rock influenced record. This experimentation and richer sonic palette was in part due to Noel taking more time to craft this record than he had previously enjoyed. New instruments and techniques were utilised, including drum loops, samples, electric sitar, Mellotron, synthesisers and backward guitars, all contributing to a progression in Oasis’ output. Several tracks on the album also saw Oasis use samples for the first time. “F***in’ In The Bushes” contains samples from Murray Lerner’s film “Message To Love Isle Of Wight 1970,” whilst “Go Let It Out” contains elements from Johnny Jenkins “I Walk on Gilded Splinters.” Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants also marked the first time that Liam Gallagher contributed songwriting to an Oasis album (“Little James”), with this continuing on subsequent albums.

Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants holds further significance as the first Oasis album to be released following the change to the original band line up. Gem Archer and Andy Bell took over guitar and bass duties respectively for the album’s live activity, following the departure of Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs and Paul “Guigsy” McGuigan. Also significant to the recording process Mark “Spike” Stent took up production duties alongside Noel.

The bold new sounds were quickly embraced by Oasis’ fans, and Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants reached No.1 in the UK Album Charts, selling over 310,000 copies in its first week alone. It is now certified double platinum and has also sold in excess of 200,000 copies in the US. Moreover, the legacy of its songs continues to burn bright in Oasis back catalogue. “F***in’ In The Bushes” cemented itself in fans consciousness as the incendiary rallying cry Oasis walked on stage to for subsequent live shows. “Go Let It Out,” a classic slice of Noel’s very best songwriting, backed with hypnotic drum loop and Mellotron, topped the single charts in UK, Ireland, Italy, and Spain. And with the spiralling chaos of “Gas Panic!,” the band showed their ability to masterfully explore new territory with dark, sobering textures and an expertly crafted sense of unease.

The 25th anniversary of Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants lands at the start of a year that is sure to belong to Oasis as fans eagerly anticipate the Oasis Live ’25 tour, the reunion that ended years of feverish speculation. Unprecedented demand and a resounding global appetite made the announcement the music story of 2024. Last year also saw the 30th anniversary edition of Definitely Maybe reach No.1 in the UK album charts for a second time in its history.

In the midst of a pivotal moment in the remarkable story of Oasis, reflecting on another during its 25th anniversary, feels particularly apt. With Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants, Oasis embarked on a bold new chapter, one that would lay the foundation for everything that was to follow as the band took control of their own destiny.

TRACKLIST:
1. F***in’ In the Bushes
2. Go Let It Out
3. Who Feels Love?
4. Put Yer Money Where Yer Mouth Is
5. Little James
6. Gas Panic!
7. Where Did It All Go Wrong?
8. Sunday Morning Call
9. I Can See A Liar
10. Roll It Over

All tracks produced by Mark “Spike” Stent and Noel Gallagher
All Songs written by Noel Gallagher except “Little James” written by Liam Gallagher
All tracks engineered by Mark “Spike” Stent and Paul Stacey
Mastered by Howie Weinberg at Masterdisk Corporation, New York
Recorded at Wheeler End, Olympic Studios, Supernova Heights, England and Chateau De La Colle Noire, France

Oasis Live ’25 Tour Dates:
JULY 2025
July 4th, 2025 – Cardiff, UK – Principality Stadium
July 5th, 2025 – Cardiff, UK – Principality Stadium
July 11th, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Heaton Park
July 12th, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Heaton Park
July 16th, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Heaton Park
July 19th, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Heaton Park
July 20th, 2025 – Manchester, UK – Heaton Park
July 25th, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium
July 26th, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium
July 30th, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium

AUGUST 2025
August 2nd, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium
August 3rd, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium
August 8th, 2025 – Edinburgh, UK – Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium
August 9th, 2025 – Edinburgh, UK – Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium
August 12th, 2025 – Edinburgh, UK – Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium
August 16th, 2025 – Dublin, IE – Croke Park
August 17th, 2025 – Dublin, IE – Croke Park
August 24th, 2025 – Toronto, ON – Rogers Stadium
August 25th, 2025 – Toronto, ON – Rogers Stadium
August 28th, 2025 – Chicago, IL – Soldier Field
August 31st, 2025 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium

SEPTEMBER 2025
September 1st, 2025 – East Rutherford, NJ – MetLife Stadium
September 6th, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – Rose Bowl Stadium
September 7th, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – Rose Bowl Stadium
September 12th, 2025 – Mexico City, MX – Estadio GNP Seguros
September 13th, 2025 – Mexico City, MX – Estadio GNP Seguros
September 27th, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium
September 28th, 2025 – London, UK – Wembley Stadium

OCTOBER 2025
October 21st, 2025 – Seoul, South Korea – Goyang Stadium
October 25th, 2025 – Tokyo, Japan – Tokyo Dome
October 26th, 2025 – Tokyo, Japan – Tokyo Dome
October 31st, 2025 – Melbourne, VIC – Marvel Stadium

NOVEMBER 2025
November 1st, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Marvel Stadium
November 4th, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Marvel Stadium
November 7th, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Accor Stadium
November 8th, 2025 – Sydney, Australia – Accor Stadium
November 15th, 2025 – Buenos Aires, Argentina – Estadio River Plate
November 16th, 2025 – Buenos Aires, Argentina – Estadio River Plate
November 19th, 2025 – Santiago, Chile – Estadio Nacional
November 22nd, 2025 – Sao Paulo, Brazil – Estadio MorumBIS
November 23rd, 2025 – Sao Paulo, Brazil – Estadio MorumBIS

The Taylors to Headline ‘Second Chance Stage’ Reunion Concert in Kansas City on February 21

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Fresh off their journey on HBO Max and Magnolia Network’s ‘Second Chance Stage,’ The Taylors-the electrifying mother-daughter duo of Paula Jo and Amanda Taylor-are set to take the stage for a special ‘Second Chance Stage’ live reunion concert at The Truman in Kansas City, MO, on February 21. This highly anticipated event will bring together standout contestants from the show, backed up by the high-energy mashup band Lost Wax, for an evening of powerhouse performances, epic collaborations, and unforgettable musical moments.

Now available for streaming on HBO Max and Magnolia Network, Second Chance Stage features The Taylors in Episode 5, where their remarkable musical talents shine through, captivating both the judges and viewers alike.

Known for their jaw-dropping musicianship and the undeniable chemistry that only a mother-daughter duo can share, The Taylors have captured the hearts of audiences across the country. Paula Jo, dubbed the “Viral Granny Guitarist” by Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx, stuns with her virtuosic guitar skills, while Amanda’s commanding vocals leave crowds in awe. Their talent has been recognized by some of the biggest names in entertainment-actress and SNL comedian Heidi Gardner exclaimed, “I literally did not see that coming, you knocked me out of my seat.” Country music legend Martina McBride added, “I can definitely see you on the Grand Ole Opry,” while actor Taye Diggs declared, “You guys can go anywhere… you deserve to be everywhere. It blew me away.”

Joining The Taylors on stage will be Second Chance Stage Grand Prize winner Shelby Floyd, along with other surprise guests, making this a one-of-a-kind night that fans won’t want to miss.

 

Passengers’ ‘Original Soundtracks 1’ Celebrates 30 Years with Remastered Vinyl Release for Record Store Day 2025

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sland Records and UMe today announce the release of Original Soundtracks 1 (30th Anniversary Edition) by Passengers, pressed on 2LP recycled black vinyl for Record Store Day, April 12, 2025.

Original Soundtracks 1, the studio album by Brian Eno and U2 was released in November 1995 under the artist pseudonym Passengers. The experimental recording process resulted in a collection of 14 songs, written mostly for imaginary films – hence the album title – with the exception of “Ghost in the Shell,” “Beyond the Clouds,” and the hit single “Miss Sarajevo,” featuring Luciano Pavarotti. Other highlights include guest appearances from musician and producer Howie B and Japanese artist Holi, as well as the bonus track “Bottoms (Watash*tachi No Ookina Yume),” which previously featured on the original Japanese version of the album.

This special double-vinyl 30th anniversary edition, pressed on recycled black vinyl, is now fully remastered for the first time. Original Soundtracks 1 (30th Anniversary Edition) is available at participating independent record stores on Saturday, April 12, 2025.

The full tracklisting is:

Side A:
1. United Colours
2. Slug
3. Your Blue Room

Side B:
1. Always Forever Now
2. A Different Kind Of Blue
3. Beach Sequence
4. Miss Sarajevo

Side C:
1. Ito Okashi
2. One Minute Warning
3. Corpse (These Chains Are Way Too Long)
4. Elvis Ate America

Side D:
1. Plot 180
2 Theme From “The Swan”
3. Theme From “Let’s Go Native”
4. Bottoms (Watash*tachi No Ookina Yume) – Zoo Station Remix

Badminton Players and Music: How Music Enhances Performance and Focus

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By Mitch Rice

Everybody has a favorite tune, melody, or song that helps them complete a task or simply improve their mood. In the case of athletes, the same trend clearly follows. 

In fast-paced and intense badminton, players find the extra motivation and focus needed through music. Whether this means relying on music during training or post-match recovery, there is no denying that music plays a crucial role in a badminton player’s success.

In case you still have doubts, keep reading to find out how exactly music enhances performance and focus. 

The Science Behind Music and Sports Performance

When it comes to it, all of music’s emotional and psychological benefits have been well documented and proven scientifically. The idea that listening to music enhances a badminton player’s performance in the long term is a recognized phenomenon. 

In general, listening to songs and melodies induces the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with happiness and pleasure. 

Experiencing such emotions will bring out the best in an athlete during training or before a big match. 

Physiologically, music has the ability to control one’s heart rate and breathing patterns. In that way, upbeat music can set the energy levels to the required level during tournaments and intense training sessions.

Several studies have confirmed its positive effects in sports. Karageorghis and Terry (1997) found that faster music boosted an energized state as well as motivation and endurance. Another study by Terry et al. (2020) demonstrated that it aids in making training seem less exhausting. 

Of course, different types will have different effects on one’s training and performance mode. 

Type of Music Effects on Training
  • Upbeat
  • Increases motivation and alertness
  • Ideal for warm-ups and high-intensity training
  • Calming
  • Relaxes and heals
  • Helps during post-tournament and recovery period 
  • Rhythmic
  • Enhances coordination and movement efficiency
  • Perfect for drills and footwork exercises

 

Melody, with a high BPM (beats per minute) range of over 120, allows players to practice in the high-intensity range needed to succeed in badminton tournaments. That is where the high 1xBet badminton betting odds come in. 

How Badminton Players Use Music in Their Training Regimes

The pre-training and training playlists for most badminton players will differ due to the varying natures of the regimes. 

The majority of badminton players prefer upbeat music to get into the right mindset before all of the training intensity. When it comes to practicing repetitive drills or endurance exercises, motivational songs are what keep badminton stars persistent. 

 

In that way, hip-hop, rock, pop, and alternative tend to be the most popular genres for players who like training to energetic playlists. 

Popular players like Carolina Marin and Kento Momota have also expressed their appreciation for music in their pre-training and warm-up routines. 

However, some players turn it off during technical exercises or any practice that requires focus. 

Music’s Role in Pre-Match and In-Game Focus

It is no secret that one’s favorite song can invoke a sense of calmness and comfort one may need, especially while under pressure. In the case of pre-match nerves, listening to a familiar melody is what gets badminton players in their zone. 

Depending on a player’s strategy, music can be altered to adequately serve its purpose. For example, upbeat tunes will prepare for an intense match, while slower rhythms can be used to slow the heartbeat and re-center. In either case, music is sure to keep motivation and endurance levels up. 

Music and the Mental Benefits for Badminton Players

Most importantly, it ensures the right set of mind and lower stress levels for badminton players. So far, several direct benefits have been highlighted from the phenomenon:

  • Mental Focus: Players can easily block out any distractions to focus on effective solo training;
  • Mood Regulation: Favorite tunes lead to dopamine release and elevated mood, which is optimal for the right in-game mindset.
  • Stress Relief and Recovery: Used by many for its cool-down effect, relaxing music helps to recover mentally and prevent fatigue.

Music for Recovery: Post-Match and Injury Recovery

Relaxing and soothing melodies will help anyone feel better following a tough badminton tournament. After a fast-paced and intense game, it is essential that the proper recovery procedure is conducted, including listening to instrumental melodies or natural sounds.

Post-injury rehabilitation is another common practice in the world of professional sports. Thankfully, music can help in that case as well. Uplifting sounds and cheerful songs are the perfect emotional remedy for any health issue.

  • Classical music
  • Ambient and lo-fi beats
  • Acoustic and indie music

Famous Badminton Players and Their Music Preferences

The music theory is not a myth. In fact, many famous badminton players rely on their playlists to perform with maximum efficiency. 

Lin Dan had previously shared that listening to music during his training sessions had helped him keep his motivation levels high. 

Carolina Marin prefers to listen to upbeat hits right before a match to feel more confident. 

Kento Momota is often spotted wearing headphones before major tournaments, setting a more focused mode before a big match.

While the badminton legends rarely disclose the specifics of their playlists, their pre-game strategies and personalities suggest that it is a blend of high-energy and calming tracks. 

Conclusion

Music is more than a way to escape reality or enjoy a rhythm – it is a great tool that allows badminton professionals to mentally prepare for any game. It is also a perfect way to relax after an intense training session or tough tournament. In either case, music has proven its worth in the sports world, and as sports psychology evolves, its proper integration into badminton strategies will enhance performance overall.

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

Vacation Harmony: A Musician’s Guide to Enjoying and Exploring Florida

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By Mitch Rice

Vacations take on a different rhythm for musicians and art lovers. While others may seek thrills in amusement parks or lazy beach days, creative minds often crave destinations that inspire and rejuvenate their artistic spirit. They look for places where they can connect with nature, experience live performances, or simply soak in an atmosphere that fuels their creativity. Florida, with its sun-drenched beaches, diverse music culture, and lively entertainment scene, offers the perfect escape.

From the bustling nightlife of Miami to the serene shores of the Gulf Coast, Florida has something for every musician and music enthusiast. Panama City Beach, in particular, stands out as a must-visit destination. Known for its vibrant music scene, live performances, and stunning coastal beauty, it provides the perfect blend of relaxation and artistic exploration.

Here’s a guide that will help you navigate the best of Florida’s musical and artistic offerings.

  1. Exploring Entertaining Shows in Panama City Beach

Panama City Beach is an exciting destination for music lovers, offering a variety of live performances and immersive entertainment experiences. If you’re planning a trip after spring, you must not miss the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, a project that is all set to be completed in late spring 2025. The show is designed for all ages, making it a great option for families or groups traveling together. From June up until December 2025, the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show tickets are already available for sale online, so it would be best to book yours ASAP!

The show features an action-packed performance that combines storytelling, acrobatics, and live music. As the lights dim, the stage transforms into a dramatic setting where two pirate crews battle for lost treasure on life-sized pirate ships. The sounds of crashing waves and sword fights blend with powerful musical compositions, making this show an unforgettable experience.

Adding to the excitement is the spectacular feast that accompanies the performance. The combination of energetic performances, immersive music, and theatrical storytelling makes this show a must-see for musicians and art lovers visiting Panama City Beach.

  1. Street Performances and Live Music at Pier Park

Pier Park is the heartbeat of Panama City Beach’s entertainment scene, offering an atmosphere filled with live music, local artistry, and vibrant energy. Musicians often set up along the boardwalk, filling the air with everything from smooth jazz to lively country tunes. The beauty of these street performances lies in their spontaneity. Whether it’s a solo guitarist strumming heartfelt melodies or a full band engaging the crowd, the energy of Pier Park is electric.

For musicians, this is an inspiring place to soak in new sounds and appreciate the raw, unfiltered side of live music. Sometimes, visitors might even find an impromptu jam session, where local artists invite the crowd to participate, creating a community-driven musical experience.

  1. Music Festivals in Florida Worth Experiencing

Florida is home to some of the most exciting music festivals in the country, making it a perfect destination for those who love live performances. The 30A Songwriters Festival in South Walton is a hidden gem, attracting some of the best songwriters from across the country. It offers an intimate experience where musicians share the stories behind their songs, allowing audiences to connect with the music on a deeper level.

For fans of the blues, the Tampa Bay Blues Festival is a must-attend event. This festival celebrates the rich tradition of blues music with performances from legendary artists and up-and-coming talents. The festival’s waterfront location adds to the experience, making it a relaxing yet vibrant event.

The Florida Folk Festival is also something that should not be missed. It is an annual festival that blends music, art, and culture. It celebrates and showcases Florida’s diverse folk cultures and traditions. No matter what genre of music you enjoy, Florida’s festivals provide incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in unforgettable musical experiences.

  1. The Best Beach Spots to Play Your Own Music

Florida’s beaches provide the perfect backdrop for musicians who want to create and perform in a peaceful, inspiring setting. St. George Island Beach is a favorite among acoustic musicians. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere allows artists to sit by the water and play without distractions, making it an ideal spot for songwriters seeking inspiration.

On the other hand, South Beach in Miami offers a more energetic vibe. With its lively crowds and street performers, it’s a great place for musicians who love playing in front of an audience. Whether you’re strumming a guitar under the sunset or joining an impromptu drum circle, Florida’s beaches offer unique opportunities to enjoy and share music in a natural setting.

  1. Boat Tours with a Musical Twist

Florida’s coastal beauty isn’t just for sightseeing—it’s also a stage for live music. Several boat tours offer a unique way to experience music while cruising along the ocean or through scenic waterways. The Sunset Cruise in Key West is particularly popular for its blend of breathtaking views and live music performances. As the boat sails into the horizon, musicians on board play everything from classic rock to tropical jazz, setting the perfect mood for a relaxing evening.

  1. Nature’s Music: Exploring the Sounds of Florida’s Wildlife

Music isn’t just found in human-made performances—Florida’s natural landscapes create a symphony of their own. The Everglades, with its lush wetlands and rich biodiversity, offers a unique way to experience sound in its most organic form. The rhythmic croaks of frogs, the distant calls of herons, and the gentle rustling of palm trees create a soundscape unlike any other.

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in nature’s music, taking a kayak trip through Florida’s springs or visiting the Canaveral National Seashore can be a meditative experience. Many musicians find inspiration in these serene settings, using the peaceful environment to compose new melodies or simply appreciate the harmony of the natural world.

  1. Where to Find Music-Inspired Souvenirs

No trip is complete without bringing home something that captures the essence of the journey, and for music lovers, Florida has plenty of unique souvenirs to offer. Retro Records in Orlando is a haven for vinyl collectors, featuring rare and classic records that make for perfect keepsakes. Whether it’s a blues album from a Florida-born artist or a signed record from a legendary band, music lovers can find something special to add to their collection.

Music has a way of transforming the way we experience a place, and in Florida, every corner offers a new rhythm to discover. Whether you find yourself lost in the energy of a live performance, strumming your guitar by the ocean, or letting the sounds of nature guide your creativity, the state invites you to immerse yourself in its melody. Florida isn’t just a destination—it’s a stage, a muse, and a canvas for musical expression.

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

5 Surprising Facts About Portishead’s ‘Dummy’

Portishead’s debut album, Dummy, one of the defining records of the ‘90s and introduced the world to the haunting sound of trip hop. The album’s moody atmosphere, Beth Gibbons’ ethereal vocals, and Geoff Barrow’s masterful production cemented its status as a classic. But even after 30 years, Dummy still holds secrets that will make you appreciate it on a whole new level. Here are five lesser-known facts about this groundbreaking album.

1. They Created Their Own Vinyl to Sample—Then Destroyed It

Unlike traditional hip-hop producers who relied on digging through crates of old records, Portishead went a step further. They recorded their own original music onto vinyl, then manipulated those recordings to create their signature, aged sound. To achieve a vintage, worn-out texture, they physically distressed the records—walking on them, scratching them, and even using them like skateboards. This unconventional approach gave Dummy its ghostly, crackling atmosphere, making it sound like a lost relic from another time.

2. The Band Initially Didn’t Want to Release “Glory Box”

Despite being one of their most famous songs, Portishead actually fought their record label over the release of Glory Box as a single. They felt it was too commercial and didn’t represent the full depth of Dummy. But the label insisted, and ultimately, the song became one of their biggest hits, securing financial stability for the band. Geoff Barrow later admitted they had “lost the argument,” but at least they were able to buy houses with the success of the track.

3. Beth Gibbons Struggled With Success

For Beth Gibbons, the success of Dummy wasn’t entirely positive. She has spoken about how she hoped the album would create a deeper connection with listeners, but instead, it sometimes made her feel more isolated. In interviews, she reflected on the irony of pouring raw emotion into a record only to have it become a commercial product, leaving her feeling lonelier than before. This internal conflict between art and industry is one of the reasons Portishead took so long between albums.

4. A Spy Movie Helped Get Them Signed

Before Dummy, Portishead created a short film called To Kill a Dead Man, a noir-style spy thriller heavily inspired by 1960s cinema. They not only directed and starred in it, but they also composed the entire soundtrack. The film was more than just an artistic experiment—it was their secret weapon. When Go! Beat Records saw the film and heard the music, they immediately offered the band a deal. In a way, Dummy owes its existence to a cinematic side project.

5. The Album’s Sound Was Inspired by Lalo Schifrin and Isaac Hayes

Portishead’s use of samples was revolutionary, blending obscure film scores with classic soul. Sour Times samples Argentine composer Lalo Schifrin’s Danube Incident, speeding it up to give it an eerie, off-kilter feel. Meanwhile, Glory Box borrows from Isaac Hayes’ Ike’s Rap II, a sample later used in Tricky’s Hell Is Round the Corner. By mixing spy-thriller soundtracks with deep, hypnotic grooves, Portishead created a cinematic, melancholic mood unlike anything heard before in electronic music.

Dummy was a sonic revolution that changed the way music could feel—deeply intimate, yet hauntingly distant. And even decades later, we’re still discovering new corners of those worlds, proving that Dummy isn’t just a trip hop classic—it’s a timeless masterpiece.

5 Surprising Facts About Prince’s 1999

Prince’s 1999, released in 1982, itbrought the Purple One into the mainstream, laying the foundation for his world domination with Purple Rain just two years later. With its funk-laden synths, groundbreaking use of the Linn LM-1 drum machine, and lyrics that ranged from apocalyptic party anthems to deeply introspective ballads, 1999 became one of the most influential albums of the decade. But even if you’ve worn out your vinyl copy, here are five things you might not know about this iconic record.

1. The Album Cover Foreshadowed His Next Era

Prince was always ahead of his time, even in the smallest details. The cover of 1999 isn’t just a vibrant, psychedelic splash of color—it’s a nod to what was coming next. Hidden in the design are elements from Controversy, his previous album, including his signature “Rude Boy” button. But the most intriguing part? If you look closely at the letter “I” in “Prince,” you’ll see the words “and the Revolution” written backwards. This was the first time he publicly acknowledged the band that would soon become a key part of his sound and stage presence during the Purple Rain era.

2. “Little Red Corvette” Came From a Nap in a Car

“Little Red Corvette” isn’t just one of the greatest songs ever written—it has one of the best origin stories. After a long recording session, Prince crashed in the backseat of band member Lisa Coleman’s pink Mercury Montclair Marauder. Somewhere between dreaming and waking, the lyrics started coming to him in flashes. The song, which uses car metaphors for a fleeting love affair, wasn’t just catchy—it was historic. It became his first major crossover hit, helping him break into the pop world and paving the way for Black artists to get airplay on MTV.

3. “1999” Was Inspired by Nostradamus’ Doomsday Prophecies

When Prince wrote 1999, it wasn’t just about having the ultimate end-of-the-world party. He had been watching a documentary about Nostradamus, the French astrologer who predicted catastrophic events for the year 1999. The film shook him, but rather than dwell on the doom and gloom, Prince flipped the script and made the song an anthem for celebrating life. He even structured the track in a way that multiple band members sang different lines, giving it a communal, urgent feel—like a dance party with the clock ticking down.

4. MTV Didn’t Want to Play “1999” or “Little Red Corvette”

Hard to believe now, but when 1999 and Little Red Corvette were released, MTV was hesitant to put them in rotation. At the time, the network had been accused of not featuring enough Black artists, instead prioritizing rock acts. But when the videos for these two singles started gaining traction, the pressure mounted, and MTV relented. Prince became one of the first Black artists to achieve heavy rotation on the network, a move that helped break barriers for Michael Jackson’s Thriller soon after.

5. The Album’s Use of the Linn LM-1 Drum Machine Changed Music Forever

Prince was one of the first artists to fully embrace the Linn LM-1, a groundbreaking drum machine that would go on to define the sound of the ’80s. While other musicians used drum machines as a background element, Prince made it the backbone of 1999. Tracks like “Automatic” and “Let’s Pretend We’re Married” feature its distinct, punchy sound, blending robotic beats with raw funk. The LM-1’s influence can still be heard today in electronic, hip-hop, and pop music—making 1999 a blueprint for decades of innovation.

From its visionary production techniques to its bold, genre-defying sound, it laid the groundwork for Prince’s superstardom and shaped the future of music. Whether you first heard these songs in the ’80s, on a nostalgia kick, or at a New Year’s Eve party as the clock struck midnight, 1999 is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire new generations. Now, let’s all take a moment to appreciate Prince’s genius and, as he intended, party like it’s 1999!

Jonas Brothers to Star in Holiday Comedy for Disney+ in 2025

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Today, Disney Branded Television announced the “Jonas Brothers Christmas Movie” (working title), a holiday comedy from 20th Television that is slated to premiere during the 2025 holiday season on Disney+. In the movie, Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas and Nick Jonas face a series of escalating obstacles as they struggle to make it from London to New York in time to spend Christmas with their families. The Jonas Brothers also serve as producers.

Isaac Aptaker and Elizabeth Berger (“I Want You Back,” “This Is Us,” “Love, Simon”) serve as writers and producers. Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas and Nick Jonas are producers, alongside Adam Fishbach, Spencer Berman and Scott Morgan. Emmy and Academy Award winner Jessica Yu (“Quiz Lady,” “This Is Us”) is directing, and GRAMMY nominee Justin Tranter is executive music producer, writing the original songs. The movie is produced by 20th Television, a part of Disney Television Studios.

Shinedown Adds More Shows to Massive Dance, Kid, Dance Tour

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Shinedown announce today they will be headlining the historic Kia Forum in Los Angeles on August 3rd as an addition to their Dance, Kid, Dance Tour. Tickets for the date go onsale on Friday, February 14th.

The 36 date tour is one of the largest run of shows (and venues) the band has ever put on as it will be the first time the band has ever headlined some of the countries most legendary venues including Madison Square Garden (July 20th), Bridgestone Arena (May 10th), Boston’s TD Garden (July 19th) and more. Joining them on the tour are Beartooth & Bush (on select dates) but Morgan Wade on all shows.

The tour comes in celebration of the release of not one single but two to kick off 2025: “Three Six Five” and “Dance, Kid, Dance” released via Atlantic Records. “Dance, Kid Dance” has already rocketed to Top 5 on Active Rock radio as the #1 greatest gainer and “Three Six Five” is climbing on THREE charts simultaneously as it Active Rock, Alternative, and Hot AC all jumping numerous spots daily- a feat not typically done with singles, but Shinedown are the exception to the rule as in less than a they have reached Top 25 on Alternative & Hot AC Radio and Top 50 on Active Rock. Shinedown’s new singles are out-pacing Lola Young and The Weeknd at Hot AC and The Black Keys and Djo at Alternative.

DANCE, KID, DANCE TOUR DATES:
Fri Apr 25 | Des Moines, IA | Wells Fargo Arena +o
Sat Apr 26 | Omaha, NE | CHI Health Arena +o
Mon Apr 28 | Grand Rapids, MI | Van Andel Arena +o
Thu May 01 | Toledo, OH | Huntington Center+o
Fri May 02 | Lexington, KY | Rupp Arena +o
Sun May 04 | Little Rock, AR | Simmons Bank Arena +o
Tue May 06 | New Orleans, LA | Smoothie King Center+o
Fri May 09 | Peoria, IL | Peoria Civic Center +o
Sat May 10 | Nashville, TN | Bridgestone Arena +o
Tue May 13 | Birmingham, AL | The Legacy Arena at The BJCC +o
Thu May 15 | Daytona Beach, FL | Daytona International Speedway^
Sat Jul 19 | Boston, MA | TD Garden ^
Sun Jul 20 | New York City, NY | Madison Square Garden *o
Tue Jul 22 | Pittsburgh, PA | PPG Paints Arena *o
Wed Jul 23 | Columbus, OH | Schottenstein Center*o
Fri Jul 25 | Detroit, MI | Little Caesars Arena *o
Sat Jul 26 | Milwaukee, WI | Fiserv Forum *o
Mon Jul 28 | Minneapolis, MN | Target Center*o
Tue Jul 29 | Kansas City, MO | T-Mobile Center*o
Sat Aug 02 | Phoenix, AZ | Footprint Center *o
Sun Aug 03 | Los Angeles, CA | Kia Forum *o
Tue Aug 05 | Sacramento, CA | Golden 1 Center *o
Thu Aug 07 | Portland, OR | Moda Center *o
Fri Aug 08 | Seattle, WA | Climate Pledge Arena *o
Mon Aug 11 | Salt Lake City, UT | Maverik Center *o
Tue Aug 12 | Denver, CO | Ball Arena *o
Fri Aug 15 | St. Louis, MO | Enterprise Center *o
Sat Aug 16 | Rosemont, IL | Allstate Arena *o
Mon Aug 18 | Indianapolis, IN | Gainbridge Fieldhouse *o
Tue Aug 19 | Cleveland, OH | Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse *o
Thu Aug 21 | Raleigh, NC | Lenovo Center *o
Sat Aug 23 | Greenville, SC | Bon Secours Wellness Arena *o
Sun Aug 24 | Atlanta, GA | State Farm Arena *o
Wed Aug 27 | Houston, TX | Toyota Center *o
Thu Aug 28 | Fort Worth, TX | Dickies Arena *o
Sat Aug 30 | Memphis, TN | FedExForum *o
*Bush
+Beartooth
o Morgan Wade
^Festival Date

Gabriel Yared’s Score for The English Patient to Receive First-Ever Vinyl Release

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Varèse Sarabande and Craft Recordings announce the vinyl debut of Gabriel Yared’s acclaimed score for The English Patient. Set for release on March 28th and available for pre-order today, the Oscar®-winning score—performed by the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, featuring pianist John Constableand vocalist Márta Sebestyén, and conducted by Harry Rabinowitz—will be available as a 2-LP set on “Saharan Sun” orange vinyl, plus as a limited-edition Barnes & Noble exclusive “Sands of Love” custard pressing.

The English Patient is a 1996 romantic war drama film directed by Anthony Minghella, which received 12 nominations at the 69th Academy Awards, winning nine, including Best Picture, Best Director, as well as Best Original Dramatic Score, awarded to Yared for his unforgettable music for the film. Now, this collection will be available on vinyl for the first time ever, delighting cinema fans and soundtrack collectors alike.

When director Anthony Minghella invited Yared to score The English Patient, he presented the composer with several challenges. The film takes place in Italy and North Africa, but its characters have geographic and cultural roots ranging from Canadian and British to Sikh and Hungarian. “We were trying to make a film that had one foot in Europe and the other in Africa,” Minghella explains. “The film plays many games with issues of nationality, so I thought the music should play games with issues of nationality, as well. The very first idea I had was of a woman’s voice, unaccompanied, singing a lament, with a view of the desert from the air.”

By working closely with Minghella from the outset—reading the script, attending the first days of shooting, visiting on locations and viewing the earliest assemblies—Yared created a complex web of compositions that capture both the impressionistic nature of the film’s structure and the emotional essence of its central relationships.

In a 2020 interview with E. Nina Rothe, Yared expanded on this philosophy, noting that he is the sort of composer who likes to be involved in the filmmaking process from the very beginning. He said, “I don’t like to be called on a film at the end. I try as much as possible to be there [from] the beginning. I say, even at the script stage, please call me. And then I read the script, I spend time with the director, [male] or female, because to me it’s like a marriage. You cannot marry forever, you have to spend time first engaged, and then you get married. Like on ‘The English Patient’ it was more than eight months, to meet Anthony, to get to know him, to exchange musical ideas and most of this music had been written before the shooting began.”

It’s this dedication that led to the film score being honored at the Academy Awards, and it being widely regarded as an all-time classic within the film score genre. In the liner notes written by Derk Richardson that accompany the vinyl release, Minghella reflected on the score’s success: “The scores I have always loved are those where all you have to do is say the title and its music just starts playing in my head.”

Now, the film will finally be complemented by the first-ever vinyl pressing of Gabriel Yared’s classic score.

Click here to pre-order The English Patient (Original Soundtrack Recording).

Track List:

Side A

  1. The English Patient
  2. A Retreat
  3. Rupert Bear
  4. What Else Do You Love?
  5. Why Picton?
  6. Fred Astaire—Cheek To Cheek
  7. Kips’ Lights
  8. Hana’s Curse
  9. I’ll Always Go Back To That Church
  10. Black Nights

Side B

  1. Swoon, I’ll Catch You
  2. Am I K. In Your Book?
  3. Let Me Come In!
  4. Benny Goodman—Wang Wang Blues
  5. Convento Di Sant’ Anna
  6. Herodotus

Side C

  1. Muzsikás, featuring Márta Sebestyén—Szerelem, Szerelem
  2. Ask Your Saint Who He’s Killed  1:04
  3. Benny Goodman—One O’Clock Jump
  4. I’ll Be Back
  5. Let Me Tell You About Winds
  6. Read Me To Sleep

Side D

  1. The Cave Of Swimmers
  2. Shepheard’s Hotel Jazz Orchestra—Where Or When
  3. Julie Steinberg—Aria from The Goldberg Variations
  4. Ella Fitzgerald—Cheek To Cheek
  5. As Far As Florence
  6. Én Csak Azt Csodálom (Lullaby for Katherine)