rammy-winning artist Chance the Rapper has unveiled his latest single, “Quiet Storm,” a thought-provoking ode to the iconic radio format pioneered by Black DJs in Washington, D.C., during the late 1970s. Released on Inauguration Day, the track delves into themes of love, power, and identity, weaving a narrative that transforms a seemingly personal relationship into a broader reflection on the lingering effects of colonial oppression. With its rich storytelling and layered soundscape, “Quiet Storm” continues Chance’s tradition of pushing boundaries and sparking conversation through his music.
“Quiet Storm” takes listeners on a lyrical journey as Chance describes his complicated relationship with a mysterious special someone. As the song progresses, this figure begins to take the shape of something much larger—a representation of oppressive colonial powers and the western governments that have long impacted marginalized communities. The track’s storytelling mirrors its evocative soundscape, creating a sensory experience that resonates deeply with its themes of love, identity, and resistance.
Released on Inauguration Day, “Quiet Storm” feels especially timely, aligning with Chance’s ongoing exploration of sociopolitical themes through his interdisciplinary Star Line project. The single continues the project’s mission of connecting art, music, and Black history, offering a bold, poetic perspective that challenges listeners to reflect on their own relationships with power and heritage. Check out “Quiet Storm” HERE
Chance recently achieved an extraordinary milestone with the Diamond certification of “I’m the One,” his 2017 collaboration with DJ Khaled, Quavo, Justin Bieber, and Lil Wayne. Certified by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), this honor signifies over 10 million sales and stream equivalents in the U.S., making Chance the first independent solo act to reach this achievement. A pioneer in the independent music scene, Chance has built his career on groundbreaking achievements that defy traditional industry norms. He was the first independent artist to win multiple Grammy Awards, including three wins for his streaming-only mixtape Coloring Book, and the first to host and perform on Saturday Night Live without a traditional record deal. From his viral debut mixtape 10 Day to the critically acclaimed Acid Rap, which charted despite being a free release, Chance continues to redefine the possibilities for independent artists and remains a trailblazer in the modern music industry.
Chance has been carefully curating all aspects of his Star Line project, alongside its interdisciplinary companion, Star Line Gallery. This unique project seamlessly blends the realms of art, music, and cinematography, presenting a collection of collaborative works with esteemed fine artists from The Continent and The Diaspora. The resulting pieces redefine the notion of ‘album art’ and are compelling conversations and meditations on Black life. Star Line Gallery works “Child of God” (collaboration with Gabonese artist and painter Naïla Opiangah), “A Bar About A Bar” (collaboration with Chicago-based painter Nikko Washington and filmmaker Troy Gueno), “The Highs & The Lows” feat. Joey Bada$$ (collaboration with Gabonese photographer Yannis Davy Guibinga), “YAH Know” (collaboration with Chicago-based visual artist Mía Lee), and “Together” (collaboration with graffiti artist Slang) have been showcased at art institutions around the world including Expo Chicago, Art Basel, Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA), The Art Institute of Chicago, and Los Angeles’ Museum Of Contemporary Art (MOCA).
From February 19-21, 2025, On Air Fest brings the intersection of media, technology and culture to venues across Brooklyn and beyond. For the most dramatic expansion in the event’s eight-year history, the premier showcase of sound and storytelling will welcome thousands of creators and creative professionals working in audio, video and new media. Over the course of three days and four nights, 200+ artists, producers, publishers, writers, industry leaders and influential voices will present 80+ performances, podcast tapings, panel conversations, art exhibits, experiences and interactive workshops, all asking and answering some of the moment’s most important questions.
Today, in addition to announcing its third wave of featured talent, On Air Fest has revealed the daily schedule of sessions that will take place at the Wythe Hotel, and first-time festival locations like Creator Hall at XXV, iHeartPodcasts’ Party at 74 Wythe, National Sawdust, Dolby88 Atmos Theater and KCRWWW, the livestream internet radio cafe on February 19th, 20th and 21st. Alongside Hysterical, Taylor Lorenz, SubwayTakes’ Kareem Rahma,SNL‘s James Austin Johnson & Jokermen, The Kid Mero, laughter meditation with Laraaji, Lemme Say This with Peyton Dix & Hunter Harris, Death, Sex & Money, Design Matters, Radiolab creator Jad Abumrad and more, On Air Fest’s 2025 Lineupnow includes Anderson Cooper breaking down his CNN Audio original podcast All There Is, as well as a special panel on the making of the Audible Original Ali inMe, exploring Muhammad Ali’s life and legacy with Muhammad’s widow Lonnie Ali, close friend, confidant and award-winning broadcaster John Ramsey, and Oscar-nominated actress and long-time boxing fan Rosie Perez. Also added are live editions of How Long Gone, Hearing Things’Waste or Taste, Transom’s Sound School, Good Boys, The Puzzler live with host A.J. Jacobs and guest Mo Rocca, Elon, Inc. from Bloomberg, and KQED’s Close All Tabs, discussing AI and internet literacy.
Furthermore, Penn Badgley will sit down with Modern Love host Anna Martin, acclaimed record producer and musician Daniel Lanois will bring a performance and conversation to National Sawdust in partnership with Reflections, The Atlantic and Spolitics Podcast’s Jemele Hill will look at how women are rewriting narratives in sports, Feed Me’s Emily Sundberg will unpack the state of newsletters, Fresh Air and She Has a Name’s Tonya Mosley will discuss the genre of family mystery podcasts with Inconceivable Truth’s Matt Katz and more, and Normal Gossip host Rachelle Hampton will talk with Chris Duffy, of TED’s How to Be a Better Human. On Air’s “Hear The Universe” session will feature a performance of NASA‘s “sonic renderings” – which make music from space data – followed by a conversation with astronaut Matthew Dominick and special guests.
CMD+JAZMINE and Fil Corbitt‘s “Retracks” will deliver a night of audio storytelling cover performances, and Peabody-winner Sonja D. Williams (Howard University), the award-winning Kalli Anderson (CUNY Newmark) and Harvard Nieman Fellow Julia Barton will host “Radio Thrifting,” a selection of vintage radio pieces from the 1930s-1970s. Other new sessions include a live rendition of Mehdi Hasan‘s We’re Not Kidding, Miss Peria in an exclusive interview and live performance (the trailblazing artist credited with founding Roblox music as a genre), and Diana Regan, the digital creator behind @CitiesByDiana, on their creative journey.
From deep listening techniques to new innovations in technology and culture, On Air Fest’s 2025 programming is demonstrating how audio has transformed into a phenomenon that we can see, hear, touch, taste and smell. Overarching themes like community-building, industry evolution, social impact, sustainability and independence will guide the event and its attendees, emphasizing the ways in which sound and creative storytelling are shaping the mainstream, growing brands and influencing the future. It all begins February 19th with the On Air Fest Podcast Business Summit, co-presented by Bloomberg and reporter Ashley Carman. The invite-only gathering of business, tech, advertising and publishing executives will explore the latest trends, challenges and opportunities, before On Air Fest opens to the public and dives even deeper.
Carole King’s beloved, whimsical collaboration with Maurice Sendak, Really Rosie, celebrates its 50th anniversary with a vinyl reissue from Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment. Available February 28th on vinyl for the first time since 1975, the release features 11 original soundtrack recordings composed and performed by Carole King, with story and lyrics by the legendary Sendak. The album was produced by King’s longtime collaborator Lou Adler, the man behind the board on her 1971 smash-hit album Tapestry.
First premiered as a CBS animated special in February 1975, Really Rosietells the story of an ambitious and imaginative girl from Brooklyn who decides to stage a musical about her life and her quirky neighborhood friends. Set to the vibrant and poignant music of Carole King, paired with Sendak’s delightfully subversive lyrics, the songs explore themes of childhood whimsy, creativity, and self-discovery.
King had a deep connection to the material. Recognizing echoes of her own Brooklyn childhood in Sendak’s work, she brought her signature style and warmth to Really Rosie, voicing the title character and infusing each track with her unmistakable charm. Songs like the cheeky “Pierre” and the bittersweet “The Ballad of Chicken Soup” highlight Sendak’s mix of playfulness and darker humor, all buoyed by King’s effervescent music and performance.
Over the past five decades, Really Rosie has remained a treasured classic, a staple for children’s theater groups, and a gateway to musical discovery for families. Its educational and entertaining elements have transcended generations, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.
The 50th-anniversary edition of Really Rosie will be reissued worldwide on 1-LP standard-weight black vinyl in a gatefold sleeve through Legacy Recordings and is available for pre-order now.
Carole King is the most successful female songwriter of the 20th century pop music era, with 118 Billboard chart hits. Tapestry, King’s 1971 solo album, took her to the pinnacle as a singer/songwriter with four Grammy Awards®. Tapestry, certified 14 x Platinum and with 30 million worldwide sales, remained the best-selling album by a female artist for a quarter century.
King went on to amass three other platinum and eight gold albums. Her awards and honors include Songwriters Hall of Fame, BMI Icon Award, The Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, MusiCares Person of the Year and Kennedy Center Honoree. She was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for a second time in 2021 by Taylor Swift and is the only person inducted into the Rock Hall as both a non-performer (songwriter) with the Ahmet Ertegun Award and also as a performer. King has written a New York Times bestselling memoir while Beautiful, the musical about her life, became one of the top grossing Broadway musicals of all time. In addition to her continuously evolving musical career, King is actively involved with environmental organizations in support of wilderness preservation.
Carole King – Really Rosie
1. Really Rosie
2. One Was Johnny
3. Alligators All Around
4. Pierre
5. Screaming and Yelling
6. The Ballad of Chicken Coup
7. Chicken Soup with Rice
1. Avenue P
2. My Simple Humble Neighborhood
3. The Awful Truth
4. Such Sufferin
5. Really Rosie (Reprise)
Join us for an unforgettable night of rock and gratitude on Thursday, February 27 as we honor Los Angeles’ first responders, military personnel, and emergency management partners with a star-studded benefit concert on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Battleship IOWA Museum in San Pedro, CA.
The Performers:
The event will feature an electrifying performance by Kings of Chaos, a supergroup of rock legends, including Sammy Hagar, Robin Zander (Cheap Trick), Glenn Hughes (Deep Purple), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol, Top Gun Anthem), Orianthi (Alice Cooper, Michael Jackson), Matt Sorum (Guns ‘N’ Roses, Velvet Revolver, The Cult), Carmine Rojas (Rod Stewart, David Bowie), and Brent Woods (Gene Simmons, Chevy Metal), with more special guests to be announced.
The evening will also include actor, comedian, and US Air Force veteran BJ Lange as the emcee and an appearance by ABC News chief national correspondent Matt Gutman.
Event Details:
Set against the iconic backdrop of the Battleship IOWA and hosted in partnership with the Port of Los Angeles and Princess Cruises, Rock for Responders will celebrate and support the incredible contributions of local firefighters, police, military, and emergency response agencies.
Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
Venue: Battleship IOWA Museum, San Pedro, CA
Tickets: Free for first responders (distributed in advance by event organizers), with blocks available for sponsors and veterans. Individual tickets will also be available for sale to the public.
Event Guidelines:
Rain or Shine: The concert will go on regardless of the weather—plan accordingly!
No Personal Chairs: For everyone’s safety, personal chairs are not allowed.
No Outside Food or Alcohol: Enjoy a wide array of local food trucks and beverages on-site. Outside alcohol will not be permitted.
Bags Subject to Search: All bags will be checked upon entry for safety reasons.
Final Ticket Sales: All ticket sales and donations are final and non-refundable.
This special night will not only feature unforgettable live music but also serve as a heartfelt thank-you to those who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and resilient.
Exactly 30 years to the day, multi-platinum, four-time GRAMMY-nominated rock band Goo Goo Dolls are set to release a 30th Anniversary deluxe edition of their fifth studio album, A Boy Named Goo, on March 14. Originally released in 1995, this classic album catapulted the band to mainstream success and was Certified 2x Platinum within a year of its release. Driven by the smash hit “Name,” the record also included the singles “Flat Top,” “Naked,” “Only One” and “Long Way Down.”
The 24-track, deluxe 2xLP format will include the original album, plus an unreleased live concert performance recorded in Las Vegas on March 10, 1996. The 2xCD deluxe edition contains 34 tracks and includes the live concert, plus 4 B-sides from the era and 6 songs recorded semi-acoustically for the radio show Modern Rock Live in 1996. There is also a limited 2xLP edition pressed on sea blue vinyl available exclusively via the band’s webstore.
In addition, the band will take their lauded live show back on the road this year with an extensive run of summer tour dates with Dashboard Confessional. Kicking off on July 13, the “Summer Anthem Tour 2025” will bring the band to iconic venues coast-to-coast, including stops at Los Angeles’ Greek Theatre, Morrison’s Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Nashville’s Ascend Amphitheater, Boston’s LeaderBank Pavilion, Chicago’s Huntington Bank Pavilion as well as a hometown show at Buffalo’s KeyBank Center. Full tour routing can be found below while tickets can be purchased at googoodolls.com/tour.
The band will perform a career-encompassing set that features multiple songs from their 2022 album Chaos in Bloom along with other hits from their complete discography, including their global hit “Iris.” The 4x GRAMMY-nominated track is now Certified Diamond and has amassed over 2 billion streams worldwide.
Fans can now stream the band’s Modern Rock Live version of “Name” below:
A BOY NAMED GOO (30TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE EDITION) TRACK LIST
2xLP Deluxe Edition
LP1 – Original album
Side One:
1. Long Way Down
2. Burnin’ Up
3. Naked
4. Flat Top
5. Impersonality
6. Name
Side Two:
1. Only One
2. Somethin’ Bad
3. Ain’t That Unusual
4. So Long
5. Eyes Wide Open
6. Disconnected
7. Slave Girl
LP2 – Live At The Aladdin Theatre (Las Vegas, NV – 3/10/1996)
Side One:
1. Naked
2. Impersonality
3. Fallin’ Down
4. Burnin’ Up
5. Eyes Wide Open
6. Long Way Down
Side Two:
1. Only One
2. Hey
3. Slave Girl
4. Name
5. Flat Top
Note: This applies to the all retail black and the D2C sea blue exclusive.
2xCD Deluxe Edition and Digital Deluxe Edition
Original album:
1. Long Way Down
2. Burnin’ Up
3. Naked
4. Flat Top
5. Impersonality
6. Name
7. Only One
8. Somethin’ Bad
9. Ain’t That Unusual
10. So Long
11. Eyes Wide Open
12. Disconnected
13. Slave Girl
Deluxe Bonus Content:
1. Hit Or Miss (B-Side)
2. Nothing Can Change You (B-Side)
3. I Wanna Destroy You (Soft Boys Cover)
4. Wait For The Black Out (The Damned Cover)
5. Naked (Modern Rock Live New York)
6. Name (Modern Rock Live New York)
7. Another Second Time Around (Modern Rock Live New York)
8. Girl Right Next To Me (Modern Rock Live Los Angeles)
9. Name (Modern Rock Live Los Angeles)
10. Don’t Change (Modern Rock Live Los Angeles)
11. Naked (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
12. Impersonality (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
13. Fallin’ Down (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
14. Burnin’ Up (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
15. Eyes Wide Open (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
16. Long Way Down (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
17. Only One (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
18. Hey (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
19. Slave Girl (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
20. Name (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
21. Flat Top (Live in Las Vegas, March 10, 1996)
Note: Tracks 1-10 of the deluxe bonus tracks are only on the 2-CD format and digital deluxe edition.
GOO GOO DOLLS LIVE
Thursday, February 20, 2025 – Bruce, Australia – AIS Arena
Friday, February 21, 2025 – Moore Park, Australia – Hordern Pavilion
Sunday, February 23, 2025 – Broadmeadow, Australia – Newcastle Entertainment Centre
Tuesday, February 25, 2025 – South Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
Thursday, February 27, 2025 – Hindmarsh, Australia – Aec Theatre
Saturday, March 1, 2025 – North Wollongong, Australia – Yours & Owls Festival
Sunday, March 2, 2025 – Melbourne, Australia – Margaret Court Arena
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 – Cape Town, South Africa – Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Wednesday, March 26, 2025 – Cape Town, South Africa – Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Thursday, March 27, 2025 – Berea, South Africa – ICC Durban
Saturday, March 29, 2025 – Pretoria, South Africa – Voortrekker Monument
Sunday, April 27, 2025 – Indio, CA – Stagecoach
Saturday, July 13, 2025 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre*
Wednesday, July 16, 2025 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena*
Thursday, July 17, 2025 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land*
Saturday, July 19, 2025 – Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP*
Sunday, July 20, 2025 – Nashville, TN – Ascend Amphitheater*
Tuesday, July 22, 2025 – Atlanta, GA – Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park*
Wednesday, July 23, 2025 – St. Augustine, FL – St. Augustine Amphitheatre*
Friday, July 25, 2025 – Charlotte, NC – Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre*
Saturday, July 26, 2025 – Raleigh, NC – Red Hat Amphitheater*
Sunday, July 27, 2025 – Vienna, VA – Wolf Trap – Filene Center*
Tuesday, July 29, 2025 – Boston, MA – LeaderBank Pavilion*
Wednesday, July 30, 2025 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Broadview Stage at SPAC*
Friday, August 1, 2025 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center*
Saturday, August 2, 2025 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell at Jones Beach Theater*
Sunday, August 3, 2025 – Philadelphia, PA – The Mann Center*
Tuesday, August 5, 2025 – Bangor, ME – Maine Savings Amphitheater*
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion*
Friday, August 8, 2025 – Bridgeport, CT – Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater*
Saturday, August 9, 2025 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center*
Saturday, August 10, 2025 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage*
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center*
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 – Chicago, IL – Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island*
Friday, August 15, 2025 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park*
Saturday, August 16, 2025 – Sterling Heights, MI – Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre*
Monday, August 18, 2025 – Waite Park, MN – The Ledge Amphitheater*
Tuesday, August 19, 2025 – La Vista, NE – The Astro*
Thursday, August 21, 2025 – Maryland Heights, MO – Saint Louis Music Park*
Friday, August 22, 2025 – Kansas City, MO – Starlight Theatre*
Sunday, August 24, 2025 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre*
Tuesday, August 26, 2025 – West Valley City, UT – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre*
Thursday, August 28, 2025 – Airway Heights, WA – Northern Quest Resort & Casino*
Friday, August 29, 2025 – Bend, OR – Hayden Homes Amphitheater*
Sunday, August 31, 2025 – Seattle, WA – Venue TBD*
Monday, September 1, 2025 – Seattle, WA – Venue TBD*
Thursday, September 4, 2025 – Berkeley, CA – Greek Theatre*
Saturday, September 6, 2025 – Santa Barbara, CA – Santa Barbara Bowl*
Sunday, September 7, 2025 – Los Angeles, CA – Greek Theatre*
Tuesday, September 9, 2025 – Albuquerque, NM – Isleta Amphitheater*
Thursday, September 11, 2025 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Zoo Amphitheatre*
Friday, September 12, 2025 – Camdenton, MO – Ozark Amphitheater*
*with Dashboard Confessional
Eric Clapton has released the physical version of his studio album Meanwhile from Bushbranch/Surfdog Records on vinyl and CD. The physical release of the album is available here.
The album features collaborations with Jeff Beck, Van Morrison, Bradley Walker, Judith Hill, Daniel Santiago, and Simon Climie, six brand new songs and eight previously released singles.
Next week MTV will be releasing ERIC CLAPTON UNPLUGGED…OVER 30 YEARS LATER from its trailblazing, Grammy and Emmy Award-winning global music franchise MTV UNPLUGGED. The special will premiere in select U.S. and U.K. theaters on Monday, January 27 and Tuesday, January 28, 2025 before it is available to stream on Paramount+ beginning Wednesday, February 12, 2025 in the U.S. and globally.
Considered one of the most iconic installments of the MTV Unplugged series, 18x GRAMMY Award-winner Eric Clapton originally recorded his unforgettable performance of ERIC CLAPTON UNPLUGGED in 1992 at Bray Studios in Windsor, England. In this all-new extended, remixed and remastered edition, ERIC CLAPTON UNPLUGGED…OVER 30 YEARS LATER will feature never-before-seen interviews of Clapton discussing the inspiration behind specific songs with the crew just before he took the stage, seamlessly integrated with the performance footage.
After touring in South America, Mexico and Los Angeles this past fall, this year Clapton will return to Japan for a six-night residency at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo on April 14, 16, 18, 19, 21 and 24th. The concerts, presented by Martin Guitars Japan, will mark his 24th visit to the country since 1974. In addition, after a sold-out tour of the UK in 2024, Clapton will return to his second home: London’s Royal Albert Hall in May 2025 for a limited run of 3 shows. Additionally, he will play just one show outside the capital, at Nottingham’s Motorpoint Arena, his first show in that city since 2008. Continuing in Europe Clapton will perform two shows in Milan, Italy at Unipol Forum on May 27th & 28th as well as perform two shows in France at Accor Arena in Paris on May 31st and Palais Nikaia de Nice in Nice on June 2nd.
ERIC CLAPTON – Tour Dates 2025
April 14 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo
April 16 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo
April 18 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo
April 19 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo
April 21 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo
April 24 – Nippon Budokan – Tokyo
May 18 – Motorpoint Arena – Nottingham
May 21 – Royal Albert Hall – London
May 23 – Royal Albert Hall – London
May 24 – Royal Albert Hall – London
May 27 – Unipol Forum – Milan
May 28 – Unipol Forum – Milan
May 31 – Accor Arena – Paris
June 1 – Palais Nikaia de Nice – NICE
Meanwhile Tracklisting:
1. Pompous Fool
2. Heart of a Child
3. Moon River (with Jeff Beck)
4. Sam Hall*
5. Smile*
6. Always On My Mind (with Bradley Walker)
7. One Woman*
8. The Rebels (with Van Morrison)
9. The Call*
10. How Could We Know (with Judith Hill, Simon Climie, Daniel Santiago)
11. This Has Gotta Stop (with Van Morrison)
12. Stand and Deliver (with Van Morrison)
13. You’ve Changed*
14. Misfortune*
Queen has shared the latest episode of their video series The Greatest Special with “The Story Of Queen I -Trident Drum Sound”. With the remixed, remastered and expanded version of Queen’s classic 1973 debut album now available, The Greatest goes behind the scenes with Brian May and Roger Taylor to explore the creation of this landmark album.
In 1972, having had their first taste of professional recording at De Lane Lea studios for a demo reel, the band were understandably excited when they were given access to the famous Trident Studios to start work on their first album. However, they quickly discovered that their idea of how Queen should sound was at odds with that of the studio bosses, and for Roger, it posed a particular challenge.
Roger Taylor’s status amongst the all-time greats of rock drumming is cast in stone. But when it comes to the original pressing of their self-titled 1973 debut album, the Queen co-founder’s masterful drum parts were the cruellest casualty of studio sessions that saw the young band struggle to reconcile their vision with the sound foisted upon them by their original label, Trident Audio Productions and for Roger, it posed a particular challenge.
It’s only now, with the release of the newly remixed, remastered and expanded Queen I boxset, that fans can hear Roger’s stellar percussion live and breathe as it should have back in 1973. And in this final episode of this Queen The Greatest Special series, Roger Taylor looks back on the half-century road to this acclaimed restoration.
As Roger explains, the creative freedom he enjoyed while tracking Queen’s demos at De Lane Lea Studios in December 1971 ended when album sessions proper began the following year at Trident Studios in Soho. “At De Lane Lea, we’d just turn up and do what we can – and quickly. At Trident, it did feel like, ‘OK, now we’re in it,’ but I didn’t really get on with their ideas. They had a drum booth and it was a well-known sound: very dry and dead, which is not what I wanted. I wanted to hear the drums resonate. I didn’t want it to go ‘thud, whack.’ But that’s what they wanted. There was cloth over everything, and everything was taped down.”
Adding insult to injury, Roger found himself forced onto the stool of a flavourless Hayman acrylic drumkit. “I didn’t even have my proper kit in there. I had to play this sh***y little kit. It was just awful. We were told: ‘This is the Trident sound.’ But we didn’t want the Trident sound. We wanted our sound. I really had a bad time playing that kit, which is why, actually, if you listen to the demos – which I played on my relatively cheap kit in De Lane Lea – it’s a higher standard of drumming. It’s quite busy, but it makes sense. And it’s just better to listen to.”
Closing the series, this week’s episode of Queen The Greatest lets you be the judge – with A/B/C samples of the flat Trident drum sound, the sparkier beats from De Lane Lea, and finally the thrilling remastering heard on the new boxset. “What we’ve done now with Queen I is we’ve used all the actual recordings but made it sound more like we wanted it to sound at the time,” explains Roger. “So it’s ‘liver’, the drums are more alive and more ambient. So, for me, it’s a significant improvement, and I know Brian feels the same.”
And in this final episode of this Queen The Greatest Special series we get to witness the evolution of the drum sound and compare the three versions of the opening to Liar – the first recorded at De Lane Lea, the second the original Trident recording, and finally the new 2024 remix.
LCD Soundsystem has confirmed a spring 2025 run of 10 new shows in five North American cities. Following an already announced March 7 appearance at the M3F Music Festival in Phoenix, the new LCD headline dates will begin with a March 8 one-off at San Diego’s Gallagher Square at Petco Park, and will include an April 22-24 three-night stand at Emo’s in Austin, followed by two nights each at The Factory in Deep Ellum in Dallas (April 26, 27), the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans (April 30, May 1) and the Coca-Cola Roxy in Atlanta (May 3, 4).
Gustaf will be kicking things off in Dallas, New Orleans and Atlanta. Nation of Language will open in San Diego. LCD Soundsystem is James Murphy, Pat Mahoney, Nancy Whang, Al Doyle, Tyler Pope, Korey Richey, Nick Millhiser and Abby Echeverri.
Tickets for the 10 new shows will go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, January 31 at 10am local time. Register now at www.lcdsoundsystem.com for first access to tickets before the artist presale goes live on Tuesday, January 28 at 10am local time.
LCD Soundsystem North American Tour 2025
March 8 – San Diego, CA – Gallagher Square at Petco Park
April 22 – Austin, TX – Emo’s
April 23 – Austin, TX – Emo’s
April 24 – Austin, TX – Emo’s
April 26 – Dallas, TX – The Factory in Deep Ellum
April 27 – Dallas, TX – The Factory in Deep Ellum
April 30 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre
May 1 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre
May 3 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy
May 4 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy
Madeline Hawthorne’s new song, “Ghost in a Shell,” was inspired by close friends experiencing difficult breakups and was co-written with her husband during a short break in her touring schedule. “The song puts you in a dream-like state,” she says. “It also harkens back to 70s-era pop, rock, and folk recordings. I thoroughly enjoyed producing this track, and I hope you enjoy listening.”
“Ghost in a Shell” follows the 2024 release Tales From Late Nights & Long Drives, produced by the famed Ryan Hadlock (Zach Bryan, The Lumineers, Vance Joy) and recorded at Bear Creek Studios near Seattle, WA. The album received widespread praise from outlets including Whiskey Riff, No Depression, Relix, Americana Highways, MAGNET, and more.
Hawthorne will kick off her winter tour on January 30 in Colorado Springs, bringing her band through the Rockies and the Pacific Northwest. All tour information and up-to-date news can be found at madelinehawthorne.com.
ON TOUR
January 30 @ Lulu’s Downtown | Colorado Springs, CO*
January 31 @ Aggie Theatre | Fort Collins, CO^
January 31-February 2 @ UllrGrass Music & Beer Festival | Golden, CO
February 1 @ Fox Theatre | Boulder, CO^
February 13 @ The State Room | Salt Lake City, UT‡
February 14 @ Sun Valley Resort | Sun Valley, ID
February 15 @ Trap Bar & Grill | Alta, WY
February 16 @ Trap Bar & Grill | Alta, WY
February 26 @ The Hybrid | Eugene, OR
February 27 @ Silver Moon Brewing | Bend, OR
February 28 @ The Showdown | Portland, OR°
March 1 @ Rabbit Box | Seattle, WA
March 2 @ The Shakedown | Bellingham, WA
March 5 @ Kenworthy Performing Arts Center | Moscow, ID
March 6 @ Panida Little Theater | Sandpoint, ID^^
March 7 @ Great Northern Bar & Grill | Whitefish, MT
March 8 @ Great Northern Bar & Grill | Whitefish, MT
w/ Xanthe Alexis
^ w/ Clay Street Unit
‡ w/ Alicia Stockman
° w/ Katelyn Convery
^^ w/ Kevin Dorin
How Patrick Avard Shapes the Sound of Power Cheer Music
Introduction
Patrick Avard is a leading figure in the cheerleading music industry. He specializes in creating thrilling soundtracks that enhance cheerleading performances. Known for his innovative approach, Avard has played a pivotal role in shaping power cheer music, a genre that energizes teams and captivates audiences with dynamic mixes and high-energy beats.
Power cheer music is more than background sound; it’s a crucial component of cheerleading routines. It amplifies the intensity of performances and helps synchronize the athletes’ movements. Cheer music mixes often include various styles blended seamlessly, creating an exciting and motivational atmosphere during competitions.
This article will explore the evolution of cheerleading music, focusing on the remarkable contributions of Patrick Avard. We’ll delve into the history of cheer music mixes and examine the elements that define power cheer music today.
The Evolution of Cheerleading Music
Cheerleading music has undergone significant changes over the years. Initially, it was simple, with basic rhythms to support cheerleaders’ chants and movements. However, the evolution towards dynamic and elaborate music mixes has transformed cheerleading into a more exhilarating experience.
Over time, cheer music became more sophisticated, integrating various musical genres and custom sound effects. These changes enabled athletes to perform more synchronized and complex routines. Patrick Avard has been at the forefront of these innovations, pushing the boundaries of cheer music.
Avard’s unique techniques have introduced fresh elements into the cheerleading music industry. By incorporating custom vocal drops, seamless transitions, and high-energy beats, he has transformed traditional approaches to creating music mixes. Avard’s influence is evident in the growing complexity and energy of cheerleading routines.
To learn more about the history and evolution of cheerleading music, you can visit the VICE website, which offers rich insights into the sport’s development over the years.
Patrick Avard’s Influence on Cheer Music
Patrick Avard has transformed the cheerleading scene with his memorable cheer music mixes. His innovative style blends high-energy beats with dynamic soundscapes, elevating the standards in cheer music. By mixing multiple musical genres and infusing performances with energy, Avard has crafted his industry distinction through passion and meticulous attention to detail.
Components of a Power Cheer Music Mix:
A power cheer music mix is more than a list of songs. It’s a crafted experience, with Patrick Avard being a master of its creation. Here’s what makes up a compelling cheer mix:
High-Energy Beats: These keep the momentum throughout the routine, ensuring the team maintains their energy and rhythm.
Customized Sound Effects: Unique sounds add flair and create emphasis on key stunts or transitions. They make the performance not just visible but audibly spectacular.
Vocal Drops and Cheer Instructions: Clear vocal cues direct the team and synchronize movements, turning the music into an integral part of the routine.
Seamless Transitions Between Songs: Smooth transitions maintain the flow and prevent any downtime, keeping both the audience and performers engaged.
Patrick Avard expertly incorporates these elements, ensuring each mix is distinct and engaging. For an in-depth look at how music synchronization impacts performance, refer to studies by the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
These components work together to elevate cheer routines, showcasing Avard’s signature style and commitment to excellence in cheer music production.
The Impact of Power Cheer Music on Performance
Power cheer music plays a crucial role in elevating team performance during competitions. It doesn’t just set the rhythm but actively lifts the energy and spirit of the athletes. Here’s how:
Boosts Morale: A well-crafted cheer music mix can lift a team’s spirit as soon as the music starts, creating an adrenaline rush that boosts performance. Music’s power to affect mood and motivation is supported by Psychology Today.
Enhances Synchronization: The beats and rhythms in cheer music help synchronize movements, which is vital for team performances. This synchronization reduces errors and makes routines look fluid and polished.
Increases Audience Engagement: High-energy soundtracks grab the audience’s attention and keep them engaged, which is crucial during competitions where crowd support can boost team confidence.
Promotes Energy Release: Powerful music allows athletes to release energy and showcase their full potential, delivering exciting performances that judges and audiences love.
Case studies from cheerleading competitions have shown that teams performing with dynamic music mixes generally score higher in energy and execution categories. This underscores the power of music as a performance enhancer in cheerleading events.
Patrick Avard’s Legacy and Future in Cheer Music
Patrick Avard’s impact on the cheer music industry is profound and lasting. He has set the bar for what cheer mixes can achieve and continues to inspire future trends. As music technology advances, Avard may incorporate more digital and interactive elements into his mixes, keeping them fresh and exciting.
In summary, Patrick Avard’s legacy is one of innovation and excellence, with his work continuing to inspire and shape the future of cheerleading music. The lasting impact of his music ensures that he remains a central figure in the industry for years to come.
Wrap-Up and Appreciation of Power Cheer Music
Patrick Avard has truly redefined the landscape of power cheer music. His innovative approach to creating cheerleading music and mixes has set a new standard in the industry. By blending dynamic sounds with tailor-made elements, Avard creates music that energizes teams and elevates performances.
Redefining Power Cheer Music: Avard’s work stands out because he understands the pulse of the cheerleading world. His mixes are not just background tracks; they’re integral to the routines, adding excitement and intensity.
Encouraging Exploration: For those interested in the complexities and artistry behind cheerleading music, exploring Avard’s music is highly recommended. Delving into these mixes offers insights into the rhythmic and motivational power they hold.
Explore Patrick Avard’s Work and Related Services
By engaging with Patrick Avard’s productions, you can better appreciate the artistry and skill that goes into creating each cheer mix. His work is accessible through various platforms, offering a peek into his unique approach.
Accessing His Work: Many of Avard’s projects are featured on popular music streaming services. These platforms provide a direct way to experience the impact of his sound on cheerleading performances.
Services Offered: Avard also offers custom music solutions for teams. These services allow teams to benefit from tailored mixes that enhance their routines and performances.
To truly embrace the full experience and depth of cheerleading music, consider engaging with Avard’s work. The energy and creativity he brings to each track highlight the vital role music plays in the world of cheerleading and beyond.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
