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Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers Keyboardist Benmont Tench Announces “The Melancholy Season” Album

Eric Alper
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Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers Keyboardist Benmont Tench Announces “The Melancholy Season” Album

Legendary keyboard player and founding member of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers Benmont Tench is set for the release of his second solo album The Melancholy Season March 7 on Dark Horse Records. Tench’s first solo effort in over a decade (following 2014’s You Should Be So Lucky), The Melancholy Season is produced by Jonathan Wilson (Father John Misty, Margo Price, Billy Strings) and includes performances by Taylor Goldsmith (Dawes), Sara Watkins (Nickel Creek), singer/songwriter Jenny O. and Sebastian Steinberg (Fiona Apple, Iron and Wine, Soul Coughing).

In anticipation of the forthcoming release, the album’s title track “The Melancholy Season” is debuting now alongside a video directed by Chloe Badner (Caroline Polachek). Tench notes, “The meaning of the song is subject to every listener’s interpretation, but I will say that the ‘Orion’ in the song is the constellation Orion, whose arrival in the night sky above my old house always signaled the coming of colder weather, and the emotional change that came with it.”

Tench will preview songs from the new album alongside selections from throughout his career during his upcoming residency at New York’s famed Café Carlyle from February 18-22, tickets are available HERE. Tench will also tour across the west coast this spring, with stops including two nights at Largo in Los Angeles as well as The Independent in San Francisco, the Triple Door in Seattle, Portland’s Old Church and more; see below for a complete list of dates, tickets for all tour dates are available at benmonttench.com.

In addition to the forthcoming tour dates, Tench also appeared as a member of the house band—led by musical director Don Was—at the MusiCares 2025 Persons of the Year Gala. This year’s event honors the Grateful Dead and features an array of special guest performers including Zac Brown, Stewart Copeland, Mick Fleetwood, Sammy Hagar, Bruce Hornsby, Norah Jones, Wynonna Judd, Dave Matthews, John Mayer and many more. See HERE for additional information on the event.

With a career spanning five decades, Tench is celebrated as one of contemporary music’s finest keyboardists, renowned for his exceptional work on the organ and piano. Tench has not only shaped the sound of the Heartbreakers but has also contributed to an impressive array of recordings with a diverse roster of artists, including Stevie Nicks, Willie Nelson, Alanis Morissette, Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, the Chicks, the Replacements, John Prine, Waylon Jennings, John Fogerty, Elvis Costello, the Rolling Stones and Johnny Cash.

BENMONT TENCH – THE MELANCHOLY SEASON
1. The Melancholy Season
2. Pledge
3. Rattle
4. Not Enough
5. If She Knew
6. I Will Not Follow You Down
7. Under The Starlight
8. Back
9. Like Crystal
10. Wobbles
11. You, Again
12. The Drivin’ Man
13. Dallas

BENMONT TENCH TOUR DATES
February 18—New York, NY—Café Carlyle
February 19—New York, NY—Café Carlyle
February 20—New York, NY—Café Carlyle
February 21—New York, NY—Café Carlyle
February 22—New York, NY—Café Carlyle
March 12—Los Angeles, CA—Largo
March 19—Los Angeles, CA—Largo
April 2—Ojai, CA—Ojai Playhouse
April 4—Santa Cruz, CA—Kuumbwa
April 5—San Francisco, CA—The Independent
April 8—Seattle, WA—Triple Door
April 9—Portland, OR—Old Church
April 11—Grass Valley, CA—Center for the Arts
April 12—Sonoma, CA—Sebastiani Theatre

Jimmie Johnson and Marty Smith Team Up for New SiriusXM Podcast

Eric Alper
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Jimmie Johnson and Marty Smith Team Up for New SiriusXM Podcast

SiriusXM announced today that seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion driver Jimmie Johnson and veteran journalist and best-selling author Marty Smith are teaming up for a new SiriusXM podcast, “Never Settle.”

The podcast debuts on February 12, during Daytona 500 Week. Johnson, who will be competing part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series this season in the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, will attempt to qualify for a spot in the Daytona 500 field that week.

Listeners can hear “Never Settle” every week on all major podcast platforms. New episodes of the podcast will debut every Wednesday and the show will also air Wednesdays (2 pm ET) on the SiriusXM NASCAR Radio channel (ch. 90).

Each week, Johnson and Smith will discuss the headline stories in NASCAR, and will share stories and perspectives gleaned from Jimmie’s many successful years competing on the track. Marty and Jimmie will take the discussion beyond the world of motorsports, too, discussing lifestyle matters, music, and sharing experiences and lessons learned staying true to the motto “never settle” as they navigated through success and challenges in their lives and careers.

“It’s crazy that this podcast has finally come to life,” said Johnson. “Marty and I have known each other for 20 plus years and he is one of the all-time best storytellers out there. He’s also hilarious and the two of us have had a lot of fun together throughout the years. We’re excited to work with SiriusXM and we can’t wait to share some entertaining stories with listeners and have some great guests in their 2.0 version of life on the show with us. It’s going to be wild.”

“Jimmie and I have had so many great conversations through the years about life on the track and off it, and we’re thrilled to team up with SiriusXM to create a podcast that will invite listeners into those conversations with us,” said Smith.  “From racing to fatherhood to business and more, we’re excited to get into it all, and hopefully we’ll enlighten and inspire some people along the way.”

Jimmie Johnson is not only one of the greatest racecar drivers of the modern era, he is also one of the most accomplished professional athletes in sports. A seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, Johnson remains the only racecar driver in history to be named The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year (2009). Johnson was a 2024 NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee. Throughout Johnson’s storied career, he and the No. 48 team of Hendrick Motorsports recorded 83 wins in 686 starts. He shares the record of seven championship titles with NASCAR Hall of Fame legends Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt, Sr. After Johnson’s final full-time season in NASCAR, he spent two seasons in the INDYCAR Series competing for 16-time INDYCAR champions, Chip Ganassi Racing.

Johnson and wife Chandra are co-founders of the Jimmie Johnson Foundation (JJF), which focuses on K-12 public education. The JJF has contributed more than $13 million to organizations and schools in need across the U.S., since its inception in 2006.

Marty Smith has been a reporter and host for ESPN since 2006. He has been a mainstay on the network’s NASCAR and college sports coverage and also hosted the interview show “Marty Smith’s America.”  Prior to ESPN, Smith covered motorsports and college sports as a journalist at the Roanoke Times, The Washington Post and The News & Advance. He has authored two books – the New York Times bestseller “Never Settle: Sports, Family, and the American Soul” (2019) and “Sideline CEO: Leadership Principles from Championship Coaches” (2023)

 

Wu-Tang Clan Reunites for ‘Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman’

Eric Alper
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Wu-Tang Clan Reunites for ‘Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman’

36 Chambers today announced the upcoming release of the highly anticipated album, “Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman” from the “Wu-Tang the Saga Continues…” collection. Produced by the multi-talented Mathematics, and with performances from all nine Wu-Tang Clan members and other top artists including Kool G. Rap, Nicole Bus, Benny the Butcher and many more, the album offers fans a journey through bold, cinematic soundscapes paired with the unmistakably gritty vibe and expert lyricism for which Wu-Tang is known. This release marks the group’s first LP since the original album in the “Wu-Tang The Saga Continues” collection in 2017 and the first to feature all nine members since 2014.

To commemorate the new album, 36 Chambers and Ruffnation Entertainment have teamed up with Macroverse for a limited edition Record Store Day release of “Black Samson, the Bastard Swordsman” as an exclusive, audiophile-grade 2LP vinyl album. This limited edition is the first album to feature Macroverse’s innovative Mixprint technology, resulting in 5,000 unique, “1-of-1” album jackets that merge artistry, storytelling, and collectability.

“Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman” will be available exclusively at participating Record Store Day retailers on April 12th, 2025, with only 5,000 copies produced. This rare first-of-its-kind collectible piece of art is expected to be a must-have for Wu-Tang fans, lovers of Hip-hop, vinyl enthusiasts, and art collectors alike. The full LP will also be available for digital purchase in April.

“Wu-Tang has always been about pushing boundaries—musically, artistically, and culturally. With ‘Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman,’ I’m giving fans not just an album, but a piece of history—something truly one of a kind,” said Mathematics. “This is more than music; it’s innovation, storytelling, and legacy all in one. I am excited for everyone to hear the music and see the artwork around this album.”

“Mathematics adds another chamber to the saga collection, following his last solid outing….proud of him, ” said Method Man “This one looks to be another banger for the history books!!”

“Mathematics is a top tier producer who makes music with his soul attached,” said Raekwon. “Be sure of a great body of work!!”

“I think Black Sampson is some of Mathematics’s best work,” said Masta Killa. “It displays his growth and development as a producer with the selection of music that he has arranged for our entertainment. Black Sampson is a must for hip hop listeners.”

The release of this album is a landmark event in the collectibles space. The Mixprint variant cover art developed by the Macroverse Media team is the very first time in the Vinyl Record industry an album has been released with no two covers alike,” said Chris Schwartz, CEO of Ruffnation Entertainment. “Ruffnation and Studio 4 Vinyl are proud to work with Wu-Tang’s DJ Mathematics, The 36 Chambers organization, DNA Music Group, Macroverse, the Record Store Day organization and Virgin Music Group, who were all crucial in giving this project the time and energy to make its release a memorable event.”

“As a kid of the 90s, it’s hard to put into words what an honor it is to have any kind of involvement in a Wu-Tang release,” said Bennett Phillips, President of Macroverse Mixprint. “We’re proud of the innovative techniques involved in every Mixprint creation, and to pair that with one of the most innovative groups in Hip Hop is a collaboration that couldn’t get much better.”

“Black Samson, The Bastard Swordsman” from the “Wu-Tang the Saga Continues…” Collection Tracklist:
1. “Sucker Free City” (Intro) feat. Kurupt and Ralph McDaniels
2. “Mandingo” feat. Raekwon, Inspectah Deck, Method Man and Cappadonna
3. “Roar Of The Lion” (the lion’s pit) feat. U-God, Kool G. Rap and Rza
4. “Claudine” feat. Method Man, Ghostface Killah and Nicole Bus
5. “Shaolin Vs. Lama” (bonus) feat. Raekwon and Inspectah Deck
6. “Executioners From Shaolin” feat. Inspectah Deck, The Gza and Cappadonna
7. “Cleopatra Jones” feat. Raekwon and Masta Killa
8. “Warriors Two, Cooley High” feat. Benny The Butcher and Method Man
9. “Let’s Do It Again” feat. R.J. Payne, 38 Spesh, Willie The Kid and The Rza
10. ⁠Dolemite feat. Cappadonna, U-God & Masta Killa
11. “Trouble Man” (Outro) feat. Kameron Corvet

Roger Daltrey Tells the Story of The Who’s “Behind Blue Eyes”

Eric Alper
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Roger Daltrey Tells the Story of The Who’s “Behind Blue Eyes”

The Who frontman, Roger Daltrey, talks about the band’s hit song, “Behind Blue Eyes”. He tells Dan Rather why it’s his favorite of all The Who songs.

10 Reasons Why Bob Marley Still Matters Today

Eric Alper
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10 Reasons Why Bob Marley Still Matters Today

Bob Marley was a movement. His voice carried across continents, his words became anthems for revolution, love, and unity, and his legacy is woven into the fabric of global culture. Decades after his passing, Marley’s music and message remain as relevant as ever. Here are 10 reason why he still – more than ever – matters.

1. He Brought Reggae to the World

Reggae was a Jamaican sound largely confined to the island, but Marley turned it into a global phenomenon. By blending reggae with rock, soul, and blues, he made it accessible to audiences everywhere. Albums like Catch a Fire and Exodus broke new ground, creating a cultural bridge between Jamaica and the world. His music became a rallying cry for the marginalized, bringing reggae’s rhythm and message to stadiums and radios across continents.

2. His Music is a Soundtrack for Social Change

Marley didn’t just sing about love and good times—his music was a weapon against oppression. Get Up, Stand Up called for resistance, War demanded equality, and Redemption Song turned historical injustice into a timeless ballad of freedom. His lyrics weren’t just catchy; they were statements of protest and empowerment. Decades later, activists still turn to Marley’s music for inspiration, proving that his message transcends generations.

3. He Made the Personal Political

Love songs were never just love songs for Marley. No Woman, No Cry isn’t just about a relationship—it’s a tribute to perseverance and survival in the face of hardship. Three Little Birds reassures not just a single listener but entire communities struggling with poverty and uncertainty. By weaving personal experiences with universal struggles, he made every song a call to action, a reminder that hope and resilience go hand in hand.

4. He Was a Voice for the African Diaspora

Marley’s music was deeply rooted in Pan-Africanism, a movement that called for unity among people of African descent worldwide. Songs like Africa Unite and Zimbabwe championed independence and liberation, amplifying the struggles of African nations breaking free from colonial rule. He wasn’t just a supporter from afar—he performed at Zimbabwe’s independence celebration in 1980, cementing his role as a global freedom fighter.

5. He Turned Spirituality into Global Consciousness

Rastafarianism wasn’t widely known outside Jamaica until Marley brought it into the mainstream. His faith shaped his music, from the biblical imagery in Exodus to the spiritual devotion in One Love. Through his songs, Marley spread messages of peace, unity, and self-awareness, introducing millions to a philosophy that encouraged living in harmony with nature, resisting materialism, and embracing cultural identity.

6. He Defied Political and Physical Attacks

Marley’s influence wasn’t just musical—it was political. In 1976, during a period of intense political violence in Jamaica, gunmen stormed his home in an assassination attempt. Despite being wounded, he performed at the Smile Jamaica concert two days later. When asked why, he said, “The people who are trying to make this world worse aren’t taking a day off. How can I?” That fearless dedication turned him into a symbol of resilience and courage.

7. He Created One of the Best-Selling Albums of All Time

Legend, released in 1984, is the best-selling reggae album in history, with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. Decades later, it continues to break records, spending more than 1,100 weeks on the UK Albums Chart and nearly 900 weeks on the Billboard 200. Its success isn’t just about nostalgia—new generations keep discovering Marley’s music, proving that his impact isn’t fading but growing stronger over time.

8. His Influence on Modern Music is Unmatched

Marley’s sound continues to shape artists across genres, from hip-hop and rock to pop and R&B. His influence runs through the music of Lauryn Hill, The Fugees, and Kendrick Lamar, while bands like U2 and The Police credit him for inspiring their approach to rhythm and activism. Even today, his children and grandchildren carry on his legacy, ensuring that the Marley sound never fades from the airwaves.

9. He Championed Cannabis Legalization Before It Was Mainstream

Marley didn’t just use cannabis—he saw it as a sacred herb, a spiritual tool for meditation and enlightenment. Long before conversations about legalization became mainstream, Marley was an outspoken advocate, arguing that the criminalization of cannabis was a tool of oppression. Today, as laws change around the world, Marley’s views are seen not as radical but as prophetic, proving that he was ahead of his time in more ways than one.

10. His Message of Unity and Peace is Needed More Than Ever

In a world that often feels divided, Marley’s call for unity remains timeless. One Love isn’t just a song—it’s a philosophy. At a time when political, racial, and economic tensions run high, his message is a reminder that change starts with love, understanding, and action. His music continues to bring people together, from festival crowds to family gatherings, proving that his vision for a better world still resonates today.

How Indie Artists Can Get Involved in Record Store Day 2025 (Unofficially!)

Eric Alper
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How Indie Artists Can Get Involved in Record Store Day 2025 (Unofficially!)

Record Store Day (RSD) 2025 is set to take place on April 12, and while it has become a major global event for music lovers, indie artists often find themselves wondering how they can be a part of the celebration. While the official releases and events tend to focus on major labels and established acts, independent musicians can still find ways to engage with their communities and make the most of RSD.

What started in 2007 as a grassroots initiative to support independent record stores has grown into a worldwide phenomenon. Inspired by events like Free Comic Book Day, a coalition of indie record store owners launched Record Store Day in 2008, with Metallica helping to kick off the inaugural event at Rasputin Music in San Francisco. Since then, RSD has expanded across the globe, with exclusive vinyl releases, in-store performances, and community gatherings defining the annual tradition.

Despite its success, the reality is that many indie artists are left out of official RSD releases due to label-driven distribution deals and limited pressings. However, that doesn’t mean independent musicians can’t get involved! Here are five creative ways indie artists can celebrate Record Store Day in an unofficial capacity.

  1. Partner with a Local Record Store

Many record stores are at the heart of their local music communities. Reach out to a nearby shop and offer to perform an acoustic set, DJ for the day, or even help promote the store’s RSD event. Even if you’re not an official RSD artist, performing in-store or assisting with promotions can introduce your music to vinyl collectors and fellow music lovers.

  1. Release a Special Edition of Your Own Music

While official RSD vinyl releases are often reserved for label-backed artists, you can still create your own exclusive release. Consider pressing a limited batch of vinyl or cassettes for your fans, releasing a digital “Record Store Day” edition of a past album with bonus tracks, or even dropping a surprise single on streaming platforms to coincide with the event.

  1. Host a Pop-Up Show or Listening Party

If performing at a record store isn’t an option, organize a pop-up show in a local coffee shop, bookshop, or even an outdoor space near a record store. Invite fans to celebrate music and vinyl culture with you. You could also host a listening party for your favorite vinyl records or even your own releases, making it a social event for the community.

  1. Create Exclusive RSD Merch

Limited-edition merch is a big part of the Record Store Day experience, so why not join in? Design a special run of T-shirts, posters, or offer a bundle deal for anyone who buys your merch and a vinyl record on your website, creating a unique cross-promotion.

  1. Support Record Store Day on Social Media

Even if you’re not officially part of the event, you can still use the buzz of RSD to engage with fans. Share your favorite indie record stores, post about your favorite vinyl releases, or create a short video talking about your love for physical music formats. Tagging stores and using #RecordStoreDay2025 can help you connect with new audiences and show your appreciation for the vinyl community.

Record Store Day is a celebration of music culture and independent businesses. Indie artists play a crucial role in keeping that culture alive. By participating in creative and unofficial ways, you can still make an impact, connect with fans, and support local record stores without needing a major label or official RSD release.

So, mark your calendar for April 12, 2025, and start planning how you’ll celebrate Record Store Day as an indie artist. The record store community is built on passion, and there’s always room for independent musicians to be part of the movement!

For all your publicity needs, feel free to email Eric@ThatEricAlper.com or call me at 647-971-3742. With 25+ years of experience and a deep passion for connecting artists to audiences, I’m here to help you make an impact.

5 Surprising Facts About Led Zeppelin’s Self-Titled Debut Album

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Led Zeppelin’s Self-Titled Debut Album

Some albums introduce a band—and some reshape the very fabric of rock music. Led Zeppelin, the debut album from the legendary British group, wasn’t just a record; it was a mission statement. Released in 1969, it unleashed an entirely new force in heavy music, fusing blues, psychedelia, and bone-crushing riffs into a sound that would define hard rock for generations. But beyond its iconic status, Led Zeppelin holds a trove of lesser-known stories that reveal just how groundbreaking it was. Here are five little-known facts that shed new light on this seismic debut.

1. The Album Was Funded Out of Pocket—And That Changed Everything

When Led Zeppelin was recorded, the band didn’t have a record deal yet. Instead of waiting for a label to foot the bill, Jimmy Page and manager Peter Grant paid for the sessions themselves—a bold move that cost them £1,782 (about £37,000 today). Because they controlled the budget, they also controlled the music, ensuring there was no label interference in the sound or song selection. By the time Atlantic Records signed them, the album was already finished, meaning the label had zero say in the creative process—an unheard-of level of artistic freedom at the time.

2. The Famous Hindenburg Cover Almost Didn’t Happen

Few album covers are as instantly recognizable as Led Zeppelin’s image of the Hindenburg disaster, but it wasn’t an obvious choice at first. Jimmy Page, who had a strong hand in every aspect of the band’s presentation, chose the image as a nod to a joke Keith Moon once made—that their new band would go down “like a lead balloon.” Artist George Hardie adapted the famous 1937 photograph into a striking black-and-white illustration, but the cover nearly caused a legal headache. Eva von Zeppelin, a relative of the airship’s creator, was so furious about the image that she threatened legal action, forcing the band to briefly perform under a different name while in Denmark.

3. The Album Was Recorded in Just 36 Hours

It’s hard to believe that an album as monumental as Led Zeppelin came together in less time than a long weekend, but that’s exactly what happened. The band had honed most of the material on their first tour as the New Yardbirds, so by the time they stepped into Olympic Studios in London, they were ready. The entire album was recorded and mixed in roughly 36 studio hours over a few weeks, a testament to their chemistry and live energy. The quick turnaround also kept costs down, allowing Page and Grant to finance the project themselves.

4. “Good Times Bad Times” Was a Technical Triumph

The thunderous opening track, “Good Times Bad Times,” was a game-changer for rock drumming. John Bonham’s rapid-fire triplets on the bass drum were so fast that many listeners assumed he was using a double bass pedal—except he wasn’t. His technique was entirely unique, using an incredibly fast single-foot motion that drummers still try to emulate today. Even Jimi Hendrix reportedly praised Bonham’s playing on the track, recognizing his sheer power and precision.

5. The Album’s Success Came from Radio, Not Singles

Unlike most rock albums of the late ‘60s, Led Zeppelin didn’t rely on hit singles to break through. The band actively avoided releasing singles in the UK, and the only one issued in the US—“Good Times Bad Times”—barely made a dent on the Billboard charts. Instead, the album gained traction through underground FM radio stations, which embraced its long-form songs and heavy sound. The lack of traditional promotion didn’t slow them down; within a year, Led Zeppelin had gone platinum and was reshaping the rock landscape.

More than half a century later, Led Zeppelin still sounds like a call to arms, a seismic shift that took rock music to previously uncharted territories. From the studio to the stage, Led Zeppelin’s debut remains one of the most influential rock records of all time—a blueprint that would shape generations of musicians to follow.

5 Surprising Facts About The Band’s “Music From Big Pink”

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About The Band’s “Music From Big Pink”

Some albums don’t just introduce a band—they carve out a whole new musical landscape. Music from Big Pink wasn’t loud, flashy, or overtly revolutionary, but its impact was seismic. Instead of riding the wave of late-’60s psychedelia, The Band turned inward, crafting a sound rooted in timeless storytelling and raw emotion. Here are five lesser-known facts that peel back the layers of this enigmatic debut.

1. Bob Dylan’s Influence Went Beyond Songwriting—He Left a Visual Stamp Too

It’s no secret that Bob Dylan played a role in the making of Music from Big Pink, co-writing three of its songs during The Basement Tapes sessions. But his contribution wasn’t just musical—he also painted the album’s cover art. The abstract, almost childlike image signaled that this wasn’t just another rock record; it was a statement. While The Band was stepping out of Dylan’s shadow musically, his presence remained right there on the front of the LP, a silent collaborator in more ways than one.

2. Capitol Records Wanted to Change the Band’s Name—And Didn’t Trust the Sound

Before Music from Big Pink, The Band was still largely known as Bob Dylan’s backing group. Capitol Records, unsure about marketing a band with no clear frontman, initially wanted them to go by The Crackers or The Honkies—names that didn’t exactly land well with the group. To make things more complicated, the label also suggested tweaking their sound to be more radio-friendly. The Band ignored both ideas, sticking to their stripped-down, organic style. In the end, Capitol had no choice but to let them be The Band.

3. Levon Helm Had to Be Lured Back From the Oil Fields to Finish the Album

When Dylan’s 1966 world tour met hostile audiences (angry at his electric shift), Levon Helm had had enough. The Arkansas-born drummer quit and took a job working on an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Meanwhile, the rest of The Band was jamming with Dylan in Woodstock, finding their musical identity. It wasn’t until Capitol Records offered a record deal that Helm was persuaded to return. His drumming and vocals would become essential to Big Pink—but for a time, it almost happened without him.

4. The House That Inspired the Album Wasn’t Where It Was Recorded

The title Music from Big Pink refers to the now-famous house in West Saugerties, New York, where members of The Band lived and wrote much of the album. But the recordings themselves didn’t happen there. The sessions began at A&R Studios in Manhattan before Capitol insisted they relocate to Los Angeles to complete the album. The move wasn’t ideal—the band’s rustic sound was at odds with the industry polish of L.A.—but they managed to keep the spirit of Big Pink alive, even from a thousand miles away.

5. “The Weight” Was a Hit—Just Not for The Band

One of the most iconic songs from Music from Big Pink, “The Weight,” became an instant classic. However, The Band’s version didn’t chart significantly in the U.S., peaking at a modest No. 63. Instead, the song found success through other artists—Aretha Franklin’s version turned it into an R&B hit, while Jackie DeShannon’s take made the U.S. Top 40. It wasn’t until later that The Band’s original was recognized as one of the defining songs of its era, proving that sometimes, greatness takes time to be appreciated.

Over half a century later, Music from Big Pink still stands as one of the most influential albums of all time. It defied trends, introduced a new approach to rock music, and helped launch the Americana movement before it even had a name. More than just a debut, it was a manifesto—one that still echoes through generations of musicians who value authenticity over spectacle.

Central Cee Announces ‘Can’t Rush Greatness’ World Tour Following Debut Album Release

Eric Alper
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Central Cee Announces ‘Can’t Rush Greatness’ World Tour Following Debut Album Release

Coming off the heels of the release of long-awaited debut album, Can’t Rush Greatness, UK’s global rap sensation Central Cee has announced his first world tour of the same name. Produced by Live Nation, the 39-date tour kicks off on April 1st in Norway at Oslo’s Spektrum Arena making stops at renowned venues in Europe and North America like London’s The O2, Los Angeles’s Hollywood Palladium and New York’s Terminal 5, and more before wrapping up on July 2nd in Perth, Australia.

Central Cee’s album release marks a pivotal moment in his career, taking the London-born rapper to reach global chart dominance with acclaimed mixtapes and the hit single “GBP” featuring 21 Savage. The project has already been hailed as having the biggest streaming day of all-time for a UK Rapper globally. This achievement comes on top of three Brit Award nominations for Best UK Artist, Best Song for “Band4Band” and “Best Hip Hop & Grime,” and a cinematic black and white visual for the album track “Limitless”.

Central Cee has redefined the global perception of UK rap, breaking barriers and setting unprecedented milestones. His ability to seamlessly blend raw storytelling with universal appeal has resonated across continents, bridging linguistic and cultural divides. With Can’t Rush Greatness, he reaffirms his position as one of the most vital voices in contemporary rap, delivering an album that is both deeply personal and globally resonant.

Tickets will be available starting with an Artist Presale beginning Wednesday, January 29th at 10am local. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general onsale beginning Friday, January 31st at 10am local time at Ticketmaster.com. Please check routing for more information.

*The Auckland show at Spark Arena and Perth show at RAC Arena will both go on pre-sale and on-sale the week of February 3rd.

Mastercard cardholders have special access to presale tickets in France, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Italy & the Netherlands. Mastercard Presale starts Wednesday, January 29th at 10am local. Plus, Preferred ticket access to some of the best tickets are available in the countries listed and the UK from Friday, January 31st at 10am local. Check out priceless.com/music for details.

 

TOUR DATES:
April 1 | Oslo, NO | Spektrum
April 3 | Copenhagen, DK | Forum Black Box
April 5 | Hamburg, DE | Sporthalle Hamburg
April 6 | Berlin, DE | Velodrom
April 8 | Amsterdam, NL | Ziggo Dome
April 10 | Milan, IT | Fabrique
April 11 | Munich, DE | Zenith Die Kulturhalle
April 13 | Paris, FR | Accor Arena
April 15 | Dusseldorf, DE | PSD Bank Dome
April 16 | Brussels, BE | Forest National
April 18 | Birmingham, UK | Utilita Arena
April 19 | Manchester, UK | Co-op Live
April 22 | Dublin, IE | 3Arena
April 24 | London, UK | The O2
April 27 | Glasgow, UK | OVO Hydro
May 2 | Portland, OR | Roseland Theater
May 3 | Seattle, WA | Showbox SoDo
May 6 | San Francisco, CA | The Masonic
May 7 | Los Angeles, CA | Hollywood Palladium
May 9 | Denver, CO | The Fillmore Denver
May 11 | Houston, TX | Bayou Music Center
May 12 | Dallas, TX | South Side Ballroom
May 15 | Detroit, MI | The Fillmore Detroit
May 16 | Chicago, IL | Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
May 18 | Charlotte, NC | The Fillmore Charlotte
May 19 | Atlanta, GA | Coca-Cola Roxy
May 21 | Philadelphia, PA | The Fillmore Philadelphia
May 22 | Silver Spring, MD | The Fillmore Silver Spring
May 24 | Toronto, ON, CAN | HISTORY
May 25 | Toronto, ON, CAN | HISTORY
May 27 | Brooklyn, NY | Brooklyn Paramount
May 29 | New York, NY | Terminal 5
May 31 | Boston, MA | MGM Music Hall
June 1 | Montreal, QC, CAN | MTELUS
June 20 | Auckland, NZ | Spark Arena
June 22 | Brisbane, AU | Brisbane Entertainment Centre
June 25 | Sydney, AU | Qudos Bank Arena
June 28 | Melbourne, AU | Rod Laver Arena
July 2 | Perth, AU | RAC Arena

Jake Shane Announces ‘Live With Jake Shane’ 2025 Tour Across 35+ North American Cities

Eric Alper
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Jake Shane Announces ‘Live With Jake Shane’ 2025 Tour Across 35+ North American Cities

Today, Jake Shane, digital entertainer, comedian, and host of popular podcast Therapuss, announced his biggest tour to date, kicking off next month.  Produced by Live Nation and National Shows 2, LIVE WITH JAKE SHANE will begin on Thursday, February 27 in Dallas, TX and will span more than 35 cities across North America before wrapping in Omaha, NE on Sunday, July 13.

Artist Presale Tickets and VIP Packages will go on sale on Wednesday, January 29 at 10:00 AM local time. The general onsale will begin Friday, January 31 at 10:00 AM local time.

100% of net tickets proceeds from the Los Angeles show at Peacock Theater on Saturday, May 17 will be donated to wildfire relief efforts.

In 2024, Shane completed his first ever live tour, Therapuss LIVE, to sold-out crowds in 21 cities, featuring special guests at select stops including Reneé Rapp, Alix Earle, Sofia Richie-Grainge, Snooki, Connor Wood, and Alexander 23.

LIVE WITH JAKE SHANE 2025 TOUR DATES
Thursday, February 27 – Dallas, TX – Majestic Theatre
Saturday, March 1 – Baton Rouge, LA – River Center Theatre
Sunday, March 2 – New Orleans, LA – Orpheum Theater
Friday, March 7 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
Saturday, March 8 – Austin, TX – ACL Live at the Moody Theater
Monday, March 10 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Criterion
Wednesday, March 12 – St. Louis, MO – Stifel Theatre
Friday, March 14 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
Saturday, March 15 – Akron, OH – Goodyear Theater
Sunday, March 16 – Columbus, OH – Wexner Center Mershon Auditorium
Wednesday, March 19 – Birmingham, AL – BJCC Concert Hall
Friday, March 21 – Jacksonville, FL – Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts – Moran Theater
Saturday, March 22 – Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall
Sunday, March 23 – Orlando, FL – Steinmetz Hall
Monday, March 24 – Athens, GA – The Classic Center
Wednesday, March 26 – Charlotte, NC – Ovens Auditorium
Friday, March 28 – Bloomington, IN – IU Auditorium
Friday, May 16 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
Saturday, May 17 – Los Angeles, CA – Peacock Theater
Tuesday, May 20 – El Cajon, CA – The Magnolia
Friday, May 23 – Phoenix, AZ – Arizona Financial Theatre
Saturday, May 24 – Las Vegas, NV – The Theater At Virgin Hotel
Wednesday, May 28 – Vancouver, BC – Orpheum Theater
Thursday, May 29 – Seattle, WA – Moore Theatre
Saturday, May 31 – Portland, OR – Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Monday, June 2 – Salt Lake City, UT – Kingsbury Hall
Tuesday, June 3 – Denver, CO – Paramount Theatre
Thursday, June 26 – Washington, DC – Warner Theatre
Friday, June 27 – New York, NY – Radio City Music Hall
Saturday, June 28 – Atlantic City, NJ – Tropicana Showroom at Tropicana Atlantic City
Sunday, June 29 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
Tuesday, July 8 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace
Wednesday, July 9 – Milwaukee, WI – The Riverside Theater
Friday, July 11 – Chicago, IL – The Auditorium Theatre
Saturday, July 12 – Kansas City, MO – Uptown Theater
Sunday, July 13 – Omaha, NE – Steelhouse Omaha

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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