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Relive Iconic Performances with Daniel Tate’s New Book “Stories of the Stage: 25 Years of Concert History at Scotiabank Arena”

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Take a captivating journey through 25 years of unforgettable performances with Stories of the Stage: 25 Years of Concert History at Scotiabank Arena. This visually stunning hardcover transports readers into the heart of one of Canada’s most iconic venues, chronicling legendary moments like The Tragically Hip’s 1999 debut, U2’s monumental four-night stand in 2005, and Madonna’s electrifying Celebration Tour in 2024. Featuring firsthand stories from artists, promoters, and fans, alongside an incredible collection of memorabilia and photography, this 418-page masterpiece dives deep into Toronto’s vibrant concert history. With exclusive features on the arena’s wrestling legacy and the Asian pop explosion of the 2010s, this book is a must-have for music lovers and anyone who has ever felt the magic of live music. Celebrate the memories, the music, and the connections forged at Scotiabank Arena — available now here.

50 Ways Musicians Can Earn Money

The music industry offers endless ways to monetize your talents. Whether you’re performing, teaching, or leveraging digital platforms, here’s a breakdown of 50 practical ways to make money as a musician.


1. Live Performances

Perform at local venues, festivals, and private events. Negotiate performance fees and build your audience along the way.

2. Sell Merchandise

Design and sell branded t-shirts, hoodies, or posters. Merchandise can be sold at shows or through your online store.

3. Digital Music Sales

Distribute your music on Bandcamp or your website for direct downloads. This ensures more profits compared to streaming.

4. Streaming Royalties

Upload music to Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms. Earn small but steady royalties with growing plays.

5. YouTube Monetization

Start a YouTube channel for music videos, tutorials, or performances. Earn through ad revenue and sponsorships.

6. Licensing for Film/TV

Submit your music for use in movies, TV shows, and commercials. Licensing can bring in substantial, recurring income.

7. Sell Physical Albums

Vinyl and CDs remain collector favorites. Sell them online or during live events to loyal fans.

8. Crowdfunding

Launch campaigns on Kickstarter or Patreon to fund albums or tours. Offer exclusive rewards for contributors.

9. Session Musician Work

Record or perform for other artists in studios or live settings. This can be a steady source of income.

10. Teach Music Lessons

Offer in-person or online lessons for instruments, singing, or production. Teach beginners or advanced students.

11. Music Production

Produce tracks or create beats for other artists. Sell your work on platforms like BeatStars or SoundBetter.

12. Sound Engineering

Provide mixing, mastering, or live sound services. Use your technical skills to help others improve their sound.

13. Custom Songwriting

Write songs for special occasions like weddings or anniversaries. Tailor the music to client preferences.

14. Jingles for Ads

Create catchy jingles for commercials or business promotions. Many brands need original music to stand out.

15. DJ Services

Perform as a DJ for weddings, clubs, or corporate events. Use your music curation skills to energize audiences.

16. Twitch Streaming

Perform live on Twitch and interact with viewers. Earn money through tips, subscriptions, and sponsorships.

17. Busking

Play music in public spaces to gain exposure and earn tips. This can also help you connect with new fans.

18. Sync Licensing

License your songs for video games, apps, or YouTube creators. Platforms like Songtradr can help.

19. Music Transcription

Transcribe popular songs into sheet music or tabs. Sell these to other musicians or educational platforms.

20. Create Sample Packs

Develop unique sound samples or loops. Sell them on sites like Splice to producers and DJs.

21. Host Workshops

Teach group workshops on songwriting, performance, or music production. Share your expertise with aspiring musicians.

22. Write a Book

Publish a book about your music journey or offer advice. Use it to inspire and educate other musicians.

23. Voice Acting

Use your voice for animations, audiobooks, or commercials. It’s a great way to diversify your talents.

24. Music Blogging

Start a blog about your music experiences or industry trends. Monetize through ads, affiliate links, or sponsorships.

25. Podcast Hosting

Launch a podcast to discuss music topics, share stories, or interview artists. Earn through ads or listener support.

26. Apply for Grants

Seek grants from arts organizations or local governments. These funds can support your music projects.

27. Perform at Corporate Events

Book gigs at corporate gatherings or conferences. Businesses often pay well for live entertainment.

28. Artist Residencies

Secure a residency at a venue or hotel. Play regular shows and build a consistent local fan base.

29. Music Libraries

Upload your tracks to music libraries for licensing. Companies and filmmakers often use these libraries.

30. Teach Music Theory

Help students understand the basics of music theory. This service is always in demand among beginners.

31. Host Karaoke Nights

Run karaoke nights at bars or private events. Bring the equipment, curate songs, and entertain crowds.

32. Develop Music Apps

Create apps for songwriting, learning instruments, or creating beats. Technology is a growing avenue for music.

33. Patreon Subscriptions

Offer exclusive content, like early song releases or tutorials, to fans. Patreon provides a direct income stream.

34. Sell Backing Tracks

Create instrumental versions of popular songs. Sell them to singers, educators, or karaoke enthusiasts.

35. Rent Equipment

Rent out your unused instruments or recording gear. It’s an easy way to earn passive income.

36. Run Music Retreats

Organize retreats for musicians to collaborate and learn. Charge for participation and offer unique experiences.

37. Event Organization

Plan and promote music events or festivals. Partner with local businesses and musicians.

38. Music Video Creation

Help other artists by directing or editing their music videos. Charge for your expertise.

39. Play in a Cover Band

Join or form a cover band to play weddings and parties. These gigs often pay well for familiar songs.

40. Virtual Concerts

Host live-streamed performances and charge for tickets or accept donations. Reach fans worldwide.

41. Enter Songwriting Contests

Participate in songwriting competitions. Many offer cash prizes or valuable industry connections.

42. Create Online Courses

Design courses on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare. Teach music production, performance, or songwriting.

43. Affiliate Marketing

Promote gear or software you love and earn commissions. Share links with your audience.

44. Build a Mailing List

Grow a list of loyal fans and monetize it. Share exclusive offers or pre-sale tickets.

45. Perform at Theme Parks

Audition to join entertainment teams at theme parks. These are steady-paying, fun gigs.

46. Sell Lyric Sheets

Offer handwritten or digital lyric sheets of your songs. Fans love unique, personal memorabilia.

47. Repair Instruments

Use your skills to repair or modify instruments. Market your services to local musicians.

48. Collaborate on Features

Sing or play on other artists’ tracks for a fee. It’s a great way to expand your network.

49. Music Therapy

Work with patients in therapeutic settings using music. This combines creativity with meaningful work.

50. Sell NFTs

Offer music-related digital collectibles as NFTs. These can include songs, artwork, or exclusive experiences.

 

5 Surprising Facts About Echo & the Bunnymen’s “Porcupine”

When Echo & the Bunnymen released Porcupine on February 4, 1983, the album arrived as a reflection of a band pushing through internal tension, artistic reinvention, and record label doubts. Despite its troubled creation, Porcupine became a pivotal moment for the band, peaking at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart and solidifying their reputation as post-punk pioneers. With its iconic cover shot in Iceland and standout singles like “The Cutter” and “The Back of Love,” the album earned gold certification in the UK. Yet, beneath the snow-covered surface lies a treasure trove of little-known stories.

1. The Album Was Rejected Before It Was a Masterpiece

The original version of Porcupine was outright rejected by the band’s label, WEA, for being “too uncommercial.” This initial iteration, devoid of its now-celebrated string arrangements, was deemed too raw and dark. Only after the band rerecorded sections and added Shankar’s haunting string contributions did the label give it the green light. Shankar’s work on tracks like “The Cutter” brought a cinematic layer that ultimately defined the album’s sound.

2. Its Working Title Was The Happy Loss

Before it became Porcupine, the album bore the enigmatic working title The Happy Loss. While the final name reflects the prickly interpersonal dynamics within the band and the record’s introspective themes, the original title hinted at a mix of melancholy and optimism that characterized much of Echo & the Bunnymen’s ethos during this era.

3. Iceland Almost Didn’t Happen

The album’s now-iconic cover and promotional visuals were shot in Iceland, but that decision came at the last minute. Originally planned for Scotland, the lack of snow forced the production team to pivot. In Iceland, the band braved subzero temperatures and treacherous conditions near Gullfoss waterfall. According to Ian McCulloch, one misstep could have sent them plummeting hundreds of feet. The stark, icy landscape perfectly captured the album’s ethereal yet brooding vibe.

4. “The Cutter” Was Inspired by Cat Stevens

During the recording of “The Cutter,” guitarist Will Sergeant suggested that Shankar incorporate the melody from Cat Stevens’ 1967 hit “Matthew and Son.” This subtle nod to the past, combined with Shankar’s distinct string flourishes, created one of the band’s most enduring tracks. It climbed to No. 8 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming their first Top 10 hit.

5. The Band Nearly Imploded During Recording

The creation of Porcupine was fraught with tension among the band members. Bassist Les Pattinson grew weary of the music industry, drummer Pete de Freitas diverted his energy to producing other artists, and guitarist Will Sergeant worked on his solo project. Meanwhile, lead singer Ian McCulloch felt immense pressure to prove the band’s worth. Producer Ian Broudie (later of Lightning Seeds fame) managed to corral these disparate energies, steering the band through what could have been their breaking point.

From its turbulent inception to its icy visuals, every layer of Porcupine tells a story of struggle, reinvention, and triumph. It’s no wonder the album resonates as one of Echo & the Bunnymen’s crowning achievements. W

Rare Footage Of Martin Luther King Jr.’s Inspiring ‘What is Your Life’s Blueprint’ Speech to Students Unearthed

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Rarely seen footage of Martin Luther King, Jr., speaking at Barratt Junior High School in Philadelphia on October 26, 1967, has resurfaced, showcasing his inspiring speech, What Is Your Life’s Blueprint?. Addressing students, King urged them to dream boldly, strive for excellence, and build a foundation of dignity and purpose. This powerful moment reminds us that his words still resonate as a blueprint for meaningful lives today.

The Science Of Snowflakes with Brian Cox

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How do snowflakes form? Why do they have six sides? Is it true that each snowflakes is unique? Here’s some serious snowflake trivia courtesy of physicist Prof Brian Cox.

Burton Cummings’ Isolated Vocals For The Guess Who’s “American Woman”

“American Woman,” released in January 1970 by Canadian rock band The Guess Who, became an iconic anthem, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the Canadian RPM chart. Created spontaneously during a live jam session in Southern Ontario, the track’s riff and lyrics were improvised by guitarist Randy Bachman and vocalist Burton Cummings.

The Waterboys Announce Epic New Album Life, Death And Dennis Hopper and Massive 2024 UK & Ireland Tour

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The Waterboys today make the very special announcement of their brand new, sixteenth studio album Life, Death And Dennis Hopper – out April 4th on Sun Records.

The most audacious Waterboys album yet, Life, Death And Dennis Hopper is the epic story of the trailblazing American actor and rebel told through a song cycle depicting not only Hopper’s story but the saga of the last 75 years of western pop culture. “The arc of his life was the story of our times,” says band leader Mike Scott, “He was at the big bang of youth culture in Rebel Without A Cause with James Dean; and the beginnings of Pop Art with the young Andy Warhol. He was part of the counter-culture, hippie, civil rights and psychedelic scenes of the ’60s. In the ’70s and ’80s he went on a wild 10-year rip, almost died, came back, got straight and became a five-movies-a-year character actor without losing the sparkle in his eye or the sense of danger or unpredictability that always gathered around him.”

As a taste of what’s to come the album’s first track drop, ‘Hopper’s On Top (Genius)’ will be unveiled on streaming and video this Friday, Jan 10th. The song captures the electric, heady moment when Hopper’s Easy Rider became a cultural phenomenon and cemented his place in Hollywood history. Buoyed by Scott’s searing vocals, vibrant instrumentation, and a psychedelic edge, the song channels the euphoria and hubris of the 1960s counterculture that Hopper epitomized.

Scott worked for four years on Life, Death And Dennis Hopper. Produced with Waterboys bandmates Famous James and Brother Paul, the album spans 25 tracks and traces the extraordinary arc of Hopper’s life, from his youth in Kansas to his long rise, five wives, tumultuous fall, and ultimate redemption. Every track has its own special place and fascinating, deep-rooted story.

“It begins in his childhood, ends the morning after his death, and I get to say a whole lot along the way, not just about Dennis, but about the whole strange adventure of being a human soul on planet earth,” says Scott.

The album is The Waterboys’ first for Sun – “Hey”, says Scott, “we’re labelmates with Howlin’ Woif and young Elvis!” – and alongside Scott’s masterful songwriting, the album features a stellar lineup of guests including Bruce Springsteen, Fiona Apple, Steve Earle, Nashville-based Alt Americana artist Anana Kaye, young English singer Barny Fletcher, Norwegian country-rockers Sugarfoot, Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes, Kathy Valentine of The Go-Go’s, and punk arch-priestess Patti Palladin — incorporating a kaleidoscopic blend of genres that embodies the band’s trademark spirit of musical exploration.

Known for their captivating live show, The Waterboys will embark on a massive 28 date UK and Irish tour through May & June. Tickets available from HERE.

Life, Death And Dennis Hopper marks yet another captivating chapter for this most mercurial of bands. It’s storytelling that transcends, pulls us in and takes us on a wild, beautiful ride.

UK & Ireland HEADLINE TOUR DATES
May

1st BASINGSTOKE, Anvil
2nd BATH, Forum
3rd BEXHILL, DLWP
5th BRIGHTON, Centre
7th NOTTINGHAM, Rock City
8th LIVERPOOL, Philharmonic
9th SHEFFIELD, City Hall
10th GATESHEAD, Glasshouse
12th BLACKPOOL, Opera House
13th MANCHESTER, Bridgewater Hall
15th YORK, Barbican
16th BIRMINGHAM, Symphony Hall
18th BOURNEMOTH, Pavilion
19th CARDIFF, New Theatre
20th CAMBRIDGE, Corn Exchange
22nd BRISTOL, Beacon
23rd OXFORD, New Theatre
24th STOCKTON-ON-TEES, The Globe
25th LLANDUDNO, Venue Cymru
27th GUILDFORD, Live
28th LEICESTER, De Montfort Hall
31st LONDON, Roundhouse
June
1st LONDON, Roundhouse
7th DUBLIN, 3Arena
8th BELFAST, Live At The Botanic Gardens
11th ABERDEEN, Music Hall
12th GLASGOW, Royal Concert Hall
14th GLASGOW, Barrowlands
16th GLASGOW, Barrowlands
17th LEEDS, O2 Academy
19th TRURO, Hall For Cornwall

Lee Brice Kicks Off 2025 with Soulful New Single “Cry” and a Storytelling Tour That Hits the Heart

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Country music star Lee Brice has announced his first new release of 2025, “Cry,” out on January 31st. The confessional-style track, written by Brice, Dallas Davidson, Ben Hayslip and David Garcia, follows a retro groove reminiscent of the great 1950s crooners and confesses that heartbreak can break a man, too.

Brice is also set to hit the road for his highly anticipated, You, Me & My Guitar Tour, which kicks-off on January 30th in Wilkes-Barre, PA and includes what will be an unforgettable performance at Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium on February 18th. Known for his incredibly relatable and poignant songwriting, Brice takes the audience behind the music as he seamlessly moves across the stage adorned with various guitars and other instruments – each one engrained with a special memory. This truly unique and engaging show takes the audience on a journey with Brice throughout his life in music as he narrates the special relationship and heartwarming stories each instrument holds and performs acoustic versions of his chart-topping hits.

When Curb Records recording artist, Lee Brice, isn’t selling out arenas, writing and recording songs, or building new brands like American Born whiskey, you’ll find the family man with his wife Sara, two young boys, and daughter. Meanwhile, with over 3.7 billion on-demand streams, and over 4 billion spins on Pandora, Brice continues to enjoy massive success at country radio, digital streaming services, and on the road. He has reached the #1 spot at Country Radio with Platinum-selling “Memory I Don’t Mess With,” which consecutively follows three prior #1s: ASCAP’s 2021 Country Song of the Year and 3x Platinum track “One of Them Girls,” “I Hope You’re Happy Now” with Carly Pearce, and the 4x Platinum hit “Rumor,” which was nominated in the category Single of The Year at the 55th Annual ACM Awards. One of the most played country artists of all time on Pandora, he was the second country artist behind Keith Urban to receive the Pandora Billionaire plaque. Lee is also a GRAMMY nominee, a CMA and ACM award winner, and he’s taken nine radio singles to Number One: “A Woman Like You,” “Hard to Love,” “I Drive Your Truck,” “I Don’t Dance,” “Drinking Class,” “Rumor,” “I Hope You’re Happy Now,” “One of Them Girls,” and “Memory I Don’t Mess With.” Garth Brooks, Jason Aldean, Kenny Chesney and others have recorded his songs, and he’s performed on numerous TV shows, including NBC’s Today, ABC’s The Bachelor, NBC’s The Voice and FOX’s Miss USA 2018. Lee performed as part of the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song honoring Garth Brooks, aired on PBS March of 2020. At the 54th Annual CMA Awards, Lee took home the prize for Musical Event of the Year for his song with Carly Pearce, “I Hope You’re Happy Now.” At the 56th ACM Awards, “I Hope You’re Happy Now” won Single of the Year and Music Event of the Year, and Lee and Carly Pearce performed the song live. Lee’s album, Hey World, has been certified as Platinum and features several multi-Platinum selling hits. Lee kicked off 2024 with an intimate acoustic tour, the Me & My Guitar Tour, and this Spring he released his latest radio single, “Drinkin’ Buddies” with Nate Smith and Hailey Whitters. Brice continues rolling out new music with his recently dropped nostalgic summertime track, “Summer of Us” which is available now on all digital platforms.

Essential Things to Prepare Before Moving to China

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By Mitch Rice

Relocating to China is an exciting experience, whether you’re pursuing work, studies, or cultural exploration. From learning how to navigate digital systems to understanding cultural nuances, preparation is key. For those looking to fully immerse themselves, resources like learn Mandarin online platforms or connecting with Chinese teachers online can provide a significant head start. Here’s a guide to some of the most important, and often overlooked, details to consider before living in China long-term.

  1. Check Electrical Sockets and Bring Adapters 

China uses Type A, Type I, and Type C plugs with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz. If your home country uses a different voltage or socket type, invest in a reliable universal adapter. This is crucial for electronic devices like laptops, smartphones, and hairdryers.

  1. Install Key Apps for Daily Life 

Life in China heavily relies on digital platforms, which might differ significantly from those in the West. Here are a few must-have apps:

  • WeChat: Essential for messaging, social networking, and mobile payments.
  • Alipay: Widely used for cashless transactions, online shopping, and utility payments.
  • Didi: The go-to app for ride-hailing services in China.

Since Google services, Facebook, and many Western apps are restricted, consider downloading a VPN (Virtual Private Network) before arriving to access these platforms if needed.

  1. Get Ready for Digital Payments 

Cash is becoming less common in China, where nearly all transactions are handled digitally. Setting up mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay or Alipay is essential. You’ll need a Chinese bank account to link to these apps, so arrange this early. Having these apps ready will make everything from shopping to dining significantly easier.

  1. Language Preparation and Tools 

If you’re not already proficient in Mandarin, knowing basic phrases can be a lifesaver. Use resources like language learning apps or sign up to learn Mandarin online before arriving. While many locals are accommodating, having a basic grasp of the language makes everyday interactions smoother and helps you integrate into the community faster.

  1. Pack Essential Documents 

Ensure you have multiple copies of important documents such as your passport, visa, health insurance, and any work or study permits. It’s also helpful to have physical and digital copies stored securely.

  1. Familiarize Yourself with Local Social Norms 

Understanding Chinese etiquette can help you make a positive impression. For instance, when giving or receiving something, always use both hands. Learning about taboos and customs can prevent accidental offense.

  1. Health and Medicine 

Check if your medication is available in China or bring enough to last your stay. Having a small first-aid kit and any prescription medications on hand is highly recommended. Also, research health insurance options to ensure coverage for emergencies.

  1. Know the Weather and Pack Accordingly 

China’s climate varies widely depending on the region. Research the weather in the area where you’ll be living to pack seasonally appropriate clothing. Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai can experience extreme winters and summers, so layering is essential.

  1. Learn the Public Transport System 

China’s public transport system is extensive and affordable, but it can be intimidating at first. Familiarize yourself with the metro or bus systems of your city and consider downloading navigation apps like Baidu Maps.

  1. Stay Open-Minded and Flexible 

Life in China may feel vastly different from what you’re used to, and adapting takes time. Embrace the cultural differences, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from locals or expats.

Moving to China is a unique and rewarding adventure. With thoughtful preparation, including gaining some language skills and understanding local systems, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth transition into this vibrant and dynamic country.

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

 

Meta’s Bold Move As Free Expression Gets a Facelift

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In a bold pivot toward prioritizing free expression, Meta has announced sweeping changes to how content is handled across Facebook, Instagram, and Threads. At the heart of these changes is a shift from third-party fact-checking to a Community Notes model, alongside new policies that aim to reduce censorship and empower users to personalize their experiences with political content. It’s a recalibration of Meta’s approach to moderation, inspired by lessons learned over years of complex, and often criticized, systems of content management.

Meta’s decision to phase out its third-party fact-checking program in the United States marks a significant departure from its strategy since 2016. Initially launched to counter viral hoaxes and misinformation, the program has faced backlash for its perceived bias and overreach. “We didn’t want to be the arbiters of truth,” Meta explains. “But over time, our system became too restrictive, often censoring legitimate political speech and debate.” With Community Notes, Meta hopes to mirror the success of X (formerly Twitter), where a diverse community contributes context to posts without imposing heavy-handed censorship. The notes will be collaboratively written, rated, and transparently displayed, ensuring multiple perspectives are considered.

Alongside this, Meta is rethinking its approach to enforcing content rules. For years, automated systems flagged and removed content at scale, but this led to significant errors and frustrations for users. According to Meta, millions of pieces of content are removed daily, with as many as 10-20% of these actions potentially being mistakes. To address this, the company is narrowing its enforcement focus to high-severity violations like terrorism, fraud, and child exploitation. Lesser infractions will now rely on user reporting before action is taken, and stricter thresholds will be applied for demotions or removals.

This overhaul extends beyond just the rules—it also shifts the way political content is handled. Since 2021, Meta reduced the visibility of civic content in users’ feeds after complaints about its overwhelming presence. Now, it’s adopting a more personalized approach. Users who want more political content can signal their preferences, while others can opt for a quieter feed. Content from followed accounts will be treated like any other post, and recommendations will be tailored using explicit and implicit user feedback. This marks a move away from blunt algorithms toward a nuanced system that respects individual choice.

Meta’s changes come with an acknowledgment of past mistakes and a renewed commitment to free expression. In his 2019 Georgetown University speech, CEO Mark Zuckerberg emphasized that free speech drives progress, even when it’s messy. “More people having a voice may create division, but it’s also what brings us closer to the truth,” he argued. These updates aim to align Meta’s policies with that ideal, creating platforms where billions can speak freely without unnecessary barriers.

Critics may still question the potential for bias in Community Notes or the risks of reduced moderation, particularly in the context of misinformation. However, Meta’s transparent approach to sharing metrics and mistakes may help alleviate concerns. By shifting trust and safety teams to new locations and employing advanced technologies like AI large language models for content review, the company is positioning itself as more responsive and adaptable than ever.

These updates represent a turning point for Meta’s platforms. By scaling back overreach and enabling more speech, Meta is doubling down on its role as a forum for open dialogue. It’s a gamble on the power of free expression—a bet that the good, bad, and ugly of billions of voices will ultimately push society forward.