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Vitalia Continues Her Disco Era With “Maybe”

As an artist who thrives under stage lights and in front of a microphone, Ukrainian-born, Montreal-based singer-songwriter Vitalia pursues music as something that is equal parts artistic expression and therapeutic healing. Beginning her musical journey at just 6 years old, Vitalia has since experimented with a variety of genres including disco, pop and alt rock. To define is to limit, and Vitalia has proven her artistry is just that – limitless.

Now, the singer is adamant in moving towards a grungier route with her musicality. Along with the release of her newest disco-infused single “Maybe,” Vitalia admits she is yearning for something grittier.

“Though I’ve released a few singles already, the sound I’m going for with my upcoming singles in comparison to ‘Maybe’, is going to be more vulnerable and rawer,” Vitalia says. “I wanted to change into a rock era because any grungy song has been the perfect thing for me to listen to when I wanted to release some anger or sadness of my own. Doesn’t it help you knowing you’re not the only one going through a hard time?”

After traveling to Los Angeles at 16, Vitalia was inspired to pursue music after she saw her friends pursuing their own artistic ambitions and turning them into careers. Once she returned home, Vitalia knew she wanted to stay connected to her friends – and songwriting. The “My Way” singer began to hone in on her craft until she released her debut songs towards the end of 2022.

“Writing is such a vulnerable process in itself that I think that’s why I had put off showing my art to the world for so long,” she says. “I needed to build up the courage and the confidence to believe that the music I write will reach the right people who will need to hear it. I find that listening to music that speaks to you becomes a safe space for you to be vulnerable and subconsciously lift some weight off your shoulders.”

Her latest single “Maybe” tells a flirtatious story of two individuals dancing with one another. During the dance, one of them realizes that the time and energy they’ve invested in the relationship hasn’t been worth it – especially since the other person is still not over their ex.

“I’ve always loved disco and my song ‘Maybe’is a modern disco dance song which I wanted to make people dance their worries away to…The song is a reflection of the ‘what ifs’ and of what could have happened differently.”

Although heavily inspired by artists like ABBA and Dua Lipa, Vitalia is now moving toward more alternative influences with her new artistic era – think groups like Paramore, The Neighborhood and Måneskin.

Her upcoming single “what a shame,” slated for an August 16 release, digs into the rougher, grittier side of Vitalia. An indie pop rock anthem, “what a shame” is about reconnecting with an old flame and realizing the fire might no longer burn the same as it once did.

Regarding the upcoming single, Vitalia says, “Overall, these lyrics tell a story of revisiting a past relationship, recognizing the unchanged flaws, and ultimately choosing self-respect and distance over repeating old mistakes. It’s a poignant reflection on the pain of seeing someone stuck in their ways and the strength it takes to move on.”

“I knew I wanted ‘Maybe’ to be a more “Dua Lipa synthy disco pop” vibe and what a shame to be a classic alt pop tune with guitars taking a bit more space in it, transforming into the next genre I’ll be focusing more on in my upcoming releases,” Vitalia says.

20-Time Grammy Award Winner Pat Metheny Comes to Centre In The Square for the First Time This November

For the first time ever, Centre In The Square is thrilled to welcome world-renowned guitarist and composer Pat Metheny to its stage this November. With an astonishing career spanning nearly 50 years, Metheny is a 20-time Grammy Award winner and the only musician to have won in an unprecedented 10 categories. His accolades also include three gold albums, marking him as one of the most celebrated figures in jazz and contemporary music.

Pat Metheny’s performance promises to be a one-of-a-kind musical experience. With more than a dozen guitars at his side, he will present compositions from across his storied career, including selections from his latest albums, Dream Box and MoonDial. Fans can also expect a unique personal touch as Metheny shares engaging and entertaining stories from his life and musical journey, adding another layer of depth to an already extraordinary evening.

Reflecting on one of Metheny’s recent performances, Warren Cobb of Jazz Guitar Life Magazine shared, “It honestly was mind-blowing. I don’t know of too many guitar players worldwide that can totally captivate an audience for over two hours and elicit hooping, hollering, and multiple standing ovations.”

At a time when many performance halls around the world are closing their doors due to economic challenges, we are fortunate here in Kitchener to have the ability to book and experience world-class artists like Pat Metheny right in our own backyard.

“This is a rare opportunity for our community to witness an artist of Pat Metheny’s caliber. His ability to connect with audiences through his music and storytelling makes this performance particularly special,” said Eric Lariviere, Executive Director of Centre In The Square. “We’re incredibly excited to bring him to our stage for the first time, and we know it’s going to be a memorable night.”

This intimate concert offers music lovers the chance to witness a truly legendary artist up close and personal. Metheny’s ability to transcend genre boundaries has earned him a global following, and this rare performance at Centre In The Square is not to be missed.

Event Details:

Date: November 28, 2024 at 8PM
Location: Centre In The Square, Kitchener, ON
Member Pre-Sale: Thursday, September 12 at 10:00am
Public On-Sale: Monday, September 16 at 10:00am

For more information on the performance, becoming a member or to purchase tickets, visit centreinthesquare.com or call the Centre In The Square box office at (519) 578-1570

11-Year-Old ELLA MNOP Releases New Single “L’s With The W’s” And Announced As ‘Barney’s World’ Voice Actor

When you first hear the music of emergent pop sensation Ella Paciocco (aka Ella MNOP), you might find yourself wondering why you should be taking life advice from someone who isn’t even going to turn 12 until October. Well, for starters, she’s one the youngest artists to ever have an original song aired on FM radio. (Mix 96.7 in her native Windsor, Ontario, gets the honors, trivia hounds.) For another thing, she’s already racked up numerous awards and performed before millions of rapt listeners. Oh, and she’s fluent in multiple languages, including French, and she’s currently learning Italian. Feeling inadequate yet?

But Ella doesn’t want you to feel bad; she just wants you to have a well-rounded and realistic approach to your own day-to-day reality. On her breakout single, – the 1.4 million-viewed “L’s with the W’s,” she makes a compelling case that savoring one’s triumphs depends upon learning how to lose with dignity. That same thoughtful approach to life now extends to her acting career.

Ella was announced this week as one of the major stars as Vivie in the upcoming animated series “Barney’s World,” marking the return of the beloved purple dinosaur this fall. Vivie is a creative and expressive character who loves painting, performing, and sharing Italian traditions with her Nonna. Together, they care for their friends and family, bringing warmth and joy to their community. The series, featuring music-filled adventures that explore preschool emotions, and launched the careers of Demi Lovato and Selena Gomez, will debut on Max on October 14 and air on Cartoon Network starting October 18, with select episodes available on YouTube and international platforms.Top of FormBottom of Form

There’s no doubt that the record itself is a big W. It has a bouncy, breezy feel that makes it the ideal platform for Ella’s endearing preteen timbre, which effortlessly conveys the kind of earnestness we grown-ups can usually only fake. Not that the track didn’t benefit from adult supervision: Its aural smarts are all credit to superstar producer Adam H. (Ne-Yo, Elise Estrada, Loverboy) and five-time Grammy-winning mixer Orlando Calzada (Lady Gaga, One Direction, Beyonce, Destiny’s Child). What they’ve come up with together portends great things indeed for Ella’s debut album, which is set for release sometime in 2025.

In a voice dripping with confidence that today’s stumble is tomorrow’s victory lap, she urges us to “get that makeup out and put that game face on/ Don’t sweat the sprint cause it’s a marathon.” Cue the killer chorus, which brings everything into focus:

Gotta take the L’s with the W’s
Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose
L’s with the W’s
You haven’t lived until you do
You will never feel them highs
If you never feel the lows
Gotta take the L’s with the W’s

“Life is full of setbacks and doesn’t always go as planned,” Ella says. “It can be cruel, but the people who stick with it and seek a better day often get rewarded, and get to appreciate how special a gift life really is.

“This song is my message to everyone who wants to quit when things get tough that if they stick it out, they’ll enjoy the wins much more, because they’ll have endured and dealt with their losses.”

Yet the greatest career influence in Ella’s life is undoubtedly her father, an avid musician whom she was watching perform when she was still in a stroller. It’s him she credits with inspiring her to sing, write and do shows of her own. And it was singing duets with him on TV’s Good Morning America in 2021 that first exposed her to a mass audience: 2 million enchanted viewers, to be exact. He also co-wrote the new single with her (along with Adam H. and Don Wolf, an experienced tunesmith who’s worked with Bon Jovi, Motley Crue and Poison.)

Ella comes to the world of big-time record-making bearing some impressive credentials all her own. She took first place in the Vocalstar singing competition in Hollywood, California, and as a live performer, she’s been a go-to to sing the National Anthem at games by the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires and Canadian Professional Basketball’s Windsor Express. That’s not to mention her appearances at the 2023 Miss Universe Canada Pageant in Vancouver in 2023 and 2024 and the Can/Am Games for Firefighters and Police Officers in both 2022 and 2023.

And as if all of that weren’t impressive enough, she’s scored herself a thriving side hustle in animation, lending her voice talents to projects for Netflix and Cartoon Network (where she’ll be heard playing a lead role in a global production set to bow later this year).
Even better, she’s already practiced in the art of giving back. Many of her performances are for charity, and when she won the $1,000 first prize in an open-age talent show during Windsor’s 2023 Carrousel of the Nations, she donated the full amount to influencer @MDMotivator, so they could create a viral video together that helped send a lucky follower to reunite with their family in Sierra Leone, Africa.

To the rest of us, Ella’s artistry itself is gift enough.

“The main idea behind my music is to spread positivity and happiness,” she says. “Music is the universal language, and it’s my way of sharing emotions and experiences with others. If my words or songs can connect with or help one person in any way, that’s what drives me to create.”

Hear, hear. We can’t wait to see what age 12 brings.

Downie Street Collective Calls for a Return to Real Connection with New Single ‘Analog Man’

Technological Luddism is hardly a new thing among musical purists. But Downie Street Collective are so convincing about it that you might be tempted to chuck your smartphone into the nearest river and retreat to the nearest farm to start raising your own meat.

On their new single, “Analog Man,” the band takes a hard look at the human experience in the age of digital overload. The song, they explain, is meant to decry “the growing dissonance between our innate need for physical, human connection and the increasingly virtual world we inhabit.”

“What is lost when we trade touch for taps, skin for swipes?” they wonder.

The answer, as the song’s probing lyric reveals, includes but is not limited to “Polaroids, an old paper map,” “a 45 I’m dying to spin,” and a bunch of other relics of a simpler time that our traditionalist narrator isn’t ready to let go of. Reaching out to the one he loves across the computerized threshold he abhors—but which he’s almost been forced to acknowledge as a necessary evil—he implores her to:

Send a hug with a digital kiss
The screen reminds of what I’m going to miss
I’m a romantic, I’m an Analog Man

And for a guy like that, the present is a tough place to be. As the picturesque middle verse reveals, it’s like:

A lonely night with echoes and fears
Cellphone is virtually useless in here
The radio plays in and out of tune
A new reality so cold and canned
I want to hold you but I can’t feel your hand
Sometimes it’s tragic to be an Analog Man

By the end, though, the two of them have managed to shake off the high-tech shackles of today and find refuge in the real.

Lay with your heart in mine as we sleep
Laughing in your arms, entwined at the feet
So fantastic being an Analog Man
Some kind of magic being an Analog Man

Not surprisingly, the song was written during the darkest days of the covid lockdowns, when the band members had to resort to desperate measures like driving 45 minutes just to sit on a girlfriend’s back patio and talk on the phone, from opposite sides of a sliding glass door. Or, even more ominously, to meet at a church graveyard at night and try to hold a conversation through heavy masks from 10 feet apart.

When it comes to musical exuberance, though, “Analog Man” is anything but a wake. It’s a jaunty, invigorating little ditty that thoroughly lives up to the band’s extensive list of stated influences: Barenaked Ladies, 54-40, Sloan, Northern Pikes, The Pursuit of Happiness … oh, and Big Sugar, I Mother Earth, The Tragically Hip and The Grapes of Wrath. Appropriate to its subject matter, the song nails the group’s overweening artistic goal of sounding “nostalgic yet fresh,” with a reverb heavy sound and an angular, anxious rhythm that would have been right at home on an episode of Hullabaloo. You could totally do the Swim to it.

Recorded at Westmorland Studio in Hamilton, the track benefited immeasurably from the production of Carl Jennings, whose hands-on approach was just right for the tactile, organic, very human ethos they were all pushing.

“He’s got this great way of hearing you play and then saying, ‘I think what you mean is this …,’ and either vocalizing or playing your intended idea,” the group says. “That way of working really helped us shape the sound.”

“Analog Man” is a new high-water mark In the Downie Street Collective’s ongoing agenda of blending introspective lyricism, emotive vocals, intricate guitar riffs and compelling beats. Not coincidentally, those are the same qualities that have made the group a popular presence in their home of Stratford, Ontario, and beyond, with club audiences and festival crowds alike falling under the spell of their ability to share genuine, resonant emotions via story and song. Each new show wins a flock of fresh converts to the gospel of authenticity laid down by the group’s current lineup of Andy Allen (rhythm guitar and keyboards), Scott Beaudin (lead vocals and keyboards), Peter Dixon (bass), Mark Ippersiel (drums) and Eric Lundgren (lead guitar).

And every time that happens, it’s a victory for the “keepin’ it real” philosophy that “Analog Man”—and the group itself—are all about.

“We as a society seem to rely more now on the digital ‘fix’ than the analog ‘touch’ or ‘presence,’” the band says. “To us, there is nothing that can compare. Or compete.”

Ally Cribb Reflects on Heartbreak and Growth in Haunting New Single ‘Now’

It’s tempting to say that when you’re passing from your teens into your 20s, all you know is the present. But Ally Cribb’s haunting “Now” is far more world-wise than that oversimplification and the song’s own deceptively simple title—might suggest. With an eagle-eyed perception that would be enviable at any age, the Toronto-born, Halifax-based singer-songwriter describes the feeling of exiting a relationship (and, by extension, an entire era of your life) that your brain knows you have to put behind you, even though your heart may be slow to get the message.

If I could let it go I would
Staying won’t do me any good
There’s nothing left for me now
Now, now
Now I know what I was missing
’Cause now I’m missing you
Now the damage has been done
But I’m not done with you
Oh I wonder what you would do
If you knew

“I started writing ‘Now’ when I was 18 and watched it evolve over the past two years,” Cribb says. “The song’s narrator is a girl struggling with uncertainty in herself, turbulence in her life, regret about decisions and wistful hope for what might lie ahead. It’s where I am. Now.”

It’s also the title track to Cribb’s sophomore EP, a five-song affair that represents a giant leap ahead for her as an artist on several fronts. For one thing, this is the first record she’s written entirely by herself, and the sophistication of tracks like “Know Better” and “Not This Time” shows that she’s wholly justified in being proud of her development as a lyricist. Then there’s the matter of musical direction: Now constitutes a move into pure country after her previous dalliances with pop and adult contemporary—an artistic gambit she credits her producer, Igor Vrabac (of Toronto’s Akashic Rekords), with encouraging: “He’s incredibly talented and trusted me enough to follow my vision of creating a country EP, as it’s the direction I’ve always seen myself following since I first picked up a guitar.”

But this isn’t the glossy, crassly calculated brand of contemporary country that’s meant to provoke instant gratification on Tik Tok. Rather, Now is remarkably composed and gentle in a way that betrays Cribb’s debt to her heroes Joni Mitchell, Shawn Colvin and Taylor Swift.

That’s just one reason the critical response has been so rapturous. Female-centered UK rock mag Lock called the EP “wondrous,” writing: “Continuing to explore more of those warm and riveting aesthetics that have made her such a compelling artist lately, Now feels like a bold and assured step forward in her musical evolution to date.”

That evolution began with the DNA Cribb inherited from her musician father, but really kicked into high gear when she began taking singing lessons at age 8. In 2019, she released a cover version of Radiohead’s “Creep” that ended up netting more than 200,00 views on YouTube. She followed it up with “Bigger,” an anthem of resilience that constituted her coming-out party as an original artist.

On her subsequent debut EP, Unbroken, she worked through the grief she was experiencing after suddenly losing her mother in the thick of covid-mandated isolation. The unvarnished sentiment struck a nerve with listeners, leading to thousands of streams per week and highly positive coverage by dozens of media outlets.

With so much life and loss already under Cribb’s belt, it’s no wonder Now is such a penetrating, even essential work.
“This EP was inspired by the last two years of my life—walking through that portal, leaving behind who I was, beginning to invent who I want to be and learning about the emotional stakes of relationships that shape it all,” she says. “It’s part diary and part observation about how love behaves; how we let people back into our lives even when we know we shouldn’t for reasons we don’t understand and how it all changes us.

“I’ve always focused my writing on personal experiences. After struggling with letdowns and heartbreak, I felt these stories deeply. And I thought there must be others out there who might feel the same as me.”

Not only are there plenty of listeners who feel the same as her, but her peers seem to think she’s kind of great at communicating it too. Two songs from Unbroken reached the finals in the International category of the Song Academy Competition (in 2022 and 2024, respectively). More recently, Cribb’s original composition “California” was named the one of the four winners of the 2024 Write Out Loud song contest (a U.S.-based competition co-founded by Tony Award winner Taylor Louderman, who originated the role of Regina George in the stage adaptation of Mean Girls). As her prize, Cribb will get to hear her song re-recorded by a Broadway star for release on iTunes, Apple Music and Spotify, and performed live in a special concert at New York’s 54 Below.

Ally Cribb on Broadway? Sure, why not? With talent and insight like hers, she’s already proven she could go just about anywhere. In the meantime, Now is a pretty wonderful place to be.

The Perks of No Longer Being a Wallflower: Singer-Songwriter Nancy Hope Gets in the Game With “Sidelines”

If you’ve ever felt you were on the outside looking in, Nancy Hope sees you. In fact, she’s even written a song for you. On her new single, “Sidelines,” the 27-year-old singer-songwriter from Stoney Creek, Ontario, captures the transformative moment at which someone who’s let herself skulk in the shadows for too long decides to step into the light.

“Sidelines, I know that’s where I hide/ To let everyone shine but not me,” she croons, over a plaintive piano melody that pulls straight at the heartstrings. “Fantasize about what it’d be like/ To be in the centre for the world to see.”

The fantasy becomes reality as the track swells into full-on power-ballad mode, with Hope’s impassioned delivery matching her resolve that the time to make her move is now:

’Cause I feel pretty, I feel myself
Sent those demons straight back to hell
If I lose my way, I can ask for help
I know I said tomorrow, but today is the day that
I, I know who I am
And who I’m meant to be
No more standing on the sidelines for me

Hope says the song was inspired by an eating disorder she struggled with during her late teens and early 20s. But the lyric is quite intentionally broader —generalized enough to make the track an instant, all-purpose anthem for anybody who’s been needing that little push to go from being a spectator in their own life to an active participant.

“Although ‘Sidelines’ was a song written from my own experience, I know we have all felt this way at some point in our lives, and some more seriously than others,” she says. “This song is not just about the struggle; it is about overcoming it and declaring to never stand on the sidelines again. I think as human beings, we are afraid to be vulnerable, for fear we will be seen as weak. This song is saying it is OK to be vulnerable and ask for help, because that’s what makes us human.”

Hope certainly had some help getting “Sidelines” out into the world. She started writing it over Zoom in 2021 with producer Kayla Diamond (Jeanick Fournier, Sofia Camara, Jamie Fine), and was able to bring the project to completion thanks to a FACTOR Artist Development grant she received the very next year. Other organizations that lent their support to make the record a reality include Canada’s Private Radio Broadcasters and the Government of Canada and the Roadmap for Canada’s Official Languages 2013-2018: Education, Immigration, Communities.

To hear Hope tell it, she wouldn’t even have been in a position to sing a survivor’s song if not for the assistance she received years ago from the Hamilton-based eating-disorder charity Body Brave. “They were the beginning of my healing journey,” she says, “and I have such gratitude for the support and love they showed me.”

Three minutes of pure empowerment, “Sidelines” is an undeniable high-water mark in the still-ascendant career of this former music major, who graduated with honours from Humber College in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in voice. Since turning pro, she’s worked with some of the top musicians in Canada, including Rik Emmett of Triumph and David Tyson, producer and co-writer of Alannah Myles’ 1990 hit “Black Velvet.” As a live performer, Hope has sung backup for Lorde at the MuchMusic Video Awards, appeared at the legendary El Mocambo, and belted out the National Anthem at a Toronto Argonauts game. In the midst of it all, she reached the top 100 on Season 2 of Canada’s Got Talent.

She’s been releasing her own music independently ever since graduating from Humber—a campaign championed by collaborator Diamond, who has spent the last two years helping Hope cultivate her musical identity as “the rock star next door.” Which is not to imply that she’s in any way ordinary: One listen to “Sidelines,” and you realize you’re in the presence of a once-in-a-lifetime talent. It’s just that this legend in the making is more than willing to share the spotlight with her audience.

“To anyone who has ever lived on the sidelines of life, I hear you,” she promises. “And I hope this song gives you the courage to never stand there again.”

Nancy would like to extend her gratitude to the funders who have supported this project including FACTOR.

Teenage Pop Artist Aline Garza Gets Armored Up on Rousing “Warrior”

Three singles in, and Aline Garza can already lay a claim to being one of pop’s reigning queen of empowerment. Her January 2024 debut, “Day One,” was an ode to the fortifying nature of true friendship that became an instant classic, racking up 4.1 million views on Tik Tok and over 4 million on Instagram. She followed it up with the equally stirring “Superhero,” which put her squarely at the forefront of the anti-bullying movement. Now, with her new “Warrior,” the Austin, Texas, wunderkind draws an even keener bead on motivational guru-dom, treating the listening world to a priceless anthem that teaches the power of simple self-confidence to surmount the most overwhelming odds.

While that sentiment is self-focused in the best of ways, the song itself is the product of some stellar teamwork. Garza co-wrote it with her trusted team of producer Adam H. (the architect of past hits by the likes of Ray J, Ne-Yo, Elise Estrada, Def Leppard and Loverboy) and Don Wolf (lead singer of ’80s metal outfit White Wolf, and since turned a reliable writing partner to Bon Jovi, Poison and Motley Crue). Recorded by Adam H., the track was mixed by five-time Grammy winner Orlando Calzada (who’s been behind the boards for Lady Gaga, One Direction, Beyonce and Destiny’s Child).

It’s a simply monumental piece of inspirational popcraft, with a lyric that could call anyone’s soul to attention and a stately, finger-snapping rhythm you can just picture entire stadium’s stating “Yes I can.” In a voice that’s world-wise beyond her years, Garza surveys the scars she’s earned in trying to make the best of the one life she’s been given. And while she acknowledges that the effort has momentarily put her at “rock bottom,” she’s determined the fight won’t be over until she herself elects to throw in the towel:

Cause I’m a warrior
I’ll never give up
So hit me with your best shot
Yeah I’m a warrior
The armour is off
But I can take this head-on
So ready to battle
Right back in the saddle
Nothin’ I can’t handle
Still got the fight
Cause I’m a warrior
I’ll never give up
So hit me with your best shot

“I wanted to write about giving people an inspiration that it doesn’t matter what you go through, there’s always an option to be positive and keep living your life the best you know how,” Garza says. “‘Warrior’ is about finishing things … about not doing things halfway and not giving up. No matter what happens in life, you can always get back up again.”

At the age of 10, she had already made a name for herself as a charismatic performer. She dazzled audiences of over 3,000 as the lead singer at multiple church special performances. A vocal seminar she remembers as a true watershed enabled her to win the “Best New Artist” award for her age group at the Vocal Star New Year’s Gala Competition and place in the finals of the Dream Night talent competition. In what was perhaps a hint of crowd adulation to come, she was invited to sing the National Anthem at a minor-league baseball game in Austin in 2023.

Signing to the XOXO Entertainment Corp. label put her on the glide path to cultural primacy she’s been following with “Day One,” “Superhero” and now “Warrior.” Her instant success has made the industry sit up and take notice, but it was no shock to her DNA, given that she’s the product of a highly musical family: The youngest of five siblings, Garza counts her oldest brother and her father among her major inspirations and facilitators as she builds a burgeoning career out of her innate instincts for pop, R&B, country and even Christian music. And with that diversity of talents, there’s no telling what she might accomplish—as long as she keeps her nose to the proverbial grindstone.
“Perseverance is finishing to the end despite the difficulty,” says this young but already highly pedigreed role model. “Life is a gift; don’t take it for granted.”

Spoken like a true Warrior.

Sean Jones Drops New Single “IF IT ISN’T LUV” Featuring John Orpheus Inspired By 90s R&B

“I can’t live with or without you”—a sentiment as complex as it is relatable. Canadian singer and composer Sean Jones delves into that emotional tornado with his latest single, called “IF IT ISN’T LUV” featuring John Orpheus, out now.

Throughout the song, the artist navigates the push and pull of love, all set to a beat dominated by the smooth grooves of 90’s R&B. Sean adds: “‘If It Isn’t Luv’ is more than just a track; it’s a heartfelt nod to New Edition’s iconic hit “If It Isn’t Love,” a song that defined a generation.” Certainly, the Jackson-5 inspired band were at the forefront of 80’s and 90’s teen pop across North America.

The track evokes the soulful vibes of an incredible musical era, creating a sound that’s both nostalgic and timeless. It explores the challenges of romantic relationships, reflecting the doubts that question the stability of a bond:

“Are we really in love?
Or just stuck in a maze.
I guess some lessons are blessing,
And some lessons keep us stressing,
Maybe this thing is a blessing,
Or will it break our hearts”

Sean Jones may be a rising solo artist, but his experience in the scene extends far longer than one might expect. He shares: “I first made waves in the music industry as a member of “In Essence”. With hits like “Friend Of Mine,” “IE IE,” and “You Will Never Find,” the group captured the hearts of R&B fans across the globe, earning a Juno Award in 2004.”

He also gives a glimpse into his experience from performing in a band to stepping into the spotlight as a solo act: “My journey from boy band sensation to a solo artist has been nothing short of extraordinary.” Indeed, Sean has released two albums since he decided to go by himself: “The Boarding Sessions” in 2019 and “Weekend Lover” in 2021.

The artist continues to evolve as time passes by, bringing his love for classic soul and R&B to new heights. Some of his top milestones include his summer residency called “Soul In The City” at Toronto’s historic “Casa Loma” from 2015 to 2023, which became an unmissable experience, drawing over 1,000 fans every Monday night.

Furthermore, his impactful partnership with WestJet on The WestJet Boarding Sessions solidified his reputation as a dynamic and innovative artist. Sean also shares: “Reimagining Canadian classics and interviewing music legends like Burton Cummings and Sarah McLachlan, I brought a unique musical experience to passengers at 40,000 feet.”

More driven than ever and with a future brimming with promise, he is set to continue releasing new music. On September 12th, he will take the stage at the El Mocambo in Toronto for “Sean Jones’ Soul Euphoria”, an unforgettable evening of soul, R&B, and old-school hits. Joined by special guests, and in support of youth charity TRUST 15, this performance promises to be a night to remember—Tickets are available now.

Guided by the inspiring energy of music and creativity, Sean reflects: “I’ve always felt that my gift was given to me to shine a bright light. I’m going to continue to do just that the best way I know how.”

Zumba Partners with Spice Girl Mel B. to Launch Exclusive Class

Zumba, the global fitness brand known for its exhilarating dance workouts, is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with Mel B., one of the world’s most iconic entertainers and a member of the legendary Spice Girls. The two are coming together to deliver a brand-new class called “Spice Up Your Moves,” available exclusively on the Zumba App.

Zumba Partners with Spice Girl Mel B. to Launch Exclusive Class "Spice Up Your Moves"
Zumba Partners with Spice Girl Mel B. to Launch Exclusive Class “Spice Up Your Moves”

“Spice Up Your Moves” is a unique step breakdown class where Mel B shares her favorite Zumba steps, blending the energy and fun of Zumba® with her signature style. The class is designed to be accessible to everyone and is offered for free on the Zumba App. Whether you’re a seasoned Zumba enthusiast or a newcomer to the dance-fitness program, this short class promises to get you moving with a smile on your face.

“Being able to do something with movement that you enjoy, with music that you enjoy, with people you enjoy… best remedy ever!” shared Mel B, MBE and Patron of Women’s Aid.. “I feel like I smashed it when I take a Zumba class, all of it in my own way!”

“Mel B embodies the spirit of empowerment and energy that Zumba is all about. Her influence as a global icon and her passion for dance make her the perfect partner for this new class,” added Carolina Moraes, Chief Marketing Officer of Zumba. “We wanted to offer something truly special to our Zumba community, and ‘Spice Up Your Moves’ is just that – a celebration of movement and joy.”

Download the Zumba App and dance with Mel B. HERE.

Def Leppard, Brad Paisley & Train To Perform at the Harvest Nights Music Festival in Immokalee

The Charity Pros are hosting some of the biggest names in entertainment at their Harvest Nights Music Festival, November 22-24, 2024, at the John Jimmie Rodeo Grounds in Immokalee, Florida. Coming straight off their sold-out stadium tour, Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Def Leppard, Country music superstar Brad Paisley, and multi-Grammy winning band TRAIN will headline the three-day charity event near the Seminole Casino in Immokalee.

“The “Harvest Nights Music Festival” is the premier music event of the year in SWFL,” says Megan Maloney, President of the Charity Pros, a Ft. Myers Non-profit organization. “This is where we bring some of the best artists and biggest bands together with their fans and the community, all for a wonderful charitable cause.”

The entertainment lineup is diverse and exciting, featuring Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line, Don Felder, formerly of the Eagles, Mac McAnally of Jimmy Buffet’s Coral Reefer Band, multi-platinum rock band Tesla, The Glorious Sons, Alana Springsteen, American Idol finalists Will Mosely, Jack Blocker and Casey Bishop w/Rock Republic, and local favorites the Ben Allen Band and Maiden Cane. This variety will keep you on the edge of your seat all weekend.

The Charity Pros has selected the Immokalee Foundation, Cancer Alliance Network, and the Guadalupe Center as beneficiaries of this year’s annual Festival. “We love the work these organizations do for the children and families in their community,” continues Megan. “Their missions align with ours at the Charity Pros in making a difference in a child’s life.”

As a non-profit, the Charity Pros operate their event ticketing differently. “We don’t sell tickets; we accept donations,” explains Megan. The higher the donation level, the better the seat you get. The Charity Pros donation program eliminates sales tax and the big fees associated with concert tickets. “Nobody likes the big fees, continues Megan; we can make the event affordable and provide a tax donation as well.”

The Harvest Nights Music Festival will feature a vibrant Festival Village with live entertainment before and after the main stage concerts, an array of arts and crafts booths, local business activations, and various food trucks. This lively hub of activity is designed to keep you engaged and entertained throughout the Festival. On-site camping is also available for RVs, trailers, and campers.

Three-day tickets are now available, and single-day tickets will be on Sept. 20, offering VIP seating, a party pit, reserved seating, a grandstand, and lawn seating. Concert tickets, Prepaid Parking, and Campsites are all available at www.thecharitypros.org.

The Charity Pros come together to advocate for children’s social causes and expand their opportunities to live their best lives. Our dedication and commitment to children drive the Charity Pros to grow and develop. We promise to bring all the joy and happiness we can to these brave young hearts through our fundraising efforts, cause programs, and support provided to our partnering children’s charities.

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That Eric Alper
6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week, a 16-time JUNO Award winner overseeing PR campaigns, and have also been truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

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