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Bill Murray Joins Mike Zito, Albert Castiglia, and Jimmy Vivino for 2025 Tour

The legendary Bill Murray is teaming up with Gulf Coast Records artists Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia (aka “Blood Brothers”) to perform a series of shows in the first few months of 2025. Special Guest on the dates is newly-signed Gulf Coast artist guitarist Jimmy Vivino, whose label debut, Gonna Be 2 of Those Days, is set for release on February 14th.

The “Bill Murray and His Blood Brothers” tour kicks off January 3rd and 4th with two sold-out shows in Chicago; continues with multiple dates in San Francisco, Atlanta, New York and Austin; plus dates in Des Moines and Saint Louis; with additional shows to be announced at a later date.

“Mike and I are close friends with Bill’s brother, John,” says Albert Castiglia about how the hook-up happened. “We met John through (fellow Gulf Coast Records label mate) Chris ‘Bad News’ Barnes. John told Bill about the Blood Brothers and that prompted an invitation to play a show at The Murray Brothers annual Caddyshack Golf Tournament in St. Augustine, Florida. Bill sang five songs with the band that night. It was surreal to share the stage with such an icon, but he carried himself onstage like he was just one of the guys; so much fun. Bill had such a good time that he reached out to Mike and told him he wanted to do shows with us. The rest is history!”

Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia celebrated the release of their self-titled Blood Brothers album in 2023 with a tour that became one of the hottest tickets of the year. That album, produced by Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, hit #1 on both the Billboard Blues Chart and iTunes Blues Chart and won the 2024 Blues Music Award for Blues Rock Album of the Year. One of the most-anticipated albums of the year, Blood Brothers featured the multi-Blues Music Award-winners, who then played a highly-successful string of “Blood Brothers” 2023 shows through the summer and fall, culminating with a special appearance at the Big Blues Bender in Las Vegas that September.

The album also generated extensive radio airplay around the world, accompanied by universal rave reviews:  “…a terrific collaboration.” – American Songwriter; “The universe wants what it wants and, right now, it wants this. Miss it and miss out.” – Rock & Blues Muse; “There was big anticipation that this album would be one of those where one plus one equals better than two. And it does.” – Blues Music Magazine; “Packed with fire, inspiration, and a palpable tight bond between the two principals, this is blues rock with some strong songs.” – Glide Magazine.

Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia are true “Blood Brothers” in life and in the music they create both individually and collectively, joining forces in a collaborative effort of songwriting and performances to create a total listening experience greater than the sum of its parts.  Added to that process are the talents of producers Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, who brought fresh ideas to the recording sessions, pushing Mike and Albert creatively and musically to present their best work to date.

“Mike and Albert have a special chemistry together when they plug in and play that few have. They finish each other’s sentences musically,” award-winning guitarist Joe Bonamassa said about the sessions. “Great tunes, great people, great hang! What’s not to like? It was an honor to be involved in this project.”

Bill Murray with His Blood Brothers Tour Current Dates
JAN 3/4 – Thalia Hall – Chicago, IL – SOLD OUT
JAN 29/30 –   SF Sketchfest– San Francisco, CA​
FEB 6/7 – Variety Playhouse – Atlanta, GA
FEB 14 – The Capitol Theatre – Port Chester, NY
​FEB 15 – Sony Hall – New York, NY
MAR 25/26 – Paramount Theatre – Austin, TX
APR 11 – Val Air Ballroom – Des Moines, IA
APR 12 – The Pageant – Saint Louis, MO

Jesse Dayton Unveils Spring Tour Dates

Heading into the New Year with a bang, Jesse Dayton has announced a highly anticipated
Spring Tour while reviving the untamed spirit of the legendary Road Kings with a pair of special reunion shows. Fans can get a taste of the Road Kings’ razor-sharp blend of punk energy and rockabilly swagger with “Never Be Untrue”, a recently released live single now streaming on all platforms.

The Road Kings weren’t just a band—they were a movement. With a sound that tore through the late ‘90s Texas underground, they became the hard-driving antidote to slick, over-polished rock, leaving a trail of sweat-drenched stages and blistering riffs wherever they played. Jesse Dayton is reuniting with original members Jason Burns and Eric Tucker for two electrifying holiday shows at Houston’s Continental Club on December 27 and 28.

This is more than a reunion—it’s a resurrection of a sound and spirit that still hits harder than ever. Fans can expect the same fire that made the Road Kings notorious for “living on the edge and blazing trails where others feared to tread.”

Before the Road Kings light up Houston, Jesse Dayton wraps up 2024 on the I Hear Thunder Tour with blues titan Tab Benoit. For Dayton, this run is more than just a tour—it’s a reunion.

“Man, playing these shows with Tab has been like coming full circle,” says Dayton. “We go way back. He’s one of the most soulful players I’ve ever shared a stage with, and I’m grateful he brought me along for this ride. Fans are getting one hell of a night with both of us up there.”

Jesse Dayton rolls straight into the New Year with his Spring Tour, bringing his signature mix of roadhouse blues, honky-tonk grit, and electrified roots to stages across the country. From Phoenix to Seattle, and even aboard the Outlaw Country Cruise, Dayton will deliver the kind of raw, no-frills performance that has defined his career.

Fresh off the success of his critically acclaimed album The Hard Way Blues, Dayton continues to prove why he’s one of American music’s most authentic voices. The album, produced by Shooter Jennings, debuted at #2 on the Billboard Blues Albums chart earlier this year and solidified Dayton’s reputation for blending punk attitude, Southern roots, and gritty storytelling.

TOUR DATES

Tab Benoit’s I Hear Thunder Tour Featuring Jesse Dayton (Opener)
Dec 20 – Athens, GA – Georgia Theatre
Dec 21 – Atlanta, GA – Variety Playhouse

Road Kings Holiday Reunion Shows:
Dec 27 – Houston, TX – Continental Club
Dec 28 – Houston, TX – Continental Club

Jesse Dayton Spring Tour
Feb 22–28 – Miami, FL – Outlaw Country Cruise
Mar 13 – Phoenix, AZ – Rhythm Room
Mar 15 – San Diego, CA – Casbah
Mar 16 – Los Angeles, CA – Peppermint Club
Mar 18 – San Luis Obispo, CA – Siren
Mar 21 – Portland, OR – Mission Theater
Mar 22 – Seattle, WA – Conor Byrne Pub
Mar 23 – Tacoma, WA – Jazz Bones
May 2 –  New Orleans, LA – Broadside (w/J.D. Simo & Luther Dickinson)

Vince Guaraldi’s Iconic Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown Soundtrack Debuts for the First Time

Lee Mendelson Film Productions is thrilled to announce the release – for the first time ever – of the complete Vince Guaraldi soundtrack for Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown, the timeless 13th animated Peanuts special, from writer and creator Charles Schulz, director Phil Roman and producers Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson. Originally airing on January 28th, 1975 on CBS-TV, it went on to be nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Children’s program. The special is currently available for streaming on Apple TV+.

All versions of the album include the original 24 cues that comprise the score of the special – mixed into 22 tracks – most available for the first time – plus another eight bonus or alternative tracks never heard before. This 42-minute soundtrack is the longest individual soundtrack released by LMFP to date.

Guaraldi brought original mid-tempo tunes, his classic favorites, and even a mambo to the score for a journey into love with the Peanuts gang. He utilized a new invention called the ARP String Ensemble synthesizer throughout the special to give the score a distinctive string-laced sound.

Some highlights include: the center piece “Heartburn Waltz” with eight dynamic variations; the longing “Jennie L.” and “There’s Been A Change” with their ballad-like sensibilities; the upbeat “Pawpet Overture;” the playful “Woodstock’s Mambo;” and even some classical pieces like “Freddie’s Mood” that covers Chopin for Snoopy’s pawpet show in the special. There are amazing bonus tracks with completely different but equally engaging takes on the themes from the special. “Last Call For Love,” the final track on the album, is an extended jam that the trio laid down and is a true found treasure from the recording sessions – it has never been heard before.

For the first time, these melodies can be fully appreciated, not hidden underneath dialogue or effects from the special.

The recording features Guaraldi (piano, electric piano, clavinet, ARP String Ensemble electric harpsichord and guitar), Seward McCain (bass), Vince Lateano (drums) and John Scott Trotter as the music supervisor. The soundtrack was produced by Sean Mendelson and Jason Mendelson; mixed at Bones and Knives by Terry Carleton and restored and re-mastered by Vinson Hudson.

The album will be available January 17, 2025, including an exclusive variant on Heartburn Red vinyl (12” BioVinyl) as a Record Store Day Indie Exclusive, that will be available at participating stores. Pre-Order here. It will also be available on Puppy Love Pink vinyl (12” BioVinyl) from Barnes and Noble. Pre-Order here.

The 42-minute album will also be available on black vinyl (12” BioVinyl), CD, and digitally.

The records and CDs are all eco-minded: the records are made with BioVinyl, a new and unique product that replaces petroleum in S-PVC by recycling used cooking oil or industrial waste. There will be a 100% CO2 savings compared to traditional PVC vinyl, without sacrificing any acoustic or optical quality. Each record comes in a reusable, compostable PLA bag that is made from 99% renewable material, and the jacket, label, and liner notes are all made from sustainably forested trees for minimum ecological harm. The CD’s packaging will also be made of recycled material, and their paper inserts are from sustainably forested trees as well.

The physical copies will include liner notes that give a track-by-track analysis by Derrick Bang and notes from Sean Mendelson and Jason Mendelson, sons of Peanuts producer Lee Mendelson and producers of the record. The LP liner notes are four pages, the CD liner notes are eight pages, and all versions contain images from the special, rare photographs and images from the original tape boxes recently re-discovered that led to this release.

Find participating stores and more information about orders here or order from the MVDshop here.

 

“Phil Collins: Drummer First” Documentary Is Full (Or Fill) Of Surprising Details

“I’m not a singer that plays a bit of drums; I’m more of a drummer that sings a bit”. This famous Phil Collins quote perfectly captures the essence of a man celebrated by millions as a pop legend. But ask Phil himself, and he’ll tell you: “I’m a drummer”.

On March 26, 2022, after an extraordinary 50-year career of touring and recording, Phil Collins announced his retirement. Later that year, we had the incredible honor of inviting Phil and his son, Nic Collins, to the breathtaking Château de l’Aile in Vevey, Switzerland. From October 18-21, 2022, Phil shared his story like never before in a series of brand-new interviews.

For the first time on film, Phil takes us on a journey through his life and career from a drumming perspective—from his early days behind the kit to his groundbreaking work with Genesis and his celebrated solo career, from his time with the jazz-fusion group Brand X to composing for Disney’s Tarzan, forming his own big band, and ultimately passing the torch to Nic during the final Genesis and Phil Collins tours.

This is Phil’s story, told in his own words.

This documentary offers a rare and personal glimpse into the life and legacy of a true drumming icon. Phil’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and sacrifice—a testament to the power of giving everything you have for what you love.

Yo Gabba Gabba takes over NPR’s Tiny Desk

Never in a million years would I ever expect to see the Tiny Desk getting a vibrant makeover with a visit to Yo Gabba GabbaLand! Led by Kammy Kam and backed by a dynamic five-piece band, the fun-filled set features classics like “Party in My Tummy” and new tracks such as “The Orange Cat’s Special Time Outdoors,” with a surprise appearance by Thundercat in an orange cat suit! With lively performances from all five Gabba friends, this colorful, groovy concert is pure joy for kids and the young at heart.

Nardwuar Interviews Chappell Roan At Sonido Del Valle Records

Nardwuar meets pop sensation Chappell Roan at Sonido Del Valle Records for a fun and quirky interview you don’t want to miss!

Waxahatchee Returns to NPR’s Tiny Desk

Waxahatchee returns to the Tiny Desk with a full-band transformation! Grammy-nominated Katie Crutchfield, now blending her Americana charm with profound lyricism, performs her latest single “Much Ado About Nothing,” fan-favorite “Right Back to It,” the standout “Crowbar,” the title track “Tigers Blood,” and the transformative “Fire” from Saint Cloud. Joined by Eliana Athayde (upright bass), Cole Berggren (piano/banjo), Spencer Tweedy (drums), Colin Croom (pedal steel/dobro), and Clay Frankel (guitar), this set captures the heart of Waxahatchee’s musical evolution.

Postmodern Jukebox and Sunny Holiday Bring Festive Flair to ‘Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer’

Postmodern Jukebox delivers holiday cheer with a campy twist! Sunny Holiday shines in a sultry reindeer look, belting out the Elmo and Patsy 1979 classic “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” while Tatum Langley and Demi Remick dazzle as the dancing “Reinderettes.”

Social Networking Market to Grow $238.4B by 2028, Boosted by Internet And AI Trends

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global social networking market 2024-2028

The global social networking market size is estimated to grow by USD 238.billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 19.96% during the forecast period. Increased internet penetration is driving market growth, with a trend towards social media advertisements gaining traction. However, privacy concerns obstruct market growth poses a challenge. Key market players include Alphabet Inc., Automattic Inc., ByteDance Ltd., Discord Inc., LinkedIn Corp., MediaLab.Ai, Meetup, Meta Platforms Inc., Myspace LLC, Nextdoor Holdings Inc., Pinterest Inc., Quora Inc., Rakuten Group Inc., Reddit Inc., Snap Inc., Telegram Messenger Inc., Tencent Holdings Ltd., Twitter Inc., Yelp Inc., and Z Holdings Group.

Social media advertising due to its ability to reach vast audiences through advanced targeting. Influencer marketing and partnerships amplify this reach. Key platforms include Google Play Store, Apple IOS store, Microsoft store, and social networks like LinkedIn and Facebook. Devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs are common targets. Performance indicators include in-app purchases, app sales, and user engagement. B2C enterprises leverage these channels using a bottom-up approach, focusing on independent databases and consumer attitudes. Exchange rates and messaging sites also impact the business of apps.

Social networking markets face privacy challenges as platforms collect and share user data without consent, leading to identity theft and cybercrimes. B2C enterprises use this data for targeted advertising and sales to third parties. Tracking technologies monitor user activities across devices and websites. Key players include Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and e-commerce platforms like Instagram and Facebook Shops. Data security concerns persist with the rise of Big Tech, 5G technology, and AI-based libraries. User behaviors and preferences shape this market, with interests in music, games, yoga, and live streaming videos.

The global social networking market experienced significant growth in 2022, with advertising holding the largest market share. This trend is driven by the increasing use of social media for brand promotion and product awareness. Key developments include the integration of 5G technology for faster connectivity, data security concerns leading to advanced encryption methods, and Meta’s foray into the metaverse with 3D image context. National lockdowns accelerated the shift to online communities, leading to increased engagement in areas such as theatre, sports, art, music, games, and yoga. Live streaming videos and OTT platforms gained popularity, while AI-based libraries and customized photo collages enhanced user experience. Influencer marketing thrived on Android & iOS-based platforms like Google Play Store and Apple IOS store. Smart devices, including smartphones, laptops, tablets, and smart TVs, facilitated this growth. LinkedIn continued to dominate professional networking, while in-app purchases and cloud-based apps boosted revenue.

In the dynamic world of B2C enterprises, the Business of Apps has witnessed significant growth, particularly in the realm of social networking. With the proliferation of smartphone users, messaging sites like Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, and Facebook Messenger, as well as e-commerce platforms and social media giants such as Instagram, have adopted a bottom-up approach to engage users through in-app purchases and the monetization of independent databases. The S-curve function illustrates this trend, with user adoption following a steady growth pattern. However, with the increasing use of these platforms, data security concerns have emerged as a major challenge. The advent of 5G technology and Meta’s foray into 3D image context further underscores the importance of this market. National lockdowns have accelerated the shift towards online communities, with users turning to social networking sites for entertainment, including theatre, sports, art, music, and games.

In today’s digital world, social networking apps have become an integral part of our lives. With an estimated 3.6 billion users worldwide, the social networking market is a powerful platform for businesses and individuals alike. Apps like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn offer unique features that cater to various needs. For instance, Facebook and Instagram focus on personal connections and visual content, while LinkedIn is geared towards professional networking. Purcheses, ads, and sponsorships are common in this market, with companies using targeted marketing strategies to reach their audience. Consumer behavior is influenced by factors such as location, interests, and online activity. The use of data analytics and artificial intelligence enables businesses to tailor their offerings and engage with their audience effectively. The social networking market is a dynamic and ever-evolving space, with new trends and technologies shaping the way we connect and communicate.

ADMAF Announces Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 Programme to Launch its Twenty-Second Edition

Held under the honorary founding patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Founding Honorary Patron of Abu Dhabi Festival, and under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) has announced its programme for the Abu Dhabi Festival 2025. Commencing on 7 February 2025, the annual Festival returns with its twenty-second edition under the theme, “Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,” celebrating cultural diversity, artistic excellence, and its

With a spectacular lineup featuring world-renowned talent including prestigious orchestras, taiko ensemble, opera and solo recital series, accompanied by performances abroad, Visual Arts exhibitions, and community and educational programmes for the nation’s youth, the Festival promises to engage and inspire audiences on both local and international stages. This year, the Festival celebrates 50 years of diplomatic relations and friendship between the UAE and its country of honour, Japan, with a vibrant showcase of cultural richness.

With 12 headline performances and many accompanying activations, the Festival showcases world-exclusive co-productions, performances and appearances, making their debut for the first time in the region. Opening on 7 and 8 February, The New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra will share the stage with legendary Japanese conductor Yutaka Sado, star tenor Jonathan Tetelman, and rising pianist Kyohei Sorita. For Ramadan, Sheikh Mahmoud El-Tohamy will revive the tradition of Inshad spiritual chanting. The Festival then continues with a performance from KODO, Japanese Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble followed by virtuoso pianist Yunchan Lim performing Bach’s iconic Goldberg Variations.

Other highlights include performances by renowned percussionist Kuniko Kato, the Labèque sisters’ exquisite piano duo, and an opera gala featuring star tenor Javier Camarena and soprano Jessica Pratt accompanied by the Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra conducted by Toufic Maatouk. Dazzling violinist Augustin Hadelich will perform works by Bach and others. An All-Star Ballet Gala will feature six of the world’s most acclaimed dancers, while Kian Soltani, Yamen Saadi, Sara Ferrández, and Pablo Ferrández will connect the world’s most prestigious musical stages. Additionally, talented trumpeter Riley Mulherkar will captivate audiences with soulful rhythms, and the Korean National University of Arts Symphony Orchestra, under the baton of Chi-Yong Chung, will inspire the audience with a romantic program from Brahms and Tchaikovsky.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi Festival Founding Honorary Patron said: “Year after year, the Abu Dhabi Festival reinforces its leading position as a platform that conveys to the world the UAE’s message of upholding the values of peace, harmony and diversity, and building bridges of cultural communication between different civilisations and people.”

“As the Festival celebrates Japan as the guest country of honour of this edition, we emphasise the depth of bilateral relations and enduring friendship between our two countries, that dates back more than 50 years, and is based on long history of strategic cooperation at various levels.” H.H continued.

“The twenty-second edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival continues its leading role in stimulating cultural dialogue with our international partners and working to raise awareness of the importance of creativity and innovation in the renaissance of countries and the development of societies. We look forward to an inspiring and innovative new series as the Abu Dhabi Festival continues its pioneering journey and its important role in strengthening the country’s position as a unique model of cultural and civilisational diversity.” H.H concluded.

His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, said: “We appreciate the role of the Abu Dhabi Festival in stimulating the creative cultural movement in the UAE, the region and the world. We congratulate the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) for announcing the programme for its twenty-second edition, which reflects its dedication – for more than two decades – to inspiring generations of Emirati artists and creatives. This also demonstrates ADMAF’s commitment to empowering the cultural and creative industries sector in the country to stimulate the cultural dialogue and contribute to presenting an Emirati culture that inspires the world and highlights our national identity through the cultural diplomacy initiatives organised by the Festival within the framework of its abroad programme. These efforts bring people closer together with the values of coexistence and openness and builds bridges of cooperation between countries.”

“As part of the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Culture and the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation, we are collaborating to invest in Emirati talent, develop skills and build the capabilities of our artists and creatives to reflect the thriving and sustainable cultural scene in the UAE.  We affirm our joint commitment to deepen cultural relations between the UAE and Japan, which will be hosted by the festival as the country of honour for its 2025 edition, thus contributing to highlighting its rich culture and diverse artistic heritage,” H.E. concluded.

H.E Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “Since its establishment in 2004, the Abu Dhabi Festival has greatly contributed to Abu Dhabi’s thriving cultural ecosystem, helping to cement the emirate’s position as an incubator for creativity and a compelling destination for artists and creators. Our strategic partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation reflects a shared vision to support Abu Dhabi’s creative industries and build cultural bridges, ensuring that audiences in the emirate have access to the very best of global creativity in dance, opera and classical music. In bringing prominent international musicians and creators to the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi Festival not only raises awareness of the destination but plays an important role in inspiring new generations of young artists.”

H.E. added: “This year’s selection of Japan as guest of honour at Abu Dhabi Festival 2025 will make for an especially exciting event, showcasing the diversity and richness of Japanese culture to Abu Dhabi audiences. The UAE and Japan have a history of bilateral relations going back more than fifty years, and I look forward to seeing our cultural ties strengthened even further.”

Her Excellency Huda Ibrahim Al Khamis-Kanoo, Founder of Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation and Founder of Abu Dhabi Festival, said: “The twenty-second edition of the Abu Dhabi Festival gathers us under its inspiring theme “Abu Dhabi – A World of Harmony,” to embody the position of the UAE capital, Abu Dhabi, as a city that brings together endless cultures, to meet, communicate and exchange ideas, opportunities and potentials, in harmony and in unity. The Festival celebrates Japan as the country of honour, commemorating over fifty years of mutual respect and friendship between our two countries. Among many leading events, we present the premiere in the Arab world of the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by legendary Maestro Yutaka Sado.”

“Abu Dhabi Festival continues to build cultural partnerships with international institutions, opening new avenues of collaboration between countries, global artists and audiences. The Festival’s programme abroad will mark several historic milestones this year including the world premiere of Debussy’s Pelléas et Mélisande with the Opera National de Paris, directed by Canadian-Lebanese Wajdi Mouawad, in a first-of-its-kind collaboration between the classical opera and the Arab world. Additionally, the Festival will showcase historic visual arts exhibitions in partnership with the renowned Seoul Museum of Art in Korea, along with its world tour across ChinaJapan, and Singapore, making it one of the most ambitious joint cultural initiatives ever seen in this region,” H.E. concluded.

H.E. Ken OKANIWA, Ambassador of Japan to the United Arab Emirates said: “I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) for organizing the 22nd Abu Dhabi Festival. This year is a very special occasion as Japan has been designated as the Guest Country of Honour. We are truly delighted to be part of this event.”

“The 22nd Festival features performances by top musicians from Japan, namely, New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, “Kodo” (Taiko Performing Arts Ensemble) and Kuniko Kato (Percussions). While their respective genre varies from classic to traditional and modern, music grounded upon creativity and Japanese excellence is sure to enchant the audience.” H.E. added

“Music is an art that transcends languages and brings peoples together. I look forward to the Festival promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Japan, the United Arab Emirates and other countries.” H.E. concluded.

Homaid Al Shimmari, Deputy Group CEO and Chief Corporate & Human Capital Officer, Mubadala Investment Company commented, “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Abu Dhabi Festival and to see the incredible impact it is making enhancing our proud city’s cultural environment. The next edition will go even further in enriching Abu Dhabi’s dynamic cultural scene by strengthening its position as a global hub for arts and culture and fostering cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.”

A spokesperson for GS Energy said: “We are honoured to partner with the Abu Dhabi Festival as the exclusive energy partner. At GS Energy, we believe that the arts have the power to inspire, uplift, and transform communities. By supporting the Abu Dhabi Festival, we aim to contribute to the vibrant cultural landscape of the region and enhance the quality of life for its communities. This partnership exemplifies our commitment to fostering creativity, cultural excellence, and social responsibility. Together with the Abu Dhabi Festival, we look forward to illuminating the global stage with a harmonious blend of energy and artistic brilliance.”

Early bird tickets are available now. For ticket information and to learn more, visit www.abudhabifestival.ae.

Founded in 2004, the Festival was generously granted the patronage of the President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, from 2007 to 2011. The first Abu Dhabi Festival was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the then Minister of Information and Culture (UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs). Abu Dhabi Festival is the festival of “Bilad Al Khayr“, the land of blessings, the land of Zayed, and embraces the values of dialogue, tolerance, respect and peace. For more information, please visit www.abudhabifestival.ae.

Founded in 1996, ADMAF is one of the oldest, cultural organisations in the Arabian Gulf. Pioneering new artistic practices, it seeks to deepen global cross-cultural dialogue and inspire a renewed interest in the creativity of the UAE and Arab world. Often in partnership with leading national and international institutions, it delivers multidisciplinary initiatives for people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities through the Abu Dhabi Festival, year-round youth platforms and community programmes.