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The Casino Evolution in Ontario: A Blend of Music, Culture, and Gaming

By Mitch Rice

Ontario’s legal gambling industry has a rich and colourful history dating back to the early 90s. Before this time, commercial casinos were banned across all Canadian provinces. After the Canadian Criminal Code was revised to allow legal gambling, Ontario was one of the first to open a land-based casino in 1994, naming it Caesar’s Windsor.

This venue captured the attention of visitors as the interplay between music, culture, and gaming, made for a superb experience. As the years went by, technological innovations led to the development of mobile casinos, giving way to more convenient entertainment forms. You can find the most popular options reviewed on https://casinorix.com/ca/ontario/mobile-casino-apps/. The perfect symbiosis of casino gambling and entertainment in Ontario has since become a major source of economic growth for the province.

Historical Context

Following the provisions made by the Canadian government for the regulation of commercial casinos, Ontario wasted no time. In 1994, the province introduced legislation titled “An act to authorize the operation of certain casino facilities,” which led to the legalization of land-based establishments. The Caesars Windsor opened to the public the same year to a positive reception.

For a province rich in history, Ontario’s casino industry was easily influenced by the culture and history surrounding the province. The acceptance of gambling as a social activity and its successful integration into the community was responsible for fostering unique gaming preferences that have now become commonplace in the province’s modern gambling industry.

Modern Casinos and Entertainment

The Casino Rama resort opened in 1996 and is one of many luxurious venues for casino entertainment in Ontario. Like other establishments, it has earned a reputation for featuring some of the best live musical performances and events to attract visitors all year round.

Contemporary Ontario casinos like this are packed full of amenities and features that heighten the excitement of gaming. You’ll find upscale sports bars, state-of-the-art theatres, or award-winning buffets that have become synonymous with the Great Blue Heron Casino Resort in Port Perry. These facilities remain a major attraction for thousands of thrill-seekers looking to experience casino gambling at its best.

Cultural Integration

Ontario is not only known for its historical aspects but is also famed for being a vibrant hub for arts and culture. Numerous art festivals and events featuring local artists are regularly organized to celebrate the cultural richness of the province. It also helps bring communities together, making Ontario’s casinos vibrant hubs for this creativity and expression.

Multicultural festivals are crucial in promoting the cultural heritage of Ontario, and in the same vein, are gradually shaping the casino gambling experience. Apart from the undeniable entertainment value, the economic impact of these events is felt through its tendency to draw tourists from into the province.

As more visitors pour in, Ontario’s casino hotels and resorts receive more patronage. These guests inadvertently contribute to the local economy through gambling, accommodation, dining, and paying to see casino-inspired movies. More jobs are also created and local businesses thrive better, leading to a strengthened economy.

Impact of Technology on Gaming and Entertainment

The rise of online gambling in Ontario has had a unique transformational effect on the entertainment landscape of the province. Following the increased internet accessibility technological innovations, casino enthusiasts are turning to digital forms of entertainment at online casinos. Gaming options such as slots, poker, and sports betting are the top choices for players.

Unlike land-based venues where musical performances are integrated into casinos through live shows, the internet is more innovative. The right music always sets the tone when visiting gaming platforms. Online casinos often offer themed games with cultural references. Adding the right music makes a much-needed component and enhances the theme’s authenticity.

The Future of Casinos in Ontario

The gambling landscape in Ontario is ever-evolving casino establishments are at the forefront of this. As technological advancements continue to stretch the limits of what’s possible, more innovations are set to improve how culture and casino entertainment can be merged. Smart casinos are also gaining some traction, with features like automated check-ins and personalized musical and art experiences for casino guests.

Conclusion

The gambling industry in Ontario is an undeniable contributor to its economy. Integrating cultural history and musical experiences into casino gambling not only boosts revenue for the government, but also has a significant impact on the local community and tourism. Whether it’s through virtual gaming experiences or more live entertainment options, there’s no stopping the casino evolution in Ontario.

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

Top SEO Agency in Turkey | Boost Your Rankings Today

By Mitch Rice

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for business success. Whether you operate locally in Turkey or aim to reach a global audience, a solid SEO strategy can significantly improve your visibility on search engines like Google. The key to achieving these results is partnering with the right SEO agency. In this post, we’ll explore why choosing the top SEO agency in Turkey can help boost your rankings and drive organic traffic to your website.

Why SEO is Crucial for Your Business Growth

The Role of SEO in Digital Marketing

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of optimizing your website to rank higher on search engines. When your site ranks well, you’re more likely to attract organic traffic, which leads to better conversions and ultimately, more sales. SEO is one of the most cost-effective digital marketing strategies, offering long-term benefits for businesses of all sizes. Whether you’re a startup or an established brand, SEO can help you grow your online presence by making your website more visible to potential customers.

SEO in Turkey: The Growing Importance

In Turkey, the digital landscape is becoming increasingly competitive. Businesses across various industries are investing in SEO to stay ahead of their competition. With the rise of e-commerce and online services, local businesses must also optimize their websites to attract Turkish customers. This is where a top SEO agency can make a significant difference. By working with En iyi SEO ajansı, Turkish businesses can enhance their search engine rankings and drive more relevant traffic to their sites.

Characteristics of a Top SEO Agency in Turkey

Proven Track Record of Success

When selecting an SEO agency, it’s essential to look for a proven track record. The best SEO agencies in Turkey will showcase their success stories, including case studies that highlight how they have improved search rankings, increased traffic, and boosted revenue for their clients. A top agency will have a portfolio of clients from various industries, demonstrating their ability to adapt to different business needs and goals.

Expertise in Local and Global SEO

SEO strategies can vary greatly depending on whether you’re targeting a local or global audience. In Turkey, businesses need an SEO agency that understands the nuances of local SEO, such as optimizing for Turkish keywords and local search behavior. Additionally, if your business is expanding internationally, you need an agency with expertise in global SEO to ensure your website ranks well in other countries.

Customized SEO Strategies for Businesses

The best SEO agencies do not take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, they customize their SEO strategies based on your business’s specific needs. This means they conduct an in-depth analysis of your website, industry, competitors, and target audience before crafting a personalized plan. Whether it’s optimizing your website’s content, building high-quality backlinks, or improving site speed, a tailored approach is key to achieving optimal results.

How a Top SEO Agency in Turkey Can Boost Your Rankings

Keyword Research and Optimization

A top SEO agency will conduct thorough keyword research to identify the best opportunities for your website. This involves finding high-volume keywords that your target audience is searching for and optimizing your content around those keywords. Whether you’re targeting local customers in Turkey or aiming to expand globally, the right keywords will improve your visibility in search results.

Technical SEO Improvements

Technical SEO is another critical component of boosting rankings. A top agency will ensure that your website is technically sound by improving site speed, mobile responsiveness, and overall user experience. These factors are essential for both search engine rankings and user satisfaction.

High-Quality Content Creation

Content is king when it comes to SEO. An SEO agency will help you create high-quality, relevant content that engages your audience while adhering to SEO best practices. From blog posts to product descriptions, having valuable content on your website is crucial for improving rankings and driving traffic.

Link Building and Off-Page SEO

Building high-quality backlinks is another crucial strategy. A top SEO agency will help you earn links from reputable websites, improving your site’s authority and boosting your search engine rankings. Off-page SEO efforts like these are essential for building credibility and trust with both search engines and potential customers.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best SEO Agency in Turkey

Agency’s Experience and Reputation

A top SEO agency will have years of experience and a solid reputation in the industry. Look for client testimonials, online reviews, and any industry awards that showcase their expertise.

Value for Money

SEO services should be viewed as an investment. While pricing varies, it’s essential to find an agency that offers services that provide a solid return on investment (ROI). The best agencies will offer transparency in their pricing and deliver measurable results over time.

Conclusion

Choosing the top SEO agency in Turkey is essential for improving your search rankings, driving traffic, and growing your business. Whether you’re focused on local SEO for the Turkish market or aiming to reach a global audience, a customized SEO strategy will deliver the results you need. Start your journey to higher rankings and greater online visibility today by partnering with a trusted SEO agency.

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

8 Common Mistakes Drivers Make After a Car Accident and How to Avoid Them

By Mitch Rice

Car accidents are stressful and overwhelming. On the other hand, most of what happens afterward depends heavily on how you will manage the situation. Some oversights- not collecting evidence, not contacting the authorities, and admitting guilt- complicate an insurance claim or a legal case. Knowing and avoiding these common wrong steps will ensure your rights, save time and reduce unnecessary expenses and distress.

1. Failure to Check for Injury First

Mistake: Paying more attention to property damage than to personal safety. When a car accident occurs, most of your immediate focus may turn to your vehicle’s damages. However, personal safety is always paramount. Sometimes, injuries do not show right away because of your state of shock or from an adrenaline rush.

How to Avoid: Always check yourself, your passengers, and others who may have been involved in an accident injury. If anyone is injured, call emergency services, even if the injuries seem slight. People must receive medical clearance, lest hidden trauma be present. Failure to pay attention to injuries may lead to more severe problems later in life.

2. Not Contacting Authorities

Mistake: Not calling the police in minor accidents can complicate insurance claims. The official police report gives a neutralized account of what happened during the accident and can be critical in determining fault or settling disputes with insurance companies. This document may also be crucial if some legal action has to be taken.

How to Avoid: No matter how slight the accident, always call the police. The police will investigate the scene, take a statement from both sides, and compile an official report. It serves as evidence to prove your insurance claim or at least your court claim. Several states legally require you to report the accident. Check the local laws relating to this.

3. Acknowledging Wrongdoing/ Apologizing at the Scene

Mistake: Making statements that may be misinterpreted as tantamount to an admission of guilt. Apologizing or explaining after a stressful accident is a natural impulse, but either of those moves might be used against you if your case goes to court. Even casual statements, such as “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry,” may haunt you in insurance or legal disputes.

How to Avoid: Remain calm and not say anything that might sound like an admission of fault. Just state the facts, share information, and let the police report and insurance investigation determine fault.

4. Failing to Gather Evidence

Mistake: Not documenting and leaving the scene. Proper documentation is essential during an insurance claim or legal dispute.

How to Avoid: Take as many photos as possible of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance details with the other driver. The more evidence you can collect, the safer you’ll be when dealing with insurance companies.

5. Not seeking medical attention

Mistake: Assuming you are unhurt because you feel fine immediately following the accident. Adrenaline can mask pain and prevent an injury’s symptoms from becoming apparent during an accident. Whiplash, concussion, and other soft-tissue injuries may not be evident until hours or days have passed.

How to Avoid Them: Always see a healthcare professional following an accident, even if you feel OK. Early medical assessment identifies injuries while the condition is fresh to allow early treatment and documented Evidence for insurance or legal claims. Useful information from the National Institutes of Health answers questions about common car accident injuries and what to expect from your healthcare provider.

6. By delaying the insurance claim process

Mistake: Procrastinating when filing your insurance claim may lead to delays or disputes. Filing the insurance claim early enough allows your insurance company to handle it efficiently. When the process is delayed based on terms and conditions during the formulation of your policy, this may lead to disputes or even denial of coverage.

How to Avoid: Inform your insurance company immediately after the accident. Be prepared and have all the required documentation the companies will request, including police reports, photos, and medical records. In that way, you avoid suspicion built upon delaying the claim, complicating the process even more.

7. Disregarding Legal Counsel When Necessary

Mistake: Failing to see a lawyer after the accident in cases of dispute or legal complications.

You may readily get into a lot of trouble needing proper counsel, particularly if the other party denies the claim or if some complication arises with your insurance company.

How to Avoid: Consult a car accident lawyer. Most attorneys work based on contingency fees, meaning you pay nothing until they recover compensation on your behalf. In such a situation, looking for an attorney who can protect your rights and interests in case of a severe injury would be a good idea. For more details about how much it costs to hire an attorney, visit ConsumerShield.

8. Insurance – Settling Too Quickly

Mistake: Not considering all the costs before accepting an insurance company’s first offer. Insurance companies often look to settle cases quickly. Still, their initial offer might only consider some of your costs, particularly if you continue receiving medical treatment or your vehicle is still in the repair shop.

How to avoid: Only take a settlement that comes your way after accounting for all your medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and any other representations of damages. When possible, seek an attorney to review your proposal for a settlement and advise on its fairness.

Conclusion

Knowing common mistakes will go a long way to better protecting your safety, legal rights, and financial position after a car accident. Take all the time necessary to document Evidence, seek appropriate medical treatment when needed, and consult lawful advice. Taking the time to take care of these things after an accident properly can save you a lot of time, stress, and money in the future.

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

Pete Townshend To Release “The Iron Man: The Musical” and “Psychoderelict (Music Only)”New Limited Edition Half-Speed Mastered Albums 4o

18th October 2024 sees the release of the final in the series of half-speed mastered studio albums from Pete Townshend, The Iron Man: The Musical By Pete Townshend and Psychoderelict (Music Only), which is making its vinyl debut.

These limited-edition black vinyl versions have been mastered by long-time Who engineer Jon Astley and cut for vinyl by Miles Showell at Abbey Road Studios with a half-speed mastering technique which produces a superior vinyl cut and are packaged with obi strips and certificates of authenticity.

Initially released in 1989, The Iron Man: The Musical by Pete Townshend is an adaptation of Ted Hughes’ famous short story, The Iron Man. The album was produced and mainly composed and performed by Townshend but also features performances from Roger Daltrey, legendary bluesman John Lee Hooker and the astonishing Nina Simone. The three then-surviving original members of The Who (Daltrey, John Entwistle, and Townshend) perform two songs, “Dig” and a cover of The Crazy World of Arthur Brown’s “Fire”. A stage version was mounted at The Young Vic Theatre in 1993, where 20 years earlier, The Who had debuted songs for Life House/  Who’s Next, which led to a movie version in 1999 for which Pete received an executive producer credit.

Psychoderelict, released in 1993, is Pete’s last solo album to date. Structured like a radio play with dialogue, it follows Ray High, a reclusive 60s rock star who resurfaced in Townshend’s novella ‘The Boy Who Heard Music’ and in the mini rock opera Wire & Glass, the centrepiece of The Who’s Endless Wire album. This Half-Speed Master is presented without the dialogue of the original album and is making its vinyl debut.

PETE TOWNSHEND THE IRON MAN THE MUSICAL BY PETE TOWNSHEND
HALF SPEED MASTERED VINYL TRACK LIST

SIDE 1
Pete Townshend With Deborah Conway – I Won’t Run Anymore
John Lee Hooker – Over the Top
Simon Townshend – Man Machines
The Who – Dig
Pete Townshend – A Friend Is a Friend
John Lee Hooker – I Eat Heavy Metal

SIDE 2
Pete Townshend With Deborah Conway and Chyna – All Shall Be Well
Pete Townshend – Was There Life
Nina Simone – Fast Food
Pete Townshend – A Fool Says…
The Who – Fire
Chyna With Pete Townshend and Nicola Emmanuel – New Life / Reprise

PETE TOWNSHEND PSYCHODERELICT (MUSIC ONLY)
HALF SPEED MASTERED VINYL TRACK LIST

SIDE 1
English Boy
Meher Baba M3
Let’s Get Pretentious
Meher Baba M4
Early Morning Dreams

SIDE 2
I Want That Thing
Outlive The Dinosaur
Now And Then

SIDE 3
I Am Afraid
Don’t Try To Make Me Real
Predictable
Flame

SIDE 4
Vivaldi – Meher Baba M5
Fake It
English Boy (Reprise)

Tina Turner’s Debut Solo Album ‘Tina Turns the Country On!’ to Be Reissued on Half-Speed Vinyl and Released on CD for 50th Anniversary Celebration

In celebration of Tina Turner’s debut album ‘Tina Turner The Country On!’s 50th anniversary, it is to be reissued with a brand new half-speed mastered vinyl and CD on 15 November. Alongside this celebratory release, Tina’s subsequent three album’s ‘Acid Queen’, ‘Rough’ and ‘Love Explosion’ are also being reissued on vinyl and CD for the first time in over 20 years. All four albums came during and after Tina’s exit from the Ike & Tina Turner Revue and helped her find her own voice leading up to her ‘Private Dancer’ breakthrough album.

Tina Turner marked the 1970s as a journey to self-discovery and musical triumph, having already solidified herself with the explosive energy and soulful intensity of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. Stepping away from the duo, Turner released her solo debut, Tina Turns The Country On!, in 1974. In an attempt to expand her stardom, Turner stepped into country music with her own soulful take on classics by Kris Kristofferson, Bob Dylan, Olivia Newton-John, James Taylor and Dolly Parton. Although the album didn’t see chart success, it received a GRAMMY Award nomination for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female.

Turner continued to embrace her rock ‘n’ roll roots while exploring new sonic landscapes with the bold and daring Acid Queen (1975). Inspired by her role as the “Acid Queen” in Ken Russell’s film version of The Who’s classic rock opera Tommy, the title track is a gritty and raw reimagination of Pete Townshend’s original. Turner embraced her character’s fiery and defiant voice with visceral covers of The Rolling Stones’ “Under My Thumb,” The Who’s “I Can See For Miles,” and Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.” The album explored Turner’s musical boundary-pushing and was a testament to her unique artistry.

1978’s Rough saw Turner depart from the high-octane rock and soul sound of previous albums. Recently separated from her husband and musical partner Ike Turner, this album carved a new musical identity blending disco and blues with the opening track “Fruits of the Night” and Bob Segar’s “Fire Down Below.” Billboard dubbed the album as an “adventurous variety of old and new material,” adding that Turner’s “delivery has lost none of its snap and crackle.”

Tina Turner entered 1979 with the eclectic Love Explosion, a harmonious combination of upbeat rhythms, soulful melodies, and Turner’s ever-commanding vocals. The album allowed Turner to further pursue artistic freedom while maintaining her reputation as a dynamic and energetic performer. She worked with French disco pioneer Alex R. Costandinos to compile funk and soul-inspired renditions of Patti LaBelle’s “I See Home” and Dusty Springfield’s “Just a Little Lovin’.”

Tina’s early career in the 1970s is a declaration of her resilience and newfound freedom, with sultry grooves and introspective lyrics capturing her progression as an artist.

Tracklisting: Tina Turns the Country On!
Bayou Song
Help Me Make It Through The Night
Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here With You
If You Love Me (Let Me Know)
He Belongs to Me
Don’t Talk Now
Long Long Time
I’m Moving On
There’ll Always Be Music
The Love That Lights Our Way
Acid Queen
Under My Thumb
Let’s Spend the Night Together
Acid Queen
I Can See For Miles
Whole Lotta Love
Baby – Get It On
Pick Me Tonight
Rockin’ And Rollin’
Rough
Fruits of the Night
The Bitch is Back
The Woman I’m Supposed to Be
Viva La Money
Funny How Time Slips Away
Earthquake & Hurricane
Root, Toot Undisputable Rock ‘n’ Roller
Fire Down Below
Sometimes When We Touch
A Woman in a Man’s World
Night Time is the Right Time
Love Explosion
Fool For Your Love
Sunset on Sunset
Music Keeps Me Dancin’
I See Home
Backstabbers
Just a Little Lovin’ (Early in the Morning)
You Got What I’m Gonna Get
On the Radio

Pet Shop Boys to Release Special Expanded Edition of Their Latest Parlophone Album ‘Nonetheless’

Following their headline show at last night’s BBC Radio 2 in the Park in Preston, Pet Shop Boys announce the release of a special expanded edition of their latest album, ‘Nonetheless’, on Parlophone Records.

Released 22nd November in a variety of formats, ‘Nonetheless expanded edition’ will feature the full ‘Nonetheless’ album including the singles ‘Loneliness’, ‘Dancing star’, ‘A new bohemia’ and ‘Feel’ plus four new bonus songs and the original demo versions of all the tracks on the album.

The bonus tracks include two cover versions: the David Bowie-penned ‘All the young dudes’ and the 1967 soul song ‘The dark end of the street’. There are also two tracks originally recorded during the ‘Nonetheless’ sessions: a version of the classical composition ‘Miserere’ by Gregorio Allegri and a Pet Shop Boys original titled ‘Adrenaline’. All these new tracks were produced by James Ford and ‘All the young dudes’ and ‘The dark end of the street’ have orchestral arrangements by Anne Dudley. ‘All the

young dudes’ was originally performed live by Pet Shop Boys and the BBC Concert Orchestra in February this year for the BBC Radio 2 ‘Piano Room’ sessions. Afterwards Neil and Chris decided they would like to record a new studio version of the Bowie classic.

The demo versions of the album tracks were originally recorded and produced by Pet Shop Boys from 2020-2022 and mixed by Pete Gleadall.

Pet Shop Boys released their fifteenth album, ‘Nonetheless’, produced by James Ford, on Parlophone Records in April. The record reached Number 2 in the UK album chart in its first week of release – their highest-charting studio album since 1993. In July they concluded the latest UK and European dates of thir ‘Dreamworld: The Greatest Hits Live’ tour with a sold-out residency at London’s Royal Opera House which received five-star press reviews.
Pet Shop Boys have sold more than 0 million records, released 60 singles spanning five decades and are listed in The Guinness Book of Records as the most successful UK duo of all time.

The full tracklisting for ‘Nonetheless expanded edition’ is –
LP1 – Nonetheless
1. Loneliness
2. Feel
3. Why am I dancing?
4. New London boy
5. Dancing star
6. A new bohemia
7. The schlager hit parade
8. The secret of happiness
9. Bullet for Narcissus
10. Love is the law
LP2 – Bonus
1. All the young dudes
2. Adrenaline
3. The dark end of the street
4. Miserere
LP3 – Demos
1. Loneliness (Demo version)
2. Feel (Demo version)
3. Why am I dancing? (Demo version)
4. New London boy (Demo version)
5. Dancing star (Demo version)
6. A new bohemia (Demo version)
7. The schlager hit parade (Demo version)
8. The secret of happiness (Demo version)
9. Bullet for Narcissus (Demo version)
10. Love is the law (Demo version)

CD 1 – Nonetheless
1. Loneliness
2. Feel
3. Why am I dancing?
4. New London boy
5. Dancing star
6. A new bohemia
7. The schlager hit parade
8. The secret of happiness
9. Bullet for Narcissus
10. Love is the law
CD 2 – Bonus & Demos
1. All the young dudes
2. Adrenaline
3. The dark end of the street
4. Miserere
5. Loneliness (demo version)
6. Feel (demo version)
7. Why am I dancing? (demo version)
8. New London boy (demo version)
9. Dancing star (demo version)
10. A new bohemia (demo version)
11. The schlager hit parade (demo version)
12. The secret of happiness (demo version)
13. Bullet for Narcissus (demo version)
14. Love is the law (demo version)

Ed Sheeran Will Release the ‘+-=÷× (Tour Collection)’ on 27th September

Global superstar Ed Sheeran will release the ‘+-=÷× (TOUR COLLECTION)’ on 27th September. Sheeran made the announcement last night after enthralling fans on the closing leg of his 2024 Mathematics World Tour in Cyprus.

‘+-=÷× (TOUR COLLECTION)’ brings together some of Ed Sheeran’s biggest songs to date from his decade-spanning mathematical album era. It will be available on CD, 2xLP (Bright Blue vinyl), Download and streaming partners. The physical formats will include access to exclusive voice notes from Sheeran. A brand new selection of related merchandise will also be available.

Ed Sheeran is an era-defining artist who has sold nearly 200 million records across the globe. After starting his record-breaking Mathematics Tour in Dublin back in 2022, Sheeran has taken his blockbuster show all over the globe with an astonishing total of 133 performances under his belt so far. With one more show this month in Rio De Janeiro, Sheeran has announced another run of European shows for 2025 which will form part of the final leg of his Mathematics tour, all while continuing to break records and make history.

Format Tracklistings
CD
1. The A Team
2. Lego House
3. Give Me Love
4. Sing
5. Don’t
6. Thinking Out Loud
7. Bloodstream
8. Photograph
9. Tenerife Sea
10. I See Fire
11. Castle On The Hill
12. Shape Of You
13. Galway Girl
14. Perfect
15. Happier
16. Dive
17. I Don’t Care with Justin Bieber
18. Beautiful People feat. Khalid
19. Afterglow
20. Bad Habits
21. Shivers
22. Eyes Closed

LP
A1. The A Team
A2.Lego House
A3. Give Me Love
A4. Sing
A5. Don’t
B1. Thinking Out Loud
B2. Bloodstream
B3. Photograph
B4. Tenerife Sea
B5. I See Fire
C1. Castle On The Hill
C2. Shape Of You
C3. Galway Girl
C4. Perfect
C5. Happier
C6. Dive
D1. I Don’t Care with Justin Bieber
D2. Beautiful People feat. Khalid
D3. Afterglow
D4. Bad Habits
D5. Shivers
D6. Eyes Closed
(* Afterglow – First time available on vinyl)

Digital
1. The A Team
2. You Need Me, I Don’t Need You *
3. Lego House
4. Give Me Love
5. Sing
6. Don’t
7. Thinking Out Loud
8. Bloodstream
9. Photograph
10. Tenerife Sea
11. I See Fire
12. Lay It All On Me – Rudimental feat. Ed Sheeran *
13. Castle On The Hill
14. Shape Of You
15. Galway Girl
16. Perfect
17. Happier
18. Dive
19. I Don’t Care (with Justin Bieber)
20. Beautiful People (feat. Khalid)
21. Afterglow
22. Bad Habits
23. Shivers
24. Eyes Closed
(* Additional tracks on digital only)

Mamarudegyal MTHC Earns 2024 TD Indigenous Songwriter Award

SOCAN Foundation is delighted to announce Mamarudegyal MTHC (Diana Hellson) as the recipient of this year’s TD Indigenous Songwriter Award. Hellson (she/her/they/them) is an Afro-Indigenous musician, born and raised in Calgary, and is a registered band member of Siksika Nation (Treaty 7), where she grew up.

“My journey as a Song Keeper has led me to incredible places across Turtle Island, and sacred places within myself,” says Hellson. “It’s truly a privilege to have the ability to express myself, and all of life’s mayhem and beauty, in the form of song; it’s an especially high privilege to achieve a milestone like this in my career. I’m so grateful to my team, my supporters, my loved ones, Napi, and Creator. Sookapi.”

The SOCAN Foundation’s TD Indigenous Songwriter Award recognizes and celebrates the artistic merit demonstrated by Indigenous songwriters in any musical genre. Hellson will receive a cash prize of $10,000, in addition to career development opportunities, and a spot in SOCAN Foundation and Amazon Music’s Indigenous Song Camp in Toronto.

Honourable mention prizes of $1,000 are also being made to Falynn Baptiste (nêhiyaw/Cree, Red Pheasant Cree Nation), Sebastian Gaskin (Cree, Tataskweyak Cree Nation), Juurini (Inuk), Phyllis Sinclair (Cree, York Factory First Nation), and Joel Wood (Cree). The winners may use the funds to support their career development in various areas, including recording new music, videography, and business management.

“Empowering Indigenous voices is an essential part of reconciliation,” says Charlie Wall-Andrews, Executive Director of SOCAN Foundation. “The Indigenous Songwriter Award is designed to celebrate the craft of songwriting, while elevating the experiences and perspectives of Canada’s First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. Indigenous songwriters enrich us all, and we’re proud to be a part of that. We’re thankful for the ongoing support from TD for this celebration of Indigenous songwriters in Canada.”

This special Award is made possible with the support of TD Bank Group. This year’s jury consisted of previous winner Leonard Sumner, as well as Charlotte Qamaniq, and Sister Ray.

Aaron Paris and Fredz Announced as 2024 Recipients of the Breakthrough Songwriter Award

The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame (CSHF) and Amazon Music are pleased to announce the winners of the 2024 Breakthrough Songwriter Award, Aaron Paris (Anglophone Winner) and Fredz (Francophone Winner), who are being recognized for their outstanding songwriting achievements as emerging stars of  music creation.

Aaron Paris is a 3-time Grammy-nominated producer, composer, and artist from Toronto. Having worked with major artists, including Ariana Grande, Kanye West, Drake, DJ Khaled, Russ, Kali Uchis, Roddy Ricch, NAV, Blxst, and more, Paris has built a strong international reputation as a musical composer and collaborator. As a multi-instrumentalist and string arranger, he’s dedicated to bringing the “new classical” sound into the modern music industry. He founded the group “Strings From Paris,” a collective of string players which aims to bridge classical and modern worlds, and educate the next generation. Their videos have gained millions of views on Instagram and TikTok.

“I feel extremely honoured to even be a part of this award,” said Paris. “I think it’s amazing that songwriters and producers are getting more and more recognition from the industry. A lot of people don’t know what goes on behind the scenes, and a lot of the time the writers and producers, especially the smaller ones, are given the short end of the stick. I’m hopeful this is another step towards a future where producers and songwriters are treated fairly, and can make a living from their art.”

Fredz, a 22-year-old Québec artist, stands out from his contemporaries with his polymorphic approach to music. Refusing to be confined to a single style or a format, he combines introspection and creativity, writing songs that are both profound and accessible. Inspired by artists such as Orelsan and Stromae, Fredz develops a suave rap, far from cliché, and shares his vision of the world with a disarming authenticity. Working in his home studio, Fredz mixes toplines and improvisation, resulting in sensitive and creative lyrics, while remaining connected to his audience — particularly via his social networks, where he finds a faithful echo. 

 “I’m truly touched by this award, and deeply grateful to those who believe in me and support my work,” said Fredz. “It means the world to me. Thank you so much.”

Established in 2017, the Breakthrough Songwriter Award has bestowed the honour to songwriters who have gone on to have successful, award-winning careers, including Eli Brown, Lou-Adriane Cassidy, Mustafa, Ariane Roy, Lowell, Les Louanges, Jessie Reyez, and Charlotte Cardin.

 In addition to receiving a customized development plan by Amazon Music, which will include playlisting, high-profile songwriting sessions and camps, travel support, and access to an international recording studio, Aaron Paris and Fredz will be recognized at the 2024 Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Sept. 28, 2024 at the iconic Massey Hall in Toronto. 

 “This year’s Breakthrough Songwriter Award winners showcase the incredible talent and diversity in Canadian songwriting, and are a testament to the richness of our musical landscape. Congratulations to Aaron Paris and Fredz on this well-earned achievement!” said Nick Fedor, Executive Director of the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. “Songwriters are the architects of the music we love, and it’s crucial that we nurture their growth to ensure Canadian songwriting excellence thrives for years to come. Thank You to our partners at Amazon Music for sharing this vision, and helping us support and recognize the next generation of songwriting talent.” 

 The CSHF and Amazon Music would also like to acknowledge this year’s Breakthrough Songwriter Award finalists: Anglophone – Ali Willa Milner, Banx & Ranx, Sarcastic Sounds, and Sebastian Gaskin. Francophone – Jay Scøtt, P’tit Belliveau, Soleil Launière, Thierry Larose, and Waahli.

 This year, 26 outstanding candidates were nominated for the Breakthrough Songwriter Award by two juries of esteemed music industry experts – one Anglophone and one Francophone. One winner in each category was determined after two rounds of voting. For more information on the Award please visit cshf.ca/songwriter-award/. 

Universal Music Group Partners with Headcount, NAACP and Voter Resource Orgs to Mobilize Voters

Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, announced today the launch of its 2024 USE YOUR VOICE campaign. Launched in 2020, this year’s voting initiative will use educational tools and other resources to mobilize eligible employees and other voters throughout UMG’s U.S. communities to vote in the 2024 U.S. general elections.

This year’s campaign is supported by UMG’s All Together Now Foundation, the company’s Task Force for Meaningful Change (TFMC) and °1824, UMG’s creative services division. 2024 USE YOUR VOICE will help register and transport voters to the polls. The campaign will also provide information, resources and digital tools to foster active participation in the political process.

Susan Mazo, EVP and Chief Impact Officer of UMG, said, “We’re proud to once again help communities across the country ‘use their voices’ at the polls. USE YOUR VOICE is a results-oriented, mission-driven initiative committed to educating employees and music fans across the UMG ecosystem about the voting process. Since we started the program in 2020, it has helped tens of thousands of voters get to the polls and vote with confidence. This year, it will do so again through the work of our colleagues, our passionate artists, songwriters and labels, and our incredible voter resource partner organizations.”

HeadCount, Executive Director Lucille Wenegieme said, “As we head into this pivotal election, our partnership with Universal Music Group through the ‘Use Your Voice’ campaign is about more than just registering voters. Together, we’re making sure that every voice is not just heard, but impossible to ignore.  At HeadCount, we partner with organizations that see the value of a multi-pronged approach to civic engagement to ensure we are reaching as many voters as possible – this is no different. We are so grateful for UMG’s strategic support during this election cycle. Together, we’re inspiring a new generation to actively participate in shaping their future.”

USE YOUR VOICE pursues its mission encouraging employees and communities to vote by providing information on the issues that matter most to them and helping to connect them with the resources necessary to use their power at the polls. This election year, USE YOUR VOICE, will help power the work of partner organizations including the ACLU, BallotReady, HeadCount, the NAACP, National Coalition of Black Civic Participation, the National Council for Negro Women (NCNW), the Voto Latino Foundation, When We All Vote and Xceleader.

The 2024 USE YOUR VOICE campaign includes:

  • USE YOUR VOICE and Vote About It – In partnership with HeadCount, this short-form digital content series discusses the issues that voters may see on their local ballots and highlights why voter participation is important. The series drives music fans and followers to the Use Your Voice And Vote About It Voter hub which provides information, resources, and digital tools to simplify the voting process.
  • USE YOUR VOICE and Vote About It Tote Bag – As an extension of the “USE YOUR VOICE and Vote About It” initiative, UMG has created a co-branded tote bag that will be exclusively sold on Social Goods beginning today. The tote bag benefits HeadCount.
  • Vote HBCU – As part of their ongoing partnership with HeadCount, UMG is supporting the organization’s Vote HBCU ‘Say It Louder’ Tour, which will visit 10 HBCU campuses this summer with the goal of registering 10,000+ students to vote for the upcoming election. The program was built in partnership with Xceleader, and will further collaborate with UMG to highlight the tour stops and amplify messaging around National Voter Registration Day (Sept 17th).
  • By the Numbers – A digital content series from °1824, UMG’s creative solutions team, that aims to drive visibility of the profound impact young people can have at the ballot box and empower them to check their registration status and vote in this year’s general election.
  • BallotReady x USE YOUR VOICE – Through a series of co-branded social assets, BallotReady x USE YOUR VOICE aims to make sure voters know what’s on their ballot. It will guide users to the BallotReady Hub to make their voting plan and to vote with confidence.

Additionally, earlier this year UMG and Island Records’ artist Sabrina Carpenter ran a Good To Vote Gov Ball sweepstakes with HeadCount. Through the campaign, more than 35,000 civic engagement actions were taken by eligible voters and more than 5,000 new voters were registered.

This year, HeadCount has also partnered with artists from UMG’s labels including AJR, Ariana Grande, Barenaked Ladies, Billie Eilish, Clairo, Chappell Roan, Chelsea Cutler, Em Beihold, Glass Animals, Gracie Abrams, Hootie & the Blowfish, Maggie Rogers, Mt. Joy, Noah Kahan, Olivia Rodrigo, Rapsody and Remi Wolf among others.

USE YOUR VOICE TO PULL UP TO THE POLLS

The TFMC has unveiled its 2024 PULL UP TO THE POLLS initiative that provides resources and support to voters across the country through:

  • Providing more than 15,000 rideshare codes to voters through organization partners NAACP, NCNW and When We All Vote to get voters to and from the polls.
  • Supporting voter registration with Voto Latino Foundation with the goal of registering over 7,200 eligible voters in honor of National Voter Registration Day.
  • Additional support to organizations helping to mobilize and educate communities including the ACLU, National Coalition of Black Civic Engagement/Black Women’s Roundtable and Black Voters Matter.

“The NAACP is proud to work with UMG in ensuring that democracy works, for everybody. Black voices matter, and we know that when our communities Pull up to the Polls, we’re heard,” said Dominik Whitehead, NAACP SVP of Campaigns and Mobilization. “That’s why partnerships like these are so important in bringing the resources and tools necessary to ensure that every vote is counted, and every voice is heard. Let’s make this an election to remember!”

NCNW Vice President of Advocacy and Policy Portia White said, “We are delighted to partner with UMG on a joint venture to elevate our outreach and effort to ensure people can get to the polls to vote.  Voting is most important in preserving democracy.   The power of just one vote is how we collectively use our voices for change.  For NCNW, we are encouraging Black women and youth (17-24) this election season to Pull up to The Polls.”

“Our vote is our voice and our power. When We All Vote is proud to partner with Universal Music Group to ease barriers to voting, like not having a ride to your local polling place,” said Beth Lynk, Executive Director of When We All Vote. “The rides we’re making available will ensure thousands of voters can Pull Up to the Polls ready to show up and show out to make their voices heard this election.”

“Voto Latino Foundation is excited to once again partner with Universal Music Group’s Taskforce for Meaningful Change and the Use Your Voice Campaign,” said Voto Latino Foundation Vice President of Communications Diana Castaneda. “Over 36 million Latinos are eligible to vote in November and we are doubling-down on our efforts to inform them about the relevant issues for our community and to register them to vote. Through collaborative and innovative voter outreach and engagement efforts with Universal Music Group’s leadership, employees, and talent, this partnership will make a significant impact in meeting the moment.”

PULL UP TO THE POLLS was launched in 2020 in honor of those throughout history who fought to win and defend the right to vote. The program provided 24,000 rides to the polls during the U.S. general election and Georgia special election through partnerships with the National Urban League, Voto Latino Foundation and Election Protection. The TFMC and UMG also supported Chefs for the Polls and World Central Kitchen providing 500,000 free meals to voters and families waiting in lines on Election Day at more than 730 polling locations across the country.

In 2022, the TFMC launched the second iteration of PULL UP TO THE POLLS for that year’s midterm elections registering 7,833 eligible voters on National Registration Day with Voto Latino Foundation and providing 13,081 rides to and from the polls during the early voting period with the YMCA. This year, PULL UP TO THE POLLS aims to support 15,000 rides to and from the polls and register 5,000 eligible voters.

In 2022, UMG announced that U.S. offices will be closed on Election Days moving forward to facilitate employees’ voter participation and Election Day volunteering.

Since 2020, UMG has partnered with leading organizations to help support voters through collaborations with the ACLU, BallotReady, The Brennan Center for Justice, Black Voters Matter, HeadCount, Higher Heights Leadership Fund, League of United Latin American Citizens, Spread the Vote, Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law + Election Protection, The Leadership Conference Education Fund, NAACP, National Coalition of Black Civic Participation, NCNW, National Urban League, VoteRiders, Voters Rights Alliance, Voto Latino Foundation, When We All Vote, YMCA and Xceleader.