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The Brian Setzer Orchestra’s 2000 Album Vavoom! Featuring “Gettin’ in the Mood” Re-Issue Drops in March on Limited 180g Colored Vinyl

The Brian Setzer Orchestra is a swing band formed in 1992 by Stray Cats frontman Brian Setzer. Their debut self titled album was released in 1994, and was followed up in 1996 with Guitar Slinger. In 1998, for their breakout album The Dirty Boogie, the group covered Louis Prima’s “Jump, Jive An’ Wail”, which originally appeared on Prima’s 1957 album The Wildest! and found themselves with a runaway hit! The album’s success led to a massive tour which ran from fall of 1998 through the summer of 1999, including a performance at the infamous Woodstock 1999. The Dirty Boogie’s success was capped off with a Grammy win for Brian’s version of “Sleepwalk” for Best Pop Instrumental in 1999. That would just be the first Grammy that Brian would bring home with the Orchestra.

With the success of the recent Guitar Slinger and The Dirty Boogie reissues from the Brian Setzer Orchestra we are now excited to announce for the first time on vinyl since 2000, Vavoom!. Remastered on 180g vinyl in two amazing Limited-Edition Colors. There are only 300 of The Americano and 700 of the Caravan Yellow. Vavoom! is the fourth release from the Brian Setzer Orchestra featuring “Pennsylvania 6-5000” and “Getting’ In the Mood”. Setzer uses his Rock-a-Billy style in league with some of the best standards from the big band era to produce some very cool finger snapping, get-up-and-dance
tunes.

Watch “Getting’ In the Mood” below:

Vavoom! continues Setzer’s interpretation of the swing era, and he has made classic songs of a bygone era accessible again to a new audience, with classics like “Mack The Knife”, and “Caravan” which won him a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance in 2001 for his arrangement.

Tracklist:
1 Pennsylvania 6-5000
2 Jumpin’ East Of Java
3 Americano
4 If You Can’t Rock Me
5 Gettin’ In The Mood
6 Drive Like Lightning (Crash Like Thunder)
7 Mack The Knife
8 Caravan
9 The Footloose Doll
10 From Here To Eternity
11 That’s The Kind Of Sugar Papa Likes
12 ’49 Mercury Blues
13 Jukebox
14 Gloria

Discover Toronto’s Rich Past with Brian Gable’s ‘Toronto: A Sketchy History’

Toronto is a city of stories—vibrant, bustling, and full of history. In Toronto: A Sketchy History, Brian Gable, a seven-time National Newspaper Award-winning political cartoonist, masterfully brings the city’s past to life through his signature wit and artistic talent.

Set to release on February 18, 2025, this captivating book offers a fresh, visual journey through Toronto’s evolution, from its humble beginnings as a military garrison to its rise as one of the most diverse metropolises in the world. Gable’s over seventy original sketches add a lively touch to key historical moments, offering a humorous yet insightful perspective that’s as entertaining as it is educational.

Readers will find themselves laughing and learning as Gable blends humour with history in a way only he can. From the founding of Fort York to Toronto’s modern skyline, Toronto: A Sketchy History highlights the moments that shaped the city’s character and charm.

Whether you’re a history buff, a Toronto local, or simply a fan of Gable’s iconic work, this book is a must-read. Gable’s brisk and engaging narrative, coupled with his brilliant illustrations, make for an unforgettable tribute to a city with a past as colourful as its present.

Pre-order your copy of Toronto: A Sketchy History today here, and prepare to see the city in a whole new way!

SiriusXM To Offer Live Broadcasts of TGL Presented by SoFi

SiriusXM and TMRW Sports announced today that the SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio channel will offer live broadcasts of matches from TGL presented by SoFi, the new prime time golf league led by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.

TGL features six teams of PGA TOUR stars competing in a season-long competition from January through March, all set in the custom-built SoFi Center. TGL fuses golf with technology on an unprecedented scale. Using a mix of innovations throughout SoFi Center’s field of play, teams will face off in two-hour matches across 15 custom-designed holes in a hybrid of virtual and real-life action.

Tomorrow, January 14 (7 pm ET), SiriusXM will air live coverage of Tiger Woods’ first TGL match when his Jupiter Links Golf Club (Woods, Max Homa and Kevin Kisner) faces off against Los Angeles Golf Club (Collin Morikawa, Justin Rose and Sahith Theegala). SiriusXM’s Taylor Zarzour and John Maginnes will call shots live from SoFi Center on the campus of Palm Beach State College in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., and listeners will also hear audio from the golfers themselves, who will be mic’d up throughout the competition.

Coverage will air on the SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio channel, which is available to listeners in their cars on channel 92 and on the SiriusXM app.

The addition of TGL presented by SoFi adds to a robust lineup of golf play-by-play available to fans on SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio. The channel features live coverage of most PGA TOUR events, major championships and other notable events such as the men’s and women’s collegiate championships.

In addition to airing on the SiriusXM PGA TOUR Radio channel, throughout the season, most TGL matches will also simulcast on ESPN Xtra, SiriusXM channel 81.

Why Elvis Presley Is Still A Las Vegas Icon

By Mitch Rice

The King of Rock and Roll Elvis Presley is forever in the Pantheon of American Pop culture. He is known simply through his name, stage performances, and all the music people associate with him, coupled with his charisma that drew millions. None of the many places that take a piece of his legacy shine so bright as Las Vegas. The city has never been the same since the death of Elvis – well over decades later – his life and music left a lasting impression on the entertainment industry and gambling sector.

Elvis in Las Vegas: The Beginning of the Journey

In the 1950s, when Elvis first performed in the New Frontier Hotel, he started his relationship with Las Vegas. But it was his return to Las Vegas in the 1960s and 1970s that made him a true icon. Everything about Elvis’s stay at the International Hotel (now Westgate Las Vegas) was legendary. His performances attracted huge crowds and set new standards for entertainment in the city.

Elvis’s engagement at the International Hotel in Las Vegas was a new era for Las Vegas: the largest hotel in the world at the time. His shows had electrifying energy, stunning vocals, and an undeniable stage presence and he was all over the place. He played two shows a night – seven days a week for four weeks straight – and broke records and drew crowds from across the globe. Besides making him a Las Vegas legend, these residencies played a critical role in propelling the city into being a world-class concert town.

Elvis and Casino Culture

Elvis’s connection to Las Vegas goes beyond his performances. It was known that the King visited the city’s casinos frequently and one might be seen playing and having a good time there. At least he had made the casinos more exciting and glamorous, as well as more attractive to visitors.

It even affected the gaming industry itself. He had a hit with his music that resonated with gamblers and regular visitors alike, who could be either a casual gambler or a serious one at a gambling hall. Themed slot machines such as “Elvis: The King Lives” pay homage to his legacy and remain popular among casino-goers. As well as entertainment, these slots also serve to remind people of the King’s indelible mark on the city’s culture.

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The Influence of Elvis’s Films on the Image of the City

Elvis’s connection to Las Vegas wasn’t just about his live performances. The 1964 film “Viva Las Vegas” made his city famous as a teeming entertainment mecca. Las Vegas shone as the glittering lights, the crazy nights, and the hottest gambling town were blurred into one from Elvis’s amazing magnetism.

Through the song “Viva Las Vegas,” the city’s image became glamorized, moved to the front of popular culture, and became known as a destination where you can have fun and adventure. Las Vegas is portrayed in the film and tö won audiences over with the promise a dream may come true. The song “Viva Las Vegas” became an anthem for the city, mapping out exactly how its spirit and energy rolled.

“Viva Las Vegas” is still a cultural touchstone even today, and you can still smell Elvis all over town. Not only did the film increase tourism but also it spurned Las Vegas as a mainstream entertainment capital. Certainly, Elvis’s films, and “Viva Las Vegas” in particular, have imprinted the city’s identity, describing Elvis as an emblem of its frightful culture.

Elvis Shows: From Lookalikes to Tribute Shows

Many of the tribute shows and lookalike performances running in Las Vegas now are a legacy of Elvis’s impact on the city. These shows pay tribute to the music style and stage presence of Elvis, allowing fans to relive the magic of Elvis’s performances.

And tribute artists, many of them dressed in the King’s costumes, perform sets that get to the heart of the man. And these shows are a big piece of Las Vegas tourism, attracting tourists looking to see a piece of Elvis’ legacy. The appeal in the city of these performers is still very much alive, as they continue to draw enduring audiences.

Elvis’s Fashion and Style: A Symbol of Luxury and Glamour

Las Vegas owes much to Elvis on the fashion and style front. But most famously, his flamboyant stage costumes, which traditionally included sequins, rhinestones, and intricate designs, became a haven for extravagant displays of luxury and glamour. They were more than costumes, these outfits were a synopsis of the opulence and extravagance of Las Vegas so it all wrapped up in those three little words.

Elvis’s style was very noticeable on the city’s fashion scene and many other performers and entertainers followed suit. He was a part of shaping Las Vegas’s fashion choices, as his choice in apparel made it a place where they took chances on bold extravagant looks. Elvis’s image was linked to casino luxury and high-end entertainment, helping the city become known as one for spectacular indulgence.

Conclusion

Over four decades after his death, Elvis Presley is still an essential piece of Las Vegas’ identity. The city is known for what it contributed to the culture and entertainment industry. Whether it’s his iconic performances, residencies, impact on casino culture, or fashion, Elvis means as much now as he did all those years ago.

Elvis is gone but his spirit is still here and in the city that made his kingship possible. Wherever you’re looking to be in the heart of Las Vegas’s magic about life, none is as perfect as the harmony that ensues to be into the atmosphere celebrating the life and life’s work of Elvis Presley.

Paul McCartney’s Isolated Vocals For Wings’ “Hi Hi Hi”

“Hi, Hi, Hi,” written by Paul and Linda McCartney and performed by Wings, is a glam rock gem that caused quite a stir upon its release in 1972. Banned by the BBC for its suggestive lyrics, the song climbed charts worldwide, including a Top 5 spot in the UK and top-10 placement in the US.

Paul McCartney’s Isolated Vocals For Wings’ “Helen Wheels”

“Helen Wheels” is a song by Paul McCartney and Wings, named after the McCartneys’ Land Rover, which they nicknamed “Hell on Wheels.” Recorded at EMI Studios in Lagos, Nigeria, the song captures the journey from their Scottish farm to London, referencing cities like Glasgow, Liverpool, and Birmingham. Released in 1973 as a single with “Country Dreamer” on the B-side, it reached number 10 on the U.S. charts and number 12 in the UK. The track was later included on the U.S. version of Band on the Run.

5 Surprising Facts About Lionel Richie’s “Can’t Slow Down”

When Lionel Richie released Can’t Slow Down on October 14, 1983 combined heartfelt balladry, Caribbean-inspired rhythms, and genre-blurring innovation, Can’t Slow Down became one of the definitive albums of the 1980s. Its staggering success, both commercial and critical, solidified Richie as a global superstar and left an indelible mark on pop music. Here are five lesser-known facts about the album that helped define an era.

1. The Diamond Standard

Can’t Slow Down didn’t just go platinum—it went Diamond. The album sold over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone and more than 20 million worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums of the 1980s. Its ability to spawn five top-ten hits, including two chart-toppers, “All Night Long (All Night)” and “Hello,” set a new standard for crossover success. Few albums in history have matched its cultural and commercial impact, with Richie proving that pop music could be both universal and deeply personal.

2. The Gibberish Joke in “All Night Long”

Richie’s smash hit “All Night Long (All Night)” is remembered for its infectious rhythm and pseudo-African lyrics like “Tam bo li de say de moi ya.” But here’s the twist—those lyrics? Total gibberish. Richie admitted in interviews that he wanted to include authentic African phrases but ran out of time to find a translator. Instead, he improvised, crafting what he described as a “wonderful joke” that became one of the song’s most iconic features. It’s a testament to Richie’s charisma that this playful addition only added to the track’s enduring charm.

3. A Mini-Thriller

When Can’t Slow Down dropped, critics were quick to draw comparisons to Michael Jackson’s Thriller. Robert Christgau of The Village Voice called the album a “mini-Thriller,” pointing to its ability to blend danceable pop tracks with tender ballads. Richie’s ability to appeal across genres—from the Caribbean flair of “All Night Long” to the emotive depth of “Hello”—mirrored Jackson’s genre-defying approach and solidified Richie’s place among pop royalty.

4. A Toto Touch and Marx’s Mark

“Running with the Night,” one of the album’s standout tracks, features a blistering guitar solo by Steve Lukather of Toto fame. The solo, famously recorded in one take, adds an unexpected edge to the song’s sleek production. Additionally, a young Richard Marx contributed backing vocals on multiple tracks, including “All Night Long (All Night)” and “Running with the Night.” Long before Marx became a hitmaker in his own right, he lent his vocal talent to Richie’s masterpiece, further enhancing its polished sound.

5. The Album That Won the Grammys

In 1985, Can’t Slow Down took home the Grammy Award for Album of the Year, beating out heavyweights like Bruce Springsteen’s Born in the U.S.A. and Prince’s Purple Rain. The win cemented Richie’s status as a pop icon and also showed how it won listeners across generations and musical tastes. It remains one of Motown’s – and Ritchie’s – crowning achievements.

Nearly four decades after its release, Can’t Slow Down continues to captivate audiences with its irresistible melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and boundary-pushing production with the album almost at a Billion streams on Spotify. From the playful rhythms of “All Night Long” to the tender intimacy of “Hello,” Richie’s masterpiece is a reminder of an era when albums told stories and every track was a potential hit. If you’re a fan of music that makes you feel, move, and dream, Can’t Slow Down deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Because, as Lionel Richie proved in 1983, sometimes you really can’t slow down.

5 Surprising Facts About Sabrina Carpenter’s “Short n’ Sweet”

Sabrina Carpenter’s sixth studio album, Short n’ Sweet, is a delectable blend of pop perfection and genre-hopping brilliance. With its August 2024 release, the record didn’t just mark Carpenter’s commercial breakthrough—it cemented her as one of the most dynamic voices in modern pop. From topping the charts globally to earning eight Grammy nominations, Short n’ Sweet is as impactful as it is fun. But behind the platinum-certified hits and arena tours, there’s more to this record than meets the eye. Here are five surprising facts about Short n’ Sweet that will make you appreciate this chart-topping album even more.

1. “Please Please Please” Was a Career-Defining Gamble

The sultry yet introspective Short n’ Sweet standout, “Please Please Please,” could have been a risky move for any artist, let alone one navigating mainstream pop. Co-written with Jack Antonoff and Amy Allen, the song delves into relationship insecurities with yacht rock vibes and a disco twist. Carpenter didn’t just release the track—she doubled down with a cinematic music video starring Barry Keoghan, blending playful storytelling with emotional depth. The risk paid off, as “Please Please Please” became her first Billboard Hot 100 #1 and snagged a Grammy nomination for Song of the Year.

2. The Album Title is a Triple Entendre

At first glance, Short n’ Sweet seems like a nod to Carpenter’s famously petite stature. But there’s more beneath the surface. The title reflects the album’s succinct runtime, clocking in at just over 30 minutes, as well as the emotional brevity of Carpenter’s short-lived yet impactful relationships. It’s a layered metaphor that perfectly encapsulates her ability to turn fleeting moments into unforgettable musical experiences.

3. The Taylor Swift Connection Runs Deep

While Emails I Can’t Send hinted at Taylor Swift’s influence, Short n’ Sweet takes the mentorship to the next level. Carpenter not only opened for Swift on the Eras Tour across three continents but also drew inspiration from Swift’s storytelling prowess. Tracks like “Taste” and “Espresso” weave together intricate narratives with catchy hooks, much like Swift’s earlier work. Swift’s fingerprints are evident in the album’s fusion of vulnerability and empowerment, a balance that has become Carpenter’s signature.

4. “Espresso” Was Born in a French Countryside

Despite being a global hit, “Espresso” has humble beginnings in the serene village of Chailland, France. Recorded at Flow Studios during a short break in Carpenter’s touring schedule, the track was written in a single session and inspired by her newfound confidence. Its funky, disco-infused vibes contrast its introspective lyrics about self-assuredness, making it a fan favorite. The track’s viral success on TikTok and its unforgettable Coachella performance proved Carpenter’s instincts were spot-on.

5. “Taste” Was a Studio Masterclass

Produced by John Ryan, Ian Kirkpatrick, and Julian Bunetta, “Taste” blends genres effortlessly, from slacker rock to country-tinged vocals. Carpenter worked across multiple studios, including Juicy Hill Studios in the Bahamas, to fine-tune this infectious track. Its bold lyrics and sultry vibe were a deliberate move to push boundaries while maintaining a playful edge. The result? A single that debuted at #2 on the Hot 100 and cemented Carpenter’s reputation as a pop innovator.

With its mix of playful energy, emotional depth, and genre-blurring innovation, Short n’ Sweet shows Carpenter’s ability to craft radio-ready hits without compromising artistic integrity proves she’s a force to be reckoned with in pop music. As the Short n’ Sweet Tour rolls through arenas and the Grammys loom on the horizon, one thing is clear: Sabrina Carpenter’s moment is here, and it’s anything but short-lived. Keep this one on repeat, because this “hot older sister” of Emails I Can’t Send is setting the standard for pop excellence.

5 Surprising Facts About Chappell Roan’s “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”

Chappell Roan’s debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, is already carving out its place as one of 2023’s most celebrated records. With its infectious pop hooks, raw emotional storytelling, and unapologetic embrace of queerness, it’s no surprise that critics and fans alike are hailing it as a triumph. But while Roan’s songs have captured the hearts of listeners worldwide, there’s still plenty about this album’s creation and backstory that remains under the radar. Let’s dive into five lesser-known facts about The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess that prove Chappell Roan is an artist like no other.

1. Dan Nigro’s Role Goes Beyond Production
While Dan Nigro has become synonymous with producing pop anthems (see: Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour), his relationship with Roan is more than just producer-artist. He co-wrote multiple tracks, including the breakout single “Hot to Go!” and helped her launch Amusement Records, an imprint under Island Records. Roan is currently the label’s only signed artist, making their collaboration a deeply personal and singular venture.

2. “Pink Pony Club” Almost Didn’t Happen
One of the album’s standout tracks, “Pink Pony Club,” almost never saw the light of day. Roan’s former label, Atlantic Records, delayed its release for over a year, worried that its queer themes and shift in sound would alienate her audience. The song, inspired by a visit to The Abbey in West Hollywood, eventually became a sleeper hit, vindicating Roan’s vision and paving the way for her debut album’s success.

3. A Queer Cheer Song Went Viral
“Hot to Go!” wasn’t just another single—it became a cultural moment. The track, inspired by Roan’s childhood dream of being a cheerleader, features an arm-spelling dance that caught fire on social media. Festival crowds and TikTok creators alike embraced the choreography, turning the song into a norm-defying anthem that celebrated queer joy in the most exuberant way possible.

4. Missouri’s Influence Runs Deep
Although the album explores Roan’s journey of self-discovery in Los Angeles, her Missouri roots are ever-present. Songs like “Pink Pony Club” and “California” reflect her small-town upbringing and the culture shock of transitioning to a city known for its creative freedom. Even the titular “Midwest Princess” moniker serves as a tongue-in-cheek nod to her home state’s identity and the complexities of leaving it behind.

5. A Grammy Nod Cemented Its Legacy
By earning nominations at the 67th Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess has solidified Roan’s place in pop music history. For an artist who faced rejection and self-doubt early in her career, the recognition is a testament to her resilience, talent, and ability to resonate with a wide range of listeners.

From near-misses and viral moments to heartfelt tributes to her roots, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess is as layered and compelling as its creator. Chappell Roan didn’t just make an album—she built a world that’s equal parts confessional and celebratory. As she continues to tour and break new ground, it’s clear that her reign is only just beginning. Keep this one on repeat, because there’s no telling what Roan will dazzle us with next.

AeroBand x Rokid: Redefining Music Experiences with Augmented Reality at CES 2025

AeroBand, a leader in interactive music technology, and Rokid, a pioneer of augmented reality, are set to showcase a groundbreaking collaboration at CES 2025. By combining AeroBand’s smart guitar and PocketDrum with Rokid’s state-of-the-art AR glasses, namely Rokid AR Spatial. The two brands are transforming how users learn, practice, and perform music to the next level.

Rokid has been a trailblazer in AR innovation since 2014, specializing in human interaction with augmented reality and a self-developed YodaOS-Master operation system. Known for their high-performance AR glasses, Rokid provides immersive, user-friendly solutions across industries, from entertainment to education. With this collaboration, Rokid AR Spatial brings a new scenario to AeroBand’s musical products by projecting real-time chord diagrams, drum patterns, and visual effects, creating an engaging and efficient learning experience for users.

At CES 2025, attendees have the chance to witness and experience this groundbreaking innovation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, this immersive integration transforms how you learn, practice, and perform music.

Discover the Groundbreaking AeroBand Guitar

The AeroBand Guitar is designed to redefine smart guitars with its innovative features, offering an exceptional experience for beginners and seasoned players alike:

  • Silicone Strings: Soft and easy-to-press strings with zero string height make chord learning effortless, especially for beginners.
  • All-in-One Design: Integrates a drum loops, microphone, speaker, amplifier, and sound card for versatile music creation and performance.
  • Nine Tone: From acoustic to electric guitar, users can explore nine distinct tones to suit any musical mood or genre.
  • Portable and Lightweight: The detachable design makes the guitar easy to carry and play anywhere.

When paired with Rokid AR Spatial, the AeroBand Guitar becomes even more powerful. Users can view real-time chord positions, receive instant feedback on finger placement, and enjoy enhanced visual effects that make playing more fun and interactive.

PocketDrum: A Compact and Dynamic Drumming Experience

AeroBand’s PocketDrum offers a unique virtual drumming experience. With Rokid AR technology, users can visualize drum patterns in real-time, making practice more intuitive and engaging through dynamic visual guidance.

A Leap Forward for Music and Technology

This partnership represents a bold step for the music education and entertainment industries. By combining AeroBand’s innovative instruments with Rokid’s advanced AR technology, this experience offers:

  • Faster Learning: Real-time chord and drum pattern visualizations make practice easier and more effective.
  • Immersive Performance: Dynamic AR effects elevate the music-playing experience to a new level.
  • Seamless Interaction: Real-time feedback and augmented visuals create a captivating and enjoyable user experience.

AeroBand and Rokid share a vision to combine creativity and technology, delivering innovative experiences that set a new benchmark for immersive music. They aim to inspire and engage global audiences by bridging the gap between music and augmented reality.

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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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