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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 China, Japan, 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.

Karaoke Market to Grow $450.8M by 2028, Driven by Music Leisure And AI Trends

Technavio has announced its latest market research report titled Global Karaoke Market 2024-2028

The global karaoke market size is estimated to grow by USD 450.8 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  4.51%  during the forecast period. Growing popularity of music-related leisure activities is driving market growth, with a trend towards integration of advanced technologies with online streaming services. However, increasing adoption of virtual musical instruments and music production software  poses a challenge. Key market players include Acoosta, Audio Video Solutions Corp., DAIICHIKOSHO CO. LTD., Digital Products International Inc., inMusic Brands Inc., JIANGMEN BOWAY SOUND EQUIPMENT CO. LTD., Karaoke USA, Karavision, Persang Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., pTron, Pure Acoustics Inc., Rockville., Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., The Singing Machine Co. Inc., TJ Media Co. Ltd., VOCOPRO, Whitesquare, Xiaomi Communications Co. Ltd., XING INC., and ZOOOK.

The karaoke market is experiencing significant growth due to advancements in technology. AI technology enhances video quality and streaming, supporting aspects of video production for service providers like cinematography and editing. Popular streaming platforms, such as Hulu and YouTube, drive the use of AI technology. Additionally, blockchain technology has the potential to decentralize the karaoke industry, enabling artists and consumers to connect directly, distributing content and allowing users to access music anytime, anywhere. Amazon Personalize is an example of AI technology used in OTT services to create customer recommendations and provide demographic information. The implementation of blockchain technology is still in its early stages but is expected to positively impact the growth of the karaoke market.

The karaoke market is currently experiencing significant growth, with microphones, speakers, and screens in high demand. Micropohones and screens are key components of karaoke systems, allowing users to sing along to their favorite songs. Brands offer various features such as Bluetooth connectivity, long battery life, and high-quality sound. Movingsystems and consoles are also popular, providing a more experience for users. The trend towards remote entertainment has boosted sales, with many people purchasing karaoke systems for home use. Additionally, the rise of social media platforms has led to an increase in virtual karaoke parties, further fueling demand. Overall, the karaoke market is thriving, with various brands offering innovative products to meet the needs of consumers.

The adoption of virtual musical activities and music production software has risen significantly in developed economies, replacing traditional physical instruments for composers. Apple, a leading laptop manufacturer, offers GarageBand software with a comprehensive music creation studio and sound library. Virtual instruments and production software are cost-effective alternatives to traditional karaoke machines. Laptop brands’ marketing campaigns and mobile applications expand the audience for audio systems, potentially impacting the karaoke market growth.

In the karaoke market, digital technology has brought significant changes. Consumers now expect convenient and versatile solutions. One challenge is ensuring compatibility with various devices and music formats. Another is providing a wide selection of songs to cater to diverse preferences. Additionally, implementing user-friendly interfaces and seamless connectivity is crucial. Furthermore, ensuring secure and reliable data storage is essential. Lastly, keeping up with the latest trends and integrating new features is a continuous effort. Overcoming these challenges requires a combination of technical expertise, customer understanding, and innovation.

The karaoke market, originating from bars, offers a platform for individuals to sing their preferred songs to an engaged audience. Karaoke establishments vary from open bars to private rooms. Regardless, they provide the necessary music and lyrics, enabling singers to concentrate on their performance. The market’s expansion is attributed to the rising number of nightclubs and restaurants offering karaoke. For instance, LaLa Pocha, a Korean restaurant in the US, recently opened with two rentable private karaoke rooms. Music enthusiasts find karaoke appealing, fueling the market’s growth. In countries like China, Japan, and India, karaoke is popular in clubs, restaurants, and business events. Businesses must secure permission from music composers to play copyrighted music, typically obtained through a blanket license. The expanding use of karaoke in bars and restaurants is projected to boost the market’s growth during the forecast period.

The Karaoke market is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing popularity of digital platforms for home entertainment. Wireless connectivity and voice recognition are becoming standard features in modern karaoke systems, enabling users to easily access song libraries from online streaming services. Artificial intelligence and interactive interfaces are also being integrated into karaoke equipment, providing more engaging and personalized experiences. Smart devices, such as miniature microphones and audio accessories, are making it easier than ever to set up and use karaoke systems in bars, restaurants, pubs, and at home. Karaoke competitions continue to draw crowds, with digital karaoke systems offering advanced features like instrumental versions, lyrics display, and video screens with moving symbols. The market for karaoke equipment is diverse, with Sybersound and Party Tyme Karaoke being just a few examples of the high-tech offerings available.

The Karaoke market is a thriving industry that offers entertainment solutions for individuals and groups. It caters to various demographics, from homes to professional events. The market comprises a diverse range of products and services, including hardware such as karaoke machines, microphones, and speakers, as well as software like karaoke apps and streaming platforms. Additionally, there are various content providers offering a vast library of songs in multiple languages. The market is driven by technological advancements, increasing demand for interactive entertainment, and the growing popularity of virtual events. Consumers can choose from wired and wireless systems, portable and home use options, and even smartphone apps for on-the-go karaoke sessions. The market is expected to continue growing, offering exciting opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.

47% Growth Of Music Streaming Market To Originate From North America

The global music streaming market size is estimated to grow by USD 49.63 Billion from 2024 to 2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of over 19.99% during the forecast period.

North America is estimated to contribute 47%. To the growth of the global market. The Music Streaming Market report forecasts market growth by revenue at global, regional & country levels from 2017 to 2027.  The music streaming market is experiencing significant advancements with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies. AI features, such as personalized recommendations, are now prime membership benefits for many streaming services. Unauthorized music streaming remains a challenge, but OTT platforms are addressing this issue through partnerships with record labels and rights holders. Live videos are a growing trend, with YouTube Live and Facebook Periscope leading the way. The music industry is witnessing a shift from traditional audio segment to a more diverse video segment. Consumers can now enjoy live streaming, rewind, fastforward, and pause features on application-based and web-based platforms. Revenue channels include non-subscription and subscription models for individual and commercial use. Interactive and social features, such as collaborative playlists, are driving engagement and global expansion. Cloud-based infrastructure enables high-fidelity and lossless streaming, enhancing the user experience. AI-driven personalization and live audio are the future of music streaming, with virtual concerts offering experiences for consumers.

The music streaming market is a significant business sector, with numerous companies offering subscriptions for on-demand access to millions of songs. These services generate revenue through monthly or annual subscriptions, providing consumers with convenience and flexibility. Major players like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Prime Music compete for market share, offering various features such as personalized playlists and offline listening. This market continues to grow, attracting both music industry giants and tech companies.

The free music streaming segment is expected to experience moderate growth in the music streaming market during the forecast period. Free music streaming is an advertising-supported service where vendors generate revenue by displaying ads during music play or when users make in-spot purchases. Leading global providers like Spotify and Alphabet offer free streaming services with limited music access and intermittent ads. For instance, Spotify’s free users can access 750 songs, while Alphabet provides up to 50,000 songs with some ads. The free segment’s growth is attributed to its widespread popularity and accessibility, making it a significant driver for the global music streaming market’s expansion.

Music streaming services have revolutionized the way consumers access and enjoy their favorite tunes, podcasts, and even live performances. With the rise of smart devices, music streams can now be accessed on-demand through websites and mobile apps, making music more convenient than ever before. Music videos and audio files can be streamed in high quality, with some services offering benefits like 5G connectivity for faster streams and downloads. 5G technology and 4G technology have made it possible for consumers to enjoy uninterrupted music streams, even on-the-go. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) have also made their way into music streaming, with features like personalized playlists and song recommendations based on listening history. Prime membership benefits, live videos, and social media websites like YouTube Live and Facebook Periscope have added to the music streaming experience. The music industry has embraced Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, with individual segments like restaurants, cafeterias, salons, and gyms adopting cloud-based infrastructure for their music needs. However, unauthorized music streaming remains a concern, with consumers turning to piracy sites and apps to access copyrighted content. Rewind features and live streaming capabilities have added to the appeal of music streaming services, making them an essential part of modern entertainment.

Music streaming market is a dynamic and rapidly growing industry, driven by the proliferation of digital platforms and smart devices. Music streaming services, available as websites and application-based platforms, offer consumers on-demand access to music videos, podcasts, audio files, and live streams. Advancements in technologies like 5G connectivity and AI/ML enable high-quality music streams and personalized recommendations. Consumers can rewind, fastforward, pause, and interact with social features like collaborative playlists and live streaming. Revenue channels include non-subscription and subscription models for individual and commercial use. Unauthorized music streaming remains a challenge, while live videos, social media websites, and OTT platforms offer new opportunities. The music industry is transforming, with the audio and video segments experiencing significant growth. Cloud-based infrastructure, AI-driven personalization, and virtual concerts are shaping the future of music streaming. Smart devices, from smart speakers to alarms and voice commands, are making music streaming more accessible and convenient. Global expansion and localization are key trends, with social sharing and collaborative playlists enhancing the user experience.

Alessia Cara Teams Up with Lenovo and Intel for “Made By” Campaign

Photo Credit: Alex Loucas

In their sixth year of collaborating with globally-renowned artists to bring their creative visions to life, Lenovo, Intel, and Universal Music Group For Brands (UMGB), announced a new partnership with singer/songwriter and GRAMMY Award-winning artist Alessia Cara. This collaboration is anchored in Lenovo’s “Made By” campaign, positioning Alessia as the inspiration for a multi-faceted experience that celebrates the intersection of music, creativity, and technology. The campaign is a testament to the anticipation of Alessia’s fourth studio album, Love & Hyperbole, set to release on February 14, 2025. The new record showcases her evolution as a powerhouse vocalist and empathetic songwriter.

At the core of this partnership is the creation of a visually stunning album trailer and accompanying miniseries designed through collaboration between Alessia, her creative team, and some of today’s most influential creatives across production, styling, design, and world building. Directors Dario Caracciolo and Gordy De St. Jeor are adapting the album into a visual trailer experience while celebrity stylist Christian Stroble delivers the wardrobe aesthetic. Visual Artists and Content Creators Maris Jones and Gaia Alari are lending their unique creative talents to build custom graphics and set design key scenes for the trailer. All creatives involved in the production will utilize the Lenovo Slim 7i Aura Edition and other Lenovo Yoga devices to bring their artistic visions to life. Beyond the influential creatives, all members of the creative and production teams, from storyboarding to creating captivating graphics, will utilize Lenovo’s laptops with Intel Core Ultra processors to empower and elevate each phase of the creative process.

“It’s been over a three year journey and I’m so happy that Love & Hyperbole will finally get to float around in the universe,” said Cara. “What we are creating with this trailer is a testament to Lenovo and Intel’s innovative technology and a talented creative team who worked so hard to bring the world I’ve been creating to life. We had a ton of fun making this. I hope my listeners love these visual stories as much as I do.”

Since catapulting to stardom with quintessential loner anthem “Here” in 2015, the singer/songwriter has matured alongside her audience, capturing the highs and lows of adolescence and young adulthood with camera-like clarity. In many ways, Cara’s new era is a snapshot of an artist finally processing her meteoric rise in the music industry. The Grammy winner’s debut single, “Here,” peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and went on to sell three million copies. Her platinum-selling debut album, Know-It-All, delivered another smash hit with “Scars to Your Beautiful” and she memorably contributed “How Far I’ll Go” to the Moana soundtrack. She then added further platinum plaques to her collection with “Stay,” a dizzying club collaboration with Zedd, and an unforgettable feature on Logic’s “1-800-273-8255.” The Brampton, Ontario, native returned in 2018 with The Pains of Growing, which won a Juno Award for Best Album and Songwriter of the Year cemented Cara as one of her generation’s foremost singer/songwriters. Her last album, In The Meantime, that featured hit singles “Best Days” and “Sweet Dream.” The album was met with critical acclaim from Pitchfork, Billboard, Rolling Stone, with The New York Times calling it “Incisive and introspective as ever. Cara continues to position herself as both pop star and therapist.”

The “Made By Alessia Cara” campaign will feature a three-part episodic series that documents the creative journey behind the development of the album trailer, capturing how Lenovo and Intel support and inspire Alessia’s vision. Throughout these episodes, fans will get an exclusive look into the creative process, how Lenovo’s laptops and Intel Core Ultra processors amplify collaboration and creativity for Alessia and her team and emphasize the integral roles of Maris Jones and Gaia Esther Maria in shaping the project’s artistic direction.

“At Lenovo, we are always seeking ways to showcase the interconnectedness of creativity and technology across our partners and products,” said Milo Speranzo, Chief Marketing Officer, Lenovo North America. “The ‘Made By Alessia Cara‘ partnership offers fans an exclusive look into her latest album while highlighting the creators and tech that brought it to life.”

“With technology as our canvas, Intel is pushing the boundaries of creativity and collaboration to enhance the human experience,” said Asma Aziz, America’s Marketing Director at Intel. “AI empowers us to amplify imagination and innovation, proving that when applied in amazing partnerships such as this one with Lenovo, technology has limitless potential to inspire and connect.”

“Universal Music Group for Brands, Lenovo, and Intel have continued to collaborate on campaigns that highlight the transformative role of technology in shaping the music industry,” said Richard Yaffa, EVP of Universal Music Group For Brands. “The ‘Made By Alessia Cara‘ campaign is another example of how we think beyond the conventional to provide artists with the tools to bring their creative visions to life. By partnering with Alessia on this campaign and utilizing Lenovo and Intel’s innovative technology, we’re all able to enhance the storytelling of her newest album and inspire audiences to see the possibilities when imagination is empowered by technology.”

In addition, Lenovo, Intel, and Alessia will host an exclusive album underplay event for fans in early February 2025. This event will feature a live performance by Alessia accompanied by interactive projection mapping and other immersive elements, all designed to highlight the synergy between music, art, and Lenovo and Intel’s cutting-edge technology.

The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Aura Edition and additional Lenovo Yoga products used in the campaign exemplify Lenovo’s ongoing commitment to empowering creativity through technology. Enabled by Intel Core Ultra processors, Lenovo Aura Edition devices were imagined and co-engineered with Intel to deploy premium experiences like Smart Modes, Smart Share, and Smart Care to provide creators like Alessia with the tools they need to fully immerse themselves in the creative process. Paired together, Lenovo’s laptops and Intel’s processors seamlessly combine productivity with an intuitive user experience that supports and elevates creative output.

Fans can anticipate the release of Alessia Cara’s official album trailer and the episodic series in January 2025, followed by the highly anticipated album Love & Hyperbole on February 14, 2025. Head to lenovo.com/yoga soon for more information on the partnership.

 

Cirque du Soleil Debuts ‘Auana, Its First-Ever Resident Show in Hawai’i

Cirque du Soleil premiered ‘Auana, its groundbreaking first resident production in Hawai’i, to a sold-out audience at the OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel on Tuesday, December 17. A dazzling homage to Hawai’i’s heritage and Cirque’s iconic artistry, the show combines breathtaking acrobatics, multimedia projections, and mo’olelo (stories) inspired by the islands’ rich culture. Performances run Wednesday through Sunday at 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., exclusively at the OUTRIGGER Theater.

This monumental occasion was marked by a star-studded red-carpet event, where celebrities, cultural icons, and community leaders including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, James Beard Award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi, and Olympic gold medalist surfer Carissa Moore gathered to honor this innovative fusion of art and storytelling from the internationally renowned entertainment brand. The evening underscored the seamless synergy between Cirque du Soleil’s creative vision and OUTRIGGER’s deep-rooted commitment to preserving and sharing the aloha spirit.

“I thought the show was brilliant, the performers were amazing, but what I really loved is that our Polynesian culture is at the forefront of something that pierces cultures like Cirque du Soleil,” said Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson. “I think it’s rare when you have something that can span from beautiful storytelling, culture, song, comedy, humor – I loved it.”

Rooted in Hawaiian history and mythology, ‘Auana takes audiences through eight visually stunning chapters with vivid, dreamlike scenes and daring acrobatic portrayals. The world premiere performance provided a transcendent experience for all in attendance, fusing traditional Hawaiian language, song and hula with rousing theatrics and acrobatic ability.

“We’re bringing together a generation that is no longer apologetic about who we are. We stand in our ‘ōlelo, we stand in our culture and we allow that culture to be in the firmament,” said Dr. Aaron J. Salā, cultural creative producer. “We’re not seeking opportunities to find culture. It is in us. If we find opportunities to tell our stories using platforms like Cirque du Soleil that catapult our work to the mainstream, I feel very simply but very firmly that Hawai’i can change the world.”

Tickets for ‘Auana are available at www.cirquedusoleil.com/hawaii for performances starting at $85 inclusive of taxes and fees. Also available is the ‘Auana VIP Experience—a premium add-on for ticket holders. This exclusive package includes a 90-minute reception in a private open-air lounge at Maui Brewing Company Waikīkī, featuring a curated menu of Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine, ‘Auana-inspired cocktails and Maui Brewing’s locally-crafted beverages. VIP guests will also enjoy the unique opportunity to meet ‘Auana cast members, take photos and view exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

JUNO Award Winner Sammy Jackson Shines with New Single “Home Sweet Home” from Captivating Album ‘In The Meantime’

Some music is meant for certain times and occasions, but others can transport you to those lazy Sunday mornings, reflective afternoons, or cozy evenings with a loved one. For St. Catharines, Ontario-based jazz singer Sammy Jackson, those feelings and emotions are pieced together in her complex but incredibly captivating new album In The Meantime, the follow-up to her 2021 Juno Award-winning album With You. It’s a seven-song collection led by the stunning “Home Sweet Home,” a song epitomizing the album’s style: extremely rewarding and innovative while almost effortlessly pushing the boundaries of jazz with subtle but succulent pop hues.

“In The Meantime is a collection of songs written between 2020 and 2022 focusing on personal experiences and feelings,” Jackson says. “The music on this album is a continuation of my last album With You, touching on topics about love and relationships but now exploring the complexities of marriage, family life, and motherhood.”

Produced by Jackson and Jon Bartel (who also recorded and mixed the album with assistance by Kevin Fallis), In The Meantime is a brilliant blend of Jackson’s delicate but deeply soothing vocals and a group of musicians playing to her strengths perfectly. This is exemplified on “Home Sweet Home,” which begins with the chirping of birds and wind chimes before Jackson builds the song with earnest lyrics and an arrangement that mirrors life with its elegant ebbs and flows. Think of Joni Mitchell or Carole King with a jazz-oriented motif, and Jackson’s lovable, listenable approach emerges.

“‘Home Sweet Home’ is about the intimate moments of everyday life as a family that grounds me in the midst of chaos,” Jackson says of the song she co-wrote with
Barbra Lica and Danielle Knibbe. “This song sincerely captures this season of life that I’m currently in. I’m a mother of two boys – a three-and-a-half-year-old named Chuck and a three-month-old named Cruz. I sometimes find it difficult navigating marriage, motherhood, and a career as a musician. But at the end of the day, my family is what matters the most to me.”

Her family would approve of both “Home Sweet Home” and the other six gems included on In The Meantime. “Through To You,” one of four co-written by Jackson and Jacqueline Teh (“Turn Away,” “Honey” and “Sunday In The Park”), showcases her subtle but stylish pop sensibilities, bringing to mind the likes of Alicia Keys or Natalie Merchant. Backed by guitarist Thomas Fleming, pianist and synthesizer guru Chris Pruden, bassist Mark Godfrey, and drummer Ian Wright, the track is anything but cookie-cutter but sinfully sweet. The ensemble set the tone with the opening “Turn Away,” which has a dreamy quality as the music builds and then simmers throughout.

Aside from the closing “Chucky” (featuring James Hill on synthesizer and, along with “See You,” co-written by Jackson and James Bryan McCollum), another great track is “Sunday In The Park.” Here Jackson allows the music to set the tone before her light, airy delivery brings the song’s grace and elegance to the forefront. It’s a gorgeous, urbane jewel that saunters along, going on a sonic journey that is as serene as any lovely, carefree Sunday should be.

Recorded at Toronto’s Revolution Recording and mastered by Joao Carvalho, In The Meantime is the latest offering from Jackson, who honed her skills at talent competitions, concerts, and appearing in musicals in her teen years. A Jamaican-Canadian, Jackson studied under Sienna Dahlen and classical soprano Patricia O’Callaghan and earned two degrees from the University of Toronto, including a Bachelor of Music in Performance in Jazz Voice. In 2016, while completing her Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Spanish, Jackson released her debut EP entitled Take Me Back. Subsequent releases include the Juno Award-winning EP With You while 2023 and 2024 saw the release of singles “Honey” and “Sunday In The Park,” respectively.

Jackson has worked with a wide array of artists including Rich Brown, James Bryan, Barbra Lica, and Larnell Lewis. She has also performed at the TD Toronto Jazz Festival and the Festival International de Jazz de Montreal, among others. And she’s performed at a myriad of venues including Toronto’s Koerner Hall, the Glenn Gould Studio, Hamilton’s Rock Garden and the Flato Markham Theatre.

Now with In The Meantime ready for eager national and international audiences, Sammy Jackson is on the cusp of even greater achievements thanks to her music, which is sensual and substantive.

Blues Powerhouse Sarah Sokal Debuts Bold Single “Man Made” from New Album ‘Twisted Games’

After veering from the adult contemporary and pop worlds, Montreal blues singer Sarah Sokal is bringing a sensational and powerful new album Twisted Games to listeners led by a delectable, brawny single “Man Made.” It’s a beefy, bluesy, party-starting track that showcases Sokal’s alluring and alarmingly strong pipes, keeping the blues alive by bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, drawing in a younger audience who appreciate both timeless blues and the appeal of mainstream music.

“Man Made,” co-written by Sokal and Stewart McKie and produced by DUBë (who also mixed, recorded, and engineered the song), brings to mind the likes of classic Amy Winehouse and the late Sharon Jones with its feel-good, uplifting tempo and confident, self-assured arrangement. Keyboardist Dave Lines complements Sokal’s introductory verse before guitarist Andy Dacoulis, bassist Dray Woods, and drummer Jean Nadeau flesh the “Man Made” to perfection. It’s a track that almost out-Dap-Kings Jones’ iconic backing group.

“I feel like being a woman in the industry calls for having a male sherpa to climb up!” Sokal says. “I have always been accompanied by a chosen male advisor/protector. I would love to experience being more surrounded by women creatives in the future, but it wasn’t in my cards that much so far.”

Sokal, who cites Beth Hart and Susan Tedeschi as influences along with icons such as Peggy Lee, Etta James and Dinah Washington, grew up listening to rock and rhythm and blues in her teens. That blues passion resurfaced and solidified after meeting producer Marc Dube for a coffee in Montreal a few years ago. “I had two songs written, and I had a strong desire to record a full blues album destined to be a vengeance album, turning the ugly I’ve experienced through my journey in the industry into something beautiful and empowering,” she says.

“Man Made” is from Sokal’s Twisted Games album, a 13-track release whose origins began during the pandemic and faced challenges with social distancing during the recording process. Wanting to put her own stamp on the record, Sokal found the freedom to “express myself better” with this record and developing her artistic identity and sound. She also says the creative process is what fuels her passion. “It is never fully conscious decisions; I just go along with my instincts,” Sokal says. “I like to paint and write songs without a plan or a proper canvas. That’s where the pure and true energy feeds my imagination.”

Sokal has had an illustrious career thus far. Writing her first song at age five (entitled “Pourquoi”), the musician professionally recorded her first song “I’m Lost” when she was just 15. From there she performed as a teenager in various hotels around Montreal and Quebec before forming The Sarah Sokal Band. Her group performed at various private functions, corporate events, and fundraisers, showcasing a musical mix of pop, adult contemporary, and blues. She is also a vocal coach and has worked with a variety of Juno Award-nominated and Juno Award-winning artists.

Sokal’s previous releases include EPs entitled Ink and Paper, the five-song effort Your Song and Broken Promises. The singer, who recently performed at Montreal’s Sutton en Blues Festival, was also a runner-up in the International Songwriting Contest’s Song of the Year category.

Now with “Man Made” sure to make airwaves internationally, Sarah Sokal will be performing at Montreal’s La Marche A Cote on Dec. 28. It’s the first single in a new chapter of her career that should see her rise to new heights. “They said I look like Adele, I have the accent of Celine and the face of Stevie Nicks,” Sokal quips. “I think I can live with that for a while.” Using “Man Made” as a yardstick, we can certainly live with Sarah Sokal for years to come.

Curbside Concerts Add Tracy Posadowski And Tom Yeates As Business Continues To Expand Across Canada And Beyond

Curbside Concerts, the Canadian-based business who’ve grown successfully in its first four years of operations, are proud to announce Tracy Posadowski and Tom Yeates have joined their team as managing directors of sales and marketing. The company looks to both experienced and highly successful entrepreneurs to deepen Canadian expansion, enter the American marketplace, and explore new and innovative business verticals to bring music to.

“We started, scaled and sold our own Fintech business in 2021 after successfully entering the market in over 15 countries,” Posadowksi says. “Since then, we work exclusively with startups and scaling companies to set their go-to-market strategy and help them execute against their business goals. We are delighted to be part of the Curbside team.”

Posadowski co-founded ATTCo Global Services, a leading UK-based business to business, software-as-a-service company which was later acquired by TD Synnex. She was later hired as the first marketing hire in two startups, positioning them to secure over $120 million USD in secure funding. Meanwhile Yeates founded ATTCo Global Services and has held revenue responsibilities ranging from $250,000 USD to over $3 billion USD annually, leading teams from as few as five to over 300 to achieve both company and employee success.

The additions are the exclamation point on what has been an excellent 2024 for Curbside Concerts, who work with hundreds of musicians nationally to produce thousands of events whether in person or through virtual concerts. Earlier in the summer, the company paid its millionth dollar to artists who performed Curbside gigs. Artists can rest assured they’ll be paid their full invoice amount on the Friday after the concert was performed. As well, Curbside Concerts carries insurance so artists, regardless of where or what venue they perform in, are insured.

In July 2024, Curbside Concerts established operations in Atlantic Canada by establishing operations in Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. The Nova Scotia operations is at the Halifax Shopping Centre while Newfoundland’s operations are situated at the Avalon Mall in St. John’s. The new locations gives Curbside Concerts operations in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland. Meanwhile, they work with artists and bands in various regions of the country to provide opportunities for performing.

The following month, Curbside Concerts celebrated its first international performance in Busan, South Korea. Champion Blackfoot Fancy dancer Craig First Rider performed at the International Geological Congress held in the bustling South Korean city after being invited by the University of Calgary to perform over three days.

Curbside Concerts was founded by Matt and Amanda Burgener as a way, at the time, for struggling musicians to earn a living during the devastating global pandemic by playing outside in people’s yards or on their curbs in front of their homes. Since then, Curbside Concerts has been featured in media outlets such as CBC News, Forbes and the Calgary Herald among others. And they’ve collaborated with a host of groups ranging from the City of Calgary to Manitoba’s Harvest Moon Festival and Harvest Sun Festival.

Punch the Camel Delivers Bittersweet Truths on Catchy Alt-Pop Anthem “Lie to Me”

We’d all like to live in a pleasant self-deception from time to time. And it’s even better when we can get someone else to do the heavy lifting. That’s the philosophy behind “Lie to Me,” on which Ontario alt-popper Punch the Camel revisits a relationship he now knows was just a mirage—but one that still beckons him just the same.

“What if I called you and said that I wanted you again?” he wonders. “Is it hopeless, or would you just try to break my heart again?” Hmmm … sounds like a bit of a no-win scenario either way the coin falls. But only if one insists on living in reality, which may not be an absolute deal-breaker here:

“I liked it better when you lie to me,” he admits.

Emotional ambivalence is no foreign concept to Dylan Tykolis, the gifted singer-songwriter-instrumentalist who is Punch the Camel. His music thrives on lyrical and stylistic friction, following an overarching goal to craft melodic sing-alongs from sentiments with darker undertones. There’s no better example than “Lie to Me,” which weds propulsive and upbeat (almost rollicking) music to fatalistic romantic lyrics in way that hasn’t been done this effectively since the ’90s heyday of anthemic defeatism. (Think Sponge and Duncan Sheik in a blender, with a bit of Puddle of Mudd to the vocal.)

And it’s road-tested, too. “Lie to Me” is the spotlight track from the debut Punch the Camel album, all seven songs of which were honed carefully at open mics over the course of five years. Tykolis had a repertoire of about 40 originals to choose from when he began recording, ensuring that only the absolute cream of the crop would get laid down before being sent off to Montreal for Glenn Robinson to mix (and finally to Los Angeles to be mastered by the great Howie Weinberg).

And if that sounds like a painstaking process, well, Tykolis has had to learn a thing or two about perseverance. His personal history includes a crippling opioid addiction, a lengthy stay in rehab and the concurrent collapse of supposedly loving relationship. In the process, he’s relocated from his hometown of Fort Erie to Montreal to Niagara Falls to Toronto and now back home again. Through it all, he’s kept learning and growing, refining his unique take on the world and the musical skills that enable him to share it with such a … well, punch.

Expect plenty more in 2025, as he continues to write, record and release world-class material that uses the sweetest pop to carry the bitter sting of truth. No lies detected.

Folk Artist Svavar Knútur Shines with “While The World Burns” and “November” From ‘Ahoy! Side B’ Album

Amid sadness and despair, there can be light and happiness. But managing to capture both of those moods in the span of a few minutes of a song is challenging to say the least. Icelandic indie folk singer Svavar Knútur has managed to create a beautiful dichotomy of range and emotions with a Double-A side release: the hauntingly aching “While The World Burns (Repainted)” and the gear-changing, adventurous “November,” both from Ahoy! Side B and also found on his double-album Ahoy!

Knútur creates a truly stunning cinematic masterpiece during “While The World Burns (Repainted).” Its cinematic feel musically is only outdone by the duet Knútur has with Norwegian vocalist (and actor) Helene Bøksle. The track instantly brings to mind The Swell Season, the tandem of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová who earned an Academy Award for Best Song for “Falling Slowly” from the motion picture Once. Ironically, the original version of “While The World Burns” was issued back in 2012 on his album Ölduslóð (Way of Waves) with Knútur and Irglová performing a duet on the song.

As stunning as “While The World Burns (Repainted)” is, Knútur is at his creative best on “November.” The song, written by Knútur, initially recalls the iconic Nick Drake for its sparseness, relying on Knútur’s voice and acoustic guitar work as strings emerge off in the distance. About two minutes in, things take a musical detour with the pace picking up and an urgency beginning to surface. Here, the song blooms into a gorgeous, head-bobbing, pop-driven effort, bringing to mind groups such as The War On Drugs or Frightened Rabbit.

“A love song to a month much maligned, ‘November’ conjures a portrait of a dark and melancholic but also stormy and transformative month,” the artist says of the song. “The longing for summers past, but also the inescapable trajectory into the strange beauty of midwinter, ending with the embracing of the turning wheel of time.”

A lyric video for “November” was also released in October, showing a majestic landscape that moves through the seasons, from snowy roads in the winter months to the golden sunsets in the summer. Knútur’s face is transposed on the images of snow on branches and Iceland’s rugged but mesmerizing terrain also displayed.

“While The World Burns (Repainted),” written, composed, and produced by Knútur, features him on vocals, piano and guitar alongside Bøksle on vocals. Fleshing out the rich arrangement is Örn Ýmir Arason on bass and synthesizers, Bassi Olafsson on percussion, cellist Unnur Helgadóttir, Karl James Pestka on viola and Sigrún Kristín Jónasdóttir on violin. Arason, Helgadóttir, Pestka and Jónasdóttir play the same instruments on “November,” also written by Knútur but produced by Olafsson (who plays drums and percussion on the track). For “November” Knútur is on vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar and synthesizers while pianist and keyboardist Stefán Örn Gunnlaugsson also appears.

Both double-A singles are from Ahoy! Side B, “the final chapter of a fifteen year-long project exploring the world of grief” which follows the release of Ahoy! Side A back in 2018, the latter earning him two Icelandic Music Awards for Best Album and Singer of the Year. The two offerings were thus combined earlier in 2024 into Ahoy!, providing closure to the project while “serving as an independent story.”

Knútur says the album, which features five songs reworked or “repainted” from earlier releases, isn’t quite as gloomy as some might anticipate. “Contrary to common expectations, the story is not as dark as some people might think, as the journey through grief is also a journey of discovery of light, love, beauty, gratitude, and purpose.”

Knútur recorded the album in Iceland with help from a bevy of national and international musicians (including singer Irish Mythen) who sent their pieces via files for him to piece together. Although using various locations to record in Iceland, Knútur used his friend’s studios and his own living room for most of the recording sessions featuring songs ranging from minimal instrumentation to lush, orchestral flavorings.

“While The World Burns (Repainted)” and “November” are the latest offerings in a fine career for Knútur who calls the northern city of Akureyri, Iceland home (a roughly five-hour drive northeast of Reykjavik). Full-length albums include 2009’s Kvöldvaka (Songs by the Fire), 2010’s Amma (Songs for my Grandmother), 2012’s Ölduslóð (Way of Waves) and 2015’s Brot (The Breaking). Meanwhile EP releases include 2015’s Songs of Weltschmerz, Waldeinsamkeit and Wanderlust and 2020’s Bil/Between. His influences range from Nick Drake, Will Oldham, and the late Kris Kristofferson to the late Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, and Nick Cave, among others.

Although primarily performing in Europe as he prefers to travel almost exclusively by train, Knútur will play Montreal in February 2025 as part of Folk Alliance International. It’s proof his music is reaching both sides of the Atlantic and beyond. Now with the delicate but divine “While The World Burns (Repainted)” and the pop-friendly and thrilling “November” on everyone’s radar, look for Svavar Knútur to continue making timeless, thoughtful, and terrific music.

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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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