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Fred Again.. Announces The “Places We’ve Never Been Tour”

Fred again.. has announced an eagerly awaited series of North American headline dates.  The “places we’ve never been tour” gets underway September 11 at Denver, CO’s Ball Arena and then travels through an October 13 date at Fort Worth, TX’s Dickies Arena. Fred shared a note to fans via his Instagram HERE.

Artist presale signups are available now through Thursday, August 8 – signup HERE. Artist presales begin Thursday, August 8 at 12pm local time. All presales end Thursday, August 8 at 10pm local time. General on-sales start Friday, August 9 at 12pm local time. For complete details and ticket information, please visit www.fredagain.com/#tour.

The “places we’ve never been to tour” continues a busy summer for Fred, following his first stadium show at the sold-out Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, a sold-out double bill with Skrillex at San Francisco’s Civic Center Plaza and three sold-out nights at Stanford’s Frost Amphitheater. His seemingly non-stop live schedule continues through the next month with top-billed festival performances in Europe and the UK including such famed events as Hasselt, Belgium’s Pukkelpop (August 16), Biddinghuizen, The Netherlands’ Lowlands (August 17), Saint-Cloud, France’s Rock en Seine (August 23), and the UK’s Reading and Leeds Festivals (August 24 and 25). The upcoming run follows sold-out headline dates, pop-up shows, and festival appearances across Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, and the US.

The “places we’ve never been tour” announcement arrived alongside the announcement of ten days, Fred’s highly anticipated album arriving September 6 – pre-order HERE. Comprised of 10 tracks (and 10 corresponding interludes) including “adore you” ft. Obongjayar and recent drops “ten” with  Jozzy & Jim Legxacy and “places to be” alongside Anderson .Paak & CHIKA. Fred has also just released a Rooftop Live mix, recorded and filmed in front of close friends and family in London last summer – watch it HERE.

Additional Ticket Information: To help fans get tickets at the original prices set by the tour and limit professional reseller activity, the tour will use Ticketmaster’s Face Value Exchange for resale. If needed, fans will be able to use the Exchange to resell tickets to other fans at the original price paid. Tickets will be mobile only and restricted from transfer. This applies to all shows except those in Colorado, New York, and Utah where Face Value Exchange cannot be mandated.

FRED AGAIN..
“places we’ve never been tour” 2024
SEPTEMBER
11 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena
12 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena
15 – Salt Lake City, UT – Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre
18 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
19 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
25 – Minneapolis, MN – Target Center
28 – East Troy, WI – Alpine Valley Music Theatre
29 – East Troy, WI – Alpine Valley Music Theatre
OCTOBER
1 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena
3 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
4 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
7 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center
9 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
13 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena

Kamran & Hooman Announce The Evolution Tour

Today, Iranian musical duo Kamran & Hooman have announced their 2024 outing – The Evolution Tour – hitting cities across North America. Produced by Live Nation, the 13-show tour kicks off on November 1 at MTELUS in Montreal and continues with stops in D.C, Chicago, Brooklyn, Toronto and more before wrapping up in Vancouver at Queen Elizabeth Theatre on February 28.

Originally hailing from Iran and now based in Los Angeles, Kamran & Hooman have carved out a legacy as the highest-selling Persian artists in history, boasting an astounding 10 million units sold of their 2005 album ’20’ within its first year. Their journey began as teenagers in Canada, where they cultivated a multifaceted approach to music, delving into production, composition, direction, and stagecraft.

“What we’re most proud of in the past two decades is our fusion of Western and Middle Eastern influences, crafting a distinctive identity that injects a modern flair into this culturally rich genre.” – Hooman*

Their ability to seamlessly blend Persian and Western musical elements has earned them a devoted global fanbase, with over 2.5 million monthly listeners eagerly anticipating each new release. Kamran & Hooman’s impact extends beyond music charts; they have been pioneers in bridging cultural divides and inspiring a new wave of cross-genre collaborations.

“We immerse ourselves in every aspect of our craft, from conceptualizing songs to the electrifying live productions. Sharing our new era with the world is a thrill beyond words.” – Kamran

Transitioning into this new phase, Kamran & Hooman are excited to explore a spectrum of musical styles, reflecting their versatility and dedication to artistic evolution. Their journey epitomizes perseverance, artistic integrity, and the unifying power of music that transcends cultural divides. As they forge ahead, Kamran & Hooman’s impact on the global music scene promises to evolve and inspire generations to come.

THE EVOLUTION TOUR 2024 DATES:
Fri Nov 01 — Montreal, QC — MTELUS
Sun Nov 10 — Washington, D.C. — Warner Theatre
Fri Nov 15 — Houston, TX — Bayou Music Center
Sat Nov 16 — Dallas, TX — South Side Ballroom
Fri Nov 22 — Seattle, WA — Moore Theatre
Sat Nov 23 — Calgary, AB — Jack Singer Concert Hall
Sun Dec 01 — Brooklyn, NY — Brooklyn Paramount
Sun Dec 08 — Chicago, IL — House of Blues
Sun Dec 22 — Las Vegas, NV — The Pearl
Mon Dec 23 — Las Vegas, NV — The Pearl
Tue Dec 24 — Las Vegas, NV — The Pearl
Sat Feb 15 — Toronto, ON — Massey Hall
Fri Feb 28 — Vancouver, BC — Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Coco & Clair Clair Announces Headline Fall North American Tour and Shares New Single “Kate Spade”

Today, Coco & Clair Clair share a new single and visualizer “Kate Spade” and announce their fall headline tour across North America. The news comes on the heels of the announcement of their forthcoming album Girl due August 30th. The new single showcases the duo’s quick witted lyrical bars juxtaposed alongside a lush sonic landscape. Speaking about the new single Coco and Clair note, “‘Kate Spade’ was one of the first songs we finished for the album after a night out in Amsterdam. It’s a little naughty and a little catty, but overall it’s meant to be uplifting. Big up yourself vibes because there’s always gonna be someone out there who wants what you have.”

The upcoming 21-date North American tour, produced by Live Nation, begins October 1st in Montreal and includes stops in Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, New York, and more. The tour also includes a hometown show in Atlanta on November 9th at Buckhead Theatre. Tickets will be available starting with various presales beginning Wednesday, July 31st and the general on sale begins Friday, August 2nd at 10am local time here.

Coco & Clair’s forthcoming album Girl sees the Atlanta duo embracing a broad range of sonic landscapes. Speaking further about the project Coco and Clair share, “In the early stages of our writing process we had a running joke about being pregnant with a new album and how this one felt like a baby girl, whereas our last project, Sexy, felt more like a baby boy. We were writing about our relationships, referencing and incorporating lyrics we had written years ago – lyrics previously put aside for being too vulnerable or confessional. We were experimenting with a style of production that felt more refined, polished, intentional, and intimate. We embraced the tension between that new approach and the characteristic qualities that propelled us early on: our resourcefulness, boastfulness, and flamboyance – all virtues of femininity and girlhood as much as they are tropes of masculinity. We listened to music that we felt exuded that same tension; Saint Etienne, Brandy, Everything but the Girl, Lana Del Rey, Club 8, Milky, and Madonna were huge inspirations both sonically and visually. We entered this new phase as closer friends and collaborators – more in tune with each other and ourselves, with newfound access to parts of our creative psyches that we hadn’t yet brought into Coco & Clair Clair. We worried less but cared more, which felt powerfully feminine.”

The new album came together after touring the country and experiencing the soft glow of new romantic relationships. They leaned into these varied emotional experiences and wrote songs that were newly intimate without sacrificing their sense of charisma and verve. The songs came together quickly, in a matter of weeks. Once they had them ready, they traveled between Amsterdam and Joshua Tree to work on production in collaboration with Raven Artson. They would cook together, lay out in the sun, drive around town, and then start making drinks at 4 or 5 pm and get to work. During this time, Coco and Clair pushed themselves to take more risks – there’s a rock song on the album, a number of old beats Coco had made years ago, and the lyricism is their most vulnerable yet. This process helped them actualize their ideas and there’s a sense of intentionality and confidence to the resulting songs. The production is lusher and more vibrant while remaining eclectic and immediate. Ultimately with Girl, Coco and Clair have mastered sitting comfortably with their vulnerability.

The new project follows their previous critically acclaimed album SEXY, which NPR described as “gorgeous” and Pitchfork proclaimed as “leagues above everyone around them.” The album featured celebrated singles “Love Me”, “Cherub” and “Pop Star.” Coco & Clair Clair also released SEXY (Deluxe Edition), which included “The Hills (feat. DEELA)” remixed by George Daniel of the 1975, “Pop Star” reimagined by Chaeyoung from the KPop sensation TWICE, and an Empress Of remix of “Cherub” as well as remixes from Lewis OfMan, Homeshake, Clip, Niko B, and more.

Listen to “Kate Spade” above, find full album details and tour routing below, and stay tuned for more from Coco & Clair Clair coming soon.

Tour Dates:
9/28 – Forest Hills, NY @ All Things Go Festival^
10/1 – Montréal, QC @ Studio TD
10/02 – Toronto, ON @ The Axis Club
10/04 – Detroit, MI @ Saint Andrew’s Hall
10/05 – Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
10/06 – Minneapolis, MN @ Varsity Theater
10/8 – Lawrence, KS @ The Bottleneck*
10/09 – Denver, CO @ Summit Music Hall
10/12 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Soundwell
10/14 – San Francisco, CA @ Regency Ballroom*
10/15 – Portland, OR @ Revolution Hall
10/16 – Seattle, WA @ Neumos
10/19 – Phoenix, AZ @ VIVA PHX^
10/20 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Fonda Theatre*
10/24 – Dallas, TX @ The Echo Lounge & Music Hall
10/25 – Austin, TX @ Emo’s
10/27 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues Houston
10/29 – Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl
10/30 – Charlotte, NC @ The Underground
11/01 – Washington, D.C. @ Howard Theatre
11/02 – New York, NY @ Irving Plaza
11/06 – Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
11/07 – Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of Living Arts
11/09 – Atlanta, GA @ Buckhead Theatre
11/11 – Fort Lauderdale, FL @ Revolution Live
11/12 – Lake Buena Vista, FL @ House of Blues
^Festival Date

TikTok Reveals Canada and Global Songs of the Summer 2024: Tommy Richman, Tinashe, and Billie Eilish Lead the Pack

It may feel like we’re just getting started with Brat Summer, but artists have been dropping some seriously sizzling bangers all summer long, which means it’s finally time to reveal the most popular TikTok tracks and artists that have soundtracked our 2024 summer.

As #SongOfTheSummer hits over 500k video creations on TikTok, this summer has been an iconic one for music. Brat summers and eighties dancing, rising stars and the return of big industry names, new eras for female pop and exciting urban breakthrough genres: the summer’s biggest music moments have been popping off on TikTok.

There’s been something for everyone this summer. From pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter‘s addictive and fresh pop bangers Espresso and Please Please Please, to rising star Lay Bankz blowing up on TikTok with her hip-hop dance track Tell Ur Girlfriend fans are embracing a truly diverse mix of talent and sounds on TikTok.

As well as providing a platform for the world’s biggest artists to connect with fans, we’re proud to continue helping emerging artists all over the world to launch their careers, like newcomer Jordan Adetunji with the hit KEHLANI. Our Songs of the Summer list shows how TikTok has helped to export home-grown tracks and artists to the global stage. For the first time ever, the community can find the Songs of the Summer list for their region by heading to TikTok Music Charts on the app.

Last year, chart-topping single ‘Makeba’ from Jain took the crown as TikTok’s Song of the Summer in Canada, whilst Mae Stephens, who swapped supermarket shifts for TikTok stardom, topped the global Songs of the Summer list with her smash hit ‘If We Ever Broke Up. Who will take the crown this year?

Introducing TikTok Canada’s & Global Songs of the Summer

Top songs by video creations in Canada

Rapper Tommy Richman comes in at the top spot with his track MILLION DOLLAR BABY. After teasing snippets of the song on TikTok, the track became hugely popular and debuted in April at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Critics acclaimed the song for Richman’s vocals and its unique sound, as creators started a new dance trend that took over FYPs across the globe, embracing hilarious transitions between different looks and personalities.

Tommy Richman:

“I’m very blessed about what has transpired this year. I made this song with all of my friends and I’m just so excited that our flowers were given from this creation. It took on a life of its own that I could have never imagined. I’m thankful for everyone that’s listening.”

The one and only Tinashe took #2 on both the Canadian and global list. Since becoming an independent artist, Tinashe has gone from strength to strength and the TikTok community has rallied behind her in support. Nasty became one of this summer’s anthems, with TikTok creators trying to match Tinashe’s “freak”, leading to over 4.7 million video creations on platform and some impressive moves.

Tinashe:

“Thank you to all my amazing fans who made ‘Nasty’ the #2 Song of the Summer in Canada and #2 globally! It’s been so fun and incredible to watch all the videos you have been making on TikTok. I love them all! I’m super grateful for your continued support and hope you all enjoy making more content to the rest of my album Quantum Baby.”

Another newcomer to watch out for is Jordan Adetunji who took the #10 spot, a Belfast-born genre-bending artist whose breakout track KEHLANI peaked at #52 on the Billboard Hot 100. Creators have been loving this tune over the summer, which is all about how his love interest reminds him of a celebrity crush. The huge success of the track led to the release of a remix with Kehlani herself.

Jordan Adetunji:

“Gassed that TikTok have made KEHLANI a song of the summer. The song is about empowering people and the growth has been crazy since the first TikTok went up”.

Top songs by video creations globally

Gata Only became the biggest Latin track in the world this year and topped TikTok’s global Songs of the Summer list. Chilean artists FloyyMenor and Cris MJ teamed up for the hit, sparking over 1.6 million creations on TikTok. The reggaeton banger is all about going after the girl that you’ve got feelings for, as Gata Only marks the first time a Chilean artist has entered the Billboard Hot Latin Songs since 1999. Creators have used the sound to show off their summer fits and holiday snaps.

FloyyMenor:

“I’m very happy with everything that has been achieved with ‘GATA ONLY’. I knew from the beginning that this song was a global hit and its success fills me with pride. I’m grateful to the TikTok community for their role in helping the song reach a global audience.”

American rapper Tommy Richman comes in third with his track MILLION DOLLAR BABYAfter teasing snippets of the song on TikTok, the track became hugely popular and debuted in April at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Critics acclaimed the song for Richman’s vocals and its unique sound, as creators started a new dance trend that took over FYPs across the globe, embracing hilarious transitions between different looks and personalities.

Female artists made waves in the Global Songs of the Summer 2024. The one and only Billie Eilish’s BIRDS OF A FEATHER comes in at #4. Over dreamy guitars and an addictive beat, creators fell in love with the track, using it to soundtrack videos of friends dancing abroad as well as heart-warming proposalsSabrina Carpenter, this year’s princess of pop, made it into the list at #6 with Please Please Please. With musical influences of disco-pop and country, the song has had creators sharing their best date ideas and celebrating the return of summer, with some famous Olympians even jumping onto the trend.

Our #8 most popular global track this summer goes to rising star Lay Bankz. The 20-year-old American rapper’s hit Tell Ur Girlfriend features the catchy phrase ‘cause i don’t wanna live a lie lie lie‘, taking her song viral across the world with over 1.7 million creations. Described as a cross between Beyoncé and Megan Thee Stallion, Lay has a bright future ahead and this track has been stuck in everyone’s head this summer.

Ole Obermann, Global Head of Music Business Development, TikTok:

Once again, TikTok’s Songs of the Summer list beautifully demonstrates how the magic of TikTok helps our global community to discover and promotes a diverse range of incredibly talented artists and their music. Latin music is one of the most popular genres on TikTok so it’s no surprise to see Gata Only top our global list, alongside some other amazing emerging artists like Sevdaliza and Tommy Richman, as well as superstars such as Billie Eilish. The Songs of the Summer list is proof that both new and emerging artists of every genre, from anywhere in the world, can connect with over a billion music fans TikTok every day, build their careers and impact music culture.”

Top 10 songs in Canada

  1. MILLION DOLLAR BABY – Tommy Richman
  2. Nasty – Tinashe
  3. Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter
  4. Gata Only – FloyyMenor and Cris Mj
  5. BIRDS OF A FEATHER – Billie Eilish
  6. Champagne Coast – Blood Orange
  7. Tell Ur Girlfriend – Lay Bankz
  8. Magic Johnson – Ian
  9. Type Shit – Future & Metro Boomin & Travis Scott & Playboi Carti
  10. KEHLANI – jordan adetunji

Top 10 songs globally

  1. Gata Only – FloyyMenor and Cris Mj
  2. Nasty – Tinashe
  3. MILLION DOLLAR BABY – Tommy Richman
  4. BIRDS OF A FEATHER – Billie Eilish
  5. Alibi (with Pabllo Vittar & Yseult) (with Pabllo Vittar & Yseult) – Sevdaliza
  6. Please Please Please – Sabrina Carpenter
  7. ESTE – El Alfa, Nfasis
  8. Tell Ur Girlfriend – Lay Bankz
  9. Si No Quieres No – Luis R Conriquez, Neton Vega
  10. Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido – KAROL G

New to TikTok and want to explore Summer Songs on TikTok? Getting involved couldn’t be easier, simply download the app for free via the Apple App Store, Google Play or Amazon.

Willie Nelson Announces His 76th (!!!) Studio Album Last Leaf On The Tree

Willie Nelson is now in his 7th decade as a songwriter, performer and recording artist, but one of his most underrated talents is song interpretation. Over his career he has tackled songs from across the world of music, making each his own. Now for his 76th studio album and 153rd album overall as he celebrates his 91st year, Willie turns his gaze to a collection of songs by rock legends, idiosyncratic singer songwriters, alt-rock heroes, and indie folk artists. The result is a gorgeously cohesive rumination on loss, love, and world-weary hope, perfectly complemented by spare and spooky musical production. Lovingly curated and produced by his son Micah Nelson, Last Leaf On The Tree (out November 1, 2024, through Legacy Recordings) finds Willie covering songs from moody indie rock (Beck), psych alt-pop (The Flaming Lips) and punk-informed folk (Sunny War, Micah’s Particle Kid) to thought-provoking soul jazz (Nina Simone) and lesser-known gems from legends like Tom Waits, Neil Young, Keith Richards, and Warren Zevon. In addition, the album features new takes on one of Willie’s oldest songs (“The Ghost” from 1962) plus a new one penned with Micah (“The Color Of Sound”) that joins Willie’s collection of Zen-soaked classics. In addition to producing, Micah Nelson plays many of the instruments and even designed the album cover. He is joined by a host of celebrated musicians plus guest spots from legendary producer and musician Daniel Lanois, John Densmore of The Doors and harmonica master Mickey Raphael, who has played alongside Willie for over 50 years.

Along with the likes of Waylon Jennings, Merle Haggard, and Townes Van Zandt, Willie Nelson rose to prominence at the end of the 1960s as an important contributor to the subgenre deemed “outlaw country”, which challenged the conservatism of Nashville. He earned fifty dollars when his first song, “Family Bible”, was published, and shortly thereafter songwriter Hank Cochran landed him a publishing contract. Nelson also wrote for other musicians, penning some of the most famous country songs of all-time, such as “Night Life” for Rusty Draper, “Funny How Time Slips Away” for Jimmy Elledge and Johnny Tillotson, “Crazy” for Patsy Cline, “Hello Walls” for Faron Young, “Wake Me When It’s Over” for Andy Williams, and “Pretty Paper” for Roy Orbison. Eventually, he had a recording contract of his own, but his weathered tenor and his taste for sparse backup were considered uncommercial at first. 1973 saw the release of Shotgun Willie , considered to be one of his greatest albums of all time, and showcased his abilities as a singer, storyteller, and performer. Still rocking a headband and braided pigtails, The Red Headed Stranger continues to tour and captivate audiences to this day.

My Next Read: “American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyon” by Ross Warner

They’ve sold more than 20 million albums, they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and they’re one of Homer Simpson’s favorite bands—but even today, fifty years after they first formed, Cheap Trick remains to many a club band with a cult following. They certainly started out that way, with a carnival-like stage show featuring four perfectly mismatched characters: guitarist Rick Nielsen, in bowtie, sweater, and baseball cap, stood next to blonde dreamboat Robin Zander, while the mysterious, chestnut-haired bassist Tom Peterson held down the bottom end with drummer Bun E. Carlos, never seen without his cigarette or tie.

American Standard: Cheap Trick from the Bars to the Budokan and Beyond tells the unlikely story of the band’s path to greatness, from their origins in Rockford, Illinois to their massively successful live album At Budokan to the many, many ups and downs that followed. This is a rollicking tale of artistic genius, rock excess, hilarious misbehavior, chance encounters with music’s biggest names, and international stardom that brought new meaning to the phrase “big in Japan.” Drawing on exhaustive research and interviews, American Standard gives an intimate look at a truly original band—whether you consider them rock icons or criminally underrated,

Geddy Lee Pens Foreword for Bjooks’ New ‘Minimoog Book,’ Now Shipping After Successful Kickstarter Campaign

Independent Danish book publisher Bjooks, creator of industry-renowned hardcover books including Push Turn Move, Synth Gems 1, and Patch & Tweak, has announced that shipping has begun on its latest title: The Minimoog Book. To fund the project, Bjooks founder and CEO Kim Bjørn initiated a successful Kickstarter campaign in April, 2024 and subsequently received overwhelming support from both new and existing readers. ​

A labor of love more than a decade in the making, The Minimoog Book is Bjooks’ most extensive and thoroughly researched effort to date. Kim Bjørn is quick to credit the 1,180 Kickstarter backers – comprising a wide set of music lovers, synth aficionados, and loyal Bjooks fans. “This is the most comprehensive book we’ve ever created, and it would not have been possible without our loyal fanbase and newcomers – many new to Kickstarter,” commented Kim Bjørn. “The Minimoog Book is written by JoE Silva and presents a comprehensive picture of the Minimoog’s life and times, seen through the eyes of its creators and the musical artists who changed the very fabric of our culture.”

“In an age where independent booksellers and publishers are struggling to keep up with behemoth ecommerce platforms and electronic distribution methods, it’s as important as ever that high-end, niche publishers like Bjooks are supported by loyal fans” he added. “We are proud to produce high-quality, tactile books that feature outstanding design and quality printing – and we know our customers appreciate this as well.”

In addition to having their copies shipped first, all Kickstarter backers will also receive a special numbered edition of the book with an exclusive dust jacket featuring an “authorized backer” sticker. Finally, all backers will receive early access to the forthcoming Bjooks Club, which is scheduled to launch this fall and for which more information will be forthcoming.

The Minimoog book features over 100 interviews with artists, engineers, and other experts, along with more than 700 photos of artwork, memorabilia, and rare artist shots. It includes exclusive photo sessions with 20+ unique Minimoogs in locations such as Alabama, Philadelphia, Asheville, Austria, and Copenhagen. The book also showcases images from famous rock photographers — many never before seen — and details over 30 recreated Minimoog patches by Anthony Marinelli and others, visualized in sound charts. Comprehensive visual overviews and infographics are also provided to enhance understanding of the Minimoog’s impact and historical evolution.

Readers can expect exclusive interviews and features with legendary musicians like Keith Emerson, Rick Wakeman, Chick Corea, Tony Visconti (David Bowie), George Duke, Anne Dudley (Art of Noise), Bernie Worrell, Devo, Kraftwerk, Air, J Dilla, Gary Numan, and many others — as well as some of today’s most respected songwriters and multi-instrumentalists, such as Greg Kurstin (Adele), Yumiko Ohno (Buffalo Daughter), Mac DeMarco, and more.

THE MINIMOOG BOOK begins with a foreword by the legendary Rush frontman Geddy Lee and offers over a decade of in-depth research and storytelling by JoE Silva, an esteemed journalist and music historian. Silva reflects, “When I started digging into the history of the Minimoog back in 2010, I quickly realized how universal it was. I was continuously stumbling upon artist after artist or another famous piece of music that used it. It was pretty clear right away how important the instrument became once it came out…”

Kim Bjørn’s mission with Bjooks is to create exciting, informative, and beautiful books about music technology, artists, and makers. With existing titles that intimately focus on musical instrument giants like Moog, Roland, and Korg, the publisher is thrilled to bring new inspiration to long-time Bjooks fans and newcomers with this release.

Pre-order the book now on https://bjooks.com/products/the-minimoog-book or for more details on the Kickstarter campaign visit www.kickstarter.com/projects/bjooks/the-minimoog-book

 

 

 

 

 

 

About Bjooks
Bjooks is the boutique publishing company started and run by author, designer, and musician Kim Bjørn. His first book, PUSH TURN MOVE, was published in 2017. This was followed by PATCH & TWEAK in 2018, which has since been referred to as the ‘Bible of Modular Synthesis;. “PEDAL CRUSH – Stompbox effects for creative music making” was released in 2019, followed by Patch & Tweak with Moog in 2020. Most recently, the titles Patch & Tweak with Korg and Inspire The Music: 50 Years of Roland History were both released in 2022. The mission of BJOOKS is to create even more exciting titles about music technology, artists, and makers to document, inspire and explore the world of music creation.

SiriusXM Signs Multi-Year Deal With Top Podcaster Alex Cooper; “Call Her Daddy” Gets a New Home

Today, SiriusXM announced an extensive new, multi-year agreement with global podcast powerhouse Alex Cooper, host and executive producer behind the top-ranking podcast “Call Her Daddy.” The new deal features a comprehensive programming development strategy for exclusive content with SiriusXM, expected to begin rolling out in 2025. It also brings SiriusXM exclusive advertising and distribution rights, content, events, and more for Alex Cooper’s flagship podcast, as well as Unwell’s popular lineup of shows, to the audio entertainment company and its industry-leading SiriusXM Podcast Network.

“I am beyond excited to work with SiriusXM,” said Alex Cooper. “The Daddy Gang will always be my top priority, and with SiriusXM we will continue to find new ways to evolve and provide my listeners the best experience. The Daddy Gang wants more, so we’re getting ready to give them more…I can’t wait for this new chapter to begin.”

“Alex’s fearless, unfiltered approach, where no topic is off the table, has created a passionate and dedicated fanbase that is unmatched in podcasting and perfectly aligns with the content that SiriusXM subscribers have come to love and expect from us,” said Scott Greenstein, President, and Chief Content Officer at SiriusXM. “SiriusXM is the perfect home for Alex to continue her amazing growth trajectory, with our unique ability to introduce her and her growing roster of standout talent to new listeners, as well as super-serve her core fans with new content. Alex is the voice of a new generation, and I can’t wait to see what we do together in the years to come.”

SiriusXM Media, the company’s advertising division, has also secured exclusive global ad sales rights to the video and audio editions of the “Call Her Daddy” podcast hosted by Cooper as well as Unwell Network’s complete slate of current and future shows, including “Hot Mess with Alix Earle,” “Pretty Lonesome with Madeline Argy,” “Boyfriend Material with Harry Jowsey,” and “In Your Dreams with Owen Thiele.” The SiriusXM Podcast Network reaches 1 in 2 podcast listeners in the US each month, and with the addition of these Unwell Network podcasts, it will be easier than ever for advertisers to tap into the power of podcasting at scale with ease, courtesy of SiriusXM Media.

Since its launch in 2018, “Call Her Daddy” has amassed a massive following, evolving into a cultural phenomenon and global movement, consistently ranking as one of the most-listened-to podcasts worldwide. Hailed by TIME Magazine as “arguably the most successful woman in podcasting,” Cooper began to blaze a path through the podcasting medium that had never existed before: a space where women were encouraged, empowered, and emboldened to share their unapologetic stories and truths. “Call Her Daddy” has attracted millions of listeners per episode, earning its place as the number one podcast for women on Spotify globally.

As the most listened-to female podcaster in the world, Alex has evolved as “Gen Z’s Barbara Walters,” according to Rolling Stone, and continues to break all boundaries by shattering stigmas and stomping on misogyny, all while keeping mental health and personal empowerment at the forefront. Her thought-provoking conversations are meticulously designed to explore wide-ranging topics such as life experiences, culture, health, relationships, and more, through her lens of comedy and extreme candor. To the millions of devoted Gen-Z and millennial listeners coined “The Daddy Gang,” the “Call Her Daddy” brand represents a new set of values and standards, with many quotes and phrases permeating pop-culture vernacular. Recent Call Her Daddy guests include Jane Fonda, Post Malone, Gwyneth Paltrow, Hailey Bieber, Miley Cyrus, Zayn, Janelle Monáe, Kim Petras, Shay Mitchell, Christina Aguilera, John Mayer, Brazilian pop superstar Anitta, Madison Beer, Lil Dicky, John Legend, Rebel Wilson, Adam Devine, and Chelsea Handler, among others.

Most recently, Cooper launched media company, Trending, and its subsidiary Unwell Audio Network, LLC, alongside her husband and business partner Matt Kaplan of Ace Entertainment. This media venture will elevate the voices and stories of Gen Z. Unwell Network’s initial talent signings include top creators and influencers who will work with Cooper and the Unwell team to develop a variety of multiplatform concepts and projects.

Unwell Network joins the unparalleled lineup of podcasts and media companies represented exclusively by SiriusXM Media, including SmartLess Media and its hit show “SmartLess” with Will Arnett, Jason Bateman, and Sean Hayes; Ashley Flowers’ audiochuck and its chart-topping “Crime Junkie;” Crooked Media and its flagship “Pod Save America;” and many more, in addition to SiriusXM’s own award-winning shows such as “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and the complete Team Coco roster, “99% Invisible,” and “How Did This Get Made?”.

Podcasts play a central role in the new SiriusXM app, which features transcription, playback speed adjustment, key moment markers, auto downloads, and an expanded library. Additionally, “Call Her Daddy” episodes will be available ad-free on SiriusXM Podcasts+, SiriusXM’s premium podcast subscription available directly in Apple Podcasts. With discovery at the heart of the listening experience, SiriusXM offers new platforms for Alex Cooper, Alix Earle, Madeline Argy, Harry Jowsey, Owen Thiele and more to engage and connect with fans and listeners.

 

LoudMe Announces Its Royalty-Free AI Music Generator & Sound Effects Generator to Challenge Suno AI

LoudMe has officially launched its highly advanced AI music generator, enabling users to create professionally-composed and royalty-free tracks instantly. Whether you are a music hobbyist or professional, this platform streamlines the music creation process using simple command inputs that describe the type of song you want.

According to LoudMe CEO Mike Smith, “Our AI music generator is designed to open up music production to all users, no matter what your level of expertise may be. You can create unique, tailor-made songs by simply envisioning the track, describing it, and even customizing aspects like rhythm, mood, and genre in just a few simple clicks.”

The AI music generator also guarantees 100% royalty-free songs that can be used commercially with no risk of copyright infringement. In this regard, Mike Smith spoke on this stating, “Any AI-generated track produced on LoudMe is entirely original, so you can freely market or sell them to audiences with no risk of facing third-party ownership claims.”

In addition, LoudMe employs cutting-edge AI music generation technology that pushes the boundaries of what can be accomplished through traditional music production. The tool generates quality tracks and makes experimentation easy by letting users explore different melodies, moods, themes, and genres like pop, classical, jazz, electronic, etc.

Aside from generating full-length AI tracks, LoudMe also has an AI sound effects generator. This enables users to produce custom-made AI sound effects that cater to a wide range of unique use cases such as streaming, vlogging, film, gaming, etc. In essence, it can help you enhance the sound design of any creative project in a flash.

Another major highlight of LoudMe is that it has two regularly updated AI music and sound effects libraries. Mike Smith added, “With access to our AI music and sound effects libraries, our users can freely browse and find the creative inspiration they need to create quality tracks that appeal to listeners across a multitude of styles and genres.”

LoudMe also offers a user-friendly interface that makes AI music creation a breeze, even for novices. To get started, describe the track and input your desired preferences like mood, genre, tempo, theme, etc. The platform will then compose an original composition that perfectly meets your requirements. You can then freely download and share it. It’s that simple!

Speakers Market Size Is Set to Grow by USD 325.8 Billion from 2024-2028

The global speakers market  size is estimated to grow by USD 325.8 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of  47.81%  during the forecast period.  Increasing adoption of smart speakers is driving market growth, with a trend towards popularity of multi-room streaming speakers. However, privacy concerns associated with smart speakers  poses a challenge. Key market players include 3nod Group, AAC Technologies Holdings Ltd., Alphabet Inc., Altec Lansing Inc., Amazon.com Inc., Apple Inc., Bose Corp., Bowers and Wilkins, Fortune Grand Technology Inc., Foster Electric Co. Ltd., Guangzhou Merry Audio Equipment Co. Ltd., Koninklijke Philips N.V., Lenovo Group Ltd., LG Electronics Inc., Panasonic Holdings Corp., Pioneer India Electronics Pvt. Ltd., Premier Sound Solutions, Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd., Sony Group Corp., and Xiaomi Communications Co. Ltd..

Multi-room streaming speakers enhance music accessibility with Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling wireless streaming from one speaker to another. Networked audio devices, utilizing technologies like PlayFi, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay, reduce user efforts, expenses, and time. The trend of installing multiple speakers increases multi-room speaker adoption. Speakers, such as Bowers & Wilkins Formation Wedge, Duo, and Bar, can be controlled via mobile apps and are compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The global speakers market growth is driven by the rising demand for multi-room streaming speakers due to the proliferation of music streaming services.

Speakers are trending devices in the audio industry, transforming home entertainment and communication. They convert electrical signals into sound waves through transducers that vibrate to produce audio. Trends include multi-room streaming speakers, wireless technology, and smart speakers. Frequency, volume, and amplitude are key features, with stereo sound effects enhancing the listening experience. The market is unstable, with portable and stationary speakers catering to home use and commercial applications. Smart speakers integrate voice assistants, weather, security alerts, and appliance notifications, offering a revenue-augmenting opportunity. Sound technology advancements, wireless capabilities, and smart integrations, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, drive growth. Environmental concerns are emerging, with consumers demanding eco-friendly solutions. The industry responds with energy-efficient designs and recycling programs. The professional speaker market, including analog systems, continues to evolve, catering to various industries. Overall, the speaker market is a dynamic and evolving landscape, shaped by consumer spending power and technological advancements.

  • The global speakers market faces challenges due to privacy concerns surrounding smart speakers. These devices, connected to Wi-Fi access points, are susceptible to cyber threats. Hackers can breach the firewall to obtain passwords and access users’ calendar details and autosaved data through hacked smartphones. Misinterpretation of background conversations as voice commands can lead to unintended recordings and data transmission. These issues may hinder market growth during the forecast period. Privacy concerns necessitate robust security measures to protect user information and maintain trust.
  • In today’s market, music revenue faces a significant challenge from the rise of online streaming platforms. Physical music sales have declined, impacting artists and industry professionals. However, new opportunities have emerged with music concerts and live events. Music production and recording require high-end equipment like sound mixers, audio signal processors, and audio power amplifiers. Nightclubs and DJs use specialized DJ equipment, while portable Bluetooth speakers cater to individual consumers. Audio technology continues to innovate with wireless-based audio devices, headphones, sound bars, and microphones. Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartphones have become essential tools for music production and playback. Rechargeable batteries, such as lithium polymer, power these devices. Car speakers, pocket speakers, outdoor Bluetooth speakers, and conventional speakers cater to various markets. Online and offline sales channels coexist, with sound quality and watts being key factors for consumers. The market for hi-fi systems, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi connection, USBs, supported files, and card reader types continues to grow. Disco lighting adds to the overall music experience, making events more memorable.

1.1 Stereo speakers-  Stereo speakers are devices consisting of two speakers built into a single unit, each handling a specific channel of stereo sound for a realistic listening experience. These speakers may include multiple drivers and connections for both sides of a stereo signal, as seen in Bluetooth speakers like the Jam Box/Mini Jambox. The components in stereo speakers can be panned anywhere between left and right channels, creating a spatial listening experience. Home theaters employ surround sound systems, which distribute sound sources around the room for a more immersive experience. The market for stereo speakers is expanding due to advancements in digital technology and the shift from traditional to modern media systems. End-users are spending more on home stereo speakers for enhanced audio quality. Portable stereo speakers with integrated sub-speakers and the ability to stream high-quality audio content from the internet are gaining popularity. Vendors are introducing new products, contributing to the growth of the stereo speakers segment and the global speakers market. The rise in demand for wireless stereo speakers, driven by their appealing designs, high-quality sound, and mobility, is also boosting market growth.

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The global smart speaker market is witnessing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for voice-activated devices. With advancements in AI and IoT, smart speakers are becoming integral to smart homes, offering seamless control over various applications. Meanwhile, the global multimedia speakers market is also expanding, fueled by the rising popularity of high-quality audio experiences for entertainment. Both markets are projected to grow rapidly, with key players like Amazon, Google, and Bose leading the innovation in smart and multimedia speaker technologies.

Speakers are electronic devices that convert electrical signals into sound waves. They function as transducers, vibrating to produce audible sound. Speakers play a crucial role in various applications, including home entertainment systems, public address systems, telecommunications, and the professional speaker market. In the home, they come in various forms such as multi-room streaming speakers, sound bars, and even wireless-based audio devices like headphones and smartphones. In the pro-AV industry, they are used in sporting events, stadiums, and other large venues for communication purposes. Speakers can be analog or digital, and the market includes a wide range of products from microphones to tablets and laptops. Audio technology continues to evolve, with new innovations in wireless-based audio devices and cabling solutions constantly emerging.

Speakers are electronic devices that convert electrical signals into sound waves. They function as transducers, vibrating to produce audible sound. Speakers are integral to home entertainment systems, public address systems, telecommunications, and multi-room streaming. Smart speakers, wireless, and voice-activated models are popular trends in the market. Frequency, volume, and amplitude are key factors, with stereo sound effects and pairing for enhanced listening experiences. Smart speakers offer integrations with music streaming services, weather, security alerts, and appliance notifications, presenting a revenue-augmenting opportunity. Sound technology advances include wireless capabilities, smart integrations, Bluetooth technology, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Environmental concerns and consumer spending power influence the market, with a growing emphasis on eco-friendly solutions and connected devices. The speaker market encompasses various applications, from home use to commercial settings, and includes smart home technologies, voice assistants, and pro-AV industry solutions. The market is unstable, influenced by digital trends, raw materials, and the music industry’s shift from physical to online revenue streams. Speakers come in various forms, including portable and stationary models, and cater to professional use in industries like pro-AV, sports, and communication purposes. Cabling solutions, sound reinforcement equipment, video conferencing systems, and raw materials also impact the speaker market.