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Simply Red’s Classic Albums Out On Vinyl November 15, 2024

One of Britain’s biggest bands remind people just why they’re so well-loved, as Warner Music reissue Simply Red’s classic albums Men and Women and A New Flame on recycled black vinyl. After being out of stock for years, fans can finally get their hands on these long-awaited reissues on November 15th. Pre-order HERE.

Men and Women, Simply Red’s second album, was released in March 1987 and includes the hits The Right Thing and Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye. It was a global smash and went triple platinum in the UK.

A New Flame followed in 1989 and was their first UK #1 album selling over two million copies in the UK. Hits included ‘If You Don’t Know Me By Now’.

Many of the tracks on these classic albums will be performed live when Simply Red celebrate 40 years with their forthcoming tour next September & October. Tickets on sale here.

September 2025
Tue 23rd Belfast SSE Arena
Wed 24th Dublin 3 Arena
Fri 26th Leeds First Direct Arena
Sat 27th Manchester Co-op Live
Sun 28th Glasgow OVO Hydro Arena

October
Wed 1st Nottingham Motorpoint Arena
Fri 3rd Liverpool M&S Bank Arena
Sat 4th Birmingham Utilita Arena
Sun 5th Cardiff, Utilita Arena
Tue 7th Brighton Centre
Thu 9th London The O2
Fri 10th London The O2

Men and Women Tracklisting

Side A

  1. The Right Thing
  2. Infidelity
  3. Suffer
  4. I Won’t Feel Bad
  5. Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye

Side B

  1. Let Me Have It All
  2. Love Fire
  3. Move On Out
  4. Shine
  5. Maybe Someday

 

A New Flame Tracklisting

Side A

  1. It’s Only Love
  2. A New Flame
  3. You’ve Got It
  4. To Be With You
  5. More

Side B

  1. Turn It Up
  2. Love Lays Its Tune
  3. She’ll Have to Go
  4. If You Don’t Know Me by Now
  5. Enough

 

Rhino and Warner Chappell Music Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Harry Chapin’s “Cat’s in the Cradle”

Fifty years ago, Grammy-nominated folk singer Harry Chapin released the multi-generational hit “Cat’s In The Cradle.” By December of that same year, the song had skyrocketed to #1, and made Chapin a household name. Originally inspired by a poem written by his wife Sandy, “Cat’s In the Cradle” afforded Chapin newfound stardom that allowed him to launch WhyHunger, Center for Food Action and Long Island Cares, or The Harry Chapin Food Bank. Together, the charities help almost 2 million adults and children facing food insecurity each year in the U.S. and around the world.

Each year, WhyHunger honors individuals for their commitment to helping to end hunger, presenting the ASCAP Harry Chapin Humanitarian Award  and running an annual Hungerthon campaign that educates the public and raises critical funds to end hunger in America. What originally began as a radio-driven Thanksgiving tradition in 1975, and hit airwaves across the nation each fall through partnerships with SiriusXM, Audacy NY, and iHeartMedia NY has since raised millions for the cause.

This year, in addition to the annual Hungerthon and in celebration of the song’s 50th anniversary, Chapin’s family has announced the release of a documentary about the making of “Cat’s In The Cradle,” as well as live tour dates for the Harry Chapin Band this fall. Stops include Tarrytown, NY, multiple shows in New Jersey, and more cities along the East Coast with a lineup including his brothers Tom and Steve Chapin, daughter Jen Chapin nieces Abigail and Lily Chapin, Big John Wallace, Howard Fields, Clark Wallace, Stephan Crump, Jamie Fox, and the newly added Arlen Hlusko on cello.

Artist and actor interviews in the documentary will come from Billy Joel, Pat Benatar, Jackson Browne (not confirmed yet), Judy Collins, Robert Lamm, Darryl McDaniels, Whit Crane from Ugly Kid Joe and more, plus clips of Johnny Cash and others performing the song. Stay tuned for more release plans and its official release.

Harry Chapin sold over 16 million records, had 14 hit singles, and garnered two GRAMMY nominations. In 1977 he was a key participant in the creation of the Presidential Commission on World Hunger. He was posthumously awarded the GRAMMY President’s Merit Award in 1986 and the Congressional Gold Medal in 1987. He was inducted into the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2006 and GRAMMY Hall of Fame in 2011.

 

Jamey Johnson to Release First Solo Studio Album in 14 Years, Midnight Gasoline on Nov. 8

Award-winning singer-songwriter Jamey Johnson will release his new album, Midnight Gasoline, on Nov. 8, marking his sixth album and first new solo studio album in 14 years, making it among the most-anticipated releases of the last decade.

It is his first album for Warner Music Nashville and the first of his Cash Cabin Series, which is a collection of albums recorded at the famed studio in Hendersonville, TN, that was owned by Johnny and June Carter Cash and is now owned by their son, John Carter Cash. Johnson spent three weeks recording about 30 songs there, sleeping in his bus that was parked outside so that he could remain immersed in the creative space.

“I’ve always wanted to make an album there,” he says. “I went in with an album in mind, where we go in and cut and cut and cut. That is when I knew we were off to the races. This is more than an album; this is a series.

“The main thing is there is a presence there,” he says. “There is a spirit in the place. Maybe it was born there from Johnny and June, and maybe it was born there from the countless other artists who have come to that studio to record. But there is a spirit there and I love it. It feels like home to me.”

Midnight Gasoline, known as Cash One, is a musical continuation of his last two solo studio albums, That Lonesome Song, which was certified platinum for 1 million in sales, and the gold-certified 2010 album, The Guitar Song, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Album Chart. Rolling Stone and Spin named The Guitar Song to their all-genre Top 5 Best Albums of the Year. (He also released a 2012 duets project, the GRAMMY-nominated Living for a Song: A Tribute to Hank Cochran, and a Christmas EP.)

“I think the only common thread would be me,” he says of the 12 songs. “There isn’t an overtone or some underlying theme in the songs. They are just glimpses of my life. Some of them are just funny stories, and not all of them were written recently. In that regard, I really am kind of picking up where I left off, grabbing those few songs that were probably ready to put out back then. It’s good to get those out there.

“Some of the songs are new,” he says. “’What a View’ is one of the first of the new ones that was written for this album. It’s straight from a very personal place.”

Midnight Gasoline is a tribute to collaboration and a testament to the importance of Johnson’s friends. The album’s first half was produced by The Kent Hardly Playboys–Wayd Battle, Jim “Moose” Brown, Tom Bukovac, T.W. Cargile, Kevin “Swine” Grant, Cowboy Eddie Long, Dave McAfee, James Mitchell and Chris Powell.

Dave Cobb, who also worked on That Lonesome Sound and The Guitar Song, produced the album’s second half, including “Saturday Night in New Orleans,” “One More Time,” “Sober,” “Tired of It All,” “No Time Like the Past” and “What You Answer To.” ‘He was brilliant, as usual,” Johnson says. “I love Dave and have nothing but deep respect for him. What a classy guy and a tasteful musician, and an endless wealth of ideas.”

Johnson’s co-writers on this album include Jim “Moose” Brown, Dallas Davidson, Ira Dean, Dale Dodson, Rob Hatch, Randy Houser, Ajay Popoff, Jeremy Popoff, James Slater, Ernest Keith Smith, Chris Stapleton and Tony Jo White. Other songs were written by Dean Dillon, Scotty Emerick, Kyle Fishman, Jeff Hyde, Chris Lindsey, Aimee Mayo and Troy Verges.

The album also contains “21 Guns,” “What a View,” “Trudy” and “Sober,” all of which were released during the last few months.

“Sober” has received tremendous critical praise. Music Row’s Robert K. Oermann says, “Johnson remains one of our most towering country vocalists, and this spare, stripped-down track lets him emote magnificently on the ballad… The whole performance rings with honesty and truth.” As Saving Country Music says, “Whether you’re clean or not, ‘Sober’ is the Jamey Johnson song you’ve waited 15 years for.”

“It has been a joy to stand there and play these new songs to my fans every night on this ‘What a View’ tour. It reminded me of something I should have been doing the whole time: adding more to the show. But also, delivering the message. These songs all come from somewhere, and for me, they all come from a higher power.

“My job as a songwriter and singer is to take these songs that were given to me by God and deliver them to His people and do it at the best of my ability with a positive attitude and joy in my heart. Something I got from this album that I don’t think I’ve gotten before is the ability to do that, and I appreciate it.”

In addition to partnering with WMN, he has also signed with TKO Artist Management as his new management team. “Jamey and I have been friends for a long time and frequently spoke about working together. You just don’t miss an opportunity to work with a talent like Jamey Johnson,” says TK Kimbrell, owner of TKO Artist Management.

Johnson, a ten-time GRAMMY nominee, has been called “one of the greatest country singers of our time,” by The Washington Post. His music has garnered international acclaim and is embraced by fans of classic and contemporary country, as well as Americana and mainstream rock.

The Grand Ole Opry member is also widely regarded as one of the greatest country songwriters of his generation. He is one of only two people in the history of country music (along with Kris Kristofferson) to win two Song of the Year awards in the same year–for “Give It Away” and “In Color”–from the Academy of Country Music and the Country Music Association.

A consummate storyteller, his songs have been recorded by George Strait, Trace Adkins, Willie Nelson, James Otto, Joe Nichols and others. He is “a first-rate preservationist of classic country songwriting…,” says The New York Times.

His recent prime-time television performances have been widely recognized as the best of the shows, from singing “Georgia on My Mind” in the 2023 CBS special Willie Nelson’s 90th Birthday Celebration” and “Angels Among Us” for the 2024 CMT Giants: Alabama to performing “Beer for My Horses” in August with Lainey Wilson for the top-rated NBC special Toby Keith: American Icon” and debuting his powerful song, “21 Guns,” during PBS’ National Memorial Day Concert earlier this year.

Track listing for Midnight Gasoline
1. “Bad Guy” (Jamey Johnson and Dale Dodson)
2. “Midnight Gasoline” (Scotty Emerick, Dean Dillon and Jeff Hyde)
3. “What a View” (Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Rob Hatch and Dallas Davidson)
4. “21 Guns” (Jamey Johnson and Jim “Moose” Brown)
5. “Someday When I’m Old” (Aimee Mayo, Chris Lindsey and Troy Verges)
6. “Trudy” featuring Randy Houser (Charlie Daniels)
7. “One More Time” (Jamey Johnson, Ernest Keith Smith and Rob Hatch)
8. “Saturday Night in New Orleans” (Jamey Johnson, Chris Stapleton and Tony Joe White)
9. “Sober” (Jamey Johnson and James Slater)
10. “I’m Tired of It All” (Dallas Davidson and Kyle Fishman)
11. “No Time Like the Past” (Jamey Johnson and Chris Stapleton)
12. “What Do You Answer To” (Jamey Johnson, Ira Dean, Ajay Popoff and Jeremy Popoff)

Howard Stern to Interview Vice President Kamala Harris Live on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 at 1:00 pm ET on SiriusXM

With less than one month until Election Day 2024, SiriusXM today announced that Howard Stern will interview Kamala Harris, current Vice President and the 2024 Democratic presidential nominee, in a live, special edition of SiriusXM’s “The Howard Stern Show” on Tuesday, October 8, 2024 on 1:00 pm ET, to air on Howard Stern’s exclusive SiriusXM channel Howard 100 with back-to-back replays throughout the day, further replays through the week, and full interview audio and video on demand on the SiriusXM app.

Howard Stern’s reputation as an interviewer is unmatched, and his gift for bringing out untold stories from the biggest names in music, entertainment, comedy and beyond, from and for every generation during deep, wide-ranging, long-form conversations is sure to deliver SiriusXM subscribers a one-of-a-kind interview with Vice President Harris at this critical juncture. The Vice President’s decision to sit down with Howard Stern at such a pivotal moment in the campaign highlights not only the incredible talent of Howard; it underscores the important role that SiriusXM and its listeners play in the country today.

Vice President Harris will also make her debut appearance on “Call Her Daddy” with Alex Cooper this week, just days after the leading female podcaster and her network Unwell kicked off a new deal with SiriusXM.

Vice President Harris joins the list of major politicians who have appeared on SiriusXM shows since the race began. Since September 2023, President Joe Biden, former President Donald J. Trump, and Senator JD Vance have all joined SiriusXM and its hosts.

SiriusXM’s 24/7 live coverage of news and politics makes it the go-to audio destination for all Americans this election season. SiriusXM is available to subscribers in their car, on their phone and connected devices at home with the SiriusXM app. Streaming access is included for most subscribers. Go to https://www.siriusxm.com/ways-to-listen for more.

Watch The Trailer For San Francisco’s Early 90’s Rave Scene Documentary ‘Between The Beats’

Gravitas Ventures, an Anthem Sports & Entertainment Company, is thrilled to share the official trailer for ‘Between The Beats’, a feature documentary that explores San Francisco’s early 90’s rave scene, its legacy and the influence on the Bay Area and the global dance scene today. The film is set to release on VOD platforms on October 15, 2024.

The film, directed by Martin O’Brien, produced by O’Brien and Mike Koeppel and edited by Robbie Proctor, features Brian Behlendorf, DJ Harvey, DJ Dan, DJ Doc Martin, DJ Garth, DJ Jeno, Joe Haller, Ethan Miller, and other major players in San Francisco’s blissful early 90s rave scene and its powerful influence across the world.

San Francisco was the epicenter of the American rave scene and witnessed some legendary events that began in the early ‘90s. These all-night electronic-music dance parties attracted a diverse cross-section of people. Culturally iconic and socially important, the parties became a catalyst in the lives of so many of the people who experienced them, many of whom went on to become huge players in Silicon Valley, the global dance music scene, and the world of activism. Energetic and inspiring, ‘Between The Beats’ examines the do-it-yourself mentality and psychedelic community spirit that the San Francisco BayArea rave scene epitomized.

“Bringing “Between The Beats” to life was incredibly personal to me as one of the many people who helped create the rave scene in San Francisco. The film was made to take viewers on a journey back to an early 90s music scene that has since grown into the hugely popular EDM / electronica phenomenon across the globe. I wanted to capture the magic of those early years and celebrate transformational music and the powerfully positive energy among its participants,” said Martin O’Brien.

“Gravitas is thrilled to be the North American partner for Between the Beats,” added Mackenzie Maguire, Acquisitions Manager, Gravitas Ventures. “This intimate look into the San Francisco rave scene is sure to fascinate audiences nationwide.”

A Comprehensive Guide to Types of Plastic Molding

By Mitch Rice

Plastic molding is a crucial manufacturing process used in many industries. It allows for the creation of various plastic products, ranging from simple items like bottle caps to complex components used in automotive and medical devices. Understanding the different types of plastic molding processes can help businesses choose the best method for their specific needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common types of plastic molding and their applications.

Common Types of Plastic Molding

1. Injection Molding

Injection molding involves injecting molten plastic into a mold cavity. The plastic cools and hardens, forming the desired shape. This method is highly efficient and can produce large quantities of identical parts. The process starts with feeding plastic pellets into a hopper, which then directs the material into a heated barrel. The plastic melts, and a screw mechanism injects it into the mold. After the part cools, the mold opens, and the part is ejected.

Suitable Materials:

  • Polyethylene (PE): Commonly used for packaging, containers, and bottles.
  • Polypropylene (PP): Used in automotive parts, textiles, and consumer goods.
  • Polystyrene (PS): Ideal for disposable cutlery, plastic models, and CD cases.
  • Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): Used in electronics housings, automotive components, and Lego bricks.

Advantages and Application Areas:

  • High Production Speed: Capable of producing large quantities in a short time.
  • Precision: Excellent for detailed and intricate designs.
  • Versatility: Used for a wide range of products including toys, automotive parts, and household items.
  • Cost Efficiency: Low cost per part in high-volume production.

2. Blow Molding

Blow molding involves inflating a heated plastic tube until it fills a mold and forms the desired shape. This process is commonly used for creating hollow plastic products. The basic steps include melting the plastic, forming it into a parison or preform, inflating it within a mold, and then cooling and ejecting the final product.

Types:

  1. Extrusion Blow Molding: Plastic is extruded into a tube, called a parison. The parison is clamped into a mold and air is blown into it, inflating it to the shape of the mold. Commonly used for making bottles and containers.
  2. Injection Blow Molding: The process starts with injection molding a preform, which is then transferred to a blow mold where air inflates it into the final shape. Ideal for small bottles and containers with high precision.
  3. Stretch Blow Molding: This involves stretching the preform vertically before blowing air into it. This stretching aligns the plastic molecules, improving strength and clarity. Often used for making PET bottles for beverages.

Applications and Advantages:

  • Uniform Thickness: Produces parts with consistent wall thickness.
  • Lightweight: Creates lightweight products, reducing material costs.
  • High Efficiency: Suitable for high-volume production of hollow items.
  • Common Applications: Includes bottles for beverages, containers for household products, and fuel tanks.

3. Extrusion Molding

In extrusion molding, plastic is melted and forced through a die to create long shapes like pipes, sheets, and films. This process is continuous, making it efficient for large-scale production. The extruded product is then cooled and cut to the desired length.

Suitable Materials:

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Used in pipes, cable insulation, and clothing.
  • Polystyrene (PS): Suitable for packaging, disposable cutlery, and foam products.
  • Polypropylene (PP): Used in packaging, automotive parts, and textiles.

Application Examples:

  • Pipes and Tubing: Commonly used for water supply and drainage systems.
  • Plastic Films and Sheets: Used in packaging, agricultural films, and construction materials.
  • Insulation for Electrical Cables: Provides protective and insulating layers for wiring and cables.

4. Compression Molding

Compression molding involves placing a preheated plastic material into an open mold cavity. The mold is closed, and pressure is applied to shape the material as it cools and hardens. The process is suitable for producing large, intricate parts with good surface finish and structural integrity.

Suitable Materials and Product Types:

  • Thermosetting Plastics: Such as phenolic and epoxy resins, which are used for their durability and heat resistance.
  • Thermoplastic Polymers: Like polypropylene and polyethylene, for lower volume production.

Advantages and Limitations:

  • Low Material Waste: Excess material can be reused, reducing overall waste.
  • High Strength: Produces parts with high structural integrity.
  • Limitations: Slower production speed and less suitable for complex geometries compared to injection molding.

5. Transfer Molding

In transfer molding, the plastic material is preheated in a chamber before being transferred into a closed mold cavity. The material is then forced into the mold, where it cools and solidifies. This method is often used for manufacturing intricate parts with high precision.

Application Areas:

  • Electrical Components: Such as connectors, switches, and insulators.
  • Encapsulation of Electronic Devices: Protects delicate electronic components from environmental factors.

Comparison with Other Molding Processes:

  • More Control: Offers better control over material flow than compression molding.
  • Suitable for Complex Designs: Capable of producing intricate and detailed parts.
  • Efficiency: Less efficient for large-volume production compared to injection molding.

Common Application Areas

1. Medical Devices

High precision and cleanliness standards are essential in the production of medical devices to ensure safety and functionality. The manufacturing environment must be sterile, and the processes must adhere to strict regulatory standards.

The use of biocompatible and sterilizable materials is crucial. These materials must not cause any adverse reactions when in contact with human tissue and should withstand repeated sterilization without degrading.

Considerations for Material Selection:

  • Biocompatible Materials: Such as Polycarbonate (PC) and Polyethylene (PE), which are safe for medical use.
  • Sterilization Compatibility: Materials must withstand sterilization processes without degrading.

Application Examples of Molding Technologies:

  • Injection Molding: Used for syringes, medical tubing, and surgical instruments.
  • Blow Molding: Ideal for making medical containers and bottles.

2. Automotive Industry

In the automotive industry, the trend towards lightweighting involves the use of lightweight plastics to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. By replacing heavier materials with advanced plastics, manufacturers can produce vehicles that are lighter, more fuel-efficient, and have lower carbon footprints.

Applications of High-Performance Materials:

  • Polyamide (PA): Used in engine components, electrical connectors, and under-the-hood parts.
  • Polypropylene (PP): Common in interior and exterior automotive components due to its durability and versatility.

Innovations in Molding Processes:

  • Multi-Material Injection Molding: Combines different plastics in one part, enhancing functionality and reducing assembly time.
  • In-Mold Decoration (IMD): Integrates decorative and functional elements during the molding process.

3. Electronics

The electronics industry faces challenges related to the miniaturization of components. Precision molding is required for producing small and complex parts to ensure their performance and reliability in devices such as smartphones, tablets, and wearable technology.

Selection of Conductive and Insulating Materials:

  • Conductive Plastics: Used for housing electronic components that require electrical conductivity.
  • Insulating Materials: Essential for protecting circuits and electronic parts from electrical interference.

Role of Molding Processes in Electronic Product Manufacturing:

  • Injection Molding: Creates precise electronic enclosures and housings.
  • Transfer Molding: Used for encapsulating delicate electronic components to protect them from environmental damage.

Conclusion

Plastic molding is a versatile and essential manufacturing process with applications across various industries. From medical devices to automotive parts, the different types of molding processes each offer unique benefits. As the industry continues to evolve, innovations in molding techniques will further enhance production efficiency and product quality.

For those looking for reliable plastic molding services, HordRT’s Plastic Injection Molding Service provides high-quality solutions tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you need mass production of small parts or custom-designed components, HordRT offers expertise and precision in every project.

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

The Role of GPS Trackers in Protecting Musical Equipment on the Road

By Mitch Rice

Introduction to the Importance of Musical Equipment Protection

Musicians and their crews invest heavily in musical equipment, from high-end instruments to expensive sound gear. Whether on a tour, traveling for a gig, or moving equipment between rehearsals, ensuring the safety of this equipment is paramount. Unfortunately, theft and damage are real risks that many musicians face on the road. This is where GPS trackers come into play, offering a robust solution for tracking and securing valuable asset tracker. In this article, we’ll explore how GPS trackers can protect musical equipment, the advantages they offer, and best practices for implementation.

Understanding GPS Trackers and How They Work

GPS (Global Positioning System) trackers are devices that use satellite signals to determine the precise location of an object. They communicate this data to a centralized system that can be accessed via computers or mobile apps. There are various types of GPS trackers, including passive, active, and hybrid models:

Passive GPS Trackers: These store location data that can be downloaded later. They are often used for tracking purposes but do not provide real-time data.

Active GPS Trackers: These provide real-time tracking information, making them ideal for musicians on the move. They continually send location data to the user.

Hybrid GPS Trackers: Combining features of both passive and active models, these offer flexibility in tracking and reporting.

The Benefits of Using GPS Trackers for Musical Equipment

Real-Time Monitoring

One of the main advantages of active GPS trackers is real-time monitoring. Musicians can know the location of their gear at any moment, ensuring that it’s where it should be. This feature is particularly useful during long tours, where equipment might change hands frequently.

Theft Recovery

In the unfortunate event that equipment is stolen, GPS trackers provide a way to recover lost items. Many models offer geo-fencing capabilities, which alert users when equipment leaves a designated area, enabling swift action.

Protection Against Damage

Some advanced GPS trackers come with sensors that monitor environmental conditions, like temperature and humidity. This feature can be particularly useful for protecting sensitive equipment, such as amplifiers or vintage guitars, from damage due to adverse conditions.

Improved Logistics and Inventory Management

Keeping track of musical equipment locations aids in logistics planning. Musicians can streamline their loading and unloading processes, ensuring that nothing is left behind or misplaced. Additionally, GPS trackers can help in managing inventory, ensuring that all items are accounted for after each show.

Reduced Insurance Costs

With the added security provided by GPS tracking, some insurance companies may offer reduced premiums for insured equipment. Showing proof of active GPS tracking may also facilitate quicker claims processing in the event of theft.

Best Practices for Using GPS Trackers with Musical Equipment

Choose the Right Tracker

Depending on the type of equipment and travel habits, selecting a GPS tracker that suits specific needs is crucial. Consider factors such as battery life, size, features, and price.

Utilize Geo-Fencing Alerts

Setting up geo-fences provides an extra layer of security. Users receive notifications when equipment enters or exits a predefined area, allowing them to act quickly in case of unauthorized movement.

Attach Trackers Securely

Ensuring that GPS trackers are securely attached to musical equipment is vital. Consider using discreet mounting options to prevent detection by potential thieves.

Review Data Regularly

Regularly monitoring movement data can help identify patterns, such as frequent stops or deviations from planned routes. This can alert you to potential issues or the need for better security measures.

Train Staff on Tracker Use

Everyone involved in transporting equipment should be trained on how to use GPS trackers effectively. This ensures a quick response in case of theft or emergencies.

The Future of GPS Tracking in the Music Industry

As technology continues to evolve, GPS tracking will become more integrated with other security features. Innovations such as integration with smartphone apps, artificial intelligence for predictive analytics, and enhanced battery life are likely scenarios.

For instance, the growing trend of smart devices will allow musicians to lock or unlock their equipment remotely, receive alerts about environmental conditions, and even track sound equipment wirelessly.

Case Study: Successful Implementation of GPS Tracking in a Touring Band

Consider the experience of a popular touring band that faced significant losses due to stolen equipment during their previous tours. After investing in reliable GPS tracking systems, the band was able to monitor their equipment in real-time. With geo-fencing set up in key locations, they quickly located a stolen vehicle containing several instruments, leading to a rapid recovery.

The reduction in thefts not only safeguarded their equipment but also contributed to a more relaxed touring experience. Band members felt secure, allowing them to focus on their performances rather than worrying about the safety of their gear.

Conclusion: Secure Your Musical Assets with GPS Tracking

The importance of protecting musical equipment on the road cannot be overstated. With the high costs and emotional value attached to instruments and gear, GPS trackers offer a reliable solution that combines convenience and security. Investing in GPS tracking technology is an essential step for every musician and his or her crew looking to safeguard their valuable assets.

By staying ahead with technology and employing best practices in equipment tracking, musicians can focus on what they do best: creating and sharing their music with the world. Whether hitting the stage or traveling to the next gig, GPS trackers can provide peace of mind, knowing that your equipment is secure and monitored.

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

Alex Cooper Sits Down With Vice President & Democratic Presidential Nominee Kamala Harris in a Very Special Episode of Call Her Daddy

Today, on Sunday, October 6th, Alex Cooper released the highly anticipated Call Her Daddy episode featuring Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris. In this powerful discussion, Harris opens up about overcoming doubt, resilience, and key policy issues such as women’s rights and the economy. Vice President Harris reflects on her experiences of being told “no” throughout her career and emphasizes the importance of not letting others define you. Harris also shares her lifelong commitment to standing up against sexual violence, stressing the need for open dialogue to break the silence and stigma surrounding abuse. The conversation touches on the economic struggles women face when trying to escape abusive situations, highlighting the importance of financial independence. Harris critiques former President Trump’s stance on women’s rights and reproductive freedom, particularly following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, and explores the broader implications for access to essential healthcare. Additionally, she discusses student loan forgiveness and the financial challenges young people encounter when starting families, providing personal insights and policy-driven solutions throughout the conversation.

The full episode to the podcast HERE. Call Her Daddy is available for streaming on all podcast platforms.

Vice President Harris makes her debut appearance on Call Her Daddy with Alex Cooper, just days after the leading female podcaster and her network Unwell kicked off a new deal with SiriusXM.

Key moments from the episode include:

10:38 – HOW KAMALA HARRIS DEALS WITH DOUBT

Cooper: “When people tell you no, when people look at you and doubt you, what does that ignite in you?”

Harris: “So, I have been told that many times. And through the course of my career, I’ve been told you know, at one point, you’re too young. I’ve been told, no one like you has ever done that before, oh they’re not ready for you, oh (and this is the one that kills me) it’s going to be a lot of hard work. Right, as though we don’t like hard work. And here is my response: I don’t hear no. I don’t hear no. And I urge all of the daddy gang, don’t hear no. Just don’t hear it.”

11:35 – HARRIS REACTS TO ATTACKS MADE ON HER CHARACTER

Cooper: “Throughout this election, your identity has been called into question many times. Your opponent has called you crazy, weak, fake and dumb. How does that affect you?”

Harris: “I think it’s really important not to let other people define you. And usually those people who will attempt to do it don’t know you.”

11:54 – HARRIS ON WHY THE TOPIC OF SEXUAL ABUSE IS IMPORTANT & PERSONAL TO HER

Harris talks about when she realized at a young age her friend Wanda was being sexually assaulted and when she made the decision to protect vulnerable people and women.
15:03 – SEXUAL ABUSE IN AMERICA TODAY

Kamala thanks Alex for talking about sexual abuse on her platform. “Part of the issue is that people don’t talk about it. I don’t mean the survivors of it, I mean nobody does. And the more that we let anything exist in the shadows, the more likely it is that people are suffering and suffering silently and we need to talk about it. We have to talk about it,” said Harris.

Added Harris: “Child sexual assault is something that affects far more people than the public discourse about it acknowledges and the more we talk about it, the more we will address it and deal with it, the more we will be equipped to deal with it, in terms of schools, in terms of society at large and to not stigmatize it.”

“We still have so far to go on the issue of child sexual assault, just like in a previous time, the issue of domestic violence. People didn’t talk about domestic violence. And part of it was this really warped idea that what happens in the home is none of our business, but if it happened on the street, it would be our business. So the point being that abuse of anyone is something we should all take seriously as opposed to saying it’s not our business. It’s something that we have to agree should not happen and whatever resources and whatever attention we can put into reducing the likelihood that it happens is worthwhile.”

17:19 – HARRIS ON HOW TO MAKE THE COUNTRY SAFER FOR WOMEN

Harris: “When a woman and particularly if she has children, if she is economically reliant on her abuser, she is less likely to leave, because most women will endure whatever personal, physical pain they must in order to make sure their kids have a roof over their head or food.”

“So one of the ways we know that women are able to walk away from abuse, and there are many layers to her being able to do that, but one of them is does she have the economic freedom to be able to do that.”

“So one of the ways we know we can uplift the ability of women to have choices is uplift women the ability to have economic wealth and wellbeing.”

18:44 – HARRIS RESPONSE TO TRUMP TELLING WOMEN, “YOU WILL BE PROTECTED, AND I WILL BE YOUR PROTECTOR”

Harris: “So he, who, when he was president, hand selected three members of the United States Supreme Court with the intention that they would undo the protections of Roe V. Wade and they did just as he intended and there are now 20 states with Trump abortion bans, including bans that make no exceptions for rape or incest, which we just discussed, which means that you’re telling a survivor of a crime with a violation of their body, they don’t have a right to make a decision about what happens to their body next, which is immoral. So, this is the same guy that is now saying that, this is the same guy that said women should be punished for having abortions. This is the same guy who uses the same kind of language he does to describe women? So yeah, there you go.”
19:41 – ABORTION ACCESS IN THE U.S. TODAY AFTER ROE V. WADE OVERTURNED

Cooper: “Can you explain and talk about what is actually happening to abortion access right now in this country?”

Harris: “On public policy I often tell my team, look, I don’t want to hear about public policy, it’s a fancy kind of speech or paper. Tell me how it will affect  a real person. So let’s talk about how it will affect a real person. The majority of women who receive abortion care are mothers. So, if she is in a state, and by the way, every state in the south except for Virgina, has an abortion ban. So imagine she is in a state with an abortion ban (1 out of 3 women in our country are, by the way) and she’s a mom. So she is going to have to figure out one, god help her if she has affordable childcare, god help her if she has paid leave, and then she is going to have to, go to the airport, stand in a TSA line, sit on a plane next to a perfect stranger, to go to a city where she has never been, to receive the care she needs. She’s going to have to probably get right back on that plane because she’s got those kids. Her best friend’s probably not with her because that’s who is taking care of the kids. To get back in that TSA lane, to get back on a plane to go home.”

Cooper: “And that’s all if they can afford the plane ticket or the bus ticket.”
Harris: “Exactly.”

Added Harris: “Here is the thing, you don’t have to abandon your faith or deeply held beliefs to agree, the government shouldn’t be telling her what to do. If she chooses, she’ll talk to her priest, her pastor, her rabbi, her imam, but not the government telling you what to do and that’s what is so outrageous about it. A bunch of these guys up in these state capitals are writing these decisions because they somehow have decided that they are in a better position to tell you what’s in your best interest than you are to know what’s in your own best interest. It’s outrageous.”

23:36 – HARRIS SAYS SHE WAS THE FIRST VICE PRESIDENT OR PRESIDENT TO EVER IN OFFICE GO TO A REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE CLINIC

Harris: “I was the First Vice President or President to ever in office go to a reproductive health center, ever.”

“It’s [also] about IVF treatments and access, it’s about access to contraception which is very much at risk with these folks. Back to the point about reproductive health clinics, do you know what those clinics also do? They do paps, they do breast cancer screenings, they do HIV testing, and they are having to close in many places with these bans. So think about the fact that for anyone who has gone to one of these clinics you understand it is sometimes the most trusted place where people receive that kind of health care because they walk into those places that are generally staffed by people who create a safe place for people to come in without judgement… and many of them are having to close because of these laws.”

25:17 – HARRIS CLAIMS PEOPLE WHO WERE ANTI-ABORTION HAVE NOW CHANGED THEIR STANCE IN THE LAST TWO YEARS

Harris: “…What I’m finding as I travel, people who before two years ago, before Roe V. Wade was overturned, people who felt very strong about that they are anti-abortion, anti-abortion, are now seeing what is happening and saying, hm, I didn’t intend for all of this to happen. And I think that’s also why in state after state, so-called red states and so-called blue states, when this issue has been on the ballot, the American people are voting for freedom. Because ultimately it’s about, look, this is not about imposing my thoughts on you in terms of what you do with your life or your body. It’s actually quite the opposite, it’s saying the government should not be telling people what to do.”

29:34 – HARRIS ON TRUMP’S CLAIMS THAT STATES ARE “EXECUTING BABIES AFTER BIRTH”

Harris: “That is not happening anywhere in the United States. It’s a bold face lie. Just a boldfaced lie that he is suggesting. Can you imagine he’s suggesting that women in their ninth month of pregnancy are electing to have an abortion? Are you kidding? That is so outrageously inaccurate and it’s so insulting to suggest that that would be happening and that women would be doing that. It’s not happening anywhere. This guy is full of lies. I mean, I just have to be very candid with you.”

35:12 – HARRIS RESPONSE TO CRITICISMS ABOUT HER NOT HAVING CHILDREN

Cooper reads a quote from the Governor of Arkansas, “My kids keep me humble. Unfortunately, Kamala Harris doesn’t have anything keeping her humble.”

Harris responds: “I feel sorry for her and I’m going to tell you why because I don’t think she understands that there are a whole lot of women out here who one, are not aspiring to be humble, two, a whole lot of women out here, who have a lot of love in their life, family in their life, and children in their life and I think it’s very important for women to lift each other up.”

Added Harris: “One of the things that I have really enjoyed about where the discussion has gone, one of the places it’s gone is about, I feel very strongly, we each have our family by blood and then we have our family by love. And I have both. And I consider it to be a real blessing. And I have two beautiful children: Cole and Ella, who call me ‘Mamala’, we have a very modern family, my husband’s ex-wife is a friend of mine, you know, and also I’ll tell you, look, I’m a child of divorced parents, and when I started dating Doug, my husband, I was very thoughtful and sensitive to making sure that until I knew that our relationship was something that was going to be real, I didn’t want to form a relationship with the kids and then walk away from that relationship. My own experience tells me that children form attachments and I wanted to be thoughtful about it. So I waited to meet the kids and they are my children and I love those kids to death. Family comes in many forms and I think that increasingly, all of us understand that this is not the 1950’s anymore. Families come in all shapes or forms and they are family nonetheless.”
38:34 – ON REPUBLICAN VICE PRESIDENT NOMINEE, JD VANCE’S QUOTE: “CHILDLESS CAT LADIES”

Harris: “I just think it’s mean and mean spirited. And I think that most Americans want leaders who understand that the measure of their strength is not based on who you beat down, the real measure of the strength of a leader is based on who you lift up.”
39:29 – HARRIS ON FINANCIAL OBSTACLES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE & HER PLAN TO HELP

Harris: “First of all, it’s a very real issue and we need to take it seriously and I do take it very seriously. So there are a number of issues that contribute to that feeling. One is housing is too expensive and we need to increase the housing supply, so part of my plan is to work with home builders in the private sector to create tax incentives to build by the end of my first term 3 million more housing units. Second piece is $25,000 down payment assistance for first time home buyers because a big issue in terms of the barrier to being a homeowner is just having enough to actually put that down payment down, to get your foot in the door. The other piece of it is we need to give tax credits and really understand that middle class and working people need a break and so part of my plan is to give 100 million more people who basically are middle class, working people tax cuts, including for young parents, a $6,000 tax cut for the first year of their child’s life, which helps them buy a crib or a car seat or clothing and just get through that first year which is such an important and critical stage of their child’s development.”

41:02 – HARRIS ON EXPANDING STUDENT LOAN FORGIVENESS AND HER VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Harris: “We are fighting and I’m going to continue to fight for student debt relief. I mean, student loan debt is a huge issue and to your point, it’s a barrier to people being able to even think about starting a family, buying a home, and we just need to give people relief. Part of the work that we’ve done, when I’ve been Vice President, is to forgive student loan debt for millions of people by this point, I think over 5 million, including doubling the amount of student loan forgiveness for public servants like nurses and teachers and firefighters, but we have to do more. Debt is a big issue. The other piece I’ve been pushing for is helping people in terms of medical debt not being on their credit score because you know, if you rack up debt because you have medical bills and it can be used against your credit score which is going to impact your ability to get an apartment lease or a car loan or a small business loan.”

AI Driving Market Shift, DJ Consoles Market to Grow by USD 124.2 Million (2024-2028) as DJ Numbers Rise

The global disc jockey (DJ) consoles market  size is estimated to grow by USD 124.2 million from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of almost 3.79%  during the forecast period. Increasing number of djs is driving market growth, with a trend towards growing number of new dj console launches. However, high cost of dj consoles  poses a challenge. Key market players include ADJ Products, LLC., A.E.B. Industrial Srl, Audiotonix Ltd., CHAUVET and Sons Inc., DJ Tech Professional, Epsilon, Five Core Electronics Ltd., Global Distribution GmbH and Co. KG, Guillemot Corp. SA, IK Multimedia Production Srl, inMusic Brands Inc., Innovative Concepts and Design LLC, KORG Inc., Music Tribe Global Brands Ltd., Native Instruments GmbH, Noritsu America Corp., Rane Holdings Ltd., Roland Corp., VXK Inc., and Yamaha Motor Co. Ltd..

The global DJ consoles market is experiencing growth due to ongoing technological advancements. New product launches, such as InMusic Brands Inc.’s ONE motorized DJ controller, are driving market expansion. The ONE features motorized 7-inch turntable platters for enhanced performance and supports popular DJ software platforms. These technological improvements aim to deliver superior sound, seamless connectivity, and high-quality instruments to DJs. The continuous introduction of innovative products is anticipated to boost the growth of the global DJ consoles market throughout the forecast period.

The DJ console market in the audio equipment industry is thriving, with trends leaning towards digital platforms. Turntables and CD players are being replaced by digital media players and software platforms for beatmatching and scratching. Professional-grade consoles offer advanced mixing capabilities, while entry-level consoles cater to leisure activities. Seamless connection to digital platforms like laptops, tablets, streaming services, and social media is essential. AI-powered beatmatching assistants, automated track transitions, and smart song recommendations are transforming the DJ experience. DJ consoles are no longer just for music festivals and corporate events, but also for techno musicians and producers in various music genres. Portability, connectivity, and mixing capabilities remain key factors. The market includes DJ Controllers, Mixers, Media Players, Turntables, and consoles of various price points – Low-end, Mid-range, and High-end, as well as Analog and Digital options. Electronic musical instruments like DJ consoles continue to evolve, catering to the needs of sound engineers and live music producers.

The cost of DJ consoles and their accessories is a significant barrier to their wider adoption due to their high retail prices. Modern DJ consoles utilize advanced sound technology, making them expensive electronic musical instruments. The DJ system’s overall cost ranges from USD3,000 to USD5,000, with the DJ controller being the most expensive component, priced between USD500 and USD2,000. A DJ mixer follows closely, costing between USD300 and USD1,500. Other components, such as media players and turntables, account for approximately 30-35% of the total cost. The cost of a DJ console depends on its brand, variant, and features, including quality, functionalities, user interface, connectivity, and price. Consequently, the high cost of professional-grade DJ consoles restricts their accessibility to the mass market, potentially hindering the growth of the global DJ consoles market.

The Disc Jockey (DJ) console market faces several challenges from emerging technologies and changing consumer preferences. Laptops and tablets have gained popularity for their portability and digital workflow, threatening traditional DJ consoles. Streaming platforms and AI-powered beatmatching assistants, automated track transitions, and smart song recommendations are also disrupting the market. DJ consoles must adapt to these trends while maintaining their unique value proposition. For music festivals and corporate events, high-end DJ consoles with advanced mixing capabilities remain essential. Sound engineers and live music producers require professional-grade equipment, including DJ Mixers, Media Players, Turntables, and DJ Controllers. However, low-end consoles cater to leisure activities and techno musicians producing electronic music genres like trap and electronic dance music. Connectivity and portability are crucial factors for DJ consoles, with digital DJ consoles offering more flexibility than their analog counterparts. The market segments include DJ consoles based on price points: low-end, mid-range, and high-end. Electronic musical instruments and social media are also influencing the market dynamics.

The offline segment plays a significant role in the global disc jockey (DJ) consoles market, providing customers with the opportunity to personally examine and purchase DJ consoles. Brick-and-mortar retail stores specializing in musical instruments, pro audio equipment, and DJ gear are prominent offline sales channels. These stores allow customers to test DJ consoles, assess build quality, and receive expert advice from knowledgeable staff. Dedicated pro audio and DJ equipment stores cater to professional DJs and music producers, offering a wide range of DJ consoles and related equipment. Offline events, such as trade shows, music expos, and DJ workshops, serve as platforms for showcasing and selling DJ consoles. Lastly, offline secondhand markets provide opportunities to buy and sell used DJ consoles, offering more affordable options and access to vintage or discontinued models. These offline sales channels offer personal interaction, hands-on experience, and expert guidance, contributing to the growth of the offline segment in the global DJ consoles market.

The DJ consoles market encompasses a range of audio equipment designed for mixing and performing music. Key components include turntables, CD players, digital media players, mixers, software platforms, and various controllers. Beatmatching and scratching are essential skills for DJs, enabling seamless connection between tracks and creative transitions. Portable and wireless consoles offer flexibility for various events, from music festivals to corporate functions. Digital workflow and streaming platforms have revolutionized the industry, allowing for online streaming and AI-powered mixing. DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) and beatmatching assistants streamline the production process. High-end consoles offer advanced features, while mid-range and low-end consoles cater to beginners and budget-conscious users. Sound engineers and live music producers often use professional-grade DJ consoles for large-scale events. Innovation continues with smart recommendations and automated transitions. However, high cost and limited availability can hinder market growth. The market serves diverse clientele, from creative entertainers to professional DJs, ensuring continuous evolution and demand.

The DJ consoles market is a vibrant segment of the audio equipment market, catering to the unique needs of disc jockeys (DJs) and music producers. It includes a range of equipment such as turntables, CD players, digital media players, mixers, and software platforms. These tools enable DJs to perform various techniques like beatmatching and scratching, and offer seamless connection with digital platforms, laptops, tablets, and streaming services. Professional-grade consoles deliver superior sound quality and advanced features, while entry-level consoles cater to beginners. The market is witnessing a shift towards digital workflows, with AI-powered beatmatching assistants, automated track transitions, and smart song recommendations. DJs perform at various events, including music festivals, corporate events, and social media platforms. They use DJ controllers, mixers, media players, and turntables. The market offers a diverse range of consoles, from low-end to high-end, analog to digital, and portable to professional-grade. DJ consoles are not just limited to music genres like techno and electronic dance music but are also used by sound engineers, live music producers, and techno musicians for leisure activities and electronic musical instruments like trap music.

Spotify Increases Music Industry Market Cap Market Share in Omdia’s Third Quarter Music Industry Share Review

According to new analysis from Omdia, Spotify has increased its market share of the leading music companies’ combined market capitalization in the third quarter of this year.

After overtaking Universal Music Group (UMG) to become the biggest music industry company in the second quarter, Omdia’s Music Industry Sharewatch, 3Q24 has revealed that Spotify’s market share of the 28 companies tracked ended September at 32.9%, up from 28.7% at the end of June. Spotify’s market cap over the three-month period increased, to $72.2bn from $62.5bn. UMG remained in second place, but the company’s market share was down, to 21.8% from 24.7%.

In a strong quarter for live music promoters, Live Nation took third spot in the rankings. It’s market cap ended the quarter at $25.4bn compared with $21.7bn at the end of June, boosting the company’s market share to 11.6% from 10%. Chinese music streaming service Tencent Music Entertainment slipped to fourth place with a market share of 8.7%. Rounding out the top five, WMG’s market cap share edged up, to 7.4% from 7.3%.

In a good quarter for music overall, 15 of the 28 tracked companies registered an increase in their share prices over the quarter with 13 recording a negative performance. US broadcast group iHeartMedia was the top performer. Its share price opened on July 1 at $1.09 and closed on September 30 at $1.85. The company’s market cap in the quarter increased, to $289m from $196m. At the other end of the scale, US music and entertainment service LiveOne suffered the biggest decline, with its share price dropping 38.4%, to $0.95 from $1.54.

The combined market cap of the 28 companies ended September at $219.6bn compared with $217.5bn at the start of July and $194.2bn at the beginning of the year. Of the total, US-listed companies accounted for 65.6% of the combined end-September market cap total, with Netherlands-listed companies generating 21.8%, and German-listed companies 4.6%. The market cap share for streaming services stood at 43.4%, with record companies/music publishers accounting for 35.4%.

“Spotify’s performance in the third quarter is a continuation of the company’s strong showing in quarters one and two,” said Simon Dyson, Senior Principal Analyst at Omdia. “So far this year the share price has almost doubled. In contrast, UMG’s share price has struggled to regain the losses following the release of the company’s midyear results,” Dyson added.