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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.

For more information on market segmentation with geographical analysis including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 – 2022)  – Download a Sample Report

Learn and explore more about Technavio’s in-depth research reports

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.

Roc Nation Announces ROC Nation distribution Following the Merger of Roc Nation Label and Equity Distribution

Today, Roc Nation announces the merger of its Roc Nation Label and Equity Distribution (EQ) divisions to form ROC Nation distribution, a platform and destination for artists, led by the artist’s needs, interest and focus.

By merging these divisions, blending the business and recreating the formula, ROC Nation distribution will sign up any artist at any time to allow creatives to avail themselves of technology, music business expertise and freedom.

ROC Nation distribution is a hybrid, offering a unique blend of services. Artists who partner with ROC Nation distribution are independent, retain ownership of their master’s and creative control of their art. Artists also receive data analytics from a proprietary dashboard and have the ability to opt into various services across the company. We will sign all artists in all genres around the world.

Roc Nation was founded with an independent spirit and an artist-first mentality. The formation of ROC Nation distribution is a natural transition in the music space. The mission is to support and empower independent artists while providing them the tools and services to distribute their music. All artists signed to Roc Nation Label will join and benefit from the new ROC Nation distribution structure.

The music industry is undergoing a significant transformation. The rise of direct music distribution channels, combined with the influence of social media, has reshaped the traditional landscape. These developments have created a direct connection between artists and consumers, empowering artists to take greater control of promotion, marketing, creative direction, and business development.

How fans engage with artists and music has transformed the industry and reshaped our approach to music consumption. To join ROC Nation distribution go to:  rocnation.com/signup

Foreigner Celebrates Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction with Career-Spanning Set ‘Turning Back the Time,’ Featuring New Song by Mick Jones and Lou Gramm

Foreigner, one of the most successful bands in music history, will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on October 19. In celebration of this much-deserved honor, the band will release a career-spanning collection that includes “Turning Back The Time,” a previously unreleased track originally recorded in 1996 featuring Mick Jones and Lou Gramm.

On October 4, Rhino will release Turning Back The Time in 2-LP and CD configurations. The music will also be available from digital and streaming platforms on the same day. The new single “Turning Back The Time” debuts today.

“Foreigner’s membership in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a priceless highlight of my career. I hope that this collection of the songs that brought us here, along with some later recordings that light our way forward, will mean as much to all who listen to them as they do to me,” says Mick Jones.

“There are a number of songs that Lou Gramm and I wrote together that have never seen the light of day. One of them, “Turning Back The Time”, was co-written with Marti Frederiksen. Marti and I recently revisited and reworked the song. Because of the time that had passed, we were able to go back to it with a fresh perspective. The sentiment of the song spoke to us now more than ever and with the upcoming Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, we thought it an ideal time to let the world hear it.”

Starting with its self-titled debut in 1977, Foreigner delivered some of rock’s most enduring anthems. Turning Back The Time includes the Top 10 hits “Feels Like The First Time,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Double Vision,” and “Urgent.” The set also features the ballads “Waiting For A Girl Like You” and “I Want To Know What Love Is,” which reached No. 2 and No. 1 respectively.

The collection mainly draws from Foreigner’s first six albums, all of which earned platinum status or higher: Foreigner (5x platinum), Double Vision (7x platinum), Head Games (5x platinum), 4 (6x platinum), Agent Provocateur (3x platinum), and Inside Information (platinum). Mick Jones started work on reforming Foreigner in 2004 and that band, led by Kelly Hansen on vocals, is featured with songs from Feels Like The First Time (platinum). To date, Foreigner has sold more than 80 million albums worldwide, cementing its status as one of the top-selling bands of all time.

Mick Jones continues to elevate FOREIGNER’s influence and guide the band to new horizons with his stylistic songwriting, indelible guitar hooks and multi-layered talents. Lead singer Kelly Hansen, one of rock’s greatest showmen, has led FOREIGNER into the digital age, inspiring a whole new generation of fans. Bassist Jeff Pilson, Michael Bluestein on keyboards, guitarist Bruce Watson, Chris Frazier on drums, and guitarist Luis Maldonado provide an unprecedented level of energy that has resulted in the re-emergence of the astounding music that speaks to FOREIGNER‘s enduring popularity.

With more Billboard Top 10 hits than Journey and just as many as Fleetwood Mac, FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 80 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems, including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Say You Will,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Long, Long Way From Home” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is,” FOREIGNER still rocks the charts more than 40 years into the game with massive airplay and continued Billboard Top 200 album success. Streams of FOREIGNER’s hits exceed 15 million per week.

Turning Back The Time
2-LP Track Listing
LP One: Side One
1. “Feels Like The First Time”
2. “Cold As Ice”
3. “Long, Long Way From Home”
4. “Hot Blooded”
5. “Double Vision”
Side Two
1. “Dirty White Boy”
2. “Head Games”
3. “Urgent”
4. “Waiting For A Girl Like You”
LP Two: Side One
1. “Juke Box Hero”
2. “Girl On The Moon”
3. “I Want To Know What Love Is”
4. “That Was Yesterday”
Side Two
1. “Say You Will”
2. “Can’t Slow Down”
3. “When It Comes To Love”
4. “The Flame Still Burns”
5. “Turning Back The Time”

Turning Back The Time
CD Track Listing
1. “Feels Like The First Time”
2. “Cold As Ice”
3. “Long, Long Way From Home”
4. “Hot Blooded”
5. “Double Vision”
6. “Dirty White Boy”
7. “Head Games”
8. “Urgent”
9. “Waiting For A Girl Like You”
10. “Juke Box Hero”
11. “Girl On The Moon”
12. “I Want To Know What Love Is”
13. “That Was Yesterday”
14. “Say You Will”
15. “Can’t Slow Down”
16. “When It Comes To Love”
17. “The Flame Still Burns”
18. “Turning Back The Time”

Barenaked Ladies Celebrate 20th Anniversary of ‘Barenaked for the Holidays’ with Vinyl Debut

This holiday season, fans of legendary rockers Barenaked Ladies are in for a treat with the worldwide vinyl debut of their bestselling album, Barenaked for the Holidays. First released in 2004, the 20-track album blends original tunes (“Christmas Pics”, “Hanukkah Blessings”, “Green Christmas”) and seasonal classics (“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, “I Have a Little Dreidel”, “Auld Lang Syne”), with a heavy dash of the band’s signature wit. Adding a twist of holiday magic are special guests Michael Bublé and Sarah McLachlan, who lend their vocals to “Elf’s Lament” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”/“We Three Kings”, respectively.

Arriving October 18, Barenaked for the Holidays will be available in classic black vinyl via Warner Music Canada here, and Candy Cane Split (exclusively through the band’s official store) available to pre-order here.

Long beloved for their quick wit and hook-filled blend of alt-rock, pop, and folk, Barenaked Ladies (aka BNL) became international sensations in the late ’90s, thanks to a slew of memorable hit singles. But the Scarborough, ON band had been fixtures in the Canadian music scene for nearly a decade by then. Formed in 1988, BNL gained notoriety three years later when their self-titled demo tape (featuring the fan favourite, “If I Had $1000000”) became the first independent release to be certified Gold in Canada. That success led to a record deal and a string of best-selling albums, including 1992’s Gordon and 1994’s Maybe You Should Drive.

It was 1998’s multi-platinum-selling Stunt, however, that catapulted BNL to the next level, thanks to such massive hits as “It’s All Been Done”, “Call and Answer”, and the US No.1, “One Week”. The band enjoyed their superstar status over the next few years—releasing their best-selling follow-up, 2000’s Maroon (featuring “Pinch Me”); performing at the 2002 Winter Olympics; securing songs on major TV shows and soundtracks; and touring the globe several times over. But by the mid-aughts, after the release of their sixth studio album, Everything to Everyone (2003), the band was eager to return to their indie roots—a move they made with 2004’s Barenaked for the Holidays. The album served as the launching pad for their independently owned label and ushered in a fresh chapter for BNL while serving as a jolly gift to their fans.

Offering something for everyone, BNL’s sole holiday release features 20 tracks that range from Christmas classics and Hanukkah favourites to original ditties about the joys of winter and beyond—many of which are made even jollier, thanks to BNL’s humourous spirit. Opening Barenaked for the Holidays is a measured rendition of “Jingle Bells”. Halfway through, BNL breaks into the parody version (“Jingle bells/Batman smells/Robin laid an egg…”), setting the tone for the album.

The group takes a more traditional approach to songs like “Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah”, “Auld Lang Syne”, “I Have a Little Dreidel”, and Band Aid’s “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”, while an organ-based instrumental of “Carol of the Bells” (accented with harmonized hums from the band) is a refreshing take on the Yuletide classic. On the other end of the spectrum—in one of the album’s most hilarious moments—is “Deck the Stills” in which BNL breaks into a 30-second acapella interlude, singing “Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young” to the tune of “Deck the Halls.”

Nearly half of the album is comprised of original material, including the earwormy “Green Christmas” (which appears in the 1999 Ron Howard film How the Grinch Stole Christmas), “Hanukkah Blessings”, “Christmas Pics”, and the reflective “Footprints”. The whimsical “Elf’s Lament” meanwhile, features a cameo by a then-relatively unknown Michael Bublé—fresh off his first JUNO win for Breakthrough Artist of the Year. The band is also joined by the celebrated singer/songwriter Sarah McLaughlan, who lends her voice to an upbeat medley of “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”/“We Three Kings”.

Peppered throughout Barenaked for the Holidays is a selection of synth-y instrumental interludes, built around beats programmed on a classic Casio keyboard. They include a bossa nova-infused rendition of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, an up-tempo take on “O Holy Night”, and a cover of Paul McCartney’s “Wonderful Christmastime” (which ends with a hidden round of “Happy Birthday” to Jesus himself).

Released in October 2004, Barenaked for the Holidays was embraced by fans and critics alike, earning a gold record in Canada, where it landed in the Top 30, and receiving high marks from the likes of Rolling Stone, who gave the album 4.5 out of 5 stars, praising, “Tapping into their inner child, the Barenaked Ladies make the holidays fun again.” AllMusic hailed, “The arrangements are nimble and…clever,” calling it, “more interesting and distinctive than the average holiday record.” PopMatters simply declared it to be, “silly, rollicking, goofy, and fun.”

Speaking on the album, co-founder Ed Robertson says, “Barenaked for the Holidays is a record I’m very proud of. It was fun taking a stab at a few holiday classics, but I think the real strength of the record is the original songs. ‘Footprints’ and ‘Snowman’ are among my favourites I’ve ever written. It’s always fun to revisit these songs around the holidays every year. It’s the only original music that we ONLY play for one month every year!!”

20 years later, Barenaked Ladies—which features Robertson (vocals, guitar), Jim Creeggan (bass, vocals), Tyler Stewart (drums, vocals), and Kevin Hearn (keyboards, guitar, vocals)—continues to hold a unique place in the modern pop canon. Over the course of 35 years, the beloved quartet has sold over 15 million records worldwide and built up an arsenal of hits such as “If I Had $1,000,000,” “One Week,” “Pinch Me,” and “The Big Bang Theory Theme.” Widely acknowledged as one of the best live acts on the planet, BNL has hosted a cruise, had their own Ben & Jerry’s ice cream flavour, and participated in the first-ever “space-to-Earth musical collaboration” with astronaut Chris Hadfield. To date, BNL has amassed eight JUNO Awards, garnered two GRAMMY nominations and was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. In September of 2023, the band released In Flight, their 18th studio album.

This fall, BNL are on an extensive tour in support of their latest album, In Flight. Fans can catch them across North America with shows through the fall. Scroll down to see a list of dates or visit the band’s website for tickets and more info.

Track Listing (Vinyl)
Side A:
01. Jingle Bells
02. Green Christmas
03. I Saw Three Ships
04. Hanukkah Blessings
05. O Holy Night
06. Elf’s Lament (with Michael Bublé)
07. Snowman
08. Do They Know It’s Christmas?

Side B:
01. Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah
02. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen / We Three Kings (with Sarah McLachlan)
03. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
04. Carol Of The Bells
05. Footprints
06. Deck The Stills
07. Christmastime (Oh Yeah)
08. Sleigh Ride
09. Christmas Pics
10. I Have A Little Dreidel
11. Wonderful Christmastime
12. Auld Lang Syne

Barenaked Ladies North American Tour Dates:
September 1: Vancouver, Canada – Pacific Coliseum
September 16: Cedar Rapids, IA – McGrath Amphitheatre
September 17: Moorhead, MN – Bluestem Center for the Arts Amphitheater
September 18: Lincoln, NE – Pinewood Bowl Theater
September 20: Albuquerque, NM – Revel
September 21: Colorado Springs, CO – Ford Amphitheater
September 22: Vail, CO – Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
September 24: Tulsa, OK – Tulsa Theater
September 25: Chesterfield, MO – The Factory at the District
September 27: Pittsburgh, PA – Rivers Casino Events Center
September 28: Charles Town, WV – Hollywood Casino Events Center
September 29: Ocean City, MD – Oceans Calling Festival
October 1: Brookville, NY – Tilles Center
October 2: Rochester, NY – Kodak Center
October 4: French Lick, IN – French Lick Resort
October 6: Umatilla, OR – Rock The Locks
October 17: Columbia, SC – Township Auditorium
October 18: Asheville, NC – Thomas Wolfe Auditorium
October 19: Augusta, GA –Bell Auditorium
October 21: Pompano Beach, FL – Pompano Beach Amphitheater
October 22: Fort Myers, FL – Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall
October 23: Clearwater, FL – The BayCare Sound
October 25: Macon, GA – Macon City Auditorium
October 26: Biloxi, MS – Beau Rivage Resort & Casino
October 27: Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
October 29: Ames, IA – Stephens Auditorium
October 30: Rochester, MN – Mayo Civic Center Auditorium
November 1: Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center Theater
November 2: Salina, KS – Stiefel Theatre
November 3: Sioux Falls, SD – Washington Pavilion
November 6: Duluth, MN – DECC Symphony Hall
November 7: Madison, WI – Overture Center for the Arts
November 8: Mount Pleasant, MI – Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort

Why The Go-Go’s ‘Vacation’ Album Commercial is the Ultimate Summer Throwback We All Need Right Now

Remember when music commercials were as iconic as the albums themselves? The Go-Go’s nailed that vibe with their 1982 commercial for the Vacation album, and it’s a time capsule of pure, unfiltered ‘80s fun.

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That Eric Alper
6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week, a 16-time JUNO Award winner overseeing PR campaigns, and have also been truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

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