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Wireless Stereo Headset Market to Reach $173.1 Billion, Globally, by 2033

Aug 19, 2024

Allied Market Research published a report, titled, “Wireless Stereo Headset Market by Product Type (wireless stereo earbuds, neckband headsets and over-ear headphones), Technology (Bluetooth, near field communication and radio frequency), and Application (consumer electronics, gaming headset and fitness & sports): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2033″. According to the report, The global wireless stereo headset market was valued at $42.7 billion in 2023, and is projected to reach $173.1 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 15.1% from 2024 to 2033.

The growth of the wireless stereo headset market is primarily driven by several key factors. The technological advancements in wireless communication, particularly Bluetooth technology, have significantly enhanced the reliability, range, and sound quality of wireless headsets, thereby expanding their appeal to consumers. Moreover, the proliferation of smartphones and other mobile devices has spurred demand for convenient, hands-free audio solutions, fostering the adoption of wireless stereo headsets for activities such as listening to music, gaming, and making calls. In addition, the increasing consumer preference for immersive audio experiences, facilitated by features such as noise cancellation and spatial audio, has further propelled market growth. Furthermore, lifestyle trends favoring fitness and outdoor activities have boosted the demand for rugged, sweat-resistant wireless headsets suitable for active use. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and voice assistants into headsets has added functionality and convenience, attracting tech-savvy consumers.

The true wireless stereo buds have high demand in wireless stereo headset market. This is due to their unmatched convenience and portability. These earbuds offer users freedom from tangled wires and are favored for their compact, lightweight design, making them ideal for active lifestyles and daily use. Advancements in Bluetooth technology, such as improved connectivity and enhanced sound quality with versions like Bluetooth 5.0 and 5.2, further bolster their appeal. TWS earbuds also come equipped with advanced features like active noise cancellation, touch controls, and seamless integration with voice assistants, catering to tech-savvy consumers seeking innovative audio solutions.

The bluetooth have high demand in wireless stereo headset market. It enables seamless connections across a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, without the need for proprietary connectors. Users benefit from the freedom of wireless connectivity, allowing them to move freely during activities such as commuting or exercising. Advancements in Bluetooth, such as Bluetooth 5.0 and beyond, have significantly improved connection stability, range, and data transfer speeds, ensuring a reliable audio experience with minimal latency. Setting up Bluetooth headsets is straightforward, often featuring simple pairing processes and automatic connection capabilities.

The consumer electronics have high demand in wireless stereo headset market. Consumer electronics are highly sought after in the wireless stereo headset market due to their versatility and integration with modern technology. These headsets cater to a broad range of everyday activities such as listening to music, watching videos, gaming, and making calls, appealing to diverse consumer preferences. Seamless integration with smartphones, tablets, and other smart devices enhances functionality with features like hands-free calling, voice assistant support, and app connectivity, providing users with enhanced convenience. Accessibility through various retail channels ensures easy availability, allowing consumers to find and purchase headsets that meet their specific needs.

Regional Outlook

North America dominates the wireless stereo headsets market for several key reasons that underscore its leadership in the industry. The region boasts a high rate of technological adoption and innovation, with consumers eagerly embracing new audio technologies such as wireless stereo headsets. Strong consumer demand is fueled by widespread smartphone use, a growing appetite for mobile entertainment, and a preference for premium audio experiences. Major tech giants headquartered in North America, including Apple, Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, lead the industry with cutting-edge products and influential market strategies. Economic prosperity contributes to higher disposable incomes, allowing consumers to invest in advanced audio solutions.

Recent Developments:

In October 2021, Apple debuted the AirPods 3rd Generation, presenting a redesigned form reminiscent of the AirPods Pro but without active noise cancellation. This model boasted enhanced sound quality and support for spatial audio.
In January 2021, Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Buds Pro in, highlighting features such as active noise cancellation (ANC), a sleek design, and improved sound quality, catering to users seeking top-tier wireless earbuds.

Meta and Universal Music Group Announce Expanded Global Agreement

Aug 19, 2024

Meta and Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, today announced an expanded global, multi-year agreement that will further evolve the creative and commercial opportunities for UMG artists and Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) songwriters across Meta’s global network of platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, Horizon, Threads and, for the first time, WhatsApp.

The new agreement reflects the two companies’ shared commitment to protecting human creators and artistry, including ensuring that artists and songwriters are compensated fairly. As part of their multifaceted partnership, Meta and UMG will continue working together to address, among other things, unauthorized AI-generated content that could affect artists and songwriters.

The new agreement builds upon the strategic framework established with 2017’s landmark agreement between the two companies, which ushered in a new era of collaboration between the music industry and the company then known as Facebook. Under the 2017 agreement, UMG became the first major music company to license its recorded music and music publishing catalogs across Facebook’s platforms. In turn, Facebook took a pioneering role as music’s first fully licensed partner among the major social media platforms.

Meta’s platforms have long been a destination for artists and writers to connect directly with fans to expand audience and depth of connection. Since 2017, the companies have worked closely together to explore new emergent channels and creative ways for licensed music to thrive within the entire Meta ecosystem, including Facebook, Instagram, virtual reality experiences across Meta Quest and Horizon, User Generated Content (UGC), live streaming and other Meta products. The new agreement expands monetization opportunities for UMG, and its artists and songwriters, even further with short form video, building on Meta and UMG’s joint track record of innovation and collaboration. In addition, UMG has partnered with Meta to license music for WhatsApp, unlocking new value for UMG artists and songwriters in the future.

Tamara Hrivnak, VP Music and Content Business Development at Meta, said, “We are thrilled to announce our renewal with Universal Music Group, and Universal Music Publishing Group, both of whom are innovators for music on social media, especially with regard to Meta’s family of apps. This partnership builds on the recognition that music can help connect us and bring fans, artists, and songwriters closer together, not only on established platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, but also in new ways on WhatsApp, and more. We’re extremely grateful to the Universal team, and look forward to growing our partnership in the future.”

Michael Nash, Chief Digital Officer & EVP, Universal Music Group said, “Since our landmark 2017 agreement, Meta has consistently demonstrated its commitment to artists and songwriters by helping to amplify the importance music holds across its global network of engaged communities and platforms, creating new opportunities and applications where music amplifies and leads engagement and conversations. We are delighted that Meta shares our artist-centric vision for respecting human creativity and compensating artists and songwriters fairly. We look forward to continuing to work together to address unauthorized AI-generated content that could affect artists and songwriters, so that UMG can continue to protect their rights both now and in the future.”

Whitesnake’s David Coverdale: 6CD Box Set Unveils Remastered Solo Albums & Unreleased Tracks

Aug 19, 2024

David Coverdale, the powerful voice behind Whitesnake and former Deep Purple frontman, sees his solo work shine brightly in a new collection featuring remixed, remastered, and revisited versions of his solo albums WhiteSnake (1977), NorthWinds (1978), and Into the Light (2000).

Into The Light: The Solo Albums will be available from Rhino.com on October 25 as a 6-CD boxed set. It comes packaged in a hardcover box featuring a 60-page book with rare photos, detailed liner notes, and a new interview with Coverdale. The newly remixed version of Into the Light will also be available separately as a double vinyl album presented in a gatefold sleeve. Pre-order both HERE. Additionally, the newly remixed version of “Midnight Blue” is available digitally today. Listen HERE.

The upcoming boxed set features two versions of Coverdale’s solo albums: one newly remixed to deliver a more dynamic sonic experience and a second remastered from the original recordings for those who want to revisit the classic sound. The remixed versions feature significant updates (particularly to WhiteSnake and NorthWinds) and utilize cutting-edge audio separation software. The track “Time & Again” from NorthWinds benefited from innovative voice extraction technology, allowing for new string and piano arrangements that Coverdale has envisioned for decades.

Coverdale shares, “The remixes are modern, using new technology to squeeze the best out of them… Truly exciting to revisit and take care of any technical ‘issues’ I had with the tracks all those years ago.”

Into the Light, Coverdale’s third solo album, boasts an impressive musical lineup that includes guitarists Earl Slick (David Bowie) and Doug Bossi, bassist Marco Mendoza (who later joined Whitesnake), legendary drummer Denny Carmassi (Montrose, Whitesnake), and keyboardist Mike Finningan (Jimi Hendrix). The remixed version of the album expands the original with songs like “Let’s Talk It Over” and “All The Time In The World.” The collection also offers additional remixes, demos, and outtakes from the album, including “With All Of My Heart.” Coverdale wrote the song for his wife and considers it one of the best he’s ever written.

The set also revisits NorthWinds, and WhiteSnake Coverdale’s first two solo albums recorded immediately after leaving Deep Purple. Both albums have been reimagined and re-sequenced for the upcoming collection. NorthWinds includes some new arrangements and additional tracks like “Sweet Mistreater” and “Shame The Devil, Tell The Truth,” breathing new life into this classic. WhiteSnake features impossible remixes thanks to AI sound separation softwares, courtesy of technology that has only been available in the last couple of years.

The collection also unearths several unreleased demos from Coverdale’s archives, including songs destined for future Whitesnake albums. “Lay Your Love On Me” would later appear as “Lay Down Your Love” on 2008’s Good To Be Bad, while “Crazy ’Bout Cha” evolved into “Whipping Boy Blues” on 2011’s Forevermore. The set even goes back to 1968 with demos Coverdale recorded as a teenager, including an early version of “Sunny Days,” a track that would appear on his solo debut, WhiteSnake.

While Coverdale originally released these albums as a solo artist, he now considers them Whitesnake albums. “As I’m recognized as ‘Mr. Whitesnake,’ I thought, Why not? They’re all Whitesnake albums to me…we’ve remixed them to stand proudly alongside any Whitesnake album.”

Track List for Into The Light: The Solo Albums:

Disc One: Into The Light (2024 Remix):
01. She Give Me
02. River Song
03. Don’t You Cry
04. Love Is Blind
05. Slave
06. Cry For Love
07. Living On Love
08. Midnight Blue
09. Too Many Tears
10. Don’t Lie To Me
11. All The Time In The World
12. Wherever You May Go
13. Yours For The Asking
14. Let’s Talk It Over

Disc Two: Into The Light (Additional Remixes)
01. Love Is Blind (Band Version)
02. As Long As I Have You
03. With All Of My Heart
04. Wherever You May Go (Strings Version)
05. Love Is Blind (Strings Version)

Demos & Unfinished Symphonies:
06. Lust
07. Oh No! Not The Blues Again
08. Into the Light Intro
09. Into The Light
10. You Make It Hard On Me
11. Would You Be Happy
12. Fooling Yourself
13. Make The Best Of It
14. Veda of Cassandra Blues
15. I Can See The Light
16. Another Fallen Angel
17. Itchy Finger

Original Demos 1997:
18. Crazy’ Bout Cha (Original Version of “Whipping Boy Blues”)
19. If You Want Me
20. Lay Your Love On Me (Original Version of “Lay Down Your Love”)

Disc Three: NorthWinds (2024 Remix):
01. Keep On Giving Me Love
02. Sweet Mistreater
03. NorthWinds
04. Give Me Kindness
05. Queen Of Hearts
06. Only My Soul
07. Time & Again (String Version)
08. Say You Love Me
09. Shame The Devil, Tell The Truth
10. Breakdown
11. Time & Again (Piano Version)
12. Time & Again (Strings Only)

Disc Four: WhiteSnake MCMLXXVII (2024 Remix):
01. Lady
02. Blindman
03. Goldies Place
04. Time On My Side
05. Peace Lovin’ Man
06. Sunny Days
07. Hole In The Sky
08. WhiteSnake
09. Celebration

Young Lad’s Blues (1968 Home Demos):
10. Sunny Days (Original)
11. Love Me In The Morning
12. I Will Love You
13. Moment In Time
14. It Would Be Nice
15. There Was A Time
16. Why?
17. I Still Love You

Disc Five: Into The Light (Original Mix 2024 Remaster):
01. She Give Me
02. River Song
03. Don’t You Cry
04. Love Is Blind
05. Slave
06. Cry For Love
07. Living On Love
08. Midnight Blue
09. Too Many Tears
10. Don’t Lie To Me
11. Wherever You May Go

Disc Six: WhiteSnake (Original Mix 2024 Remaster):
01. Lady
02. Blindman
03. Goldies Place
04. Time On My Side
05. Peace Lovin’ Man
06. Sunny Days
07. Hole In The Sky
08. Celebration
09. WhiteSnake

NorthWinds (Original Mix 2024 Remaster):
10. Keep On Giving Me Love
11. NorthWinds
12. Give Me Kindness
13. Time & Again
14. Queen of Hearts
15. Only My Soul
16. Say You Love Me
17. Breakdown

50th Anniversary Reissue of Bob Neuwirth’s Debut Album Set For CD and Vinyl Release on September 27, 2024

Aug 19, 2024

A long-awaited reissue of Bob Neuwirth’s self-titled debut album is set for CD and vinyl release on September 27, 2024 in conjunction with its 50th anniversary. Neuwirth, known for his multifaceted six-decade career, has been described as “the best pure songwriter of any of us” by T Bone Burnett and “a shakespearean jester who’s wiser than all the rest” by Kris Kristofferson. Beloved by his musical community, Neuwirth brought together a mind-boggling collection of talent in January of 1974 to perform on his debut record: Kris Kristofferson, Roger McGuinn, Don Everly, Cass Elliot, Richie Furay, Rita Coolidge, Booker T. Jones, Chris Hillman, Geoff Muldaur, Dusty Springfield, Timothy B. Schmit, Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, Stephen Bruton and many more. The recording sessions turned into a legendary multi-day party, but in later years Neuwirth felt it didn’t sound like the debut he would’ve made if he was sober at the time.

Now, 50 years later, each track has been completely remixed from scratch to reflect how Neuwirth had long intended the collection to sound. Engineer John Hanlon reworked each track from new high-resolution/audiophile-quality digital transfers of the original 16- and 24-track analog tapes, bringing new power, clarity and presence to the recorded performances. It’s the upshot of a conversation Neuwirth began with Hanlon years ago.

“Bob asked me ‘Have you heard my first record? Would you listen to it and tell me what you think?’” says Hanlon. “I knew I’d get a great sound out of it. I would just approach it differently. I never tried to match what was originally there, because that was in 1974,” Hanlon said, adding that he was never given any specific directives by Neuwirth in regard to a remix before he died May 18, 2022 at age 82. The only thing he told Hanlon, the engineer recalled, was “‘Hey man, I know your work, OK? That’s all I need to say. I know your work and you know my work.’ So, I just approached it really organically and I just made it sound like great rock ‘n’ roll.”

Today, listeners can get a taste of what can be expected on the full remixed collection with the digital release of “Kiss Money,” a country-rock lament targeting man’s inhumanity that too often is the rule rather than the exception. The driving track is elevated by exquisite steel guitar work of Ben Keith, yet another of the many top-flight musicians at Neuwirth’s side on the album. Listen to “Kiss Money” HERE.

Originally released on David Geffen’s Asylum Records, Bob Neuwirth is bookended by a pair of particular standouts, starting with “Rock and Roll Time” – which he co-wrote with Kristofferson and McGuinn. Roger McGuinn on writing with Neuwirth: “You have to have a good imagination. Definitely being a painter, I think, helps. It’s the same thing with Joni Mitchell: she’s an imaginative songwriter who painted. Bobby had that gift, too.” For this reason, Neuwirth’s originals continue to be recorded to this day, including his co-write with T Bone Burnett, “Blue Hawaiian Song,” which Burnett just included on his new record The Other Side.

The album closes with “Mercedes Benz,” the enduring Janis Joplin hit which Neuwirth co-wrote with Michael McClure and her in 1970. Neuwirth’s love of his community is clear in the subtle changes he made to the lyrics: “no help from my friends” becomes “no help BUT my friends,” and “buy me a Mercedes Benz” becomes “buy THEM ALL a Mercedes Benz.”

Whether in his music career or later in his life – helping those who struggled with addiction – it’s not only a singular talent but his dedication to those around him that makes Bob Neuwirth a truly one-of-a-kind figure in the history of rock and roll. And now his legacy lives on with this long-awaited reissue, timed to the 50th anniversary of his solo debut.

You can read more about the upcoming reissue via Rolling Stone HERE.

Pre-order Bob Neuwirth 50th Anniversary Reissue (out September 27) HERE. A print of Neuwirth’s artwork is included with a limited supply of vinyl. The digital release will follow in January 2025.

Bob Neuwirth will also be celebrated in an upcoming documentary, centered around tributes from friends and fans including T Bone Burnett, Sam Phillips, Steven Soles, David Mansfield, Happy Traum and Bob Thiele Jr and more. The film is directed by Claire Ferguson and Joan Churchill and produced by Paula Batson, Joan Churchill, Alan Barker and Chris Hegedus.

Elvis Presley’s Hometown Recordings, ‘Memphis,’ Out On 5 CD/2LP/Digital Formats

Aug 19, 2024

The first fully comprehensive collection of Elvis Presley’s hometown recordings arrives today, Friday, August 9th with ‘MEMPHIS’ (RCA Records / Legacy Recordings) – a 111-track box set spanning from his earliest sessions at Sun Studio (which celebrate their 70th anniversary this summer) to his final recordings in Graceland’s Jungle Room. Along the way, the Bluff City serves as both home and muse to Presley, playing a pivotal role as he finds creative rebirth at American Sound in 1969, overcomes personal struggles at Stax in 1973, and brings his most extravagant and spellbinding live show to the Mid-South Coliseum in 1974.

The new ‘MEMPHIS’ collection will be celebrated at Elvis Week next week, including two special events at Graceland. On Tuesday, August 13th, Graceland Soundstage will host an “Elvis: Back in Memphis” concert – blending live performances with storytelling from the musicians and vocalists who were part of these legendary recording sessions. Confirmed participants include American Sound drummer Gene Chrisman and vocalist Donna (Rhodes) Morris; and Larry Strickland from the Jungle Room Sessions.

On Wednesday, August 14 at 2pm CT, Sony Music will host a special ‘MEMPHIS’ listening event and Q&A at Graceland’s Guest House Theater featuring broadcasting legend Tom Brown, MEMPHIS producer Ernst Jørgensen, Grammy award-winning record producer Matt Ross-Spang and Grammy award-winning music historian Robert Gordon to discuss how this box set was brought to life and the story behind ‘MEMPHIS.’ The event will be live streamed on both Elvis’ Facebook and YouTube channels.

Produced by noted Elvis authority Jørgensen, with rare archival material and new liner notes by Gordon, ‘MEMPHIS’ is available in 5CD, 2LP, and digital configurations, giving fresh insight into the bond between Elvis and his eternal home. Earlier this week in a feature at Billboard, Jørgensen and Matt Ross-Spang spoke to the task of imbuing the set with reverence and building where appropriate on Presley’s artistic sensibilities.

With the exception of the Sun recordings, all tracks on ‘MEMPHIS’ were newly mixed by Ross-Spang at Southern Grooves in Memphis, with overdubs stripped away – leaving the listener with only what Elvis heard live in the studio. With this intimacy, new revelations abound – from Elvis’ intuitive chemistry with “The Memphis Boys” at American, to the subtle way he builds his vocal phrasing around his backing singers in the Stax sessions, or the palpable joy he brings to his final sessions in the Jungle Room. Through it all, the listener is standing next to Elvis – hearing exactly what he is hearing.

5-CD Track Listing:

DISC 1 – SUN SINGLE MASTERS
01 That’s All Right
02 Blue Moon Of Kentucky
03 I Don’t Care If the Sun Don’t Shine
04 Good Rockin’ Tonight
05 Milkcow Blues Boogie
06 You’re A Heartbreaker
07 Baby Let’s Play House
08 I’m Left, You’re Right, She’s Gone
09 I Forgot To Remember To Forget
10 Mystery Train

THE SUN RCA LP MASTERS
11 I Love You Because (RCA LP version)
12 Just Because
13 Tryin’ To Get To You
14 I’ll Never Let You Go (Little Darlin’)
15 Blue Moon
16 Harbor Lights
17 I’m Left, You’re Right, She’s Gone (slow version, aka My Baby’s Gone)
18 When It Rains It Pours
19 Tomorrow Night
20 My Happiness
21 That’s When Your Heartaches Begin
22 I’ll Never Stand In Your Way
23 It Wouldn’t Be The Same Without You

DISC 2 – American ’69
01 In The Ghetto
02 Suspicious Minds
03 Don’t Cry Daddy
04 Kentucky Rain
05 Mama Liked The Roses
06 Do You Know Who I Am?
07 You’ll Think Of Me
08 True Love Travels On A Gravel Road
09 Long Black Limousine
10 After Loving You
11 I’ll Hold You In My Heart (Till I Can Hold You In My Arms)
12 From A Jack To A King
13 Without Love (There Is Nothing)
14 It’s My Way / This Time / I Can’t Stop Loving You (studio jam)
15 It Keeps Right On A-Hurtin’
16 I’m Movin’ On
17 Power Of My Love
18 Stranger In My Own Home Town
19 Wearin’ That Loved On Look
20 Any Day Now
21 Only The Strong Survive
22 Gentle On My Mind
23 The Fair’s Moving On
24 Hey Jude

DISC 3 – Stax ’73
01 Promised Land
02 Raised On Rock
03 I’ve Got A Thing About You Baby
04 If You Talk In Your Sleep
05 My Boy
06 Spanish Eyes
07 Help Me
08 I Got A Feelin’ In My Body
09 It’s Midnight
10 Find Out What’s Happening
11 If You Don’t Come Back
12 For Ol’ Times Sake
13 Just A Little Bit
14 Talk About The Good Times
15 Loving Arms
16 You Asked Me To
17 Good Time Charlie’s Got The Blues
18 Your Love’s Been A Long Time Coming
19 There’s A Honky Tonk Angel (Who Will Take Me Back In)
20 Take Good Care Of Her
21 She Wears My Ring
22 If That Isn’t Love
23 Three Corn Patches

DISC 4 – The Homecoming Concert
01 Also Sprach Zarathustra
02 See See Rider
03 I Got A Woman / Amen
04 Love Me
05 Trying To Get To You
06 All Shook Up
07 Steamroller Blues
08 (Let Me Be Your) Teddy Bear / Don’t Be Cruel
10 Medley: Long Tall Sally / Whole Lot-ta Shakin’ Goin’ On / Mama Don’t Dance / Flip, Flop And Fly / Jailhouse Rock / Hound Dog
11 Fever
12 Polk Salad Annie
13 Why Me Lord
14 How Great Thou Art
15 Suspicious Minds
16 Introductions
17 Medley: Blueberry Hill / I Can’t Stop Loving You
18 Help Me
19 An American Trilogy
20 Let Me Be There
21 My Baby Left Me
22 Lawdy, Miss Clawdy
23 Funny How Time Slips Away
24 Can’t Help Falling In Love
25 Closing Vamp

DISC 5 – Graceland ’76
01 Hurt
02 Never Again
03 Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain
04 Danny Boy
05 The Last Farewell
06 For The Heart
07 Bitter They Are, Harder They Fall
08 Solitaire
09 Love Coming Down
10 I’ll Never Fall In Love Again
11 Moody Blue
12 She Thinks I Still Care
13 Way Down
14 He’ll Have To Go
15 Pledging My Love
16 It’s Easy For You

Exploring the Rich History of Bhang and a Traditional Recipe to Savor its Heritage

Aug 19, 2024

By Mitch Rice

In the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture, few elements are as deeply ingrained and richly nuanced as bhang. This ancient beverage, infused with cannabis, has been intertwined with the fabric of Indian society for millennia. It’s not merely a drink but a symbol of spiritual exploration, communal bonding, and cultural heritage. Bhang’s history is a reflection of the multifaceted nature of Indian civilization, encompassing elements of mythology, religion, medicine, literature, and social customs. As we embark on this journey through time, we’ll uncover the stories and traditions that have shaped bhang into the revered cultural icon it is today.

Ancient Origins of Bhang

Bhang’s roots delve deep into the annals of Indian mythology and religious texts. It finds mention in ancient scriptures like the Vedas and the Puranas, where it is associated with Lord Shiva, the deity known as the “Lord of Bhang.” According to Hindu mythology, Shiva consumed bhang to attain states of heightened consciousness, symbolizing the transcendence of earthly desires. This association with divinity elevated bhang to a sacred status, and it became an integral part of religious rituals and offerings. The ancient origins of bhang lay the foundation for its enduring spiritual significance in Indian culture.

Bhang Through the Ages

As Indian civilization flourished and evolved, so too did the role of bhang. From its early mentions in ancient texts to its prominence in medieval literature and medical treatises, bhang’s journey reflects the changing currents of Indian history. During the medieval period, scholars and physicians explored the therapeutic properties of bhang, prescribing it for various ailments ranging from pain relief to anxiety management. Poets and writers celebrated its intoxicating effects in literary works, portraying it as a symbol of joy, creativity, and liberation. Bhang became intertwined with the cultural fabric of India, transcending societal boundaries and leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness.

Bhang in Religious and Social Contexts

The cultural significance of bhang extends beyond its medicinal and recreational uses. It holds a central place in religious ceremonies and festivals, particularly during Holi and Shivratri, where devotees partake in bhang-laced beverages as an offering to the gods. These rituals symbolize spiritual purification, communion with the divine, and the celebration of life’s cyclical nature. In addition to its religious connotations, bhang also plays a significant role in social gatherings and celebrations. Whether shared among friends during weddings, festivals, or community events, bhang fosters a sense of camaraderie, joy, and shared cultural identity.

The Making of Bhang: Traditional Methods and Ingredients

Crafting bhang is an art form that has been passed down through generations, with each batch prepared with meticulous care and reverence for tradition. The process typically begins with selecting high-quality cannabis leaves and flowers, sourced from trusted suppliers like Herbies Seeds, known for their commitment to quality and authenticity. These botanical treasures are then ground into a fine paste using a mortar and pestle. This paste is then mixed with milk, ghee (clarified butter), and a blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The mixture is heated gently over a low flame, allowing the flavors to meld together and the cannabis to infuse into the milk. The result is a smooth, creamy beverage that tantalizes the senses and transports drinkers to a realm of blissful relaxation.

Savoring the Heritage: A Traditional Bhang Recipe

To savor the heritage of bhang is to experience a taste of history itself. Here is a simple recipe to recreate this ancient beverage in the comfort of your own home:

Ingredients:

1 cup milk
1 tablespoon ghee (clarified butter)
1 tablespoon bhang paste (prepared by grinding cannabis leaves and flowers)
1 tablespoon sugar or jaggery (adjust to taste)
A pinch of ground spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg (optional)
Chopped almonds, pistachios, or other nuts for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
Add the ghee and bhang paste to the simmering milk, stirring gently to incorporate.
Allow the mixture to cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the bhang is fully infused into the milk.
Stir in the sugar or jaggery to sweeten the bhang to your liking. Add ground spices if desired for extra flavor.
Once the bhang is ready, remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
Serve the bhang warm in small cups or glasses, garnished with chopped nuts if desired.

Enjoy your homemade bhang responsibly, savoring its rich flavors and honoring its cultural heritage.

Conclusion

As we raise our glasses to toast the legacy of bhang, let us also celebrate the spirit of camaraderie, creativity, and joy that it embodies—a spirit that transcends time and continues to inspire us today. In a world of fleeting trends and ever-changing tastes, bhang stands as a timeless symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage. Its history is a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the profound connections that bind us to the past. So, let us savor each sip of bhang, honoring the ancient traditions and stories that have shaped this beloved beverage into a cultural icon. Cheers to the heritage of bhang, and may its legacy endure for generations to come.

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

Joan Rivers and Betty White Roast Each Other In Late-Night TV’s Comedy Gold

Aug 19, 2024

In the golden era of late-night television, where wit and charm ruled the airwaves, few moments could capture the essence of comedy quite like the exchanges between Joan Rivers and Betty White. Both icons in their own right, they brought an energy and finesse to late-night TV that’s hard to match, even today. Their appearances together were not just interviews—they were a master class in banter.

Photo Gallery: New Kids On The Block with Paula Abdul and DJ Jazzy Jeff

Aug 18, 2024

All photos by Mini’s Memories. You can contact her through Instagram or X.

Ian Anderson Opens Up To Dan Rather On Why The Flute Became His Signature Sound

Aug 17, 2024

When you think of Jethro Tull, the first image that comes to mind is likely Ian Anderson, commanding the stage with his iconic flute in hand. But how did Anderson, originally inspired by the likes of Muddy Waters and classical music giants, end up choosing the flute over the guitar? In an insightful interview with veteran journalist Dan Rather, Anderson takes us on a journey through his early musical influences and the pivotal moments that shaped his unique sound.

From his admiration for guitar legends to his deep appreciation for the complexity and beauty of classical music, Anderson shares the story behind his decision to make the flute his instrument of choice. It’s a fascinating look into the mind of a musical genius who dared to defy convention, creating a sound that’s as timeless as it is distinctive. This interview is a must-read for any fan eager to understand the origins of Jethro Tull’s legendary sound and the man behind the music.

Ted Lasso Stars Rock THUNDERGONG! 2023 with Epic ‘Love Shack’ Cover

Aug 17, 2024

Kansas City was buzzing with excitement as Ted Lasso stars Hannah Waddingham (Rebecca Welton) and Brendan Hunt (Coach Beard) took the stage at THUNDERGONG! 2023, delivering an electrifying cover of the B-52s’ classic hit Love Shack. Backed by the talented Summer Breeze, the duo lit up the Uptown Theater, bringing the house down with their energetic performance. It was a night to remember, filled with incredible music and even more incredible generosity, all in support of the Steps of Faith Foundation.

Since its inception in 2017, THUNDERGONG! has raised nearly $2.1 million to help provide prosthetics to over 1,000 individuals in need. This year’s pinball-themed musical extravaganza set a new record, raising an astounding $804,267! Every donation from the night will go towards restoring mobility and hope for amputees, proving once again that when music and community come together, magic happens.