Album Release Shows Set For NYC's Le Poisson Rouge on June 8th, LA's The Airliner on June 11th

Not Suitable for Work Now Streaming on Hulu & Disney+

NEW YORK, NY - June 5, 2026: Today, Ella Hunt releases Blindspot, a debut album that does not sound like a debut. Across 13 tracks we encounter an artist entirely in command of her voice, both as a sharp, sneakily clever lyricist, and as a powerful, shape-shifting vocalist. Produced by Jimmy Hogarth (ANOHNI, the 1975, Amy Winehouse), recorded in both London and her adopted home of New York, and surrounded by some of the best musicians each city has to offer, it is both a profound meditation on grief and the announcement of a major musical artist.

Listen to Blindspot via Historical Fiction Records

Hunt wrote much of Blindspot around the loss of her sister Emily to brain cancer in 2023, and the album acts as a bit of a time capsule, capturing the complex dynamics of a family pulling together to mourn. So we get snapshots from a deathbed, masterfully constructed like a short story ("Dove Grey"), the dissociation of early grief ("Six Hours"), and the catharsis of starting to move past a loss ("What a Relief"). But because life continues to march on even as the worst happens to us, we also get an anthem about maternal influence and what Hunt refers to as the "male gaze industrial complex" ("Subway Trash"), and the sexy, sassy romp that is "White Knuckles."

"'White Knuckles' is the most unabashed, playful, and petulant song on the album,” says Hunt. "I shake off the sads, and I get to be petty and fun and hot as fuck."

Blindspot features contributions from London's Leo Abrahams (Brian Eno, Imogen Heap), Samuel Dixon (Adele, Sia) and Chris Vatalaro (Laurie Anderson, Sam Amidon), and New York's Thomas Bartlett (Sufjan Stevens, Florence and the Machine), Oren Bloedow (Elysian Fields), Spencer Murphy (Nick Hakim) and Craig Weinrib (Sam Gendel).

Following her sold-out debut at the legendary Café Carlyle, Ella Hunt and her band will celebrate Blindspot with headline shows at NYC's Le Poisson Rouge on June 8th, and LA's School Night at The Airliner on June 11th, presented by KCRW and MakeOutMusic. 

Primarily known, until now, as an actress, Ella Hunt can also be seen starring in Mindy Kaling's new series, Not Suitable for Work, streaming on Hulu and Disney+, with new episodes out on Tuesdays.

About Ella Hunt

New York City based Ella Hunt is a British multi-hyphenate singer, songwriter and actress known for her roles in the film Saturday Night, Apple TV’s Dickinson, and Mindy Kaling’s new Hulu series, Not Suitable For Work. Her debut EP trilogy earned acclaim and a spot on Spotify’s The Most Beautiful Songs in the World playlist. A sharp, sneakily clever lyricist, and a powerful, shape-shifting vocalist, Hunt creates precise, delicately crafted songs, by turns poetic and bracingly blunt, filled with big emotions and small, keenly observed details. She recently released her debut LP, Blindspot, produced by Jimmy Hogarth (Anohni and The Johnsons, The 1975) and made her NYC headlining debut with two sold out shows at the legendary Café Carlyle.

Blindspot Tracklist

Three Times (Prelude)

Blindspot

White Knuckles

Subway Trash

Moral High Ground

Six Hours

Dove Grey

The Less It Hurts

Theory of Love

Mother’s Chair

What a Relief

So What

Subway Trash (Acoustic)

Follow Ella Hunt

Instagram 

TikTok 

Bandcamp 

Official Site 

Linktree 

Merch Shop

For more information, contact Matt Hanks, Greg Jakubik and Henry Thomas at

Shore Fire Media, 718-522-7171

‘Released At Last’ EP Out June 19

Today, the unexpected and ingenious partnership of Big Freedia and the late, great SOPHIE drops “Go Down”, a magnetic & hypnotizing new collaboration destined for summertime playlists and heavy late night club rotation.

With an iron-clad, unstoppable bass and absolutely ferocious vocal delivery from Big Freedia, “Go Down” is a jolt of highly caffeinated avant garde pop; a fitting follow-up to the power duo’s previous single “Blaze That Ass” which Billboard described as “NOLA bounce meets hyperpop in fantastic fashion”.

Both tracks are part of the forthcoming collab EP ‘Released At Last’ out June 19th. 

“Recording with SOPHIE is something I hold even closer to my heart now, especially after her passing,” said Freedia. “She was an artist who showed the world that living boldly is your greatest power. With this EP, I want to show the world how loved she was and still is!”

The forthcoming EP began generating buzz immediately upon announcement with coverage in Pitchfork, Stereogum, The Fader, SPIN and more. The three-song EP was written by Big Freedia & SOPHIE (with the latter handling production duties) and birthed from a recording session at SOPHIE’s Los Angeles home studio in 2016, mostly completed in a single afternoon.

Transporting Freedia and her unparalleled NOLA-born bounce to SOPHIE’s hyperspace world of ever-morphing avant-garde pop has created something so singular it refines what is possible within the electronic music dancescape. “This collaboration was exciting to Sophie right from the start,” said SOPHIE’s family. “Freedia’s energy and vocal power, a perfect match for her production. Their connection gave us these songs, all of them Sophie loved to play out, and we can’t wait to hear them in the club again.”

LISTEN TO RICCIO’S NEW ALBUM FACE THE FEELING OUT NOW VIA YEP ROC RECORDS

UPCOMING FESTIVAL APPEARANCES PLUS SHOWS WITH DEER TICK, SHAKEY GRAVES, & JOHN CRAIGIE THROUGHOUT 2026

June 5, 2026 - Ahead of her 2026 summer touring, Jobi Riccio has debuted a new live performance of “A Little At A Time,” a standout track from the Nashville singer-songwriter’s new album Face The Feeling, out now via Yep Roc Records. The performance was filmed at Nashville’s Club Roar, where Riccio recorded Face The Feeling with her friend and collaborator Isaiah Beard.

“A Little At A Time” opens Riccio’s latest album, a bittersweet ballad reflecting on the difficulty of long-distance relationships. Tracing memories from Nashville to St. Louis, Riccio looks back at small details that remind her of both love and absence, eventually reconciling with the grief distance can create: “My heart only breaks / A little at a time / … / If it’s this or nothing / I’ll choose a little every time.” 

Watch Jobi Riccio perform “A Little At A Time” live at Club Roar HERE.

Riccio recently made her debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show performing “Wildfire Season,” another standout song from Face The Feeling. The track has earned widespread acclaim, with Ann Powers calling it “protest music at its finest” in NPR Music’s “Best Songs of 2025” list, while Natalie Weiner wrote: “Riccio sums up our moment's crises with startling urgency and clarity… We need more songs like this in 2026.” David Cantwell named it “a raging anticapitalist punk rock anthem.”

Watch Jobi Riccio’s “Wildfire Season” performance on The Kelly Clarkson Show HERE.

Face The Feeling was also recently spotlighted atop NPR Music’s New Music Friday with praise for Riccio’s “gorgeous, range-y, expressive, contemplative voice” and her “clear songwriting perspective.” No Depression added, “the strength of the songs show she’s taking a hard look and reporting back with an honesty that’s both astonishing and appealing.” 

Along with upcoming appearances at Summerfest, Winnipeg Folk Fest, and Rocky Mountain Folks Festival, Riccio will join Deer Tick, Shakey Graves, and John Craigie on select dates later this year, with upcoming stops in Chicago, Boston, Atlanta, Charlotte, New York City, London, Paris, and more. For more information and all upcoming tour dates, please visit https://www.jobiriccio.com/. 

Jobi Riccio 2026 Tour Dates

June 9 - Wolf Trap - Vienna, VA

June 10 - Underground Arts - Philadelphia, PA*

June 12 - The Atlantis - Washington, DC*

June 13 - Thunderbird Cafe & Music Hall - Pittsburgh, PA*

June 14 - The Ludlow Garage - Cincinnati, OH*

June 16 - Thalia Hall - Chicago, IL*

June 17 - Fine Line - Minneapolis, MN*

June 18 - The Current’s Happy Hours @ Sociable Cider Werks - Minneapolis, MN*

June 20 - El Club - Detroit, MI*

June 21 - The Opera House - Toronto, ON, Canada*

June 23 - Bearsville Theater - Woodstock, NY*

June 24 - Daily Brew Coffee House & Lounge - Falmouth, MA

June 25 - State Theatre - Portland, ME*

June 26 - Royale - Boston, MA*

June 27 - Schenley Plaza - Pittsburgh, PA

July 2 - Summerfest 2026 - Milwaukee, WI

July 9 - Winnipeg Folk Festival - Oakbank, MB, Canada

August 7 - Rocky Mountain Folks Festival 2026 - Lyons, CO

October 7 - Bush Hall - London, UK^

October 9 - Sound House - Dublin, Ireland^

October 10 - The Deer’s Head - Belfast, UK^

October 12 - Stereo - Glasgow, UK^

October 14 - YES - Manchester, UK^

October 15 - Voodoo Daddy’s - Norwich, UK^

October 17 - A L P H A B E T - Brighton And Hove, UK^

October 18 - Supersonic Records - Paris, France^

October 22 - Ideal Bar - København, Denmark^

October 24 - Nalen Klubb - Stockholm, Sweden^

October 26 - Belleville, Oslo - Oslo, Norway^

December 2 - Tipitina’s Uptown - New Orleans, LA%

December 3 - Variety Playhouse - Atlanta, GA%

December 4 - The Ritz - Raleigh, NC%

December 5 - Charleston Gaillard Center - Charleston, SC%

December 6 - The Fillmore Charlotte - Charlotte, NC%

December 7  - Jefferson Theater - Charlottesville, VA%

December 9 - Webster Hall - New York, NY%

December 10 - Roadrunner - Boston, MA%

December 12 - Theatre Beanfield - Montreal, QC, Canada%

December 13-14 - HISTORY - Toronto, ON, Canada%

December 15 - Royal Oak Music Theatre - Royal Oak, MI%

December 16 - Agora Theater & Ballroom - Cleveland, OH%

December 17 - Newport Music Hall - Columbus, OH%

*Supporting Deer Tick

^Supporting John Craigie

%Supporting Shakey Graves

For more information, please contact Taylor Perry (tperry@shorefire.com). 

Order HiFi 

Order Reel-to-Reel

For more information, please contact teamrhino@shorefire.com at

Shore Fire Media, 718-522-7171

Ft. DJ Muggs, Amigo the Devil & Andy Frasco

Friday, June 5 – Today, GRAMMY-winning Irish-American rapper, singer & songwriter Everlast releases a new single and music video for “Losing Man’s Game” from his first album in eight years, Embers to Ashes. Produced by Yelawolf, mixed by Chris Lord-Alge, and with cover art by award-winning Tristan Eaton, Embers to Ashes is out August 28 on Everlast’s own Martyr Inc Records, in partnership with Thirty Tigers and Regime Music Group (more via Variety, Billboard & SPIN).

“Losing Man’s Game”: Watch / Listen

“There's a freedom in being broken. Go all in or go home. Losing man’s game,” Everlast says about the song. The video features an intergenerational cast of Amigo the Devil, Andy Frasco and DJ Muggs (Cypress Hill) – who also produced House of Pain’s hit “Jump Around.” Director Ryen McPherson (Sleater Kinney, Billy Strings, Rise Against) explains: “The cinematic carnage at the end of Luca Guadagnino’s “Suspiria”has always resonated with me. It wasn’t just the visuals, but Thom Yorke’s score. I was inspired to finally take a crack at pairing onscreen violence with a ballad, the condition being that it had to be shot beautifully. I found some of the most sick and talented on-screen talent I’ve worked with in my 20+ years directing music videos. This video was edited less than 24 hours after we wrapped shooting, so to say that my crew and I are excited to share it with Everlast’s fans is an understatement. Enjoy your nightmares.”

Previous single “My Hollywood” is a lighter hearted take on the ups and downs of success in the entertainment world, while the first single and music video for “Stones” is a journey from self loathing to self healing and forgiveness (“soulful and heartfelt" - VICE, “a masterclass in the genre-bending style Everlast pioneered” - BroBible).

There are two mantras Everlast keeps close: whatever’s happening is inevitable, and this too shall pass. The philosophy comes into focus on Embers to Ashes, shaped by a decade that saw his Los Angeles home burn down in the 2018 Woolsey fire, the pandemic, a divorce and more. But the seed was planted a decade before – in 2015, Everlast was in Berlin with plans to head to Paris for Eagles of Death Metal at Le Bataclan, and ended up staying to catch Yelawolf instead. That night, Yelawolf told him he’d love to produce a record for him, just as news started coming through that something bad had happened in Paris. Ten years later, they connected in Nashville to make Embers to Ashes, with Yelawolf producing - encouraging him to bring in co-writers like David Ray (Jelly Roll, Teddy Swims).

Maybe it’s hard to understand how the guy who recorded one of the biggest breakout hip-hop hits in history (1992’s “Jump Around” with his old group House of Pain) as well as the enduring empathy anthem of the 20th century (1998’s “What It's Like”) could go from Armand de Brignac to Canadian Club (“We went from champagne and crystal glasses to drinking cheap whiskey out of plastic,” he growls on “Stones”). After all, this is the same man who won a GRAMMY with Santana and went on to redefine rap’s relationship with blues and rock. But here’s the thing: this too shall pass. 

The wider world, with all its own hurt, looms throughout the record, as well. On the ghostly protest song “Rubber Bullets,” written as Everlast watched the fallout of George Floyd’s murder, he reminds listeners: “Rubber bullets kill exactly like the real ones.” The incendiary “Peace of Mind” mixes down-home blues and epic rock as Everlast takes aim at the absurdity of modern life and escapism. And to close things down, the hopeful “Young Man” offers up the clearest of that aforementioned hard-earned wisdom, as Everlast assumes the role of elder, imparting what he’s learned during a life truly lived to those — like his two daughters — who are just setting out.

Everlast will announce more tour dates this year, performing at Calgary Stampede on Thursday, July 9, 2026 in Calgary, AB, Red Rocks on September 19, 2026 in Morrison, CO and Oceans Calling Festival on September 25, 2026 in Ocean City, MD.

Everlast fans can sign up for updates, exclusives, and giveaways by texting “RSVP" to the phone number (213) 319-4032.

ABOUT EVERLAST:

Everlast is familiar. It’s not just that he recorded one of the biggest breakout hip-hop hits in history — 1992’s “Jump Around” with his old group House of Pain. Or that he made the empathy anthem of the 20th century — 1998’s “What It's Like,” from his triple-Platinum LP Whitey Ford Sings the Blues. It’s not the GRAMMYs he was nominated for, or the one he won with Santana. No, the reason we feel we know the artist born Erik Francis Schrody is twofold: It’s in the way he redefined rap’s relationship with blues and rock, and it’s in the humanity he’s always brought to that sound — a mix that rings across the airwaves today. For more than three decades, he has made it his work to document the whole picture as he sees it and as he’s lived it, from humbling highs to devastating lows. The latter defined the lead-up to Everlast’s eighth album, Embers to Ashes, his inaugural LP on Thirty Tigers / Regime Music Group, and first in eight years. Produced by Yelawolf and recorded in Nashville with input from kindred spirits like songwriter David Ray (Jelly Roll, Teddy Swims), the 2026 set is a collection of unflinching and moving music from a master of the medium — songs that tell tales of glory grasped and lost, sudden swerves that change a life’s trajectory, and hard-earned wisdom and warnings. Through his rap-honed pen and earthy baritone, he renders our universal experiences in a way that gets to the heart of it all. In short, we feel like we know Everlast, because Everlast knows us.

FOLLOW EVERLAST:

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PRESS CONTACT:

everlastpr@shorefire.com

New LP Finds the GRAMMY®, TONY® and EMMY® Winner Collaborating with Babyface, Dave Cobb, Michael Lloyd and Gary Barlow

Arena Tour Kicks off June 25; Record-Setting Las Vegas Residency to Continue in July

June 5, 2026: Today, GRAMMY®, TONY®, and EMMY® Award-winning icon Barry Manilow releases What A Time, his first album of nearly all-original material in almost 15 years.

Produced by Manilow and longtime collaborator Michael Lloyd, What A Time is Manilow’s 33rd studio album and his first nearly all-original LP since 2011’s 15 Minutes, which debuted at No. 7 on the Billboard 200. The album brings together an eclectic, cross-generational group of collaborators, including Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, nine-time GRAMMY® winner Dave Cobb, and prolific songwriter Gary Barlow. The result is a collection that pairs Manilow’s signature songwriting with influences ranging from orchestral pop and ballads to R&B, heartland rock, and gospel. Listen to/order What A Time HERE.

“What A Time… it’s a collection of songs that feel really alive to me right now. They reflect where I’ve been, where I am… and a lot of what I still want to say,” says Manilow in a statement on social media HERE. “Each one’s got its own story, its own emotion… but when you put them all together, they really reflect a lifetime of songwriting, and all the different styles I’ve loved working in.

The album opens with “Once Before I Go,” an epic love song executive-produced by Clive Davis and co-written by Dean Pitchford and the late Peter Allen. Featuring a sweeping string arrangement by William Ross, the track highlights the emotional resonance and vocal command that have defined Manilow’s work for generations. The song debuted on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and reached the top 10 on Mediabase’s AC chart, and its accompanying music video — filmed at the Westgate Las Vegas, home to Manilow’s long-running and record-setting residency — offers an intimate glimpse inside a venue that has become synonymous with his enduring live success. Widely regarded as one of the most successful touring artists of all time, Manilow has also set the lifetime performance record at Radio City Music Hall, further cementing his status as a live entertainment powerhouse. 

What A Time showcases both Manilow’s classic songwriting strengths and his continued willingness to explore new creative territory. “Sun Shine” glitters as a radiant, feel-good single written by Manilow and Gary Barlow and produced by Manilow, David Benson and Greg Bartheld. Retaining the wistful core of the original recording, “Another Life – 2026” explores the distance between former lovers as one struggles to come to terms with a relationship’s end. Today’s focus track, “Don’t Trouble The Water,” offers a soothing message of reassurance and escape, urging listeners to set aside life’s worries, embrace the present moment, and find comfort in the promise of calmer days ahead.

What A Time Album Artwork

With a career spanning more than five decades, 85 million albums sold worldwide, and 52 Top 40 singles—including 13 No. 1 hits—Manilow remains one of the most successful entertainers in modern music. What A Time marks the latest chapter in a catalog that continues to resonate across generations.

The album arrives amid a busy year for Manilow, which includes his arena tour and record-setting Las Vegas residency. In April 2026, he received the American Advertising Federation’s prestigious President’s Award at the Advertising Hall of Fame induction ceremony, recognizing his iconic contributions to advertising and adding another distinction to his long list of achievements. View photos from the Advertising Hall of Fame induction ceremony HERE (Credit: Akintayo Adewole/DRKR PXLS).

A Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee and recipient of the BMI Icon Award, Manilow has also made a lasting impact beyond the stage. Through the Manilow Music Project, he has invested millions in music education, funding instruments, restoring school music programs, and supporting public schools nationwide to help ensure future generations have access to music education.

Manilow is on tour throughout 2026. For all upcoming dates, please visit https://barrymanilow.com/. 

What A Time Tracklist

1. Once Before I Go
2. What A Time
3. Sun Shine
4. Another Life (2026)
5. Touched By An Angel
6. The Chosen One
7. One More Chance
8. Nobody Knows My Song
9. When Somebody Says Goodbye (Duet with Sharon “Muffy” Hendrix)
10. Don’t Trouble The Water
11. Look At Me Now (Featuring Dave Koz)
12. Nobody Told Me
13. Coming of Age

For more information on Barry Manilow, please contact:

Allison Elbl & Taylor Perry at Shore Fire Media

(Friday, June 5th — Los Angeles / Tokyo) - Today marks a new chapter in the global evolution of J-Pop with “Heartless,” the new collaboration between 2x-GRAMMY-nominated artist and producer Steve Aoki and emerging Japanese artist Mia Takarabe. Released via Handcraft Entertainment, the record embodies the company’s vision for “Global J-Pop”: Japanese pop culture created for worldwide audiences without sacrificing the identity that makes it unique.

Listen HERE

For years, the music industry has speculated about when J-Pop would achieve the same global reach as K-Pop. The challenge was never talent or culture, but building the infrastructure, creative alignment, and international perspective necessary to connect Japanese artists with audiences worldwide. “Heartless” represents that convergence: the right artist, the right collaborator, and the right vision arriving at the right moment.

Aoki is no stranger to global cultural turning points. His collaboration with BTS on their global hit “MIC Drop (Steve Aoki Remix)” helped introduce K-Pop to a broader Western mainstream audience and demonstrated how Asian pop music could scale globally while remaining culturally authentic. With “Heartless,” Aoki brings that same perspective to J-Pop through a collaboration designed for a global audience from the start.

For Aoki, who is Japanese American, the project also carries personal significance."As a Japanese American artist, this collaboration feels especially meaningful to me,” stated Aoki. “Mia represents a new generation of talent, and 'Heartless' shows how J-Pop can connect with audiences around the world while staying true to its identity.”

At the center of the release is Mia Takarabe, representing a broader evolution in Japanese pop music: artists shaped by multiple cultures, languages, and creative influences while remaining distinctly Japanese in identity.

“Growing up between cultures shaped the way I hear music and express myself,” Mia said. “I never wanted to choose between being Japanese and being global. ‘Heartless’ is about proving you can be both completely.”

Driving the vision behind Handcraft Entertainment is music executive and producer Michael Africk, one of the most successful Western producers and songwriters in the history of J-Pop. Across his career, Africk has contributed to more than 20 million records sold, multiple multi-platinum releases in Japan, and six Japan Gold Disc Awards for Album and Song of the Year.

Handcraft Entertainment’s approach is centered on building globally competitive Japanese pop music without compromising cultural identity. Rather than adapting J-Pop for Western audiences, the company aims to develop artists and records capable of connecting internationally on their own terms.

“Heartless” reflects that philosophy, sonically modern, emotionally immediate, and rooted in Japanese identity while designed to resonate across borders.

“This isn’t a crossover experiment,” Africk said. “Steve has helped shift the global landscape before, and Mia represents a new generation of artists capable of leading what comes next. ‘Heartless’ is an early example of what Global J-Pop can become.”

For years, the global rise of J-Pop has been viewed as a future possibility. With “Heartless,” Handcraft Entertainment aims to turn that conversation into reality.

ABOUT STEVE AOKI

Counting nearly 3 billion music streams to his name, Steve Aoki is a true visionary. Billboard described the 2x-GRAMMY-nominated music producer, artist, fashion designer, entrepreneur, futurist, and Dim Mak Records founder as “one of the most in-demand entertainers in the world.” A Guinness World Record holder for the “Most Traveled Musician in a Single Calendar Year,” Aoki has performed at nearly every top festival around the world, including Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, Lollapalooza, Fuji Rock Festival, Tomorrowland, and Electric Daisy Carnival. Aoki also graced recent covers of Entrepreneur Magazine, Success Magazine, Electronic Musician, and Adweek as their “Visionary of the Year.” 

As a globally successful cross-genre solo artist, Aoki has collaborated with an impressive list of varied artists, including BTS, Maluma, Snoop Dogg, Linkin Park, blink-182, One Direction’s Louis Tomlinson, Machine Gun Kelly, Lil Uzi Vert, 2 Chainz and Daddy Yankee, on top of having released three Platinum singles, six Gold singles, and over ten Top 10 radio records. 

Aoki approaches each new endeavor with the same sense of dedication he’s put into his past achievements, including the Grammy-nominated Netflix documentary I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead (2016) and his memoir BLUE: The Color of Noise (2019). In 2012, he also founded THE AOKI FOUNDATION to support organizations in brain science and its research. His influential record label Dim Mak, celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, is known for being a launching pad for the careers of prominent acts like Bloc Party, The Chainsmokers, Bloody Beetroots, The Kills, Zedd, and Diplo. 

MORE FROM STEVE AOKI: ONLINE | INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE 

ABOUT MIA TAKARABE

Mia Takarabe is a global J-Pop artist whose identity and sound are shaped by her Japanese and Indian heritage and a childhood spent between Australia and Japan. Born in Adelaide, Australia, she grew up immersed in both Eastern and Western cultures, creating a perspective that naturally bridges worlds and reflects the evolving future of global J-Pop.

Discovered by multi-platinum producer Michael Africk and signed to Handcraft Entertainment, Mia blends contemporary pop, cinematic textures, and emotional storytelling into music that explores themes of self-discovery, heartbreak, and personal growth. Influenced by both Japanese culture and global pop music, her artistry is rooted in authenticity and connection.

As she enters her debut era, Mia is focused on building a worldwide audience and helping bring J-Pop to new listeners around the globe, establishing herself as a fresh voice in the next generation of international pop artists.

ABOUT HANDCRAFT ENTERTAINMENT

Handcraft Entertainment is a first-of-its-kind global entertainment company dedicated to building the future of "Global J-Pop" and expanding the reach of Japanese culture worldwide. Founded by multi-platinum producer and entrepreneur Michael Africk, the company develops artists, music, fashion, beauty, film, television, anime, live experiences, and consumer products that connect Japanese cultural creativity with international audiences.

Through a uniquely bilingual and bicultural approach, Handcraft Entertainment creates original intellectual property, nurtures emerging talent, and develops cross-platform entertainment brands designed to resonate across borders. By combining Japanese innovation with global storytelling, the company seeks to establish Japanese culture as one of the defining forces in contemporary entertainment.

For more information on Handcraft Entertainment, please contact handcraftentertainment@shorefire.com

For more information on Steve Aoki, please contact steveaokipr@shorefire.com.

PART OF NPR TINY DESK’S JUNE BLACK MUSIC MONTH LINEUP

LISTEN HERE | WATCH HERE

(Friday, June 5 - New York, NY / Atlanta, GA) - History-making alternative rock breakout The Paradox kick open the door to their next chapter today with the release of their anthemic new single, “Good For Me.” The track was written with Nick Furlong (Blink 182, All Time Low) and co-produced with Andrew Goldstein (5 Seconds of Summer, All Time Low, YungBlud, Bring Me The Horizon) and Robopop (Lana Del Rey). Fueled by soaring hooks, raw emotion, and the revival of the larger-than-life alt-rock energy that defined a generation, the Atlanta based four-piece are quickly cementing themselves as one of the most exciting new bands in music today.

Alongside the single, The Paradox unveil an official visualizer that captures the song’s cathartic spirit through gritty outdoor performance footage and candid moments from the band. Early fan response to “Good For Me” has already been massive, with teaser content generating more than 4 million combined viewsacross Instagram and TikTok ahead of release. This arrives as the first taste of a bold new era for The Paradox, with more new music and a forthcoming project on the horizon.

STREAM | WATCH “GOOD FOR ME” HERE

The release also follows a landmark moment for the band, who recently made history as the first all-Black band to reach No. 1 on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart with their breakout hit “Get The Message.” The achievement marked a seismic shift not just for the group, but for the future of alternative music itself. Read more about it at Billboard: https://www.billboard.com/music/chart-beat/the-paradox-get-the-message-number-1-alternative-airplay-chart-1236160114/. The band also saw success with the single “Do Me Like That,” which reached No. 47 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart and No. 4 on Billboard’s Alternative Digital Song Sales chart.

Announced earlier this week, The Paradox have been selected for the YouTube Foundry Class of 2026, part of YouTube Music’s global artist development program supporting independent artists. Through the program, Foundry artists receive grants, dedicated partner support from YouTube, on- and off-platform promotional support, and educational opportunities designed to help them build their careers on their own terms. More information on that here: https://blog.youtube/creator-and-artist-stories/youtube-music-foundry-class-2026/

Formed in Atlanta in the summer of 2024, The Paradox, Eric Dangerfield (vocals/guitar), Christopher “Xelan” Bernard (lead guitar/vocals), Donald Bryant (bass), and Percy “PC3” Crews (drums), are reshaping the look, sound, and possibilities of modern rock. As four young Black musicians from a city more commonly associated with rap and R&B, the band have emerged as leaders of a new generation hungry for authenticity, rebellion, and guitars turned all the way up.

Their rise has been meteoric. Within weeks of posting their first content online, The Paradox built a massive following, quickly growing into a cultural phenomenon with over 2.1 million followers across platforms, a Billboard Alternative Airplay No. 1, and tour dates alongside some of the biggest names in rock.

The band’s growing list of champions reflects their undeniable crossover appeal and cultural impact. Billie Joe Armstrong personally invited them to   open for Green Day at a stadium show, Travis Barker joined them on their single “Bender,” toured with All Time Low, and artists and icons including Joel Madden, Jack White, Kid Cudi, SZA, and LeBron James have all publicly supported the band.

With more music on the way and major moments ahead, including an upcoming Tiny Desk performance tied to Black Music Month next month, The Paradox are quickly becoming far bigger than just a rock success story. They are a movement redefining what the future of alternative music can look and sound like.

They are not just the hottest band in punk, they are a cultural movement.

THE PARADOX ONLINE

INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | WEBSITE | X

For more information on The Paradox, contact Alena Joyiens and Jerome Ware theparadoxpr@shorefire.com.

Lueth has led the evolution of classical radio from a niche format to a widely accessible public media service, expanding audiences through inclusive programming and welcoming listeners of all backgrounds. He has served in leadership roles at San Francisco’s KDFC-FM for nearly three decades and worked closely with KUSC-FM in Los Angeles over the past 15 years.

He was instrumental in bringing together two of the nation’s leading classical stations, KDFC-FM and KUSC-FM into a single broadcast and digital platform. Today, the network reaches more than 2 million listeners across California and the nation, making it the largest classical music radio service in the country.

“Bill’s commitment to making classical music accessible to everyone has shaped Classical California in lasting ways,” said James Muhammad, President of Classical California. “He helped grow our audience, deepen our community impact, and position Classical California for continued success.” 

Lueth began his broadcasting career in 1986 at KUCV-FM in Lincoln, Nebraska, while studying opera in graduate school. He joined San Francisco’s KKHI-FM in 1989 as a morning host and program director before moving into news roles at KPIX-FM and CBS Television. In 1997, he joined KDFC-FM, where he helped grow the station into the highest-rated music station in San Francisco by 1999.

He was appointed president of KDFC-FM in 2011 following its acquisition by the University of Southern California and transition to a nonprofit model. In 2012, he led a $7.5 million fundraising campaign to expand the station’s signal into San Jose and Silicon Valley. He later oversaw programming integration with KUSC-FM and expanded his role to include vice president of marketing and sales. Lueth also led the station’s relocation to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Bowes Performing Arts Center. 

He was inducted into the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame in 2021 and has received multiple National Association of Broadcasters Marconi Awards for excellence in classical radio.

Lueth’s retirement marks an important moment for Classical California, which is positioned to continue expanding its reach and impact across broadcast and digital platforms.

MEMF Support for Children's Hospital Los Angeles Surpasses $475,000; Marta Eliza Miller Named Ambassador for Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation

June 4, 2026 – In recognition of National Scoliosis Awareness Month and America's 250th anniversary, the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation (MEMF) today announced a landmark $250,000 nationwide grant initiative supporting scoliosis research, education, awareness, and patient care programs in all 50 states and Puerto Rico.

The Foundation's largest grant program to date will provide funding to pediatric hospitals, healthcare providers, advocacy organizations, and community partners working to improve outcomes for children and families affected by scoliosis.

The announcement marks one of the foundation's most ambitious initiatives to date, expanding its impact nationwide while advancing its mission to support children, adolescents and families navigating scoliosis. Since its founding, MEMF has helped raise more than $1 million for scoliosis awareness and research, and the organization confirmed that additional charitable contributions will be made throughout 2026, with recipient organizations to be announced in the coming months. See HERE for a full list of MEMF’s National Scoliosis Awareness Month Grant Recipients.

“Co-founding the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation with my daughter has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, said Corrina Miller. Together, we have transformed a personal journey with scoliosis into a national effort to support awareness, education, research, and patient care. Every milestone we reach reflects the power of turning adversity into purpose, and we remain committed to creating lasting change for children and families affected by scoliosis.”

Coinciding with the donation, MEMF founder Marta Eliza Miller has been named the newest ambassador for the Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established to advance the pioneering research of the Harms Study Group (HSG), an international consortium of leading pediatric and adult spine surgeons whose collaborative research has helped establish many of the standards of care used today to treat scoliosis and other spinal deformities, advancing safer and more effective outcomes for patients worldwide. Through research funding, patient education, and community engagement, the organization works to improve outcomes for individuals living with scoliosis while providing families with trusted, evidence-based resources and support.

“The Marta Eliza Miller Foundation’s nationwide commitment reflects the very heart of what drives the Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation — ensuring that every child, in every community, has access to the best possible care and the most advanced research,” said Michelle Marks, Executive Director. “We are honored to welcome Marta as an ambassador. Her resilience, advocacy, and generosity embody the spirit of this work and will help elevate awareness and support for families navigating scoliosis.” 

“When my mom and I founded the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation, I was still a teenager navigating my own scoliosis journey,” said Marta Eliza Miller. “I never imagined our experience would grow into something that could help so many others. Seeing people come together to support awareness, research, and better care for children with scoliosis has been incredibly meaningful. My hope is that every child facing this diagnosis knows they are not alone. I’m honored to deepen that commitment through my new role with the Setting Scoliosis Straight Foundation and continue advocating for greater awareness, innovation, and support across the scoliosis community.”

MEMF's latest contribution builds on its longstanding partnership with Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), where the Foundation's total giving now exceeds $475,000. In recognition of its support for scoliosis research, treatment, and patient care, two rooms within CHLA's Jackie and Gene Autry Orthopedic Center bear the Foundation's name. Consistently ranked among the nation's leading pediatric orthopedic programs, the center continues to advance innovative research and specialized care for children with scoliosis and other orthopedic conditions.

Later this year, CHLA will celebrate its 125th Anniversary Gala on October 17, 2026, supporting the hospital's $1.25 billion Anniversary Campaign to expand pediatric research and access to care. The Marta Eliza Miller Foundation is proud to serve as a Titanium Sponsor the event. Honorary Campaign Chairs include Jamie Lee Curtis, Jimmy Kimmel, Sugar Ray Leonard, and Chuck Lorre. For more information, visit: https://secure1.chla.org/site/SPageNavigator/Gala/gala_homepage.html

Among the recipients of MEMF's grants is the Boston Children’s Hospital, home to a world-renowned Pediatric Spine Division. The Complex Cervical Spine Program at Boston Children's Hospital is the nation's largest and longest-running program dedicated to treating children and young adults with rare and complex cervical spine disorders. Founded in 1998, the program provides highly specialized, individualized care for patients with conditions that affect spinal stability and place the spinal cord at risk, including disorders associated with skeletal dysplasia and multisystem disease. Through initiatives such as the nationally recognized ASPIRE registry, Boston Children's is helping advance research, surgical innovation, and long-term outcomes for children with scoliosis and other complex spinal conditions. MEMF's support will help accelerate these efforts and improve patient care.

Diagnosed with scoliosis at age 10 while pursuing a competitive figure skating career, Marta transformed her experience into a mission to support other young people facing similar challenges. Today, she stands out as one of only four known figure skaters with scoliosis. Throughout her skating journey, Marta has trained alongside world-renowned athletes and coaches, including Olympian Ice Dancer Yura Min and Olympian Figure Skater Misha Ge. Her perseverance and advocacy have earned national attention, including a PEOPLE Magazine feature that chronicled how the young athlete turned a life-changing diagnosis into a fundraising effort that has generated more than $1 million for scoliosis awareness and research.

In addition to her philanthropic work, Marta continues to pursue opportunities in the performing arts. She was recently cast in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street at The Pocket Theatre in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where she also serves as a choreographer and dance captain.

Stay tuned for additional announcements from the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation throughout 2026.

Connect with Marta Eliza Miller Foundation

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Connect with Marta Eliza Miller

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About MEMF

The Marta Eliza Miller Foundation (MEMF) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization created to support scoliosis awareness. The goal is to better educate and help youth with the mental and physical struggles of having scoliosis. The MEMF motto is to STAND TALL, BE STRONG and DREAM BIG.

About the Founder, Marta Eliza Miller

MEMF was founded in 2020 by Marta Eliza Miller and her mother Corrina. At the time, Marta was a 13-year old ice dancer and figure skater for US Figure Skating, and because her scoliosis curve had reached 48 degrees, they were unsure if she would be able to continue skating. Creating the foundation provided a sense of hope and comfort for Marta as she went through various tests, x-rays and MRI’s at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Marta was diagnosed with scoliosis when she was 10; she also has a shorter left leg. Because she was athletic, Marta was fit with a velcro flexible brace that she wore for twenty hours a day, during both waking and sleeping hours. Marta worked tirelessly using yoga, acupuncture and various strengthening and stretching techniques to maintain her back strength and was able to continue skating. She’s been monitored bi-annually as a patient of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) since 2019. At age 12, Marta became a Junior Ambassador for CHLA because she wanted to give back to the community that was supportive of her scoliosis journey. Since 2019, Marta has raised over one million dollars for Scoliosis Awareness. In addition, MEMF has provided $475,000 to the Spine Center location in the Jackie and Gene Autry Orthopedic Center for Scoliosis research and awareness, and recently helped fund CHLA’s launch of the new Momentum app. In 2024, an orthopedic patient exam room was named for the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation. And in 2026, the casting room (where casts are put on), was named the Marta Eliza Miller Foundation Casting Room. This year, the foundation looks forward to expanding their reach nationwide.

For more information, contact Shore Fire Media at MEMFPR@ShoreFire.com.

June 4, 2026 – Today, The Prince Estate announces the release of Timeless, a new posthumous Prince album, in partnership with Legacy Recordings, arriving August 28, 2026. Featuring 10 rare and previously unreleased recordings from Prince's legendary Vault, Timeless is the first Prince release ever curated to span every major era of his career, bringing together recordings created between 1977 and 2016 in a sweeping portrait of one of music's most innovative and influential artists.

Available now for pre-order and pre-save, Timeless traces Prince's remarkable artistic evolution across nearly four decades, from his earliest studio recordings as a teenage prodigy in Minneapolis to one of his final recorded performances. The collection showcases the extraordinary consistency, curiosity, and creative ambition that defined his work throughout his life, offering fans a rare opportunity to hear previously unheard chapters of his creative journey.

The announcement arrives alongside the release of new single "Stone," a previously unreleased recording from spring 1995 written by Sandra St. Victor, Tom Hammer, and Jules Van Even.

Pre-order/Pre-save Timeless HERE.

Listen to “Stone” HERE.

Fans will get their first opportunity to experience Timeless during Prince Celebration 2026, taking place June 3–7, 2026 across Paisley Park and downtown Minneapolis. Serving as the official launch platform for the project, this year's Celebration will feature exclusive listening sessions, archival presentations, and conversations with Prince collaborators, offering unprecedented insight into the newly unveiled Vault recordings and the stories behind them. Highlights include a special event at The Armory in Minneapolis on Friday, June 5, featuring appearances from NPG, The Revolution's Bobby Z and Lisa Coleman, and more, offering rare firsthand perspectives on Prince's enduring creative legacy. For the latest information on ticketing and programming, please visit: https://www.paisleypark.com/celebration2026

As fans from around the world gather for the 10th anniversary year of Prince Celebration, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has officially proclaimed June 1–7, 2026, “Prince Celebration Week” in Minneapolis, recognizing Prince’s immeasurable impact on the city’s culture, identity and global legacy. In honor of Prince Celebration Week, the Minneapolis skyline will be illuminated in purple on June 6, creating a citywide tribute to Prince’s enduring influence and celebrating the artist who helped define Minneapolis on the world stage.

Available across all major streaming platforms, Timeless will also be released in multiple physical configurations, including a D2C-exclusive limited-edition Purple Marble Vinyl, standard black vinyl, and CD. In conjunction with the album announcement, fans can also access exclusive retail offerings and limited-edition Timeless merchandise through Paisley Park and Prince.com, including collectible items created specifically for Prince Celebration 2026.

Earlier this year, The Prince Estate previewed Timeless with the release of "With This Tear" on April 2, commemorating the tenth anniversary of Prince's passing. Originally recorded at Paisley Park in November 1991, the song stands as a testament to Prince's singular artistry—he produced, arranged, composed, and performed every instrument heard on the recording. Lauded by CBS News and more, Rolling Stone hailed it as "deeply personal," while Billboard praised its "stripped-back interpretation," highlighting Prince's vocal performance and piano arrangement.

Released during the 10th anniversary year of Prince's passing, Timeless stands as both a celebration of his enduring legacy and a rare opportunity for fans to experience previously unheard chapters of his artistic journey. Nearly a decade later, Prince's influence remains as profound as ever, and Timeless offers a powerful reminder of the extraordinary depth, range, and timelessness of his life's work.

Tracklisting:

Timeless (Digital & CD) 

1.    I Am You - 1977

2.    Tick Tick Bang - 1981

3.    Heaven - 1985

4.    I Wonder - 1989

5.    With This Tear - 1991

6.    Stone - 1995

7.    Calabama - 2003

8.    The Guilty Ones - 2007

9.    Bestest Friend - 2012

10. How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore? (Live) - 2016

Timeless (1LP) 

Side A

1.    I Am You    

2.    Tick Tick Bang    

3.    Heaven    

4.    I Wonder    

5.    With This Tear  

Side B

1.    Stone    

2.    Calabama    

3.    The Guilty Ones    

4.    Bestest Friend       

5.    How Come You Don't Call Me Anymore? (Live)

ABOUT PRINCE CELEBRATION

Prince Celebration is the official annual event honoring the life and legacy of Prince, welcoming fans from across the globe to come together in music, community, and remembrance. Held at Paisley Park and throughout the Twin Cities, Prince Celebration offers a rare opportunity for fans to experience curated programming including live performances, panel discussions, tours, and exclusive presentations. Since its inception, the event has served as a global gathering space for celebrating Prince’s artistry, cultural impact, and continued influence across music, fashion, and creative expression.

ABOUT PAISLEY PARK

Paisley Park is Prince’s private estate, an active museum, recording studio, and concert venue in Chanhassen, MN. The museum is open for public tours, giving fans of the music icon the unprecedented opportunity to tour the legendary, 65,000-square-foot complex that served as the center of Prince’s creative universe. Guided tours lead visitors through the magical spaces of Paisley Park, including studios where Prince recorded, produced and mixed many of his biggest hits; exhibit spaces that chronicle films like the global hit Purple Rain; Prince’s private NPG Music Club; and a massive soundstage and concert hall where Prince rehearsed for concert tours and held exclusive events and concerts. For more information, visit PaisleyPark.com. 

PAISLEY PARK ON THE WEB

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For more information, contact Rebecca Shapiro, Moya Crowley and Anna Hudson at paisleyparkpr@shorefire.com.

Thursday, June 4th  (New York, NY) – Today, Not Dead Yet Media, a New York-based, full-service ecosystem for independent artists, encompassing management, a record label, artist and label consulting, and more, announces Indie Music Network Live, a roundtable discussion about the state of indie music on Wednesday, June 24th from 7–10 PM at Ki Smith Gallery on New York City's Lower East Side. 

The event serves as the in-person extension of Not Dead Yet Media’s Indie Music Network Podcast, fostering the same conversations, insights, and community-building in a live setting.

Doors open at 6:30 PM ET, and you can purchase tickets HERE.

Held during New York Music Month, the evening will bring together artists, creatives, managers, executives, and marketers to discuss real-world challenges facing indie artists and the strategies needed to build sustainable, long-term careers. 

Hosted by the Not Dead Yet Media executive team - CEO and founder Russ Rieger, CMO Rebecca Carroll, and COO Heather de Armas - participants include: Samantha Wolff (Senior Director, Artist & Label Partnerships, The Orchard), Alyssa Castiglia (Senior Director of A&R/Head of A&R Research, UnitedMasters), Adam Silverman (Business Affairs, HarperCollins), Joe McGinnis (VP Radio Promotion, The Syndicate), Eunique: (Founder & Chief Music Strategist, Eunique Music), Josh Zieman (Owner, InKind Music), Michael Pontecorvo (Owner, Immortal Records), Stacy Karp (COO, A to Z Media), Sal Scamardo (independent producer and former VP Marketing, FilmRise), Lee Dannay (VP A&R, Thirty Tigers), Roberta Korus (Entertainment Attorney), an executive from Splice and more to be announced soon. 

The evening will also feature networking opportunities and live acoustic performances from independent artists showcasing the talent and creativity at the heart of the community. 

Guests will have the opportunity to experience Edie 66, Ki Smith Gallery's exhibition exploring Andy Warhol's Factory era and its influence on music, art, and pop culture. Featuring rare images of The Velvet Underground and other key figures from Warhol's creative circle, the show highlights the enduring relationship between visual artists and musicians in shaping New York's cultural identity. 

The Indie Music Network reflects Not Dead Yet Media’s belief that independent artists deserve access to the same opportunities, resources, and industry knowledge traditionally reserved for major-label systems. Rather than gatekeeping information or relationships, Not Dead Yet Media aims to build practical infrastructure for the independent music community.

Stay tuned for other Indie Music Network Live event announcements. 

Not Dead Yet Media is led by CEO & Founder Russ Rieger. He previously served as VP & GM of London Records and GM of Maverick Records, where he scaled the company from a skeletal team inside Warner Bros. into a fully independent label with 130+ employees, earning multi-platinum and gold records with The Prodigy, Alanis Morissette, Muse, Deftones, Erasure, and more. Rieger also spent over a decade advising startups, VCs, and family offices at the intersection of media, tech, and entertainment. 

Rebecca Carroll is the CMO of Not Dead Yet Media. She has previously worked at Universal and Island Records, indie labels, and Simon & Schuster, where she built careers for artists such as Portishead, Pulp, Utah Saints, Generation Axe, and Steve Vai. An early adopter of cutting-edge marketing strategies, Carroll has also worked across tech startups, e-commerce brands, nonprofits, and state primary campaigns. 

Heather de Armas serves as COO of Not Dead Yet Media. She founded HDA Management in 2022 and the following year, secured an indie label deal and created the first Sad Girl Hours events. In 2024, she merged with Not Dead Yet Media, expanding the company into the full-service ecosystem it is today. She is also the Showcase Director for Mondo.NYC. 

ABOUT NOT DEAD YET MEDIA:

Not Dead Yet Media is a New York-based, full-service ecosystem supporting independent artists. Founded by Russ Rieger, Heather de Armas, and Rebecca Carroll, the company provides end-to-end support across artists’ creative and commercial journeys while building infrastructure for the next generation of indie talent.

NOT DEAD YET MEDIA ONLINE

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Facebook

YouTube

LinkedIn

ABOUT KI SMITH GALLERY: 

Ki Smith Gallery disrupts standard industry practice by representing a carefully-selected group of artists with diverse backgrounds, methods, and aesthetics. Our artists are encouraged to explore materials and processes and we actively support them in making exciting new works. We immerse ourselves in each exhibition from conception to execution. The gallery works closely with our collectors to help them create meaningful collections. We take pride in helping them not only understand the intentions of the artist, but also consider their own personal and emotional connections to the work Although we take the larger trends and conversations of other galleries and auction houses into consideration, we consider our peers to be the artists, patrons, and friends that are active parts of our community. We are compelled by a deep love and respect for art and are always searching for imaginative ways of sharing it with others.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NOT DEAD YET MEDIA, PLEASE CONTACT:

Mikaela Duhs at NDYMPR@shorefire.com

DOWNLOAD PHOTOS HERE

The kickoff event featured appearances by Ashley Cooke, Dasha, Priscilla Block, VAVO, Gareth, and others. Sponsored by Monster Energy, Lovesac, Delta Airlines, Orinda, and more. Check out Fort Nash socials to see clips of celeb pop-ups and special moments: YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook Ashley Cooke Photo Credit: Mandy Smith Waka Flocka Flame and Cam J Photo Credit: Courtesy of Fort Nash

Pre-sale for returning guests on June 9, 2026 at www.closertothesun.com

Public On Sale begins June 10 at 1pm ET

June 2, 2026 - The highly anticipated details for the 12th edition of Closer to the Sun were revealed today. The beloved event takes place January 9-13, 2027 at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya - an all-inclusive resort on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Known for its close-knit and fun-loving community of fans, artists, and crew, Closer to the Sun has become more than just a music event - it’s an annual tradition. With such a dedicated community and stellar lineup, it’s no surprise that past years have sold out quickly.

The music schedule features three shows by Slightly Stoopid and two shows by Stick Figure, plus a stacked lineup of additional performers, including Wiz Khalifa’s Closer to the Sun debut. Attendees can also expect shows by Iration, SOJA, The Movement, Tribal Seeds, Little Stranger, The Hip Abduction, Surfer Girl, Algorhythm, and special guest JARV. Late night DJ Sets by Chromeo, Z-Trip, Cut Chemist & Chali 2na, plus poolside sets and yoga by Kaleo Wassman (Pepper), and Logan Rex (Artikal Sound System) to round out the musical vacation.

Closer to the Sun transforms the stunning beachfront resort into the ideal music venue, offering unique performances on 5 stages with top-tier production. The Main Stage in the revered Concert Courtyard with exceptional acoustics, complimentary craft cocktails, wait-staff that deliver drinks in the crowd, and event chef-curated food stations that rotate each night. Daytime and sunset shows take place on a Beach Stage set right on the Caribbean coastline. Guests finish the night at the intimate Late Night Stage for performances under the stars. Poolside pop-ups round out the day, providing nearly non-stop music from afternoon well into the night.

This trail-blazing event continues to deliver one-of-a-kind experiences with the addition of activities curated to bring artists & fans together - including morning yoga led by Melanie & Kaleo Wassman (Pepper) as well as Logan Rex (Artikal Sound System) plus hands-on workshops, annual basketball invitational, and more. Add in creative themes, like the fan-favorite “Light It Up” night, adventurous excursions, and cultural charity initiatives, and you’ve got the ultimate concert experience.

Set between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is the all-inclusive beachfront resort where Closer to the Sun has a full takeover. Concerts, event activities, and late-night hangs are just steps from guest rooms. Returning guests can look forward to the same fan-friendly venue layout with updated resort offerings, including an array of new restaurant concepts as well as guest room amenities, to keep the experience feeling familiar and fresh at the same time.

The 2027 event extends to an exclusive group of rooms in our own section of Barcelo Maya Riviera, an all-inclusive resort just a 10 minute ride from the Main Stage. An extremely limited number of rooms will also be available at UNICO 20°87° providing a high-end luxury stay. Both resorts include access to beaches, pools, restaurants, and complimentary door-to-door shuttle service to Hard Rock for all four nights of event programming.

Closer to the Sun offers a wide scope of room options surrounded by tropical grounds, ocean views,  and sparkling pools, including swim-outs and stage front suites. Guests can enjoy unlimited dining at a variety of restaurants, event-curated food stations, and complimentary 24-hour room service all included in their package price. Unlimited drinks are available at coffee shops and multiple bars in direct proximity to guest accommodations, lobbies, and all concert areas.

Fans looking to give back can link up with nonprofit organization Positive Legacy on humanitarian and environmental efforts. Positive Legacy continues to make an impact in the Riviera Maya region. This year, they celebrate $1.5 Million in grant giving since their inception. Since 2014, Closer to the Sun guests have raised almost $500,000 to benefit local organizations, schools, and environmental projects including community gardens, extensive beach cleanups, and improving infrastructure at the largest turtle sanctuary in the Yucatan. 

On Sale Details:

All-inclusive packages for returning Closer to the Sun guests and first timers who opted in for the Pre-sale can be reserved on June 9, 2026. Remaining rooms will become available on June 10th to the general public at 1pm ET on the Closer to the Sun website - www.closertothesun.com. 

Closer to the Sun is brought to you by Cloud 9 Adventures, the premier provider of international concert vacations since 2003. Cloud 9 Adventures brings bands and fans together to create unforgettable memories & life-changing experiences at all-inclusive resorts and on luxurious cruise ships.

Cloud 9 Adventures – Where Music Meets Paradise

www.cloud9adventures.com

2026 Recap Video: https://youtu.be/vKhZ599iCNo

Lineup & Photo Options To Include: https://bit.ly/439sY6z

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Media Contact

Closer to the Sun & Cloud 9 Adventures:

Trent Nass • 561.715.4386 • trent.nass@cloud9adventures.com

For Slightly Stoopid Press Inquiries: 

Shore Fire Media

slightlystoopidpr@shorefire.com  

BOSTON, MA – The Museum of Science, Boston today announced the June 17 opening of Life Chronicles, a groundbreaking virtual reality experience that brings visitors on an immersive expedition to discover the history of Earth and life itself tracing over 3.5 billion years of evolution. Life Chronicles was created by the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle and Excurio, a world leader in immersive reality experiences known for its large-scale VR expeditions that transport audiences through history, culture, and science.

In just 30 minutes, Life Chronicles guides guests through a cinematic experience of nine paleo-landscapes, from the origins of life to the dinosaurs to the dawn of humans. Accompanied by a virtual guide, the young researcher Charlie and her little robot Darwin, visitors will come face-to-face with some of Earth’s most fascinating ancient inhabitants.

Combining cinematic visuals, immersive soundscapes, and cutting-edge free-roaming virtual reality technology, Life Chronicles brings long-extinct species and ancient environments vividly to life, creating an unforgettable educational adventure for visitors of all ages. Designed to be experienced in spaces ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 square feet, accommodating anywhere from 40 to 130+ people simultaneously, Excurio’s groundbreaking technology allows families and groups to experience Life Chronicles together. This technological achievement is made possible by LBXR Pulse, Excurio’s proprietary technology platform

“Life Chronicles offers a journey unlike any other, using state-of-the-art immersive technology to inspire curiosity and deepen our understanding of the natural world,” said Tim Ritchie, Gwill York President of the Museum of Science. “This experience invites visitors to explore Earth’s incredible history together and embark on an adventure that is both educational and awe-inspiring.”

Life Chronicles was developed through a close collaboration between Excurio and the Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle. More than 30 paleontologists, paleobotanists, evolution specialists and bioacousticians all contributed to the project, from scriptwriting to 3D production, including the creation of the graphics and sounds. So, while Life Chronicles offers a dreamlike, sensory - and sometimes humorous - immersion into the heart of the living world, all the information has been scientifically validated.

Life Chronicles opens at the Museum of Science on June 17, with exclusive early access for members on June 13 and 14. The experience is accessible for ages 8 and up. For more information and ticket purchasing, visit mos.org.

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About the Museum of Science

As science and technology increasingly shape our lives, the Museum of Science strives to equip and inspire everyone to use science for the global good. Among the world’s largest science centers and New England’s most attended cultural institution, we engage nearly five million people a year—at Science Park and in museums around the world, in classrooms, and online. Established in 1830, the Museum is home to such iconic attractions as the Theater of Electricity, the Charles Hayden Planetarium, and the Mugar Omni Theater. The Museum influences formal and informal STEM education through research and national advocacy, as a strong community partner and loyal educator resource, and as a leader in universal design, developing exhibits and programming accessible to all. Learn more at mos.org.

About Excurio by Emissive:

Excurio redefines cultural discovery through Immersive Expeditions — groundbreaking, large-scale virtual reality experiences that merge cutting-edge technology, storytelling, and education. Designed for free-roaming exploration in expansive venues, these adventures invite audiences to step directly into history, art, and science, combining emotional engagement with thrilling intrigue.

From Horizon of Khufu, Eternal Notre-Dame, Life Chronicles, Tonight with the Impressionists: Paris 1874, The Last Stronghold, and The Secret of the Pyramid Builders, Excurio’s productions have captivated over 4,3 million visitors across 30 venues worldwide — from Paris and Montreal to Shanghai and Chicago — in leading cultural institutions and immersive spaces.

Developed in collaboration with world-renowned scientists and historians, Excurio’s experiences bring the past and future vividly to life, fostering a deeper connection to our shared heritage. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to make culture accessible through wonder. Built on a proprietary technological platform capable of managing record visitor flows, Excurio is setting a new standard in cultural entertainment.

About the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle

At the crossroads of science, culture and society, the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle has devoted itself to biological, geological and cultural diversity, as well as the relationship between humans and nature, for almost four centuries. As a research center, museum and university, it mobilizes incomparable disciplines, skills and knowledge that are shared worldwide.

About LBXR Pulse:

LBXR Pulse is a proprietary, large-scale virtual reality system developed by Excurio to streamline the creation, management, and operation of multi-user, free-roam VR experiences. Originally engineered to support Excurio's own prominent global Immersive Expeditions—including Life Chronicles—the ecosystem was fully opened up to third-party studios, venue operators, and intellectual property holders.

LBXR Pulse's two main features focus on managing flows of over 100 people simultaneously and enabling multiple titles to coexist at the same time, turning any empty space into a turnkey XR movie theater with access to the biggest catalog in the LBVR industry.