Shaquille O'Neal Takes on Big Game Weekend in Los Angeles With Shaq's Fun House (Feb. 11th)

The biggest weekend in sports just got Shaq-sized — Shaquille O'Neal is set to bring Big Game Weekend's most in-demand and buzzed-about event to Los Angeles: Shaq's Fun House Presented by FTX. Taking place on Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at The Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall, tickets for the event will go on sale to the public this Friday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m. PST. Starting at $249.99, all tickets include a six-hour open bar and complimentary dining experience. All tickets, Wynn Nightlife VIP Tables, and TickPick VIP Lounge access can be purchased online at www.ShaqsFunHouse.com. This year's presenting partner FTX is poised to bring crypto to Big Game Weekend through exclusive Shaq's Fun House NFTs for all attendees, The FTX Ferris Wheel, Crypto Carnival prizing, and a custom FTX flyaway to meet Shaq.

A true man of the people, this is the fourth year running that Shaquille will host the ultimate Friday night event leading into football's biggest game of the year. Shaq's Fun House is Shaq's personal live event platform that pairs an over-the-top VIP music festival with a larger-than-life carnival experience. Unlike other VIP experiences during Big Game Weekend, Shaq has created a one-of-a-kind event that is open to the public, allowing fans to partake in the fun. Shaq's Fun House has attracted the biggest names in sports and entertainment, solidifying itself as the "must-attend" event of Big Game Weekend with past attendees including Patrick Mahomes, Adam Levine, Rob Gronkowski, Jamie Foxx, Dak Prescott, Reggie Bush, and dozens of other stars. Shaq's Fun House has received media attention and critical acclaim from the likes of Jimmy Fallon, Good Morning America, ESPN, CNN, CNBC, Forbes, Fox Business, TMZ, People, Billboard, Hollywood Reporter, Entrepreneur, and other top-tier media outlets.

"It's always great to come home to my favorite city, Los Angeles, and I couldn't be more excited to kick off the biggest weekend in sports with our most over-the-top edition of Shaq's Fun House to date. With the help of my friends at FTX, get ready to see performances by Lil Wayne, Zedd, and Diplo, experience a full carnival, and enjoy a true taste of LA with food provided by some of the city's best restaurants. Los Angeles, you have my word that Shaq's Fun House presented by FTX will go down as our fourth championship we have won together," said Shaquille O'Neal.

Shaq is excited to bring together the best musical lineup of Big Game Weekend featuring headliners Lil Wayne, Zedd, and Special Guest Diplo with a special Halftime Show Featuring DJ Diesel presented by Pepsi Stronger Together. Lil Wayne, an award-winning and game-changing icon, has sold over 120 million records worldwide, making him one of the world's best-selling artists. He has won five GRAMMY® Awards, 11 BET Awards, four Billboard Music Awards, two MTV Video Music Awards, and eight NAACP Image Awards. Multi-platinum, GRAMMY® Award-winning artist, DJ, and producer Zedd is known for chart-topping collaborations and headlining major music festivals around the world. Zedd has worked with a diverse range of artists to create hits including Foxes on "Clarity," Selena Gomez on "I Want You To Know," Alessia Cara on "Stay," and Maren Morris and Grey on the monster hit "The Middle." Diplo is one of the most dynamic forces in music today. The 10-time Grammy-nominated artist is a member of the iconic Major Lazer, one-third of LSD, and half of Silk City with Mark Ronson. His Platinum-certified "Electricity" with Dua Lipa topped charts worldwide and won a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording.

Shaq is personally curating a culinary experience like no other featuring some of the most iconic restaurants in Los Angeles. Included in every ticket, guests of Shaq's Fun House will be treated to Roscoe's House Of Chicken And Waffles, Pink's Hot Dogs, Diddy Riese, Meat District Butcher Crafted Premium Burgers, Daring Foods Plant-Based Chicken, and Papa Johns Pizza. VIP Guests of Shaq's Fun House will get to enjoy sushi from the legendary KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar. Plus, all of Shaq's guests will also enjoy a six-hour open bar featuring premium spirits, beer, wine, soft drinks, and alkaline water. Finally, Shaq's Fun House will also be filled with everyone's favorite carnival fun foods such as cotton candy, popcorn, funnel cakes, and more.

Shaq's Fun House and Medium Rare are excited to be partnering with Wynn Nightlife for an exclusive hospitality experience. Wynn Nightlife is bringing its renowned Las Vegas VIP experience to Los Angeles with a dedicated VIP Mezzanine at Shaq's Fun House. Hosted by its famed brands XS Nightclub and Encore Beach Club, the VIP tables will include bottle service, dedicated server, and the best views to the main stage. This year, FTX is offering five percent off VIP tables for those looking to pay via cryptocurrency, thanks to FTX Pay. In addition, fans can purchase access to the TickPick VIP Lounge within the Wynn Nightlife Mezzanine. The TickPick VIP Lounge will offer shared table tickets with bottle service, an expedited entrance, TickPick swag, and more.

This year's event will be hosted at the legendary Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall, featuring Shaq's Carnival Midway highlighted by the FTX Ferris Wheel, carnival rides, games, circus performers, dining experiences, incredible brand activations, and more. The concert will feature larger-than-life main-stage production and pyrotechnics for headliners Lil Wayne, Zedd, Diplo, DJ Diesel, and more.

FTX, the leading cryptocurrency and assets platform, is proud to present Shaq's Fun House 2022 and bring crypto to Big Game Weekend like never before. As a company focused on creativity, technological innovation, and excitement, FTX will enhance the Fun House experience with free NFTs for all attendees, The FTX Ferris Wheel, Crypto Carnival prizing, and more surprises to be announced soon.

Outside of the fun inside Shaq's Fun House presented by FTX, the cryptocurrency platform will also be launching a one-of-a-kind Big Game Weekend flyaway. Starting today, people everywhere have the opportunity to sign up to win a flyaway to attend Shaq's Fun House, meet Shaq himself, and secure $10,000 in Bitcoin. For a chance to win, sign up now by visiting ShaqsFunHouse.com/FTX.

Sam Bankman-Fried, CEO of FTX, commented on the news. "Every year, Shaq's Fun House brings an unforgettable fan experience to 'big game weekend' and we are excited to be the presenting partner of this year's festivities. I have always been a fan of Shaq, and the energy he brings to his work and to entertaining is unmatched, making it an easy decision to work with him on this year's Fun House. We are looking forward to working with him and elevating both the Fun House and FTX brand through this joint effort."

Shaq's Fun House is committed to providing a safe environment for all attendees and working staff. As such all attendees and staff are required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination upon entry, or they will be denied entry. Additionally, face coverings will be required when not actively eating and drinking. To give attendees further peace of mind, Shaq's Fun House will be offering a full money-back guarantee if the event is canceled due to COVID-19. "Full vaccination" means 14 days or more following the final dose of a U.S. FDA-approved or WHO-recognized vaccine against COVID-19 (e.g., Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca/SK Bioscience, Serum Institute of India/COVISHIELD and Vaxzevria, Sinopharm, and Sinovac). When entering Shaq's Fun House, attendees and staff must present a physical copy of a COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card, a digital copy of said card or other such proof as is permitted locally. Please note that Shaq's Fun House policies will be presented in accordance with applicable public health conditions as of the date of the event and are subject to change.

Shaq's Fun House tickets go on sale to the public this Friday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m. PST/1 p.m. EST. Tickets start at $249.99 for a limited time and will increase in price as the event draws closer. Each ticket tier is all-inclusive and includes food, open bar, attractions, and performances. VIP Tickets start at $999.99 and grant access to Shaq's VIP Lounge with seating, KazuNori sushi, a fast-track entrance lane, dedicated VIP premium open bars, and more. When purchasing a ticket to this year's event, Shaq's Fun House will donate $1 per ticket to a charity of Pepsi Stronger Together's choice. Shaq's Fun House event hours are 8 p.m.-2 a.m. For additional details about Shaq's Fun House tickets and Wynn Nightlife VIP Tables, visit www.ShaqsFunHouse.com.

Pepsi Stronger Together, Pepsi's series of grassroots initiatives bringing tailored programming to communities around the country will not only match Shaq's Fun House's $1 donation per ticket but will also implement a series of Pepsi activations during the event. All-new for 2022, Pepsi Stronger Together will present the Shaq's Fun House Halftime Show featuring DJ Diesel himself and invite Pepsi fans of all kinds to venture into the Pepsi Stronger Together Speakeasy where a renowned mixologist will have them saying that's what I like. "Shaq has been an incredible and supportive partner of Pepsi Stronger Together and we're thrilled to be teaming up with him again to give back to our communities while celebrating one of the biggest weekends in sports and entertainment," said Derek Lewis, President, South Division, PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA).

Thanks to ZipRecruiter, people everywhere have the opportunity to apply for a slam-dunk sweepstakes — win a chance to be Shaq's personal operations manager during Shaq's Fun House. From managing Shaq's schedule and making sure he has everything he needs before his DJ performance to overseeing his personal photo/video team, this applicant will add an array of skills to their resume. Check out ShaqsFunHouse.com/ZipRecruiter and apply today.

For those looking for a boost of Essential Energy during Shaq's Fun House, look no further than CELSIUS, a premium, better-for-you energy drink with a unique blend of essential ingredients and key vitamins. CELSIUS will enable fans to fuel up, test their strength, and experience some Essential Vibes through various carnival games. With carnival classics such as High Striker and High Rope adjacent to a custom CELSIUS slushie bar, the CELSIUS Celebration area can't be missed.

Bud Light, the official beer sponsor of the NFL, will feature custom bars for 21+ attendees across Shaq's Fun House full of Bud Light and Bud Light Seltzer as well as present an epic onstage "Cheers" moment for all Shaq's Fun House fans. So, whether you're a fan of beer or seltzer, Bud Light has you covered to cheers to the best of times.

Beam Suntory and its world-class brands are proud to be the exclusive spirits partner of Shaq's Fun House. Featuring brands from Makers 46 to Tres Generaciones tequila, Beam Suntory will quench fans' thirsts all night long through custom-branded activations, cocktails, and more.

Papa Johns has teamed up once again with Shaquille O'Neal, a Papa Johns board member and restaurant owner, to bring Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.® to this year's Fun House. All hungry fans should stop by this year's Papa Johns activation to sample an all-new NY Style Pizza, take photos, and dip their crust in the legendary garlic sauce fondue fountain.

Daring Foods is the leading plant-based chicken brand, founded with the mission of removing chicken from the global food system. Backed by global celebrities like Drake and Naomi Osaka, the award-winning brand is widely available at national supermarkets like Whole Foods, Walmart, and Kroger, independent retailers, and online markets. For vegetarians, vegans and carnivores alike, Daring is a true 1:1 substitute for chicken that doesn't compromise on taste or texture. The Shaq-approved Daring Plant Chicken Tenders will be served at Shaq's Fun House Carnival Midway to all guests.

The Alkaline Water Company is pleased to be the exclusive bottled water sponsor of Shaq's Fun House. At this year's Fun House, Alkaline88 will not only bring its deliciously smooth water to hydrate Fun House fans everywhere but will also feature a fan-favorite carnival game: The Ultimate Water Race. Point the water at the target and race your friends in this classic carnival game — you never know what you might win.

Meat District presents the Shaqtacular, Instagrammable half-pound "Shaq" burger along with the TikTok-able "The Smash" burger. Starring 100% Angus beef brisket, chuck, and short rib, these burgers are loaded up with flavor. Come one, come all, and come hungry. Meat District IS the better way to burger and they're gonna go fast.

Going to the Big Game? Buy no-fee game tickets on TickPick to get HUGE Savings and receive a FREE General Admission ticket to Shaq's Fun House. TickPick is the Official Secondary Ticket Marketplace of this year's Fun House. And don't forget to enter TickPick's sweepstakes for a chance to win a pair of VIP Lounge tickets. Learn more HERE.

WynnBET is giving away a VIP trip to Shaq's Fun House through its "Big Game Promotion" for a winner and three friends. The grand prize includes a meet-and-greet with Shaq, an appearance on stage with DJ Diesel, a VIP table hosted by Wynn Nightlife, and a $5,000 free bet at Wynn Las Vegas Sportsbook. Enter WynnBET's "Big Game Promotion" today through a minimum $20 bet on its Build Your Own BetTM same game parlay feature for a chance to win the ultimate VIP Big Game Weekend experience. Learn more HERE.

Shaq's Fun House is produced by Medium Rare, in partnership with ABG Entertainment. Medium Rare's track record at Big Game Weekend is second to none with some of the most viral sold-out events in history including Shaq's Fun House, Gronk Beach, and The Shaq Bowl. Now pulling in huge audiences for primetime broadcasts, Medium Rare recently produced Guy Fieri's Restaurant Reboot, The Sports Illustrated Awards, Shaq vs Gronk, and Black Entrepreneurs Day.

Hip Hop Invades WWE’s Day 1 With Migos, Westside Gunn and More at Statefarm Arena

Photo Credit: Daniel Vasquez

WWE celebrated the New Year by hosting its first PPV event on New Years Day at the State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. Titled Day One the event is the WWE’s first New Year’s themed event in over a decade and the first ever held on New Year’s Day. Stars from WWE’s Smackdown and Raw brands gathered in front of a sold out arena for the event featuring Becky Lynch and Liv Morgan, RK-Bro vs. The Street profits for the Raw Tag Team Championship , The Usos vs The New Day for the Smackdown Tag Team championship and the fan favorite Big E vs. Brock Lesnar vs. Kevin Owens vs. Seth Rollins vs. Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship.

Rap artists Migos, whose song “Straightenin” is one of the official tracks for Day 1, got involved in the festivities making an epic entrance with WWE Tag Team Champs RK-Bros. Also WWE fan Westside Gunn was seen ringside enjoying the show and engaging the crowd throughout the night. With such a great view of the event, they shared several posts on social media with fans and WWE stars, giving their followers the ultimate inside experience.

Photo Credit: Daniel Vasquez

Leading up to Day 1, the WWE teamed up with influencers to give some of the WWE Universe’s biggest fans the chance to win tickets from several social media giveaways held by Influencers like SexxyStaceFace, Kasfacts, and more. Rapper Warren Wint, Ms Hattan, Desiree Salley of Atlanta Influences Everything, and more attended the event in the skybox, showing support for the WWE and prompting fans to engage on Social media.

“Day 1 was an incredible cross cultural event where we got to see the best from sports entertainment and hip hop come together. The best part for me was seeing the reaction from the Migos' fans in Atlanta. They looked just as happy to see The Migos be a part of the WWE as the Migos seemed to be doing it.” - Peter Rosenberg.

Visit WWE.com for more information on Day One.

Nonpoint Release Their New EP "RUTHLESS" and Premiere the Official Music Video for Single "Back in the Game"

Nonpoint have released their new EP titled RUTHLESS along with the premiere of the official music video for single "Back in the Game".

With the roar of one word, “INDEPENDENCE,” Nonpoint has transcended the underground and taken their rightful place in metal history. Even now they continue to change the rules with their newest song "Back In The Game", which keeps the Nonpoint tradition of inviting you in close, kicking you in the chest, then imprisoning an infectious lyric like, “Cause you’re looking at a one man death squad!” into your mind knowing it will never escape. This song and official video went live across all streaming platforms along with the remaining songs from the Ruthless EP. This follows their independent label plan of delivering music to their fans through more frequent releases and videos from the band.

Elias Soriano, vocalist for Nonpoint stated, “This song sums up our view on how we approached independence from the very beginning. We will be small but mighty. Like the song says, ‘I may be one man, but I’m a deathsquad.’ We give everything we got with ultimate absolution.”

Now with the success of their new independent label, 361 Degrees Records, they continue to add to their story as they partner with Amuse Music Distribution, an independent music distribution company who helps independent artists stay independent with an unbelievable team that helps them grow beyond their reach. In 2021 alone their song "Ruthless" reached #16 on Billboard’s Rock Chart, and were featured on the New Metal Tracks and Kickass Metal Playlist on Spotify with over 1.6 million combined subscribers, SiriusXM Octane’s Big Uns Countdown, LA Lloyd top 30, Loudwire Nights and "Ruthless" was the featured track for AEW’s nationally televised event BLOOD AND GUTS on TNT in May 2021. "Ruthless" has reached over 3.5 million streams. Now their fan-voted cover of Prince’s “When Doves Cry”, at over 1 million streams, has quickly become a fan favorite, from the crowd applause at shows to their support and momentum online.

Their touring in 2022 continues with January dates throughout the country, along with an appearance on the World Famous Shiprocked Cruise.

Watch the “Back In The Game” video now, stream the “Ruthless” album on your preferred music platform and connect with Nonpoint on their social media.

Stream and Share “Ruthless”

Connect with Nonpoint: Website | Twitter | Instagram

Apple Music Launches 24 New and Exclusive DJ Mixes to Kick Off 2022

To ring in the new year, Apple Music has launched a series of 24 exclusive DJ mixes from a diverse array of artists including Charli XCX, PinkPantheress, DJ Drama, Illenuium, Just Blaze, and more. The mixes come to Apple Music from over 12 countries and span an array of musical styles, including dance, electronic, pop, hip-hop, Latin, and more.

Charli XCX tells Apple Music: “In this set, I mix up a lot of amazing songs that really heavily influenced my upcoming album ‘CRASH’. Songs from Janet, Prince, Cameo, Mariah Carey—just songs that have a retro sort of rhythmic feel to them. Songs with incredible snare drums often, and songs that make you want to dance.”

"These are my favorite dance tracks—and tracks in general,” PinkPantheress shares with Apple Music. "I've got a lot of my favorite artists in here, which I hope you appreciate and feel that you can dance to. Music from the likes of Aitch, Kelela, and KAYTRANADA. I love these artists because I feel that they are truly individuals who are heavily rotated in both my playlists and everybody else's. Kelela is my Ethiopian East African queen, and her music has influenced me in ways which I can't even describe. KAYTRANADA is the same—been my favorite producer for a long time. And Aitch is just a legend over here in the UK and deserves to be worldwide.”

Anz tells Apple Music: "This mix is a really small selection of some of my favorite tracks from this year. Lots of UK garage, lots of electro, breakbeat, hardcore—just various bits and bobs to get you in the mood for a big one. We have music from the likes of UNIIQU3, Jubilee, and a few of the tracks I've released this year too. Thank you so much for rolling with me."

The exclusive DJ mixes are now available to stream on-demand on Apple Music HERE. Additionally, on December 31st Apple Music 1 will broadcast each of the 24 exclusive DJ mixes back-to-back to close out 2021 and ring in the new year and Apple Music Hits will play out a selection of mixes from in-house talent including DJ Spinna (6pm PT), Kenny Dope (10pm PT), Stretch and Bobbito (8pm PT), as well as Just Blaze (5pm PT).

Explore the full collection of DJ mixes on Apple Music HERE and check out the full list below.

Charli XCX

PinkPantheress

LP Giobbi

Anz

DJ Nobu

Jasmine Infiniti

Kitty Ca$h

Natasha Diggs

DJ Drama

Marco Acevedo

TAYHANA

Major League DJz

Kampire

Arjun Vagale

Kedr Livanskiy

Just Blaze

Sama’ Abdulhadi

Zane Lowe

Total Freedom

Omar S

Pabllo Vittar

Alison Wonderland

Illenium

Fred again..

Patrick Topping

Tracklib Gives One Lucky Producer the Chance to Make a Song With Dave East

Rapper, songwriter, and actor Dave East has announced his upcoming event with Tracklib: a beat battle using Tracklib’s extensive catalog of music samples. The winner of the competition earns placement for an official single with the Harlem-based rapper/actor, while Tracklib covers the flight and accommodations to New York, from anywhere in the world.

The first place winner–hand-picked by Dave East–will have their track officially released as a song by Dave East with them as the official producer. The winner will be flown out to New York for a studio recording session with Dave East himself. All expenses paid for by Tracklib. They’ll also receive standard writing credits and publishing on the song, sample clearance of the song they’ve sampled, and one-year standard subscription to Tracklib.

East will shout-out two runners-up on all socials, who will also receive a one-year subscription to Tracklib.

East, who has collaborated with producers like Swizz Beatz, Timbaland, Harry Fraud, AraabMuzik, and more, sees this as a chance for producers at all levels to showcase their ear for beats.

“Tracklib gives you the opportunity to use samples that maybe you didn’t think you could use or find,” said East. “Samples you maybe never found before. I think it’s a great platform to explore your own visions and push your creativity to the next level.”

Tracklib’s team is also excited about the collaboration. “This competition is a great way for producers to not only flex their creativity, but for artists to see what Tracklib is capable of,” said Tracklib CEO & Co-founder Pӓr Almqvist. “Our deep and unique music catalog of original recordings–curated for sampling–is waiting to be discovered and we can’t wait to see what participants create with it.”

To compete, creators must sample any song or multitrack on Tracklib and submit their beat by the end of the day Sunday, January 23, 2022 (all timezones included) through this link.

The winner of the beat battle will be announced on all Tracklib socials, in the Tracklib newsletter, and on the Tracklib blog page in March, 2022.

More information about the beat battle - https://www.tracklib.com/blog/daveeast/

About Dave East

Since Nas signed him to Mass Appeal Records in 2014, Dave East has worked with a long line of other talented artists, such as Pusha T, Jadakiss, 2 Chainz, Cam’ron, Jeezy, and Styles P. His studio debut album, Survival, featured an impressive line-up, including DJ Premier, Nas, Rick Ross, The-Dream, Fabolous, E-40, Max B, and Teyana Taylor. The album reached number 11 in the Billboard 200. Alongside his music career, East has delved into acting. He portrayed Method Man in “Wu-Tang Clan: An American Saga,” played Mister Ford in the Netflix film “Beats”, and he appeared as himself in Lil Dicky's “Dave” comedy series.

About Tracklib

Tracklib is the world’s first and only digital service for clearing samples, finally solving a huge problem in the music industry and leveling the playing field by making sample clearance accessible and affordable. Their catalog consists of over 100k all-original recordings from over 400 record labels/publishers around the world. The catalog includes everything from Isaac Hayes to Mozart and Jazz artists Bob James, whose music has been sampled in 1000s of songs. Samples from Tracklib have been used in major songs from artists like J. Cole, Phantogram, Mary J. Blige, Lil’ Wayne, DJ Khaled and BROCKHAMPT

Indie/Alternative Musician and Producer Tawni Bias Drops His Experimental New Album "SEL Fellow"

Calgary-based Indie/Alternative musician and producer Tawni Bias creates an incredibly unique signature sound on moody, experimental new album "SEL Fellow", that was recently released independently.

On "SEL Fellow", Tawni Bias employs the use of vulnerable singing, heady vocal effects, encompassing melodies, and hypnotic, dream-like backing instrumentation to reach the subconscious mind, creating an intentional healing effect. Tawni describes his music as being "made in layers that stick with a consistent energy that builds throughout. Orchestrated layers that leave you with something new and poignant for each returning listen."

"In the long process these tracks were created in I found healing—and I hope others will too." - Tawni Bias

Listen to “SEL Fellow” below, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Tawni Bias on his website and social media.

Stream and Share “SEL Fellow” on: Bandcamp | Apple Music | Soundcloud

Connect with Tawni Bias: Website | Facebook | Twitter

Chicago Grape Pop Band Livingroom Unveil Their Debut Album "Don't Shoot the Messenger!"

Livingroom’s mission statement has been the same ever since its four members met as freshmen in high school: to create original music with an emphasis on quality songwriting. Founded in 2018 in the suburbs of Chicago, the band quickly transitioned from a backing group for their school’s variety show to a serious band with a distinct musical voice. Their synthesis of musical genres lends itself to a uniquely catchy sound the band coined “grape pop.”

Livingroom took home the ILMEA All-State Composition Award for the title track off their debut "Honeybee" EP in 2020. Now they've returned with a bolder, more realized signature sound on debut album "Don't Shoot the Messenger!", out now on major platforms. Hyper-catchy, up-tempo, brimming with melody and casual wit, this release should appeal to adventurous indie pop, rock and alternative fans.

Written almost entirely in the COVID-19 era, “Don’t Shoot the Messenger!” is a statement on the way relationships (platonic and romantic alike) can throw themselves together and disintegrate just as fast. Most importantly, the album offers an answer. Change starts with the individual. At its core, the album itself is something like a cry for help, a distress signal, a message; Livingroom is the proverbial messenger.

Listen to “Don’t Shoot the Messenger!” right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with Livingroom on their social media.

Stream and Share “Don’t Shoot the Messenger!” on: Bandcamp | Soundcloud

Connect with Livingroom: Website | Instagram

Hard Rock/Alternative Metal Quartet Modern Monsters Unleash Their Self-Titled EP "Modern Monsters"

Modern Monsters began after Brody Bass, Rich Wells, and Keenan Tuohy decided to move on from an older music project they belonged to and move into a heavy rock direction. Through trial and error of multiple guitarist and vocals, the trio eventually found Wyatt Lennon, a high school friend of Keenan Tuohy, and vocalist Josh Weaver, who was found through an audition. The most important part of the group is the chemistry and brotherhood formed between the band members, and their love of music.

The group focuses on members writing collectively instead of having one main writer, constantly challenging each other, and pushing each other to find their individual identity and expressive element of the band. This leads to the high-energy, fun-loving power drumming of Keenan Tuohy, the loud and aggressive hard moshing guitar riffs and blazing solos from Wyatt Lennon, the mind bending experimental psychedelic shoegazing overtones mixed with the equally blazing solos of Rich Wells, the always solid hard thumping melodic bass lines from Brody Bass, and vocals that flow from melodic and thought provoking into screams of release from Josh Weaver.

While the band works hard and meticulously in the studio, they pride themselves in their live performance. As hard as they work to find themselves in the music they write, they encourage their audience to do the same as participants in their music. After all, there is no band, if there is no audience. Besides being a seriously thought-out band, they love nothing more than being around their fans and engaging with them on and off the stage, showing their dedication not just to their own self-expression, but the feelings and thoughts of the audience that joins them.

The band has unveiled their brand new 3-track self-titled EP, “Modern Monsters”, which includes songs that showcase the band's heavy, energized grooves coupled with an experimental, dynamic spirit.

Speaking about the EP, Modern Monsters say:

“Our music comes from our angst about social issues surrounding us in our society. This EP is an expression of our frustrations and our want to move forward in a world that works together to solve our issues instead of becoming constantly divided. We wanted to write something to make people realize we are all in this together and can overcome our negative mindsets. We created heavy music mixed with experimental, melodic, textures to guide the listeners through their personal revolution.”

Listen to the “Modern Monsters” EP right now, stream it on Bandcamp and connect with the band on their website and social media.

Stream and Share “Modern Monsters” on Bandcamp

Connect with Modern Monsters: Website | Facebook | Instagram

Long Beach, CA Rock Band The Ghosts of Searchlight Release Their New Album "Sprawl"

The Ghosts of Searchlight further innovate and evolve their signature heavy instrumental post-rock meets surf rock sound on their new full-length album "Sprawl".

Somewhere between the roiling surf of the Pacific Ocean and the blinding lights of Las Vegas lies the expanse of the Mojave and the inspiration for the aggressive, surfy sounds of The Ghosts of Searchlight’s brand of instrumental post-rock. Guitarist Brian Horn hails from these places and the journeys in between.

The Ghosts of Searchlight were dead. A part of life that had to be discarded to make room for so many other things. But in the last year, as life ground to halt, there was time to decide what could stay, what could go and what needed to be reborn. “Sprawl” encompasses much of that sense of longing and taking inventory. It's what brought the Ghosts back to life.

The Ghosts of Searchlight sound is a fusion of aggressive surf melodies with modern post-rock counterpoints, which reflects the places that have shaped the band: the chaotic lights of Las Vegas, the serene beauty of the Mojave, and the siren's call to the shores of Southern California.

About "Sprawl":

"Sprawl was a chance for us to take a step forward by stepping back. A chance to slow down, take our time with the music and allow moments to breathe."

"With Sprawl, we wanted to expand the Ghosts sound and branch into unexplored territory: a 4-track, some mandolin, strings, even a seven year-old beatboxing. We're usually a three-piece capturing live energy but this one was all about layering the sounds that either made up life around us at the time or haunted our dreams."

Listen to “Sprawl” right now, stream it on Bandcamp and connect with The Ghosts of Searchlight on their website and social media.

Stream and Share “Sprawl” on Bandcamp

Connect with The Ghosts of Searchlight: Website | Twitter | Facebook

Hierocoin BAR to Empower the Hip-Hop Industry With a DAO System

Hierocoin aims to create a platform whereby artists and the hip-hop community can leverage blockchain technology to secure their hard earned returns.

Why Heirocoin Is Banking on DAO

Hierocoin represents a digital token that targets to transform the music industry. It is an innovative platform built by Brooks Boyd. The project came to life in 2014 through Jonathan Owens as a beta version. It launched in December 2021 after years of research and tests.

Hierocoin's DAO will enable users to design policies which favor the entire platform. The DAO system implements the set rules where no third-party will become involved.

The structure could also deal with power-related issues since there will be collective participation from the community.

What Heirocoin Represents

Hierocoin borrows its name from the legendary music group known as Hieroglyphics. The platform, however, guarantees that it doesn't associate its milestones or failures with Hieroglyphics and Hieroglyphics LLC.

The project's native asset is known as BAR and runs on the Binance Smart Chain. BAR's primary use case aims at building a DAO system that supports market scarcity of the token.

Farming is the second use case that allows investors to stake coins and receive rewards in return. Besides, individuals can use BAR in the Hiero farms to generate more BAR tokens. The users' staking amount and the pool's staking rates will have an impact on their rewards.

According to the platform, the Hierocoin Bar token's goal is to help embrace art and promote upcoming artistic projects.

Users can also spend their BAR tokens on Hierovr.com, the project's metaverse world. Hence, BAR acts as a regular currency that enables users to shop and encounter several experiences in the metaverse.

It further supports a gaming network whereby players participate in completing quests for hidden tokens and is able to bridge virtual items with real-world purchasing.

BAR has a total supply of 93M and a circulating supply of 3,207,200 tokens. The initial liquidity amount accounts for 50M BAR together with another liquidity contribution of 33,810,000.

The distribution chart also dedicates 9M tokens to the Hieroglyphics music group. Lastly, airdrops and Hierocoin use 300,000 BAR and 7,500 BAR tokens, respectively.

Hierocoin's Recent Presale and Auditing Spells Success

The project successfully held its presale which began on 25th November to 8th December, 2021. BAR is currently available for purchase on PancakeSwap. KYC and auditing procedures provide startups with security for their investors.

Hierocoin therefore has two auditing reports from popular security firms known as SolidityFinance and OpenZeppelin.

An additional KYC examination was done by SolidProof, a German-based firm offering blockchain security solutions. Carrying out both procedures gives users a sense of trust and security in their investments.

Southeast London Artist KDYN Unveils His Debut EP "Elevate" on Monstercat

After making his Monstercat debut earlier this fall, breakout producer KDYN returned to the label with his polished yet punchy four-track EP, ‘Elevate.’ At just 16-years-old, the Southeast London producer has crafted a sonic profile that’s mature beyond his years.

‘Elevate’ fully showcases KDYN’s musical prowess as he effortlessly blends classic garage sounds with chart-driving UK house. The deep basses, crisp percussion, and scattered synth stabs in the single, “Fire” drive it forward while the processed vocal chops add a unique melodic layer that complements the track’s darker motifs. With releases on industry flagships like Insomniac, Crucast, and Monstercat, as well as radio support from BBC and KISS FM, expect to see KDYN sweep the scene in 2022.

KDYN shares, “Super excited to be dropping the final installment of my EP! Joining on to “Through Your Love” and “Closer” are my tracks “Fire” & “Rhythm.” I hope you enjoy the music!”

Listen to “Elevate” right now, stream it on your preferred music service and connect with KDYN on his social media.

Stream and Share “Elevate”

Connect with KDYN: Instagram | Twitter

Pentatonix Announces Pentatonix: "The Evergreen Experience" Worldwide Digital Performance

Pentatonix has announced Pentatonix: The Evergreen Experience, the three-time GRAMMY® Award-winning and multi-platinum selling artist’s full length streamed concert via Moment House. The exclusive live show will be streamed on the premium social live media platform on Sunday, December 19th and Monday, December 20th (depending on territory). The show will highlight the band’s sixth and latest holiday album, Evergreen, as well as other holiday classics from the group’s five other Christmas albums. Special early-bird tickets, priced at $9.99, go on sale today at 11am PT / 1pm ET and regular priced tickets go on sale Tuesday, Dec 7th at 9am PT/12pm ET.

The full length live streamed concert will be taped at their December 11th Louisville, KY show at the KFC Yum! Center. The band will incorporate instruments for the first time in their live show, including drums, a cello, and a piano.

Of the show, Scott Hoying said, “This is such a special show for us, and such a great experience to perform on our first tour in two years, so we wanted all our fans around the world to get a chance to see it.”

For tickets and more information, visit www.momenthouse.com/pentatonix.

Interview: Granite State Producer Fee the Evolutionist Discusses His Collaborative Release "Beast Over Beats"

“The hip hop scene in New Hampshire is currently growing and being cultivated. It’s becoming more diverse and inclusive. My affiliates and I are part of this movement and the art form is respected now more than ever.”

— Fee the Evolutionist

Big salute to you on the release of your new collaboration “Beast Over Beats”, and its animated video. Tell us about the song itself; how did you go about deciding which artists would be featured on the track?

My inspiration for “Beast Over Beats” was to bring together the hip hop community in my area. I was inspired by the classic boom bap tracks from the golden era of hip hop. The theme is that each mc picked an animal that they identified with to metaphorically represent on the track.

I reached out to artists dedicated to their craft from New England who represent their regions. I wanted a mix of Hip Hop veterans and new talent. Cody Pope, Quo and myself are from the Nashua area. DJ Myth represents Manchester. Alunar Landing is from Maine. Pro & D-Tension are from Lowell aka Mill City where I was born. It’s a dope mix.

From a production perspective, what was your creative process for the instrumental and what software/hardware do you use? Also, do you sell your beats?

I play drums and percussion so my creative process usually starts with the drums then I’ll add a bass line. This is how I created “Beast Over Beats”.

I really like working in Reason which I used to make the beat then mixed down in Pro Tools. My nephew Matty at GCS Studios in Nashua actually engineered and mixed the song.

Another cool fact about the track is that the beat in the song changes every 8 bars so that each mc has their own unique section to rhyme over.

As far as selling my beats I’m definitely open to licensing opportunities and collaborations.

What can you tell us about the hip hop music scene in New Hampshire? Is it difficult for homegrown talent to grow a fan base and get exposure for their music?

The hip hop scene in New Hampshire is currently growing and being cultivated. It’s becoming more diverse and inclusive. My affiliates and I are part of this movement and the art form is respected now more than ever.

I believe it can be difficult for any artist to grow a fan base but if they love their craft and stay persistent, progress is inevitable. My advice is to be engaging and include people from your community. It takes time but if you love the craft then your fanbase will grow organically.

Once you feel like you’ve got a hot track don’t be afraid to set aside a budget for promotion. Just make sure that the people you team up with have respect for the culture.

How did you get started as a producer? Who were some innovators that inspired you musically?

What first got me interested in producing was curiosity and a love for the music. I wanted to learn as much as possible about the all the elements of hip hop culture.

Ski, who produced Jay-Z’s “Dead Presidents”, was an inspiration as far as beat making and production. I remember sitting in his living room on 110 Street in Harlem and watching him bring old vinyl samples to life. It was magic to me. I’ve witnessed him flip deep soul samples into bangers, some of which went gold.

With “Beast Over Beats” now released, what’s next for you musically heading into 2022?

This Christmas I’ll be dropping a joint called “Back in the Dayz” produced by Ski Beatz. The track features Pro Lyrical and is a tribute to our old crew X-Cal. It definitely has a classic Hip Hop/R&B feel. Then, in early February I’ll be releasing “Ain’t No Love”, which is a social commentary on the current state of the world. Proceeds from the song will benefit needy families in Southern New Hampshire.

In closing I would encourage anyone who is interested in collaborations to get at me. Lastly I would like to thank Dopecausewesaid for the interview.

Peace party people ha ha see ya later!

Connect with Fee the Evolutionist: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

Erykah Badu, Nas, The Roots, Miguel, Jhene Aiko and More to Perform at Smoking Grooves Festival on March 19, 2022

A timeless Neo-Soul experience bridging several generations of artists will take place at the Los Angeles State Historic Park on Saturday, March 19, 2022. Smokin Grooves Festival will feature performances by Erykah Badu, Nas, The Roots, Miguel, Jhené Aiko and many others, including contemporary acts like Smino, Sir, The internet, Flying Lotus and Thundercat, as well as Roy Ayers, Angie Stone, Musiq Soulchild, Dwele, and many more.

The full festival lineup is: Erykah Badu, Nas, The Roots, Miguel, Jhené Aiko, The internet, Flying Lotus, Kamasi Washington, Thundercat, Smino, Hiatus Kaiyote, Sir, Little Dragon, Toro y Moi, Musiq Soulchild, India.Arie, Macy Gray, Angie Stone, Leela James, Talib Kweli, Roy Ayers, Dead Prez, Slum Village, Dwele Joe Kay, Ravyn Lenae, Phony Ppl, Bilal, Goapele, Fousheé, Free Nationals, Yussef Dayes, Charlotte Day Wilson, Domi & JD Beck, Unusual Demont, Daydream Masi, Blu & Exile and Jelani Aryeh.

There will be a special presale beginning Friday, Dec. 3 at 10 a.m. PT for guests who sign up for early access to passes online at smokingroovesfestival.com. Following the presale, any remaining tickets still available will go on sale to the general public beginning Friday, Dec. 3 at 2 p.m. PT at smokingroovesfestival.com. GA tickets start at $184.99 and VIP tickets (only available for guests 21 years of age and older) start at $399.99.

Follow the Smokin Grooves Festival on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @smokingroovesfest.

Interview: Queens' Own MoneyHouse Kev Discusses His DOPE Single/Video "Chop"

“I feel like nowadays artists are always trying to keep up with a trend, which causes music to sound similar, mediocre, or non relatable. I use what I go through and how I feel as my weapon.”

— MoneyHouse Kev

What are some things/people/places that influence the music you create?

My number one influence is emotion. I feel like nowadays artists are always trying to keep up with a trend, which causes music to sound similar, mediocre, or non relatable. I use what I go through and how I feel as my weapon.

Sometimes it’s hard expressing yourself to people but for some reason once I connect with a beat its over, whatever is on my mind is coming out. Sometimes going out for a walk or driving through the city can help me brainstorm some ideas to write about as well.

We're huge fans of your new single/video "Chop"; what initially inspired you to write the track itself and how did you connect with its producer, Beatsbyroki?

At first the track was just another song I was working on in the studio, but I noticed a lot of people I let hear it were gravitating more to it than any other songs I made. Eventually I finished putting the song together and re-recorded it at my homeboy Ty Benjamin’s studio.

Normally I only work with production that’s made specifically for my sound and brand but something about this beat caught me, so I looked into the producer, who is Beatsbyroki, and I learned that he produced “Denied in UK” by Lil Durk as well as “Believe Me” by Rod Wave. With those credentials I had faith in his production and I reached out to him via email for the licensing rights and contract.

What do you look for in the production that you write to, and where generally do you find your instrumentals?

in my production I look for Melodies. Once I find the right sound that fulfills my niche I try to fill them in with words and stories. Instruments that I naturally gravitate to are pianos, acoustic or electric guitars, synths, and vocal samples. Generally I receive beat packs and emails from various producers I found liking to but once in a blue moon I’ll go through YouTube beats and find something worth writing to.

Regarding the very lit visual, how did you and the director, Kawal, come up with the treatment, and who was your leading lady?

Around the time of the shoot I was staying in the Hamptons, so everything kind of happened last minute. I ended up driving out to the city around 11/12 pm, at that time Kawal was busy with another client so I had hit up my mans Zeus Anderson who’s also an artist, engineer, and videographer to catch the scenes for me.

The night before I reserved a suite at Hotel Indigo in the Lower East Side so I figured I take advantage and use it for my video. The model I used is Coco aka chokola.goddess on Instagram. Her and I actually met in a deli, it was like 2am; I seen her with a friend and she definitely was standing out, so I ran down and got her info. At that time I didn’t know I would use her for my video but I kept her in mind and I believe everything happens for a reason.

Can we expect to hear "Chop" on an upcoming EP or album in 2022? If so, what can you tell us about the project?

I’m not making any promises, but I am working on an upcoming project surrounding the topics of romance, heartbreak, and betrayal, and “Chop” might actually play a part in the promotion of it or at least make it as a bonus track on the project.

With 2021 winding down to a close, what are some of your goals musically for the new year?

One of my main goals for the new year is to introduce my sound to the world. I’ve been working on my creation for a few years now and “Chop” was like a sneak peek of what I have in store. I also want to get more tapped in with the music industry so I’m looking into doing more features, more videos, and achieving some certifications in music production, recording, and more.

Stream and Share “Chop” on Spotify

Connect with MoneyHouse Kev: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Red Bull SoundClash Returns to the US With a Powerhouse Artist Line-Up This Week

Red Bull announces the return of Red Bull SoundClash to the U.S. for the first time in 10 years, with 4 shows this Fall in Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, and Nashville.

Red Bull SoundClash creates a once-in-a-lifetime live music experience, featuring two artists competing across two opposite stages, with the audience deciding the winner. The unparalleled event series will bring audiences and artists together for the chance to participate in an experience unlike any other. This is not a concert. This is a Clash.

Red Bull SoundClash enables artists to push their musical boundaries through exploring music styles, battling, repertoires, and artist collaborations while empowering the audience to become more than spectators to decide the winner. Inspired by the culture of competing soundsystems originating in Kingston, Jamaica, Red Bull SoundClash is set over multiple rounds as bands and artists musically duke it out with the recipient of the biggest crowd reaction (captured on a decibel meter) to be crowned champion. While these artists may be competing against each other at every turn, SoundClash is ultimately a celebration of the power of live music, collaboration, and creative empowerment.

The 2021 Red Bull SoundClash U.S. series kicks off in Atlanta on 11/30 with SHELLEY FKA DRAM vs Westside Boogie; Houston on 12/2 with The Suffers vs Tank and The Bangas; Nashville on 12/9 with Bren Joy vs Special Guest (TBA), and Chicago on 12/15 with Rico Nasty vs Danny Brown.

Find full event descriptions below:

Atlanta: November 30

A Love Renaissance Special: SHELLEY FKA DRAM vs Westside Boogie

Red Bull SoundClash teams up with Atlanta-based independent record label, management and multi-media company, Love Renaissance (LVRN), for one special night at The Eastern. In celebration of the Love Renaissance collective, R&B singer-songwriter SHELLEY FKA DRAM and Compton-born Westside Boogie will face off in a live, head-to-head clash for the ages.

Houston: December 2

The Suffers Vs Tank and The Bangas

Red Bull SoundClash joins forces with The Suffers vs Tank and the Bangas to celebrate the art, culture and musical genres of both headliners while showcasing their abilities in a ‘Queens of Gulf Coast Soul’ themed four-round face-off, featuring co-hosts Paul Wall and Big Freedia, special guests, and other familiar faces from the Texas and Louisiana music scenes.

Nashville: December 9

Bren Joy Vs Jake Wesley Rogers

Red Bull SoundClash comes to a Nashville audience with a heavyweight lineup that will feature Bren Joy vs. Jake Wesley Rogers clashing in a live experience unlike any other. In a special evening that celebrates each artist’s unique and exciting take on R&B and pop, this friendly clash will bring the heat with both artists delivering the best of their signature stylings across two stages all inside Nashville’s Marathon Music Works where ultimately, the audience will decide the winner.

Chicago: December 15

Rico Nasty Vs Danny Brown

The 2021 Red Bull SoundClash US series run culminates with two distinct and unparalleled hip-hop talents, both of which will descend on Radius for what might just be a show for the record books. D.C.’s lauded hyper-pop rapper Rico Nasty will clash with Detroit’s acclaimed “Hood Hipster” Danny Brown. These two artists are sure to create an indescribable energy.

For more information on SoundClash, visit the Redbull website, like the RedBull music Facebook page or follow RBM on Instagram.