Brent Fischer Orchestra (BFO) is comprised of award-winning musicians in Los Angeles --Ron Stout, Alex Budman, Francisco Torres, Brian Clancy, Kirsten Edkins, Bernie Dresel, Quinn Johnson and many other greats, as they bring Clare and Brent Fischer Music to audiences worldwide. To kick off the first week of February music festivities in Los Angeles, the 20-piece BFO will present a special program and live concert in Studio City on Saturday February 4, at 1pm.

click here to reserve for this non-Academy affiliated event. Space is limited.

studioexpresso caught up with Grammy®-winner Brent Fischer in January and he had this to say about his upcoming show and the notable Grammy®-nominated artists he has worked with.

SE: What can you tell us about the show in February, and your special program?

BF: We are calling it a Pre-G concert. It’s at 1 pm in Studio City, so as not to conflict with official events. Special guests include past and current nominees. Many in my 20-piece band have been on numerous nominated and winning albums. All will be revealed on February four, early afternoon. You're invited!

SE: G, as in Gee, sweet, can't wait! You've been nominated and won several times. What are some fond memories from past Grammy® shows?

BF: After giving my speech for my first award for ¡Ritmo! - Best Latin Jazz Album 2012, I went backstage and the officials asked for the Grammy back. I said “but I just got this”. They told me it was only a prop and I would get my award in the mail. That was a relief! I was also nominated for Record of the Year, one of the “big four” prestigious awards, for my work on Really Love by D’Angelo. All of us who worked on it were so excited at it being a contender, overlooking the fact that it was up against Uptown Funk that year! It’s kind of funny we thought we had a chance but we held on to our dream and were thrilled when D'Angelo won Best R&B Album and Best R&B song that year.

SE: One of the notable artists you've worked with, Elvis Costello is nominated this year for his rock album, The Boy Named If. Talk about what was it like to work with Mr Costello

BF: Amazing artist. What a long and varied list of accomplishments! It was my great honor to arrange and conduct The Brent Fischer Orchestra on 5 songs for the album he did with Questlove and The Roots called Wise Up Ghost.

Every once in a while when I make a post on social media remembering that great project, Costello will actually write something kind in the comments.

SE: Wise Up Ghost received nice reviews, despite its modest commercial success. One of the Songs, SUGAR Won't Work is funky with super edgy string arrangement in the intro and Coda. "It starts off with a symphonic treatment, reminiscent of You Left Me in the Dark from Costello’s Bacharach influenced album, North. It goes places far more interesting after that," said one review in Song of the Day. Where were the strings done, what size ensemble and what kind of input did you get from either Questlove or Elvis before working on it?

BF: We had a 20 piece chamber orchestra (16 strings, 4 winds) filled with phenomenal musicians I’ve worked with for years. You can’t find that in many other cities! Questlove only gave me some basic guidelines but they were enough to help align both of our creative visions.

SE: You're going to be a speaker at NAMM on Saturday April 15 on Modern Composition Tools & Tips. What's the all-time favorite tool in the Fischer tool box when it comes to composing?

BF: My ears. Hearing is the least developed of all of the senses. We have terminology in our vocabulary to describe what we see, smell, touch and taste but not so many can describe in detail the pitches, rhythms, and harmonies in a complex song. I can write out anything I hear so it can become part of my compositional vocabulary. I encourage all writers to fully develop their ears.

SE: How many Concert In The Garden shows have you done so far and when did it all start?

BF: It started right after the pandemic. We were outdoors with social distancing and masks on except when performing. We took every precaution and no one got sick so we kept on scheduling events to help support these phenomenal musicians. So far we’ve done at least 10 outdoor concerts.

SE: Tell us what else to expect for your upcoming concert on Saturday, Feb 4.

BF: We’ll be featuring music from Wise Up Ghost, Pictures at an Exhibition (my big band album released in 2021) and other albums BFO has appeared on.

Brent Fischer Orchestra will play one set on Saturday February 4, at 1pm.

Come hang with some of LA's top cats who have appeared on high-profile albums and films.

Visit Brent Fischer or Clare Fischer or order music and click here to attend.

This dynamic singer-songwriter pop duo from Hendersonville, Tennessee is not just a TikTok or Instagram phenom. They post popular covers like Sway, Drops of Jupiter and Don't Know Why regularly on their socials and tell us their originals are coming soon! At 18 and 17 years old, Jake and Shelby's fan base is growing and garnering the attention of musical greats like Michael Buble who recorded with them recently on social media platforms. They blend styles influenced by John Mayer, Madison Cunningham, Taylor Swift, and Phoebe Bridgers. Jake and Shelby bring creative phrasing, harmonization and guitar arrangements to each song. bove all, here's a "je ne sais quoi" chemistry between these two musicians that keeps you coming back. Their posts are fun and care free --be it topic of Jake's curly hair or their latest photo shoot, they know how to pull you in without trying hard.

We love the skillful musicianship and intriguing energy that's between Jake and Shelby and can't wait to hear more!

Visit Jake & Shelby official

The Spoon is Oscar Jerome's second album. His experimental sounds and video images are reminiscent of American director and playwright, Robert Wilson - abstract, yet familiar. Jerome's sleeked back hair, tailored suits and musical tastes date him back to Cool and Free jazz era where his musical influences began. Jerome lists Wes Montgomery, George Benson, John Scofield, and Grant Green as his favorite musicians.

Mid-pandemic, Jerome found himself alone in Berlin, needing to move forward in a healthy way. His thoughts of isolation, heard in Sweet Isolation are steeped in melancholy juxtaposed with humor, in the official videos and album imagery - his photo (below) holding a chainsaw and sticking his tongue out.

“I can see my reflection in the spoon / It looks different,” He describes the object’s mirror-like distortion (on the album cover left) which is also represented in the bends of his guitar sound. On Feet Down South, you can hear Jerome's jazz guitar influence. He's a student of Trinity Lab and Conservatoire, and played since age 14.

The idea of finding beauty in melancholy and reflection is a recurring theme on the album.

Jerome even goes on to inhabit different personas on The Spoon. There is 'Ice Guycicle,' with generative powers, and 'Jerry,' a parody on a toxic City banker who in the video for Berlin 1 and drinks coffee with sugar, lots of it, and walks, fully suited, straight into a lake! Jerome co-directed the video with his brother in Iceland. The album was recorded at Iguana Studio in Brixton, UK.

“I co-produced the album with Beni Giles. Also the amazing musicians involved in the project; especially Ayo Salawu - Drums, Tom Driessler - Bass, Crispin Robinson - Percussion," says Jerome.

In childhood Jerome listened to Rage Against The Machine (a band that he says influenced his politics as well). You hear that angst on Feed The Pigs, towards the end of the album. Though Jerome lives in London now, he originally hails from Norwich. It was there that he had his first experiences playing music solo and with larger combos. After spending eleven years in London, the thirty-year-old is appreciative of his roots and humbled by the responses to his music.

Jerome sees a sense of the infinite potential in creation, and we fully expect a spoonful of chill imagination to follow The Spoon.

Kenny Aronoff and Smith Devereux Launch Uncommon Wines at East West Studios In Support of Alana's Voice Foundation and Mental Health

A short list of wine lovers and friends gathered at East West Studio One for wine tasting and celebrating the launch of Uncommon wines on December 17, 2022. The 2020 vintage is 50% Cabernet Sauvignon 50% Syrah.

The wine maker from Napa, Ian Devereux White, was there to greet guests. The story goes that he met award-winning producer/drummer Kenny Aronoff (John Mellencamp, Smashing Pumpkins, The Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen) at a friend's house. Their meeting lead to a long phone conversation and a close friendship. The idea to create a wine after Aronoff's brand, Uncommon, as in his Uncommon recording studio in Los Angeles, was hatched. During the phone call, the two men had shared their views on life, love, spirituality, music and their desire to make the world a better place.

Portion of the proceeds from the wine sales will benefit Alana's Voice Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to mental health. The organization is named after Alaina Maria Housley (born July 27, 2000) who died on November 7, 2018 when someone entered the Borderline Bar in Thousand Oaks California while she was line dancing and shot her, and 11 other people, taking their lives. Unfortunately, this is happening again with the recent back-to-back shootings that killed eighteen (eleven in Monterey Park and seven in Oakland) just this month.

studioexpresso met up with Kenny Aronoff and Ian Devereux White to learn about their purpose-driven friendship and Uncommon wines.

SE: Your brand as a musician is to innovate with creativity and achieve purpose w truth, desire and authenticity. Powerful words Kenny! When did you adopt this philosophy and how has it played a role in your music career?

KA: The words, Innovation, creativity, follow your deepest desires, your truth, your passion, your bliss, your purpose in life, be 100% your authentic self, work hard, be self disciplined and persevere are words that describe the way I have always approached my life ever since I was a young boy without knowing what those words meant. However, In the last 10 years through reading and learning I was able to understand my approach to life and incorporate those words into everything I do including my second book that I am presently editing and in the speeches I deliver at corporate events. 

SE: Uncommon wine was launched at East West where you've played drums on numerous albums - name a few

KA: Some of the session I did at East West studios were Meatloaf Bat Out of Hell 2, Neil Diamond, Iggy Pop - Brick by Brick, Elton John Box set, Bob Seger - The Fire Inside, Bob Dylan - Under The Red Sky and many more. 

SE: Uncommon is also name of your studio in LA. What's different about working there vs other studios?

KA: I love working at my Uncommon Studios LA, but nothing compares to the iconic rooms and studios that exist in LA like East West. These rooms were designed by professionals from the bottom up with the best materials and these studios have the top of the line gear that makes these rooms the best rooms in the world to record music in. 

KA: Sex Drums Rock n Roll is about realizing your purpose in life and taking action to become successful and stay successful in one of the most difficult business’s in the world, the music business. 

SE: We couldn't agree more. Cheers Kenny and thanks for signing my bottle at East West "We were both here"! Indeed, raise a glass with us to support a good cause while limited supply of only 50 cases last. Order it here!

SE: Talk about your collaboration w Kenny. what was your first meeting like?!

IDW: After meeting through a mutual friend, we jumped on a call one afternoon. I think we spent about two hours talking about life and love and spirituality and music and our desire to make the world a better place before we got to talking about wine. And it was that connection, and our mutual passions outside of wine that sparked the interest in working together. More conversations followed, almost always about what was going on in our lives and the things that were important to us, but the discussions started to include vineyards and grapes and farming. With the beginning of a beautiful friendship, we started blending wines from the vineyard we farm and narrowing things down until we had a blend that Kenny loved and that we cold both be truly proud of. And then we involved M+A Creative to help us with that amazing branding and bottle… and the rest is history!

IDW: Kenny may have a better answer for you… But I’d say making this wine was a lot like writing a song! We developed a friendship (the beat) and then we learned more about each other and vineyard and wines (the melody) and then we found something we both loved and started working together on the wine (harmony) and then we brought in designers and our friends and family (bass and guitar) and then we put everything in the bottle and corked it up (Sound Engineer and studio) and ended up with something beautiful that we could share with those we love. Just like a song!

SE: Beautifully said Ian. What's behind sustainably farmed and hand-made wines?

IDW: Well, Smith Devereux is! I’m Devereux. Can one purchase Uncommon wines anywhere else besides here?

No Ma’am. Only made 50 cases and we want to be able to thank every single person who buys a bottle and support us and the Alana’s Voice foundation for mental health (the charity we chose to donate from proceeds).

SE: Supporting emotional well-being sounds like a good idea. Why or how are you involved or passionate about this cause AVF?

IDW: In our first conversation we agreed that mental health was, in our opinion, what was needed to begin making the changes in the world we both think we need. To help kids and all those who have suffered trauma. Stop the cycle of violence. Make it ok for people to see mind doctors just like they see body doctors. We chose Alana’s voice because wanted a charity that was local to Napa but had a much broader and more profound reach.

The Mix Lab in Santa Monica has become a new destination for mixing in Dolby Atmos. On December 10, a choice group of music makers came to the Mix Lab to raise holiday cheer and test drive California's first Dolby-Certified Atmos Stage powered by 24 ATC speakers. The studio, 64 Channel AVID S6 console, Bricasti reverbs, tasty appetizers, gracious bar tenders/servers, and a lit atmosphere was had by all. The holiday event was hosted by gifted composer, Benjamine Wallfisch (Shazam! I and II, The Invisible Man and Hidden Figures), ATC's Ben Lily, Trans Audio Group's Brad Lunde and studioexpresso. Special guests included producers

Dana Nielsen , Gregg Field, Kim Bullard, Moggie Canzio, Brent Fischer, Barry Rudolph, Clark Germain, Thom Russo, Ian Charbonneau, Paula Salvatore, Janice Lee, Jay Kaufman, Peter Grueneisen, to name a few.

Golden Globe, BAFTA, 2x Grammy® and Emmy nominated composer Wallfisch has collaborated three times with Pharrell Williams, including a live performance at the 2015 Grammy® Awards and partnered with Adele, arranging her 2017 GRAMMY® performance of George Michael's Fast Love. Contact [email protected] for grand tour.

The Mix Lab, Santa Monica, joins Ryan Ulyate's studio in Topanga Canyon, Air Studios in London, Blackbird in Nashville, Miraval, South of France, and countless high-profile studios in the world powered by ATC speakers

Warner Chappell Music, the music publishing arm of Warner Music Group, has opened a new songwriting studio in Barcelona, one of the most dynamic and creative cities in Spain.

The new studio is run by Cristian Cabrera Viñas, Senior A&R Director at Warner Chappell Music Spain. He works closely with Javier ‘Chiki’ Dean, who heads Warner Chappell Music’s A&R operations in Spain, and reports to Santiago Menéndez-Pidal, President, Southern Europe, Warner Chappell Music.

It is located in the city’s Poblenou district, an artistic neighborhood with many converted factories housing tech offices and design showrooms, and which is also home to the Barcelona Design Museum and the famous Bogatell Beach.

Cristian Cabrera says: “We’re so excited to unveil our new Barcelona studio. We’ve had huge demand from songwriters wanting to book time to work here, so we already know it’s a valued addition to the local scene. Many of our international writers like to visit Barcelona, so it’s great that we can provide them with a studio environment, and we also hope it will help us to sign more local writers from Catalonia.”

Santiago Menéndez-Pidal adds: “I’m delighted that we’ve now got a purpose-built home in Barcelona for our songwriters who want to work in this vibrant city. Following the launch of The Music Station in Madrid earlier this year, our new studio shows that we’re committed to investing in world class infrastructure here in Spain to support our songwriters.”

A cross-collaboration between Warner Music Group’s WME, WCM, and WML, along with Trinity Entertainment USA, Melody will premiere on February 22^nd on Prime Video in the United States and Latin America.

Marking WME’s first Spanish language TV series, Melody features original music created and produced by WCM’s renowned music producer Jose Luis Pagan, whose work has been nominated for, and awarded multiple Grammys and Latin Grammys (Chayanne, Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez, Il Volo, Thalia, Alejandra Guzman, Diego Torres, Gigi D’Alessio, and many others).

In each episode, original songs will be performed by Gagliardi, Lenore, and the supporting cast, while being released and promoted by Warner Music Latina.

Melody, sponsored by Gibson Guitar Brands and shot in both Miami and Buenos Aires, is a coming-of-age, young adult dramedy inspired by the real-life stories of Gagliardi and Lenore as emerging, successful recording artists. It explores love and romance, but also addresses the relevant subjects of bullying, social justice, equality, the pressure to fit in, and complicated family situations. Music is the protagonist and the axis of the story, which exalts human values and the most sublime of emotions, love, dreams, and unforgettable friendships. Charles Cohen, President, Warner Music Entertainment, said: “At WME, we embrace opportunities that bring WMG artists and creatives together to forge captivating stories for audiences across the globe. Gustavo Menéndez, President, U.S. Latin & Latin America, WCM, said: “Melody is an incredibly inspiring story that will capture fans all around the world with its unforgettable original music. Alejandro Duque, President, Warner Music Latin America, said: “We’ve loved Melody from the moment Jose Luis first brought it to the table. It’s a refreshing and heartwarming story where Yas and Sarah, along with the rest of the cast, will connect with the audience through their voices and memorable songs. At the upcoming Content Americas in Miami on January 24^th, WME and Trinity Entertainment USA will present a unique Melody showcase, including a live music set featuring Gagliardi and Lenore, plus a listening session and luncheon. The event will also premiere the characters’ Melody and Layla’s never-before-seen first single and music video, “Ready Now.”

TransAudio Group, U.S. distributer of the finest professional recording equipment in the world, is pleased to announce the new ATC SCS70 Pro, a compact, ultra-high performance subwoofer using ATC’s first, in-house-designed and built sub driver.

"ATC monitors are something you have to experience to really grasp how different they are from everything else. Lets just say that you can hear details you’ve never heard before, leading you to faster, more accurate decisions in your creative process," says Brad Lunde, President of Trans Audio Group.

Models range from $5,000 to $50,000 per pair and all share a very similar sound. For larger rooms and midfield, applications check out the SEM45 with dual 6.5-inch drivers and the fantastic SEM150 with a 15-inch woofer and 350 Watts of power. Choose the size that works for your space. More info here

Is it actually worth spending money on good speaker stands? That is the question. While looks can be deceiving, you must have seen concrete blocks and other DIY configurations used in some project studios. Speaker stands may not be on top of your purchasing list in 2023, but this 19-minute video by Colt Capperrune @ColtCapperrune may change your mind. $20 block stands are compared with professional stands ranging from $140 Gators to $1,200 Sound Anchor stands. Can you guess which one performs the best? check it out here

Sound Anchors and Redmount products are designed and manufactured in Palm Bay, Florida U.S.A. using American parts and skilled American labor. click here for Sound Anchor dealers in USA

Spaces Filling Fast for Nashville January 28 & 29

Country music singer/songwriter Sonia Leigh gained fame with her debut 2011 album "1978 December" (her birth date) on Zac Brown's Southern Ground Records label and penned two #1's on Zac Brown's Grammy-winning record "Uncaged." Her 2018 "Mad Hatter" album showcased her co-production/engineering skills. She's penned #1 songs, featured in hit television shows, video games, and is rapidly gaining a name for herself in the sync world. Leigh has performed extensively as a solo artist, headliner, and has toured the world with artists such as Eric Church, Melissa Etheridge, Zac Brown Band and legends such as Willie Nelson, Loretta Lynn, and Joan Jett.

The Zmed Brothers are masters of the art of Americana "blood harmony" in the tradition of the Everly Brothers. The brothers explain, "We are not impersonators, instead we aim to honor the brotherly legacy through our own spirits."

"In Session" will feature the tracking and mixing of many brotherly vocal harmonies and fiery dueling guitars.

In 2022, The Zmed Brothers completed their debut EP of original music with Bird Dogs Band, and continue to balance playing shows nationally and internationally as both The Zmed Brothers and as The Everly Brothers Experience.

Above: Blackbird's Dolby Atmos set up is powered by ATC speakers.

Founded by sound engineer John McBride, and his wife country artist Martina McBride, in 2002, Blackbird Studio has become Nashville’s preeminent sound studio. The Blackbird complex now includes nine studios.

In Blackbird Studio D, Elliot Scheiner and Chuck Ainlay are tracking Grammy Award-winning artist, songwriter, producer Jon Randall with top studio musicians. Ainlay and Scheiner will offer varied recording techniques and interaction with the attendees, musicians and artist.

Sylvia Massy and Niko Bolas team up for tracking both days in Studio A. The weekend features two live tracking sessions and two mixing sessions.

In Studio F, Jimmy Douglass will be sharing techniques of his recent immersive mixes, including titles by Justin Timberlake. Douglass is a four-time Grammy-winning recording engineer/producer and has engineered and mixed many celebrated artists, including The Rolling Stones, Roxy Music, Genesis and Gang of Four, John Legend & The Roots, Ludacris, Al Green, and Duran Duran.

of Four, John Legend & The Roots, Ludacris, Al Green, and Duran Duran.

Frank Filipetti and George Massenburg cover immersive mixing in famed Studio C. Massenburg explores his recent work, including Alicia Keys (Grammy-winning Best Immersive Album) and Earth, Wind & Fire. Filipetti discusses his recent outstanding immersive album work with acts as varied as Korn and George Michael.

Learn more here

Bettermaker builds boutique signal processors worthy of worship in their own right, but then they level-up their incredible products with convenient, easy-to-use plug-in control and instant recall.

TransAudio Group, founded by industry veteran Brad Lunde, has quickly become the premier U.S. importer/distributor and/or U.S. sales and marketing representative for high-end audio. Success hinges on TransAudio providing dealers and end users with a higher standard of product expertise and support far beyond the norm.

A-Designs (USA), ATC Loudspeakers (UK), Auratone, Bettermaker, Daking Audio, Drawmer, Hakan, Latch Lake, Mojave Audio, Mutec, Pete's Place Audio, Sabra-Som, Subwoofer Pros, and Tube-Tech 

Questions- pricing, availability and dealer locations please email [email protected]

studioexpresso & Trans Audio Group Present

@ TEC Tracks NAMM 2023

Our speakers will discuss today's tools and tips for composers. How to make better decisions with higher efficiency. Learn the advantages of creating full mock-ups of your works using notation software, best practices for collaboration and communication and more details here

Click here for nominees

The 2023 NAMM Show, April 13-15 – Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, California*

The 2024 NAMM Show, January 25-28 – Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, CA

Nicky Jam & The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation^® Scholarship

Nicky Jam’s songs have achieved more than 14.5 billion views on YouTube and 1.1 billion streams on Spotify. Among his recent hits are the 35-times platinum “X,” with J Balvin, and his collaborative single “Te Boté,” featuring Casper Mágico, Nio García, Darell, Bad Bunny, and Ozuna.

The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation^® has announced that Latin GRAMMY^® winner Nicky Jam is sponsoring its prestigious Prodigy Scholarship toward a bachelor’s degree at Berklee College of Music starting in the 2023 fall semester. The scholarship announcement comes as a follow-up to the artist’s performance at the 23rd Annual Latin GRAMMY Awards^®, alongside Foundation scholarship winners, where he pledged to support aspiring musicians. To view the performance and message, visit here

All scholarships are available to music students between the ages of 17 and 25. To apply, visit Latin Grammy Foundation. The online application process requires students to submit two audition videos, two letters of recommendation, and an acceptance letter from an accredited university along with two essays. The materials can be submitted in English, Spanish or Portuguese. The deadline to apply is April 10, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EDT.

Friday, February 3, 2023 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. PT

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel | Beverly Hills

Karen Bass, Newly elected Mayor of Los Angeles

The Recording Academy^® Entertainment Law Initiative^® will welcome Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles, as the keynote speaker of its annual GRAMMY^® Week Event at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel. on Friday, Feb. 3, 2023

In addition to hosting Mayor Bass, the event will also honor the winner and runners-up of the Entertainment Law Initiative Writing Contest, co-sponsored by the American Bar Association, which challenges students in Juris Doctorate and Master of Laws programs at U.S. law schools to research a pressing legal issue facing the modern music industry and outline a proposed solution in a 3,000-word essay. The winner of this year's Writing Contest is Aron Lichtschein, a JD student at NYU School of Law, for his essay, "Tickets to Ride: NFTs and the Future of Concert Ticketing." With this honor, Lichtschein will receive a $10,000 scholarship as well as tickets to the 65th GRAMMY Awards^®  and other GRAMMY Week events, and his essay will be published in the ABA's journal Entertainment & Sports Lawyer. Two runners up, Gina Maeng and Amanda Sharp, students at Georgetown Law School and University of San Diego School of Law, respectively, will each receive $2,500 scholarships for their essays.

GRAMMY Week culminates with the 65th Annual GRAMMY Awards at Los Angeles' Crypto.com Arena on Sun, Feb. 5, 2023, broadcasting live on the CBS Television Network and streaming live and on-demand on Paramount+ at 8-11:30 p.m. ET/5-8:30 p.m. PT.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2023

Time: 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Location: GRAMMY Museum

A conversation with Merck Mercuriadis, Nile Rodgers and 6x GRAMMY-nominated Singer-Songwriter-Producer The-Dream discussing their background in the music industry, the importance and power of the songwriter, sustaining a career, and celebrating the songs: past and present that have lead to The-Dream having more than 20 Grammy nominations and 5 wins throughout his career. The-Dream is a part of the nominees in the inaugural class of the Songwriter Of The Year award and we are here to celebrate his achievements and those of the other great songwriters being honored including his collaboration with Nile Rodgers, Beyonce and others on "Cuff It".

The GRAMMY Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and exploring music from yesterday and today to inspire the music of tomorrow through exhibits, education, grants, preservation initiatives, and public programming. More info at Grammy Week

Warner Chappell Music Mexico has signed an exclusive publishing deal with

4x multi-platinum singer/songwriter Danna Paola. Known as “the Latin pop princess,” she released her viral hit “XT4S1S” this year, which amassed more than 1.5M streams on Spotify in less than 24 hours. In its debut week, the single topped multiple Mexico charts, including YouTube Videos Mexico, YouTube Canciones Mexico, YouTube Artistas Mexico, and Spotify Mexico’s 200 chart. She is currently on her XT4S1S tour across Mexico.

With more than 11 million monthly listeners on Spotify, Danna reigns as one of the most-streamed Mexican female artists on the platform in 2022. She has collaborated with hitmakers such as Mika, Sebastián Yatra, Mau & Ricky, David Bisbal, Morat, and Cali y El Dandee, among others. Recently, Coca-Cola announced she will be one of the three female artists performing this year’s anthem (Queen’s “A Kind of Magic”) for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Carlos Ruíz, Warner Chappell Music Mexico Managing Director, said: “Danna is an artist in every sense of the word. Her talent, professionalism, and dedication are the basis of her solid career and why she has become an icon of her generation

Universal Music Group N.V. (EURONEXT: UMG) announced that its Board of Directors has designated Sherry Lansing as Chairman of the Board with effect from January 10, 2023. Ms. Lansing will succeed Judy Craymer CBE, who has decided to retire from the Board with effect from the same date, to focus on her activities as a film and theatre producer. The Board is very grateful for Ms. Craymer’s contributions to the Company.

Universal Music Group (UMG), appoints Cindy Mabe Chair and CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville (UMGN), effective April 1, 2023. Mabe will succeed Mike Dungan, who announced his intention to retire from his position at UMGN after more than a decade there and a total of four decades in the music industry. Longtime Universal Group Nashville head Mike Dungan announced he will be stepping down after holding the chairman-CEO role at Nashville’s top label group since 2012

One of Music Row’s most respected music executives and distinguished marketers, Mabe has blazed a trail throughout her career. In 2014, she became Nashville’s highest-ranking woman label executive when she was appointed as UMGN President. Her promotion to Chair and CEO further extends this distinction, as she makes history again by becoming the first woman to serve as Chair and CEO of a Nashville-based major label group.

During her tenure at UMG, Mabe has helped guide and grow the careers of some of country music’s biggest stars, including Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Jordan Davis, Mickey Guyton, Sam Hunt, Alan Jackson, Parker McCollum, Reba McEntire, Kacey Musgraves, Jon Pardi, Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Brothers Osborne and Little Big Town, among countless others.

Mabe’s dedication and tremendous work for her artists and her countless contributions to the music community have earned the industry leader multiple awards and honors, including the Country Music Hall of Fame’s Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum Award and the SOURCE Hall of Fame Award. Mabe also serves on the Academy of Country Music board and the Alumni Association Board of Belmont University.

In making the announcement, Mabe said, “For the past 15 years, Mike Dungan has been my mentor and partner. He has built one of the most enduring and impactful legacies in country music history. He’s also been my friend. I’m grateful for the chance he took on me and so very proud of what we have built together over those 15 years with our staff and the most enviable roster in music. “I want to thank Sir Lucian Grainge for his belief in me, his brilliant leadership and for building this incredible culture that puts artists and music first.”

Sir Lucian Grainge, UMG’s Chairman and CEO said, “We’re thrilled to have Cindy step into this role. She is a transformational executive, who has a distinguished track record of designing and implementing innovative strategies to help build artists’ careers and bring their music to fans around the world. Cindy’s credibility in the artist community and her deep experience will help us deliver countless additional artists’ successes going forward.”

Mabe joined UMGN in 2012 as Senior Vice President, Marketing responsible for leading marketing across Capitol Records Nashville, EMI Records Nashville, MCA Nashville, and Mercury Nashville and UMG’s expanded suite of country labels following its acquisition of EMI.

Prior to that, Mabe spent five years at Capitol Records Nashville, where she held the position of SVP, Marketing and played an integral role in the long-term creative and commercial success of the label that saw it named Billboard magazine’s “Country Label of the Year” consecutively for seven years from 2005 – 2012.

A North Carolina native, Mabe attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and graduated from Belmont University in Nashville with a B.S. in Business Administration. She began her music career as promotions coordinator at RCA Nashville, before shifting to sales and then artist marketing and Development, during which time she worked with artists including Clint Black, Martina McBride, and Alabama. She later served as Senior Director, Marketing and Artist Development at Arista Records Nashville from 1999-2007 working with the likes of Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Brooks & Dunn, and Diamond Rio before joining Capitol Records Nashville in 2007.

Mabe is also the recent recipient of “The First Responders Children’s Foundation Corporate Hero Award.” Because of Mabe, the label and leading talent she represents have raised both awareness and money in support of the mission of the Foundation through PSA’s and the Parade of Trees Christmas initiative which provides scholarships for children of first responders and supports the First Responders Children’s Foundation Resiliency program that provides free and confidential mental health counseling services to the children of first responders.

TransAudio Group, the U.S. distributor for Drawmer, is introducing Ivor Drawmer's all new 1972 Dual Mic/Line and Instrument Mic Preamplifier. The unit distinguishes itself with its flexibility, unique feature set and simple operation, and is at home in both professional studio and live sound applications. As with all Drawmer products, the 1972 is hand-crafted in the UK with an all-steel chassis for bullet-proof reliability. Noted Brad Lunde, president of TransAudio Group and the U.S. distributor of Drawmer. “As usual, Drawmer studied the marketplace and engineered an affordable dual mic pre with one-of-a-kind features to meet today’s intricate recording issues and live sound applications. The 1972 is destined to be a staple piece of gear in every audio rack.”

Curt Bisquera (Sarah McLachlan, Elton John), Kenny Aronoff (Smashing Pumpkins, John Mellencamp, Sting), Greg Penny (Elton John, KD Lang), Rafa Sardina (Lady Gaga, John Legend), Niko Bolas (Neil Young, LeAnn Rimes), Eddie Kramer (Jimi Hedrix, Kiss), Matt Wallace (Maroon 5, Faith No More), Cheche Alara (Christina Aguilera), Kim Bullard (Elton John, Kelly Clarkson), Cristina Abaroa (Celine Dion, Enrique Iglasias), Brady Leffler (Hot Chelle Rae, Justin Beieber), Al Schmitt (Diana Krall, Paul McCartney), Alex Acuna (LA Phil, Beck), Teddy Campbell (American idol, The Tonight Show w Leno), Ellis Hall (Ray Charles, Tower of Power), Jacob Armen (Prince), Peter Asher (James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt), Larry Klein (Joni Mitchell, Melody Gardot), Manny Marroquin (Bruno Mars, Alicia Keys), Dave Schiffman (Adele, Limp Bizkit), Gregg Field (Sinatra, Pharell), Sylvia Massy (Tool, Johnny Cash), CJ Vanston (Toto, spinal Tap), Dame Gail Dorsey (David Bowie, Gwen Stefani), Jenny Mason (The Mrs), Neal Pogue (Outkast, Andre 3000), Leland Sklar (Phil Collins, James Taylor), Moogie Canazio (Sergio Mendes, Sarah Vaughan), Laura Dickinson (Frozen II, Lady and the Tramp), Daniel Seeff (KJazz, Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz), James Torme,

Zev Feldman of Resonance Records (Sarah Vaughan, Bill Evans, Nat King Cole), John Wooler of Mood Media (Flying Lotus, Elton John, Miles Davis) and Brent Fischer (D'Angelo, Elvis Costello and The Roots).

A cross-collaboration between Warner Music Group’s WME, WCM, and WML, along with Trinity Entertainment USA, Melody will premiere on February 22^nd on Prime Video in the United States and Latin America.

Guitar virtuoso and hero Jeff Beck expressed his unique sound throughout a celebrated career. First as member of the Yardbirds and later with his group — along with Rod Stewart, a little-known singer at the time, and the equally obscure Ron Wood on bass. He brought a sense of adventure to his groundbreaking recordings. He also amassed seven Grammys, six in the category of best rock instrumental performance and one for best pop collaboration with vocals. He was inducted into the Rock ’n’ Roll Hall of Fame twice.

Mr. Beck married Sandra Cash in 2005, and she survives him.

The documentary, The Jeff Beck Story - Still On The Run explores Beck’s fascination with both guitar music and hot rods, through interviews with fellow musicians and colleagues including Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Jimmy Page, Joe Perry, Slash, Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood and more.

Watch the trailer here

1968 - 2023

American singer, songwriter, and the only child of Elvis Presley, Lisa Marie Presley charted her own life in music with three albums. She was married 4x, including once to king of Pop, Michael Jackson.

“It is with a heavy heart that I must share the devastating news that my beautiful daughter Lisa Marie has left us,” her mother, Priscilla Presley said in a statement to Variety. “She was the most passionate, strong and loving woman I have ever known.” Lisa Marie spent promoting her father's legacy in the last weeks of her life, making appearances at the opening of the award-winning biopic, 2023 Oscar-nominated Elvis, and at annual Graceland celebration, four days before her untimely passing on January 12. Presley appeared in the music video for Johnny Cash's God's Gonna Cut You Down video in 2006. Rick Rubin produced the record and Tony Kaye directed the video which featured multiple celebrities and won a 2008 Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video. Watch it here

1941-2023

He helped set up two major bands in the 1960s: The Byrds, and Crosby, Stills and Nash. Renowned for his guitar-playing and vocal harmonies, David was inducted to the revered Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice.

“It is with great sadness after a long illness, that our beloved David (Croz) Crosby has passed away...Although he is no longer here with us, his humanity and kind soul will continue to guide and inspire us," wrote his loving wife and soulmate Jan who was beside him with their son, Django. "David was fearless in life and in music...he was, without question a giant of a musician", said Graham Nash, even though they had "butted heads a lot of the time".

DAVID CROSBY: REMEMBER MY NAME is a deeply personal documentary from producer Cameron Crowe. Watch the trailer here

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In December Bedrock.LA sold hundreds of drum kits, guitar amplifiers, keyboards, cables, and accessories from its historic inventory. The venue is also selling iconic merchandise like t-shirts on its official website. You can stop by the location 1623 Allesandro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 to purchase any of the equipment left for sale.

In October 2021, more than 100 rooms in the 40,000 square-foot complex were evacuated due to a building structure issue, with a promise to re-open in six months after the issues were fixed. The landlord, Echo Park One/The Standard Oil, subsequently decided not to make the necessary repairs in favor of the demolition of the building, including its "Magic is Real' mural by art collective Cyrcle.

The NFL is going back to the traditional setup of a singular act after five different performers headlined last year's Super Bowl halftime show, but if history is any indication, Rihanna will likely have some notable guests join her for the performance on Sunday February 12.

Her album Lift Me Up was released in October 2022. The R&B ballad and title track is nominated for Best Original song from Black Panther and was written and produced by Ludwig Goransson, with additional writing from Rihanna, Ryan Coogler, and Nigerian singer Tems.

The Barbados native is the second-best-selling female artist of all time behind only Madonna. The nine-time Grammy Award winner is also the wealthiest female musician with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion. She has produced numerous prominent songs over the years, including 14 that reached No. 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 list. From Umbrella to We Found Love to Love on the Brain, Rihanna has a long list of hits that can be performed in Glendale, Ariz., during Super Bowl 57. Country superstar Chris Stapleton will sing "The Star-Spangled Banner" before Super Bowl 57.

The Rolling Stones

The Royal Mint, the official maker of UK coins, has launched a new collectable coin celebrating the iconic British rock and roll band – The Rolling Stones. The unique £5 coin design captures the band in their element, mid-performance, along with the band name, which appears in their classic 1973 font. The reverse of The Rolling Stones coin was designed by Hannah Phizacklea and is the fifth coin in The Royal Mint’s Music Legends Collection.

The coin is one of the last of the year to be released bearing the effigy of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.