Celebrating 150 Years of Deep Ellum: Inaugural Music Festival

by Tracy Fuller | Oct 18, 2023

Deep Ellum, Dallas’ iconic cultural district, is gearing up for its grand 150th-anniversary celebration. The highlight of this historic milestone is the first-ever Deep Ellum Music Festival, set to take place on Saturday, November 18th, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the intersection of Main Street and Good Latimer Expressway. This free and family-friendly festival promises an unforgettable experience for all music enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll take you through the exciting details of this momentous event and its headliners, including Reverend Run, Doug E. Fresh, and local heroes Bowling for Soup.

Deep Ellum’s Rich Musical Legacy

Deep Ellum has long been the heartbeat of Dallas’ music scene. With over 20 live music venues, the district offers a diverse range of musical genres year-round. As part of the 150th-anniversary celebration, Deep Ellum will showcase its exceptional musical talent. Local performers such as RC Williams & Friends, Cure For Paranoia, The Grays, The 40 Acre Mule, Cayuga All-Stars, Averi Burk, and DJs Christy Ray & Edgar Blue will grace the stage. Additionally, Emmy Award-winning TV personality and journalist Tashara Parker of WFAA 8, will host the event, with special guests making appearances throughout the day.

Headliners Stepping Up

Deep Ellum, Deep Ellum Music Festival, Bowling For Soup, — Celebrating 150 Years Of Deep Ellum: Inaugural Music Festival 2

Reverend Run, a founding member of the legendary Run-D.M.C., and Doug E. Fresh, the pioneer of American beatboxing, will co-headline this historic festival. They’ll not only celebrate Deep Ellum’s 150-year musical journey but also honor the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. This event promises to be a vibrant blend of classic and contemporary sounds.

Bowling for Soup: Hometown Heroes

Adding to the star-studded lineup is Bowling for Soup, a band that got its start in North Texas and honed its craft in Deep Ellum. With international acclaim, they’ve played at numerous neighborhood venues over their illustrious career. After the festival concludes, attendees are encouraged to explore Deep Ellum’s 25 live music venues, continuing a tradition that has made the district a haven for Dallas culture.

A Legacy of Music

In its 150-year history, Deep Ellum has been a launching pad for countless artists and bands, resulting in unique collaborations and unforgettable musical experiences. Venues like Sons of Herman Hall, The Factory in Deep Ellum, Three Links, and Deep Ellum Art Co. have continued the legacy of renowned venues like The Gypsy Tea Room, Lizard Lounge, and The Prophet Bar. From Blind Lemon Jefferson to modern stars like Erykah Badu and The Old 97s, Deep Ellum’s influence on Dallas and the nation is undeniable.

Words from Bowling for Soup

Jaret Reddick of Bowling for Soup fondly reminisces about Deep Ellum:

“Honestly, when I think of Deep Ellum, it is pretty much the same as thinking about ‘home.’ Deep Ellum Dallas is a huge part of who Bowling for Soup was, is, and will be.”

A Family-Friendly Deep Ellum Music Festival Extravaganza

The Deep Ellum Music Festival is an all-ages event and will also feature local vendors and artists as part of the Deep Ellum Outdoor Market. As Deep Ellum celebrates 150 years of business, culture, and entertainment, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities.

About Deep Ellum Foundation: The Deep Ellum Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation, manages public and private funds to advance the interests of the neighborhood. Their goal is to ensure sustainable growth for the district. For more information on the Deep Ellum Foundation, please visit their website at https://www.deepellum-foundation.com/150.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of history as Deep Ellum celebrates its 150th anniversary with the inaugural Deep Ellum Music Festival. Mark your calendars for November 18th, and get ready for an unforgettable musical journey through the heart of Dallas’ most iconic district. Join us in celebrating 150 years of culture, music, and entertainment!

TOOL Ushers in 2024 with U.S. Tour – Don’t Miss the Madness!

by Tracy Fuller | Oct 10, 2023

Los Angeles, CA – After a mind-blowing weekend headlining Aftershock and rocking the historic Power Trip festival, the iconic band TOOL is back with a bang! They’ve just announced an exhilarating month-long U.S. tour that promises to kick off 2024 with a bang. Brace yourselves for their return to the legendary Madison Square Garden, marking the first time since their unforgettable show in 2001, and get ready for a doubleheader extravaganza at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena.

Tickets On-Sale This Friday!

Set your alarms for Friday, October 13 at 10 a.m. local time, because that’s when the tickets will be up for grabs! But wait, there’s more. TOOL Army members, you’re in for a treat! You get an exclusive chance to snag those coveted pre-sale tickets starting from October 11 at 10 a.m. local time through October 12 at 10 p.m. local time. And that’s not all. A limited number of VIP packages will also be initially available to TOOL Army members, featuring premium tickets, soundcheck access, exclusive merchandise, and more. For those not part of the TOOL Army, fret not – the general public on-sale begins on October 13. For ticketing links and additional information, visit Toolband.com.

Elder Opens on All 2024 Dates

Here’s the moment you’ve been waiting for, the TOOL 2024 tour dates:

January 10: Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena
January 12: New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
January 13: New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
January 18: Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
January 19: Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood
January 21: Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center
January 23: Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
January 24: Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
January 26: Birmingham, AL – The Legacy Arena at The BJCC
January 27: Biloxi, MS – Mississippi Coast Coliseum
January 31: Austin, TX – Moody Center
February 2: Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center
February 3: Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center
February 5: Denver, CO – Ball Arena
February 9: Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center
February 12: Fresno, CA – Save Mart Center
February 14: Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena
February 15: Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena
February 17: Ontario, CA – Toyota Arena
February 18: Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena

Catch TOOL on the Road in 2023

But wait, there’s more! TOOL is currently on the road, with a show scheduled for tomorrow night at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center. Don’t miss their string of dates, which include their first Canadian performances since 2019. Steel Beans will be opening for all of the remaining 2023 shows:

October 11: Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center
October 12: Idaho Falls, ID – Mountain America Center
October 14: Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center
October 15: Spokane, WA – Spokane Arena
October 17: Eugene, OR – Matthew Knight Center
October 19: Portland, OR – Moda Center
October 20: Tacoma, WA – Tacoma Dome
October 22: Kelowna, BC – Prospera Place Arena
October 23: Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
October 25: Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place
October 27: Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome
October 29: Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Center
October 31: St. Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center
November 1: Milwaukee, WI – Fiserv Forum
November 3: Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boiling Arena
November 4: Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum
November 6: Rochester, NY – Blue Cross Arena
November 7: Allentown, PA – PPL Center
November 10: Uncasville, CT – Mohegan Sun Arena
November 13: Manchester, NH – SNHU Arena
November 15: Boston, MA – TD Garden
November 16: Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
November 19: Montreal, QC – Bell Center
November 20: Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
November 21: Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena

TOOL: A Force to Be Reckoned With

Since the release of TOOL’s critically-acclaimed album, Fear Inoculum, in 2019, the band has been on an incredible journey. They’ve bagged a GRAMMY Award® for “Best Metal Performance” with “7empest,” completed multiple sold-out tours in the U.S. and Europe, and headlined some of the biggest festivals like Bonnaroo, Power Trip, Aftershock, Welcome to Rockville, Louder Than Life, and the Sonic Temple Arts & Music Festival.

The reviews of TOOL’s recent live performances have been nothing short of spectacular. Loudwire has hailed their shows as “a masterclass of immersion, sound, and stage design, musicianship… and levels of ungodly tightness.” The Austin Chronicle described their live experience as an “unbridled exchange of catharsis between performers and fans,” and Revolver said, “TOOL delivered a stunning… set featuring classic fan favorites, newer Fear Inoculum standouts, and choice deeper cuts … the striking visuals also included a psychedelic laser and projections show bar none.

A Legacy of Excellence

TOOL, formed in 1990, boasts an impressive discography with five studio albums, two EPs, and the limited-edition boxset Salival. The band has clinched four GRAMMY Awards® for their outstanding contributions to metal music. TOOL comprises Danny Carey on drums, Justin Chancellor on bass, Adam Jones on guitar, and Maynard James Keenan as the vocalist.

Don’t miss the chance to witness TOOL’s electrifying performances on their upcoming 2024 tour. It’s an event that’s bound to leave you awe-struck and craving for more. Get ready to embark on a sonic journey like no other, and secure your tickets as soon as they go on sale. TOOL is back, and they’re ready to rock your world!

Tech N9ne’s “BLISS” & “Pull Out” Ignite the Hip-Hop World!

by Tracy Fuller | Sep 19, 2023

A Journey into Tech N9ne’s Latest Musical Universe

September 19, 2023, is a day to remember in the hip-hop community. Tech N9ne, the titan of independent rap, has dropped a visually captivating music video for his buzzing single “Pull Out,” featuring Head DA DON. This isn’t just another track; it’s a declaration of his unmatched skill and adaptability.

“Pull Out” Makes Waves in the Top 40

The single “Pull Out” has not only ignited the airwaves but also ascended into the Top 40 on Urban radio charts. The video is a spectacle, showcasing Tech N9ne and Head DA DON navigating the streets of Kansas City in a flashy red Maserati. The video peaks with a grand pool party, perfectly encapsulating the track’s lively and carefree vibe.

BLISS: A Fusion of Musical Styles

The single is a cornerstone of Tech N9ne’s newest album, “BLISS,” launched under his own Strange Music imprint. The album is a musical kaleidoscope, melding R&B, soul, alternative rock, and even heavy metal. Featuring collaborations with artists like Joyner Lucas and Durand Bernarr, “BLISS” stands as a testament to Tech N9ne’s rapid-fire lyrical prowess and bold genre experimentation.

Rave Reviews and Streaming Milestones

The album has already crossed the 10 million stream mark and has been lauded by critics. Publications like HotNewHipHop have extolled Tech N9ne’s “intricate, whimsical, and engaging lyrics,” while The Pitch Kansas City has emphasized the album’s emotional richness and diversity.

A Universe of Its Own

Tech N9ne’s musical realm continues to expand and diversify. The album boasts a roster of high-profile contributors, including Conway the Machine and X-Raided. Songs like “W H A T (We’re Hungry And Thirsty)” have already hit the 1 million stream milestone on Spotify, earning accolades from esteemed outlets like KERRANG! and Revolver.

The Hollywood & N9ne Tour: Dates Announced!

Tech N9ne is also gearing up for the “Hollywood & N9ne Tour,” co-headlined with rock giants Hollywood Undead. The tour is set to commence on October 16 and promises to be an electrifying experience for fans from coast to coast. Here are the tour dates:

10/16 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory
10/17 – La Vista, NE – The Astro
10/18 – Chicago, IL – Radius
10/19 – East Moline, IL – The Rust Belt
10/21 – Denver, CO – The Fillmore
10/23 – Grand Junction, CO – Grand Junction Convention Center
10/24 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
10/26 – Riverside, CA – Riverside Municipal Auditorium
10/27 – Las Vegas, NV – The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas
10/28 – Tempe, AZ – The Marquee
10/29 – Albuquerque, NM – Revel
10/31 – Dallas, TX – The Factory Deep Ellum
11/1 – Tulsa, OK – Tulsa Theater
11/3 – Milwaukee, WI – Eagles Ballroom
11/4 – Grand Rapids, MI – GLC Live at 20 Monroe
11/5 – Royal Oak, MI – Royal Oak Music Theater
11/6 – Cleveland, OH – Agora Theatre
11/8 – New York, NY – Terminal 5
11/9 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
11/10 – Stroudsburg, PA – Sherman Theater
11/11 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE
11/12 – Silver Spring, MD – The Fillmore
11/14 – Atlanta, GA – The Tabernacle
11/15 – Tampa, FL – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
11/17 – Newport, KY – MegaCorp Pavilion
11/18 – Columbus, OH – KEMBA! Live
11/19 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works

For tickets and more details, visit here.

Don’t miss this musical odyssey. Tune into “BLISS” and catch the “Pull Out” music video to witness the brilliance of Tech N9ne.

BLISS is now streaming on all major platforms.

Marilyn Manson Hit with Harsh Fine & Duty Over Shocking 2019 Scandal

by Tracy Fuller | Sep 19, 2023

A Look into the High-Profile Case: Why Manson’s Shock Rock Antics Didn’t Impress the Court

In a highly publicized case that’s kept fans and critics alike on the edge of their seats, rock artist Marilyn Manson has been slapped with a $1,200 fine and mandated to complete 20 hours of community service. The sentence comes in response to a 2019 incident at a Gilford, NH concert involving a videographer.

The Incident that Sparked Debate

The eyebrow-raising episode occurred on August 19, 2019, at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion. Reports detail how Manson spat on the videographer and allegedly blew his nose on her throughout the show. Charged with two counts of misdemeanor simple assault, the case ignited a firestorm of opinions about what is and isn’t acceptable behavior during live performances.

Legal Arguments and Court’s Decision

In an attempt to defend Manson, his legal team in 2021 argued that the artist’s provocative on-stage antics were all part of the show—a show the videographer willingly attended. They claimed:

“The defendant’s performances for the past twenty years are well-known to include shocking and evocative antics similar to those that occurred here. The alleged victim consented to exposing herself to potential contact with sweat, saliva, and phlegm in close quarters.”

The court, however, was not persuaded by this argument. Manson ultimately accepted a plea deal, pleading no contest to one of the two charges, leading to the second charge being dropped. A plea of “no contest” essentially means that the defendant neither admits guilt nor contests the charges.

Victim’s Impact Statement Sends a Strong Message

WMUR reported that a victim’s advocate read a powerful victim-impact statement during the case, stating:

I’ve been a professional in this industry for 30 years. In all those years and with all the companies I’ve worked for, never have I been as humiliated or treated as poorly as by this defendant. His actions were the most disgusting thing a human being has ever done to me. While I understand this wasn’t a major criminal charge, I hoped the sentence would make him reconsider such actions in the future.”

This case has served as a stark reminder that even in the world of rock and roll, there are lines that shouldn’t be crossed. And it seems the court agrees.

Violent J Talks Drug Recovery, Heart Failure, on Steve-O Wild Ride Podcast

by Tracy Fuller | Sep 6, 2023

In a recent episode of the “Wild Ride” podcast hosted by Stevo, Violent J of the Insane Clown Posse got candid about his struggles with drug use, his ongoing health issues concerning heart failure, and his net worth. The podcast episode was both revealing and entertaining, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of Violent J’s life.

Opening Up About Drug Recovery

Violent J discussed his road to recovery from drug addiction, mentioning that he now undergoes random drug tests as part of his rehabilitation. He credits his support network and his commitment to meetings for keeping him on track.

The Role of Dr. Drew

Interestingly, Dr. Drew was the one who suggested the rehab facility that Violent J attended, highlighting the importance of professional guidance in the recovery process.

Dealing with Heart Failure

Violent J also revealed that he’s been facing issues with heart failure, specifically a leaky heart valve and high blood pressure. He has had to adjust his lifestyle and pace himself to manage these health challenges.

The Impact on His Career

These health issues have required Violent J to make adjustments in his life, including his touring and performance schedules.

Discussing Net Worth

Stevo and Violent J explored the topic of celebrity net worth, and while it might seem invasive to some, Violent J was open about the financial aspects of his career.

The Grassroots Approach to Finance

He pointed out that despite his fame and the success of Insane Clown Posse, he and his group have always reinvested their earnings back into their work, sometimes at the expense of personal gain.

The podcast episode provides an in-depth look into Violent J’s personal struggles and triumphs, making it a must-listen for fans and those interested in the topics of drug recovery, heart health, and the financial aspects of being a celebrity.

SXSW 2024 Conference: Initial Featured Speakers Revealed

by Al Bonds | Aug 29, 2023

Exploring the Exciting Lineup of Featured Speakers

The 38th edition of the South by Southwest® (SXSW®) Conference is set to take place in Austin, Texas, bringing together the best minds in technology, film, television, and music. The initial lineup of Featured Speakers has been announced, highlighting influential individuals who will share their insights and expertise at the event. From AI and its impact on humanity to the future of the internet, these speakers will cover a wide range of topics. Let’s dive into the exciting lineup of speakers and sessions that await attendees at the SXSW 2024 Conference.

AI and Humanity’s Co-evolution: Exploring the Role of Humans in the Age of AI

One of the thought-provoking sessions at the conference will be led by Peter Deng, OpenAI’s VP of Consumer Product and Head of ChatGPT, and Josh Constine, Venture Partner at SignalFire. They will delve into the practical and philosophical implications of AI, examining how it is changing our perception of ourselves and the potential future outcomes. This session promises to shed light on the co-evolution of AI and humanity.

AI and the Independent Artist: Navigating the Intersection of Technology and Music

With the rise of AI in the music industry, artists are facing new challenges and opportunities. Andreea Gleeson, CEO of TuneCore, Grimes, an award-winning multidisciplinary artist, and Daouda Leonard, CEO of CreateSafe, will discuss how AI is transforming the way artists create, market, and engage with their fans. The session will emphasize the importance of supporting human artistry while harnessing the power of AI.

Amy Webb’s 2024 Emerging Tech Trend Report: Gaining Insights into the Future

Amy Webb, CEO of the Future Today Institute and professor at NYU Stern School of Business, will present a data-driven analysis of emerging tech trends. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the tech trends that should be on their radar this year. As an extra treat, participants will receive a special SXSW-edition of the Tech Trend Report. Don’t miss this mind-bending session that will change your perspective on the future. Here is a reply of her Tech Trend Report for the SXSW 2023 Festival.

Building the Next Era of the Internet: Democratizing Ownership through Blockchain

Chris Dixon, author and General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, will reflect on the history of the internet and its current state. Dixon will explore the potential of blockchain networks to democratize ownership and empower communities of users. This session offers a vision for a better internet and serves as a clarion call for those who want to shape the future.

A Conversation with Alex Cooper and Matt Kaplan: Elevating Gen Z Voices

Alex Cooper, creator and Host of the podcast Call Her Daddy, and Matt Kaplan, founder and CEO of ACE Entertainment, will engage in a discussion about their latest media venture, Trending. This independent production company aims to elevate the voices of today and shape the stories of tomorrow for a resourceful and inclusive generation. Join this conversation to discover the exciting possibilities of Gen Z media.

Don’t Miss the SXSW 2024 Conference

The SXSW Conference offers a diverse range of programming tracks covering various industries and topics. From advertising and artificial intelligence to film and TV industry trends, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest developments and engage with industry experts. This event provides a unique platform for networking, learning, and gaining valuable insights into the future of technology and creativity.

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