by admin | Mar 27, 2025 | celebrities, entertainment, music, music and lyrics, news
Johnny Mathis has announced he’s retiring from live stage performances due to “age and memory issues which have accelerated.”
The announcement was made in a statement regarding the 89-year-old individual.
Facebook page
Wednesday: “Although several thrilling concerts remain on the schedule, unfortunately, all Johnny Mathis performances scheduled for June 2025 and beyond have been canceled.”
“Many of you might know that Johnny Mathis will soon turn 90 years old this year,” the announcement went on. “Unfortunately, because of his advanced age and worsening memory problems, we must express our deep sorrow as we share news about his retirement from touring and performing at live events.”
According to Mathis’
website
, the singer-songwriter has four concerts remaining on his 2025 Voice of Romance tour before he officially retires, including in Pennsylvania, Indiana, California and New Jersey, with his final show scheduled for May 18. As for the four canceled shows, “refunds will be made through the original point of purchase,” according to the post.
Johnny Mathis and his whole team extend their deepest appreciation to all the fans around the globe who have consistently shown love and support for his music! They conclude with ‘It’s genuinely been “Wonderful, Wonderful,”’
Mathis, the voice behind the hits “Too Much, Too Little, Too Late,” “Gina,” “What Will My Mary Say” and “Misty,” has been touring across the world for seven decades, since releasing his self-titled debut album in 1956.
Aside from receiving five Grammy nominations during his career, he was honored with The Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003. Additionally, Mathis boasts three recordings – “Chances Are,” “It’s Not For Me To Say,” and “Misty” – which have been enshrined in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
More from The Hollywood Reporter
-
Chappell Roen and Olivia Rodrigo announce their partnership with record label UMG, facilitated by producer Daniel Nigro.
-
Anthropic Emerges Victorious in Initial Legal Battle Against Music Publishers Concerning Song Lyrics
by admin | Mar 26, 2025 | music, music albums, music and lyrics, music industry, musicians
The South Korean vocalist and songwriter Peach Luffe, whose real name is Jong Lee, launched his eight-track extended play titled “Back to Me.” This collection includes singles he has been releasing since August 2024. Based in Toronto, this artist merges ethereal pop sounds with classical elements, producing emotionally resonant music pieces.
Starting from 2019, he has been diligently engaged in writing and producing his own creations such as “Fallen,” “Sunflower,” “Fairytale,” “Venus,” and “Evergreen.”
His most recent extended play explores introspection, merging retro-inspired indie pop with classical components. Peach Luffe interpreted it as a way to reconnect, stating, “My aim is simply to go back to who I originally was; I’m not sure if this sense of ‘being diminished’ will be fleeting or lasting. This frightens me. All I wish for is to find my way back to myself.”
The extended play kicks off with “Just a Thread,” featuring intricate instrumentals that reflect the battle of yearning for one’s former self. Next comes “Better Off,” characterized by its lively tempo, as it searches for comfort amidst doubt. The third track, “What’s on Your Mind,” uses heartfelt verses to stir up memories, underlining honesty and direct conversation.
The reflective atmosphere carries over into “Before I Met You,” a calm tune pondering former selves. Similarly serene, with gentle tunes and deeply crafted verses, “When You Hold Me” delves into fragility and hard-to-articulate queries shared between partners.
“Your Everything” continues the motif by exploring the intricacies and commitments within love. The EP concludes with stripped-down versions of “Just a Thread” and “Better Off,” which emphasize rawer vocal performances and a stronger emotional bond through simpler arrangements.
Of all these tracks, Peach Luffe considers “Just a Thread” to be the core of the EP.
“He expressed his desire to rediscover himself,” highlighting how the song’s essence becomes more profound as he grows older.
He likewise discovered that “Better Off” and “Just a Thread” were the toughest to finish, noting, “These songs really tested my abilities as a vocalist—I had to belt out the lyrics!”
Prior to venturing into singing and songwriting, Peach Luffe performed with the oboe and also studied the violin during her time at school.
He remembered, ‘When I got to university, I started as a violin major but soon realized I didn’t want to continue with that. So, I took up singing instead!’
Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in classical music, he considers this his primary inspiration. Despite residing in Toronto, where he was heavily influenced by the city’s “ominous R&B” vibe, he integrated these elements into his work. Additionally, being Korean, he has a deep connection to ballads, which add a lyrical quality to his compositions.
His approach to creation stays flexible. He mentioned, “I prefer being receptive when inspiration strikes.” Usually, he spends time watching YouTube videos and tries out different tunes on his guitar until an idea takes shape—a technique that aligns well with his ADHD, since sustaining concentration can be challenging at times. Impressively, this artist has a strong bond with every aspect of his work, ranging from composing lyrics to handling the production stages.
With his melodies, he wishes for people to rediscover their beloved moments from childhood. “It would be great to pen down my feelings of solitude during my upbringing. I never quite belonged to any crowd.”
Excited to broaden his experiences, he dreams of performing throughout Asia and working alongside South Korean artists DEAN and Wave to Earth. Additionally, he is eager to delve into alternative R&B genres outside his usual dreamy indie-pop style.
In the future, his aspiration is clear: “I aim to create an album. Maybe even my masterpiece! It feels right.”
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | celebrity and music, entertainment, food and drink, music, musicians
For those expecting dancing bears, tie-dye, and Cherry Garcia ice cream at Garcia’s Jazz Club, they might end up disappointed.
The recently opened eatery, drinking spot, and musical hub in the West Loop area
does not have those characteristics typically linked to the lead singer of the Grateful Dead.
If you push it too much, it turns into something more like a routine, almost turning into mockery,” explains Jeffrey Tascarella from the food and beverage consulting firm Lowder-Tascarella Hospitality. “Our aim was to develop a spot where, if Jerry were still with us, he’d surely enjoy being here.
Tascarella’s company, along with Chef Ivy Carthen and assisted by Garcia’s daughters—Trixie and Annabelle—developed the menu for Garcia’s, which launched last week. Steering clear of typical tropes associated with themed eateries was crucial for both the culinary staff and the design team responsible for converting the previous Wishbone location into what now stands as a project led by Chicago-based architect Bob Quellos of
FC Studio
is described as a “compact city jazz spot.” Since there is a parking structure above the area, there are no pillars to hinder the view for approximately 300 guests watching the performance on stage.
Designer
Tristam Steinberg
clear visuals can strengthen the emotional bond between music enthusiasts and the band, potentially inspiring fans to stand up from their seats and groove as though they were at an open-air concert. Stepping into Garcia’s might also offer insights since part of the design concept aimed to evoke times past when visitors didn’t rely heavily on smartphones and instead danced freely throughout the venue.
I believe that if you visit any jazz club—whether in New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles—you typically have an experience akin to being squished like a sardine in a tin can,” explains Steinberg. “People sit at tiny tables which aren’t very comfortable but help maximize attendance during performances. Bob created a layout that will genuinely encourage audience engagement.
Quellos, who also designed
Gaijin
, Paul Virant’s eatery in the West Loop specializing in Japanese cuisine highlights the influence
Japanese listening bars
They have featured various elements related to music venues, focusing on how these small spaces emphasize audio quality and cater to the demands of music enthusiasts. Additionally, the creators honored Garcia’s appreciation for visual arts by reaching out to individuals within the psychedelic art scene. An illustration on the rear wall, created by Violet Oliphant and Ellie Terrell, serves as an instance of this dedication.
The location is a joint effort between Garcia’s estate and Peter Shapiro’s Dayglo Presents. Shapiro, known for his work as a music promoter and proprietor of the Brooklyn Bowl franchise, played an active role throughout. To prevent overcrowding issues, he proposed reducing table sizes by roughly two inches to create more walking area, according to Quellos.
The cuisine won’t overshadow the music as the main attraction, yet these components should complement each other seamlessly. Mixologists must create beverages swiftly to cater promptly to visitors, with Quellos ensuring an area where waitstaff can navigate effortlessly. They offer various big-batch concoctions too. In general, the libations will maintain moderate alcohol content—considering the anticipated audience inspired by the Grateful Dead ethos, such potent refreshments may prove unnecessary. Instead, emphasis lies on low-alcohol-content choices and non-spirit alternatives. Additionally, there’s a nostalgic 1950s-style soda fountain ambiance due to Garcia’s fondness for milkshakes. A particular blend combines strawberry and vanilla notes—a nod to Garcia’s appreciation of both tastes—and his reputed reply when challenged to select just one: “Being a rockstar means never having to make that choice,” shares Tascarella, recounting what he said.
A different milkshake will include Yoo-Hoo, the chocolate beverage that Garcia enjoyed—Tascarella mentions that extensive forensic investigation ensured the menu aligned with Garcia’s preferences, his Spanish background, and his connection to the Bay Area. They also plan to have conservas.
Fishwife Tinned Seafood
The presentation will feature the Spanish aspect. On offer is a San Francisco-inspired hot dog enveloped in bacon and garnished with onions, peppers, and Sriracha aioli. Tascarella emphasizes that this hot dog aims to complement Chicago’s renowned sausage culture without aiming to compete directly with what might be considered the top hot dog destination globally.
A double-patty smash burger draws inspiration from one of Garcia’s preferred dishes, which was originally found at an old diner in San Francisco. Additionally, there’s a serving of fried chicken big enough for two people, along with a distinctive roast beef sandwich that brings to mind a French dip and is presented similarly.
San Francisco Dutch crunch bread
.
Quellos mentions that the audio and visual setup prioritizes those passionate about music above all else. The aim is for guests to experience feeling immersed in the performance. This implies that lighting will not be overly intense just to enable patrons to share pictures of dishes on social platforms.
If Instagram Moments were involved, this area might have ended up featuring the Grateful Dead bear or something very reminiscent of Jerry Garcia,” Quellos explains. “I don’t believe you’d achieve the same level of quality in the space ultimately.
Garcia’s Chicago
, 1001 West Washington Boulevard
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | culture, entertainment, events and festivals, festivals, music
________________
;
The stage is ready for the Yenze Hip-Hop Culture Fest, an innovative event celebrating Uganda’s hip-hop culture.
Set for June 28, 2025, at the Lugogo Cricket Oval, the event seeks to bring together different generations.
artistes
and fans.
Addressing a media briefing on Monday,
Sheraton
Geoffrey Jeff Ekongot, from Hotel, shared his enthusiasm for the event.
“Hip-hop has matured,” Ekongot stated.
It has influenced countless individuals, encompassing those of us who are part of the older generations as well as the present youth.
The festival aims at rejuvenating the essence of hip-hop, following its evolution, and imagining its next chapter.”
The festival aims to showcase all five aspects of hip-hop: rap, breaking, DJing, fashion, and graffiti. Ekongot stressed that hip-hop extends beyond mere music; “It embodies culture, identity, and a robust economic ecosystem.”
Accompanying him at the press conference were Lagum the Rapper and King Honey, who represent the fresh wave of Ugandan hip-hop talent.
Lagum the Rapper, a rising star, looked back on his path into hip-hop and the impact of Uganda.
artistes
Similar to Navio, Ruyonga, Tucker HD, and Keko.
“Hip-hop in Uganda boasts a robust sense of community. This festival isn’t solely focused on performances; it’s also aimed at uncovering and motivating fresh talent,” he stated.
The event will include freestyle competitions, fashion exhibitions, and chances for artists, DJs, and designers to network. King Honey, recognized for her daring style, invited designers to join in.
“Hip-hop encompasses style as well. It’s an opportunity for us to back one another and develop collectively,” she stated.
Ekongot also pointed out the global acknowledgment that Ugandan hip-hop has achieved.
“Artists such as Xenson Senkaaba have showcased their graffiti work in France. Ugandan breakdancers have also gained prominence on international stages. We brought hip-hop to the State House, and remarkably, we witnessed the world’s first president who rapped,” he pointed out.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, culture, history, islam, music
Mr. Dar used the initial three letters from “Tanganyika,” which are TAN, and those from “Zanzibar,” ZAN. To these, he appended an ‘I’ derived from his name, Iqbal, along with an additional ‘A’, symbolizing his affiliation with the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.
Mohammed Iqbal Dar, the man who came up with the name “Tanzania,” has died at the age of 80.
He died in Birmingham, United Kingdom, where he had resided since 1965. For almost a decade, he had been in poor health and could not walk during his last few years.
Mr. Dar came into this world on August 8, 1944, in Tanga, Tanzania. His father, Dr. Tufail Ahmad Dar, was an eminent physician with experience across various regions of the nation.
Mr Dar went to school in Tanzania, studying at The Aga Khan School and later at Mzumbe Secondary School.
In 1964, when he was still a student, he noticed an ad in a newspaper requesting individuals to propose a name for the recently established federation between Tanganyika and Zanzibar.
He opted to participate and submitted his proposal. His recommendation of “Tanzania” was selected as the victorious title.
He received a prize of KES 200 (approximately USD 280 in 1964) along with a medal from Sheikh Idris Abdul-Wakil, who was the Minister for Information at that time.
He subsequently shared the story behind how he came up with the name.
As per his statement, he chose the initial three letters from “Tanganyika” (TAN) and “Zanzibar” (ZAN). Next, he incorporated an “I” derived from his name, Iqbal, along with an additional “A” to symbolize his affiliation with the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.
This gave rise to the name “Tanzania.”
Despite relocating to the UK, Mr Dar maintained strong ties with Tanzania. He frequently returned to the country and backed various charitable initiatives, assisting individuals of every walk of life.
He frequently participated in religious gatherings in Tanzania as well.
Agencies/Global South World
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Mar 24, 2025 | music, musicians, news, performing arts, romania
The renowned French pianist Richard Clayderman is scheduled to play in Romania this week. Among the top-tier musicians globally, he will take the stage on March 25 at Sala Palatului in Bucharest and on March 29 at BT Arena in Cluj-Napoca.
The celebrated French pianist known as “The Prince of Romance” promises an enchanting night full of affection and delicacy, as stated by the event organizers. Titled “Eternal Love,” this spectacular performance honors women and genuine sentiments. Each concert is set for 7:30 PM.
To date, Clayderman has sold more than 90 million albums and received an impressive 267 gold discs along with 70 platinum discs. This achievement makes him the best-selling pianist ever, a fact acknowledged by Guinness World Records.
To enhance the emotional depth and grandeur of the performance, Richard Clayderman will join forces with the “George Enescu” Philharmonic Orchestra from Botoșani, providing spectators with an exceptionally refined auditory delight.
“He is a musician whose artistry has spanned generations through his distinctive compositions. Both the performances in Bucharest and Cluj-Napocea promise to be extraordinary events, particularly due to their partnership with the ‘George Enescu’ Philharmonic Orchestra based in Botoșani. This collaboration promises to add profound richness and grace to each melodic element of the show. Attendees can expect an unparalleled experience—a genuine homage to affection and delicacy,” stated Radu Groza, the festival’s coordinator.
Tickets for the ” Forever Love” concerts can be found on Entertix.ro.
radu@romania-insider.com
(Photo source: press release)
