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Posts made in July 2021
PEOPLE.COM REVEALS LEWIS BRICE’S ENGAGEMENT
During a fishing trip to Alaska, country singer/songwriter Lewis Brice proposed to his girlfriend Denelle Manzer, People.com exclusively reveals.
“I’ve had the ring for a minute, just waiting for the right time. Then I started thinking Alaska would be a cool place — a really memorable spot. So I booked a trip and a gig to Alaska. I knew Denelle had never been and would be excited to go,” Brice recounts to People.com. “It worked out well, I had a gig and a fishing trip planned at this awesome place I had been before, Lake Creek Lodge. I proposed on the second day of fishing, I don’t think she had a clue!”
Brice adds that he knew of a “spot up the river” with cool rock beds and decided to pop the question there
“That morning I went out with our guide Paul and let him know what I was going to do,” Brice tells People.com. “I told him about the spot I had in mind and he knew exactly where I was talking about. We headed there after fishing and get out of the boat to take a picture. Paul helped me out by recording the whole thing.”
“While standing together on a cool rock bed right beside a running river with beautiful Alaska as the backdrop I proposed, and she said yes!” he adds. “Biggest catch of my life I’d say.”
Brice’s fiancé, Manzer, is part of the inspiration behind Brice’s hit single “It’s You” and starred in the “subtle yet goosebump-inducing music video” (People.com / Tricia Despres) which People.com exclusively premiered in February. The endearing single was co-written by Brice with Ben Simonetti and Niko Moon and co-produced by Lee Brice and Simonetti. The single has been one of Brice’s most successful to date, amassing more than 15 million streams since its release.
For more information and the latest news on Lewis Brice, follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and visit LewisBrice.com.
ABOUT LEWIS BRICE:
Lewis’s debut self-titled EP, produced by himself and his brother Lee Brice, was released via Pump House Music on July 14th, 2017 to glowing reviews, landing at No. 11 on the US iTunes Country chart. Since then, Lewis has been named one of Rolling Stone Country’s “New Country Artists You Need to Know” and Billboard’s “Country Artists to Watch in 2018”. Tracks from the EP were featured on SiriusXM The Highway, CMT Music, and Spotify’s New Boots & Wild Country playlists, and its lead single ‘Best Ex Ever’ reached the Top 40 of MusicRow’s Country Breakout radio chart. The next chapter of Lewis’ music was unveiled with “Blessed” as the first single from his forthcoming second collection of songs and was introduced to the world by a special Thanksgiving acoustic performance premiere with his brother Lee Brice. The single was also recognized internationally when Brice received a British Country Music Award for International Song of the Year. Followed by “It’s You,” a huge streaming success, amassing more than 15 million streams since its release and placement on key playlists including Spotify’s Global Viral, Hot Country, US Viral, Breakout Country and New Boots, Apple Music’s Breaking Country, Pure Country Radio, Pandora’s New Country Radio playlists and many more. Brice’s streaming continues to flourish as his music garners more than 30 million overall streams. With more new music on the horizon, 2021 promises to be the best year yet for Lewis Brice!
Billie Eilish – NDA
Billie Eilish releases hair-raising, self-directed music video for her new song, NDA, from her upcoming album, Happier than Ever.
Billie Eilish has shared the official music video and her latest single NDA. Taken from her highly anticipated sophomore studio album Happier Than Ever – out worldwide on July 30 via Darkroom/Interscope Records – the track teases a darker side to her forthcoming full-length, and comes with a hair-raising, self-directed music video. In true Billie Eilish dare-devilish fashion, the video features Billie herself, and 25 professional (extremely rehearsed) stunt drivers, weaving at full-speed around Billie at night. The video was shot in one take, and used no stunt doubles or VFX for the cars.
The seven-time GRAMMY® Award winning artist and songwriter has also confirmed she will be continuing her work with sustainability partner REVERB for her sold out 2022 tour, Happier Than Ever, The World Tour. The fan-facing Billie Eilish Action Village will be at each show and will focus on climate action and climate justice, hosting and supporting BIPOC and women-led environmental organizations as well as a comprehensive program via REVERB’s forthcoming Music Climate Revolution campaign. In addition to reducing the tour’s environmental footprint, the initiative will support projects that directly and measurably eliminate greenhouse gases. These collective efforts will make the tour Climate Positive; eliminating significantly more emissions than the tour creates.
2021 has already been quite the year for 19-year-old Eilish whose single Your Power debuted at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100, logging more than 150 Million streams in the first two weeks of release. Earlier this year, she took home two additional GRAMMY Awards; Record of the Year for everything i wanted, and Best Song Written For Visual Media for her James Bond song No Time To Die. In February, her groundbreaking documentary film, The World’s A Little Blurry — directed by R.J. Cutler — saw its Apple TV+ global release and received critical praise worldwide. Earlier this month, Billie Eilish made her book debut with BILLIE EILISH, a stunning visual narrative journey through her life. Published by Grand Central Publishing (GCP), the book features hundreds of never-before-seen photos, and captures the essence of Billie inside and out, offering readers personal glimpses into her childhood, her life on tour, and more.
ABOUT BILLIE EILISH
As Billie Eilish prepares for the July 30th, 2021 release of her highly anticipated sophomore album Happier Than Ever, the 19-year-old Los Angeles native remains one of the biggest stars to emerge in the 21st century. Since the release of her debut single ocean eyes in 2015, Eilish continues to shatter the ceiling of music with her genre-defying sound. Fast forward from her humble breakout, her album WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in the U.S as well as 17 additional countries around the world upon release in 2019, and was the most streamed album of that year. WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? was written, produced and recorded entirely by Billie Eilish and brother FINNEAS in their childhood home of Los Angeles. Billie Eilish went on to make history as the youngest artist to receive nominations and win in all the major categories at the 62nd GRAMMY® Awards, receiving an award for Best New Artist, Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Vocal Album. Billie Eilish is also the youngest artist to write and record an official James Bond theme song, No Time To Die. Most recently, Billie Eilish was nominated for four additional awards at the 63rd Annual GRAMMY Awards in 2021, and took home both Record of the Year for everything i wanted, and Best Song Written For Visual Media for No Time To Die. Billie Eilish’s forthcoming album Happier Than Ever was written by Billie and her brother FINNEAS, who also produced the album.
HAPPIER THAN EVER TRACK LIST
- Getting Older
- I Didn’t Change My Number
- Billie Bossa Nova
- my future
- Oxytocin
- GOLDWING
- Lost Cause
- Halley’s Comet
- Not My Responsibility
- OverHeated
- Everybody Dies
- Your Power
- NDA
- Therefore I Am
- Happier Than Ever
- Male Fantasy
LOST KINGS – ME, MYSELF AND ADDERALL
LOST KINGS RELEASE NEW TRACK “ME, MYSELF AND ADDERALL” FEATURING GOODY GRACE TODAY – LISTEN HERE
Miss The Future Tour Kicks Of August 26th
Confirmed to play sets at Lollapolooza and EDC Las Vegas
Los Angeles based producers Lost Kings release their latest track “Me, Myself And Adderall” ft. singer/songwriter/producer Goody Grace today via Disruptor/RCA Records. Listen to the track here. The duo will debut the track live for the first time at Lollapalooza on Saturday, July 31 at Perry’s stage. Lost Kings shared their excitement about getting back on the stage for their fans in an interview with CBS Chicago. Check out the interview here.
Last month, the two released the music video to their track “I Miss The Future” ft. Jordan Shaw (click here to watch). The deeply personal music video was directed by Kyle Cogan and takes a look at the past year and what they missed. The music video simultaneously pays tribute to Rob’s father and those lost during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Lost Kings are hitting the road this summer on their Miss The Future Tour. The 15-date tour will kick off on August 26 in Durham, NC, and end Denver, Colorado on October 1, with two stops at NYC’s historic Webster Hall. For more information on the tour and specific presales please visit here. The two will also make stops at Lollapolooza and EDC Las Vegas, with more to be announced soon.
Miss The Future Tour Dates
August 26, 2021 Durham, NC The Fruit
August 27, 2021 Charlotte, NC World
August 28, 2021 Atlanta, GA District
September 3, 2021 Austin, TX Vulcan
September 4, 2021 Houston, TX Stereo Live
September 5, 2021 Dallas, TX Stereo Live
September 10, 2021 New York, NY Webster Hall
September 11, 2021 New York, NY Webster Hall
September 16, 2021 Philadelphia, PA NOTO
September 17, 2021 Washington, DC Echostage
September 23, 2021 Salt Lake City, UT SKY
September 24, 2021 San Francisco, CA August Hall
September 25, 2021 San Francisco, CA August Hall
September 30, 2021 Portland, OR 45 East
October 1, 2021 Denver, CO Church
About Lost Kings
Lost Kings consists of Los Angeles based duo Rob Gainley and Nick Shanholtz. The two have risen up through the ranks of new producer talents, gaining over 800 million combined streams worldwide. In the process, they have released various original music and remixes, released two EP’s, Paper Crowns and Lost Angeles, and sold out major markets across the US–including New York’s Webster Hall and Chicago’s Bottom Lounge. The group’s EP’s featured artists from all genres of music including Wiz Khalifa, Ally Brooke, A$AP Ferg, Marc E. Bassy, Loren Gray, Social House, Anna Clendening and more.
In 2020 the group released a string of songs including “Hurt,” which features DeathbyRomy’s powerful, rich vocals. Additionally, their current single “Oops” features multiple Grammy-nominated hitmaker Ty Dolla $ign and critically acclaimed recording artist GASHI. Other features include MASN on “Mountains” and “Runaway” featuring Destiny Rogers. All four of the tracks have over 26 million streams worldwide and will also be featured on the upcoming EP.
Free Tameka Drummer
Free Tameka Drummer, who is serving a life sentence for a marijuana charge due to unjust habitual offender laws in Mississippi.
In 2008, Tameka Drummer was sentenced to life in prison in Mississippi for possessing 2 ounces of marijuana. She was pulled over for a routine traffic stop for an expired license plate when officers searched her car and found a small amount of pot – the same amount which can now be bought legally in many states. She has been in prison for the last 12 years for this offense and will be for the rest of her life unless citizens continue to put pressure on the Mississippi government to do away with unjust “habitual offender” laws like the one that has imprisoned Drummer.
The habitual offender statute allows for extended imprisonment for previous offenders, usually far beyond the typical maximum sentence for a crime. This allows for lesser offenses, like Drummer’s small amount of pot, to result in life sentences. These laws disproportionately affect Black men and women and participate in the toxic cycle of mass incarceration in America. Drummer was counted as a habitual offender due to two previous marijuana possession convictions, as well as being convicted of voluntary manslaughter in 1992 and aggravated assault in 1998.
While people put pressure on Gov. Tate Reeves to pardon Drummer or do away with habitual offender laws, something he says he has no intention of doing, more people are coming to understand how unjust these laws are. Mississippi’s habitual offender laws are some of the harshest, and the state holds the title of the third-highest imprisonment rate in the US. A report by FWD.us says “Mississippi’s habitual offender laws are causing “extreme” prison sentences that are disproportionately affecting African American men and are costing the state millions of dollars for decades of incarceration.”
Drummer, as well as many others, deserves a chance at justice. Help her achieve it by signing this petition to put pressure on Gov. Reeves and state officials to do away with unjust habitual offender laws and release minor offenders like Drummer.
KBO Electric Bike
By: Emily Bunn × Vaughn Lowery
Photo Credit: Jeff Langlois
The KBO Breeze Commuter Electric Bike marries modest price with versatile e-bike functionality. This street-friendly model is the perfect everyday companion for professionals on the go and bike enthusiasts alike. 360 Magazine was fortunate enough to test ride their most popular models on the reopened, busy streets of Los Angeles.
Our LA adventure with KBO led us to Ballona Creek Bike Path. We mountain biked over six miles of trails, taking in Ballona Creek and the stunning California landscape. Comfortably seated on the KBO Breeze, our bike trip led us from Marina Del Rey to Culver City. While this e-bike is the ideal city cruiser, it also was great for riding along Santa Monica’s beach on the sunny afternoon.
The KBO Breeze is perfect for comfortable city cruising and commuting. If you’re looking for more adventure, the KBO Breeze can handle rough terrain as well, thanks to its sturdy front suspension and mechanical disc brake system. For young people and professionals on the go–whether you’re going into the office, picking up groceries, or just getting some exercise–the KBO Breeze is the perfect electric bike option.
The recommended rider height for the e-bike is 5’4”–6’4”, so this electric commuter bike is ideal for adults on the go. It’s not often that an e-bike has this wide of a range of recommended rider heights, making this e-bike suitable for almost everyone.
KBO Bike was founded in 2018, and the company is driven by the principals of high-quality and affordability. KBO stands for “Keep Biking On.” The company believes in clean alternative transportation solutions and aims to reduce pollution. The company’s e-bikes from a green, sustainable, no-petrol alternative to cars and other public transportation. The KBO Breeze bike model was developed due to COVID-19 and the virus’ impact on increasing personal transportation. The KBO Breeze was the company’s first product and stands as a tested and true model of e-bike excellence.
Curb Appeal
The KBO Breeze comes in a sleek black or electrifying tangerine color. The black variant has a classy, streamlined appearance, whereas the orange model is sure to be the star of the streets. The fenders of the bike are painted to match the body color, showing KBO’s acute attention to aesthetically pleasing detailing. In addition, the lustrous paint job on the bike proved KBO’s dedication to both artistry and craftsmanship.
Design
The KBO Breeze is brawny and built to last, weighing in at 62 lbs. The stem diameter of the bike measures 31.8mm, and the handlebar diameter is 22mm on the sides and 31.8mm in the middle. Though this e-bike is compact, it packs in ferocious function and persistent power.
The 6061-aluminum bike frame is composed of a 170mm forged alloy crank, a KMC chain, front suspension fork, front light, sensitive cadence sensor, speed sensor, and rear light with an integrated taillight. The e-bike’s compact body has a unique, retro look to it. Unlike many minimalist modern e-bikes, the KBO Breeze maintains a vintage-looking appeal. Lower down on the bike’s body, stainless steel spokes encase the wide front and rear tires.
On the right handlebar, riders can gently twist the throttle to accelerate. The throttle is very responsive and is made from a different material than the rest of the grip, so riders can easily rev the engine. The Shimano Derailleur also helps riders find their optimal cruising speed while riding.
The seat of the KBO Breeze is cushioned and comfortable for all riders. The saddle-inspired seat reduces the feeling of turbulent riding and road bumps. The seat post has a diameter of 30.4mm and a length of 300mm.
Technology
With an LCD Backlight display panel, riders can easily access information while driving the KBO Breeze. The panel shows your speed, power level, assist level, total miles, and more useful statistics. This display is especially functional, as it also starts and stops the bike with the push of a button. By using the “M” button on the left side of the display, users can toggle through different settings and turn the bike on and off.
Further, the KBO Breeze’s 0–5 pedal assist levels allow for users to customize the operating mode of the e-bike. Pedal assist makes for customizable cruises with a smooth cadence.
Customization
With our gifted KBO Breeze bike unit, we also received a KBO water bottle holder, full fender, rear rack and multi-function tool. Upon purchase, the e-bike comes with free aluminum full fenders and rear rack, both of which are essential for commuting. The rear rack also is helpful when it comes to transporting goods while cycling.
Upon purchase of the KBO Breeze, the company offers a second battery for purchase to double the effective range of the bike. This second battery allows for bikers to travel 60 to 110 miles without having to stop to charge the e-bike.
Durability
The KBO Breeze is an extremely durable and reliable e-bike. Equipped with an aluminum alloy front suspension fork, the Breeze has 80mm of travel, preload adjustment, and lock out abilities. With a payload capacity of up to 300lbs and suspension damping, the KBO Breeze easily absorbs shock and impact force while riding.
The KBO Breeze is equipped with 27.5 x 2.4-inch Panasonic tires. These high-quality tires are resistant towards punctures. The wide width of the tires makes for improved traction and stability. Further strengthening the bike’s stability, the aluminum Wellgo pedals on this e-bike lets riders to rest their feet on a large platform with tenacious grip.
When you arrived at your destination, use the KBO Breeze’s heavy-duty, rust-resistant kickstand will prop up your e-bike securely.
Performance
The KBO Breeze comes with a removable 4V, 16Ah lithium-ion Samsung battery that affords bikers 768 Wh. The KBO Breeze’s hub motor has a 750 peak. Provided with such a long-lasting battery, the KBO is perfect for both day bike trips and multi-day biking excursions. With an estimated range of 30-55 miles from a single charge, the 3.0-amp charger quickly recharges so you can get back on the road in no time. In only five hours, the quick and smart 48V charger keeps up with the rapid pace of busy commuters and speed demons. Fast, but not too furious, the KBO Breeze offers a ride to remember.
Bikers can ride through city blocks, light trails, and dirt roads breezily with the e-bike’s sustained 500W brushless geared hub motor. No matter how steep the hill, the KBO Breeze is able to climb to the top with energy and ferocity.
Installed with the reputable Shimano 7 Speed Derailleur gear shifter, the KBO Breeze lets users effortlessly switch between gears while driving. Further, the Shimano gear shift automatically adjusts to different terrains on-demand. That way, wherever your journey takes you, you’re ready for whatever road you embark on.
The Tektro Aries Mechanical Disc brake system has 180mm disc rotors in the front and rear of the bike, providing powerful braking force once arrived at your destination.
Safety
Safety features include a 48V LED headlight for safe nighttime cruises. By pressing and holding down the “+” button for three seconds, users can turn on the bright light. On dark nights, the bike’s integrated brake rear light will automatically light up upon braking, keeping cyclists safe and their paths illuminated.
Ergonomics x Additional Features
Compared to other bikes in its category, such as the Ride1Up 700 Series Bike, the KBO is competitively priced. Especially due to the large 48 V 16 Ah battery that it comes equipped with, the KBO Breeze stands with a larger and less expensive battery than most. Further, the e-bike’s two-year warranty is double the standard e-bike warranty offering. Additionally, compared to Rideal’s Arial Rider e-bike which only has a Shimano 6-speed drivetrain, the Breeze’s 7 Speed Derailleur make this e-bike stand out. In these ways, KBO Bike has gone above and beyond to provide for their customers.
The Commuter Electric Bike KBO Breeze comes modestly priced at $1,499.00. The KBO Breeze comes with $198 worth of free gifts upon purchase, including a water bottle holder, multi-function bicycle 16-in-1 kit, KBO Breeze rear rack, and the KBO Breeze aluminum full fenders. The full fenders are extremely durable and help protect riders from water and mud.
Further, free shipping and a two-year warranty are included.
ALEC BENJAMIN TOUR × VIDEO – THE WAY YOU FELT
Multi-platinum singer-songwriter Alec Benjamin has unveiled an official music video for his latest single “The Way You Felt.” In the Miles & AJ-directed visual, Alec confronts a past relationship by revisiting stops along their shared history and reliving pivotal moments – even though he’s alone this time. Watch it on his official YouTube channel here.
“I love music videos that have the ability to tell the story beyond the lyrics of a song,” Alec shared. “When I wrote ‘The Way You Felt,’ I found myself thinking about an ex-girlfriend, so when it came time to shoot the video, I felt inspired to go back to all of the places where our relationship unfolded. I thought it was the perfect way to process some good and bad memories, and maybe get a little closure, which I obviously needed because I’m still writing about it.”
“The Way You Felt” is available to stream and download now here via Elektra Records. Upon release, Billboard praised, “The pain feels genuine, and Benjamin’s soothing delivery creates the impression that the shock hasn’t fully registered.” Alec recently delivered the song’s network television performance on The Late Late Show with James Corden. Watch the clip here. To celebrate Mother’s Day, Corden and his mother Margaret also welcomed Alec and his mother Janet onto the show for a special interview. Watch it here.
Adding further dimensions to the track, Alec also recently shared an acoustic version and a Mandarin version entitled “你的目光(The Way You Felt).” The song marked Alec’s first official Mandarin release, and debuted at #1 on NetEase Music’s Western New Music Chart in China, surpassing new releases from artists including Lorde and Maroon 5. Competing with both domestic and international releases, the track also climbed to #2 on the platform’s Viral Chart and #8 on the New Music Chart. After resuming his study of the language during the COVID-19 pandemic, he collaborated with Chinese actress and singer Zhao Lusi on a Mandarin version of his hit single “Water Fountain” earlier this year. Watch their duet on his YouTube channel here.
This Fall, Alec will return to the road for a North American tour with support from Harry Hudson. The 23-city trek kicks off on September 14 in Santa Cruz, CA, and wraps on October 21 in Pomona, CA. Due to overwhelming demand, he has already added second nights in multiple markets and upgraded his Dallas, TX show from Canton Hall to The Bomb Factory.
Remaining tickets for the tour are available now here.
The Way You Felt” follows Alec’s critically acclaimed 2020 debut studio album,These Two Windows. Generating nearly half-a-billion streams in under a year, it boasts the hit singles “Jesus In LA,” “Oh My God,” and “Mind Is A Prison.” Attracting widespread praise, People raved, “The album is a major milestone,” and Stereogum christened him “A fascinating voice in modern pop.” In addition to plugs from The New York Times, American Songwriter and more, Billboard noted, “The rising pop singer-songwriter succeeds in making the matter distinctive by how much his lyrics read like a heart-to-heart conversation.”
Alec Benjamin North American Tour Dates
September 14, 2021 – Santa Cruz, CA – The Catalyst
September 15, 2021 – San Francisco, CA – The Warfield
September 17, 2021 – Portland, OR – McMenamin’s Crystal Ballroom – SOLD OUT
September 18, 2021 – Seattle, WA – Showbox SoDo – SOLD OUT
September 19, 2021 – Vancouver, BC – Vogue Theatre
September 21, 2021 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Complex
September 22, 2021 – Denver, CO – Mission Ballroom
September 24, 2021 – Minneapolis, MN – Fillmore Minneapolis
September 25, 2021 – Chicago, IL – Riviera Theatre
September 26, 2021 – Royal Oak, MI – Royal Oak Music Theatre – SOLD OUT
September 28, 2021 – Toronto, ON – The Danforth Music Hall – SOLD OUT
September 29, 2021 – Toronto, ON – The Danforth Music Hall
September 30, 2021 – Montreal, QC – MTELUS
October 02, 2021 – Boston, MA – House Of Blues – Boston – SOLD OUT
October 03, 2021 – Boston, MA – House of Blues Boston
October 04, 2021 – Washington, DC – 9:30 Club – SOLD OUT
October 05, 2021 – Washington, DC – 9:30 Club
October 08, 2021 – Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall
October 10, 2021 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works
October 11, 2021 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle
October 12, 2021 – Orlando, FL – The Beacham – SOLD OUT
October 15, 2021 – Houston, TX – House Of Blues – Houston*
October 16, 2021 – Dallas, TX – The Bomb Factory^*
October 17, 2021 – Austin, TX – Emo’s Austin
October 19, 2021 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren – SOLD OUT
October 21, 2021 – Pomona, CA – The Glass House – SOLD OUT
^Upgraded from Canton Hall
*No Harry Hudson
About Alec Benjamin
As popular music gets more and more “genre-less,” Alec Benjamin has only gotten more and more era-less. You can’t pin his candid storytelling, warm melodies, sticky hooks, and natural production to any age. That’s why he’s quietly become his generation’s own troubadour. Thus far, he has amassed nearly four billion streams, 820 million YouTube views, and multiple gold and platinum singles. He has sold out shows on three continents and counts Billie Eilish and John Mayer among his most vocal and ardent fans. Not to mention, he’s collaborated with everyone from Alessia Cara to Chinese superstar Zhao Lusi. His 2018 mixtape, Narrated For You, picked up a gold certification, while the 2020 debut album, These Two Windows, arrived to widespread critical acclaim from Billboard, People, Stereogum, and more. After a Global Pandemic, a year of soul-searching, and countless hours writing, he returns with his new single “The Way You Felt.”
CONNECT:
Game Design: 7 Future Trends
The gaming industry has always been at the forefront of innovation and eager to integrate new technologies. Technologies like AR and VR became popular in gaming first even though it wasn’t their core application. There is now more money being pushed into the industry than ever, and studios are working day and night to outdo the competition. This means that gamers eventually win, and get to enjoy experiences that could once only be dreamed of. Let’s take a look at a few trends to look forward to in game design.
More AR
AR made a quick splash with Pokémon, but it surprisingly trickled out pretty fast and there hasn’t been an AR game worth mentioning since. What Pokémon Go did show, however, is that there’s a genuine market for these games. But hardware limitations prevented studios from offering games that were on a par with regular titles. Games either had bad graphics or didn’t run as smoothly as they should. With advances in mobile hardware and 5G, these games will be able to be more performant and offer a seamless experience.
Virtual Reality Goes Mainstream
Every year was supposed to be the year of VR pretty much since the Oculus Rift came out. But limited titles and prohibitive prices prevented it from reaching the level of popularity people expected. Now that Nintendo has shown that you can create a viable VR device with nothing but a mobile monitor and a cardboard headset, we can expect others to follow suit.
Again, advances in mobile hardware are what will ultimately push VR gaming development forward. Consumers are more likely to buy in knowing that they can play with nothing but a simple headset and their phone. This should push more developers to get into the genre as building games for mobiles is still much less resource-intensive than for devices many developers are still unfamiliar with, like the Rift.
More Diversity
Diversity is a word that is often being thrown around, but it has to be admitted that the gaming industry lacked diversity for many years. Fans are being more vocal about it, and studios are trying to include more diverse casts for their games. Games like Valorant did a great job at including characters from different backgrounds without making it feel like pandering. Studios are also hiring consultants to make sure that their games are culturally accurate to avoid backlash for misrepresentation.
More Live Play
The last two years have been great for the online gambling industry, and they’re also constantly trying to evolve to satisfy players and reach new ones. With many people being forced to transition to online play, we can expect more online casinos to focus on offering live options to players.
One example is Play Live casino. Play Live branded itself as the number one destination for players who enjoy a genuine casino experience from wherever they are. What separates them is their massive selection and dedication to offering a better live playing experience. They have over 1300 games in their selection, which is way above average for these types of casinos, and we can expect many more in the space to follow their model.
Console Upgrades
It seems like the 7-year rigid upgrade cycle that was common in the gaming industry is officially dead now. And it was to be expected with how fast mobiles and PCs are evolving. PC players have been laughing at console players for playing on outdated hardware for years, and many console gamers hated the fact that they couldn’t upgrade their consoles like PCs.
It shouldn’t be a surprise that Microsoft led the way with the Xbox One S and the Scorpio, which both feature software upgrades. Sony also announced that it will release an upgrade for the PS4, and we can expect this to become the norm in the future.
Mobile and Hybrid Gaming
Mobile gaming is no longer on the fringes of the industry. Companies like Nintendo releasing mobile games like Super Mario One and Mario Kart Tour shows a turn in mobile gaming. Studios will be putting more money on online games which will attract more players, which will turn into more investments.
Games that integrate mobile devices and stationary consoles will also become more popular. Nintendo was again a frontrunner with the Switch, and like everything Nintendo does, we can expect others to try to find ways to make their version. Sony is working on a new mobile console and we can rest assured that it will be integrable with the PS4. These could be games that can be played on multiple devices seamlessly or games that would have features that require you to use your mobile phone or device.
Retro Games
Retro platformers are here to stay. These games are lightweight and appeal to both new and nostalgic players. These don’t require many resources, making them indie-friendly. The Switch has made its bread and butter from the genre, and it’s perfect for mobile players as they don’t require much commitment and can be played on virtually any device.
These are all trends that we can expect to see materialise over the next year in gaming. Some of these could completely change the idea of what gaming is.
THE NEW REGIME SHARES TWO LIVE VIDEOS
The New Regime, the innovative solo project of acclaimed songwriter/multi-instrumentalist and Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame member Ilan Rubin, shares two live videos off the album HEART MIND BODY & SOUL (DELUXE EDITION) which was released this past fall by The Orchard. “Turning A Blind Eye” and “Feel No Pain,” both directed by Matt Thompson, are both available now via YouTube. More videos in this series will be made available later this year.
“Turning A Blind Eye” and “Feel No Pain” showcase the more aggressive side of Heart Mind Body & Soul” says Rubin adding, “both songs have an edge rooted in discontentment with riffs that were always fun to play live. I’m proud of the combination of heaviness and melody with harmony.”
The youngest-ever living artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Ilan Rubin is one of modern rock’s most in-demand musicians thanks to his longtime role as drummer in both Nine Inch Nails and Angels & Airwaves. Rubin began his tenure with Nine Inch Nails in 2009 and soon proved an invaluable member of the band, serving as drummer and multi-instrumentalist on multiple tours and studio recordings through the past decade. As if that weren’t enough, in 2011 the San Diego native joined forces with Angels & Airwaves, collaborating with founder Tom DeLonge as co-writer, drummer, and multi-instrumentalist. Despite his busy schedule, Rubin somehow found time to continue his own extraordinary project, recording as The New Regime in the limited space between recording sessions and tours supporting Muse, The Killers, Alice In Chains, and The Used, to name but a few.
The New Regime’s third full-length and new LP, HEART MIND BODY & SOUL was recorded in two epic sessions at El Paso, TX’s world-famous Sonic Ranch, with all songs entirely written and performed by Rubin. Both sessions were co-produced, engineered, and mixed by Rubin’s brother (and manager) Aaron Rubin. Highlights include such wildly anthemic tracks as “It’s Gonna Be OK,” “Turning A Blind Eye,” “A Way To Feel Again,” and the euphoric title track.
Connect With The New Regime
Yung Pooda – FOREVER TIPPIN
Yung Pooda gains another hit with DJ Chose on his latest offering “Forever Tippin,” produced by Grammy Award-winning, super-producers Cool/Dre. The two trendsetters join forces with an appealing twist of the Salih William-produced classic, “Still Tippin’” by Mike Jones, Paul Wall, and Slim Thug. “Forever Tippin” is available today via It’s A 10 Records on all streaming service platforms. The official music video, directed by legendary director Mr. Boomtown (Gucci Mane, Bun B, Yo Gotti), has now reached 1 million + views via YouTube. Watch here.
On an unbreakable hot streak, with no signs of ceasing, Yung Pooda has proven to be a force with his magnetic appeal as he makes his way to carry the city as Houston’s next up. The 2021 breakout star was recently featured in his hometown daily paper, The Houston Chronicle where the publication exclaimed that Pooda is well on his way to being ‘Houston’s next hip hop star.’ “Forever Tippin” comes on the heels of Pooda’s biggest record to date, “Chicken ‘N Grits” featuring Dreamdoll on the original version and Trey Songz and Dreamdoll for the official remix. The track garnered praise from Hot New Hip Hop, Rap Radar, On Smash, Hip Hop N’ More and is currently in the multi-millions with over 3 million + streams and counting on Spotify solely.
His latest single, “Forever Tippin” paves the way for his anxiously awaited debut project “Vivid Pictures,” arriving later this year.
Pooda is set to perform at ‘The Official 713 Day Celebration’ in Houston, TX on July 13th alongside a few of Houston’s legends on the lineup including Lil Keke, Paul Wall, Slim Thug, and more! For more information visit HERE.
WATCH “FOREVER TIPPIN” VISUAL HERE
LISTEN TO “FOREVER TIPPIN” HERE
“Yung Pooda could be Houston’s next hip-hop star”
–Houston Chronicle
“Yung Pooda is winning the battle between life and art…”
–Rolling Out
Nothing holds more weight than a promise.
In 2019, Yung Pooda found himself at a crossroads between the streets and the studio. After performing alongside legends such as Boosie Badazz, Slim Thug, and Z-Ro, recording with platinum icon Paul Wall, and igniting a buzz of his own throughout the country, the Houston rapper made an important pledge to himself. His pledge changed the course of everything to follow in its wake.
“In the middle of recording and getting in all kinds trouble, I promised God I would get out of the streets and just do music,” he admits. “I stuck to my word.”
Long before this vow, hip-hop called to him as a kid in Orange, TX. Pooda’s mother bumped Naughty by Nature’s “Hip Hop Hooray” throughout the one-bedroom and one-bathroom house built by his grandfather that he and his mom shared with his grandma. As he puts it, “I used to go nuts to that song!” He used to listen to classics from OutKast, JAY-Z, Lil Wayne, Master P, Ludacris, DJ Screw, and more. When Pooda visited dad, pops actually built a home studio at his spot to cook up beats and DJ. Growing up, he practiced his skills on the mic and sharpened the wordplay, developing a signature style. He sent shockwaves through the city after a successful showcase, earning endorsements from the likes of DJ Hi-Cof Houston’s 97.9 The BOX who said, “He’s always been a lyricist.” Inciting local excitement, he performed multiple tour dates with Boosie Badazz and teamed up with Paul Wall for the single “Beat Up The Block.”
Relocating to Prairie View, he moved into a two-story house with his cousin and two friends where they “were trapping and getting money, but shit got too hectic.” At this point, he reset everything. “There were fights, threats, and all types of shit,” he recalls. “I ended up saying that prayer.”
His music made its way to Jeff Aronson, CEO of It’s A 10 Records, a boutique label with a distribution deal with Empire, who immediately signed him in 2019. Now, he properly introduces his signature sound and vibes on his upcoming LP, Vivid Pictures. In 2020, Pooda made waves on Tik Tok and mix show radio with the release of his first single, “Repeat Dat” which was produced by GRAMMY® Award-winning duo Cool & Dre [JAY-Z, Beyoncé, Nas] along with a reflective song, “Lies Told”- his thoughtful response to social unrest and police brutality. This year, his critically acclaimed newest single, “Chicken N Grits” is bringing him to the forefront. C&G has earned over 30 million Tik Tok views, was the #4 “Most Added” song at urban radio and is in rotation at BET Jams, Revolt and YO! MTV Raps.
The title track “Vivid Pictures” places cinematic verses in between soulful samples and is at the heart of Pooda’s approach to music and life. “There’s a deep meaning,” he explains. “I aspire to be an artist and more than a rapper. I’m inspired by Picasso and Leonardo Da Vinci. When I listen to a beat in my head, I’m putting art together. The eyes are the windows to the soul. Everything is clear. Each song gives you a visual like a movie. That’s Vivid Pictures to me. It’s the frequency I want to be on.”
In the end, Pooda fulfills every promise and leaves his mark on the culture in the process. “When you listen to me, I want you to feel enlightened and great,” he leaves off. “I hope you relate to the emotion and know you’re not alone. I’m young enough to make mistakes and old enough to know better. I’m telling my story. I’m human.”
YUNG POODA #1 NEW SINGLE “FOREVER TIPPIN” #1 MOST ADDED AT URBAN RADIO
Independent Label It’s A 10 Records’ Promo Efforts Put Yung Pooda At The Forefront
This week, Houston-based, emerging rapper Yung Pooda continues to make a name for himself as his new release, “Forever Tippin” beats out stiff competition from major label artists to be the #1 “Most Added” record at urban radio. Get it HERE.
Yung Pooda joined forces with fellow Texan rapper/producer DJ Chose to collaborate on “Forever Tippin” which is a reworking of the classic “Still Tippin'” by Mike Jones, Paul Wall and Slim Thug- who makes a cameo appearance in the riveting “Forever Tippin” video. Less than a month to release, the video has already garnered over one million views and counting and received widespread critical acclaim. See the video HERE.
Signed to It’s A 10 Records, an independent label distributed by United Masters, Pooda has been stealthily building a name for himself with an onslaught of buzzing releases over the past year including “Chicken N Grits” featuring Dream Doll and Trey Songz (on the remix), “Repeat Dat” and “Lies Told.”
“Pooda is the real deal,” says It’s A 10 Records Miami-based founder and C.E.O. Jeff Aronson who tapped the top-selling songwriter/production duo Cool & Dre to oversee Yung Pooda’s forthcoming album. “He is talented, versatile and has a lot to say. We are committed to putting the resources behind him and his upcoming album.
“Yung Pooda and DJ Chose rep Houston and ride in style in the music video for their song Forever Tippin.” –BET
“Yung Pooda Sticks To His H-Town Roots On “Forever Tippin” – Hot New Hip Hop
“…Is blowing up.” – Houston Chronicle
“Pooda rides over the classic sample…” – Revolt
