Posts made in June 2024

KALMAR 7-97

For the USA, by leading collector car specialist Canepa, is now available in California

  • The first KALMAR Automotive 7-97 built for the North American market has arrived in California, commissioned by KALMAR Automotive’s US representative and leading collector car specialist, Canepa, led by renowned enthusiast Bruce Canepa
  • The ‘C1’ is the most impressive 7-97 yet: Equipped with the new ‘Triple 4’ engine specification meaning a 4.0-litre engine producing more than 400hp and over 400Nm, and in this case with all-wheel drive, front axle lift system, ceramic braking system and more  
  • Every KALMAR Automotive 7-97 pays tribute to the original Porsche 911 ST of the 1970s, engineered to provide modern day sports car levels of performance with the style of a classic icon covered in autoclave carbon body panels.

KALMAR Automotive, enhancer and restorer of bespoke sports cars and special purpose-built adventure vehicles, has delivered its first 7-97 to the USA. The unique KALMAR 7-97 Classic is now available at leading collector car specialist, Canepa, in California. 

The latest vehicle from KALMAR Automotive underscores its unparalleled approach to creating bespoke automotive commissions. The KALMAR 7-97 Classic code named ‘C1’ – after ‘Canepa’ – underlines this pioneering spirit and is the most uncompromising 7-97 yet. by a roster of desirable engineering upgrades. 

The 993-based C1 takes advantage of the lightest and stiffest body option, its coupé ‘shell benefiting from the removal of the donor 911’s rain gutters. A re-engineered decklid, in conjunction with KALMAR Automotive’s unique bonded glass solution, reduces lift, drag and wind noise. 

Designed to showcase the full range of possibilities available to KALMAR Automotive customers, the ‘C1’ is on show at Canepa’s Scotts Valley headquarters in California with further versions of the 7-97 set to follow across the Atlantic Ocean in the coming months.

California Dreamin’
Every KALMAR 7-97 is designed and engineered to pay tribute to the heritage and style of the rare Porsche 911 ST of the 1970s. The 7-97 uses an air-cooled 964 or 993 generation of 911 as its base, currently available in three different body styles – coupé, cabriolet or targa – plus the RS-R. Each 7-97 receives KALMAR’s remarkable engineering and attention to detail, while also remaining completely customizable both inside and out.

The four-wheel drive C1 is built on a 993-generation platform with a ‘no-compromise’ approach, meaning it resides at the more extreme end of the 7-97 scale. Its range-topping ‘Triple 4’ specification is led by a 4.0-litre engine producing 401 horsepower and 426 Nm of torque. The finer technical details include a 997 GT3 4.0-litre crankshaft, drive-by-wire individual throttle bodies, mechanical lifters, an enhanced exhaust system, with dual oil coolers and a Motec M150 ECU (with OBDII interface) and a bespoke air filtration system being further highlights.

Alongside the mechanical details comes adaptive active suspension, a multi-link rear axle, six-speed gearbox, ultra-lightweight lithium battery, and lightweight three-piece split rims. Those seeking to take things a step further can select the optional traction control system with Sport mode functionality, increasing driving thrills, a lightweight ceramic braking system, and a front axle lift system can also be added to further aid drivability while offering significant dynamic benefits on the road. All also to be found on the KALMAR 7-97 C1.

Inside the 7-97 ‘C1’ comes a full leather interior with supportive Recaro sports seats and optional twin airbags, perfectly suited to the style of the F-model dashboard. Modern convenience features such as remote central locking, a concealed Bluetooth audio system, and rain sensing wipers are standard. Even the car’s key is worthy of note; designed especially for KALMAR Automotive, it incorporates buttons to open and close the front luggage compartment and rear deck lid. This electronic “frunk” release is just like the one found on the very latest Porsche 911s.

7-97: A bespoke blend of past, present and future
Retaining the iconic silhouette of the 911, every 7-97 has been developed in-house, it features unique lightweight carbon fibre body panels, electric air conditioning and power steering systems are a part of every KALMAR 7-97 to enhance the weight balance. 

Weight is a keyword of the KALMAR 7-97, as a rear wheel drive it weigh in at close to 1150 Kg. (2500 pounds) and the C1 as all wheel drive comes in just under 1215 Kg. (2675 pounds) ready to go with aircon and hi-fi system. Even lighter versions are available on demand.

The arrival of 7-97 C1 in the US cements a partnership between KALMAR Automotive and Canepa; KALMAR Automotive is proud to list the respected Californian specialist amongst its growing network of representatives from around the world, and of its special relationship with founder, Bruce Canepa, whose own story is inextricably linked with the Porsche marque.

Jan Kalmar, founder and owner of KALMAR Automotive, expressed his enthusiasm for the first KALMAR 7-97 C1 to reach US shores, “The engaging, analogue and yet modern feel of the 7-97 C1 is the perfect companion for exploring America’s west coast; I can already picture this car carving through canyon roads and charging across Northern Californian mountain routes!” 

The process with Bruce has moved the entire company forward as his quality demands and attentions to details was a great motivator for everyone involved. 

“In the US, and California specifically, car culture remains king, and I am sure that KALMAR Automotive’s builds, engineering excellence and bespoke ethos will fit in perfectly amongst enthusiasts who are looking for more than just good looks  – and this is just the start, so watch this space!” Jan added.  

Bruce Canepa, Founder Canepa Group, said “Timeless Design in every detail, uncompromised quality in every component & surface and performance & drivability for those that want the ultimate air cooled driving experience.”  The 7-97 C1 showcases what KALMAR Automotive is all about.

KALMAR Automotive builds no more than 12 7-97s during a calendar year, created for customers all over the world. Given the bespoke nature of every car, prices vary depending on specification.

Canepa Group will act as KALMAR Automotive’s sole representative in North America, part of a growing global network of dealers which stretches across Europe and Asia. The KALMAR Automotive 7-97 C1 is now on show at Canepa’s Scotts Valley headquarters in California, with viewing available by appointment.

For more information on the 7-97, the 7-97 C1, and KALMAR Automotive visit kalmarautomotive.com and canepa.com

Notes to Editors


About KALMAR Automotive
KALMAR Automotive is an enhancer and restorer of bespoke sports cars and special-purpose adventure vehicles. Established by Jan Kalmar, a Danish adventurer, passionate coachbuilder and petrol head, KALMAR Automotive is dedicated to building and delivering immaculately engineered cars that combine classic design with modern technology and the finest engaging, analogue driving feel, to discerning enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

KALMAR Automotive: www.kalmarautomotive.com.

First KALMAR Automotive 7-97 Commission via 360 Magazine.
First KALMAR Automotive 7-97 Commission via 360 Magazine.
First KALMAR Automotive 7-97 Commission via 360 Magazine.
First KALMAR Automotive 7-97 Commission via 360 Magazine.
First KALMAR Automotive 7-97 Commission via 360 Magazine.
First KALMAR Automotive 7-97 Commission via 360 Magazine.

Indulging in Luxury: Navigating Affordable Options with Car Leasing

In the realm of automotive dreams, the allure of luxury cars often beckons. From sleek designs to cutting-edge technology, luxury vehicles exude sophistication and style. However, the hefty price tags associated with these cars can often seem prohibitive. Enter car leasing – a pathway to indulging in luxury without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore how leasing a car opens doors to affordable luxury, with a special focus on the sleek and sustainable Porsche electric lineup.

The Appeal of Luxury Cars

Luxury cars represent the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship and innovation. From renowned brands like Porsche to Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz, these vehicles offer unparalleled comfort, performance, and prestige. Whether it’s the thrill of acceleration, the plushness of leather interiors, or the allure of advanced infotainment systems, luxury cars captivate enthusiasts worldwide.

The Barrier of High Costs

Despite their allure, luxury cars often come with steep price tags that place them out of reach for many consumers. The initial purchase price, coupled with maintenance, insurance, and depreciation costs, can make ownership a daunting proposition. For those unwilling or unable to make a significant upfront investment, leasing provides a viable alternative.

Unlocking Affordable Luxury Through Leasing

Leasing a car offers a more accessible pathway to luxury, allowing individuals to enjoy the benefits of driving a high-end vehicle without the long-term commitment or financial burden of ownership. By spreading the cost of depreciation over the lease term, leasing enables lessees to pay only for the portion of the vehicle’s value they use, resulting in lower monthly payments compared to financing a purchase.

Exploring Porsche Electric: Luxury Meets Sustainability

In recent years, the automotive industry has witnessed a surge in electric vehicles (EVs) as manufacturers embrace sustainability and innovation. Among these, Porsche stands out with its electrifying lineup of performance-oriented electric cars that combine luxury with eco-consciousness.

The Porsche electric lineup, including models like the Taycan and upcoming electric versions of iconic models like the 911, exemplifies the fusion of cutting-edge technology and timeless design. With instant torque, impressive acceleration, and zero-emission driving, these vehicles offer a thrilling driving experience while minimising environmental impact.

Affordable Access to Porsche Electric Through Leasing

While the allure of Porsche electric cars is undeniable, their premium price tags may deter some buyers. However, leasing presents an attractive option for those seeking to experience the thrill of driving a Porsche electric without the full financial commitment of ownership.

Leasing a Porsche electric car allows enthusiasts to enjoy the brand’s renowned performance and luxury features at a fraction of the cost of purchasing outright. With lower monthly payments and minimal upfront expenses, leasing provides a gateway to the world of Porsche electric driving, making it accessible to a broader range of drivers.

Advantages of Leasing a Porsche Electric

Leasing a Porsche electric car offers several advantages beyond affordability. With a lease, drivers can experience the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology without worrying about depreciation or resale value. Additionally, leased vehicles are typically covered by manufacturer warranties, providing peace of mind and protection against unexpected repair costs.

Furthermore, leasing allows drivers to embrace sustainability without compromise. By opting for a Porsche electric lease, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener future without sacrificing luxury or performance.

Affordable Luxury Beyond Porsche Electric

While Porsche electric cars offer a unique blend of luxury and sustainability, leasing opens doors to affordable indulgence across a spectrum of brands and models. Whether it’s the refined elegance of a Mercedes-Benz sedan, the opulent comfort of a BMW SUV, or the sporty performance of an Audi coupe, leasing allows drivers to explore a diverse array of luxury vehicles tailored to their preferences and lifestyles. With leasing, the possibilities are virtually limitless, enabling drivers to experience the epitome of automotive excellence without compromise.

Making Informed Decisions: The Importance of Research and Consultation

As with any significant financial decision, it’s essential for individuals considering car leasing to conduct thorough research and seek expert advice. Factors such as lease terms, mileage limits, and residual values can vary widely between leasing agreements and can significantly impact the overall cost and value of the lease. By carefully evaluating their needs, budget, and preferences, lessees can make informed decisions that align with their long-term goals and priorities. Consulting with leasing specialists or financial advisors can also provide valuable insights and guidance, ensuring that drivers embark on their leasing journey with confidence and clarity. With careful consideration and strategic planning, leasing a car can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to indulge in luxury while staying within budget and enjoying the thrill of the open road.

Conclusion: Embracing Luxury Responsibly

In conclusion, leasing a car presents a compelling opportunity to indulge in luxury without the hefty price tag. With affordable options available, such as leasing a Porsche electric, drivers can experience the thrill of high-end automotive engineering while remaining financially savvy.

Whether it’s the exhilarating performance of a Porsche Taycan or the iconic design of an electric 911, leasing opens doors to a world of luxury previously reserved for a select few. By choosing leasing, drivers can navigate the realms of affordable luxury and sustainability, embodying the ethos of responsible indulgence on the road.

Katrina Jurjans + The Untitled Space

Katrina Jurjans’ “hence living, hence magical” Solo Exhibition presented by The Untitled Space opening Thursday June 13th with an artist reception from 6-8pm, and on view through June 22, 2024.  

Curated by Indira Cesarine, “hence living” marks Jurjans’ debut solo show in the United States and her first exhibition with The Untitled Space. The exhibition will feature a selection of acrylic on canvas paintings, accompanied by a site-specific installation. Jurjans’ dream-like figurative works are characterized by dense layering of patterns and colors, enhancing her narrative of emotional and physical spaces inhabited by her female subjects. 

“Hence living, hence magical” marks Jurjans’ debut solo show in the United States and her first exhibition with The Untitled Space. The exhibition will feature a selection of acrylic on canvas paintings, accompanied by a site-specific installation. Jurjans’ dream-like figurative works are characterized by dense layering of patterns and colors, enhancing her narrative of emotional and physical spaces inhabited by her female subjects. With ties to magical realism, each piece delves into themes of memory, transition, and life’s dichotomies. 

Katrina Jurjans’ work is inspired by emotional narratives, boundaries – spatial, temporal, bodily – and magical realism. Primarily a painter, recent endeavors in installation have become more frequent in both her independent practice as well as with the transdisciplinary artist collective, elsewhere, of which she is a founding member. She graduated with honors from Concordia University in Montreal with a BFA in Art History and Studio Art. Her work has been generously supported by the Toronto Arts Council, Ontario Arts Council, and Canada Council for the Arts. She has garnered awards from the Toronto Outdoor Art Festival, DesignTO (Juror’s Choice Award, 2021 and 2024), and Ontario Arts Council (Emerging Artist grants, 2018 and 2020). Notable past exhibitions have included solo shows at Coldstream Fine Art, Toronto (2020) and Artscape Youngplace, Toronto (2017), as well as group shows at Nuit Blanche, Toronto (2022, 2023, 2024), DesignTO, Toronto (2020, 2024), and Shin Gallery, New York (2022) among others. Her work has been featured in a number of contemporary art fairs including SPRING/BREAK Art Fair, Los Angeles (2022) and The Other Art Fair, Los Angeles (2019) and Brooklyn (2018). She has participated in art residencies in Denmark, Mexico, and Canada. Her work has been featured internationally in publications including Maake Magazine, Visionary Art Collective, Create! Magazine, in 2020 was named one of Saatchi Art’s Rising Stars.

ARTIST STATEMENT 

“My painting practice explores concepts of memory, transition, and emotion. Explorative orchestrations of emotive narrative foreground concepts of poetic multiplicity, emotionality, and ambiguity as essential to my practice and the wider expanse of feminist thought within the field of contemporary painting. Reclaiming ambiguity – spatial, bodily, temporal – as a liberating force disrupting processes of dichotomic delineation; inside/outside, here/there, presence/absence are repositioned from ideas of either/or to both/and. Critically responding to historical female representation within the canon of Western art history, where women – predominantly painted by men – were represented as polished, contained, and separate from their surroundings – I instead paint women fully immersed in both their physical and emotional environments. Sometimes flesh and blood, other times ghostly outlines – they become the fuzzy, porous boundary between foreground and background; past and present; memory and dream. 

Using a formal language of pattern, color, repetition, and layering the narratives I paint are laden with symbolism; flowers embody feelings of absence and growth, and rain clouds communicate heavy emotions. Shifting into the realm of magic realism, these narratives – intimate, often nostalgic and heavy – are anchored to the physical, while simultaneously merging into the world of personal experience, memories, dreams, and hallucinations. As a backdrop of floral wallpaper becomes the textile patterns of a woman’s robe and intricate dots patterns of rain transition to tears, my aim is to present both the world and the body in a constant state of reshaping and transformation.” – Katrina Jurjans

Follow The Untitled Space:

Artsy | Facebook |TwitterInstagram

Art Collections

https://untitled-space.art

58th Annual Frederick Douglass Awards Gala

Last night, the New York Urban League celebrated a historic evening at its 58th Annual Frederick Douglass Awards Gala hosted by GMA3’s DeMarco Morgan. This prestigious event recognizes exceptional individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted the pursuit of equality and justice. The gala, named after the renowned abolitionist and social reformer Frederick Douglass, was held at the landmark Ziegfeld Ballroom. Honorees Aurora James, George Gresham, Camille Joseph-Goldman, and Renee McClure were celebrated for their remarkable achievements, alongside Honorary Co-chair Meagan Good.

Aurora James, renowned for her groundbreaking organization 15% Pledge and her leadership in fashion and activism, received the Frederick Douglass Medallion. Her innovative endeavors and commitment to fostering economic equity have reshaped the fashion industry’s landscape and uplifted marginalized voices.

George Gresham, the President of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, was also recognized with the Frederick Douglass Medallion for his tireless efforts to champion workers’ rights and improve healthcare accessibility, making a significant difference in communities across New York City and beyond.

Renee McClure, an esteemed advocate for social justice and racial equity, was likewise bestowed with the Frederick Douglass Medallion. Her tireless efforts to address systemic injustices and amplify marginalized voices have been instrumental in advancing the cause of equality.

Camille Joseph-Goldman, a trailblazer in education and community development, was presented with the Ann S. Kheel Award. Her advocacy for educational equity and empowerment has transformed countless lives, embodying the spirit of Frederick Douglass’s commitment to education as a tool for liberation.

Honorary Co-chair Meagan Good addressed attendees with brief remarks, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and collective action in the ongoing struggle for justice. Host DeMarco Morgan skillfully guided the evening’s proceedings, ensuring a memorable and impactful event for all attendees who were inspired by the honorees’ stories of resilience and dedication. Guests included Jonathan Majors, who arrived on the carpet with Meagan Good, Summer House: Martha’s Vineyard star Jasmine Ellis Cooper, and Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine

“We are deeply grateful to Aurora James, George Gresham, Camille Joseph-Goldman, and Renee McClure for their exceptional contributions to our community,” expressed Arva Rice, President and CEO of the New York Urban League. “Their leadership and advocacy inspire us to persist in fighting for a more equitable and just society.”

During her speech, New York Urban League President and CEO Arva Rice, announced plans to transform its historic headquarters into a center for Black Excellence and Innovation. The center will include the current and future operations of NYUL including the Small Business Solutions Center, after school programming, and work development.

The 58th Annual Frederick Douglass Awards, a resounding testament to the New York Urban League’s steadfast commitment, stands as a proud moment for New York City. It’s a celebration of those who embody the principles of equality, justice, and community empowerment, reminding us of the pivotal role of collective action in shaping a more just and equitable future for all.

To learn more about the New York Urban League, its initiatives, and how you can contribute to their mission, please visit www.nyul.org.

Photo credit: Johnny Nunez

Post Malone + Blake Shelton

Post Malone and Blake Shelton Surprise CMA Fest With “Pour Me A Drink”
 
CMA Fest TV Special To Air June 25th on ABC

Post Malone and Blake Shelton surprised the CMA Fest crowd this past Thursday with their new single “Pour Me A Drink”, the latest offering from Post’s forthcoming country album. You can see photos from the performance HERE.

About Republic Records

A division of Universal Music Group, the world’s leading music company, Republic Records has been recognized by Billboard as the industry’s #1 label over the last 10 years. It is home to an all-star roster of multi-platinum, award-winning legends and superstar artists such as Anitta, Ariana Grande, Billy Porter, Conan Gray, Daddy Yankee, Drake, Eddie Vedder, Florence + the Machine, Glass Animals, Greta Van Fleet, Jack Johnson, James Bay, Jimmy Fallon, John Legend, John Mellencamp, Jonas Brothers, Kid Cudi, Kim Petras, Lil Wayne, Lorde, Metro Boomin, Miranda Lambert, NAV, Nicki Minaj, Noah Kahan, Pearl Jam, Post Malone, Seth MacFarlane, Shania Twain, Stephen Sanchez, Stevie Wonder, Swedish House Mafia, Tainy, Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, Twice, TXT, ZAYN and more. Founded by brothers and chief executives Monte and Avery Lipman, it is also comprised of innovative business ventures, including American Recordings, Boominati Worldwide, Brushfire, Casablanca Records, Cash Money, Federal Films, HYBE, Imperial, JYP, Lava Records, Republic Records: Kids & Family, Republic Nashville, Universal Arabic Music, Victor Victor, Wicked Money Family, XO, Young Money, among others. Additionally, Republic Records recently relaunched famed record label Mercury Records.

Photo: John Shearer|Getty Images

SHM – LIONESS

Iconic GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum electronic supergroup Swedish House Mafia have released their newest single “Lioness” feat. Nikki & The Dove via Republic Records – listen here. “Lioness” has been highly anticipated by fans since the record’s live premiere in 2023. Most recently, Swedish House Mafia played the single during their exclusive, one night only show at the Brooklyn Mirage. “Lioness” combines Swedish House Mafia’s signature energetic beats with the track’s euphoric melody.

Prior to “Lioness,” Swedish House Mafia’s latest single “Ray Of Solar” was released in August – listen here. The angelic dance-ready song continues Swedish House Mafia’s nearly 15-year-long journey of pushing boundaries and redefining electronic music.

Swedish House Mafia will be playing an array of international music festivals this summer including Garorock Festival, Panama Open Air Festival, Lucca Summer Festival, Untold Festival and Findings Festival in addition to their highly anticipated Ushuaïa Ibiza Residency. The historic six week residency kicks off on July 21st, and the group will play every Sunday through August 25th. See below for full routing of upcoming shows. Tickets and tour details are available HERE.

LATTO + MEGAN THEE STALLION

The girls are taking over summer! Today, ATL-based Grammy nominated rapper Latto releases the remix to her singleSunday Service” featuring Megan Thee Stallion & Flo Milli via RCA Records – click here to listen.

LISTEN TO ”SUNDAY SERVICE (REMIX)”

FEATURING MEGAN THEE STALLION & FLO MILLI:

https://latto.lnk.to/SSR

The original version of the single garnered viral buzz when Latto teased a snippet of the song on her IG a few months ago, giving fans her signature witty bars over a catchy beat – click here to listen. Directed byHidji World andLatto herself, the video features Latto in various settings including the Bronx with “twenty black suburbans we pull up like Sunday Service” click here to watch. This all follows her collaboration on J. Lo’s “Can’t Get Enough” single (click here to watch), which Latto performed with J. Lo on Saturday Night Live. In addition to music, Latto wrapped up taping Season 2 of Netflix’s Rhythm & Flow as a judge alongside DJ Khaled andLudacris, which is coming out this year.

  

With over 1 billion streams worldwide across all platforms and accolades continuing to rack up from her success, it’s clear that Latto has set the stage to become a global superstar. Since the release of her hit RIAA-certified3x Platinum single “Big Energy” in 2021 Latto has been inescapable. She went on to make history with the single as the first female rapper to ever have a #1 record at Pop, Rhythm and Urban Radio with the same single. Overall, she’s also the first female artist in 12 years to accomplish this feat, joining the company of Rihanna (“Rude Boy”), Alicia Keys (“No One”), Beyonce (“Irreplaceable”),  Mary J. Blige (“Be Without You”) and Mariah Carey (“We Belong Together”), the last five to previously achieve this. Since then, she has won various awards including: “Best New Artist” at the 2022 BET Awards, “Best New Artist” at the 2022 People’s Choice AwardsVariety Hitmakers “Breakthrough Artist” Honoree, 2023 Billboard’s Women in Music “Powerhouse Award,” “Song of the Summer” for “Seven” with Jung Kook at the 2023 MTV VMA Awards, and “Best Female Hip-Hop Artist” at the 2023 BET Awards.

In addition to all the awards Latto has racked up over the past few years, she was also nominated at the 2023 Grammy Awards for “Best New Artist” and “Best Melodic Rap Performance” (for “Big Energy (Live)”) and has graced multiple print covers in 2023 alone such as CosmopolitanRolling Stone “Musicians on Musicians” Issue with Snoop DoggXXL Magazine – which included a video component for XXL’s first-ever all female cypher curated bby Latto (that trended on Youtube and went viral) – and a digital cover for Forbes ’30 Under 30’ as the call out for the Musicians section. This past summer Latto wrapped her international festival run in Europe that included Wireless Festival (London), Roskilde Festival (Denmark), Rolling Loud Germanyand more. She also attended Milan Fashion Week where she went to various shows including Robert Cavalli, Etro, Blumarine, Diesel and GCDS. With the release of her latest singles and collaborations plus working on her next album, the next chapter of Latto’s career will have more new music, more vibrant visuals and more big energy from The Biggest.

 Buy/Stream “Sunday Service (Remix)”:

Multi: https://latto.lnk.to/SSR

Buy/Stream/Watch “Sunday Service”:

Multi: https://latto.lnk.to/sundayservice

YouTube: https://latto.lnk.to/sundayservice/youtube 

Photo Credit: Sigmund Owho Osimini

DUA LIPA – ILLUSION REMIX

Amazon Music, 3x GRAMMY, 7x BRIT Award-winning global pop powerhouse Dua Lipa, and DJ and producer Regard release a special, brand-new Amazon Music Original remix of “Illusion”, from her latest album Radical Optimism. The Amazon Music Original Illusion (Regard Remix – Amazon Music Original)” is available now, exclusive to Amazon Music listeners, listen here.

Creating an anthemic rendition of Dua Lipa’s “Illusion”, Regard’s remix features a new euphoric piano hook and a driving 4-to-the-floor kick and bassline that complements Dua’s original vocals.

The original version of “Illusion” comes from Dua’s recently released third album, Radical Optimism, which went straight to No. 1 in 11 countries, including the UK where it became the biggest album debut from a UK artist in 2024 and garnered the highest week one sales from a UK female artist since 2021. In the US, the album debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking Dua’s biggest sales week yet. It was named a Critic’s Pick by The New York Times, who hailed it is “an album of nonstop ear candy,” along with Variety, who declared it is “a joyous blast of pop savvy.” Additionally, The New Yorker praised, “the instrumentation is a gleaming and impenetrable expanse, and the main attraction is Lipa,” and Vogue raved it is “a summery, self-assured slice of pop brilliance…[and] catchy as hell.”

Last month, Amazon Music and Dua Lipa shared the meaning behind some of the tracks so fans can enjoy the album along with commentary from Dua herself. In her commentary, Dua delves into the meaning behind ‘Radical Optimism’ covering topics such as the inspiration for the album cover, the songwriting process, her genre description, the importance of performing at Glastonbury, along with a dive into the meaning behind several songs from the album. Listen to Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism Track-by-Track Experience HERE.

MGK – BMXXING

mgk gives fans a ride inside his mind as he releases his new song, “BMXXing.” Directed by Sam Cahill, the music video displays mgk’s affinity for BMX and skateboarding as he pays homage to the beloved communities. He fires away sticky punchlines like “God knows it’s been a rough ride like DMX” and “The closest I’ve been to having dollars is 50 cents, but with this pen, I’ve killed many men.” It’s not all witty wordplay for mgk, as his hallmark for pain and honesty finds its way back in this BNYX®-produced track. After delivering a snippet of the song last week, “BMXXing” answers fans’ call for “summer vibes,” as he delivers heavy doses of hard-nosed raps and pure nostalgia.

In March, mgk partnered with Ohio brethren Trippie Redd for their joint project genre: sadboy. The emo-laden effort features singles such as “beauty” and “lost boys.” Following the release of genre: sadboy, mgk, and Trippie delivered back-to-back performances in New York and Ohio to celebrate the project, proving why they are easily amongst the best duos in music.

mgk– ‘BMXXingeSingle Audio / Single Track

Retail

BMXXing” Video

BIA – LIGHTS OUT

BIA, the international multi-platinum artist, taps GRAMMY-nominee J.I.D. for her new single and music video, “Lights Out.” The single is also featured on the upcoming official soundtrack for the blockbuster fourth installment of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s legendary ‘Bad Boys’ film series, Bad Boys 4: Ride or Die.

The “Lights Out” music video directed by Chandler Lass, which deftly interpolates supernatural imagery with dizzying scenes of grandeur, features both artists and is available now.

STREAM HERE:

WATCH HERE

In verse, BIA is confident and unwavering as she recounts her humble Massachusetts beginnings. “I know you from? Elementary? Really no we don’t,” she raps. “The lights was out, in my momma house, but we used the stove.” Still, BIA’s gaze is forever skyward, and she acknowledges the fruits of her recent labor before passing the baton to J.I.D., whose reputation for lyrical brilliance precedes him and is evidenced by his guest spot.

In the three years since she struck radio gold and RIAA Platinum with “Whole Lotta Money” and its Nicki Minaj-featured remix, BIA has proven both her range and staying power. Her ability to collaborate with stars both domestic and abroad, from Top 40 U.S. Rhythmic hits with G Herbo (“Besito”) and J. Cole (“London”), to German star Luciano’s #1 hit “Bamba” along with “Milano” alongside Italy’s Sfera Ebbasta and Brooklyn’s Fivio Foreign – all have helped BIA become a household name across the globe. Last month, BIA and Nicki reminded the world of the impact of their memorable collab with a surprise performance of the song during the Boston stop of Nicki’s Pink Friday 2 Tour, a homecoming of sorts for BIA.

It’s more than BIA’s musical output why she’s elevated herself to stardom, however. Her cultural impact extends past the booth and into the world of fashion, sports and beauty; her cosmetic line, Beauty For Certain, makes a cameo in “Lights Out.” BIA has also been a mainstay in the sports world, performing at 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City, and offering contributions to the NHL Playoff and Women’s World Cup soundtracks, two of the world’s biggest intersections of Hip Hop and pop culture. There’s really no telling where next you’ll see BIA, whose penchant for being driven by passion has delivered great results in just a few short years. “I’m a big believer in following my passions,” she tells Elite Daily. “I love music. I love glam. I love beauty. I love design. Those are things that I’ve just naturally immersed myself in.”

Watch and stream “Lights Out,” featuring J.I.D., now.