Posts made in July 2024

Lamborghini + Macron

Partnership between Automobili Lamborghini and Macron kicks off

Lamborghini and Macron were born and developed – Motor Valley and Sports Valley in the Emilia Romagna region – represent a point of reference in the world in terms of business acumen, professionalism, passion and creativity.

Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, remarked: “For us, this partnership is a natural salute to the world of sport, which in Lamborghini is represented by the motorsport sector. The goal is to create excellent teamwork between our two organizations and to share the future success that we are confident will ensue from this collaboration.”

“We are happy to announce this partnership with a brand that represents Italian excellence in the world,” stated Gianluca Pavanello, CEO of Macron. “Both of our companies have their roots firmly in the same territory, Emilia Romagna. We share the same values of performance and a design-led culture that, along with passion and a culture of hard work, guides us in everything we do. This apparel line is a perfect expression of our shared values, in which attention to detail is the cornerstone of a philosophy that unites us and highlights all-Italian style at its very best.”

Lamborghini Iron Lynx

Difficult weekend for Lamborghini SC63 as FIA WEC enters second half of season

#63 crew ran battled for top 10 finish in the 6 Hours of São Paulo before puncture

Lamborghini Iron Lynx was left to rue bad luck on the FIA World Endurance Championship’s first trip to Interlagos in Brazil since 2014, as a late puncture meant the #63 crew of Mirko Bortolotti, Daniil Kvyat and Edoardo Mortara could only manage 17th at the end of the 6 Hours of São Paulo.

Coming into the fifth round of the season off the back of a morale-boosting first top 10 finish with the Lamborghini SC63 LMDh prototype at Le Mans, improved performance was the main target for the team as the second half of the year began in South America.

High degradation meant that tire strategy varied between the teams, with the #63 making the most of the softer medium compound to run inside the top 10 positions approaching half-distance. Unfortunately, the pace of those around proved superior and a late puncture extinguished any hopes of a second consecutive point finish.

Meanwhile, in the LMGT3 class, it was another bittersweet weekend for the #85 Iron Dames crew of Sarah Bovy, Rahel Frey and Michelle Gatting who were denied a likely podium finish after taking their second pole position of the year. A burst water pipe at the fourth pit-stop while running second contributed to an eventual retirement, while the sister #60 Iron Lynx Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2 of Matteo Cressoni, Franck Perera and Claudio Schiavoni finished 14th after receiving a drivethrough penalty.

Free Practice and Qualifying – Hypercar

Having never previously visited the Interlagos circuit, the weekend was a discovery for the Lamborghini Iron Lynx team. Focus, therefore, centered on gaining an understanding of how the SC63 and the Michelin tires performed on the tight and technical track, which produced higher than normal degradation. The weekend began with the first of three free practice sessions, but running in FP1 was curtailed after an incident for an LMGT3 car, which caused barrier damage. The #63 ended up 16th and an unrepresentative five seconds off the pace. FP2 was subsequently extended due to the red flagged opening session, and the #63 was again the 16th fastest, albeit reducing the deficit to the best time to just over a second. Improvements were made ahead of FP3 on Saturday, which allowed the car to place sixth quickest, with Kvyat qualifying the #63 18th on the grid for the race.

Race – Hypercar

Tire strategy proved an intriguing variable at the start of the six hours, with the #63 starting on the harder, more durable compound. Kvyat took the start but struggled to find the ultimate performance on the hards, dropping to the back of the field before moving up to the cusp of the top 10 towards the end of the second hour. Mortara took over with four hours to go, having switched onto the faster medium compound tire that appeared to unlock more stability and improved race pace from the SC63. During Mortara’s double stint, the #63 found itself battling well inside the top 10, rising as high as fifth at one point – due in part to a litany of penalties for several cars in front – and matching the pace of the #35 Alpine, #38 JOTA Porsche and the #93 Peugeot. By the time Bortolotti took over for the final two hours, the #63 began to struggle with the tire drop-off and dropped to 12th before it suffered a puncture, which forced it to make an additional pit-stop. The team remained committed to finishing, and Bortolotti brought the car home at the finish in 17th place, benefitting from a crash for the #12 Porsche in the final hour.

2024 LEXUS IS 500 F SPORT

Japan’s latest dragster is the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F Sport, which boasts a 5.0L V8 engine (rear wheel drive) with 472 HP and 395 lb-ft of torque, and has a top speed of 149 mph. With a price point around $63,370, this is one of the most delightful drives the manufacturer has to offer; it’s in a class by itself.

On the outside, its blue flame color resembles a pack of azure Skittles. The overall silhouette is seductive and racy. Its bodacious and brawny presence always draws attention. Its F Sport performance trim includes stacked quad exhaust, suspension tuning, rear dampers, and 19-inch matt black BBS forged wheels with bolts. Upon entry with the SmartAccess card key, the cockpit has more than enough technology with USB ports scattered throughout. As you step inside, you’ll notice illuminated kick plates and aluminum pedals. But the brains of the beast sit flush in the dash. The 10.3-inch infotainment has a massive screen that almost appears to connect to the odometer display. It’s intuitive and well-equipped, just as you would expect from a Lexus. The driver can easily control all systems by touching, speaking, or playing with the trackpad.

Connecting wirelessly with Apple Carplay or Android Auto. The creature’s premium Mark Levinson concert-like audio system is what truly distinguishes it from others in its class. Playing Tems Me & U, the Afrobeats icon, over and over again, was an emotional experience for us.

Further, Lexus Safety+ 2.5 includes road sign assistance, pedestrian detection, panoramic view monitor, blind spot monitor, parking assist with auto braking, blind spot detection, and intelligent high beam headlamps.

Performance-wise, it’s playful and peppy. You will fall head over heels with both its exhaust notes and overall responsiveness. The V8’s performance is best described as invigorating. She claws every corner and will stop at the drop of a hat. Both the steering and the drivetrain are adaptive. Pushing almost 500 horsepower in a compact luxury sedan is pure nirvana.

It’s clear that the 2024 Lexus IS 500 F Sport should be recognized by the World Car Awards. It’s the right amount of bite that this company needs as it continues to dominate the world stage. And, Lexus deserves credit for maintaining their elegance with grace.

PLUSES:

Power moonroof
Rear power shade
Dual climate seats
Ventilated heated + cool seats
17 city / 25 highway

Lexus.com/IS

Images + Story | Vaughn Lowery

2024 LEXUS IS 500 F SPORT story and photos by Vaughn Lowery via 360 MAGAZINE.

Skilla Baby – Project X

On the fast track towards a major mainstream breakthrough, rising Detroit rapper Skilla Baby serves up his new “Project X” music video featuring and directed by DaBaby out now via Geffen Records. Watch HERE.

DaBaby also notably stepped behind the camera for the raucous music video. Nodding to the classic comedy Project X, this dynamic duo ignites the festivities at a wild frat party like only they can.

The track winds a melodic synth loop around a tight and steady beat anchored by 808s produced by Southside. Skilla Baby leans into a focused and fiery flow highlighted by quotable bars. Primed to start any party, the hook instantly booms with an intoxicating proclamation, “We turnt up.” DaBaby maintains this energy with a standout verse of his own. “Project X” follows the street music video for “Misfit (feat. Polo G)”. Both tracks are off his mixtape The Coldest.

Speaking to his impact, Skilla Baby is officially a part of XXL’s coveted 2024 Freshman Class as this year’s “People’s Champ”—voted by the fans.

Not to mention, Skilla Baby is currently on the road for his co-headline “Vultures Eat The Most” Tour with Rob49. They sat down for an exclusive interview with People who observed, “Doing whatever he feels seems to be the ultimate mission for Skilla Baby. And right now, he feels like hitting the road with fellow MC and another hit-maker destined to do things on his own accord, Rob49.”

Skilla Baby has been on a hot streak with recent plugs in the Associated Press, Galore, Billboard, Stereogum, Rolling Out (cover story) and more. Among many accolades, Skilla Baby recently graced the 2024 BET Awards red carpet.

Thus far, Skilla Baby has amassed nearly 400 million streams. He has notched major co-signs from the likes of Big Sean, Jack Harlow, Southside, Coi Leray, City Girls, Rylo Rodriguez, Rob49, Tee Grizzley, Luh Tyler, YTB Fatt, and many others.

Follow Skilla Baby

Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

The Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory Offers Triple the Reasons to Celebrate National Cheesecake Day This Year

The Cheesecake Factory is celebrating its favorite holiday – National Cheesecake Day – in a big way this year making it a two-day celebration and introducing the newest flavor to its legendary lineup on July 29: Triple Berry Bliss Cheesecake – creamy cheesecake layered with vanilla cake, three kinds of berries and a kiss of citrus. For every slice of Triple Berry Bliss Cheesecake sold through July 29, 2025, The Cheesecake Factory will donate 25 cents to Feeding America®, the nation’s largest hunger-relief organization dedicated to ending hunger through a network of partner food banks and meal programs*. The Cheesecake Factory has donated more than $6.6 million to Feeding America since 2008 through the sale of its specially designated cheesecakes.

Additionally, Cheesecake Rewards® members can dine-in on Monday, July 29 or Tuesday, July 30 and enjoy any slice of The Cheesecake Factory’s more than 30 legendary flavors of cheesecake – including the new Triple Berry Bliss Cheesecake – for half price**.

On July 29, The Cheesecake Factory is also introducing its Cake Merch™ California Summer Collection online featuring limited-edition caps, t-shirts, beach towels and other summer must-haves. In celebration of National Cheesecake Day, on July 29 and July 30, Cheesecake Rewards members will receive free shipping and a free Celebration Cheesecake Luggage Tag with any Cake Merch purchase***.

“The Cheesecake Factory is very pleased to commemorate National Cheesecake Day by introducing our Triple Berry Bliss Cheesecake supporting Feeding America,” said David Overton, Founder and CEO of The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated. “Additionally, we are happy to provide our Cheesecake Rewards members with a special dine-in offer and exclusive Cake Merch offer on July 29 and July 30.”

*Donations made on slices sold at all The Cheesecake Factory restaurants in the U.S.A., including Puerto Rico.

**Offer valid July 29, 2024 or July 30, 2024 for dine-in only. One time use only. At least one member of party must be enrolled as a Cheesecake Rewards member prior to dining. One discounted slice of cheesecake or layer cake per dine-in guest per party. Maximum of six (6) discounted slices per party. Each guest must be present to redeem. Offer only valid at restaurants in the U.S.A., including Puerto Rico.

***While supplies last. Must enter special discount code at check out to receive free shipping and free luggage tag. Must be enrolled as a Cheesecake Rewards member to receive special discount code; code will be sent to Cheesecake Rewards members via email and posted on the Cake Merch tab of Cheesecake Rewards members’ account dashboard on July 28, 2024. Neither The Cheesecake Factory Restaurants, Inc. nor its affiliates are responsible for any inability to use discount code during the promotion period, regardless of cause, and will not provide rain checks or other ‘make goods’ in the event of any such inability.

For more information about The Cheesecake Factory, please visit www.TheCheesecakeFactory.comFind us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheCheesecakeFactoryFollow us on X atwww.x.com/cheesecakeFollow us on Instagram at www.instagram.com/cheesecakefactoryFollow us on TikTok at www.tiktok.com/@thecheesecakefactory

The 3 Steps To Help You Start A Fine Art Collection

Starting an art collection can beautify your home and can also be a good investment. People start collecting art for various reasons. Some appreciate the beauty and cultural significance of art, while others see it as a strategic way to diversify their investment portfolios.

You don’t need to be wealthy to start collecting art, but having a good eye for potential deals and an appreciation for art can go a long way. As you start, it’s important to know why you want to collect art and learn the basics of beginning an art collection and making choices that fit your personal and financial goals. In this article, we will go over the important first steps.

1 – Educate yourself about art

Learning about art is a key step as you start your collection. Begin by exploring different art styles, historical periods, and artistic movements. You can find lots of information in books, documentaries, and online courses.

You might decide to focus on specific types of art, like modernist paintings or contemporary sculptures, depending on what you like the most. Knowing more about these areas will help you make smarter choices and might lead you to discover new artists with great potential.

You also need to learn about the practical parts of owning art, such as how to take care of it and where to store it. For instance, if you live in Texas and need a safe place to keep your art, there are Texas art storage facilities designed to protect fine art properly.

2 – Set some goals

Before buying any art, it’s important to figure out what you want from your collection. Understanding your main reasons will help you focus your efforts and make choices that satisfy you.

Next, think about how much money you can spend on art. Setting a budget will help you avoid spending too much and guide you in choosing pieces that you can afford. It’s a good idea to start with smaller investments and increase your spending as you become more familiar with the art world.

Finally, decide on a theme or specific type of art you want to collect. This could be anything from paintings from a certain time period to modern sculptures. Having a specific focus makes your collection more interesting and easier to manage. It also helps you learn a lot about that particular area of art.

3 – Build connections

Building relationships is key to becoming a successful art collector. Start by frequently visiting art galleries, attending art show openings, and going to art fairs. These places are great for meeting artists, gallery owners, and other collectors. Talking to people at these events can help you learn about new trends and artists who are gaining attention.

Joining art clubs or societies can also be helpful. These groups bring together people who love art, and they organize events like talks and tours where you can learn from experienced collectors and art professionals.

Alesso + Nate Smith

Today marks a groundbreaking fusion in the music world as globally celebrated dance music producer Alesso unveils his latest collaboration with ACM New Male Artist of the Year and Billboard’s Country Rookie of the Year Nate Smith: “I Like It”. Arriving just in time for the summer festival season, the single is a feel-good party anthem, representing the pinnacle of both artists’ signature sounds in a transformative musical synergy.

“I Like It” masterfully blends Alesso’s vibrant, dance-infused sound with Nate Smith’s soul-stirring country vocals, creating a genre-defying anthem that promises to get hearts racing and feet moving. Recently captivating the mainstage at Stagecoach and named Billboard’s Rookie of the Year, Nate Smith also broke the record for the longest run at country radio in history, affirming his momentous rise in the music industry. Boasting sharp, pulsating house beats, the production features an uplifting, spirited tempo that seamlessly marries electronic rhythms with the warm, rustic charm of country guitar riffs, presenting a fresh, invigorating sound that’s both innovating and nostalgic. Listeners are treated to a rich, melodic auditory journey that epitomizes the perfect summer atmosphere – energetic, joyful, and irresistibly catchy.

Listen and watch the music video for “I Like It” HERE.

From Alesso:

“I’ve always been a big fan of the crossover between Rock/Country and Dance music. We set out to make a fun song for everyone to party to this Summer and Nate delivers an amazing performance on the song. We’re excited for the world to hear it!”

From Nate Smith:

“Alesso is an absolute force and I’ve been a fan of his for a while. I was sooooo excited when he asked me to hop on this song. It’s just one of those songs that you’ll instantly sing along to and put you in that party mode. Who could say no to that?”

The collaboration showcases the versatile artistic ranges of Alesso and Nate Smith, offering a vibrant soundtrack that promises to ignite dancefloors worldwide. Fans of both Alesso and Nate Smith, as well as new listeners, are invited to dive into the exhilarating world of “I Like It,” a track that not only pulses with Alesso’s signature dynamic beats but also resonates with Nate Smith’s compelling lyrical storytelling.

Following the success of his recent “Hypnotize” EP, Alesso continues to dominate the global music scene, electrifying crowds at major international festivals including standout performances at EDC Las Vegas, Tomorrowland Winter, and Coachella. He recently celebrated the first Body Hi after-party following Beyond Wonderland Chicago, highlighting the rapid growth of his label, Body Hi. This summer, Alesso is set to continue his tour de force with headline performances at Tomorrowland Belgium, Ultra Music Festival in Bali and Korea, and his high-profile residency with TAO Nightlife in Las Vegas. Notably, Alesso’s 2017 hit collaboration with Florida Georgia Line and Hailee Steinfeld, “Let Me Go,” has just surpassed a billion streams, further cementing his influence in the global music landscape. More information and upcoming events for Alesso can be found HERE.

Alesso x Nate Smith “I Like It” eSingle HERE.

Follow Alesso

Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/elibrownbeats

Facebook: facebook.com/AlessoOfficial

Instagram: instagram.com/alesso

X (Twitter): twitter.com/Alesso

YouTube: youtube.com/alesso

TikTok: tiktok.com/@alesso

Website: alessoworld.com/

NLE CHOPPA + Yaisel LM

“Slut Szn” is on FIRE this summer! Today, Memphis rap sensation NLE Choppa continues his latest red hot run with a new single and music video entitled “Catalina” featuring Dominican star Yaisel LM, out now via NLE Entertainment/Warner Records. This release marks NLE Choppa’s first venture into Latin music, showcasing his ability to transcend genres and bring a fresh, bilingual dimension to his work. Listen HERE. Watch the music video HERE.

“Catalina” kicks off with a propulsive bassline that sets the stage for a dance floor-ready anthem. NLE Choppa’s rapid-fire flow delivers lusty bars filled with double entendre, while Yaisel LM’s Spanish verses add an extra layer of heat to this dynamic track. The vibrant music video, shot in Miami, features Choppa and Yaisel LM judging a lively twerking contest, spraying super soakers, and showcasing infectious dance moves.

Following the success of “Stickin and Movin,” which garnered over 5.4 million global streams and 1.3 million YouTube views, NLE Choppa continues to thrive, earning critical acclaim and making waves in the music industry. His recent interview with Billboard and praise from HotNewHipHop highlighting his ongoing impact and the anticipation surrounding his new releases.

Recently, Choppa lit up the stage at Madison Square Garden in front of a sold-out crowd on A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie’s Better Off Alone tour, played in and helped his team win the 2024 BETX Celebrity Basketball Game, and excited fans performing at the BETX fanfest stage. Expanding his influence, he will be revealing various film and television projects following his appearance on the final season of Freeform’s Grownish.

The viral hit “Slut Me Out 2” continues to captivate audiences, amassing over 108 million global streams and 9.6 million YouTube views. This sequel to his explosive 2022 RIAA 2x Platinum-certified hit, “Slut Me Out,” demonstrates Choppa’s ability to push boundaries and engage listeners with his bold lyricism and energetic performances.

NLE Choppa is also making waves outside the studio with his collaboration with Omar Bailey’s FCTRY LAb, unveiling the limited edition Neon Yellow Duck Boot, which sold out upon release.

FOLLOW NLE CHOPPA:

Photo Credit: Abail Demena

Polestar Concept BST

New Polestar Concept BST makes its global debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Polestar (Nasdaq: PSNY) is
once again at Goodwood Festival of Speed, showing its expanded model line-up with the new polestar 3 and Polestar 4 electric SUVs joining the Polestar 2 center stage. Star of the show is the Polestar Concept BST, making its global debut at the famous motoring festival. In the first glance paddock the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 are joined by the Polestar 6 Concept, marking the dynamic debut for the electric roadster concept.

Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar, said: “Now we are a brand with three models in production it’s great to see them here together for the first time at a global event.

Goodwood Festival of Speed is full of the most exciting cars and the most enthusiastic crowds, so it’s the perfect place for us to tease our Polestar Concept BST.

This car is a demonstration of how far we can push our performance brand – Polestar turned up to 11 if you will – and a demonstration of how we could apply the BST formula to our lineup in the future.”

The Polestar Concept BST features bespoke bodywork, finished in a classic
motorsport silver, with muscular flared arches, extra wide track, and 22-inch
forged alloy wheels. An aerodynamically optimised hood, with its unique vented design, is framed by an aggressive front splitter. The motorsport theme continues. at the rear with an extreme rear wing and a design completed by the bespoke racing-livery inspired graphics.

The Polestar 6 Concept, located in the first glance paddock, will be demonstrated driving up the 1.2-mile long hillclimb in front of the festival’s crowds.

Engineered alongside Polestar 5 and using its bespoke bonded aluminum Polestar Performance Architecture (PPA) platform, Polestar 6 will represent the pinnacle of the current Polestar lineup.

On the main Polestar stand, the Polestar Concept BST is joined by the Polestar 2 and the two new luxury electric performance SUVs Polestar 3 and Polestar 4.

Electric Avenue hosts Polestar 4 this year, and consumers can experience Polestar models for themselves on a test drive along Molecomb drive within the famous Goodwood estate by signing up at the stand.

Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 are available to order, with test drives of Polestar 3
underway and Polestar 4 slots starting shortly. You can find out more HERE.

KATY PERRY – WOMAN’S WORLD

GLOBAL POP SUPERSTAR KATY PERRY’S FIRST SINGLE AND VIDEO, “WOMAN’S WORLD,” OUT NOW

NEW ALBUM, 143, CONFIRMED FOR SEPTEMBER 20 RELEASE VIA CAPITOL RECORDS

LISTEN HERE

VIEW THE VIDEO HERE

DIRECTED BY: Charlotte Rutherford

“I set out to create a bold, exuberant, celebratory dance-pop album with the symbolic 143 numerical expression of love as a throughline message,” – Katy Perry.

FOLLOW KATY PERRY

Photo Credit: Cynthia Parkhurst