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Merchants + Chargebacks
Merchants, Chargebacks, and the IRS: Navigating the Complexities of False Profits
Article: Monica Eaton, Founder of Chargebacks911
Chargebacks take a toll on retailers year-round, and when tax season approaches, the IRS is ready to collect. The proliferation of friendly fraud has put merchants on defense and their profits in limbo. The best defense is a good offense; merchants need to create their own chargeback playbook.
Chargebacks and Friendly Fraud
In a quest for the quickest route from point A to point B, dissatisfied retail customers are bypassing merchants and airing their grievances with their banks to secure a refund, known as a chargeback. First-party misuse occurs when the consumer makes a legitimate charge but may not recognize it and mistakenly assumes it to be a merchant error or fraud.
And the simplicity of it all has led to the abuse of the chargeback system, with customers viewing the process as the same as requesting a refund from a merchant, along with a growing trend of consumers knowingly gaming the system, also referred to as “friendly fraud.” Merchant Fraud Journal predicts chargebacks will cost retailers over $100 billion in 2023.
While banks deposit chargebacks into their customer’s accounts almost instantly, the chargeback process to validate or invalidate the dispute can take months. Win or lose, merchants still contend with the quandary of how to report unpredictable chargebacks and their associated fees to the IRS.
Proactive Planning
Firstly, chargebacks should be treated differently than refunds. Chargebacks cannot be reported as “cost of goods sold” (COGS); however, they can be listed as “accounts receivable.” They should be logged in a separate account designated for chargebacks as funds owed to the business. If the retailer wins their dispute, the amount will be applied against that account. If they lose or elect not to challenge a chargeback, the accounts receivable balance should be written off as a “bad debt expense.”
Secondly, Chargeback fees should be considered operating expenses or bank fees; a subaccount is recommended for high-volume chargebacks.
Thirdly, retailers who receive payments through payment card processors, such as PayPal, Zelle, or Venmo, must fill out IRS Form 1099-K, which will be sent directly to the retailers from the payment networks. It is essential for merchants to note which chargebacks come from third-party networks. Payment transaction services do not account for refunds, chargebacks, or associated fees when reporting their gross monthly and annual payments. If not properly accounted for, this can lead to a higher income being reported to the IRS than was actually received.
In the 2024 tax season, the threshold to report payments and transactions from third-party payment platforms and apps will drop from $20,000 for more than 200 transactions to $600 for any number of transactions on a given platform.
Prevention Strategies
To prevent chargebacks before they happen, retailers can implement two key strategies throughout the year — collaboration and confrontation.
Collaborate with financial institutions and take advantage of the products they offer that alert retailers to a potential chargeback before it is filed. This allows merchants more time to review the transaction and take the appropriate action to avoid a chargeback.
Confront and challenge illegitimate or fraudulent chargebacks, not only to recover lost revenue, but to open up communication with issuing banks to help both sides recognize current patterns and the latest trends in friendly fraud and its abuse.
About Chargebacks911
Chargebacks911 is the global leader in chargeback management and remediation technology. As a provider or supplier to financial technology companies and financial institutions, Chargebacks911 safeguards more than 2.4 billion transactions per year on behalf of clients in 87 countries around the world. For details on Chargebacks911’s comprehensive dispute management solutions, visit https://chargebacks911.com.
MLS x Marvel x adidas Collab
Major League Soccer (MLS), adidas, and Marvel announced that legendary Marvel Super Heroes will be featured on MLS merchandise as part of a three-part collaboration dropping throughout the summer on MLSstore.com.
Through this collection, the three organizations will celebrate a period of tremendous momentum behind soccer in North America and provide new ways for both MLS and Marvel fans alike to engage with the sport and characters they love. The unique product offerings, mixed with creative design elements, position MLS and Marvel at the intersection of sports and fashion as they celebrate the cultural moment surrounding heroes on and off the field.
“Major League Soccer and adidas’ Marvel collaboration captures the unique spirit, confident attitude, and diverse environment that embodies the sport of soccer,” said Rachel Hoagland, MLS SVP of Consumer Products. “The League continues to reimagine our product offerings so fans can celebrate the teams and players they love in new ways. This special collection is the latest evolution of the League’s commitment to spotlighting the creativity in our sport and connecting soccer with progressive fashion offerings.”
The Super Hero-inspired apparel officially launches today with an Avengers-inspired bespoke warm-up jacket, pants, and official match ball that will be used during the MLS All-Star Game on July 19 at Audi Field in D.C. Continuing throughout the summer, Captain America-themed unisex warm-up tops will drop later in June, followed by Avengers-inspired tops in August as part of the League and Continental Tire’s efforts to raise awareness and funds during Kick Childhood Cancer Awareness month in September.
Unlocking a new era of sports fandom, MLS and Marvel’s legendary Super Heroes unite people of all backgrounds, and the collection showcases the League’s unique expression of the global game through fashion. These Marvel-inspired collections will be available at MLSstore.com, select MLS retail locations and onsite at League retail locations in the D.C. metro-area.
Fans in the Washington D.C. area can also find All-Star branded products including headwear, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and more on MLSstore.com, at various local retailers and D.C. United’s team store at Audi Field leading up to the MLS All-Star Game. MLS’ pop-up retail featuring All-Star branded product, including Marvel apparel, will be featured at major All-Star events including MLS All-Star Soccer Celebration presented by Coca-Cola Zero Sugar at The Wharf (760 Maine Ave. SW, Washington D.C. 20024) on Saturday, July 15 from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. ET, and Sunday, July 16 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET.
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer — celebrating its 28th season in 2023 — features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, including a new expansion team in San Diego that will debut in 2025. All MLS, Leagues Cup, and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT matches can be watched through MLS Season Pass, available on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at tv.apple.com. MLS Season Pass will feature the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit mlssoccer.com. For more information about the Apple TV app, visit apple.com/apple tv-app.
ABOUT ADIDAS IN SOCCER
adidas has been the official partner of Major League Soccer since its inception. As such, adidas designs and distributes every season’s jersey, brings to life limited edition sportswear collaborations, and sponsors talented athletes like Thiago Almada, Jesús Ferreira, Brandon Vazquez, and many more.
ABOUT MARVEL IN FITNESS, WELLNESS AND ACTIVITY
Celebrating the Avengers focus on teamwork and the 60-year legacy of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, the collection continues to support Marvel’s focus on fitness, wellness, and activity. Adidas and MLS are a perfect compliment to remind Marvel fans of all ages that we are stronger together and that everyone has the power to do something heroic on and off the field.
Protected: 3 Ways to Increase Online Sales with Internet Marketing
2024 GR86 TRUENO
Throwback Spirit, Modern Performance
- • TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Announces GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla Special Editions for Model Year 2024 Lineup
- • GR86 Sports Coupe Celebrates 40 Years Since AE86 Launch with a Special TRUENO Edition
- • AE86-Inspired Two-Tone Black Hood and Side Panel Graphic Paired with Halo or Track bRed
- • Upgraded Performance Package with SACHS® Dampers and Brembo ® Brakes
- • Performance Package Now Available for GR86 Models Equipped with 18-inch Wheels
- • Active Safety Suite Now Standard on Manual Transmission Equipped Models
Toyota is bringing a double dose of pure driving delight to the GR86 for the 2024 model year. First up is a limited GR86 TRUENO Edition with a throwback two tone look that will come in a choice of Halo and black or Track bRed and black. Next, a newly available Performance Package with SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes comes as standard equipment on the TRUENO Edition and will be available as an upgrade package for GR86 models.
Built on the Premium grade, the GR86 TRUENO Edition will be available in both manual and automatic transmission models with only 860 units to be produced for the US market, a number plate on the driver’s side dash will mark its rarity. A black wrapped hood, black TRUENO Edition side panel graphic, and black painted duckbill spoiler paired to either Halo or Track bRed will give the model its two-tone look. In a tribute to the 1980’s model that inspired its design, it will wear a TRUENO Edition badge on the front bumper lip and rear decklid. Additional accents will include black metallic finished 18-inch, 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheels that are unique to the TRUENO Edition, along with black door handles and mirror caps.
Inside the special edition, Ultrasuede® sport seats are trimmed with attention grabbing red leather and complemented by a red-stitched shift boot and leather-wrapped steering wheel. A TRUENO Edition logoed shift knob and all-weather floor/trunk mats also add a unique touch to the driver-focused cockpit. An 8-inch touchscreen display that includes Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and premium eight speaker audio system for an immersive driving experience, come standard.
Model year 2024 also brings suspension and braking upgrades with a GR86 Performance Package. Consisting of ZF SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes, this new Performance Package will be standard on the TRUENO Edition. The Performance Package will be an option that customers can add to for new 2024 GR86 models and available as a retrofit for any GR86 from the 2022 or 2023 model years (18-inch wheels required). The package is specially tuned by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing for the GR86, with the aim of maximizing handling, ride comfort, and brake system consistency.
A new addition for manual transmission equipped models is an Active Safety Suite. The system uses a stereo camera to monitor the road ahead and includes features like PreCollision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert and High Beam Assist. This system was previously available on automatic transmission equipped models. The addition of active safety adds to Toyota’s Star Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and more.
The 2024 Toyota GR86 TRUENO Edition will be available in limited quantities this coming Winter. The Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price for the GR86 TRUENO Edition and complete GR86 2024 lineup will be shared later this year.
The Thunderclap is Back
With its pop-up halogen headlights, angular hood, and liftback styling, the 1984-1987 Corolla Sport GT-S liftback, or Sprinter Trueno as it was known in Japan, brought sporty performance to the fifth generation Corolla line in the U.S. With it, Toyota brought a unique model to the hot hatch category.
Also referred to as the AE86, which was the chassis code for the 1980’s era model, it was powered by a 1.6-liter twin cam 16-valve engine with a rev-happy redline of 7500 rpms. Its low curb weight of around 2,300 pounds and rear wheel drive powertrain and factory limited slip differential, paired with a suspension that was a combination of MacPherson struts and 4-link coil springs with a lateral rod, made it a favorite of drivers who liked to tame the corners.
The combination of a snappy 5-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel-drive platform, balanced front-to-rear weight proportion, and tunability made the AE86 popular among rally, circuit and touring racers. The fact that the liftback design could carry four mounted wheels and tires made it a favorite among weekend racers too.
The model became especially popular for use in drift racing. The weight and power proportions were a perfect fit for the style of driving that took corners with controlled oversteer. Notably, it became the model of choice for Japanese “Drift King” Keiichi Tsuchiya and other top Japanese drift racers, who cemented the model’s reputation in the motorsport. The AE86’s popularity also crossed over into popular culture in the 1990’s, as an AE86 Trueno GT-APEX Liftback with black rockers and hood known as the “panda” gained Anime fame as it twisted its way down fictional mountain roads.
For 2024, the heritage of the AE86 marks its return with the GR86 TRUENO Edition. Its design elements on the exterior and interior are a modern interpretation of the 1980’s model. As for performance, the GR86 is recognized by many enthusiasts as Toyota’s spiritual successor to the AE86. With a lightweight, RWD platform, and the TRUENO Edition’s upgraded suspension damper and brake system, it is a driver’s car engineered with a priority on handling and balanced power delivery, ready for the twists and turns ahead.
Performance Level-Up Acquired
For 2024, the GR86 amplifies its handling qualities with the addition of an optional performance package consisting of ZF SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes. This damper and brake package will be standard on the 2024 TRUENO Edition and can be added as a dealer installed option for any new 2024 GR86 lease or purchase, or any GR86 back to model year 2022, with 18-inch wheels.
The SACHS Dampers are filled with high pressure nitrogen and oil and are designed to absorb vibrations across a wide range of speeds, maximize ground contact, and support firm, stable steering, while also balancing road feedback and ride comfort. The redpainted Brembo 4-piston front and 2-piston rear brake calipers clamp down on smooth surfaced 12.8 x 1.3-in front rotors, with 12.4 x .79-in. rotors in the rear. The pad area is 11.6-in2 in the front and 4.9-in2 in the rear.
The upgraded dampers and brakes complement the GR86’s chassis well, which is already known for its taut, responsive feel. Crafted from a combination of high-strength steel, hot-stamped steel, and aluminum, each material in the frame is strategically placed to bring drivers a balance of roll and pitch that maximizes control. Up front it uses diagonal cross members and high strength fasteners to join the front suspension and frame together. At the rear, a full ring structure and high-strength fasteners connect the frame and suspension mounts. For additional reinforcement, structural adhesive throughout the underbody. Altogether creating a taut, connected frame.
Minimal Weight, Maximum Fun
All GR86 models pack in modern engineering, tech, and convenience – while sticking to its lightweight sports car roots.
Weighing in at just 2,811 pounds for the manual transmission equipped Base grade model, and at 2,851 pounds for automatic version, the GR86 is among the lightest sports cars on the market. An aluminum hood, front fenders and roof panel help keep the weight down on the body. While details such as the use of structural adhesives in the frame and seats that are over six pounds lighter than the prior generation 86, help save precious ounces in the name of maximum control.
The naturally aspirated 2.4-liter FA-24 engine delivers 228 hp and 184 lb.-ft. of torque and is tuned so that peak torque arrives at 3,700 RPM, resulting in a responsive and powerful driving experience in all situations. Zero-to-60 acceleration comes in at 6.1 seconds for the 6-speed manual transmission, and 6.6 seconds for the available sixspeed electronically controlled automatic transmission (ECT-i). With either transmission, the GR86 comes equipped with a Torsen® limited-slip rear differential for enhanced traction while cornering.
Sports car purists will love GR86’s 6-speed manual transmission. With the push of a button, drivers can engage Track mode or switch off Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). Additional clutch discs and a new high-capacity torque converter allow for smooth delivery of the 2.4-liter engine’s higher power and torque.
On the inside of GR86, drivers will experience a low-slung, driver-focused cockpit with digital instrument panel, push-button start, HVAC system with LED dials and piano-key switches, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls for the audio system. For the 6-speed automatic, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters offer enthusiasts a dynamic driving experience. Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport or Snow modes. When in Sport mode, the transmission senses brake and accelerator operation and vehicle behavior to automatically select the optimal gear, bringing drivers the control they want.
An 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system with a six-speaker audio system comes standard on the Base grade and an eight-speaker system is standard on the TRUENO Edition and Premium grade. For seating, the Premium grade comes with Ultrasuede® and leather-trimmed, six-way adjustable black and silver accented front seats with two-level heating. The Base grade has six-way adjustable black G-embossed fabric with sport fabric side bolsters. Rear seats are covered with Ultrasuede on the Premium and sport fabric on the Base grade.
GR86 Safety & Connected Services
All Toyota GR86 models come standard with an Active Safety Suite. On Automatic Transmission models this suite includes Pre-Collision Braking System, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Lane Departure Warning with Sway Warning and Automatic High Beams. Manual Transmission models include Pre-Collision Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, and Rear Sonar Warning. An anti-theft system with engine immobilizer and alarm are also standard.
Toyota’s Star Safety System™ also comes standard on all models, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). It also includes Smart Stop Technology® (SST), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Track Mode and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC). Additional safety features include LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) with lower anchors on outboard rear seats and tether anchors on all rear seats and a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). Seven airbags are standard on all models, including a driver’s knee airbag.
Experience convenience and peace of mind with GR86’s Connected Services* trials, including a one-year trial subscription of Safety Connect** with Emergency Assistance Button and Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Remote Connect to start, lock/unlock your doors and more using your compatible smart device; a one-year trial of Service Connect which includes receiving personalized maintenance updates and vehicle health reports; and, a one-year trial of Remote Connect so you can remotely interact with your vehicle through the Toyota app via your smartwatch, Amazon Alexa-enabled devices, and Google Assistant™-enabled *devices. Allowing you to lock/unlock doors, start and stop the vehicle, locate your last parked location, check vehicle status and monitor guest drivers. For more details, please visit toyota.com/connected-services.
Complimentary 1-year NASA Membership
Purchase of any 2024 GR86 comes with a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). GR86 owners will enjoy a host of benefits, including one free High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events.
Warranty and ToyotaCare
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles, and corrosion with no mileage limitation. ToyotaCare is a no additional cost plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 39,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 22 electrified options.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to virtually visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
About TOYOTA GAZOO Racing
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing embodies Toyota’s commitment to overcoming every limit to make ‘ever-better’ cars, to forge new technologies and solutions under the extreme conditions of motorsports, and to never stop innovating. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing races its cars to push the limits for better and to learn from the toughest challenges. Competing on every kind of road, no matter what the challenge, inspires TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to build ‘ever-better’ cars and engineer Toyota’s future DNA to bring freedom, adventure, and joy of driving to everyone. For more information, visit www.toyotagazooracing.com.
Boost Employee Morale with Top-Notch Employee Engagement Software
Employee engagement has become a buzzword in the corporate world as it plays a vital role in the success of any organization. An engaged employee is motivated, enthusiastic, and committed to their work, leading to improved productivity and business growth. However, companies struggle to maintain high levels of employee engagement and morale due to various reasons like remote working or disengaged employees.
The solution lies in using an employee engagement platform that enables organizations to communicate with their employees efficiently. Employee engagement platforms provide a variety of tools to improve communication between employees and management. They also help to track employee satisfaction levels.
Let us look at how exactly an employee engagement platform can boost morale among your workforce:
1) Real-Time Communication:
Communication is key when it comes to establishing trust within teams and fostering positive relationships. With an employee engagement platform, companies can swiftly share information with all team members or specific individuals through real-time messaging features, which allow you instantly connect with people wherever they are.
This instant connectivity level can help remote teams stay on track by giving regular updates about projects or deadlines without affecting others’ schedules.
2) Recognition & Rewards:
Appreciation goes a long way toward boosting morale because it’s always nice to feel valued for your contributions. Employee recognition should extend beyond annual bonuses or promotions; it must focus on day-to-day wins and achievements. By introducing rewards programs within your company’s resources hub (employee engagement software), managers gain transparency into valuable inputs required for assessing staff performance, then offer incentives such as gift cards or additional days off based on pre-defined benchmarks.
3) Employee Feedback:
A systematic feedback system allows for increased collaboration amongst employees while empowering them to be part of decision-making processes. An effective channel within the organization’s HR resources hub revolving around communication channels such as surveys, polls, etc., allows workers to express anonymous concerns about any issues they may currently experience. Such participant feedback will enable higher-ups to get necessary insight into how their employees feel, the most pressing issues, and where efforts should be focused to improve overall morale.
4) Growth and Development:
Employees who feel a sense of progress in their work are more likely to remain motivated and committed. Coupling the employee growth and learning process with task management tools helps improve engagement by allowing for proper feedback loops from higher-ups over development programs taken by concerned workers. Increased communication between the employer and workers around career growth combined with a transparent performance tracking dashboard can help foster the belief in a company’s potential towards staff progression while at work.
5) Community Building:
Another factor contributing to high morale is building a cohesive team environment that fosters teamwork within departments or across departments. Social events or interactive activities, whether it’s friendly virtual-combat games on Fridays or Team building exercises, allow co-workers to connect outside work hours, breakings unhealthy monotony. That being said, this would allow them an opportunity for better communication improving employee relationships, leading to significant improvements in overall job satisfaction, which impacts business’ success.
Wrapping up:
Boosting employee morale can be achieved through the use of top-notch employee engagement software. This software helps create a positive work environment by fostering employee participation, motivation, and satisfaction. It enables effective communication and collaboration among team members, ensuring everyone feels valued and heard. With features such as recognition and rewards programs, surveys, and feedback mechanisms, employee engagement software promotes a sense of belonging and encourages employees to perform at their best. By investing in this software, organizations can improve employee morale, leading to increased productivity, retention, and overall success.
In conclusion:
Utilizing an employee engagement platform can lead to better internal collaboration by facilitating highly efficient intra-team communication when deployed within organizations internally. Your software must ensure you’ve implemented adequate reward-based initiatives providing opportunities for skill development through its e-learning features backed with gamification elements – as modern-day learners require active interfaces- increasing worker participation and resulting in improved productivity levels!
Kierra “DaBeautifulKey” Taylor
We are proud to proclaim DaBeautifulKey as our Reverbnation contest winner. Both her tonality and overall fashion sense separate her from a sea of sameness–definetly an artist to watch. Be sure to check out her latest. It’s a vibe!
How old were you at the time you started making music?
I’ve been writing songs since I was 12. After receiving my Yamaha keypad as a birthday present. The first song I wrote in college was called “Boy Crazy” and it was about my first crush.
What aroused your interest for music?
I have always been intrigued by pop culture… always been involved, whether it was forcing my friends to enter dance competitions or talent shows. I choreographed our dances and wrote our songs. I’ve always enjoyed being creative.
Who influences your music?
Life experiences and allowing myself to be vulnerable to traumatic times. Then translate into a funky tune to help overcome the pain and teach to dance.If you were given the opportunity to work with three important artists, who would they be?
Dua Lipa, Doja Cat and Tiwa Savage.
Community involvement?
I volunteer every year at the martial arts schools for kids. I donate my brand of tea and get tons of sponsorships for models and emerging photographers in the community. I also developed a mandate, “Dabeautiful Mind” to help make stress management programs mandatory for law enforcement and the military.
ZHU – THE GRACE TOUR
Nominated artist ZHU announces his North American headline tour, produced by Live Nation. The Grace Tour will kick off in Toronto on September 14 and bring ZHU to major cities including Brooklyn, Chicago, and San Francisco before wrapping in Los Angeles with two nights at the Hollywood Palladium. This is ZHU’S first headline tour since his 2018 & Dune Tour. Sign up now for the artist pre-sale.
The tour will see additional support from Channel Tres (DJ Set) at the Brooklyn and San Francisco dates, Claptone at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, CO, Hayden James at the Los Angeles dates, as well as Noizu on multiple select dates throughout the tour.
Tickets will be available starting with a Citi presale for U.S. dates beginning Monday, June 19. Additional presales will run throughout the week, including an Artist Presale starting Tuesday, June 20, ahead of the general on sale beginning Friday, June 23 at 10AM local time. Citi is the official card of The Grace Tour US dates. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Monday, June 19 at 10AM local time until Thursday, June 22 at 10PM local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
The announcement of the tour comes on the heels of ZHU’s recent collaboration with the video game franchise, Mortal Kombat 1. The original track entitled Fatal (Mortal Kombat 1) is set as the backdrop of all gameplay matches – listen here. ZHU’s latest single, Revelations, which saw ZHU team up with Devault and BabyJake on the silken, slow-burning single. Listen HERE and watch the video HERE. The new track was the first preview fans saw from ZHU’s upcoming album. Stay tuned for more info on the album coming soon! In addition to the upcoming tour, ZHU& kicked off summer performing at Lighting in a Bottle and will be playing numerous more festivals this summer, including Bumbershoot and Goldrush. In addition to the festivals, ZHU returns to London on August 4th for his first headline show in the UK capital since 2015. ZHU will play an extended set alongside his full visual show at the beautiful Lafayette in King’s Cross. See below for itinerary or visit https://zhumusic.com/pages/tour. Last year, he joined Swedish House Mafia on their Paradise Again tour. After joining ZHU backstage for this feature, VMAN noted, ZHU has curated a slick persona with a massive influence far beyond his music, specifically in the fashion space. HYPEBEAST said ZHU consistently delivers stunning audio-visual experiences drawing from a broad range of influences, with high fashion and rave being recurring themes.
He previewed his NIGHTDAY fashion line, designed in collaboration with Emmy Slattery during his EDC Las Vegas set last year. The name for the collection, which will soon be available at select retailers, was inspired by ZHU’s massively successful debut EP, which included the GRAMMY-nominated hit, Faded. Billboard noted, it is an accomplishment for an artist to partner with a swanky fashion house, yet a next-level achievement is unlocked by designing a collection oneself, from inspiration to garment.
ZHU ‘THE GRACE TOUR’ DATES
09.14 – Toronto, ON – Rebel
09.15 – London, ON – London Music Hall
09.16 – Montreal, QC – MTELUS
09.19 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore
09.21 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Mirage
09.25 – Pittsburgh, PA – Roxian Theatre
09.26 – New Haven, CT – Toad’s Place
09.28 – Boston, MA – House of Blues
09.30 – Washington, DC – The Anthem
10.02 – Nashville, TN – Marathon Music Works
10.04 – Austin, TX – ACL Live
10.06 – Houston, TX – Bayou Music Center
10.07 – Dallas, TX – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
10.11 – Madison, WI – The Sylvee
10.12 – Chicago, IL – Radius
10.14 – Minneapolis, MN – Armory
10.17 – Boise, ID – Revolution Concert House
10.19 – Sacramento, CA – Sacramento Memorial Auditorium
10.20 – San Francisco, CA – Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
10.27 – Vancouver, BC – Harbour Events Centre
10.28 – Portland, OR – Roseland Theater
11.01 – Red Rocks Amphitheatre
11.04 – Magna, UT – The Great Saltair
11.09 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Palladium
11.10 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Palladium
ZHU FESTIVAL AND EUROPE TOUR DATES
07.20 – Ostrava, Czechia – Colours of Ostrava 2023
07.21 – Dubrovnik, Croatia – Revelin Culture Club
07.22 – Zurich, Switzerland – ZOA City
07.28-30 – Plock, Poland – Audioriver Festival 2023
07.29 – Istanbul, Turkey – Zorlu Center
07.30 – Izmir, Turkey – YUZU Beach
08.4 – London, UK
08.5 – Cluj-Napoca, Romania – Untold Festival
09.2-3 – Seattle, WA – Bumbershoot 2023
10.7-8 – Avondale, AZ – Goldrush 2023
11.17-19 – Mexico City, MX – Corona Capital
About Live Nation Entertainment
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) is the world’s leading live entertainment company comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster,& Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Sponsorship. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.
Follow ZHU:
38TH ANNUAL STELLAR AWARDS
The Stellar Gospel Music Awards, Gospel music’s biggest night, is set to return to Las Vegas for its 38th annual celebration. This year, the event is taking its renowned festivities to new heights with the introduction of the ultimate fan experience, the Stellar+ Experience (Stellar+EXP). Co-founders Rhonda Jackson-Sams and Michele Murphy have curated an unparalleled lineup of activities that will showcase the talents, vision, creativity, and innovation of the Gospel music industry.
The Stellar+EXP provides attendees and participants with a completely personalized experience, featuring concerts, discussions, master classes, and much more. As a multi-generational family weekend event, the addition of Stellar+EXP will heighten the festivities and create a unique atmosphere of faith, fellowship, music and fun. Now, fans can enjoy three full days of brand new interactive activities, offering engagement opportunities with their favorite artists, and immersion into the world of Gospel music.
The Stellar+ Experience events will take place at the Palms Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada, from Wednesday, July 12th, to Friday, July 14th, 2023. Limited edition passes are now available for purchase, ranging from $60 to $250, at www.eventbrite.com. For the full event schedule and more information, visit stellarplusexperience.com.
“We’re ecstatic to present Stellar+ Experience week, an incredible extension of the Stellar Gospel Music Awards. Through valuable input from our viewers and industry peers, we’ve curated diverse experiences that embrace community, fashion, comedy, and societal matters,” said Stellar Awards Founder and Executive Producer Don Jackson. This expansion, alongside our historic flagship show, amplifies gospel music’s influence, culminating in two phenomenal pre-show days. Prepare for an inspiring showcase of talent, uniting gospel music with all facets of entertainment in the vibrant city of Las Vegas.”
The new Stellar+EXP includes several exciting events designed to entertain and inspire. Stellar and the Community, an event partnership with the City of Las Vegas focused on the Arts, will promote the importance of art and its impact on communities. The Spotify Artist Experience will bring music industry experts to share valuable information with aspiring artists. Stellar Talks will feature intimate conversations with high-profile couples, fostering discussions on love, life, and faith. Additionally, Fireside Chats with special celebrity guests, Stellar Unplugged, Who’s Got Next? Showcase, and the Celebrity Basketball Game will provide thrilling entertainment throughout the weekend. The Legendary Game Changers Lunch, hosted by celebrity fashion influencers J. Bolin and Joyce Sheffield, will recognize trail blazers in fashion and beauty. Sanctioned events that are familiar to Stellar attendees will still be offered, such as Aaron Arringtonߣs Midnight Gospel Bowling and various Post-Event receptions. Full schedule of sanctioned events is available at www.thestellarawards.com.
Confirmed artists for the Stellar+EXP include Mali Music, Brian Courtney Wilson, Jokia Williams, Jason Clayborn, Titus Showers, Jabari Johnson, Jermaine Dolly, and many more. Each day will bring new announcements, adding to the excitement and anticipation of the event.
Co-Founder Rhonda Jackson-Sams expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Akin to Gospel music, Stellar & Central City Production’s goal is to ensure that people feel encouraged and elevated while also educating our community. We are so excited to bring this special experience to all the loyal fans who have been coming to see their favorite artists at the Stellars for 38 years, as well as those learning about Stellars for the first time.”
Stay tuned for future announcements and follow @thestellar+exp on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news and updates about the Stellar+EXP week.
The Ned NoMad One Year
The Ned NoMad helmed by Richie Akiva celebrate their one year anniversary. The enchanted evening will kick off with flowing Moet Chandon champagne, stations featuring caviar delights, oysters, lobster rolls, and a bevy of passed hors d’oeuvres showcasing The Ned’s chef favorites. The ceiling will filled with gold-inspired metallic balloons, sheer metallic drapery and disco ball accents while jazz performers welcomed guests. Beautifully costumed dancers featuring champagne dresses, gold glitter ensembles, extravagant headpieces rotated the room and performed on platforms, with look and style inspired by the 1920’s Era Ziegfeld Follies showgirls.
The Ned NoMad hotel and membership club located in the historic NoMad district, have members and invited VIP guests to celebrate in the main level club atrium, The Library, The Dining Room, main bar, and then late night The Magic Room will cap off the evening’s festivities. Engaged attendees will enjoy flowing libations and engaging music to keep partygoers on the dancefloor all evening long for an epic celebration, which will feature some headlining surprise performances by iconic hip hop artists Fabolous and Ja Rule back to back. Earlier in the night, The Ned’s resident comedian, Mike Young, will showcase a guest comedy set highlighted by Fallon show late night regulars Ryan Reiss, Jourdain Fisher and Sam Woolf. After the engaging comedy sets, illusionist Elliot Zimet will wow the crowd with his white dove magic performance, as birds will literally appear in his hands and disappear into handkerchiefs.
VIPS that will be in attendance included Mayor Eric Adams (@nycmayor), Ja Rule (@jarule), Fabolous (@myfabolouslife), Fat Joe (@fatjoe), Davis Burleson (@davisburleson), Julianne Hough (@juleshough), Giancarlo Stanton (NY Yankees) (@giancarlos818), among many others. Various deejays will also perform throughout the evening, with DJ Stacks closing down the after party in the Magic Room.
The Ned NoMad has become the hottest members club and hotel in New York City, centered in the bustling NoMad district, with VIPS regularly rotating through its beautiful façade and bold glass doors. From Rihanna to Gigi Hadid, Drake to Anna Wintour, Dave Chappelle to Robin Thicke, Heidi Klum to Irina Shayk, Vanessa Hudgens to Kristen Stewart, The Ned regularly hosts the hottest performers and established industry notables, offering a welcoming environment and sophisticated haven for its members and hotel guests, with sprawling rooftop views of The Empire State Building.
About The Ned NoMad
The Ned NoMad is a sophisticated hotel and members’ club located in the heart of New York’s historic North Madison district of Manhattan. The Ned NoMad, part of Membership Collective Group, opened its doors in June 2022 in The Johnston Building, named after the original owner, Caroline A. Johnston. Visit their website for membership and hotel information, www.thenednomad.com.
