Nappy Roots woke up and said to Dicks Sporting Goods x Hoka let’s have a GOOD DAY! Check out their record “Good Day” in Dick’s Sporting Goods x HOKA: 2025 ad campaign
Nappy Roots x Dicks Sporting Goods
The Smithereens Sign With Universal Attractions Agency
Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) has signed iconic alternative rock band The Smithereens for exclusive North American booking representation. Ryan Slone will act as the responsible agent for the band. The signing further strengthens UAA’s pop & rock division, founded in 2023, which has also seen the recent addition of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Booker T. Jones, Nine Days, and more.
The Smithereens, formed in 1980 in Carteret, NJ, achieved their breakthrough with the release of their debut album, “Especially for You,” in 1986. This album featured acclaimed tracks such as “Blood and Roses” and “Behind the Wall of Sleep,” which became staples of the alternative rock genre, receiving heavy rotation on MTV and college radio stations nationwide. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, the band continued to enjoy success with hits like “A Girl Like You,” “Blues Before and After,” and “Too Much Passion.”
Throughout the years, The Smithereens have maintained a prolific touring schedule, performing over 2,500 live shows where they have shared the stage with rock & roll titans including The Ramones, Tom Petty, Lou Reed, and The Pretenders.
For upcoming shows, special guest vocalist John Cowsill will join The Smithereens. See below for October-November tour dates.
Speaking on the signing, UAA Rock & Pop agent Ryan Slone said: “The Smithereens are rock and roll royalty. We are all proud to work with a band with an incredible legacy and a loyal fan base that spans generations!”
Upcoming Smithereens Shows
10/9 – Brookville, NY – Krasnoff Theater
10/10 – Saybrook, CT – Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center
10/17 – Ardmore, PA – Ardmore Music Hall
11/7 – Falls Church, VA – State Theatre
11/8 – Richmond, VA – Tin Pan
11/14 – Boston, MA City – Winery Boston
11/15 – Greenwich, RI – Greenwich Odeum
Tickets for upcoming shows can be purchased at: officialsmithereens.com
About The Smithereens:
Founded in New Jersey in 1980, The Smithereens have been creating electrifying, original rock’n’roll for 45 years. Jim Babjak (guitar), Dennis Diken (drums), and Mike Mesaros (bass) grew up together in Carteret, and the lead singer, the late Pat DiNizio, hailed from Scotch Plains. The band paid its dues in clubs all over the NYC tri-state area, from Kenny’s Castaways in Greenwich Village to the Court Tavern and Stone Pony in NJ. As The Smithereens’ fame escalated, they were in heavy rotation on MTV and appeared on The Tonight Show, Conan O’Brien, and Saturday Night Live.
The Smithereens have resonated with fans worldwide over the course of 17 albums and more than 2,500 live shows. Their most recent release, “The Lost Album,” features 12 previously unreleased songs recorded in the fall of 1993 when the band was in between contracts with Capitol and RCA.
After the 2017 passing of Pat DiNizio, the surviving members have decided to persevere and carry on their shared musical legacy. Utilizing guest vocalists such as Robin Wilson (Gin Blossoms), Marshall Crenshaw, and John Cowsill (The Cowsills/The Beach Boys), they continue to entertain and rock fans throughout the U.S. and the world.
About Universal Attractions Agency / UAA:
Celebrating 80 years in the music business and founded in 1945 by Ben Bart, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) is a leading talent agency headquartered in New York City. With a rich history that includes launching the career of legendary soul singer James Brown and representing him for over 40 years, UAA has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for decades.
Today, UAA continues to guide the careers of prominent artists and entertainers. The agency represents over 250 artists, facilitates performances worldwide, and maintains its status as an industry leader under the leadership of Jeff Epstein and Jeff Allen.
Rick Ross Unveils The RR22 Collection, A Collaboration With Edition22
Rick Ross with Edition22 collection duffle bag as part of his RR22 Collection.
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Rick Ross is many things, a rapper, an entrepreneur, a cultural icon. Now, he is adding a luxury bag line with Edition22 to his long list of accomplishments.
On Friday, he unveiled the RR22 Collection with the brand Edition22 at the G7 Rooftop in Fort Lauderdale, boasting vegan leather backpacks, duffle bags, sling bags, crossbody bags, and more. Embedded with the “RR22” logo, the collection comes in various colorways, from black to baby blue, an olive green and an ochre yellow.
The collection is rooted in giving back, as Edition22 has a Bag-4-Bag Initiative, where a backpack is donated to someone in need for every bag that is purchased. Edition22 is part of the Bugatti Collections, the parent company of luxury bags and luggage. A notable co-owner of Edition 22 is Etienne Boulay, a retired football player.
HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA – AUGUST 08: Rick Ross, Etienne Boulay, Andrew Hattem, James Raymond Hattem and guest attend RR22 Launch Event With Rick Ross at G7 Rooftop on August 08, 2025 in Hollywood, Florida. (Photo by Romain Maurice/Getty Images)
“From the beginning, it was a priority for us at Edition22, and for Rick Ross, that the RR22 Collection had a meaningful impact beyond just fashion,” said Andrew Hattem, President of Edition22 and CEO of The Bugatti Group. “The Bag-for-Bag initiative reflects that shared commitment: for every bag sold, we donate a backpack to someone in need. It’s about giving back, empowering kids, and making a difference.”
Motivation is part of Ross’ legacy in hip hop and entrepreneurship. He recently celebrated the 19-year anniversary of his debut album Port of Miami, which was released in 2006, signing a multi-million-dollar deal with Jay-Z on Def Jam Recordings.
Rick Ross and Etienne Boulay pose for the RR22 X Rick Ross shoot for Edition22.
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In line with Ross’ legacy, RR22 Collection bag has an inspirational quote inscribed on the brand labels. The quotes are chosen by Ross. From “You can’t hustle and sleep at the same time,” to “I’m a boss, I don’t follow trends, I set them” and “The game is going to test you, never fold. Stay 10 toes down,” they encapsulate his legacy.
When he isn’t performing onstage, hosting parties or dishing business advice on Instagram, Ross is busy. His entrepreneurial empire includes Bumbu rum, Luc Belaire sparkling wine, Belaire champagne, the Maybach Music Group record label, which he founded in 2008, signing artists like Meek Mill, French Montana and Omarion, among others. He also founded Maybach Films. He invests in dental brand Smiles by Mario Montoya, Hempacco, Ewing Athletics and various restaurant franchises, Checkers and Rally’s and Wingstop.
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Why would he continue to expand his empire into a lifestyle brand collaboration with Edition22? “’Why wouldn’t I’ is the question,” said Ross. “Let me tell you something; when you’re in South Florida, this is the number one spot in the world for entrepreneurship. 95% of my businesses are launching South Florida Takeoff. When you have an opportunity to work with Bugatti Collections, Edition 22, it’s too easy. They have the most amazing team. They’ve made history with other celebrities with collaborations they’ve done. Now we just finna take it our way. Let’s take it to the real, to the streets.”
He saw his rise in hip hop in a very different, pre-digital era. It’s different now, with social media as a major player in a rapper’s success. His advice for today’s young artists is that “Everything is possible.”
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Ross explains: “That’s what I would have told myself as a young artist. Even when it looks the darkest, when it looks like you have no opportunity there, or you could be sitting there just wanting to be a songwriter and you wake up one day and you’re in the studio with Rick Ross and Rihanna, Beyonce, Jay-Z, DJ Khaled, you have to be prepared for that. And once that opportunity presents itself, you got to accept that challenge and turn up.”
Ross often talks on podcasts and social media about mediocrity and how artists can stand out from the crowd. Its about rising above it, having a vision and making a bold statement. “Rising above mediocrity is too easy, really. You have to love what you’re doing. And when you love what you’re doing, you put everything into what you’re doing. And when you put your everything into what you’re doing, it’s hard for somebody to touch you.”
KJ Smith Black & Skyh Black Set Debut Feature Under New Production Banner Blackhouse Media
KJ Smith at the “Gladiator II” Los Angeles premiere held at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Getty
EXCLUSIVE: KJ Smith Black, who headlined the hit series Sistas for nine seasons, and her husband Skyh Black (All the Queen’s Men) are producing their first feature film under their newly launched banner, Blackhouse Media.
The untitled psychological thriller, which recently wrapped principal photography, explores maternal mental health and marks the couple’s debut as producers. Smith Black also stars in the project, directed by 2025 ABFF Award winner Okema T. Moore.
The feature is described as “a character-driven story exploring trust, obsession, and the fragile boundaries between perception and reality — told through the lens of motherhood and the psychological pressures it brings”.
The producers noted: “According to the CDC, Black women remain more than three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related complications, making the subject matter both urgent and deeply resonant.”
“The project marks the first slate announcement for Blackhouse Media, which is focused on “developing elevated, story-and character-driven films and prestige television projects”.
Additional casting and post-production details are due to be announced in the coming months.
“Stepping into this role has been both a challenge and a thrill,” said Smith Black. “Having Okema’s direction ensured the story was told with intensity, heart, and authenticity. As a woman and now a mother myself, bringing this story to life felt especially urgent and meaningful.”
“This project is deeply personal for us,” said Skyh Black. “Launching Blackhouse Media with KJ leading the cast and Okema bringing her vision behind the camera feels like the perfect alignment of talent.”
Director Okema T. Moore added: “This project was not just a thrill (pun intended) to direct creatively, but as a Black female director, I felt so seen and cared for, given both directorial autonomy AND collaborative support!”
The Blacks are repped by Vault Entertainment and Yorn, Levine.
Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular
Matt Ballinger and Greg Raposo, original members of the early 2000s boyband Dream Street, have reunited to bring a fresh, acoustic take to the group’s beloved hits.
Continue readingThe Smithereens
Matt Ballinger and Greg Raposo, original members of the early 2000s boyband Dream Street, have reunited to bring a fresh, acoustic take to the group’s beloved hits.
Continue readingYing Yang Twins’ Hits-Packed Performance at SeaWorld Goes Viral
Ying Yang Twins.
Credit : Stephen J. Cohen/Getty
Ying Yang Twins still have that boom boom.
The hip-hop duo, composed of Kaine and D-Roc, was spotted performing at SeaWorld in San Diego on Saturday, June 28, and the energetic performance has since gone viral. They took the stage at Bayside Amphitheater as part of the park’s Summer Spectacular series.
The duo performed several of their hit songs, including “Salt Shaker” and “Shake,” Vibe reports. Fans of the pair were seen jamming out to their performance.
In the comments on a video clip posted on X, one user wrote, “They had everyone out of their seats moving though.” Another user wrote, “Sea World & the Ying Yang Twins is a hilarious collab.”
Meanwhile, one quipped, “Dang i didn’t know Sea World got lit like this!” A different comment read, “All the parents dancing holding their babies..straight up millennial energy.”
Ying Yang Twins.
Credit: Scott Legato/WireImage
Ying Yang Twins are particularly nostalgic for millennials. The group rose to fame after hits like 2000’s “Whistle While You Twurk” and their 2003 collaboration with Britney Spears on the song “(I Got That) Boom Boom.” They quickly became household names for their ability to craft electric party hits.
Another video shared to X showed a view from the crowd. “Ying yang twins got everyone cutting up at Seaworld LMFAOOOOO,” the user wrote.
The duo most recently took the stage at the 2025 BET Awards on June 9 in Los Angeles. Earlier this year, they embarked on the Millennium Tour, joining a packed lineup of hip hop, R&B and rap artists who defined the 1990s and 2000s.
The Summer Spectacular Series will continue throughout the summer. The lineup includes Soulja Boy and Bow Wow on July 12 and Waka Flocka Flame on July 26. The full schedule of performances and further event details are available on the official website.
Talib Kweli Sets 26-Stop North American Tour
Legendary Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli will tour clubs and theaters across the U.S. and Canada this fall.
Kweli’s 26-stop fall and winter tour begins Sept. 11 at House of Independents in Asbury Park, New Jersey, and includes stops in Toronto, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Nashville and more, before wrapping Dec. 5 at the Merry Widow in Mobile, Alabama. Kweli will also play three U.K. dates in November with Black Star.
Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via talibkweli.com/shows.
Kweli recently signed with Universal Attractions Agency where he is repped by Ben Sauberman and Jeff Epstein.
2025 Talib Kweli North American Tour Dates:
Sept. 11 – Asbury Park, NJ – House of Independents
Sept. 12 – Ardmore, PA – Ardmore Music Hall
Sept. 25 – S. Kingston, RI – Ocean Mist
Sept. 26 – S. Kingston, RI – Ocean Mist (SOLD OUT)
Sept. 27 – Burlington, VT – Afterthoughts
Sept. 28 – Portland, ME – Oxbow Live
Oct. 10 – Sudbury, ON – The Grand
Oct. 11 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwell’s Concerts and Events
Oct. 12 – Toronto, ON – Horseshoe Tavern
Oct. 14 – Cleveland, OH – Mercury Music Lounge
Oct. 15 – Lansing, MI – Grewal Hall at 224
Oct. 17 – Milwaukee, WI – The Miramar Hall
Oct. 18 – Ferndale, MI – The Loving Touch
Oct. 22 – Reno, NV – Alpine
Oct. 23 – San Diego, CA – The Holding Company
Oct. 24 Los Angeles, CA – Venice West
Oct. 25 – Leonardstown, MD – The Rex Theater
Nov. 5 – Omaha, NE – The Waiting Room
Nov. 7 – Columbia, MO – Blue Note Columbia
Nov. 9 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom
Nov. 11 – O2 Academy Brixton – London, United Kingdom (U.K. Black Star Date)
Nov. 15 – O2 Victoria Warehouse – Manchester, United Kingdom (U.K. Black Star Date)
Nov. 16 – O2 Academy Birmingham – Birmingham, United Kingdom (U.K. Black Star Date)
Nov. 23 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Sound Stage
Nov. 28 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft
Nov. 29 – Birmingham, AL – Workplay Theatre
Nov. 30 – Nashville, TN – City Winery Nashville
Dec. 3 – Ponte Vedra, FL – Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Dec. 5 – Mobile, AL – The Merry Widow
Big Mountain- One Sheet
big mountain
BIG MOUNTAIN
Big Mountain is an American reggae band formed in 1986 in San Diego, California, by lead vocalist Joaquin “Quino” McWhinney. Originally known as Rainbow Warriors and later Shiloh, the group adopted the name Big Mountain in 1991, inspired by a Native American reservation in Arizona. The band gained international fame with their 1994 reggae-pop cover of Peter Frampton’s “Baby, I Love Your Way,” which reached No. 6 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 in the UK. Their earlier chart success came with “Touch My Light” in 1993, and their album Unity sold over a million copies worldwide. Known for blending roots reggae with pop and R&B influences, Big Mountain has undergone several lineup changes but remained anchored by Quino. After a hiatus in the mid-2000s, the band returned with new music, including the 2016 album Perfect Summer and 2023’s Hear That Sound, continuing to tour globally and spread messages of love and unity through their music.
THE HITS
Instagram: 120k Followers | YouTube: 64.7k Subscribers | Facebook: 531k Followers | Spotify: 7.5M Monthly Listeners
Inner Circle- One Sheet
inner circle
INNER CIRCLE
Inner Circle, also known as “The Bad Boys of Reggae,” is a legendary Jamaican reggae band formed in Kingston in 1968 by brothers Ian and Roger Lewis. Initially gaining recognition by backing artists like The Chosen Few and later teaming up with iconic vocalist Jacob Miller, the band became a dominant force in reggae during the 1970s. Their momentum was tragically halted in 1980 when Miller died in a car crash, prompting a temporary disbandment. Inner Circle reformed in 1986 and achieved global success with hits like “Bad Boys”—which became the theme for the TV show COPS—and “Sweat (A La La La La Long),” a chart-topping single across Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Their fusion of reggae with pop and soul elements helped them transcend genre boundaries, earning them a Grammy Award in 1993 and another nomination in 1994. Known for their energetic live performances and message of unity, Inner Circle has toured extensively worldwide and collaborated with artists across generations. Despite lineup changes, the band remains anchored by the Lewis brothers and continues to promote reggae’s global influence through their music and outreach
THE HITS
Instagram: 107k Followers | YouTube: 249k Subscribers | Facebook: 249k Followers | Spotify: 6.5M Monthly Listeners | X: 25.8k Followers
