The O’Jays

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BIO

The O’Jays are touring history, a connection to an era and a sound that formed the soundtrack for the lives of several generations. The O’Jays are still hitting the road with the same electrifying energy they’ve had for over 50 years.

Walter Williams and Eddie Levert first met when they were the ages of 6 and 7 respectively. As teenagers in Canton, Ohio, they formed a band originally consisting of Eddie Levert, Walter Williams, William Powell, Bobby Massey and Bill Isles. In 1963, the band took the name “The O’Jays” in tribute to Cleveland radio disc jockey Eddie O’Jay. Several members have changed, but the core, original lead singers Eddie Levert and Walter Williams, continue to front the group.

In 1972, Gamble & Huff, a team of producers and songwriters with whom the O’Jays had been working for several years, signed the group to their Philadelphia International label. With this magic formula, often called The Sound of Philadelphia, The O’Jays scored the first number 1 and million-seller, “Backstabbers.” Subsequently, they succeeded with various chart-topping pop and R&B singles including “Love Train”, “Put Your Hands Together”, “For The Love of Money”, “I Love Music”, “Darlin’ Darlin’ Baby (Sweet, Tender, Love)”, “Livin’ For The Weekend” and “Use Ta Be My Girl.” This success propelled The O’Jays to be the first black vocal group to perform in arenas throughout America during the 70s and 80s.

Eddie and Walter have a rare lifelong bond that few of us will ever experience; friends and partners for almost 65 years. “We still appreciate our friendship, dedication to each other and the group and our love for good music.” Walter continues, “We probably could have had great solo careers, but I don’t think either one of us could have ever have been as big as The O’Jays.” Walter Williams could be considered a hero as he has battled Multiple Sclerosis or “MS” for 30 years and continues to execute his dance moves with perfection when performing on-stage with the group. Walter is also a volunteer National Ambassador for the MS Society and a spokesperson for MS Active Source. Eddie Levert is known for his raspy voice and has a range that takes him from alto to second tenor. Levert teamed up with his son Gerald for a duet on “Baby Hold On To Me”, which hit number one on the R&B charts. Eddie has also mentored his very successful sons Gerald and Sean who became major forces in the music industry.

The O’Jays were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2005. They were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2005 and honored with BET’s Life Time Achievement Award in 2009. In 2013, they were inducted into The Official R&B Music Hall of Fame. Today, the songs of The O’Jays are still being used in many movies, commercials and TV shows. “For The Love of Money” continues to be the theme song for “The Apprentice.”

Eddie Levert Sr., Walter Williams Sr. and Eric Nolan Grant, who joined the group in 1995, continue to thrill fans today. Throughout their career The O’Jays have achieved 10 Gold albums, 9 Platinum albums and 10 #1 hits. It’s been a long journey but thanks to the fans the LOVE TRAIN is still going strong!

TOUR DATES

Hot Like Mars Announces 2026 U.S. Tour

 

Chicago jam band Hot Like Mars has announced an extensive 2026 U.S. Tour. The band’s biggest tour to date, the 26-date trek, will see Hot Like Mars make stops in cities such as Cincinnati, Denver, New York, Asheville, and their hometown of Chicago, with a show at Garcia’s on May 22.

Formed in late 2023, Hot like Mars has emerged as a national touring act after a breakthrough 2025 that saw the band embark on its first-ever East Coast tour and release two albums: the studio LP “One Way Ticket Up” and live album “The Red Tapes.” After signing with Universal Attractions Agency earlier this month, Hot like Mars looks to capitalize on its growing national fan base and touring footprint with the upcoming tour and new songs on the way.

For tickets, visit the band’s official website: www.hotlikemars.com/tour-dates

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2026 Hot Like Mars U.S. Tour Dates

Jan 9, 2026 – Minneapolis, MN — Turf Club

Jan 23, 2026 – Indianapolis, IN — The Mousetrap

Jan 24, 2026 – Cincinnati, OH — MOTR Pub

Jan 30, 2026 – Denver, CO — Cervantes’ Other Side / Masterpiece Ballroom

Jan 31, 2026 – Fort Collins, CO — Washington’s

Feb 5, 2026 – Boulder, CO — Velvet Elk Lounge

Feb 7, 2026 – Steamboat Springs, CO — Old Town Pub

Feb 7, 2026 – Steamboat Springs, CO — Old Town Pub

Feb 20, 2026 – Lisle, IL — Basecamp

Mar 6, 2026 – Columbus, OH — Woodlands Tavern

Mar 13, 2026 – Louisville, KY — Mellwood Tavern

Mar 21, 2026 – Kalamazoo, MI — Bell’s Eccentric Café

Mar 27, 2026 – Brooklyn, NY — Brooklyn Bowl

Mar 28, 2026 – Barrington, NJ — Tonewood Brewing

Apr 18, 2026 – Madison, WI — High Noon Saloon

Apr 24, 2026 – Charleston, NC — The Pour House

Apr 25, 2026 – Barco, NC — Morris Farm

May 9, 2026 – Kokomo, IN — The Coterie

May 14, 2026 – Richmond, VA — Big Dipper Innovation Summit

May 15, 2026 – Charlotte, NC — Rabbit Hole

May 16, 2026 – Asheville, NC — The One Stop at Asheville Music Hall

May 22, 2026 – Chicago, IL — Garcia’s Chicago

May 29, 2026 – Milwaukee, WI — The Cooperage

June 12, 2026 – Yuba, WI — Driftless Music Gardens

July 18, 2026 – Snowshoe, WV — 4848 Festiva at Snowshoe Mountain Resort

The 2026 Hot Like Mars Tour is booked by Universal Attractions Agency’s Jackson Stone and Rob Hoffman.

Mark Podolsky Promoted to Agent at Universal Attractions Agency

 

Universal Attractions Agency has promoted Mark Podolsky to the position of West Coast agent (capacity of 1,500 and under), based in the agency’s Los Angeles office. In his new role, Mark will take over the responsibilities previously held by Brian Lottermann, who was promoted in October to West Coast agent for casinos, fairs, and festivals.

With this promotion, Mark will serve as the primary agent for several artists, including Sugarhill Gang, The Furious Five, Nappy Roots, Luniz, and DJ Skribble.

On the promotion to agent, UAA General Manager Nick Martucci said: “Mark is a great example of the kind of long-term investment we believe in at Universal Attractions Agency, identifying early-career professionals with real potential and developing them through hands-on mentorship and real opportunity.”

“He started with us as an intern, grew into an assistant role, and earned his place as an agent trainee through talent, work ethic, and consistency. When the opportunity to add an agent to the team came up, everyone knew Mark would be a great fit. We believe in his drive and his future, and we’re proud of how far he’s come and excited to see the impact he’ll continue to make as he grows with us.”

Mark joined UAA in July 2023 as an intern and was promoted to assistant in January 2024. By late 2025, he had been elevated to agent trainee. Outside of work, Mark is an avid guitar player and has played in bands since his youth. He graduated from UCLA, where he majored in philosophy and was involved in the university’s a cappella groups.

UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell Confirms Initial 2026 Tour Dates

UB40 FEATURING ALI CAMPBEL

CONFIRMS INITIAL 2026 TOUR DATES

 

THE BIG LOVE TOUR DATES

KICK OFF APRIL 11 AT THE GRENADA REGGAE FEST

U.S. SHOWS TO FOLLOW WITH STOPS IN FLORIDA,

NEW YORK, AND MORE

Ali Campbell

Fronted by the unmistakable voice of ALI CAMPBELL—known as the legendary original lead singer of UB40—UB40 FEATURING ALI CAMPBELL has announced the initial dates for their Big Love Tour in 2026. The shows kick off at the Grenada Reggae Fest—also known as “The Big Show,” a major cultural event featuring international and local artists—before the tour arrives in the U.S. with multiple stops in Florida and throughout the New York area (see the itinerary below). The 2026 dates follow an extensive 2024–2025 European tour of sold-out shows and major festival headlining slots. The tour is being booked by Universal Attractions Agency / Jeff Epstein in North America.

ALI CAMPBELL eternally remains the voice, the face, and the sound of UB40. For the live shows, ALI is backed by the same band of world class players who have performed with him since 2008. Tapping into the pulse of the Caribbean with respect and invoking the magic of its music with reverence, ALI has struck a chord with one generation of fans after another as the founding frontman and original lead “vocALIst” of UB40 and now as the namesake of UB40 FEATURING ALI CAMPBELL.

At the very mention of “Red Red Wine,” “Kingston Town,” “(I Can’t Help) Falling In Love With You,” or dozens of other hits, audiences can’t help but think of ALI’s inimitable vocals punctuated by his irreplaceable intonation, butter-smooth delivery, and bold British soul. His voice has catalyzed sales of 100 million albums, 40 Top 20 hits (as well as four #1’s), billions of streams, and innumerable accolades. Beyond earning a GRAMMY® Award nomination, he has also garnered the prestigious Ivor Novello Award for “International Achievement” and the Mauritius Government Award. Accompanied by an elite cohort of world-class players, he properly continues the legacy of UB40 with the classic sound listeners know and love on the road in 2026 and beyond.

“UB40 is my legacy,” he smiles. “It’s an absolute joy to travel everywhere and sing these songs to lovely audiences. This is reggae; it brings people together and unifies them. It doesn’t matter if you’re 10-years-old or 100-years-old, it’s always a happy time. This is what I’ve done for the last 40-plus years of my adult life. I have no intention of ever stopping either.”

The initial Big Love Tour dates by UB40 FEATURING ALI CAMPBELL are as follows:

Sat 4/11/26 Grenada, West Indies National Cricket Stadium

Wed 4/15/26 Apopka, FL Apopka Amphitheatre

Thu 4/16/26 Cocoa Beach, FL Cocoa Riverfront Park

Fri 4/17/26 Pompano Beach, FL Pompano Beach Amphitheatre

Sun 4/19/26 Clearwater, FL Ruth Ekhard Hall

Wed 4/25/26 Austin, TX The Far Out (Main Stage)

Fri 5/1/26 Atlantic City, NJ Oceans Casino w/ Matisyahu

Sat 5/2/26 Mashantucket, CT Foxwoods Casino w/ Matisyahu

Sun 5/3/26 New York, NY Kings Theatre

Ja Rule

UAA Staff

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BIO

Born in Hollis, Queens, he debuted in 1999 with Venni Vetti Vecci and its single “Holla Holla.” From 1999 to 2005, Ja Rule had several hits that made the top 20 of the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart, including “Between Me and You” with Christina Milian, “I’m Real (Murder Remix) with Jennifer Lopez, “Always on Time” with Ashanti, “Mesmerize” also with Ashanti, and “Wonderful” with R. Kelly and Ashanti. During the 2000s, Ja Rule was signed to The Inc. Records, which was formerly known as Murder Inc. and was led by Irv Gotti. Ja Rule has sold over 30 million records worldwide and was the best-selling rapper in 2001.

TOUR DATES

Luniz – One Sheet

Luniz

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Luniz

The Luniz are a rap duo out of Oakland consisting of Yukmouth and Numskull, two friends who have known each other since junior high. Originally calling themselves The Lunitunz, the two gained fame after 4 years together when they appeared on Dru Down’s Explicit Game album. Their debut album, Operation Stackola, was released in 1995 and knocked Michael Jackson’s HIStory off the top of the R&B charts on the strength of the hit single “I Got 5 on It,” which featured guest vocals by Michael Marshall of the Timex Social Club. Luniz lyrics take novel, comic approaches to sex, drugs, and everyday occurrences.They have released 3 albums “Operation Stackola”,”Lunitik Muzik” and “Silver & Black”. Currently the group is signed up to Smoke-A-Lot Records and Num To The World Music.

THE HITS

I Got 5 On It

Universal Attractions Agency Launches Corporate Events Division

 

Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) has announced the formal launch of its Corporate Events Department, a dedicated division designed to meet the growing demand from brands and organizations seeking world-class talent for corporate functions, private events, and branded experiences. UAA partner Adam Zagor, based out of the New York office, will oversee department operations and strategic relationships.

UAA has a long history of collaborating with brands, companies, and private clients to provide exceptional talent, including renowned artists such as Flo Rida, TLC, The I Love the 90’s Tour, Vanilla Ice, Rick Ross, MC Hammer, and Doug E. Fresh, DJ Jazzy Jeff, among many others.

The newly minted dedicated division will see Adam spearheading a more structured approach that positions Universal Attractions Agency as a leader in experiential entertainment for brands.

“For years, Universal has worked closely with companies and organizations to bring live entertainment to their events,” said UAA general manager Nick Martucci. “By formalizing this department, we’re committing additional resources and focus to deliver not only talent, but the kind of lifestyle-driven, experiential moments today’s brands and audiences are looking for.”

Martucci continued adding: “With this launch, we’re taking a natural next step. Adam’s leadership and experience in both artist relations and corporate partnerships make him the ideal person to guide this new chapter of growth for the agency. For 17 years now, Adam has been one of the most trusted voices here at Universal. Adam has our full support, and we are looking forward to future success.”

About Adam Zagor:

Adam Zagor is a graduate of the Fame school, Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School for Music & Art and Performing Arts, and went on to earn both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Performance from New York University. After working as a freelance musician for several years, performing at venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to festivals worldwide, Zagor began his career at UAA in 2009.

Zagor quickly came to realize that his passion for the music business was behind the scenes – helping to organize and arrange concerts, events, and tours. In 2017, he became the first agent promoted to partner by Epstein and Allen. Zagor currently represents K. Michelle, Marsha Ambrosius, Floetry, Mary Mary, Erica Campbell, Tina Campbell, Fred Hammond, Raheem DeVaughn, MC Lyte, Jeffrey Osborne, and David Benoit.

Grupo Cañaveral

Hablar de LA BANDA EL RECODO DE CRUZ LIZARRAGA es hablar de una trayectoria musical de mas de 8 décadas y del nombre más significativo y reconocido dentro de su género.

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Brian Lottermann Promoted to West Coast Casino, Fair, Festival Agent at Universal Attractions Agency

 

Universal Attractions Agency has promoted Brian Lottermann to the position of West Coast agent for casinos, fairs, and festivals, based in the agency’s Los Angeles office. This promotion follows Ricky Regalado’s recent elevation to Co-Head of UAA’s casino, fair, and festivals department last month.

Brian joined Universal Attractions Agency in November 2021, where he quickly moved up to the agency’s trainee program and subsequently became the executive assistant to co-owner Jeff Epstein. In February 2023, he was promoted to West Coast agent (capacity 1,500 and under).

As the responsible agent for numerous UAA acts, Brian represents artists including Afroman, Doug E. Fresh, Goodie Mob, King George, The Pharcyde, Twista, and others. As Afroman’s agent, Brian has overseen the “Adventures of Afroman” tour, which has played out over 80 dates this year.

Additionally, Brian represents the acclaimed Southern Soul Explosion Tour, featuring King George, Sir Charles Jones, Calvin Richardson, TK Soul, Nellie Tiger Travis, and Ronnie Bell. Last month, the Southern Soul Explosion show at the Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater grossed $216,459.

Jeff Epstein spoke on Brian’s promotion saying: “I’m so proud of Brian to see him come up through the ranks — from my Assistant to working as the West Coast small-cap agent, to being responsible agent with me for Doug E. Fresh and Afroman, as well as the Southern Soul

whisperer. He’s come a long way and earned his spot as the new West Coast Casino, fair, and Festival agent.”

UAA’s general manager Nick Martucci added: “Since joining UAA, Brian has demonstrated exceptional growth and quickly established himself as a valuable member of the team. His professionalism, drive, and integrity have earned the respect of both his artists and colleagues, positioning him for continued success in his new role within the Casino, Fairs, and Festivals department.”

Outside of his career as an agent, Brian initially entered the business as a musician, booking local gigs as a bass player. He credits his time as a touring musician with shaping his current role as an agent, stating, “I did some small national tours in my college days and that has proven invaluable in my current position dealing with touring acts and routing dates, as well as understanding the artist’s mindset and life on the road.”

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.

UAA’s commitment to personalized attention and professionalism has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner in the entertainment sector, consistently adapting to the evolving landscape of the live music and entertainment industries.

Ricky Regalado Promoted to Co-Head of Casino, Fair & Festival Department at Universal Attractions Agency

Universal Attractions Agency has announced the promotion of Ricky Regalado to Co-Head of the Casinos, Fair & Festival Department, based in the New York office. Ricky will join the current head of the Department, Joel Brandes, in spearheading the Department’s operations. UAA’s Casino, Fair & Festival Department has experienced significant growth in 2025, marked by notable signings, including Chippendales, GenX -The Comedy Takeover Tour, Deal Or No Deal Live!, and The Brotherly Love Podcast.

Ricky joined UAA in 2018 as part of the internship program and quickly progressed through various positions, including agent trainee and executive assistant. In 2021, he was promoted to agent, where he has since overseen bookings in the East Coast territories. He has also served as the Responsible Agent for numerous artists and programs, including Johnny Gill, Chippendales, GenX – The Comedy Takeover Tour, The Stylistics, Deal or No Deal Live!, 70’s Soul Jam, and more.

As agent, Ricky has brokered high-profile bookings, including Erykah Badu’s 2024 headline performance at Afropunk Blktopia in Brooklyn, NY, Ludacris’s sold-out performance at The Big E! in West Springfield, MA, the national broadcast of the “I Love The 90’s” Tour for “The Fourth in America” segment on CNN, and most recently, a sold-out performance by R&B singer Joe at MGM’s stunning Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, MS.

On the promotion, UAA co-owner Jeff Epstein said: “I’m so proud of Ricky and everything he’s accomplished.” I’m honored to be working with him, and it’s been a pleasure to see him come up through the ranks from being an intern to being my assistant to helping develop and grow our Casino, Fair, and Festival Department. He’s one of the most tenacious people I know, and there’s no stopping him. Congrats, Ricky, on the well-deserved promotion!

UAA General Manager Nick Martucci added: “Ricky has grown into one of the most trusted voices at UAA. His work ethic and commitment to our artists make this promotion well deserved, and I’m excited to see what he and Joel accomplish together.”

The Casino, Fair, and Festival Department at Universal Attractions was established in 2014, when veteran agent Joel Brandes was appointed to lead the division at the agency’s newly opened Los Angeles office. In 2017, Chase Edwards joined the agency and was later promoted to West Coast casino agent in 2023. This year, the department has begun expanding into new genres—including comedy, Latin, pop/rock, and the emerging podcast space. Ricky and Joel will oversee the growth of these areas, guiding both the development of talent and the management of future projects within the department.

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.

UAA’s commitment to personalized attention and professionalism has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner in the entertainment sector, consistently adapting to the evolving landscape of the live music and entertainment industries.