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Billy Cobham to receive Lifetime Achievement Award at next week’s 2025 Jazz FM Awards

Billy Cobham
Billy Cobham

Jazz FM today (17 April) announced that pioneering drummer Billy Cobham will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Jazz FM Awards (in conjunction with PPL and PRS for Music). The award will be presented at the ceremony at KOKO in London on Thursday 24 April, hosted by musician, actor and comedian Ben Bailey Smith (AKA Doc Brown).

Cobham is widely regarded as one of the most important drummers in modern music history. Acclaimed for his groundbreaking work with the Mahavishnu OrchestraMiles Davis, and his own solo albums, Cobham’s unique creative vision helped to define the jazz fusion movement of the 1970s and during a career spanning over five decades he has inspired countless artists across jazz, rock, funk and beyond.

The Jazz FM Lifetime Achievement Award honours musicians whose careers have shaped the landscape of jazz through decades of innovation, influence and artistry. Past recipients include Ahmad JamalHerbie HancockQuincy JonesDame Cleo Laine and Tony Bennett.

Cobham commented: “It’s been a long, long journey – almost 60 years – and so I’m deeply honoured that I have been recognised in any way, shape or form for my contributions in the small amount that I’ve made to the musical fabric of the jazz community.”

“Billy Cobham’s influence on the world of jazz and modern music is immeasurable. His visionary approach broke new ground in the 1970s and his music continues to resonate today. We are delighted to honour him with this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award,” said Nick Pitts, Content Director of Jazz FM and Magic Classical.

This year’s Jazz FM Awards will also honour Jamie Cullum, who will receive the Impact Award, and Melody Gardot, who will be presented with the Gold Award.

The 2025 nominees feature a mix of artists including Ezra CollectiveNubya GarciaMichael KiwanukaShabakaSamara JoyJalen NgondaAlice Zawadzki, and corto.alto.

We’ll have a full list on winners next week, as soon as they’re announced – watch this space!

Banda El Recodo On Upcoming Album ‘En Vivo Desde Japón’: ‘An Incredible Experience & Great Source of Pride’

Legendary regional Mexican group Banda El Recodo is gearing up for the release of their new album, En Vivo Desde Japón (Live from Japan). Recorded last year during their performance at the De Camino a Latinoamérica festival in Tokyo at Odaiba Pier, the album will be rolled out in five weekly installments starting this Thursday (April 3).

“We decided to release it this way to offer something different,” says Alfonso “Poncho” Lizárraga, leader of the group that was founded in Mazatlán nearly 87 years ago, in an exclusive interview with Billboard Español. “Each installment will feature a collection of songs grouped under a specific theme.”

The first part, titled Orgullo por México (Pride for Mexico), will include tracks like “Puño de Tierra,” “El Sinaloense/El Corrido de Mazatlán,” and “El Rey/Cielito Lindo/Viva México.” This will be followed by Amor Como Lenguaje Universal (Love as a Universal Language) on April 10, featuring a medley of “Te Presumo/Me Gusta Todo de Ti/La Mejor de Todas,” “Y Llegaste Tú,” and the spotlight track “No Me Aprovechaste,” an unreleased song written by Luciano Luna.

On April 17, the third installment, Separación, Distancia, Desamor (Separation, Distance, Heartbreak), will be released, featuring songs such as “Que te Ruegue Quien te Quiera,” “Yo Sé que te Acordarás/Vas a Llorar por Mí/Acá Entre Nos,” and “Triste Recuerdo/Te Ofrezco un Corazón.” A week later, on April 24, Viva La Fiesta (Long Live the Party) will debut, showcasing the tracks “La Crazy Loca,” “La Culebra,” and “La Quebradora/Vámonos de Fiesta.” Finally, on May 8, En Vivo Desde Japón will be completed with a second unreleased track, “El Malo Soy Yo,” along with “Qué Bonita/El Farol.”

This marks the second time Banda El Recodo has recorded a live album outside of Mexico. Back in 1995, they released Desde París, Francia, La Gira Europa ’95 (En Vivo) (From Paris, France, The Europe Tour ’95 Live). It is also their second time performing in Japan, where they first visited in 2002 to support the Mexican National Soccer Team during the World Cup, playing in five different cities.

“This time, we were part of an event where we were invited to share a piece of our culture with an audience of 5,000 people. It was an incredible experience and a great source of pride,” says Lizárraga. “Nowadays, there’s a growing openness to discovering Mexican music — and we find it very important that mariachi and banda are represented worldwide.”

“It’s important to honor and dignify traditional Mexican music,” Lizárraga continues. “We want the history of Mexican music to be respected and preserved. This doesn’t mean we don’t support new talents or younger generations, but it’s crucial to keep our traditions alive.”

Banda El Recodo will kick off the U.S. leg of their ’90s Banda Tour on May 25 in Newburgh, N.Y., joined by Banda Machos, Banda Los Recoditos, and Banda Maguey. The tour will blend traditional banda hits with technobanda and la quebradita, a music and dance explosion that took the scene by storm during the 1990s.

In Mexico, the tour is called Las Más Perronas (Mexican slang roughly meaning the Baddest) and includes only Banda El Recodo and Banda Machos, with three dates announced: July 11 at the Auditorio Telmex in Guadalajara, August 9 at the Arena Ciudad de Mexico, and Sept. 5 at the Arena Monterrey.

Banda El Recodo

Reggae Icon Barrington Levy Celebrates 40th Anniversary of His Acclaimed LP, “Here I Come” With the “Here I Come Tour (A Fi Yuh)” 2025 Summer Tour

April 1, 2025 – New York, NY – Barrington Levy and Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) with Live Vision Agency (LVA) have announced the 35+ date “Here I Come (A Fi Yuh)” 2025 summer tour in support of the 40th anniversary of Levy’s acclaimed 1985 album, “Here I Come.”

The reggae and dancehall legend known for hits such as “Black Roses,” “Murderer,” and “Here I Come” will kick off the tour in Tucson, Arizona, on June 1 at the Rialto Theater. The summer trek will hit cities such as San Diego, Miami, Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston before concluding in Chicago, Illinois, on September 14. Below is the current list of tour dates with more to be added.

As Barrington Levy prepares for his first U.S. tour since 2016, the reggae legend expresses his excitement for his upcoming single, “A Fi Yuh.” He commented, “The song has already received positive responses. I look forward to its release and to sharing it with audiences across the U.S. during the tour.”

Presale will begin on April 3, and general sales will start on April 4. Tickets to the “Here I Come Tour (A Fi Yuh)” can be purchased at local ticket outlets.

Speaking on the booking of the tour, UAA’s Jay Wright said: “It’s a true honor to represent the legend Barrington Levy.  Curating this tour has been about more than just confirming dates and cities — it’s about reminding the world of his impact. Barrington is one of the most influential voices in reggae history, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help create a moment where both longtime fans and new listeners can experience his music live once again.”

2025 Barrington Levy “Here I Come Tour (A Fi Yuh)” Dates

6/1 Tucson, AZ – Rialto Theater

6/5 Denver, CO – Cervantes’ Masterpiece Ballroom

6/8 Salt Lake City, UT – Urban Lounge

6/12 Seattle, WA – Nectar Lounge

6/13 Tacoma, WA – Airport Tavern

6/19 Arcata, CA – Arcata Theatre Lounge

6/20 Berkeley, CA – Cornerstone

6/21 Truckee, CA – Truckee Amphitheater

6/22 ​​Petaluma, CA – Mystic Theatre

6/26 Ventura, CA – Ventura Music Hall

6/27 San Diego, CA – Beach House

6/28 Santa Cruz, CA – The Catalyst

7/19 New Orleans, LA – House of Blues

7/22 St. Petersburg, FL – Jannus Live

7/23 Miami, FL – Miami Beach Bandshell

7/25 Raleigh, NC – Lincoln Theater

7/27 Virginia Beach – Elevation 27

7/31 Washington, D.C. – Howard Theater

8/1 Richmond, VA – Ember Music Hall

8/13 Ardmore, PA – Ardmore Music Hall

8/14 Asbury Park, NJ – House of Independents

8/15 New York, NY – Sony Hall

8/16 Hartford, CT – The Webster

8/22 Gray, ME – Stonehedge

8/23 Burlington, VT – Burlington Fest

8/24 Boston, MA – Middle East

8/26 North Hampton, NH – Bernie’s Beach Bar

8/28 Bar Harbor, ME – 1932 Criterion Theatre

8/30 Westerly, RI – Paddy’s Beach Club

8/31 Martha’s Vineyard, MA- The Cove

9/6 Cincinnati, OH – Ludlow Garage

9/10 Minneapolis, MN – Dakota

9/11 Minneapolis, MN – Dakota

9/14 Chicago, IL – Promontory

*More tour dates are to be added soon. Check local listings for more details.

Levy: One of the great success stories of the 1980s, Barrington Levy, arrived on the dancehall scene and quickly transformed it in his own image. While many DJs and vocalists came and went during this decade, Levy was one of the few with lasting power, continuing to release massive hits decades after his debut. Born in 1964 in Clarendon, Jamaica, Barrington Levy formed the Mighty Multitude with his cousin Everton Dacres as a young artist. Their first single, “My Black Girl,” was released in 1977. The following year, Levy launched his solo career with his debut single, “A Long Time Since We Don’t Have No Love.” In the years that followed, Barrington gained acclaim with early hits such as “A Yah We Deh,” “Shine Eye Gal,” and “Moonlight Lover,” which were later compiled on his 1979 debut album, “Bounty Hunter.” His follow-up album, “Englishman,” solidified his status as a leading reggae star in the early 1980s, achieving notoriety in both Europe and North America. The 1980s and 1990s were prolific periods for Barrington Levy, during which he dominated the reggae and dancehall charts with a plethora of hit singles, including “Under Mi Sensi,” “Murderer,” “Here I Come,” “Dancehall Rock,” “Black Roses,” and “Living Dangerously.” The latter became the biggest reggae song of 1996, spending months at number one on dancehall charts worldwide.

Throughout his career, Barrington Levy has shared the stage with a remarkable lineup of reggae and international music legends, including Alton Ellis, Ken Boothe, Dennis Brown, John Holt, Gregory Isaacs, Freddie McGregor, Maxi Priest, Shaggy, Beenie Man, Buju Banton, Bounty Killer, Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, U2, Snoop Dogg, and many others.

In 2016, Barrington Levy was nominated for Best Reggae Album at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. Additionally, in 2023, Rolling Stone ranked him 119 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time.

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.

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.

To find more information about Universal Attractions and the agency’s roster, visit the official UAA website.

Everything We Know About Erykah Badu’s New Album

GettyImages-1486963077

Photo by Arturo Holmes/MG23/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

In an interview with Billboard released last night (March 19), legendary neo-soul singer Erykah Badu confirmed that she is working on a new album in collaboration with hip-hop producer The Alchemist. The news arrives just months after an interview with the Breakfast Club, in which Badu teased that she had a new “collab album” in the works.

The upcoming album is rumoured to be a follow-up to Badu’s last full-length LP New Amerykah Part Two: Return of the Ankh, released in 2010. The 54-year-old singer released the mixtape But You Caint Use My Phone in 2015, which featured a rare post-Outkast verse from Andre 3000.

The Alchemist, meanwhile, enjoys legend status in the hip-hop scene, with production credits stretching back to the early 90s, and collaborations with Eminem, Mobb Deep, Freddie Gibbs, Earl Sweatshirt and countless others. The Beverly Hills-born producer and DJ is also set to release a collaborative album with Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) next week (March 28) under the group name Forensics.

Speaking to Billboard, Badu also suggested that her upcoming album will lean into the hip-hop side of her artistry, telling the publication: “Rap is the people. Hip-hop is the people. It’s the folks. It’s the tribe. I have the luxury of experiencing having children who I watch grow up and love and encourage very much, and I cannot separate them when I see artists who are that age coming up. That’s how they feel. They are continuing the tradition.”

Despite having confirmed work on the new project, however, Badu also shared that much of her time is still taken up with touring and live performances. “I tour eight months out of the year for the past 25 years. That’s what I do. I’m a performance artist. I’m not a recording artist,” she told Billboard. “I come from the theatre. It’s the immediate reaction between you and the audience and the immediate feeling. The point where you become one living, breathing organism with people. That’s what I live for. It’s my therapy. And theirs, too. We’re in it together. And I like the idea that it happens only once.”

Love that, Erykah, but also finish the album soon please?

 

DJ Jazzy Jeff produced Philadelphia’s “Sonic ID” for 2026 FIFA World Cup

As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Philadelphia is gearing up to take center stage as one of the tournament’s 16 host cities.

The city is ready to embrace the global spotlight, and on Thursday, Philadelphia Soccer 2026 dropped its official “FIFA World Cup 26 Host City Sonic ID” — an audio brand capturing the very essence of the City of Brotherly Love.

Produced by none other than DJ Jazzy Jeff, a two-time Grammy-winning producer from West Philadelphia, the “Sonic ID” is more than just music; it’s a reflection of the rhythm, culture and passion that define Philadelphia.

“I cut my teeth in a place that expects excellence. They want you to give your heart,” DJ Jazzy Jeff said.

DJ Jazzy Jeff has been a driving force in shaping the sound of Philadelphia for over four decades. From his early days in West Philly to becoming a global music icon, his unique blend of beats and rhythms has captured the spirit of the city.

Now, he’s taking that sound to a worldwide audience, representing Philadelphia in one of the biggest sporting events on Earth.

“I’ve done a lot of international traveling, and it wasn’t until I left the United States to understand that the world game is soccer,” DJ Jazzy Jeff said.

The “Sonic ID” was created to give a musical preview of the “sounds of the city” that visitors and fans can expect during the tournament. As part of the World Cup festivities, the audio branding will be featured in stadiums, during broadcasts, at FIFA Fan Festivals and across digital platforms to create a deep connection between the game and the unique culture of Philadelphia.

“I knew I had to incorporate pretty much some history,” DJ Jazzy Jeff said. “Some of the Gamble and Huff and the Philly International Sound. Some of the sound of the Neo Soul Movement from the late 90s, and not only did I want it to sound good, I want it to feel good.”

As the world prepares for this historic event, Meg Cain, host city executive for Philadelphia, highlighted the role of music in uniting people across cultures. The “Sonic ID” is one of 16 distinct sounds representing the host cities, each crafted to showcase the unique cultural identity of its location.

“He’s a legendary DJ, he’s a two-time Grammy winner. He’s from West Philadelphia. He’s one of us,” Cain said.

The power of music to bring people together is at the heart of this World Cup experience, Cain said. The “Sonic IDs” will play a crucial role in amplifying the excitement, creating an unforgettable soundtrack for fans in the stadiums, watching at home or celebrating at the FIFA Fan Festivals.

“This time, with all of the different host cities across three countries, 16 different host cities, we wanted each city to have its own special sound,” Cain said.

Philadelphia will host six matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a knockout Round of 16 match on July 4, which coincides with the United States’ 250th birthday celebration. The tournament promises to bring a wave of excitement, and Philadelphia will play a central role in this historic moment.

In addition to the matches, the city will also host the FIFA Fan Festival, a vibrant celebration of soccer culture at Lemon Hill in East Fairmount Park. This festival will be a hub of activity, offering soccer fans of all ages a chance to immerse themselves in the excitement of the World Cup.

Pop 2000 Returns With 2025 Tour Featuring Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC, O-Town, BBMAK, Ryan Cabrera, LFO, and Tyler Hilton

March 4, 2025 – New York, NY – Following a highly acclaimed run last year, the “Pop 2000 Tour,” hosted by Chris Kirkpatrick of *NSYNC, will return in 2025 with a 28-date trek across the U.S. and Canada starting this month. The lineup features platinum-selling pop stars O-Town, BBMAK, Ryan Cabrera, LFO, and “One Tree Hill” alum Tyler Hilton, who will bring you their iconic songs, transporting you right back to the early 2000s.

The tour will kick off March 28 at Orlando’s SeaWorld and run throughout the spring and summer, making stops in cities such as Atlantic City, Toronto, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and more. A complete list of tour dates is provided below.

UAA’s head of Rock & Pop, Matt Rafal, spoke about the upcoming tour’s excitement, adding: “We’re heading into our seventh year of Pop 2000, and this year is shaping up to be our best one yet. The demand for Pop2K nostalgia increases each year, and these artists always deliver a great show. For many fans, it’s become an annual tradition!”

The Pop 2000 Tour is represented by Universal Attractions Agency.

2025 Pop 2000 Tour Dates

3/28 – Orlando, FL – SeaWorld

3/30 – Brookhaven, GA – Cherry Blossom Fest

4/12 – Temecula CA – Pechanga Resort Casino

5/22 – Tulsa, OK – Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

5/23 – Roland, OK – Cherokee Casino

6/19 – Hampton Beach, NH – Bernie’s Beach Bar

6/20 – Englewood, NJ – BergenPAC

6/21 – Cohasset, MA – South Shore Music Circus

6/22 – East Greenwich RI – Greenwich Odeum

6/27 – Atlantic City, NJ – TBA

6/28 – Waterloo, NY – TBA

6/29 – Toronto, ON – Casino Rama

7/4 – Albany, NY – New York State’s 4th of July Celebration

7/5 – Delray Beach, FL – The Pavillion at Old School Square

7/10 – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues

7/11 – Pittsburgh, PA – Jergel’s

7/12 – Middletown, PA – Vineyard at Hershey

7/13 – Patchogue, NY – Patchogue Theatre for the Performing Arts

7/17 – Indianapolis, IN – Old National Centre

7/18 – Wyandotte, MI – District 142

7/19 – St Charles, IL – Arcada Theatre

7/20 – Paw Paw, MI – Warner Vineyards

7/26 – Elizabeth, IN – TBA

8/29 – Kansas City, MO – TBA

8/30 – Grand Isle, NE – TBA

9/27 – Destin, FL – LadyGang Festival

10/4 – Vista, CA – TBA

11/21 – Ocean City, MD – Roland E. Powell Convention Center

Artist lineups may vary by city. Visit https://pop2000tour.com or check local listings for more info.

About The Artists:

Chris Kirkpatrick is an American singer, dancer, actor, and voice actor best known for his work as a founding member of the pop group *NSYNC. As a voice actor, he has worked on numerous kids shows, including voicing the character of Chip Skylark on “The Fairly Oddparents”. In 2022, he competed in Season 3 of “Celebrity Big Brother” and “The Masked Singer.”

O-Town’s story began in 1999, when “Making the Band” chronicled the rise to success of O-Town throughout three seasons of the series on both ABC and MTV. The group’s first two full-

length albums included #1 singles, “Liquid Dreams” and “All or Nothing” and the Top 40 hit “We Fit Together.” “All or Nothing” was nominated for Song of the Year at the Radio Music Awards in 2001.

BBMAK (Mark Barry, Christian Burns, and Stephen McNally) are officially “Back Here” after a 15-year hiatus. The multi-platinum-selling English pop group has sold more than three million albums and had hit singles worldwide before disbanding in 2003. Best known for their self-penned infectious guitar-driven hits “Back Here”, “Out of My Heart”, and “The Ghost of You and Me”, BBMAK was one of the few bands during the pop explosion of the early 2000s to play their own instruments and write their own songs. Billboard recently named “Back Here” the 9th greatest boy band song of all time.

Ryan Cabrera is the singer and songwriter behind ubiquitous smashes such as “On the Way Down,” “True” and “Shine On” as well as albums including 2004’s Take It All Away, which hit #8 on the Billboard Top 200. Ryan was also featured heavily on MTV’s “Ashlee Simpson Show” and “The Hills”.

LFO burst onto the scene in 1999 with the #1 smash hit “Summer Girls” and followed with another top-five hit in “Girl on TV” and the top-ten hit, “Every Other Time”. Today, lone surviving member Brad Fischetti keeps the name of LFO alive, performing the songs to fans, new and old.

Tyler Hilton from portraying Elvis Presley in Walk the Line and garnering a cult following as musician “Chris Keller” on the CW hit TV show One Tree Hill, to writing and touring with the likes of Taylor Swift, Lady Antebellum and Joe Cocker, Tyler Hilton has enjoyed an award-winning career spanning music, film and television.

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. 

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. 

To find more information about Universal Attractions and the agency’s roster, visit the official UAA website. 

Platinum-Certified Pop Duo MKTO Signs With Universal Attractions Agency

February 24, 2025 – New York, NY – Universal Attractions Agency is excited to announce that platinum-selling pop duo MKTO has signed with the agency. UAA’s head of Rock & Pop, Matt Rafal, will act as responsible agent.

Malcolm Kelley and Tony Oller formed MKTO in 2010 and released their debut single, “Thank You,” in November 2012. The single was an immediate success, charting exceptionally well in the Australian and New Zealand markets. MKTO’s global breakout came the following year with the smash hit “Classic,” which cracked the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 and earned double platinum certification by the RIAA. The song has since amassed over 1.5 billion streams on Spotify and 240 million views on YouTube.

MKTO released their self-titled debut LP in January 2014, featuring their first two singles along with other popular songs, “God Only Knows” and “American Dream.” The debut album went on to sell over a million copies worldwide.

On the signing, Matt Rafal said: “I’ve been a huge fan of Tony and Malcolm since the first time I heard “Classic.” I’m thrilled to be working with them on bringing their show back to the stage. The response from talent buyers has been incredibly positive.”

With over 8.5 million monthly Spotify listeners, this year marks the first time the duo has toured together since 2015. MKTO is confirmed for a series of festivals and fair dates in 2025,

including Summer Jam in Eau Claire, WI, on June 20, where they will share the stage with Gavin DeGraw, Everclear, and headliner Lynyrd Skynyrd.

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. 

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. 

To find more information about Universal Attractions and the agency’s roster, visit the official UAA website. 

The Click Five Signs With Universal Attractions Agency Internationally

February 24, 2025 – New York, NY – Universal Attractions Agency is excited to announce that Boston rock band The Click Five has signed with the agency worldwide, excluding North America. UAA’s head of Rock & Pop, Matt Rafal, will act as responsible agent.

Coinciding with the signing, The Click Five has announced the “The Click 2025” tour, which will take the band to Southeast Asia this spring, where the band has achieved great success with chart-topping hits. The tour will make stops in Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines; see below for tour dates.

Matt Rafal spoke about the signing and upcoming tour, adding: “I’m excited to be working with The Click Five on their reunion. Their worldwide fanbase, especially in Southeast Asia, is extraordinary, and I’m really pleased to see them heading back to that part of the world in May.”

The Click Five rose to fame in the mid-2000s with their debut album, “Greetings from Imrie House,” released in August 2005. The album included the hit single “Just the Girl,” which peaked at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. During that time, The Click Five toured with major artists, including the Backstreet Boys, the Black Eyed Peas, and Hilary Duff. Their follow-up album, “Modern Minds and Pastimes,” released in 2007, featured the popular track “Jenny,” which achieved significant success across Asia.

The Click Five will reunite for the first time since 2013 on “The Click 2025 Tour.” More details regarding pre-sales and on-sales will be released soon.

“The Click 2025” Tour Dates

5-4 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The Exchange Hall

5-6 Singapore – Capitol Theatre

5-7 Jakarta, Indonesia – Aruba

5-9 Manila, Philippines – SM Mall of Asia Arena

5-10 Cebu, Philippines – Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino

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. 

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. 

To find more information about Universal Attractions and the agency’s roster, visit the official UAA website. 

Talib Kweli Signs Exclusively With Universal Attractions Agency

February 10, 2025 – New York, NY – Universal Attractions Agency is excited to announce that legendary Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli has signed exclusively with the agency for representation worldwide. UAA’s President Jeff Epstein and Ben Sauberman will act as responsible agents.  

Talib Kweli rose to prominence in 1998 as one half of the duo Black Star, releasing the critically acclaimed album “Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star.” This album was an instant hit, featuring popular tracks like “Definition” and “Respiration,” the latter of which features Common. Both tracks charted on the Billboard Hot 100. Talib continued to release acclaimed albums, including 2000’s “Train of Thought,” produced by Hi-Tek, and 2002’s “Quality,” which included Talib’s most successful solo hit, “Get By.” Throughout his legendary career, Talib Kweli has collaborated extensively with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Pharrell, J Dilla, Madlib, and Just Blaze. 

This year, Talib Kweli will tour Europe and North America, kicking off on February 13 in Reykjavik, Iceland. The tour will run through June and culminate in a performance at Kings Theater in Talib Kweli’s hometown of Brooklyn, NY, on June 21. A complete list of tour dates is provided below. 

Jeff Epstein said on the signing: “We are honored to welcome the legendary Talib Kweli to the Universal Attractions Agency family. The impact Talib’s music has had on hip-hop is undeniable, and we are excited to partner with him.” 

2025 Europe & North America Talib Kweli Tour Dates 

2-13 Reykjavik, Iceland – Gamla Bíó 

2-15 Paris, France – New Morning 

2-19 Eeklo, Belgium – N9 

2-20 Amsterdam, Netherlands – Melkweg 

2-22 Athens, Greece – Gazarte 

2-23 Zurich, Switzerland – Alte Kaserne 

2-26 Rennes, France – Antipode 

2-27 Toulouse, France – Le Rex 

2-28 Brighton, United Kingdom – The Arch 

3-01 Porto, Portugal – Plano B 

3-02 Bologna, Italy – Locomotiv Club 

3-05 Dallas, TX – Trees 

3-06 Denver, CO – The Oriental Theater 

3-07 Albuquerque, NM – Sister Bar 

3-08 El Paso, TX – Lowbrow Palace 

3-22 Fort Lauderdale, FL – Kemistry Nightclub 

4-13 Rubigen, Switzerland – Mühle Hunziken 

4-16 Montpellier, France – Rockstore 

4-19 Nantes, France -Warehouse 

4-20 Wil, Switzerland – Gare de Lion 

4-25 Seattle, WA – Nectar Lounge 

4-26 – Tacoma, WA – Airport Tavern 

5-02 – Mississauga, ON – Living Arts Centre 

5-09 San Diego, CA – The Holding Company 

6-21 Brooklyn, NY – Kings Theater

For tickets, visit: talibkweli.com 

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. 

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. 

To find more information about Universal Attractions and the agency’s roster, visit the official UAA website. 

SMIRNOFF PROVES “WE DO GAME DAYS” BIGGER, BOLDER AND LONGER THAN EVER BEFORE FOR SUPER BOWL LIX INCLUDING A SHOW-STOPPING PERFORMANCE FROM INTERNATIONAL SUPERSTAR FLO RIDA ATOP A 60-FOOT TAILGATE TRUCK

Kicking off the festivities, 2x Super Bowl Champion Chris Long will go the distance with the longest-ever live recording of his fan-favorite “Green Light” podcast. “Having the Super Bowl back in New Orleans is always exciting – it’s a high energy city with fans that truly appreciate the game,” Long said. “I can’t think of a better way to close out a great week than by partnering with Smirnoff for our longest podcast ever.”

NFL Legends Vernon Davis and Warrick Dunn will keep the momentum going, adding their own star power to the day’s lineup. Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Smirnoff tailgate – or a New Orleans celebration – without a nod to the Big Easy’s food scene. Celebrity Chef David Rose is serving up a bold twist on a Louisiana classic, layering rich, spicy flavors into his Jambalaya with grilled shrimp and crawfish étouffée—a dish that brings the perfect kick to the party.

“At Smirnoff, we believe the long game always wins – on and off the field,” said Sam Salameh, Vice President of Vodka, Diageo. “As the brand who wrote the playbook on Game Day celebrations, we’re going to new lengths (literally!) with a 60-foot tailgate truck built to ensure there’s a spot for everyone, paired with an unforgettable lineup of entertainment to show what we mean when we say, ‘We Do Game Days’.”

Stretching an impressive 60 feet – about the length of the red zone in football – and tipping the scales at 15,000 pounds, the truck is a spectacle of epic proportions. Built with more than 37,000 bolts, nuts, and screws in just six weeks, it boasts enough capacity for 526,500 Kansas City-style BBQ wings or 16,200 Philly cheesesteaks, enough to fuel the hungriest offensive lines and maybe even bring the most die-hard rival fans to the same table.

From Los Angeles to Detroit, Smirnoff has been bringing “We Do Game Days” to NFL fans all season long. Now, for Super Bowl LIX, Smirnoff’s The Longest Tailgate may be the weekend’s biggest spectacle across New Orleans all weekend long:

  • A Night of Pride with GLAAD: A Night of Pride with GLAAD aims to spotlight advances in and the future of LGBTQ inclusion in sports. Presented by Smirnoff, the event returns in its fourth year on Friday, Feb. 7 at the historic Joy Theater and will feature a headlining performance by Big Freedia.

  • NFL Game Day Experience: Smirnoff is bringing the high-energy, celebratory spirit of “We Do Game Days” to the official Game Day Experience at Caesars Superdome. Fans can enjoy bayou-style Smirnoff cocktails, game-day face painting and the debut of our official gator mascot, The Smirnoff Tailgator. Step into our lush, gridiron-inspired oasis and join the fun on Sunday from 1:00-4:30 PM.

  • DraftKings Partnership: As an extension of its season-long partnership with DraftKings, Smirnoff will serve delicious cocktails for all guests 21+ at exclusive weekend events, and will sponsor its Media Row headquarters, where top-tier sports personalities, athletes and pop culture icons will break down all the Big Game buzz.

Stay tuned for more game-changing announcements… because creating the ultimate huddle for fans to come together is exactly how We Do Game Days. Visit Smirnoff.com to learn more and find delicious game day cocktail recipes like the signature NOLA Espresso Martini.

The production of Smirnoff No. 21 – ten times filtered and triple-distilled – ensures the liquid is inherently mixable so adults of legal drinking age across the country can enjoy Smirnoff as part of their favorite cocktails. Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka is available at retailers nationwide in 1.75L, 1L, 750mL, 375mL, 200mL and 50mL bottles and has a 40% ABV with a suggested retail price of $12.99 for a 750mL bottle (price varies by size).

Follow @Smirnoff on Instagram for more exciting news from the world’s No. 1 vodka. Whether you’re cheering for your team or just enjoying the camaraderie, please remember to always drink Smirnoff responsibly.

About SMIRNOFF
Smirnoff has been giving the people what they want since 1864, revolutionizing drinking culture across generations: from inventing the Mule and reimagining the vodka martini to creating a cultural mainstay that defines the flavored malt beverage category with the launch of Smirnoff Ice, known for flavors since 1999.

Because the brand is dedicated to the people and their evolving taste preferences, Smirnoff has an option for everyone along with a dedicated history of adding fun to any occasion while keeping diversity and inclusion at the forefront. Truly showing the power of socializing when everyone (21+) is invited to celebrate.

The Smirnoff portfolio offers a variety of options for adults across vodka and flavored malt beverages. Current offerings include foundations in Smirnoff No. 21 Vodka and Smirnoff Ice, a line of flavors in North America and ready-to-serve flavored malt beverages including Smirnoff Seltzer and Smirnoff Ice Smash. From culturally relevant limited editions to new innovations and zero sugar offerings, Smirnoff has always been known for quality and affordability, and prides itself on giving the people what they want.

About Diageo North America
Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands including Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, Bulleit and Buchanan’s whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Casamigos, DeLeon and Don Julio tequilas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Tanqueray and Guinness.

Diageo is listed on both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: DEO) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE: DGE) and their products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. For more information about Diageo, their people, brands, and performance, visit www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practice. Follow on Twitter and Instagram for news and information about Diageo North America: @Diageo_NA.

MEDIA CONTACTS:  
Nicole Anastasi / Brooke Smith
DIAGEO
nicole.anastasi@diageo.com
brooke.smith@diageo.com

TAYLOR
Smirnoff@taylorstrategy.com

SOURCE Smirnoff

 

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