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Detroit Gospel Legends Featuring Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, The Clark Sisters, and More Announce First Leg of 2025 U.S. Tour

The Detroit Gospel Legends with Universal Attractions Agency have announced the first leg of their tour scheduled for October-November 2025. Detroit Gospel Legends brings together the most iconic voices in contemporary gospel music, including Grammy Award winner Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters, Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, and many more. Each performance guarantees a spiritually uplifting evening that honors and celebrates Detroit’s rich history in the gospel genre.

The complete lineup features acclaimed artists with a total of 11 Grammy wins and 55 nominations. It includes Fred Hammond, The Clark Sisters, Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, Carvin Winans, Byron Cage, Deitrick Haddon, and Lisa Page-Brooks.

​​The Detroit Gospel Legends tour is set to begin in October. The tour will visit Washington, D.C., Chicago, and Stockbridge (Atlanta), among several other cities, including a special hometown performance on October 31 at the historic Fox Theatre in Detroit, MI. Additional tour dates will be announced soon.

The presale for Detroit Gospel Legends will begin on June 11 at 10:00 AM local time, with the public on-sale starting on June 13 at 10:00 AM local time. VIP packages will also be available.

To access presale, use the code: LEGENDS

For tickets and more information on VIP packages, visit: detroitgospellegends.com

Speaking on the upcoming tour, Fred Hamond said: “This is more than a concert; it’s a celebration of Detroit’s gospel legacy. We’re bringing together some of the most iconic voices for a show that is both spiritually uplifting and visually breathtaking.”

UAA’s Adam Zagor added: “There is so much great talent on the Detroit Gospel Legends lineup, and the production level is equally as exciting. I am very proud to represent this tour.”

2025 Detroit Gospel Legends Tour Dates

10/18 – Stockbridge, GA – VyStar Amphitheater (+) (*)

10/19 – Portsmouth, VA – Portsmouth Pavilion (+) (*) (%)

10/26 – Washington, DC – The Theater at MGM National Harbor (*)

10/30 – Chicago, IL – Arie Crown Theater (+) (*)

10/31 – Detroit, MI – Fox Theatre (+) (*)

11/1 – Indianapolis, IN – Clowes Memorial Hall (+) (*)

11/2 – St. Louis, MO – The Fabulous Fox Theatre (+) (*)

(+) Marvin Sapp on Lineup

(-) Donnie McClurkin on Lineup

(*) Deitrick Haddon on Lineup

Artist lineups vary by city; check local listings for more info.

About The Detroit Gospel Tour:

The world-renowned gospel icons of Detroit are coming together for an unforgettable experience: this fall, we present the Detroit Gospel Legends Tour 2025, a soul-stirring celebration honoring the legendary Gospel voices of Detroit, Michigan. Join the fantastic, multi-Grammy, Stellar, BET Award-winning artists Fred Hammond, Marvin Sapp, Donnie McClurkin, The Clark Sisters, Deitrick Haddon, Byron Cage, Carvin Winans, and Lisa Page-Brooks for a night of full and complete worship.

This unforgettable night brings together artists who grew up side by side — whether through church, high school, or community, and now reuniting to lift their voices in unity and worship. This once-in-a-lifetime event will blend nostalgia, heartfelt inspiration, and eye-popping production in a way that transcends generations. While deeply rooted in gospel’s timeless traditions, the show is designed to captivate audiences, young and old alike, offering an uplifting, electrifying atmosphere for all. From the first note to the last “Amen,” prepare your heart for an experience filled with passion, power, and praise. This is more than a concert. It’s a homecoming, a revival, and a worship encounter all in one.

Don’t miss your chance to witness history. Ladies and gentlemen, we welcome you to the Detroit Gospel Legends Tour 2025.

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.

Universal Attractions Agency Celebrates 80 Years As Innovators In The World of Live Entertainment

New York, NY – May 20, 2025 – This month, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA), a cornerstone of the live entertainment industry, proudly celebrates its 80th anniversary—a milestone that honors eight decades of shaping music, culture, and live performance. Since its founding in 1945, UAA has championed iconic artists, pioneered talent representation, and remained at the forefront of the world of entertainment.

Speaking on the milestone, UAA owner Jeff Epstein said: “Celebrating 80 years of Universal Attractions Agency is more than a milestone—it’s a moment to honor the legacy of a company that has shaped the live entertainment industry and continues to thrive. As a proud co-owner, that history means a great deal to me. It’s a reminder of where we’ve come from and the standard we hold ourselves to every day.”

“At UAA, we believe in one core principle: if you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind. Growth isn’t optional—it’s who we are. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited for the future we’re building together.”

UAA’s General Manager Nick Martucci also added: “Eighty years ago, Universal Attractions Agency broke barriers and built bridges for artists who helped define American music. It’s an honor to carry that legacy forward today with a team committed to innovation and artist-first representation. This milestone isn’t just about where we’ve been—it’s a reminder of the responsibility and opportunity we have to shape what’s next.”

Universal Attractions Agency was founded on May 15, 1945, by Ben Bart, a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, who established the agency after leaving the Gale Agency. He brought artists such as The Ink Spots, Dinah Washington, and Little Willie John to the new agency located in New York City. Now, 80 years later and rooted in the heart of midtown Manhattan, Universal Attractions Agency continues to be a driving force in the live music industry. It is guided by co-owners Jeff Allen and Jeff Epstein, General Manager Nick Martucci, and Partner Adam Zagor. Together, they have helped shape the careers of many of today’s most prominent artists, comedians, and entertainers.

As Universal Attractions Agency celebrates its 80 years in business, it takes pride in its rich history as a trailblazer in the live music industry. In 1948, UAA client The Ink Spots became the first Black artists to appear on the groundbreaking “Ed Sullivan Show.” Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, UAA played a crucial role in breaking racial barriers in the entertainment industry by booking Black artists, such as Little Richard and Chuck Berry, into venues that had previously been closed to them due to Jim Crow laws. This was a time when Black artists were mainly restricted to television appearances and often barred from performing in venues that catered to white audiences.

A significant milestone in the early history of Universal Attractions Agency occurred in 1956 when a then-relatively unknown teenager named James Brown signed with the agency. This moment marked the launch of the career of “The Hardest Working Man in Show Business,” a title he earned for his relentless touring schedule, which saw him perform over 300 shows a year at the height of his fame. UAA represented James Brown for over 40 years, guiding the career of one of the greatest live entertainers in history. In recognition of his achievements, Brown was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1992, and sold over 200 million albums worldwide.

During this era, alongside James Brown, Universal Attractions Agency represented some of the biggest stars and most influential names in music, including Aretha Franklin, Booker T. & the M.G.’s, Chuck Berry, Etta James, The Grateful Dead, Little Richard, Otis Redding, Smokey Robinson, and The Stylistics. With a roster of iconic artists and the vision of Ben Bart and his son, Jack Bart, who took over the agency in 1965, UAA established itself as a leader in the live entertainment industry.

Known for its history of primarily representing Black artists, Universal Attractions Agency began diversifying its roster in the 1980s when Jeff Allen joined the agency. He hired Jeff Epstein in 1995, and together they booked some of the decade’s most prominent metal acts, including Sepultura, Sacred Reich, Biohazard, King Diamond, and Death Angel while continuing to book and grow UAA’s R&B business and embark on booking hip-hop with the representation of MC Hammer and Salt-N-Pepa, among others.

In 2007, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) experienced another pivotal moment when Epstein and Allen acquired the agency from Ben Bart’s son, Jack, as he decided to retire.

The term “Universal Attractions” is most closely associated with the concept of “the package.” As a pioneer in packaging tours, UAA has made it a staple of its business model by placing multiple acts together under one bill. Some examples from the ’90s through today include the ’70s Soul Jam (still performing today) and The New Jack Swing Tour featuring Guy, Blackstreet, Tony Toni Tone, and After 7.  Since then, UAA has continued to excel in this area, successfully organizing mega tours such as the decade-long “I Love The 90s Tour,” the “One Nation Under a Groove Tour” featuring George Clinton & P-Funk, Galactic, Dumpstaphunk, and Fishbone, as well as “Hammers House Party,” “Pop 2000” and many others.

While the COVID-19 pandemic brought the live music industry and much of the world to a standstill in 2020, Universal Attractions Agency emerged stronger on the other side by continuing its expansion. In 2022, it launched a dedicated Rock & Pop division, followed by a Latin department in 2023, hiring new agents in both areas. Recent signings include the return of Booker T. Jones, along with Talib Kweli, Barrington Levy, Afroman, Treach of Naughty By Nature, MKTO, Stevie B, Dru Hill, Nine Days, and The Click Five. Additionally, UAA has ventured into live productions and the podcast world with projects like Chippendales, “GenX Takeover The Comedy Tour,” Brotherly Love, and Deal or No Deal Live.

Today, Universal Attractions Agency is at the forefront of the music industry, continuing a legacy of nurturing the careers of over 250 artists across multiple genres, with 18 agents spread across five departments. The year 2025 has started strong, unveiling a newly renovated, state-of-the-art office in Midtown Manhattan and a nomination for “Independent Booking Agency of the Year” at the 2025 Pollstar Awards in April.

Universal Attractions Agency celebrated its 80th anniversary on May 15, 2025.

El Gran Combo & Grupo Niche Announce Joint ‘Salsa Pa’l Mundo Tour’

Grupo Niche_

Courtesy of the artist.

Salsa is getting the mainstream attention it deserves. On May 19, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico and Grupo Niche announced their joint “Salsa Pa’l Mundo Tour.” The upcoming tour will kick off at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, CA (Oct. 16) and wrap up at the Kia Center in Orlando, FL (Dec. 7).

“Salsa Pa’l Mundo Tour. Get ready to dance with us on a tour that will take salsa a lo más alto,” Grupo Niche wrote in Spanish online. “🎟️ Tickets available starting May 23rd at 10:00 a.m. EST at CMNEVENTS.COM.”

In a separate post, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico wrote in Spanish: “Excited to announce this tour ‘Salsa Pal’ Mundo Tour’ joining Grupo Niche, bringing joy, flavor and music 🎶 💃🏻.”

After starting their co-headlining tour in Ontario, the popular salsa bands will perform at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, CA (Oct. 18); the Theatre in MSG in New York, NY (Nov. 7); and the Agganis Arena in Boston, MA (Nov. 8). More stops include the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, CT (Nov. 20); the Eaglebank Arena in Fairfax, VA (Nov. 21); and the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ (Nov. 23).

The tour will conclude with two stops in Florida. They will perform at the Kaseya Center in Miami, FL (Dec. 5) and the Kia Center in Orlando, FL (Dec. 7).

Both bands are known for their iconic salsa sounds. El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico – also known as El Gran Combo – is popular thanks to their classics like “Brujeria,” “Un Verano en Nueva York” (which Bad Bunny recently sampled on “NUEVAYoL”), and “Me Liberé.” On the other hand, Grupo Niche is known for their popular songs like “Una Aventura,” “Algo Que Se Quede,” and “Sin Sentimientos.”

Tickets for the “Salsa Pa’l Mundo Tour” will go on sale starting on May 23 at 10 a.m. local time. For more ticket and tour information, check out CMN Event’s official website.

Legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Booker T. Jones Signs With Universal Attractions Agency

May 12, 2025 – New York, NY – Universal Attractions is excited to announce that legendary musician, songwriter, and record producer Booker T. Jones has signed exclusively with the agency. UAA’s Ryan Slone will act as responsible agent. The signing represents a homecoming for the Memphis icon, who originally joined the agency in 1967 under the representation of agent Dick Allen.

On the signing, UAA’s Ryan Slone said: “I’m beyond thrilled to continue the legacy of Booker T. Jones, whose contributions to modern music are immeasurable. It’s an honor to be working with such a legend.”

Booker T. Jones added: “This feels like coming home. Universal Attractions looked after me when I first began touring, and I feel that same excitement now!”

Booker T. Jones, an architect of the iconic Memphis soul sound, formed the band Booker T. & the M.G.’s in 1962. That same year, they released their debut album, “Green Onions,” under Stax Records. The title track became a massive hit worldwide and has since reached legendary status. It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and appeared on Rolling Stone’s “Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time” lists in both 2004 and 2024. In 2012, the Library of Congress added the track to the National Recording Registry.

In addition to all the accolades, “Green Onions” has been covered countless times by artists such as Tom Petty, Roy Buchanan, Deep Purple, and The Blues Brothers. The song continues to be a popular culture’s mainstay, recently featured in this year’s Uber Eats commercial during Super Bowl LIX.

As the leader of the renowned Stax Records house band, Booker T. Jones appeared on over 600 Stax recordings, helping to establish the enduring legacy of the signature southern soul sound. This sound is exemplified in hits by artists such as Otis Redding, Albert King, Sam & Dave, and Carla Thomas. After leaving Stax in 1970, Jones maintained a prolific career throughout the 1970s. During this time, he produced notable albums, including “Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers and Willie Nelson’s five-time platinum album “Stardust.” He also released a series of successful solo albums.

In the years and decades that followed, Jones has collaborated with some of the biggest stars in music across a wide variety of genres. His collaborators include Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, Elton John, The Roots, Matt Berninger of The National, Hozier, and many others. For his significant contributions as both a recording artist and record producer, Booker T. Jones was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

The 21st century saw Booker T. Jones win two of his three career Grammys for his albums “Potato Hole” in 2009 and “The Road From Memphis” in 2011, both of which received the Best Pop Instrumental Album award. In 2013, he marked a significant milestone by returning to Stax Records after 30 years with his album “Sound The Alarm.” In 2019, Jones published his acclaimed memoir, “Time is Tight: My Life, Note by Note,” in which he shares his journey from his early years in segregated Memphis, Tennessee, to becoming an influential music legend. Today, Booker T. Jones remains a relentless performer with 30 performances alone last year, appearing at festivals such as the TD Victoria International JazzFest, the Calgary Folk Music Festival, and the 25th Edmonton Blues Festival.

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.

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. 

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