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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

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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. 

After 25 Years, Ying Yang Twins Are Still Shaking It Like a Salt Shaker — and Hitting the Road Again (Exclusive)

Ying Yang Twins

 Tim Mosenfelder/Getty; Twix

Twenty-five years later, the Ying Yang Twins are still bringing the party.

The Atlanta duo, comprised of Kaine and D-Roc, took a look back at their storied career, featuring collaborations with Britney SpearsLil Jon and so many more. But speaking with PEOPLE about their Big Game partnership with Twix, the duo say that “It feels like we just got started yesterday.”

“This milestone means everything to us,” Kaine says of celebrating 25 years together. “It’s a testament to the music, the fans and the bond we’ve built as friends and collaborators. We’re incredibly grateful to still be here, doing what we love.”

“What they teach you in school? Hard work pays off. The more you put into it, the more you get out of it. The less you put into it the less you’re gonna get out of it,” D-Roc says. “So, if you work hard, you get honored. We’re honored to be here.”

Making their dance-floor packing hits like “Salt Shaker” and “Wait (The Whisper Song)” is a process that has evolved over the duo’s time in the music industry.

“When we started, it was all about learning and experimenting — just figuring out our sound. Now, we’ve got the experience and perspective to approach music in a different way,” Kaine explains.

“The technology, the audience and the culture have evolved, and we embrace that. We still ask ourselves: what’s the dance move or vibe people will connect with our music today? That’s part of the fun.”

D-Roc notes the process is the same in the sense that “you’ve got to make music from the heart and the soul.”

“As long as you have fun with it and it’s the music that you love, everybody else will love it, too. You know, it feels good when you get it right, but if you don’t, you’ve got to go in and try again.”

The seasoned vets say that it still means a lot when they have that moment in the studio where they realize that something is really working.

“When we’re in the studio creating something that feels larger than life, that energy is unmatched,” Kaine says. “It feels like we’re carving out a piece of history.”

Not only do the two have the pleasure of enjoying their own evolution, but they’re watching the landscape of Southern hip hop evolve as well.

“Everything is supposed to grow and everybody has their time. It started with New York, then it went to Cali and Atlanta just got it right now. So you know, we’re gonna see who gonna get it next. While you have it, you’re supposed to honor and embrace it and treat it right. Then when it’s time, pass it down to the next person,” D-Roc says.

“I respect the new generation and I don’t expect them to be doing the same thing that I was doing back then because you need it to change. Their music is a part of the crown. That’s how they feel in this generation. Just because you don’t feel that way, doesn’t mean you don’t respect the craft.”

Kaine adds, “When we started, Atlanta had this raw energy, and now it’s become a hub for creativity and innovation. Each generation keeps pushing the boundaries, and it’s amazing to see how far it’s come.”

The pair continue to push their own boundaries, too, both as individuals and as Ying Yang Twins.

“We’re hitting the road in March and April for The Millennium Tour in cities like Louisville, Detroit, Brooklyn, New Orleans, Fort Worth, Atlanta and more. It’s all about bringing the energy to the fans and celebrating what’s next for us.”

Vanilla Ice & Universal Attractions Launch “I Love the 90s” Tour + New “Forever Young” Concept Celebrating 35 Years of “Ice Ice Baby”!

Los Angeles, Calif. (January 29, 2025)— Global music icon Vanilla Ice is set to heat up stages in 2025, headlining the “I Love the 90s Tour” created by Universal Attractions Agency / UAA, and touring for nine years since 2016. This year, the tour takes an exciting new direction with the “Forever Young” concept in select markets, blending nostalgia from the 90s with chart-topping boy bands from the early 2000s. The first leg of the tour will kick off in Tucson, Arizona, on March 7, and will hit more than 20 cities across North America.

The “I Love the 90s Tour” lineup will feature Vanilla Ice alongside a rotating roster of 90s hip-hop and R&B powerhouses, including Treach of Naughty By Nature, Rob Base, Color Me Badd, All-4-One, Montell Jordan, Young MC, and more.

Complementing the 90s vibes on the “Forever Young” dates will be performances by heart-thumping beloved boy bands of the early 2000s, including O-town, Ryan Cabrera, LFO, and more, creating a one-of-a-kind experience for fans of two iconic decades.

2025 also marks a significant milestone for Vanilla Ice, who celebrates 35 years since the release of his breakthrough hit “Ice Ice Baby,” the first hip-hop single to top the Billboard Hot 100. As one of the pioneers of mainstream hip-hop, Vanilla Ice continues to captivate audiences with his high-energy performances and enduring appeal.

Says Vanilla Ice: “I’ve always believed music brings people together, and with the ‘I Love the 90s Tour’ and ‘Forever Young,’ we’re bringing the ultimate parties! These two concepts are about celebrating the hits that defined generations, and ‘Forever Young’ gives fans an unforgettable trip down memory lane with the addition of early 2000s boy bands. These shows are going to be epic!”

Says Jeff Epstein of UAA: “’The ‘I Love The 90s Tour’ continues to evolve, and with the new ‘Forever Young’ concept, we’re bringing fans the best of the 90s and early 2000s for an unmissable experience. Celebrating 35 years of ‘Ice Ice Baby’ with Vanilla Ice at the helm is the perfect way to honor the legacy of a song that defined an era while introducing an exciting new layer to the nostalgia we all love.”

The tour promises to deliver an electrifying night of music that will transport fans straight back to the iconic 1990s (and in select markets to the early 2000s as well!). These celebrations of decades that gave us unforgettable beats, timeless hits, and legendary artists promise to reignite the energy of a time when boom boxes, mixtapes, and denim-on-denim ruled the scene in a night of nostalgia, reconnecting with the songs and vibes that defined a generation. These are more than just concerts —they are a time machine for music lovers.

Tickets are available at your local ticket outlets. Please visit ilovethe90stour.com for more details and ticket links. Fans can expect VIP experiences and upgrades, exclusive merchandise, and meet-and-greet opportunities with some of their favorite artists (through OneMoreTimeVip.com and artists’ websites). Check your local listings for details.

Don’t miss the ultimate 90s and 2000s parties —get your tickets now!

“I LOVE THE 90S” 2025 TOUR DATES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

March 7 – Tucson, AZ – Rillito Park

March 8 – Coachella, CA – Spotlight 29 Showroom

March 14 – Pikeville, KY – Appalachian Wireless Arena

March 15 – Bethlehem, PA – Wind Creek Event Center

April 12 – Choctaw, MS – Pearl River Resort

April 18 – Rama, ON – Casino Rama

August 2 – San Diego, CA – Bayside Stadium, Sea World San Diego *

August 8 – Washington, MO – Washington Fairgrounds

August 30 – Grand Island, NE – TBA **

September 10 – Spokane, WA – Spokane County Fair and Expo Center

September 12 – Mashantucket, CT – Premier Theater, Foxwoods Resort Casino

September 13 – Atlantic City, NJ – Hard Rock Live Atlantic City at Etess Arena

November 22 – Ocean City, MD – The Roland E. Powell Convention Center **

* I Love The 90’s Tour featuring Treach of Naughty by Nature, Rob Base, Color Me Badd, Young MC

About Vanilla Ice:

With a career spanning over three decades, Vanilla Ice remains one of the most recognized names in music and entertainment. Known for his genre-defining hit “Ice Ice Baby” and his influence on pop culture, he has sold millions of records worldwide and continues to innovate with his creative projects and live performances.

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, under the leadership of co-owners Jeff Allen and Jeff Epstein, UAA continues to guide the careers of prominent artists and entertainers. The agency represents over 250 artists, facilitating performances worldwide and maintaining 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 music and entertainment industries.

Nine Days Signs Exclusively With Universal Attractions Agency; Celebrates 25 Years of “The Madding Crowd”

January 27, 2025 – New York, NY – Universal Attractions Agency is excited to announce that RIAA platinum-certified rock band Nine Days has signed exclusively with the agency. UAA’s Matt Rafal and Nick Martucci will act as responsible agents. Nine Days joins UAA’s expanding Rock & Pop division, which saw veteran agent Ryan Slone join the agency earlier this month. With the signing, Nine Days also joins a growing stable of acclaimed Rock & Pop acts on the UAA roster, including The Click Five, Russell Crowe’s Indoor Garden Party, Dada, Howie Day, Tyler Hilton, MKTO, Ryan Cabrera, Talking Dreads, Wang Chung, and more.

Nine Days formed in 1994 on Long Island, NY, and their debut album “Something To Listen To” would be released the following year. After signing a major record label deal in 1999, the band would find widespread acclaim with the LP “The Madding Crowd,” released in the spring of 2000. The album produced the mega-hit “Absolutely (Story of a Girl),” which peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100, top ten on Alternative Airplay, number one on Mainstream Top 40, and reaching double-platinum certification by the RIAA, all while continuing to be streamed over 500,000 times a week. The follow-up single “If I Am” also found success on the charts and airways.

After a prolonged hiatus, the band returned in 2024 with a resurgence in popularity when the band’s hit song “Absolutely (Story of a Girl)” appeared in the Academy Award-winning A24 film “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” Nine Days performed their first relaunch shows this past year in part of the Creed reunion “Summer of ’99” cruise festival, appearing alongside other iconic acts of the era such as Daughtry, Tonic, Fuel, and 3 Doors Down.

Nine Days frontman and guitarist John Hampson spoke on the band’s return to the stage, saying the following: “The response to the band on the Creed “Summer of ‘99” cruises was off the charts. I don’t think we’ve felt just such pure joy being on stage since back when “Story of a Girl” was first blowing up. It was amazing and set the vibe for all the shows we did in 2024. We started off the year filming a remake of the video for “Absolutely (Story of a Girl)” for a South Dakota Super Bowl commercial- yes, that happened – and then the Creed cruises, festival shows, and some solo acoustic shows I did in December. It felt so good to get back out there and on stage, and I am really looking forward to the shows celebrating the 25th anniversary this year.”

UAA Agent Matt Rafal added: “I’ve been a fan of Nine Days for decades and have always considered their songs to be timeless. Their live show has always been top-notch, and I’m really excited to have them on our roster.”

For a full overview of Universal Attractions Agency’s Rock & Pop roster, visit the official UAA website.

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.

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