Billie Eilish has spoken about her creative relationship with her brother, Finneas, and how they say the most “cruel” things to each other while writing and recording — but are still a dream match in the studio.
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Eilish was speaking at a merchandise pop-up store hosted by American Express in London on Wednesday (July 9) for an intimate Q&A with broadcaster Edith Bowman. One hundred fans were invited to the location in Old Street east London to witness the conversation and shop exclusive merchandise. (The pop-up is open from July 10 to 13.)
The U.K. and Ireland leg of the Hit Me Hard and Soft tour kicked off on Monday (July 7) in Glasgow, Scotland, and includes six nights at London’s O2 Arena, four at Manchester’s Co-op Live and concludes with a pair of shows at Dublin’s 3Arena on July 26.
Eilish’s creative process was the focus of the conversation, particularly her songwriting partnership with elder brother Finneas O’Connell. The pair work closely on all of Eilish’s recorded material, spanning from breakout track “Ocean Eyes” (2015) and through to their 2024 hit “Birds of a Feather.”
“Working with my brother for all of these years has forced me to be a good collaborator, which I appreciate,” she said. “But with a sibling, you can be so honest and brutal with each other. With Finneas, I never have to worry about if we’re not going to be friends again or have a falling out, or hurt his feelings in a way that we can’t fix.”
She continued, “Finneas and I have said the most cruel things that anyone has or ever will say because we’re siblings, and that’s how it goes. We love each other more than anyone’s been capable of loving anyone else. I think that’s why it’s so special, and why I don’t feel the need to work with anyone else to be real.”
The 23-year-old also discussed their work for movie soundtracks, including her James Bond theme (“No Time to Die,” 2020) and Academy Award-winning track for 2023 blockbuster Barbie (“What Was I Made For?”). “[Having a brief] is my favorite thing in the world,” she said of working with collaborators such as Barbie director Greta Gerwig and Hans Zimmer, who provided the score for No Time to Die.
“Having a prompt or assignment is where Finneas and I really thrive. It’s like a little game. Like, I get to write from the point of view of a Barbie doll and I love that.”
Songwriting, however, is something that still doesn’t feel natural to the Grammy-winning artist. “I find writing to be very, very challenging. To be real, I don’t enjoy writing music. It makes me feel very frustrated and that I’m dumb when I’m doing it. Because I’m thinking of what I want to say and feel like I can’t say it or find the right chords or whatever. And even now, after writing so many songs with my brother, I still find it really challenging.”
Elsewhere in the conversation she discussed being recently starstruck by New Girl star Jake Johnson at an airport. “Last year I was flying somewhere and as we pulled up to the airport, Jake Johnson got out of another car. My dad was there and was like, ‘Billie, you have to get out of the car,’ and I was just like, ‘I can’t, Jake Johnson is right there.’ And I started to tear up and cry, and my dad was asking, ‘Who even is that?’ And I said, ‘It’s Jake Johnson, the best actor in the world.’”
She continued, “I went into the airport and just sobbed, and called a couple of my friends and said, ‘Jake Johnson is at the same airport as me!’ My dad was begging me to go and talk to him and I refused … and this was last December, so not even that long ago! Eventually I had to walk by him as he was in the same room and he called my name out and said hello … and it was an awesome day!”
Eilish will return to North America for another leg of shows this fall, kicking off at Miami’s Kaseya Center on Oct. 9.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 15:22:512025-07-10 15:22:51Billie Eilish Explains Why She & Finneas Say the ‘Most Cruel Things’ to Each Other in the Studio
If you’ve been paying any attention to the Billboard charts the past couple weeks, you’ve undoubtedly noticed the chart onslaught of two brand-new groups: HUNTR/X and Saja Boys, who now have a combined six Billboard Hot 100 entries (and a top 40 hit each).
If you’re wondering why you’d never heard of either before a couple weeks ago, it’s because they didn’t exist prior to that — and in some ways technically still don’t, as both are inventions of the hit animated Netflix musical KPop Demon Hunters. Despite their fictional nature, both groups are having real-life breakout success befitting their in-universe superstardom — to the point where they’re racking up chart achievements that many of the biggest flesh-and-bone K-pop icons have yet to add to their resumés.
On this first-ever Fictional Pop Star Review on the Greatest Pop Stars podcast, host Andrew Unterberger is joined by Billboard Assistant Social Editor and K-pop superfan Abby Webster to talk about all things HUNTR/X and Saja Boys — what about the girl group and boy band feels authentic, what reminds us of other real-life K-pop idol groups and what maybe stretches credibility a little. We also talk about what has made KPop Demon Hunters into such a runaway phenomenon, and how much bigger it still could get from here.
Along the way, we discuss all the most important questions: Why has KPop Demon Hunters been the first musical since Encanto to have such chart-blanketing impact? How many members is too few for a plausible 2025 K-pop group? Is it weird that the HUNTR/X version of “Takedown” is actually outstreaming the cover done by the established real-life K-pop superstars on the soundtrack? And could a HUNTR/X and Saja Boys tour ever actually happen in real life — and would we go see it if it did?
Check it out above — along with two Abby-assembled Spotify playlists, one helping new-to-K-pop Demon Hunters fans find their footing within the genre, and also looking at some of the real-life genre hits echoed by the movie’s fictional jams. And please subscribe to the Greatest Pop Stars podcast on Apple Music or Spotify (or wherever you get your podcasts) for weekly discussions every Thursday about all things related to pop stardom!
And as we say in every one of these GPS podcast posts — if you have the time and money to spare, please consider donating to any of these causes in the fight for trans rights:
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 14:54:482025-07-10 14:54:48How Have the Fictional Pop Stars of ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Already Scored Bigger U.S. Hits Than So Many Real-Life K-Pop Stars?
Newly named Global Citizen Ambassador and Fugees co-founder Wyclef Jean will join billionaire entrepreneur and Shark Tank star Mark Cuban for a conversation about Detroit’s creative economy on Thursday (July 10) at the inaugural Global Citizen NOW: Detroit summit.
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The event at the city’s new multi-purpose Hudson’s Detroit development will bring together leaders from the worlds of business, entertainment, media, philanthropy, government and nonprofits to discuss what it takes to build sustainable, inclusive cities, while spotlighting the integral role music, culture and the arts play in shaping the city’s growth, according to a release. The conversation with Jean, Cuban, Motown Museum chair/CEO Robin Terry and Third Man Records co-founder/co-owner Ben Blackwell will be moderated by longtime Billboard contributor Gary Graff.
“It’s a true honor to be named a Global Citizen Ambassador. I’ve always believed in the power of music, not as simply for entertainment, but to awaken, to connect, to move people toward something greater,” said Jean in a statement about the announcement on Thursday that he will join a roster of A-list GC Ambassadors that includes Coldplay singer Chris Martin, Hugh Jackman, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, John Legend, Usher, Charlie Puth, Common, Billy Porter, Adam Lambert and others. The singer and activist has a long history of working with the international organization focused on the fight to end extreme poverty and promote social justice.
Jean first teamed up with Global Citizen in 2021, when he reunited the Fugees for a special performance during Global Citizen Live, then took the Global Citizen Festival stage again in 2023 — where he was joined by Fugees mate and surprise guest Lauryn Hill — as well as participating in this year’s Global Citizen NOW event in New York in April.
“As an artist and activist, my mission has always been to bring people together across borders and backgrounds,” Wyclef continued. “From New York to Detroit and beyond, music speaks the language of resilience, of hope, and of purpose. At a time when the world is in need of unity, I remain committed to turning that rhythm into real change. This is not about awareness, it’s about action, and together, we will continue to be the change we wish to see.”
According to organizers, Thursday’s event will look at the creative economy’s impact on Detroit via chats with the business leaders, activists and creatives who are shaping the city’s culture, including AfroFuture Festival founder Abdul Abdullah, chef Amanda Saab, Motown Museum 2024 Amplify artist of the year Jasmine Terrell and retired Detroit Lion and filmmaker Romeo Okwara, among many others.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 14:05:392025-07-10 14:05:39Newly Named Global Ambassador Wyclef Jean to Join Mark Cuban at Inaugural Global Citizen NOW: Detroit Event
Gloria Trevi re-upped her global publishing deal with Peermusic and signed with Peermusic Neighbouring Rights for worldwide (excluding the U.S.) collection. Peermusic has represented Trevi since 2007, expanding their deal in 2018 to include many of her iconic hits, like “Como Nace El Universo” and “Tu Ángel De La Guarda.” Trevi, inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2018, recently released her 17th studio album El Vuelo — her first as an independent artist under her label, Great Talent Records. One of the top-grossing Latin female artists, she sold out venues across the U.S. and Mexico with her Mi Soundtrack tour in 2024 and this year launched her Trevi Hits trek across Latin America and Spain. “Gloria is a true diva — bold, brilliant, and always unapologetically herself,” remarked Yvonne Drazan, president of U.S. Latin. “I’m constantly inspired by how she channels her thoughts and emotions into music that connects so deeply with her audience.”
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Kobalt signed a global publishing deal with Grammy and CMA-nominated songwriter Derrick Southerland, acquiring part of his extensive catalog. Known for his genre-spanning songwriting and over a billion streams, Southerland has penned hits like Ingrid Andress’ double platinum “More Hearts Than Mine,” gold-certified “Lady Like,” and “Yearbook.” His work has appeared across radio formats and in TV and film placements with ABC, Netflix and Hallmark, and he has collaborated with A-listers like Carrie Underwood, Kane Brown, Vince Gill and Joshua Bassett, whose song “Crisis” made NPR’s Top 10 Songs of 2021. Southerland’s latest release, “Same Moon” by Mitchell Tenpenny, is currently climbing the radio charts. “His ability to craft songs that permeate the Nashville community while having multi-genre impact is rare,” said Kevin Lane, senior creative director at Kobalt.
Angry Mob Music Group unveiled a refreshed brand identity, marking a new chapter in its 15-year story in Indie music publishing. The rebrand reflects the company’s evolution from a champion of indie artist exposure to a global, multidimensional publisher dedicated to supporting songwriters, composers and creatives. The updated look was developed in collaboration with Igawa Design and Boundary. CEO Marc Caruso said the rebrand signals a “new chapter” in the company, while co-founder Sean Harrison highlighted that the “new look captures the spirit, originality, and forward momentum that define both our team and the work we do.”
Country singer-songwriter Jay Webb inked a global publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing, coinciding with the upcoming release of his second album, Where To Find Me, on July 25. Hailing from Alabama, Webb built a grassroots following through relatable songcraft that reflects his tough upbringing. With over 415 million global streams — including tracks like “One More Shot” and “Love Me Tonight” — Webb is reshaping country with a genre-blending sound that pushes traditional boundaries. “His authenticity resonates with an audience that’s fighting through the same struggles he so vulnerably sings about from his own life experience,” said SMP Nashville A&R man Josh Van Valkenburg … SMP also added singer-songwriter Noeline Hofmann to its publishing roster. Hofmann released her debut EP Purple Gas last year, while Zach Bryan featured the title track as a duet with Hofmann on his The Great American Bar Scene project. The song reached No. 69 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Hofmann’s debut on that chart.
Reservoir Media extended its global publishing deal with Grammy-winning songwriter-producer Khris Riddick-Tynes, continuing a partnership that began in 2020. Based in Los Angeles, Riddick-Tynes has worked with top artists like Drake, SZA, Kehlani, Jacob Collier and Ariana Grande. One of Khris Riddick-Tynes’ standout achievements with Reservoir was co-writing and co-producing SZA’s Grammy-winning hit “Snooze,” from her record-breaking 2022 album SOS, which dominated Billboard’s R&B charts for months after its release. Riddick-Tynes has also earned industry recognition, including Billboard’s R&B/Hip-Hop Power Players list and Variety’s Hitmakers. Reservoir’s EVP Donna Caseine highlighted his “extraordinary talent,” adding that he “proves time and again to be an impressive collaborator, creating fresh music in the voice of some of today’s biggest artists across genres.”
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Concord Music Publishing signed Brazilian duo Tropkillaz (Zegon and Laudz) to a global publishing deal, marking its first-ever signing from Brazil. Known for blending Brazilian rhythms with bass, funk, hip-hop and dancehall, Tropkillaz have collaborated with Anitta, J Balvin, Justin Bieber and Snoop Dogg over the years. The duo’s recent work includes Karol G’s Tropicoqueta and notable K-pop productions for Lisa of BLACKPINK, NCT 127, aespa and TXT. The deal, coordinated across Concord’s London, New York and Miami offices, “reflects our commitment to creators that drive culture forward,” said Pablo Ahogado, vp of A&R.
BMG signed global publishing deals with two rising international artists. Brazilian DJ and producer ALOK, known for hits like “Hear Me Now” and collaborations with John Legend, joins BMG as a pioneer of Brazilian bass — a fusion of house, techno, and Brazilian rhythms. With over 22 million monthly Spotify listeners and 29 million Instagram followers, ALOK is Brazil’s most-streamed electronic artist and the only Brazilian featured in Billboard’s Dance 100. Meanwhile, Scottish singer-songwriter Tom Walker, acclaimed for “Leave a Light On” and his BRIT Award-winning debut What A Time To Be Alive, also joined BMG. With over three billion global streams and 3.5 million albums sold, Walker is praised by BMG’s Lisa Cullington as a “phenomenal songwriter” with deeply resonant music.
Little Louder Music extended its publishing partnership with singer-songwriter Tucker Beathard. Known for his transition from recording artist to go-to songwriter, Beathard has penned tracks for Eric Church, Kenny Chesney, Riley Green and more. His co-written song “Backup Plan,” recorded by Bailey Zimmerman and Luke Combs, is nearing the Top 10 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart. A Nashville native and son of songwriter Casey Beathard, Tucker rose to fame with his 2016 hit “Rock On” and his 2020 album King. “He is not a talker, he is a doer and what he has been doing is quietly writing some of the best songs in town,” said LLM president Arturo Buenahora Jr.
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British singer-songwriter Billy Lockett inked a global publishing deal with Notting Hill Music. Known for his emotive lyrics and piano-driven sound, Lockett gained acclaim with his 2023 album Abington Grove, featuring hit singles like “Hard Act To Follow” and “You’re Not Alone.” Under the new deal, Notting Hill Music will manage his existing catalog and support future releases, sync opportunities, and global growth. “Billy is exactly the kind of artist we love to work with – a genuine songwriter with a unique voice and a relentless drive,” said John Saunderson, head of A&R at NHM. “His music connects on such a deep level, and we’re honoured to help take his career to the next stage.”
Cutcraft Music Group signed UK artist IAMDDB to an exclusive global publishing deal. Known for blending jazz, trap and neo-soul, IAMDDB (Diana De Brito) has earned acclaim with tracks like “Shade,” “Famous” and “Drippy,” amassing over 100 million global streams.
Sony Music Publishing France and Sony Music France acquired Lusafrica and Africa Nostra, two influential entities dedicated to promoting Lusophone (Portuguese-speaking) and African music. Founded in 1988 by José Da Silva, Lusafrica introduced the world to Cesária Évora, whose award-winning discography is now part of a 4,000-title catalog. The acquisition includes Africa Nostra’s publishing rights, which overlap significantly with Lusafrica’s. The catalog features iconic artists like Bonga, Boubacar Traoré and Polo Montañez. “We are committed to preserving and developing the legacy built by Lusafrica, by establishing bridges between markets and generations, for the benefit of artists and fans,” said Marie-Anne Robert, managing director of SMF. “Our expertise in developing international audiences will allow listeners worldwide to discover or rediscover this essential world music catalog.”
Lyricist Alan Bergman turns 100 on Sept. 11, and he’ll be celebrating in style. Many of his friends and admirers will perform at a concert in his honor that night at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica, California.
The roster includes Patti Austin, Shelly Berg, Aloe Blacc, Jackson Browne, Peter Erskine, Michael Feinstein, David Finck, Mitch Forman, Jason Gould, Dave Grusin, Tamir Hendelman, Trey Henry, Roger Kellaway, Seth MacFarlane, Serge Merlaud, Greg Phillinganes, Paul Reiser, Lee Ritenour, Sheléa, Tierney Sutton and Lillias White.
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In addition, there will be video appearances by Bill Charlap, Natalie Dessay, Pat Metheny, Neima Naouri and Barbra Streisand, who paid tribute to Bergman and his late wife Marilyn on her Grammy-nominated 2011 album What Matters Most – Barbra Streisand Sings the Lyrics of Alan & Marilyn Bergman.
The event will serve as a benefit for the Jazz Bakery, of which Bergman is a founding board member. The nonprofit listening room is one of the most respected jazz spaces in Los Angeles.
Marilyn Bergman died in 2022 at age 93. In the years since, Alan Bergman has continued to write, record and perform. His most recent collaboration is with guitarist and composer Pat Metheny, who is set to record an album of nine Bergman/Metheny songs later this year.
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The Bergmans are probably best-known for writing exquisite ballads such as “What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life,” “Pieces of Dreams” and “How Do You Keep the Music Playing?,” but they couldn’t be typecast. They also wrote witty and zesty theme songs for such TV series as Maude, Good Times and Alice.
The Bergmans won three Academy Awards, including best original song for “The Windmills of Your Mind” from The Thomas Crown Affair and “The Way We Were” from the movie of the same name, and three Grammy Awards, including song of the year for “The Way We Were.”
The Bergmans received 15 Oscar nominations for best original song, a total equaled or bettered by only four songwriters in history – Sammy Cahn (26), Johnny Mercer (18), Diane Warren (16) and Paul Francis Webster (16). The Bergmans collaborated on their Oscar-nominated songs with seven different composers – Michel Legrand, Henry Mancini, Maurice Jarre, Marvin Hamlisch, David Shire, John Williams and Dave Grusin.
In 1983 they became the first (and remain the only) songwriters to be nominated for three Oscars for best original song in one year for “How Do You Keep the Music Playing?” from Best Friends, “It Might Be You” from Tootsie and “If We Were in Love” from Yes, Giorgio.
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They also won four Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards.
The Bergmans were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1980 and received that organization’s highest honor, the Johnny Mercer Award, in 1997. They received a trustees award from the Recording Academy in 2013.
The Bergmans also received lifetime achievement awards from the National Academy of Songwriters and the National Music Publishers Association. They received honorary doctorates from Berklee College of Music and the University of Massachusetts. Alan Bergman’s alma mater, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, recognized him with its Distinguished Alumnus Award.
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Two of the artists who are on the bill for the upcoming birthday event shared comments in a statement.
Five-time Grammy nominee and Great American Songbook ambassador Michael Feinstein said, “The songs Alan and Marilyn have written are part of a pantheon of enduring music that will live long beyond Alan’s Centenary, for they are timeless expressions of the human condition, and will never grow old. The love that they fundamentally lived, expressed and demonstrated in life, imbues their work with a special eloquence and truth. It is an honor to celebrate Alan on his 100th!”
Actor, comedian and writer Paul Reiser, who has received 11 Primetime Emmy nominations, commented, “My goal in life is to try to be even a small fraction of the man – and artist – that my dear friend Alan Bergman is. (I may need more than 100 years to get there, but… working on it.)”
In addition, Ruth Price, founder of the Jazz Bakery, said “100 years on this planet is no small achievement, but to have graced those years with such love, beauty and art speaks to a life extraordinarily well-lived. Alan is incomparable, and I love him for all kinds of reasons.”
Julie Bergman, Alan’s daughter, said, “I can think of no better way to celebrate my father than with an evening of music performed by some of his closest collaborators and friends. He is an extraordinary man and to honor him this way is the best gift I could think of.”
Tickets, priced at $100, $200 and $300, are available here.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 14:05:372025-07-10 14:05:37Jackson Browne, Patti Austin, Seth MacFarlane & More to Fete Lyricist Alan Bergman on His 100th Birthday
This Sunday (July 13) marks 10 years since the world bid farewell to Joan Sebastian, the beloved Mexican icon and one of Latin music’s most prolific and influential singer-songwriters. Known as “El Poeta del Pueblo” (The People’s Poet), Sebastian left behind a legacy marked by countless hits that continue to resonate today.
“I don’t make up songs — I live songs,” Sebastian once told Billboard.
Born José Manuel Figueroa on April 8, 1951, in Juliantla, Guerrero, the musician rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most celebrated figures in regional Mexican music. Yet, his influence extended far beyond ranchera. Over a career spanning five decades, he bridged genres like baladas, mariachi and Latin pop, all while staying true to his roots as a proud son of rural Mexico.
The Mexican legend made Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs chart 43 times, with 11 of his tracks breaking into the top 10. Songs like “Secreto de Amor,” “Tatuajes,” “Un Idiota” and “Oiga” remain staples of his catalog. His live jaripeo shows — where he sang astride his horses — further cemented his status as the ultimate showman in regional Mexican music.
The artist, who passed away at 64 after a 13-year battle with cancer, continued to record music and perform at events until the very end. His last studio album, 13 Celebrando El 13 (2013), reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums chart.
As we solemnly celebrate 10 years since his passing, Billboard Español looks back at all the songs that reached the top 10 of the Hot Latin Songs chart — in alphabetical order.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 14:05:372025-07-10 14:05:3710 Years Without Joan Sebastian: All the Hot Latin Songs Top 10 Hits That Shaped His Legacy
Award-winning singer, actress and talk show host Jennifer Hudson will deliver a special performance at the fourth annual Whitney E. Houston Legacy of Love Gala.
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of the late singer’s history-making career, the gala will take place Aug. 9 — on what would have been Whitney Houston’s 62nd birthday — at the St. Regis Hotel in Atlanta, presented by The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation and Primary Wave Music. The event’s honorary chair is music industry legend Clive Davis, chief creative officer of Sony Music Entertainment.
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In addition to headliner Hudson, the musical portion of the gala will feature R&B singer/songwriter Meli’sa Morgan, who sang on Houston’s self-titled debut album; Jimmy Vance, winner of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation’s second annual Cover Song Competition; and a special performance by a symphony orchestra as a preview of the upcoming North America fall tour, The Voice of Whitney: A Symphonic Celebration, conducted by William R. Langley.
Pat Houston, president of The Whitney E. Houston Legacy Foundation and executor of the late artist’s estate, will host the gala alongside Kevin Frazier of Entertainment Tonight. “We are excited to have Jennifer Hudson as our headlining performer and special guest,” Pat Houston said in the press announcement. “We are thrilled that she is able to take the time to spend Whitney’s 40th anniversary with us and our special guests. And more importantly, she continues to support Whitney’s legacy.”
The foundation’s 2025 grant award recipient is Kids in the Spotlight, an organization dedicated to empowering foster youth. The gala itself is also offering Houston artifacts as well as additional curated items and experience packages through partnerships with Julien’s Auctions and Charity Buzz. Once again, annual scholarships will be given to students in the arts at HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities).
“We are delighted how the foundation has developed and expanded over the past four years,” Houston added. “Though Whitney is known worldwide for her exemplary talent in music and entertainment, one of the things she loved more than anything was supporting children and our youth. She always reached back to various communities globally and truly demonstrated the work of a global servant and lived by the adage — ‘I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way; show them all the beauty they possess inside, give them a sense of pride to make it easier…’ — from her international anthem, ‘Greatest Love of All.’”
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 14:00:372025-07-10 14:00:37Jennifer Hudson to Headline Whitney Houston Legacy of Love Gala
Former OneRepublic bassist Tim Myers is giving politics another swing. The prolific writer/producer who was a founding member of the Ryan Tedder-fronted band from 2002-2007 announced his intention to run for Lieutenant Governor of California in an Instagram video on Monday in which he hit on some of the same campaign themes he touted earlier this year when he launched a now-abandoned run to replace a longtime GOP rep in the California House of Representatives.
In a campaign video featuring a haunting piano score and dramatic shots of California landmarks, as well as the smoldering remnants of the devastating January 2025 wildfires, widespread homeless encampments and images of economic hardship — cued to a cover of The Mamas & the Papas’ “California Dreaming” — Myers made his message of change loud and clear.
Following footage of President Trump calling California a “disgrace” while threatening to pull federal funding from the state, Myers said, “You know what the real disgrace is? A president who insults 40 million Americans and is doing everything he can to harm a state with the fourth largest economy in the world. Meanwhile, our own state leaders have done almost nothing to fight back. That’s why I’m running for Lieutenant Governor, to help protect and rebuild the California that we love.”
Myers is running to replace current Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who has announced a bid to succeed incumbent Gov. Gavin Newsom; the two-term democrat can’t run due to term-limits and is widely expected to run for president in 2028. Earlier this year, Myers announced that he was planning to take on longtime California House of Representatives member GOP member Ken Calvert in an attempt to regain control of the chamber and slow down Trump’s agenda. It appears he has abandoned that effort to pivot to the state’s second-in-command post, a position with limited power that is typically thought of as the first step to running for Governor.
Myers has moved on to the Lt. Gov. race with much of the same campaign messaging as his earlier bid. Saying his run for the state’s second highest office is a chance to buck the status quo, the self-described political neophyte and third-generation Californian told voters, “You don’t choose the time, the time chooses you.”
He continued using an apt musical metaphor, “One voice is weak, but a chorus is strong. Let’s write a new song for California, together.” Democrat Myers faces a crowded field, which already includes fellow party members state Treasurer Fiona Ma, Newsom advisor Josh Fryday, California State Board of Equalization member Mike Schaefer, former California Sen. Steven Bradford and Sausalito City Council member Janelle Kellman and former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs; the top two candidates will advance to the general election.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 13:43:092025-07-10 13:43:09Former OneRepublic Bassist Tim Myers Running For California Lieutenant Governor: ‘We Can’t Keep Doing the Same Old Thing’
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Amazon Prime Day 2025 day 3 finally here and bringing with it even more supercharged tech deals. Outside of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there’s no bigger sale event to score the best discounts on headphones, speakers, video games, laptops and other tech-savvy gadgets.
This year’s Prime Day is slightly different from previous years. Prime Members will have double the amount of time to shop as the House of Bezos extended the sale event from two days to four. Starting today, the pseudo-holiday is already producing pretty juicy deals. We’re talking up to 90% off on microphones, chargers, TV’s and smart home gadgets.
To kick off Prime Day day 3, we’ve compiled a list of amazing tech deals available on Amazon now from top brands like Apple, Samsung, Amazon Fire TV, Beats and HP. Whether you’re looking for pieces for yourself, or for the tech fiend in your life, stick around because this list is for you. Keep scrolling to shop our ever-growing list of Prime Day tech deals below. Throughout the remaining of the sale event, we’ll continue to update our guide with the best products, deals, and prices until Prime Day 2025 is over on July 11.
For even more deals, check out our general Prime Day deals story with over 30+ deals hand picked by ShopBillboard.
Looking for an affordable Apple Watch. For under $300, this durable smartwatch comes equipped with GPS for enhanced outdoors and sports tracking, crack-resistant build and is IP6X-certified dust resistant and water resistant for and hiking adventures this summer.
If you want a device more portable than a laptop, the iPad is a great choice. The Apple tablet features an A16 chip, an 11-inch liquid retina display, 128GB, Wi-Fi 6, 12MP front/12MP back camera, touch ID, and all-day battery life.
Prime Day Headphone Deals
Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones
Sony’s flagship line of headphones has always had impressive, industry-leading noise-cancellation. For under $200, there’s no better over-the-ear headphone deal better than this.
with Bluetooth, 30-Hour Battery Life, Spatial Audio, Dolby Atmos, Dynamic Head Tracking – Black Sonos flagship headphones are getting a rare 30% discount
These Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds deliver powerful sound, with a comfortable fit. The design centers around secure-fit ear hooks that lay over the ears, allowing users to listen to music without any discomfort.
The portably Middleton speaker utilizes True Stereophonic, a unique form of multi-directional stereo sound to deliver an immersive experience wherever you roam.
Enhance your next movie night with this powerful soundbar system that features Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. When detected, built-in adaptive height speakers automatically rotate up, reflecting sound off the ceiling for a thrilling cinematic experience in the comfort of your own home.
This portable bluetooth speaker pacts powerful sound and deep bass. It’s also IP67 waterproof, has 24 Hours of playtime, a powerbank, and features PartyBoost for multi-speaker pairing.
Crisp sound is now at your fingertips thanks to this Amazon Fire TV Soundbar Plus. With this sleek and compact soundbar, you can easily enhance your movie and TV-watching experience thanks to features like built-in bass and DTS:X, which delivers multi-dimensional audio for lifelike sound.
Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Generation) Portable Bluetooth Speaker
Retailing for $29.59, 41% off of the original price, this speaker features Bluetooth compatibility and 3D HD stereo sound with an enhanced base, thanks to 24W total output power.
Prime Day Gaming Deals
EDITORS’ PICK
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5P Wireless Multi-System Gaming Headset
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro Wireless Xbox Gaming Headset is a great option that’s compatible with most consoles including Xbox, PS5 and Switch along with PC and Mobile.
Charging Dock Compatible with Nintendo Switch & OLED Model Joycons
This super affordable tablet is equipped with a 10.1″ 1080p Full HD display, a 13-hour battery life, 32 or 64 GB of storage and up to 1 TB expandable storage with micro-SD card, all for $70.
MENERESAS’ 3-in-1 Mini Microphone offers crisp audio quality for all your TikTok and streaming needs. The crisp sound quality is thanks to a built-in smart chip that effectively captures sound from all directions while reducing surrounding noise.
Samsung 50-Inch Class QLED 4K The Frame LS03B Series
A HP laptop standing at 15.6 inch display and is equipped with a large and clear 15.6-inch display along with an Intel Processor N100 that allows for a smooth run even after hours of use.
With INIU’s Portable Charger, low battery is a thing of the past. Retailing for $26.97, the portable brick’s main feature is its fast charging that’s 3X faster than regular 1A chargers.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 13:36:292025-07-10 13:36:29The Best Prime Day Tech Deals Are Up to 50% Off: Save on Apple, Samsung & Sony
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Collecting vinyl is only half of the fun of owning a record player. Once you build up your knowledge, you can enjoy testing out more advanced turntables as well as experiment with setting up a crisp listening experience filled with high-performance speakers and stylish vinyl record holders.
As nostalgia continues making its way into the mainstream beyond belly chains and jelly shoes, record players are having a major moment in home decor and tech. Vinyl enthusiasts now have the opportunity to take advantage of modernized record players that have evolved and come with more advanced features such as Bluetooth and the ability to play multiple speeds. Plus, artists today have begun adding vinyl record releases in addition to streaming, allowing you to enjoy spinning popular artists today or classics from the past.
Whether you’re an experienced record collector who knows how to safely clean vinyl, are a beginner starting your record-playing journey or are just looking for gifts for music lovers, there are a few things every record collector should have in their arsenal.
From unique pieces of home decor that’ll turn your favorite records into wall art to vinyl-storing essentials, there are a mix of must-have items for every aesthetic and budget — especially during Amazon Prime Day.
Keep reading to discover all of the essentials every collector should own.
What Are the Best Vinyl Record Player Accessories?
Below, ShopBillboard rounded up some of the bestselling vinyl record player accessories to shop now.
Keep your turntable and records in tip-top shape using EVEO’s 4-in-1 cleaning kit. Within it, you’ll find everything you may need, including a velvet brush and cleaning fluid specifically for albums, a hands-free turntable needle gel cleaner and a duster brush.
Looking to show off your records? You can spotlight whatever you’re listening to with Yuan Dian’s Light-Up Vinyl Record Stand. This stand can not only be mounted to your wall, but has a built-in glow to shine a light on what tunes you’re spinning for the day.
Neoteck Digital Turntable Stylus Force Scale Gauge
Part of keeping your vinyls in pristine shape is making sure your record player needle’s force isn’t too heavy. That’s where a turntable stylus force scale comes in, like this one from Amazon, available for under $15, as of this writing.
Here’s how it works: lay the device on a still record, then turn the turntable on and wait until the device zeros out. Place the needle on the center dot and read the grams on the display. The scale will measure the force or pressure exerted to give you a gauge on how it’s affect sound quality and the longevity of your LPs.
Getting a package filled with new vinyls can be exciting, but since they’re made from delicate materials you need to be gentle when opening packages. This blade is versatile and can be used to records, open letters, boxes and more.
Spotlight your record collection with this storage holder that can fit up to 50 12-inch LPs or 7-inch singles. If you’re prone to dropping things, the design was built to be shatterproof and features durable materials like break-resistant acrylic and wood.
These outer sleeves may seem like a basic accessory to own, but they’ll go a long way in protecting the quality of your records. Included is 25 sleeves made from a high-density polypropylene that will stand up to water damage while keeping out dust and dirt that could scratch or ruin records.
Even if you’re new to owning vinyl, your guests don’t have to know that, and this record player stand can assist in giving off the vibe that you know what you’re doing. The top portion allows you to keep your record player in a safe spot that also puts it on display. Underneath are slots for storing your vinyl, while the side comes with a hook to hang your over-ear headphones or tote bags.
For less than $15 (as of this writing), Pyle’s Phono Turntable Preamplifier will help boost your turntable’s signal if it’s not already built into it. What this does enhance the sound quality and overall better your listening experience. Even if your turntable has one built-in, if you want better quality, then an external one like this will only sharpen the sound.
Want to take your vinyl with you on the go? Add this carrying case to your cart and worry less about scratching or damaging records. It can hold up to 30 records and is made from a heavy duty vinyl material that’ll protect your precious collection from bumps and tumbles thanks to its edge guards and lock system. This is a much better way to carry your collection than in a backpack or tote.
And, of course, if you collect vinyl, make sure you have a record player turntable to play spin it on. Angel Horns Vinyl Record Player System is currently 15% off and comes in a convenient briefcase for portability. It supports three playback speeds and can play three different record sizes: 7 inches, 10 inches and 12 inches. You won’t need speakers either as it has built-in ones and Bluetooth capabilities, which allows you to connect your phone and stream music.
https://i0.wp.com/neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/station.nez_png.png?fit=943%2C511&ssl=1511943Yvetohttps://neztelinc.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/nez_png.pngYveto2025-07-10 13:36:292025-07-10 13:36:29The Best Record Player Accessories on Sale for Prime Day — Save up to a Whopping 63%
