
Call for entries extended! Submission of abstracts for technical papers for Slope Stability 2026 is extended until October 30
The deadline for submitting abstracts for technical papers for the international conference Slope Stability 2026 (SS2026) has been extended until Thursday, October 30, the Organizing Committee announced. Slope Stability, one of the world's leading mining slope competitions, is organized by the Large Open Pit Project (LOP) and supported in Peru by the Peruvian Society of Geoengineering and the Institute of Mining Engineers of Peru (IIMP). Approved technical papers will be published in the Slope Stability 2026 Proceedings and/or may be presented orally or through posters at the event, which will be held for the first time in Peru, from October 26 to 29 of next year, at the Lima Convention Center, in the district of San Borja. This edition's thematic axes will address climate change in the mining industry; mine closure; rockfall; slope stability in weak and hard rocks; machine learning, artificial intelligence, and the implementation of new technologies; geo-education and training; slope monitoring, instrumentation, and risk management; rock mass characterization and data uncertainty, among others. Expectations The Slope Stability 2026 Technical Committee emphasized that this year's edition expects to receive around 500 abstracts and that submissions must be made in English only. Abstracts must contain appropriate information such as description, application, results, conclusions, and technical contributions. The event expects to bring together young students, geotechnicians, researchers, educators, scientists, and other professionals from the global mining industry from Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, the United States, Mexico, Panama, and the Dominican Republic. It should be noted that after abstracts are accepted, authors must submit a draft and a final version of their technical work via email to programaslopestability2026@speg.org.pe. Presentations will be in person, either orally or as a poster, as determined by the Organizing Committee. For more information about the event, registration, and participation and business opportunities, you can visit the official website https://www.slopestability2026.com/

Asia Culture Center Foundation, ‘ACC X Music Festival’ to be held in Gwangju, South Korea from August 29 to 31
Asia Culture Center Foundation (President Myung-kyu Kim, hereinafter referred to as the “Center Foundation”) will hold the “ACC X Music Festival” for three days from August 29 to 31 at the National Asia Culture Center Arts Theater in Gwangju, South Korea. Musicians and festival officials who celebrated the new birth of the festival gathered together to wish for the success of the “ACC X Music Festival.”

Chris Madsen Named Managing Director of LPGA Asia-Pacific Region
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (July 2, 2025) – The LPGA today announced the appointment of Chris Madsen as Managing Director of the LPGA’s Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region. Madsen will oversee all LPGA business operations across the APAC region, including partnerships, events and strategic development. Chris Madsen (Photo by LPGA) A seasoned sports executive, Madsen brings more than a decade of experience in global sports, entertainment and lifestyle brands. He has held senior leadership positions with Nike, Chelsea Football Club and SpoTV (Eclat Media), managing multimillion-dollar budgets and leading teams throughout Southeast Asia, India and the broader APAC region. Most recently, Madsen led business development for SpoTV in Southeast Asia, where he launched a pioneering badminton initiative and oversaw rebranding efforts, production and commercial strategy. Prior to that, he served as Sports Marketing Director for Nike in Southeast Asia and India, managing a portfolio of more than 300 athletes, clubs and federations. He played a key role in developing campaigns that elevated brand presence and supported the growth of women’s sports. Earlier in his career, Madsen spent more than a decade at Chelsea Football Club, where he served as Head of Region, APAC. In that role, he led commercial partnerships and managed the club’s image rights strategy. He also previously held a commercial development position at London Irish Rugby Club. “We are thrilled to welcome Chris to the LPGA,” said Interim LPGA Commissioner Liz Moore. “Asia is central to the LPGA’s identity, not only because of the events we host there, but also because of the many world-class players from the region and our global corporate partners based there. While many sports and entertainment properties strive to be global, the LPGA is truly global – reflected in our schedule, our athletes and our fanbase. Chris brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the region, making him the ideal leader to drive our strategic efforts across Asia and the Pacific.” “It’s an incredible honor to join the LPGA, an organization with unmatched global recognition in women’s sports,” said Madsen. “The LPGA’s legacy has been built over generations, and I’m proud to help continue that growth in one of its most vital and dynamic regions.” The LPGA Tour returns to Asia in October with five events across four countries and regions, including the biennial Hanwha LIFEPLUS International Crown, which will be contested in the Republic of Korea from Oct. 23–26.
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SAS places record order for 55 Embraer aircraft to power future growth and regional connectivity
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has entered into an agreement to acquire 45 Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3) E195-E2 aircraft, with purchase rights for an additional 10 aircraft — the largest SAS jet order direct from a manufacturer since 1996. This milestone agreement supports SAS’ long-term fleet renewal strategy, which is focused on increasing efficiency, reducing emissions, and unlocking future growth opportunities from its global hub in Copenhagen as well as across its Scandinavian and international network. The first aircraft deliveries from Embraer are scheduled to begin in late 2027, with further deliveries extending over approximately four years. Excluding purchase rights, the value for the order is approximately US$4 billion. “This is a defining moment for SAS,” says Anko van der Werff, President & CEO, SAS. “The Embraer E195-E2 is a world-class aircraft, combining outstanding performance with excellent fuel efficiency and comfort. This aircraft is key to enabling future growth and improved connectivity across Scandinavia and beyond. We’ve taken the time to make the right decision — and this major investment reflects our confidence in the future and the strength of the agreement we’ve secured.” The E195-E2 will play a vital role in optimizing SAS’ operations and enhancing connectivity across Scandinavia and Europe. Its size and range are ideally suited to complement SAS’ existing fleet and route structure, allowing for more frequencies, better network flexibility, and lower trip costs. Built for the future of sustainable aviation “The E2 is central to our strategy to build a modern, efficient fleet with strong performance. It enables us to serve more routes with lower emissions, better economics, and a premium experience for our passengers,” adds Van der Werff. “Together with Embraer, we are setting the course for the next chapter of SAS.” The E2 family of aircraft has already been tested with 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and is in the process of being fully certified to fly on 100% SAF in the foreseeable future. Today blends of up to 50% SAF are already achievable. Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: "We are thrilled to deepen our partnership with SAS through this landmark deal. The E2 is the quietest single aisle jet available today - 29% more fuel efficient and with a 62% reduction in noise footprint over the previous generation jet, the E195-E2 is a game-changer in terms of efficiency, performance, and passenger comfort. We are confident that these aircraft will play a crucial role in SAS' fleet renewal and expansion strategy, supporting their ambitious growth plans and enhancing their operational capabilities." Powered by Pratt & Whitney’s advanced PW1900G GTF engines, the E195-E2 delivers double-digit reductions in fuel burn, emissions, and noise compared to previous-generation aircraft. The new fleet will help lower SAS’ environmental footprint and reinforce its position as a driving force in reducing aviation’s climate impact. This order marks another step in SAS’ future-focused transformation, supporting a modernized fleet and improved travel experience. SAS continues to strengthen its overall network and international reach while enhancing connectivity between regional cities and global destinations through more seamless and sustainable operations. This order was facilitated by the support of Skyworks Holding. SAS was recently ranked as the world’s most punctual airline*, a testament to the company’s commitment to operational excellence and reliability. *SAS ranked No. 1 out of 660 airlines globally for on-time performance in April and May 2025 (source: Cirium).
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Embraer Delivers First E2 Jet to Mexicana
Mexicana, Mexico's state-owned carrier, has taken delivery of their first E195-E2 aircraft from Embraer (NYSE: ERJ; B3: EMBR3). The delivery of Mexicana’s first new generation jet is a significant milestone in the airline’s modernization journey, and reaffirms the E2’s growing presence in Latin America. The aircraft departed Embraer’s headquarters for Mexico this morning. This delivery is the first of 20 new-generation E2 jets ordered by Mexicana, comprising 10 E190-E2 and 10 E195-E2 aircraft. The deal, announced in 2024, represents a strategic investment by Mexico’s state-owned carrier to enhance connectivity and operational efficiency. “This delivery marks a new chapter for Mexicana,” said Leobardo Bojórquez, CEO of Mexicana. “The E2’s performance, economics, and passenger appeal make it the perfect aircraft to support our growth strategy. We are excited to bring this new level of service and efficiency to our customers.” Mexicana’s E2 jets will be configured in a single class layout, offering passengers a modern, spacious cabin experience with no middle seats. The E195-E2’s advanced aerodynamics, new-generation engines, and refined systems contribute to a 29% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the previous-generation jet. “We are proud to deliver the first E2 to Mexicana and support the airline’s mission to connect more communities across Mexico with greater efficiency and comfort,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO of Embraer Commercial Aviation. “The E2 is the most fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft in the world, and it’s ideally suited to Mexicana’s network and sustainability goals.” The E190-E2 and E195-E2 are part of Embraer’s E-Jets E2 family, recognized for its quiet operation, lower emissions, and class-leading economics. The aircraft are also equipped with full fly-by-wire technology, which reduce pilot workload and enhances safety. Mexicana’s E2 fleet will be supported by Embraer’s comprehensive Services & Support organization, ensuring high aircraft availability and operational reliability from day one.
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NATO orders two additional Airbus A330 MRTT aircraft and welcomes Sweden and Denmark to the Multinational Fleet
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has ordered two additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft, increasing the Multinational MRTT Fleet (MMF) to 12 aircraft. The two additional aircraft will be delivered in 2028 and 2029. This expansion coincides with the formal accession of Sweden and Denmark to the MMF programme, further strengthening European strategic autonomy and collaborative defence capabilities. Sweden and Denmark's addition to the MMF programme expands the base of participating nations and reinforces European sovereignty in critical defence capabilities. Funded by the Netherlands, Luxembourg, with the progressive incorporation of Norway, Germany, Belgium and the Czech Republic, the MMF programme allows these nations the exclusive right to operate the NATO-owned aircraft in a pooling arrangement providing commonality, interoperability and cost efficiency, a prime example of European operational defence collaboration. "The expansion of the Multinational MRTT Fleet with two additional aircraft and the addition of Sweden and Denmark to the programme underscores Europe’s commitment to collective defence and strategic autonomy,” said Jean-Brice Dumont, Head of Air Power at Airbus Defence and Space. “Airbus is proud to contribute to this effort by delivering state-of-the-art A330 MRTTs produced and converted in our Toulouse and Getafe facilities. This collaboration exemplifies how European industry can respond effectively to evolving security challenges through innovation and cooperation.” The Airbus A330 MRTT is a state-of-the-art aircraft that seamlessly integrates air-to-air refuelling, strategic airlift, and medical evacuation capabilities. With a fuel capacity of up to 111 tonnes, it can conduct long-range missions, supporting NATO operations across Europe and beyond. Its wide-body fuselage enables it to transport up to 300 troops or a payload of up to 45 tonnes. Additionally, the aircraft can be configured with a dedicated Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) kit that can accommodate stretchers and intensive-care stations. Since its introduction, the A330 MRTT has participated in important missions, including enhanced air policing and aerial surveillance, ensuring the territorial integrity of allied nations. The A330 MRTT combines advanced technology with more than 325,000 hours of operational experience as a strategic tanker. The aircraft is the world’s first tanker certified for boom automatic air-to-air refueling (A3R), which enhances safety and efficiency during missions. These features, along with its proven performance, establish the A330 MRTT as a reliable and versatile asset that holds 90% of the new-generation tanker market outside the USA with 84 orders from 17 customers .
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pureLiFi Unveils Kitefin XE, the Next Generation LiFi System Ready to Secure Communications for Defence and Beyond
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EAW Adds UXA4807D to Fixed Installation Amplifier Line
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Gibson and Michael J. Fox Launch Global Search for Missing Guitar from Iconic 80s Film ‘Back To The Future’
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Masque Sound Collaborates with Dayglo Presents to Deliver World-Class Systems Integration for GARCIA’S CHICAGO
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Gibson Celebrates Black Sabbath's Historic Final Reunion Show, 'Back to the Beginning'
Rooted in a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation, Gibson the iconic global instrument brand synonymous with music culture, designs the tools that have shaped generations of sound. Over the past weekend, Gibson rallied to support the legendary rock group Black Sabbath and their long-awaited, final show and one-night-only all-star concert, Back to the Beginning which marked the first performance in over 20 years of the original lineup: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. “It was a great honor to pay tribute to Tony Iommi and Black Sabbath during their final Back to the Beginning show this past weekend in Birmingham, UK, where it all started,” says Cesar Gueikian, President and CEO of Gibson. “It was beautiful to witness how the star-studded artist community came together to celebrate and pay respect to Black Sabbath. It was an honor for all of us at Gibson to have had the opportunity to be there to host the artist community at the Gibson lounge backstage and raise a significant amount of funds for great local causes. I will never forget that day, it was a once-in-a-lifetime event.” Gibson donated two Gibson SG Standard guitars--the world-famous guitar model beloved by Tony Iommi--which were hand-signed by the artists backstage at Back to the Beginning. Music fans worldwide bid on these one-of-a-kind signed guitars during the charity auction at www.ozzyauction.co.uk which ended on Monday. A unique opportunity to celebrate a defining moment in rock and roll history while supporting three life-changing charities, all proceeds from the auction will be shared equally between three causes close to the Osbourne family’s heart: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorns Children’s Hospice. Check out a handful of the artists that signed the Gibson SG guitars backstage for the Back to the Beginning auction in the following clip: HERE. https://www.instagram.com/gibsonguitaruk/reel/DLxmQRsMJzF/ Gibson was also present backstage in the artist lounge with a selection of guitars, as well as an interactive experiences and a photo booth with Indian Motorcycles as part of the unforgettable backstage environment available for the performers, VIP guests, and industry legends. Back to the Beginning marked the historic return of the original Black Sabbath – Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward – performed together for the first time in 20 years. The all-star celebration of heavy metal’s founding fathers saw Ozzy take to the stage for a short solo set before reuniting with Black Sabbath for their final ever performance, making this one of the most significant live music events of the decade. Formed in Birmingham in 1968, Black Sabbath went on to become one of the most influential and successful metal bands of all time, selling over 75 million albums and defining a genre. Music Director Tom Morello described Back to the Beginning as “the greatest heavy metal show ever.” The event also featured performances from Metallica, Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, Pantera, Gojira, Alice In Chains, Halestorm, Lamb Of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, and more. A supergroup of legendary musicians also performed including Ronnie Wood, Steven Tyler, Billy Corgan, Duff McKagan, Slash, Frank Bello, Fred Durst, Jake E Lee, Jonathan Davis, David Draiman, KK Downing, Lzzy Hale, Mike Bordin, Rudy Sarzo, Sammy Hagar, Scott Ian, Sleep Token ii, Papa V Perpetua, Tom Morello, and Zakk Wylde. A landmark celebration of the band’s groundbreaking legacy and their enduring influence on rock and metal music, Back to the Beginning took place Saturday, 5 July, at Villa Park in Black Sabbath’s hometown of Birmingham and marked the historic stage return for the original four members as Ozzy Osbourne performed a short solo set before joining Black Sabbath for their final bow.
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Jett Galindo Opens Mastering Studio and Takes NUGEN Audio Along for the Ride
GRAMMY® Award-winning Mastering Engineer Jett Galindo is proudly continuing the legacy of her iconic mentor, mastering legend Doug Sax of The Mastering Lab. With over a decade of experience, she recently opened her own studio, Jett Galindo Mastering, which is meticulously designed to uphold the traditions and philosophies passed down to her. “I’ve had the privilege of having access to a high-quality, award-winning mastering signal chain throughout the entire decade that I worked at The Mastering Lab and The Bakery,” says Galindo. “When building my studio, I knew I wanted to maintain that authentic, uncompromised fidelity in my sound. I wasn’t going to cut corners; I was going to build a workstation that was thoughtful and intentional from the ground up. I’m proud to say that I built a mastering studio that lives up to those standards.” Equipped with the highest caliber, custom-built, analog hardware, crafted by renowned engineer Josh Florian of JCF Audio, Jett Galindo Mastering features The Mastering Lab’s signature line amps and EQs, alongside JCF Audio’s acclaimed Latte A/D-D/A converters. On the digital side, Galindo incorporates a variety of solutions, including multiple plug-ins from NUGEN Audio, to complement her signal chain. “My studio is where my analog and digital worlds truly come together. Both elements need to complement each other to meet that impeccable standard for mastering,” she says. Among Galindo’s specialties is vinyl cutting, for which she says NUGEN’s Monofilter plug-in is essential. “With vinyl, it’s the stereo imaging of the subharmonics in the low end that can cause the needle to skip, and you don’t want that to happen, especially when you’re listening to hip-hop or electronic records,” she explains. “While this was very important for me back at The Bakery, now that I don’t have my own cutting lathe, it’s even more critical. I need to be able to maintain a proper quality check of my low-end. Monofilter provides control and creates the least sonic compromises for the music.” Galindo also equipped her studio with the brand’s MasterCheck and Stereoizer plug-ins. “Many mastering facilities spend months perfecting the acoustics of a room and our decisions are often made through our ears; most of us produce the best work this way,” she says. “MasterCheck helps inform my decisions in the mastering stage without getting in the way of my creative juices. Meanwhile, Stereoizer helps with the width and balance of the stereo imaging in relation to the center. Stereoizer works in a way where it’s very subtle, nuanced and transparent, and it gets the job done without sounding overly processed. You can create a lot of magic with that tool.” Similarly, Galindo often deploys the brand’s SEQ-S for EQ stereo imaging. “Mastering engineers have very little room to get the job done because the mixer, artist and producer have all approved the mix before it gets to us,” she explains. “Anytime we need something done, like EQ stereo imaging, we want a tool that lets us execute our creative vision without compromising the original sound. SEQ-S gives me the ability to make transparent, nuanced changes to the stereo field, even in the mid or side channels, without sacrificing musical integrity. With SEQ-S, things sound organic, even with the broad adjustments I make.” “As I said, when I built my studio with my analog chain, I wanted my mastering signal chain to be the least compromised possible,” adds Galindo. “I feel that the NUGEN Audio plug-ins are the digital equivalent of my analog gear.” Beyond mastering and vinyl cutting, Galindo serves as elected Secretary of the Recording Academy’s LA Chapter Board and is a member of the National Producers & Engineers Wing (P&E Wing) Advisory Council. She is also a board member of “Women in Vinyl,” a non-profit organization championing education and representation in the vinyl industry, and remains actively involved with “SoundGirls,” an organization supporting women and LGBTQ+ professionals in audio. Additionally, she has written over 30 published articles on mastering, which all aim to educate and empower independent artists.
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Gibson Celebrates 50 years of Crafting Guitars in Nashville with the limited-edition Les Paul Music City Special
The Les Paul Music City Special – 50th Anniversary is a unique commemorative guitar that pays tribute to the early days of Gibson’s Nashville production and celebrates 50 years of Gibson handcrafting guitars in Music City. This year marks a major milestone for Gibson: 50 years of handcrafting guitars in the heart of Nashville, Tennessee. To honor this journey, Gibson introduces the Les Paul™ Music City Special – 50th Anniversary, a modern tribute to the creativity, heritage, and player passion that defines Music City. Available now at Gibson.com and Gibson Garage locations, this limited-edition model is capped at just 650 guitars per finish, worldwide. Rooted in the design DNA of the iconic 1970s Gibson Marauder—played by legends like Adam Jones (TOOL) and Paul Stanley (KISS)—the Music City Special blends vintage character with modern sensibility. It’s a nod to the past and a tool for the present, designed for players who want tone, versatility, and history, in one inspiring package. “Marking 50 years of Gibson in Nashville, the limited-edition Music City Special model is a tribute to the spirit of creativity and individuality that defines this city,” says Mat Koehler, Vice President of Product at Gibson. “It draws on everything we’ve learned since opening our Gibson USA craftory and channels it into something new and inspiring to play.” “We’re very proud to introduce the Music City Special,” adds Gibson Master Luthier Jim DeCola. “It pays homage to the Gibson Marauder of the 70s as well as the city it is named after. It has been reimagined as a straightforward, yet versatile and functional instrument relevant for today’s working musician.” Explore the new Les Paul Music City Special - 50th Anniversary guitars HERE. https://www.gibson.com/en-US/p/Electric-Guitar/gibson-Les-Paul-Music-City-Special-50th-Anniversary/Tobacco-Burst and take a deep dive into this new offering on the Gibson Gazette. Each model is handcrafted in the Gibson Nashville facility in three gloss nitrocellulose finishes: Tobacco Burst, Wine Red, and Ebony. With dual 70s Tribute humbuckers™, a fast SlimTaper™ maple neck, and a striped ebony fretboard with a 12-inch fretboard radius for smooth playability, the Music City Special is ready to rock at your next gig or session, straight out of the premium soft-shell guitar case. Whether you’re a fan, a collector, or someone who’s just discovered Gibson through the stories of Music City, this guitar is made to be played--and to be part of the next 50 years of Gibson in Nashville.
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Platinum Producer Johhny G taps KRK GoAux
Billboard-charting, platinum-selling Artist, Producer, and Creative Visionary Johhny G is making waves in the music industry. He started one of TikTok’s biggest dance trends of 2020 and the viral Chinese New Year Remix #vibechallenge. Known for his genre-defying style and catchy hits, Johnny G is turning heads with his new KRK GoAux 4 Portable Studio Monitor setup, which is as dynamic as his sound. Best known for working with iconic talent like YG Marley on songs like “Praise Jah in the Moonlight,” Johhny G’s production toolkit just got a powerful upgrade. A long-time user of KRK’s ROKIT 10-3 Powered Studio Monitors, Johnny G has now also embraced the ultra-portable GoAux, and he’s not looking back. “I like the GoAux because they are compact and convenient,” he says. “The carrying case makes it super easy to travel and transport where I need to go, and the sound is great as well.” From impromptu beat-making sessions to vibing out with mixes, Johhny G appreciates the flexibility and uncompromised audio quality that KRK brings to his creative workflow. “I use the GoAux mainly for home mixing sessions,” he explains. “I will set the monitors up and make beats from anywhere — the kitchen, balcony, you name it.” Beyond just production, the GoAux monitors have become a crucial tool for Johhny G for playback and referencing. “My KRKs have good, clear sound and have helped me in my creative process,” he adds. “At the end of the day, I want everything to sound good, whether that’s through headphones or in the car, and these monitors help make sure of that.” Of course, it’s not just about sound — it’s also about the vibe. “I enjoy the aesthetics of KRK in general,” Johhny G adds. “The look of the monitors is cool, and the bright yellow cones really stands out.” With humble beginnings in South Florida, Johhny G’s journey as an artist and producer began in high school, when he first dove into the depths of music-making. Since then, he has grown into a multifaceted creator who doesn’t believe in genres or labels, just great sound and boundless creativity. “KRK was the first pair of speakers I ever owned,” Johhny G reflects. “I grew up using them, and they really helped me find my sound.” Whether it’s through his viral hits or high-energy TikTok dance challenges, Johhny G continues to push musical boundaries. His upcoming single, “Human,” is set to drop on July 11, and you can bet it’s been fine-tuned on a pair of KRKs. Johhny G has had a passion for music since he was a child, learning various instruments, singing in the school choir, and making beats in his college dorm room, which is where he discovered his love for mixing. Music has also been a way for him to bond with his dad, who he says, “worked a lot of Saturday nights and would be off playing music for hours. Music has always kept us connected.” As someone with a passion for both creating and producing music, Johhny G is a unique artist with a strong ear for quality sound and diverse musical interests. Instead of trying to box himself into a certain category, Johhny G leaves it up to his music and creates based on feeling, regardless of what label it suits. With his KRKs by his side, Johhny G continues to create with endless possibilities for what comes next. Check out more of what Johhny G is up to on his social channels @JohhnyG__
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Yungblud: Gibson Artist Achieves Third #1 Album in the UK with ‘Idols,’ Available Worldwide Now
Gibson is proud to congratulate internationally acclaimed British rocker, Yungblud, whose fourth studio album IDOLS has debuted as the #1 album in the UK this week on the Official Albums Chart. IDOLS--the first installment of a double album--marks Yungblud, aka Dominic Harrison’s third #1 album in the UK. Yungblud’s #1 chart debut caps a thrilling week for the Gibson artist, including headlining the second annual installment of his own music festival creation BludFest Festival in Milton Keynes, England (June 21). Yungblud created BludFest with the intention of curating a more inclusive, accessible, and affordable festival experience for his community of music fans. During the successful sophomore year of the day-long BludFest, he was joined by Billy Idol during the headline set, with a supporting bill including Chase Atlantic, blackbear, Denzel Curry, as well as British rising stars Rachel Chinouriri and Nieve Ella. Gibson provided a pop-up guitar shop onsite for festival goers to try guitars and take photos with Yungblud's signature Epiphone SG Jr. Yungblud also signed one of his signature guitars and gave it away directly to one lucky fan during Bludfest. Additionally, the Gibson Garage London will have an extremely limited amount of Yungblud's signature SG Jr.'s signed by the artist himself. Yungblud sat down with the Gibson Gazette to talk about the inspiration for IDOLS, “I hit 27 and I thought the first iteration of Yungblud had come to a close and come to an end. I really wanted to create something that would stretch the imagination right now and, fundamentally, attempt something classic and timeless. Not to sound like the past, but to take the listener out of any period of time. Music at the minute is so much about dopamine and less about depth, and that’s why songs are big for a second and then they fall off the face of the earth. Everyone is putting a time limit on their ideas by making it so specific. We really wanted to make something larger than life and ambitious, and big. I want bedroom producers to shit themselves!” Listen to IDOLS, the new album from Yungblud HERE. https://yungblud.lnk.to/idols IDOLS was recorded just outside of where Yungblud grew up in the north of England, with producer Matt Schwartz at the helm, Bob Bradley on additional production, and guitarist Adam Warrington. A full 9 minutes and 6 seconds his first single “Hello Heaven, Hello” premiered on BBC Radio 1 and garnered widespread airplay across the U.S. The raucous, “Lovesick Lullaby” followed and was described by the BBC as “combining Liam Gallagher's sneer with Beach Boys' harmonies.” Watch the stunning performance visual for the focus track “Ghosts.” featuring one of the strongest vocal performances of his career. Yungblud’s latest and most profound single to date, “Zombie,” features a stunning cinematic video, a creative collaboration starring the Academy Award-nominated actress, Florence Pugh who Yungblud considers to be “our best export at the minute and a truly great British artist.” An ode to healthcare workers, the video depicts Pugh as a UK National Health Service nurse struggling to cope with the incredible pressures faced by frontline workers in an underfunded healthcare system. On IDOLS, Yungblud fully explores the theme of hero-worship; how we look to others for validation, often putting others’ lives on a pedestal at the expense of the richness of our own experiences. “We turn to others for an identity before turning to ourselves,” says Yungblud. “Self-belief, self-reclamation, self-evolution, and change. As we grow up, we lose our belief in magic and mystery, and we begin to rationalize everything; our cage walls build up.” He adds, “We compare ourselves to 15 different people before we’ve even had our breakfast.” A force of nature, Yungblud has undeniably become the voice of the new generation, using his music to unite and empower the youth of today. The 27-year-old artist is known for voicing what he feels are major concerns for his generation including gentrification, assault, troubled upbringings, and political corruption. He has built and nurtured a vast collective of dedicated fans around the globe--a close-knit family that’s grown into the millions and has accumulated an astonishing 6 billion streams globally. Catch Yungblud on his Idols World Tour in the following cities below. For tickets, visit https://www.yungbludofficial.com/tour/ IDOLS WORLD TOUR 07/19 - Electric Castle Festival – Bontida 08/08 – Open Flair Festival – Eschwege 08/09 – Rocco Del Schilacko 2025 – Puttlingen 08/10 – Taubertal-Festival – Rothenberg Ob Der Tauber 08/16 – Summer Sonic Tokyo – Chiba, Chiba 08/17 – Summer Sonic Osaka – Osaka, Osaka NORTH AMERICA 08/23 - Hollywood Palladium - Los Angeles, CA 08/24 - The Observatory North Park - San Diego, CA 08/26 - The Union - Salt Lake City, UT 08/28 - The Mission Ballroom - Denver, CO 08/30 - ACL Live at The Moody Theater - Austin, TX 08/31 - House of Blues - Dallas, TX 09/02 - Tabernacle - Atlanta, GA 09/06 - 9:30 Club - Washington, D.C. 09/09 - The Rave/Eagles Club - Eagles Ballroom - Milwaukee, WI 09/10 - The Fillmore Detroit - Detroit, MI 09/12 - Riviera Theatre - Chicago, IL 09/14 - Agora Theatre and Ballroom - Cleveland, OH 09/16 - Brooklyn Paramount - Brooklyn, NY 09/18 - The Fillmore Philadelphia - Philadelphia, PA