Category: Entertainment

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Music Video: Majestic X Boney M ‘Rasputin’

As we hope to head back out to clubs this summer, the official music video for the smash remix of “Rasputin” by Majestic and Boney M serves up an invigorating dose of nighttime debauchery. The original disco confection by Boney M was released in 1978 but has enjoyed a resurgence thanks to the remix with Majestic and a TikTok dance challenge that has gone viral. Shot at the Soho nightclub The Box, the video features a star-studded cast including Ru Paul’s Drag Race finalist Bimini Bon Boulash, Pete from grime duo Pete & Bas and an array of the venue’s entertainers. The track has already racked up over 154 million global Spotify streams to date and is charting on Spotify in the UK, the Netherlands, France, Australia, Ireland and more. Stream/download “Rasputin” here.

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Andrew Lloyd Webber Says CINDERELLA Will Not Open

Andrew Lloyd Webber announced today his new musical 'Cinderella' will not open due to complications with COVID-19

Andrew Lloyd Webber announced today his new musical 'Cinderella' will not open due to complications with COVID-19 Andrew Lloyd Webber announced today that his latest stage musical, Cinderella, will not open due to a cast member testing positive for COVID-19. This past weekend, the production was forced to cancel both performances set to take place on July 17, 2021, due to “Covid related precautionary measures.” In his statement released today, Andrew Lloyd Webber shared, “Today, on this ‘Freedom Day’, I have been forced to take the heart-breaking decision not to open my Cinderella.” After mentioning rigorous testing utilized with the cast and crew, he (rather tastelessly) mentions that on Saturday “a member of our cast who has a cameo role” tested positive. Imagine how that makes that cast member feel – “It’s your fault and you don’t even have a big part!” The statement continued, “My sadness for our cast and crew, our loyal audience and the industry I have been fighting for is impossible to put into words.” On the show’s future, a spokesperson to BroadwayWorld: “It’s hard to see a route forward under the current rules, but we will do everything we can to come back.” Thinking best thoughts for the entire cast, crew, and creative team.

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New Music: NIKO ‘Amore’

Promo photo of recording artist NIKO by McCall Olsen

NIKO releases his latest summer single, 'Amore' (photo: McCall Olsen)
NIKO releases his latest summer single, ‘Amore’ (photo: McCall Olsen)
Romance on the Mediterranean shores was the inspiration for “Amore,” the latest release from out singer/songwriter NIKO. Tribal beats, infectious synths, and effortless vocals come together for an evocative musical journey. Switching seamlessly between Italian and English, NIKO serenades the listener about falling in love on a hot summer night. “The idea for the song came when I was reminiscing about Italian summers, and how intense a seasonal romance can feel,” says NIKO. “Summer loves are always fleeting, but you are tricked into thinking that it’s real love because the passion is super strong.” The collaboration, with producer Joakim Buddee, was truly an international affair with writing, recording and production taking place between Stockholm and Los Angeles. The duo was influenced by artists like Robyn and Britney Spears to create the captivating summer anthem. Born in Italy, NIKO grew up in a household where the radio was always on and his love for music was informed by icons such as Madonna, Britney Spears and George Michael. Fueled by his passion, NIKO formed a band and started performing in local venues in Milan. But it wasn’t until he experienced nightlife that he discovered a love for dance music. A new door opened, and he started working with DJs as a vocalist. After moving to the U.S., NIKO launched his career as an indie artist releasing his first EP RMNC 21 in 2019, a collection of songs inspired by love and lust. He now resides in Los Angeles where he’s working on his upcoming releases, crafting an uplifting soundscape inspired by European pop, immersed in the California sunshine. You can find my previous coverage of NIKO and his music here. Follow him on Instagram here.
NIKO releases his latest summer single, 'Amore' (photo: McCall Olsen)
(photo: McCall Olsen)

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Fun: TikToker Goes Viral With Amazing, Impressive Trick Shots

This TikToker is going viral for his amazing trick shot skills. Davide Panzeri has 2 million followers on TikTok where he posts nearly every day. You can follow him at @trickshotdav. He told Muscle & Fitness Magazine he started learning the trick shots as a way to battle burnout depression from work. Some commenters on the YouTube page are crying “Oh, but how many times did he have to try to get it right?” In the video, NowThis News reports some tricks took him 6 months to learn. I could never do any of this. Ever. p.s. easy on the eyes as well 🙂

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What To Watch: ‘The X Circus’

From The X Circus official website - 'Hallelujah' in rehearsal

From The X Circus official website - 'Hallelujah' in rehearsal You may remember Matthew Richardson & Francis Perreault from their breath taking 2016 short film, “The Arrow” or Richardson’s appearances on America’s Got Talent. Now, on Sunday evenings at 9 p.m. ET, they and other LGBTQ+ circus artist are coming together as The X CIRCUS for live interactive streaming performances on YouTube. You’ll be able to ask questions with the artists after, get an inside look into the training and production side of things, AND learn more about the meaning of the acts and the stories of the artists. “THE X CIRCUS is my attempt to create a platform for LGBTQ+ artists to openly express queer stories and art, and to present acts that normally are not always seen on stage,” says Richardson. “My goal is to create more normalcy and a kinder world for the queer community.” Here’s the premiere episode from this past Sunday:

From the official website for The X Circus:

The X Circus is dedicated to creating powerful performance art and films to open minds and inspire a kinder world. With a focus on LGBTQ+ circus art, these project aim to help minorities by challenging social norms, raising questions and starting conversations.

“By creating unique circus films and performances that evoke emotion, we deliver important messages through unforgettable acrobatics and dance. Led by circus artist & creator Matthew Richardson, these projects have come to life thanks to the talents of an incredible team and years of hard work.

Learn more about the project and its diverse array of performers telling their stories through brilliant artistry and work at  The X-Circus.  Here’s the romantic 2016 circus/queer film ‘The Arrow’ which has garnered nearly 2 million views. You can follow Matthew Richardson on Instagram here.

(h/t TheOUTfront)

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Milahroy Invites You Follow The Furry Fun To MY MALIBU

Milahroy and friend in 'My Malibu'
Out singer/songwriter Milahroy invites you to follow the furry goodness on the way to My Malibu (feat. theLMNOP).
Milahroy and friend in ‘My Malibu’ (screen captures)

Out singer/songwriter Milahroy invites you to follow the furry goodness on the way to My Malibu (feat. theLMNOP).

The bouncy indie bop has a fun, infectious folk/pop vibe that conjures up echoes of Mumford and Sons – only more fun.

Aye – Ridin’ on a wave / Ya I’m sailin’ away to my oasis Aye – Ridin’ on a wave / Sunset I’m chasin’ Makin my way to you / Need to have my Malibu

“‘My Malibu’ isn’t a place or a person – it’s where I go when I open that guitar case & grab my instrument – it lights me up,” says Milahroy. “I feel I enter this oasis that is unworldly.”

In past music videos, the handsome artist has been kidnapped by dark forces (“Cool“), chased by zombies (“D.F.O.“), and hidden away in his own personal disconnection (“Daylight“). But in “My Malibu,” our hero is out in the wilderness searching for his happy place with a gorilla bro and a beach-bound granny. Sounds silly? That’s pretty much the point. That could sound kind of random, but like all of his music videos, there’s meaning in all things Milahroy. Milahroy flying high on the way to My Malibu “As for the gorilla & grandmother, there’s a big balance between the masc/fem energy in myself & my upbringing,” explains the artist. “I’ve had both my grandmothers present during my childhood, they would babysit a lot & watch over my siblings and I.” “As for the gorilla, my father is where I get all my fur! I used to hate it – but when I learned to let go & accept it, I began to love it!” Milahroy is on a search for his happy place The whole endeavor is light-hearted and full of whimsical imagery. Whether partying in the woods with his furry bro, or flying high above cotton-candy pink clouds, the song represents those ineffable ideas that feed our souls. “‘My Malibu’ could be anything that lights us up, whether it’s our person, a location, an inanimate object or even a memory that keeps us going.” The new single is available now on Spotify, Apple Music and other digital streaming platforms. Follow Milahroy on Instagram here.

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Out Music: Michael Fairman ‘Better Late Than Never’

Singer/songwriter Michael Fairman (photo: Ryan Hutchins)
Out singer/songwriter Michael Fairman claps back at folks who might think he missed his chance at attaining his music dreams with his latest single, “Better Late Than Never.” Written and produced by Fairman and Kyle Mangels, “Better Late Than Never” catches the ear with the classic feel of R&B harmonies but lives in a very current, modern pop soundscape. Fairman’s vocals soar through the wide-ranging, contemporary pop anthem with unerring ease as he evokes a determined spirit reminiscent of John Parr’s “St. Elmo’s Fire.” The song’s message is simple and universal: if you believe, you can achieve. “If you want something bad enough, isn’t it worth trying for it rather than forever wondering, ‘what if’?” Fairman asks. Check out this teaser video for “Better Late Than Never.”

“Better Late Than Never” builds on Fairman’s previous releases – “Thing About Me” “Can’t Let You Go” and “Other Side” – three songs about the seemingly insurmountable challenges faced by the underdog, whether at love or in life. “As a man in mid-life trying to get my music heard, I know about climbing mountains,” says Fairman. “I am told multiple times a week that this is a pipe dream, but I don’t let it stop me. I’m proud to be representing boomers.” “It may have taken me an extra thirty years than it did Shawn Mendes to get to this point, but my life experience makes me more confident now in my craft as a singer-songwriter.” https://www.instagram.com/p/CQXWnTfDg_6/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Fairman recognized his passion for music early in life releasing his first recordings through a small label in Chicago as a teen. Once he graduated high school, he moved to Los Angeles and then to New York to pursue his career as a recording artist. His story is a familiar one: he formed a band, played out in clubs, invited record label execs, but…they seldom came. Eventually, finances dictated he hit pause on music and returned to Los Angeles where he launched a successful career in entertainment journalism and TV production. Today, Fairman is the founder and editor of the popular daytime soaps channel https://michaelfairmantv.com “The time wasn’t right, but that doesn’t mean I can’t try again,” Fairman reflects. “Back then, artists were at the mercy of someone seeing them live in order to land that major label deal. In today’s digital age, artists can put out their music for the world to hear and decide if it fits their musical tastebuds.” “Better Late Than Never” is available on Apple Music and Spotify.  Follow him on Instagram here. https://www.instagram.com/p/CRMOeH8DVOD/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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Trailer: Emotional Story Of Father’s Tribute To Son ‘Joe Bell’

Mark Wahlberg in 'Joe Bell' (all photos: Quantrell D. Colbert)

Mark Wahlberg in 'Joe Bell' (all photos: Quantrell D. Colbert)
Mark Wahlberg in ‘Joe Bell’ (all photos: Quantrell D. Colbert)
Academy Award nominee Mark Wahlberg stars in the upcoming film Joe Bell, which tells the intimate and emotional true story of an Oregonian father who pays tribute to his teenage son Jadin. The film, written by Academy Award winners Diana Ossana & Larry McMurtry (Brokeback Mountain), is based on a true story. In 2013, at the age of 15, Jadin Bell took his own life at a nearby elementary school playground after being bullied and ridiculed by classmates for being gay. Following his son’s death, Joe Bell embarks on a self-reflective walk across America to speak his heart to heartland citizens about the real and terrifying costs of bullying.
Reid Miller and Mark Wahlberg in 'Joe Bell'
Reid Miller and Mark Wahlberg in ‘Joe Bell’
The film also stars Connie Britton, Reid Miller and Gary Sinise. Joe Bell arrives in theaters July 23.

Sadly, the issue of mental health and bullying is not just a story for a dramatic film. The Trevor Project’s 2021 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health notes that:

• 75% of LGBTQ youth reported that they had experienced discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity at least once in their lifetime.

• 42% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year, including more than half of transgender and nonbinary youth.

If you or someone you know is feeling hopeless or suicidal, our trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386 via chat www.TheTrevorProject.org/Help, or by texting START to 678678.

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Emmy Nominations: POSE Star Mj Rodriguez Makes History

Mj Rodriguez of POSE

Mj Rodriguez of POSE
Mj Rodriguez of POSE (via Instagram)
Mj Rodriguez made history today as she was honored with an Emmy Award nomination for her role as ‘Blanca’ on the acclaimed FX series POSE. Receiving a nod for Lead Actress in a Drama Series, Rodriguez becomes the first trans actress to be recognized in a lead acting category. Series co-creator Steven Canals celebrated the news on Twitter:

The third and final season of POSE garnered a total of 9 nominations this morning including Outstanding Drama Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Billy Porter. This is Porter’s 3rd nomination having previously made history himself when he took home the Emmy For Lead Actor in a Drama Series for his role of ‘Pray Tell’ in 2019.

The series has been a trailblazer from the get-go by featuring the largest trans cast in TV history. And yet, until now, none of the trans female cast members had been recognized by the Emmys. “Michaela Jaé (Mj) Rodriguez’s Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series is a breakthrough for transgender women in Hollywood, and a long-overdue recognition for her groundbreaking performance over the past three seasons of POSE,” said GLAAD President and CEO Sarah Kate Ellis. “Additionally, the show’s nomination for Outstanding Drama Series, as well as Billy Porter’s third nomination for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, mark a historic show that undoubtedly raised the bar for trans representation on television and changed the way viewers around the world understand the trans community.

In additional LGBTQ Emmy news, RuPaul’s Drag Race was honored with 9 nominations including Outstanding Competition Program and Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program for Mama Ru. Plus, two nods for RuPaul’s Drag Race Untucked including Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program. Netflix’s Queer Eye garnered 6 nominations including Outstanding Host for a Reality or Competition Program as well as Outstanding Structured Reality Program.

And Randy Rainbow received his 3rd nomination for Best Short Form Variety Series. He won in 2019.

GLAAD has assembled a complete list of LGBTQ nominations here.

You can see the full list of 2021 Emmy Award nominations here. The 73rd Annual Emmy Awards will air live on CBS Sunday, September 19. https://www.instagram.com/p/CRRfkBornK0/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link https://www.instagram.com/p/CRRf7uArCFF/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link https://www.instagram.com/p/CRRgGb1rlCX/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link