Posts made in September 2021

Ambassel via Interscope Records for use by 360 Magazine

J.I.D – Ambassel

Atlanta rapper/artist J.I.D has released visualizer for his track “Ambassel,” which appears on the recently released NFL Madden 22 video game soundtrack. The video spotlights the East Atlanta ‘playboy’—and former highschool/college football star—at the famed Mercedes Benz stadium, home of the Atlanta Falcons performing along to the head bopping, dizzying track. Watch the video in full HERE. The song and video is a teaser of what fans can expect from J.I.D as he works on his next album, The Forever Story. Later this month, fans will be able to catch J.I.D and his Dreamville cohort at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, CO returning to the live stage to do what he does best.  

About J.I.D

Born and raised in East Atlanta, Grammy nominated J.I.D grew up on his parents’ collection of classic funk/soul LPs, and broke onto the scene with his 2015 EP, DiCaprio. The EP saw him collaborating with hip-hop duo EARTHGANG, whom he’d previously joined on a 2014 tour also including Bas and Ab-Soul. This is where he was spotted by J.Cole who promptly signed J.I.D to his Interscope Records venture, Dreamville Records. Soon after signing to Dreamville, J.I.D made his major-label debut with the widely celebrated The Never Story (2017). The effort was closely followed by critically acclaimed album DiCaprio 2 (2018) which received major looks from Rolling Stone, Billboard, NPR and more. In 2019, J.I.D continued his momentum as rap’s most exciting additions with stellar contributions on Dreamville’s Platinum certified compilation Revenge of the Dreamers III which went on to debut #1 on the Billboard Top 200 charts and received multiple GRAMMY nominations including “Best Rap Album” and “Best Rap Performance.” 

J.I.D’s nimble, head-nodding lyricism and lightning fast flow has awarded him a loyal and cult-like fanbase who have joined the rapper at countless sold out shows across the globe. A mainstay on the festival circuit, J.I.D has brought down arena level crowds at Lollapalooza, Laneway Festival and would have made his Coachella debut if not for the pandemic. Not much seems out of reach for this Atlanta native who’s rise to superstardom seems almost imminent.

Jurassic Quest via Jurassic Quest for use by 360 Magazine

Jursassic Quest Returns to LACC

The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America is BACK, BIGGER and BETTER than EVER! More than 100 photorealistic dinosaurs are ready to delight families and ring in the New Year when Jurassic Quest® heads indoors at the Los Angeles Convention Center for the holiday weekend December 29 – January 2.

Jurassic Quest is one of the first indoor family edutainment shows to re-launch since March 2020 due to the pandemic, its drive thru iteration sold out two Rose Bowl runs earlier this year, and will return to the SoCal with its most beloved and unique indoor experiences for the whole family including more than 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur themed rides and attractions, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, a “Triceratots” soft play area for our littlest explorers, photo opportunities, and more. 

Walk through the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods to see the dinos that ruled on land, and “deep dive” into the “Ancient Oceans” exhibit to come face to face with the largest apex predator that ever existed–a moving, life-size, 50-foot-long megalodon! Meet the babies, hatched only at Jurassic Quest: Cammie the Camarasaurus, Tyson the T-Rex and Trixie the Triceratops–and, you may even catch one of our star dino trainers: Safari Sarah, Dino Dustin, Captain Caleb, Prehistoric Nick or Park Ranger Marty!  

Loved by millions, only Jurassic Quest can bring families memories this BIG! The Jurassic Quest herd of animatronic dinos–from the largest predators to playful baby dinos–are displayed in realistic scenes with some that move and roar, allowing guests to experience them as they were when they roamed the earth billions of years ago. Jurassic Quest works in collaboration with leading paleontologists to ensure each dinosaur is painstakingly replicated in every detail, from coloration to teeth size, to textured skin, fur or feathers, drawing on the latest research about how we understand dinosaurs and ancient giants of the sea looked and moved. 

Tickets & Logistics 

Tickets start at $19 HERE, and include a 100% ticket guarantee that in the event of a show cancellation or postponement for any reason, ticket purchases will be automatically refunded for the full purchase amount. Tickets are for a timed arrival window, and advance ticket purchase is strongly encouraged. Guests can walk through the dinosaur experience at their own pace, and strollers are permitted. Some venues may have wheelchairs for use, but please contact the venue in advance to make arrangements.

General admission tickets include access to the dinosaur and marine exhibits, arts and crafts activities, and dinosaur shows. There are rides and activities that require activity tickets available on site for $5 each, or guests can upgrade to the Kids Unlimited Rides ticket (the best value for children ages 2-12). Green screen photography and animal art tattoos are available at a separate cost. Entry is free for children under age 2.

Alicia Keys Youtube original for use by 360 magazine

Keys Untold Stories

YouTube Originals premieres “Noted: Alicia Keys The Untold Stories” – the new documentary series filled with breathtaking, introspective moments and visual displays, while following the 15-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist and worldwide-celebrated music icon, Alicia Keys expose it all in her four- part becoming story. Available now to stream for free now only on Alicia Keys’ official YouTube Channel.

Fresh off of her AK20 celebration of her smash debut album Songs In A Minor and putting the finishing touches on her eighth and most exciting album to date, Keys captured it all for an intimate performance docuseries. Informed by life defining memories and meaningful conversations with artists and loved ones, Keys brings viewers into a whole new experience combining the documentary and performance worlds in a way fans never have seen before.

“Noted” comes at a very exciting time for Keys as she released her new single “LALA” this month featuring Swae Lee (stream HERE). “LALA” demonstrates Keys at her best, owning her lane as only the musical genius can, and fans can watch Alicia being her best and boldest and rawest she’s ever been in “Noted.” Following the release of “LALA,” Keys returned to the MTV VMAs stage for the debut live performance of the song with her hometown, New York City, shining behind her. The next day, Alicia radiated beauty and elegance as she stepped onto the carpet at the 2021 MET Gala wearing AZ Factory and Van Cleef & Arpels. Watch as she prepares behind the scenes Getting Ready with Alicia Keys.

Alicia Keys “The Untold Stories” joins a robust slate of music-focused YouTube Originals including “Demi Lovato: Dancing with the Devil,” “Ice Cold: The Untold Story of Hip-Hop Jewelry,” “K-Pop Evolution,” “Coachella: 20 Years in the Desert,” “BRAVAS,” “Justin Bieber: Seasons” and “Justin Bieber: Next Chapter,” “The Gift: The Journey of Johnny Cash,” “MALUMA: Lo Que Era, Lo Que Soy, Lo Que Seré” and “Ariana Grande: Dangerous Woman Diaries.”

The music icon stars and serves as executive producer of “Noted: The series was directed by TT The Artist and also produced by Jason Bergh and Westbrook Media’s Lukas Kaiser, Brad Haugen and Jae Trevits. Susanne Daniels is Global Head of Original Content for YouTube. Alex Piper, Head of Unscripted for YouTube Originals, and Nicole Emanuele, Development Lead for YouTube Originals, oversee the project for the global platform.

alicia keys image for use by 360 magazine
alicia keys image for use by 360 magazine
alicia keys image for use by 360 magazine
Doctor illustration

Dr. Jerome Adams × Purdue

Dr. Jerome Adams, former Indiana state health commissioner and the 20th U.S. surgeon general, will join Purdue University on Friday (Oct. 1) as a Presidential Fellow and the university’s first executive director of health equity initiatives, professor of practice in the departments of Pharmacy Practice and Public Health and a faculty member of the Regenstrief Center for Healthcare Engineering at Purdue.

The appointment was announced Thursday (Sept. 30) by Purdue President Mitch Daniels.

“Dr. Adams represents the highest level of excellence through decades of caring for patients and service to the nation in public health,” Daniels said. “He has consistently demonstrated commitment for health equity prior to, during and subsequent to his time as surgeon general. We are thrilled to have him provide leadership at Purdue and represent Purdue globally in this important strategic area.”

Eric Barker, dean of the Purdue College of Pharmacy, and Marion Underwood, dean of Purdue’s College of Health and Human Sciences, said Adams’ leadership will bolster Purdue’s efforts to be a leader in public health and health equity as he works alongside colleagues across multiple colleges and units at Purdue, around the state of Indiana and beyond to elevate the awareness and impact of Purdue’s science-based public health programs, research and engagement.

“We know there are many societal determinants of health that transcend a person’s biology,” Underwood said. “Our efforts both in terms of urban and rural health can address many of these factors. Culture, family backgrounds, socio-economic status, and education all influence health and wellness. The College of Health and Human Sciences is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of individuals, families and communities. We are eager to work alongside Dr. Adams to expand HHS research and outreach in the areas of public health, HHS Extension and beyond.”

Barker added, “Through the extensive learning, research and engagement missions of our College of Pharmacy and, broadly, across the Purdue system and our extensive networks, we have a chance to really study these issues and continue our vital work on initiatives that will improve the health of populations of our state and our nation.”

Pavlos Vlachos, director of the Regenstrief Center, said he expects Adams to be a catalyst to translate Purdue’s research to the health care systems and communities and to ultimately and positively impact population health.

“Often, some of the best health care technologies, scientific contributions or interventions fail to impact society because they are disconnected from the exact needs of the communities and what is needed for their successful implementation,” Vlachos said.  “Jerome’s long experience and deep understanding of the complex U.S. health care landscape and the current population health challenges will help us best navigate these challenges, and position Purdue as a national and global health care innovation leader.”

Adams, who comes to Purdue after having served as the 20th U.S. surgeon general from September 2017 through January 2021, said he intends to help amplify the efforts of the Purdue Extension program to promote health equity through Indiana and particularly in rural communities, as well as work specifically with the business community to make the case for health equity as workforce and economic issues.

“Purdue is a storied institution that has the legacy, the talent and thanks to President Daniels, the commitment to being a national leader in the promotion of health equity,” Adams said. “Never before in American history has the need been greater or the community been more desirous of such an effort. I’m excited to combine my experiences in public health and public policy with the resources and opportunities afforded by Purdue to help coordinate, amplify and innovate in the health equity space.”

Before his service to the nation, Adams served as Indiana state health commissioner from 2014 through 2017. In that role he oversaw the state’s response to Ebola and Zika, as well as an unprecedented HIV outbreak in southern Indiana and a lead contamination crisis in northern Indiana. Dr. Adams also has served as an associate professor of anesthesia at Eskenazi Health in Indianapolis, where he still sees patients and helps train residents and medical students.

Adams received his Master of Public Health with a focus on chronic disease prevention from the University of California, Berkeley, and his medical doctorate from Indiana University School of Medicine. His postgraduate internship was at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Indianapolis and he completed his anesthesiology residency at the Indiana University Department of Anesthesia in 2006.

Jon Batiste via The Chamber Group for use by 360 Magazine

Jon Batiste × Tori Kelly – SING

Academy Award, BAFTA, Golden Globe winning artist and activist Jon Batiste debuts SING Feat. Tori Kelly. The uplifting and soulful track is from his upcoming release WE ARE: THE DELUXE EDITION (October 15 on Verve Records).  The set features six new tracks and features including Tori Kelly, BJ The Chicago Kid, Abi Bernadoth, Big Chief Romeo and Big Freedia.

On WE ARE, released earlier this year, Batiste presented a captivating musical experience to the world rooted in catharsis, joy, freedom, contemplation and sensuality. It’s a love letter to his southern roots and the heritage of Black Music with guest appearances by Mavis Staples, Quincy Jones, Zadie Smith, PJ Morton, Trombone Shorty, St Augustine Marching 100, his father Michael Batiste, grandfather David Gauthier and many more.

Now, Batiste continues the celebration by bringing a new cohort of guests into the fold, including singer Tori Kelly, who joins Batiste on the inspirational ballad “SING,” and BJ The Chicago Kid who joins Jon on the D’Angelo-infused “Adulthood.”  Big Freedia lends her signature joyful bounce to “FREEDOM,” “an exhilarating…celebration of independence” (Entertainment Weekly) and French star Abi Bernadoth joins Batiste on his empowering anthem WE ARE. Several new songs, including “WORK IT OUT” and “TELL THE TRUTH”–Uptown Remix–originally released on Batiste’s Record Store Day piece from 2020–will make their streaming and digital debut on October 15.

This year the musician’s hit song “I NEED YOU” reached #1 on the AAA Radio Charts and his album WE ARE debuted in the Billboard Top R&B Charts, Top Album Charts, and Top 200. His “I NEED YOU” music video has surpassed 13M views, he’s appeared on American IdolLive with Kelly and Ryan, The Today Show, The Late Late Show with James Corden, CBS This Morning as guest and co-host, and of course The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Most recently, Jon Batiste continues his amazing year with stellar performances at Global Citizens Live and the Emmy Awards. 

Album Track List

  1. I NEED YOU
  2. FREEDOM
  3. CRY
  4. BOY HOOD
  5. SING Feat. Tori Kelly
  6. WE ARE
  7. ADULTHOOD Feat. BJ The Chicago Kid
  8. WHATCHUTALKINBOUT
  9. MAVIS
  10. FREEDOM Bounce Remix Feat. Big Freedia
  11. TELL THE TRUTH
  12. UNTIL
  13. TELL THE TRUTH – Uptown Remix Feat. Big Chief Romeo of the 9th Ward Hunters, Michael Batiste, Mardi Gras Indian Show
  14. MOVEMENT 11’
  15. WORK IT OUT
  16. ADULTHOOD
  17. SHOW ME THE WAY
  18. SING
  19. WE ARE Feat. Abi Bernadoth
sara davidson business illustration for use by 360 Magazine

BFUTR – Global Tech Summit

Toronto-based BPTN (Black Professionals In Tech Network) will host its third annual Black Tech Summit BFUTR (Be Future) 2021, the world’s largest virtual tech summit for Black professionals and allies on October 28th-29th. This year’s Summit features over 60+ Black professionals and allies participating in keynote addresses, workshops, and panel discussions, while boasting an exciting lineup of movers and shakers from major corporations across North America.

“The 2021 BFUTR Global Tech Summit is all about ‘Levelling Up’ your knowledge, your connections, your career,” explains Lekan Olawoye, BPTN’s Founder and CEO. “At BPTN we’re unapologetically Black, and the BFUTR Summit perfectly exemplifies this. We’ve worked tirelessly to bring Black professionals and allies two days of non-stop learning and networking, stacking our panels with amazing speakers from major corporations across North America, including LinkedIn, Asana, AWS, RBC and our title sponsor TD. And we’re proud to say that this year we’ve really #levelledup the Black Excellence we’re bringing to the table with special guest D.L. Hughley and star of ABC’s Shark Tank, and Founder and CEO of iconic Black brand FUBU, Daymond John. BFUTR is by the culture, for the culture and we can’t wait to show up and show off this year!” This year’s lineup is stronger than ever, and features industry titans from across sectors and industries; from D.L. Hughley (actor, broadcaster, comedian), Michelle C. Meyer-Shipp (MLB – Major League Baseball executive), and Janeen Uzzell (CEO, National Society of Black Engineers), all the way to Canadian tech stars including Lola Oyelayo-Pearson (Shopify) and Gladstone Grant (Microsoft).

At this year’s Summit, BPTN is on a mission to connect 20,000+ Black technology professionals from around the globe, with 60+ senior executives and speakers, over a two day period, from the comfort of one’s home. The BFUTR Global Tech Summit 2021 is where Black professionals come together to celebrate community and build the future of tech. Attendees will get exclusive access to the impressive list of local and international speakers from leading global organizations who are shaping the future of technology, leading the way in diversity and inclusive leadership, and taking a stance when it’s most needed to support their Black employees. Summit tickets are FREE ADMISSION for all Black self-identified professionals, while allies and supporters can purchase General Admission passes at BPTN.

Black Panther via Alex Ross for Marvel Entertainment for use by 360 Magazine

Black Panther Issue One

This November, Academy Award-winning writer John Ridley and Marvel’s Stormbreaker artist Juann Cabal launch T’Challa’s next revolutionary chapter in BLACK PANTHER #1! The new era will see secrets from T’Challa’s past coming back to haunt him and threaten the nation of Wakanda. Fresh from returning from his adventures in space, Black Panther receives an unexpected and urgent message from a Wakandan secret agent. T’Challa must race the clock not only to save his agent, but also to keep his true agenda under wraps. Because if the truth comes out, it could cost T’Challa everything… Fans can get their first glimpse at this historic new launch in the new BLACK PANTHER #1 trailer, featuring never-before-seen artwork.

“It’s a hybrid espionage-Super Hero thriller, but at its core, it’s a love story,” Ridley told The New York Times. “And I don’t mean just romantic love, although there’s some of that as well. It’s love between friends.

“We’re coming out of a summer where we saw Black people fighting for our rights, standing up, fighting in ways that we haven’t had to do in years,” Ridley added. “And it was really important to me after the year we had where we can have these conversations with Black people and we can use words like love and caring and hope and regret and all these really fundamental emotions that everybody has.”

Don’t miss the start of a new Marvel epic when BLACK PANTHER #1 hits stands on November 10! 

About Marvel Entertainment

Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media for over eighty years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing, publishing, games, and digital media.

image by Dave Jones/Tennessee Tourism for use by 360 magazine

DOLLY PARTON – TENNESSEE MUSIC PATHWAYS

STATE OF TENNESSEE AND SEVIER COUNTY HONORS DOLLY PARTON WITH UNVEILING OF NEW “TENNESSEE MUSIC PATHWAYS” MARKER IN GLOBAL MUSIC ICON’S HOMETOWN

New Marker Enhances Visitor Experience in Downtown Sevierville

Sevierville’s beloved hometown superstar, Dolly Parton, was honored with the unveiling of a new “Tennessee Music Pathways” marker. Representatives for Parton, along with city and state officials, gathered at the Sevier County Courthouse to celebrate the milestone achievement.

Distinguished as a singer, songwriter, actor, businesswoman and philanthropist, Parton is the most honored female country performer of all time and among the best-selling country artists of the post-World War II era. She opened one of the country’s most-visited attractions, Dollywood, and wrote one of the top-selling songs of all time, “I Will Always Love You.”

“I want to thank Commissioner Ezell and his team at the State of Tennessee,” said Dolly Parton. “I am proud to be from Sevier County and Sevierville and this Music Pathways sign honors me, my family and my history there.”

“When you think of Tennessee and music, there are key figures and places that often to come mind, and Dolly is one of them,” said Tennessee Department of Tourist Development Commissioner Mark Ezell, “I couldn’t think of a better way to honor her great musical legacy and all that she has done not only for music across the state but tourism as well. Dollywood is a key attraction for visitors to come and experience from across the world, and it is a great privilege to recognize the work and success of a true Tennessee icon.”

Located directly by Parton’s bronze statue on the Sevier County Courthouse lawn, the new marker commemorates Parton’s rich musical heritage in Sevier County and across Tennessee. It adds to a flourishing presence of tributes that lure Parton fans from across the world to her hometown. While in Sevierville, guests can follow Parton’s footsteps and visit the spots that played a part in the global sensation’s childhood, including:

  • A mural depicting a young Dolly Parton enjoying a burger at Red’s Café (a favorite Sevierville restaurant during her youth),
  • the Parton inspired butterfly mural on Bruce Street,
  • the bronze statue that depicts a younger Parton strumming on a guitar
  • and her newly installed “Tennessee Music Pathways” marker

Among Parton’s accolades are nine Grammys (including one for Lifetime Achievement), 10 Country Music Association Awards, seven Academic of Country Music Awards, and three American Music Association Awards. She has also been nominated for two Emmys, one tony award and two Academy Awards (Oscars), one of them for her song “9 to 5.” Although she is regarded as a country singer and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999, her flamboyant personality has endeared her to many who do not consider themselves country fans.

Dolly Rebecca Parton was born on Jan. 19, 1946, in Locust Ridge in rural Sevier County, the fourth of 12 children. She drew on her family’s impoverished circumstances for several songs, notably “Coat of Many Colors.” Her earliest public appearances were in church. By age 10, she was on Cas Walker’s “Farm and Home Hour” in Knoxville. Her first record was released in 1959.

The day after her high school graduation in 1964, Parton went to Nashville and found initial success as a songwriter. In 1967, country star Porter Wagoner brought her onto his television show and began producing her RCA Victor Records, both as a solo performer and his duet partner. Her first No. 1 country hit, “Joshua,” came in 1971. After another No. 1 hit, “Jolene,” Parton left Wagoner’s television show. Her 1974 No. 1 song, “I Will Always Love You,” in February of that year, was viewed as her confirming her intention to sever all her contractual obligations to Wagoner.

Managed out of Hollywood, Parton began broadening her appeal. Her 1977 album Here You Come Again became a No. 1 country album and Top 20 pop album. She starred in the movie “9 to 5,” one of the all-time highest-grossing comedies, and her title song topped the country and pop charts. In 1983, she scored her second and last No. 1 pop hit with “Islands In the Stream,” a duet with Kenny Rogers.

In 1922, Whitney Houston’s recording of “I Will Always Love You” spent four weeks at No. 1 on the pop charts and is ranked among the Top 10 top-selling singles of all time.

Parton stretched her career in several directions, most notably in launching Dollywood. She has expanded the scope of its attractions, and the Dollywood Foundation has worked to offer scholastic opportunities and medical services to underserved communities.

Parton’s later recording career featured a return to her Appalachian and bluegrass roots, including the 1999 Grammy-winning Best Bluegrass Album, The Grass is Blue. In 2015, she narrated and wrote the story for another venture rooted in her upbringing, “Dolly Parton’s Coat of Many Colors” on NBC-TV. She continues to be actively involved in music and philanthropic ventures. Her Imagination Library has given more than 100 million books to children around the world.

ABOUT TENNESSEE MUSIC PATHWAYS

Tennessee Music Pathways, launched by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development in 2018, is an online planning guide that connects visitors to the state’s rich musical heritage. From the largest cities to the smallest communities, Tennessee Music Pathways stretches across all 95 counties and features hundreds of landmarks from the seven genres of music that call Tennessee home. Join the conversation on social using #TNmusicpathways.

Maria Soloman illustration of Elton John for 360 MAGAZINE.

Elton John × Stevie Wonder – Finish Line

Elton John and Stevie Wonder have unveiled “Finish Line,” the latest song to be released from forthcoming album The Lockdown Sessions. Listen HERE. A collection of collaborations recorded remotely over the last 18 months, The Lockdown Sessions is a dazzlingly diverse array of 16 tracks that celebrate togetherness and sees Elton collaborating with an unparalleled range of artists only he could draw together. It will be released on October 22nd via Interscope Records and is available to pre-order HERE.

Just last week Elton unveiled the second track to be taken from ‘The Lockdown Sessions,’ “After All” with Charlie Puth. A classic, soulful ballad, the track showed a delicious counterpart to previous single, and burgeoning global hit, “Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” with Dua Lipa. And now, with “Finish Line” Elton and Stevie Wonder have revealed another fully realized side to the multifaceted ‘The Lockdown Sessions.’ A stunning gospel infused track, with Stevie’s unmistakable vocals and trademark harmonica, the song features The Sunday Service Choir, Kanye West’s renowned Gospel Choir. Previous collaborations between the pair have included “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues” (featuring Stevie on harmonica) and the Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager penned “That’s What Friends Are For” (a 1985 charity record also featuring Dionne Warwick and Gladys Knight), but “Finish Line” is the first time that these two undeniable greats of popular music have dueted together. The resulting track is well worth the wait, a timeless song worthy of either man’s oeuvre. 

“Finish Line” is produced by GRAMMY Award winner Andrew Watt. In line with the rich and varied sonic palette that makes up ‘The Lockdown Sessions,’ the creation of the track was equal parts kismet and hard work, born out of mutual artistic respect and a fifty-year friendship. Watch HERE as Elton and Andrew Watt discuss the making of “Finish Line” in a preview of this Saturday’s Rocket Hour, airing on Apple Music 1.

Speaking of the collaboration, Elton said: “I couldn’t be more proud of ‘Finish Line’: I’d go as far as to say it’s one of the best records I’ve ever made. Stevie’s voice is as good as I can ever remember hearing him – he sounds like a 17-year-old again, he’s singing with a sheer joy and exuberance in his vocals. Andrew Watt has done an unbelievable job on the production. It was a magical process. I’ve always loved collaborating with Stevie, and I’m delighted that after fifty years of friendship we finally get to do a full blown duet. He has always been so kind and sweet to me, and his talent is beyond ridiculous. When you listen to what he does vocally and instrumentally on ‘Finish Line’ you think, this is a true genius here.”

Stevie Wonder said: “It is both a joy and honor to sing, play piano and harmonica for Elton! He has truly been one of the great spirits of music, life, friendship and love, who I’ve met on this life journey! True artistry and music like love equals a forever commitment lasting many lifetimes. And Elton, anyone who hears your voice singing “Finish Line”, will hear and feel your wisdom, your pain, your soul, your love, but also your resilience…  I love it!! Congratulations to you and our forever and never, never-ending music, friendship, life-song! Long live Sir Elton John!!! (big smiley face!)”

In further Lockdown Sessions news, Elton and Charlie Puth appeared together on stage at the Global Citizen event in Paris last weekend to perform their duet “After All.” Watch HERE. This global charitable 24-hour event saw some of the world’s biggest artists and global leaders come together to defend the planet and defeat poverty. This is a part of Global Citizens campaign, a Recovery Plan for the World, which focuses on COVID-19, ending the hunger crisis, resuming learning for all, protecting the planet; and advancing equity for all.

Trucks via Newsroom for use by 360 Magazine

UD Trucks Unveils Euro Five

UD Trucks unveiled a new Euro 5 range for the well-established Quester (heavy-duty) and Croner (medium-duty) trucks. The upgrade also boasts enhanced features that will improve uptime, enhance efficiency, and optimize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), all while lowering the vehicle’s environmental impact and retaining benefits from previous models.

The new Euro 5 range will be introduced in fast-growing and emerging regions around the world that are moving to adopt more stringent international emission standards in a bid to cut pollution and improve air quality. In most markets, UD Trucks’ new Euro 5 range will be introduced ahead of these regulations to better prepare businesses for the switch to a cleaner fleet.

This latest launch bolsters UD Trucks’ Better Life purpose–to be better for logistics, the planet, people, and business. Better Life drives the integration of sustainability across all of the company’s operations and processes to realize lower environmental impact, higher customer satisfaction, higher profitability, and a better place for people to work and live.

Jacques Michel, UD Trucks International Sales, Senior Vice President, said “In today’s world, sustainability is more important than ever. COVID-19 is also placing more emphasis on a more sustainable approach to driving a post-pandemic recovery. Modern and efficient logistics is vital to keep the world moving in these fast-evolving times, and our latest launch will ensure greater resilience for businesses while ensuring environmental impacts are minimized.”

Ensuring Businesses Stay Competitive in a Changing World with Euro 5

Air pollution is one of the largest health threats facing the world. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA) global energy review 2021, global energy carbon emissions are projected to rebound in the post-COVID era to grow by 4.8%. This would represent the largest single increase in over a decade. Emissions from transportation alone are at risk of increasing global emission levels by over 1.5%.

Moving towards cleaner fleets is imperative. Euro 5 reduces NOx emissions by about 43% compared to Euro 4 and significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the vehicle through cleaner emissions.

As the first truck manufacturer to introduce Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology in 2004, UD Trucks’ new Euro 5 range features SCR technology to significantly boost environmental protection and fuel economy. With these benefits, SCR technology is proven to be more reliable when compared to other emission control technologies for reducing NOx emissions.

Aside from featuring a Euro 5 system with SCR technology, the new range of Quester and Croner also features a new instrument cluster with real-time fuel coaching. This enhancement provides drivers with immediate and specific feedback on driving techniques that are more fuel efficient.

Michel concludes, “For 86 years, we have grown UD Trucks to be a truck brand of choice for our customers. We are committed to continuing our endless pursuit of bettering lives in the spirit of our ‘Gemba’ philosophy, leveraging smart and sustainable logistics solutions to provide ultimate dependability for our customers, business partners, colleagues and society at large.”