Spanish fashion designer Juana Martin presented her FW23-24 collection on Thursday, July 6, at 12 pm. Her inspiration comes from the post-Spanish Civil War and the dark atmosphere that surrounded it. Through this collection, Juana Martin transcends an emotional journey from a sense of destruction and deep sadness to a gradual emergence of peace and freedom.
Each dress has been carefully crafted to tell this story. Symbols embellish the looks, such as the bull, representing the strength of the Spanish people, the eyes, in reference to government surveillance, and the hands encircling the dress, representing a form of oppression. This collection places great importance on cubist and abstract art, the same art that was raised as a rebellion against the nationalism of the period. The white, black, gray and silver tones are inspired by the predominant palette of this Spanish artistic movement.
Each look in this FW23-24 collection has a symbolic name, evoking the various social-cultural and artistic movements of this pivotal period in Spanish history: resilience, hope and rebirth.
In it, Juana Martin‘s creations are veritable living snapshots, transcending a simple aesthetics to reveal emotional depth.
A giant dove unfurls from the latest look in this collection. It is the universal symbol of peace and freedom. In it, Juana Martin signals her desire for profound tranquility.
Watch Juana Martin Haute Couture via FF Channel HERE.
National Wine & Cheese Day is just around the corner and there is no better way to celebrate than by hosting a wine & cheese pairing party for family and friends. Recognized annually on July 25th, this delectable day gives wine enthusiasts an opportunity to explore a variety of wine and cheese in new and unique combinations in search of the perfect pairing. To help celebrate the occasion, Vinos Unidos is offering a Buy Two, Get One Free promotion upon purchasing the award-winning Napa Valley wine online from now through July 25th.
“I love pairing our wines with all kinds of different cheeses that bring out the exquisite notes in the wine, creating a blissful tasting experience,” said Robert Jauregui, Vinos Unidos Founding Partner/Chief of Operations. “There is no right or wrong combination and with so many options to choose from, the possibilities are endless.”
Wine and cheese have been paired together and served at gatherings and celebrations for hundreds of years. Traditionally, wine was paired with cheese produced from the same region. Today, however, there are no rules and finding the perfect pairing is part of the fun. Still trending, there’s a reason why wine and cheese pair so nicely together and that’s because the combination of the acidity of the wine and the fattiness of the cheese come together to create a harmonious balance that delights the palate.
In honor of National Wine & Cheese Day, Vinos Unidos invites wine-lovers to raise a glass and toast to this time-honored tradition while enjoying these simple yet delicious pairings among good company:
Sauvignon Blanc 2020, St. Helena Napa Valley & Goat Cheese. While they are earthy and tart, most goat cheeses are a bit of a blank slate, so the citrus and mineral notes found in our fresh Sauvignon Blanc bring out the wonderful nutty and herbal flavors that can be found in the cheese. The acidity is also a great way to cut through the heaviness of the goat cheese.
Rosé 2019, Napa Valley & Havarti The crisp, watermelon and strawberry notes you find in our Rosé is delicious but delicate, and the mellow flavor you find in a Havarti complements the wine gracefully without overpowering it. Additionally, the bright minerality of the Rosé is a great contrast to the smooth, soft texture of the cheese.
Red Blend 2018, Shenandoah Valley Sierra Foothills & Gouda. The combination of Gouda’s nutty flavors and the boldness and heartiness of our Red Blend is the sort of pairing that just about anyone can enjoy. Both the wine and the cheese are flavorful and aromatic without being overpowering, and the result is a complementary combination of complex flavors.
Vinos Unidos believes in the power of wine to bring people together, therefore, in the spirit of unity and celebration, Vinos Unidos is giving away a complimentary Wine Tasting Party for up to ten guests when purchasing a minimum of 2 bottles (plus one free) from the Vinos Unidos Collection. One lucky winner will be selected at random at time of drawing. Drawing participants will be automatically entered to win when selecting 3 bottles and applying the promo code “Buy2Get1Free” at checkout.
For more information about Vinos Unidos and to enter to win a complimentary Wine Tasting Party for ten, please visit: www.vinosunidos.com
GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Cat releases her new track and music video “Attention” via Kemosabe Records/ RCA Records. The music video was directed and shot in Los Angeles last month by award-winning director, Tanu Muino (Harry Styles / Cardi B) and made its global broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop and across MTV’s global network of channels, as well as on the Paramount Times Square billboards. This is the first new track from Doja Cat, after she stormed the charts with her song,Vegas.
Most recently, Doja Cat was featured alongside label mate, SZA on the remix of her #1 Hot 100 song, Kill Bill. On the remix track, Doja received high praise for opening the song with a badass rap verse, followed by SZA’s original chorus;Billboard proclaimed “…Doja’s inclusion on the track injects a new excitement: the superstar opens up the remix with detailed rap storytelling.” She also was named one ofTIME100’s Most Influential People of 2023, where she graced the cover of one of the four globalTIME Magazine April issues as well as being recognized as an honoree and performing at the exclusiveTIME100 Gala.
Photo credit: Grizz Lee
About Doja Cat:
GRAMMY award-winning global superstar Doja Cat made her first upload to Soundcloud in 2013 at just 16 years old. Having grown up in and around the LA area, she developed a knack for music by studying piano and dance as a kid and listening to the likes of Busta Rhymes, Erykah Badu, Nicki Minaj, Drake, and more. Signed to Kemosabe/RCA Records in 2014, she released her Purrr! EP and followed that with her debut album Amala in spring 2018, but it was her August 2018 release of “MOOO!” which catapulted her into the mainstream and was met with critical acclaim.
Doja Cat released her sophomore GRAMMY-nominated platinum album Hot Pink in November 2019 to mass critical acclaim; the album has garnered over 6 billion streams worldwide. It features “Streets”, the viral sensation that soundtracked the ‘Silhouette Challenge,’ one of the biggest TikTok trends to date and her GRAMMY-nominated #1 smash record “Say So” which has been RIAA certified 6x platinum and catapulted Doja into global superstardom.
With over 20 billion worldwide streams to date, Doja’s creativity and showmanship as a performer have been praised time and time again, she has delivered unique and show-stopping performances on nearly all the major Award Show stages and music festivals throughout the world. Doja Cat’s GRAMMY award-winning album Planet Her came out in June 2021 and dominated the charts, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Top R&B Albums chart and #2 on the Billboard Top 200 and Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart and generated the highest first day Spotify streams for an album by a female rapper. GRAMMY award-winning “Kiss Me More” ft. SZA, the lead single off Planet Her is certified 5x platinum by the RIAA and hit #1 at Top 40 and Rhythm radio with over 2.2 billion streams worldwide. That fall, Doja Cat became the first rapper to have 3 songs in the Top 10 at Top 40 radio. Last year, “Woman” went to the top of the Billboard Rhythmic Airplay charts which ascended her to become the first women to have four #1 hits from one album, other hits including “You Right” with The Weeknd and “Need to Know.” She went on to land at #1 on the Billboard Artist 100 chart for the first time. Amongst others, Doja has won 5 AMAs, 5 Billboard Music Award, 3 MTV VMAs, 3 BMI Awards, 2 MTV EMAs, 1 GRAMMY Award and 1 NAACP Image Award along with garnering a total of 16 GRAMMY Award nominations. Additionally, Doja has been nominated for 20 Billboard Music Awards, 10 MTV VMAs, 9 AMAs, 9 BET Awards, 8 MTV EMAs, 5 BMI Awards and dozens more. Most recently, Doja was named one of TIME100’s Most Influential People of 2023 where she was featured on the April cover issue and performed at the TIME100 Gala in New York City.
DJ Snake drops video for new single West Side Story, created by the Grammy Award-winning team behind Pharrell’s ‘Happy’ Out now via Interscope Records.
Multi-platinum DJ and world-renowned producer DJ Snake teams up with WE ARE FROM LA, the Grammy Award-winning team behind Pharrell’s ‘Happy’, for his latest track ‘West Side Story’s official video clip.
The irresistibly funky ‘West Side Story’ (released 16th June via Interscope) – already proving to be festival gold and the star of a McDonald’s France campaign – combines a propulsive groove, deep, syrupy bass and neon-glowing synth keys with wailing chords, sweet vocoder harmonies and a feel good message. A behemoth slice of retro-modern funk for letting loose, showcasing DJ Snake’s ever-expanding sonic palette.
As addictive and memorable as the song itself, the official ‘West Side Story’ video is slick, youthful, and fun. From the hands of WE ARE FROM LA, the groundbreaking team who scooped a Grammy for Pharrell’s 24 hr ‘Happy’ video, the visual is a brilliantly realized interpretation of the uniting power of DJ Snake’s music via the medium of dance as characters blend and interchange to the rhythm. A stylish and clever homage to fluidity both in race and gender, the clip is one to watch on repeat. DJ Snake – West Side Story
‘Westside Story’ arrives just after the anniversary of Snake’s historic performance at Paris Saint Germain’s Parc des Prince, where he played in front of 63,000 fans — marking the biggest headlining show of his career. It also adds to an already massive year. So far in 2023, Snake has performed at Super Bowl LVII and has been RIAA-certified 8x Platinum with “Turn Down For What.” But he’s not done just yet. He’s just kicked off an international summer tour with scheduled dates at Las Vegas’ Zouk, Ultra Europe in Croatia, Brooklyn Mirage, UK’s Creamfields, and more. To see the full list of dates and purchase tickets, head HERE.
DJ Snake says:
“I want my music to connect people from all over the world. To unite very different human beings through it. That’s exactly what I wanted to showcase in the music video. My music is about blending genres and blending cultures, so the idea we came up with for the music video with WE ARE FROM LA was to blend people somehow!”
• Forged Carbon Fiber Roof, Large Rear Spoiler, and Black Exterior Accents Add to Hot Hatch Style
• Blue Accents on Shift Knob and Interior Stitching along with Standard JBL® Premium Audio
• Chassis and Duct Enhancements Across GR Corolla Lineup for Added Stability
The Toyota GR Corolla keeps bringing the heat with the return of the Circuit Edition for model year 2024. This time it adds a Blue Flame color choice for a head turning look, with Ice Cap rounding out the available choices. Black forged aluminum 18-inch BBS ® wheels come standard, similar to the lighter weight wheels equipped on the 2023 MORIZO Edition. Completing the package on the Blue Flame Circuit Edition are black side rocker graphics that run up to the stamped GR-Four logo.
The Circuit Edition model keeps its vented bulge hood, GR sport mesh gloss-black front grille with functional brake ducts, and angular LED headlights. Aero details continue around back, with a gloss-black rear spoiler, rear lower diffuser, and triple exhaust. On the inside, Brin Naub® Suede and synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with blue accents, a unique blue striped GR shift knob, and blue accent stitching bring the new-to-2024 look home. A JBL® Premium Audio system with eight speakers and an amplifier is also standard.
Ever the perfectionists, the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineering team continues to pay attention to the smallest details with material updates to the chassis and tweaking of a front aeroduct for 2024. Material updates include mounting bolt changes to the steering gear, rear suspension, and battery ground. Aero updates include an addition of aluminum sheets to the front and rear bumpers, and a change in duct shape to the front bumper airflow outlet.
The 2024 GR Corolla Circuit Edition will be available this coming Winter. Pricing and details for all 2024 GR Corolla models will be announced at a later date.
Epic AWD Hot Hatch
As TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s first wholly developed and manufactured model for the North American market, the GR Corolla carries a motorsport-to-road development spirit forward. With professional drivers, experts and Master driver Akio Toyoda, AKA MORIZO, at the wheel, GR Corolla was tested repeatedly at some of Japan’s leading circuits, including Fuji Speedway, Suzuka and Tsukuba Circuit. In addition, the GR team carried out heavy duty dirt and snow driving with a Japanese Rally Championship driver. No road was left untested in the process, so engineers and technicians could sharpen acceleration and control worthy of the GR name.
Under the hood of the GR Corolla Circuit Edition is the turbocharged G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine. It delivers 300 hp at 6,500 rpm and 273 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,0005,500 rpm. Just like all GR Corolla models, it is exclusively with a six-speed intelligent Manual Transmission with rev matching that is turned with a push of a recessed button placed on the lower dash, just below the steering column.
At the heart of the GR Corolla Circuit Edition is the rally racing developed GR-FOUR AllWheel-Drive system. With the twist of a dial, the system can adjust four-wheel drive performance to a front/rear torque distribution of 60:40 for everyday driving, 30:70 distribution for a fun-to-drive quality on winding roads and 50:50 setting for equal power to front and back for maximum grip on the circuit. Developed in collaboration with the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Championship (WRC) Team, it delivers exceptional levels of traction and control by optimizing drive power to each wheel.
All GR Corolla models are built on the Toyota New Global Architecture-C platform (TNGA-C). Its super-rigid structure adds 349 weld points, over 108 additional inches of structural adhesive, one center brace, and three underfloor braces over a standard Corolla hatchback model.
With a low center of gravity and standard Independent MacPherson-type strut front suspension with circuit-tuned coil springs, shock absorbers, and stabilizer bars, the GR Corolla’s suspension is designed to maximize power delivery to all four wheels and provide optimum cornering capability on all surfaces. The rear suspension uses a doublewishbone type multilink system that also accommodates the AWD system’s goal of maximum agility and stability.
Revisions for the 2024 GR Corolla Circuit Edition includes new ribbed flange bolts mounting the steering gear box to the front suspension sub-frame and flange bolts with a 2mm (about 0.08 in) wider head mounting the rear suspension to the sub-frame. An unpainted bolt now grounds the battery to the frame for direct metal-to-metal contact.
The GR Corolla Circuit Edition comes equipped with front and rear Torsen® Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD), which offer enhanced cornering performance and grip with control of left and right-hand drive torque distribution on the front and rear axles.
Braking comes from opposed, fixed-caliper disc brakes with 14×1.1-inch ventilated and slotted rotors outfitted with 4-piston aluminum calipers that are red painted with GR logos. At the rear, it has 11.7-in. x 0.7-in. ventilated rotors with 2-piston aluminum fixedcaliper disc brakes with red-painted calipers and GR logos.
Wide tread tires mounted to new forged aluminum 18-inch wheels help with high cornering performance while maintaining the excellent high-speed stability of the GR Corolla’s 103.9-inch-long wheelbase. It wears Michelin® Pilot Sport® 4 tires 235/40R18.
Aerodynamic performance on the GR Corolla Circuit Edition comes from a combination of aero panels and ducting, along with the added downforce of the rear diffusers and spoiler. Underbody panels use wide underfloor covers for gapless coverage and aero stabilizing fins are placed underneath to help guide airflow. Up front, side air curtains are placed beside the grill so air can flow to outlets behind the front wheels and escape from the wheel wells. For 2024 the shape of this duct has been redesigned and aluminum sheets have been placed under the front and rear wheel wells to help support vehicle stability. On the Circuit Edition, hood and fender ducts provide airflow through the engine bay.
GR Corolla Safety
The GR Corolla Circuit Edition comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) standard. This safety suite includes:
• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD) is designed to help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist or motorcyclist and provide an audio/visual forward collision warning under certain circumstances. If you don’t react, the system is designed to provide automatic emergency braking.
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Intended for highway use, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is an adaptive cruise control system that is designed to be set at speeds above 20 mph and uses vehicle-to-vehicle distance control to help maintain a preset distance from the vehicle ahead of you.
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist: When white/yellow lane markings or certain road edge boundary lines are detected at speeds above 30 mph, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA) is designed to issue an audio/visual lane departure warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If the driver does not take corrective action, the system is also designed to provide gentle corrective steering for lane keeping assistance.
• Lane Tracing Assist: When Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is enabled and lane markers are detected, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) uses the lines on the road and/or preceding vehicles to provide active driving assistance and help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
• Road Sign Assist: Using an intelligent camera, Road Sign Assist (RSA) is designed to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs, yield signs and certain warning signs, and display and icon of the sign on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
• Automatic High Beams: The Automatic High Beams (AHB) are designed to help you see more clearly at night at speeds above 21 mph. The AHB system is designed to detect the headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of preceding vehicles, then automatically toggle between high and low beams accordingly.
In addition to the TSS 3.0 system, other standard safety and convenience features on the GR Corolla Circuit Edition include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which is designed to help detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) for added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible warning. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) and Rear Seat Reminder also come standard.
Convenient and Connected
The 2024 GR Corolla Circuit Edition will come with an eight-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) with customizable settings and Toyota Audio Multimedia with eight-inch touchscreen, standard. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system offers a user experience with sight, touch, and voice activation. With Intelligent Assistant available through Drive Connect*, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice-activated commands to search for directions, find POIs, adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more.
The cloud-based native navigation system offered through Drive Connect allows for realtime Over the Air updates for mapping and Points of Interest (POI), and Google POI data is integrated to ensure up-to-date search capability. It also supports standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto compatibility.
Toyota Audio Multimedia allows for simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone connectivity. A Wi-Fi Connect subscription or trial offers 4G connectivity** for up to five devices by turning GR Corolla into an AT&T Hotspot*, and it also offers the ability to link your separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to your vehicle with Integrated Streaming.GR Corolla Circuit Edition comes with an up to 10-year trial subscription of Toyota Safety Connect® at no additional cost — includes Emergency Assistance, Stolen Vehicle Locator, Roadside Assistance and Automatic Collision Notification.
Purchase of a 2024 GR Corolla comes with a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) GR Corolla owners will enjoy a host of benefits, including one free High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events.
Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. GR Corolla also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
About Toyota
Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.
Toyota directly employs more than 39,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 22 electrified options.
To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to virtually visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
About TOYOTA GAZOO Racing
TOYOTA GAZOO Racing embodies Toyota’s commitment to overcoming every limit to make ‘ever-better’ cars, to forge new technologies and solutions under the extreme conditions of motorsports, and to never stop innovating. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing races its cars to push the limits for better and to learn from the toughest challenges. Competing on every kind of road, no matter what the challenge, inspires TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to build ‘everbetter’ cars and engineer Toyota’s future DNA to bring freedom, adventure, and joy of driving to everyone. For more information, visit www.toyotagazooracing.com
Today sees PinkPantheress and Destroy Lonely team up for “Turn Your Phone Off” out now.
Co-written and Co-produced by PinkPantheress and Alfie Auckett, the track sees PinkPantheress return to her roots as her saccharine vocals dance over a drum and bass beat, while rising star Destroy Lonely taps in with his signature luminous warbles.
Speaking on the track PinkPantheress states “After years of having this song in the vault, I’m so happy I can release ‘Turn Your Phone Off’ with someone who has spearheaded his own sound and incorporates beautifully into mine, Destroy Lonely.”
“Turn Your Phone Off” marks PinkPantheress’ third offering of 2023 following on from the colossal hit “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2” with Ice Spice which amassed over 1 Billion global streams and peaked at No.2 in UK Top 40 Official Charts and No.3 in Billboard Hot 100 and most recently “Angel” taken from Barbie The Album.
ORIGINAL SONG WRITTEN AND PERFORMED FOR GRETA GERWIG’S HIGHLY ANTICIPATED MOTION PICTURE, BARBIEOFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO DIRECTED BY BILLIE EILISH
WATCH | LISTEN “WHAT WAS I MADE FOR?” [From The Motion Picture “Barbie”]
Today, Oscar, Golden Globe and multiple GRAMMY® Award winning Billie Eilish released “What Was I Made For?” [From The Motion Picture “Barbie”](Darkroom/Interscope Records), taken from the highly anticipated feature-length film, Barbie, written and directed by Greta Gerwig, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken, and distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.
“Think I forgot / How to be happy / Something I’m not / But something I can be / Something I wait for / Something I’m made for / Something I’m made for.”
“What Was I Made For?” [From The Motion Picture “Barbie”] was composed especially for Barbieby Billie Eilish alongside her brother FINNEAS who produced the track at his home-studio in Los Angeles. The intimate and heart-rending track exists as the sonic background for pivotal scenes through-out the film, while beautifully and poignantly highlighting the film’s important message and sentiment. The track also comes with an official music video, directed by Eilish. The video made its broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop and on the Paramount Times Square billboards. On making the song and music video, Eilish shared to her fans “to be real with you this all seemed to happen in a time when i really needed it. i’m so so thankful for that.” Read the full statement HERE.
Watch the official music video for “What Was I Made For?” [From The Motion Picture “Barbie”] HERE.
“What Was I Made For?” [From The Motion Picture “Barbie”] will also be released as part of BARBIE THE ALBUM, the groundbreaking and star-studded musical companion to Barbie. The soundtrack was executive produced by Academy, Golden Globe and 7X Grammy® Award winning artist and producer Mark Ronson and Barbie writer/director/executive producer Greta Gerwig. BARBIE THE ALBUM is now available for pre-order HERE and arrives in stores and at all online retailers on Friday, July 21 in conjunction with the theatrical release of the feature film. For more information, visit barbiethealbum.com
“What Was I Made For?” [From The Motion Picture “Barbie”]is out everywhere now.
ABOUT BILLIE EILISH
With the release of her sophomore album Happier Than Ever’ debuting at #1 in the Billboard 200 in the U.S. and in 19 countries across the globe, the 21-year-old Los Angeles native remains one of the biggest stars to emerge in the 21st century. Since the release of her debut single “ocean eyes” in 2015, Eilish continues to shatter the ceiling of music with her genre-defying sound. Fast forward from her humble breakout, her album WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO? also debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in the U.S as well as 17 additional countries around the world upon release in 2019 and was the most streamed album of that year. Both albums were critically acclaimed worldwide and were written, produced and recorded entirely by Billie Eilish and brother FINNEAS. Billie Eilish has made history as the youngest artist to receive nominations and win in all the major categories at the 62nd GRAMMY® Awards, receiving an award for Best New Artist, Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Vocal Album, and is also the youngest artist to write and record an official James Bond theme song, ‘No Time To Die,’ which won an Academy Award for Best Song this year.
ABOUT BARBIE To live in Barbie Land is to be a perfect being in a perfect place. Unless you have a full-on existential crisis. Or you’re a Ken. Warner Bros. Pictures Presents a Heyday Films Production, a LuckyChap Entertainment Production, an NB/GG Pictures Production, a Mattel Production, Barbie. The film will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures and released in theaters only nationwide on July 21, 2023 and internationally beginning July 19, 2023. Directed by Greta Gerwig, Barbie stars Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, Rhea Perlman, and Will Ferrell. The film is written by Greta Gerwig & Noah Baumbach, based on “Barbie” by Mattel, and produced by David Heyman, Margot Robbie, Tom Ackerley and Robbie Brenner. The executive producers are Gerwig, Baumbach, Ynon Kreiz, Richard Dickson, Michael Sharp, Josey McNamara, Courtenay Valenti, Toby Emmerich and Cate Adams. The film’s music supervisor is George Drakoulias, with music by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt.
Elton John’s record-breaking Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour reached its conclusion tonight with an emotionally charged show at Sweden’s Tele2 Arena. This landmark 330th – and final – date marked the end of a truly historic, ground-breaking tour which sees Elton say goodbye to touring after 50 years on the road. The Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour kicked off on September 10, 2018, in North America and has subsequently seen Elton play to over 6.25 million fans across the UK, Europe, North America, and Australasia.
After leaving the stage in Stockholm, Elton said, “When we set off on my final tour in 2018, I couldn’t have foreseen in my wildest dreams the twists and turns and the highs and lows this tour – and the whole world – would have experienced in the next 5 years. And every step of the way, my fans have been there. They have stuck with me, they have supported me, they have been patient, and they have kept turning out for every single last show. Tonight has been magical. I’m trying to process it, and I don’t think it will sink in for a while yet that I’m finally finished touring. I can’t tell you how much I’m going to miss the fans and how much their support has humbled me – it will stay with me forever.”
Taking the audience on a magical journey through his career for the final time, tonight’s show featured some of Elton’s most beloved songs from his legendary catalog, including “Bennie and the Jets,” “Rocket Man,” “Tiny Dancer,” “Philadelphia Freedom” climaxing in a three-song encore of “Cold Heart,” “Your Song” and a spine-tingling finale of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”
During the set, a live video link-up with Coldplay, who were playing live in Gothenburg at the same time, delivered a message of thanks to a clearly deeply moved Elton on behalf of the many artists and musicians he’s supported and platformed during his touring career. Chris Martin said: “Elton, from all of us here (in Gothenburg), from all the bands and artists you’ve helped and inspired, we love you so much. We are so grateful for everything you’ve done for the AIDS Foundation, anytime you’ve been kind to anybody. For everything you’ve done for LGBTQ. Everything you’ve done for fashion and eyewear. Everything you’ve done for sexiness, and love, and dressing gowns! Everything you’ve done for music, everything Bernie has done for lyrics, everything your band has done over the thousands of shows you’ve done. We love you so much, we’re going to miss you so much.”
Elton also gave an emotional send-off to his incredible band, who have joined him on stage throughout the tour – and the previous 50 years – including Davey Johnstone, Musical Director, Guitarist, and backup vocals, Nigel Olsson on the drums, Ray Cooper on percussion, John Mahon on percussion, Kim Bullard on keyboards and Matt Bissonette on the bass.
Having toured relentlessly since 1970, playing almost 4,600 shows in 80 countries in the ensuing half a century, Elton made the decision in 2017 that the time was right to come off the road so he could fully embrace the next important chapter of his life and dedicate more time to his family. The ensuing Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour has subsequently broken records, pushing boundaries and shattering expectations in a five-year period of celebratory activity that has solidified Elton’s status across the generations in the very highest echelons of popular culture. Each leg of the tour has been greeted with an avalanche of critical and commercial success. Highlights include 8 nights at Madison Square Garden, 10 nights at London’s O2 Arena, headlining a sold-out BST in London’s Hyde Park, 2 nights at Watford Football Club’s Vicarage Road (July 2022), and a mammoth 46 dates across Australia. The U.S. leg of the tour concluded with 3 sell-out shows at Dodger Stadium in November 2022. The concert was live-streamed on Disney + in every single territory the channel broadcasts in, a global first. And, of course, there was last month’s historic Glastonbury Festival headline slot. The Sunday night Pyramid Stage closer was widely heralded as one of the greatest performances in the festival’s rich history, attracting one of the largest crowds ever witnessed at the festival. It also received the biggest-ever televised audience for a Glastonbury set, reaching 7.6m overnight on BBC1.
The success of the live tour has been underpinned by release of the commercial and critical hit film ‘Rocketman’ and global bestselling autobiography, ‘ME’ in a sustained 5 year period of unrivaled cultural celebration. Cold Heart with Dua Lipa (PNAU remix) saw Elton top the UK single chart, becoming the first artist to score a top 10 solo hit single in 6 consecutive decades in the process. Diamonds, the Ultimate Greatest Hits Collection, continues to be a permanent fixture in the charts as new audiences discover Elton’s unrivaled songbook. Last week it reached a new peak position of #2 in the UK albums charts, an incredible 5 years after its release, achieving 4 times platinum status in the process.
In Stockholm tonight, the sun finally set on Elton’s illustrious touring career as he bows out at the very top of his powers. Fans around the world can now only wait and speculate on what will follow from a true icon who has consistently challenged the norm, pushed boundaries, and shaped popular culture like few others.
Pioneering Stylish and Futuristic Urban Air Mobility
Doroni Aerospace’s Doroni H1
In a world where congestion and traffic gridlock are all too common, Doroni Aerospace is leading the way in transforming transportation and shaping the future of urban air mobility. This Florida-based company, founded in 2016 by serial entrepreneur Doron Merdinger, is making remarkable strides in developing cutting-edge electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology. With a mission to redefine mobility and provide eco-friendly transportation options, Doroni Aerospace offers consumers an entirely new way to travel.
At the forefront of the eVTOL Light Sport Aircraft industry, Doroni Aerospace combines advanced engineering, sustainable design, and safety features to create groundbreaking products. Their flagship aircraft, the Doroni H1, is a testament to their commitment to innovation and user experience.
The H1 showcases futuristic design elements, intuitive flight controls, and sustainable engineering, delivering an exceptional flying experience. Powered by advanced electric motors, it offers zero-emission flight, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future. With semi-autonomous flight capabilities and integrated navigation systems, the H1 ensures safe and reliable operations, instilling confidence and comfort in passengers. Safety remains a top priority for Doroni Aerospace, and the H1 incorporates cutting-edge features such as redundant systems, collision avoidance technology, and emergency landing capabilities.
Under the leadership of Doron Merdinger, Doroni Aerospace is revolutionizing the personal air mobility landscape. Merdinger’s passion for transforming transportation and his business acumen have positioned Doroni Aerospace as a leading player in the eVTOL Light Sport Aircraft industry.
As the industry gains momentum and garners attention, Doroni Aerospace has already received significant pre-orders for their eVTOLs. Notably, a prominent Canadian company that provides Emergency Management teams and National Incident Management Command coordinators to emergency service providers to integrate advanced flying technology into their real time emergency operations has shown confidence in the company by placing 25 pre-orders, emphasizing the recognition of Doroni Aerospace’s technological expertise and its potential to reshape personal transportation forever.
To accommodate these innovative aircraft, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is actively engaged in modernizing the national air system. The FAA reauthorization bill, currently being drafted, prioritizes the integration of new entrants like eVTOLs into existing airspace. This forward-thinking approach aims to improve communication, navigation, and surveillance systems, setting the stage for the future of transportation.
Doroni Aerospace’s Doroni H1
Doroni Aerospace vehicles do not require any infrastructure, unlike Air Taxis who will need to utilize helipads and other structures, and will initially use private properties and suburban areas. As they continue to innovate, their vision extends beyond just private properties for takeoffs and landings. Doroni envisions utilizing existing infrastructure, as the industry grows, to expand accessibility. Furthermore, the industry plans to establish dedicated vertiports for seamless operations, including takeoffs, landings, parking, charging, and maintenance. These integrations will further streamline and enhance the urban air mobility experience as the industry and customer base grow.
Witness the stylish and futuristic world of Doroni Aerospace as they redefine personal transportation. They are currently accepting investments from accredited investors to its Reg-D offering here. To learn more about this amazing eVTOL technology, visit www.Doroni.io.
Louis Vuitton is pleased to introduce the new Deep Time High Jewelry collection, unveiled in Greece in June 2023.
The Maison’s fifth High Jewelry collection designed by Francesca Amfitheatrof, Artistic Director of Watches & Jewelry, Deep Time is an epic journey through the eons, an ultimate and profound voyage, spanning the birth of the planet to the creation of life and narrated by the most exceptional stones. With this new collection, Louis Vuitton’s singular, original design signature and savoir-faire fuse with the origins of geology and geological legacy that are the heart of jewelry and gemstones.
Deep Time, explored through two acts of geology and life, is the Maison’s largest High Jewelry collection to date, encompassing a total of 16 themes and featuring over 170 unique pieces—including 95 in the first chapter alone—and a record number of precious stones. Each piece features masterfully executed jewels that capture an epic tale of transformation, life, and interconnectedness.
“At Louis Vuitton, we are as ever adventurers, traveling to extraordinary, unexpected places,” says Amfitheatrof. “Deep Time will transport you deeply into the past, to a time and place that is so remote and perhaps even difficult to comprehend. But at the same time, the stones—these treasures that span millennia—will bring you right there, to the beginning of the planet and into a history of the world and its mystical geological legacy.”
