About Kai Yeo

INTERVIEW WITH SHERI MILLER

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Singer-songwriter Sheri Miller releases her new single “Born To Love,” a tender, instant classic from her 6-song collection, Waking Up To This Miracle Life, out November 19. Recorded with GRAMMY-winning producer Jeff Bova, Miller’s timeless collection is at once ecstatic and incisive, brimming with joy even as it reckons with struggle and heartache.

The songs here are radical acts of self-love and empowerment fueled by raw emotion and explosive energy, and Miller’s mesmerizing performances are utterly transcendent to match, her voice shifting from hushed intimacy to soaring grandeur with the preternatural ease of Ann Wilson or Brandi Carlile. Add it all up and you’ve got a rich, cinematic masterpiece about embracing the beauty and magic of being alive, a celebratory ode to love itself from an artist who passionately lives to create. I got the opportunity to speak with Sheri Miller about her upcoming EP.

What inspired this album?

When writing this record, ‘Waking Up To This Miracle Life,’ I felt inspired how it’s a miracle to be alive; especially at this time. To wake up every morning with a heart beating of its own independent accord, lungs breathing oxygen without us turning on a power switch, seeing beautiful blue skies with our open eyes, smelling delicious fragrances of trees, roses, jasmine, freshly-baked soft chocolate chip cookies, hearing glorious notes resounding from orchestras, brass bands or finely crafted pianos, guitars, drums, listening to golden-throated voices, touching luxurious silk fabrics, and feeling magnificent emotions of love, appreciation, happiness, fun, exhilaration!

How being alive in our physical bodies is such a gift; what an extraordinary miracle we have our genius cells working symbiotically in mysterious harmony. Though I don’t understand electricity or the miracle of being born, I’m glad to be here! This record celebrates life passionately. Especially after pandemic, it feels so good to focus on the magnificence of being alive. We did it! We made it. How blessed and lucky we are. No matter what struggles you’ve gone through (we all have), there’s always hope, fun, and even joy waiting closely; You’re never alone. If you believe in yourself, trusting there’s unseen help available to us- closed doors open, our timing gets good, and avalanches of beautiful opportunities flow like rivers into our experience. Your tiny extra bit of optimism cracks the door open to success, love, and more of your dreams realized. I choose to keep waking up to this miracle life.

When did you start making music?

I started making music at eight, taking classical piano lessons with a strict teacher. My free, wild, creative spirit rebelled against the boring confines of practicing already written music, when I wanted to compose and paint new melodies, paired with new words and lyrics, creating new musical paintings. So, I spent much of my practice time composing dozens of new songs, pouring out complete melodies, lyrics, chords. Anthems about rocking the nation, songs about eternal, everlasting, pure love and world peace, love songs to my mother, and “The Lost Tribe,” a song about a wandering tribe in the desert, buffalo and surviving. I still have these handwritten 8-year-old songbooks, and I’ve written hundreds of songs since age 8. I consider myself a ‘music lifer,’ writing songs and performing for the sheer feeling of joy and pleasure; as I evolve as a human, so does my music, songs, and art. I am my best masterpiece.

Who are your musical inspirations?

My musical inspirations started with my mom, who’s a magnificent opera singer, classical pianist, composer, and storyteller. I love the Beatles, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Joni Mitchell, Ray Charles, Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Carole King, Paul Simon, Rodger & Hart, Duke Ellington, Beach Boys, Rickie Lee Jones, Bob Dylan, Coldplay, Mozart, Tchaichovsky, Piazolla, Alicia Keys, India.Arie, Prince, Queen, Freddy Mercury, Tom Petty, Bob Marley, James Brown, Gershwins, Rumi, and brilliant musicians I work with Jeff Bova, Kate Baker, Will Lee, Tim Pierce, Chris Lord-Alge, Frank Filipetti, Joe Zook, Dave Eggar, Paul Shaffer, Steve Cropper. There are endless musicians who inspire me, flowing through every time I create. I appreciate all who’ve come before, paving this golden trail of delights.

Did any of these musical influences specifically inspire this album?

Writing “Gold Hearted Man” on my big acoustic-electric 1969 sunburst Guild hollow body guitar, I felt the presence of blues legend John Lee Hooker. It almost felt like he was guiding my hands and heart to new undiscovered places within me, creating a song ship sailing to unchartered territories in my musical landscape. There are traces of Joni Mitchell in “Empty Sky” and hints of the Beatles in “Everybody Feels This Way Sometimes.” Honestly, I believe every note, sound, visual, smell, every idea that’s ever touched us, is interwoven into the gorgeous colorful, rainbow fabric quilt of art, we create.

What made you decide to become a singer songwriter?

I never made a conscious decision to ‘become’ a singer-songwriter. Thank God, for me it was a natural, easy, gradual, ‘gentle push’ of spirit; my soul led me to this choice. It chose me, I chose it, I decided to answer the calling. I believe we are all called to something, and it’s never too late, no matter what age, circumstances, to answer this calling, following your bliss. My story is magical, powerful synchronicity at work. While in college, I was secretly writing lyrics in my bedroom and taking jazz piano lessons 20 minutes away. I started receiving the thought ‘wouldn’t it be nice to have a little keyboard in my bedroom, so I could write songs easily? I can’t fit a piano, I don’t have lots of money, wouldn’t a little keyboard be nice?’

I started dreaming up this idea for months, until it exploded vividly one Sunday morning. I woke up in a surreal, groggy state, having passionately dreamt of owning a little Casio keyboard the night before. Instead of walking to the library, taking the faster, straight-shot city street path, I felt magnetically drawn, with a strong impulse, to take the longer, beautiful, winding path across campus. While on this scenic route, I passed a one-day church sale, selling the exact Casio keyboard I dreamt the night before! It was $20, and ecstatic by this little miracle, I began joyfully composing songs in my bedroom on this Casio keyboard. It felt like my soul gave me the gentlest, loving push and wink, to trust myself; sometimes the longer, winding path has magic. Faster isn’t always more rewarding or satisfying. From that day forward, I’ve been composing and performing. The Casio keyboard manifesting was a tiny miracle of magic. Miracles exist everywhere, if you choose to open your eyes, and allow yourself to dream.

Are there any special moments you’d like to share while making this EP?

For “Gold Hearted Man” basking in the afterglow of a soulful kiss, inspiration poured through me, and I composed this song in a hurricane flood of emotion. Initially I felt uncomfortable channeling this sensuality in the studio, but when the recording light blinked, BOOM, we cut vocals lightning speed. I’m proud of how we captured the passionate feeling in this recording.

For “Born To Love,” Day 1, I thought we had the “perfect” vocal after comping. The next day, after singing for 5 hours, the producer asked me to sing one last take. I said “sure” to humor him, though thinking “there’s no way we can use it, I’m too tired.” So I let go, singing effortlessly, easily, naturally, without trying. I got out of my own way, allowing the song to speak, my soul to speak. When I opened my eyes, thinking everyone would say it’s a throwaway vocal, instead they said “that was a Grammy-Award winning performance!” Stunned, I listened back, and realized MAGIC HAD FLOWED, when I surrendered, letting go of getting an “amazing vocal.” This live vocal became our “final vocal.” I learned sometimes “magic” is better than “perfect.” I trust the magic now.

Is there a specific flow/genre to this EP that you’d like the audience to follow?

However your heart and soul calls you to listen. Follow your instincts.

If you had to describe the “story of this release” in one paragraph, what would you say?

“Luminous, passionate, triumphant, love-filled collection of artistic songs inspires the hearts, connects with the souls of many, to remember and awaken to the brilliant, magnificent miracles in their own lives.”

What’s next for you?

I’m thrilled with the new, inspired songs I’ve been composing and writing. I have endless new records in me, and I am happily, eagerly anticipating recording the new songs, and performing them. What’s next? More fun. More joy. More treasure chests of glittering new songs. More inspired new records. More exhilarating live performances. More artistic discoveries of wonder. More magnificent miracles revealing themselves, as we keep waking up to this miracle life.

Presave Waking Up To This Miracle Life here.

Tracklist
1. Gold Hearted Man
2. Waking Up To This Miracle Life
3. Born To Love
4. Joyful Love
5. Everybody Feels This Way Sometimes
6. Empty Sky
7. Gold Hearted Man (Chris Lord-Alge Radio Edit)
8. Gold Hearted Man (Joe Zook Radio Edit)
9. Waking Up To This Miracle Life (Chris Lord-Alge Radio Edit)
10. Empty Sky (Radio Edit)

LILY ROSE – STRONGER THAN I AM

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LILY ROSE INTRODUCES HERSELF WITH SEVEN SONG PROJECT STRONGER THAN I AM

Gut-wrenching music video for title-track illustrates powerful story of loss

Lily Rose, the groundbreaking singer/songwriter who has spent the last ten months introducing herself to her fans through critically-acclaimed releases, drops her highly anticipated new project STRONGER THAN I AM (Big Loud Records / Back Blocks Music and Republic Records) available everywhere today. The seven-song collection includes two brand new songs and is released alongside a brand-new music video for title-track “Stronger Than I Am.”

“It’s pretty wild that after the 10 craziest months I’ve ever experienced, my first project as a label artist is finally out,” shares Rose. “I couldn’t be prouder of these songs, more thankful for all of the songwriters, and inspired by what Joey Moi has done with this collection of songs!”

With “the vocal talent to speak directly to the listener on an extraordinarily personal level” (Music Row), Rose’s new project rounds out the vulnerable storytelling Rose has consistently delivered with previous releases including “Villain,” “Overnight Sensation,” “Remind Me of You,” “Know My Way Around” and “I Don’t Smoke.”

In less than a year since her striking debut in the format, Rose has been tapped as Billboard’s ‘Rookie of The Month’ and has received stout critical acclaim from Rolling Stone, CMT, American Songwriter, Variety, People and more. Her “confident ease blending musical styles” (Rolling Stone) has resonated with the industry and fans alike, with critics calling her voice “irresistible” (Billboard) and a “top-shelf vocal blend” (Sounds Like Nashville). In a recent interview with CMT’s new digital series ‘Viral to Verified,’ Rose opened up to fans about her journey from struggling to pay the bills to an “overnight sensation, 13 years in the making.” American Songwriter declares, “there is no doubt that Rose shines differently than perhaps any other country artist out there.”

Tracklist:

“Villain” (Lily Rose, Mackenzie Carpenter, Kyle Clark)
“Stronger Than I Am” (Griffen Palmer, Geoff Warburton)
“I Don’t Smoke” (Daniel Gerard Breland, Lalo Guzman, Michael Tyler)
“Remind Me of You” (Corey Crowder, Sam Hunt, Ernest Keith Smith, Ryan Vojtesak)
“Know My Way Around” (Lily Rose, Julian Bunetta, Savana Santos)
“Breakin’ In” (Lily Rose, John Byron, Ben Johnson, Blake Pendergrass)
“Whole Lotta Hometowns” (Lily Rose, Andy Albert, Kyle Clark)

ABOUT LILY ROSE
Words like “groundbreaking” and “trailblazing” are often overused. But for Big Loud Records / Back Blocks Music and Republic Records Country star Lily Rose, they may actually be an understatement. The modern expression of Country’s most treasured ideal – pure, unflinching honesty – her debut hit “Villain” has revealed Rose as a talent both 100-percent unique and utterly relatable, with a fresh perspective and forward-looking sound. A Georgia native whose inspirations range from Bruce Springsteen to Keith Urban and Katy Perry, Rose broke out in 2020 with the viral smash, “Villain.” Both vulnerable and defiant with a boundary pushing Country-meets-R&B sound, the track hit Number One on the iTunes all-genre chart and SiriusXM’s The Highway Hot 30 Weekend Countdown, leading to her new, seven-song project, STRONGER THAN I AM. With her focus firmly on integrity, Rose’s bold mix of personal lyricism and distinctive language meets the hooky sonics of a post-genre fanbase, as pure-Country confessions merge with Hip-Hop beats and R&B flow – plus representation where there was none before. All told, it gives new credence to her “groundbreaking” label.

EVERYONE YOU KNOW – JUST FOR THE TIMES

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“Genre bending ravers” – Notion

“A cathartic burst of all the energy” – Complex

“Hitting the same boisterous notes as The Manor and The Streets with a bit more focus on the club, the duo have been making themselves heard a lot lately” – Trench

“Nothing short of brilliant” – The Line of Best Fit

“Everyone You Know are on that converted upwards trajectory towards the charts” – Gigwise

“EYK have built their own universe…Their sensitive lyricism is offset by a roughhewn charm, matched to the ultra-vivd music” – Clash

Ones-to-watch sibling duo Everyone You Know (EYK) releases their highly anticipated 13 track EP Just For The Times via Sony Music UK/RCA Records. Alongside the release, EYK have also unveiled their new single “There For You” along with the music video which showcases the pairs’ signature genre-bending style, combining brooding late night vibes with uplifting piano house production, topped by Rhys’ soulful vocals.

Just For The Times is a rich embodiment of EYK’s sonic diversity and delves into the pairs’ journey over the last 18-24 months. The project provides a soundtrack to the highs, the lows, the nostalgia, and the pent-up energy over lockdown, skewered in pin-sharp rhymes, layered over precision tooled bedroom beats. Listeners are treated to a dynamic body of work from the mutli-faceted duo which includes 8 new tracks alongside fan favorites such as “Radio”, “Just For The Times,” “When The Sun Comes Up,” “Higher,” and “Charlie.”

Speaking about the release EYK say, “Just for the Times is not just an “EP” but it’s a representation of the lives we and our loved ones have all lived throughout the past 2 years. It’s a project where we’ve really delved deep, thought about carefully and made as honest as possible. We wanted this project to represent our fans too, something everyone can relate to and connect with. It’s ten tracks of emotions that vary from high to low, hope to hopelessness and joy to sadness. It’s a project we’re really proud of and can’t wait for you all to hear. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did making it.”

The band recently announced they will embark on a 13 date UK headline tour. Kicking things off at The Think Tank, Newcastle on 16th November, the pair will play across cities including Leeds, Manchester, Bristol, Nottingham and Glasgow, before rounding things off with a huge headline performance at XOYO, London on 4th December which has now sold out! Tickets for other dates are currently on sale here.

Everyone You Know aka half-brothers Rhys Kirkby-Cox and Harvey Kirkby have had a rapid rise to success in a short space of time, amassing over 100 million worldwide streams, an explosive 15-date sold out UK tour, as well as a UK mainstage festival debut at Reading & Leeds and a stint as UK brand ambassadors for Reebok. The sibling duo have paved a uniquely British lane for themselves, blending hip hop, garage, dance and punk who draw on diverse influences such as J Dilla, Dr Dre, The Streets, Wu Tang Clan and Kano. Honing their signature sound, the pair have built a cult following with tracks such as ‘Just For The Times’, ‘Our Generation’, ‘She Don’t Dance’, and ‘The Drive’. Along with this, the pair recently collaborated with heavyweight producers Hybrid Minds on their festival anthem ‘Dance Forever’ and Brazilian superstar Alok on ‘Kids On Whizz’. Not stopping there, EYK have garnered widespread tastemaker support along the way from the likes of Annie Mac (headlined AMP at Old Blue Last), Jack Saunders (Radio 1 Maida Vale Session), Jordan North, Steve Lamacq (6Music Session), BBC Introducing, NME, Wonderland, Notion, Sunday Times Culture, Clash, Complex, and The Line of Best Fit positioning themselves as one of the most exciting and innovative new talents to come out of the UK.

Tracklist

Higher
When The Sun Comes Up
Charlie
There For You
18
Crying on the Weekend
No Sleep (Interlude)
Human Again (Skit)
Just for the Times
Radio
Song For Remi
Open Up (Prelude)
Your Tears

UK Tour Dates 2021

16th November – The Think Tank, Newcastle

17th November – The Lending Room, Leeds

18th November – The Garage, Glasgow

21st November – YES, Manchester

22nd November – Hare & Hounds, Birmingham

25th November – The Horn, St Albans (SOLD OUT)

27th November – Jericho Tavern, Oxford

28th November – The Forum, Tunbridge Wells

29th November – Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

30th November – The Exchange, Bristol

2nd December – Patterns, Brighton

3rd December – The Joiners, Southampton

4th December – XOYO, London (SOLD OUT)

Why would Anyone Leave Hollywood?

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Why would anyone leave working on movies with Marlon Brando, Johnny Depp, Jim Carrey, or the voice of Marge on the Simpsons?

Why would anyone leave behind working on music videos with Madonna, R.E.M, Randy Travis, and The Rolling Stones?

Why would anyone leave behind “hobnobbing” at the homes of Sting, Roseanne Barr, or Joan Rivers?

The sheer romance of Hollywood, and hype, the luscious frivolity and gorgeous glamor, all ensconced like a movie within a movie—the Southern California of it all. Like Icarus flying high above the drudge and turmoil of everyday life, just knowing your wings would never melt. The rubbing elbows with the insanely famous, or very famous, or just famous movie stars. Crashing the ubiquitous Oscar parties strewn all over “the strip”—the famous Sunset Boulevard. The bright lights that draw you to it like a moth to a flame.

I worked on it all. I worked on the movies and the music videos. And the TV shows, the MOW’s (movies of the week), and the pilot shows during pilot season. I worked on food commercials, car commercials, and clothing commercials. I worked low-budget, no-budget, and dream budget shows. My job? The art department. I was a set dresser, lead man, painter, prop guy, and even drove the 5-ton trucks because I had a CDL (commercial driver’s license). (My credit nickname on some of my IMDB credits is “Big Ton.”)

My entre to Hollywood was the world-renowned UCLA film school, where I studied screenwriting, directing, and producing with my fellow students, Academy Award-winning directors Gore Verbinski and Alexander Payne, director Shane Black and noted television producer Jeffrey Bell. Friends of mine who work “below the line” (in the art department, or as grips, gaffers, painters, transportation, etc.) all have IMDB credits a mile long.

There are two ways to enter Hollywood from film school—from the top or from the bottom. From the top means your film or script hyperjumps you directly into an “above the line” directing gig, or screenwriting offer, or both.

But if you’re like the majority of film school grads, you start again at the bottom. You work on every low-budget film, TV show, and commercial you can get your hands on. And you don’t let them know you graduated from film school. No, siree. Not unless you wanted yourself laughed out of work. Because the real work is learning the craft of making films. The very long hours (minimum 12 hours a day). Learning who all the behind-the-scenes players are and who knows what, when, and where. Learning from the old-timers all of the million tricks that go on to a screen and the politics behind the scenes. Learning how to segue from show to show, so that you can continue to work.

Then the magic moment arrives. All the grunt work and long hours finally pays off. You are handed that obscenely rare gold Willy-Wonka ticket to Wonkaland—the ultimate movie pass of all time to anyone who wants to work Hollywood—the Motion Picture Union Card. And the only way to get is by working on a film that goes from non-union to union. Even the stars can’t wheedle their offspring into this part of “the industry.” You earn this one with a lot of sweat, grit, and determination. Then you begin to make real money. And work on the “big” films—the big features. Or work at the studios, on a hit TV show, or endless pilots. Great medical, retirement, benefits up the ying-yang. You are now part of the legacy and lottery that is the Hollywood film family. You truly have made it to the land of the silver screen.

Was it great? Was it fun? Was it wild? Yes, and yes, and yes.

But something was amiss in the land of forever happiness. I began to notice cracks in the gold façade. I saw hidden hints of unhappiness I hadn’t noticed before. I began to understand how easily the golden handcuffs of money and prestige could be so easily slipped on over one’s wrist until one day you realize that the dreaming is over, and now you are locked into the Hollywood grind.

How fleeting the luscious frivolity and gorgeous glamor. The elbow-rubbing with all that famous fame and fortune. The seductiveness of being the insider in star land. That thirty years later you would wake up from the dream and realize it was all spent in dreamland. That’s the writing I saw upon the wall.

But as with all good screenplays, there arrives the pivotal moment upon which the destiny of the entire universe resides in the action of one person.

One day a friend of mine at Universal Studios, a guy who had worked on sets for a million years, a guy whose stories about the business were endless and fascinating—I asked him. “Was it all worth it?” Well, that was the million-dollar question you never ask because the answer did not fill you with awe. It scared the living bejesus out of you. “Nope. I never saw my kids grow up. I divorced twice. I made a lot of money. I owned a lot of toys. But what do I have to show for it after 35 years? My kids barely talk to me. I’m mostly alone and I’ll retire alone.”

Crap and wow. That’s when the Hollywood dreamed ended for me. That was THE wake-up call of wake-up calls. That’s when I knew it was time to get out. I was only five years in. I did not want to end up with the self-chosen burden of unhappiness to haunt me in Hollywood for the rest of my life.

That’s when I took to the road and headed west. Not to actual west of the Pacific Ocean but the west of America, where people lose themselves to find themselves. And that’s what I did. A “drive-about.” Where one can meditate upon endless miles of blacktop, the engine purring a constant tone poem like the drone of a Tibetan chant. This blue-highway contemplation forcing the quintessential questions of mortality—why am I here and what is my purpose?

After a few thousand miles, I ended up in a 3-bar town on the Arizona/Mexican border. I asked for work and the universe handed it to me in the guise of a local cowboy. My new job? Putting up a fence on a nearby ranch—a barbed-wire fence. Hammering in fence poles with a pole pounder for as far as the eye could see. When I was done, he’d come out and we’d string up wire. How fitting. Having been raised around ranches as a kid, I had returned to my roots.

My home was the back of my pickup truck. My shower, an old horse trough filled with water. I cooked by camp stove and ate by campfire. The stars were brilliant and there was not a human light to be seen. This was my new existence. I couldn’t imagine going back and was terrified at going forward. It was here, amidst this desolation and aloneness, I had truly leapt off the cliff of Hollywood, into the great abyss of the west, praying for the universe to somehow catch me. And it did.

A slow miracle appeared. An idea that was born of this life transition. I picked up the pen again, and the pen roared back to life.

After having published in my early twenties, I had not written a book in years. Now I began to write as if my life depended on it. The premise? A father who would never live to see his kids, leaves behind a compendium of practical, moral, and spiritual letters that would eventually be a guidebook to life. How fitting that the universe brought me here, writing on the back of my pickup by lantern light, to begin my real life’s work.

But the book, to eventually be called, The Legacy Letters, and its awards, were still years in the future. Now I would have to finish the fence. And then work as a cowboy on a small nearby ranch. And then meet my wife-to-be, while working as a wrangler for a friend of mine. And then get married at the ranch. And have a son together. And all the while, in this Walden Pond time of life, I would continue to write and ride, and ride and write until I finished the book.

Now far from the delusions of glitz and glamor, fame and fortune that would have beguiled me into a life of golden unhappiness. What an amazing and strange journey to happiness and contentment.

I remember reading many years ago about a prayer the Buddhist monks would intone, and that in my spiritual infancy, I could never quite understand. “Please Lord Buddha, give me a problem so that I may overcome it.” Finally, I’ve grown up enough to understand why anyone would want a problem to overcome. And why we must leave to find out how to return.

ABOUT CAREW PAPRITZ

Carew truly lives the central message of The Legacy Letters to “live life to the fullest,” creating such innovative and adventurous one-of-kind events as his “First-Ever Book Signings”–on top of Mt. St. Helens in Washington State, the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska, and on horseback at a Barnes & Noble in Tucson, Arizona (amongst many others). Before Amazon, Carew’s First-Ever Delivery of a Book by Drone made headline news. Carew’s YouTube “I Love to Read” series and his annual literacy-driven charity event, “The Great Book Balloon Launch,” inspire kids and adults to rediscover the joy of reading! And to inspire more kindness and civility in the world, Carew started National Thank You Letter Day–Nov.14th, in which he created the world’s largest handwritten thank you letter, stamp, and envelope–the size of a high school gym–to help spread the word about writing thank you letters!

DOLLY PARTON – TENNESSEE MUSIC PATHWAYS

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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.

ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE: FIRST FULLY ELECTRIC CAR

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A PROPHECY FULFILLED, A PROMISE KEPT, A REMARKABLE UNDERTAKING UNDERWAY

ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS ANNOUNCES FIRST FULLY ELECTRIC CAR, SPECTRE, COMING IN 2023

In an historic announcement, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announced today, that on-road testing of its first fully electric motor car is imminent. In announcing this seminal moment for the marque, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, said:

“Today is the most significant day in the history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars since 4 May 1904. On that date, our founding fathers, Charles Rolls and Sir Henry Royce, first met and agreed that they were going to create ‘the best motor car in the world’.

“Using the most advanced technology available to them at the time and by applying their remarkable engineering minds, these two pioneers elevated early internal combustion engine cars, from noisy, uncomfortable and rudimentary means of transportation, by setting a completely new benchmark of distinction.

“The cars they created, introduced to the world a true luxury experience and secured for Rolls-Royce the ultimate pinnacle position that it continues to occupy, unchallenged, to this day. The marque has continued to define the very best in internal combustion motoring for more than a century.

“Today, 117 years later, I am proud to announce that Rolls-Royce is to begin the on-road testing programme for an extraordinary new product that will elevate the global all-electric car revolution and create the first – and finest – super-luxury product of its type. This is not a prototype. It’s the real thing, it will be tested in plain sight and our clients will take first deliveries of the car in the fourth quarter of 2023.”

A PROPHECY FULFILLED

“The use of electric motors is not a new concept for Rolls-Royce. Sir Henry Royce was fascinated by all things electrified, and his first venture, named F. H. Royce and Company, created dynamos, electric crane motors and patented the bayonet-style light bulb fitting.

“However, it was Charles Rolls who truly prophesied an electrified future for automobiles. In April 1900 he experienced an early electric motor car named the Columbia and declared its electric drive to be ideal.

“Rolls said, ‘The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration, and they should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged. But for now, I do not anticipate that they will be very serviceable – at least for many years to come.’

“Charles Rolls’ prophecy has been the subject of constant consideration during the marque’s Goodwood era. But we have not been satisfied that available technology could support the Rolls-Royce experience. Until now.

“Now is the time to change the course of the future of luxury.

“We embark on this bold new future with a huge advantage. Electric drive is uniquely and perfectly suited to Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, more so than any other automotive brand. It is silent, refined and creates torque almost instantly, going on to generate tremendous power. This is what we at Rolls-Royce call ‘waftability’.

“At Rolls-Royce, we have been experimenting with an electric powertrain for some time. In 2011 we revealed 102EX, a fully operational all-electric Phantom. We followed this in 2016 with our fully electric 103EX, which represented our vision for the marque several decades into the future.”

A PROMISE KEPT

“These extraordinary products prompted a huge amount of interest in electric powertrain technology amongst our clients. They considered it as the perfect fit for Rolls-Royce. And, over the past decade, I have been repeatedly asked, ‘When will Rolls-Royce go electric?’ and ‘When will you produce your first electric car?’

“I answered with an unambiguous promise: ‘Rolls-Royce will go electric, starting this decade.’ Today, I’m keeping my word.”

A REMARKABLE UNDERTAKING

“Charles Rolls’ prophecy and my promise have led us to a seminal moment for the marque. Rolls-Royce has embarked on an historic and unique undertaking, which today becomes a reality. Our designers and engineers have worked relentlessly to bring us here: we are now ready to commence road-testing of the first all-electric Rolls-Royce in history.

“This fundamental change in our powertrain technology requires that we challenge every single aspect of the product before we offer it to the most discerning and demanding individuals in the world – our Rolls-Royce clients.

“To do this, we have conceived the most demanding testing programme in Rolls-Royce’s history. We will cover 2.5 million kilometres – a simulation of more than 400 years of use for a Rolls-Royce, on average – and we will travel to all four corners of the world to push this new motor car to the limit.

“You will see these test cars on roads, around the world. Look out for them – they will be in plain sight. They will be tested in all conditions and over all terrains on their multi-million-mile journey – that will literally accelerate Rolls-Royce into the future.”

TRULY FLEXIBLE ARCHITECTURE OF OUR OWN

“In 2017, we debuted Phantom, and with it the marque’s proprietary aluminium architecture: a scalable and flexible spaceframe that would underpin all forthcoming Rolls-Royce motor cars. This unique technology – developed for Rolls-Royce by Rolls-Royce and reserved for the marque’s exclusive use – was created to form the foundation of not just different internal combustion engine models, as it now does with Cullinan and Ghost, but models with completely different powertrains.

“To this end, our forthcoming electric car benefits from the Rolls-Royce architecture and therefore the extraordinary experience of a Rolls-Royce on the road. Free of any group platform sharing strategy, we were able to integrate our plans for an electric powertrain into the architecture’s initial design and ensure that this extraordinary new product meets the extremely high expectations of our clients.”

A NEW NAME: A NEW LEGACY

“This Rolls-Royce is the fulfilment of a prophecy and it represents a promise kept as we embark upon a unique undertaking. It is the beginning of a new legacy for our brand. In that spirit, we have decided on a completely new name for this car. A name that is as powerful and evocative as the nameplates that have served us so perfectly for the past century – names like Phantom, Ghost and Wraith. It’s a name that perfectly fits the ethereal and other worldly environment within which our products exist – a name that we have reserved especially for this moment: Spectre.

“Spectre is a name given to otherworldly beings synonymous with great power and apparition; creatures of an alternative realm that make their presence felt through fleeting manifestation. A spectre forces the world to pause. It dominates the space it occupies. Then, as quickly as it appears, it dissipates, leaving a wake of exhilaration, energy, and intrigue.

“This name perfectly matches the extraordinary Rolls-Royce that we are announcing today – a motor car that makes its presence felt before disappearing into a world inaccessible to all but the very few. As a quintessentially British brand, we have selected the British spelling, however the meaning is universal.

AN EXTRAORDINARY FUTURE

“With this new product we set out our credentials for the full electrification of our entire product portfolio by 2030. By then, Rolls-Royce will no longer be in the business of producing or selling any internal combustion engine products.

“Spectre is the living fulfilment of Charles Rolls’ Prophecy. My Promise, made on behalf of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, is kept. Now we begin a remarkable undertaking. I am proud that we will continue to propel the world’s most progressive and influential women and men into a brilliant, electrified future.”

Find out more about Spectre here.

Rockefeller Productions – Winnie The Pooh

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Rockefeller Productions Announces Safety Protocol For their Record-Breaking Disney Winnie The Pooh The New Musical Stage Adaptation

Performances begin at Theatre Row on October 21, 2021

A leader in family entertainment, Rockefeller Productions announces one of the country’s most thorough and considerate safety protocols for their highly anticipated new musical, Disney Winnie The Pooh, beginning performances on October 21, 2021, at Theatre Row. The new protocols will ensure the safety of every audience member and performer.

Keeping in line with current CDC and industry safety standards, all patrons will be required to wear a mask inside the theatre, and every person 12+ will be required to show proof of vaccine before entering the theatre. Those under 12 years old will be required to show evidence of a negative PCR COVID test within 3 days of the performance or a negative COVID rapid antigen test from a doctor or testing site within 6 hours of performance.

To make it easier for families to return to the theatre, Rockefeller Productions has partnered with Dr. Karen Thornton to provide free rapid on-site testing, good within six hours of the test. The testing van will be located directly outside of Theatre Row (410 W 42nd Street) up to 1.5 hours before curtain time. It will be equipped with trained nurses to administer the non-invasive swab rapid test with results in 15 minutes. Parents should arrive at least thirty minutes before curtain time to ensure a negative test before entering the theatre. Rockefeller Productions will also provide activities for young people to assist families while they wait for the results.

Additionally, Rockefeller Productions will be introducing Seating Bubbles during certain performances distancing family units throughout the theatre. Finally, in its most comprehensive and definitive safety measure, they are also offering the Ultimate Winnie the Pooh VIP Experience with the privacy and comfort of a complete theatre buy-out accommodating up to 190 guests, as a way to enjoying the magic of Winnie the Pooh with the confidence and comfort of personally knowing every other patron attending the performance.

These safety measures are the most complete and thoughtful plan to bring audiences back to the theatre with confidence.

“We are excited to welcome audiences back to the theatre, but we also understand the difficulties that parents face in trying to adhere to current guidelines. Rockefeller Productions is happy to partner with Dr. Thornton and her team of professionals to make testing easy and convenient. These efforts are well worth it to ensure the safety of our patrons while making sure they have complete confidence returning to live theatre once again.” Rockefeller Productions’ Jonathan Rockefeller

Breaking box office records, Rockefeller Productions will debut its newest and most anticipated production Disney Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation, featuring songs by the Sherman Brothers and A.A. Milne, on October 21, 2021. This beautifully crafted musical stage adaptation is set deep in the Hundred Acre Wood and told with stunning life-size puppetry through the eyes of the Winnie the Pooh, Christopher Robin, and their best friends Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, and Owl (and Tigger too).

Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Adaptation is developed and presented by renowned family entertainment creator Jonathan Rockefeller (whose spectacular puppetry is omnipresent in the acclaimed productions of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show and Paddington Gets in a Jam). Performances will take place at Times Square’s Theatre Row (410 West 42nd Street) beginning October 21, 2021.

Tickets are now available here.

ABOUT THE SHOW

Winnie the Pooh has been enjoyed by millions of readers and viewers ever since English author A.A. Milne first chronicled the adventures of Christopher Robin’s friends in the Hundred Acre Wood in 1926. The books, featuring illustrations by English illustrator E.H. Shephard has sold over 50 million copies worldwide. The theatrical rights to the Pooh stories were acquired by Disney in 1961, with an original intent to produce a feature film, but after production began, Walt Disney decided to make short featurettes instead. The three featurettes were subsequently incorporated into the feature The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. This was the last film in the Disney canon in which Walt Disney had personal involvement. The first featurette, Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree was released during his lifetime, while Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day was still in development. Disney’s Winnie the Pooh has since become one of the best-loved and most successful franchises in history.

The Sherman Brothers are the multi-talented Oscar® and Grammy® Award-winning American songwriting duo of Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. The Sherman Brothers wrote more motion-picture musical scores than any other songwriting team in film history. Among these are the Disney classics Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and The Aristocats. The Sherman Brothers worked directly with Walt Disney on the first two Winnie the Pooh featurettes: Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree (which garnered a Grammy Award nomination) and Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day. The brothers won a Grammy Award for the third featurette: Winnie the Pooh and Tigger Too. All three featurettes were incorporated into the 1977 musical film The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. The duo also wrote songs for Winnie the Pooh and a Day for Eeyore and The Tigger Movie, with their music also featured in the movie Christopher Robin.

Jonathan Rockefeller and Rockefeller Productions embraced the challenge of re-imaging Disney’s Winnie the Pooh for a new audience by bringing it to life on stage in puppet form. The company has garnered global accolades, from critics and audiences alike, for their production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show, with 14 productions playing on four continents. An extended run of the show in New York City culminated in Drama Desk and Off-Broadway Alliance nominations, as did their production of Paddington Gets in a Jam, which tours China and the US later this year. Other projects include Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, which plays on three continents, Mr. Men and Little Miss Show at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and the award-winning short film, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, written by preeminent author/illustrator Eric Carle.

Produced in association with Disney Theatrical Productions.

FALL AT NYBG

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Find Your Fall at The New York Botanical Garden

Scarecrows, Pumpkins, Kiku, Magnificent Fall Foliage, and More Beckon Visitors of All Ages to Enjoy the Season at NYBG

This fall, visitors can discover the wonders of the season at The New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) as scarecrows, pumpkins, kiku, and magnificent fall foliage make their annual appearances at the Botanical Garden.

In September and October, Scarecrows & Pumpkins features colorful pumpkin displays and, at the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, more than 100 whimsical scarecrows, with pumpkin carving demonstrations during weekends in October.

Fall also brings the final weeks of NYBG’s critically acclaimed exhibition KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature. NYBG’s beloved tradition of kiku—magnificent displays of chrysanthemums in astonishing forms, styles, and sizes—will be integrated with KUSAMA: Cosmic Nature and on view in select galleries of the Enid A. Conservatory from Saturday, October 2 through Sunday, October 31, 2021.

In November, visitors can revel in the unique autumnal beauty and resilience of the 50-acre Thain Family Forest during Fall Forest Weekends on two Saturdays and Sundays, November 6 & 7 and 13 & 14, 2021. Tours, citizen science activities, and other events will provide opportunities to learn about the ecological importance of this historic old-growth forest, the largest expanse of New York City’s original wooded landscape.

The full schedule of fall programs follows. More information, including ticketing, is available here.

Scarecrows & Pumpkins

Ongoing through Sunday, October 31, 2021; 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Plentiful pumpkins and hordes of gourds will be on display at the LuEsther T. Mertz Library Building and on the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory Plaza. To add to the seasonal fun, more than100 whimsical scarecrows will line the twisting trails of the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.

Puppets on Parade

Saturdays & Sundays through October 31, 2021; 1–4 p.m.
Everett Children’s Adventure Garden Ribbon Gate and around the Garden

Larger-than-life pumpkins and skeletons, specially designed by puppeteer Lucrecia Novoa of Mascara Viva, greet visitors to the Garden.

Pumpkin Carving Demonstrations

Saturdays & Sundays, October 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, & 31, 2021; 1–4 p.m.
Everett Children’s Adventure Garden

Visitors young and old will be amazed as faces and designs emerge from pumpkins of all shapes and sizes thanks to the skill of professional sculptor and pumpkin carver Adam Bierton, the 2015 winner of the Food Network series Halloween Wars.

Plethora of Pumpkins

This NYBG online hub offers pumpkin carving tips, fall recipes, decoration ideas, and more. It’s the place to find everything cucurbit—the pumpkin family name. Available here.

Wellness Wednesdays

Wednesdays through October 27, 2021; 10 a.m.–6 p.m.

Visitors can participate in activities throughout the Garden that focus on healthy choices for mind and body, from local food options at the NYBG Farmers Market to forest bathing, cooking demonstrations, and more.

NYBG Farmers Market

10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Near the Mosholu Entrance

The NYBG Farmers Market features locally grown produce, fresh baked goods, and other specialty items.

Forest Bathing

12 p.m.
Meet at the main entrance to the Native Plant Garden

Experience the ancient Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku (“forest baths”), gentle tours that enhance tranquility and connectedness through sensory immersion. Slow down, be present, and awaken your senses to the forest as never before on this guided tour. Self-guided audio tours are also available.

Storytime Cabaret with New York City Children’s Theater

Sunday, September 26, 2021; 11 a.m. & 1 p.m.; Edible Academy

For 25 years, New York City Children’s Theater (NYCCT) has promoted children’s literacy and social development through professional theater productions and arts-in-education programs. This 45-minute performance features four actor-singers performing 12 original songs from both past and current NYCCT productions.

Birding Sunday

Sunday, October 3, 2021; 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Autumn is the perfect time of year to connect with the birds of New York City. Join NYBG for a Garden-wide celebration of the species that find temporary or permanent homes at the Garden’s 250-acre campus and other green spaces in the city. Visitors will learn about the amazing work that several organizations are doing to create a nourishing urban environment for birds. The day’s events will feature multiple bird walks for beginners and experts alike and presentations by the Wild Bird Fund and New York City Audubon.

Bird Tours

10 & 11 a.m. and 12 p.m.
Meet at the entrance to the Thain Family Forest on Azalea Way

Birding guides will conduct tours of NYBG’s diverse landscape and explain why this unique green space is such a vital haven for a great variety of species year-round.

The Nest

11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Clay Family Picnic Pavilions

At this hub of activity, visitors can meet representatives of several organizations dedicated to the preservation and protection of birdlife who will talk about their work and answer questions.

Fall Forest Weekends

Saturdays and Sundays, November 6 & 7 and 13 & 14, 2021; 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

In and around the Thain Family Forest

During Fall Forest Weekends, visitors can revel in the unique autumnal beauty and resilience of the 50-acre Thain Family Forest, the largest expanse of New York City’s original wooded landscape. Tours, citizen science activities, and other events will provide opportunities to learn about the ecological importance of this historic old-growth forest.

Discover the Thain Family Forest

Meet at the entrance to the Forest on Azalea Way

Themed discovery walks of the Forest focus on its birds and natural history. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and seasonal attire for the weather.

- Birds of the Forest
  Visitors can explore the diversity of migrating birds that find food and habitat in the Thain Family Forest and learn more about ongoing efforts to make New York City a safer place for avian life.
- Tours of the Thain Family Forest
  The beauty of the Forest can be appreciated in a new light during this one-hour walking tour. Expertly trained guides will present facts about the trees as well as the history, geology, and ecology of the Forest.

Engage with Poetry

10 a.m.–6 p.m.
Along Thain Family Forest trails

Fall Forest Weekends will feature poetry by young writers across New York City’s five boroughs who were inspired by the forest.

Become a Citizen Scientist

11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Azalea Way

NYBG volunteers have been tracking the annual cycles of leafing, flowering, and fruit development of the Thain Family Forest’s trees for more than seven years. Volunteers will be on hand to help visitors look more closely at those trees, giving them a new perspective. They will also provide help with tree and plant identification so visitors can better understand the trees in their own neighborhoods.

Explore Herbarium Specimens

11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Azalea Way

Staff of NYBG’s William and Lynda Steere Herbarium showcase pressed and preserved plant specimens collected from the Thain Family Forest and other American forests and explain how plant specimens are housed in the collection. Visitors will learn how to collect, press, and preserve leaves.

Fiddlers in the Forest

11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Along Thain Family Forest trails

Roaming fiddlers mimic the natural sounds of the forest.

Shakespeare in the Forest: The Sonnet Stroll

12–3 p.m.

Along Thain Family Forest trails

The resident acting company of the Hamlet Isn’t Dead theatrical troupe perform Shakespeare’s greatest sonnets on nature’s beauty.

The New York Botanical Garden is located at 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, New York 10458. For more information, visit nybg.org.

The New York Botanical Garden is located on property owned in full by the City of New York, and its operation is made possible in part by public funds provided through the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs. A portion of the Garden’s general operating funds is provided by The New York City Council and The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation. The Bronx Borough President and Bronx elected representatives in the City Council and State Legislature provide leadership funding.

MATTIA DE LUCA

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MATTIA DE LUCA presents CONRAD MARCA-RELLI Il Maestro Irascibile in collaboration with Archivio Marca-Relli from October 9th, 2021

Galleria Mattia De Luca is proud to present Conrad Marca-Relli – Il Maestro Irascibile (The Irascible Master), an exhibition entirely dedicated to the Italian-American artist, a key figure of American Abstract Expressionism. After the historic exhibition at the Galleria La Tartaruga in 1957, this first Roman retrospective, organized in collaboration with the Marca-Relli Archive, will be inaugurated on Saturday, 9 October 2021, on the premises of the Palazzo Albertoni Spinola at 2 Piazza di Campitelli, Rome.

Conrad Marca-Relli, aka Corrado Marcarelli, was born in Boston on 5 June 1913 to Italian parents from the Campania region. An indomitable spirit and a tireless traveler, Marca-Relli grew up traveling continuously to Italy, making him perfectly bilingual, literally and artistically speaking. A lover of the monumentality of Rome, where he worked for several years, and of great Italian Renaissance painting, the Italian-American artist was the true classicist soul of the New York School. The birth of the Eighth Street Club and the organization of the famous 1951 Ninth Street Show is attributable to his fervent temperament. Marca-Relli, imbued not only with classical culture, but also with a certain pragmatism of American origin, undertook from the 1950s a successful and endless path of research into the collage technique. The compositional results of this research would be brought to the ultimate outcome of speaking of his art as “painting-collage”. This modus operandi emerged as a balanced combination of compositional harmony, typical of the European tradition, a spontaneity of gesture, the offspring of Rosenberg’s arena, and Action painting: raw canvases were cut with a razor blade, the strips glued together, unglued, rearranged, superimposed, layered on the support and, finally, repainted in order to harmonize the duality of “positive” and “negative” spaces. It is this primitive encounter of two opposing forces that brings to life Marca-Relli’s canvases, palimpsest collages created by an equally reasoned and “neurasthenic” gesture, a definition given by Afro Basaldella to the artist in a letter sent to his friend and colleague Toti Scialoja.

Always departing from the classical proportions of the wooden mannequin, inseparable companion of his painting, Marca-Relli created a macrocosm of seemingly abstract signs, main elements of his major artistic achievements, on display at Galleria Mattia De Luca. From plain Cityscapes with a metaphysical flavor of the early 1950s, to the enigmatic seated figures of his early collages, and up to the homage to his friend and neighbor Jackson Pollock, the exhibition traces the strong impact of Marca-Relli as a person and as an artist on the American and international scene.

You will be able to appreciate the works of the calibre of Cityscape from 1953, an oil on canvas, which was inspired by the artist’s Mexican sojourns and is a turning point for his adoption of the collage technique. There are also Seated Figures of the mid-1950s, a cornerstone of his oeuvre owing to its compositional harmony reminiscent of Cubism. Also unmissable are the 1955 masterpieces The Strategist and The Struggle, as well as his epic tribute Death of Jackson Pollock, a testament to what was a mutual influence more than a friendship. This relationship was replete with frequent confrontations (after all, how to reconcile the irascible Conrad with the despotic and childish soul of the boy from Cody), dialogues, encounters and mutual respect. You will continue your journey through the Italian-American master’s production with the harmonious turmoil of the forms in M-11-56, a work that paved the way for the artist’s New York masterpieces The Battle and The Warrior, respectively part of the permanent collections of the MET and the Guggenheim Museum in New York. The canvases of the late 1950s and the early 1960s are exhibited as a logical follow-on of Marca-Relli’s artistic career, in which any anthropomorphic reference disappears to leave room for architectural compositions with a classical flavour, as in The Wall No. 2. There is no lack of alternative media with which the artist experimented throughout his entire life, as in the case of Cunard L-8-62, which reveals Marca-Relli’s great ability to absorb the stimuli deriving from Minimalism and Arte Povera. He tried out compositions which, while never losing sight of the harmony of forms, opened up to the concepts of rhythm and matter typical of the works of Donald Judd and those of the great artists of Arte Povera.

Marca-Relli, an abstract expressionist with a European approach, is not only a “bridge” between Rome and New York, but above all a master at the cusp of two worlds, Europe, and the United States.

Conrad Marca-Relli
His works are included in the following collections: Bilbao, Guggenheim Museum; Buffalo, Albright-Knox Art Gallery; Chicago, Art Institute; New York, MET, MoMA, Whitney Museum of American Art; San Francisco, Museum of Modern Art; Venice, Peggy Guggenheim Collection; Washington, National Gallery of Art, Smithsonian American Art Museum.

How to Get Your Car Back After It Gets Towed

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When you find out your car has been towed, the first thing to do is check if it was improperly parked. If your vehicle was not parked in an illegal space, then call the police non-emergency number and ask what you can do about getting your car back. There are so many reasons why your car may have been towed. Finding out why and how to get your vehicle is going to be crucial. Be aware that most tow companies charge a fee of $200 or more for retrieving cars.

Contact the Police Non-Emergency Number

If you find out that your vehicle has been towed and it is not because of an illegally parked vehicle, then call the police non-emergency phone line to learn what can be done about getting back a car.

The police non-emergency number will help you figure out why your car was towed and how it can be retrieved.

Call Your Lawyer

Your car may have been towed because it was used in a crime. If this is the case, contact your lawyer immediately. Your lawyer will be able to advise you on how to proceed or what can be done about retrieving your car.

Your lawyer may also know of any laws that protect you from being charged with the crime if you are not found guilty. This information will help so much when talking to authorities and trying to get back a vehicle without legal issues following it after the tow truck has left.

Take Pictures Before and After the Tow

Most tow truck companies will not give you a receipt or any form of documentation about your car’s location. Taking pictures and keeping evidence will be the only way to make sure that it gets back on track if something were to happen with insurance, retrieval fees, and other legal matters after it has been towed from its original spot.

If you feel it was illegally towed, take pictures of the parking spot as well as your car. This documentation will come in handy if you need to prove that it was legally parked and the tow truck company illegally towed it.

Have All Legal Information and Documentation Ready

You will need to have all legal documentation and information ready when talking with the tow truck company, including ensuring that you are not held responsible for any fees. Make copies of your driver’s license, registration, insurance card, title certificate, or bill of sale if needed at a later date. If there was an illegal reason why your car was towed, it would be imperative that you keep a record of all legal actions and documentation.

Make sure to ask for a receipt from the tow truck company after your vehicle has been picked up. If they refuse or give an amount higher than $40, do not pay them until you have called your lawyer to make sure everything is on the up and up.

Sometimes, tow truck companies will check your car’s VIN to see if you have any outstanding tickets or payments owed. This will help them decide if they can legally tow your vehicle or not, so be sure to have all information ready before you even call the police non-emergency number.

Getting towed is one of those things that no one wants to experience. If it does happen, though, at least there are tips and tricks on how to get back a car and resolve the issue. Just make sure to be prepared with all documentation and information necessary.