Vaughn Lowery is a native of Detroit and the youngest of five siblings, a graduate of Cornell University's ILR School. Core duties: global diversification strategy, production management, and ecological implementation. The grandson of the late civil rights defender and recipient of the presidential medal of freedom, Joseph Lowery. Lastly, a distinguished member of the Alpha Phi Alphi Fraternity, Incorporated (Alpha Chapter).
Steeplechase Fans Follow ABAAN’s Historic Journey to the 2026 Cheltenham Festival
All eyes remain on ABAAN, the winner of the 2025 Calvin Houghland Iroquois Steeplechase Grade 1, as he prepares for his next high-profile target in the $250,000 American Grand National Steeplechase Grade 1 at Far Hills Race Meet, October 18, 2025 at Moorland Farms in Far Hills, New Jersey.
With a commanding victory before a crowd of 30,000 at Nashville’s Percy Warner Park this past May, ABAAN cemented his place at the top of American Steeplechasing. Now, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between Iroquois Steeplechase, The Jockey Club U.K., along with the generous support of TVV Capital led by Andrew Byrd, ABAAN has earned an invitation to run in the Paddy Power Stayers’ Hurdle Grade 1 at the 2026 Cheltenham Festival in Gloucestershire, England.
The four-day Cheltenham Festival race, offering a purse of approximately €350,000 / $381,000, is the pinnacle of jump racing in the U.K. with championship races each day before a crowd of over 300,000. ABAAN’s invitation marks a rare and historic opportunity for an American-trained horse to compete — and potentially win — at the sport’s highest international level.
ABAAN is owned by Dr. Joseph Fowler, Daigneault Thoroughbreds and Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, trained by Kate Dalton and ridden by jockey Bernard (Bernie) Dalton.
“What an honor it has been to be a part in ABAAN’s rise to the top of American Steeplechasing,” said Dwight Hall, Chairman of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “A Grade 3 winner on the flat before switching to jumping, ABAAN was a commanding winner of the 2024 Green Pastures Novice Stakes at Iroquois before graduating to the top level with a win in the 2025 Calvin Houghland Iroquois Grade 1. It’s an even greater honor through our partnership with Jockey Club U.K. to give him the chance to make history on the world stage. We can’t thank TVV Capital enough for supporting this historic initiative and wish ABAAN the best of luck.”
If successful at Cheltenham, ABAAN would become the first horse ever to achieve the elusive Iroquois-Cheltenham double — a feat narrowly missed in 1987 by Eclipse Champion Flatterer. This journey underscores the spirit of the new international collaboration, which strengthens ties between U.S. steeplechasing and the legendary Cheltenham Festival, while highlighting the elite quality of horses that compete at the Iroquois Steeplechase each May in Nashville.
“ABAAN is a tremendous representative of the American jump racing scene,” said Andrew Byrd, CEO of TVV Capital and longtime supporter of the Iroquois Steeplechase. “The opportunity for him to compete at the Cheltenham Festival next year is bigger than one race — it’s about creating global visibility for the sport and the charitable causes it supports.”
For more about the Iroquois Steeplechase set for May 9, 2026 in Nashville, TN and its international partnership with The Jockey Club, visit: www.iroquoissteeplechase.org.
ABAAN, the winner of the 2025 Calvin Houghland Iroquois Steeplechase Grade 1 race in Nashville, TN, on May 10, 2025, is a photo by Brenda Black via 360 MAGAZINE.
WATCH VOGUE GO BEHIND-THE-SCENES OF THE GROUP’S NY SHOW HERE
READ BILLBOARD’S 12 BEST MOMENTS FROM THE U.S. LEG KICK OFF HERE
FIRST-EVER EUROPE TOUR TO BEGIN AUGUST 22 IN LONDON
*Photo Courtesy of BELIFT LAB
“Because as ENHYPEN took the stage for their sold-out show, the floor, the seats, and the ice in every plastic cup in the New York venue visibly shook with the resonant roar of 18,000 fans.” – People
“… the K-pop act’s most ambitious world tour yet” – Billboard
K-pop’s unrivaled storytellers ENHYPEN have officially wrapped the U.S. leg of their third world tour, ENHYPEN WORLD TOUR ‘WALK THE LINE’ (hereinafter ‘WALK THE LINE’), with a grand finale at Los Angeles’ BMO Stadium on August 16. The concert marked the culmination of a completely sold-out U.S. run, further solidifying the septet’s status as global performance powerhouses.
Following a dynamic two-night kickoff at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, NY (August 6 & 7), ENHYPEN brought ‘WALK THE LINE’ to Chicago (August 9), Houston (August 12 & 13) and Los Angeles. The tour spotlighted the group’s elevated stagecraft, emotional storytelling and deepening connection with their fanbase, ENGENEs, after their groundbreaking Coachella debut this past April where Forbes praised them for defining “a new level of global stage presence,” while Billboard commended them for “keeping the crowd engaged at every turn.”
Launched with two stadium shows in Korea last October, ‘WALK THE LINE’ has since journeyed through Japan, the Philippines, Thailand and now the U.S., totaling over 20 shows across 12 cities worldwide.
Set against a backdrop of self-discovery and shared destiny, ‘WALK THE LINE’ brought ENHYPEN’s evolving narrative to life through cinematic VCRs, dramatic staging and an electrifying setlist spanning their discography.
The show kicked off with a high-octane run of “Brought The Heat Back,” “FEVER,” “ParadoXXX Invasion” and “Future Perfect (Pass the MIC),” as the members took the stage in sleek custom Prada ensembles.
Fans were then treated to the group’s debut single “Given-Taken,” followed by unit stages. JAY, JAKE and SUNGHOON delivered a fierce rendition of “Lucifer” while JUNGWON, HEESEUNG, SUNOO and NI-KI showcased a powerful performance of “Teeth.” The full group returned for the hard-hitting “Blessed-Cursed,” mesmerizing “Fatal Trouble” and fan-favorite “Bite Me.”
“Your Eyes Only” was up next, followed by “Loose.” After performing the full version, HEESEUNG launched into an a cappella reprise, a moment Billboard hailed as one of the tour’s highlights. His voice carried through the stadium as fans joined in a singalong.
From there, the energy surged once more with “Scream,” “Tamed-Dashed,” “Sweet Venom” and “Go Big or Go Home” before the members delivered a mix of cinematic vocals and captivating visuals for “Moonstruck,” “XO (Only If You Say Yes) (English Ver.),” “No Doubt,” and “Bad Desire (With or Without You) (English Ver.).”
An explosive double encore capped off the night with “Helium,” “Paranormal Love,” an EDM version of “Drunk-Dazed” and a victorious reprise of “Go Big or Go Home,” sending the crowd into one last euphoric frenzy.
Before leaving the stage, the members teased that they’re working on a new album, sparking excitement among fans eager for what’s to come.
With the U.S. leg now complete, ENHYPEN are preparing to kick off their first-ever Europe tour, beginning August 22 in London with additional stops in Manchester (August 25), Amsterdam (August 28), Brussels (August 30), Berlin (September 1) and Paris (September 3).
More information on upcoming international tour dates is available at walkthelinetour25.com.
Grammy-winning artist, producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Steve Lacy has put out his first new music since hitting #1 on Billboard and Spotify charts with his critically-lauded sophomore album, Gemini Rights, in 2022. The song, entitled “Nice Shoes,” was written and produced by Lacy. And while Lacy may have been absent, his music has not – his high school-made demos steadily eclipsed 2 billion streams, landing his songs “Dark Red” and “Bad Habit” in the coveted Spotify Billions Club while also both going platinum.
The song comes quickly on the heels of Lacy gracing the cover of the September issue of Rolling Stone, where he discussed the creation of his forthcoming album, Oh Yeah?, which is still a work-in-progress and currently without a release date. Click HERE to read the cover story.
In an era where first impressions form in milliseconds, mastering presence has become the ultimate luxury. For Aliia Roza, human sexuality expert, former intelligence operative, and global women’s empowerment coach, style is about how you influence the space around you before saying a word.
“Your entrance is your opening line,” Roza says. “Posture, pace, the texture of your voice are the details that are as much a part of your style as the fabric you wear.”
It’s a philosophy she honed in the high-stakes world of espionage, where every glance, gesture, and choice of silhouette could shift the outcome of a mission. Today, she translates those lessons for women navigating boardrooms, galas, first dates, and international stages.
Her approach blends neuroscience, psychology, and couture-level attention to detail. “Style is strategy,” she explains. “From the cut of your jacket to the way you hold your glass, you’re sending signals. The most powerful people know exactly which signals they’re sending.”
Roza emphasizes the art of calibration including adjusting presence to match the setting while maintaining control of the narrative. In a negotiation, that might mean a monochrome palette and stillness that commands focus. At a social soirée, it could be a fluid silhouette and warmer tones to invite conversation.
“Luxury is being able to choose the effect you have on people,” she says. “When you understand how color, proportion, and movement affect perception, you’re directing a mood.”
For readers looking to elevate their own presence, Roza offers three immediate strategies:
Anchor your posture: Imagine a string pulling you upward from the crown of your head. It lengthens the frame and signals confidence.
Control your pace: Move 10% slower than the room as this method draws the eye without demanding attention.
Use texture as a signature: Whether it’s silk, velvet, or fine wool, tactile elements can leave a subconscious impression.
Her method resonates in a world where luxury is increasingly about experience and self-definition rather than labels alone. It’s about owning how you are seen.
“True elegance,” Roza says, “is the ability to leave a room with your influence still there.”
Aliia Roza is an internationally recognized Human Sexuality Expert, certified by the Kinsey Institute’s Human Sexuality Intensive Program at Indiana University. Through her neuroscience-based approach to confidence, seduction, and communication, she has coached over 50,000 students worldwide in cultivating emotional intelligence, personal magnetism, and relationship mastery. Her signature course, Master of Seduction & Influence, teaches clients how to activate mirror neurons, calibrate energetic presence, and read subtle nonverbal cues—skills that are equally effective in dating, networking, and high-stakes business environments. She is also the founder of Roza Club, a private empowerment membership community that has hosted more than 30 humanitarian initiatives supporting women and children. She was most recently recognized with two honors from the I Success Awards: named one of the Top 100 Influential Coaches and awarded Best Audio Book for To Die For—her candid, deeply personal conversation with New York Times bestselling author Neil Strauss. The audiobook achieved a Top 6 global ranking in the true crime genre and has played a key role in shifting public perception of her story, while sparking international dialogue about the gender bias women face in male-dominated fields. She has also been honored as Best Women Empowerment Influencer by the World Influencers and Bloggers Awards (WIBA).
Today, A24 Music released the original soundtrack for Spike Lee’s new A24 and Apple Original Films feature HIGHEST 2 LOWEST, which is now playing in select theaters nationwide and will be streaming on AppleTV+ September 5.
Curated by Spike Lee and including new songs from multi-hyphenated artist, entrepreneur, actor and fashion icon A$AP Rocky and Jensen McRae, the soundtrack champions black artists across genres as the film follows Denzel Washington’s music business mogul character rediscovering his love for exactly these kinds of artists.
Alongside new tracks from A$AP Rocky, Jensen McRae, the soundtrack includes a rich score balanced throughout. Out today alongside the film’s theatrical release, the record was executive produced by Spike Lee and sees original composition by Howard Drossin. The album also features compositions from the late Latin music legend, Eddie Palmieri. Last week saw the first taste of music from the film with the release of powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and producer Aiyana-Lee’s stunning song and movie’s title track “Highest 2 Lowest.” The album also features a second track from the rising soul star.
In addition to their soundtrack contributions, A$AP Rocky, Jensen McRae, Aiyana-Lee and Eddie Palmieri also feature in the film.
Spike Lee on curating the soundtrack: “I First Saw And Heard Aiyana, Jensen And The Fergus McCreadie Trio On INSTAGRAM. My EYES And EARS Don’t LIE. It’s Da TRUTH,RUTH. Ya-Dig? SHO-NUFF”
In addition to the film’s soundtrack, the bonus album features an extended score album by Howard Drossin and an EP from the Scott Jazz Group Fergus McCreadie Trio. The soundtrack is also available for vinyl pre-order now – purchase HERE.
We Got This – Fergus Mcreadio Trio, Howard Drossin
And Now We Shall Begin – Howard Drossin
Oh, What A Beautiful Mornin’ – Norm Lewis
All Money Ain’t Good Money – Howard Drossin
Loving Partners – Fergus McCreadie Trio
Da Lowdown – Eddie Palmieri & Afro-Caribbean Jazz Octet
Trunks – A$AP ROCKY
The Chase – Fergus McCreadie Trio, Howard Drossin
Paul Begs (Solo Piano) – Fergus McCreadie Trio
Da Kings – Howard Drossin
Questioning Kyle – Howard Drossin
King David – Jensen McRae
Both Eyes Closed – A$AP ROCKY
Loving Partners – Howard Drossin
Puerto Rico – Eddie Palmieri & The Salsa Orchestra
Paul Begs – Fergus McCreadie Trio
Brooklyn Hospital – Howard Drossin
Prisencolin (Americano Joint) – Aiyana-Lee
ABOUT THE FILM
When a titan music mogul (Denzel Washington), widely known as having the “best ears in the business”, is targeted with a ransom plot, he is jammed up in a life-or-death moral dilemma. Brothers Denzel Washington and Spike Lee reunite for the 5th in their long working relationship for a reinterpretation of the great filmmaker Akira Kurosawa’s crime thriller High and Low, now played out on the mean streets of modern day New York City.
ABOUT A24 MUSIC
Founded in 2021, A24 Music is the studio’s home for original music — through the label, A24 has released an extensive catalog of projects, working directly with both established and emerging artists. Notable releases include original scores by Alex G for I Saw the TV Glow, Bobby Krlic for Beau is Afraid, Grizzly Bear for Past Lives, and Son Lux for Everything Everywhere All At Once. A24 Music has also debuted songs such as Sky Ferreira’s “Leash” from Babygirl, Sharon Van Etten’s “Quiet Eyes” from Past Lives, Charli XCX’s “Hot Girl” from Bodies Bodies Bodies, original songs for the I Saw the TV Glow Soundtrack, and “Le Monde” from Talk to Me, among others. Additionally, A24 Music made its mark with Everyone’s Getting Involved: A Tribute to Talking Heads’ Stop Making Sense, the label’s first fully produced album outside of film and TV.
Khalid announces his new album After The Sun Goes Downreleasing October 10th via Right Hand Music Group/RCA Records. Exploring themes of love, self-discovery, openness, and a refreshed sense of freedom, the album ushers in a bold new chapter for Khalid. Pre-save HERE.
Today, Khalid releases his upbeat, infectious new song “In Plain Sight” alongside the music video, which is directed by 91 Rules (Camila Cabello, Jon Bellion). Visually arresting and symbolically meaningful, the video celebrates Khalid’s personal and artistic evolution as he embarks into the night. Watch HERE.
Khalid says, “This chapter is about taking my power back, living in my truth, and being able to express myself freely. I’m excited for my fans to experience this new era with me, not just musically but personally.”
Pictures From The Fringe and Concourse Media have released the official trailer for GUNS & MOSES, a gripping action-thriller hitting theaters nationwide on July 18. Inspired by the real-life 2019 shooting at the Chabad of Poway synagogue, the film delivers a powerful mix of suspense, moral courage, and cultural relevance — confronting the rise of antisemitism with unflinching resolve.
Starring Mark Feuerstein (“Royal Pains”), Neal McDonough (“Tulsa King”), Alona Tal (“Veronica Mars”), Craig Sheffer (A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT), Jackson A. Dunn (BRIGHTBURN), Christopher Lloyd (BACK TO THE FUTURE), and Dermot Mulroney (MY BEST FRIEND’S WEDDING), GUNS & MOSES features a standout ensemble bringing gravity and grit to this urgent story.
Directed by Salvador Litvak and written by Nina Litvak & Salvador Litvak, the film follows Rabbi Mo, a quiet spiritual leader in the high desert, who is forced into action when a violent assault on his synagogue turns his world upside down. What unfolds is a modern-day tale of faith, resilience, and the unyielding fight to protect one’s community.
“This film is more than a story — it’s a conversation we need to be having,” said Litvak. “Every moment on set carried the weight of real lives at stake. Jews are under attack. When we say never again, it means we need to step up and defend ourselves. And thank God we have allies in this fight. Moving toward release, we’re not just sharing a movie — we’re inviting audiences into a movement for security, partnership and responsibility around firearms.”
As violent antisemitic incidents increase both in the U.S. and abroad, GUNS & MOSES lands at a critical cultural flashpoint. Drawing from Litvak’s own training with Magen Am — a Jewish volunteer security force — the film sheds light on a growing movement within the Jewish community: one that prioritizes preparedness, safety and the sacred responsibility to defend life.
The film is produced by Lee Broda with LB Entertainment and Aimee Schoof with Intrinsic Value, both known for championing bold, socially conscious storytelling across genres. With a strong track record of producing thought-provoking and impactful films, Broda and Schoof bring both creative vision and a deep sense of purpose to GUNS & MOSES — ensuring the story resonates far beyond the screen.
Founded by husband & wife filmmakers Salvador & Nina Litvak, Pictures From The Fringe is a production and distribution company focused on character-driven genre films that embody traditional values. Previous films include WHEN DO WE EAT? (2006), the cult classic Passover comedy starring Max Greenfield, Ben Feldman, Shiri Appleby, Lesley Ann Warren, Michael Lerner and Jack Klugman in his final role, as well as SAVING LINCOLN (2013), the tale of Abraham Lincoln and his closest friend/bodyguard Ward Hill Lamon, starring Tom Amandes, Penelope Ann Miller, Jonathan Roumie, David Dastmalchian and Lea Coco.
For more information on Pictures From The Fringe, please visit the company website HERE.
Concourse Media
Concourse Media is an independent film finance, production and distribution company that works with producers to finance and distribute feature films. The company directly licenses content throughout all forms of distribution including theatrical, streaming, television and digital. Concourse was founded as a vehicle for filmmakers to thrive in and our business focuses on bringing unique voices to the forefront of today’s evolving entertainment marketplace.
Concourse was launched by Founder and CEO Matthew Shreder in 2011, who since then has executive produced and distributed over 50 feature films. Notable titles include CHIEF OF STATION (2024) starring Aaron Eckhart and Olga Kurylenko, SOVEREIGN (2024) starring Nick Offerman and Dennis Quaid, PERCY vs GOLIATH (2020) starring Christopher Walken, SEMPER FI (2019) starring Jai Courtney, and THE LITTLE HOURS (2017) starring Aubrey Plaza, Alison Brie, Dave Franco and John C. Reilly.
For more information on Concourse, please visit the company website HERE.
Pharrell Williams Launches VIRGINIA — Brand, Pseudonym & Community Platform
Early access to the VIRGINIA Adistar Jellyfish sneaker on Blackyachtrock.com
Today, Pharrell Williams launches VIRGINIA—his creative alias, community platform, and brand. A destination where music, fashion, design, and community converge, VIRGINIA is both a pseudonym and a playground for experimentation, storytelling, and direct connection.
An outdoor campaign has also launched across Pharrell’s home state of Virginia, featuring aerial banners, large-format billboards, and wheatpasting across the city, teasing what’s to come. VIRGINIA will expand to offer live events, limited-edition product drops, new music, and early access to collaborations.
“Virginia is where I’m from, but it’s also who I am creatively. It’s my space to dream, and a way to connect with people who are dreaming too” — Pharrell Williams.
To coincide with the launch, VIRGINIA is releasing its first full range of limited-edition merchandise—from surfboards, swimwear, and beach gear to apparel, accessories, and home items—each emblazoned with the bold VIRGINIA mark. Select pieces will debut on Blackyachtrock.com, the official home of VIRGINIA.
Built for super fans of Pharrell and the VIRGINIA sound, access to the site includes karaoke—unlocking music, merchandise, and the world of VIRGINIA through voice. The site launches with a full takeover by Virginia Beach-based artist Sam Clayman.
Originally released anonymously in 2024, BLACK YACHT ROCK VOL 1 CITY OF LIMITLESS ACCESS is now officially claimed by Pharrell as the first project under his alias, VIRGINIA, and is featured in full on Blackyachtrock.com. The album offers a lush, laid-back tribute to the music of Pharrell’s youth—a reinterpretation of the smooth, soulful sounds of the late ’70s and early ’80s that shaped his childhood. It introduced Pharrell’s take on yacht rock: “Black yacht rock”—a sound reframed through the lens of Black musicality and personal memory.
The VIRGINIA Adistar Jellyfish, a new silhouette designed by Pharrell for adidas, will also be available for purchase exclusively on Blackyachtrock.com today, ahead of its global release later this month.
In anticipation of his forthcoming, highly-anticipated multi-city “Unfinished Tour” across the United States this September, we had the exclusive opportunity to converse with the critically acclaimed Indian rapper, singer-songwriter, entrepreneur and music producer, Badshah.
Badshah, you attended college to become an engineer but have since become a global recording artist. What were some key moments that defined your career?
The relentless grind has been the defining factor in my journey. Starting from humble beginnings without mentors or financial support meant everything I achieved was hard-earned. I faced setbacks, exploitation, and even battles with mental health, but these challenges fueled my self-discovery. Those early days instilled in me a work ethic that’s become my trademark. Every obstacle strengthened my music and sharpened my lyrics. While hit records and collaborations are significant, the real defining moments are when the hustle pays off, reminding me of my roots and driving me forward.
How has the journey been? Any highs or lows?
It’s been profoundly transformative. Hearing my music on the radio, experiencing the energy of an audience singing along, and collaborating with artists I admire are unforgettable memories. Yet, there were lows, including moments of self-doubt and the pressures of innovation. But those challenges helped me grow, both as an artist and a person.
When did you realize you wanted to pursue hip hop as a profession?
I realized music was my core during my civil engineering studies at Punjab Engineering College. Exposure to artists like Jay Sean, Juggy D, 50 Cent, and Eminem inspired me to start writing rap lyrics. What began as a hobby evolved into a profession. Even when I had a civil engineering job, I never found real satisfaction—I felt drawn to music. Those university years were crucial in transforming my passion into a clear career path.
How do you see the impact of Bollywood and Punjabi/Hindi music evolving globally?
The divide between East and West is shrinking. More global artists are focusing on India, as seen in recent collaborations and stadium shows. India, with its rich music market and streaming platforms breaking barriers, is now in the spotlight. As cultural exchanges increase, Bollywood and Punjabi/Hindi music will gain more influence beyond the South Asian diaspora, reshaping the international music scene. Most Indian talents are selling out stadiums and arenas overseas just like their Western counterparts.
How important is it for you to advocate for Indian music?
Advocating for Indian music is crucial to my identity. I believe that language is no barrier to expression, and the unique sounds and narratives of Indian music are invaluable. My goal is to build a strong foundation for future artists, ensuring they have the opportunities and recognition I didn’t have. It’s about giving back to the community and contributing to the global appreciation of our rich musical heritage.
Your music blends contemporary production with traditional Indian soundscapes. How do you ensure this fusion resonates with local and global audiences?
A great melody transcends cultural barriers. I focus on crafting memorable hooks because today’s audience is discerning and connected. My music comes from an authentic place, exploring universal themes like love and success that resonate with everyone, regardless of language. This authenticity bridges any gaps.
You’ve appeared as a judge for multiple seasons on shows like India’s Got Talent, Indian Idol, and MTV Hustle. How does it feel to be part of the Indian entertainment community?
Mentorship is vital for artistry. I believe talent needs guidance, and my lack of a support system makes me value my role as a mentor even more. It’s about giving back and being accountable, understanding what it’s like to have been in their shoes. I’m grateful for the chance to inspire and learn from others.
How important is mental health in the entertainment industry?
Mental health is critical in our field. The pressures can be immense, so it’s essential for artists to prioritize well-being. Open discussions can help destigmatize mental health issues and encourage individuals to seek support. A healthy mind is vital for sustained creativity and success.
You became the first Indian rapper to surpass one billion YouTube views. What goes through your mind when you set benchmarks with your music?
When I hit new milestones, I feel profound gratitude and validation for my connection with fans. It’s a reminder of the hard work of my team, the support of my fans, and the power of music to transcend boundaries. Authenticity and effort really resonate.
What led you towards entrepreneurship despite having a widely successful music career?
Entrepreneurship came naturally to me; it’s my side hustle. My yearning to learn newer business models, explore uncharted territories, and build a legacy led me here. Success isn’t always guaranteed. One day, you’re hot, and the next day, you’re not, but my ventures allow me the freedom to dream and build—something every artist should have.
Your music features groundbreaking collaborations. How do you choose your collaborators?
I seek out like-minded artists who share my passion for experimenting with music. I look for fresh perspectives and a willingness to step outside comfort zones. Building partnerships based on mutual respect and a shared vision is vital for pushing creative boundaries. The collaborative world always goes beyond language to find shared stories and themes, where both cultural influences can shine.
You have also collaborated with major artists such as J Balvin, Tiesto. If you could choose anyone, dead or alive, to work magic with, who would it be?
I’d love to work with Drake, BTS, Sabrina Carpenter, Bruno Mars, and Taylor Swift.
Are you excited about your upcoming North American tour? What can fans expect?
Absolutely! I’m eager to connect with fans across the U.S. Expect a high-octane show with my biggest hits, new material, surprise duets, and some experimental AI-themed production. It’s going to be an immersive celebration of Indian culture and music!
What advice do you have for aspiring musicians looking to make their mark?
Honesty in your craft and relentless pursuit of excellence are key. The industry is tough, but with the right mindset, you can make a mark. Surround yourself with a discerning inner circle and keep refining your skills. Don’t ever feel like you’ve arrived—stay true to your roots and vision. The most successful musicians uplift others; that spirit is what sets you apart.
Rising from modest origins, Badshah is a dominant force in South Asian entertainment, whose profound influence spans Indian cinema, television, fashion, and, most significantly, music across two transformative decades. With over 10 billion streams and a formidable 50+ million followers, he transcends the role of a mere artist, emerging as a preeminent tastemaker who consistently shapes contemporary discourse on identity, entrepreneurship and creative expression.
His exceptional ability to bridge cultural divides is underscored by remarkable achievements. The integration of his track ‘Jugnu’ into the global launch of YouTube Shorts positioned him as only the second artist worldwide, after BTS, to receive such a pivotal platform. ‘Bachpan Ka Pyaar’ topped the Global YouTube Music Videos Chart, further solidifying his international resonance. His breakthrough track ‘Voodoo’ was prominently featured in the Apple AirPods Pro 2 launch and premiered at FIFA, showcasing his profound impact across global consumer and entertainment sectors. His third studio album, ‘Ek Tha Raja,’ featured collaborations with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and the world’s most streamed artist, Arijit Singh. He is among Spotify’s top 10 most-followed Indian artists globally and the sole Indian artist to achieve 18 chartbusters, each exceeding 300 million YouTube views. His timeless Bollywood anthem ‘Kaala Chasma’ made him the first Indian rapper to surpass one billion YouTube views. His music consistently dominates global charts, including Billboard Global 200n, YouTube Music Video Charts, iTunes Charts, and BBC Asian Network Charts. Blokur recognized the 39-year-old music powerhouse as the world’s No. 1 songwriter on YouTube based on combined annual video views. He holds the distinction of being the first Indian musician to headline the mainstage at the UNTOLD festival and co-chaired the debut of Nas Summit in India. His curated South Asian playlist on Capital Xtra and association with Formula 1 further amplify his global cultural footprint.
Beyond his musical genius, Badshah embodies a modern pop culture icon, strategically diversifying his interests. His entrepreneurial acumen is evident in ventures like Pentertainment 0075, a music label; Badfit, a luxury streetwear line; Dragonfly, an exclusive nightclub; and a thriving F&B portfolio including Badboy Pizza and the Sago-Sidera-Sivelle restaurant. His discerning investment portfolio includes franchise-based sports leagues (Ultimate Kho Kho), a cricket fantasy league (Crickpe), and an automobile marketplace (Droom). From his early days trading medicine and comic books to venturing into film production with Apra Films and launching his own music television channel, Aaho, Badshah’s journey underscores his astute business acumen. Today, he stands as one of India’s wealthiest rappers, with a net worth exceeding 5 million USD.
As a highly sought-after brand ambassador, Badshah crafted the official anthem for the UAE World ILT20 tournament and serves as a long-standing judge on prominent reality television shows such as MTV Hustle, Indian Idol, and India’s Got Talent. In 2022, the innovative digital avatar platform Genies forged a global partnership with him, focusing on the meticulous creation of personalized celebrity avatars for seamless integration within metaverse environments.
A true pioneer in cross-cultural musical dialogues, Badshah has collaborated with an impressive roster of international luminaries including J Balvin, Tainy, Sean Paul, Major Lazer, Diplo, Tiësto, Lil Baby and Mikey McCleary. His trailblazing spirit was further cemented as the first Indian artist signed by the global music giant Universal Music Group. His influence extends into high fashion, making history as the first Indian rapper to attend Paris Fashion Week, cementing his status as a truly global icon.
A Three-Day Art + Community Festival with Special Appearances by Shaquille O’Neal, Matt Rife, Druski, DJ Paul, + Ryan Sheckler.
This past weekend, multi-platinum recording artist mgk curated an unforgettable experience for his hometown of Cleveland as part of MGK Day. Hosting thousands of attendees, mgk delivered a memorable charity event celebrating unity, compassion, and community spirit among people of all ages.
The weekend of festivities kicked off with a pop up at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame where fans explored special activations including an exclusive pop-up shop celebrating mgk’s newest studio album release “lost americana,” and got a chance to see memorabilia from a few past monumental career moments. The night peaked at XX Con at Jacob’s Pavillion, which was an electrifying event with emo-nite Brooklyn featuring mgk and special guests including Modsun, Slim XX, and more.
On Saturday, day two started at the artist’s local coffee shop 27 Club Coffee, where they hosted “That’s What I Call Brunch”, blending live music with a laid-back morning vibe where fans ate from a delicious breakfast menu. Additionally, mgk partnered with Street League Skateboarding to bring their SLS Championship tour to Cleveland, OH, which included pro-Skateboarders including Ryan Sheckler, Jamie Foy, Cordano Russell, and more that participated in the activities. Nitro Circus also had a special FMX packed with high-flying action and jaw-dropping stunts. As the night fell, fans joined the Tickets To My Bar Crawl, a 6-bar immersive crawl honoring mgk and the city that raised him, with guests enjoying select Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop drinks. The event closed out a full-throttle evening that celebrated the city of Cleveland, the community, and the release of mgk’s “lost americana.” Later in the night, Slim XX and RookXX hosted their own after party at FWD along the waterfront.
The weekend finale began with a city ride departing from Harley Davidson where mgk and over 2,000 people took the city streets with a massive bike rally, a powerful display of unity that drew a massive crowd of bikers from all areas. Once they arrived at the MGK Day Arts + Community Festival at Mall C, Shaquille O’Neal kicked off the Monster Energy Celebrity Shootout game powered by Webull that brought friendly competition to the basketball court. Major celebrities such as Druski, The Professor, Matt Rife, Joe Haden, Vernon Davis, and more participated in the game. At halftime, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the City of Cleveland gifted mgk a custom designed 10ft guitar art piece painted by Cleveland artist, Aaron Williams. The guitar is a one-of-kind piece that will be displayed at the Cleveland airport accompanied by a commemorative placard honoring mgk’s deep connection to the City of Cleveland.
mgk performed a variety of fan favorites on Sunday and closed out the show with a handful of new tracks from “lost americana” including “cliché”, “vampire diaries”, “miss sunshine” and more. The night ended with the official MGK Day afterparty hosted by Druski with special guest DJ Paul from Three 6 Mafia. From a weekend of intimate fan interactions to large-scale events, the weekend included many give backs to the local community, including donating supplies, funding and guitars to Cleveland’s public schools and Shaker Heights school districts, solidifying mgk’s enduring connection to his hometown. MGK Day 2025 once again proved why it’s a can’t-miss event blending music, culture, and community pride.
More Information on MGK Day:
MGK Day is a vibrant and energetic annual charity event dedicated to celebrating the artistic contributions and philanthropic spirit of Machine Gun Kelly. This Cleveland, Ohio city-sanctioned celebration honors Machine Gun Kelly and his roots. The weekend draws thousands of fans, national media attention, and a stacked roster of artists, athletes, and celebrity guests. The festivities have become a cultural moment in Cleveland that gathers the city for a star-studded weekend of community events that include music, art, and philanthropy all while uniting fans and locals. MGK Day aims to raise awareness and support for various charitable causes and brings the community together for music, food, and fun. In partnership with the Lost Poets Society and various other non-profits, MGK Day empowers underserved families and youth through arts and wellness, showcasing the transformative power of creativity and compassion. This year’s celebration is even more special, coinciding with MGK’s lost americana album release weekend.
