Earlier this month, it was announced that Marvel’s Star Wars comic line would be concluding its post-The Empire Strikes Back storytelling this September in Star Wars #50 and Star Wars: Darth Vader #50. Fans won’t have to wait long to discover what comes next as this October, a new post-Return of the Jedi era begins in STAR WARS: BATTLE OF JAKKU — INSURGENCY RISING!
Written by acclaimed, award-winning author Alex Segura (Star Wars: Poe Dameron – Free Fall, Edge of Spider-Verse) and drawn by a trio of superstar artistic talent–Leonard Kirk, Stefano Raffaele, and Jethro Morales—STAR WARS: BATTLE OF JAKKU — INSURGENCY RISING will be the first of three limited series centered around the never-before-told final moments of the Galactic Civil War. First introduced in Star Wars: The Force Awakens as Rey scavenged amongst its wreckage, the Battle of Jakku was a pivotal turning point for the galaxy. On the sandy dunes of Jakku, the remnants of the Empire made their desperate last stand after their secret base was discovered by the Rebellion, who were determined to destroy them once and for all so that the New Republic can thrive! Now, fans will witness this pivotal moment in Star Wars canon for the first time ever!
Starring core characters like Luke and Leia as well as new heroes and villains who were instrumental during this thrilling period, the three Battle of Jakku series will bridge the gap between the Original Trilogy and the Sequel Trilogy like never before revealing key insights behind the aftermath of the Battle of Endor and the Empire’s demise, including the Emperor’s secret contingency plans; and introduce the shocking power hungry threats that emerged during this time of uncertainty!
Today, rising alt-R&B singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Forest Claudette releases the addictive new single “2AM.” Listen HERE and watch the visualizer HERE via Warner Records. Boasting a deep groove and intimate storytelling, the track beautifully illustrates the up-and-comer’s wholly unique sound. “2AM” is the latest taste of Claudette’s forthcoming EP, & Stone Between, due August 23.
Beginning with an invitation to tag along for a drive, the track soon morphs into a love song. “You should come through. You could be my entertainment,” they sing over swaggering brass and guitar, “elevate me, cut through — it’s a lot of straight lines.” Claudette then steers us to the sugar-rush chorus: “Quick yoga at 2AM, you and I are not just friends.” It turns out the song is based on a warm memory of a Friday date that led to love.
The new track comes just weeks after Claudette announced their & Stone Between North American headlining Tour and Australian dates supporting US sensation Omar Apollo. The tour kicks off September 11 in Atlanta, GA, at The Masquerade: Purgatory, and heads to several markets including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, and closes out the run on September 21 in San Francisco, CA at Popscene @ Brick & Mortar. See all tour dates below and head HERE for ticket sales.
“2AM” and recent single “Moonlight” mark the beginning of a new era following their their four-track EP Jupiter, which features tracks like “Kobe Beef” and “Big Wigs.” That project is thematically connected to & Stone Between, making for a broad, all-encompassing narrative. Prior to that, Claudette released a stunning cover of the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ classic track “Can’t Stop” as well as their acclaimed Everything Was Green EP. That celebrated release included singles such as “Mess Around” featuring EARTHGANG, “Motor in the Sand,” and “Two Years.”
Lola Brooke has unveiled a special capsule collection of merchandise comprised of hooded sweatshirts, bold graphic tees, trucker hats, and more inspired by some of her most notable mottos, catchphrases, and her debut project, Dennis Daughter, released last year.
The made in America collection is a vibrant mix of fashion and music. It includes a black hooded sweatshirt and white tee embellished with type-graphics of one of Lola’s most popular adlibs, ‘Uh Uh Uh Uhhhh,’ a black ‘Don’t Play With It’ hooded sweatshirt and black tee, an ‘It’s Gator Season’ green and white tee, and more offerings tied to Lola’s gator association—bringing the bite she has in music to ready-to-wear.
The drops also include a highly coveted limited edition ‘Lola Brooke’ crew-neck sweatshirt and black tee. These items, which reinterprets Lola’s cover art image from her 2023 debut project, Dennis Daughter, are sure to sell out quickly.
All items in the collection are available to order now at lolabrookemerch.com and range from the price points of $28 to $95.
Today marks the official release of the latest collaboration between running apparel brand SATISFY and Oakley. This unique partnership reimagines eyewear and apparel by merging Oakley’s archival inspirations with SATISFY’s innovative ideals and technologies.
In their continuing journey, SATISFY and Oakley present the next chapter of their collaboration, introducing the “Equipment for Our World” collection. The collection consists of technical apparel and cutting-edge eyewear inspired by the vast desert landscapes designed for the future explorer.
The collaboration reinvents Oakley’s iconic Straight Jacket® and Eye Jacket® sunglasses with unique colorways. The Oakley Straight Jacket® comes in Matte Terrain Tan with Prizm™ Tungsten lenses and Black with Prizm™ Black lenses, enhancing color and contrast with Prizm™ technology. The Oakley Eye Jacket® is available in Matte Olive with Prizm™ Black and Ruby lenses, blending high-wrap sport performance with a nature-inspired frame.
The collection’s limited-edition apparel features high-performance designs. Highlights include:
AuraLite™ Desert Tee in Mineral Dusk: Ideal for desert heat with recycled AuraLite™ fabric, COOLMAX® panels, and a reflective ellipse graphic.
AuraLite™ Muscle Tee in Mineral Graphite: Incredibly soft and lightweight with laser perforations for breathability and superior moisture management.
SoftCell™ Bandana: Made from premium Japanese cotton, versatile and stylish with a reflective ellipse graphic, perfect for keeping hair and sweat at bay.
The SATISFY Oakley “Equipment For Our World” program releases globally on June 20th on satisfyrunning.com, oakley.com, selected Oakley stores, and on june 21st at retailers worldwide.
BIA, the international multi-platinum artist, taps GRAMMY-nominee J.I.D. for her new single and music video, “Lights Out.” The single is also featured on the upcoming official soundtrack for the blockbuster fourth installment of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s legendary ‘Bad Boys’ film series, Bad Boys 4: Ride or Die.
The “Lights Out” music video directed by Chandler Lass, which deftly interpolates supernatural imagery with dizzying scenes of grandeur, features both artists and is available now.
In verse, BIA is confident and unwavering as she recounts her humble Massachusetts beginnings. “I know you from? Elementary? Really no we don’t,” she raps. “The lights was out, in my momma house, but we used the stove.” Still, BIA’s gaze is forever skyward, and she acknowledges the fruits of her recent labor before passing the baton to J.I.D., whose reputation for lyrical brilliance precedes him and is evidenced by his guest spot.
In the three years since she struck radio gold and RIAA Platinum with “Whole Lotta Money” and its Nicki Minaj-featured remix, BIA has proven both her range and staying power. Her ability to collaborate with stars both domestic and abroad, from Top 40 U.S. Rhythmic hits with G Herbo (“Besito”) and J. Cole (“London”), to German star Luciano’s #1 hit “Bamba” along with “Milano” alongside Italy’s Sfera Ebbasta and Brooklyn’s Fivio Foreign – all have helped BIA become a household name across the globe. Last month, BIA and Nicki reminded the world of the impact of their memorable collab with a surprise performance of the song during the Boston stop of Nicki’s Pink Friday 2 Tour, a homecoming of sorts for BIA.
It’s more than BIA’s musical output why she’s elevated herself to stardom, however. Her cultural impact extends past the booth and into the world of fashion, sports and beauty; her cosmetic line, Beauty For Certain, makes a cameo in “Lights Out.” BIA has also been a mainstay in the sports world, performing at 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend in Salt Lake City, and offering contributions to the NHL Playoff and Women’s World Cup soundtracks, two of the world’s biggest intersections of Hip Hop and pop culture. There’s really no telling where next you’ll see BIA, whose penchant for being driven by passion has delivered great results in just a few short years. “I’m a big believer in following my passions,” she tells Elite Daily. “I love music. I love glam. I love beauty. I love design. Those are things that I’ve just naturally immersed myself in.”
Watch and stream “Lights Out,” featuring J.I.D., now.
Karine Vanasse doesn’t just walk into a room; she glides in with poise, her step sprightly and sure. There’s something effortless about the way she carries herself, which speaks to the quiet confidence she has found within. It allows the Canadian talent to take her every role and bring it like no one else can—no small feat for someone who’s been in the industry for more than 25 years. We speak with the Canadian actor who embraces the power of creating her own narrative.
THE ULTIMATE SUMMER SHOPPING GUIDE
What to know before buying your next bathing suit, the most versatile bags for this season, and destination-specific outfits – we’ve got it all for summer!
GOING for GOLD
For most athletes, the Olympics is a pipe dream. These games are at a level of competition so elusive that it takes years of dedication to reach, surely surpassing Malcolm Gladwell’s famous “10,000 hours of practice” rule. But for these seven Team Canada members, this dream is within reach. They have managed to endure years of sacrifice, physical pain, and self-doubt to become the absolute best in the country at their sport.
Meet seven remarkable women who hope to represent Canada this summer at the Paris Olympic and Paralympic games.
RITA ORA RELEASES “ASK & YOU SHALL RECEIVE” AHEAD OF MIGHTY HOOPLA FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE
WATCH/SHARE THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR RITA ORA’S “ASK & YOU SHALL RECEIVE” HERE
31st May, London, UK: Rita Ora has released single “Ask & You Shall Receive,” ahead of her performance at Mighty Hoopla Festival this Sunday, 2 June, in London.
Co-written by Rayeand produced by German (Oliver Peterhof), “Ask & You Shall Receive” is a summery, infectious floor filler infused with carpe diem spirit.
Rita says: “The song is full of upbeat, summery vibes and is about seizing the moment romantically, and diving straight in with that special someone. It was co-written by the amazing Raye, which feels like such a full circle moment, as I have so many amazing memories from when we were on the road together for the Phoenix tour.”
The accompanying video, directed by Dano Cerny (SIA, Labrinth, Demi Lovato) and shot in LA, is set in a nefarious 24-hour laundromat, and draws inspiration from the iconic 1985 Levis 501 commercial starring Nick Kamen.
Rita Ora’s multi-platinum music career has won her commercial and critical acclaim with 13 UK Top 10 singles and four UK Number One singles. In the UK she was among the first to receive a BRIT Billion award after surpassing the landmark of one billion career UK streams. While in the US, Rita’s acclaimed singles and star-studded collaborations have earned her a #3 Billboard Hot 100 song, 7 Top 10 hits on Billboard’s Dance Club Songs Chart, 5 of which reached #1, and 6 Top 20 singles on Billboard’s Hot Dance/Electronic Songs Chart.
RITA ORA’S “ASK & YOU SHALL RECEIVE” IS AVAILABLE ACROSS ALL PLATFORMS TODAY:
After a 15-year absence, Grammy award winning, reggae icon Buju Banton is set to make a triumphant return to the United States. Fans and music lovers alike can rejoice as Buju Banton, along with The Shiloh Band, will be gracing the stage at the renowned UBS Arena in New York on Saturday, July 13. This highly anticipated return of the legendary artist and philanthropist brings an air of celebration and triumph, symbolizing resilience and hope for all.
A true testament to the power of perseverance, determination of his faith and triumphant career, Buju Banton starts a new chapter of The Long Walk To Freedom journey. On Saturday July, 13th this will also be a celebration of life as Buju Banton celebrates his birthday. “I give thanks for life each day, but on this weekend, there is a special thanksgiving and I look forward to celebrating with all of my family, friends and everyone who has prayed and supported me over the years” says Buju Banton.
“It’s a true honor to witness the return of a legend, as history unfolds before our eyes once again. On January 16th 2011, we produced Buju Banton’s last concert dubbed “Before the Dawn” in Miami, Florida, his return concert Long Walk To Freedom Jamaica, and today we announce, Buju Banton’s return to U.S. concert “Long Walk to Freedom- NY”, slated for Saturday July 13th 2024. We look forward to presenting an exceptional concert as we partner with AG Consulting and Dahved Levy, whose experience in the market is profound” says Joseph Budafuco, Buju Banton’s manager.
“From his last show at Madison Square Garden in 2008 to now first show back in New York at the UBS Arena, it is with great pleasure to be a part of history. Buju Banton is the baddest DJ ever to ride a dancehall riddim and all I can say is I won’t miss this show” says Dahved Levy, radio personnel at WBLS and host of Long Walk To Freedom-NY.
Buju Banton will perform his world-renowned classic hits and beloved songs that have captured the hearts of many over the years. With his signature sound and undeniable talent, Buju Banton’s return is sure to be a night to remember for all in attendance.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness history and join Buju Banton and The Shiloh Band on July 13 for a night of unforgettable music and memories.
Billy Ray Cyrus finds his purpose honoring veterans this Memorial Day with his iconic anthemic Some Gave All on Fox & Friends. The multi-hyphenate global entertainer is also “embracing the truest love he’s ever known” with his newest single, “You Came Along,” which launched Friday.
“What a Memorial Day! This is my purpose to honor and thank the veterans who’ve given all. God Bless our country and those who’ve served,” exclaimed Cyrus.
Cyrus is also featured with Eddie Sanders on the patriotic “Born to Fly,” available exclusively on YouTube AVAILABLE HERE until wide release this July.
To stream and download “You Came Along,” click HERE.
ABOUT BILLY RAY CYRUS: Two-time GRAMMY® winner Billy Ray Cyrus is a critically and commercially acclaimed superstar who has established himself as a household name across all areas of the entertainment landscape, including music, movies, television, theater and more. A passionate philanthropist, he dedicates his time and talent giving back to U.S. service members, veterans and first responders. Billy Ray Cyrus holds the worldwide record for the longest Hot 100 No. 1 best-selling RIAA® 14x Diamond-certified song of all-time as an artist and songwriter for “Old Town Road” with Lil Nas X. He exploded onto the music scene when his first album, Some Gave All, debuted on the all-genre Billboard 200 album chart at No. 1 and stayed there for a record-breaking 17 weeks in 1992. The lead single, “Achy Breaky Heart,” became a phenomenon and went multi-platinum, also becoming the first ever song to achieve triple platinum status in Australia. After “Achy Breaky Heart,” he followed up with back-to-back hits “It Could’ve Been Me,” “She’s Not Crying Anymore,” “Some Gave All,” and many more. Billy Ray Cyrus knocked himself out of the top Billboard position with his second No. 1 album, It Won’t Be The Last, featuring smash hits “In the Heart of a Woman,” “Words By Heart” and “Somebody New.” In addition to his GRAMMY® Awards, his accolades include Billboard Music Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, MTV VMA Moonmen, Country Music Association Awards, American Music Awards and Canadian Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences Juno Awards, among many more.
Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira will host the fifth edition of its gastronomic festival dedicated to award-winning culinary talents: The Art of Flavours on June 14-15th.
For this edition, José Diogo Costa, Creative Executive Chef of Reid’s Palace and its one Michelin-starred William Restaurant, will be joined by a selection of award-winning Chefs and emerging talent for an incredible culinary journey with panoramic views over Funchal Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, and dining events featuring the very best of the local gastronomic scene.
This year’s Art of Flavours line-up includes a team of Michelin-starred Chefs invited by José Diogo Costa of Reid’s Palace:
Luke Selby of Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire, England, two Michelin Stars and one Green Star
Alex Tsiotinis of CTC Urban Gastronomy, Athens, Greece, one Michelin Star
Octávio Freitas of Restaurante Desarma, The Views Baía Hotel, Funchal, Portugal, one Michelin Star
Vasco Coelho Santos of Euskalduna Studio, Porto, Portugal, one Michelin Star
The Chef has also invited four rising stars who will delight guests with their innovative delicacies during the iconic food party on June 15:
Isabel Nobre of Vila Vita Parc, Porches, Portugal
João Guedes Ferreira of Flora, Viseu, Portugal
Marlene Vieira of Marlene, Lisbon, Portugal
Pablo Aranda of El Olivo – La Residencia, a Belmond Hotel, Maiorca, Spain
The Art of Flavours starts with The Stars Dinner, an exquisite seven-course menu on June 14, brought to life by the six talented stars at the William Restaurant. Female Pastry Chef Isabel Nobre from Vila Vita Parc in the Algarve, Portugal, will prepare the dessert, promising the most perfect end to this experience. The menu will be paired with a curated selection of wines by António Maçanita wines, showcasing the indigenous grape varieties, and offering a taste of the Azorean landscape in every sip. With a focus on quality and sustainability, the wines capture the spirit of the Azores, earning acclaim both locally and internationally.
The fifth edition culminates on June 15 with a lavish outdoor food party that will gather all the guest Chefs alongside Creative Executive Chef Diogo Costa.
Portuguese winemakers and producers will come together, bringing almost 30 stalls, where food and wine lovers will be able to enjoy an incredible range of flavours and dishes. The stand-up dinner will offer a journey through Portuguese high-quality products. Champagne will mark the beginning of this adventure, and handmade desserts and delicate pastries will sweeten the end of a memorable night.
Among the unique producers, the Art of Flavours is excited to welcome Quinta Da Moscadinha, a Madeiran Cider producer winner of the gold medal in the Cider world competition with its Aged Cider, as well as a guest mixologist from the Three House Club in Funchal.
Held in the unique pool area of the Hotel, with a privileged view over Funchal’s Bay, all Chefs will be live cooking to the sound of DJ Donwella, a multi-genre female DJ from London. With roots in Cape Town, Donwella blends jazz, hip-hop, and soul with local Kwaito and South African dance music, creating the perfect vibrant atmosphere for this year’s food festival.
The Stars Dinner on June 14 is priced at 250.00 € per person and starts at 19:00. The Food Party on June 15 will commence at 19:30 and is priced at 200.00 € per person. Guests can also purchase a package to attend both events at a special price of 390.00 € per person. Advance booking is required, and reservations can be made directly by calling +351 291 717 171 or emailing reservations.rds@belmond.com.
