GRUNGECAKE

Category: News

  • Hear South African duo Major League DJz’s remix to Blaze’s classic House anthem ‘Most Precious Love’

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    In a thrilling fusion of classic and contemporary, Major League DJz breathe new life into the iconic house anthem ‘Most Precious Love’. Originally produced, written, and recorded by the legendary American duo Blaze, and featuring the powerful vocals of Barbara Tucker alongside the musical collective UDAUFL (Underground Dance Artists United For Life), this track has been a dancefloor staple since its release in 2004.

    First released by the iconic New York City house label King Street Sounds, ‘Most Precious Love’ quickly soared to the top of the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart in June 2005, becoming Tucker’s sixth number-one hit. The track also made waves in the United Kingdom, where it initially peaked at #44 on the Official Charts in 2005, before a 2006 remix by the Freemasons catapulted it to the top spot. Now, as the track reaches its twentieth anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of house music and its ability to evolve across generations.

    Now, Major League DJz have taken on the challenge of reinterpreting this beloved classic, infusing it with their signature Amapiano sound. The South African DJ duo has skillfully woven deep basslines, rhythmic percussions, and subtle piano melodies into the original, creating a remix that’s both infectious and deeply emotive. Their fresh take on ‘Most Precious Love’ not only pays homage to the timeless essence of Blaze’s original but also bridges the gap between house music and the vibrant Amapiano scene, introducing the track to a new generation of listeners.

    This remix arrives at a pivotal moment for the Amapiano genre, which is itself celebrating a decade of revolutionising the global music scene. As one of South Africa’s most influential and rapidly growing musical movements, Amapiano has become synonymous with innovation, cultural expression, and a unifying sound that resonates worldwide. Major League DJz, at the forefront of this movement, continue to push boundaries with their reinterpretations, blending the soulful roots of House music with the distinctive energy of Amapiano.

    This release marks the third single from the ‘Amapiano to Ibiza’ EP, following the successful drops of Rosey Gold’s rendition of ‘The Dominator’ and DBN Gogo’s ‘Touched the Sky’. The EP continues to showcase the duo’s unique ability to blend Amapiano with global Dance music, creating a sound that resonates on dancefloors from Johannesburg to Ibiza.

    Major League DJz shared their excitement about the project: “We’ve always admired the soulful energy of ‘Most Precious Love’. It’s a track that resonates with so many people across the world. Bringing our Amapiano flavour to this classic was a dream come true for us, and we hope it connects with fans old and new.”

    With this remix, Major League DJz continue to push the boundaries of their sound, blending genres and cultures to create music that’s both innovative and deeply-rooted in tradition. ‘Most Precious Love’ is set to become a staple on dancefloors once again, this time with an Amapiano twist that’s sure to captivate audiences worldwide.

  • Canon Central and North Africa launches Canon Academy in Senegal, fostering photographic excellence

    In partnership with renowned institutions, Kourtrajmé Dakar Film School and Sup’IMax School, Canon is committed to empowering aspiring photographers and enthusiasts with world-class education and resources

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    Canon Academy offers a comprehensive educational programme featuring hands-on workshops covering a wide range of photography topics. To date, we have successfully trained 85 students through this initiative. The programme offers a comprehensive curriculum blending theory and practice, where expert trainers instill confidence and passion whilst covering essential topics like exposure triangle, composition, lighting, focus, and more.

    Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) is thrilled to announce the official launch of Canon Academy in Senegal, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at nurturing local photographic talent. In partnership with renowned institutions, Kourtrajmé Dakar Film School and Sup’IMax School, Canon is committed to empowering aspiring photographers and enthusiasts with world-class education and resources.

    This significant launch was marked by a meet-up event on August 13 at the Kourtrajmé Dakar Film School, introducing the local photography community to Canon’s comprehensive educational offerings, cutting-edge product lineup, authorised dealers, and the immersive Canon Academy workshop experience.

    The heart of the Canon Academy experience was the hands-on workshops conducted at Sup’IMax School on August 14. Led by Canon Ambassador Seibou Traore, these sessions delved into the fundamentals of photography, covering essential topics such as the exposure triangle, lighting, focus, composition, aperture, ISO, and mastering manual mode. By equipping participants with practical skills, Canon Academy aims to unlock their creative potential and elevate their photography to new heights.

    “Canon Academy is dedicated to providing photographers with unparalleled learning opportunities”, said Rashad Ghani, B2C Business Unit Director at Canon Central and North Africa. “Through hands-on workshops and expert guidance, we empower photographers of all levels to explore their passion and achieve their full potential. We are excited to bring this enriching experience to Senegal and contribute to the growth of the local photography community.”

    Canon Academy is dedicated to Canon users, offering hands-on experiences across a wide array of topics. Workshops are led by certified Canon trainers, ensuring that participants benefit from the expertise of seasoned professionals. The programme caters to different skill levels, from beginners to professionals, allowing each participant to grow at their own pace.

    Kourtrajmé Dakar Film School, a beacon of accessible film education, shares Canon’s commitment to fostering creativity. “We’re excited to partner with Canon to empower the next generation of filmmakers and photographers. Together, we’ll create a brighter future for Senegal’s creative industry”, said Mr Sangaré Toumani – Director, Kourtrajmé Dakar Film School

    Sup’IMax School, a leading institution in digital arts and communication, complements Canon’s vision for a vibrant creative ecosystem. “Canon Academy is a fantastic addition to our curriculum. This partnership will equip our students with the skills and tools to excel in the digital world”, said Mr Birame Diouf – Executif Director, Sup’IMax School (Ininstitut Superieur des Arts et Metiers du Numerique)

    This strategic collaboration between Canon Central & North Africa, Kourtrajmé Dakar Film School, and Sup’IMax School (Ininstitut Superieur des Arts et Metiers du Numerique) exemplifies Canon’s corporate philosophy of Kyosei – living and working together for the common good. By joining forces, these organisations are creating a powerful platform for young talent to thrive and contribute to Senegal’s creative landscape.

    The launch event and workshops signify a significant milestone for Canon in Senegal, demonstrating the company’s dedication to investing in local communities and supporting the growth of photography as an art form. Canon is confident that this initiative will inspire a new generation of photographers and strengthen the brand’s presence in the market.

  • Nigeria’s Fireboy DML shares release date for next album ‘Adedamola’

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    Yesterday, Nigeria’s global popstar Fireboy DML shared the official release date for his forthcoming album ‘Adedamola’. His namesake will come out on September 29. The news is a follow-up to the only track he released in 2024, ‘Everyday’.

  • Photos: Nigeria’s GRAMMY-nominated superstar Asake kicks off ‘Lungu Boy World’ tour

    On Friday night, GRAMMY-nominated Nigerian Afrobeats artist Asake launched his Lungu Boy World Tour with an electrifying performance at Washington, DC’s Capital One Arena. Asake took the stage to deliver fan-favourite hits from all albums including his recent third studio album, ‘Lungu Boy’, which was released earlier this month.

    The ‘Lungu Boy World’ Tour marks a significant milestone in Asake’s career, with massive arena performances in some of the most iconic venues around the world, including Madison Square Garden.

    The ‘Lungu World World Tour’ continues Wednesday with a show in Atlanta at State Farm Arena before continuing with performances in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Amsterdam, Paris, Dublin and more before wrapping up with a festival set at Promiseland in Gold Coast, Australia. For tickets and tour information, visit this link.

    ‘Lungu Boy World’ Tour 2024 Dates:

    Fri Aug 16 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena
    Sun Aug 18 – Detroit, MI – AfroNation^
    Wed Aug 21 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
    Sat Aug 24 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center
    Tue Aug 27 – Los Angeles, CA – YouTube Theater
    Fri Aug 30 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
    Sun Sep 15 – Cologne, DE – Palladium
    Tue Sep 24 – Amsterdam, NL – AFAS Live
    Thu Sep 26 – Berlin, DE – UberEats Music Hall
    Sat Sep 28 – Paris, FR – Zenith
    Tue Oct 1 – Dublin, IE – 3Arena*
    Sun Oct 6 – Gold Coast, AU – Promiseland*^

    *Non-Live Nation Date
    ^Festival Date

  • New York City’s fast-rising artist Cash Cobain announces new album ‘Play Cash Cobain’

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    Last week, New York City’s fast-rising artist Cash Cobain announced the release of his forthcoming album ‘Play Cash Cobain’. Days ago, the Slizzy star released a new seven-minute plus track called ‘Problem’ with Laila! and others like Fabolous, Big Sean, Kenzo B, Lay Bankz, Luh Tyler, Anycia, Chow Lee, Kaliii, 6lack, Flo Milli, YN Jay, FLEE, Don Q and Rob49. We aren’t sure who else will be on the project yet, but we are all patiently waiting for the official tracklist. Until that moment comes, stream it now and if you are in North America, see him on tour with the one and only, Ice Spice.

  • FIFA announces Bank of America as official bank sponsor of FIFA World Cup 26

  • Trusted financial institution becomes FIFA’s first-ever global sponsor in the banking category
  • Together FIFA and Bank of America will engage communities, promoting human connection through football
  • FIFA World Cup 26 to take place across 16 host cities, including 11 in the USA

    • FIFA is proud to announce Bank of America as its Official Bank Sponsor of FIFA World Cup 26, confirming a historic partnership that underscores the global financial institution’s commitment to promoting wellness, supporting the pursuit of excellence and making a human connection and community impact through the power of sport.

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    Through this new partnership, FIFA and Bank of America will work together to support the growth of the global game and the tournament’s impact on football fans of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

    Bank of America partners with the most iconic brands in sports who share a vision for driving progress. This landmark agreement with FIFA, running through 2026, aims to further strengthen ties with and create lasting impact in the communities where the banks’ teammates and clients live and work around the world. The partnership complements the company’s global and local market strategies, engaging a worldwide audience as it unites to experience unforgettable moments that connect people in ways that only live sport can.

    Celebrating the agreement, FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, said: “We are extremely excited to welcome Bank of America as a global sponsor of this groundbreaking FIFA World Cup. Bank of America’s commitment to community engagement both domestically and globally aligns with our goals for the tournament and beyond, while their support of FIFA on an international basis is a major milestone for our organisation as we continue to serve our game for the benefit of the entire world.”

    As FIFA’s first-ever global sponsor in the banking category, Bank of America will leverage this opportunity to connect with communities. Bank of America’s approach to responsible growth through community outreach, youth programming, and financial education initiatives aligns with FIFA’s commitment to develop football while positively impacting people across the globe.

    Bank of America’s Chair and CEO, Brian Moynihan, added: “Football connects the world like no other sport. FIFA World Cup 26 is a tremendous opportunity to celebrate the pursuit of excellence and how we deliver for our clients, teammates and the communities we serve across the United States and around the world.”

    FIFA World Cup 26 will be the biggest and most innovative in the tournament’s history. Featuring 104 matches with 48 teams from around the world across sixteen host cities in the USA, Canada and Mexico, the tournament will provide a platform for brands to engage on a truly global level, as players and fans alike take centre stage.

  • Houston’s legendary producer BeatKing has passed away

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    According to yesterday’s news, Houston-bred producer and rapper BeatKing has passed away at the age of 39, leaving behind two young daughters. No cause for his death is known to the public yet. When he was here, he made music with his fellow Texans like Bun B, Chamillionaire, Erica Banks, Lil Keke, and Paul Wall, and well-known Southern Rap music pioneers like the late Gangsta Boo, Three 6 Mafia’s Juicy J, and more.

    BeatKing was also known for wearing black shirts with catchy or wild statements — often becoming a conversation piece.

    May BeatKing‘s family and friends find peace and comfort during this difficult time.

  • ‘Alligator Bites Never Heal’: TDE’s Doechii announces next mixtape

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    As Florida’s rising star Doechii continues to soar, she plans to drop a new mixtape — set to release on August 30. The ‘Girls’ artist shared the news with her fans on her birthday, but the official tracklist has yet to surface. Check out the well-executed official cover artwork featuring The Swamp Princess and an albino alligator above.

  • SoundCloud launches merch store, artists keep 100% of profits

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    According to recent news in music, SoundCloud plans to allow artists to design and sell custom merchandise; and keep one-hundred percent of the profit. How is it a sustainable business model or why would a business like SoundCloud want to do this for independent artists? Perhaps to drive more traffic to its platform and regain the trust of older artists, and the new generation. So, what’s the catch? The artist has to have a subscription to the company’s Next Pro programme which costs $99 per year, dwelling in North America (America/Canada) or Europe and own 100% of their merchandise rights. You’d want to be independent to take full advantage of this opportunity,

  • Kim Kardashian teams up with Beats again for neutral on-brand line

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    It’s been two years since the living legend Kim Kardashian collaborated with Beats. Since their joint release, it is still the best-selling edition to date! Talk about the buying power of fame, beauty and superstardom… The headphone trio are inspired by her signature neutral palette, namely, “Moon”, “Dune”, and “Earth”.

    “I’m so excited we’re bringing these three popular, chic colors to Beats’ most iconic and advanced headphones”, Kardashian said. “Beats Studio have always been a fashion statement, so I can’t wait to see how everyone styles them.”

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    A post shared by Kim Kardashian (@kimkardashian)

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    The “Beats x Kim” headphones are now available for purchase online for $349 USD — shipping globally.