GRUNGECAKE

Category: Pop Culture

  • Cyndi Lauper’s farewell tour: Celebrating a trailblazing career

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    Iconic, irreverent, and endlessly colorful, Cyndi Lauper has been a staple of the music scene for decades. With her distinctive voice, quirky style, and unapologetic attitude, she has captivated audiences around the world since the 1980s. Now, after a legendary career spanning over four decades, the GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter has announced her farewell tour, marking the end of an era for fans everywhere.

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    A journey through time

    Cyndi Lauper burst onto the music scene in the early 1980s with her debut album, ‘She’s So Unusual’, which quickly became a sensation. Hits like ‘Girls Just Want to Have Fun’, ‘Time After Time’, and ‘True Colors’ catapulted her to international fame and solidified her status as a pop icon. Lauper’s unique blend of pop, rock, and new wave, coupled with her fearless self-expression, resonated with audiences and paved the way for a new generation of female artists.

    Throughout her career, Lauper has continued to push boundaries and defy expectations. From her chart-topping singles to her critically-acclaimed albums, she has consistently reinvented herself while staying true to her artistic vision. Her fearless exploration of various musical genres, from blues to country to Broadway, has showcased her versatility and enduring relevance in an ever-changing industry.

    Honouring a legacy

    As Cyndi Lauper embarks on her farewell tour, fans have the opportunity to celebrate her remarkable legacy and contributions to music and culture. From sold-out stadiums to intimate venues, the tour promises to be a nostalgic journey through Lauper’s illustrious career, featuring beloved classics alongside deep cuts and surprises.

    For many fans, Lauper’s music holds a special place in their hearts, serving as the soundtrack to their lives and providing comfort, inspiration, and empowerment. Her unapologetic embrace of individuality and acceptance has resonated with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making her a beloved figure in popular culture.

    A bittersweet goodbye

    While Cyndi Lauper’s farewell tour marks the end of an era, it also represents a celebration of her enduring impact and influence. As she takes the stage for the final time, fans will come together to honor her legacy and express gratitude for the joy and inspiration she has brought into their lives.

    Although Lauper may be saying goodbye to the touring life, her music will continue to live on, inspiring future generations of artists and fans alike. Whether through her timeless hits or her pioneering advocacy work for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, her impact will be felt for years to come.

    Conclusion

    Cyndi Lauper’s farewell tour is not just the end of a chapter—it’s a celebration of an extraordinary career that has left an indelible mark on the music industry and popular culture. As fans come together to bid farewell to one of the most iconic voices of a generation, they will carry with them the memories, melodies, and messages that have defined Cyndi Lauper’s remarkable legacy.

  • Brian Van Holt, Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Mel Gibson to star in Hollywood thriller ‘Boneyard’: Watch the trailer

    The chilling thriller will be released on video on demand nationwide on July 2 and hit theatres in the United States on July 5.

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    This week, a Lionsgate representative contacted and shared the updated official poster. Based on a true story, the true crime story follows Police Chief Carter (Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson), Detective Ortega (Brian Van Holt) and Agent Petrovick (Mel Gibson) in a multi-agency effort to identify and apprehend the killer. As their agendas and methods clash, a tangled web of intrigue casts suspicion in all directions. The skeletal remains of eleven women and girls were found in the New Mexico desert, launching the investigation.

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    Watch the trailer from the movie filmed by Asif Akbar and produced by Colin Bates.

    [youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GS5OoPsRkKs&h=315]

  • Second annual Caribbean Music Awards announced for August 29 in Brooklyn

    Over 150 nominees and over 40 categories celebrating in the best in Caribbean Music unveiled

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    Prepare for the most diverse music event of the year as Caribbean Elite Group proudly presents the nominees for the highly-anticipated Caribbean Music Awards! With over 150 nominees and over 40 categories spanning a diverse range of islands and genres, this year’s awards promise to celebrate Caribbean music’s finest talents.

    Carefully chosen through a rigorous selection process, the nominees represent the pinnacle of Caribbean music excellence. From the infectious rhythms of Reggae and Soca to the pulsating beats of Dancehall and beyond, these artists embody the rich tapestry of the Caribbean musical landscape. This year, we’re thrilled to introduce exciting new categories such as International DJ, French Caribbean Artist, Latin Caribbean Artist, and Bouyon Artist of the Year, alongside Chutney, Calypso, and Konpa Honors.

    Voting is underway and will conclude on Thursday, June 30, 2024, so be sure to cast your vote and make your voice heard! The celebration of the nominees will reach its peak at a star-studded event on Thursday, August 29, at King Theatre, where music enthusiasts and industry insiders alike will come together to honor the extraordinary talents and tracks that have graced this prestigious list.

    Leading the nominations this year are the sensational Dexta Daps with eight nominations, the energetic Skinny Fabulous with six nominations, and the dynamic Masicka, Yung Bredda, Bounty Killer, and Machel Montano with five nominations each. Also receiving noteworthy nominations are Asa Bantan, Tee Jay, Cham, Byron Messia, Patrice Roberts, Rajah Wild, Nailah Blackman, and Problem Child, each with four nominations.

    Don’t miss your chance to have a say in the 2024 Caribbean Music Awards! Nominees, including self-nominations and peer acknowledgments, can vote through the official Caribbean Music Awards website at caribmusicawards.com. Fans will also have the opportunity to vote, ensuring that the awards truly reflect the vibrant and diverse voice of the Caribbean music community.

    Join us in the excitement as we celebrate the vibrant music culture of the Caribbean region and recognise the remarkable talents that define it. Caribbean Elite Group is dedicated to showcasing the best of the Caribbean music scene, and we can’t wait to see you at the Caribbean Music Awards.

    The complete list of nominees for ‘Caribbean Music Awards’ 2024 are:

    Album of the Year (Reggae)

    Buju Banton – Born For Greatness

    Collie Buddz – Take It Easy

    Marcia Griffiths – Golden

    Morgan Heritage – The Homeland

    Stephen Marley – Old Soul

    Sizzla – The I-Grade

    Julian Marley & Antaeus -Colors of Royal

    Album of the Year (Dancehall)

    Masicka – Generation of Kings

    Popcaan – Great Is He

    Valiant – 4:14

    Beenie Man – Simma

    Byron Messia – No Love

    Bounty Killer & Baby Cham – Time Bomb

    Aidonia – Occupied Mind

    Song of the Year (Dancehall)

    Tee Jay – Drift

    Byron Messia – Talibans

    Valiant – Mad Out

    450 – Wild n Rich

    Rajah Wild – Wild Out

    Baby Cham, Bounty Killer & Dexta Daps – Slow Motion

    Masicka – Tyrant

    Song of the Year (Soca)

    Nailah Blackman & Skinny Fabulous – Come Home

    Problem Child, Jus Jay King, Nelieux – Holiday

    Olatunji – Engine Room

    Machel Montano & Patrice Roberts – Like Yuh Self

    Bunji Garlin – Hard Fete

    Nadia Batson – Market

    Lyrikal – Look Back

    Artist of the Year – Male (Dancehall)

    Masicka

    Dexta Daps

    Valiant

    Tee Jay

    Popcaan

    450

    Byron Messia

    Artist of the Year – Male (Reggae)

    Beres Hammond

    Romain Virgo

    Tarrus Riley

    Christopher Martin

    Shaggy

    Protoje

    Artist of the Year – Male (Soca)

    Skinny Fabulous

    Problem Child

    Asa Banton

    Machel Montano

    Voice The Artiste

    Bunji Garlin

    Lyrikal

    Artist of the Year (Latin Caribbean)

    Lyz Martin

    La Pana

    Romeo Santos

    Gaza Fish

    AKIM

    El Alfa

    Artist of the Year – Female (Dancehall)

    Jada Kingdom

    Shenseea

    Spice

    Shaneil Muir

    Stefflon Don

    Tina (Hood Celebrity)

    Artist of the Year – Female (Reggae)

    Koffee

    Etana

    Alaine

    Lila Iké

    Naomi Cowan

    Artist of the Year – Female (Soca)

    Patrice Roberts

    Nailah Blackman

    Nadia Batson

    Destra Garcia

    Fay-Ann Lyons

    Alison Hinds

    Nessa Preppy

    Artist of the Year (Bouyon)

    Asa Bantan

    Triple K

    Mr Ridge

    Nice

    Kenny G

    Carlyn Xp

    Reo

    Artist of the Year (French Caribbean)

    Kalash

    Kassav’

    Michael Robinson

    Phyllisia Ross

    Blaiz Fayah

    DJ Chinwax

    Bamby

    Best New Artist (Dancehall)

    Byron Messia

    Nigy Boy

    Rajah Wild

    Stalk Ashley

    Kraff

    Malie Donn

    Best New Artist (Soca)

    Yung Bredda

    Rae

    Rane

    Empress J

    Star Martin

    Faith Callender

    Best New Artist (Reggae)

    Aiesha

    Mortimer

    Royal Blu

    Blvk H3ro

    Ras I

    Joby Jay

    Kxng Izem

    Konpa Band of the Year

    T VICE

    Klass

    KAI

    Vayb

    Nu Look

    Zafem

    K-Dilak and Bedjine

    Performer of the Year (Dancehall)

    Dexta Daps

    Tee Jay

    Shenseea

    Spice

    Ding Dong

    Masicka

    Skeng

    Performer of the Year (Soca)

    Patrice Roberts

    Skinny Fabulous

    Asa Bantan

    Kes

    Problem Child

    Machel Montano

    Voice The Artiste

    Mr Killa

    Collaboration of the Year (Soca)

    Nailah Blackman & Skinny Fabulous – Come Home

    Skinny Fabulous & Mr Killa & Asa Bantan – Do What Yuh Want

    Machel Montano & Patrice Roberts – Like Yuh Self

    College Boy & Yung Bredda – Juk On The Junction

    Ricardo Dru & Viking Ding Dong – Tornado

    Lead Pipe & Just Jay – Brain Freeze

    Collaboration of the Year (Reggae)

    Shaggy, Kes – Mood

    Sean Paul, Beres Hammond – Rebel Time

    Alaine, Dexta Daps – Seh It Yah

    Morgan Heritage, Baby Cham, Bounty Killer, Stonebwoy – Who Deh Like You

    Marlon Asher, Tarrus Riley, Capleton – Diamonds and Gold

    Julian Marley & Antaeus – Inna Mood

    Collaboration of the Year (Dancehall)

    Burna Boy, Byron Messia – Talibans II

    The 9ine, Jada Kingdom – Turn Me On

    450, Shaneil Muir – Crawsis

    Popcaan, Drake – We Caan Done

    Baby Cham, Bounty Killer, Dexta Daps – Slow Motion

    Masicka, Lila Iké, Chronic Law – Triumph

    Mavado, Jay A, Dexta Daps – Pain

    Video of the Year (Reggae/Dancehall)

    Tee Jay – Drift

    Valiant – Mad Out

    Baby Cham, Bounty Killer & Dexta Daps – Slow Motion

    Alkaline – Boss

    Mavado, Jay-A, Dexta Daps – Pain

    DJ Cassidy & Shaggy featuring Rayvon – If You Like Pina Coladas

    Video of the Year (Soca)

    Nailah Blackman & Skinny Fabulous – Come Home

    Problem Child, Jus Jay & Nelieux – Holiday

    Nadia Batson – Market

    Machel Montano & Patrice – Like Yuh Self

    Bunji Garlin – Hard Fete

    Lyrikal & Lil Natty & Thunder – The Ambush

    Mical Teja – DNA

    2023 Impact Award – (Dancehall)

    Byron Messia

    Rajah Wild

    Chronic Law

    Jah Vinci

    Stalk Ashley

    Prince Swanny

    Kraff

    2023 Impact Award – (Soca)

    Yung Bredda

    Mical Teja

    Pumpa

    Terra D Governor

    V’ghn

    Rae

    DJ Cheem

    2023 Impact Award – (Reggae)

    Naomi Cowan

    Mortimer

    Jah 9

    Samora

    Sevana

    Jaz Elise

    Irie Souljah

    People’s Choice Award

    Kes

    Skinny Fabulous

    Patrice Roberts

    Asa Banton

    Dexta Daps

    Shenseea

    Yung Bredda

    International DJ of the Year

    Private Ryan

    DJ Puffy

    Travis World

    DJ Young Chow

    DJ Riggo Suave

    DJ Kevin Crown

    DJ Osocity

    DJ Stakz

    Entertainer of the Year

    Maya Fairy

    Julie Mango

    Jr Lee So Crazy

    Majah Hype

    White Yardie

    Yung Bredda

    Dale Elliott

    Music Event of the Year

    Brunch and Soca

    Dominica World Creole Music Festival

    I Love Soca

    Soca Brainwash

    Stink and Dutty

    Reggae Sumfest

    St Kitts Music Festival

    BRT WKND

    Cruise Event of the Year

    Uber Soca

    Welcome To Jam Rock

    Love And Harmony

    FeteTopia

    Epic

  • Blackwater Lane, the best-selling Horror/Thriller book, comes to life in Jeff Celentano’s direction: Watch the trailer

    A supernatural thriller

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    Today, Lionsgate released the official movie trailer to its latest Horror/Thriller titled ‘Blackwater Lane’ starring Minka Kelly, Maggie Grace, Dermot Mulroney, Alan Calton, and Natalie Simpson. According to the description, the lead actress (Minka Kelly) witnessed a grisly tragedy on a dangerous country road. Subsequently, the frantic woman is visited by a ghostly presence that starts to question her sanity. Based on what occurs in the preview, no one in her life believes her experiences and it’s written off as a result of her recent medication use. It comes out in theatres, digitally and on-demand on June 21, 2024. Check out the creepy PG-13-rated trailer for yourselves below.

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  • Top innovations currently revolutionising gaming in the USA

    Few entertainment industries are at the mercy of technologies as much as the video games industry. In just a handful of decades, we have seen gaming come from giving us blocky pixellated games like Space Invaders to some truly eye-opening open-world adventures such as last year’s masterpiece Red Dead Redemption II.

    So what are the innovations which are going to change the way we enjoy gaming in the USA in the coming period? From incredible breakthroughs in software to some stunning pieces of hardware, it looks like we are in for plenty of thrilling times ahead.

    Freedom to play what you want, where you want

    2020 looks to be a breakthrough year for gaming, as many initiatives are showcasing a diverse mix of tech solutions that run complex gaming systems. Games are now easier to access and have better gameplays. This is not only true for video games. Technology has made it possible for us to step inside a virtual casino and enjoy licensed gambling in the USA for anything from leading online slots to table games. Furthermore, we are all looking to benefit from the advent of cloud gaming too.

    The concept of cloud gaming is that you can play games without needing to buy or download any software. All of the processing would be executed remotely so you could get by, without needing to purchase any specialised gaming hardware. In theory, this would give rise to real cross-platform gaming and hopefully end the war between Xbox and PlayStation once and for all.

    There’s something of a goldrush amongst big players like Google, Microsoft, Electronic Arts, Sony and Tencent to pioneer the first mainstream cloud gaming platform. Google’s Stadia was released at the end of 2019, and while it had a rocky start, the fact that it could soon be a free service in the USA would be a notable turning point in the evolution in cloud gaming.

    Why video games are getting smarter

    Artificial intelligence is gradually permeating all aspects of our daily lives, and this is nowhere more evident than in the gaming world. We have already seen how AI computers such as DeepMind’s AlphaGo program have proven to be unbeatable at games like Go, and it seems as though artificial intelligence is set to play a greater role in how video games are created too.

    It is expected that a new generation of AI game development means will be unveiled, such tools that can create sophisticated games which will change in correspondence to a gamer’s behaviour. That could lead to the gradual evolution of intelligent in-game characters, and it will make the procedurally generated universes created in open-world games like No Man’s Sky to seem very outdated quickly.

    We already see artificial intelligence software competing in esports such as Dota 2, and it’s the arrival of AI opponents that could significantly boost both the competitiveness and our enjoyment of video gaming in the coming years.

    The VR Revolution arrives at last

    OK, so the virtual reality gaming revolution didn’t take off quite as quickly as many people predicted. But there’s growing evidence that VR hardware might finally be reaching the point where it’s starting to penetrate the mainstream.

    Recently released figures from Valve have shown that they experienced the most significant one-month jump in use of VR headsets over the festive period. That suggests that new technologies like the Oculus Rift S could be well on the way from becoming techie’s playthings to becoming essential pieces of gaming hardware.

    Clearly, there will still be a percentage of gamers who still hanker after retro gaming machines like the Atari. Again, the evidence suggests that a new generation of players will be more keen to embrace all of the potentials that come with the latest VR technologies.