Keith Emerson passes away

Photo of EMERSON LAKE & PALMER

There has been yet another tragic loss to the world of music as prog legend Keith Emerson has sadly passed away aged 71. Rising to fame through Emerson, Lake & Palmer he was one of the most talented and innovative keyboardists in music history. Known for his flamboyant performances and wide array of equipment, he pioneered the use of synthesizers and was the first ever artist to tour with a Moog as part of his setup. He made a lasting impact on music history and our thoughts are with his family and friends.

George Martin passes away

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Legendary producer Sir George Martin has passed away aged 90. Commonly referred to as the “fifth Beatle”, he signed the fab four to Parlophone after other labels had turned them down. He produced all but one of their albums, played piano on a number of tracks and constantly pushed them to be as innovative as possible on albums such as Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. The most famous and most successful music producer in history, he has also worked with Cilla Black, Elton John and Jeff Beck and has produced two Bond themes. Few people have ever contributed so much to our culture and yet not be in the limelight. His work will live on as the lasting legacy of a great man.

AC/DC tour grinds to a halt

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The rock legends have had to reschedule the final 10 dates of their Rock or Bust Tour due to medical reasons. Frontman Brian Johnson has been told by doctors that carrying on would risk total hearing loss. The rescheduled concerts later in the year will most likely involve a guest vocalist, but given this latest development in a long list of misfortunes the future of the band has been called into question.

Spotlight!: Eryn Allen Kane

eryn allen kane

Soul music has started making a long overdue comeback. In it’s heyday it was some of the most powerful and emotional music ever recorded, so it’s no surprise that a new generation of talented people are trying to relive the glory days. One such rising star is this Detroit born singer/songwriter. She started out just writing simple arrangements, with percussion on laundry baskets and singing the parts of other instruments, working towards the day when she had a real band behind her. Her spellbinding voice on songs like ‘Honey’ and ‘Slipping’ and her compelling lyrics on ‘Have Mercy’ and ‘How Many Times’ make her one of the most enchanting new singers around. She was even personally chosen by Prince to provide vocals on his protest song ‘Baltimore’, and there are few recommendations better than that!

Any fans of Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Nina Simone should definitely check out Eryn’s two Aviary EPs.

Foo Fighters to split up? Clearly not!

Following growing rumours about an imminent breakup, the rock titans faced up to them in their trademark tongue-in-cheek style. The band released a spoof announcement video that features frontman Dave Grohl going solo and electronic and the rest of the band brainstorming ideas for a new lead singer, eventually settling on American pop singer Nick Lachey. The band have made it clear that they are in no danger of breaking up, however they will be taking an indefinite hiatus.

New American festival announced

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The team behind the world famous Coachella festival have announced the first ever Panorama festival in New York. Brought about as a rival to the Governor’s Ball festival that is held at the same venue, it’s first ever headliners are Arcade Fire, Kendrick Lamar and LCD Soundsystem. As far as festivals go, the more the merrier, and with a strong debut line-up it looks like Panorama is here to stay.