Gibson Donating Signed Gibson SG Guitars At Black Sabbath's ‘Back To The Beginning’ Concert

Gibson is partnering with the historic forthcoming Back To The Beginning show, the long-awaited, one-night-only all-star concert this Saturday July 5, at Villa Park in Birmingham. The event marks the first performance in over 20 years of the original Black Sabbath lineup: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward.

Gibson is donating two Gibson SG Standard guitars (the model beloved by Tony Iommi), which will be signed by the artists backstage at the show. Music fans worldwide will have the chance to bid on these one-of-a-kind signed guitars during the high-profile charity auction live at ozzyauction.co.uk, which will run only until 10pm on Sunday, July 6. All proceeds from the auction will be shared equally between three causes close to the Osbourne family’s heart: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorns Children’s Hospice.

"It’s an honor to pay tribute to Tony Iommi and Black Sabbath, and it’s back to the beginning for me as well,” says Cesar Gueikian, President and CEO of Gibson. “I started playing guitar because of Black Sabbath and Tony’s riffs. Tony is 'THE RIFFLORD' and the bands paying tribute to Black Sabbath on this epic day owe a great deal to them for paving the way for heavy metal. I am deeply honored to call Tony my friend, my adopted godfather, and to have had the chance to collaborate with him at Gibson and on the single 'Deconstruction,' co-written with Serj Tankian. I wouldn’t be at Gibson without that moment when I was 10 years old, when after discovering Black Sabbath, my life in music unfolded from that point onward. All of us at Gibson are proud to be playing a part in this epic last show and going back to where everything began for Black Sabbath!"

Alongside the Gibson SG Standard guitars, Gibson will also be present backstage with a selection of guitars, as well as an interactive experiences and a photo booth with Indian Motorcycles as part of the unforgettable backstage environment available for the performers, VIP guests, and industry legends.

This is a unique opportunity to celebrate a defining moment in rock and roll history while supporting three life-changing charities. Every bid placed will directly help fund vital research, care and support for those who need it most. Fans interested in bidding on the Gibson SG guitars, or other items in the Back to the Beginning charity auction, can find more details at ozzyauction.co.uk.

Back To The Beginning marks the historic return of the original Black Sabbath – Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward – performing together for the first time in 20 years. The all-star celebration of heavy metal’s founding fathers will see Osbourne take to the stage for a short solo set before reuniting with Black Sabbath for his final ever performance, making this one of the most significant live music events of the decade.

Osbourne said: “It’s my time to go Back to the Beginning… time for me to give back to the place where I was born. How blessed am I to do it with the help of people whom I love. Birmingham is the true home of metal. Birmingham Forever.”

Formed in Birmingham in 1968, Black Sabbath went on to become one of the most influential and successful metal bands of all time, selling over 75 million albums and defining a genre. Music Director Tom Morello has described Back to the Beginning as “the greatest heavy metal show ever.”

The event will also feature performances from Metallica, Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, Pantera, Gojira, Alice In Chains, Halestorm, Lamb Of God, Anthrax and Mastodon. A supergroup of legendary musicians will also take to the stage, with confirmed artists including Billy Corgan, David Draiman, Duff McKagan, Slash, Frank Bello, Fred Durst, Jake E Lee, Jonathan Davis, KK Downing, Lzzy Hale, Mike Bordin, Rudy Sarzo, Sammy Hagar, Scott Ian, Sleep Token ii, Papa V Perpetua, Tom Morello, and Zakk Wylde.

BEAT, Featuring King Crimson's Adrian Belew, Tony Levin, Plus Guitarist Steve Vai, Tool Drummer Danny Carey, Announce Live Album

 

Former King Crimson members Adrian Belew and Tony Levin banded together with guitar virtuoso Steve Vai and explosive Tool drummer Sanny Carey to create BEAT, a creative reinterpretation of the three iconic 80s King Crimson albums - Discipline, Beat, and Three Of A Perfect Pair. In 2024, the ensemble staged 65 standing room only shows in North America. They followed this touring with an expansive run of Mexico and South America in 2025. 

BEAT will release BEAT LIVE on September 26 in partnership with InsideOutMusic/Sony. A first reveal has been presented of the performance of “Neal and Jack and Me.” Check it out below.

On September 1, BEAT will perform a record release show at the legendary Budokan in Tokyo.

Adrian Belew reflects, “You're walking on stage with three virtuoso musicians, world class professionals who have seen it all but are still having fun playing this music which is timeless and unlike anything done before or since and the audience knows every word and are so thrilled with the performance the energy and love beaming back at you is overwhelming. What could be better?”

Steve Vai shares, “Touring with BEAT has proved to be so much more than I could have expected. Performing this music with Adrian, Tony and Danny has been one of my favorite touring experiences and we are now at the top of our game and captured the magic on BEAT LIVE.”

Tony Levin offers, “The band rocks. So glad we got high quality recordings of what it is we do live - innovation meets classic material.”

Danny Carey states, “I look forward to every show I get to perform with Tony, Adrian and Steve with excitement and awe. Playing gigs with musicians of this caliber is a dream come true. These songs are fun and challenging and the promise of inspiration, execution, and surprise has never let me down. I can’t wait to do more!”

BEAT LIVE will be released in three configurations. A triple-LP set, a Blu-ray release accompanied by two CDs and a 12-page photo booklet, and lastly a limited collector’s edition that will contain the Blu-ray, two CDs, a bonus CD, and a 36-page artbook. 

The Blu-ray track listing features “Neurotica,” “Neal and Jack and Me,” “Heartbeat,” “Sartori In Tangier,” “Model Man,” “Dig Me,” “Man With An Open Heart,” “Industry,” “Larks' Tongues In Aspic Part lll,” “Waiting Man,” “The Sheltering Sky,” “Sleepless,” “Frame By Frame,” “Matte Kudasai,” “Elephant Talk,” “Three Of A Perfect Pair,” “Indiscipline,” “Red,” and “Thela Hun Ginjeet.” The concert film was directed by Scrote, with a collective delivering the editing amongst whom include Scrote, Steve Vai (Harmony Hut, Encino), Alan Berry and Don Adams.  The bonus material video was directed and edited by Alan Berry.  Additionally, a mid-tour interview captured by Sweetwater is included in the program. Videography was captured by Alan Berry, Mike Skillsky, Jon Luini and Dan Ermey.  Art Direction by Scrote and designer Dan Ermey.  Photography compliments of Alison Dyer, Tony Levin, Peter Dervin, Jerry LoFaro, Mike Skillsky, Dan Ermey and Jim Snyder.

On the audio side, BEAT LIVE was produced by Scrote and Mixed by Bob Clearmountain, assisted by Ira Becker. Mastering by Emily Lazar at The Lodge, assisted by Bob DeMaa. Audio editing by Scrote, Steve Vai (Harmony Hut, Encino), and additional audio production assistance by Bill Mims

The bonus CD contained in the deluxe set features the track listing “Neurotica,” “Neal and Jack and Me,” “Heartbeat,” “Sartori in Tangier,” “Frame by Frame,” “Industry,” “Larks' Tongues In Aspic Part III,” “Elephant Talk,” “Matte Kudasai,” “Three of a Perfect Pair,” “Indiscipline” and “Thela Hun Ginjeet.”

The vision for this undertaking emanated from initial dialogue between Angelo Bundini aka Scrote and Adrian Belew. Tour Producer Bundini recalls, “When Adrian called me to help bring his idea to fruition, I immediately thought it best to focus on the 80s albums: Discipline, Beat, and Three Of A Perfect Pair. These three records famously mark Adrian and Tony's entry into King Crimson. Their fluid, melodic virtuosity, and Fripp's and Bruford's dramatic precision created a totally unique, dynamic push and pull that would influence nearly every rock musician and/or band going forward for years, if not decades, to come.”

During an interview with VintageRock.com in 2024, Adrian Belew was optimistic about the future of BEAT. “We have hinted with each other that if it went long enough, we’d probably start writing things of our own. You got to take it in steps. The first step is what we’re doing now. The second step would be to take this as many other places as we could. You’ve got all of Asia, South America, and all of Europe, Australia, so forth. I think if we’re super lucky, we would get to do all of that. That would be my dream.” 

Now that BEAT has fulfilled Belew's vision, the rest of the world can see what all the fuss is about by tapping into BEAT LIVE. 

Rhino Announces High Fidelity ZZ Top 'From The Top (1979–1990)' Box Set

 

ZZ Top delivers the fireworks on July 4 with From The Top (1979–1990), a limited-edition collection from Rhino High Fidelity (Rhino Hi-Fi) that trails the Texas trio on the road to worldwide fame. Following the first volume’s sellout last year, the sequel features five albums from the height of the band’s mainstream success.

From The Top (1979–1990) includes Degüello (1979), El Loco (1981), Eliminator (1983), Afterburner (1985), and Recycler (1990). Lacquers for each album were AAA cut from the original stereo master tapes by Kevin Gray and pressed on 180-gram heavyweight vinyl at Optimal. The albums are housed in a faux-leather slipcase, and the collection is limited to 3,000 individually numbered copies. The collection is available today for pre-order exclusively at Rhino.com.

 

Pre-order From The Top (1979–1990) 

ZZ Top came together in Houston with vocalist and guitarist Billy Gibbons, bassist Dusty Hill, and Frank Beard behind the drums. Blending electric blues, boogie, and humor, the trio steadily built a following through relentless touring and a streak of increasingly confident records. From The Top (1979–1990) picks up as the band entered a new decade—one where their sound expanded, their videos took over MTV, and their beards grew right along with their fanbase.

After a brief hiatus, ZZ Top returned in 1979 with Degüello, a looser record built around funkier grooves like “Cheap Sunglasses,” with its staccato backbeat and crescendo of “oh yeahs.” Their version of Sam and Dave’s “I Thank You” became a fan favorite, Gibbons says in the album’s new liners notes by James Austin. “Our cover emerged unabashedly with a one-take stab onto the tape machine, and the tale was told and remains a recurrent requested number on stage and over radio stations everywhere.”

They scored a Top 20 hit in 1981 with El Loco, which introduced classics like “Tube Snake Boogie” and “Pearl Necklace.” The trio kept one foot in the blues while experimenting with new sounds, telegraphing their next move with synths on “Groovy Little Hippie Pad” and processed drums on “Party On The Patio.”

Released in 1983, Eliminator marked a seismic shift for ZZ Top, blending their blues-rock foundation with driving tempos, synthesizers, and airtight songwriting. The album became a phenomenon—Diamond-certified, spending over two years on the charts and delivering a trio of massive hits: “Gimme All Your Lovin’,” “Sharp Dressed Man,” and “Legs.” Backed by a striking run of MTV videos, the band reached a new generation of fans and became unexpected pop culture icons.

Afterburner followed in 1985, pushing the synth-driven sound even further. Tracks like “Sleeping Bag,” “Velcro Fly,” and “Rough Boy” kept the band on heavy radio rotation, while the album climbed to #4 on the charts and was certified five times platinum in the U.S. alone. “So many wacky gadgets suddenly seemed to appear in the studio,” Gibbons recalls. “The temptation of experimentation took us all in… and some satisfying mayhem unfolded. And that’s defiantly rock ’n’ roll.”

Recycler arrived in 1990, opening a new decade with a Top 10, platinum-certified exclamation point. Tracks like “My Head’s In Mississippi” and “2000 Blues” leaned into their blues roots, while “Doubleback”—featured in Back to the Future Part III —g ave them another high-profile hit. It was the final album in a remarkable trilogy that defined ZZ Top’s sound — and look — for years to come.

80s Central Announces ‘Live Aid At 40,’ Re-Broadcast + Interviews With Queen’s Brian May & Others

 

On July 13, 80s Central, an all-'80s radio station on the internet, is turning back the clock to one of the most iconic moments in music history: Live Aid. In honor of the legendary concert’s 40th anniversary, the station will broadcast Live Aid in its entirety, commercial-free, exactly as it happened in 1985, while featuring brand-new interviews with artists, insiders, and voices who were there when rock 'n' roll united the world.

"For 80s fans, this is the Super Bowl, the Grammys, and New Year’s Eve rolled into one,” said Christopher Shaw, Program Director at 80s Central. “Live Aid wasn’t just a concert — it was our Woodstock. And here at 80s Central, we’re honored to bring this historic day back to life.”

Beginning Sunday, July 13 at 8:00 a.m. ET, the rebroadcast of Live Aid takes place as it originally unfolded — uninterrupted and in real time, from both Wembley Stadium in London and JFK Stadium in Philadelphia. Listeners can relive every note, every roar from the crowd, and every transcendent moment that defined the spirit of a generation.

The broadcast will include unforgettable sets from Queen, U2, David Bowie, Elton John, Madonna, Led Zeppelin, The Who, Paul McCartney, Bob Dylan, Phil Collins, Sting, and many more. Even moments like Phil Collins performing on both sides of the Atlantic — thanks to a Concorde jet — will be faithfully recreated in their original sequence.

Interspersed throughout the music are never-before-heard reflections from artists and key players who helped bring Live Aid to life.

 “It was one of our finest hours — definitely one of Freddie’s finest hours. The planets were aligned, and the magic happened,” said guitarist Brian May of Queen). “No lights. No soundcheck. But it worked—because it was oiled by extreme goodwill. Everyone’s heart was in the right place.”

Solo artist Howard Jones added: “It was the most brilliant project of the ‘80s. Saving lives, showing the decade wasn’t just about greed and power.”

MTV VJ Mark Goodman who was on hand for Live Aid summed it up perfectly: “It was a seat-of-the-pants situation—terrifying and wonderful. People say it was the day the record business grew a conscience — and I saw that.”

Additional commentary will include rare behind-the-scenes insights from production staff, journalists, and crew members who worked feverishly to pull off one of the most ambitious broadcasts in history.

Live Aid At 40 is more than just a replay of a concert—it’s a global remembrance of a cultural awakening. Broadcast live to over 1.5 billion people in 150 countries, Live Aid raised more than $125 million for Ethiopian famine relief and forever changed the way music could serve a purpose beyond entertainment.

The 80s Central broadcast will also feature key international performances, including satellite-linked events like “Oz for Africa” in Sydney (featuring INXS, Men at Work, and Little River Band), as well as segments from Moscow, Tokyo, and Toronto — underscoring the unprecedented global scale of the effort.

Whether you're reliving it or experiencing it for the first time, Live Aid At 40 on 80s Central is your all-access pass to the day music made history. Prepare for a 10-hour, commercial-free celebration of a singular moment when the world came together in harmony — and made a difference. 

📡 How to Listen

📅 Sunday, July 13

⏰ 8:00 a.m. ET – Until the final encore

🌐 Stream it at 80sCentral.com or listen via Alexa, Roku, Audacy, Live365, or the 80s Central mobile app

Norman Greenbaum's 'Spirit In The Sky' Receives First-Ever Video

Few riffs can spark instant joy like the opening fuzz-box blast of Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit in the Sky.” First released in 1969, the four-minute-long psychedelic rocket—anchored by gritty guitar riffs and a foot-stomping gospel chorus—shot to No.1 across the globe including the US, UK, Australia and beyond, selling millions and cementing itself as a cultural touchstone. The track has been covered by everyone from Bauhaus to Elton John, with memorable placements in classic films including Apollo 13, Ocean’s Eleven and Guardians of the Galaxy. Now, more than half a century later, Craft Recordings celebrates the evergreen anthem with its first official music video, inviting a new generation to crank the volume.

Created with Greenbaum’s blessing (he even pops in for a quick cameo), the project was directed by Laurence Harlan Jacobs, who has helmed original films and music videos—including the fan-favorite 50th-anniversary short for CCR’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain,” which has racked up over half a billion views (and counting). He’s also directed and produced projects for Oscar®-winner Steve Martin, GRAMMY®-winners Common, Iggy Pop and Robert Glasper, plus Valerie June and Grace Potter. Written and produced by Jessica Jacobs, “Spirit in the Sky” tips its hat to Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, as it follows a teen (Conor Sherry) who's been grounded and completely cut off from technology. He decides to “borrow” his dad’s vintage convertible for an unforgettable, analog adventure in Los Angeles with his partner-in-crime (Abby Ryder Fortson).

Shot on location in Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach, the video bottles the carefree rush of summer adventure while doubling as a love letter to L.A.’s post-wildfire resilience. Siblings Laurence and Jessica—both L.A. natives—sprinkle in hometown Easter eggs only locals will spot, from a vintage Pali High hoodie to golden-hour walks over the Ballona Creek Bridge. Watch the video below.

Director Laurence Harlan Jacobs shares, “When I was asked to pitch on this video, I knew it was a tall order—everyone knows this song! It’s been in so many movies and commercials. So we set out to craft a story that could emotionally hold its own—something personal and intimate that would live in harmony with the iconic song and speak to a new generation. Jessica, our writer-producer, penned a beautiful, relatable tale. Her idea captured the magic of our childhood—growing up on the Westside, listening to cassettes in our dad’s convertible, being silly and fearless with the wind in our faces. We were inspired by our filmmaking heroes, John Hughes and Cameron Crowe, and wanted to embody that same free spirit and sincerity.” He adds, “We filmed all over the city, ensuring the characters’ journey felt authentic—especially for SoCal natives. But most of all, we wanted to do the song justice and capture a sense of timelessness—one where you lose track of time, embrace your inner weird, and ride a wave of unexpected joy.”

Portraying the film’s sweetly rebellious lead, Conor Sherry channels “Spirit in the Sky” for a new generation. “Doing this project was really cool because ‘Spirit in the Sky’ is one of those songs I’ve heard a bunch of times, but never actually sat with until now...” On the video’s themes, Sherry adds, “With the rapid rise of AI, stepping away from all of that and making real-life memories felt especially relevant. And honestly, doing all that with a song that’s objectively timeless and working alongside Abby, who is incredibly talented, made it even more meaningful.”

Fresh off a starring role in the 2024 coming-of-age film, Snack Shack, the 24-year-old actor and recent UCLA graduate can also be seen in the Amazon Prime series The Terminal List and the third season of Nickelodeon’s anthology series, Are You Afraid of the Dark? Coming up, Sherry will star as Adam Sandler’s son in the highly-anticipated Netflix film, Happy Gilmore 2.

Abby Ryder Fortson, meanwhile, offers an equally engaging performance as Sherry’s on-screen accomplice. Speaking to the video’s seize-the-moment spirit—and what drew her to the project—Fortson shares, “To me, this song represents taking life by the reins and enjoying it while we can. In our modern-day world of technology constantly in the palm of our hands, it’s easy to forget that sometimes the best things in life are right in front of you. To all the teens out there (and honestly, adults too) who feel disconnected even while being constantly connected, I challenge you this summer: Put your phone down. Drive to a friend’s and go on an adventure. Get a film camera and make real memories without the pressure of posting. Go out and explore the world, wherever you are. There’s something magical waiting for you as soon as you put your phone away.”

A Critics ’Choice nominee, Fortson is best known for portraying the title character in the 2023 film adaptation of Judy Blume’s classic novel, Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret, opposite Rachel McAdams, Kathy Bates, and Benny Safdie. Last year, she appeared in the 2024 Tribeca Narrative winner, Griffin in Summer, while she can also be seen in such popular films as Ant-Man and A Dog’s Journey. The 17-year-old actor has also been active on TV, with recurring roles in Togetherness, Stephen Spielberg’s The Whispers, and, most recently HBO’s hit show, The Pitt.

The premiere of “Spirit in the Sky” follows a recent reissue of the single in stunning Dolby Atmos®, while, earlier in June, Craft Recordings reissued its namesake 1969 album on vinyl. Speaking to the renewed spotlight on his signature hit, Greenbaum declares, “Half a century later, my song, ‘Spirit in the Sky’ is finding many, many new fans—not to mention, it has a Dolby Atmos® mix and now, a super great video by Craft’s incredible team. How cool. It’s so exciting. Here’s to another 50!!!”

 

Click here to watch “Spirit in the Sky.”

 

Click here to listen to the single on Dolby Atmos or stream/order the Spirit in the Sky album.

On The Blue Cruise Announces Final Artist Lineup

On The Blue Cruise has announced the final artist lineup for this year's classic rock experience at sea, On The Blue Cruise (OTBC). Hosted and headlined by Rock & Roll Hall of Fame artist Justin Hayward, the voice of The Moody Blues, and featuring an array of events and musical performances from over 25 artists, this seven-night full-ship charter cruise sets sail August 22-29, 2025 aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem, departing out of Boston, Massachusetts. The voyage, dubbed Forever Autumn, will visit four ports: Halifax and Sydney, Nova Scotia, Saint John, New Brunswick, and Portland, Maine.

This voyage is truly unique for several reasons. It’s the first seven-day cruise that promoter On The Blue Cruises, Inc. has ever produced and it's also their inaugural itinerary visiting these four ports. Additionally, OTBC ‘25 marks the first music cruise charter to depart out of the Northeast and visit the beautiful Canada/New England shoreline, making it an unprecedented experience for all attendees.

A limited number of cabins are still available starting at $1,899.00 per person (double occupancy, not including mandatory taxes and fee supplement). For booking and more info, visit OnTheBlueCruise.com and @OnTheBlueCruise on Facebook.

Hayward’s performances will include songs from his solo archives along with deep cuts from five decades of material from The Moody Blues. Plus, fans will be able to attend an intimate Q&A with the rock legend, who will be sharing insight into his career and music. This year’s cruise theme, Forever Autumn, is taken from the title of a fan-favorite recording of Hayward’s.

In addition to Hayward, OTBC 2025’s lineup features Alan Parsons, Starship featuring Mickey Thomas, The Orchestra feat. Electric Light Orchestra and ELO Part II former members, Colin Blunstone from The Zombies, Al Stewart, Leonid & Friends (the music of Chicago), Ambrosia, April Wine, Wishbone Ash, Honeymoon Suite, Michal Sadler of SAGA, Richie Furay of Buffalo Springfield and Poco, Fran Cosmo (former lead singer of Boston), The Weeklings, The Young Dubliners, Ricky Nelson Remembered, Pat Travers, Randy Hansen, Top of the World (the music of The Carpenters), Mellow Yellow, Marbin, Fernando Perdomo, The Bottom Feeders, The Empty Pockets, All Hat No Cattle, and Dueling Pianos.

Beyond the many band performances on multiple stages, the cruise will feature well-curated activities and events, such as artist photo experiences, themed-nights, Mellow Yellow Dance Party, Painting with Rock Stars, Exclusive Dance Club Experience with Instructors, and a wine tasting event, with much more to be announced. Also, it will be whale watching season, so travelers might catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

For the first time in OTBC history, attendees will enjoy the intimate and relaxed ambiance of Norwegian Cruise Line’s stunning Jewel-class ship, the Norwegian Gem®. This ship is specifically designed to cater to the concert cruise industry, offering a unique and memorable experience, top-tier music venues, exceptional dining choices, and the renowned friendly and attentive service of NCL. The ship also features a stellar pool deck that transforms into the Outdoor Concert Stage where guests can bask in the sun while watching the all-star lineup of bands perform. When it comes to dining, you can find a variety of complimentary and specialty restaurants, including Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Teppanyaki. For some “me time,” there’s the award-winning Mandara Spa and Thermal Suite, as well as hot tubs and pools. The excitement doesn’t end when the sun goes down, the ship also offers unique bars and lounges, as well as a casino. 

Boston, Massachusetts

OTBC ‘25 cruisers will embark on their adventure in the historic city of Boston, where the past seamlessly blends with the present. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Freedom Trail, explore the lively markets at Faneuil Hall, enjoy the breathtaking views from Boston Harbor, catch a live show at the Boston Opera House, wander through the bustling streets of Harvard Square, or catch a ball game at the beloved Fenway Park. Boston’s cuisine is unparalleled ‒ from classic New England clam chowder and lobster rolls to freshly caught raw clams and oysters paired with Boston cream pie. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and delectable cuisine, Boston is the perfect starting point. Click here for a sample of Boston shore excursions.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Next, voyagers will sail to the enchanting city of Halifax. Renowned for its maritime heritage, Halifax offers a delightful mix of history and modernity. Travelers can visit the iconic Citadel Hill, take a scenic drive to Peggy’s Cove, a quaint fishing village with fewer than 40 residents and home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, or spend the afternoon sipping award-winning wines from the vineyards of Annapolis Valley near the Bay of Fundy on the Annapolis Valley Wine and Cheese excursion. 

Sydney, Nova Scotia

The journey continues to the picturesque beauty of Sydney. Nestled on Cape Breton Island, Sydney serves as a gateway to stunning landscapes and rich Celtic heritage, making it a highlight of the cruise. Some of the featured excursions in this port include a scenic drive along the Cabot Trail, renowned for its breathtaking coastal views and hiking trails, and a visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg, a meticulously restored 18th-century French fortress. Sydney is famous for traditional Acadian dishes, such as rappie pie and meat pie, both savory indulgences considered iconic to the area. 

Saint John, New Brunswick

In Saint John, cruisers will be enchanted by the blend of history and natural wonders. Discover the unique phenomenon of the Reversing Falls, wander through the charming streets of the historic Uptown area, take a scenic drive along the Bay of Fundy, explore the city's history at the New Brunswick Museum and the Loyalist House, or stroll along the Harbour Passage, a scenic waterfront walkway with stunning views. For food, get on the Saint John Seafood Hopping tour or visit the Saint John City Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers’ market in Canada. 

Portland, Maine

The final port of call is the delightful coastal city of Portland. Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and delectable cuisine, Portland is a sensory delight. Cruisers can stroll through the Old Port district, explore breathtaking sights along the Maine Coast, visit the charming seaside town Kennebunkport, or experience fresh lobster, clam chowder, and blueberry pie, a Maine specialty. Portland’s eclectic charm is the perfect way to conclude this incredible journey. 

Gentle Giant Singer & Record Executive Derek Shulman Announces Memoir

 

Giant Steps is an eye-opening memoir from Derek Shulman that traces his extraordinary journey through music, from 1960s pop fame with Simon Dupree & The Big Sound to cult status as frontman of progressive rock pioneers Gentle Giant, and later as a record executive who signed and developed global acts like Bon Jovi, Dream Theater, and Slipknot. He also played a key role in revitalizing the careers of legends such as AC/DC and Bad Company. The book will be available October 7.

Pre-order Giant Steps - North America & UK/EU 

In Giant Steps, Derek Shulman chronicles a remarkable life and career surrounded by music and creativity in many forms. It begins with a young Derek confidently telling his schoolteacher he would grow up to become a star, and unfolds into a fast-paced and eye-opening journey through decades of pop culture, creative risk-taking, and personal reinvention.

Shulman first found fame as a teenager in the 1960s pop and R&B group Simon Dupree & The Big Sound, then pushed rock music to the outer edges in the 1970s as frontman of progressive rock pioneers Gentle Giant.

In the 1980s, he made a bold pivot into the record business, taking on senior roles at labels like Polygram, ATCO, and Roadrunner Records. There, he signed and developed artists including Bon Jovi, Dream Theater, Slipknot, Pantera, and Men Without Hats, while also helping to revitalize the careers of AC/DC, Bad Company, and others.

Along the way Gentle Giant would become a defining influence on hip-hop, sampled by many of the genre’s leading lights including J. Dilla, De La Soul, Run The Jewels, Travis Scott and dozens more. The band was later championed by Questlove, drummer of The Roots and acclaimed filmmaker, who named them one of his favorite rock acts of all time.

Clean-living and focused in an industry often defined by chaos and excess, Shulman offers a rare perspective on the evolution of music and culture from the 1960s to today. Giant Steps is essential reading for fans of prog, rock, hip-hop, and anyone curious about the inner workings of the music industry.

"Derek Shulman was there before there was a there," Jon Bon Jovi said in a staement. "We grew together as a team. We learned as we lived. He was the one real A&R man that we could count on when we needed him." 

Elton Jon adds: "Many years ago, I had the privilege of playing with Simon Dupree & The Big Sound on a tour of Scotland. It was a joyous experience. The band were fabulous musicians and great guys and treated me so well." 

Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull comments: "The intensity of Gentle Giant’s performances sometimes extended from stage to dressing room after their show when a noisy post-mortem might erupt into murderous fraternal screaming matches over a missed semi-quaver or less than perfect vocal harmony. Spirited bunch, the Giants, in full flow. Move over, Cain. Step aside, Abel."

Toto's Steve Lukather was also a Gentle Giant fan. "We were into prog rock hard back then and loved it all. However, Gentle Giant was different. The articulate and musically experimental yet beautiful music that came out of the speakers was captivating."