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Sabrina Carpenter and Johnnie Walker Black Label Ruled Grammys Weekend

by Jonathan Tolliver
written by Jonathan Tolliver

Sabrina Carpenter is taking over my life! Trust and believe, I’m not mad.

The “Manchild” singer paired with Johnnie Walker on the rooftop of the Aster Hotel to light up the Hollywood sky with music and some truly fanciful flights.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 30: The Go Go Highball and Johnnie Walker Black Label are pictured ahead of the biggest night in music at The Aster on January 30, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. Stars were seen sipping on the cocktail of the weekend, the Go Go Highball, created by Johnnie Walker with GRAMMY award-winning partner Sabrina Carpenter. (Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Johnnie Walker)

The Go Go Highball is her signature Johnnie Walker Black Label collaborative concoction. It was a smoky and sublime drink that welcomed us all to the city’s best Grammys soiree.

They also collaborated on a crystal embellished clutch that Carpenterinas around the world are begging for as we speak.

Johnnie Walker and Sabrina also collaborated on these unbelievable large scale animations that ruled the Hollywood skyline. Breathtaking much?

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 30: Johnnie Walker lights up the skyline of Los Angeles with large scale animations to celebrate music’s biggest weekend at The Aster on January 30, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Phillip Faraone/Getty Images for Johnnie Walker)

Max and Helen’s on Larchmont Boulevard was host to an after AFTER party. Shoutout to the art director, because this was a candy land cherry bomb.

I couldn’t stop dancing and making friends, a testament to the untouchable vibes curated by the creative team behind this night.

Carpenter dazzled at the Grammys with a campy, unforgettable performance surrounded by thirsty men. I’m sensing a theme here.

“This moment is the perfect celebration of our partnership with Sabrina: raising a Go Go Highball to her progress and the incredible milestones she has achieved as an artist, against the backdrop of music’s biggest weekend” said John Williams, Global Head of Whiskey at Diageo.

I can’t help but raise a glass to pop’s most exciting new artist and whiskey’s most trusted brand.

Cheers to many more nights sipping Johnnie Walker Black Label and dancing through Hollywood being the “Manchild” I was always born to be.

GO GO HIGHBALL

Ingredients:

  • 30ml (1oz) – Johnnie Walker Black LabeL
  • 90ml (3oz) – Schweppes (or other premium) Ginger Ale
  • 30ml (1oz) – Sour Cherry Juice*

Garnish: Two Black Cherries

Glassware: Highball

Ice: Cubed
Method: Build ingredients in chilled highball glass over lots of ice. Add sour cherry juice last to have a ‘drizzle’ effect. Garnish cocktail with two black cherries.

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EntertainmentKoncertsMusicUncategorized

BigXthaPlug and Clipse Unite Generations of Hip Hop at the Hollywood Palladium

by Sharafa Odusanya
written by Sharafa Odusanya

The sold out night at the Hollywood Palladium felt rooted in both legacy and momentum. Co-headlined by BigXthaPlug and Clipse, the show brought multiple generations of hip hop together in one room, with Armanii setting the tone as the opener.

Armanii kicked things off with confidence, warming up the crowd with a focused, high energy set that immediately pulled the room in. By the time BigXthaPlug hit the stage, the Palladium was already buzzing. The Texas rapper delivered a commanding performance, blending grit with crowd control while running through his standout records.

Photo Credit: Respective Collective

Photo Credit: Respective Collective

Mid set, BigX was surprised on stage by Steve Stoute of UnitedMasters, who presented him with six plaques in front of the packed venue. The honors included RIAA 2x platinum for “Take Care,” RIAA 2x platinum for “All The Way” featuring Bailey Zimmerman, a YouTube plaque for one million subscribers, an overall streaming plaque for I Hope You’re Happy celebrating one billion streams, and a Spotify plaque for “Mmhmm” recognizing 500 million streams. The moment was earned. In September 2025, BigXthaPlug earned his first No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Rap Songs chart with “All the Way,” while I Hope You’re Happy debuted in the top two on both Top Rap Albums and Top Country Albums. Watching him receive that recognition live added another layer to an already powerful set, marking a clear milestone in his rise.

Photo Credit: Respective Collective

Clipse followed with a performance that leaned into their catalog with precision and intensity. Pusha T and Malice opened with “Virginia” and “Keys Open Doors,” then moved through fan favorites like “Mr. Me Too,” “Ride Around Shining,” and “Wamp Wamp (What It Do).” One of the biggest moments of the night came when Pharrell Williams joined them on stage for “What Happened to That Boy,” sending the crowd into a full eruption as soon as he appeared. The energy only continued to build from there, peaking during “Grindin’,” before the duo closed with “Hot Damn” and “When the Last Time,” leaving the Palladium buzzing long after the final track.

Photo Credit: Respective Collective

Photo Credit: Respective Collective

From my perspective, the night worked because it balanced nostalgia with present day relevance. BigXthaPlug represented where hip hop is headed, while Clipse reminded everyone why their music still holds weight. Seeing both artists share headlining space highlighted how the culture continues to evolve while honoring its foundation. Beyond the performances, the event tied into UnitedMasters’ ongoing celebration of independent music leading into GRAMMY weekend. The platform continues to create space for independent artists who are shaping what’s next, and this night reflected that mission by spotlighting both established voices and rising stars.

Photo Credit: Respective Collective

Ultimately, the Palladium stop felt less like a standard concert and more like a convergence of generations. From BigXthaPlug’s milestone moment to Clipse’s razor sharp delivery, the evening highlighted how independent artists can lead culture while staying rooted in authenticity. It was a reminder that hip hop continues to grow, but its foundation remains built on real stories, real progress, and real connection with the crowd.

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EntertainmentMusic

Stars align at Freya Skye’s Hoxton Hall performance

by Lucy Niederman
written by Lucy Niederman

Teenagers stood clutching their phones in both hands, rehearsing what they might film, or maybe just trying to steady themselves. Parents lingered near the back, half-present, half-documenting. It felt less like a typical gig and more like a first-concert rite of passage unfolding in real time. Headlining two back-to-back shows at Hoxton Hall, in the same venue where she attended some of her first concerts as a kid, Freya Skye walked out to a sold-out room of endearing fans.

The first thing that struck me about the show was the crowd. Kids as young as four sat cross-legged on the floor or leaned over the balconies, squeezing past other fans in the hope of getting a wave from their favourite singer. There wasn’t a single moment when tweens weren’t screaming along to every lyric.

Watching it happen brought me straight back to my own earliest shows, something I reflect on when thinking about my first concert in 2009, the Jonas Brothers in the flesh! There’s a kind of nervous joy that exists only at your first concert, and it filled the room before Freya even stepped onstage.

The set itself was intentionally stripped back. Acoustic arrangements. It put the focus on Freya’s voice, lyricism, and the way she connected with the audience in front of her. She spoke between songs in a way that felt genuine, acknowledging the room without trying to control it.

PC: Uchechi Adeboye

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What stood out most was how present she was with the crowd. She wasn’t performing at them; she was performing with them. Songs like “silent treatment” landed differently in this setting. At only 16, Freya is in no way new to performance, the songwriter made her mark in 2022 as a contestant in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest. Four years later, Freya has clearly spent time honing her craft, and her recent film debut in Zombies 4: Dawn of the Vampires has only widened the circle of people finding their way to her music.

There was also something quietly emotional about seeing Freya perform in London, knowing this is where she’s from. In a year where her career has accelerated so quickly, this show felt grounding, like a pause before everything gets bigger. A moment to come home, and simply play.

Freya is taking this energy on the road next, heading out on sold-out her Stars Align Tour across the US and UK in February and March.

PC: Uchechi Adeboye

 

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EntertainmentEventsEventsFashion & BeautyFeaturedMusicNewsThe LatestTVUncategorized

All the Right Notes: Inside the 68th Annual Grammy Awards

by Jesse K
written by Jesse K

It was music’s biggest night—a cultural coronation draped in couture and soundtracked by the industry’s most daring icons. Whether you’re here for the fashion highlights or the show-stopping medleys, we’re keeping score on the moments that truly hit all the right notes.

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EventsMusicThe Latest

Magnum Ice Cream Brings Iconic Spray Bar Experience to Spotify’s Best New Artist 2026 Party

by Nishat Baig
written by Nishat Baig

On Thursday we had the pleasure of attending Spotify’s annual Best New Artist Party at The Lot at Formosa in Los Angeles. This annual celebration spotlights the 8 artists nominated for The Grammy Awards’ Best New Artist category. The night was filled with amazing musical performances by this year’s nominees, complimentary cocktails, multiple photo booths and delicious food, but the highlight was by far the innovative Spray Bar courtesy of Magnum Ice Cream.

We caught up with the Magnum Ice Cream team to shed some light on this engaging activation, “Magnum Ice Cream is bringing indulgence to the spotlight with an exclusive spray bar experience at Spotify’s iconic Best New Artist 2026 Party. At one of the music industry’s most high-profile events, guests have the opportunity to personalize their own Magnum Ice Cream Bars with the name of their BNA nominee pick. The interactive activation allows attendees to treat themselves to a moment of luxury and creativity, perfectly complementing the celebration of emerging musical talent. Magnum continues to celebrate self-expression and enjoyment, making every experience a little more memorable.”

Not only did guests enjoy customizing these sweet treats, it provided a nice cool down in between the high-energy performances. Additionally there were a plethora of food stations including mini pizzas, tacos, burgers and limitless drinks. Hilton had an entire suite dedicated to their partnership with Spotify including complimentary key cards, a photo booth, custom cocktails and lite bites.

The performances kicked off with Grammy-Award winning Leon Thomas, up for 6 nominations this year. The audience went crazy for his live version of “Mutt,” followed by a stunning performance by Lola Young and an amazing set by The Marias. Lola Young’s emotional live performance of “Sad Sob Story” was everything and more. Alex Warren, Katseye and Sombr did not disappoint. Katseye slayed with their impeccable choreography and high-energy dance moves for hits like “Gnarly”. Addison Rae turned up the heat with her back-up dancers and performed breakout hit “Diet Pepsi.” Olivia Dean closed out the night and sang her viral record “So Easy (To Fall In Love)” leaving guests wanting more.

In addition to the stellar performances there were many special guests in attendance including PinkPantheress, Shaboozey, Kaytranada, Diplo, Zara Larsson, Larray, Murda Beatz and many more.

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KoncertsMusicUncategorized

Room 112 Tour Brings R&B Nostalgia to Life at YouTube Theater

by Sharafa Odusanya
written by Sharafa Odusanya

The Room 112 Tour stop at YouTube Theater on January 23 felt like a reunion rooted in nostalgia, legacy, and connection. R&B staples 112 were joined by special guests Total and Case for a night that celebrated timeless records while honoring the artists and eras that shaped the culture.

From the moment doors opened, the crowd felt intentional. Fans arrived ready to sing, reminisce, and relive memories tied to songs that have lived in playlists for decades. Case warmed up the room with smooth vocals and an intimate stage presence that immediately set the tone. His set included standout performances of “Touch Me, Tease Me,” “Missing You,” and “Happily Ever After,” each met with loud singalongs from the crowd. “Touch Me, Tease Me” brought out the flirtier side of the audience, while “Missing You” created one of the night’s more emotional moments, with phones raised and voices filling the theater. He closed strong with “Happily Ever After,” reminding everyone why his ballads still resonate years later.

Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater

Total followed, bringing high energy despite performing without Pamela Long. Even with one member absent, the group delivered with confidence and cohesion. They performed fan favorites including “Kissing You,” “What About Us,” and “Can’t You See,” with each song receiving its own wave of nostalgia from the crowd. “Kissing You” felt especially powerful live, with layered harmonies echoing through the venue, while “What About Us” had fans dancing in their seats. One of the most meaningful moments of their set came during “Can’t You See,” when visuals of The Notorious B.I.G appeared on screen rapping his verse, allowing his presence to live on while the audience sang every word.

Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater

112 took the stage next, performing as a duo with Slim and Mike holding it down for the group. They opened their set with “It’s Over Now,” setting an emotional tone right from the start. Despite being down two members, Slim and Mike carried the performance with ease, blending polished vocals with genuine engagement that kept the audience locked in throughout.

Their set moved seamlessly between slow jams and crowd favorites, but the emotional high points came during their tributes to hip hop royalty. The group paid homage to both Biggie and Tupac, taking a moment to honor their influence and impact. Biggie appeared on screen once again during their performance of “Only You (Remix),” creating another powerful singalong moment that connected generations in real time. The show closed on a high note with “Peaches & Cream,” sending the crowd home on pure nostalgia and joy. It was the kind of ending that reminded everyone why these records still matter.

From my perspective, the night worked because it balanced reverence for the past with present-day appreciation. Even with altered lineups, both Total and 112 delivered performances rooted in authenticity and love for the music. Seeing Slim and Mike lead 112 with confidence, and watching Total command the stage without Pam, spoke to the longevity and resilience of artists who continue to show up for their fans.

Ultimately, the Room 112 Tour stop in Los Angeles felt less like a concert and more like a shared experience. It was a reminder that R&B lives in memory, emotion, and community. These songs are woven into people’s stories, and on this night, YouTube Theater became a space where generations came together to celebrate that legacy.

Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater

Photo credit: Noel Vasquez/YouTube Theater

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Future of Black MusicMusicThe Latest

Andre Chez: A Study in Musical Leadership

by JaMir Robert
written by JaMir Robert

Amidst a changing landscape, the power of thoughtful musicianship stands firm. Andre Chez has built a career grounded not in visibility, but in trust — trust earned through preparation, lineage, and a deep respect for the responsibility of musical leadership. His work reflects a philosophy shaped by lived experience, rigorous study, and a lifelong commitment to listening deeply.

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ArtEntertainmentEventsEventsLifestyleMusicThe LatestTheater

Christmas Night Opera Fills Carnegie Hall with World-Class Voices

by Tristen Yang
written by Tristen Yang

On December 27, The Christmas Night Opera filled Carnegie Hall with an audience made of longtime opera enthusiasts, devoted fans, and first-time listeners drawn by the holiday program. Set inside the Stern Auditorium, the evening brought together world-renowned vocalists and the American Symphony Orchestra for a concert that felt both celebratory and focused, offering a year-end gathering rooted in tradition rather than spectacle.

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