Tag: art

Ironmouse, KAF, and JKT48v Lead a Mixed-Reality Revolution in LA

Fantastic Reality Presented by IRIAM debuts mixed-reality 3D live mini-fest at Vermont Hollywood Theater in Los Angeles on July 3. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

🎤 Fantastic Reality: A Mixed-Reality 3D Live Festival Debuts in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA – Fantastic Reality presented by IRIAM is thrilled to unveil its debut mixed-reality 3D live mini-fest, bringing the world’s top virtual talent* to life on an IRL stage—complete with a live band, DJs, and immersive digital art. (Magnum PR, 2025)

This genre-defying event reimagines next-gen entertainment by uniting international virtual superstars like:

  • Ironmouse (Twitch’s top VTuber/performer)
  • KAF (Japanese chart-topping VSinger)
  • JKT48v (Jakarta’s virtual pop powerhouse)
  • and many more.

Together, this lineup commands over 9.5 million online followers.

📍 Event Details

🗓 Date: July 3, 2025
📍 Location: The Vermont Hollywood, Los Angeles
🕖 Doors Open: 7:00 PM
🎟 Tickets
📺 PPV: Launch date & platform TBA

🎶 Lineup Highlights

Headlined by Ironmouse, the festival also features:

  • Mint Fantome
  • KAF & Kou Mariya
  • CottontailVA
  • Derivakat
  • Isaa Corva
  • JKT48v

Live music will be performed by a band directed by Daryl Vanessa Barnes (aka StarlightDaryl), with:

  • Riptidesan on bass
  • OfficeDrummer on drums
  • Chacha (appearing virtually) on guitar

Mariya will host the event as MC, while DJs Mono Monet (virtual) and JOENN will keep the energy high between acts.

🌐 About Fantastic Reality

Launched as a techno-optimistic antidote to global disconnection and decay, Fantastic Reality offers a vibrant future where human and virtual performers coexist through fantasy, innovation, and groundbreaking production.

“Fantastic Reality is doing something that has always been impossible. We’re uniting our community in an intimate IRL space with a cutting-edge live show featuring international luminaries Ironmouse, KAF, JKT48v and more.”
— Kou Mariya, FR co-producer, performer, and MC

🧬 About the Creators & Partners

  • Kou Mariya – VTuber/VSinger since 2020 and co-producer of FR. Known for visionary leadership and community-driven creativity. Signed by V4Mirai (Brave Group US) in 2023.
  • Daryl Vanessa Barnes – Award-winning composer and VTuber (aka StarlightDaryl). Sound architect for over 150 VTubers, including Ironmouse and Zentreya.
  • ETC (Emerging Technology Company) – Co-producers of cutting-edge pop culture experiences like the Dodgers Experience at TokyoNode.
  • Bulldog DM – Live video pioneers crafting premium livestreams for global audiences.
  • Rust – An enigmatic producer of unpredictable, inspiring live moments.
  • IRIAM – A VTuber-centric mobile streaming platform making real-time fan interaction magical and meaningful.

🤖 What is Virtual Talent?

Virtual talent includes VTubers, VSingers, and digital pop stars—not AI, but real performers using motion capture and digital avatars to create content.

Blending anime, gaming, music, and art, the global VTuber market is currently worth $7B and projected to exceed $20B by 2035.

Stay tuned and step into the future with Fantastic Reality—where dreams, tech, and performance collide.

Psychedelic Science 2025: Denver’s Most Mind-Expanding Week of the Year

Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts headline Psychedelic Science 2025 kickoff party in Denver. Photo: Colorado Convention Center.

🎉 Psychedelic Science 2025 Brings the Party to Denver!

DENVER, CO — June 2025
Psychedelic Science 2025 (PS2025) isn’t just the world’s largest gathering of psychedelic researchers, therapists, and policymakers—it’s also a celebration of creativity, culture, and community. From June 16–20, Denver will come alive with a full week of immersive events, headlining performances, and wellness experiences that extend far beyond the walls of the Colorado Convention Center. (Psychedelic Science 2025)

🎶 Opening Night: Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live

PS2025 kicks off with an unforgettable launch party—Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts Live at the Mission Ballroom. This immersive night of music, comedy, and art is presented by Good Trip Studios, creators of Have a Good Trip: Adventures in Psychedelics (Netflix), who will also be capturing content for an upcoming sequel.

👉 Grab your tickets now.

🌆 Music, Magic & Movement Across Denver

In partnership with MAPS and Superfly (creators of Bonnaroo and Outside Lands), PS2025 will feature independently produced events all over Denver—open to both attendees and the public.

🎤 Headline Concerts

  • June 17: Flying Lotus & Reggie Watts – Mission Ballroom
  • June 18: Tycho – Ogden Theatre
  • June 19: Blind Melon – Cervantes
  • June 20: Drive-By Truckers – Ogden Theatre
  • June 19–22: LSZEE (4 immersive shows) – Mission Ballroom

🎨 More Must-See Experiences

From immersive art shows to movement workshops and comedy, here’s just a taste of what’s happening:

  • June 17:
    • Sasha Shulgin’s 100th Birthday Celebration
    • A NEW Trip with Shane Mauss
    • Poranguí & Savej: A Musical Journey
    • Iboga Saves: Ending Addiction
    • Shroomski Melt: The Visionary Art Superbowl
  • June 18:
    • Psychedelic Drag Speed Friending
    • The Psychedelic Playhouse @ Jonas Brothers Building
    • PRATI Party @ Town Hall Collaborative
  • June 19:
    • Operation Inner Peace
    • Queer Magic 2
  • Wellness Events:
    • Sunset Skyline Rooftop Yoga @ Catbird Hotel (June 18)
    • Mat Pilates on Tap (June 17)
    • Plants, Yoga & Beer @ Bierstadt Lagerhaus (June 22)
    • Friday Night Yin @ The Source Chiropractic (June 20)
    • BUNNY YOGA! @ Great Divide Barrel Bar (June 21)

💡 Note: These events are independently organized and not part of the official PS2025 program. Many are free or low-cost to promote inclusive access.

🤝 Why We Gather

“Whether you’re a veteran advocate or first-time attendee, there’s a place for you to dance, laugh, and connect. These events remind us why we’re here—to gather, grow, and find joy in the journey together.”
— Gina Vensel, Director of Media & Community Partnerships, PS2025

📅 Explore, Register, and Join Us

Visit Psychedelic Science 2025 to:

  • View the full conference agenda
  • Register for workshops and talks
  • Get travel and hotel info
  • Browse the complete list of community events.

About Psychedelic Science 2025

Hosted by MAPS and produced with Superfly, PS2025 is the world’s leading psychedelic conference. Since 2010, it has brought together scientists, therapists, cultural leaders, and changemakers to explore the future of psychedelic research, healing, and culture.

📍 When & Where:
June 16–20, 2025 | Colorado Convention Center, Denver

About MAPS

Founded in 1986, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) is a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the medical, legal, and cultural understanding of psychedelics and marijuana. With over $150 million raised to date, MAPS is pioneering new frontiers in mental health, drug policy reform, and public education.

✨ Come for the science. Stay for the community. Leave transformed. ✨

From Bourbon Pie to Skydiving: Unforgettable Father’s Day Ideas in San Antonio

Goode Company’s Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is available for a limited time. Photo: Goode Company, used with permission.

Celebrate Father’s Day in San Antonio: Food, Fun & Unforgettable Gifts

Father’s Day, celebrated on the third Sunday in June, honors fathers and father figures across the United States. It’s a day to express gratitude through cards, gifts, and quality time. Families often gather for barbecues, outings, or special meals. Children may craft homemade presents or share heartfelt messages. Communities also host local events leading up to the day. While traditions vary, the spirit remains the same—celebrating the love, support, and guidance dads provide.

In San Antonio, businesses are making it easier than ever to honor dads with indulgent food, thoughtful gifts, and some much-needed relaxation. From bourbon pies to Wagyu burgers and spa treatments, here’s a roundup of top Father’s Day offerings around the city. (Goode Company Online Shop, La Panaderia, Bakery Lorraine, Corinne San Antonio, Dean’s Steak & Seafood, Twang, iFLY Indoor Skydiving, 2025)

🍫 Goode Company Online Shop

Chocolate Bourbon Brazos Bottom Pecan Pie is back for a limited time! Infused with Milam & Greene bourbon and crafted with Texas-grown pecans and rich chocolate, this 9-inch pie serves 10 and costs $60. Available for nationwide shipping.

👉 Order from Goode Company

🍔 La Panaderia

The Alamo Burger is a must-try! Featuring 8 oz. Wagyu beef, Swiss cheese, organic greens, and pickled jalapeños on a spiral croissant—best enjoyed with a cold craft beer.

🍩 Bakery Lorraine

Celebrate Dad with:

  • Chocolate Sea Salt Donut – $4 each (limited time only)
  • Burger or Croque Monsieur Sandwich – $15 each

🥃 Corinne San Antonio & The Spa at Plaza San Antonio

Father’s Day Dinner at Corinne

  • 3-course prix-fixe menu — $70/person
  • 📅 Sunday, June 15
  • 💺 Limited reservations available here

Relax & Recharge Spa Package

  • 80-minute massage + body scrub — $225
  • Includes a Dad Water cocktail from Anaqua Garden Bar
  • 📅 Available through June 28
  • 📞 Call 210-353-8016 or book online

🥩 Dean’s Steak & Seafood at Kimpton Santo

June 13–15: Enjoy an Old Fashioned made with Elijah Craig Private Barrel Bourbon paired with a fine cigar—perfect for the dad who appreciates luxury and flavor.

🌶️ Twang

Spice up your gift with Twang’s bold flavors:

  • Beer Salt – citrus-infused
  • Drink Rimmers – for micheladas, margaritas, and more
  • Snack Salts – for topping or snacking solo
  • Michelada Mixers – made with real lime juice

🛒 Available online or at H-E-B, Walmart, Buc-ee’s, Kroger, Specs, and more.

🪂 iFLY Indoor Skydiving

For the adventurous dad!
Now through June 15, get 25% off 10 flights + all photos/videos (up to 5 flyers).

🎟️ Book your experience online and make it a Father’s Day to remember.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, make this Father’s Day one filled with good food, great memories, and heartfelt appreciation.

Aloha Vaqueros: Celebrating the Cultural Fusion of Mexican Vaqueros and Hawaiian Paniolos

Aloha Vaqueros: Briscoe Western Art Museum explores the western spirit across oceans. Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Aloha Vaqueros: Where the American West Meets the Pacific

On view June 13 – September 1, 2025 | Briscoe Western Art Museum

This summer, the Briscoe Western Art Museum invites you to journey beyond the mainland and explore an extraordinary chapter of the American West that stretches across the Pacific Ocean. Aloha Vaqueros, presented in partnership with the Museo del Vaquero de las Californias (MuVaCa), unveils the surprising and powerful ties between Mexico’s legendary vaqueros and Hawaii’s storied paniolo cowboys.

Member Preview Party – June 13, 6–8 p.m.

Briscoe members are invited to an exclusive preview party to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. Enjoy:

  • Beer, wine, and specialty cocktails
  • Light bites
  • Complimentary valet service

👉 RSVP here.

The Roots of a Cross-Cultural Cowboy Culture

Long before Hawaii became a U.S. state, Mexican vaqueros traveled across the Pacific in the early 1800s to teach cattle handling to Hawaiian islanders. These expert horsemen brought with them tools, techniques, and traditions that took root and evolved into Hawaii’s distinct paniolo culture—a unique blend of island spirit and Western grit that still thrives today.

“This exhibition beautifully illustrates the rich cultural exchange that helped shape the cowboy traditions of the Pacific. It’s a compelling reminder that the spirit of the West is both diverse and far-reaching, stretching from the plains of Texas to the mountains of Maui.”
— Liz Jackson, President and CEO, Briscoe Western Art Museum

What to Expect from the Exhibition

Through a rich collection of artwork, artifacts, and immersive storytelling, Aloha Vaqueros explores:

  • The deep-rooted traditions shared by vaqueros and paniolos
  • The artistry, attire, and music of island cowboys
  • The resilience and horsemanship central to both cultures
  • A hands-on educational area showcasing traditional island crafts

Developed by MuVaCa in El Triunfo, Baja California Sur, the exhibition challenges the conventional boundaries of the American West—broadening the story to include the Pacific’s enduring cowboy legacy.

Visit the Briscoe

📍 Briscoe Western Art Museum
210 W. Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205
🕘 Museum hours, parking, and admission information available online.

About the Briscoe Western Art Museum

Located on the San Antonio River Walk in the beautifully restored 1930s former public library, the Briscoe preserves and presents the art, history, and culture of the American West. Named in honor of Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. and his wife Janey Slaughter Briscoe, the museum features:

  • The Jack Guenther Pavilion for events and programs
  • The McNutt Sculpture Garden, an outdoor tribute to Western heritage

Don’t miss this chance to experience a chapter of Western history that redefines borders and celebrates a shared spirit of grit, grace, and tradition.

Photo: Briscoe Western Art Museum, used with permission.

Arcades, Lawsuits & Love Songs: Walter Day’s Legacy Hits a New Note

Arcades & Love Songs: The Ballad of Walter Day is the follow up film to the iconic indie The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

🎮🎶 Arcade & Love Songs: The Ballad of Walter Day — Release News, Review & Director’s Insight

The highly anticipated follow-up to The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters is finally here. Arcade & Love Songs: The Ballad of Walter Day will be available globally on TVOD and digital platforms beginning June 9, 2025. (Cinematic Red PR, 2025)

🎬 About the Film

Directed by Ed Cunningham (Undefeated, The King of Kong), this musical documentary is his feature film directorial debut. Arcade & Love Songs revisits beloved characters from The King of Kong, reconnecting with the real-life gamers who captivated audiences since their Slamdance debut.

The film follows 74-year-old Walter Day, the father of esports and iconic star of The King of Kong, as he navigates a lawsuit that threatens his legacy. At the same time, he embarks on a deeply personal journey: finally recording and performing the rock-opera love songs he’s carried in his heart since a devastating 1980s heartbreak—right at the height of the arcade boom.

The film premiered in U.S. theaters earlier this year through Monkey Wrench Films, capturing the same nostalgic magic that made The King of Kong one of Slamdance’s most celebrated documentaries.

Run time: 1 hr. 31 mins.

🎥 Credits

  • Director: Ed Cunningham
  • Producers: Jonathan Perkins, Seth Gordon (Baywatch, The King of Kong), Mike J. Nichols (Zappa)
  • Writers: Ed Cunningham, Mike J. Nichols, Paul Leach (The Woodsman)
  • Executive Producers: Ed Cunningham, Byron Ashley, Scott Jackson, Harrison Kordestani Kerry, Cathy Loveland, Paul Campoamor
  • Editor: Mike J. Nichols

👨‍🎤 Director’s Statement

The King of Kong premiered at Slamdance 2007 to a packed house of just the right type of audience. As the filmmakers, we could not have selected a better group of people to be the first to see something we had lived with for three years. The gamers, tech-types and doc lovers were all into it from frame one….The whispers, laughs and touching moments were all hitting…We knew the film could be seen as mocking people we had grown to love, doubt and admire and had worked tirelessly to present them truthfully and empathetically. And this audience got it. From that night forward, the original documentary has changed many people’s lives – for better and worse – so when Billy Mitchell called to tell me Walter Day was being sued based on things that happened in our movie, I began helping make sure he was properly defended…I felt a responsibility to document the conclusion to Walter’s journey and it was also a great opportunity because I love his music and want to help get out in the world.

– Ed Cunningham

⭐ Movie Review: Arcade & Love Songs: The Ballad of Walter Day

Arcade & Love Songs is a tender, quirky, and unexpectedly profound documentary that shines a spotlight on a cultural pioneer. Walter Day, once the steady-handed referee of The King of Kong, becomes the heart and soul of this new film—revealing the music, memories, and emotions that shaped his life.

Ed Cunningham blends archival footage, heartfelt interviews, and theatrical musical sequences to create a vibrant portrait of resilience. Walter’s songs—strange, sincere, and oddly beautiful—are as much about heartbreak as they are about healing. Especially moving are the testimonials from younger gamers, who speak to how Day and the esports community shaped their sense of belonging.

This is more than a film about retro games—it’s about chasing your passions, no matter your age. Arcade & Love Songs is a love letter to the 8-bit generation, to late-blooming artists, and to anyone still holding onto the dream of finishing their song.

📅 Watch It

🗓 Release Date: June 9, 2025
🎟 Pre-order Now: Apple TV & Vimeo-on-Demand
📺 Available On: Apple, Amazon, Google Play, YouTube Movies, Fandango, Vimeo-on-Demand

Let your heart hit “Start.” Walter Day’s ballad is one worth listening to.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

*The author was contacted for a review of this film and received a screening link. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

In the Shadows and Beyond: Contemporary at Blue Star’s Summer Exhibitions

En Las Sombras, Nuestros Fantasmas Acechan, Installation View, 2024. On view at Laguna, Mexico City, Mexico. Photo by Rubén Garay, used with permission.

Contemporary at Blue Star Announces Summer Exhibitions

Exploring the Body, Perception, and the Unseen Through Conceptual Art

San Antonio, TX – Contemporary at Blue Star is excited to present a compelling lineup of summer exhibitions that spotlight artists from Mexico and San Antonio. Through conceptual practices, these artists create work that transcends the physical, exploring how space, technology, memory, and sound influence the human body. (Contemporary at Blue Star, 2025)

🌑 En Las Sombras, Nuestros Fantasmas Acechan

(In the Shadows, Our Ghosts Lurk)
Curated by Fabiola Iza
On View: June 6 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, June 6 | 6–9 p.m.

Taco Talk with Curator Fabiola Iza
Friday, June 6 | 10:30a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Kick off the exhibition with “Taco Talk,” a curator-led walkthrough paired with breakfast tacos and coffee. Learn about the works and themes with guest curator Fabiola Iza, and engage in an open conversation about the ideas behind the show.

Featuring Artists:

Alicia Ayanegui, Enrique Arriaga Celis, Daniela Bojórquez Vértiz, Virginia Colwell & Raquel Bañón Sodini, Manuela García, Leo Marz, Jonathan Miralda Fuksman, Daniel Monroy Cuevas, Paloma Rosenzweig, Oswaldo Ruiz

Inspired by the design of the panopticon, this exhibition examines the evolution of surveillance and the “omniscient gaze” in the age of modern technology. Originally exhibited at Laguna in Mexico City, the show has been reimagined for Contemporary at Blue Star by independent curator Fabiola Iza.

✨ Jason Willome

On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.

Fresh from his residency at Künstlerhaus Bethanien in Berlin, Jason Willome debuts a new body of work that delves into the cosmos, consciousness, and personal mythology. Incorporating a wide range of media, this exhibition invites viewers to examine our relationship with the universe and the stories we tell ourselves.

🌊 Nadia Botello: Theophany

On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.

Sound artist Nadia Botello presents a site-specific installation from her Bodies of Water series. Listeners must physically engage with translucent tank sculptures to activate the audio compositions—sonic works created from field recordings of the San Antonio River and original choral arrangements. Botello’s work invites reflection on the body as both listener and vessel.

📸 Fabiola Menchelli

On View: July 11 – October 5, 2025
Opening Reception: Friday, July 11 | 6p.m. – 9p.m.

In complete darkness, without even the glow of a safelight, Fabiola Menchelli constructs photographs that unfold like sculptures. This immersive, darkened gallery experience mimics her creation process, allowing viewers to “discover” the artworks just as the artist did. Her work challenges and expands the limits of photography, light, and perception.

About Contemporary at Blue Star

Contemporary at Blue Star presents exhibitions by artists from San Antonio and around the world. Through a focus on global perspectives, we foster empathy, innovation, and action—fulfilling our mission to inspire, nurture, and innovate. As a non-collecting contemporary art space, we engage with current social and cultural issues through art.

🖼️ Admission is always free.
🔗 Read our full story

🕒 Visiting Hours

Monday–Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 12p.m. – 5p.m.
Thursday–Friday: 12p.m. – 8p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 10a.m. – 6p.m.

📍 Contemporary at Blue Star
116 Blue Star, San Antonio, TX 78204
📞 (210) 227-6960

Grayson Jenkins Finds His Voice on ‘Hard Heart to Hold’ and Forthcoming Album Country Parables

Grayson Jenkins leans into the rock side of country with new song and video. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Grayson Jenkins Unveils New Single “Hard Heart to Hold” Ahead of Forthcoming Album Country Parables

Kentucky-born country artist and songwriter Grayson Jenkins has released his new single “Hard Heart to Hold,” an anthemic country-rock track from his upcoming album Country Parables, set to release everywhere on July 25. (Covered Bridge Creative Co-op, 2025)

The single is paired with a live performance music video, filmed at Jenkins’ 2025 headlining show at The Burl in Lexington, KY—the very venue that inspired the song’s creation.

A Rising Voice in the Appalachian Country Scene

“Hard Heart to Hold” follows a string of successful releases, including:

  • “Nobody’s Stopping You Anyhow” (feat. Brit Taylor), featured on Spotify’s All New Country playlist
  • “Taxes & Time”
  • “Good Times Go” (feat. Pony Bradshaw), highlighted by The Bluegrass Situation and Whiskey Riff

Fans can watch the video, stream the new single, and pre-order vinyl and merch online.

A “Hillbilly Springsteen” Sound

Jenkins’ bandmates jokingly describe “Hard Heart to Hold” as sounding like a “hillbilly Springsteen”—a track driven by pulsing drums and heavy guitars, elevating Jenkins’ vocals and vivid storytelling.

Jenkins views the song as a reflection of both his influences and his ongoing sonic evolution.

Telling Stories from the Heart of Kentucky

Lyrically, the track tells the story of a young woman navigating early adulthood and finding comfort in the Lexington music scene—a nod to the thriving musical culture of Kentucky and the greater Appalachian region.

Nearly a Decade on the Road

Grayson Jenkins is no newcomer. With nearly ten years in the music industry, his career has weathered:

  • The ups and downs of indie artistry
  • A global pandemic
  • Over 250,000 miles touring across the US, Canada, and Europe

Raised on a small farm in Muhlenberg County, KY—yes, that Muhlenberg County from John Prine’s “Paradise”—Jenkins carries with him a strong work ethic and resourcefulness that continues to shape his music and career.

Country Parables: Jenkins’ Most Ambitious Work Yet

Now in his 30s, Jenkins returns with Country Parables—a ten-track LP that marks his most comprehensive and mature work to date. The album combines the lyrical depth fans have come to expect with a fully realized sonic palette that Jenkins has long been chasing.

Crafted by a Powerhouse Team

To bring this album to life, Jenkins teamed up with frequent collaborator and touring partner Pony Bradshaw to co-produce the record. The album was recorded at Fellowship Hall Sound in Little Rock, AR, with a team of acclaimed musicians, including:

  • Paddy Ryan (Parker Millsap, John Fullbright)
  • Jesse Aycock (JR Carroll, John Moreland)
  • Aaron Boehler (Wilderado)
  • Fats Kaplin (Jack White, John Prine)

Collaborations on the album include Brit Taylor, Madelyn Baier, and Pony Bradshaw, with two tracks co-written by Nashville veteran Pat McLaughlin (John Prine, Bahamas).

With Country Parables, Grayson Jenkins offers a heartfelt, roots-driven collection that further cements his place in the next wave of Americana storytellers.

Country Parables tracklist:

1.Old Trails
2.Hard Heart to Hold
3.Nobody’s Stopping You Anyhow (feat. Brit Taylor)
4.Grand Slam
5.Scarecrow
6.Taxes & Time
7.Good Times Go (feat. Pony Bradshaw)
8.From Now On
9.Calling Out Your Name (feat. Madelyn Baier)
10.Country Parables

“But beyond the smoky bars and days out on the farm, Jenkins embodies one of Country’s more abstract, yet most important qualities: its philosophical soul.”

— American Songwriter

“In case you aren’t familiar with Grayson Jenkins’ prior work, the Muhlenburg County, KY native aptly follows in the footsteps of John Prine and all of the other folk and country troubadours before him who forged their career on the strength of clever lyricism and truthfully authentic storytelling.”

— Whiskey Riff

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Kickoff Summer + Give Back: 2 Must-Attend Events in San Antonio

The HI Temple Summer Kickoff Pool Party is taking place this Saturday May 24 at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

🎉 Memorial Day Weekend in San Antonio: Pool Party + Community Fundraiser

Get ready for a sun-soaked, music-filled Memorial Day weekend in San Antonio with two incredible events happening on Saturday and Sunday! Whether you’re looking to kick off summer in style or show up for a great cause, there’s something for everyone.

🌞 HI Temple Summer Kickoff Pool Party at InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk

📍 High Praise Rooftop Bar & Pool
📅 Saturday, May 24, 2025
🕚 11:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

The InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk invites locals and visitors alike to dive into summer at the HI Temple Summer Kickoff Pool Party. Set at High Praise, the hotel’s rooftop bar and pool, this event promises panoramic city views, sun-drenched vibes, and a whole lot of fun. (InterContinental San Antonio Riverwalk, 2025)

What to Expect:

  • Live music by DJ Tone
  • Summer cocktail specials
  • Delicious bites from award-winning Executive Chef Andres Farias

🎟️ Tickets start at $60, which includes:

  • Valet parking
  • (1) Drink ticket
  • Sunscreen
  • Towel service
  • Bottled water

Want to party with a crew?

  • Summer Fun Package (for 4 guests)
  • Veuve Clicquot Package (for 10 guests): Includes two bottles of Veuve Clicquot, reserved oversized cabana seating, and all the essentials mentioned above.

👉 Click here to select your arrival time and purchase tickets.

❤️ Community Fundraiser for Beloved Bar Owner Aaron Peña

📍 Gimme Gimme, 803 S St. Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
📅 Sunday, May 25, 2025
⏰ Benefit: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. (Bar open until 12:00 a.m.)

Join the San Antonio community in supporting Aaron Peña, beloved owner of Southtown hotspots Amor Eterno and Gimme Gimme, who was recently diagnosed with cancer. As Aaron prepares for chemotherapy this June, friends, neighbors, and local businesses are rallying to raise funds to support him through treatment. (Amor Eterno, 2025)

How You Can Help:

  • $20 suggested donation includes a hearty plate of:
    • Beef & chicken fajitas
    • Sausage
    • Rice, beans, potato salad & all the fixings
  • Raffle tickets available for prizes including:
    • Gift cards to local favorites
    • A Blackstone grill
    • A Yeti cooler
    • A 55-inch TV
    • And more!

🎶 Music by local DJ Texas Papi
🍹 Specialty cocktails by sponsors Live Oak Vodka, Twang Micheladas, Beer Salts, and Drink Rimmers

This event is 21+
Special thanks to their sponsors:
Live Oak Vodka, Twang, The Fajita Lounge, The Lighthouse Lounge, Kiolbassa Smoked Meats, Gigi’s Deli, Buddy’s Big Trouble, and Bucán Rodeo

Aaron Peña. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Whether you’re splashing into summer on Saturday or showing up for community on Sunday, San Antonio is the place to be this Memorial Day weekend. Let’s celebrate and support together!

‘Suitcase Blues’: Shelby Means Hits the Road with Her Solo Debut

Shelby Means gets help from her all-star friends for a heartfelt road song, “Suitcase Blues.” It’s the latest single from the Maya de Vitry-produced self-titled solo debut. Photo: Hunter McRae, used with permission.

Shelby Means Packs Up the “Suitcase Blues” and Heads Down a New Road

“I had driven out of Nashville hundreds of times as a touring musician, but this time I was packed up and moving to a different city,” says songwriter, singer, and bassist Shelby Means.

Known for her dynamic work with world-class string bands like Della Mae and the GRAMMY-winning Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Means is now stepping into the spotlight with her debut solo album, Shelby Means. The bittersweet memory of leaving Nashville is captured in her latest single “Suitcase Blues.” (IV-PR, 2025)

Backed by an all-star lineup—Billy Strings on harmony vocals, along with Bryan Sutton, Michael Cleveland, Ron Block, and Sam Bush—the track offers a poignant twist on the classic road song.

“Bryan, Michael, Ron, and Sam brought incredible life and depth to the recording,” Means shares. “Already a very strong collaboration with the band, I was honored that Billy Strings agreed to sing harmony. His voice and energy mixing with mine and the sentiment of the song paint a vivid picture of chasing down a dream on the open road.”

Musically, “Suitcase Blues” rolls forward on a moody chord progression, its trepidation mirrored in the interplay of fiddle and banjo, with tasteful flourishes on guitar and a brief, emotive mandolin solo. The lyrics tell a story many touring musicians know all too well:

“I don’t know when I’ll be back
I gotta go with Cackalack Jack
It’s a lonesome road that I choose
Packing up my suitcase blues”

🎧 Listen now: Stream or purchase “Suitcase Blues.”
📀 Explore more music: Check out previously released singles — “Farm Girl,” “Streets of Boulder,” and “Million Reasons.”
🛒 Pre-order the full album: Shelby Means arrives May 30. Pre-order now.
💾 Want to pre-save on Spotify? Click here.

🎶 Catch Shelby Means on Tour

May 23 – WMOT Finally Friday @ 3rd and Lindsley – Nashville, TN
June 4 – The Ramkat & Gas Hill Drinking Room – Winston Salem, NC
June 6 – Midwood Guitar Studio – Charlotte, NC
June 7 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston, SC 🌟 Album Release Show
June 25 – The 5 Spot – Nashville, TN 🌟 Album Release Show
July 4 – Soundcheck Summer Music Series – Pinedale, WY
July 6 – Hot House West – Salt Lake City, UT
July 13 – Means House Concert – Laramie, WY
July 17 – Big View House Concerts – Westcliffe, CO
July 18 – Music on the Green – Telluride, CO 🎤 with Maya de Vitry
July 25 – RockyGrass – Lyons, CO 🎤 with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway
August 22 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston, SC 🎤 with Bronwyn Keith-Hynes
October 18 – Henderson Bluegrass – Henderson, NV
October 20 – WoodSongs – Lexington, KY
October 22 – Red Barn Radio – Lexington, KY

📍 See all tour dates online.

🌾 About Shelby Means

Shelby Means was born in the bluegrass of Kentucky and raised on the high plains of Wyoming. With nearly two decades of experience across bluegrass, folk, rock, Americana, and country, she’s one of the most respected upright bassists in the roots music world.

During her years in Nashville, she was a core member of the GRAMMY-nominated Della Mae, bringing her magnetic presence and deep rhythmic pocket to stages across the globe. She’s since toured nearly 30 countries as a musical diplomat and collaborated with some of the genre’s finest artists.

Now based in Charleston, SC, Means also performs with Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, earning her first GRAMMY with the group’s 2023 release, City of Gold. Her accolades include multiple IBMA awards for her work with both Della Mae and Golden Highway.

With her upcoming solo debut, Means opens a new chapter—blending tradition with individuality, heartache with hope, and musicianship with soul.

From NPR to the Grand Ole Opry, Telluride, Bonnaroo, Newport Folk, and beyond, Shelby Means is forging a path that’s both grounded and boundless.

Shelby Means album cover. Courtesy photo,used with permission.

Cowtown Unplugged 2025: A Star-Studded Night of Country Music in Fort Worth

Omni Fort Worth Hotel announces 8th Annual Cowtown Unplugged: A Songwriter’s Showcase. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

🎶 Cowtown Unplugged Returns to Fort Worth This Memorial Day Weekend

The Omni Fort Worth Hotel is thrilled to announce the return of Cowtown Unplugged: A Songwriter’s Showcase, bringing a revamped and refreshed live music experience to Fort Worth. This exclusive concert event is set for Sunday, May 25, 2025, during Memorial Day Weekend, featuring a stellar lineup of country music talent. (Omni Fort Worth Hotel, 2025)

⭐ Headlining: ERNEST

Country music powerhouse and Grammy-nominated artist ERNEST will headline this year’s showcase.

  • 2X ACM Award nominee
  • Co-writer of the record-breaking hit “I Had Some Help” by Post Malone featuring Morgan Wallen
  • Eleven No. 1 hits to his name
  • New album NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE includes collaborations with Lainey Wilson, Lukas Nelson, Jelly Roll, and HARDY
  • Praised by Billboard, Los Angeles Times, and The Tennessean
  • Known for blending influences from Eminem to George Jones, redefining country music while staying true to its roots

🌟 Featured Act: Jenna Paulette

Texas-native Jenna Paulette brings a unique blend of neo-traditional country with a modern twist.

  • Recognized by CMT, Billboard, and the Grand Ole Opry
  • Brand ambassador for Justin Boots and Ranch Water
  • Debut album The Girl I Was featured on major DSP editorial playlists
  • Celebrated for her authentic cowgirl lifestyle and dynamic sound

🎤 Opening Act: Bryce Leatherwood

Bryce Leatherwood, winner of The Voice Season 22, kicks off the night with classic country vibes.

  • Known for his smooth baritone and genuine stage presence
  • Deeply rooted in traditional country with influences like George Strait and Travis Tritt
  • A rising star committed to preserving the genre’s timeless appeal

🎟️ Exclusive Hotel Packages

Make it a full getaway experience with one of Omni Fort Worth’s three premium hotel packages, crafted to elevate your Cowtown Unplugged weekend:

🥂 Platinum Package – Starting at $529

  • All Gold & Silver Package perks
  • Exclusive VIP dinner before the show
  • Artist meet-and-greet

🌄 Gold Package – Starting at $349

  • All Silver Package perks
  • Breakfast for two the morning after the show

🛌 Silver Package – Starting at $299

  • Luxurious accommodations for two (night of the show)
  • Two concert tickets to Cowtown Unplugged
  • Pre-show cocktail reception with hors d’oeuvres & cash bar

🔗 Book now.
📞 Or call 817-535-6664 for more details.

🎫 New This Year: Single Concert Tickets Available!

For the first time, single concert tickets are available for those who prefer not to book an overnight stay. Enjoy the music and pre-show cocktail reception with a limited number of tickets available for $175 each (pre-tax) on Eventbrite.

🏨 About Omni Fort Worth Hotel

Located in the heart of downtown Fort Worth, the Omni blends Western spirit with casual elegance. The hotel is steps away from iconic Texas destinations like:

  • The historic Fort Worth Stockyards
  • Sundance Square entertainment district
  • The Fort Worth Zoo
  • World-class museums and cultural attractions

Experience genuine hospitality, refined comfort, and the rhythm of Texas—only at Omni Fort Worth Hotel.

🎸 Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable night of live country music. Whether you’re booking a full weekend escape or grabbing a single ticket, Cowtown Unplugged 2025 promises a night to remember.