Publishing date: Jul, 28, 2023
If you’re anything like us, we see an interesting headline during our daily scroll—pause to read it—but then keep scrolling without reading the actual story. So at the end of each week, we’re rounding up all the buzziest, news-worthy headlines you might have missed. Think of it like the “saved” feature on Instagram but for news instead of aesthetically pleasing photos. Travis Scott releases his highly-anticipated fourth studio alum Utopia, Ice Spice drops her “Deli” music video, and Cher is serving Cherlato—this is what you missed.
#1
Travis Scott Releases Highly-Anticipated Fourth Studio Album ‘UTOPIA’
Fulfilling his long-awaited promise, Travis Scott has released his highly-anticipated fourth studio album Utopia, following its predecessor Astroworld. The album features plentiful notable artists across the 19-tracks, such as Beyoncé on “Delresto (Echoes),” Drake on “Meltdown,” Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon and Sampha on “My Eyes,” and Daft Punk’s Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo as a co-producer on “Modern Jam.” Other collaborations include SZA and Future on “Telekinesis,” Kid Cudi and Pharrell on “Looove,” The Weeknd and Swae Lee on “Circus Maximus,” Playboi Carti and Sheck Wes on “Fe!n,” Young Thug and India.Arie on “Skitzo,” and Westside Gunn on “Lost Forever.” Additionally, the album boasts credited contributions from renowned musicians such as James Blake, Metro Boomin, the Alchemist, Boi-1da, Kanye West, Vegyn, and more. Utopia is an album of immersion, to say the least, with the production capturing you at every turn, making you lose interest in everything happening outside of this realm. It asserts itself as his most ambitious album to date with its exploration of sound and flows evident. While we can trace back some of the styles to Rodeo, it introduces experimental styles and further proves that Travis and Mike Dean are a forceful duo. Utopia isn’t just a collection of songs, but a full-blown experience. Take “Circus Maximus”, in all of its Kanye-esque, cinematic, heart-pumping glory. Or “Meltdown”, where Drake sets the tone, sounding like he is in his supervillain era before turning to Travis who spits flows over an uptempo club beat. Another standout song is “Skitzo”, a six-minute song that feels like three tracks in one, in which he gives a shoutout to Kanye West and expresses his loyalty by stating, “I’m loyal bitch, I got Ye over Biden.” Overall, we understand why Travis had the desire to premiere this album at the Pyramids of Giza because it needs a setting just as grand, with some sort of liminal space for the music to fill. Get yourself to a planetarium or even just blast it in your car through a car wash because listening through earphones will not feel like justice. It makes sense as to why this album is called Utopia because it carries you to an imaginary state of being that possesses a highly desirable quality and near-perfect conditions for listeners and collaborators alike.
#2
Cher Is Serving Cherlato
Can you beliiieeeeeve it? Cher has teamed up with a New Zealand-based ice cream company to bring her Cherlato dreams to life. Is there anything this woman can’t do? Although much hasn’t been said about the new line of frozen goodies, we do know that it will be available in Los Angeles in the near future. The gelato will be served off of a beautiful, colorful ice cream truck that will probably be the prettiest vehicle you’ve ever seen driving on the streets. Fans of Cher have already started brainstorming names for gelato flavors such as “I Got Use Babe”, “If I Can Turn Back Lime”, and “Believe In Life After Rum” and we’ve actually come up with our own… “All or Nut-thing” which will be a gorgeous hazelnut flavor, because who doesn’t like how that sounds? We are so excited about this release and it won’t be long before we get our hands on some Cherlato and we think it’s safe to say that we won’t be Chering.
#3
Ice Spice Drops “Deli” Music Video
The reigning princess of Hip-Hop, Ice Spice continues to ride the waves of her triumphs. The excitement never ceases as she unleashes her scorching music video for “Deli,” a track from the deluxe version of her EP Like..? Joined by her fabulous besties, showcasing twerking skills and iconic Ice-esque fashion inside an actual deli. The dynamic scenes feature local New York kids dancing, making us wish we were part of the action. The deluxe edition of her EP was released on July 21 with four fresh tracks, including the much-anticipated remix of “Princess Diana,” featuring none other than the Queen herself, Nicki Minaj. The original EP made an impressive debut on the Billboard 200 chart, initially reaching No. 37 and later peaking at No. 15. Her hit parade didn’t stop there, with “Munch,” “Bikini Bottom,” “Gangsta Boo” ft. Lil Tjay, and “In Ha Mood” all securing spots on the Billboard Hot 100. Directed by the multitalented Ice Spice, in collaboration with the dynamic duo George and Frederick Buford, the “Deli” music video takes us on a fabulous journey back to her roots in the Bronx, where a local queen has returned to her throne after rising to fame.
#4
Arctic Monkeys, Fred Again.., & More Are Nominated for the 2023 Mercury Prize
The 2023 Mercury Prize nominations have been announced, with artists like Arctic Monkeys, J Hus, and RAYE among the diverse contenders. The prize is open to British and Irish artists who released albums between July 16, 2022, and July 14, 2023, and the winner will be revealed during the live ceremony at London’s Eventim Apollo on September 7. The list of nominees includes four acts who are receiving their second nominations: J Hus is recognized for his album “Beautiful and Brutal Yard,” Loyle Carner for “Hugo,” Young Fathers for “Heavy Heavy,” and Jessie Ware for “That! Feels Good!” Ware expressed her excitement about the nomination, considering it a significant recognition of her musical development. Among the first-time nominees are Ezra Collective with “Where I’m Meant to Be,” producer Fred Again with “Actual Life 3,” and Irish folk group Lankum with “False Lankum.” Four artists are making their Mercury Prize debut: Jockstrap with “I Love You Jennifer B,” Olivia Dean with “Messy,” Shygirl with “Nymph,” and Raye with “My 21st Century Blues.” Raye’s nomination is particularly meaningful as she self-released her debut album after parting ways with her previous label and achieved commercial success.
#5
Stars Pay Tribute to the Legendary Sinéad O’Connor
We can’t think of a more inspiring, powerful, courageous, and unique artist to say goodbye to and honor, than Sinéad O’Connor, who sadly passed away at the young age of 56. Sinéad became well known for her outspoken personality and activism, believing she could make the world a better place with her platform. Throughout her career, she has been an advocate for many social and political causes, including women’s rights, child abuse awareness, and the fight against poverty and hunger. Sinéad was a trailblazer and very much ahead of her time and despite the controversies surrounding her, she always stayed on the right side of history. There has been an outpour of tributes from fans and artists alike. P!nk paid tribute to Sinéad, performing “Nothing Compares 2 U” along with Brandi Carlile at her “Summer Carnival” Tour performance, capturing the raw, heartfelt emotion of the song, leaving the audience deeply moved. Through this touching tribute, P!nk emphasized the importance of empathy and connection with others, acknowledging that everyone carries their own struggles. The tribute was a poignant moment that paid homage to Sinéad O’Connor’s legacy, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of all those present. Many celebrities such as Actresses Jamie Lee Curtis, Mayim Bialik, and Florence Pugh along with musicians Bryan Adams, Tori Amos, Ice T, and Melissa Etheridge all took to social media channels like Instagram and Twitter to commemorate the powerful artist. Fall Out Boy also paid tribute to Sinéad O’Connor with a cover at their most recent gig in Atlanta, Georgia. As we say goodbye to this extraordinary artist, may her memory and the impact of her music and activism continue to inspire generations to come.