True AF Podcast

In Episode 179 of the True AF Podcast, host Ivan Chavez discusses the exciting developments at Grupo Vidanta as the company marks its 50th anniversary. The conversation highlights the launch of Vidanta World, a new luxury destination that merges entertainment and resort experiences, including theme parks and Cirque du Soleil performances. Notably, Chavez features the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the 'Joyà' show and introduces the upcoming show 'Ludo', set to debut in October 2024, emphasizing its unique water-based performances. With multiple properties across Mexico, including Puerto Peñasco and Los Cabos, the company is dedicated to creating multigenerational appeal and promoting vertical integration within its projects. Action items from the meeting include the opening of 'Ludo' and progress updates on various developments, ensuring a forward-thinking vision for the future of leisure and hospitality at Vidanta.

In Episode 178 of the True AF Podcast, host Daniel Lamarre, Executive Vice Chairman of Cirque du Soleil, discusses the organization's journey from traditional tent performances to innovative theater experiences, including the unique Hoya show in Riviera Maya, Mexico. The conversation highlights an upcoming ambitious project in Nuevo Vallarta featuring a round aquarium that will surround the audience, marking a new collaboration with Vidanta to create a nature-themed park. Lamarre emphasizes the importance of trust in business partnerships and outlines Cirque du Soleil's recovery strategy post-COVID, including plans for more resident shows worldwide and potential multimedia expansions, such as streaming opportunities, referencing a successful documentary on Amazon. Through these insights, he conveys Cirque du Soleil's ongoing commitment to creativity and adaptation in the entertainment industry.

In the latest episode of the True AF podcast, host Eric Fuller interviews Hugel, a prominent DJ from Marseille, France, who has recently made waves in the music scene, especially during Art Basel week in Miami. The conversation covers Hugel's musical journey, which began at a young age and evolved into a full-time career after discovering house music at 16. Now based in Lisbon and a frequent performer in Miami, Hugel reflects on his popularity and impressive fan engagement, noting recent collaborations with renowned artists like Diplo and David Guetta. He discusses his recent hits, plans for an anticipated album by the end of 2025, and aspirations for a large-scale world tour with visually captivating performances. The episode concludes with action items for Hugel and his team, focusing on the release of new music and enhancing his live shows.

In Episode 176 of the True AF Podcast, Michael Canitrot discusses his recent performance at Notre Dame's reopening ceremony, highlighting the integration of electronic music with heritage elements during his Monumental Tour. The episode covers his unique performance, which featured digital mapping and orchestral sounds, and reflects on successful past shows, including events at iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower and Basilica del Pilar, attracting international audiences. Canitrot shares insights into his music style, typically at 124-125 BPM, and reveals exciting upcoming plans, including a New Year's Eve show in Madrid, summer tour dates in France, and efforts to enhance fan engagement through merchandising and documentaries about his project. Action items outlined include preparations for the Madrid show and future announcements for tour dates.

In the latest episode of the True AF podcast, Episode 175 featuring Lilly Palmer, the discussion revolves around her vibrant experiences as a DJ, particularly highlighting her performance at the Penn State Washington football game attended by around 110,000 fans. Lilly emphasizes the importance of adaptability in her role, relishing the different dynamics of playing in small clubs versus large festivals, while also nurturing an interactive connection with her audience to maintain high energy. She shares her demanding touring schedule, predominantly focused on European festivals in summer and North American tours in winter, alongside her ongoing music production efforts on platforms like Spotify. Looking ahead, Lilly expresses ambitions to further her career and explore behind-the-scenes roles in the music industry to support fellow DJs.

In the True AF podcast Episode 173, hosts Kelly Gray and Andrew Parsons from Real Music Events delve into their work in Austin's evolving music scene, detailing the development of the Concourse Project—a versatile 15-acre venue designed for concerts and events. They discuss challenges in artist booking due to rising fees, while emphasizing a commitment to preserving an intimate concert experience amid growing attendance for events like the Seismic Dance Event. The conversation also touches on future plans, including potential land expansion for larger festivals, continuous upgrades at the Concourse Project, and the complexities of attracting international talent. Throughout the podcast, they reflect on their 15-year journey in the industry and their collaborative partnership as a married couple. Action items from the meeting include enhancing production equipment, exploring opportunities for special events, and seeking bigger acts for larger shows.

In Episode 172 of the True AF podcast, host Eric Fuller interviews Dexter Carr, a prominent dance instructor and choreographer, known for his work with celebrities like Nicki Minaj and his new reality show, "Playground," streaming on Hulu. Dexter provides insights into Playground LA, a Melrose-based dance studio that offers an inclusive environment and has maintained a sold-out weekly class for six years. He also discusses the upcoming Chaos Convention Tour, which features weekend dance competitions and attracts up to 1,000 participants. Additionally, Dexter shares details about his online dance platform, Outlet, created during the pandemic, which currently has 557 subscribers and offers affordable tutorials. With aspirations to choreograph a Broadway show, Dexter highlights his experience collaborating with Lin Manuel Miranda on various workshops. Action items include maintaining his dance classes, organizing the summer tour, and promoting "Playground" to boost its renewal prospects.

In Episode 171 of the True AF Podcast, host Eric Fuller interviews acclaimed musician Melissa Etheridge, who shares insights into her dynamic career, including memorable performances at events like Stagecoach and her challenges in transitioning her life story into a Broadway show. The conversation delves into the evolving music industry, emphasizing the significance of live performances amid changing consumption habits. Etheridge opens up about the profound personal loss of her son to opioid addiction and discusses her foundation's initiatives to research alternative treatments and destigmatize addiction. She advocates for community support and the importance of open dialogues around loss, while also encouraging self-care for those helping others through similar struggles. The episode concludes with action items focused on continuing her foundation's mission and maintaining contact for potential future collaborations.

In the True AF podcast Episode 170, host Eric Fuller interviews Hunter Fitch, the lead singer of the band Saint Blonde, which recently signed an album deal with Pale Cord after seven years of independence. The conversation covers the band's unique musical style, characterized by sarcastic and cynical undertones paired with a beachy sound, as well as their collaborative songwriting process. Saint Blonde's approach to marketing emphasizes organic growth and authenticity, focusing on building a dedicated fanbase without relying on viral trends. The band, based in Denton, Texas, is navigating the early stages of their journey with label support while balancing their musical aspirations with day jobs. Ultimately, they aim to connect meaningfully with their audience through their art, prioritizing passion over commercial success in an unpredictable industry.

In the True AF podcast Episode 169, the band Almost Monday shares insights about their current European tour, where they are opening for The Driver Era, and celebrate the release of their debut album 'Dive.' The interview highlights their positive experiences performing for more engaged audiences in Europe compared to the US, and emphasizes their appreciation for exploring various cities, particularly enjoying the UK’s communal pub culture. The band discusses the favorable reception of their singles, their commitment to ongoing music creation, and upcoming performances, including a notable show at Apollo in London and aspirations for future US dates, solidifying their goal of building a headline fan base.