The Weeknd has announced the release of a special edition vinyl LP for Hurry Up Tomorrow, featuring exclusive artwork by celebrated Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama. Known for his hyper-realistic and futuristic depictions of robots and humanoid hybrids, Sorayama has once again partnered with The Weeknd, this time incorporating a unique twist on his iconic style to complement the album’s rebirth theme.
Sorayama’s influence spans art, fashion, and pop culture, blending eroticism with sci-fi elements, and his collaborations with cultural icons like George Lucas and Christian Dior have cemented his status as a leader in Japanese contemporary art. In this latest collaboration, Sorayama adapts his renowned aesthetic slightly to align with the thematic exploration in Hurry Up Tomorrow.
The limited-edition vinyl will be available for purchase exclusively for 72 hours, beginning at 9 a.m. PT on November 13 at theweeknd.co/HurryUpTomorrow. The collectible release offers fans a rare piece of art-meets-music history, bringing together The Weeknd’s vision with Sorayama’s futuristic touch for a unique addition to any vinyl collection.
Images have surfaced on social media that show that the mural. of the late Dayvon “King Von” Bennett has been removed from the walls of O’ Block in his hometown of Southside Chicago.
The picture below shows the detailed image of the “Crazy Story” rapper sitting backwards in a chair wearing an MLB fitted cap and his iced out O’ Block chain being painted over, leaving a blank, grey wall. With the wall being buffed in broad daylight, there obviously was no objection to its removal.
The question is, why was the mural removed and who called for its removal? Also, was the removal of the image of one of Chicago’s most celebrated as well as criticized rappers related to any current legal proceedings, including the arrest of Lil Durk?
There is much speculation around the reason for the removal of the mural, but the fact is that King Von’s legacy will live on regardless of the existence of any drawing or recording ever created.
The NFL’s 2024 Artist Replay program is spotlighting BIPOC and emerging artists throughout the season, concluding with a gallery showcase during Miami Art Week on Dec. 7. This year’s program includes Brooklyn-based artist Sophia Yeshi, who created a special piece honoring Baltimore Ravens icon Ray Lewis. The artwork will be part of a December event at Art Basel, celebrating the intersection of football and diverse artistic expression.
Curated by renowned photographer Cam Kirk, who has worked with hip-hop stars like Megan Thee Stallion and Migos, Artist Replay features five unique artists, each crafting football-inspired pieces. Selected artists include Cristina Martinez, Julian Gaines, Sophia Yeshi, Murjoni Merriweather, and Mike Ham, representing mediums from illustration to sculpture.
“Being a BIPOC artist, to me, is an opportunity to create something for the next generation,” said Yeshi. “It’s about leaving that legacy and showing what’s possible. It feels surreal to be one of the chosen artists,” said Yeshi. “I’m really excited to be mentored by Cam Kirk and think it’s not often that you get access to people like that. I can’t wait to hear what he’s going to share with us.”
Throughout the season, the NFL will profile these artists with in-depth content showcasing their creative processes, inspirations, and personal journeys in art. The profiles will lead up to the Miami Art Week event, offering fans and attendees an inside look at each artist’s interpretation of football culture.
“The goal is always to create platforms for diverse artists to shine, and where their work can resonate with people around the world,” said Cam Kirk, photographer, program curator, and founder of Cam Kirk Studios. “By amplifying their art, we’re not only elevating their voices but also deepening the connection between the game and its fans.”
“NFL Artist Replay blends the worlds of art and football, and with Cam’s artistic expertise and guidance, this program will bring to life talented artist interpretations of the sport,” said Eddie Capobianco, vice president of influencer marketing at the NFL. “Being able to feature their pieces in all different mediums at Art Basel is a huge opportunity to authentically connect with football fans and art lovers on a whole new level.”
The program aims to amplify diverse voices in art, reflecting the broader stories and communities within football. Artist Replay content and artist spotlights will be featured across NFL platforms, offering a digital showcase of the artists’ work throughout the season at nfl.com/artistreplay.
This year’s exhibition promises an immersive celebration of the cultural impact of football through a diverse artistic lens.
MuseZeuM is thrilled to announce its groundbreaking collaboration with Apple Music to bring fans “The Best Curated DJ Mixes,” a unique series of mixes that merges artistry with cutting-edge sound. This series marks the beginning of MuseZeuM’s mission to make iconic mixtapes accessible in a format that ensures artists and DJs receive their due recognition and support.
Each mix within this exclusive collection is designed to deliver an immersive experience, true to the MuseZeuM brand. The inaugural lineup includes legendary producer Salaam Remi, known for his soul-stirring blend of classic and contemporary sounds; DJ Dirty Harry, who seamlessly fuses nostalgic throwbacks with modern beats; Ralph McDaniel, the visionary behind Video Music Box, who marries iconic visuals with fresh audio; Bambino, renowned for his dynamic mixes of old-school and new-school reggae; and Disco Neil, who infuses high-energy dancehall vibes that keep listeners on their feet.
“Our partnership with Apple Music is about more than just music; it’s about creating a space where art and technology intersect to pay homage to classic mixtapes while supporting the artists who inspire us,” says Salaam Remi, founder of MuseZeuM. “These mixes offer a unique blend of nostalgia, rhythm, and creativity that makes the MuseZeuM collection an unforgettable listening experience.”
Listeners can follow the MuseZeuM Apple Music page to stay updated on the latest releases, handpicked playlists, and exclusive content. This launch is only the beginning—MuseZeuM and Apple Music have much more in store to enrich the music culture and create memorable audio experiences for fans worldwide.
The official opening of a Harris-Call Center and the unveiling of FREEDOM’S PATHWAY FORWARD, a new Mural, located at 1904 5th Avenue, at the 3400 block of West Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018; the FREEDOM’S PATHWAY FORWARD mural covers the entire west wall of the Westbrooks Building.
The mural vividly depicts civil rights greats who’ve advanced freedom, justice, and voting rights. Some were historic or elected office firsts, including Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., President Barack Obama, Vice President Kamala Harris, Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley, Caesar Chavez, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and First Lady Michelle Obama.
The FREEDOM mural was conceived and commissioned by visionary Dr. Logan H. Westbrooks, a longtime civil rights advocate, bestselling author, educator, and former music industry executive. It was painted by Dylan M. Keene. Its purpose is “to engage and re-energize the community to continue to fight for freedom, justice, voting rights, to register and to VOTE!” The mural is one of a kind in the Nation.
Dr. and Mrs. Geri Westbrooks, sponsors of the mural and the Harris Call Center, noted that the mural is already capturing the attention of some 350,000 daily commuters [LA Metro verified], and hundreds stop to admire, photograph, and share this powerful mural.
The Harris-Call Center is now open daily from 11 am to 5 pm through Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, 2024, and needs volunteers to come by and sign up.
The FREEDOM’S PATHWAY FORWARD mural is now a must-visit site for families, student groups, all Angelenos, and tourists to Los Angeles. In the days, weeks, and months ahead, the mural will be a popular, must-visit site through the 2024 election and in 2025 for the King Holiday, Inauguration, and entire Black History Month!
Mural artist: Dylan Keene
Mural visionary: Dr. Logan H. Westbrooks
Freedom’s Pathway Forward Call Center hosts: Dr. Logan H. and Geri Westbrooks
The Museum of Graffiti is proud to present “Samuel Sumak’s Visions,” a compelling exhibition that explores the story of Samuel Sumak, a graphic artist and muralist whose life and work have shaped the Chilean graffiti scene. The opening reception will take place on Friday, October 18, 2024, from 7 PM to 10 PM at the Museum of Graffiti, located 276 NW 26th Street in Miami’s dynamic Wynwood Arts District.
This exhibition, the result of the U.F.O. (Unión, Fuerza, Objetivo) collective’s workshop, includes a wide array of media such as paintings, drawings, installations, and graffiti. At its core, the exhibit tells the powerful story of Samuel Sumak, who was persecuted during the 1990s and forced to live underground as a vagabond, adopting the name Bultisam. This deeply personal narrative is depicted in a large triptych, which Sumak has been painting over the past three years, capturing his journey of resilience, transformation, and artistic expression.
In addition to the visual journey presented by Sumak, the evening will feature a live musical performance by Foex, a prominent Chilean music producer and founding member of the U.F.O. collective. Known for his genre-defying sound, Foex blends Hip-Hop, Soul, and Electronica, infusing his music with experimental creativity. As the founder of Potoco Discos, Chile’s pioneering urban music label, Foex has earned recognition for his cutting-edge approach to music production. His performance will provide a rich auditory backdrop to the exhibition, enhancing the evening’s immersive experience.
Mark the 40th anniversary of Purple Rain with a one-of-a-kind stay, featuring rare Prince memorabilia and retro 80s vibes.
Airbnb is offering Prince fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay at the iconic house from the 1984 film Purple Rain. This is a big deal!
The classic film, which starred Prince as “The Kid,” was a semi-autobiographical exploration of his artistic and personal journey, set against the backdrop of Minneapolis, his beloved hometown. Together with the Purple Rain album, the film helped catapult Prince to global stardom, and both have become cultural touchstones in the music world. Hits like “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Go Crazy,” and the title track “Purple Rain” emerged from this era, earning Prince two Grammy Awards and cementing his place in music history.
Get this, the Purple Rain house, located at 3420 Snelling Avenue South in Minneapolis, has long been a pilgrimage site for Prince fans. Its humble exterior contrasts with the monumental legacy Prince left behind, making it a place of deep cultural significance.
The modest home stands as a physical reminder of Prince’s transformative artistic journey, offering a glimpse into the world where Purple Rain was brought to life.
Now, fans can share in the exclusive experience of this iconic space in an entirely new way.
Here’s what’s going down … In honor of the film’s 40th anniversary, Airbnb is offering 25 one-night stays at the restored Purple Rain house. Guests can book this exclusive opportunity from October 26 through December 14, with each stay accommodating up to four guests for just $7 per person—a nod to Prince’s favorite number.
When it comes to authenticity, the house’s redesign has been overseen by iconic bandmates Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman, members of Prince’s legendary The Revolution band.
What’s more is the duo worked closely with Paisley Park Enterprises and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to create an immersive experience that pays homage to Prince’s creative genius and the lasting legacy of Purple Rain. “This project is about so much more than nostalgia,” said Melvoin. “We wanted to offer fans a chance to truly feel Prince’s spirit in every detail.”
It gets better. During their stay, guests can expect a number of carefully curated touches:
The Kid’s World, Reimagined: The home’s interior transports guests into the world of Purple Rain, with purple velvet wallpaper, a vintage 1980s stereo loaded with music that inspired the character of The Kid, and QR codes offering behind-the-scenes insights from Wendy and Lisa.
Tribute to “When Doves Cry”: The house features a spa area with a claw-foot tub and stained-glass windows, reminiscent of the famous music video. Lavender bath bombs, purple robes, and face masks complete the luxurious experience.
Rockstar Wardrobe: Guests can view some of Prince’s legendary outfits, displayed behind glass, and even dress up in 80s-inspired fashion, including accessories and makeup designed to channel their inner rockstar.
Muse Lounge: This creative space allows guests to play along with a pre-recorded version of “Purple Rain” while listening to special tracks that feature The Kid himself.
Secret Room: For those seeking adventure, the house has a hidden room filled with treasures, including a faux vinyl album that comes with seven clues. Guests who solve the clues will unlock special rewards.
Sleep Like a Prince: The Kid’s bedroom has been meticulously recreated from the film, and guests can listen to Prince’s personal tape collection, including a rare demo recording.
Here’s how Lisa Coleman described the experience, “Every detail of the house reflects Prince’s creative spirit. We want fans to feel as if they’re stepping into his world, where every corner holds a story.”
Before you start scrambling, fans will have the chance to request a stay starting October 2 at 6:00 AM PT via Airbnb, with the booking window closing on October 6 at 11:59 PM PT. While the experience promises an unforgettable tribute to Prince’s genius, guests are responsible for arranging their own travel.
This is a unique opportunity inviting fans to take part in a once in a lifetime celebration, sharing in the legacy of one of music’s most iconic figures in a deeply intimate and meaningful way, with the Purple Rain house as both a tribute to Prince and a space where his genius continues to resonate.
Check out the preview below of the home’s new interior!
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will present a major solo exhibition of work by KAWS. Opening in March 2025, KAWS: FAMILY will feature a broad mixture of the artist’s works – drawings, paintings, sculptures, altered advertisements, and product collaborations – that examine complex, familiar, and astonishingly heartfelt entryways into human emotions.
Since the late 1990s, KAWS has been creating a cast of iconic characters steeped in the American zeitgeist that populate his work. Each with their own distinct personality pulled in part from their creator, these characters have been a constant throughline in the artist’s career. The exhibition takes its title and thematic jumping-off point from the sculpture titled FAMILY (2021), which brings together four of the KAWS’ characters posed in the style of a family portrait. As witnessed throughout the show, the relationships between the figures can be complex, familiar, and astonishingly heartfelt entryways into human emotions.
“Part of the brilliance of KAWS’ work is that he pulls from the world we know,” says Alejo Benedetti, curator of contemporary art at Crystal Bridges. “His characters may have recognizable elements of icons from popular culture, but at their core, the human connection is always the strongest throughline. This exhibition is a chance to introduce this great artist to our audiences and invite them to connect with this family of characters in meaningful ways.”
Organized by the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), KAWS: FAMILY at Crystal Bridges is KAWS’ Arkansas solo exhibition debut. Expanding to fit Crystal Bridges’ exhibition gallery space, this presentation builds on the AGO’s original exhibition to create an experience that is uniquely suited for the museum.
In addition to launching new exhibitions next year, progress will continue on Crystal Bridges’ nearly 100,000-square-foot expansion that is set to open in 2026. In 2025, teams will begin to transform the guest experience, providing new ways to bring American stories to life and even giving visitors a glimpse into how exhibitions are created, and artworks are reinstalled throughout the museum. During this time, the museum will remain open, with new, refreshed installations unfolding in the galleries, on the trails, and across campus. The Crystal Bridges expansion project was originally announced in 2021, with construction beginning in 2022.
KAWS: FAMILY will be on view at Crystal Bridges from March 15, 2025, through July 28, 2025, and is curated by Julian Cox, AGO deputy director and chief curator.
KAWS: FAMILY is sponsored by General Mills, Hartman Family, and Paradigm Advisors.
The National Football League (NFL) has announced the return of its Artist Replay program for 2024, reimagined to highlight BIPOC and emerging artists throughout the season. This year’s program will culminate in an exclusive gallery during Art Basel in Miami. Renowned photographer Cam Kirk will curate five artists, each inspired by the world of football, who will design one-of-a-kind pieces to be showcased during Miami Art Week.
Launched to amplify diverse voices, the Artist Replay program connects the NFL’s rich cultural heritage with the broader arts community. Starting in September and continuing throughout the season, the NFL will feature these five artists in content that delves into their creative journeys, their artistic processes, and the inspiration behind their unique Artist Replay pieces. The season-long spotlight will set the stage for the special gallery event during Art Basel.
“NFL Artist Replay blends the worlds of art and football, and with Cam’s artistic expertise and guidance, this program will bring to life talented artist interpretations of the sport,” said Eddie Capobianco, vice president of influencer marketing at the NFL. “Being able to feature their pieces in all different mediums at Art Basel is a huge opportunity to authentically connect with football fans and art lovers on a whole new level.”
“The goal is always to create platforms for diverse artists to shine, and where their work can resonate with people around the world,” said Cam Kirk, photographer, program curator, and founder of Cam Kirk Studios. “By amplifying their art, we’re not only elevating their voices but also deepening the connection between the game and its fans.”
Cam Kirk, known for his work with prominent hip-hop artists like Megan Thee Stallion and Migos, brings a fresh perspective to the program, bridging sports and culture. The selected artists joining Kirk in Miami include Cristina Martinez (Seattle, WA), Julian Gaines (Portland, OR), Sophia Yeshi (Brooklyn, NY), Murjoni Merriweather (Temple Hills, MD), and Mike Ham (New York, NY).
The NFL Artist Replay will be featured across NFL platforms, with more information available at nfl.com/artistreplay.
Phillip Leeds, a mainstay within the music and fashion industries puts a stamp on the past eight years of some of the world’s most influential figures with this new photo archive of celebrity portraits. Over 500 color Polaroid pictures of household names grace the new installment, courtesy of Blurring Books, the independent Brooklyn-based publisher.
During Paris Fashion Week, Leeds recently gave fans a preview of BIG SHOTS!! Volume 2. The Big Shots!! author and photographer continued his partnership with lifestyle brand Pleasures by signing books and hosting the week-long pop-up in Le Marais-Paris 4éme. He will host a launch party on August 23rd at Paper Work in Los Angeles with Pleasures. NYC and other dates to be announced soon.
In 2017, Phillip Leeds released the critically-acclaimed & wildly popular book BIG SHOTS! (Rizzoli) Described at the time as capturing a generation of artists and celebrities just as Andy Warhol: Red Books defined a previous era. Shot by Phillip with a unique vintage Polaroid camera called The Big Shot, the book offered a visual who’s who from the worlds of art, music, fashion and popular culture from 2004 through 2016. Volume 1 featured Rita Ora on the cover and contained over 400 portraits including global icons such as Lewis Hamilton, JAY-Z, Beck, Pharrell Williams, Andre Leon Tally, A$AP Rocky, Black Thought, Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, David Byrne, Jeff Koons, Justin Timberlake and Snoop Dogg.
Now, in partnership with Blurring Books, Leeds is set to release BIG SHOTS!! Volume 2: More Shots from the Worlds of Music, Fashion and Beyond, a new collection of photographs that captures the faces from the epicenter of culture. A compilation of previously unpublished work, Phillip has continued documenting some of the biggest names in popular culture as well as behind-the-scenes tastemakers and influencers. BIG SHOTS!! Volume 2 offers more than 500 color Polaroid portraits. The book features GRAMMY award winner SZA on the cover, plus foreword by global music and fashion icon, and multi GRAMMY winner Pharrell Williams. This volume includes portraits of Chris Rock, Lee “Scratch” Perry, James Lipton, Brian “KAWS” Donnelly, Dave Grohl, George Clinton, Sister Nancy, Q-Tip, Snoop Dogg, Ari Melber, John David Washington, Mike Ness, Ndaba Mandela, Megan Thee Stallion, Swizz Beatz & Alicia Keys, plus countless others.
