According to MacRumors, Apple is set to not only release the Apple Watch in 2015, but to roll out significant updates to its Mac lineup with the availability of Intel’s Broadwell chips.
Apple had a a successful year in 2014 with the iPhone 6, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, OS X Yosemite, and iOS 8. New screen sizes and redesigns put the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus in the news, while iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite offered integration between Apple’s mobile and desktop operating systems.
Here are some of the updates and products users might see from Apple this year:
Apple Watch
• Apple Watch
The Apple watch is Apple’s first wearable device. The watch is available in two sizes (38 mm and 42mm), and features a small S1 processor that integrates several components, including a gyroscope, accelerometer, and a heart rate monitor. Many of the Apple Watch apps are powered by the iPhone and the watch relies on iPhone for functions including GPS. Battery life is another variable. According to Apple CEO Tim Cook, the watch will be used so much it will need to be charged on a daily basis, similar to other smart watches on the market.
• Apple TV
The existing Apple TV could possibly be revamped to include features like a full app store, Siri, and game support. Rumors of Apple TV updates have quieted in recent months, as Apple has focused on the iPhone 6 and the Apple Watch. In May 2014, iTunes’ Eddy Cue confirmed that Apple is still seeking an improvement for television, though he called the fix “complicated.”
• iPad Pro
The “iPad Pro,” as it has been dubbed by media outlets, is a 12.2 – 12.9 inch tablet that could resemble the iPad Air 2, with a thin chassis and slim bezels. It would likely offer iPad Air 2 features such as 2GB of Ram and a Touch ID.
• OS X 10.11 and iOS 9
New versions of iOS and OS X are released yearly. OS X 10.11 and iOS 9 are in development. Apple had intended to introduce improved transit and indoor mapping features for the Maps app, and split-screen multi-tasking for the iPad. If those options are not available for an upcoming iOS 8 update, they could be bundled into iOS 9.
• iMac
It is possible that Apple will release a refreshed 27-inch Retina iMac, with Broadwell processor this year, as well as 21-inch Retina models. A mid- to late-2015 launch is possible.
• Retina Macbook Pro
Apple’s Retina MacBook Pro was given a minor Haswell processor update in July 2014, but should receive a major processor update once Broadwell chips for the device begin shipping in mid-2015. 2015 could also be the year the device sees design changes; its design has not been changed since its 2012 introduction.
• 12-inch Macbook
The slim 12-inch Retina MacBook is said to include a fanless design, and combines the portability of the 11-inch MacBook Air with the productivity of the larger-screen 13-inch MacBook Air. The design includes slimmer bezels. According to rumors, production of the 12-inch MacBook has been increased in preparation for a mid-2015 launch.
• iPhone
Rumors suggest that the iPhone will see a significant camera improvement, and that Apple could be exploring a dual-lens camera that would use two separate lenses to improve image quality. Additionally, there are rumors that Apple will use sapphire displays from Foxconn for the next iPhone. Likely updates include upgraded A9 processors and improved battery life.
• iPad Air and iPad Mini
Since Apple has updated its iPad lineup yearly, it is likely the iPad Air 2 will receive a minor processor update. The iPad mini 2 received a slight upgrade in 2014, so it might receive a more significant upgrade this year.
Google Reveals Wireless Home Audio Streaming
/by Eric T. ParkerContent for the new system will be controlled in the cloud by Android tablets and smartphones, iPhone, iPad, Mac, Windows and Chromebook from apps including Deezer, Google Play Music, iHeartRadio, NPR One, Pandora, Rdio, TuneIn, and more. Excluded from compatibility is Spotify, and Apple’s iTunes Radio and Beats.
Speakers must have a support chip, which appear by Sony, LG, and HEOS by Denon models. The Google Cast ecosystem is expected to increase to Android TVs, game consoles and set-top boxes.
Google made the announcement yesterday (Jan. 5) prior to the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
Kenny Rogers To Reunite With First Edition For Nashville Q&A Event
/by Troy_StephensonMembers of First Edition: Then and Now
Kenny Rogers and the original members of First Edition will participate in a panel discussion at The CMA Theatre inside the Country Music Hall of Fame on Saturday, Jan. 17 at 2 p.m. Central.
The band’s original lineup includes Rogers, Mike Settle, Terry Williams, Mary Miller, and Gene Lorenzo.
The First Edition was best-known for the singles “Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In” (1967), and 1968’s “But You Know I Love You.” Later billed as Kenny Rogers and the First Edition, the group hit the Top 10 on the country charts with 1969’s “Ruby, Don’t Take Your Love To Town,” a tune penned by Mel Tillis.
Rogers, of course, would later go on to a successful solo career, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2013.
This program will be streamed live at countrymusichalloffame.org. It is included with museum admission and free to museum members. There will be limited seating and a program pass will be required.
LifeNotes: Former Elvis Presley Band Leader Joe Guercio Dies
/by Jessica NicholsonJoe Guercio
Joe Guercio, former band leader and conductor for Elvis Presley, died Sunday, Jan. 4 in Nashville.
Guercio served as the “King of Rock ‘n Roll”’s band leader and conductor from 1970-1977, arranging charts and conducting a 30-piece orchestra for the entertainer. It was Guercio’s idea to use Richard Strauss’ “Also Sprach Zarathustra” (also known as the theme song from ‘2001 Space Odyssey’) as Presley’s concert entry music.
Guercio, a Buffalo, N.Y. native, was previously an pianist and conductor for Patti Page and musical director for artists including Steve Lawrence & Eydie Gorme, Julius LaRosa, Sergio Franchi, Jim Nabors, Florence Henderson, Diahann Carroll and Diana Ross.
He handled arrangements for Barbra Streisand, Gladys Knight, Jackie DeShannon and Natalie Cole, and was formerly the musical director at the International Hotel in Las Vegas, which is where he met Presley. It was Guercio who persuaded Natalie Cole to sing with a video of her late father Nat King Cole during her stage shows, leading to Natalie’s “Unforgettable” duet with the voice of her father.
After Presley’s death, Guercio, like many who knew Elvis, helped progress the entertainer’s legacy. In 1997, Guercio became the conductor for Elvis: The Concert, which blended live music with Presley’s isolated vocals and film footage from his concert specials.
Guercio was a longtime member of the Nashville Association of Talent Directors (NATD).
“I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Joe Guercio,” Priscilla Presley said in a statement. “He was a close friend and associate who will be greatly missed by us all. I was fortunate to see him at Graceland a few months ago, and as only Joe could do, he had us all laughing with him at his stories. His musical talent was unsurpassed. Elvis loved working with him. We have all lost a great man and a true gentleman. My heart goes out to his beloved family.”
“All of us at Graceland and Elvis Presley Enterprises are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Guercio,” said CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Jack Soden. “He was a dear friend and loved by all. Joe not only entertained millions as an incredibly talented musical director, but also entertained all that knew him with his wonderful sense of humor. The world has lost a great man, and we all have lost a special friend.”
Funeral arrangements for Guercio are pending.
What Are Apple’s Plans for 2015?
/by Jessica NicholsonApple had a a successful year in 2014 with the iPhone 6, iPad Air 2, iPad mini 3, OS X Yosemite, and iOS 8. New screen sizes and redesigns put the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus in the news, while iOS 8 and OS X Yosemite offered integration between Apple’s mobile and desktop operating systems.
Here are some of the updates and products users might see from Apple this year:
Apple Watch
• Apple Watch
The Apple watch is Apple’s first wearable device. The watch is available in two sizes (38 mm and 42mm), and features a small S1 processor that integrates several components, including a gyroscope, accelerometer, and a heart rate monitor. Many of the Apple Watch apps are powered by the iPhone and the watch relies on iPhone for functions including GPS. Battery life is another variable. According to Apple CEO Tim Cook, the watch will be used so much it will need to be charged on a daily basis, similar to other smart watches on the market.
• Apple TV
The existing Apple TV could possibly be revamped to include features like a full app store, Siri, and game support. Rumors of Apple TV updates have quieted in recent months, as Apple has focused on the iPhone 6 and the Apple Watch. In May 2014, iTunes’ Eddy Cue confirmed that Apple is still seeking an improvement for television, though he called the fix “complicated.”
• iPad Pro
The “iPad Pro,” as it has been dubbed by media outlets, is a 12.2 – 12.9 inch tablet that could resemble the iPad Air 2, with a thin chassis and slim bezels. It would likely offer iPad Air 2 features such as 2GB of Ram and a Touch ID.
• OS X 10.11 and iOS 9
New versions of iOS and OS X are released yearly. OS X 10.11 and iOS 9 are in development. Apple had intended to introduce improved transit and indoor mapping features for the Maps app, and split-screen multi-tasking for the iPad. If those options are not available for an upcoming iOS 8 update, they could be bundled into iOS 9.
• iMac
It is possible that Apple will release a refreshed 27-inch Retina iMac, with Broadwell processor this year, as well as 21-inch Retina models. A mid- to late-2015 launch is possible.
• Retina Macbook Pro
Apple’s Retina MacBook Pro was given a minor Haswell processor update in July 2014, but should receive a major processor update once Broadwell chips for the device begin shipping in mid-2015. 2015 could also be the year the device sees design changes; its design has not been changed since its 2012 introduction.
• 12-inch Macbook
The slim 12-inch Retina MacBook is said to include a fanless design, and combines the portability of the 11-inch MacBook Air with the productivity of the larger-screen 13-inch MacBook Air. The design includes slimmer bezels. According to rumors, production of the 12-inch MacBook has been increased in preparation for a mid-2015 launch.
• iPhone
Rumors suggest that the iPhone will see a significant camera improvement, and that Apple could be exploring a dual-lens camera that would use two separate lenses to improve image quality. Additionally, there are rumors that Apple will use sapphire displays from Foxconn for the next iPhone. Likely updates include upgraded A9 processors and improved battery life.
• iPad Air and iPad Mini
Since Apple has updated its iPad lineup yearly, it is likely the iPad Air 2 will receive a minor processor update. The iPad mini 2 received a slight upgrade in 2014, so it might receive a more significant upgrade this year.
Christian Music Streaming Service, The Overflow, Debuts
/by Sarah SkatesWhile the number of tracks available (370,000-plus) is fewer than competing multi-genre services, the price is also cheaper ($4.99 per month). Meanwhile, The Overflow also offers the standard streaming site features: songs on demand, curated playlists, and the ability to download music for offline playback. It also boasts other content from top artists, such as devotionals and Bible reading plans.
Stephen Relph, CEO of The Overflow, says, “Christian music is an underserved and significant segment in the USA. It’s also more than music, it’s a lifestyle. We’re excited to bring Christian music fans an immersive app that offers them unlimited Christian music anytime, online or offline. We are confident that we can bring Christian music fans closer to their favorite Christian artists and discover new artists with our curated playlists by genre. Using 7digital’s API allowed us to focus on getting our product and marketing plan executed without being slowed down by the complex work of content management.”
The Overflow built the app leveraging 7digital’s technology platform, content management system and streaming catalog from major and independent labels.
CEO of 7digital, Simon Cole commented, “We are excited to partner with The Overflow on this smart new product. Innovation around digital music continues to flourish and services that focus on a niche catalog or are catered to specific audiences have huge potential to convert new digital users. The Christian community is quickly creating a buoyant market for digital services and there isn’t yet a streaming music service that caters to their needs. The Overflow knows their audience well and can foster a great discovery experience through smart media partnerships and focused curation.”
Nashville’s Big 98 Brings Tige & Daniel to Afternoons
/by Eric T. ParkerNashville’s The Big 98 WSIX has announced that Tige & Daniel will take over the afternoon drive on Nashville’s New Country, effective immediately. Tige Rodgers and Daniel Baker will host live weekdays from 3-7 p.m. CT.
Pictured (L-R): Tige Rogers, Daniel Baker
Tige & Daniel have been together on-air for almost ten years and can be heard on various stations throughout the country. Their previous morning show aired in a variety of markets including Greensboro, N.C. and Myrtle Beach, S.C. In 2013 Tige & Daniel were nominated for the CMA Large Market Personality of the Year Award.
“Having Tige & Daniel right here in Nashville and moving to afternoons is really exciting for The BIG 98,” said Michael Bryan, Vice President of Programming – iHeartMedia Nashville and Program Director, WSIX. “They are both highly involved in the community – St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Nashville Rescue Mission, The American Red Cross, Toys For Tots are among their favorites and they’ve lent their time and efforts in major ways.”
The Big 98 WSIX Weekday Programming Lineup:
The Bobby Bones Show 5-10 a.m.
Amy Paige 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Tige & Daniel 3-7 p.m.
Tyler Reese 7 p.m.-12 a.m.
CMT After Midnite with Cody Alan 12-5 a.m.
Fans can listen to The Big 98 WSIX, online as well as with iHeartRadio.com, across web, mobile phones, tablets, automotive partners, smart TVs and gaming devices.
Industry Ink: ASCAP, Sony Music Nashville, CRS, Gilda’s Club Nashville
/by Jessica NicholsonDave Berg
ASCAP songwriter, producer and artist Dave Berg will participate in the ASCAP Songwriter Residency, in partnership with America Scores. The Residency is a mentorship program that provides a platform for songwriters to engage and inspire elementary and middle school students in under-resourced neighborhoods.
Berg will co-write a song with 16 America SCORES Portland 3rd through 5th grade students at Davis Elementary School on Jan. 26-27. Berg will take students through the songwriting process, from structure to lyrics, followed by a day of tracking at Kung Fu Bakery Recording Studio on Jan. 28. The finished song will be included on a special compilation album made up of songs created from this year’s six ASCAP Songwriter Residencies throughout the US. ASCAP produces and distributes this collection to each of the America SCORES schools involved with the program, as well as to music industry influencers.
• • •
Pherson Scott McDaniel
MusicRowLife: Congratulations to Sony Music Nashville VP Creative Services Scott McDaniel and his wife Kristy on the arrival of their fifth child and first boy, Pherson Scott McDaniel, born in Nashville on Christmas Day, weighing in at 7 lbs, 9 oz.
Pherson is a Scottish name which translates as “Parson” and is the name given to those who have a desire to inspire others to a higher cause.
• • •
Ashley Silver
Ashley Silver has been added as Marketing Coordinator for Country Radio Seminar, providing support for its Brand Marketing and Strategic Partnerships department.
Silver previously held manager positions with Edgehill Cafe and California-based Pacific Event Productions. She graduated from San Diego State University with a degree in Hospitality and Tourism, and interned with Pearl Harbor Naval Base in Hawaii, as well as with the San Diego Padres.
Silver can be reached at ashley@countryradioseminar.com or at 615-327-4487.
• • •
To join the Gang, participants pledge to raise a minimum of $750, with all monies going directly to support the free programs at Gilda’s Club Nashville.
BMG Chrysalis Signs Andrew DeRoberts
/by Jessica NicholsonBMG Chrysalis has signed songwriter/producer Andrew DeRoberts to its roster.
Based in Nashville, DeRoberts has worked on records by artists including OneRepublic, Keith Urban, Miley Cyrus, Kris Allen, and has had songs recorded by Canaan Smith and Thompson Square. DeRoberts co-produced Adam Hambrick‘s Wheels Or Wings EP, which reached the Top 10 on the iTunes Country Albums chart.
Pictured (back row, L-R): Emily Peacock (AAM), Leslie DiPiero (AAM), Sara Knabe (BMG Chrysalis). (front row, L-R): Beka Tischker (AAM), Kevin Lane (BMG Chrysalis), Andrew DeRoberts, Kos Weaver (BMG Chrysalis), Chris Oglesby (BMG Chrysalis)
UMG Begins 2015 Goals, Forms Global Data Alliance
/by Eric T. ParkerThe partnership enables the billions of data points that UMG and its artists generate through music, ticket (Vivendi) and merchandising sales (Bravado), streaming, social media and airplay to be analyzed by algorithmic and data scientists. The result expects new revenue opportunities for UMG artists and labels by creating marketing and advertising opportunities.
The announcement will be made by Lucian Grainge, Chairman and CEO of UMG, and Yannick Bolloré, Chairman and CEO of Havas Group, at the 2015 International CES.
The launch of GMDA follows a 14-month research program overseen by Havas’ Sports & Entertainment (HS&E), in collaboration with the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Innovation Lab.
This comes after the UMG chief notified staff that his 2015 aim will transform business models by working with non-traditional partners to “build the greatest level of compensation.”
Bloodshot Records Celebrates 20 Years With Nashville Event
/by Kelsey_GradyGeneral admission tickets are $15. Doors open at 6 p.m. and show begins at 8pm.
Among the notable artists who have recorded for Bloodshot are Ben Kweller, Justin Townes Earle, Th’Legendary Shack*Shakers, Neko Case, Old 97’s, Ryan Adams and Whiskeytown.