Entertainment

Simone Biles Brings Gold Brilliance to Orlando

Published

1 month ago

November 1, 2024

Simone Biles leads ‘Gold Over America Tour’ in Orlando

Orlando, FL (FNN) – The Gold Over USA Tour recently made a dazzling stop at the Kia Center on October 7, an event that lifted spirits and united fans just days after the threat of Hurricane Milton loomed over Central Florida. Headlined by the incomparable Simone Biles, the evening was a celebration of resilience, showcasing not only her extraordinary talent but also the unwavering spirit of the gymnastics community.

Despite the lingering effects of the storm, a sold-out crowd flocked to the Kia Center, eager to support their favorite athletes. Fans began arriving as early as 5:30 PM, excitedly lining up outside to witness a night filled with athleticism and camaraderie. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, as young gymnasts performed cartwheels and shared their enthusiasm while waiting for the doors to open.

When the doors finally opened, the energy was electric. The event kicked off with an energetic introduction featuring gymnasts like Jade Perry, Caitlyn Akashi, and Lee Pinging from UCLA and Oregon State. The crowd cheered with delight as t-shirts were tossed into the audience, adding a playful element to the night. As the lights dimmed, attendees waved their phone lights in unison, signaling their readiness for the unforgettable show.

A special virtual introduction by Snoop Dogg heightened the excitement as the gymnasts took the stage, moving seamlessly from apparatus to apparatus while cheering each other on. The floor exercises captivated the audience, creating a concert-like atmosphere that lasted for an exhilarating two hours.

Male gymnasts dazzled on the pommel horse and parallel bars, performing to an upbeat rock soundtrack. Simone Biles shared her inspiring journey through heartfelt narratives, reminding everyone of the resilience that defines the sport. Jordan made a dynamic entrance to a Taylor Swift song, further energizing the crowd.

Each gymnast showcased their unique talents, culminating in a stunning segment featuring couples performing to “Love Story.” The Barbie-themed vignette with Simone and her teammates, alongside the male gymnasts dressed as Kens, was a delightful highlight that prompted cheers and laughter from the audience.

The night was infused with nostalgia and fun, featuring iconic songs like “Jump Around” and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun,” encouraging everyone to join in. Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em” added to the vibrant atmosphere, setting the stage for an exciting intermission.

With an aviation theme, the show soared to new heights, featuring Kenny Kravitz’s “Fly Away” and “Highway to the Danger Zone.” Attendees enjoyed intimate performances from Olympic gymnasts, with standout routines from Jade, Hezly, and Simone, each bringing their unique flair to the stage.

Local Florida gymnasts shared the spotlight with Olympic legends like Kathy Johnson Clark, a silver and bronze medalist from the 1984 Olympics. This diverse lineup created a spectacular celebration of the sport, emphasizing the unity and strength of the gymnastics community.

As the event drew to a close, the Kia Center buzzed with joy and togetherness, proving that the love for gymnastics can triumph over any challenge. The Gold Over USA Tour was more than just a performance; it was a heartfelt gathering that celebrated resilience, talent, and community spirit.

As the tour continues to captivate audiences across the country, the Kia Center event remains a highlight, a powerful testament to the spirit of gymnastics and the enduring legacy of Simone Biles. For those who experienced the magic firsthand, the memories of that night will resonate long after the applause fades.

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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

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Celia Cruz en Vivo – 100 Años de Azúcar Album, a Tribute to the Queen of Salsa, Takes Home 2024 Latin GRAMMY® Award

Published

3 days ago

December 2, 2024

Willie David

MIAMI, Fla. (FNN) – Last night, the commemorative album “Celia Cruz En Vivo – 100 años de Azúcar”, which celebrates the life and musical legacy of the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz, won the Latin GRAMMY® for Best Recording Package at the 25th Annual Latin GRAMMY® Awards.

“This album is incredibly meaningful to me for several reasons. First, it honors Celia Cruz, the most iconic artist from Cuba and one of the first I had the privilege to work with. It also features live recordings from concerts in Miami, a city that holds a special place in my heart. My love for design, whether in graphics or advertising, has always been strong, and the packaging of this album stands out as a unique representation of Celia’s vibrant style,” says Nelson Albareda, CEO of Loud And Live and the album’s executive producer. “But above all, there’s the music, my greatest passion. As a Cuban-American, this album is a tribute to my roots, my culture, and my identity. Celia was a once-in-a-century artist, and that’s exactly what we’re celebrating: 100 Years of Azúcar,” he concludes.

The album was awarded for the limited edition Deluxe Collector’s Box Set, an artistic piece that captured the hearts of collectors, music lovers worldwide, and the members of The Latin Recording Academy, who chose this work as the winner.

The cover of this special edition has sentimental and historical value as it bears the authentic sequin-embroidered fabric of one of the textiles Celia used in her famed costumes. This award-winning Deluxe box set also includes a book containing one hundred photographs celebrating each year lived by the legendary artist and a series of printed plates.

The album and its packaging design art direction was spearheaded by multiple GRAMMY® and Latin GRAMMY® Award-winning producers Nelson Albareda and Omer Pardillo-Cid, as well as Kemelly Figueroa-Mouriz, Sebastián Aristizábal, and Albertico Rodríguez.

(Photo left to right – Sebastian Aristizabal -art director , Nelson Albareda – producer and art director, Kemelly Figueroa Mouriz – art director, Omer Pardillo Cid – producer and art director, and Albertico Rodriguez – art director, photo courtesy of Loud And Live)

“One of the greatest treasures of my life was accompanying Celia for so many years. Upon her passing, I set myself the mission of elevating the work she left us so that it would not be forgotten over time. This project is yet another example that Celia is immortal. Now it is she who accompanies me, and she will do so for eternity. In receiving this Latin GRAMMY® Award, thanks to the efforts of the Loud And Live Studios team, we officially kick off the celebration of her 100^th anniversary, which will be a resounding success for her legacy and for future generations to come,” commented Omer Pardillo-Cid, Celia Cruz’s last representative and universal executor of her legacy.

The album, released in June, was produced by Loud And Live Studios and distributed by InnerCat, and it marks the beginning of the commemoration of Celia Cruz’s 100th birthday, to be celebrated in 2025.

“Celia Cruz En Vivo – 100 años de Azúcar” contains previously unreleased recordings of the singer at a concert in Miami, FL, in the mid-1980s and was released digitally and on vinyl with special packaging – instantly becoming a global collector’s item.

The award adds to the omnipresent legacy of Celia Cruz at the Latin GRAMMYs®, who in her lifetime won four golden gramophones: Best Salsa Performance for “Celia Cruz and Friends: A Night of Salsa”, Best Traditional Tropical Album for “Siempre Viviré” and two-time Best Salsa Album awards for “La Negra Tiene Tumbao” and “Regalo Del Alma”.

Last August, Cruz was chosen and honored as one of five outstanding women to be celebrated as part of the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarters Program, celebrating the achievements and positive contributions of women in this nation. The beloved Queen of Salsa, who passed away in 2003, appears on the embossed coin, dressed in a Cuban costume with her motto: ¡Azúcar!

Celia Cruz was born in Havana, Cuba in 1925, and until her death in 2003, she toured the world spreading her distinctive flair and joy in her wake. The impact of her mark is priceless. In the two decades since her passing, fame and affection for this iconic artist has grown and continues to grow daily. Celia Cruz has become the most idolized African-American Hispanic singer in history.

Entertainment

Universal Orlando Reveals Sneak Peek of Epic Universe’s “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry”

Published

5 days ago

November 30, 2024

Willie David

ORLANDO, Fla. (FNN ENTERTAINMENT) – Universal Orlando Resort has offered fans a magical glimpse into its newest attraction, “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry,” set to open on May 22, 2025, in the highly anticipated Epic Universe park. The cutting-edge ride will immerse visitors in a breathtaking, life-sized recreation of the British Ministry of Magic, featuring intricate details and thrilling experiences from the beloved Harry Potter films.

Designed as the next groundbreaking chapter in the Wizarding World, the attraction combines innovative ride technology, elaborate storytelling, and enchanting visuals to create an unforgettable adventure. Guests will witness the trial of Dolores Umbridge while navigating through iconic Ministry locations, battling Death Eaters, and encountering magical creatures.

Immersive Highlights and Key Takeaways

Métro-Floo Corridor
Guests will travel from wizarding Paris into the Ministry of Magic via Métro-Floo, inspired by the Floo Network seen in the films. Upon arrival, they’ll step into the bustling Ministry lobby, which sets the stage for their journey.

The Ministry Atrium
The Ministry of Magic Atrium welcomes guests with its enormous enchanted weather ceiling, restored Fountain of Magical Brethren, and countless Ministry offices. The setting captures the grandeur and complexity of this pivotal Wizarding World location.

Dolores Umbridge’s Office
Visitors will explore the meticulously recreated pink, gold-accented office of Dolores Umbridge, encountering Higgledy, her animated house-elf, preparing for the trial.
Magical Ministry Lifts
The revolutionary omnidirectional ride vehicles will transport groups of up to 14 through the Ministry, offering unparalleled motion that simulates lifts moving up, down, sideways, and beyond.
Thrilling Chase
The ride’s storyline takes guests on a heart-pounding chase to capture Umbridge as she tries to flee her trial. Expect encounters with rampaging creatures, Death Eaters, and locations like the Department of Magical Creatures, Time Room, and the vast Magical Archives.

What’s Next: A Fully Realized Wizarding World Experience

“Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” is just one attraction in this third Wizarding World expansion. Guests can look forward to:

Le Cirque Arcanus, a live show inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films.
Interactive wand magic and themed dining and retail experiences within the Ministry of Magic.
Captivating entertainment across the land’s various attractions.

Plan Your Visit

Tickets and Packages
Select multi-day tickets and vacation packages that include Epic Universe access are already available. Fans can book the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Exclusive Vacation Package, featuring:

7-night hotel accommodations.
5-day theme park access, including one-day entry to Epic Universe.
Early Park Admission to select attractions.
Exclusive wizarding perks, such as dining experiences, photo sessions, and unique souvenirs.

Epic Universe and its Wizarding World attractions promise to redefine immersive entertainment when they open next year. For more details and reservations, click here.

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J Willie David, III
Florida National News and FNN News Network
news@FloridaNationalNews.com

Entertainment

Drake Files Lawsuit Against Universal Music Group Over Allegedly Defamatory Kendrick Lamar Lyric

Published

6 days ago

November 29, 2024

Kareen Kennedy

Orlando FL (FNN) – In an unexpected twist, Drake has filed a significant lawsuit against Universal Music Group (UMG), alleging that Kendrick Lamar’s lyric in the song “Not Like Us” defames him by falsely accusing him of being a sex offender. The lyric has caused significant controversy among fans and critics, with many speculating that the line is aimed at Drake. His legal team claims that the statement has harmed his reputation, suggesting serious legal and financial consequences for the artist.This legal action follows an earlier petition where Drake accused UMG and Spotify of conspiring to inflate his streaming numbers. The combination of these two actions underscores a broader sense of frustration Drake feels towards the industry’s practices and its impact on his career.

In this lawsuit, Drake argues that the lyric in question is both defamatory and damaging to his brand, tarnishing his public image and potentially affecting his business prospects. He asserts that the false accusation made in the song not only harms his reputation but also creates a broader public misunderstanding of his character, especially given his status as a high-profile public figure.

While diss tracks and competitive lyrics are common in the rap and hip-hop industry, this case pushes the limits of what is considered acceptable. The suit centers on a complex issue: at what point do an artist’s lyrics go from free expression to a legally actionable statement of harm? Drake’s legal team contends that Lamar’s lyric crosses that line, drawing attention to the responsibility of artists—and by extension, record labels—to be mindful of the impact their words can have, especially when those words are as publicly consumed as music.

This lawsuit raises important questions about how the music industry deals with the intersection of freedom of speech and defamation. Historically, there have been few legal precedents in the realm of music for defamation claims arising from lyrics. However, Drake’s case could set a new legal standard by determining the limits of lyrical content and the extent to which public figures are protected from harm through creative works.

Drake’s legal move is not just about defending his reputation but also about shaping the future landscape of how the entertainment industry handles controversial content. If successful, it could pave the way for more scrutiny of lyrics and greater responsibility from record labels in overseeing the content their artists produce. Moreover, it could redefine how legal disputes are settled in the context of artistic expression, providing clearer guidelines for how defamatory statements made in music are treated in the courts.

As this lawsuit unfolds, it will be closely watched by legal professionals, music industry insiders, and fans alike. Its outcome could have broad implications, potentially impacting not only the relationship between artists and record labels but also the balance between free speech and accountability in the entertainment world.

Stay tuned for more developments on this legal drama as it continues to unfold.

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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com