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  • Dave Matthews Band Announces 2026 Fall Tour Dates

    The Dave Matthews Band has announced its 2026 Fall Tour, which will kick off on November 4 at Kohl Center in Madison, WI. The U.S. headline run will include shows at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, United Center in Chicago, CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, and Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, concluding with a two-night-stand at Madison Square Garden.

    General on-sale for tickets begins on Friday, August 21, at 10 AM (local venue time).

    The band will resume its summer tour on August 28 with the first of two shows at Fiddler’s Green in Greenwood Village, Colorado. The extensive outing will conclude with Dave Matthews Band’s traditional Labor Day weekend residency at the Gorge Amphitheater in George, WA. The supporting acts for the weekend will be Infinity Song and Stephen Wilson Jr. (Friday), Jonah Kagen and Watchhouse (Saturday) and Sierra Hull and Jesse Welles (Sunday).

    Named as a U.N. Environment Goodwill Ambassador in 2019, Dave Matthews Band has a long history of reducing its environmental footprint, going back to its first shows in 1991. This fall, the band will continue its partnership with Live Nation venues to further minimize the environmental footprint of its tour. 2026 marks the third year of the “On The Road To Zero Waste Tour,” which achieved a milestone of over 90% of fan-generated waste at Live Nation venues composted, recycled or donated in previous years. Dave Matthews Band will once again join forces with environmental nonprofit Reverb, celebrating 21 years of partnership focused on making the music industry more sustainable and fan-driven action more measurable.

    In 2026, Dave Matthews Band continues its long‑standing support of The Nature Conservancy’s global reforestation efforts. Seven years strong, this work is rooted in a simple belief that healthy forests help create a healthier planet. With this year’s tour, the band will have planted a total of 7 million trees by the end of 2026. These trees help rebuild critical forests that clean our air and water, provide habitat for wildlife, and support a more stable climate for future generations. Learn more about this work with The Nature Conservancy at dmbtrees.org.

    DAVE MATTHEWS BAND FALL 2026 U.S. TOUR DATES

    11/4               Madison, WI                        Kohl Center

    11/6               Nashville, TN                       Bridgestone Arena

    11/7               Chicago, IL                          United Center

    11/9               Providence, RI                     Amica Mutual Pavilion

    11/10             Baltimore, MD                     CFG Bank Arena

    11/12             New York, NY                      Madison Square Garden Arena

    11/13             New York, NY                      Madison Square Garden Arena

  • WNBA Trailblazer Sheryl Swoopes on How Roku’s ‘Gamechangers: Mother/Athlete’ Documentary Spotlights That Balancing Act

    WNBA Trailblazer Sheryl Swoopes on How Roku’s ‘Gamechangers: Mother/Athlete’ Documentary Spotlights That Balancing Act

    The Roku Originals documentary, “Gamechangers: Mother/Athlete,” made its world premiere at the 24th annual Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival (MVAAFF) on Sunday afternoon. The intimate film is part of Roku’s “Gamechangers” series and follows WNBA stars Sheryl Swoopes, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Bria Hartley, Natalie Achonwa and Allison Feaster as they reflect on the joys and challenges of navigating pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood as professional athletes. 

    “I think as viewers, as a public, we often see our athletes as heroes. They’re also human beings, and they’re dealing with a lot of the same day-to-day issues that we deal with,” director Christine Turner told me during a Q&A following the screening. As a storyteller and as a filmmaker generally, it’s always my hope and my goal to tell the stories of complex, multifaceted, multidimensional individuals. It’s important because everyone out there needs to see and understand that.”

    Swoopes, who was the first woman to sign on to play in the WNBA during its inaugural season in 1997, got pregnant just ahead of the league’s first year. In the documentary, she reflects on how terrified she was to share her pregnancy with her team and with the public.

    “There was a part of me that was like, ‘Everybody is counting on me. There’s no way I can get pregnant right now,’” Swoopes said. “At the same time, I have to say it wasn’t my plan, but it was done. And so that’s what I took from that. And listen, I just tried to do the best that I could do.”

    It’s been nearly 30 years since the WNBA was established — funded by the NBA. However, in “Gamechanges: Mother/Athlete,” Swoopes and the rest of the players discuss the lack of resources, particularly regarding their maternal welfare. For nearly three decades, it’s been up to these women to figure out their schedules, finances and everything in between during their pregnancies and thereafter with little guidance or support from the organization. The WNBA did not offer fully paid maternity leave until 2018.

    “I hope people come away with a greater appreciation of what Sheryl and so many other women in the league have done and gone through,” Turner said. “It’s incredibly hard, and it’s admirable and inspiring. I hope we get a better window into the issues women in the league and professional sports are facing. And then I hope that audiences can also just relate to something of themselves or their partner or their loved ones, their mothers or whatever.”

    Motherhood and career are always going to be a balancing act, but it certainly can be done. For Swoopes, it’s all about embracing everything that comes with it.

    “So many times, though, we get caught up in everything else going on around us that we don’t stop to concentrate and focus on ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally, all these things,” Swoopes said. “The first thing I would say is make sure you’re taking care of you before you take that next step. But the other part of that is, for myself, I didn’t plan. It just happened. And when it happened, I embraced it after I had to do all the other things. I would just say make sure you’re ready when it happens. And never question whether the decision you made was right or wrong. You live with that decision, and you make the most of it.”

    “Gamechangers: Mother/Athlete” will stream free on The Roku Channel this fall.

  • Ripple Engineer Clarifies Key XRP Ledger Update Metric: What’s Important?

    Ripple Engineer Clarifies Key XRP Ledger Update Metric: What’s Important?

    $XRP Ledger version 3.3.0 launched in the past week, with its upgrade progress across the entire network now in focus. In this context, RippleX software engineer Mayukha Vadari has provided an important clarification on an update progress metric.

    The conversation began when an X user posted that XRPL UNL validators have met the ‘Sufficiently Updated’ threshold of 80% on version 3.3.0 of XRPLD, hoping for amendment voting to gain traction.

    That prompted a question from $XRP community member @offledger, who asked whether the “Sufficiently Updated” consideration applies to the entire network rather than only validators.

    The original poster suggested that a set number rather than a percentage might be more appropriate for non-validating nodes, as software versions can vary considerably across that portion of the network. He cited XRPScan figures that showed 74 nodes on version 3.3.0 and 58 on version 3.2.1.

    Yeah this is the metric that most validators use. 80% of the UNL updating is the bare minimum, not the norm.

    — Mayukha Vadari (@msvadari) August 10, 2026

    Offledger clarified that the consideration has always been measured against the entirety of the network rather than only UNL validators; this implies about 32% of the network had updated to 3.3.0 while 68% of the network currently runs version 3.2.1.

    “A wee way to go yet,” Offledger said, suggesting that the broader network still has significant ground to cover before 3.3.0 reaches widespread adoption.

    Responding to the discussion over the ‘Sufficiently Updated’ threshold of 80%, Vadari said this is the metric that most validators use, adding that 80% of the UNL updating is the bare minimum, not the norm.

    $XRP Ledger consensus structure explained

    The X discussion highlighted an important distinction between UNL validators and the broader XRPL network.

    The xrpld is one of the two main types of server software that power the $XRP Ledger and can run in several modes depending on its configuration. One of these is P2P, which is the main mode of the server. This includes validators, which help secure the network by participating in consensus. A unique node list (UNL) is a server’s list of validators that it trusts not to collude with every $XRP Ledger server configured with a UNL.

    Hub servers relay messages between many other members of the peer-to-peer network, while the API server provides API access to read data from the shared ledger, submit transactions, and watch activity in the ledger.

    These form a peer-to-peer network that processes transactions and maintains the shared state of the $XRP Ledger.

  • Will July CPI Reset the Fed, Bitcoin, and Every Major Market?

    Will July CPI Reset the Fed, Bitcoin, and Every Major Market?

  • Grvt eyes $100 million USDY position in Ondo Finance tie-up

    Grvt eyes $100 million USDY position in Ondo Finance tie-up

  • This $15 Thin Under-Pillow Speaker Makes Nighttime Listening More Serene

    This $15 Thin Under-Pillow Speaker Makes Nighttime Listening More Serene

    TL;DR: Replace uncomfortable sleep headphones with an ultra-thin Bluetooth under-pillow speaker for $14.99 (MSRP $79.95).

    Falling asleep with earbuds isn’t exactly comfortable, especially if you’re a side sleeper. If you like drifting off to white noise, podcasts, meditation, or audiobooks, an under-pillow speaker offers a much simpler solution.

    This Ultra-Thin Sleep Aid Under-Pillow Speaker is available for $14.99 (MSRP $79.95). Instead of sitting in your ears, it slips beneath or beside your pillow and delivers localized audio designed primarily for you, helping minimize disturbances for anyone sleeping nearby.

    Bluetooth connectivity lets you stream music, sleep sounds, podcasts, or audiobooks from your phone or tablet. It also supports TF card playback, so you can listen without keeping your phone connected.

    The built-in rechargeable battery delivers up to 20 hours of playback, while the 30-, 60-, and 90-minute sleep timer automatically powers the speaker down after you drift off.

    Its ultra-thin, lightweight design is made for comfortable overnight use, making it a practical alternative to bulky headphones or earbuds. Whether you’re relaxing at home, traveling, or trying not to wake your partner, it’s an easy and inexpensive way to enjoy private audio without sacrificing comfort.

    Recommended by Our Editors

    Get this Ultra-Thin Sleep Aid Under-Pillow Speaker for just $14.99 (MSRP $79.95).


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    Prices subject to change. PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through StackSocial affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing.

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  • Spotify to Start Labeling AI Artists

    Spotify to Start Labeling AI Artists

    Spotify has announced a new feature intended to label AI artist profiles on the platform, one of the company’s most significant moves to date as the streamer looks to offer users more transparency about AI content on the service.

    “AI Personas,” as Spotify is calling the tool, will begin to roll out in mid-September, Spotify said on Tuesday, working as a badge that will appear on the mobile app on artist profiles, as well as in search and on track rows on playlists.

    “Listeners have been clear in telling us that they don’t like seeing an artist profile that seems human, only to find out that the persona is AI-generated,” the company said on Tuesday. “That’s why, starting mid-September, you’ll begin to see an AI Persona badge on some artist profiles. The badge signals to listeners that an artist’s identity may be AI-generated and does not represent a real person. Alongside artist profiles that self-disclose as AI Personas, we will also start applying badges to relevant profiles.”

    While the feature will roll out in September, starting today, artists have the option to disclose if their profile is an AI persona. Notably though, Spotify isn’t stopping at voluntary labeling, saying that “we hope artists will be transparent, so we are giving them the opportunity to disclose, but we won’t rely on self-disclosure alone.”

    The company said it would review and label artist profiles that meet a certain number of listeners and “whose public identity” on their profile “appears to represent photorealistic AI-generated identities.” Spotify’s AI personas badge will specify whether the artist self-identified as AI or if Spotify had to review itself. Artists who Spotify labels as AI will be given an opportunity to either self-disclose or appeal the determination.

    Spotify also said that users on the platform will be able to report artist profiles they believe may be AI as well, though the company didn’t give specifics on when that feature would roll out.

    The badge is specific to the artist profiles themselves, Spotify said, “not about how the music was made.” This seems to mean that if a recording artist’s profile reflects who they actually are, they won’t face any required labeling on their content, even if it’s an AI-generated song. Some of the AI acts who’ve generated headlines in the past several years though, like Xania Monet or Breaking Rust, may have their profiles labeled with the AI Persona badge.

    Spotify said that by default, it won’t include any artists labeled as AI Personas in its editorial or algorithmic recommendations.

    “While we believe all artists have creative choice in determining how they present themselves, Spotify’s programming is focused on elevating music from authentic artists building careers in music,” Spotify said.

    This isn’t Spotify’s first initiative with labeling AI content on the platform. Earlier this year, Spotify rolled out a beta on AI credits on songs, though the disclosures are dependent on if the artist chose to include the information.

    Spotify’s announcement comes as the music industry overall continues to explore how to handle AI music. Some services such as Bandcamp decided to outright ban AI music on the platform. Last month, a coalition led by the RIAA and IFPI had pushed streaming services to adopt labels for songs similar to how explicit music is currently labeled. The major record labels also called on the chart organizers around the globe to disqualify AI slop tracks from being included.

  • Sneak a Peek at 46% Off This 2-Camera Indoor Security System

    Sneak a Peek at 46% Off This 2-Camera Indoor Security System

    Knock knock! Who’s there? You’d already know if you had a camera system installed. Investing in a home security system is the closest thing to buying actual peace of mind. While the first line of defense is always outside, indoor monitoring can be just as useful—especially if you want to keep tabs on the dog sitter when you’re out of town. 

    Such all-seeing systems don’t have to make a getaway with your wallet, though. Not right now, especially, since Amazon has the Blink Mini 2K Plus two-camera indoor security system on sale for 46% off. That brings the $69.99 list price all the way down to $37.99! 


    Blink Mini 2K Plus Indoor Security Camera (2-Pack) 

    Blink Mini 2K Plus Indoor Security Camera (2-Pack) 

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    What’s better than one camera? Two! And that’s exactly what this deal entails: a two-pack of the Blink Mini 2K Plus security camera. As the third-generation model, the Blink Mini 2K Plus is the newest iteration and comes loaded with advanced features like noise cancellation, smart detection, and color night vision. It delivers sharper 2K video than its predecessors and can zoom up to 4x to capture even more detailed footage. Extra helpful if you need to see who’s been sticking their hand in the cookie jar (and call them out for it with two-way audio)! And if the perpetrator strikes in the dead of night, color night vision also helps you spot the little details. 

    Sounds like all that would be useful outside, too—right? You actually can mount the Mini 2K Plus camera outside, as long as you buy the Blink Weather Resistant Power Adapter (that’s sold separately) to connect it to power. But otherwise, it stands as a spectacular indoor security camera system. When we reviewed it, PCMag expert John R. Delaney gave it an “Excellent” rating and praised the Mini 2K Plus for its sharp video, practical AI features, and seamless Alex integration. 

    Recommended by Our Editors

    For almost half off, this two-camera bundle is just a click away. But if you’re looking for something a little more intense, check out our editors’ list of the best indoor security cameras for 2026. 

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    • More Security Camera Deals at Amazon 

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  • Ari Emanuel’s Mari Acquires Broadway and West End Theater Owner ATG Entertainment

    Ari Emanuel’s Mari Acquires Broadway and West End Theater Owner ATG Entertainment

    Ari Emanuel’s Mari has signed a deal to acquire Broadway and West End theater giant ATG Entertainment.

    The financial terms of the agreement, which sees Mari acquiring the theater owner from private equity firm Providence Equity were not disclosed, but the deal size has been pegged at $6 billion.

    This gives the live events company a larger foothold in the theater space, after it acquired ticketing company TodayTix in October 2025 shortly after Mari itself was launched. The transaction is still subject to regulatory approvals. But once closed, the plan is for ATG to continue under its existing brand and leadership and “retain its commitment to creative independence,” according to the release.

    The acquisition marks a major shakeup of the Broadway landscape, which rarely sees theaters change hands, as the historic Shubert Organization owns the majority of Broadway theaters, with 17 of the 41 total, and the long-standing Nederlander Organization owns nine. ATG is the third largest theater owner, with seven theaters, after it acquired a majority stake in Jujamcyn Theaters in 2023 (the last major big theater deal). Reports of a possible ATG deal surfaced in June.

    In addition to Broadway, where ATG also owns the Lyric Theatre, home to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the theater group has 10 theaters in the West End, including the Lyceum, home to long-running hit The Lion King and the Savoy Theatre, home to box office hit Paddington the Musical. In total, the company owns, operates or programs 70 venues across Britain, the U.S., Germany, Austria and Spain.

    The current Mari portfolio includes the tennis events, the Miami Open and Madrid Open, Frieze art fairs and car auction company Barrett Jackson. Emanuel is also CEO of TKO, home to the WWE and UFC, and executive chairman of WME Group.

    “I’ve spent my whole career in entertainment, and I started out in theater. I’ve seen the industry reinvent itself many times, but live has only grown more powerful. Nothing connects great talent with audiences more directly. ATG has built one of the world’s great theater businesses around that experience. This is a long-term bet on where live goes next,” Emanuel said.

    Providence Equity partners acquired a majority stake in ATG for about $500 million in 2013, from Exponent Private Equity.

    Sonia Friedman, a prominent West End and Broadway producer behind shows such as Paddington and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and a producing partner of ATG Entertainment, praised the deal, saying the investment should help ensure the sustainability of the industry and bring in new artists.

    “As a producer, I have always believed in the power of live theatre to bring people together, challenge perspectives and create unforgettable shared experiences. Our industry has always needed partners prepared to think long term, invest with confidence and support creativity with real ambition. What I find compelling about MARI is its breadth of experience across live events and its respect for creative independence. That combination gives us the chance to champion bold new work, reach broader and more diverse audiences and strengthen the future of live theatre for generations to come,” Friedman said in the release.

  • Marina Signs With UTA in All Areas (EXCLUSIVE)

    British singer-songwriter and pop diva Marina (formerly Marina and the Diamonds) has signed with United Talent Agency for global representation in all areas, encompassing touring, media, filmed entertainment, brand partnerships, and more.

    The signing comes as the Welsh-Greek singer is slated to wrap her 40-plus-date “Princess of Power” tour, in support of the album of the same name, about which Variety wrote, “She’s maintained a steady presence over the years, but her new album, ‘Princess of Power,’ is something very different — a sound and image redefinition and revitalization that seems defined by a lyric from the title track that goes ‘I’ve been living life locked up in tower/ But now I’m blooming like a flower.’ The album is filled with deliciously pulsating electronic rhythms and hilarious and risque lyrics that contrast startlingly with her intentionally mannered, arch singing style, which can vault suddenly into a sky-scraping soprano.” The album marked her first release as an independent artist via her own label Queenie Records in partnership with BMG.

    The tour included dates at Radio City Music Hall in New York, the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Alexandra Palace in London, two shows at the Pepsi Center in Mexico City, as well as the Coachella, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits, Outside Lands, Governors Ball, and Bonnaroo festivals. 

    Marina launched her career in 2009 and saw major chart success in the U.K., with 2012’s “Electra Heart” debuting at No. 1 and “Froot” and “Love + Fear” both making the top 10.

    Marina is represented by Janelle Lopez Genzink, Bianca Nour, and Merce Jessor at Volara Management.