Hey, it’s Jess. 👋

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Last week, I sent out my very first newsletter. Huge thanks to everyone who signed up to hear my thoughts, music recs, and occasional oversharing.

Lately, I’ve been deep into Netflix’s music shows. First up: Hitmakers, a docuseries about the unsung heroes of pop: songwriters. Fun fact: My first job out of college was at Sony ATV Publishing, where I worked with some of those same songwriters and producers. That gig taught me just how much hustle, dedication, and long nights go into writing a hit song.

One of the songwriters I worked closely with, Jenna Andrews (hi Jenna!), is featured on Hitmakers, alongside powerhouses like Ben Johnson (credits: Jelly Roll, Charlie Puth, JT, Weezer). Funny enough, the day I started the show, I decided to finally check out the legendary Bluebird Cafe (iykyk). I didn’t have tickets and decided to wing it and wait in line for 45 minutes, hoping to get in as a walk-in (spoiler: I got the LAST spot). I wasn’t even sure who was performing and who walks in? Ben Johnson himself.

He ended up performing with Blake Pendergrass (credits: Morgan Wallen, Riley Green) and Dasha (yes, that Dasha from the viral “Austin” song). Anyway, here’s a pic, and proof that going to shows solo is good for your confidence and luck.

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THIS WEEK IN MUSIC NEWS & TOURS 🎤

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Niall Horan going country? I sure hope so. Comments online agree that Niall’s voice and country music could possibly be a match made in Nashville. Listen to his new song with Thomas Rhett titled “Old Tricks” here.

My younger brother Ariel (who is much cooler than me) introduced me to Sam Fender, and while I wait until the day we see him live together, I’m left with his amazing new single “Talk to You” with Sir Elton John. Currently on repeat.

Alicia Keys has a new musical! Hell’s Kitchen features music and lyrics by Alicia herself and is inspired by her life, her city, and her community (and it already has a whopping 300+ five-star reviews). Honestly, I’ve been looking for an excuse to visit NYC… this might be it.


Tour News:

  • As I mentioned, I’ve been loving Netflix's music shows (Netflix, call me). Any Building the Band fans? If so, great news! SZN4’s music is officially hitting the road! You can grab tour dates and tickets here.
  • LANY blessed us with both a new album and tour. My best friend Becca and I have accidentally created a tradition to see every tour in a different city, so we’re already planning our next one. Check the dates here.
  • The Jonas Brothers tour is trending hard thanks to some iconic Joe moments and unexpected collabs. Here’s one of my favorites.
  • Conan Gray just extended his Wishbone Pajama Show tour, turning it into a full world run kicking off in 2026. If you haven’t seen him live yet, this is your moment. Catch the full tour here.
  • Alessia Cara is kicking off the North American leg of her Love & Hyperbole tour in support of her latest album! Don’t sleep on the dates near you.
  • Tucker Wetmore is going global. His new endeavor, The Brunette World Tour, kicks off in the U.S. early next year, followed by a European and U.K. tour for the first time. He’ll be joined by openers like Dasha and Carter Faith. This news comes following a sold-out headlining debut at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville.

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THIS WEEK IN RANDOM, BUT AWESOME, EVENTS  ✨

  • I just got back from two weeks in Poland, so I had to include this one. The Dance Poland 50th Anniversary Concert is happening in San Francisco and looks incredible. Big energy. Bigger outfits.
  • Everyone’s favorite Halloween movie (don’t argue with me) is coming to life in Boston with Hocus Pocus Recreation. Grab your friends, your broomsticks, and maybe a PSL.
  • If watching other people fall in love while you sit there eating popcorn is your vibe, First Date: Comedy Game Show in Chicago is calling your name.
  • And finally, You Should Be Dancing Queen in Philly. There’s just something about that song that instantly fixes my mood. See you on the dance floor.

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WIN SOMETHING 🎁

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You know I love a good giveaway, so here are a few of the best ones happening across the DoStuff universe right now. Don’t forget to check your local city page for even more free stuff!

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DoTell: Where YOU tell us 💬

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We want to hear your stories. The ones you bring up at parties, the ones you write in your journal, or even the ones you keep secret (until you share them with me, of course).

This week’s prompt: What is your best “sneaking in” story? 🎟️

Did you jump a fence at Bonnaroo? Sweet-talk your way past a bouncer? Pretend to be “on the list” and somehow pull it off? We’ve all had our moments, and we want to hear them.

Reply to this email with your best stories. We’ll be featuring some in next week’s issue. 👀

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Shoutout of the Week: Joe in Cincinnati 🏙️

Joe wrote in saying we had to add Cincy because its music scene is, quote, “huge.” You’re right, Joe. Consider this your official shoutout, and yes, Cincinnati, we see you. 👀🎸

The city’s scene is absolutely thriving right now. My Morning Jacket just brought an electrifying show to MegaCorp Pavilion, Story of the Year is headed to Bogart’s on November 30 with their new album A.R.S.O.N., and local venues are buzzing every weekend. Plus, the recent partnership between Project Healthy Minds and Music Health Alliance is giving Cincinnati’s music community some well-deserved wellness support. We love to see it.

If you’re in or near Cincy, keep your eyes open. Between the local legends and touring acts rolling through, you’re right in the mix of something special.

Catch you next Wednesday with more tours, more picks, and more stories!

Jess ✨

This is Clare Twiddy.
Our Do604 Content Manager in Vancouver.
Her new album Nope is out now.
Stream it in all the places here.

That’s it for this week. Now go be the one in your group chat who already knows what’s cool. Follow @DoStuff on IG & Subscribe to our DoMORE membership for free tickets!

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