GloRilla has put out a new song called ‘TGIF’. The Memphis rapper previewed the song on TikTok, where the sound quickly went viral. Check it out below.
It follows the GloRilla’s Ehhthang Ehhthang mixtape, which dropped earlier this year.
Author Spotlight: Joseph O’Neill, ‘Godwin’
Mark Wolfe leads an uninteresting life, working as a technical writing cooperative known as the Group, when across-the-pond phone calls from his estranged mother and half-brother Geoff start to lure him into a money-making scheme he might not be able to turn his back on. Geoff, ambitious and shady, shows Mark a video of an African soccer player known only as ‘Godwin,’ and promises that with the right training, he might become the next Lionel Messi. Mark agrees to go on an international journey to locate Godwin, meeting out-of-luck soccer agents, to the dismay of his wife, Sushila. However, he quickly realizes the rules of the money-making venture, without much thought to the implications behind an industry that yanks children out of Africa and ships them to Europe so white scouts can make money off of their talent.
In a parallel narrative, his coworker, Lakesha, is grappling with her own battle at work — a supposedly normal election to determine a new committee is upended by a coup that forces her friends out and new, energetic workers in. Their separate voices come together to tell the story of Godwin, rarely present in the book’s pages, but around whom a swirling journey begins.
Our Culture talked with acclaimed novelist Joseph O’Neill about Bernie Bros, Africa, and the perils of capitalism.
Congratulations on your new book! This is your first novel since 2014, how does it feel that it’s finally out?
Well, I’m glad that it’s finally done. This was a difficult one to write for various reasons, not necessarily connected to the book. And I do feel like the novelist — and I sensed this as I was writing the book — is a marginal figure in the culture, even more than 10 years ago. Not necessarily because everyone’s watching digital stuff, although that’s part of it, but also because everyone’s riveted by the political calamity that’s overtaking the United States. I myself have been quite absorbed by all of that. And it really is quite difficult, when there’s enormous social upheaval and peril, to be very productive, artistically. I think that’s historically borne out. So the combination of threats to democracy and the internet has kind of put us in a different culture, one that’s much more hostile to writing and reading than we’ve had for many years. So that’s probably why it took me 10 years. My thoughts were elsewhere, like everyone’s.
If it’s worth anything, I feel like Godwin got a decent buzz. Some books have had a splash beyond the literary community, like Sheila Heti and Miranda July’s this year. But it’s interesting that the outside world can be stifling.
Let me put it this way, no one’s going to be reading many novels in six months [because of the U.S. election]. In a way, I’m relieved. I got it done by the summer of 2024, so at least there’s going to be a couple of months where people are still thinking about books and some holidays before they turn their minds to what’s going to happen in November and beyond.
Godwin is a novel of so many ideas, and like Netherland, it revolves around a sport, this time being soccer, but it’s used to examine broader things. When did the themes for Godwin start coming together?
Have they come together? [laughs] They sort of emerged as byproducts of the drama. And, you know, obviously you choose your dramas with an intuitive sense of their thematic resonance. In the case of Godwin, I must have begun with the idea of this soccer prodigy who materializes on the internet. If you go on YouTube, you occasionally see these posts where kids are showcasing their skills and trying to get the attention of scouts, who will presumably look at the videos. I have a cousin who is a soccer agent. He’s nothing like Geoff, the young, slightly idiotic English agent in this book, but he inspired me to think about how it would work. Basically, anybody can become a soccer agent, as far as I could tell. You and I could end this interview and start a soccer agency. The technical term isn’t ‘agent,’ by the way, it’s ‘intermediary.’ The soccer economy is so vast and so rich that you can make money by inserting yourself in the transactions. It’s a bit like banking. All you have to do is insert yourself within the flow of money.
Anyway, a year or two, or maybe even five, into the process, I got slightly dissatisfied with my masculine narrator, Mark, whom I didn’t particularly warm to. I felt he was a Bernie bro. The action takes place in 2015, the [2016] election’s on the horizon, and I’m thinking about this guy: He’s a Bernie bro in the making. He’s very emotionally and socially excited about the possibility of exerting power over other liberals. There was a lot of that going on, eight years ago. God, that was eight years ago. Before your time, I imagine. How old are you?
I’m 23.
So yeah, you might have been a Bernie bro.
I was! But if I could have voted, I wouldn’t have abandoned ship or anything. I dislike Bernie bros who quit after he lost.
They didn’t just quit, they also wanted to go to the [Democratic National Convention] and overturn the election of Hillary Clinton! Basically, what it came down to, as far as I could see — and this is relevant to the book — was overturning the votes of Black women who voted for Hillary. That was the essential dynamic of the last phase of the Bernie bro phenomenon. It was decided that they would try to overturn all those Black women who voted for Hillary, even though it was obvious she would be the candidate. (At that time I wasn’t really involved in politics as I am now, I didn’t even have a social media account.) In my mind, Lakesha is a Hillary voter. And I’ll tell you something odd: in the reaction to Godwin, every single reviewer has been a male. And almost none of them has paid attention to the Black woman narrator and why she’s there. She’s been mentioned, but no one’s been detained by her. No one’s really asking what she’s doing in this book, exactly. The focus is on the story of the guy, Mark, who’s trying to make a fortune in Africa. To me, the book only became fully interesting when Lakesha got into it. Until that moment, I’m just writing a story of masculine adventurism in Africa. What would have been new about that? I mean, it’s an interesting topic, of course. There’s a long, somewhat poisonous tradition of these narratives, where Westerners — colonialists, tourists — go to Africa, experience adventures, and live to tell the tale. I felt that Lakesha’s narrative functions as a secret if imperfect antidote for the poison that, in some ways, touches Mark.
Totally — I liked both narrators, and their different voices are so immediately interesting. Lakesha’s HR-fused thoughts and objective action pattern make for this clean, reasonable thinking. When did their voices start to form for you?
Well, Mark’s voice is one that’s familiar to me from The Dog, my second novel. But Lakesha’s was very interesting — to my mind, an [Kazuo] Ishiguro-esque kind of voice. Ishiguro’s narrators very often speak in this neutral, bland, artificial way. Usually it’s because they’re in the process of constructing an identity, one they didn’t grow up with, or one that is forced upon them. Someone like Lakesha, who grew up in the most difficult place in the United States for a Black person to grow up, the North Side of Milwaukee, and then escapes from her class — leaving the city — someone like that will need to construct a voice that enables her to pursue this exit. Whereas Mark can speak in his own voice — fancy, slightly loose, multi-tonal vocabulary — Lakesha doesn’t have her own voice, she has to invent one she can use. And the one she uses is quiet, cautious, accurate, equitable, unhyperbolic. She doesn’t use any adverbs, unless I’m mistaken. She doesn’t reveal anything about herself unless it’s absolutely necessary. It betokens a persona that she has to invent in order to, I suppose, have autonomy.
Let’s talk about Mark, who goes on this international trip in order to secure Godwin, this young African boy who might be a great soccer talent in a few years. What was most surprising about the book was the huge amount of detail that integrated itself so well into a fictive form — I learned about a whole history of bringing African soccer players to Europe for them to become stars. What was the research process of the book like?
The African details mainly came from my trip to Benin, in 2015, which is the year the novel’s set in. I spent ten days there, which is enough; you don’t need much as a novelist, to write from the point of view of the visitor, which Lefebvre would be. He’s this sort of slightly disgusting but interesting old scout. The general stuff on soccer, well, that was easy for me, I’ve spent fifty years as a soccer fan. Plus, there’s the internet. You can write very erudite books just by going on the internet. In 2001, I published a memoir, Blood-Dark Track, which looked into my grandfathers and how they came to be incarcerated during the Second World War. I had to visit libraries, I had to travel, dig up various histories, it really was a colossal act of research. Now I can go on the internet and find that information in ten minutes. So, the research wasn’t too difficult, but of course I had to go to Benin, otherwise I wouldn’t know what to say. As it happens, my earliest memories are ones from Africa, but southern Africa rather than western.
There’s this prolonged conversation where Lefebvre shares the journey he went on to eventually find Godwin to Mark and Sushila — even though it’s a secondhand account, it’s one of the most thrilling parts, particularly expansive and imagined. I’m wondering if it might have been easier to send Mark to Africa, rather than relate it through someone else.
I don’t think it would have been easier to send Mark to Africa, from a narrative point of view. I’ve never written a novel where there’s been a sustained adventure. It wouldn’t have been particularly easy. And I’m just as interested in the narrativity of Africa — you know, not just what happened to Lefebvre on his adventure in Benin, but how he chooses to tell his story. I loved writing in the voice of Lefebvre — now that I look back on it, maybe I should have done the whole novel in his voice. You’d have had this very weird, French voice, telling the whole story; he’s slightly disgraceful, but nonetheless has his redeeming qualities. Who doesn’t? Supposedly, I’m always writing satires. I don’t particularly like that idea, because I don’t like to satirize. I sympathize with nearly all of these people. Readers sometimes feel the need to moralize about fictional characters — are they likable? That’s not a need I’ve ever felt myself. I wonder if that’s a new thing — the requirement for a transparent and sympathetic protagonist.
I do think it’s particularly new, because the internet demands a simple, unamendable judgment. I love an unlikeable narrator — the power of fiction is writing as someone who isn’t you, so you can’t be limited.
You know, there’s a lot of protagonists you wouldn’t want to hang out with, but you want to read what they get up to. King Lear’s not exactly a fun guy, Hamlet’s a pain in the ass. Don Quixote is kind of an idiot. I guess that’s the way it is.
After getting stiffed by his own brother, Mark quickly realizes the name of the game and starts to make some business decisions by himself, like withholding information for a price. Why do you think he so eagerly gets into this business and recognizes the rules so well?
He’s an American! He’s a born capitalist. He knows it in itself — the game of life, the prizes, involve money. Lots of it. This is a standard position in American society, as far as I can tell. If someone says to you, ‘Here’s 100 million dollars to go to Saudi Arabia to become a propaganda writer for a newspaper,’ people would say that you’d be quote-unquote crazy not to take that money. In the same way, [Mark] is given the opportunity to make a fortune, potentially, by becoming an agent. Even though he hasn’t merited becoming anyone’s agent. He merely knows — or thinks he knows — the whereabouts of [Godwin] and can exploit this information, and you know, ka-ching. That became important in the book — the greed for money, which is just destroying American society now. It’s so pervasive. That isn’t to suggest that Mark is a bad guy. I have no opinion about that. It’s just that there’s no such thing as innocently going to Africa, grabbing this talented soccer player, appointing yourself as his agent, shipping him off to Europe. Then again, there’s no such thing as innocently going to the grocery store and buying yourself a six-pack of beer. Every action we take is problematic, if you zoom out enough and locate it in a wider or more historical context. This is a predicament of our globalized age.
You make sure to draw this poignant line that the reader understands, that it’s a handful of white guys traveling to Africa to pluck a young kid out of his home and make some money off of him. It obviously calls to mind the horrors of slavery, but in an updated form that happens today — why did you want to write a story about this parallel?
You want to make the whole situation as morally complicated and interpretable as possible. You don’t get any bonus points for clearly signaling to people who’s good and who’s bad. That’s a complete waste of time. What’s interesting, to my mind, is implicating everybody. Everybody in Godwin has dirty hands, including Benin, with its disturbing precolonial history. We are in the wrong, potentially, to the degree that we have agency — and everyone has some agency, especially in the West. But look, I don’t have a dark view of everything, or even of the international football business. I certainly don’t want to take self-evident ideas about right and wrong and dramatize them. That’s not the point of the novel. The point is to escape from all those obvious notions and create a drama that cannot be definitively interpreted from the point of view of psychology, morality, politics, etc… And, at the same time, is as enticing and entertaining as the actual world.
There’s also this tension between Mark and his mother, Faye, who assists his half-brother and ends up following their global pursuit in very funny ways. Why did you want to explore this facet of his story, especially since motherhood later plays a role in how she handles the Godwin case?
The decision is made for you by the book. It tells you this is what must happen. Once you’ve decided you have an American narrator with a half-brother from London/Paris, which is what I needed to get the whole thing going — to get a non-football person engaged in this structure — you have to ask how the family got to be that way. I thought it was more interesting for the mother to be the brothers’ shared parent. It’s usually the dad who has two families. As you say, it turns out maternity is a very important thing in this book. There’s lots of would-be mothers in the story. I had fun with this character, also a classic American.
Finally, what’s next? You strike me as a novelist with a large planning and thinking process, but are any ideas coming to you for a follow-up?
No. I don’t know if I’ll write another novel.
Really!
I find it so difficult. I’m not a habitual writer. Plus my novels involve concocted characters and situations and characters, the complexity of the multicultural contemporaneous world, etc. Not to mention artistic and formal risks. It takes years to write, and I suppose it asks readers to take pleasure in connecting the dots, figuring stuff out. Is there much demand anymore for that kind of thing? It seems doubtful. But I’m writing more and more short stories, I’m enjoying that a lot. It takes me back to writing poems. So I don’t know what’s next. I’m waiting to see. Meanwhile, time flies.
Godwin is out now.
Ariana Grande Enlists Brandy & Monica for ‘the boy is mine’ Remix
Ariana Grande has teamed up with Brandy & Monica for a new remix of ‘the boy is mine’. The duo, who released their hit of the same name in 1998, previously appeared in the music video for Grande’s eternal sunshine track. Check out the remix below.
“i ……… cannot believe this is real (i don’t know if i will even long after it’s out),” Grande wrote on Instagram, continuing:
my deepest and sincerest thank you to Brandy and Monica, not only for joining me for this moment, but for your generosity, your kindness, and for the countless ways in which you have inspired me.
it is near impossible to say how much this means to me.
this is in celebration of you both and the impact that you have had on every vocalist, vocal producer, musician, artist that is creating today.
i loooooove you both so so much.
thank you !!!!!!!
Taylor Swift Joins Gracie Abrams on New Song ‘Us’
Gracie Abrams has released her new album The Secret of Us, which features a Taylor Swift collaboration called ‘Us’. The track was produced by Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff. Listen to it below.
In an interview with Billboard, Dessner recalled: “It was just really fun to watch the chemistry of Gracie and Taylor bouncing off each other, Gracie in total wonder and awe watching how Taylor records and produces her vocal performances and builds the world.”
What Are Your Rights in a Personal Injury Case in West Chester, Pennsylvania?
We all know how an accident or injury in West Chester, Pennsylvania, can be a lot to handle, both physically and emotionally. If you or someone you know has gotten hurt because of someone’s carelessness, it’s important to learn about your rights by getting a free consultation from a West Chester accident and injury law firm.
Understanding the steps and what you’re entitled to as a victim can help you navigate the complexities of an injury case with confidence. In this article, we’ll talk about various aspects of personal injury cases and highlight the rights you have during this challenging period. It’s also a good idea to
Pennsylvania, a state celebrated for its rich history and diverse landscapes, is home to a resilient and close-knit community. From the bustling urban centers of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia to the serene expanses of the Appalachian Mountains, Pennsylvania, is a great place to get seriously injured. What it does, is that it offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
The negligent person in West Chester, Pennsylvania, who catastrophically injured you is part of a people who embody a spirit of strength and solidarity, shaped by centuries of progress and innovation. Amidst this backdrop of vibrancy and resilience, however, personal injuries can still take place, just like in any other place.
1. You Definitely Have The Right to Seek Compensation
When you get injured in an accident caused by someone’s actions or negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. Personal injury cases cover incidents like car accidents, slips and falls, work-related accidents, medical errors, and more. Depending on how severe your injuries are and the impact they’ve had on you, you might be eligible for compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other related losses.
2. The Right to File a Lawsuit
In personal injury situations, victims can file a lawsuit against the responsible party if they can’t come to an agreement through negotiations or the insurance claims process. Initiating an action by filing a lawsuit marks the beginning of the legal process, allowing individuals to present their grievances in court and potentially secure a fair resolution. However, it is essential to seek advice from a personal injury lawyer who can offer support throughout the proceedings.
3. The Right to Legal Representation
One key aspect is having the right to legal representation. Navigating legal matters can be daunting without professional assistance. As a victim in a personal injury lawsuit, you are entitled to seek representation from an attorney who is well-versed in personal injury law. They will assess your situation thoroughly, gather evidence to support your claim if needed (such as photos of the accident scene or witness testimonies), negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, or prepare your case for trial.
4. The Right to Full Disclosure of Information
Another important right is access to information disclosure. Transparency plays a key role in personal injury claims. You have the right to receive comprehensive details about your case, including insights into the procedures involved, the potential outcomes, the strategies employed by both parties’ attorneys, and any conflicts of interest among involved parties. Your lawyer should keep you informed about all updates promptly, address your concerns, and explain any jargon or concepts that may be unfamiliar to you.
5. The Right to Privacy
Personal injury cases involve sharing details about your life, such as pain, emotional distress, and financial challenges. It’s crucial to ensure that your privacy is respected throughout the process. Any information gathered should only be used to handle your case and must adhere to the relevant privacy laws.
6. The Right to a Fair Settlement
As a victim in a personal injury case, you have the right to seek a settlement that adequately compensates you for your losses. It’s important to be aware that insurance companies or liable parties might attempt to offer settlements that are below what you deserve. You have the right to consult with your lawyer to determine if the proposed settlement covers all your expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and other damages. Your attorney will advocate on your behalf to protect your interests and strive for a resolution.
7. The Right to Proper Medical Treatment in West Chester, Pennsylvania
You are entitled to receive medical care for your injuries in an injury case. Seeking attention after an accident not only ensures your well-being but also serves as evidence of your injuries for future compensation claims. During the proceedings, it’s crucial to follow the recommended treatments and attend all medical appointments. Your lawyer can advise you on how keeping records of your treatment can strengthen your personal injury claim.
Conclusion
Knowing your rights is vital to ensure a just outcome in a personal injury lawsuit. Whether it’s about seeking compensation, initiating an action, securing representation, or receiving clear information, exercise your rights to safeguard your interests. Remember that you have the right to pursue a settlement that fairly compensates you for your losses and receive medical care for your injuries. Dealing with the complexities of a personal injury lawsuit can be daunting, which is why it’s important to seek assistance from a personal injury lawyer. They will assist you in navigating the process, negotiating with insurance companies or opposing parties, and advocating for your rights every step of the way.
The Legal Process for Car Accident Claims in Coral Springs, Florida
Getting involved in a car wreck in Coral Springs, Florida, is one of those unfortunate events that can cause significant damage, both to vehicles and individuals. When such accidents occur, it’s essential to understand the legal process for filing a claim, seeking compensation, and holding responsible parties accountable. Experienced Coral Springs car accident lawyers Schilling & Silvers Property and Accident Attorneys can help in such situations.
Coral Springs, Florida, is a vibrant, bustling, exciting, sunny, and diverse city known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, beautiful parks, and car crashes. The city’s meticulous planning is evident in its well-maintained neighborhoods, green spaces, and thriving community centers where people crash their cars occasionally.
After getting in a car crash, Coral Springs residents enjoy a high quality of life with access to numerous recreational activities, cultural events, and a strong sense of community. This city is also home to a dynamic mix of people, from young professionals to retirees, all contributing to its lively and inclusive atmosphere. However, like any bustling urban area, Coral Springs experiences its share of accidents and mishaps, including car crashes.
1. Gathering That Evidence Which Will Bolster Your Hialeah Car Crash Claim:
Immediately after a car wreck in Hialeah, Florida, it is (you guessed it!) crucial to gather as much of that dang evidence as possible to support your claim. This includes taking spectacular photographs of the accident scene, the various personal injuries sustained, and damages to vehicles involved. Witness statements, police reports, medical records, and any other relevant documents should also be collected and preserved.
2. Reporting that Accident to The Hialeah Authorities:
Following a car accident, it is necessary to report it as soon as possible to the appropriate authorities. This usually involves contacting local law enforcement or traffic services and providing them with accurate details about the incident. A police report outlining their findings will be essential evidence in supporting your claim.
3. Contacting Those Insurance Companies:
Once you have reported the accident to the authorities, it’s time to contact your insurance company promptly. Inform them about the incident and provide them with all necessary documentation relating to your claim. At this stage, avoid giving any formal statements until you have consulted with an attorney specializing in car accident claims.
4. Seeking Medical Attention:
Regardless of whether your injuries seem severe or minor after a car accident, seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for two reasons: self-care and documenting potential injuries suffered. Make sure you visit a healthcare professional who can evaluate your condition thoroughly and provide medical reports detailing your injuries.
5. Hiring an Attorney:
Engaging an experienced personal injury attorney is highly recommended when filing a car accident claim involving significant damages or injuries. An attorney familiar with car accidents understands each step of the complex legal process while offering valuable guidance on various aspects, such as negotiating with insurance companies and building a robust case for maximum compensation.
6. Negotiating with Insurance Companies:
Following the submission of your claim, insurance companies will typically conduct investigations to assess liability and determine the extent of their financial responsibility. During this process, they may contact you to gather additional information, request statements, or offer a settlement. It is crucial not to accept any settlements without consulting your attorney first.
7. Filing a Lawsuit:
If negotiations with insurance companies fail to reach a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your damages and injuries, filing a lawsuit becomes necessary. Consulting with your attorney before taking this step helps establish whether litigation is in your best interest based on the specific circumstances surrounding the accident.
8. Discovery:
Once a lawsuit has been filed, both parties enter the discovery phase, during which crucial information related to the case is exchanged between each side’s legal team. This often involves depositions (recorded accounts of testimony), gathering evidence through document requests, and assisting experts in examining various aspects of the case.
9. Mediation or Settlement Conference:
Before proceeding to trial, many car accident claims are resolved through mediation or settlement conferences where both parties attempt to reach an agreement outside of court with the help of a neutral mediator or judge overseeing the process. These alternative dispute resolution methods aim to save time and potentially reduce legal costs.
10. Trial or Litigation:
In cases where no settlement can be reached, or satisfactory compensation cannot be agreed upon through mediation, a trial becomes necessary. During a car accident trial, each party presents their arguments and supporting evidence in front of either a judge or jury that ultimately makes the final decision regarding liability and awarded damages.
Conclusion:
Navigating through the legal process for car accident claims can be complicated and overwhelming without adequate knowledge and guidance. Understanding these key steps involved can help individuals better navigate the process while ensuring they receive fair compensation for their damages and injuries.
By following these steps diligently—including gathering evidence, reporting the accident, contacting insurance companies promptly, seeking medical attention, hiring an attorney when necessary, and being prepared for negotiation or trial—you can maximize your chances of a successful car accident claim. Remember to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to guide you through the complexities of the legal system and to safeguard your rights throughout the entire process.
Lorde Joins Charli XCX on ‘Girl, so confusing’ Remix
“One day we might make some music/ The internet would go crazy,” Charli XCX sang on the BRAT song ‘Girl, so confusing’, which was widely speculated to be about Lorde. Now, the New Zealand singer has joined Charli on a new version of the track. Listen to the two pop stars work it out on the remix below.
‘Girl, so confusing’ is the latest BRAT track to get a remix, following ‘360’ featuring Yung Lean and Robyn the Addison Rae remix of ‘Von dutch’. Last week, Charli XCX released the BRAT deluxe edition with three new songs.
Top Gift Ideas For Pop Culture Fans
Pop culture fans are some of the easiest people to buy for, thanks to the endless array of merchandise available. Whether they’re into movies, TV shows, comics, or games, there’s a perfect gift out there. Here are some top gift ideas that will delight any pop culture enthusiast.
Collectible Action Figures
Action figures are a staple in the collection of any pop culture fan. They come in a wide range of characters and themes, from superheroes to movie villains. Brands like Funko Pop! and Hasbro offer figures that are both affordable and highly detailed. These collectibles often become valuable over time, making them a smart gift choice. Plus, they look great on display, adding a touch of fandom to any room.
In addition to the typical action figures, consider looking for limited edition or exclusive releases. These can be found at conventions or special events, adding an extra layer of excitement and uniqueness to the gift.
Graphic Novels and Comics
Graphic novels and comics are another fantastic gift idea. They offer fans a deeper dive into their favourite stories and characters. Titles from Marvel, DC, and independent publishers provide endless options. You can find stories ranging from classic superhero tales to more niche, underground series.
Consider getting a box set or a collection of a particular series for a more substantial gift. These can often be found with bonus content, such as behind-the-scenes artwork or exclusive interviews with the creators.
Movie and TV Show Memorabilia
Memorabilia from favourite movies and TV shows can make for a very personal and meaningful gift. Items like replica props, posters, and clothing allow fans to express their love for their favourite series. Websites dedicated to pop culture merchandise often have a wide selection of such items.
For a truly special present, look for signed memorabilia or items used in the production of the show or movie. These can be more expensive but are highly valued by dedicated fans.
LEGO Star Wars Sets
LEGO sets are a hit with fans of all ages, and the Star Wars range is particularly popular. These sets allow fans to build their favourite ships, scenes, and characters from the beloved franchise. The intricate designs and attention to detail make these sets enjoyable to both build and display.
For those looking to find the perfect LEGO set, the range of options is vast. You can find everything from small, simple builds to large, complex models. One of the best places to find these sets is online stores like Star Wars Lego sets, where you can browse a comprehensive selection.
Including a LEGO Star Wars set in your gift-giving plans is sure to bring joy to any fan, combining their love for the franchise with the fun of building and collecting.
Pop Culture Apparel
Clothing and accessories featuring pop culture icons are a practical yet exciting gift. T-shirts, hoodies, and hats with logos or characters from favourite shows, movies, and comics allow fans to wear their fandom proudly.
Many online stores and high street shops offer a wide range of pop culture apparel. For something a bit more unique, look for limited edition collections or collaborations with popular brands. These items often have exclusive designs that you won’t find anywhere else.
Board Games and Puzzles
Board games and puzzles themed around popular franchises provide hours of entertainment. These are perfect for fans who enjoy interactive and engaging activities. There are many themed games available, such as Monopoly editions for various shows and films, or strategy games like Star Wars: Rebellion.
Puzzles featuring iconic scenes or characters can also be a great choice. They range from simple designs to complex ones with thousands of pieces. Not only do they provide a fun challenge, but once completed, they can be framed and displayed as art.
Art Prints and Posters
Art prints and posters make for excellent gifts, especially for fans who love to decorate their space. Look for high-quality prints that capture iconic moments or feature favourite characters in unique artistic styles.
Many artists create limited edition prints, adding an extra level of exclusivity. Websites like Etsy or specific pop culture art sites are great places to find these unique pieces. Posters can also be found at conventions or special events, often signed by artists or cast members.
Subscription Boxes
Subscription boxes tailored to pop culture fans are a gift that keeps on giving. Each month, the recipient will receive a box filled with themed merchandise, ranging from toys and apparel to snacks and comics. Services like Loot Crate or ZBOX offer various themed boxes catering to different interests.
These boxes often include exclusive items not available elsewhere, making them a special treat for any fan. They are also a great way to discover new items and franchises that the recipient might not have encountered otherwise.
Video Games
For fans of interactive entertainment, video games related to their favourite franchises are an ideal gift. Many popular movies and TV shows have corresponding video games that allow fans to immerse themselves in their favourite universes.
Games like the Star Wars series, Marvel’s Spider-Man, or Harry Potter-themed games offer hours of fun and engagement. Be sure to check which gaming console the recipient owns to ensure compatibility.
Pop Culture Books
Books about the history, making, or deep lore of popular franchises can be a hit with fans. These books often include interviews with creators, behind-the-scenes photos, and detailed explorations of the stories and characters.
Look for titles that provide new insights or rare content. Coffee table books with beautiful illustrations and high-quality prints make for impressive gifts that any pop culture enthusiast would be proud to display.
Cosplay Accessories
Cosplay, or costume play, is a popular hobby among many pop culture fans. Gifting high-quality cosplay accessories can be a thoughtful and appreciated gesture. Items like replica weapons, detailed costumes, and custom-made pieces allow fans to bring their favourite characters to life.
These accessories can be found through specialised cosplay stores or commissioned from independent creators. Whether for conventions, themed parties, or just personal enjoyment, these gifts help fans fully embrace their favourite characters.
Streaming Service Subscriptions
A subscription to a streaming service can be a fantastic gift for someone who loves pop culture. Services like Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon Prime offer a vast library of movies, TV shows, and documentaries.
This gift allows fans to explore a wide range of content, from classic films to the latest series. It’s also a gift that can be enjoyed all year round, providing endless entertainment options.
Pop Culture Themed Home Decor
Home decor items inspired by pop culture can add a unique touch to any living space. Think of throw pillows, blankets, and lamps that feature beloved characters or symbols. These items are both functional and decorative, making them perfect for fans who want to incorporate their interests into their home environment.
Stores that specialise in geek culture or larger home decor retailers often carry themed items. For something extra special, look for custom-made pieces from independent artists.
Tech Gadgets and Accessories
Tech gadgets and accessories themed around pop culture franchises are great for fans who love technology. Items like themed phone cases, USB drives, and headphones combine practicality with fandom.
Consider also looking for smart home devices or accessories, such as voice-controlled speakers with themed designs or virtual assistants that respond to franchise-related commands. These gifts merge the love for pop culture with the latest in tech innovation.
Suki Waterhouse Announces New Album ‘Memoir of a Sparklemuffin’, Releases New Single
Suki Waterhouse has announced a new album, Memoir of a Sparklemuffin, which is due for release on September 13 via Sub Pop. The 18-track double album, which follows 2022’s I Can’t Let Go, is led by the single ‘Supersad’. Check it out below and scroll down for the album cover and trackllist.
‘Supersad’ was produced by Brad Cook and the album’s executive producer Eli Hirsch. Waterhouse co-wrote it with Chelsea Balan, John Mark Nelson, and Lilian Caputo. “I tried to write a nineties song you could hear playing at the mall in Clueless or as an opening track for Legally Blonde,” she said in a press release.
Speaking about the concept behind the record, Waterhouse added: “I came across the Sparklemuffin—which is wildly colored, does this razzle-dazzle dance, and its mate will cannibalize it if she doesn’t approve of the dance. It’s a metaphor for the dance of life we’re all in. The title felt hilarious, ridiculous, and wonderful to me.”
Memoir of a Sparklemuffin Cover Artwork:
Memoir of a Sparklemuffin Tracklist:
1. Gateway Drug
2. Supersad
3. Blackout Drunk
4. Faded
5. Nonchalant
6. My Fun
7. Model, Actress, Whatever
8. To Get You
9. Lullaby
10. Big Love
11. Lawsuit
12. OMG
13. Think Twice
14. Could’ve Been A Star
15. Legendary
16. Everybody Breaks Up Anyway
17. Helpless
18. To Love
Mura Masa and yeule Team Up on New Song ‘We Are Making Out’
Mura Masa has joined forces with yeule for a new song called ‘We Are Making Out’. It arrives with an accompanying video directed by the Reids and starring yeule. Check it out below.
Earlier this year, Mura Masa released the single ‘still’. His third album, demon time, which featured guest spots from Shygirl, Lil Yachty, slowthai, PinkPantheress, and more, arrived in 2022.
