Music

The Roots Help Jimmy Fallon Kick Off The 2020 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Getty Image The annual parade went on this year, but it was different than usual. …

Life during the pandemic has changed a lot of things, and that includes the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The show went on, though, and it was kicked off by Jimmy Fallon and The Roots.

It started with a pre-taped skit of Fallon making an opulent Thanksgiving dinner in his kitchen and calling for the parade to be saved. So, he texted Questlove to meet him outside, and from there, Fallon and The Roots launched into a spirited rendition of David Bowie and Mick Jagger’s “Dancing In The Street.”

Starting off this years' #MacysParade with #TonightShow icon @jimmyfallon joined by his legendary band @TheRoots! pic.twitter.com/KQYYNnrRaa
— Macy's (@Macys) November 26, 2020

Here we go! #MacysParade @nbc @Macys pic.twitter.com/nzBwA4IPuK
— jimmy fallon (@jimmyfallon) November 26, 2020

The parade didn’t go how it usually does this year. No crowds were in attendance, and the proceedings took place just in the one-block stretch in front of Macy’s flagship store on 34th Street. Additionally, much of the parade was pre-taped over the course of three days, and while about 8,000 people usually participate, that number was reduced by about 88 percent this year.

The parade’s executive producer Susan Tercero told the Associated Press, “Traditions like this are comforting and they’re uplifting. New York has always been a tough city. It bounces back. It takes its blows and then it continues on. And I think it’s extremely important for us to be that display this holiday season. Regardless of what’s happened, New York needs to be that beacon of light in the darkness and this parade, I think, is symbolic of that.”

Watch clips from the parade above.

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Artist Spotlight

Alwyn Morrison scales through with new single “Chained”

Alwyn Morrison’s new single, “Chained,” hits hard with its heartfelt message, offering an honesty rare in music today. Written while he was flying to Europe, this song comes from deeply personal experiences and showcases Alwyn’s most vulnerable side yet.

Teaming up with his longtime friend Michael Ales for songwriting and working with producer Michael Carey in Los Angeles, Alwyn creates a sound that feels both rich and simple. The guitar-driven music is full of warmth, exhaustion, and hope.

“Chained” plunges into the complex realities of loving someone who struggles with depression. Alwyn beautifully captures the heavy feelings that come with it, expressing the helplessness, loyalty, and quiet sadness often accompanying such love. His lyrics paint a vivid picture, inviting you to share the emotional journey of navigating the hidden struggles that can tie two people together.

The track’s raw honesty resonates with anyone who has faced challenges in love. It reminds us that sometimes love means standing by someone going through tough times. In “Chained,” Alwyn Morrison captures real human experiences and turns them into music that sticks with you.

For more information about Alwyn Morrison, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Alwyn Morrison’s “Chained” on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Alwyn Morrison | Instagram | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

Ava Valianti turns self-doubt into art with “Laugh Track”

In her new single, “Laugh Track,” Ava Valianti takes us on a peculiar journey through her thoughts and feelings, which many can connect to. With a mix of dark humor and raw honesty, Ava shares her experience of feeling like life is more of a series of awkward moments rather than a smooth story where she’s the star.

Drawing inspiration from movies and shows that explore deep emotions, like The Truman Show and How I Met Your Mother’s Ted Mosby, “Laugh Track” captures the unsettling feeling of always being on stage, even when nobody’s watching. It resounds with anyone who has sat alone and questioned whether the laughter around them is meant for them or at their expense.

The song combines deeper sounds with a light, catchy vibe, making its heavy themes approachable enough for dancing. Ava’s voice is strong and open, giving each line an authentic feeling that hits home.

“Laugh Track” is a stand-out because it embraces chaos. Ava doesn’t wrap up her insecurity and self-doubt in a tidy package. Instead, she celebrates the messiness of life and finds comfort in the imperfect characters we often see on TV and in ourselves. “Laugh Track” mirrors our experiences. Like the best comedy shows, it makes you laugh, feel uncomfortable, and reminds you that you’re not alone in your struggles.

For more information about Ava Valianti, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Ava Valianti’s “Dreaming“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Ava Valianti | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook |