## Cynthia Erivo judges F1 Drivers’ Singing Skills at Las Vegas Grand Prix
Actor and singer-songwriter Cynthia Erivo, who portrays Elphaba in the popular Wicked film franchise, has made an appearance at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
The award-winning actor was shown clips of both current and former Formula 1 drivers singing from the cockpit of their cars, giving her the chance to rank their vocal skills.
Erivo was first shown a clip of McLaren driver Lando Norris enthusiastically singing friday Dopamine Re-edit. “Lando,I don’t know what the tune is. The effort is there, but I can’t hear the tune. So I’m going to give you 4/10, for the effort,” she said.
Next up was a clip of two-time champion Fernando Alonso singing we Are the Champions. “You know what, Fernando, I could hear the tunes. I understood what you were singing, and I recognised it immediately. I’m going to give you 5.5/10.”
Four-time champion Sebastian Vettel opted for a rendition of Who Let the dogs Out, which left Erivo wanting more oomph. “Now, Seb, if we’re going to do that song, we need a little bit more like, oomph! It was very, very gentle. I’m going to have to take a few points away for the gentility there. It’s not a gentle song. We’re going to give you a 3/10. I need more effort.”
The Allure of Vintage Radios: A collector’s Guide
Vintage radios hold a unique charm,transporting listeners back to a bygone era of crackling broadcasts and shared family experiences. More than just functional devices, they are now sought-after collectibles, prized for their aesthetic appeal, ancient importance, and the warm, distinctive sound they produce. This guide explores the world of vintage radio collecting, offering insights for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Why Collect Vintage Radios?
The reasons for collecting vintage radios are as varied as the radios themselves. Some are drawn to the art Deco designs of the 1930s, while others appreciate the streamlined aesthetics of the mid-century modern era. Beyond aesthetics, vintage radios offer a tangible connection to the past. Each radio tells a story, reflecting the technology, culture, and design sensibilities of its time.Furthermore, many collectors enjoy the restoration process, breathing new life into these forgotten treasures. And, of course, the sound – the warm, analog tones – is a meaningful draw for audiophiles seeking an choice to modern digital audio.
Popular Eras and Styles
* The Golden Age (1930s): This era is characterized by large, cathedral-style radios with elaborate wood cabinets. These were often statement pieces, dominating living rooms and serving as a focal point for family entertainment. Brands like RCA Victor, Philco, and Zenith were prominent during this period.
* The War Years (1940s): Radio design became more utilitarian during world War II, with simpler cabinets and a focus on functionality. Though, these radios still possess a unique charm and historical significance.
* The Mid-Century Modern Era (1950s & 60s): This period saw a shift towards smaller,more streamlined designs,often incorporating plastic and vibrant colors. Transistor radios emerged, offering portability and convenience. Brands like Zenith, Motorola, and GE were popular.
* The Solid State Era (1970s): The introduction of solid-state technology led to even smaller and more affordable radios, but many collectors consider this period less desirable due to the shift away from vacuum tubes and classic designs.
what to Look for When Buying
* Condition: The condition of the radio substantially impacts its value. Look for radios with original cabinets, intact dials, and working components.Be prepared to invest in restoration if necessary.
* Rarity: Certain models are rarer than others, making them more valuable to collectors. Research specific models and brands to understand their scarcity.
* Originality: Original components and finishes are highly desirable. Avoid radios that have been heavily modified or repaired with non-original parts.
* Functionality: Ideally, the radio should be in working condition. Though, even non-working radios can be valuable if they are in good cosmetic condition and have rare components.
* Cabinet Material & Finish: Wood cabinets are generally more desirable than plastic, and original finishes are preferred over refinished ones.
Resources for Collectors
* Antique Radio Club of America (ARCA): A valuable resource for collectors, offering information, events, and a marketplace for buying and selling radios. (https://www.antiqueradio.org/)
* Online Forums and Communities: Numerous online forums and communities dedicated to vintage radio collecting provide a platform for sharing knowledge, asking questions, and connecting with other enthusiasts.
* Antique Shops and Flea Markets: These are great places to find vintage radios, but be prepared to do your research and negotiate prices.
* Online Auction Sites: eBay and other online auction sites offer a wide selection of vintage radios, but be cautious and carefully review the seller’s feedback.
collecting vintage radios is a rewarding hobby that combines history, technology, and aesthetics. With a little research and patience,you can build a collection that reflects your personal taste and recognition for the golden age of radio.
The Rise of “Quiet Luxury” and Why It’s Captivating Consumers
for years, conspicuous consumption – flaunting wealth through logos and extravagant displays – reigned supreme in the fashion world. But a shift is underway. Enter “quiet luxury,” a trend characterized by understated elegance, timeless pieces, and exceptional quality. It’s a move away from in-your-face branding and towards a more refined,elegant aesthetic.
What Defines Quiet Luxury?
Think classic silhouettes, neutral color palettes (beige, cream, navy, gray), and luxurious fabrics like cashmere, silk, and linen. The focus is on the cut, the drape, and the feel of the garment, rather than a prominent logo. Key elements include:
* Timelessness: These aren’t fleeting trends. Pieces are designed to be worn for years,even decades.
* Quality over Quantity: investing in fewer, higher-quality items is central to the philosophy.
* Subtlety: The luxury is evident in the details – the stitching, the fabric weight, the perfect fit – not in bold statements.
* Understated branding: Logos are minimal or nonexistent. If present, they are discreet and refined.
Why the Appeal?
Several factors are driving the popularity of quiet luxury:
* Post-Pandemic Values: The pandemic prompted a re-evaluation of priorities, with many consumers seeking more meaningful and lasting purchases.
* Social Media Influence: While social media initially fueled the logo-mania trend, it’s now showcasing a growing appreciation for classic style and quality. Influencers and celebrities are increasingly embracing this aesthetic.
* Rejection of Fast Fashion: Growing awareness of the environmental and ethical issues surrounding fast fashion is pushing consumers towards more sustainable and durable options.
* A Desire for Authenticity: In a world saturated with marketing, quiet luxury offers a sense of authenticity and sophistication. It’s about knowing quality when you see it, rather than being told it’s luxurious.
Brands Leading the Way
While the trend isn’t about specific brands, some labels embody the quiet luxury aesthetic particularly well. These include:
* The Row: known for its minimalist designs and impeccable tailoring.
* Loro Piana: Specializing in luxurious cashmere and wool.
* Brunello Cucinelli: Offering sophisticated knitwear and casual elegance.
* Max Mara: A classic Italian brand with a focus on timeless coats and tailoring.
Quiet luxury isn’t just a trend; it represents a shift in values. It’s a move towards a more conscious, considered approach to fashion – one that prioritizes quality, longevity, and understated elegance. It’s a style that speaks volumes without shouting, and its appeal is only set to grow.
# F1 Stars Get Rated on Their Singing by Broadway Legend Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo, the Tony and Grammy-winning star of Broadway’s *wicked*, brought her musical expertise to the Las Vegas Grand Prix, judging the singing talents of Formula 1 drivers. The unique segment, shared by Sky Sports, saw Erivo critique performances from Carlos Sainz, Jenson Button, and Max Verstappen.
First up was Sainz, whose rendition of *Smooth Operator* has become a fan favorite. Erivo, while acknowledging the song’s popularity, offered a playful 6/10. “You know what, Carlos? I love the song, but the song was not smooth. However, I do like the song choice. it’s one of my favourites. So I’m going to give you 6/10. I know it’s a crowd favourite.”
Then came the classic clip of Carlos Sainz singing *Smooth operator*, which has as become part of the Spanish driver’s brand.
The clip of the now-Williams driver was followed by 2009 champion Jenson Button screaming *We Are The Champions* over his team radio. “You know what, actually, I liked it! I liked it because I can hear the potential for a vibrato in there. And it’s high up in the register. You’re singing it up there. Jenson, you know what, you get a 7/10. That’s the most tuneful I’ve heard so far.”
Max Verstappen was next, singing *Viva Las Vegas*, impressing the *wicked* star. “Max! I’m impressed! You get an 8/10 for that. It’s, you know, appropriate for where we are. It’s right on the tune there. Rhythm is great. Good job, well done.”
Erivo also had the opportunity to go for a hot lap around the Las Vegas Grand Prix street circuit with Button and visit the Williams garage, where she used the moment to sit in the cockpit of Sainz’s car.
There’s someone wicked in Carlos’ car 😈🤩 #F1 #LasVegasGP @CynthiaErivo pic.twitter.com/WwW9wJ9w9V – Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) November 19, 2023