Latest news with #Melody
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
'I'm beyond devastated': OG VShojo talent quits after a $500K Ironmouse charity dispute boils over
(Image via Projekt Melody's 'X' Account) The entire virtual world is reeling after receiving shocking announcements from a prominent agency, VShojo's members. Expressing their devastation, one after another, the stars declared their departure. Such a bombshell follows the allegations that concern half a million dollars, which were raised for charity. This dispute, which centers on funds, was intended for a major health foundation. It has ignited a firestorm and is raising some serious questions about the operation of the agency and the triggered wave of departures. Another VShojo OG talent makes an emotional exit Amidst all original members' departure, the exodus's emotional core came from Projekt Melody. She was one of VShojo's original talents. She recently took to social media and shared a personal statement, confirming her exit. She declared, "I waited to make a statement, cuz I'm always anxious & struggle to find my words. But, yes, i'm leaving vshojo." Reflecting upon the foundational role she played in the organization, she added, "I was an OG talent, put my everything into this comp." Melody's carried an immense amount of weight and revealed her personal toll, "But I'm beyond devastated at what happened. & I never in a million years thought I'd be saying these words. 💔" Such a raw expression of the disappointment perfectly resonated. It echoed the frustration of many in the agency, underscoring the gravity of the situation that was far beyond just the business disagreements. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Treatment That Might Help You Against Back Pain! Back Pain Treatment | Search Ads Undo While no details were specified by Melody, her message hinted at some deeper systemic issues. Her resignation now leaves only a handful of original members still tied to VShojo. The Domino effect leads multiple VTubers to cut ties with VShojo Melody's departure has been far from isolated. The announcement made by her has landed amidst cascading exits that have rocked the agency. In a very short timeframe, after the initial revelation of the charity dispute, many high-profile talents have severed their ties with the agency. AmaLee, Haruka Karibu, Hime Hajime (now HeemHajeem), Kson, Kuro Kurenai, and Michi Mochievee have all publicly confirmed their exits. Such mass resignation has effectively decimated the core talent roster of VShojo. The agency's social media account has swiftly removed affiliations. It has stripped coveted VShojo verification from all creators' accounts that have departed. Only a separate VShojo Japan branch remains to be seen as listed there. It signals a dramatic implosion of primary operation. Charity dispute ignites some broad financial concerns Spark for the implosion was the bombshell video by Ironmose. It was alleged by her that VShojo has failed to donate over $515,000, which was raised by her during the record-breaking 2024 subathon, for the Immune Deficiency Foundation (IDF). It was a charity that was crucial to her because of her immune disorder. As per her, despite the repeated assurances made to her, the funds didn't reach the organization. Worse was that she claimed the agency even withheld a "significant amount" of her personal earnings. Kson further confirmed her exit during the live stream. She alleged non-payment, which dates back to September 2024. She added, 'I was lied to multiple times.' She even said that she feared that, to speak out, would mean she would never receive all her owed payments. It aligned with the subathon timeline of Ironmouse. Michi Mochievee too stated VShojo owed her. She therefore took the decision to make an official departure from the agency. Henya the Genius accused VShojo of withholding a 'significant amount' of earnings over an extended period. Even VTubers like PiaPi, who recently auditioned, backed out, citing the lost trust within the agency. Shylily too left VShojo, saying, 'Good thing I trusted my gut when VShojo tried to recruit was riddles in red flags and basically legal robbery' Later, Ironmouse launched a Tiltify campaign. It swiftly surpassed the missing amount, which was able to raise over $5,75,000 in just 24 hours, and it has now reached $726,818.15. She further urged the musicians and artists she worked with through VShojo, who didn't get paid, to connect with her directly. The dispute of $500K charity exposed some deeper and systemic financial issues that were plaguing the agency and the talents. What is next for VShojo and the former talents? With the reputation in tatters now, VShojo and its future are uncertain. Kson has confirmed that the existing members would retain IP rights. It would allow them to continue working independently. Meanwhile, the Japanese branch of the agency has distanced itself, claiming some operational stability, despite the CEO coming forward amid missing charity funds that might have been diverted to the expenses. With the legal battles continuing to loom, the exodus now underscores broad reckoning in the agency of the VTubers. For both fans and creators, this fallout now serves as a stark warning about the transparency and the consequences when trust is broken. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Eater
14-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
A Virgil Village Natural Wine and Vinyl Bar Shutters After 8 Years
is an editor of the Southern California/Southwest region, who covers the evolving landscape of LA's food scene. Virgil Village wine bar Melody closed on January 12 after eight years in the neighborhood. Melody was first opened by Eric Tucker and his now-ex-wife, Paloma Rabinov, in 2017 as a wine bar with French-leaning food and vinyl DJs on the decks. It evolved throughout the years to host some of LA's most exciting pop-ups; the pair eliminated the nightly food menu in favor of hosting pop-up residences, such as Malli and chef Tiana Gee's SoulPhil. Tucker announced the closure of Melody in an Instagram post on July 2, thanking the staff and customers for the years of support. The Los Angeles Times reports multiple factors contributed to the bar's closure, including a dip in business with the 2023 writers' strike, the January 2025 wildfires, the current political climate, and high costs of living in Los Angeles. Although Melody is technically closed, Tucker will host 'Bar Band-Aid' out of the bungalow starting July 16 until another operator comes into the space. Expect lower-cost wine, beer, and bar snacks. A new cocktail menu at La Dolce Vita Beverly Hills Italian restaurant La Dolce Vita just refreshed its cocktail menu, introducing new drinks alongside classics like the LDV Gibson and the signature martini. New cocktails include All Day and a Night with Cynar, gin, and grapefruit soda; A Tree Grows in Brooklyn with dill-infused vodka; and Pine Barrens with mandarin liqueur. Summer chef collaborations at Rustic Canyon A coffee pop-up with a twist A new coffee pop-up is headed to Silver Lake tapas and tinned fish restaurant Bar Siesta. Cortado opens on July 17 from actor Jhon Mejía, who is also behind You, Me, & Joe, a television show about coffee. Drawing on Mejía's entertainment roots, the entire pop-up will be documented for an upcoming project. Cortado will be open from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m., serving pan con tomate, jamón, and signature coffee drinks, from Thursday to Monday.
Business Standard
11-07-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Melody Magengezha: Championing Mental Wellness and Empowerment Through Education, Coaching, and Compassion
PNN New Delhi [India], July 11: In today's dynamic and high-pressure global climate, the focus on mental health and personal development has become more vital than ever. Rising prominently within this landscape is Melody Magengezha, widely known as Mbuya vaRaphy--a transformational leader, visionary coach, and advocate for mental wellness. As Founder and CEO of Rising Serenity Coaching and Therapy Services, and host of the Mbuya vaRaphy Talkshow, Melody has made it her life's mission to empower individuals to overcome personal limitations, build emotional resilience, and transform their lives through intentional growth and healing. In recognition of her impact, Melody was honoured at the Fluxx Awards 2025, receiving two prestigious accolades: Mental Healthcare Expert of the Year in the Health & Wellness category and Influencer of the Year in the Education category. The Fluxx Awards, hosted at the Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong on June 5th & 6th, celebrates outstanding global innovators and changemakers across sectors. Melody's dual recognition not only underscores her leadership in therapeutic coaching but also highlights her powerful influence in reshaping public discourse around education, wellness, and emotional intelligence. A Journey of Transformation Melody's journey toward becoming a globally recognised figure in coaching and mental health support is rooted in resilience, empathy, and lived experience. Raised in a community with limited access to educational and psychological resources, she faced challenges that might have deterred others. Instead, these adversities became the fuel for her passion: to help others rise above their circumstances and thrive. Her academic and professional path began in 2000, with a focus on education, psychiatric nursing, and therapy. She completed her studies at respected institutions including Chinhoyi University of Technology (CUT), UNITEC New Zealand, and the University of Auckland, where she deepened her expertise in emotional well-being, human behaviour, and therapeutic interventions. With this strong foundation, Melody launched Rising Serenity Coaching and Therapy Services--a practice built to offer holistic, customised care to individuals navigating personal, emotional, and psychological challenges. Impact Through Connection Melody's influence extends beyond her clinical work. As the host of the Mbuya vaRaphy Talkshow, she has cultivated a powerful platform that brings mental health education into living rooms around the world. Each episode delves into crucial topics ranging from trauma recovery to emotional resilience, combining expert insights, real-life stories, and practical tools. The talk show has become a trusted resource and a safe space for those seeking validation, clarity, and empowerment. Her voice is not only informed but deeply personal. Viewers are drawn to Melody's authenticity, as she frequently shares her own experiences to build trust and demonstrate that healing is possible. Her bestselling books--Forgiveness: The Key to Freedom and Stagnant or Soaring: The Impact of Your Inner Circle--extend her influence in written form, providing readers with tools for self-reflection and sustainable growth. A Vision for the Future Melody's long-term vision reflects her unwavering commitment to equity, healing, and global empowerment. She is actively working to expand her services to underserved communities, ensuring that quality mental health care is accessible, inclusive, and culturally relevant. Her efforts include the creation of the Mbuya vaRaphy Wellbeing Awards, launched in Tokyo, Japan, which recognise individuals and organisations making meaningful contributions to mental health and wellness. Additionally, Melody is developing a series of seminars and workshops focused on essential life skills--ranging from emotional intelligence to goal-setting--designed to equip attendees with tools for long-term success and well-being. Mentorship remains a core pillar of Melody's work. She dedicates time to guiding the next generation of thought leaders, especially young women and aspiring mental health professionals. By investing in others' journeys, she is creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond her own achievements. Conclusion Melody Magengezha, known to many as Mbuya vaRaphy, stands as a beacon of purpose-driven leadership in both the mental health and education sectors. Her recognitions at the Fluxx Awards 2025 affirm what her clients, audience, and peers already know--she is a woman of influence, integrity, and vision. Whether through coaching, broadcasting, or authorship, Melody's impact is transformative, rooted in compassion and propelled by her belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive. Her legacy is not only one of professional excellence but also of humanity--a legacy that continues to inspire lives across continents, one empowered individual at a time.
Los Angeles Times
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
A Virgil Village destination for natural wine and pop-up chefs to close permanently
Melody, the Virgil Village bungalow that constantly thrummed with diners who settled into its open-air living room and patio to try burgeoning food pop-ups, swill natural wine and jam to owner Eric Tucker's genre-spanning DJ sets, is set to close permanently on July 12. Open for nearly a decade, Tucker wants Melody to be remembered not for its status as a trendy bar, but for its inclusive environment that thrived on the curiosity of its diners. 'We were that cultural [and] gender safe space where you could be whoever you wanted to be,' Tucker said, 'exposing people to foods that they maybe never had before and giving chefs those chances to shine.' According to Tucker, Melody began to see a decline in business during the Hollywood strikes in 2023. Combined with the compounding effects of the January wildfires, a tense political climate and L.A.'s high cost of living, the bar-restaurant 'just couldn't do it anymore.' 'I don't see how places survive anymore,' Tucker said. 'I've never done this before, closing a business. But I think one of the most special things for me is, how do I get out of this thing without losing it all?' Prior to Melody, Tucker ran an Italian restaurant and bar in New York City. He opened Melody with his ex-wife Paloma Rabinov in 2017, and at first, the wine bar followed a typical dinner service format with a California- and French-inspired menu. But less than a year later, Melody's financial struggles prompted him and Rabinov to shift to a rotating pop-up format. They began hosting different chefs for days and weeks at a time — Mexican-Jewish pop-up Malli even earned a two-year residency — with a short house menu offering cheese, charcuterie and other bar snacks. Within the first few years of opening, Tucker began growing Melody's wine list, which consists entirely of natural, low-intervention wines sourced from all over the world, with bottles available for retail purchase and many priced under $80. Tucker described that time as Melody's 'golden years.' Customers drank bottles of wine in the parking lot while waiting for hours to get in, where it was a 'party every night.' The goal was to offer diners something new, and to give rising chefs, many of whom had yet to open their own restaurants, a space to experiment — all complemented, of course, by great wine. 'We weren't a restaurant. We weren't a bar,' read Melody's Instagram post announcing the closure. 'Thanks to each of you who entered our little bungalow … a unique experience-experiment that was always a best kept secret.' Tucker hopes to preserve Melody's carefree, communal spirit when he temporarily reopens the space on July 16 while awaiting a buyer for the bungalow. 'Each night is essentially a 'rent party,'' a Monday Instagram post from Melody read. 'Very few rules with cheap prices may encourage you to stick with me 6 nights a week.' Along with 'maybe only one' other employee, Tucker will be the sole staff at Melody when it reopens. He will be making and serving pizzas as his pop-up alter ego Ugly Pie, which has made previous appearances at Melody — though some customers weren't aware that the pop-up was run by Tucker himself. He said that he is prepared to operate the restaurant this way — making the food himself with few to no other employees — 'if I have to,' whether it lasts for two weeks or two years. 'Melody was a really formative place for me to get my feet wet in terms of tasting a bunch of different wines, ' said Princie Kim, a longtime Melody customer who also works in the local wine industry. 'There's no air of pretension in there ... Most nights of the week, I want to feel taken care of, but in a very relaxed and very human, raw way — and Melody gives me that in all ways.' For its final days of regular service, Melody will serve Ugly Pie on Wednesday and Thursday, followed by burgers and fried chicken pop-up Little Piggy on Friday and Hancock Park butcher shop Standing's Butchery on Saturday. While Tucker is unsure how long Melody's temporary reopening will last, he plans to leave Los Angeles afterwards and possibly return to New York. 'It was always really rewarding to look across the room and just see all different types of people in here together,' Tucker said. 'We weren't perfect, but it wasn't supposed to be.'
The Sun
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Mark Malaysia Day with ‘Equatorial Love Songs' concert
IN honour of Malaysia Day, the 'Equatorial Love Songs – A Special Malaysia Day Celebration' concert is a one-of-a-kind experience that weaves together music, memory and Malaysian identity through the voices of three of Malaysia's most beloved singer-songwriters, namely Rynn Lim, A-Bin (Fang Jiong Bin) and Vchuan Tan. At the heart of this performance, which will be held at Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting on Sept 16 at 6pm, lies a poetic narrative shaped by the equatorial essence of Malaysia's ever-shifting weather. From blazing heat to monsoon seasons – the show unfolds in four deeply evocative chapters: Beginnings, Growth, Conflict and Reflection. Each chapter parallels the rhythms of nature with the phases of life and creation, offering a soulful exploration of love, loss, resilience and belonging. The concert offers a opportunity to witness these three distinct musical voices come together as one. Lim, the celebrated voice from Sarawak, is known for his emotionally rich ballads and warm lyrical style. His notable hits include Porting, Melody, In the Rain, and Gong Ti Bei. A-Bin, hailing from Penang, brings a raw, expressive power to the stage, delivering songs that speak directly to the heart, such as Bad Guy, Wind, Regret, and I'm Not God. Finally, Tan, the gifted songwriter and producer from Sabah, infuses the performance with melodic sensitivity and lyrical resonance that have made his works beloved across Asia. His best-known songs include Good Bye Alone, Lan Hao Ren, and All Is Love. He is also the creative force behind numerous Mandarin pop hits, having composed songs for top artistes including Rainie Yang's Longing For, Della Ding Dang's I Love Him (a beloved KTV classic), and Jerry Yan's I Will Love You. To date, he has written over 200 songs for various prominent singers across the Chinese music scene. Together, these three artistes create a concert experience that celebrates the richness of Malaysian talent and the bonds that unite us as a nation. Ticket prices will be on sale from July 1 and are priced at RM128–RM588.
