https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/thousands-floridians-regain-access-hiv202700935.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20v&guce_ referrer_sig=AQAAACpJVpsXt20DBqlyA_SRSyQ2o8oXxDVVMPC1VTs9MVzXhP7i4dhXRzK2Epo08JqpPO7vHDK87MenIcKVuR2bN3Dnwye1A-8DsT5rXuXOxhHWMTaWWREpwmJvxt-gdylmUaftZ8Gggns4Yr01Rq3BtTR88EYrLZVtM4H-AhKjdc
Thousands of Floridians regain access to
HIV drugs as DeSantis signs law reversing
Thousands of Floridians living with HIV/AIDS are regaining access to life-saving medication after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation Tuesday reversing most of the deep cuts his administration ordered earlier this year.
House Bill 697, now law, appropriates $30.9 million in stopgap funding to get the AIDS Drug Assistance Program through June 30 at roughly its previous levels. Without the fix, 12,000 to 16,000 people would have lost coverage.
The AIDS Drug Assistance Program pays for the expensive medications for about 28,000 Floridians. In January, the Department of Health began notifying recipients of significant cuts: reducing the maximum income for an individual covered by ADAP from $63,840 a year (400% of the federal poverty level) to about $21,000 a year (130% of poverty).
The reductions, which went into effect March 1, included eliminating medications from the list of approved drugs and no longer paying premiums for some recipients’ Affordable Care Act insurance coverage.
The governor hadn’t announced the action as of Tuesday afternoon. But his office has notified some lawmakers who worked on the issue, including state Sen. Rosalind Osgood, D-Fort Lauderdale, that he signed it. And the Florida Senate website showed DeSantis signed it into law.
“It wasn’t everything we wanted, but it was an immediate response to meet the needs of people in Florida who desperately need this lifesaving medication,” Osgood said. “I am very grateful to the governor and to the Senate and to the House for taking care of this population of Floridians.”
Esteban Wood, director of advocacy and legislative affairs at AIDS Healthcare Foundation, said those who were cut off “can breathe a little easier” after weeks of uncertainty. “For ten weeks, 12,000 Floridians living with HIV did not know if they could fill their next prescription. Today, they can,” Wood said in a written statement.
The Florida Department of Health, which is run by the DeSantis-appointed state surgeon general, Dr. Joseph Ladapo, said earlier this year it was acting because of a $120 million budget shortfall caused by federal funding cuts.
Other states are experiencing shortfalls in their programs, prompting cuts, the health research organization KFF reported, citing several reasons: federal funding not keeping pace with inflation, an increase in people turning the program, rising drug costs, and expiration of extra subsidies for Affordable Care Act insurance.
A Department of Health spokesperson said before the legislation was signed that the agency “implemented necessary program changes to responsibly manage resources while maintaining access to critical medications for Floridians living with HIV.”
The AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which sued to challenge the Florida changes, disputed agency numbers and conclusions. Its challenges have so far been unsuccessful.
With a widely used HIV medication costing $4,500 a month for people without insurance, the change portended a crisis for those facing removal from the rolls.
“Words can’t describe the urgency,” state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, D-Orlando, told his colleagues just before they voted to approve the stopgap fix. The HIV Medicine Association called it a “public health disaster.”
Republican and Democratic state senators and representatives came together to undo what the Health Department was implementing. “This emergency funding is a critical bipartisan victory for public health and a testament to the power of community action,” state Sen. Shevrin Jones, D-Miami Gardens, said in a statement Tuesday.
Besides improving the health of infected individuals, they said there were other advantages to the program. It saves lives and saves money, state Rep. Mitch Rosenwald, D-Oakland Park, told his colleagues.
Off medication, people will get sick and require much more expensive treatment in hospitals, often in emergency rooms. With medication, a person who maintains what is called an undetectable viral load has zero risk of transmitting HIV to others.
Bono's Enduring Fight: Two Decades of HIV/AIDS Activism
For over two decades, Bono, the iconic frontman of U2, has transcended his rock star persona to become a leading and relentless voice in the global fight against HIV/AIDS His activism, marked by an evidence-based approach he terms "factivism," has profoundly shaped global health policies, mobilized billions in funding, and saved millions of lives, particularly in Africa.
The Genesis of a Movement: From Witness to Advocate Bono's journey into activism began in the mid-1980s when he witnessed the devastating effects of poverty and disease during visits to Africa, including Ethiopia during a famine. This personal experience ignited a determination to use his platform for change. He became a key figure in the Jubilee 2000's Drop the Debt campaign, which laid the groundwork for his subsequent focus on HIV/AIDS and extreme poverty.
Key Initiatives and Their Impact
Central to Bono's activism are the organizations he co-founded:
• DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa): Launched in 2002, DATA aimed to address the interconnected issues of AIDS, poverty, and debt relief in Africa. It focused on policy advocacy, pushing for increased financial support from governments and international organizations.
• ONE Campaign: Formed from a merger with DATA, the ONE Campaign is a grassroots advocacy organization working to end extreme poverty and preventable diseases, including HIV/AIDS. Through ONE, Bono has lobbied heads of state and legislatures worldwide, playing a crucial role in the passage of global health and development programs.
• (RED): Co-founded with Bobby Shriver in 2006, (RED) is a marketing initiative that partners with iconic brands to create products and experiences, with a portion of the profits going to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. This innovative approach has generated over $800 million for the Global Fund, making (RED) the largest private sector contributor. These funds have directly supported HIV/AIDS programs in numerous African countries, impacting millions of lives by providing antiretroviral treatments, HIV testing, and care.
Influencing Policy and Saving Lives
Bono's advocacy has been instrumental in securing critical funding and policy changes. He tirelessly lobbied for the creation and sustained support of the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), launched by President George W. Bush in 2003. PEPFAR has since invested $120 billion and saved over 25 million lives, becoming the largest single-disease commitment by any nation in history. He has also consistently pressed world leaders to fulfill their commitments, as seen in his efforts with French President Nicolas Sarkozy to restore funding for the Global Fund. Bono's ability to engage public figures like Oprah Winfrey and collaborate with major companies like Apple further amplified the reach and impact of these initiatives.
The Ongoing Battle
Despite remarkable progress, Bono emphasizes that the fight against HIV/AIDS is far from over. He highlights that while millions of lives have been saved, the disease still claims more than one million lives annually, and public perception often mistakenly views the crisis as resolved. His recent social media posts, including on the 20th anniversary of (RED), continue to stress the urgency, reminding supporters that 6,500
African lives still succumb daily to preventable diseases. He urges continued action, leveraging new prevention technologies and advocating for sustained funding to achieve an AIDS-free generation.
Bono remains a powerful force in global health, using his influence to bridge the gap between celebrity, policy, and direct action, continuously reminding the world that where you live should not determine whether you live.
EDITOR’S NOTE: It was brought to my attention that a good way to fight stigma and show sex positivity is to share and remember some of the adult actors/sex workers as well as celebrities we lost to AIDS.
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/theaidsmemorial
Martin Raymond Cox (1957 - 1999), known to gay film audiences as Chad Douglas, died of AIDS in Clayton, Georgia. He was 42 years old.
There are claims that Martin was born and died in Puerto Rico, and although he traveled to the island frequently and was seen at the beaches, bars and gay establishments, he was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on February 4, 1957.
There are also reports Martin sought HIV treatment at the University Hospital of Rio Piedras in the room adjacent to the writer Manuel Ramos Otero who died of AIDS in 1990.
Martin was the former owner and operator of Concord Vacuum Co. and a member of Saint James Episcopal Church, Clayton.
At the time of his death, Martin was survived by a stepdaughter, Angel Bryant of Anderson and sisters Renee Boles of Clayton, Judi Walters of Johnston and Carole Cox of Aiken.
The AIDS Memorial would love to hear from anyone who personally knew Martin. #whatisrememberedlives
For Tuesday April 21st, 2026 we have chosen Gay Card Films as our theme and you can vote on which one we will be watching by joining our Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/195374003920591 Our movie night is growing and we even have discussions about the films afterwards as well as pick what theme will be for the next month. It’s a cheap date night and we even throw in the popcorn! Everything in the concession stand is 50 cents each. Everyone is welcome (although this is not an event for children since we often watch films with mature subject matters). It’s FREE!!! So, come join this intergenerational evening.
One of our goals here at POZPLANET Magazine is to share as many life experiences of those living with HIV as we can. I am also honored to be able to spend time and talk with our long-term survivors. And today I have the privilege to talk with Christopher Costas. His story is one that I believe everyone should hear
AKJ: Christopher, I’m so glad you accepted my Facebook friend request! I only knew a little about you from your profile just that you’re a recording artist and a positive person. Thanks for taking the time to chat with me today! How are you?
CC: I’m doing well, thank you! As I approach my sixtieth birthday on April eighth, I’m filled with a mix of excitement and gratitude. Honestly, I never expected to make it to this milestone. At fourteen, doctors told me I had only six to eight months to live. So, turning 60 is something I truly appreciate. Each birthday reminds me that life can throw unexpected challenges my way, and I embrace the chance to celebrate.
Reflecting on my journey, I’m thankful for nearly fifty years of living with HIV. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve encountered moments of profound hope and resilience along the way. I want my story to inspire others, showing that despite the struggles, all things are possible, and our narratives can shift in remarkable directions. Connecting with those who have shared similar experiences has been incredibly meaningful to me.
AKJ: Absolutely! So, let’s dive in. Where are you from, and where do you live now?
CC: I’m originally from Potomac, Maryland just eight miles from Washington, D.C. Being close to the nation’s capital provided me with a unique view of many significant events. However, for the past twenty-five years, I’ve called Lewes, Delaware, home. I’ve also enjoyed my time in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a few seasons, which offered a vibrant lifestyle. Still, despite the excitement of those places, Lower, Slower Delaware has become my true home base. It’s a charming coastal town, and I appreciate the strong sense of community here. The ocean’s calming presence reminds me of life’s ebb and flow, and it feels comforting. It’s truly my own little Garden of Eden just without the snakes! My mornings begin early, walking with my 125 lb black brindle male Italian Cane Corso, who is now almost 15 months old. His size can be daunting, but his heart and attention outweigh his stature.
AKJ: That sounds lovely! What was your background like?
CC: I had a solid upbringing, filled with unconditional love from my parents and a sense of security. I attended private schools around D.C. and participated in various activities, like horseback riding and playing kick the can with neighborhood friends. However, everything changed when I received my diagnosis at 14. That moment forced me to reevaluate my understanding of life and the future.
Instead of succumbing to despair, I made a purposeful choice to embrace life. I learned that trying new experiences can add richness and adventure to our journeys. Hope must
always be central in conversations about HIV it’s vital for genuine healing, both physically and emotionally. its a story for another time but.. I actually celebrated my 15th birthday night at Studio 54 and The Saint, a private club Disco for gay men in New York City. My baptism by fire to the sounds lyrics and beats that would become the soundtrack of my life, healthy and sick. Now culminating and expressing itself through my own music .
AKJ: From one long-term survivor to another…may I ask about your diagnosis and what that time was like?
CC: January 16, 1981, is a date I’ll never forget. Back then, they referred to it as GRID Gay-Related Immune Deficiency. At such a young age, facing uncertainty was incredibly daunting. But rather than giving in to fear, I committed to living life fully and appreciating each moment.
AKJ: That must have been incredibly daunting. What significant health challenges have you faced during those years?
CC: I’ve dealt with numerous health issues over the years that have shaped my perspective. From four T-cells we named Bob, Ted, Carol, and Alice to being diagnosed with AIDS four times.
- Opportunistic Infections: Early on, I faced several infections that felt like uninvited challenges I had to overcome. ie: Thrush, mononucleosis three times in one year to having strep throat 5 times a year.
- Neurological Issues: In my late twenties, I dealt with 38 lesions of toxoplasmosis in my brain. This led to grand mal seizures, which were especially frightening. Often lasting two hours a day. After 8 months of no medication, my Doctors had an MRI done to see the growth of the thirty-eight lesions. To everyone's surprise, they had miraculously disappeared from off my brain except for two that were no longer active and alive. Miracles still happen. I am living proof!
- Hospitalization: My health conditions required long hospital stays at times, where I often felt isolated and uncertain about my future.
- Gallbladder Problems: My gallbladder eventually needed to retire early, requiring medical intervention.
- Chronic Kidney Disease: I developed chronic kidney disease, culminating in a successful kidney transplant at the University of Pennsylvania almost two years ago. Recovery was a significant challenge, but it also proved my resilience.
- Side Effects from Treatments: I participated in various medical trials and faced side effects that could be exhausting, such as nausea and pain that affected my day-to-day life.
These experiences have taught me the importance of hope. I often remind myself and others that “Your story isn’t finished yet.” No matter how difficult things get, there’s always potential for a turnaround if we cling to hope. My life has been almost biblical in everything my family and I have gone through. The medical field alone is often a land mine of mistakes, bad judgments, and poor attention to treating both the physical, emotional, and spiritual.
AKJ: I believe we have only chatted with one other long-term survivor that goes back to this time in the epidemic, and that was Richard Berkowitz Your resilience is truly inspiring. How have these experiences shaped your outlook on life?
CC: Each challenge has served as a valuable lesson in perseverance. I’ve learned to appreciate both the small moments and the significant ones like breathtaking sunrises or meaningful conversations with loved ones. These moments remind me of what truly matters. My faith, my family, and the encouragement I’ve received to believe that miracles still happen every day have been foundational.
I also recognize the power of sharing our stories. When you meet someone new, take the time to tell your own journey! You might bless someone else with a message of hope, and sharing can uplift you as well. It fosters confidence and reinforces the belief that everyone has a unique narrative. We are all in this together, and it’s important for our voices to be heard!
My experiences have fueled my passion for advocacy. I want to raise awareness about living with HIV and emphasize the significance of community support. It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving together and illuminating each other’s stories. We must remind ourselves that life will continually present new opportunities our stories are still being written!
If anyone is interested in more information and photographs of my life, please Google me. I hope everyone finds encouragement and inspiration in the articles online. Remember, " always let your reach exceed your grasp! " Reach farther every time, never limit yourself or the options available...
AKJ: Our readers owe you and many others a huge debt for your bravery. Besides being a pioneer, you’re also a photographer and a recording artist. Can you share more about your work?
CC: Absolutely! Music has been my sanctuary a space where I can express myself and navigate the ups and downs of my journey. I write and perform songs that resonate with my experiences. The responses I receive are gratifying; many individuals connect deeply with my lyrics, and that motivates me to keep pushing forward.
You can explore my musical journey on my SoundCloud page, where you’ll find tracks like "Magnificent Miracle" and "Joy" I let my experiences flow into my art, as music has the power to uplift and inspire.
I am grateful for my work in photography. Over the last 35 years, I have had friends from all over the world sit for me in my studio. I always try to create images that are not just visually beautiful but also carry a story in just one image. Please take a look at my photography online. I also use my own work on my Song sleeves and Album covers.
AKJ: What made you start speaking up about your experiences?
CC: My awakening was gradual. Initially, I felt uncertain and ashamed. But as I navigated life with HIV, it became increasingly clear that the stigma surrounding the
illness affected not only me but many others as well. This understanding motivated me to carve out my own space and advocate for those unable to speak up.
I often ask myself, “If I don’t speak out, who will?” Silence perpetuates stigma, and I've endeavored to be a beacon of hope for others, showing them they are not alone.
You can also find uplifting posts and stories on my Facebook page and Instagram, where I encourage everyone to embrace life, love, and the power of community. Joy is a powerful force, and we can uplift one another through our connections.
AKJ: That’s so important. What challenges have you faced in your advocacy work?
CC: One of the biggest challenges is combating the persistent stigma surrounding HIV. Despite significant advances in medical science, many still hold onto outdated views that see HIV as a death sentence a disheartening reality. And often, the community you expect to respond with compassion and understanding is often dealing with its own PTSD involving its own issues.
Organizing support groups has also had its challenges. I remember hosting a pool party for HIV positive people when I first moved here. I called it " POZ IN THE POOL" gotta market right? lol I was attempting to foster community, but only a few people showed up. It’s tough when individuals fear attaching their names to being HIV positive. Yet, I never let those moments discourage me especially knowing others are waiting for the right opportunity to share their stories. Plus, I keep a stash of inflatable pool toys handy for the next gathering!
People often ask how I stay motivated in the face of these challenges it's all about celebrating small victories and acknowledging the progress we’ve made as a community. Those moments of joy and connection remind me why this work is so important.
AKJ: How do you stay motivated in the face of these challenges?
CC: My faith has always been my guiding light. I truly believe in the possibility of miracles; it gives me strength during tough times. I lean on my support system and reflect on everything we’ve accomplished together. I focus on small victories whether it’s capturing a perfect photograph of a sunrise or simply enjoying a good dance party in my garden, with fans twirling and floating through the air, dancing to beautiful beats. That’s my ideal summer Sunday Garden T-Dance for as long as I am able! It doesn't take much to bring the boogie out of me.
AKJ: It’s been a privilege to talk with you, Christopher. Before we wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
CC: Absolutely! Just a friendly reminder: we’re all part of this chaotic journey together. Whether you’re facing health challenges or personal struggles, know that you’re never
alone. Community and connection can make a world of difference. Don’t hesitate to seek help or offer support to others when you can.
Life can indeed be challenging, but there’s always hope on the horizon! Our stories are still being written, and there’s so much potential for growth and healing.
Let’s support one another as we navigate this life together, striving for a future filled with love and acceptance. And remember, the best is yet to come especially if we can begin to remind ourselves and everyone who is struggling in life that "This storm will pass have hope - Survive !!!!! GOD has a plan! Start listening to the directions.
AKJ: Thank you again, Christopher! Please let us know when your next track is coming out.
CC: I will for sure! I’ve released thirty-eight tracks on SoundCloud.com over the last few months, and I’m currently remixing and editing some of them to build more confidence and discover better ways to produce and remix my initial tracks. I hope to attract even more listeners to my music. I appreciate this incredible opportunity to share my story— it’s been a pleasure chatting with you! I hope that when my life finally comes to an end. The fact that I have survived HIV and AIDS for most of my life becomes a footnote to a greater story of a man who created beautiful things that made someone's life a tiny bit more colorful and bright, even just the length of a song.
Interviewed by Alphonso King Jr
Listen to the mix here: https://www.mixcloud.com/djrelentlessny/ear-candy-april-2026
Download your free video of this mix here: https://mega.nz/file/N39hGT4Y#L7tiQ9v089nIM3FSvEmw8N9I1CF3GVQQrl9cM10pXWU
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Spring has sprung and after such a rough winter and all I can think about is a song by Prince on the Under The Cherry Moon soundtrack called “Sometimes It Snows In April”. We have had some warmer temperatures pop up but every time we think winter is gone the snow comes back. It’s just like the Orange Idiot does or says another stupid thing to destroy our hopes of some form of normalcy. SO, as I do every month now I tried to give you a distraction for at least an hour with some new music or remixes. And I guess you can say “what’s old is new”. We have eight remixed throwbacks, three LGBT artists and hopefully something for everyone.
So, let’s get started…shall we?
Warmer weather always makes me think of R&B and Reggae. So, I decided to start with “Birthday” by Fredo, Burna Boy & Street Banglez. It’s a smoothed out track for crusin’ around in your car with the top down.
Followed by a more traditional Dancehall sound with “Panic” by Vybz Kartel & Shenseea. I am surprized that Shenseea didn’t continue her crusade into Pop and Club. I thought by this time of 2026 she would have found the perfect track to seal the deal as a bonifide Popstar. But it seems she is leaning more and more towards her
Caribbean roots. Nothing wrong with that but that’s only gonna take you so far (in my opinion).
Back in 2006, there was a Disney movie called “Step Up” that gave Channing Tatum his first big break. He used to be a male dancer at few clubs in Tampa. That’s where I first saw him...but I digressed. The hit song from that movie was “(When You Gonna” Give It Up To Me” by Sean Paul & Keyshia Cole. Well, this ol’ track got a slight makeover by Ardent. It’s been pumped up to 105 BPMs and will be a cute selection for spring.
Another Retro selection that’s had a makeover is the mega Pop song “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys. It’s been given a modern Reggae feel and added vocals of King Promise & Mr Eazi. ASIL did a nice job.
Our fifth track is “Love Me Not” by Ravyn Lenae. We are moving into the pure Pop category right here. The production reminds me of Amy Winehouse’s “You Know I’m No Good”. It’s radio friendly, fun and with the right remixes it could be popular in clubs.
Justine Skye has been featured in this column a few times before. I think I like about her is she is true to that crossover House vibe. Her latest is a single called “Thong” Nice. Good mid-tempo House on your way to a serious set.
I had heard of Peter Breeze but I don’t think I had ever paid attention to his music…unitl now. “Blouse” by Golden Phantasy featuring Peter Breeze got my attention. The line “A blouse is a feminine top” made me giggle. All I could think of were the kind of white
gay boys I met the few times in L.A. and the big muscle queens who secretly bottom in the bathhouses. For someone not in the scene this song would sound like it’s all about a piece of feminine attire. But for those of us who know…this is an unspoken truth – until now.
Our eighth selection is the Soulboss Remix of “Shoop” by Salt-N-Pepa. When I hear remixes like this it sorta makes me angry. Why couldn’t they have done something like this back when it was first released in the 90s. Great fucking remix! But hey…I got it now and I’m gonna play! I kinda hope that they start taking all of those R&B / Hip Hop hits from the 90s into some DJ friendly House or Club remixes.
For our ninth selection I have to be honest. I have not heard the original version. So, I have nothing to compare the Dallas Down Afro-House Bootleg of “Homewrecker” by Sombr. All I know is he kinda looks sexy in the video and I like that there’s some interracial swirlin’ going on with his love interest. I’d play this remix.
So, the hits from yesterday just keep coming! The Harwood Remix of “This Love” by Maroon 5 sounds like the remix back in the 2000s should have been. The one that was available through Rockamerica (which was really the Junior Vasquez Remix but if your mix gets picked up by this video service they insist that whatever it is will be called the Rockamerica Remix) was good but took the original vibe completely out.
It’s been a while since I’ve heard anything for a dancefloor from Jessie J. From the video I am assuming she is a mother now. The last news I heard about her was when she broke up with Channing Tatum. I haven’t really been paying attention. Her latest single is “H.A.P.P.Y”. It’s a cute Pop song but I am hoping there are remixes coming down the pike.
Of course, we have had a few old tracks remixed but our twelfth track is a cover of a classic 80s hit. The Umberto, Jerry DJ & Michelle Remix of “I Can’t Wait” by Bob Sinclair featuring Kiesza. I was so happy to get this remix because as I have complained in the past – I am so tired of these two-minute TikTok songs! C’mon people!
Let’s be adults and think about the DJs who you want to play your tracks! Dance floors have a longer attention span than the children who live on TikTok!
“Çike Çike” by Bebe Rexha is my new favourite track! Blending English with Albanian phrases, the track celebrates nightlife freedom, feminine confidence, and carefree escapism. This is another one that I am hoping some remixes are in the works. But until then…I’ll be playing this one!
And here comes another 80s hit remixed…the Takis Club Mix of “She Drives Me Crazy” by Fine Young Cannibals is a great reinvention and reboot of a good Pop Dance song!
It may seem like I am dwelling in the past and you’re probably right. With all that is going on in the world I am yearning for a time when music was just the escape. So, our fifteenth selection is the SINcere Disco Bootleg of “The Way I Are” by Timbaland featuring Keri Hilson & DOE. If only this remix was available back when this was a hit back in the 2000s. I would have played the shit outta this!
But if you’re looking for a new track, “You” by Armand Van Helden, Mark Knight & D Ramirez Really hot production and nice vocal hook. I’ll be playing this one!
One of the most disliked artist, other than Nicki Minaj at this moment is Jennifer Lopez. There comes a point in a career when I believe you have to take a good look at what you have done and who you have stepped on or lied about to get a real assessment of who you are. Jennifer just comes off as a bitch and many see her as just that. She’s not a great singer. She wants to be a great entertainer.
But she has had too many missteps along the way…professionally and personally. I keep seeing folks drag her online about dressing like she’s still a Fly Girl from In Living Color I’m gonna be honest. I don’t love “Save Me Tonight” with David Guetta. I don’t hate it…it’s just not hitting the right chords with me.
So, I have noticed that with the world of A.I. taking over the music industry there’s nothing that cannot be done. With the right program, you can literally type in specific details, and it will do the job in minutes. So, vocals can be fixed or completely swapped out. Key changes can be easily made, and any genre can be accomplished. And I am beginning to recognize A.I. when I hear it. Hints like tracks going on too long without a real ending or the vocals sound nothing like the person you worked with. And another big clue is that the vocalist is unable to recreate the vocals live. As an recording artist myself, I have had plenty of fixed notes because no one is perfect in the studio. But I most definitely can sing my songs live. Just be on the lookout for suspicious tracks.
Our eighteenth selection is “Shine” by Benny Dawson featuring Glowgirl. Nice track. A little too fast my playlist. So, I slowed it down to 128 BPMs. When I listened to it for the first time, I did not believe this was Glowgirl’s vocals. I’ve worked with her vocals before and this does not sound anything like her as I know her. She says that this producer got her to sing in a higher register. When I see her perform it live, I believe that. She’s probably gonna hate my review but anyone who listens to her earlier tracks will say the same.
And our nineteenth track is by our featured person in this month’s UP CLOSE & PERSONAL column, Christopher Costas. He just goes by Christopher for his artist
name. One of his latest releases on his SoundCloud page is “Moved On”. After such a good look into his journey as a person living with HIV, I thought our readers might want to hear what his music sounds like. This track was a little too fast my taste, so I slowed it down to 128 BPMs. I always try to support our LGBT artists. He didn’t have a music video, so I just used his single cover as the visual. Find him on SoundCloud and follow to support as well.
And to close out our April 2026 mix is the Kue Remix of “My Way” by Limp Bizkit. I was never a big Bizkit fan. I remember some petty celebrity fight with Christina Aguilera over rumors of Fred Durst was implying that he and X-tina had hooked up after a collaboration on the VMAs in 2000 . Anyway...I actually found the Kue Remix of “My Way” was pretty good. I’d play it. Plus, I like having some unexpected remixes in my arsenal.
Be sure to catch my weekly MASTER CONTROL radio show on Sandcastle Radio every Monday afternoon at 3 PM (EST) where you never know what I might play when I hit the decks. I have been using this hour of radio to share my 46 years of a DJ career. All the different genres and the history behind why I played these tracks. Hopefully my journey will inspire other DJs to expand their musical taste. It’s definitely helped me through my years. Plus, I am considering also doing a weekly video show. Let me know what you think. Find me on social media and let your voice be heard! And don’t forget to get your free download of the video mix of this month’s EAR CANDY mix back at the top of this article. There’s also all the links to where you can find my past catalog of audio mixes.
