By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

 Last week, America’s Got Talent (AGT) started its live portion of Season 21! Fan favorites such as Luke Taleno and Royal Lasers rose to the occasion and were sent through to the Season 21 semifinals.  Former standouts such as Ashford Sanders, Cris Sosa, James & Marina, and the Jesse White Tumbling Team fell to the pressure.

Recently, multiple media outlets, including Parade & TMZ, reported that Simon Cowell has stepped away from the NBC talent competition due to routine back surgery linked to his 2020 bike accident. Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar sends our best wishes to the Got Talent creator and hopes for a successful surgery and a safe recovery.

Tonight, 11 more acts took the Pasadena Civic Auditorium stage to perform for America’s votes.  Which performers stood out? Who received the second Live Golden Buzzer of the Season and will join two-time Golden Buzzer recipient Hundred Fingers in the Season 21 Live Finale?  Listen on to find out!

Tomorrow night, Season 20 alum Steve Ray Ladson would join the War & Treaty to provide the entertainment + three more acts advance!

The post Jake’s AGT Take – The Second Season 21 Live Performances appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is an honor to welcome two-time Emmy-winning actor and producer Mike Manning back to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Television audiences first met Mike when he joined the cast of MTV’s legendary Reality TV series, The Real World: D.C. After completing filming, he dove into the entertainment industry. He appeared on Crash & Bernstein, Hawaii Five-0, Major Crimes, Teen Wolf, The Haves and Have Nots, and This Is Us.

Mike also started Mannifest Productions to connect audiences with entertainment that matters by developing and producing films, TV, and new media projects that not only aim to change the world but also open hearts and minds through art. He began his producing career with the documentary Kidnapped for Christ alongside Tom DeSanto. The film won several awards before being shown on Showtime and was responsible for legislation in California and other states to protect children from abuse at “camps for troubled youth.”

He also produced Jinn, Son of the South, M.F.A., and Folk Hero & Funny Guy.  His homeless youth documentary Lost in America, starred Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry, Grammy-winning songstress Jewel, Rosario Dawson, and Tiffany Haddish. Meanwhile, The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson, directed by Oscar-nominated David France, was released as a Netflix Original after premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival.

Outside of the entertainment industry, Mike works with nonprofits that advocate for the poor, the environment, and equal rights. In 2010, Mike Manning lobbied Congress in Washington, D.C., on behalf of the Human Rights Campaign. Since then, he has received proclamations from the New York City Council in recognition of his cause-related work.

Recently, Mike celebrated his one-year anniversary portraying Bradley “Smitty” Smith on CBS and Paramount+’s groundbreaking soap opera Beyond the Gates. In the first year of its eligibility to be nominated for Daytime Emmy Awards, the soap received 15 nominations, including Outstanding Daytime Drama Series for the show and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for himself.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Mike Manning spoke about receiving his latest Emmy nomination, Beyond the Gates’ crossover with sister soap The Young & The Restless, and his latest project, The Wolf and the Lamb.

For more information about Mannifest Productions, visit its website!

You can connect with Mike Manning on social media! Visit his Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & Twitter (X).

The post Jake’s Take Podcast – Mike Manning Returns! appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome journalist Stephen Anderson to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Stephen is the co-founder and Chief Political Reporter of FRWD AXIS News. Like most media organizations, FRWD AXIS News keeps up with the times in entertainment, current events, and other sections found in most outlets.  They are wholly independent and aim to deliver meaningful stories from thoughtful writers. Their editorial guidelines and investigative skills carve a path for those who follow headlines and miss key stories. He has covered both the Biden White House and the second Trump White House.

When he is not covering politics, Stephen reports on the San Antonio Spurs for Pounding the Rock and San Antonio Spurs on Sports Illustrated. He also covers the Texas Longhorns and other sports stories for the Lone Star Sports Journal. This October, Stephen will launch his own show, Stephen Anderson Unfiltered. 

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Stephen Anderson shared FRWD AXIS News’s origin story, compared covering the Biden and second Trump Administrations, and gave his take on this current season of America’s Got Talent.

For more information about FRWD AXIS News, visit their website.

You can connect with Stephen Anderson on Instagram  & Twitter (X)! 

The post Jake’s Take Podcast – Stephen Anderson appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

For the first time this season, America’s Got Talent (AGT) went LIVE!

Tonight, 11 acts competed for America’s votes. Which acts rose to the occasion? Did any acts receive an X from the judges (series creator Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara)?

Listen on to find out!

Tomorrow night, NCT 127 will provide the entertainment, and the first set of semifinalists will be revealed!

The post AGT: Season 21 Goes LIVE! appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a pleasure to welcome Wendy Colonna to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

 For nearly three decades, Wendy has written songs that explore the intersections of humanity, culture, and resilience. A graduate of Louisiana’s Scholars’ College, she has released nine studio albums, toured nationally and internationally, earned a Coca-Cola sync placement reaching millions, and shared stages with legendary artists. From performing for 60,000 people at the Women’s March to singing at hospice bedsides, Colonna believes every performance is an act of connection.

Beyond the stage, she is Chief Cultural Officer of Wavemakers Women + Music, where she helps amplify women artists over 40, and founder of the Lyriculture Artist Development program, where she has spent a decade mentoring creatives. Her commitment to elevating overlooked voices is at the heart of her songwriting—and comes to life in “Nightingale.” She is based in San Marcos, Texas.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Wendy Colonna spoke about Wavemakers Women + Music, spoke about the stories behind her most-streamed Spotify songs, and previewed her upcoming project, Banned, which transforms banned books into songs.

For more information about Wendy, visit her website.

You can connect with Wendy Colonna on social media. Visit her Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube channels.

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Wendy Colonna appeared first on Jake's Take.

Welcome to the latest installment of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews of 2026! (Bitmoji property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Before we get to the latest Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews, I want to acknowledge a special historic moment.  On August 14, I released my first blog post.  Little I did I know that this blog post would lead me on a journey that would take me behind the scenes of my favorite TV shows, interview a diverse group of content creators, entertainers, and news makers; start a podcast; and meet my heroes and hundreds of fascinating people along the way!  To all of my previous guests and their respective media teams, Thank you for taking a chance on me.

To all of my readers, listeners, and viewers, thank you for following me on my journey. To my family, friends, and colleagues, thank you for supporting me!  I look forward to spending the next 15 years with you!

So, let’s get back to business! We got a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

Petal has several standouts and a well-produced album. (Album cover property of Republic Records)

Petal by Ariana Grande

Pop music superstar Ariana Grande dropped her first post-Wicked studio album, Petal. Like 2024’s Eternal Sunshine, the “God is a Woman” performer wrote all the tracks and recruited Ilya Salamanzaeh to co-produce them with her. Iconic hitmaker Max Martin also assisted the duo on “Hate That I Made You Love Me,” the titular track, and “Stay.” Petal has several standouts and a well-produced album. However, if there were certain tracks that were left on the cutting room floor, then it would have been a slam dunk for Ariana! B-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Hate That I Made You Love Me,” “Petal,” “Freak,” & “Like I Do.”

The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales splendidly blends Americana, country, and hip-hop with spectacular results and superb world-building. (Album cover property of American Dagwood & EMPIRE)

The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales by Shaboozey

Shaboozey is one of the 2020s’ breakout country music artists. The Outlaw Cherrie Lee & Other Western Tales is his first album in four years. The album focuses on outlaw Cherrie Lee, who is out for revenge. The “(A Bar Song) Tipsy” performer recruited an all-star group of featured artists of various genres such as Gunna, Kehlani, Leon Bridges, Orville Peck, and Teyana Taylor, who make cameos throughout the album. Oscar nominee Sam Elliott and Academy Award and Grammy-winning recording artist Jamie Foxx also make appearances on the record’s spoken word dialogues. The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales splendidly blends Americana, country, and hip-hop with spectacular results and superb world-building. B+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “High Noon,” “Cowgirl,” “Burn It Down,” “Bullets & Blades,” & “Born to Die.”

“Love Sensation (Afterhours Radio Edit)” by Madonna & Kylie Minogue

Since the 1980s, both Madonna and Kylie Minogue have entertained audiences with their music. In 2024, both pop music legends shocked the world when they sang together at the Los Angeles stop on Madonna’s Celebration Tour. Recently, Madonna and Kylie teamed up for a remix on the “Ray of Light” performer’s Confessions II hit “Love Sensation.” Their mutual collaborator, Stuart Price, produced this historic track, and I expect this remix to be played at multiple dance parties for generations to come. A

“The Game of Love” by Michelle Branch & the New Radicals

Nearly 25 years ago, singer-songwriter Michelle Branch recorded “The Game of Love” with iconic rock band Santana. This November, she will release re-recordings of her classic tunes, Everywhere and Back Again.  This go-around, the “All You Wanted” performer welcomed The New Radicals frontman Gregg Alexander to re-record the tune. As a Millennial who grew up listening to this song throughout middle school and high school, Michelle and Gregg did a superb job rekindling this classic that will make listeners dance. B+

“Just One Bite” by Patty Cake Productions featuring Sabrina von B

Actress and performer Sabrina von B found viral fame thanks to her superb portrayal of the Evil Queen. However, People reported that the actress was allegedly fired by the Disneyland Resort after eight years. Thankfully, they have not seen Sabrina as Snow White’s iconic villainess. The actress collaborated with content creators PattyCake Productions on an original song, “Just One Bite.” PattyCake Productions does a superb job crafting a tune that focuses on how the Evil Queen poisoned her stepdaughter. Sabrina is a fantastic vocalist and does a phenomenal job channeling Her Majesty once again. Bravo! A+

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are some of the artists and bands that could shake up the music industry!

Honey Trap by Sherrionn

Chicago singer, songwriter, and engineer Sherrionn dropped her debut mixtape, Honey Trap. This 14-track project blends bass-heavy productions, sharp songwriting, and Chi-Town’s influence on her artistry. Sherrionn does a splendid job blending classic and modern R&B.  Honey Trap is a superb introduction, and I believe that we will be hearing more about Sherrionn for years to come. A-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “SLOW,” “PINEAPPLE,” “FAVORITE,” “BIRTHDAY BADDIE,”  & “HEARTS ON THE MOON.”

“Again” by Liam Horne

Originally from Scotland, Pop-R&B singer-songwriter Liam Horne moved to Los Angeles at a young age to pursue a music career that included writing songs for Justin Bieber. Now, “The Truth Is” singer-songwriter dropped his new single, “Again,” which he co-wrote with Grammy winners James Fauntleroy and Brian Kennedy. “Again” is a hypnotic track that will get listeners on the dance floor.  B+

“TNT” by WOLVESofJUNE

WOLVESofJUNE rounds out this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews. WOLVESofJUNE is the new project of Neil Perry, who made headlines in an interview with Stereogum when he said his sister, Kimberly, allegedly pushed him out of their family band, The Band Perry. “TNT” is an outstanding debut single that showcases powerful guitar licks and superb vocals! I cannot wait to listen for more! A

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The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of August 14, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

America’s Got Talent (AGT): Season 21 Live Shows start next week!

However, we have one more edition of Judges’ Callbacks before NBC reveals the entire lineup of acts.  Last week, Simon and Mel B conducted their Judges’ Callbacks and sent eight acts into the live shows.  Tonight, Howie Mandel and Sofia Vergara held court at their respective Judges’ Callbacks locations – his podcast studio and The Laugh Factory (Howie) and Beverly Hills (Sofia).  They also brought guest judges Nikki Glaser (Howie), Lele Pons and Sebastian Yarra (Sofia) to help them make the crucial decisions.

Which acts rose to the occasion? Who will be competing for America’s votes? Listen on to find out!

Next week, the AGT: Season 21 Live Shows START!

The post Howie & Sofia CONCLUDE AGT S21 Judge Callbacks appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome country music recording artist Caldwell to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Caldwell’s sound is as raw and real as the life that shaped him. Raised in a diverse community and grounded in values of respect, hard work, and authenticity, Caldwell found his rhythm early, picking up the drums at age five and turning to songwriting during high school. The spark that lit the fuse came when he watched a friend shoot a music video and thought, “I can do this better.”

Drawing inspiration from Eminem, Elvis Presley, Bruno Mars, and Morgan Wallen, Caldwell channels his Southern roots into a fearless fusion of country, rock, hip-hop, and pop. What began as a relentless grind through local venues and bar stages has evolved into sold-out performances, viral moments, and a rapidly expanding fanbase fueled by his faith, grit, and unwavering work ethic.

Hailing from Greenville, South Carolina, Caldwell is redefining genre lines with a high-voltage blend of country, rock, rap, and pop. Following a breakout 2025 that saw him named Rolling Stone UK’s #1 Artist to Watch with his viral hit “Beer & Baddies” featuring Sexyy Red, which debuted at number 31 on the Billboard Dance/Mix Show Airplay Chart, Caldwell continues his meteoric rise with a major milestone of partnering with independent record label EMPIRE Nashville.  Caldwell took this energy and harnessed a show-stopping performance for a record-breaking crowd at CMA Fest’s Dr Pepper Amp Stage. The performance left the crowd wanting more and fueled the iconic WAKA FLOCKA FLAME to say from the stage, “Caldwell is the most exciting new country artist to come up!”

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Caldwell opened up about how Chad Kroeger and Morgan Wallen influenced his sound, the stories behind his songs, including “F.S.U.” and “Flyin’ Pass – Remix” with Yung Pinch & MOD SUN. 

You can connect with Caldwell on social media! Visit his channels on Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube.

The post Jake’s Take Podcast – Caldwell appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

 America’s Got Talent (AGT) brought an element fans have been missing for ages – the Middle Round.

The middle round not only introduced acts who would be competing for America’s votes, but also gave multiple acts the chance to present themselves in front of the judges (and their guests) one final time if they are undecided. From the Vegas Rounds to the Judge Cuts,  AGT’s Middle Round created unforgettable moments.  For Season 21, judges Simon Cowell, Mel B, Howie Mandel, and Sofia Vergara each selected six acts to see one more time to determine if they were going to the live shows.

This week, Simon Cowell and Mel B invited their six acts to their houses, and they brought with them – three iconic mentors, former X Factor USA alum Normani and producer Poo Bear (Simon), and Baby Spice herself – Emma Bunton (Mel B)!  Which acts rose to the occasion and were awarded a spot in the Season 21 Live Shows? Listen on to find out!

Next week, Howie & Sofia invite their six acts for the second round of Judge Callbacks!

The post Simon & Mel B KICK START ‘AGT’ Judge Callbacks with Reunions appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome Hilary Roberts to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Hilary is a singer-songwriter who is a phoenix rising from the ashes. After suffering many years of trauma and abuse, Hilary made the decision that she could no longer deal with those demons alone. On May 9, 1997, she reached out to a mentor who offered her solutions and a way of life to help her recover one day at a time. She has been sober ever since.

Hilary is not only a trauma survivor but also survived open-heart surgery after being diagnosed with a very rare congenital heart defect, to which she was only given a 50% chance of success. After the surgery, she lost her voice but eventually got it back after a year and a half. All these situations launched her into focusing on a life of giving back and spreading the message of hope wherever she goes.

She now dedicates her life and talents to making a positive impact on society through her music. Her goal with her music is to be a beacon of hope and empowerment to all. In 2018, she released her debut single “There For You” under her self-owned label, Red Songbird, which charted No.10 on the Billboard Dance-Club Chart. She followed up that chart-topping single with a second one, an upbeat rendition of Soul II Soul’s “Back to Life,” which spent 13 weeks on the Top 50 chart before claiming No.1 in 2019. She also released “Fight to the Other Side,” which was dedicated to her beautiful friend who was there for her during the depths of her deepest pain. Following her chart-topping success, she released her single, “Good Man,” which is all about celebrating men who make a positive difference in our lives.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Hilary Roberts spoke about starting the Red Songbird Foundation and her latest single, “Never Too Late,” which she co-wrote with the iconic Justin Tranter.

For more information about Hilary Roberts, visit their website!

You can connect with Hilary Roberts on social media! Visit her Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X) & YouTube channels.

The post Jake’s Take Podcast – Hilary Roberts appeared first on Jake's Take.