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

Happy New Music Friday, everyone! I hope that you are enjoying the long weekend!  Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews is back!  We got a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

DIRTY BLONDE is one of the best dance-pop albums of 2026 and could serve as a roadmap for future recording artists. (Album cover property of Bebe Rexha Music & Empire)

DIRTY BLONDE by Bebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha began a new chapter in her recording career with the release of her fourth studio album, DIRTY BLONDE. This record marks the first album from her new record company, Empire Distribution. The “I’m A Mess” singer-songwriter recruited an all-star group of collaborators, including Boaz van de Beatz, DJ Snake, Edwin Serrano, Jean Bapiste, Mitch Allan, the Punctual production team, and Sarah Hudson, to craft DIRTY BLONDE’s 13 tracks. She also reunited with frequent creative partner David Guetta on “Sad Girls” and with English dance music band Faithless on “New Religion.” DIRTY BLONDE is one of the best dance-pop albums of 2026 and will possibly serve as a roadmap for future recording artists. A+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “New Religion,” “Cike Cike,” “I Like You Better Than Me,” “Drink And A Little Love,” “One Day,” & “Sad Girls.”

I loved how Keith Urban and his production team, rearranged these classic tunes without altering their core elements. (Album cover property of Hit Red Records & MCA Nashville)

Flow State by Keith Urban

Country music icon Keith Urban did a first in his long career – he released an all-covers album, Flow State. The former American Idol judge and The Voice Australia mentor took some of yacht rock’s most iconic songs, ranging from Player’s “Baby Come Back” and Grover Washington, Jr.’s and Bill Withers’ “Just the Two of Us” to Seals & Crofts’ “Summer Breeze.”  He also welcomed John Mayer (“Guitar Man”), Little Big Town (“Magnet & Steel”), and Michael McDonald (“We Go Back”) as featured artists. I loved how “The Fighter” guitarist and recording artist, along with his production team, rearranged these classic tunes without altering their core elements. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Baby Come Back,” “Magnet & Steel,” “Just the Two of Us,” & “Summer Breeze.”

While B-Word has some strong material, such as “Happy 2 Be,” the Bon Jovi + Desmond Child-co-penned “Don’t Make Me Love U,” and a reimagined version of Meredith Brooks’ classic “B-Word,” the album is uninspiring! (Album cover property of Nice Life Recording Company & Atlantic Recording Corporation)

B-Word by Lizzo

Four years separate Lizzo’s recent two studio albums, Special (2022) and B-Word (2026). Between these two records, the “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready?)” singer-songwriter was in the headlines for numerous controversies that include allegations of sexual misconduct by former backing dancers in 2023 and applauding Pro-Hamas/Anti-Israel college encampment participants in 2024. The question that I pondered is whether it is possible to listen to Lizzo’s new album without separating the art from the artist. The answer is Yes. While B-Word has some strong material, such as “Happy 2 Be,” the Bon Jovi + Desmond Child-co-penned “Don’t Make Me Love U,” and a reimagined version of Meredith Brooks’ classic “B-Word,” the album is uninspiring! D

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Happy 2 Be,” “Don’t Make Me Love U,” & “B-Word.”

Dinner Party is full of fun and whimsical pop-rock tunes that are a breath of fresh air in today’s music market. (Album cover property of Capitol Records & Neon Haze Music Ltd.)

Dinner Party by Niall Horan

Niall Horan is back with his fourth studio album, Dinner Party. The X Factor UK finalist-turned-The Voice USA winning coach reunited with frequent collaborators John Ryan and Julian Bunetta and welcomed Amy Allen, Joel Little, Matt Zara, and Steph Jones into the family. Dinner Party is full of fun and whimsical pop-rock tunes that are a breath of fresh air in today’s music market. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Tastes So Good,” “Dinner Party,” “Little More Time,”  & “End of an Era.”

God Must Really Love Me showcases Tori Kelly’s superb songwriting and splendid vocals, uplifting listeners and music lovers everywhere. (Album cover property of Tori Kelly Publishing LLC & Epic Records)

God Must Really Love Me by Tori Kelly

Tori Kelly dropped her first gospel record, God Must Really Love Me. The “Should’ve Been Us” actress and songstress teamed up with top hitmakers Ammo, Dan Farber, Emily Warren, Forrest Frank, Jeff Gitelman, Nija Charles, Tommy King, to co-write and co-produce her sixth studio album. God Must Really Love Me showcases Tori Kelly’s superb songwriting and splendid vocals, uplifting listeners and music lovers everywhere. A-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Control,” “Fly,” “Pray for You,” “Dive,” & “Hurts So Good.”

“Over and Over” by Little Big Town

Little Big Town dropped their second single off their upcoming twelfth studio album, It’s a Dying Art. “Over and Over” could be the younger sibling of classic “Better Man.” I got the chills from Karen’s vocals, the catchy chorus, and superb electric guitar arrangements. I cannot wait for the rest of It’s A Dying Art to drop on August 28! B+

“I Knew It, I Knew You” by Taylor Swift

One of the biggest surprises that Walt Disney Records and Pixar gave fans was a new song recorded by another popular TS, Taylor Swift! The “I Knew You Were Trouble” recording artist reunited with frequent collaborator Jack Antonoff to co-pen and co-produce a new song for Toy Story’s latest chapter. “I Knew It, I Knew You” marks a return to the recording artist’s first genre – country music. The song was inspired by our favorite cowgirl, Jessie! The song is classic Taylor and would give listeners goosebumps. A-

Want to support me? Subscribe to my podcast & follow my YouTube channel!

The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of June 19, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome recording artist Vince Montage to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

At just 20 years old, Vince has already written over 500 songs and collaborated with heavyweights like Polo G and Scott Storch (Credits include 50 Cent, Dr. Dre, and Beyoncé), but nothing he’s made has been quite like this. On May 8th, he released “Fleeting,” his debut single and the opening statement of a bold new era. Raw, introspective, and unflinchingly honest, the track confronts the emotional weight of impermanence in love and in the versions of ourselves we can’t hold onto.

“Fleeting” explores the ache of emotions that are impossible to hold onto: the moments, relationships, and feelings that slip away just as quickly as they arrive. Written during a period of rapid personal change, the song reflects Vince’s desire to return to moments in time and the complexity of feeling deeply for something temporary. Vince’s new era is marked by a desire for authenticity and emotional honesty, as he reminisces about moments that slip away as quickly as they appear.

Vince’s creative process stems from internal dialogue combined with a distinct talent for identifying complementary melodies. In the case of “Fleeting,” the melody came long before the final production, allowing the emotion of the record to take center stage. The track was produced by Pacific, with Vince operating as a co-producer alongside his longtime collaborator, Grammy Award-winning producer-engineer Mixx, with whom he has worked since his early teens and has collaborated with the likes of Teyana Taylor and French Montana. Together, the duo has crafted a soundscape that balances subtle percussion with emotional intensity. For Vince, authenticity is everything – “If you can reach a lot of people, you can have a big impact on other people’s lives in a bunch of different ways.”

Vince Montage’s musical focus has now shifted from creating music that is an extension of pop culture to focusing on creating music that is rooted in authenticity. “When you’re making music for the purpose of trying to catch a trend, you can make a song that becomes a hit, but it’s not going to influence people in the same way that making music from your own personal experience does.”

Originally from Columbus and now based in Miami, Vince began his music journey at just 13 years old. What began as a creative desire to collaborate with creatives Vince admired on SoundCloud quickly evolved into a legitimate, all-encompassing career and relentless creative pursuit for Vince, culminating in collaborations with influential artists. Over the past seven years, he’s worked to refine an innovative style unique to him but shaped by influences ranging from some of his favorites: From Prince to Queen to contemporary innovator, Mk. Gee.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Vince Montage spoke about how SoundCloud has helped him,  the stories behind his most-streamed Spotify songs, including “Light Switch,” “Back 2 U” – his collaboration with Karri, and “Stuck in this Mood” with Polo G.

For more information about Vince Montage, visit his website.

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

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

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar is commemorating Pride Month! According to Britannica, “Pride Month commemorates years of struggle for civil rights and the ongoing pursuit of equal justice under the law for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer community, as well as the accomplishments of LGBTQ individuals!

I am delighted to welcome singer-songwriter Abby Nissenbaum to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Abby is a Nashville-based LGBTQ+ indie-rock recording artist. She writes from the heart, exploring themes of depression, isolation, and heartbreak, but anchored by messages of hope, empowerment, and community. Complemented by her effortlessly honest and raw vocal delivery, Abby offers relatable, heartfelt lyricism amid catchy melodies, beautifully contrasting with the energetic indie-rock soundscape that surrounds her. Several media outlets, including Clash, Earmilk, Mundane Magazine, and Wonderland, have praised her music. 

On this episode of the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Abby Nissenbaum spoke about her move to Nashville, the stories behind some of the most Spotify-streamed songs, and what Pride Month means to her!

You can connect with Abby Nissenbuam on social media. Visit our channels on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, & YouTube!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Celebrating Pride with Abby Nissenbaum appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome Rebecca Roberts and Kurt Szarka to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Rebecca began her career as a singer and a dancer for Katherine Jenkins’ Believe: Live from the O2 concert. She started in shorts such as Always at Home and Altered Memories before moving on to films such as Pompeii and Life. Rebecca also lent her voice as various characters in the Assassin’s Creed video game franchise and appeared on The CW’s The Flash (January Gilmore) and Legends of Tomorrow (Queen Anne of Austria), and the popular web series, Evolve: Year Zero (Rawny).

Kurt spent his younger years playing sports and always had a passion for the creative arts. Szarka discovered his love for acting at an early age when he played Scrooge in his grade six school production of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol.” After studying Economics and Finance at University, he went to work on the trading floor, but his passion for acting never left and he continued to study acting in his free time. Finally, he took the leap, moved out to the West Coast, and quickly began working full-time in film and television.

Kurt appeared in the CW’s Batwoman, where he portrayed the famed DC comics character, Slam Bradley. He then worked for the CW again in their hit series Riverdale.  Kurt also appears in the Netflix series Maid and the Netflix Christmas Feature “Love Hard.” In addition, he appeared in Syfy’s Wynonna Earp, V.C. Andrews’ Heaven mini-series for Lifetime, and the movies Sweet as Pie and Fishing for Love. For Hallmark, Kurt has appeared in Picture Perfect Mysteries: Newlywed and Dead and Falling for You.

Rebecca Roberts and Kurt Szarka are also the co-founders of ReadyMade Productions. The production company focuses on independent films made right and created for creatives by creatives.  ReadyMade Productions was also built to protect the crew, elevate the work, and connect with audiences in a way that lasts.

On this edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Rebecca Roberts and Kurt Szarka spoke about their iconic roles, shared ReadyMade Productions’ origin story, and their latest project, BROTHER.

For more information about ReadyMade Production, visit their website.

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Rebecca Roberts & Kurt Szarka appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

America’s Got Talent (AGT) is back with its twenty-first search for talent!

Last week, host Terry Crews and judges Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B held court at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium for the first set of Judges’ Auditions. For the first time ever, 3 GOLDEN BUZZERS were handed out on the Season Premiere!

Tonight, another group of hopefuls auditioned for the chance to join the ACRO Canine Crew, Lai Noelle, and Luke Taleno in the Season 21 Live Shows. Which act received a Golden Buzzer? Was buzzed out of the competition? Who pressed the Golden Buzzer tonight? Listen to find out!

Next week, the AGT: Season 21 Judges Auditions Continue!

The post Jake’s AGT Take – A Familiar Face Returns for Season 21 appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It’s a Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar EXCLUSIVE!

Union Station Kansas City welcomed an international exhibition just in time for its participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.  They are the hosts of the North American Premiere of The Berlin Wall. A World Divided.  

Presented by Chase, this exhibition offers a timely opportunity to reflect on freedom, division, and human stories of the Cold War that continue resonating worldwide. The Berlin Wall. A World Divided spans more than 45 years of global history, featuring over 200 original artifacts, including large sections of the wall, personal belongings, and artwork.

Before the exhibit begins, visitors can look at “On Alert: Kansas City in the Cold War.” (Photo property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

Preparing to View History

The exhibition’s galleries are divided into four topics: A World Divided, Before the Wall, Division and Living with the Wall, and finally Global Transformation and the End of the Cold War.  

Before you enter the exhibition, visitors will begin by seeing how Kansas City was impacted by the Cold War. These include the Churchill Lectern, where the legendary UK Prime Minister Winston Churchill delivered his “The Sinews of Peace” lecture at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri; needlepoint crests representing both the United States and the USSR logos; and “On Alert: Kansas City in the Cold War,” a collection of archived blown-up The Kansas City Star images that showed how the Cold War shaped residents’ lives.

Once, the Berlin Wall. In A World Divided, tourists cross a replica of Checkpoint Charlie’s entrance; they can pick up an audio tour guide, which will be extremely helpful throughout the tour.

The exhibit showcases how the global media covered the Berlin Wall’s collapse. (Photo property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

History Unfolds

The Berlin Wall. In A World Divided starts with the brief explanation of Germany’s reunification, Hitler’s rise, Europe’s Jewish and Roma populations sent to concentration camps, and the Allied Forces (The United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia)’s successful defeat of the Axis Powers.

It also showcased how the United States and Russia became allies to rivals. The exhibit included a “Block Building in Europe – Military Alliances in 1955” map that showcased the division between East and West Berlin and depicted the Warsaw Treaty Organization and NATO.   Tourists also see the Berlin Wall’s beginnings with an original roll of barbed wire from the 1960s, cinder blocks from 1961, and a large four-language sign that says: “You are leaving the American Sector.”

As someone who has read about the Berlin Wall since my time at Indian Valley Elementary School, I was gobsmacked, and my lips trembled when I first saw it. (Photo property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

Meeting the Wall

I was in awe when I saw the six pillars of the Berlin Wall that were part of the historic structure. As someone who has read about this massive historical artifact since my time at Indian Valley Elementary School, I was gobsmacked, and my lips trembled.  Around the area, attendees can also see photos of USSR guardsmen, a matchbox from East Berlin, and a graphic that showcases the 140 victims who met their end.

The End of An Era

The exhibit’s finale focused on entering the 1980s, highlighting the USSR’s technology and the events that led to the wall’s collapse and sparked protests worldwide. Artifacts highlighted in this portion include the Computer Robotron A7150, and the iconic Getty Images photo of a protester blocking tanks approaching Beijing’s Tiananmen Square. Visitors can also see former US President Ronald Reagan’s iconic “Tear Down this Wall” speech and the “Girls Say No to the Bombs” banner that Thalia Campbell made in the 1980s. But there are no words to describe the footage that visitors see from November 9, 1989 that showcased the Fall of the Berlin Wall.

For more information about The Berlin Wall. A World Divided exhibit at Union Station Kansas City, visit their website.

The post Jake’s Take EXCLUSIVE: The Berlin Wall. A World Divided 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

Welcome to the first Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews of Summer 2026! We got a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

Live at the Gorge 2023 is full of superb performances that showcase why the Highwomen are not only superb solo artists but, together, remain one of the strongest supergroups of the 21st century. (Album cover property of the Highwomen Records)

Live at the Gorge 2023 by the Highwomen

In 2023, the Highwomen (Amanda Shires, Brandi Carlile, Maren Morris, Natalie Hemby, and honorary member Brittany Spencer) traveled to the Gorge in George, Washington, to perform a concert. The quartet decided to record their concert, which led to the country music supergroup’s first live album, Live at the Gorge 2023. The Highwomen performed songs from their 2019 self-titled debut album, along with classic tunes that ranged from “Always on my Mind” and “Delta Dawn” (with Tanya Tucker herself) to “Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters” and their superb rendition of “The Chain.” Live at the Gorge 2023 is full of superb performances that showcase why the Highwomen are not only superb solo artists but, together, remain one of the strongest supergroups of the 21^st century.  A

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Redesigning Women,” “Highwomen,” “Mona Lisa & Mad Hatters,” “Delta Dawn,” “My Church,” & “The Chain.”

Sir Paul McCartney’s The Boys of Dungeon Lane is a splendid listening experience. (Album cover property of Capitol Records)

The Boys of Dungeon Lane by Paul McCartney

Celebrated music legend Sir Paul McCartney released his twelfth solo record, The Boys of Dungeon Lane, on May 29! This album marks his first album in six years. He teamed up with one of my generation’s top producers, Andrew Watt, to co-produce The Boys of Dungeon Lane. While Watt co-wrote five songs, the “Queenie Eye” singer-songwriter wrote all the album. The Boys of Dungeon Lane features reflective songs such as “Days We Left Behind,” “Down South,” and “Home to Us,” which serve as a mini-Beatles reunion with Sir Ringo Starr. As always, an offering from Sir Paul is a splendid listening experience.  B+

 Tracks to Download or Stream: “Lost Horizon,” “Days We Left Behind,” “Down South,” “Come Inside,” & “Home to Us.”

As he celebrates his 70th anniversary in the music industry, Dream Chaser continues to expand Willie Nelson’s tapestry and legacy with superb songs. (Album cover property of Sony Music Entertainment)

Dream Chaser by Willie Nelson

Country music giant Willie Nelson dropped his 79^th (!) solo studio album, Dream Chaser. The “Always on my Mind” legend’s new record features 10 songs (Willie co-wrote six of them), including “I Can’t Read Your Mind,” which got co-writing assistance from fellow icon Bob Dylan. As he celebrates his 70^th anniversary in the music industry, Dream Chaser continues to expand Willie Nelson’s tapestry and legacy with superb songs. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Dream Chaser,” “We’d Make a Good Movie,” “I Can’t Read Your Mind,” & “Whiskey Wants Me To.”

“Hate that I made you love me” by Ariana Grande

Arianators rejoice! Ariana Grande is back in the music game! The “Thank U, Next” recording artist is launching a new era with Petal. “Hate that I made you love me” is the first single off the singer-actress’s upcoming eighth studio album. Ariana reunited with longtime collaborators, Max Martin and Ilya, to co-pen and co-produce the track. This song is the successor to “Thank U, Next” and showcases a softer side to the global powerhouse performer. A-

“I Hope I Made You Proud” by Frankie Zulfernino

Frankie Zulferino is one of the hardest-working recording artists that I have seen develop over the past few years. He has released his most personal song in his catalog yet – “I Hope I Made You Proud,” dedicated to his parents. The lyrics gave me goosebumps, and the outstanding instrumental and vocal arrangements were outstanding! “I Hope I Made You Proud” is Frankie’s “Mirrors.” A

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch focuses on up-and-coming and established recording artists who might have the opportunity to shake up the music industry!

Is This Heaven? EP by Stella Lefty

Pop country artist Stella Lefty is one of 2026’s most talked-about rising stars, thanks to her debut single, “Boston.”  Is This Heaven? EP showcases that Stella Lefty’s star will be shining for years to come, thanks to her superb, catchy lyrics and impeccable production. B+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Something to Lose,” “Why Wouldn’t We,” “Boston,” & “Thinking ‘bout You.”

“Appalachian Raised” by Cigarettes @ Sunset

Garrett Dellinger (rhythm guitarist and lead vocalist), Sarah Vann (violinist and vocalist), Wells Whitman (bassist and backing vocalist), Ethan Moore (drummer), and Ryland Bagbey (lead guitarist) formed Cigarettes @ Sunset in 2021.  The Boone, North Carolina-based quintet released a new song called “Appalachian Raised,” and Garrett’s vocals remind me of a combination of Bob Dylan and Randy Newman.  Cigarettes @ Sunset’s splendid “Appalachian possum rock” sound is what the Americana and indie-rock music worlds need right now. I cannot wait to listen to more of them in the future. B+

“Just Like That” by KIMIKO

Singer and actress KIMIKO (Kimiko Green) rounds out this edition of Jake’s Take’s with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews. She has found success with appearances on Broad City, Orange Is the New Black, and by voicing characters on BoJack Horseman and the DuckTales revival. Now, she is expected to drop her debut EP, Modern Dance. Her latest single, “Just Like That,” could potentially be the child of “Put Your Records On” and “You Oughta Know.”  I am looking forward to listening to the rest of the extended play! A-

Want to support me? Subscribe to my podcast & follow my YouTube channel!

The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of June 5, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

America’s Got Talent (AGT) is back for its twenty-first season! Host Terry Crews and judges Simon Cowell (who celebrates ten years at the Judges’ Desk), Sofia Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B are looking for the next big act in America!  For the first time ever, the Season 21 Premiere handed out THREE GOLDEN BUZZERS! Which acts received the coveted life-changing present and will perform on the Season 21 Live Shows? Who began the road to join the ranks of Bianca Ryan, Terry Fator, Kenichi Ebina, Mat Franco, Darci Lynne, Brandon Leake, Dustin Tavella, the Mayyas, Richard Goodall, and Jessica Sanchez in the winners’ circle?  Listen on to find out!

Next week, AGT Season 21’s Judges Auditions Continue!

The post Jake’s AGT Take: The Season 21 Premiere Goes Golden appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

America’s Got Talent (AGT) is celebrating its 21st season. Judges Simon Cowell, Sofía Vergara, Howie Mandel, and Mel B, alongside host Terry Crews, will return for the 21st search for the million-dollar talent on June 2 on NBC and Peacock.

To commemorate the 21st season, Jake’s take with Jacob Elyachar is taking a retrospective on the 21 auditions that changed the NBC talent competition forever:

1) Rapping Granny (Vivian Smallwood)* – Season One FINALIST

2) Terry Fator – Season Two WINNER

3) Nuttin’ But Stringz – Season Three FINALISTS

4) Barbara Padilla – Season Four RUNNER-UP

5) Prince Poppycock – Season Five FOURTH PLACE

6) Team iLuminate – Season Six THIRD PLACE

7) Kenichi Ebina – Season Eight WINNER

8) Mat Franco – Season Nine WINNER

9) Emil & Dariel – Season Nine FINALISTS

10) Drew Lynch – Season 10 RUNNER-UP

11) The Clairvoyants – Season 11 RUNNERS-UP 

12) Shin Lim – Season 13 WINNER 

13) Angel City Chorale – Season 13 SEMIFINALISTS

14) Kodi Lee – Season 14 WINNER

15) Voices of Service – Season 14 FIFTH PLACE

16) Brandon Leake – Season 15 WINNER

17) Nightbirde* – Season 16 PARTICIPANT 

18) Drake Milligan – Season 17 THIRD PLACE &  Chapel Hart – Season 17 FIFTH PLACE 

19) Mzansi Youth Choir – Season 18 FINALISTS

20) Ramadhani Brothers – Season 18 FIFTH PLACE

21) Jessica Sanchez – Season 20 WINNER

What are your favorite AGT auditions of all-time? 

*= Of Blessed Memory

The post Jake’s AGT Take – The 21 Game Changing Auditions appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

 May is Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM), which annually celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans to the United States.

As JAHM concludes, I am very excited that singers, songwriters, and bandmates Max Bartos & Jake Kitchin are the final guests on this Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar special series!

Max is New York’s resident motherfolker! His folk and Americana music pairs introspective lyricism with anthemic folk-rock energy. As the frontman of Max Bartos and the Motherfolkers, the crafts songs rooted in storytelling and emotional honesty, with a modern acoustic sound shaped by influences such as Mumford & Sons and Noah Kahan. His latest release, Waiting At The Crossroads (2025) captures a defining chapter in his artistic evolution, expanding his folk and Americana foundation with richer dynamics and a more confident, fully realized identity.

Fresh off a 30-date U.S. tour with The Misfit Toys, he continues to build momentum on the road. This spring, he joined acclaimed singer-songwriter Brendan James as direct support on a 14-date national tour from March 11 through April 1, further cementing his reputation as a compelling and emotionally resonant live act. Recently signed with Noble Steed Music, Max is steadily carving out his place in the modern folk landscape through intentional songwriting, immersive performances, and a growing catalog that connects deeply with listeners.

Jake Kitchin has had a passion for the arts ever since he was young. Having grown up as a professional actor in New York City with a deep love for tap dancing, he has had the opportunity to work with people such as Steve Martin and Walter Bobbie. In 2023, he graduated magna cum laude with a BFA from Marymount Manhattan College. In 2020 and 2021, he was honored to sing on stage at Madison Square Garden during The Eagles’ Hotel California Tour.

In addition to performing as an actor, Jake is also a skilled multi-instrumentalist and songwriter. He plays guitar, mandolin, and bass, drawing inspiration from folk, blues, bluegrass, jazz, and classic rock. He currently plays mandolin live and in the studio for Max Bartos and the Motherfolkers, a folk/bluegrass-inspired project.

In Spring 2025, Jake released his debut album – a collection of jazz standards titled On a Clear Day. He is currently preparing to record and release an album of his original folk music.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Max Bartos & Jake Kitchin shared how they met, how they deal with antisemitism and anti-Zionism in the music industry and on social media, and how they opened for Rita Wilson.

You can connect with Max Bartos and the Motherfolkers on social media! Visit their channels on Instagram & YouTube!

You can connect with Max Bartos on social media! Visit his Instagram, Threads & TikTok channels.

You can connect with Jake Kitchin on social media! Visit his Instagram & TikTok channels.

The post Jake’s Take’s JAHM: Max Bartos & Jake Kitchin appeared first on Jake's Take.