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Val Gay

MUSIC

Val Gay 3.jpg

Val Gay

Valerie V. Gay is recording/performing artist and thought leader. While a classically trained soprano, Val is an active performer (multi-instrumentalist and singer) across several genres, having performed in several small and large concert halls, including solo performances from churches across the country to Carnegie Hall. In 2021, Val began releasing singles from her first solo recording project “Re-Purposed + Re-Positioned” which is comprised of original music she’s written across a few musical genres.

Music.

MUSIC
BIO
MUSIC

Origin: Philadelphia

Genre: Gospel, Pop, R&B, Soul, Country, Singer/Songwriter

Years Active: 2008 - Present

Label: Ithan and Lloyd

Official Websites: valgay.com

SHORT BIO

 

Val Gay is a recording/performing artist and thought leader. While a classically trained soprano, Val is an active performer (multi-instrumentalist and singer) across several genres, having performed in several small and large concert halls, including solo performances from churches across the country to Carnegie Hall. In 2021, Val began releasing singles from her first solo recording project “Re-Purposed + Re-Positioned” which is comprised of original music she’s written across a few musical genres. In 2019, Val received an Honorary Doctorate in Humane Letters from St. Joseph’s University and has earned a Professional Studies Certificate and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance at Temple University’s Boyer College of Music and Dance, a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from the University of the Arts and completed degree course work at Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University.

Videos.

"The power of "Re" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT
01:10

"The power of "Re" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT

I checked the dictionary for the spelling of a word I wanted to use in something that I was writing (recapitulate) and was sucked into the vortex of the dictionary, specifically around something that we all use everyday;”Re” - the little prefix that we all learned in 3rd or 4th grade that means again or anew and back and backwards. So when you put re in front of a word, you actually change the meaning of that word. And that got me thinking: what in my life that I could put re in front of to change the meaning of the word? And so I encourage you to look at your life and think about those areas that you could put re in front of and change or get a desired outcome. For me, I have claimed reVal: it means that I have come back fully to myself and I am living who I am, anew. I also learned that it is a place in Germany. Auf wiedersehen! Have a great day! Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"Who's Driving Your Car" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT
01:07

"Who's Driving Your Car" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT

I’m currently experiencing a situation that is out of my control, and I have a running joke with a friend that being in this situation is like riding in a car and I don’t know the destination and I’m not driving. That got me to thinking about myself as a car and my thoughts and emotions as passengers and wondering, Who’s Driving My Car? On any given day I have a whole set of potential passengers, #Faith and #Fear, #Excitement and #Nervousness, #Happiness and #Sadness and #ANGER… and so many more emotions… Each day, I decide to give FAITH the keys to my emotional car, because she’s steady, responsible, and well… Faithful to get me from one moment to the next. I encourage you to take inventory of who is in your car and who is going to drive… For me, I’ve decided that Fear can be in the car, but she’s getting in the trunk! Have a great day! Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the https://linktr.ee/valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"Untapped potential" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT
01:14

"Untapped potential" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT

I recently turned a switch on a lamp and was disappointed when the light bulb didn’t come on. So I went to my supply of extra bulbs and replaced the defective bulb, but the lamp still didn’t light. I immediately ran through all of the scenarios I’d need to get light into the room, including getting a lamp from another room and ordering a lamp online. So when I picked up the lamp to replace it with another, I realized that it was unplugged... the light bulbs worked all along, but the lamp couldn’t properly function without its power source! That got me to thinking... where else in my life am I unplugged from my Power Source? I encourage you to take inventory of your Life and see where you may have some untapped potential that can soar if you just plug in. For me, my Power Source is my Faith. What’s yours? Have a great day. Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"FIND YOU LOCK" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT
00:59

"FIND YOU LOCK" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT

Each of us have been given a set of unique gifts and talents that act like keys to a lock. Your lock may be a problem that only you can solve. Or your lock may be sitting on a gateway that opens to an opportunity that shares with the rest of us something that we’ve never seen or experienced before. I encourage you to look around and find your locks that your unique set of gifts and talents can open.  Don’t be discouraged if you see a lock and you think, “Ooh! I can be that key!” and you try to insert yourself, but the lock doesn’t open. It’s OK; keep searching for your lock. You will eventually find it. You will find where you fit. Have a great day! Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"OTHER PEOPLE'S OPINIONS - OPO" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT
00:58

"OTHER PEOPLE'S OPINIONS - OPO" | VAL'S ENCOURAGEMENT

Do you remember the song, “You down with OPP? Yeah you know me”? That song has been stuck in my mind but with different lyrics: You down with OPO? Yeah you know me! But the ring is not quite the same, and for good reason. I define OPO as Other People’s Opinions, and that got me to thinking: When I’m walking in my Purpose, do I care what other people think of me?… No… I don’t care. But I realize that I can still care deeply for the people, so I encourage you today to take inventory of your life to see if there’s anyone whose opinions of you may be blocking or stopping you from reaching your Purpose. Please CARE DEEPLY for your people, just not their opinions… Have a great day!  Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
Val Gay Soprano
Er Ist gekommen in Sturm und Regen Clara Schumann | Val Gay
02:30

Er Ist gekommen in Sturm und Regen Clara Schumann | Val Gay

Clara Schumann (1819-1896), composer Valerie V. Gay, Soprano Iris BU, Piano TRANSLATION He came in storm and rain, my anxious heart beat against his. how could I have known, that his path should unite itself with mine? He came in storm and rain, he boldly stole my heart. Did he steal mine? Did I steal his? Both came together. He came in storm and rain, Now has come the blessing of spring. My love travels abroad, I watch with cheer, for he remains mine, on any road. =============================== Er ist gekommen in Sturm und Regen (poet) Friedrich Rückert (1788-1866) Er ist gekommen in Sturm und Regen, ihm schlug beklommen mein Herz entgegen. Wie konnt' ich ahnen, daß seine Bahnen sich einen sollten meinen Wegen. Er ist gekommen in Sturm und Regen, er hat genommen mein Herz verwegen. Nahm er das meine? Nahm ich das seine? Die beiden kamen sich entgegen. Er ist gekommen in Sturm und Regen, Nun ist gekommen des Frühlings Segen. Der Freund zieht weiter, ich seh' es heiter, denn er bleibt mein auf allen Wegen.
"Ella's Song" | VAL GAY
03:27

"Ella's Song" | VAL GAY

Attending the Beautifully Peaceful Protest in Philly on 6/6/20, I saw a sign that reminded me of this song - “We Who Believe In Freedom Can Not Rest” - words spoken by Ella Baker - a civil rights Giant for over 5 decades (who may have never heard of). Miss. Baker worked alongside some of the most noted civil rights leaders of the 20th century, including W. E. B. Du Bois, Thurgood Marshall, A. Philip Randolph, and Martin Luther King Jr. She also mentored many emerging activists, such as Diane Nash, Stokely Carmichael, Rosa Parks, and Bob Moses, whom she first mentored as leaders in the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). Her quotes in the song remain relevant today: (Words: Ella Baker. Original Song: Bernice Reagon. Vocal Arrangement and Music: Val Gay) “We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes Until the killing of Black men, Black mothers’ sons Is as important as the killing of White men, White mothers’ sons The older I get the better I know that the secret of my going on Is when the reins are in the hand of the young who dare to run against the storm Not needing to clutch for power, not needing the light just to shine on me I need to be just one in the number as we stand against tyranny Struggling myself don’t mean a whole lot I come to realize That teaching others to stand up and fight is the only way my struggle survives I’m a woman who speaks in a voice and I must be heard At time I can be quite difficult, I’ll bow to no man’s word” Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"ANOTHER MAN DONE GONE" | Val Gay
03:21

"ANOTHER MAN DONE GONE" | Val Gay

Another Man Done Gone is a traditional work song that was first recorded by Vera Hall (a black woman) in 1940. The song was sung by country and folk artists (Johnny Cash, Odettta) to shine a light on the plight of poor and black people. I’ve changed the melody a bit and re-wrote most of the lyrics. The more things change, the more they stay the same… Song: Vera Hall Arrangement and additional lyrics: Val Gay Another man done gone They hung him in a tree And then another used his knee We could plainly see when he said He couldn’t breathe While another used his knee I just found out their names And I’m in so much pain Please say their names How long will this go on? It’s already been way too long… “I can’t be a pessimist, because I’m alive… so I’m forced to be an optimist; I’m forced to believe that we will survive and indeed we must survive… BUT… the future of the Negro in this country is precisely as bright or as dark as the future of the country…” James Baldwin 1963 Val Gay is serial entrepreneur and all around creative. Be sure to follow me on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the https://linktr.ee/valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"Hallelujah" | Val Gay
02:37

"Hallelujah" | Val Gay

hal· le· lu· jah | \ ˌha-lə-ˈlü-yə \ noun - a shout or song of praise or thanksgiving No matter what is happening around or even to me, I remain grateful and sing praises to God. There’s a Bible verse that says “And we know [with great confidence] that God [who is deeply concerned about us] causes all things to work together [as a plan] for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to His plan and purpose.” (Romans 8:28). That’s why I generally have a smile on my face and am generally not worried. I know God’s got me. Who has you? Song: written by Leonard Cohen. arranged by Val Gay Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"LET US WORSHIP HIM" | Val Gay
03:38

"LET US WORSHIP HIM" | Val Gay

I miss physically  attending my church each week, and am grateful I get to be with my community each week online. I made this video for today’s service. Years ago, I fell in love with @yolandaadams version and wrote choral parts to incorporate the choir I played for. This remains one of my all time favorites from Majestic of Bible Way Baptist Church in West Philadelphia. And yes, despite the pandemic, seemingly unchecked police brutality and racist vitriol which seems to be increasing and escalating, and the looming economic failure, my Faith remains strong and I will Worship Christ. (Not the fairy tale version taught in a lot of churches, but the gangsta who radically loved the people who were disdained and disenfranchised by the Establishment, and spoke Truth to Power, and then Died for that Truth and for me and you…) Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the https://linktr.ee/valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
"Be Still My Soul" | Val Gay
01:56

"Be Still My Soul" | Val Gay

The words of the first part of my arrangement of this medley, “Be Still My Soul” were written in 1752, and despite the passing of centuries and the poetic language, the words remain comforting. The last words of this medley, “It Is Well With My Soul” were written following the total loss of the writer’s family. None of us are sheltered from pain, grief, fear or any other emotion, but there is HOPE, just as @dralastanford #BlackDoctorCOVID19Consortium and #blackchurches have brought HOPE and FREE TESTING to protect and serve our community. Please support this effort - give to https://www.gofundme.com/f/covid19-BDCC   Thanks to @marshmitchmedia and @cherrigregg  @kywnewsradio for the photos and keeping this top of our minds. medley arrangement by Val Gay Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings https://www.valgay.com/
KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 165 FEATURING | ANTOINE MEDLEY
17:46

KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 165 FEATURING | ANTOINE MEDLEY

Welcome to the 165th Episode of King Crush Thursday, the Podcast Interview. In this series, we highlight and uplift black men, because we need to support our community. The men who are featured in this series come from different segments of our society and are successfully living their lives. Now, when I say success, I define that word in multiple ways. Some are professionals, some have lucrative businesses, some are blue collar workers. All of them embody strength and dignity and have something to say. And I want them to say it here. EPISODE 165 Antoine Medley @antoinemedley. This dynamic keynote speaker, philanthropist, author, and entrepreneur, advocates for a life dedicated to service, inspiring adults and youth to embrace the call to action. He believes in the inevitability of choice, urging individuals to confront their destiny courageously. Antoine Medley celebrates a 27-year union with his wife Cynthia Medley, Antoine is a devoted father to two daughters, Morgan (21) and Clarke (19). He holds an MBA from Champlain College and a Bachelors in Economics from Virginia Tech. He is the self-published author of “The Epic Journeys of Morgan and Clarke” on Amazon.com. Visit: www.morganandclarke.com In 2021, Antoine launched “theforcedpivot Podcast”, accessible across all major podcast platforms. The podcast is a platform that delves into the unexpected turns life can present. The show's motto is “No life is lived in a straight line.” Visit: www.theforcedpivot.com Antoine formed “Sankofa Innovations, LLC.” in 2022 to provide workshops, innovation training, publishing, and speaking services. His company launched “blackVOICESnow” which provides a stage for African American speakers to gain experience and exposure as they move into the world of public speaking. Visit: www.sankofainnovations.com or www.blackvoicesnow.com Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the link https://www.flowcode.com/page/valgay and be sure to visit https://www.valgay.com/
KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 164 FEATURING | TIMOTHY N WELBECK ESQ
15:25

KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 164 FEATURING | TIMOTHY N WELBECK ESQ

Welcome to the 164th Episode of King Crush Thursday, the Podcast Interview. In this series, we highlight and uplift black men, because we need to support our community. The men who are featured in this series come from different segments of our society and are successfully living their lives. Now, when I say success, I define that word in multiple ways. Some are professionals, some have lucrative businesses, some are blue collar workers. All of them embody strength and dignity and have something to say. And I want them to say it here. EPISODE 164 Timothy Welbeck @timothywelbeck is the Director for the Center of Anti-Racism at Temple University. A Civil Rights Attorney by training, Timothy is a scholar of law, race, and cultural studies whose work has allowed him to contribute to various media outlets, such as the CNN, CBS, BBC Radio 4, The Washington Post, The Philadelphia Inquirer, NPR, The Huffington Post, WHYY, REVOLT TV, etc. Timothy lives in the Philadelphia area with his wife and three children. Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the link https://www.flowcode.com/page/valgay and be sure to visit https://www.valgay.com/
KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 162 FEATURING | TOMMIE WAHEED EVANS
33:05

KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 162 FEATURING | TOMMIE WAHEED EVANS

Welcome to the 162nd Episode of King Crush Thursday, the Podcast Interview. In this series, we highlight and uplift black men, because we need to support our community. The men who are featured in this series come from different segments of our society and are successfully living their lives. Now, when I say success, I define that word in multiple ways. Some are professionals, some have lucrative businesses, some are blue collar workers. All of them embody strength and dignity and have something to say. And I want them to say it here. EPISODE 162 - Guggenheim Fellow Tommie-Waheed Evans' @tommiewaheed work explores blackness, spirituality, queerness & liberation. His training began with Karen McDonald, later receiving an Ailey School fellowship, and an MFA in Choreography from Jacksonville University. A former company member of Lula Washington Dance Theater, Complexions, and PHILADANCO, he's created works for BalletX, Dallas Black, DCDC, and Ballet Memphis, among others. His awards include Resident Fellow at the Center for Ballet and the Arts, the Princess Grace Award in Choreography, and Joffrey Ballet Winning Works. He is an Assistant Professor at UArts and an Artist in Residence at PhiladDANCO. Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the link https://www.flowcode.com/page/valgay and be sure to visit https://www.valgay.com/
KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 161 FEATURING | QURAN DEAN
12:51

KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 161 FEATURING | QURAN DEAN

Welcome to the 161st Episode of King Crush Thursday, the Podcast Interview. In this series, we highlight and uplift black men, because we need to support our community. The men who are featured in this series come from different segments of our society and are successfully living their lives. Now, when I say success, I define that word in multiple ways. Some are professionals, some have lucrative businesses, some are blue collar workers. All of them embody strength and dignity and have something to say. And I want them to say it here. EPISODE 161 Quran Dean @theqreator A passionate and driven 23-year-old born and raised in West Philadelphia, he earned an Associate's degree in Business Administration and Management from the Community College of Philadelphia in 2023. Currently, he works in the real estate industry as a tenant service coordinator for a global commercial real estate company, a role he began in December 2023. Prior to this, he spent nearly three years working at a 12-story complex, where he gained valuable experience and knowledge that helped him qualify for his current position and embark on his career journey. Outside of his 9-to-5 role, he is actively working toward building a lifestyle brand with his two partners, Chad Feggins and Naiser Dean. The brand focuses on the personal growth and empowerment of inner-city youth, with the goal of uplifting and inspiring individuals to discover their true selves through music, content creation, and activities centered on health and wellness. Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the link https://www.flowcode.com/page/valgay and be sure to visit https://www.valgay.com/
KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 160 FEATURING | DR DALE CALDWELL
14:52

KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 160 FEATURING | DR DALE CALDWELL

Welcome to the 160th Episode of King Crush Thursday, the Podcast Interview. In this series, we highlight and uplift black men, because we need to support our community. The men who are featured in this series come from different segments of our society and are successfully living their lives. Now, when I say success, I define that word in multiple ways. Some are professionals, some have lucrative businesses, some are blue collar workers. All of them embody strength and dignity and have something to say. And I want them to say it here. EPISODE 160 Dr. Dale G. Caldwell is the President of Centenary University in Hackettstown, New Jersey. He is the 15th President of the University and the first African American in that role. Dale is the Pastor of Covenant United Methodist Church in Plainfield, New Jersey, the author of eight books and for the last four years in a row has been named one of the 50 Most Influential People in Higher Education in New Jersey. He graduated from Princeton University, received an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and a Doctorate from Seton Hall University. Dale also completed the Harvard Kennedy School Senior Executives in State and Local Government program and the Rutgers Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance program. He has been the President of three public school boards and was named the 2009 New Jersey School Board Member of the Year. His professional experience includes being the CEO of Strategic Influence LLC, a Senior Manager with Deloitte Consulting, the Executive Director of the Newark Alliance and the Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the link https://www.flowcode.com/page/valgay and be sure to visit https://www.valgay.com
KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 159 FEATURING | CHAD FEGGINS
13:49

KING CRUSH THURSDAY EPISODE 159 FEATURING | CHAD FEGGINS

Welcome to the 159th Episode of King Crush Thursday, the Podcast Interview. In this series, we highlight and uplift black men, because we need to support our community. The men who are featured in this series come from different segments of our society and are successfully living their lives. Now, when I say success, I define that word in multiple ways. Some are professionals, some have lucrative businesses, some are blue collar workers. All of them embody strength and dignity and have something to say. And I want them to say it here. EPISODE 159 Chad Feggins @Chad.W1k @Phillyfitformula Recent Morehouse College graduate and future AmeriCorps City Year Philadelphia participant, Chad Feggins is dedicated to making a lasting impact in the fields of wellness and community service. With a passion for health, fitness, and community empowerment, Chad is on a mission to inspire others to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. Graduating from Morehouse College, a prestigious institution known for producing leaders and change-makers, Chad has honed a unique blend of skills and knowledge that position him as a visionary in the wellness industry. His academic journey was marked by a commitment to excellence, leadership, and a desire to make a positive difference in the world. Throughout his time at Morehouse, he developed a strong foundation in business, health sciences, and community engagement, which now fuels his entrepreneurial spirit. In his pursuit of creating a healthier world, Chad is currently building a wellness company called "PhillyFitFormula." This venture aims to provide innovative health solutions and comprehensive wellness programs tailored to meet the needs of individuals from all walks of life. "PhillyFitFormula" is not just a business; it's a movement towards holistic health, incorporating fitness, nutrition, mental well-being, and community support. Through this company, Chad seeks to empower people to take control of their health and achieve their fitness goals. As part of his commitment to giving back to the community, Chad began his journey with AmeriCorps City Year Philadelphia in August 2024. City Year is a national service organization dedicated to helping students and schools succeed. In this role, he will be working as a mentor and tutor, providing critical support to students in under-resourced schools. This opportunity allows him to combine his passion for education, mentorship, and community service, furthering his mission to make a meaningful impact. Chad is not only an entrepreneur and a dedicated public servant but also a lifelong learner and advocate for continuous personal growth. He believes in the power of education and self-improvement as tools for achieving one's dreams and making a difference in the world. His journey is a testament to the importance of perseverance, dedication, and a heart committed to service. In addition to his professional pursuits, Chad is an avid fitness enthusiast who practices what he preaches. He enjoys various forms of physical activity, including running, weightlifting, and yoga, and believes that a balanced and active lifestyle is key to overall well-being. His personal fitness journey fuels his drive to help others achieve their own health and wellness goals. Through his work with "PhillyFitFormula" and AmeriCorps City Year, Chad aims to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for others. He envisions a world where wellness is accessible to all, where communities are empowered, and where every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential. As Chad embarks on this exciting new chapter in his life, he remains committed to his core values of integrity, compassion, and excellence. He is ready to tackle new challenges, embrace opportunities for growth, and continue making a positive impact in the lives of those around him. Whether through his entrepreneurial ventures, community service, or personal interactions, Chad is dedicated to creating a better, healthier, and more equitable world for all. Val Gay is a serial entrepreneur and all around Creative. Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @valgaysings Facebook & Twitter: @valgaysings NOMINATE A BLACK MAN TODAY! Click the link https://www.flowcode.com/page/valgay and be sure to visit https://www.valgay.com/
KING CRUSH THURSDAY

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Representation.

Label | Management:

Ithan Lloyd  |  267-713-2184

 

PR:

THEHIVECOLLAB  |  hello@thehivecolab.com, 855.601.1003

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