Summary

• Justin Bieber has sparked massive global tour rumors after ending his surprise-filled Coachella Weekend 2 performance by telling the crowd, "See y'all soon"
• A newly verified X account under the handle @swagworldtour has surfaced, posting cryptic teasers and linking directly to the pop star's official website
• Fans visiting Bieber's site are currently being met with a message urging them to RSVP to be notified "when new tour dates are announced"

Is Justin Bieber getting ready to hit the road again? After a monumental return to the stage during Coachella Weekend 2, the internet is buzzing with heavy speculation that a massive global trek is on the horizon. Giving fans a major dose of nostalgia, the pop icon delivered an electric performance that included a viral surprise appearance alongside Billie Eilish. However, it was his cryptic sign-off that truly set the internet ablaze. Before exiting the stage, Bieber left the desert crowd with a promising, "See y'all soon"—a brief statement that immediately ignited rumors of an impending SWAG world tour.

The Coachella sign-off wasn't the only breadcrumb left for eager fans. Internet sleuths quickly discovered a newly verified X (formerly Twitter) account operating under the handle @swagworldtour. Over the past few days, the mysterious account has been reposting cryptic messages hinting at a "surprise coming soon," keeping followers on high alert. Further validating the rumors, the social media profile is directly linked to the singer's official website, justinbiebermusic.com.

Upon clicking through to the website's tour section, fans are currently greeted with a telling placeholder message: "Sorry, no shows currently. Click RSVP below to be notified when new tour dates are announced." The prompt allows users to sign up with their email addresses, ensuring they are the first to know the moment the highly anticipated dates are officially confirmed.

This digital footprint perfectly aligns with Bieber's recent aesthetic pivot. Alongside the tour speculation, the singer recently dropped a massive Coachella Weekend 2 merchandise collection that heavily resurrected his 2016 Purpose era aesthetic, complete with dedicated SWAG apparel.

While neither Justin Bieber nor his management team have officially confirmed a new tour schedule, all signs point to the undeniable return of Bieber Fever. Between the festival teasers, the official website updates, and the cryptic social media breadcrumbs, it seems like only a matter of time before the SWAG World Tour becomes a reality. Fans are encouraged to RSVP via his official website and keep their eyes peeled for an official announcement.

👀 https://t.co/zajvjfMT96

— ً (@swagworldtour) April 19, 2026

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Summary

• A rare, typewritten draft of Bob Dylan’s “I’m Not There” lyrics has resurfaced after 60 years and is heading to the block
• The lined paper features typed words and several amendments for the track, which was written in 1956 and recorded around 1967
• The lot will hit the auction block on April 21 with an estimated value of up to £40,000 GBP (approx. $54,000 USD)

An extremely rare piece of Bob Dylan history is officially up for grabs as Omega Auctions prepares to auction off the typewritten working lyrics for "I'm Not There." Regarded as one of the legendary artist's greatest pieces of songwriting, the historic artifact will cross the block during the "Audio Equipment and Music Memorabilia" event on April 21.

Measuring approximately 21 by 18 centimeters, the lined paper is torn along the lower edge and features several working amendments to the lyrics. The piece carries incredible provenance, having originally been discovered by the current vendor tucked inside a first paperback edition of Allen Ginsberg's Ankor Wat. The book was inscribed to Sally Grossman, a close friend of Dylan's and the wife of his first manager, Albert Grossman. It is believed the lyrics sat safely nestled within the pages since she was gifted the book in 1969.

Further cementing its authenticity, the typescript was previously scanned and featured in the Winter 1990 issue of the Bob Dylan magazine The Telegraph, noted at the time as being sent in by an anonymous correspondent.

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All of the biggest music headlines in one place and playlist. Updated live throughout the week.

Frank Ocean Drops Something New

No, it's not music. It's just new Blonded merch, which arrives on the heels of last week's channel ORANGE and Blonde vinyl restocks.

Tokischa's New Album, AMOR & DROGA, Is Absolute Art

Making her formal longform debut on this week's New Music Friday is Tokischa, who has presented her first-ever studio project: AMOR & DROGA. The expansive 17-track project marks Tokischa's most personal and introspective sonic endeavor yet, hearing her revel in themes of addiction, paralleling how a toxic relationship can play out similarly. Features come from Diplo, Skrillex, and more.

KARRAHBOOO Samples Herself on "WYD"

On KARRAHBOOO's second solo studio single of 2026, the rapper takes her flow, pen, and production tactics up a notch. Following up "NO HOOK" comes "WYD," which hears BOOO sample her own vocals on production, atop which she spits some of her sharpest bars. Anycia and Gio appear in the video.

Baby Keem Reveals He Almost Executive Produced an Album for Lil Uzi Vert

As revealed in his New York Times interview, Baby Keem almost executive-produced an entire album for Uzi. "A few years ago, he nearly executive produced an album for Lil Uzi Vert, one of his influences," reads the article. "Keem went through the rapper's hard drive while Uzi slept, picking out the best unreleased material to construct a complete record around. It didn't end up happening – the momentum flagged when Keem left for the tour with Lamar. But it's something Keem would like to do eventually."

The Summer Smash Lineup Spans Playboi Carti, North West, Lil Uzi Vert, Baby Keem, and Bladee x Yung Lean

Just under two months ahead of the festival's first day, Lyrical Lemonade has revealed the full slate of performers for its annual Summer Smash. Headlining the three-day Chicago festival are Lil Uzi Vert and Chief Keef on Friday, Skrillex, Yung Lean x Bladee, and Baby Keem on Saturday night, and Playboi Carti and Lil Baby on Sunday. Other talent includes Sexyy Red, Lucki, North West, 2hollis, Feng, Slayr, The Hellp, EsDeeKid, JT, xaviersobased, and 1300SAINT. While embracing its traditional underground rap roots, this summer the festival leans more toward EDM than usual, featuring appearances from Whethan and ISOxo.

ROSALÍA Puts the LUX Physical Tracks on Streaming

Billed as LUX (Complete Works), ROSALÍA has tacked on three more tracks to her most recent LUX album. Lifted from the project's physical version, new-to-some songs include "“Jeanne,” “Novia Robot,” and “Focu’Ranni," all finally now available on streaming platforms.

A$AP Rocky's HOMMEMADE Sofa Is Trash – Literally

One man's trash is another man's treasure – or, if you're A$AP Rocky, it can be your couch. An extension of the concept initiated in HOMMEMADE’s Paper Bag Vase, Rocky's design label has presented its TRASH BAG COUCH. The surrealistic piece of fully functional furniture was crafted in collaboration with Harry Nuriev’s Crosby Studios, and comes comprised of beanbag modules printed to appear as hyperrealistic street trash. Read more here.

6LACK x 2 Chainz on "Sunday Again"

As 6LACK gears up for the release of Love Is The New Gangsta – due out in just over a month now, on May 22 – the musician has lifted the veil on the second single, "Sunday Again," from the record. This one features 2 Chainz and takes shape of a sleek and soulful sonic offering. Easy on the ears just like a Sunday. Additional vocal contributions come from Serayah, Jordan Ward, and Dos Dias, whereas the music video features cameos coming from Quin, Mereba, UMI, and silmwav.

fakemink Surprise Drops New Single

Fresh off his stateside festival debut at Coachella's first weekend, fakemink has shared a surprise new single that he debuted during last week's set. Entitled "Night, Blooming Jasmine." the track just might be lifted from mink's imminent The Boy Who Cried Terrified LP, though we don't have official word on that yet. Read more here.

Earl Sweatshirt and SURF GANG Deliver Peak Nostalgia in "Chicago" Video

In every visual from Earl Sweatshirt, MIKE, and SURF GANG's collaborative POMPEII // UTILITY project, the unit is seen in its natural form. "Chicago" is no exception; it just also includes nostalgic, lo-fi filters and green screen edits throughout. "Typa shit you'd see on MTV at 3 AM in 2011," reads the top YouTube comment.

JT Goes "Numb"

City Cinderella is back. After popping out at Little Simz's Weekend One Coachella Set on Sunday afternoon, JT has shared her first studio single of 2026, a high-octane offering entitled "Numb." The track continues to expound JT's artistic range, spotlighting her versatility and putting her ability to traverse across genres on full display.

21 Savage x Young Nudy x Gabriel Moses

Ever Latto dropped off "Business & Personal," fans have been eyeing 21 Savage's next move. Earlier this week, the rapper took to social media to announce he would release something new on Thursday. And he did. Although it's not new music, but instead a striking new visual. The WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS? cut "STEPBROTHERS" features Young Nudy on lyrics, but now the duo enlists the likes of a third contributor to handle the visual component. Gabriel Moses gets behind the lens for the song's music video, envisioning Atlanta's underbelly through his singular creative vision. Read more here.

Isaiah Rashad Revs Up Rollout, Revealing Cover Art, Tracklist, and Merch

 

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Last week, Isaiah Rashad confirmed the imminent arrival of his newest studio record, It's Been Awful, ushering in the era with lead single "SAME SH!T" Zay is wasting no time with this rollout, returning this week with the project's official cover art, tracklist, and inaugural merch slate. The album is confirmed to span 16 songs and feature SZA, Dominic Fike, and Julian Sintonia. Thus far, the accompanying merch spans hoodies stamped with the graphic we saw circulating online last week, as well as a lineup of stylized vinyls. Swipe through it all above.

Jim Legxacy Levels Our Expectations

After Jim Legxacy dropped "idk idk" at the end of March, many fans started suspecting (or merely manifesting) an album drop. Legxacy never really clarified one way or another, up until this week, taking to X to confirm that he is, in fact, working on a project – it just might take a little time. "i am working on my album, this may take a while, bare with," he wrote. We'll wait.

Momo Boyd Is a Star in the "Oops" Video

We didn't need the "Oops" video to tell us that Momo Boyd is on the path to superstardom, but it did serve as a nice, well-stylized reminder. For her and Infinity Song's new visual, lifted from Boyd's recent solo EP, the songstress galivants through an immersive 90s-inspired world, alternating between a series of archival looks. The standout? Her pink Chanel set. "I wanted to create something fun and exciting and present myself in a way that feels familiar yet fresh," Boyd said in a statement. "I’ve always loved the timeless beauty of women from classic TV and movie roles like Hilary Banks, Moesha, Fran Fine, and pretty much any character Halle Berry has played. So much like most of my imagery thus far, this is my interpretation of an era of beauty and glamour that I admire immensely."

Lauryn Hill (and Fam) for Denim Tears

With Ms. Lauryn Hill in front of the lens, you can't go wrong – especially when it's Liam McRae behind the lens at the same time. For Denim Tears' latest campaign, McRae shot Ms. Hill alongside her entire family in the new collection. Read more here.

Doechii x Lady Gaga Have More in the Vault

In case you missed it, last week, Doechii and Lady Gaga dropped off the first single from the official The Devil Wears Prada soundtrack, dubbed "Runway."  The cut marks the pair's first official collaboration together, and seems to be just the first of many, as per a recent Doechii interview. “I don’t want to say too much because we have more to come, Me and Gaga, but it was amazing working with her,” Doechii shared with Entertainment. “She is truly a master at her craft, and I hope everybody is enjoying ‘Runway.’ She’s so fabulous. She inspired me so much with this record, so I’m just grateful.”

Lana Del Rey Is the Newest Bond Girl

Joining the likes of Madonna, Billie Eilish, and Adele, Lana Del Rey has shared her first Bond title track. Not for a film, but rather for the franchise's official video game, comes Del Rey's first single since February's "White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter," as the game's official theme song. Entitled "First Light," the theme song sequence visual for the track is due later this week. Read more here.

MAVI Shares Another Striking New Visual, "Mender"

MAVI's newest The Pilot visual has landed, and it's just as dialed-in as the rest of the bunch. Across the EP's entire visual identity, MAVI has remained consistent and honed in an immersive, cinematic aesthetic that carries throughout all of the project's music videos.

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Last Friday, fakemink took to Coachella's Gobi Stage for his anticipated US festival debut. As he gears up for his Weekend 2 performance in just a few hours, mink has shared a new studio single to streaming services, entitled "Night, Blooming Jasmine." – which happens to be one of the unreleased tracks he included in his setlist last week.

Defined by its contagious chorus – "Ayy, night, bloom Jasmine, second name Yasmin / Th-they wanna eat me alive, can't stop them / Killing Charles Manson, ringing for ransom / Th-they tryna cut my hair, I'm Samson" – the track is a typical mink offering, complete with blown-out production, backing synths, and his higher-pitched vocals.

In his Weekend One set, the track landed in between "Young Millionaire" and "LV Sandals." A Cindy Lauper sample ("Time After Time") preceded "Night, Blooming Jasmine."'s debut, the classic tu slowly fading into the new mink one.

He opened the set with "Easter Pink" before going into "Look at Me," "MAKKA," "Fidelio," "Kill Everything," and "Music and Me." Just ahead of its official video premiere, "Blow the Speaker" signalled the closing track.

Presumably, "Night, Blooming Jasmine," will appear on The Boy Who Cried Terrified's tracklist, but there hasn't been official word on that quite yet. Similarly, there is still no official release date for the album.

In the interim, stream "Night, Blooming Jasmine." out everywhere now, and stay tuned for more updates on The Boy Who Cried Terrified's release.

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Summary

• South Korea's four major entertainment agencies are establishing a joint venture for a global music festival
• Spearheaded by J.Y. Park, the collaborative project operates under the working title "FANOMENON"
• The event is slated to debut in South Korea before expanding into an international tour

In an unprecedented move for the Korean music industry, HYBE, SM Entertainment, JYP Entertainment, and YG Entertainment have joined forces to launch a global K-pop festival. Operating in partnership with the Presidential Committee on Popular Culture Exchange, the “Big Four” agencies are officially preparing a joint venture to anchor the large-scale live event, currently titled "FANOMENON."

Spearheaded by JYP Entertainment founder and chief producer J.Y. Park, the "FANOMENON" concept merges the words “fan” and “phenomenon.” Designed to rival major international events like Coachella, the initiative aims to unite the agencies' heavy-hitting artist rosters under a single global umbrella. The companies have already initiated the necessary legal and administrative procedures, including filing a business combination report with the Korea Fair Trade Commission.

While the project remains in the early review stages, an initial timeline has been mapped out. The collaborative festival is targeted to debut in South Korea in December 2027. Following the inaugural domestic event, the joint venture plans to expand the festival into a global touring model, bringing the spectacle to major international cities starting in May 2028. Specific operational frameworks and governance structures are currently being finalized.

Stay tuned for more info.

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Summary

• Singer D4vd was arrested Thursday on suspicion of murder by the Los Angeles Police Department
• The investigation centers around the discovery of a teenager's remains inside his impounded vehicle
• Authorities are expected to present the case to the District Attorney's office on Monday

The Robbery-Homicide Division of the Los Angeles Police Department has officially arrested D4vd for the murder of missing 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The 21-year-old singer is currently being held without bail as the situation transitions into its next judicial phase

The arrest follows a grim discovery made in September 2025. Authorities located the Lake Elsinor, California teenager's partial, decomposed remains inside the front trunk of a 2023 Tesla Model Y, which was registered to Burke, who was on tour at the time. The vehicle had been abandoned in the Hollywood Hills before being towed to a local impound lot, where the discovery occurred.

Previously identified as a target of a grand jury investigation, the artist's apprehension marks a severe escalation in the case. Burke cancelled the rest of his tour dates shortly after the vehicle was discovered, and his label Interscope pulled the deluxe version of his album from the release calendar.

Law enforcement officials confirmed that the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office on Monday for filing consideration. As of writing, representatives for the artist have not released a formal statement regarding the arrest.

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Ever since Latto stepped out with "Business & Personal," 21 Savage has been shadowing in the spotlight. "Business & Personal" not only finally gave us all the official confirmation that Latto and Savage are not only dating, but that the two also have a baby on the way; as Latto's new "Big Mama" era continues in full effect, Sav quietly stepped into the conversation to share that he, too, has new music in the works.

Today is the day some of that new music has transpired, with the rapper sticking to his "Thursday" promise he'd been pushing all over social. The first semblance of 21 Savage's new creative output isn't exactly a new track, but it's something. Lifted from the rapper's most recent studio record, WHAT HAPPENED TO THE STREETS?, 21's latest music endeavor takes the shape of a new song called "Stepbrothers," which features two stellar assists on both the sonic and visual fronts.

Young Nudy hops on "STEPBROTHERS" as the track's featured artist, marking his and Savage's eighth official in-studio collaboration and joining the lineup of canonnical classics like "EA," "Peaches & Eggplants," and Tay-K's "The Race"'s remix.

While the song itself isn't a new offering, today did reveal a solid third contributor to "STEPBROTHERS:": none other than Gabriel Moses. The visual aficionado lenses a striking portrait of Atlanta, envisioning the city's underbelly and its nocturnal alter ego that activates only at night.

Check out some backstage images from the shoot above.

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Lana Del Rey is the latest Bond Girl.

If you told us the follow-up to February's "White Feather Hawk Tail Deer Hunter" would be the title track for the newest James Bond video game, we surely wouldn't believe you. But a few hours ago, Del Rey went full 007 more and dropped off her second new single of 2026, "First Light," which, more notably, signals the first single to come from the imminent Bond video game.

“Bond title songs are unforgettable, and being invited to bring a new one into the world is both an honor and a truly unique experience,” Del Rey elaborated in a press statement.

The music within the James Bond universe has always played a key role in the franchise's immersive worldbuilding, contributing heavily to the 007 narrative arc. The songstress joins the ranks of an A-list bunch of musicians who have since had their hands at the James Bond title track, including Madonna, Billie Eilish, Adele, Sam Smith, Tina Turner, Jack White, and Alicia Keys.

"First Light" precedes any official details surrounding the game itself – once again cementing the sonic component of the 007-verse – though the title theme is slated to premiere tomorrow, April 17, at 10 a.m. PST across all First Light channels on X, Twitch, YouTube, Steam, and TikTok as the game becomes available for preorder at the same time.

Stream "First Light" on all streaming services now, and stay tuned as more concrete info materializes.

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Latin culture made its presence undeniable across Weekend 1 of Coachella, not just onstage, but woven throughout the festival grounds. Installations like “Latina Foreva,” along with an off-site flea market spotlighting Latin American designers, set the tone early, hinting at a broader cultural moment taking shape in the desert led by Colombian superstar Karol G.

By Sunday night, that momentum reached its peak. Karol G closed the weekend with a historic headline performance, becoming the first Latina artist to lead Coachella’s main stage. The set marked a defining milestone, not only in her career but also in the ongoing rise of Latin music on global festival platforms.

Addressing the crowd, Karol G grounded the moment with clarity and purpose: “I am Carolina from Medellín, Colombia… this is not just about me, this is about my Latino community.”

From the opening moments, the performance remained deeply rooted in Latin identity. The use of the gaita hembra — a traditional Colombian instrument — created an immediate connection to her heritage, while the appearance of an all-women mariachi band hinted at her love for Mexican traditions.

A recurring motif emerged in the form of the macaw, symbolizing freedom, identity, and the cultural richness of Latin America. Styling, choreography, and production worked in sync to deliver a cohesive vision — one that felt both intentional and globally resonant.

Weekend 1 also featured a series of guest appearances bridging different eras and sounds within Latin music. Wisin brought a surge of energy to the stage, while Becky G joined for “MAMIII.” Mariah Angeliq appeared for “EL MAKINON,” and Arturo Sandoval added a live instrumental layer to “Ivonny Bonita.” Finally, Greg Gonzalez of Cigarettes After Sex joined in on an unreleased track.

Karol G’s headline set ultimately transcended the role of a closing performance. It reflected a larger cultural shift, one that underscores the global expansion of Latin music and its growing dominance on one of the world’s most visible stages. Across the weekend, that influence was impossible to ignore. By Sunday night, it was front and center.

Take a closer look at Karol G's weekend 1 performance at Coachella above.

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Coachella comes twice a year, and continually claims the spot as one of music’s most-watched weekends. From surprise guests to intentional art installations, the weekend is jam-packed with amusement from Friday through Sunday evening, when the headliner’s last note brings the festival to a reluctant close. But ever since Goldenvoice birthed the major musical celebration in 1999, Coachella has been about much more than just the music.

2026, thus far, has been a year full of nostalgia. Artists are leaning into their roots now more than ever before, while the masses yearn for touchpoints that bring them closer to fond memories of simpler times. This year’s “2016 trend” resurfaced many iconic symbols of Coachellas past: flower crowns, crocheted pieces, neon snapbacks — making Coachella 2026 one to watch. The festival itself celebrated a milestone 25th anniversary, while another monumental moment was christened: Karol G’s headline performance, marking the first Latina headliner in festival history. But this year in particular, there was a palpable, yet intangible excitement lingering in the air…some call that Bieber Fever.

Justin Bieber's stronghold on the weekend carried far beyond the performance component, with his Skylrk label leading the merch charge. One of the festival's most coveted on-site activations, the Skylrk Oasis was nestled in the back corner of the festival, aside the sleek merch pop-up, which housed limited-edition hoodies, eyewear, "It's Not Clocking To You" graphic tees, and other crucial festival accessories.

Mk.gee was another motif, not only appearing as a mainstay on guitar for Dijon's Friday evening set, but also appearing during "DAISES" to close out JB's Saturday night headlining spectacle.

We reported live from the desert and rounded up all of our favorite moments from the three-day festival — everything we loved from Weekend 1 below.

 

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Day 1

Kaytranada’s Set at 818 Outpost:

A Kaytranada set is always a good way to start the day. The DJ primed the crowd at 818’s Outpost event, bringing out Justine Skye to set the tone for Day 1.

Headliner Sabrina Carpenter’s Custom Dior Looks:

Sabrina Carpenter brought her signature, effervescent glam to Indio with her performance. The star’s “Sabrinawood” set paid homage to Old Hollywood and some of the icons that shaped her. As such, she had to dress the part. Dior stepped in to equip the singer with four custom looks that she donned on stage: a red sequined mini dress, a gold sequined mini dress with billowing chiffon sleeves, a white lingerie-informed look, and a black lace corseted bodysuit — the show’s swanky finale look.

Dijon Did That “Talk Down” Remix:

On Day 1, there was simply no better place to be at sunset than the Outdoor Stage for Dijon’s set. With Mk.gee on guitar, Dijon delivered an era-spanning set as the California sky changed colors behind him. A particular highlight, if we had to pick? The “Talk Down” rendition that only certain crowds get if they’re lucky.

Heineken House Served Peak Nostalgia:

Wale performed some throwbacks in the Heineken House, a stage and hangout lounge that put Heineken front and center at the festival. Plastered in green, the House served up beer and good vibes all day long. The stage brought some of the festival’s most nostalgic performances of the weekend, getting the crowd rowdy with a performance of “No Hands” by Wale and “Temperature” by Sean Paul — two 2000s era certified classics.

fakemink’s Big Stateside Festival Debut:

All eyes were on fakemink for his Friday night set. The new face of the UK underground took over the Gobi Stage for his first-ever US festival performance. Mink’s forty minutes on stage were electric, as he flipped between SoundCloud cuts and new era classics, including, of course, “LV Sandals,” “Makka,” “Easter Pink,” and “Music and Me.”

No CAP, Central Cee Rocked Custom Gap:

Gap’s presence at Coachella was palpable – literally, a large number of attendees winding up in one of the label’s limited-edition Coachella zip-up hoodies at some point before the end of the night. Though Gap’s festival fervor wasn’t limited to just the fans, as Central Cee carried a major on-stage moment for the brand. The rapper donned a custom Gap hoodie with “CAP” stamped across the middle, in Gap’s signature style.

Blood Orange Sang in Circles — Literally:

 

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Blood Orange leaves an impressionable mark on all of his music. It’s what gained him an army of loyal fans that came to support his Coachella set on Day 1. That unwavering originality is also what informed his choice to be one of the first artists to perform “In the Round,” a new stage set up at Coachella. The round stage allowed for a unique 360-degree audience view, creating a sense of intimacy no matter where you stood in the crowd.

Justin Bieber’s SKYLRK Oasis Provided a Reprieve from the Raves:

Justin Bieber’s Saturday headline appearance was enough to drive Coachella ticket demand up more than ever before. But he was making waves at the festival before he even took to the stage, with his second-ever IRL retail experience for Skylrk. His brand’s viral renderings of futuristic sunglasses and modular phone cases had fans enamored, so it was no surprise that the pop-up was nearly sold out of inventory by the end of each festival day. A relaxing oasis complemented the shopping experience, where fans could immerse themselves in surreal scenes, chill out between sets on beanbags, and take inventory of their new Skylrk swag.

The xx Played “Intro” as the Outro:

Another solid sunset moment on Day 1 was The xx’s anticipated on-stage reunion. The trio’s Coachella comeback came at about the halfway point of the first day, Romy, Jamie, and Oliver taking their places like no time at all had passed. Marking their first festival appearance in eight years, the group ran through all of the nostalgic songs like “Angels,” “VCR,” and “Crystalized,” and closed out with the iconic “Intro” as the set’s outro.

Surprises:

Carpenter refrained from bringing out a traditional surprise music guest and instead opted for theatrics to complement her dramatized set. Susan Sarandon provided an interlude, reading a monologue between songs, and Will Ferrell acted as an impromptu electrician in a humorous cameo on stage.

 

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Dijon’s raw set kept the audience captivated. Perhaps the only thing that could break their concentration was an appearance by Mk.gee, which was expected, but still just as exciting in actuality. KATSEYE also wowed fans by bringing Huntr/x stars Ejae, Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna on stage to perform “Golden” from K Pop Demon Hunters.

Lastly, Swae Lee brought his son out in a Spider-Man costume as he performed Into the Spider-Verse soundtrack hit “Sunflower,” and it was adorable. There were some other guests too, and though they weren’t dressed in Spider-Man costumes, they also made waves. His guests included Nav, Jhené Aiko and Rich the Kid.

Day 2

Hailey Bieber’s First Rhode Activation in the Desert:

The First Lady of Bieberchella had a full plate during Weekend 1, as Hailey Bieber also planned her own activation outside of the festival during the high-energy opening. The event was in celebration of Rhode’s latest collab with none other than Justin Bieber himself, and it showcased carnival-inspired games and chromed-out photo opps. The skincare brand’s newly launched peptide lip treatment flavor and acne “Spotwear” drew a buzzy crowd, making the pre-event the spot to be before the show began.

WHATMORE Brought NYC to Coachella Valley:

As WHATMORE’s breakout year continues, the New York City boy band is gearing up for a big festival run this summer. The first on the lineup was Coachella, where the gang brought the authentic NYC energy all the way to the desert. All five members donned full Advisry ‘fits, Keith Herron’s New York-based streetwear-meets-high-fashion label, as they ran through a setlist of their classic TikTok flips and debut album tracks.

A-List Spottings at Revolve Fest:

Revolve Fest continued for its 9th year, unveiling a large-scale setup so grandiose it almost competed with parts of the festival itself. An evening Don Toliver performance surely gave some attendees a tough choice to weigh. Before he took to the stage, preceded by Kehlani and a Chase B DJ set, we kept our eyes peeled for what’s known to be the recurring “influencer Olympics” of Coachella. Here’s who we spotted.

Geese Caught Bieber-Fever:

 

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Gen Z’s favorite emerging band from New York City, Geese, performed a highly anticipated set at the Gobi stage. The performance showed off Geese in their truest form — they sang fan favorites, including “Cobra” and “Trinidad,” and shuffled through Omegle roulette on screen behind them. It seems band members caught a little bit of Bieber Fever themselves mid-set, as they graced the audience with their special rendition of hit track “Baby” merged with “2122.”

The Strokes Mourning Their PinkPantheress Set-Time Overlap:

Seeing The Strokes under the stars in the desert is something everyone should experience at least once in their lives. To some, it was merely the prelude to Bieber, but to those with taste, it was the perfect opening act. Julian Casablancas, however, was more concerned with his overlapping “Man, I’m bummed. I wanted to see PinkPantheress. She’s playing at the same time as us,” he said to the crowd. “What the f*ck, man. They f*cked us.”

Bieberchella:

 

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It goes without saying that for many festival-goers, this was the main attraction. Pop mogul Justin Bieber has been on a touring hiatus since 2022. He even refrained from performing in general for a while, but his mass-watched Grammy’s performance gave fans a hopeful taste of what was to come. Little did they know his Coachella performance would stray from the undone nature of his Grammy’s offering. The star’s Coachella set was still equal parts intimate and raw because it felt like watching YouTube videos with an old friend — that friend just happens to be Justin Bieber. But the live experience of watching JB play old hits roulette with his own music was anything but pared back.

 

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A few days before Weekend 1 ensued, local Coachella Valley residents shared recordings of Justin’s throwback tracks echoing through the hills of Indio. It left fans guessing — will he really take a trip down memory lane with us all, or will he stick to SWAG? After playing some SWAG and SWAG II staples, which turned out to be exactly what Bieber did, pausing along the way to laugh at old videos of himself, and even throwing some random memes in between. The overall crowd reaction was positive. Some post-performance reviews questioned the relevance of the performance concept, but to loyal “Beliebers,” it made perfect sense. It all started on YouTube, after all.

Surprises:

Kehlani made her second appearance of the day when GIVEON brought her out as a surprise guest at the Main Stage. Their voices harmonized over her viral track, “Folded,” resulting in a resounding, buttery-smooth symphony. Sombr rose quickly from rookie artist rankings to being widely adored for his 80s-inspired sound. He united his generation with the old guard by bringing out Billy Corgan of the Smashing Pumpkins. PinkPantheress brought an unexpected fan on stage — Tyriq Withers — and crowned him as her “Romeo.”

Day 3

The Guess Compound’s VERDY Installations:

Guess hosts content creators and celebrities from its community every year in Indio, welcoming them to the Guess Compound. The compound houses each group, while spa services, La La Land Cafe, and a party house are all on site as well. It was a good Day 3 refresh before heading into the festival, and we got a chance to check out exclusive VERDY statues scattered strategically throughout the compound. As for the compounds' residents? Young Thug, Becky G, and Amelia Gray Hamlin, just to name a few.

FKA Twigs Performs:

On day three of Coachella – especially once the sun goes down. Leave it to FKA Twigs to rev up the energy to a nearly palpable level. Twigs began her set lying down in a bed, before kicking off an impressively choreographed set, complete with a cameo from Honey Balenciaga and a "cellophane" performance.

Heineken Debuted the Clinker:

Heineken’s Clinker is social anxiety’s worst nightmare. The festival-ready smart band wraps right around Heineken cans or glasses, allowing users to turn “Cheers!” into connections. Just one clink of your glasses and the device’s special tech syncs with listeners’ streaming data to show you your best musical matches. This was a hit at the Heineken House, with some game-changing tech that could level up future festival experiences.

Isaiah Rashad Hosted an Impromptu Set at the Do Lab:

 

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Isaiah Rashad's album rollout, at first, existed totally separately from Coachella. The rapper kicked off his It's Been Awful era just last week, ushering in the record's rollout with a trailer and lead single, "SAME SH!T." A Coachella performance was not on the docket – until Sunday morning, that is, when Rashad announced he'd be popping by the Do Lab for a surprise 6pm set on Sunday evening. Zay ran through the classics – "Lay Wit Ya" and "RIP Young" included – before getting into "SAME SH!T" and some other new stuff.

Clipse Carries

Something about seeing "Mr. Me Too" with Travis Barker on drums... Pusha T and Malice took over the Outdoor Stage on Sunday evening for a high-octane set filled with New York grit and true hip hop energy.

Karol G’s Milestone Performance as the First Latina Headliner:

 

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Karol G made history as Coachella’s first Latina headliner — and her performance made serious headlines in more than one way. She made five outfit changes, repping Colombia with every new look, including a dazzling tiered skirt that showed off the colors of her native flag. The entire performance was an homage to her Latina roots, as she incorporated a traditional, women-led Mariachi band and guests, Puerto Rican-Cuban artist Mariah Angeliq, and Becky G. Karol G spoke in her native language for the duration of the set, except for when she commemorated the special moment and honored the artists who paved the way before her. “I am Carolina Giraldo from Medellin, Colombia. And today, I am the first Latina woman to headline Coachella.” It was a monumental way to end a monumental weekend.

Gap’s Hoodie House Holds It Down Through the Desert Weather:

Stationed next to the Sahara Tent, Gap set up shop for the weekend, equipped with all of the necessary gear for the chilly desert nights. Gap’s Hoodie House was home to a limited-edition release of Coachella x Gap hoodies, complete with an entire customization station.

Thugchella Takes It Up a Notch:

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It was easy to forget that Young Thug wasn't a headliner. The artist section for Thugger's set was easily just as packed as Carpenter's headlining kick off, and just a few levels down from the Bieber crowd extravaganza. Going down on Sunday at 7:50 pm, Thug took the stage for his first major performance since returning from prison. The rapper positioned himself on a UY SCUTI-inspired stage, complete with constellation-style red lighting projected into the sky behind him, and donning a custom Sp5der set and pair of Mattias Gollin-designed Sp5der x Vans. The setlist was expansive, beginning with "Ski" and "Surf" before transitioning into deep cuts like "I Know There's Gonna Be (Good Times)" – for the first time live since 2015 – and "Mamacita." Classics included "Check" and "Best Friend," with guest appearances coming from Ty Dolla $ign for "CARNIVAL," NAV for "Trimski" and Camila Cabello on "Havana." Thug also debuted his first solo foray into the electronic ether, preceding "I Know There's Gonna Be (Good Times)" with an EDM track dubbed "Small Walls." Arguably the best part throughout the night? Thug ensured North West was okay at all times. Before any moshing began, Thugger checked in that North was safe.

Surprises:

 

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Clipse opened their performance with drumming legend Travis Barker, who commanded the Outdoor Stage with “Chains & Whips.” MIA came out for a surprise performance of “Paper Planes” at Major Lazer, and Young Thug brought fans back to an iconic collab with Camilla Cabello, as she joined him on stage to perform the 2017 hit “Havana” along with Nav returning for the pair's new track, and birthday boy Ty Dolla $ign popping out for “CARNIVAL.” Subtronics brought Destroy Lonely on stage at the Sahara tent, where two worlds unexpectedly collided as they debuted a new single. Little Simz kept the audience on their toes by bringing out JT.

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Summary

• KATSEYE is officially set to release their third EP titled WILD later this summer
• The global pop group recently debuted their new single "PINKY UP" live during their first Coachella performance
• The upcoming project follows the massive success of their GRAMMY-nominated 2025 release BEAUTIFUL CHAOS

Global pop sensation KATSEYE has officially announced their upcoming third EP, WILD, marking the highly anticipated follow-up to their breakthrough 2025 project.

Formed through HYBE and Geffen Records’ Dream Academy and Netflix’s Pop Star Academy, KATSEYE continues their rapid ascent in the music industry. The group's new EP, WILD, arrives on the heels of their GRAMMY-nominated BEAUTIFUL CHAOS project, which successfully debuted in the top five of the Billboard 200. Building on that momentum, the group recently secured three nominations for the 52nd American Music Awards, including New Artist of the Year, Best Music Video for "Gnarly," and Breakthrough Pop Artist.

The new music announcement arrives alongside a massive live performance schedule, kicking off with their recent Coachella debut where they were notably joined by K-Pop Demon Hunters to perform "Golden." The festival weekend also served as the live debut for their new single, "PINKY UP." Accompanying the track is a high-energy music video directed by Bardia Zeinali and produced by Roisín Moloney, featuring cameos from Vivian Wilson, Mel 4Ever, Katalina, Vhex, and DJ Saturn Rising. Beyond returning for Coachella's second weekend on April 17, the group is slated to headline the 2026 Head In The Clouds and Hinterland Music festivals, while also taking the stage at The Governors Ball in New York.

KATSEYE’s WILD drops August 14 via HYBE x Geffen Records.

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Summary

• A federal jury in New York determined that Live Nation and Ticketmaster hold a harmful monopoly over large concert venues
• The verdict follows a highly publicized antitrust trial initiated by dozens of US states and the District of Columbia
• The ruling could cost the entertainment conglomerate hundreds of millions in damages and potentially force it to divest venue properties

Live Nation and its subsidiary Ticketmaster have officially lost a major antitrust lawsuit after a Manhattan federal jury ruled the companies maintained an anticompetitive monopoly over the live entertainment market.

AP reports that following four days of deliberation, the jury concluded a trial that provided a rare, behind-the-scenes look into the ticketing titan's operations. Brought forward by 34 states and the District of Columbia, the civil case accused Live Nation of leveraging its immense scale to stifle competition by preventing venues from working with alternative ticketing platforms. According to the state attorneys, the conglomerate currently controls 86% of the concert ticketing market.

During the proceedings, Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino took the stand to defend the company's practices, attributing the notorious 2022 Taylor Swift ticketing collapse to a cyberattack. However, internal communications presented during the trial revealed employees acknowledging inflated pricing strategies and mocking consumers.

The jury estimated that the company's anticompetitive tactics led to customers across 22 states being overcharged by $1.72 USD per ticket. This landmark decision could force Live Nation to pay back hundreds of millions of dollars in damages. While Live Nation continues to deny operating as a monopoly and plans to appeal the verdict, pending sanctions from the judge could include massive financial penalties or forced structural changes, such as divesting from owned amphitheaters and venues.

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Summary

• Madonna has officially announced her 15th studio album, Confessions on a Dance Floor II, set to release on July 3, 2026, via Warner Records
• The project serves as a direct sequel and companion to her lauded 2005 record and marks her first new album in seven years since 2019's Madame X
• Reunited with original Confessions producer Stuart Price, Madonna has already teased the upcoming project's opening track, "I Feel So Free"

The Queen of Pop is officially returning to the dance floor. After months of mounting industry speculation and wiping her Instagram feed clean, Madonna has announced the upcoming release of Confessions on a Dance Floor II. Releasing on July 3, 2026, via Warner Records, the highly anticipated project serves as a direct sequel to her Grammy-winning, chart-topping 2005 album and marks her 15th studio LP overall.

Serving as her first new album in seven years since 2019’s globally influenced Madame X, Confessions II sees Madonna pivoting back to the polished electronic and club-driven sounds that defined the original era. To capture the authentic magic of the 2005 masterpiece, the iconic singer has reunited with original Confessions producer Stuart Price. Together, they are reportedly returning to their original manifesto surrounding transcendence, community, and the dissolving of ego on the dance floor.

"We must dance, celebrate, and pray with our bodies," Madonna shared in a statement regarding the project's themes. "After all, the dance floor is a ritualistic space. It's a place where you connect — with your wounds, with your fragility. To rave is an art." To give fans a taste of the new era, Madonna has already teased the project's opening track, titled "I Feel So Free," which features a spoken word passage layered over a lush, pulsing club beat.

The timing of the new album serves as a fitting continuation for the superstar, who recently wrapped her massive Celebration Tour, a career-spanning run of shows that revisited her biggest hits and reinforced her enduring legacy as one of the most influential pop artists of all time.

 

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Summary

• Coachella has officially unveiled the set times for Weekend Two, revealing Kacey Musgraves as a surprise addition to the lineup
• The acclaimed singer-songwriter is scheduled to perform on Saturday at 3 p.m. in the Mojave tent
• Musgraves steps into the notable schedule slot occupied by Jack White during the festival's first weekend

Coachella has officially released the set times for the festival's highly anticipated second weekend, and attendees are in for a major treat. In a surprise last-minute announcement, Grammy-winning artist Kacey Musgraves has been added to the Weekend Two lineup, ready to bring her signature blend of atmospheric country and pop to the Indio desert.

Coachella has officially released the set times for the festival's highly anticipated second weekend, and attendees are in for a major treat. In a surprise last-minute announcement, Grammy-winning artist Kacey Musgraves has been added to the Weekend Two lineup, ready to bring her signature blend of atmospheric country and pop to the Indio desert.

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Summary

• Chicago-based music fan Aadam Jacobs is partnering with the Internet Archive to preserve a massive collection of more than 10,000 live concert recordings he has captured since 1984
• The collection, now being digitized by a global team of volunteers, features rare early-career performances from legendary acts including Nirvana, Sonic Youth, R.E.M., Phish, and Tracy Chapman
• Approximately 2,500 recordings are currently available for free streaming and download, with a dedicated crew of audio engineers restoring the tapes using vintage equipment and modern mastering tools

Chicago-based music obsessive Aadam Jacobs spent four decades covertly capturing the visceral energy of the underground music scene. Starting as a teenager in 1984 with a dictation device borrowed from his grandmother for an AMM performance, he eventually amassed a staggering archive of more than 10,000 live shows. These master cassettes document the exact moments when indie, punk rock, and alternative genres began to blossom and ultimately seep into mainstream consciousness.

Armed with increasingly sophisticated gear—evolving from cheap cassettes and basic microphones to digital audio tapes and PZM setups—Jacobs stealthily documented pivotal cultural shifts. The collection holds the fiery, raw sound of a 22-year-old Kurt Cobain politely introducing Nirvana at a small Chicago club called Dreamerz in July 1989, over two years before Nevermind disrupted global pop culture. Other historic pulls include a previously uncirculated 1990 Phish performance opening for Alex Chilton, alongside legendary early-career sets from R.E.M., Sonic Youth, The Cure, and Tracy Chapman. The Replacements were so impressed with his capture of a 1986 show that the band actually integrated the fan tape into an official 2023 live album box set.

Now, these analog artifacts face the absolute threat of disintegration. To save this massive sonic footprint, an international collective of audio engineers and archivists stepped in to digitize the library for the Internet Archive. Operating under the official Aadam Jacobs Collection Project banner, lead volunteer Brian Emerick physically retrieves heavy boxes of media directly from the taper’s home. He painstakingly runs the analog cassettes and DATs in real-time across an impressive array of vintage, self-repaired tape decks, acting as the critical first phase in a complex global assembly line.

Once transferred, a decentralized network of volunteers scattered across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany takes over. These engineers meticulously clean up the audio fidelity, track the songs, and investigate obscure setlists to ensure accurate metadata. Over 1,500 live concert recordings have already surfaced online for free streaming, instantly racking up more than 130,000 plays from eager fans. While Jacobs recently retired his microphones due to health issues, this communal rescue mission guarantees that his decades of raw, unfiltered music history remain permanently accessible to the culture.

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Summary

• The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has officially announced its Class of 2026 inductees
• This year's performer category includes Oasis, Sade, Wu-Tang Clan, and Phil Collins among others
• The official induction ceremony is scheduled to take place this November in Los Angeles

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Class of 2026 has officially been revealed, delivering a stacked lineup of cultural heavyweights. Spanning across multiple eras and genres, the latest roster of inductees highlights the lasting impact of foundational acts in rock, hip-hop, and R&B. The announcement cements the legacy of several iconic performers who have significantly shaped the global musical landscape.

This year's performer category brings an eclectic mix of talent into the fold. The Class of 2026 officially includes Oasis, Sade, Wu-Tang Clan, Iron Maiden, Phil Collins, Billy Idol, Joy Division/New Order, and Luther Vandross. Notably, Phil Collins, Wu-Tang Clan, and Luther Vandross are entering the Hall of Fame following their very first nominations this year. While Phil Collins previously entered the Hall of Fame as a member of Genesis in 2010, this marks his first induction as a solo artist.

Beyond the main performer category, the institution is also recognizing artists for their broader industry contributions. The Early Influence Award will be given to Celia Cruz, Fela Kuti, Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, and Gram Parsons. Meanwhile, the Musical Excellence Award goes to Linda Creed, Arif Mardin, Jimmy Miller, and Rick Rubin, with Ed Sullivan receiving the Ahmet Ertegun Award.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2026 induction ceremony takes place November 14 in Los Angeles, with a broadcast airing on ABC and Disney+ in December.

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Summary

• The Strokes have officially announced a massive global tour spanning North America, the UK, Europe, and Japan
• The band is also gearing up to release their seventh studio album titled Reality Awaits this summer
• Recorded in Costa Rica with Rick Rubin, the project marks the group's first new music since 2020

The Strokes are returning in full force with the announcement of a massive global tour alongside their upcoming seventh studio album, Reality Awaits. The band is set to deliver their first new project since 2020's acclaimed The New Abnormal, promising fans a much-anticipated era of fresh material and expansive live performances.

To support the release, the band will embark on a sweeping global tour starting in June, encompassing major venues like London’s The O2, Paris’ Accor Arena, and two consecutive nights at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The live dates will be bolstered by an impressive roster of supporting acts on select nights, including Thundercat, Cage the Elephant, Hamilton Leithauser, Fat White Family, Alex Cameron, and ÖLÜM. The tour will also weave through prominent festival slots, including headlining performances at Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, and Japan's Summer Sonic.

Recorded in Costa Rica with legendary producer Rick Rubin, Reality Awaits is slated for a June 26 release via Cult Records/RCA Records. Teasing the new era, The Strokes recently dropped the album's lead single, "Going Shopping". The new record's cover art notably features Richard Prince's 1989 piece, Untitled (Cowboy).

Check out the full list of dates below. Reality Awaits drops June 26 via Cult Records/RCA Records. Tickets for the global tour go on general sale this Friday, April 17, with presales beginning Wednesday, April 15.

THE STROKES LIVE

June 12—Manchester, TN—Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival
June 15—Clarkston, MI—Pine Knob Music Theatre*
June 17—Chicago, IL—United Center*
June 19—Cuyahoga Falls, OH—Blossom Music Center*
June 21—Toronto, ON—RBC Amphitheatre*
June 23—Boston, MA—TD Garden*
June 26—Philadelphia, PA—TD Pavilion at Highmark Mann*
June 27—Columbia, MD—Merriweather Post Pavilion*
July 12—Richmond, VA—Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront☨
July 14—Cincinnati, OH—Riverbend Music Center*
July 15—Noblesville, IN—Ruoff Music Center*
July 17—Milwaukee, WI—American Family Insurance Amphitheater‡
July 19—Saint Paul, MN—Minnesota Yacht Club Festival
July 22—Morrison, CO—Red Rocks Amphitheatre†
July 23—Morrison, CO—Red Rocks Amphitheatre†
August 8—San Francisco, CA—Outside Lands Music Festival
August 14—Tokyo, JP—Summer Sonic
August 15—Osaka, JP—Summer Sonic
August 22—Pasadena, CA—Just Like Heaven
August 25—Bend, OR—Hayden Homes Amphitheater
August 27—Vancouver, BC—Rogers Arena
August 28—Seattle, WA—Climate Pledge Arena
September 12—Tampa, FL—Benchmark International Arena
September 13—Hollywood, FL—Hard Rock Live
September 17—Charlotte, NC—Truliant Amphitheater
September 18—Atlanta, GA—Shaky Knees Music Festival
September 20—Asbury Park, NJ—Sea.Hear.Now Festival
October 6—London, U.K.—The O2§
October 11—Amsterdam, NL—Ziggo Dome§
October 13—Dusseldorf, DE—PSD Bank Dome§
October 15—Berlin, DE—Uber Arena§
October 17—Bologna, IT—Unipol Arena§
October 20—Barcelona, ES—Palau Sant Jordi§
October 22—Paris, FR—Accor Arena§
October 25—Newcastle, U.K.—Utilita Arena§
October 26—Manchester, U.K.—Co-op Live§
October 28—Dublin, IE—3Arena§

*with Thundercat and Hamilton Leithauser
☨with Hamilton Leithauser
‡with Cage the Elephant and Thundercat
†with Hamilton Leithauser and ÖLÜM
§with Fat White Family and Alex Cameron

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Summary

• The Pokémon Company International just announced a new Pokémon-themed EDM event, "Pokémon Night Out"
• Created in celebration of the franchise's 30th anniversary, it features Marshmello and supporting act Alison Wonderland
• Two shows have been prepared, one in Los Angeles this October, and the other in London this November

The worlds of EDM and Pokémon are merging into one this year with "Pokémon Night Out". Part of the franchise's 30th anniversary, The Pokémon Company International has announced two in-person experiences coming to Los Angeles and London.

Designed for fans of EDM and Pokémon to connect with fellow Trainers, it's said to be an immersive, curated concert setting. Described as a "dynamic live music event with custom sets and visuals created exclusively for the event," it stars Marshmello and supporting act Alison Wonderland . Beyond the event's innovative stage technology and Pokémon-themed visual storytelling, it will feature commemorative merchandise from the Pokémon Center, with select items for sale on-site and online in limited quantities.

"Both Marshmello and Alison Wonderland share a genuine passion for Pokémon that extends beyond the stage, making this collaboration a natural celebration of the fandom," shares Taito Okiura, VP of marketing and media at TPCi. "Trainers can expect an unforgettable audiovisual journey featuring fan-favorite Pokémon while honoring nearly 30 years of adventures together."

"Pokémon Night Out" is an experience for fans ages 16 and up. It's coming to the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles on October 24 and the O2 arena in London on November 10. Tickets are set to go on sale on April 17 via Ticketmaster (LA) and AXS (London).

 

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Summary

• The Recording Industry Association of America reports that Latin music generated $1 billion USD in US revenue last year
• The figures reflect a new wholesale reporting standard adopted to align with international industry benchmarks
• Over the past decade, the genre's stateside revenue has skyrocketed from $140 million USD in 2015

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has released new figures confirming that Latin music's US revenue officially reached the $1 billion USD mark in 2025.

Solidifying its position as a dominant force in the cultural landscape, Latin music continues its unprecedented stateside ascent. According to the latest RIAA report, the genre accounted for a significant portion of the overall $11.5 billion USD generated by U.S. recorded music revenues last year. This milestone represents a dramatic increase over the past decade, growing exponentially from a recorded $140 million USD in 2015. The data arrives shortly after global superstar Bad Bunny — recognized by the IFPI as the world's fifth-most lucrative artist last year — delivered a massive Super Bowl Halftime Show, further proving that Latin music is a core pillar of American culture.

Notably, the RIAA has updated its metrics to provide a clearer, more accurate picture of the industry's financial health. While previous reports cited figures like $1.4 billion USD for 2024 based on estimated retail breakdowns, the organization has recently shifted to a "wholesale" reporting standard. Under this new metric, which adjusted 2024's figure to $969 million USD, the RIAA aims to align with international benchmarks and ensure consistent cross-market comparisons. According to an RIAA spokesperson, this structural adjustment is specifically designed to highlight the real dollars flowing directly back into the creative ecosystem.

“Today’s report underscores Latin music’s strength,” Rafael Fernandez Jr., the RIAA’s senior vice president of State Public Policy and Latin Music, said in a statement. “With rising global reach and fresh pathways connecting artists and fans, this sector just keeps delivering as labels work to grow the market with innovative new partnerships and opportunities.”

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All of the biggest music headlines in one place and playlist. Updated live throughout the week.

It’s Official. It’s Been Awful.

Isaiah Rashad’s return record is en route. Confirmed. At first, at the top of the week, the rapper took to his Instagram stories to share an image of what appeared to be a new project entitled It’s Been Awful, stamped with a Top Dawg Entertainment authentication on the bottom. Later that same day, TDE’s Punch shared a post on X, reading “It’s been awful,” followed by the same posts from label signees Doechii, ScHoolboy Q, Devin Malik, and Zacari. Within the hour, posters were reportedly seen throughout New York City, and photos of new merch materialized on X. Come Tuesday morning, Rashad has officially revealed in a striking initial trailer that It’s Been Awful is, in fact, a studio album that’s due out in less than a month. What will land as his fourth longform project, Rashad’s return album – what a press release describes to be "a raw, fully realized return" – is slated to drop everywhere on Friday, May 1 as his first longform studio release since 2021’s acclaimed The House Is Burning. Full story here.

Two of Our Favorite Hypetrak Stars Linked Up: Ovrkast. x Niontay

Whenever two former Hypetrak featured artists get together, it’s a good day. And a damn near guarantee that the creative output will be top-tier. On Wednesday, two of our favorite budding big dogs in the New York City underground rap ether – Ovrkast. and Niontay – got together for their first-ever formal collaboration. Dubbed “Wata,” Kast first teased the punchy track on his Instagram last week before releasing the cut, accompanied by its clean, monochromatic visual, on streaming services this week.

The Coachella Set Times Dropped

With Weekend 1 kicking off in just hours, the first sign of Coachella Crunch Time came at the beginning of the week, when the festival (finally) lifted the veil on the official set times for the first weekend.

...And So Did the Coachella Billboards

Set times are important and all, but the billboards are the real indicator that we’re reaching Indio’s biggest two-weekend stint of the year. All of our favorites here.

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