On Thursday (June 12), Twenty One Pilots announced the dates and details of The Clancy Tour: Breach 2025. The 21-date North American tour is in support of their upcoming album, Breach, which is set to be released in September via their longtime record label, Fueled by Ramen. The jaunt begins in the Grammy-winning duo’s home state of Ohio, with a show in Cincinnati on September 18, then hits cities like Toronto, Milwaukee, Tampa, and Dallas, before concluding in Los Angeles on October 25. “We are getting back on the road for one more trip around North America,” the band wrote alongside their video tour announcement on Instagram. An artist pre-sale begins on Tuesday (June 17), with on-sale for the general public starting on Friday (June 20). Twenty One Pilots also just shared the lead single from the album, “The Contract,” along with a Frédéric De Pontcharra-directed music video that continues the narrative explored on their previous albums. (Consequence of Sound)

On Wednesday afternoon (June 11), Fat Joe and Jadakiss hosted a Father’s Day luncheon at Sei Less NYC for 70 fathers and their families affected by the criminal justice system. The event featured heartfelt discussions led by the co-hosts of The Joe & Jada podcast, with some fathers even taking the opportunity to share their own music with the hip-hop veterans. The event emphasized the importance of fatherhood and the need for incarcerated individuals to be supported in their re-entry journey back into society as well as their families. “Just hitting that switch to let them know that they can come back and get right due to whatever hardships they went through,” Jadakiss said. “There’s some hope now when you come back to get readjusted. Hopefully change your financial situation.” The event was organized in collaboration with Sei Less co-founder Dara Mirjahangiry and the REFORM Alliance, aiming to bring joy and support to these families ahead of Father’s Day. (Billboard)

In a new interview with British Vogue, Dua Lipa revealed that she is engaged to actor Callum Turner, confirming rumors that have circulated since the pop superstar sported a diamond ring during the 2024 holiday season. “Yeah, we’re engaged. It’s very exciting,” Lipa disclosed. “This decision to grow old together, to see a life and just, I don’t know, be best friends forever – it’s a really special feeling.” Turner got some ring design advice from Dua’s sister, Rina. “I’m obsessed with it,” Lipa enthused about the custom-made diamond ring. “It’s so me. It’s nice to know the person that you’re going to spend the rest of your life with knows you very well.” Lipa shared that they are not in a rush to plan the wedding, as she is currently on her Radical Optimism World Tour and Turner is busy shooting a movie. Lipa will perform in Belgium on Friday (June 13), before a two-night stand at London’s Wembley Stadium London on June 20-21. (Billboard)

On Wednesday (June 11), Sabrina Carpenter surprised fans with the news of her upcoming seventh album, Man’s Best Friend, which is set for release on August 29 via Island Records. “I can’t wait for it to be yours x,” Carpenter captioned her post on Instagram, which also featured the provocative cover art for her forthcoming project. The anticipated follow-up to the chart-topping, Grammy-nominated, Short n’ Sweet, will feature Carpenter’s new single, "Manchild," which has already achieved massive success by reaching Number One on Spotify’s U.S. chart. Carpenter gave “Manchild” its live debut at Primavera Sound over the weekend, saying of the track: “It sounds like the song embodiment of a loving eye roll, and it feels like a never ending road trip in the summer!” Carpenter's summer is filled with a series of high-profile outdoor shows and music festivals, including headlining performances at London’s Hyde Park, Lollapalooza, and Austin City Limits. (Rolling Stone)

On Monday (June 9), Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and Three 6 Mafia announced the dates and details of their joint 2025 Thuggish-Ruggish-Mafia Tour of North America. The 24-date run will hit amphitheaters throughout the U.S. and Canada this summer and fall, and will feature special guest opening acts Tech N9ne and DJ Quik. The tour starts on August 21 in Rogers, Arkansas, stopping in cities including St. Louis, New York, Nashville, Dallas, and Houston, before concluding in Concord, California on October 4. All five members of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony – Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone, and Flesh-n-Bone – will take part in the tour, which celebrates the 30th anniversary of the rap group’s landmark 1995 album, E. 1999 Eternal. “We couldn’t have made it without YOU — so this tour is a celebration for ALL of us! 🎉,” the Cleveland hip-hop crew wrote on Instagram. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony announced their reunion with a comeback single, "Aww Sh*t," in April, marking their first full collaboration since 2010. (Billboard)

Just after midnight on Saturday (June 7), Macklemore's Seattle home was burglarized by intruders who bear-sprayed his nanny. The thieves stole thousands of dollars worth of jewelry, shoes, and luxury watches, all while the Grammy-winning rapper’s three children were sleeping inside the home. The burglars entered through a patio door and maced the nanny who was caring for the children and stole her phone, but she eventually bit one of the criminals and managed to escape to seek help from neighbors and call 911. Police eventually arrived at the scene after the burglars – whose identities were hidden behind face masks, gloves and tactical vests – fled the home. Authorities safely brought Macklemore’s kids, who were unharmed, to the care of another family member. Macklemore was performing in Ireland at the time of the robbery, and has not released an official statement about the incident as of yet. (Billboard)

Nick Jonas has been cast to play Paul Stanley in the long-anticipated KISS biopic, Shout It Out Loud. In an unexpected casting, Jonas will put on the iconic Starchild makeup, play the guitar, and lend his own vocals to KISS classics in the authorized film co-produced by Stanley and Gene Simmons. The biopic is set to depict the first four years of KISS, and will be directed by McG. While the role of Simmons is yet to be filled, a screenplay draft by Darren Lemke is already finished. Despite his substantial departure from KISS' musical style, Jonas' diverse acting career includes roles in Disney films, Broadway performances, and multiple Hollywood movies, including a co-starring role in the upcoming Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon rom-com, You’re Cordially Invited. In addition to his acting responsibilities, Nick and his siblings are set to kick off the Jonas Brothers' 20th anniversary Living the Dream Tour on August 10 in their native New Jersey. (Rolling Stone)

The new documentary, Boy George & Culture Club, premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival on Thursday (June 5). The film delves into the iconic Eighties band's rise and fall, including the doomed romance between singer Boy George and Culture Club drummer Jon Moss. The doc is directed by Alison Ellwood, who has worked on movies about the Eagles, the Go-Go’s, and Cyndi Lauper in recent years. The film explores the band’s lasting cultural impact as well as the intense love affair that inspired their enduring U.K. No. 1 hit, "Do You Really Want to Hurt Me," and ultimately played a major role in the band's dissolution. “I was most surprised by how forthcoming George, Jon, Mikey [Craig, bassist], and Roy [Hay, guitarist/keyboardist] were in telling their story,” Ellwood says. “Their powerful testimony takes us on a very personal and immersive journey, with each member experiencing the trials and tribulations of fame and success.” Boy George & Culture Club will premiere on Netflix sometime this fall. (Rolling Stone)

Photo: Deanne Fitzmaurice

On Tuesday (June 3), Jessie J revealed in a candid Instagram Reel that she has been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, and wanted to share the news directly with her fans and supporters. “Before ‘No Secrets’ came out, I was diagnosed with early breast cancer,” said the British singer-songwriter, referring to her new track released in April on her own label, Jessie J Records. “I’m highlighting the word ‘early,'” she continued. “Cancer sucks in any form, but I’m holding on to the word early. I have been in and out of tests throughout this whole period.” Jessie emphasized the importance of early detection, while expressing gratitude for the support she has received throughout this challenging time. The singer has a high-profile festival appearance scheduled at Wembley Stadium in London on June 15, and will then take some time off to focus on her health. “I am going to disappear for a bit after Summertime Ball to have my surgery,” Jesse shared, before joking, “I will come back with massive t*ts and more music.” (Rolling Stone)

On Wednesday (June 4), Morten Harket, the frontman of A-ha, publicly disclosed that he has recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. The 65-year-old vocalist stated that his recent struggles with his health have impacted his ability to sing, and that he has undergone advanced brain surgery to help manage his symptoms. "I’ve got no problem accepting the diagnosis,” Harket said, while revealing that “it’s a difficult balancing act between taking the medication and managing its side effects.” The Norwegian synth-pop band rose to prominence with their 1985 debut album, Hunting High and Low, which reached No. 2 in the UK and No. 15 on the Billboard album chart, on the strength of the International chart-topping single, "Take On Me," which earned the group a Grammy Award nomination for Best New Artist. While Harket is receiving medical treatment, he tells fans “don’t worry about me” while encouraging them to "spend your energy and effort addressing real problems, and know that I am being taken care of.” (People)

Steve Perry has revealed that he is auctioning off items from his personal archives to support victims of the recent California wildfires through the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. Teaming up with Darkives Collectibles – a new archival memorabilia platform from George Harrison’s son Dhani and Dark Horse Records – Perry's auction features over 50 items, including handwritten Journey lyrics, platinum records, and vintage merchandise. The auction will run until June 13, with all proceeds going towards providing aid to those affected by the Los Angeles fires. “I’m excited to open up my personal archives and give fans who have supported me through the years a chance to own a piece of my musical journey,” the 76-year-old Perry said in a statement. “Most importantly, all the proceeds from this archive sale will go to support victims of the Los Angeles fires with the help of Sweet Relief Musicians Fund. Let’s help make a difference together.” (Rolling Stone)

Talking Heads recently took to social media to tease a forthcoming major announcement on Thursday (June 5), which coincides with the 50th anniversary of their first live performance together. On June 5, 1975, Talking Heads played their very first show, opening for the Ramones at New York City’s iconic CBGB. The mysterious social media post – which features a clip of the moon at night and the sun emerging from behind the clouds, along with the date – has prompted fans to express hope for a possible reunion tour from the legendary rock band, who haven’t performed together since 1984, and officially disbanded in 1991. Talking Heads have recently announced a deluxe box set reissue of their second studio album, 1978’s More Songs About Buildings and Food, which includes a newly remastered version of the album, alongside rarities and previously unreleased tracks, a complete 1978 live show, and a 60-page hardback book with new liner notes by the band. (NME)

In a series of social media posts on Monday and Tuesday (June 2-3), Mariah Carey hints that she might have a new album in the works after a seven-year hiatus, while also teasing that a new single could be on the way. In one Instagram Reel, Carey is shown behind the wheel of a car while listening to a song on the stereo, with an untitled track displayed on the console screen, “T:D_MC16.mp3.” “To show my appreciation for your support, thank you DJs,” Carey’s voice says over the track, with the car’s license plate reading, “MC16.” The clip is captioned, “What’s your type?” suggesting that the forthcoming album may be her 16th project, "MC16," a follow-up to 2018’s Caution.

Lola Young announced the dates and details of her upcoming fall 2025 North American tour. This marks the breakthrough pop star’s first return to the region since her viral single "Messy" propelled her into the spotlight. The 17-date trek is set to start on November 1 in Toronto, and finishes on December 6 in Los Angeles, with stops in major music markets like stops in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Nashville, Atlanta, Dallas, Chicago, Denver, Seattle, and San Francisco along the way. “It’s happening… i’m coming back to North America,” Young captioned her tour announcement on Instagram. “Can’t wait to be back in the room with you all.” The tour follows last month’s release of her latest single, "One Thing," which offers fans a glimpse into her highly-anticipated forthcoming album, which she teased as having a mix of deep and danceable tracks. General on-sale starts Friday (June 6), with pre-sales launching on Tuesday (June 3). (Rolling Stone)

On Thursday (May 29), Shawn Mendes announced details of his 2025 On the Road Again Tour, which will celebrate the 10th anniversary of his chart-topping debut album, Handwritten. Following a hiatus to focus on his mental health, Mendes is set to make a triumphant return to the stage. “I feel like time away has allowed me to come back and recognize and remember how unbelievably special it is to get to play live shows,” Mendes wrote on X. “It’s an honour and i’m just beyond grateful that you guys keep showing up after 10 years with so much love. I almost forgot i have one of the best jobs in this world.” The tour launches in Europe in August, with the North American leg kicking off on September 25 in Boston, and finishing on October 17 in Los Angeles. Support acts for the tour are Eddie Benjamin, Maro, and Lubiana at select dates. General on-sale begins on June 6, with pre-sales starting on June 4. (Rolling Stone)

On Wednesday (May 28), Kings of Leon announced the cancellation of their entire European summer tour after frontman Caleb Followill sustained a serious foot injury. Followill shattered his heel while playing with his kids, and underwent emergency surgery. He faces an approximate eight-week recovery period, which forces the band to forgo their upcoming headlining shows and festival performances scheduled throughout Europe, which was scheduled to start in Paris on June 10 and finish on July 12 in Portugal. “I’ve broken my foot bad playing with my kids. I’ll spare you the details, but it was pretty gnarly,” Followill shared in an Instagram video. “It’s a big bummer because we were so excited and had been preparing for this tour for a long time.” Despite this setback, Kings of Leon are still scheduled to headline two nights at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey in July, followed by a series of festival appearances in August and September. (Rolling Stone)

During an appearance on a new episode of the Good Hang with Amy Poehler podcast, Reneé Rapp credits her mom for manifesting her music career by purposefully giving her a memorable name. “My mom chose my first and last name to both have R’s,” Rapp told Poehler. “She was like, ‘Alliteration, just in case she wants to be a pop star.’ Rapp admits that her mom’s decision was “conceited,” but adds, “I’m obsessed with the way she did it.” Poehler replied, “She gave you a pop star name just in case, because Reneé Rapp is a huge pop star name,” with Rapp agreeing, “It’s a really good one!” Rapp also proudly discussed her decision to come out as a lesbian on a recent episode of Saturday Night Live. On Monday (May 26), the singer debuted her new song, “Leave Me Alone,” at the American Music Awards, which is from Rapp's upcoming album, Bite Me, coming out on August 1. (Rolling Stone)

During a private performance for fans at the Chateau Marmont on Tuesday (May 27), Miley Cyrus hinted at her future musical direction while treating the audience to intimate performances from her forthcoming album, Something Beautiful, due out Friday (May 30). “My next album is about to be extremely experimental, so have fun with that,” the Grammy-winning singer announced to the small crowd. Cyrus was joined by pianist Michal Pollack, drummer Maxx Morando, and guitarist Jonathan Radowhile during her 45-minute set, which featured new tracks, “More to Lose,” “End of the World,” and “Easy Lover,” along with renditions of “The Climb,” from her 2009 film Hannah Montana: The Movie, and her Record of the Year-winning hit, “Flowers.” Ahead of her album release, Cyrus is currently promoting her new single "Easy Lover" with a series of behind-the-scenes clips on her Instagram Story, which showcases her dance choreography rehearsal and costume fittings. (Rolling Stone)

Photo Joe Brady

Teddy Swims’ monumental hit, “Lose Control,” has set a new record with its unprecedented 92nd week on the Billboard Hot 100, surpassing Glass Animals’ 91-week run on the chart with “Heat Waves.” “Lose Control” originally debuted at No. 99 back in August 2023, with the song eventually reaching No. 1 for only one week in March 2024. The track also spent a record-breaking 63 total weeks in the Top 10. “Lose Control” has even outlasted the chart trajectory of Teddy Swims’ two subsequent follow-up singles, with “The Door” reaching a Hot 100 peak of No. 24 last October, and “Bad Dreams” climbing to No. 30 earlier this May, with both songs also reaching the Top 10 on Adult Pop Airplay and Pop Airplay charts. Another of Teddy Swims’ hit singles, “Are You Even Real,” with Giveon, reached No. 1 on the Adult R&B Airplay chart in April. (Billboard)

Sabrina Carpenter has teamed up with Fortnite for the new ‘Dance With Sabrina’ interactive music experience, which will run from May 30 to June 16. The gameplay allows players to dance along with the pop superstar while she takes over the Festival Jam Stage, and match her moves to the beat of her hit singles, “Bad Chem” and “Espresso,” in what the game is calling a “first-of-its-kind dance party.” This new collaboration follows Carpenter’s success in Fortnite Festival season eight. “When Sabrina came to Fortnite, we saw seas of Sabrina Carpenter Outfits populate matches and perform synchronized Dance Emotes,” said Emily Levy, Director of Music, Talent & Influencer at Epic Games, in a statement. “So we knew we had to celebrate this season with an epic dance party inspired by our players and their incredible energy.” Alongside the immersive experience, Fortnite will also release a “Bad Chem” Bundle featuring exclusive offerings of Carpenter’s music and emotes on Thursday (May 29). (Billboard)

Photo: Jordan Strauss

 Photo by Ashley Hylbert

The 2025 American Music Awards returned on Monday (May 26) after taking a two-year hiatus, with the ceremony for the “biggest fan-voted awards show in the world” taking place at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Billie Eilish was the night’s big winner, taking home Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Hit Me Hard and Soft, and Song of the Year for “Birds of a Feather,” along with Favorite Female Pop Artist, Favorite Touring Artist, and Favorite Pop Album and Song. Jennifer Lopez served as the host, and she opened the festivities with a six-minute dance routine set to 23 of the year’s biggest hits. Janet Jackson was presented with the Icon Award, and she also delivered her first live TV performance in seven years. Rod Stewart was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award by five of his children, who truly surprised Sir Rod. The 80-year-old singer closed down the show with a spirited rendition of his classic hit, “Forever Young.” With the award ceremony taking place on Memorial Day, there were tributes to military members throughout the show, with hundreds of service members in the crowd.

On Wednesday (May 21), Twenty One Pilots took to social media to announce their upcoming seventh album, Breach, which is set to be released on an unspecified date in September. The band also revealed that they will share the project’s lead single, "The Contract," on June 12.  The new record will apparently mark a continuation and conclusion of the narrative arcs that have spanned their discography over the past decade. The post was captioned, “hello Clancy hello Blurryface let’s finish this |-/,” a reference to the titular characters from the group’s earlier albums, 2024’s Clancy and 2015’s Blurryface, with the Ohio duo expressing their intention to wrap up these long-running lyrical narratives in their new record. The group – featuring Tyler Joseph and Josh Dun – just wrapped up their Clancy World Tour with a series of U.K. dates earlier this month. (Billboard)

Cardi B is set to receive the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) Voice of the Culture Award, in recognition of the hip-hop superstar’s groundbreaking influence on music and culture. The award ceremony will take place during a private, invitation-only event on Sunday, June 8, in Los Angeles, with Cardi set to follow last year’s winner, Usher. “Cardi B has left an indelible mark on the culture of hip-hop by redefining and challenging the norms for women,” ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams said in a statement. “Having broken through countless barriers with her unapologetic authenticity and talent, she continues to use her voice to advocate for and inspire others, a true testament to her undeniable impact.” In 2020, Cardi made history by becoming the first woman to receive the esteemed ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Songwriter of the Year Award two years in a row, while also being awarded eight ASCAP Pop Music Awards and 23 ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards. (Billboard)

During The Voice finale on Tuesday (May 20), Foreigner announced that lead singer Kelly Hansen will be leaving the band, with guitarist Luis Maldonado set to take over the role. “Being the voice of Foreigner has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hansen said in a statement. “But it’s time to pass the mic. Luis has the voice, the energy, and the soul to carry these songs into the future.” Maldonado added, “This music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’m ready to honor Foreigner’s legacy and bring my heart to every performance.” Foreigner performed a medley of hits on The Voice, including “Feels Like the First Time” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” Foreigner were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame last year, and are currently on a North American tour, with a Las Vegas residency scheduled for September 2026 at the Venetian Theatre. (Rolling Stone)

On Monday (May 19), The Who revealed the lineup of opening acts for their upcoming 17-date North American farewell tour. Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters will open the first two dates of The Song Is Over Tour, on August 16 in Sunrise, Florida, and on August 19 in Newark, New Jersey. The Joe Perry Project — featuring Perry alongside Aerosmith’s Brad Whitford and Buck Johnson, the Black Crowes’ Chris Robinson, and Stone Temple Pilots’ Robert DeLeo and Eric Kretz — will support the Who in Boston on August 26 and L.A. on September 17. Billy Idol has been tapped to open the last show of the tour, in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on September 28. The Who also added an additional Chicago show on September 9, with Joe Bonamassa set to open both Windy City dates. Other opening acts for the tour include ZZ Ward, Booker T. Jones, Feist, Tom Cochrane, and Candlebox. (Rolling Stone)

On Monday (May 19), Billie Eilish announced additional dates on her Hit Me Hard & Soft Tour. The pop sensation added 21 more U.S. dates, alongside two new shows in Tokyo in mid-August. The U.S. leg kicks off with a three-night run in Miami on October 9-12, followed by a series of multiple-night stops in Raleigh, Charlotte, Long Island, New Orleans, Tulsa, Austin, and Phoenix, before finishing with a two-night stand in San Francisco on November 22-23. Eilish marked the one-year anniversary of her critically acclaimed third studio album – which reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 –  by sharing a heartfelt message to fans on social media. “Can’t even believe it’s been a whole year since the album came out,” Eilish wrote. “Here’s some little clips from when i first played it for some of my friends :’))) truly some of my favorite memories ever. ♥️♥️♥️😭 love you guys. thank you all for giving this album so so much love.” (Billboard)

A representative for Justin Bieber issued a public statement on Friday (May 16) refuting online rumors by denying that the singer was ever abused by Sean Combs. “Although Justin is not among Sean Combs’ victims, there are individuals who were genuinely harmed by him,” reads the statement. “Shifting focus away from this reality detracts from the justice these victims rightfully deserve.” The rumors of Combs’ abuse of Bieber stem from resurfaced videos featuring the disgraced music mogul and the then-teenage singer. “Where we hanging out and what we’re doing we can’t really disclose. But it’s definitely a 15-year-old’s dream,” Combs said in one clip. “For the next 48 hours, he’s with me. And we’re gonna go full buck, full crazy.” As for Combs’ ongoing trial, his former girlfriend Cassie Ventura finished four grueling days of testimony on Friday (May 16), where she shared graphic details about the abuse she suffered by Combs over the course of a decade. (Rolling Stone)

On Tuesday (May 13), Foo Fighters announced the date and details of their first show of 2025. On October 4, the Foos are set to headline day two of the three-day music festival scheduled around the Singapore F1 Grand Prix, alongside Alan Walker, Crowded House, Babymetal, and the Lathums. Additional artists set to perform at the event include K-pop stars CL and G-Dragon on October 3, and Elton John, the Smashing Pumpkins, and Wombats topping the October 5 lineup. This gig marks Foo Fighters first full performance since August 2024, and it is currently their only scheduled show for the year. The entire band has not appeared on stage together since Dave Grohl announced in September that he’d fathered a daughter outside of his marriage to Jordyn Blum. Grohl has made several notable live appearances of late, including taking part in Nirvana reunions at the FireAid LA benefit and SNL50 concert, while also making a surprise appearance during the second weekend of Coachella. (Billboard)

Abel Tesfaye has been hinting that he will bring an end to his long-standing musical alter ego, The Weeknd, following the release of his sixth album and the accompanying movie of the same name, Hurry Up Tomorrow. Despite previously stating his intent to retire the persona at the culmination of his current album trilogy – which includes 2020’s After Hours, 2022’s Dawn FM and January 2025’s Hurry Up Tomorrow – the 4-time Grammy winner now suggests the possibility of a new direction during a recent interview with EW. “It feels like it [the end of the Weeknd],” Tesfaye says. “I mean, I’ve kind of toyed with the idea in the past with albums.” He adds that this isn’t the first time he’s considered doing away with his alter ego, “But it could also just be a rebirth. Who knows?” he teased. The movie, which premieres on Friday (May 16), features Tesfaye playing a fictionalized version of himself, also named Abel, who goes on a wild adventure with Anima, portrayed by Jenna Ortega. (Billboard)

Janet Jackson will receive the ICON Award at the 2025 AMAs, and is also set to perform at the ceremony, marking her first television performance in seven years. The event is set to take place on May 26 at the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, and coincides with Jackson's ongoing residency at the Resorts World Las Vegas, which is set to start back up again on May 21. Jackson has won a total of 11 AMAs over the course of her four-decade career, and she will become only the third recipient of the ICON Award, following Rihanna in 2013 and Lionel Richie in 2022. Jackson last performed on television in 2018 at the Billboard Music Awards. The AMAs return after a two-year hiatus, and will introduce three new categories to mark the occasion – Album, Song, and Social Song of the Year. Jennifer Lopez will host the show, with Kendrick Lamar leading all artists with 10 nominations. The live broadcast will air on CBS and stream on Paramount+. (Rolling Stone)

After a fan stole Twenty One Pilots' drum during a performance in Manchester on Sunday night (May 11), the band's fanbase mobilized to help investigate and recover the stolen instrument. The thief was caught on video leaving the venue with the drum, prompting fans to launch a makeshift investigation in hopes of identifying the culprit. With the help of the fan community and key details provided by witnesses, the drum was successfully tracked down to a hotel across from the arena, where it was retrieved by the band's security team. “We Have The Drum!!!!!!” Twenty One Pilots’ crew member Sax shared on Instagram the next morning. “Thank you for all the tags and information. You guys rock!🤘” The incident sparked outrage among fans, who saw the theft as a violation of their close-knit community, and they expressed relief and gratitude once the drum was safely returned to the band. (Rolling Stone)

Tory Lanez was hospitalized after a prison stabbing on Monday morning (May 12). Following the brutal attack, Lanez was rushed to a nearby hospital in Bakersfield, California, to treat his injuries. The Canadian musician was reportedly in the prison yard of California Correctional Institution when he was stabbed, though details of the attack and its motive remain unclear. Lanez was sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2023 after being convicted on three felony counts related to the shooting of Megan Thee Stallion. On Friday (May 9), just days before the stabbing, the hip-hop star shared an Instagram slideshow of him surrounded by fellow inmates, while giving an update on a future project he has in the works. “UPDATE : 2025,” Lanez captioned the post. “IYKYK LESS IMPORTANT UPDATE : 2ND ALBUM 100 % RECORDED, MIXED & MASTERED NEW ALBUM. NEW GENRE: SLUTTY BASS SUMMER 2025.” No update on Lanez’s condition has been shared as of yet. (Billboard)

NBC and Peacock will host Snoop Dogg's New Year's Eve special live from Miami on December 31st at 10:30 pm ET/PT. The two-hour event guarantees an evening filled with memorable music, iconic performances, and surprise artist collaborations culminating in the countdown to midnight. “Snoop Dogg’s energy, influence and ability to bring people together promises an unforgettable night,” said Jen Neal, Executive Vice President, Live Events and Specials, NBCUniversal Entertainment. “We’re thrilled to partner with Snoop and bring this epic event to audiences across the country once again live from Miami.” (Deadline)

Lola Young’s "Messy" jumps up two spots this week to hit No. 1 on Billboard’s Pop Airplay chart. This achievement follows “Messy” topping the Alternative Airplay chart for a week back in April, marking the first debut hit by a woman to reach No. 1 on both charts since Lorde's "Royals" in 2013. “Messy” was released by Day One/Island Records and promoted to radio by Republic. The track becomes just the sixth song by a solo woman or female-fronted group to top both Pop Airplay and Alternative Airplay charts in the 32-plus years that these rankings have coexisted, joining Billie Eilish’s “Therefore I Am” (2021) and “Bad Guy” (2019), Lorde’s “Royals” (2013), Evanescence’s “Bring Me to Life” featuring Paul McCoy (2003), and Alanis Morissette’s “Ironic” (1996). Among all acts, only 28 total songs have achieved the rare feat of reaching No. 1 on both Pop Airplay and Alternative Airplay charts. (Billboard)

Harry Styles was among the thousands of spectators who crowded St. Peter's Square in Vatican City on Thursday (May 8th) to witness the announcement of Pope Leo XIV as the successor to the late Pope Francis. Despite attempting to remain incognito while dressed in a blue jacket, sunglasses, and a baseball hat emblazoned with the phrase, "Techno Is My Boyfriend," a now-viral fan photo confirmed the pop superstar's presence at the historic event, which featured the election of the first ever US-born Pope. This marks one of Styles' rare public appearances following the conclusion of his "Love on Tour" back in 2023, following his impressive finish in the Tokyo Marathon in March – where the singer crossed the finish line in 3 hours 24 minutes and placed 6,010th out of over 37,000 runners – as well as taking part in a random running club session in London in April. (The Hollywood Reporter)

In an emotional Instagram video shared on Wednesday (May 7), 3 Doors Down singer Brad Arnold revealed that he has been diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer. “Got some not so good news for you today,” Arnold shared in the clip. “So, I’d been sick a couple of weeks ago and then went to the hospital and got checked out, and actually got the diagnosis that I had a clear cell renal cell carcinoma that had metastasized into my lung. And it’s stage four, and that’s not real good.” The singer went on to express his unwavering courage and faith in the face of the diagnosis, stating, “I have no fear. I really sincerely am not scared of it at all. And I’d love for you to lift me up in prayer every chance you get.” The announcement led to the immediate cancellation of all of the band's scheduled tour dates, including their headlining shows, festival appearances, and support dates with Creed, as well as an upcoming performance at Morgan Wallen's Sand In My Boots festival. (Variety)

Former One Direction singer Liam Payne died without a will, leaving Cheryl Tweedy, his former partner and mother of their son, Bear, to be named administrator of his $32 million estate, alongside music industry lawyer Richard Mark Bray. Tweedy – a former member of Girls Aloud – will work alongside Bray to oversee Payne's finances, property, and possessions, potentially putting much of it into a trust for their son. English and Welsh laws dictate that a person's spouse and children have first claim to the estate in the absence of a will. Payne tragically died on October 16, 2024 at the age of 31, following a fall from the balcony of his hotel room in Buenos Aires. While the initial charges against the hotel workers and Payne’s friend have all been dropped, two individuals accused of selling him drugs remain detained while awaiting their pending trial. (Rolling Stone)

Photo: Tom Pallant

During a recent appearance on an episode of Ann Wilson's After Dinner Thinks podcast, Chappell Roan praised the Heart singer, while reminiscing about the power she felt covering their classic hit,"Barracuda," at the Austin City Limits festival in 2024. “You’re rockin’ mama! I’m rockin’ because you rockin’, really, truly,” Roan praised Wilson. “I think you have the best voice in rock.” Roan and fellow guest Lucy Dacus discussed the transformative power of rock music with Wilson, while contrasting that electric energy with pop. Roan went on to proclaim that “Barracuda” is the “coolest song ever,” while admitting that performing the track live made her “feel like a rock star.” Wilson went on to share her approach to singing the rock anthem with the young musicians, saying,  “A song like that… you can’t hold it in. It has to be an independence of the soul where you just let it go. This is a physical event.”