On Thursday (May 15), Alex G announced the dates and details of his 2025 North American tour, which will feature some of the biggest shows of the indie rock pioneer’s celebrated career. The esteemed British musician Nilüfer Yanya will be the opening act for the entire 16-show run. The tour kicks off on September 11th at Roadrunner in Boston, and will feature high-profile shows at notable venues including the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, and Radio City Music Hall in New York City, before finishing up at the Fillmore in Philadelphia on October 11. An artist pre-sale starts on Tuesday (May 20), and general on-sale begins on Thursday (May 22), with Alex G partnering with PLUS1 to contribute $1 per ticket to local youth services. Alex G's recent works include scoring Jane Schoenbrun's 2024 horror film, I Saw the TV Glow, while his latest studio album was 2022’s God Save the Animals. (Consequence of Sound)

Lizzo joined host Jake Shane on a recent episode of Therapuss, where the music superstar reflects on the impact of viral fame and shares insight into her upcoming album, Love in Real Life. Lizzo also discussed the unexpected breakthrough moment for her 2017 single, "Truth Hurts," which was featured in the 2019 film Someone Great, propelling the track to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “The sync changed my f—ing life,” Lizzo recalled of the track’s inclusion in the movie. “They put it in Someone Great in 2019. I was like, ‘Okay, cool.’ That s— went so crazy. It launched ‘Truth Hurts’ to the No. 1 song. A song that had been out for three years.” Lizzo also opened up about the emotional process of writing music, while emphasizing the personal nature of her new album, which is slated for release later this year. (Billboard)

The visual accompaniment to Miley Cyrus' forthcoming album, Something Beautiful, will be screened in theaters worldwide. The short film, which is described by Cyrus as a "pop opera fueled by fantasy," will feature all 13 songs from the album. It is set to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 6, which will also include an exclusive conversation with the Grammy-winning pop superstar following the screening. That event will be followed by a one-night-only showing in North American theaters on June 12, with international screenings set for June 27. “Something Beautiful is my dream project come true—fashion, film, and original music coexisting in harmony,” Cyrus said of her new record and the accompanying 55-minute movie. Miley is producing the project as well as directing the film alongside Jacob Bixenman and Brendan Walter, with engineer Alan Meyerson mixing the music specifically for movie theaters. (Rolling Stone)

In a revealing new Rolling Stone cover story, Lorde shares her past struggle with an eating disorder, detailing her obsession with being thin while vividly recounting moments of feeling hungry and weak. Despite her newfound freedom onstage and joy from connecting with fans during her 2022 Solar Power Tour, Lorde grappled with an eating disorder that began during the pandemic and continued through her 2023 breakup with longtime partner Justin Warren. Once Lorde was able to overcome her fixation on thinness, she allowed herself to take up more space physically, creatively, and emotionally, leading to the creation of her new album, Virgin. “Once I stopped doing that, I had all this energy for making stuff,” Lorde said. “I could see that if I cut that cord, maybe I would get something back that I needed to do my work. And it was totally true. Got it all back, and way more.”

Elsewhere in the interview, Lorde opens up about discussing her gender identity with Chappell Roan, who has become a close friend over the past year. “[Chappell] asked me this … She was like, ‘So, are you nonbinary now?'” Lorde recalled. “I was like, ‘I’m a woman except for the days when I’m a man.' I know that’s not a very satisfying answer, but there’s a part of me that is really resistant to boxing it up.” (Rolling Stone)

Chris Brown was arrested in Manchester, England on Thursday (May 15) over an incident at a London nightclub in February 2023, and he was subsequently charged with suspicion of grievous bodily harm. The arrest came after music producer Amadou “Abe” Diaw filed a $16 million lawsuit against Brown in October 2023, alleging that the R&B superstar attacked him with a tequila bottle and stomped on him during the nightclub altercation, which resulted in him sustaining severe injuries. “A 36-year-old man was arrested at a hotel in Manchester on Thursday, 15 May on suspicion of grievous bodily harm,” London police said. “He has been taken into custody, where he remains. The investigation is being led by detectives from the Central West Area Basic Command Unit.” A representative for Brown has yet to comment on the charges, and it remains unclear how the arrest will impact the singer’s upcoming 20th-anniversary tour in the U.K., where he has a series of stadium shows scheduled throughout June. (Rolling Stone)

Only five months after dropping Missionary with Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg has surprise released his new album, Iz It a Crime?, on Thursday (May 15). The 21-track project features collaborations with Wiz Khalifa, Sexyy Red, Pharrell, and more, along with a title-track that appropriately samples Sade’s “Is It a Crime.” “Just some of the things that I do, that I’ve done, that have been speculation, and I just want to ask the question, ‘Is it a crime?’ Is it a crime for me to do the things that I do,” Snoop said in an Access Hollywood interview on Tuesday (May 13). “Is it a crime for me to take care of people, to love people, to be there for people? Is it a crime for me to be me?” An accompanying Iz It a Crime? short film provides a visual companion to the album, with the movie premiering during a private screening in NYC on Tuesday night.

In additional Snoop news, as part of his NBCUniversal deal, the rapper will host a two-hour variety special from Miami titled Snoop Dogg’s New Year’s Eve, which will air on NBC on December 31 from 10:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. ET. (Billboard)

Jennifer Lopez is recovering from a nose injury she sustained during rehearsals for the 2025 American Music Awards, where she is set to host for the second time on May 26th. The entertainment icon revealed on her Instagram Story that she underwent emergency treatment by plastic surgeon Dr. Jason B. Diamond and receiving stitches, though Lopez did not reveal how she sustained the injury. “Thank you for stitching me up Dr. Diamond,” Lopez said. “A week later and a whole lotta ice, I’m good as new.” JLo shared a series of images documenting her recovery, where she was holding an ice pack to the bridge of her nose, with a red wound visible on her face. As for the AMAs itself – which returns after a two-year hiatus – the ceremony will feature the first TV performance by Janet Jackson in seven years, with the musician also set to receive the ICON Award during the event. Kendrick Lamar received the most AMA nominations with ten total nods. (Rolling Stone)

Charli XCX is marking the 5th anniversary of her album, How I’m Feeling Now, by sharing a heartfelt letter to fans on Instagram. She also announced a music video for the viral hit track, "party 4 u," which recently entered the Billboard Hot 100 five years after its release. “I made the album in just five weeks, from conception to release, entirely publicly in collaboration with all of you,” Charli wrote about the album’s origins, which was created during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “It was so special. I felt like I rediscovered myself, my sanity + my sense of connection with the world, at a time where we were all so alone.” Despite the record’s modest commercial success – peaking at No. 111 on the Billboard 200 chart – it remains a fan favorite, and the social media buzz surrounding “party 4 u” prompted Charli to unveil plans to release an accompanying music video on Thursday (May 15). Charli just finished her Brat Tour in the U.S., and she’ll kick off the European leg on May 31 in Poland. (Billboard)

On Wednesday (May 14), Rihanna took to social media to announce the upcoming release of her first song in nearly three years, "Friend of Mine," which will be featured on the upcoming Smurfs movie soundtrack. In addition to her music being included as part of the film, Rihanna will also provide the voice of Smurfette in the movie, alongside fellow stars John Goodman, James Corden, Nick Offerman, and Sandra Oh. The song – which is officially set to drop on Friday (May 16) – is featured in the new trailer for the animated film, which will hit theaters on July 18. In addition to RiRi’s highly-anticipated new song, the Smurfs soundtrack will also feature a contribution from Tyla as well as the track “Higher Love” by DJ Khaled, Cardi B, and DESI TRILL, which was released back in February. “Friend of Mine” is Rihanna’s first new release since 2022’s “Lift Me Up” from the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever soundtrack, while her last studio album was 2016’s Anti. (Rolling Stone)

The 29th annual Webby Awards were held on Monday (May 12) at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. During the ceremony, Ice-T presented fellow rap legend Snoop Dogg with the Webby Entrepreneur of the Year Award in recognition of his leadership in the online cannabis industry, his record label, and multiple other ventures. “Of course, the internet changed the game,” Ice said during his presentation speech. “But one thing didn’t change: Snoop Dogg. He’s never gonna change, and Snoop is still on top.” The event was hosted by comedian Ilana Glazer, with a series of awards honoring the technological achievements of music artists such as Questlove, Kendrick Lamar, Laufey, and U2, whose U2: UV Achtung Baby Live at Sphere, won for ‘AI, Immersive & Games, Best Performance 2025.’ New Webby Awards executive director Jesse Feister said, “What I love most about the internet is that it gives talented, self-made, creative people a way in. And tonight’s winners are proof of that.” (Billboard)

On Tuesday (May 13), Kali Uchis announced the dates and details of ‘The Sincerely, Tour.’ The 24-date North American arena trek will feature special guest opening act Thee Sacred Souls, and is set to kick off on August 14 in Portland and finish up on September 25 in Denver, while making high-profile stops at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles (August 20) and Madison Square Garden in New York (September 11). The tour is in support of Uchis new album, Sincerely, which was released on May 9, with the multi-lingual singer’s shows set to feature her “most intimate and vulnerable body of work to date,” with songs that are “a testament to the curative power of deep love, and a powerful representation of the way Uchis romanticizes life and her inner world.” Presales for tickets begin on Wednesday (May 14), with general sales launching on Friday (May 16) via Uchis's website. (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)

Cassie Ventura took the stand on Tuesday (May 13) and testified in a packed courtroom against her ex-boyfriend, Sean "Diddy" Combs, accusing the disgraced music mogul of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse spanning over a decade. Ventura described instances of physical abuse and detailed disturbing "freak-offs" orchestrated by Combs that made her feel humiliated and degraded. “He would smash me in my head, knock me over, drag me, kick me, stomp me in the head if I was down,” Ventura said of Combs' history of abuse. She testified about Combs' control over her life, including dictating her actions, appearance, and music career, alleging that her talent was stifled under his influence. Ventura – who confronted Combs in the courtroom for the first time since their 2018 breakup – is a key witness in the criminal case, with her testimony mirroring her previous civil lawsuit from 2023 that ultimately launched the federal investigation. Ventura is the third witness to testify in the high-profile trial that is expected to last eight weeks, with Combs facing five felony counts and the possibility of life in prison if convicted. (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)

Model Denise Bidot has accused rapper Lil Wayne of abuse after he allegedly broke up with her via text message on Mother’s Day. Bidot detailed the ordeal on her Instagram Story, revealing that Wayne’s assistants ejected her and her daughter from his residence despite her ongoing recovery from recent surgery. In her posts, Bidot accused Wayne of emotional abuse and claimed that the rapper physically harmed her, while expressing her plans to pursue legal action and seek support from lawyers. “It’s not just the emotional abuse,” Bidot said. “This man has actually laid a f—ing hand on me. And I took it. And you know what’s crazy is, they always say we’re so stupid for love, and I thought it was a mistake. But I know other women he’s put his hands on.” Bidot and Lil Wayne had been in a relationship since 2019, and the couple made it public in 2020. They briefly split in 2022, and reunited thereafter, though recent events have led to Bidot speaking out against the rapper’s alleged mistreatment. (Billboard)

On Sunday (May 11), Kid Cudi announced the upcoming release of his debut book, Cudi: The Memoir, which is scheduled for publication on August 5 via Simon & Schuster . The Cleveland rapper will delve into his upbringing and the highs and lows of his music career, while sharing personal stories that reflect on his struggles with mental health. The book will be a collection of life lessons and experiences that is accompanied by Cudi's own artwork, which is featured on the cover and throughout the 320-page book. “I cannot wait for u guys to read it. Its filled w so much about my journey from my first memory to turning 40,” Cudi wrote. “I hope this book does what my music does for u and gives u guidance and hope that u will make it through those difficult times. Get ready, you’ll all understand me a lot more after this.” Cudi also just released his new single, "Neverland," ahead of the June 7 premiere of his short film of the same name at the Tribeca Film Festival. (Rolling Stone)

Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s “Luther” tops the Billboard Hot 100 chart for a 12th consecutive week. The hit collaboration now holds the record for the most weeks spent at No. 1 among duets by co-billed lead solo men and women, surpassing Puff Daddy and Faith Evans’ “I’ll Be Missing You” (featuring 112), which topped the charts for 11 weeks in 1997. “Luther” also becomes the longest-leading R&B/hip-hop No. 1 on the Hot 100 this decade, surpassing the 11 week rule for Roddy Ricch’s “The Box” in 2020.

Another historic milestone is set by Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” which rises one spot to No. 4, securing a 44th week in the Hot 100 Top 5, surpassing The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” for the most weeks ever spent in the upper tier. Elsewhere in the Top 10 this week, Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” remains at its No. 2 peak, Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars’ “Die With a Smile” holds at No. 3, Drake’s “Nokia” falls one spot to No. 5, Chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club” stays at No. 6, Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control” remains at No. 7, Benson Boone’s “Beautiful Things” moves up a slot to No. 8, Doechii’s “Anxiety” jumps up one spot to reach a new peak of No. 9, and Morgan Wallen’s “I’m the Problem” drops two spots to No. 10. (Billboard)

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)

Madonna is partnering with Netflix and director Shawn Levy for an upcoming limited series about her life and music. The show is separate from a previous Madonna film project affiliated with Universal Pictures that was halted back in January 2023. Details regarding the new limited series, including which part of Madonna's life will be depicted and who will portray her, remain unknown. Madonna previously put the Universal biopic on hold to conduct The Celebration Tour in 2023-2024, which was one of the fastest-selling tours of all time with more than 1.2 million tickets sold, eventually grossing $225.4 million from 80 shows worldwide. Madonna was personally involved in that shelved project, co-writing two drafts of the film's script with Diablo Cody and Cressida Wilson, with Ozark’s Julia Garner apparently tapped to star as the singer in that film. (Variety)

Bad Bunny’s Debí Tirar Más Fotos returns to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart, jumping six places to top the charts due to its release on vinyl. It’s the fourth total week at No. 1 for the Spanish-language project, following three consecutive weeks atop the chart from January 25-February 8. This is an historic week for Latin music on the Billboard 200, as Fuerza Regida notches its first Top 10 release with 111XPANTIA, which debuts at No. 2. This marks the first time in the 69-year history of the all-genre chart that Spanish-language albums are Nos. 1 and 2 at the same time. 111XPANTIA becomes the highest-charting Spanish-language album by a duo or group, and the highest-charting regional Mexican music album of all-time.

Key Glock scores his fourth Top 10 album on the Billboard 200, as the rapper’s new project, Glockaveli, premieres at No. 8. Elsewhere in the Top 10, SZA’s SOS drops one spot to No. 3, Morgan Wallen’s One Thing at a Time remains at No. 4, Kendrick Lamar’s GNX falls two spots to No. 5, Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet falls one spot to No. 6, PARTYNEXTDOOR and Drake’s $ome $exy $ongs 4 U slides down one slot to No. 7, Morgan Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album rises one place to No. 9, and Shaboozey’s Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going falls two spots to No. 10. (Billboard)

Fresh off releasing her new single, “More To Lose,” on Friday (May 9), Miley Cyrus posted an Instagram Story that personally addressed the rumors that she is currently feuding with her parents, Tish and Billy Ray. When fans noted that Tish had recently unfollowed Miley on Instagram, people speculated that the two of them had a falling out. “I rarely comment on rumors,” Miley noted. “But my mama and I are too tight for anything to ever come between us. She’s my best friend. Like a lot of moms, she doesn’t know how to work her phone and somehow unfollowed me–simple, coincidental, and uninteresting.” As to her complicated relationship with her father, Miley adds, “My dad and I have had our challenges over the years. Now, in my thirties, family is my priority above all else. I’m at peace knowing bridges have been built and time has done a lot of healing.” She concluded her message, “Grateful for the good health and love that flows through my family.” (Billboard)

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)

Paul McCartney, Elton John, Dua Lipa, and Coldplay have joined more than 400 artists advocating for copyright protection in light of advances in A.I. technology. The group all signed an official letter urging Prime Minister Keir Starmer to update U.K. laws to help safeguard their creative work ahead of a vote in the House of Lords on Monday (May 12). “Creative copyright is the lifeblood of the creative industries,” the letter reads. “It recognizes the moral authority we have over our work and provides an income stream for 2.4 million people across the four nations of the United Kingdom.” The artists are in support of the Data (Use and Access) Bill, which aims to ensure developers are transparent with copyright owners when utilizing their material for training A.I. models. The letter states that “the first job of any government is to protect its citizens,” while adding that the bill would “put transparency at the heart of the copyright regime and allow both AI developers and creators to develop licensing regimes that will allow for human-created content well into the future.” (Rolling Stone)

As Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani approach their tenth anniversary, the country music superstar reflects on their enduring love in a new interview with People. "It honestly does [feel like time is flying by]. It's like, how did this happen so quickly?" says Shelton, 48. He admits that "10 years is a long time," but affectionately says that the relationship "still feels new for me." "I feel like that might be the key to happiness, is that it feels just as exciting and new and happy," Shelton says. In addition to their successful marriage, Shelton collaborated with his pop superstar wife on his new single, “Hangin’ On,” which is featured on his current record, For Recreational Use Only, which was just released on Friday, May 9. The couple even saved one track they worked on in that recording session for a possible future release. "We were both so fired up about both of them that we ended up holding one back for the next project," Shelton revealed. (People)

On Thursday (May 8), Lorde announced the dates and details of her 2025 Ultrasound World Tour in support of her fourth studio album, Virgin, set to be released on June 27. The North American leg of the arena tour kicks off on September 17 in Austin, and concludes on October 22 in Seattle, while stopping in Chicago, Nashville, Toronto, Philadelphia, Minneapolis, Las Vegas, Portland, and more. The tour will feature special guests Japanese House, Blood Orange, Nilüfer Yanya, Chanel Beads, Empress Of, Jim-E Stack (who produced Virgin), and Oklou on select dates. “Every show I play is a collaboration between you and me,” Lorde said in her tour announcement. “We meet in a room and we make music together, our bodies and the machines in search of something bigger together. 12 years of meeting up and making sound that's just for us. Since last time I've been stripping away unnecessary layers, finding us more room to move. I think that Ultrasound could be our masterpiece.” Ticket presale starts on Wednesday (May 14), with general on-sale starting on Friday (May 16). (Rolling Stone)

Calum Hood is gearing up to release his debut solo album, Order Chaos Order, on June 13, and the 5 Seconds of Summer bassist just shared his latest single, “Call Me When You Know Better,” on Thursday (May 8) alongside a music video directed by Andy DeLuca. The vulnerability of Hood’s new track compliments the emotional sentiments of his previously released single, “Don’t Forget You Love Me,” which will both be featured on his new project. “‘Call Me When You Know Better’ is a love letter in the form of an apology,” Hood shared in a statement. “For maybe not being the best lover or friend to the people who mean the most to me. It’s a reflection on mistakes made, perpetual regret and self pity.” Hood becomes the last 5SOS member to release a solo album, following in the footsteps of his bandmates Michael Clifford, Ashton Irwin, and Luke Hemmings, who each released solo projects in recent years. (Rolling Stone)

On Wednesday (May 7), Universal Music Group filed a motion to dismiss Drake's amended defamation lawsuit regarding Kendrick Lamar's song, "Not Like Us." The Canadian rapper is accusing UMG – his and Lamar's record label – of intentionally defaming him through their promotion of the track. UMG's lawyers claim that in the amended complaint, Drake “removed obviously false factual allegations” while adding that the “new allegations are astonishing.” The company claims that the lawsuit only serves as an attack on the commercial and creative success of Lamar’s chart-topping song, rather than addressing the content of the lyrics. In a separate statement, a UMG spokesperson said, “Drake’s lawyers believe that when Drake willingly participates in a performative rap-battle of music and poetry, he can be ‘defamed’ even though he engages in the exact same form of creative expression.” (Variety)

On Thursday (May 8), the full list of nominees were revealed for the 2025 BET Awards, with Kendrick Lamar leading the field with 10 total nods. Doechii, Drake, Future, and GloRilla all received six nominations, with SZA and The Weeknd each receiving four nods. The BET Awards is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, and the ceremony will feature Lamar competing in categories like Album of the Year for GNX, Video of the Year for “Not Like Us,” Viewer’s Choice Award nominations for “Not Like Us,” “Luther,” featuring SZA, and “Like That” with Future & Metro Boomin, and Best Male Hip Hop Artist. Rising star Doechii – who won Best Rap Album at the recent Grammy Awards – is up for Album of the Year, Video of the Year and Viewer’s Choice Award for “Denial is a River,” and Best Female Hip Hop Artist. The BET Awards will be held at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on June 9, and will be hosted by Kevin Hart for the second time. (Rolling Stone)

On Wednesday (May 7), Fitz and the Tantrums shared the funky title track to their upcoming album, Man on the Moon, which is set for release on July 25 via Atlantic Records. Following a short run of previously announced southern shows in May, the Los Angeles indie pop band will embark on a 31-date Man On The Moon Tour, which kicks off July 24 in San Diego, and finishes up with an ACL Live show in Austin on August 31. “I decided I was simply going to write for my heart and for my soul and nobody else,” frontman Fitz Fitzpatrick said of the group’s 14-track album. “At this point in our career, myself and the band feel we have complete creative license. So I’m not going to chase some vapor in the wind. I’m going to just do what I want.” Special guest opening acts on select dates of the tour will be Aloe Blacc, Neal Francis, Gable Price and Friends, Ax and the Hatchetmen, and Snacktime. (Rolling Stone)

The title-track of SZA’s chart-topping album, SOS, incorporates lyrics and the melody of Beyoncé’s song, "Listen," from 2006's Dreamgirls soundtrack. With a comment on a recent Instagram post, SZA revealed that she still owes Bey money for the interpolation, but the 35-time Grammy winner has yet to ask her to pay up. The original social media post made light of the extensive number of co-writers that are routinely credited on Beyoncé's songs, with SZA responding in the comments, “I literally owe her half my publishing off interpolation alone on SOS and she never pressed me lmao a generous QUEEN 😭.”  SZA, who is currently on the road with Kendrick Lamar on their joint Grand National Tour, is a self-proclaimed Beyoncé fan, praising her in a 2024 interview, "I just admire her. She's a masterclass on poise, grace, artistry, beauty and kindness." (People)

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)

In a phone call with The Daily Mail on Wednesday (May 7), Smokey Robinson responded to allegations of sexual assault made by multiple former employees in a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles on Tuesday (May 6). The four Jane Does are accusing him of sexual battery, assault, false imprisonment, gender violence, and creating a hostile work environment. The complaint detailed disturbing incidents of forced sexual acts spanning nearly two decades. "I am appalled," Robinson said of the charges, while adding, "I can't speak about this right now." Robinson's wife, Frances, was also implicated for allegedly enabling his behavior, and failing “to take the appropriate corrective action” to prevent his “deviant misconduct.” The plaintiffs, all former housekeepers of the 85-year-old Motown star, are also accusing the couple of failing to pay minimum wage and overtime, and are seeking damages of at least $50 million for the alleged misconduct. (People)

In a new ELLE digital cover story, Kelsea Ballerini is advocating for inclusivity in country music. The 31-year-old singer expressed support for artists transitioning into the genre – like Beyoncé, Post Malone, and Lana Del Rey – while also stressing the importance of embracing diversity. "If we, as country artists, feel like we can have a collab on top 40 or have a collab with an R&B artist, why wouldn’t we give a welcome to someone else?" Ballerini said. "I think that’s where people who are pushing back really need to check themselves, because music is for everybody. And specifically country music, the marquee of it is it’s the people’s story.” Ballerini also reflected on the rewarding experience of headlining her first ever arena tour. “I really like to be inclusive and I feel like I have songs truly for everyone," said Ballerini, who ensures "that the boyfriends and husbands that have been dragged there unwillingly by their girls also feel welcome, because they are." (People)

On Tuesday (May 6), Yungblud took to Instagram to reveal that his new album, Idols, will be released on June 20 as a part of a planned double LP. According to Dominic Harrison, who performs under the Yungblud moniker, his fourth album is “a love letter to self-reclamation … to rock music … [and] to life in all it’s f–king madness.” The 12-track project was recorded in Leeds, near the singer’s hometown of Doncaster, England, and it features previously released singles, "Hello Heaven, Hello" and "Lovesick Lullaby." The album was produced by Yungblud’s frequent collaborator Matt Schwartz, along with Bob Bradley, and touring guitarist Adam Warrington, and marks his first release under Island Records (U.K.) and Capitol Records (U.S.) after leaving Geffen/Interscope. Yungblud's previous albums, Weird! and Yungblud, both hit No. 1 on the U.K. Charts, with his self-titled release reaching a career high peak of No. 45 on the Billboard 200 album chart. (Billboard)

On Sunday (May 4), Quavo's Rocket Foundation hosted a Mother’s Day brunch for moms who have lost children to gun violence. The Migos frontman was joined by his mother, along with the event’s co-hosts – TakeOff's mother and grandmother – who all honored the late Migos rapper who was killed in a shooting in 2022. The event aimed to provide healing and support to the community, featuring panel discussions with anti-violence groups, floral arrangements provided by Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty, and memorials and photos paying tribute to the lives lost. This was the fourth event of its kind hosted by the Rocket Foundation in Atlanta, which aims to meet with members of congress this summer. In addition to taking part in this event, Quavo also just released a posthumous collaboration with TakeOff, “Dope By Phone,” on May 2. (Billboard)

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.” (Billboard)

On Tuesday (May 6), the lineup was revealed for the 2025 Austin City Limits Festival, which will showcase a diverse set of headliners such as Sabrina Carpenter, Hozier, Doja Cat, Luke Combs, and The Strokes. ACL will take place across two weekends in Austin’s Zilker Park from Oct. 3-5 and 10-12, with performances spread out over nine stages. In addition to the headliners, the festival will also feature appearances from Cage the Elephant, T-Pain, Empire of the Sun, DJO, Pierce the Veil, Rilo Kiley, Maren Morris, Mk.gee, Zeds Dead, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Modest Mouse, Wet Leg, King Princess, and many more. The event is once again set to stream on Hulu, which will air select live performances and interviews during the first weekend, with a full broadcast schedule to be announced later in the summer. A variety of three-day ticket packages went on sale on Tuesday (May 6), with single-day tickets available at a later date. (Billboard)

Beyoncé has removed a visual of the Sphere from her Cowboy Carter Tour after receiving a cease-and-desist order from the venue’s owner. An image of the Sphere was included in the show’s “400 Foot Cowboy” visual interlude where the towering singer picked up the venue from the Las Vegas strip. During Sunday night’s show (May 4) in Inglewood, the image was appropriately replaced with footage of Vegas’s Allegiant Stadium, where Beyoncé is set to perform in July during her Cowboy Carter Tour. Following the show, Beyoncé’s production company, Parkwood Entertainment, shared the new clip on Instagram, captioning the post, “What happens in Vegas starts with a BANG.” The cease-and-desist letter was reportedly issued by Sphere Entertainment Group, who claimed that the footage of the state-of-the-art venue was used “without permission,” and misled fans by prompting speculation of a potential Sphere residency for Beyoncé. (Rolling Stone)