Sidney "Omen" Brown, the Grammy-winning producer and DJ known for his work with Drake, Beyoncé, Ludacris, and Lil Wayne, has died at the age of 49. Brown, a Harlem native, was found in his New York City apartment on September 13 by a family member after missing a work shift. Brown made a name for himself by producing hits for Mýa, Fabolous and other artists on the Roc-A-Fella label, but his major break came when he produced Ludacris’ track “Tell It Like It Is” from the rapper’s 2006 album, Release Therapy, which earned him a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. He went on to co-produce Drake’s “Shut It Down” from his 2010 debut album, Thank Me Later, and he co-wrote and co-produced the Beyoncé track, “Mine,” featuring Drake, from her 2013 self-titled album. While details surrounding his death remain undisclosed, tributes have poured in from venues where Brown DJed and worked, remembering him as a talented artist and beloved friend who made a significant impact on hip-hop and R&B music. (People)

At the Greetings From Your Hometown Tour stop in Salt Lake City, Utah on Saturday night (September 13), the Jonas Brothers surprised a fan by revealing the sex of her baby onstage during a heartwarming moment that was captured in a fan shot video. Joe Jonas is shown talking to someone in the audience before announcing, “I’m very excited about this” as he displayed an envelope given to him by the fan. “Let’s find out, shall we?” Before the big reveal, the group performed their song "Little Bird," which is a tribute to their daughters. After joking that he “forgot” about the fan’s announcement, Joe opened an envelope and excitedly announced, "It's a girl! Congratulations!" as pink lights illuminated the stage. The band shared the joyous occasion with their fans, as Joe, Nick, and Kevin – who are all fathers themselves – celebrated the new arrival alongside the proud parents of the baby girl on the way. (People)

On Tuesday (September 16), Cardi B announced the dates and details of her first-ever headline arena run, the Little Miss Drama Tour. The 31-date North American jaunt is set to launch next year in support of Cardi’s upcoming sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, which drops on Friday (September 19). The tour kicks off on February 11 in Palm Desert, California, and concludes on April 17 in Atlanta, with stops in major music markets like Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. “HELLO!! 🐦‍⬛ We putting the kids to bed early because the Little Miss Drama Tour is coming to a city near you!,” Cardi captioned her tour announcement on Instagram. Artist presales begin on Tuesday (September 23), with general on-sales starting on September 25. Earlier this week, Cardi disclosed that her new album features high-profile collaborations with Janet Jackson, Selena Gomez, Summer Walker, Lizzo, Cash Cobain, Tyla, and Megan Thee Stallion, heightening anticipation for both the record and the tour. (Rolling Stone)

Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce attended Patrick Mahomes' 29th birthday party following the Kansas City Chiefs' first home game of the season on Sunday (September 14). The event was held at 1587 Prime, the steakhouse in Kansas City owned by Kelce and Mahomes, with country star Kane Brown sharing a group photo from the party on Instagram. Swift, dressed in a chic taupe and brown plaid two-piece set by Simkhai, joined Kelce, who wore a white shirt and navy Thom Browne suit shorts, alongside Mahomes and his wife Brittany, and Brown and his wife Katelyn. Brown captioned his post, “happy birthday Pat & congrats TT❤️ thanks for hosting us Britt 🙏🏽.” The couple, who announced their engagement on Instagram in August, enjoyed the celebration after Swift cheered on Kelce and the Chiefs during their game against the Philadelphia Eagles, a Super Bowl rematch that the Eagles won 20-17. Swift is preparing to release her highly-anticipated upcoming album, The Life of a Showgirl, which is set to drop on October 3. (People)

Coachella 2026, set for April 10-12 and 17-19 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, will be headlined by Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, and Karol G, with all artists at the peak of their careers following recent commercial success. Karol G will make history as first Latina artist to headline the festival, while Carpenter will be supporting her Billboard No. 1 album, Man’s Best Friend, and Bieber’s surprise two-part release, SWAG, features the No. 2 hit, “Daisies.” The full lineup, revealed late Monday night (September 15), also features standout acts like Italian-American techno producer Anyma presenting a world premiere event, Æden, along with a curious special billing called “The Bunker Debut Of RADIOHEAD KID A MNESIA,” potentially celebrating the 25th anniversary of the band’s classic albums.

Also of note is a listing for Nine Inch Noize, a possible unique collaboration between Nine Inch Nails and the electronic producer Boys Noize, who opened for the industrial rock titans on their Peel It Back Tour. Other notable performers include The XX, Disclosure, Turnstile, Teddy Swims, Ethel Cain, KATSEYE, and Devo on Day One, while Day Two features The Strokes, GIVĒON, Addison Rae, SOMBR, David Byrne, Interpol, and Alex G, and Day Three includes Young Thug, Kaskade, Laufey, Iggy Pop, Wet Leg, and Clipse. Festival passes go on-sale Friday (September 19) at 11am PT. (Billboard)

Jelly Roll, who once struggled to perform overseas due to past felonies, made a remarkable comeback by singing his collaboration "Hard Fought Hallelujah" with Brandon Lake at the Grace for the World event in Vatican City's St. Peter’s Square on Saturday (September 13). His visit also included a memorable meeting with Pope Leo XIV, which Jelly Roll celebrated on Instagram as a journey "from rock bottom to holy ground." Directed by Pharrell Williams and Andrea Bocelli, the historic concert – the first at the Vatican in 2,000 years – featured a star-studded lineup including Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, and Karol G. In addition to the performance, Jelly shared a subsequent post capturing his dramatic weight loss journey. The country singer has lost nearly 200 pounds since 2022 by overcoming food addiction and changing his lifestyle, and he showcased his dramatic weight loss by wearing a Louis Vuitton outfit at the event in Vatican City. Sharing a photo of himself in the designer look, he humorously captioned the post, “I can fit in Louis Vuitton now. Pray for my bank account.” (People)

A heartfelt letter from Lady Gaga to David Bowie is now on display at the newly opened David Bowie Centre in London. The undated note – likely written in late 2012 or early 2013 – reveals Gaga’s admiration for Bowie after she received an advance copy of his 2013 album, The Next Day. “Dear David Bowie,” the letter begins, “It was truly an honor to receive an advanced copy of your album. I cried, in fact, listening to each song. How does he know I exist? I feel as though my entire career has been an artistic plea for you to notice me. I'm finishing my album ARTPOP and am in New York. I would be grateful and honored to meet you. Love + Art, GAGA.” She eventually released ARTPOP in November 2013, though the two music superstars never did get the chance to meet in person. Following Bowie’s death in 2016, Gaga paid tribute to him at the Grammys by performing a medley of his hits that included “Space Oddity,” “Fashion,” “Let’s Dance,” “Rebel Rebel,” and “Heroes.” (Rolling Stone)

On Monday (September 15), Mariah Carey announced the dates and details of her 2025 holiday residency, Mariah Carey’s Christmastime in Vegas. The run of festive shows are set to take place at Dolby Live at Park MGM from November 28 through December 13. The five-time Grammy winner, known as the Queen of Christmas and famed for her iconic holiday hit, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” announced the 10-show run on Instagram by writing, “Excited to bring Christmastime to the Dolby Live at Park MGM in Vegas! 💕💕” Tickets go on-sale to the general public on Saturday (September 20), with presales launching on Wednesday (September 17). Following her successful The Celebration of Mimi Live In Las Vegas residencies in 2024 and 2025, Carey continues to captivate audiences, and was recently honored with MTV’s prestigious Video Vanguard Award in recognition of her legendary career and enduring impact on pop and holiday music. (Billboard)

HUNTR/X’s “Golden,” from the chart-topping soundtrack to Netflix’s smash film KPop Demon Hunters, notches a fifth week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the longest-leading hit by an animated act in the chart’s 67-year history. Two previous songs by cartoon bands each reigned at No. 1 for four weeks: The Archies, with “Sugar, Sugar” in 1969, and The Chipmunks with David Seville, with “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)” during the holiday season in 1958. KPop Demon Hunters extends its record as the first soundtrack to generate four simultaneous Hot 100 Top 10s in chart history, placing those same songs in the tally's upper tier for a fourth straight week, with Saja Boys’ “Your Idol” and “Soda Pop” both moving up a spot to return to their respective Nos. 4 and 5 peaks, and HUNTR/X’s “How It’s Done” ascends one slot to a reach a new high of No. 8.

The rest of the Hot 100 Top 10 is rounded out by Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” holding at No. 2, while Sabrina Carpenter places two songs in the region, as “Manchild” rises one spot to No. 3 while “Tears” falls three slots to No. 6. Morgan Wallen’s “What I Want,” featuring Tate McRae, remains at No. 7, Ravyn Lenae’s “Love Me Not” falls one spot to No. 9, and Justin Bieber’s “Daisies” moves up one slot to No. 10. (Billboard)

On Monday (September 15), Demi Lovato took to social media to announce the details of her ninth studio album, It’s Not That Deep, which is set for release on October 24 via DLG Recordings/Island Records. Marking a new dance-pop era for the singer, the 11-track album is executive produced by Zhone (known for work with Charli XCX and Kylie Minogue), and features the lead singles “Fast” and “Here All Night.” “This music is a perfect reflection of where I’m at today. It was such a freeing experience to let loose and have fun with it,” said Lovato in a press release. “It’s Not That Deep is meant for late nights and dancefloors, and I can’t wait for you all to dance with me.” Lovato’s previous album, 2022’s Holy Fvck, reached No. 7 on the Billboard 200. The pop star is also busy with other projects, recently appearing in the new film Tow, and she has a cookbook due out in March 2026. (Variety)

During a quick on the street interview by TMZ, Usher publicly endorsed Metallica as his personal choice for headliner at the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, which is scheduled to take place on February 8, 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco. The support from Usher – who previously headlined the Super Bowl Halftime Show in Las Vegas in 2024 – adds momentum to the heavy metal band’s bid to perform in their adopted hometown, with drummer Lars Ulrich recently expressing the band’s eagerness to play the event. While hard rock has a limited presence in Super Bowl history – with classic bands like The Who and Aerosmith joining Guns N’ Roses’ guitarist Slash as the heaviest artists to have played the halftime show – Metallica’s chart-topping history and worldwide albums sales of 125 million, along with their nine Grammy wins, make the metal band a solid potential choice to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. (Consequence of Sound)

Lil Nas X is currently receiving inpatient treatment at an undisclosed out-of-state facility following his arrest last month on multiple felony charges, including battery on police officers and resisting arrest. His lawyers confirmed at a court hearing on Monday (September 15) that the Grammy-winning artist, born Montero Hill, remains in treatment. “We’re doing what is best for [him] from a personal standpoint and a professional standpoint, but most importantly, for his well-being," says Hill’s lawyer, Drew Findling. The judge modified the conditions of Hill’s release to allow for his continued inpatient care and sealed the details of the type of care Hill is seeking, while setting the next hearing for November. Hill pleaded not guilty after he was charged following an August incident in which authorities allege he was “strolling naked” down Ventura Boulevard and allegedly assaulted officers when they tried to apprehend him. If convicted of all charges, Hill faces up to five years in prison. (Rolling Stone) 

Lenny Kravitz’s friends say the rocker dad warmly approved of his daughter Zoë’s budding romance with Harry Styles after the trio enjoyed a lighthearted lunch together in New York City. Apparently Lenny found the former One Direction singer polite, down-to-earth, and genuinely interested in getting to know the family while they dined together recently at Sant Ambroeus in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood. Despite being protective of Zoë, the 61-year-old singer appreciated Harry’s sense of humor and felt he respected Zoë, whom he wants to see with someone who values her. The couple, who sparked romance rumors in August, have been seen multiple times in public together as of late, with the actress, 36, and the pop star, 31, spotted walking hand-in-hand in Brooklyn around the time of their lunch with Lenny. Zoë divorced actor Karl Glusman in August 2021, and got engaged to Channing Tatum in October 2023, before they called off the engagement in October 2024. Meanwhile, Harry split from actress Taylor Russell in May 2024. (People)

Charli XCX and George Daniel, who married in a private London ceremony on July 19, celebrated their love with a second, star-studded wedding in Sicily on Sunday (September 14). The nuptials were attended by Daniel’s bandmates from The 1975, including frontman Matty Healy, who missed their prior wedding due to attending a film premiere in Los Angeles with his fiancée, Gabbriette Bechtel, who is also one of Charli’s best friends. Daniel’s other bandmates Ross MacDonald and Adam Hann were also in attendance, alongside the couple’s close friends and family. The couple shared a series of photos on Instagram capturing their pre-wedding festivities exploring Sicily, with Lorde commenting on the post, “My fomo activating.” Charli and Daniel got engaged in November 2023, and the couple’s Sicilian nuptials fulfilled their dream of a larger, private Italian wedding with friends and loved ones. (People)

On Friday (September 12), the first trailer was shared for the upcoming documentary, Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery — The Untold Story, which is set to premiere on Hulu and Disney+ on September 21. The film celebrates the groundbreaking all-female music festival through interviews with co-founder Sarah McLachlan, festival veterans like Sheryl Crow, Paula Cole, Bonnie Raitt, and Erykah Badut, and younger artists such as Olivia Rodrigo. “All of my favorite artists played at this event,” Rodrigo says in the trailer. “I was in disbelief I had never heard of it before.” The documentary is directed by Ally Pankiw and produced by Dan Levy’s Not a Real Production Company, with the project receiving the full support of the original Lilith Fair founders. The film features rare performances and backstage footage, highlighting the festival’s powerful, supportive environment and its impact on women in music. It will also debut on CBC in Canada on September 17. (Rolling Stone)

During her Nashville show on Thursday night (September 11), Tate McRae invited country star Megan Moroney onstage for a duet of Moroney’s hit, “6 Months Later.” The surprise collaboration thrilled the sold-out crowd at Bridgestone Arena, with McRae proclaiming “I’m such a massive fan” as she introduced Moroney before their duet. Moroney shared a post-show photo of the two singers together, captioning her post, “girls!,” while McRae commented, “My queen forever.” Both artists recently performed at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, where McRae won Song of the Summer for “Just Keep Watching,” and Moroney won Best Country. McRae will bring her Miss Possessive World Tour through Texas and the West Coast through the end of the month, while Moroney’s Am I Okay? Tour just hit Charleston, South Carolina, on Friday night for her first ever headlining stadium show, where Megan brought out Kenny Chesney for a duet on “You Had To Be There.” (Rolling Stone)

The soundtrack to Netflix’s hit animated film, KPop Demon Hunters, claims No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart for the very first time, rising one spot to top this week’s chart, after spending seven nonconsecutive weeks in the runner-up slot. The soundtrack earned 128,000 equivalent album units in the U.S. over the past seven days, marking the best week yet for the hit collection. The surge was propelled by the album’s deluxe reissue on September 5, alongside the CD release of the soundtrack that same day. The set becomes the first soundtrack to reach No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart in three-and-a-half years, since Encanto’s nine-week run at the top in 2022.

Other notable moves in this week’s Top 10 include Justin Bieber’s SWAG jumping up 13 spots to reach No. 4 following its expanded deluxe release, SWAG II, which features 23 additional tracks, and sombr’s I Barely Know Her cracks the Top 10 for the first time, rising two slots to reach No. 10 in its third week of release. The rest of the Billboard 200 Top 10 is rounded out by Sabrina Carpenter’s Man’s Best Friend, which falls to No. 2 after debuting at No. 1 last week, followed by Morgan Wallen’s I’m the Problem holding at No. 3, Alex Warren’s You’ll Be Alright, Kid remaining at No. 5, SZA’s SOS climbing three spots to No. 6, Wallen’s One Thing at a Time dropping one slot to No. 7, Stray Kids’ KARMA falling four places to No. 8, and Gunna’s The Last Wun falling one spot to No. 9. (Billboard)

On Thursday (September 11), Gorillaz announced the details of their ninth studio album, The Mountain, which is set for release on March 20, 2026, via their new label KONG. The 15-track record features collaborations with Black Thought, Yasiin Bey, Johnny Marr, The Clash’s Paul Simonon, and the late actor Dennis Hopper, along with a guest appearance by Sparks on the project’s lead single, “The Happy Dictator.” Recorded across studios in London, India, and several international cities, the album will be available in multiple formats, alongside a book and art prints. According to a press release, “The band has turned its back on international pop stardom, as they navigate the mountainous terrain of this thing called life.” To support the album, Gorillaz – created by Blur’s Damon Albarn and artist Jamie Hewlett – will embark on The Mountain Tour across Europe, with the 10-date jaunt starting March 21 in Manchester and culminating with a June 20 show at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with support coming from Trueno. (Variety)

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, drummer and co-founder of The Roots and acclaimed filmmaker, will receive the 2025 Peabody Trailblazer Award at a ceremony at The Sun Rose Hotel in Los Angeles on October 10. Presented by previous winner Quinta Brunson, the honor recognizes Thompson’s innovative storytelling across music, film, and cultural commentary, including his Oscar and Peabody-winning documentary, Summer of Soul, alongside his efforts to highlight Black musical genius and advocate for representation and cultural preservation. “

Through his prodigious output of creative work across documentary filmmaking, publishing, music, and more, Questlove has emerged as one our most important voices in understanding American culture of the past and present,” Peabody executive director Dr. Jeffrey Jones said in a statement. Following the award presentation, Questlove will discuss his life and career in conversation with civil rights activist Angela Davis. The Trailblazer Award annually “recognizes visionaries whose innovative storytelling styles impact culture and effect social change.” (Variety)

Doja Cat continues her ‘80s-themed rollout for her upcoming album, Vie, by adopting the persona of cult icon Max Headroom in an Instagram video announcing the iTunes exclusive deluxe edition which is available for pre-order. Embracing the retro aesthetic, including neon backgrounds and glitch effects, the promo teases snippets of new songs, exclusive content, and a surprise upon release. This follows her New Wave-inspired lead single, “Jealous Type,” with Doja delivering the live debut of the track during Sunday night’s MTV VMAs. That performance featured a surprise appearance by ’80s smooth jazz legend Kenny G, throwback breakdancers in 8-ball jackets, and an intro by her Max Headroom character, who has been credited as “the first computer-generated TV presenter.” Vie is set to drop on September 26 via RCA Records. (Uproxx)

On Thursday (September 11), a Los Angeles judge ruled that four housekeepers suing Smokey Robinson for sexual assault can proceed anonymously in their $50 million lawsuit, setting a trial date for October 2027. The 85-year-old Motown legend had sought to reveal their identities, arguing that they waived their anonymity by attending a press conference wearing masks and sunglasses while sharing some personal details. His defense also claims inconsistencies in the accusers' employment timelines. However, Judge Kevin C. Brazile emphasized the overriding interest in protecting the women’s privacy early in the case, given the serious allegations of repeated sexual assault and the potential risk from Robinson’s celebrity following. Robinson is counter-suing for $500 million in defamation and elder abuse. The lawsuit alleges multiple instances of rape, sexual assault, false imprisonment, and workplace harassment dating back to 2007. (Rolling Stone)

Ed Sheeran fueled speculation that he’s moving to America following a recent appearance on The 2 Johnnies Podcast, but he’s taken to his Instagram Stories to clear things up and let everyone know, “I’m not moving.” Sheeran’s prior comments on the podcast had fans wondering if he was leaving the U.K., with the pop superstar revealing: “I feel like I might be the only person moving to America. I’m going on tour there for a while and I have a family, so I can’t dip in and out. We’re going and settling there.” But he clarified those remarks on social media by writing: “Way easier to clear up stuff on here so here’s me setting the record straight. I’m not moving, I’m going on tour with my family and relocating to the continent I’m touring on, don’t wanna commute from London to San Diego obvz.” Sheeran has yet to announce U.S. tour dates tied to his new album, Play, which is out Friday (September 12). (Billboard)

The 2025 Mercury Prize shortlist was announced on Wednesday (September 10) at a launch event for the British press in central London, in recognition of twelve acclaimed albums released by U.K. and Irish artists over the past year. This year’s nominees include Sam Fender’s People Watching, Fontaines D.C.’s Romance, PinkPantheress’ Fancy That, Wolf Alice’s The Clearing, FKA Twigs’ EUSEXUA, CMAT’s Euro-Country, and Pulp’s comeback album More. Celebrating outstanding artistic achievement across genres, the Mercury Prize has a rich history of honoring both emerging and established acts since 1992, with recent winners including English Teacher (2024), Ezra Collective (2023), Little Simz (2022), Arlo Parks (2021), and Michael Kiwanuka (2020). The awards ceremony will take place on October 16 at Newcastle’s Utilita Arena – the first time the event will be held outside London – and will feature live performances from nominees before culminating with the announcement of the Mercury Prize winner. (Billboard)

Dua Lipa continued her tradition of honoring hometown artists during her Radical Optimism Tour stop in Boston on Tuesday night (September 9), as the pop superstar paid tribute to rock legends Aerosmith by covering their 1998 hit “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” at TD Garden. This follows similar city-specific tributes, including recent performances of Chaka Khan’s “Ain’t Nobody” and Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September” in Chicago, as well as covers of AC/DC, Lorde, and Kylie Minogue in Australia and New Zealand. Throughout the tour, Lipa has also collaborated with surprise hometown guests like Charli XCX and Tame Impala’s Kevin Parker, as well as paying homage to local icons like Enrique Iglesias in Madrid, The Beatles in Liverpool, and Sinéad O'Connor in Dublin. Lipa’s U.S. tour continues with two shows in Atlanta this weekend, before a high-profile four-night stand at New York’s Madison Square Garden from September 17-21. (Rolling Stone)

On Wednesday (September 10), Sabrina Carpenter took to social media to express gratitude to fans for embracing her new album, Man’s Best Friend, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, marking her second chart-topping record and highest debut ever. Sharing behind-the-scenes footage from the recording studio on Instagram, Carpenter credited collaborators Amy Allen, Jack Antonoff, and John Ryan for the album’s creation, describing the experience as a “pure wholesome electric” time. “To see the way you are all resonating with it just makes me feel like the luckiest girl in the world,” Carpenter captioned her post. “Thank you for listening (top to bottom!!!) and thank you for bringing this album into your lives and having such a damn good time with it, I’m having fun too :’).” Carpenter is also rumored to be one of the headliners at Coachella 2026 alongside Karol G, with Kendrick Lamar, Dua Lipa, and Anyma also potentially receiving top billing at the high-profile music festival. (Rolling Stone)

Justin Bieber’s “Yukon” has reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Rhythmic Airplay chart this week, marking the pop superstar’s first radio chart-topper in three years, dating back to 2022’s “Ghost.” “Yukon,” from Bieber’s SWAG album, ascended from No. 5 to No. 1, becoming his sixth Rhythmic Airplay No. 1 of his celebrated career. The song also gained traction on multiple Billboard charts, jumping up four places to crack into the Top 20 of Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay at No. 19, while also reaching No. 21 on the audience-based R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart, on the strength of receiving 3.7 million audience impressions, a 3% gain from the previous week. “Yukon” also climbed to No. 41 on the all-genre Radio Songs chart following a 4% audience increase, reflecting the song’s growing success across multiple radio formats. (Billboard)

Halsey’s 2015 debut album, BADLANDS, has reentered the Top 10 on five Billboard charts this week following its 10th anniversary deluxe reissue on August 29. The set ranks No. 5 on Top Album Sales, No. 6 on Top Alternative Albums, No. 4 on Vinyl Albums, No. 9 on Catalog Albums, and debuts at No. 7 on Top Rock & Alternative Albums. The album earned 17,000 equivalent album units in the U.S., with nearly 12,000 from traditional sales, including approximately 9,000 vinyl copies. On August 28, less than a week after she concluded the For My Last Trick Tour, Halsey announced a BACK TO BADLANDS TOUR. “Tiny venues. GA floors. 10 years later. I’ve been waiting a decade to re-live it all over again with you,” Halsey said of the tour, which kicks off on October 14 in Los Angeles, with stops in Atlanta, Washington DC, and New York City, before concluding on January 17 in Detroit. (Billboard)

On Tuesday (September 9), Lady Gaga announced the dates and details of the second North American leg of her Mayhem Ball Tour which is planned for spring 2026, including a rescheduled date for her recently postponed Miami show due to vocal strain. The 21-date tour will begin on February 14 in Glendale, Arizona, and continue with multiple-night stands at cities across the South and Midwest like Atlanta, Austin, and Saint Paul, as well as return stops in Los Angeles and New York. The Mayhem Ball Tour is currently finishing its first North American leg with a trio of upcoming shows in Toronto this week before finishing up in Chicago on September 15, 17, and 18, followed by dates in Europe, the UK, Australia, and Japan. To coincide with the tour announcement, Gaga dropped by The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Monday to help him celebrate the 10th anniversary of his recently cancelled show. Gaga performed a stripped-down version of Mayhem emotional standout, “Vanish Into You,” while seated at a piano. (Rolling Stone)

On Monday (September 8), 50 Cent took to social media to announce that he has acquired the rights to the cult classic 2002 crime film, Paid in Full, and is developing it into a TV series. Cam’ron, who starred in the original movie, has signed on to the project as executive producer. “I now have the rights to PAID IN FULL, im developing it into a premium Tv show,” 50 wrote. “if you like God Father of Harlem your gonna love this. Cam set to Executive produce along side me.” Numerous hip-hop stars have reached out in the comments looking to land roles in the show, including Maxo Kream and Conway the Machine. 50 is slated to star as Balrog in the Street Fighter movie, and will appear in Deon Taylor’s upcoming sports-themed Free Agents film, while Cam told Billboard in August that he’s currently “in the process of finishing up a couple TV shows and a couple movies.” (Billboard)

During a new interview with Nardwuar at Los Angeles’ Record Safari, Sabrina Carpenter had a humorous reaction to learning that only 200 vinyl copies of her 2015 debut album, Eyes Wide Open, were pressed. Most copies were distributed to record executives, and Carpenter revealed that she doesn't even own a copy. “Oh, I love this album. Every song’s a 10,” she said while clutching a vinyl copy Eyes Wide Open, before revealing, “I don’t even have it, that’s how rare it is.” When Nardwuar asked if her label gave her a copy, Carpenter replied: “No. Only 200 made? Damn. They really didn’t give a f**k about me!” Carpenter’s seventh studio album, Man’s Best Friend, debuted at No. 1 on this week’s Billboard 200 chart, while the Grammy-winning music superstar also won Best Pop Artist and Album Of The Year for Short N’ Sweet at the 2025 MTV VMAs on Sunday night, where she also delivered the live debut of her new single, “Tears.” (NME)

Hilary Duff is finally returning to music after a decade-long hiatus, signing a new deal with Atlantic Records that was announced on Tuesday (September 9). “Wake up… @hilaryduff is officially a part of the AMG family 🩵,” Atlantic revealed on Instagram. “We could not be more excited for this journey & for new music… or something 🪩✨🍒.” Duff also shared her own post, featuring photos of her in the recording studio alongside the similar caption, “new music … or something 🪩✨🍒.” The former Disney star and pop singer, known for hits like “Come Clean” and “Wake Up,” last released an album in 2015 and has focused on acting ever since. Alongside her musical comeback, Duff will be featured in an upcoming docuseries directed by Sam Wrench, chronicling her return to music and personal journey. With two Billboard No. 1 records – 2003’s Metamorphosis and the 2005 compilation Most Wanted – five Top 10 albums, and nearly 8 million total albums sold in the U.S., Duff’s reemergence marks an exciting new chapter in her career, and a welcome comeback for her longtime fans. (Billboard)

A body was discovered inside the front trunk of an impounded Tesla registered to singer D4vd at a Hollywood tow yard on Monday afternoon (September 8). The shocking discovery prompted a death investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department, after officers initially responded to reports of a foul odor coming from the car, which had been on the property for a number of days. The identity of the deceased remains unknown, and representatives for the 20-year-old singer – known for viral hits like “Here With Me” and “Romantic Homicide” – have not commented. Last week, D4vd partnered with Epic Games for Fortnite’s first official anthem, “Locked & Loaded (Official Fortnite Anthem),” which made it’s in-game debut alongside the announcement. D4vd recently began his Withered World Tour, and was scheduled to perform in Minneapolis on Tuesday night (Sept. 9), before concluding his North American tour in Los Angeles on September 20. (Variety)

In a new cover story feature for New York magazine, Lizzo revealed that she’s uncertain if or when her previously announced album, Love in Real Life, will be released. The multiple Grammy-winner explained that she wrote most of the album in 2022, and the project no longer reflects her current feelings or the changing world. “It just wasn’t what I was feeling right now,” Lizzo shared, saying that she is “going to just start following my instincts” in the future. After the album’s lead singles underperformed on the charts, Lizzo told Atlantic Records that she wanted to shelve the album in order to focus on music that feels authentic to her, which inspired the release of her rap mixtape, My Face Hurts From Smiling. “I’m in one of the most exciting, creative flows I’ve had as a human being on this planet,” Lizzo admits, while emphasizing her determination to continue making music on her own terms. (Billboard)

In a nostalgic throwback to Midnight Madness sales at record stores in the ’80s and ’90s, Target will hold midnight sales at approximately 500 stores on October 3 to sell Taylor Swift’s new album, The Life of a Showgirl, including three exclusive CD editions with unique artwork and posters. Unlike traditional midnight openings, these stores will remain open past normal hours to make the album available precisely at midnight. Fans can also pre-order the exclusive editions online, but Target’s in-store midnight release offers a celebratory communal experience for Swift’s dedicated audience, with the chain already offering a store locator page showing which of its outlets will participate in the midnight sale. The move was likely inspired by the massive sales numbers Target saw on Black Friday 2024 when an exclusive vinyl edition of the deluxe version of Swift's The Tortured Poets Department went on sale along with an exclusive Eras Tour Book. (Variety)

On Monday (September 8), Olivia Rodrigo announced the details of her first live album, Live From Glastonbury (A BBC Recording), which captures her triumphant headlining set at Glastonbury 2025. The 20-song live set will be released on December 5 on all streaming platforms and physical formats, including a special 2LP set pressed on magenta and periwinkle transparent vinyl that is exclusive to Rodrigo’s website. The album features her full festival performance supporting her Grammy-nominated 2023 album, GUTS, including the celebrated collaboration with Robert Smith on performances of The Cure classics “Friday I’m in Love” and “Just Like Heaven,” with proceeds from the sales of those live tracks benefiting Doctors Without Borders. To promote the release, Rodrigo shared professionally shot videos of her Glasto performances of “so american” and “Friday I’m In Love.” Rodrigo recently concluded her global GUTS Tour, and subsequently released the 136-page hardcover GUTS World Tour Book that features never-before-seen images, an exclusive poster, and commemorative tour trading cards. (Consequence of Sound)

HUNTR/X scores a fourth week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Golden,” which is featured on the soundtrack to the hit Netflix animated film, KPop Demon Hunters. The compilation also continues its history-making run as the first soundtrack to generate four simultaneous Hot 100 Top 10s over the chart’s 67-year history, placing the same songs in the top of the tally for a third week, with Saja Boys’ “Your Idol” and “Soda Pop” each dropping a spot to sit at No. 5 and No. 6, respectively, while HUNTR/X’s “How It’s Done” maintains its No. 9 peak.

Meanwhile, Sabrina Carpenter places two songs in the Top Five this week, as “Tears” debuts at No. 3 and former chart-topper “Manchild” jumps up three spots to No. 4, propelled by the release of her new album, Man’s Best Friend, which premiered at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, becoming Carpenter’s second chart-topping album of her career. Elsewhere in this week’s Hot 100 Top 10, Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” remains at No. 2, Morgan Wallen’s “What I Want,” featuring Tate McRae, falls four spots to No. 7, Ravyn Lenae’s “Love Me Not” drops two slots to No. 8, and Teddy Swims’ “Lose Control” slides down two places to No. 10. (Billboard)

On Friday, Tame Impala – led by mastermind Kevin Parker – announced the details of their fall 2025 U.S. arena tour. The 8-date Deadbeat Tour is in support of the Australian psychedelic pop rock outfit’s newly announced fifth studio album, Deadbeat, which is set for release on October 17. The project features the singles “End of Summer” and the just dropped track, “Loser,” which includes a Sam Kristofski-directed music video starring Stranger Things’ Joe Keery and features a brief cameo by none other than the original Loser, Beck. This marks the first new record from Tame Impala since 2020’s Grammy-nominated The Slow Rush. The Deadbeat Tour launches with a two-night stand at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on October 31 and November 1, then hits Chicago, Austin, and San Diego, before winding down with a doubleheader at Inglewood’s Kia Forum on November 11-12 and a final show at Oakland Arena on November 14. Fans can RSVP for pre-sale ticket access at tameimpala.com. (Rolling Stone)

In a new 3+ minute TikTok video posted over the weekend, Lizzo harshly criticized the current state of the music industry. The multiple Grammy-winner says that the industry is in “complete shambles right now" due to years of reliance on an “algorithmic model.” That modern trend has fragmented music fans and disrupted traditional pathways for artists to reach the masses, which she blames for effectively killing the cultural phenomenon of the "Song of the Summer" in the process. She explained that platforms like TikTok, despite her millions of followers, make it difficult even for established artists to connect broadly, as content struggles to reach viewers amid an overcrowded digital space. Lizzo suggests that major artists should cultivate dedicated fan communities to foster genuine engagement,  praising Taylor Swift’s highly engaged fanbase as an example. Ultimately, Lizzo urges fans and artists alike to look beyond algorithm-driven trends to discover and support great music that might otherwise be overlooked. (Consequence of Sound)

Dua Lipa kicked off the U.S. leg of her Radical Optimism World Tour at Chicago’s United Center on Friday night (September 5). Midway through the 22-song set, Lipa surprised fans by inviting music legend – and Chicago native – Chaka Khan onstage to perform a spirited rendition of Khan’s 1983 Grammy-winning hit, “Ain’t Nobody.” This marked the latest high-profile guest appearance from a local superstar on Lipa’s global tour, following earlier collaborations with Kevin Parker from Tame Impala during the Sydney stop, Crowded House’s Neil Finn in New Zealand, and celebrated appearances by Jamiroquai and Charli XCX during her two-night stand  at Wembley Stadium in London. The U.S. leg of Lipa’s Radical Optimism World Tour continues in Boston on Tuesday and Wednesday (September 9-10), in support of her critically-acclaimed third album which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart in May 2024. (Billboard)

The Jonas Brothers just shared the first trailer for their upcoming family holiday film, A Very Jonas Christmas Movie, which is set to premiere on Disney+ on November 14. The movie follows Joe, Nick, and Kevin’s comedic adventures as they “face a series of escalating obstacles as they struggle to make it from London to New York in time to spend Christmas with their families.” The all-star cast features Billie Lourd, Laverne Cox, KJ Apa, Kenny G, Randall Park, and Jesse Tyler Ferguson, with the brothers also serving as producers on the project. The film is directed by Oscar-winner Jessica Yu, and promises special guest cameos from the extended Jonas family. In addition to the upcoming holiday film, the Jonas Brothers are currently on the road on their 20th anniversary Jonas20: Greetings From Your Hometown Tour, which is next set to hit Salt Lake City, Utah on Saturday (September 13). (Billboard)