Taylor Swift’s lawyer argued that The Life of a Showgirl is an expressive work protected by the First Amendment in response to trademark claims from Las Vegas performer Maren Wade over her show Confessions of a Showgirl.

Billboard

Martina McBride and Bret Michaels have both withdrawn from Washington, D.C.’s Freedom 250 concert series, citing concerns that the event had been misrepresented and had become politically divisive.

Ultimate Classic Rock

Riot Fest 2026 will return to Chicago’s Douglass Park from September 18-20 with headliners Tool, Twenty One Pilots, Pierce the Veil, and Alanis Morissette.

Billboard

Noah Kahan announced the 2027 Out of the Blue Festival lineup, featuring Kahan, Hayley Williams, Mt. Joy, The Head and the Heart, and more at Moon Palace Resort in Riviera Cancun.

Billboard

Boards of Canada and Warp Records denounced the Trump administration’s unauthorized use of the song “Deep Time” in a political video posted to White House social media accounts.

BrooklynVegan

Cara Delevingne is officially launching her music career with two new Warner Records songs, “I Forgot” and “Out of My Head,” ahead of a debut album expected in late summer.

Rolling Stone

CMAT responded to misogynistic body-shaming comments after her BBC Radio 1 Big Weekend performance, saying she wishes she could enjoy her career success without constant abuse.

Billboard

New Releases

Paul McCartney - The Boys of Dungeon Lane

Kurt Vile - Philadelphia’s Been Good to Me

Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts - As Time Explodes

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Sting will star in a reimagined production of The Last Ship at Theatre Royal Drury Lane in London from September 22 to October 3.

variety.com

A federal appeals court has revived Bernie Worrell’s estate’s copyright lawsuit against George Clinton and Thang, Inc. over ownership claims tied to P-Funk recordings from 1976 to 1979.

musicbusinessworldwide.com

Spotify has launched more than 650 narrated long-form magazine articles from publications including Rolling Stone, The Atlantic, and Vogue.

musicbusinessworldwide.com

Olivia Rodrigo pushed back on criticism of her babydoll dresses, saying the discourse shifts responsibility onto women for how men sexualize their bodies.

hollywoodreporter.com

Drake celebrated several new chart records, including passing Michael Jackson for the most Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 hits by a male solo artist.

billboard.com

Paul McCartney says he would like to work on a studio version of Prince’s unearthed cover of “The Long and Winding Road,” though Prince once strongly rejected posthumous-style collaborations.

musicradar.com

Official UK Singles Chart

“Dracula” - Tame Impala & JENNIE

“Billie Jean” - Michael Jackson

“National Treasures” - Drake

“Janice STFU” - Drake

“Rein Me In” - Sam Fender & Olivia Dean

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• BTS will release a behind-the-scenes video of their visit to Mexico’s National Palace on May 27, including their meeting with President Claudia Sheinbaum and greeting 50,000 fans. The visit drew some criticism for being politicized, though Sheinbaum hopes to bring them back.

• BTS partnered with Oreo on a limited-edition hotteok-inspired flavor, featuring 13 unique cookie designs and packaging celebrating Korean street markets. Presale begins June 1, with retail availability June 8.

• Carlos Vives’ “Te Dedico” hits No. 1 on Latin Airplay, his 17th chart-topper and first solo No. 1 in nearly eight years. The track also leads Tropical Airplay and climbs to No. 24 on Hot Latin Songs.

• Olivia Rodrigo’s Spotify Billions Club Live performance in Barcelona will debut as a concert film May 27, featuring hits including her latest Hot 100 No. 1, “drop dead.”

• Bad Bunny will voice “Pizza with Sunglasses” in Toy Story 5, expanding his Hollywood work after roles in Happy Gilmore 2 and Caught Stealing.

• Randy Travis will wrap his More Life Tour this fall with final dates across multiple U.S. states. Presales start May 27; general sales May 29.

• Kehlani announced a 33-date North American tour running August–October, starting in Minneapolis and ending in San Francisco. Presale begins May 27; general onsale May 29.

• Universal Music Group and Sony Music are seeking to add 61,000+ recordings to their lawsuit against AI company Suno, alleging unauthorized use of millions of copyrighted tracks in training data.

• The Spider-Noir soundtrack, starring Nicolas Cage, releases digitally May 27 and on vinyl August 28. Composed by Kris Bowers and Michael Dean Parsons, it blends noir and superhero styles.

• Rolling Stone’s best TV theme songs list (2022): No. 1 The Jeffersons; No. 2 (tie) The Brady Bunch and Gilligan’s Island; No. 3 Sanford and Son; No. 4 Crazy Ex-Girlfriend; No. 5 Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.
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BTS dominated the 2026 American Music Awards, winning Artist of the Year, Song of the Summer (“Swim”), and Best Male K-Pop Artist, bringing their total to 14 AMAs. Taylor Swift went winless despite eight nominations. Bruno Mars, Cardi B, KATSEYE, Sabrina Carpenter, HUNTR/X, and Sombr each won three awards. Hosted by Queen Latifah in Las Vegas.

Jack Osbourne defended the “Digital Ozzy” AI avatar project, developed with Hyperreal and Proto Hologram. The interactive Ozzy Osbourne experience will roll out via Proto Luma units in the U.K. and U.S. later this summer.

Bruce Springsteen has received increased death threats during his politically outspoken Land of Hope and Dreams Tour, prompting FBI concern and heightened security measures.

The Pretty Reckless released “Dear God,” the title track from their upcoming fifth album (June 26). The 14-track record is described as their most emotionally raw, with a world tour planned.

“KPop Demon Hunters” will receive a physical release (DVD, Blu-ray, 4K) via the Criterion Collection, including bonus content, following its Netflix debut.

Linda Storm is launching The StormHold in Santa Fe, a multi-sensory cultural space for art, music, and storytelling, blending ancient traditions with modern creativity.

Jazz legend Sonny Rollins died at 95. A pioneering tenor saxophonist, he influenced generations, wrote standards like “St. Thomas,” and earned a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Record Club launched as a music-focused social platform, letting users track listening, rate albums, build lists, and connect with other fans.

Drake became the first artist to hold the top three spots on the Billboard 200 simultaneously with albums Iceman, Habibti, and Maid of Honour, his first solo releases since 2023.

Top 5 Albums unchanged:

1. The Great Divide – Noah Kahan
2. Dandelion – Ella Langley
3. GreenGreen – Cortis
4. I’m the Problem – Morgan Wallen
5. Thriller – Michael Jackson

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Ozzy Osbourne will return as an AI-powered digital avatar later this summer, with Sharon and Jack Osbourne presenting it as a new way for fans to interact with the late rock legend.

billboard.com

Spotify and Universal Music Group announced new licensing agreements that will let Premium users create AI-generated covers and remixes using songs from participating artists and songwriters.

variety.com

Ricky Martin was forced to pause a free concert in Podgorica, Montenegro, after someone reportedly sprayed tear gas toward the stage, though his representatives later confirmed he was safe and unharmed.

billboard.com

Christina Aguilera, Will Smith, Jill Scott, and DJ Jazzy Jeff will headline Philadelphia’s free “One Philly: Unity Concert for America” on July 4 as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary festivities.

billboard.com

The Smashing Pumpkins have reunited with producer Butch Vig for their first new song together since Siamese Dream, with Billy Corgan saying the track is “98 percent done.”

nme.com

Kate Bush won her first-ever film award after her anti-war animated short Little Shrew (Snowflake) earned the animation prize at the Carmarthen Bay Film Festival in Wales.

variety.com

Netflix released the trailer for Michael Jackson: The Verdict, a new three-part docuseries about Jackson’s 2005 child molestation trial and acquittal, premiering June 3.

variety.com

Mick Jagger was spotted on the Italian island of Stromboli after filming Alice Rohrwacher’s new movie Three Incestuous Sisters, in which he plays a lighthouse keeper.

digitalmusicnews.com

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Harry Styles’ team says it is reviewing and making adjustments after some VIP floor ticket holders complained that elevated catwalks obstructed their views on his “Together, Together” tour.

Billboard

Post Malone has announced Australia and New Zealand dates for his “Big Ass World Tour,” including stadium shows, Strummingbird Festival appearances, and Don Toliver as special guest.

Billboard

BTS will make a special appearance at the 2026 American Music Awards, marking their first award show appearance together in four years.

Billboard

Jung Kook’s new “Jung Kook for Calvin Klein” capsule collection quickly sold out online after debuting, though select pieces are still available at some stores and pop-ups.

Billboard

Bad Bunny has launched a new 150-piece Zara collaboration called “Benito Antonio,” blending streetwear, tailoring, summer pieces, and Puerto Rican-inspired design.

Billboard

Apple Music says AI-generated music still accounts for significantly less than 1% of listening on the platform, even as AI-created uploads continue to rise.

Digital Music News

Michael Jackson has become the first artist to spend 100 cumulative weeks at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, helped by Thriller’s return to the top spot.

Billboard

Ariana Grande is marking the 10th anniversary of Dangerous Woman with a deluxe digital reissue, new vinyl variants, and the long-awaited fan favorite “Knew Better Part Two.”

Billboard

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CORTIS earns its first No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Album Sales chart as “GREENGREEN” debuts with 81,500 copies, marking their second top 10 following 2025’s “COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES.” Other chart debuts include Social Distortion, Josh Groban, Black Veil Brides, and Neil Diamond.

Influencer Gabriela Gonzalez was arrested for allegedly plotting to hire a hitman to kill ex-boyfriend Jack Avery (Why Don’t We) amid a custody dispute. Gonzalez, her father, and her then-boyfriend face attempted murder, conspiracy, and solicitation charges.

The Jonas Brothers launch “Hey Jonas!” podcast via iHeartMedia, premiering May 20. The show features personal stories, fan call-ins, bonus episodes, and exclusive interviews.

Cardi B leads 2026 BET Awards nominations with six; Kendrick Lamar and Mariah the Scientist follow with five each. The ceremony airs June 28 and introduces new categories including Fashion Vanguard and Pulse Awards.

Billy Joel’s camp criticized the upcoming biopic “Billy & Me” as unauthorized and misguided, while the filmmakers defend its accuracy and intent.

Misha Mansoor partnered with Jackson on the Pro Plus Series Juggernaut ET8, an 8-string guitar with EverTune bridge, signature pickups, 27” scale, and limited Nardo Gray finish.

Kraftwerk reissues 1975’s “Radio-Activity” for its 50th anniversary. Once divisive, the experimental album is now viewed as influential and forward-thinking.

Xandria announces new album “Eclipse,” due August 7, described as their most cinematic release. First single “The Shannon’s Home” arrives with a video.

Listverse highlights unusual No. 1 hits

1.“Disco Duck” (Rick Dees)

2. “Star Wars/Cantina Band” (Meco)

3. “Dominique” (The Singing Nun)

4. “Bat Dance” (Prince)

5. “Stars on 45.”

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Felicity Lott, acclaimed British soprano known for Mozart and Strauss roles—especially the Marschallin in Der Rosenkavalier—died at 79 from lung cancer. She was also a noted recitalist, frequently collaborating with pianist Graham Johnson.

Congressional Democrats held a “shadow hearing” criticizing the DOJ’s Live Nation settlement as too lenient for allowing Ticketmaster ownership to remain. Lawmakers and witnesses, including California AG Rob Bonta, pushed for a breakup citing monopoly concerns; Live Nation plans to appeal.

Casting was announced for CrazySexyCool — The TLC Musical, with Holli’ Gabrielle Conway, Jade Milan, and Stoney B. Woods portraying T-Boz, Left Eye, and Chilli. The show runs June 12–Aug. 9 in Washington, D.C., ahead of TLC’s It’s Iconic Tour with Salt-N-Pepa and En Vogue.

Slipknot members’ long-shelved album Look Outside Your Window gets a worldwide release June 12 on vinyl and CD. The 10-track project includes guest vocals from Cristina Scabbia and was previously a Record Store Day exclusive.

Static-X canceled all 2026 tour dates due to serious medical issues requiring immediate attention, with plans to return in 2027.

Broadway’s Just In Time, a jukebox musical about Bobby Darin starring Jonathan Groff, has recouped its $12.5M investment after just over a year. A North American tour launches June 2027.

Spotify will drop its temporary disco-ball app icon—introduced for its 20th anniversary—after user backlash over readability and branding concerns, returning to its standard logo.

A Spanish court acquitted Shakira of tax fraud, ordering a ~$65M refund after ruling authorities failed to prove residency requirements. She called the decision vindication after years of scrutiny.

A Colorado elementary school staged a 75-minute musical based on Phish’s Gamehendge lore, featuring characters like King Wilson and the Famous Mockingbird.

Billboard Top 5 Albums:

1. The Great Divide – Noah Kahan
2. Dandelion – Ella Langley
3. GreenGreen – Cortis
4. I’m the Problem – Morgan Wallen
5. Thriller – Michael Jackson

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Ella Langley dominated the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards, winning five honors including Song and Single of the Year for “Choosin’ Texas.” Cody Johnson took Entertainer and Male Artist of the Year, with Brooks & Dunn winning Duo and Avery Anna named New Female Artist. Hosted by Shania Twain.

ACM Awards winners list

Bulgaria won the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest with Dara’s “Bangaranga,” its first victory since joining in 2005, securing hosting duties for 2027.

Eurovision 2026 recap

Noah Kahan’s “The Great Divide” logs a third week at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the first rock album to do so in over a decade. CORTIS debuts at No. 3; Chris Brown earns his 13th top 10 with “BROWN” at No. 7.

Billboard 200 update

Two tracks from “Masters of the Universe” featuring Brian May are out now. Composer Daniel Pemberton calls it “the most maximalist score ever.” Film stars Nicholas Galitzine, Jared Leto, and Idris Elba; releases June 5.

Masters of the Universe soundtrack details

The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” returned to No. 1 at the North American box office with $26.1M, reaching $703.9M globally. “Obsession” opened strong at $16.1M.

Box office report

“Di’Anno – Iron Maiden’s Lost Singer,” a documentary on Paul Di’Anno, arrives in North America in June, covering his career, health struggles, and return to performing.

Paul Di’Anno documentary

DETHKLOK’s Milwaukee show was cut short after heavy smoke and fog effects triggered fire alarms. The band is touring with AMON AMARTH and CASTLE RAT for its 20th anniversary.

DETHKLOK concert incident

Dennis Locorriere of Dr. Hook died at 76 after kidney disease. The band was known for ‘70s hits like “Sylvia’s Mother” and “The Cover of Rolling Stone.”

Dennis Locorriere obituary

Met Opera GM Peter Gelb faces financial strain, including a $30M shortfall, while pushing modernization efforts like new works and Broadway collaborations amid mixed reception.

Met Opera leadership challenges

Quebec duo Angine de Poitrine broke out after a viral KEXP set; their album “Vol. II” topped 20M Spotify streams, highlighting niche music’s global reach.

Angine de Poitrine breakout

Top 5 Singles:

5. Bruno Mars – “I Just Might”

4. Olivia Dean – “Man I Need”

3. Olivia Rodrigo – “Drop Dead”

2. Ella Langley – “Be Her”

1. Ella Langley – “Choosin Texas”
2. Billboard charts Instagram

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DMH Discord

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Drake released a surprise 43-song package split across Iceman, Habibti, and Maid of Honour, marking his first solo project since 2023 after months of “Episode” livestreams and ice-themed marketing.

billboard.com

Dua Lipa announced Dua Lipa: Live From Mexico, a concert film premiering on YouTube May 21 and a live album arriving May 22, both recorded during her three sold-out Mexico City shows on the Radical Optimism Tour.

billboard.com

Britney Spears’ representative denied reports that she behaved erratically during a Los Angeles dinner outing, saying the claims were “completely blown out of proportion” and criticizing the continued media scrutiny around her.

billboard.com

Fetty Wap announced his 2026 Nostalgia Tour, a return to live performances built around hits like “Trap Queen” as nostalgia-driven concert demand continues.

music-news.com

Paris Jackson won a legal victory in her dispute over Michael Jackson’s estate after a judge ruled that $625,000 in unauthorized attorney bonus payments must be returned and barred similar future payments without approval.

music-news.com

The Library of Congress added 25 recordings to the National Recording Registry, including Taylor Swift’s 1989, Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” and Weezer’s Blue Album.

variety.com

Pete Townshend entered a new rights partnership with Primary Wave covering certain music rights, name, image, likeness, and future creative opportunities tied to The Who and his solo work.

variety.com

New Releases:

“Ran to Atlanta” - Drake, Future and Molly Santana

music.apple.com

“Falling Out of Love” - The Strokes

music.apple.com

“Hit the Wall” - Gracie Abrams

music.apple.com

“Dai Dai” - Shakira and Burna Boy

music.apple.com

Daily Music Headlines is written and hosted by Brian Ibbott and Eileen Rivera. It is produced by Hammond Chamberlain and Anthony Lemos. Our executive producer is Tom Merritt. Our theme music is by Lex Dallas and the State Street Players.

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