Category Archives: News

New Music, News

BottleRock Napa Valley Announces 2025 Lineup: Justin Timberlake, Noah Kahan & More

Leave a comment
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

The 2025 edition of BottleRock Napa Valley is set to kick off the summer festival season in style, with an impressive lineup featuring Noah Kahan, Green Day, Justin Timberlake, and more. Taking place from May 23 to 25 at the Napa Valley Expo, the festival promises an unforgettable Memorial Day weekend with its mix of world-class music, Napa’s renowned culinary scene, and a picturesque wine country backdrop.

A Stellar Lineup

Headlining the festival are pop-punk legends Green Day, pop icon Justin Timberlake, and folk-pop sensation Noah Kahan. They’ll be joined by an eclectic array of artists spanning genres, including reggae-rockers Sublime, indie pop talent Benson Boone, and the alt-rock powerhouse Cage The Elephant. Hip-hop fans can look forward to performances by legendary rapper Ice Cube, hip-hop pioneers Public Enemy, and Bay Area favorite E-40.

Adding a nostalgic touch to the weekend is the reunion of ’90s rock band 4 Non Blondes, performing together for the first time in decades. Psychedelic groove outfit Khruangbin will also bring their unique sound to BottleRock’s five stages, further cementing the festival’s reputation for curating a diverse musical experience.

More Than Just Music

BottleRock is as much about the culinary experience as it is about the music. Attendees will have access to gourmet food and drink offerings from local Napa chefs and restaurateurs, including premium wines, craft beers, and cocktails. A highlight of the festival is the Williams Sonoma Culinary Stage, where celebrity chefs and artists team up for live cooking demonstrations, blending entertainment with gastronomy.

Ticket Options and Social Responsibility

Tickets for the festival range from single-day passes starting at $233 to full weekend passes at $456. VIP options are also available, offering perks like exclusive viewing areas, premium bars, and shaded lounges.

In addition to its celebratory atmosphere, BottleRock aligns with social responsibility by supporting California’s wildfire relief efforts, matching up to $50,000 in donations. This initiative underscores the festival’s commitment to giving back to the local community.

A Must-Attend Summer Event

With its stunning Napa Valley setting, diverse musical lineup, and exceptional culinary offerings, BottleRock Napa Valley stands out as a premier destination on the summer festival circuit. Drawing around 40,000 attendees daily, it’s an event that blends culture, entertainment, and philanthropy into a truly unique experience.

Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or simply looking to kick off summer with style, BottleRock Napa Valley 2025 offers something for everyone. Tickets are on sale now, so secure your spot for this can’t-miss Memorial Day weekend celebration. Visit BottleRock’s official website for more details.

New Music, News

Jazz Fest Releases 2025 Lineup: Kacey Musgraves, Pearl Jam & More

Leave a comment
Kacey Musgraves performs at Weekend One of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

The 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event, set to take place from April 24 to May 4 at the iconic New Orleans Fairgrounds. Known for its eclectic mix of music, culture, and food, this year’s lineup is a testament to the festival’s ability to bring together global superstars and local legends in celebration of New Orleans’ rich heritage.

The headliners this year are nothing short of spectacular. Pearl Jam is set to deliver their signature blend of grunge and rock, while the Dave Matthews Band promises an energetic set featuring their timeless hits. Country superstar Luke Combs will bring his chart-topping anthems to the stage, and Lil Wayne, paired with The Roots, is sure to provide an unforgettable fusion of hip-hop and live instrumentation. Fans can also look forward to powerhouse performances by Lenny Kravitz, who consistently stuns with his dynamic stage presence, and Kacey Musgraves, whose genre-bending artistry continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Other major acts include Santana, whose legendary guitar riffs are sure to electrify the crowd, and John Fogerty, delivering a set that will likely include classics from his Creedence Clearwater Revival days. Burna Boy, one of the hottest names in Afrobeats, will add an international flair to the lineup, while HAIM’s infectious indie rock and Joan Jett & the Blackhearts’ iconic punk anthems will round out the diverse roster.

New Orleans’ own Big Freedia will undoubtedly bring the house down with her high-energy bounce music, reminding everyone why the city is a hub for musical innovation. Fans of indie rock will be thrilled to see My Morning Jacket on the bill, while jazz enthusiasts can revel in the artistry of Kamasi Washington, a modern-day torchbearer for the genre. Louisiana natives Better Than Ezra will also take the stage, delivering the alternative rock sound that has kept them beloved by fans for decades.

The festival, as always, is about more than just music. It’s a celebration of the cultural fabric that makes New Orleans unique. Festival-goers can expect an abundance of food vendors serving up classic Louisiana dishes like gumbo, po’boys, crawfish, and beignets. The festival also showcases local artisans and craftspeople, offering handmade goods and artworks that reflect the city’s vibrant creative spirit.

In addition to the headliners, the lineup will feature hundreds of other artists spanning a variety of genres, from jazz and blues to R&B, gospel, rock, and more. With multiple stages set up across the fairgrounds, attendees can explore a musical journey that celebrates both contemporary stars and the deep roots of Louisiana’s music traditions.

For those planning to attend, ticket options include single-day passes, multi-day passes, and VIP packages that offer premium perks like closer stage access and exclusive amenities. The Jazz Fest is not just a music festival; it’s an immersive cultural experience that attracts music lovers from around the globe.

With such a diverse and expansive lineup, the 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival promises to be one of the standout events of the year. Whether you’re a fan of classic rock, hip-hop, country, jazz, or bounce, there’s something for everyone at this iconic festival. Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to experience the magic of Jazz Fest in the heart of New Orleans.

New Music, News

Bonnaroo 2025 Lineup Brings Major Headliners, Innovative New Stage, and More

Leave a comment
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

The legendary Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival is back for 2025, promising four days of unforgettable music, immersive experiences, and camping under the Tennessee stars. Taking place from June 12-15 on the famed Bonnaroo Farm, the festival has revealed a star-studded lineup, headlined by Luke Combs, Tyler, The Creator, Olivia Rodrigo, and Hozier.

This year’s lineup spans genres and generations, featuring marquee acts like Glass Animals, Avril Lavigne, Vampire Weekend, and Queens of the Stone Age. Bonnaroo 2025 will also host an exclusive Roo Residency with King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard performing three unique sets across three days.

Another major highlight is the debut of “The Infinity Stage,” a cutting-edge venue boasting the world’s largest 360° spatial audio experience. This one-of-a-kind addition is set to redefine live music with synchronized lights, spatial sound, and a three-dome open-air design.

The Lineup Highlights

  • Thursday, June 12: Luke Combs kicks off the festival, joined by acts like Dom Dolla, Marcus King, and Insane Clown Posse.
  • Friday, June 13: Tyler, The Creator headlines, with support from John Summit, Glass Animals, Goose, and Marina.
  • Saturday, June 14: Olivia Rodrigo leads a powerhouse day with Avril Lavigne, Justice, GloRilla, Modest Mouse, and Nelly.
  • Sunday, June 15: Hozier closes the festival alongside Vampire Weekend, Queens of the Stone Age, and Dispatch.

Fans can also look forward to Remi Wolf’s “Insanely Fire 1970’s Pool Party” Superjam on Saturday and surprise collaborations throughout the weekend.

Tickets and Camping Options

Tickets go on sale tomorrow, January 9, at 10 AM CT exclusively at bonnaroo.com. Early buyers can secure the lowest-priced 4-day General Admission (GA) tickets during the first hour of sales. Tiered options include GA+, VIP, and Platinum, each offering escalating levels of perks like lounge access, upgraded viewing areas, and exclusive gifts.

Camping options range from budget-friendly Primitive Car Camping to luxurious glamping setups like Safari Tents. The newly introduced “Closer” accommodations guarantee proximity to Centeroo for enhanced convenience. Daily parking passes are also available for non-camping attendees.

Why Bonnaroo 2025 Is Unmissable

Beyond the stellar lineup, Bonnaroo is known for its unique vibe, blending world-class music with community and creativity. The addition of “The Infinity Stage” underscores the festival’s commitment to innovation, while the Roo Residency and Superjam keep the spirit of surprise collaborations alive.

Whether you’re here for the music, the camping, or the immersive atmosphere, Bonnaroo 2025 promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience. Secure your spot starting tomorrow, and prepare to join the thousands of Bonnaroovians flocking to Manchester this summer!

New Music, News

Peabody Conservatory Introduces Groundbreaking Hip-Hop Bachelor’s Degree, Featuring Lupe Fiasco as Inaugural Faculty Member

Leave a comment
Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

In a historic move, the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University has announced the launch of the nation’s first Bachelor of Music in Hip Hop program. Set to welcome its first class in fall 2025, the program will be led by acclaimed composer, producer, and pianist Wendel Patrick, with Grammy Award-winning rapper and producer Lupe Fiasco joining as a distinguished visiting artist.

A Trailblazing Program for a Cultural Phenomenon

This new degree represents a significant milestone in recognizing hip-hop’s cultural and artistic impact. Peabody, the first conservatory in the United States, will now be home to the first undergraduate program dedicated to hip-hop, blending its tradition of innovation with the dynamic, evolving art form of hip-hop.

The program will cover essential elements of hip-hop, including rapping, beatboxing, turntablism, and producing, alongside coursework exploring the cultural history, technique, and technological evolution of the genre. Students will receive private instruction from world-class practitioners and collaborate within Baltimore’s thriving hip-hop scene.

Dean Fred Bronstein emphasized the importance of this initiative, saying, “Peabody has been a leader at the intersection of art and education for over 150 years. We couldn’t be more excited to foster and support the talents of future generations of hip-hop artists in collaboration with those who are pushing the art form forward.”

Wendel Patrick and Lupe Fiasco Lead the Charge

Wendel Patrick, known for his visionary music production and classical and jazz expertise, has played a pivotal role in integrating hip-hop into Peabody’s curriculum since 2016. As co-founder of the Baltimore Boom Bap Society and a former Nasir Jones Hip Hop Fellow at Harvard, Patrick brings a wealth of experience and a passion for mentoring the next generation of artists.

Lupe Fiasco, celebrated for his intricate lyricism and socially conscious music, will further elevate the program. Known for his critically acclaimed albums, including Food & Liquor and Samurai, Fiasco has also made a mark as an educator, teaching “Rap Theory and Practice” at MIT. He described his involvement at Peabody as an opportunity to advance hip-hop within higher education, saying, “I’m honored to be joining the faculty of the prestigious Peabody Conservatory doing what I love most, rap.”

A Gateway to the Future of Hip-Hop Education

With its robust curriculum and access to Peabody’s Music Engineering and Technology (MET) program, the Bachelor of Music in Hip Hop aims to equip students with the artistic and entrepreneurial skills needed for success in today’s music industry. From mastering the craft of performance to engaging with the broader sociopolitical context of hip-hop, the program promises to shape the future of the genre while staying rooted in its cultural heritage.

Applications for the program are open through January 24, 2025. For more information, visit peabody.jhu.edu/hip-hop.

With its groundbreaking approach, Peabody Conservatory is once again leading the way in reimagining the future of music education—this time through the lens of hip-hop.

New Music, News

ODESZA Announces Exclusive DJ Residency at Wynn Las Vegas

Leave a comment

GRAMMY-nominated electronic music duo ODESZA is set to bring their innovative sounds to the Las Vegas Strip in 2025 with an exclusive five-date DJ residency at Wynn Las Vegas. Beginning in May, Clayton Knight and Harrison Mills will perform at the resort’s renowned nightlife and daylife venues, XS Nightclub and Encore Beach Club.

A First for Wynn Nightlife

This marks ODESZA’s debut at Wynn Las Vegas, joining the venue’s esteemed roster of top-tier artists. Known for their emotionally resonant and melodic electronic music, the duo has been captivating audiences worldwide with their original stage productions and select DJ appearances. Now, fans will have the chance to experience ODESZA in an intimate club setting as part of Wynn’s luxury entertainment offerings.

Residency Dates

  • May 15: XS Nightclub
  • May 24: Encore Beach Club
  • July 4: XS Nightclub
  • August 29: XS Nightclub
  • September 13: Encore Beach Club

The residency will feature a blend of ODESZA’s signature sounds, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience in one of the most luxurious nightlife destinations in the world.

Tickets and VIP Experiences

Tickets for the residency and VIP table reservations are now available at Wynn Nightlife’s website. Given ODESZA’s massive following and history of sold-out shows, early reservations are highly recommended.

A Legacy of Excellence

Wynn Nightlife, a leader in premier entertainment on the Las Vegas Strip, offers world-class venues such as XS Nightclub and Encore Beach Club, celebrated for their opulence and star-studded lineups. Known for hosting the hottest names in music, Wynn Las Vegas sets the gold standard in nightlife, and ODESZA’s addition to the roster only reinforces its reputation as a hub for unforgettable live experiences.

ODESZA fans won’t want to miss this chance to see the duo in a more intimate setting, where their genre-defying soundscapes are sure to leave a lasting impression. For more details and updates, visit Wynn Nightlife’s website.

New Music, News

Outer Banks Star Madison Bailey Dives Deep with New Single “Honestly”

Leave a comment

Madison Bailey, the multi-talented actress and rising singer-songwriter, continues her journey into music with the release of her poignant new single, “Honestly,” available now via Republic Records.

The track offers an emotional and raw portrayal of resilience, featuring an acoustic guitar-driven melody that complements Bailey’s gentle yet commanding vocals. The heartfelt chorus, “Honestly, I can’t take another tragedy,” encapsulates a feeling of vulnerability that resonates deeply, while lyrics like “Every day just feels like it’s the hardest” overflow with palpable emotion.

Bailey herself describes the song as “vulnerable and candid,” sharing, “‘Honestly’ is a really vulnerable and candid song. It’s a deep cut, but it’s also very matter of fact. It really describes that feeling of ‘how much more can I possibly take?’ I hope people sing their hearts out to this one in the car.”

Fans won’t have to wait long for a visual component—Bailey teased the upcoming release of a cinematic music video to accompany the track.

This release follows her debut single, “The Grey,” which dropped earlier this fall and quickly amassed over a million streams. Critics were quick to praise Bailey’s foray into music, with The Hollywood Reporter celebrating her return to her “first love,” Teen Vogue likening the track to nostalgic early 2000s pop-R&B hits, and WhoWhatWear lauding her empowering lyrics and sound.

Best known for her breakout role as Kiara Carrera on Netflix’s hit series Outer Banks, Bailey’s pivot to music feels like a natural evolution of her creative expression. Growing up in North Carolina, she honed her musical talents through church choirs, vocal groups, and talent competitions, all while dreaming of sharing her voice with the world.

Though she first made a name for herself as an actress, starring in acclaimed projects like Black Lightning, American Horror Stories, and Creepshow, Bailey’s passion for music never waned. Between filming seasons of Outer Banks, she found time to pursue music seriously, eventually signing with Republic Records.

With “Honestly” and her earlier single “The Grey,” Bailey is proving herself as an authentic and versatile artist with much to say. As she continues to release music, fans and critics alike are taking note of her ability to channel emotion into captivating melodies.

Stay tuned for more from Madison Bailey as she continues to carve out her space in the music world, blending vulnerability with undeniable talent.

News

AC/DC Set to Return to Chicago for Their First U.S. Tour in 9 Years

Leave a comment

AC/DC at Coachella
AC/DC performing at Coachella in Indio, CA on April 11, 2015.

Legendary rock icons AC/DC are charging up their amps for a long-awaited return to the stage, announcing their highly anticipated “Power Up” North American Stadium Tour. Set to electrify 13 cities, this marks the band’s first U.S. tour in nearly a decade. Among the powerhouse dates, Chicago’s Soldier Field is poised to host what could be the Midwest’s most epic rock event of the year on May 24, 2025.

Kicking off in Minneapolis on April 10, the tour brings the iconic Aussie rockers to some of the most storied venues across the continent. The Chicago date is particularly exciting, as Soldier Field has a rich history of hosting some of the biggest names in music. AC/DC’s visit promises to add another chapter to that legacy, thrilling fans with their legendary anthems, stage energy, and jaw-dropping pyrotechnics.

The current lineup features a blend of classic and newer members: Angus Young shredding on lead guitar, Brian Johnson belting out vocals, Stevie Young handling rhythm guitar, Matt Laug on drums, and Chris Chaney on bass. This updated lineup has already proven their chemistry with the release of Power Up, their 2020 album, and fans can expect the band to bring that same energy live.

For Chicago fans, this show is particularly significant. Soldier Field offers a fitting backdrop for AC/DC’s larger-than-life sound, blending its historic aura with modern stadium acoustics. Expect the roar of the crowd to echo across the lakefront as AC/DC unleashes classics like “Back in Black,” “Highway to Hell,” and “Thunderstruck,” alongside newer hits.

Tickets for the “Power Up” tour, including the Soldier Field stop, go on sale Friday, December 6, at noon local time. Given the band’s massive following and the rarity of such tours, demand is expected to skyrocket, so fans are urged to secure their spots as soon as possible.

AC/DC’s return to Chicago is more than just a concert — it’s a celebration of rock and roll’s undying spirit, a chance for generations of fans to unite under the electric banner of one of the greatest bands of all time. With a catalog of timeless hits, unparalleled showmanship, and the unmistakable energy that has defined their career, this will undoubtedly be a night to remember.

For ticket information, visit AC/DC’s official website.

  • April 10: US Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, MN
  • April 14: AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX
  • April 18: Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA
  • April 22: BC Place in Vancouver, BC
  • April 26: Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, NV
  • April 30: Ford Field in Detroit, MI
  • May 4: Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, MA
  • May 8: Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA
  • May 12: Northwest Stadium in Landover, MD
  • May 16: Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL
  • May 20: Nissan Stadium in Nashville, TN
  • May 24: Soldier Field in Chicago, IL
  • May 28: Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, OH
New Music, News

Kacey Musgraves Unveils Stunning Music Video for “The Architect”

Leave a comment
Kacey Musgraves levitates into the air during a memorable opening to her Chicago performance at the Allstate Arena on September 12, 2024 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Kacey Musgraves just released the visually stunning music video for her song “The Architect,” a standout track from her latest album, Deeper Well. The video serves as a heartfelt tribute to the awe-inspiring beauty of nature, capturing its intricate wonders.

Last month, Musgraves delivered a stripped-down acoustic rendition of “The Architect” at the 2024 CMA Awards, a performance that resonated deeply with viewers. The song has garnered critical acclaim, earning two Grammy nominations for Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance, among the five total nods Musgraves received this year. Rooted in themes of existential reflection, the track delves into questions about life’s purpose, the possibility of a higher power, and whether existence follows a preordained design.

Musgraves shared the story behind the song, written alongside Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne in Nashville. “We wrote it shortly after the devastating Covenant School shooting,” she recalled. “The community was in shock, and everything felt so unsettling and terrifying. When we gathered to write, there was this sense of guilt — that we could sit down and create something beautiful while such unimaginable tragedy had just occurred.”

This heavy moment sparked an open discussion about the complexities of life. “It’s baffling how so much suffering can coexist with so much beauty. It’s this strange, bittersweet duality of being human, especially in today’s world.”

Musgraves’ poignant words and the emotive visuals in “The Architect” highlight her ability to confront life’s profound questions through her music, offering listeners a space for contemplation and connection.

New Music, News

Justice Announces 2025 Tour, Red Rocks Performance Highlights Dates

Leave a comment
Justice photo by Matt Weinberger

Fresh off the heels of two Grammy nominations and a major accolade for their live show, French electronic music legends Justice have announced a new leg of US tour dates for 2025. The extension of their critically acclaimed Justice: Live tour kicks off with a headline slot at San Diego’s CRSSD Festival on March 1-2 and culminates with a landmark performance at Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre on May 25.

The tour, which recently earned the “Best International Tour” title at the NRJ Awards, continues to redefine live electronic music experiences. Known for their groundbreaking visuals and explosive energy, Justice’s 2024 highlights included a headline set at Coachella’s Outdoor Stage and a pair of sold-out performances at Paris’s Accor Arena.

The 2025 US dates feature a mix of festival appearances—such as M3F Festival in Phoenix and Kilby Block Party in Salt Lake City—and headline shows in Dallas, Austin, San Francisco, and Santa Barbara. Tickets go on sale to the general public starting Friday, Dec. 6, at 10 a.m. local time, with an artist presale available Thursday, Dec. 5.

A Grammy-Nominated Return

The tour coincides with the success of Hyperdrama, Justice’s first album in eight years. The album, which has been nominated for two Grammy Awards, includes the hit single “Neverender” featuring Tame Impala and collaborations with artists like Thundercat, Miguel, and Connan Mockasin. Hyperdrama has been praised for its eclectic sound and features a host of handpicked collaborators, solidifying Justice’s place as pioneers in electronic music.

2025 US Tour Dates:

  • March 1-2: CRSSD Festival – San Diego, CA
  • March 5: The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory – Dallas, TX
  • March 6: Moody Center – Austin, TX
  • March 7-8: M3F Festival – Phoenix, AZ
  • May 18: Kilby Block Party – Salt Lake City, UT
  • May 21: Bill Graham Civic Auditorium – San Francisco, CA
  • May 23: Santa Barbara Bowl – Santa Barbara, CA
  • May 25: Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO

The announcement comes as Justice continues their world tour, which includes dates across Europe, the UK, and South America. Fans can expect the group’s signature mix of dazzling visuals, innovative lighting, and live renditions of highlights from their four-album discography.

For tickets and more information, visit Justice’s official tour page.

News

Post Malone Announces 2025 “Big Ass Stadium Tour” with a Wrigley Field Stop

Leave a comment
Post Malone performs at Lollapalooza 2021.
Post Malone performs at Lollapalooza 2021 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Post Malone is set to embark on an extensive stadium tour in 2025, marking a significant milestone in his evolving musical journey. The “Big Ass Stadium Tour” will feature co-headliner Jelly Roll and special guest Sierra Ferrell on select dates. The tour is scheduled to commence on April 13, 2025, in Indio, California, and will conclude on July 11 in San Francisco.

Chicago fans can look forward to a performance at Wrigley Field on May 22, 2025, offering a unique opportunity to experience Post Malone’s dynamic live show in one of the city’s most iconic venues.

This tour follows the release of Post Malone’s country album, “F-1 Trillion,” which has garnered significant attention for its genre-blending collaborations with artists such as Morgan Wallen, Blake Shelton, and Luke Combs. The album’s success has been bolstered by tracks like “I Had Some Help” and “Pour Me a Drink,” which have resonated with both country and mainstream audiences.

Jelly Roll, featured on the track “Losers,” will join Post Malone for most of the tour dates. His recent album, “Beautifully Broken,” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, further solidifying his presence in the music industry. Sierra Ferrell, who collaborated with Post Malone on “Never Love You Again,” will also make appearances during the tour, adding her unique musical style to the lineup.

The “Big Ass Stadium Tour” promises a diverse setlist, blending Post Malone’s chart-topping hits with his latest country-infused tracks. Tickets are expected to be in high demand, especially for the Wrigley Field performance, so fans are encouraged to secure their seats promptly.

For a complete list of tour dates and ticket information, visit Post Malone’s official website.