Category Archives: News

New Music, News

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

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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

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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”

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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

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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

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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.

News

Nardwuar Teases Epic Chappell Roan Interview

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Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Renowned music journalist Nardwuar the Human Serviette has once again captivated audiences by previewing an upcoming interview with pop sensation Chappell Roan. The teaser, shared on Nardwuar’s Instagram, features a lively exchange between the two, hinting at a full interview that promises to delve into Roan’s artistic journey and influences.

Nardwuar, celebrated for his in-depth research and engaging interview style, was in Los Angeles this past weekend to cover Tyler, The Creator’s Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival. The festival, held at Dodger Stadium on November 16-17, 2024, marked its 10th anniversary with a stellar lineup, including performances by Erykah Badu, André 3000, and Playboi Carti.

While Nardwuar’s primary focus was the festival, his interaction with Chappell Roan suggests a broader scope of coverage during his time in Los Angeles. Roan, known for her dynamic pop sound and candid lyrics, has been gaining significant attention in the music industry. The forthcoming interview is anticipated to explore her creative process, inspirations, and recent projects.

Nardwuar’s interviews are renowned for their depth and the surprising revelations they often elicit from artists. Fans eagerly await the full conversation with Chappell Roan, expecting insights into her career and personal anecdotes that only Nardwuar’s unique interviewing style can uncover.

Stay tuned to Nardwuar’s social media channels and official website for the release of the full interview. Given his track record, this discussion with Chappell Roan is poised to be both entertaining and enlightening, offering fans a closer look at one of pop music’s rising stars.

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Photos: Gracie Abrams Shines at Kamala Harris “When We Vote Rally” in Madison

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Gracie Abrams
Gracie Abrams delivers a heartfelt performance at the ‘When We Vote Rally’ on October 30, 2024, at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison, Wisconsin (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Gracie Abrams brought her signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and raw authenticity to Madison on a crisp November evening, captivating attendees at the “When We Vote Rally.” While the event showcased various artists and speakers advocating for civic engagement and showing support for Kamala Harris, Abrams’ performance became a standout moment, creating an atmosphere that was both intimate and inspiring.

Taking the stage with her warm presence, Abrams performed a selection of fan favorites and new tracks, her emotive voice resonating with the crowd. Her small setlist underscored the importance of connection—a fitting theme for a rally dedicated to empowering communities and mobilizing voters.

This photo series highlights Abrams’ performance, capturing the raw emotion and moments that made her set unforgettable. Whether it was her poignant delivery of “Risk” or her heartfelt interaction with the crowd, each frame tells the story of her magnetic energy and the collective power of music at the heart of the rally.

As the audience swayed to her music, many were visibly moved by the seamless blend of artistry and advocacy, reinforcing the idea that music can be a unifying force for change. Gracie Abrams left her mark not just as an artist but as a voice for action, reminding everyone in attendance of the power of showing up—both at the polls and in moments like these.

Concert Photos, Features, News

ACL Fest Weekend 2 Day 3 in Photos: Chappell Roan, That Mexican OT, Orville Peck & More

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Singer Chappell Roan proved why her star is on the rise with a memorable golden hour set for the final day of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Day 3 of the Austin City Limits Festival’s second weekend capped off the event in a sweltering fashion, with temperatures hitting record highs. Despite the heat, festival-goers were treated to a diverse lineup of artists, delivering high-energy performances across multiple stages. Here’s a recap of the highlights from the final day.

Petey Petey kicked off the day on the IHG Stage with his usual quirky charm, drawing the audience in by broadcasting the Bears vs. Jaguars game on a giant screen behind him while he performed. His mix of comedic antics and emotional alt-pop songs set the tone for a fun-filled day.

Misterwives On the Honda Stage, Misterwives brought an electrifying performance, with lead singer Mandy Lee delivering her signature dynamic stage presence. Their set closed with fan-favorites “Reflections” and “Our Own House,” complete with energetic guitar riffs and infectious beats that had the crowd bouncing along.

Medium Build Next up was Medium Build on the Miller Lite Stage, blending alt-rock and introspective lyrics into a soulful performance. Their set captivated the crowd as they shared personal stories through music, creating a strong connection with the audience.

Bakar On the T-Mobile Stage, Bakar delivered his unique blend of indie rock and hip-hop. His laid-back yet powerful performance stood out as one of the cooler moments of the hot afternoon, with tracks like “Hell N Back” getting the crowd swaying despite the heat.

Orville Peck Orville Peck graced the Honda Stage in his signature fringed mask, bringing a blend of country and alternative music to life. His haunting baritone voice and western aesthetic captivated the audience, especially during tracks like “Dead of Night.” And for the cherry on top, Peck invited Willie Nelson on stage for a memorable collaboration.

Kevin Abstract Over on the IHG Stage, Kevin Abstract, formerly of Brockhampton, brought an introspective and energetic performance, blending his personal, raw lyrics with an upbeat production. His set was a mix of old favorites and newer tracks, as he engaged with the crowd, offering a deeply personal connection through his music.

That Mexican OT Bringing his blend of Texas hip-hop to the T-Mobile Stage, That Mexican OT had the crowd hyped with tracks like “Johnny Dang.” His rapid-fire flow and heavy beats kept the energy high as festival-goers flocked to his set, even as fans for Chappell Roan began gathering nearby.

Chappell Roan The star of the day was Chappell Roan, who performed to one of the largest crowds ACL has ever seen. Her energetic and theatrical set on the American Express Stage was a festival highlight, especially when she performed “Pink Pony Club,” her final performance of the track in 2024. Fans sporting pink cowboy hats and “Midwest Princess” merch filled the area, making this one of the most memorable moments of the weekend.

Qveen Herby Closing out the night on the IHG Stage was Qveen Herby, whose unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and witchy visuals made for a spellbinding performance. Dressed in a flowing purple velvet cloak, she moved through her set with hits like “Balenciaga Dreams” and “Abracadabra,” offering a perfect close to the final day of ACL.

Day 3 was packed with unforgettable moments, from Petey’s humor to Chappell Roan’s record-breaking crowd. Despite the heat, the artists brought their best, closing out Weekend 2 of ACL with a bang.

Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Concert Photos, Features, News

Photos: Chappell Roan’s Golden Hour Magic Captivates Austin City Limits

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Chappell Roan delivered an epic ACL Fest performance that drew one of the largest crowds in the festival’s history (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Sunday evening at Austin City Limits turned into a pink paradise as Chappell Roan delivered the most talked about set of the weekend. Performing during the golden hour for a potentially record-breaking crowd, Roan’s captivating energy and pop prowess stole the show, despite warming up the stage for the night’s headliner, Tyler the Creator. 

Roan’s 11-song set, packed with fan favorites like Pink Pony Club, Hot To Go!, and Good Luck Babe, was a masterclass in pop performance. With her infectious charm and undeniable stage presence, Chappell had the crowd dancing from start to finish. 

Though Tyler, The Creator held the headlining spot on the American Express stage, it was Chappell Roan who truly headlined the hearts of festivalgoers. Only a few hundred people were spotted at other competing set during her performance, and there was a noticeable exodus from the grounds after she wrapped up. The overwhelming crowd response was so massive that some fans speculate it might rival the all-time ACL attendance record.

Roan’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular, and Sunday’s performance felt like a coronation. With her unique brand of empowering, fun, and unapologetic pop, she didn’t just play the Pink Pony Club—she welcomed everyone into it. Whether it was the glittering outfits or the pink cowboy hats, fans dressed to impress, knowing this would be a show to remember. 

It’s safe to say Chappell Roan is galloping her way to pop superstardom, and after a performance like this, we can’t wait to see where she takes us next. 

Check out our photos from Weekend 2’s most talked about performance below.

Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration

Concert Photos, Features, News

ACL Fest Weekend 2 Day 2 in Photos: Dua Lipa, Renee Rapp, Benson Boone & More

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Among a diverse cast of amazing artists, Dua Lipa shined with her headlining set during Day 2 of the second weekend of the Austin City Limits Music Festival (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).

Day 2 of Weekend 2 at Austin City Limits (ACL) brought another day of incredible performances and unforgettable moments, with artists spanning genres from pop to hip-hop and rock. Despite the scorching temperatures reaching the mid-90s, the energy at Zilker Park was sky-high, especially as artists delivered standout sets across various stages. Here’s a look at some of the most memorable moments captured from the day.

Nico Vega Starting the day with an explosive set, Nico Vega electrified the crowd with their raw energy. Despite the absence of bassist Michael Peña, likely due to his busy acting schedule, the band didn’t miss a beat, keeping the crowd moving with their intense rock sound. Their passionate performance was a reminder of their prowess as a live act.

Valencia Grace Following Nico Vega, Valencia Grace captivated fans with her ethereal vocals and emotionally charged songs. Her performance was intimate yet powerful, showcasing her rising talent in the indie pop scene.

Lola Young Lola Young brought her unique blend of soul and pop to ACL, mesmerizing the audience with her deep, rich voice. Her heartfelt performance on the American Express stage was a perfect way to ease into the heat of the day, leaving fans yearning for more of her compelling sound.

Emei One of the best sets of the weekend so far, Emei took over the BMI stage with an unforgettable performance. Emei’s presence was undeniable, and her fiery performance cemented her as a festival favorite.

Teddy Swims Bringing a soulful twist to the day, Teddy Swims had the crowd swooning with his smooth vocals and heartfelt ballads. His unique blend of R&B and pop had everyone in the audience feeling every note, especially when he performed fan favorites like “Lose Control.”

Elyanna Up next was Elyanna, who delivered a stunning performance filled with Middle Eastern-inspired beats and ethereal vocals. Her blend of traditional and modern sounds created a hypnotic atmosphere, drawing in festival-goers from all over the park.

Remi Wolf Remi Wolf brought the funk with her quirky and colorful set. Known for her energetic and eclectic performances, she had the crowd dancing non-stop with hits like “Photo ID” and “Liquor Store.” Her infectious energy was perfect for the hot Austin afternoon.

Benson Boone Rising star Benson Boone turned heads with his high-energy set, kicking things off with an unexpected bang—literally, as he did flips off his piano. His raw talent and engaging stage presence had the crowd pumped up from start to finish.

Vince Staples Rapper Vince Staples brought a change of pace, delivering his signature sharp lyrics and West Coast sound. His set was one of the most anticipated of the day, and he didn’t disappoint, captivating the audience with tracks like “Norf Norf” and “Big Fish.”

Renee Rapp Renee Rapp gave fans an emotional yet commanding performance. Her powerful vocals and relatable lyrics resonated deeply with the audience, creating a sense of connection that left a lasting impact.

Dua Lipa Closing out Day 2 was none other than Dua Lipa, the pop sensation who headlined the American Express stage. Dua gave fans a sneak peek of what to expect on her upcoming world tour, performing hits like “Levitating” and “Don’t Start Now” with slick choreography and stunning visuals. As the night cooled down, her high-energy set was the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day.

Day 2 was packed with diverse performances, leaving festival-goers excited for what’s to come on Day 3 of ACL’s second weekend. Stay tuned for more photo highlights from the weekend!

Photos by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration