MusicFreaks

Category: Pop

  • Watch Metallica cover The Pogues and The Proclaimers in Dublin and Glasgow

    The legend of Metallica continues to roll through Europe, proving that even decades into their career, these heavyweights remain a force of nature. On the recent leg of their M72 World Tour, the band traded epic stadium shows for heartwarming musical tributes, weaving history and humor into their performance.

    The journey took them across the continent, starting with a spectacular stop in Glasgow where Metallica teamed up with fellow rock royalty to pay homage to Scottish music. Guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo led the charge, using their mid-set segment, dubbed ‘Kirk and Rob Doodle,’ to spotlight iconic acts.

    At one stop, they honored the spirit of The Proclaimers by delivering a powerful rendition of ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’. This musical gesture echoed the enduring passion for great music that defines the heavy music world.

    Just days before this, the band graced Dublin with another moment of musical history. During their performance there, Hammett and Trujillo honored Irish musical heritage by playing Ewan MacColl’s classic ‘Dirty Old Town’, a song steeped in the history of Irish music through acts like The Dubliners and The Pogues.

    This playful tradition of tribute is a staple of Metallica’s live shows, giving Hammett and Trujillo a chance to unleash loose bass-and-guitar jams that celebrate musical heroes. In the past, this segment has celebrated giants like Rammstein with ‘Sonne’, ABBA with ‘Dancing Queen’, and a-ha with ‘Take On Me’, underscoring the band’s unique ability to connect music across genres.

    Amidst the high energy of the tour, there were moments that offered a glimpse into the band’s more human side. During their first Dublin show, Hammett experienced a memorable moment when he slipped from the stage during ‘Seek & Destroy’, later joking about the near-miss on social media.

    This seemingly lighthearted anecdote provided a contrast to the heavy themes they explored. It was just days after Hammett had voiced some candid thoughts on contemporary music, suggesting that songwriting and pop music were simply crap, urging for musicians to create something higher quality.

    “I’m hoping that all these great musicians who can teach themselves through the internet step up and put all that great learning and all that great inspiration into creating new stuff, new songs, the future of music, and at a higher standard than what it is now,” he stated, adding, “Because I’ll say it again, K-R-A-P. Crap. Sorry for all you pop fans out there.”

    As Metallica continue their journey across the UK and Europe with the ‘M72’ tour, they remain an undeniable gateway to heavy music, proving that the majesty of heavy music is still on full display. With remaining dates planned for Cardiff and London, the concert experience promises to be just as ambitious and giddy as the band themselves.

    Credit: NME

  • BTS Kicks Off European Leg of ARIRANG Tour With Highly Anticipated Debut in Spain: ‘Let’s Go Crazy!’

    Madrid served as the electrifying launchpad for the European leg of the BTS ARIRANG World Tour, marking a long-awaited moment for thousands of Spanish fans. The energy was palpable from the moment the gates opened, signaling the beginning of an unforgettable journey.

    More than 66,000 enthusiastic attendees gathered at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Friday (June 26) for the group’s inaugural show in Spain, celebrating a deep connection between the global fanbase and the artists.

    The atmosphere was electric before the music even began. Thousands of light sticks illuminated the stadium stands, creating an energized vibe that radiated throughout the entire performance.

    The concert itself was a vibrant mix of beloved tracks and exciting surprises. The show kicked off with a bang, featuring “Hooligan,” one of the signature songs from ARIRANG, before diving into hits like “Aliens” and “Run BTS.” Over 23 songs, BTS seamlessly blended their newest material with massive career anthems, ensuring every fan was singing along.

    For those who followed the tour closely, the performance offered beloved surprises tailored for the Spanish audience. The selection included special tracks such as “Airplane Pt. 2” and “Interlude: Wings,” adding unique moments to the spectacle.

    The stage itself was a marvel of production, keeping the energy soaring for nearly two and a half hours. A dynamic 360-degree stage system rose, descended, and split into various levels, allowing the seven members to move across the stadium and engage every section of the audience. With around 30 dancers executing complex choreography and costume changes, the performance was a constantly transforming visual feast.

    The interaction between BTS and the audience was deeply personal. The members frequently addressed the crowd in Spanish, sparking huge cheers. V exclaimed, “ARMY is on fire!” while RM shared a playful nod in Spanglish, emphasizing that the fans were absolutely on fire.

    The emotional peak came with a stunning fan gesture during “Body to Body.” Thousands of purple fans simultaneously raised their hands, honoring the group’s first Spanish concert and expressing their years-long devotion. It was a truly touching display of shared love.

    As the night drew to a close, the artists shared heartfelt words with their audience. Jung Kook expressed gratitude by telling the crowd, “I want to hear your scream. We’ve felt your energy so much today. I love you,” eliciting an immediate roar of adoration. Jimin delivered one of the most moving moments when he reflected on the journey, stating, “I kept thinking, why are we only visiting Spain now? For the next tour, we won’t leave Madrid out.” This sentiment perfectly captured the excitement for future encounters.

    The Madrid stop was just the beginning. Following the success in Spain, the group continued their epic journey across Europe in cities like Brussels, London, Munich, and Paris before concluding on March 14, 2027, in Manila, Philippines. The ARIRANG World Tour is set to continue this incredible trajectory.

    Credit: Billboard

  • DANNA Debuts Lucid Dreams Era at Sold-Out Roxy Show & More Uplifting Moments in Latin Music

    The pulse of Latin music is beating louder than ever, weaving a vibrant tapestry of celebration, career triumphs, and deep community connections. This week proved that the momentum isn’t just about charts; it’s about building legacies, celebrating heritage, and sharing unforgettable experiences across continents.

    From high-energy festival announcements to significant industry milestones, the cultural ripple effect of Latin music continues to expand. One major highlight was the anticipation surrounding Ruidosa Fest, which unveiled the lineup for its 2026 New York edition. Returning to Lincoln Center for the third consecutive year, the festival promises an incredible showcase featuring powerhouse female and gender-diverse artists, including Lila Downs, Pabllo Vittar, Francisca Valenzuela, and Elsa y Elmar.

    Meanwhile, the celebration extended deep into hometown pride across the Americas. In Argentina, the focus turned to Monte Grande, where Tiago PZK returned with Timbaland, transforming a gathering into a true celebration of family, unreleased music, and local pride—a perfect blend of personal history and musical magic.

    Beyond the stage, the business side of the industry also celebrated some serious milestones. The QSJ Songs platform marked five years of writer-first publishing success, driven by a string of major wins, including recent recognition for Miky Woodz. This momentum is fueling continued creativity and professional growth within the genre.

    Personal achievements continue to shine as well. Artist Miky Woodz offered a heartfelt moment with the release of “Carta a un Hijo,” putting themes of fatherhood and legacy firmly at the center of his artistic narrative. The spotlight also shone on Karim López, who made history by becoming the first Mexican-born player selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.

    Cross-cultural influence is also evident. Fellow Sonoran star Carín León was in support of López, demonstrating the powerful connection between artists and communities. Adding to this global spotlight, in Los Angeles, DANNA brought her beloved Lucid Dreams era to the stage for the first time at a sold-out show at The Roxy, marking an exciting new chapter in her live evolution.

    These diverse moments—from international festival lineups and record-breaking achievements to deeply personal artistic releases—underscore Latin music’s unstoppable reach. It is a movement defined by powerful voices, strong community bonds, and a relentless pursuit of cultural impact.

    Credit: Billboard

  • Trevor Nelson to take break from BBC Radio 2 for medical reasons: “I’m concentrating on getting better”

    Trevor Nelson Takes a Health Break from Radio Spotlight

    Radio personality and presenter Trevor Nelson has announced he is stepping away from his daily commitments on BBC Radio 2 and 1Xtra to prioritise his health. Following recent medical tests, Nelson has decided to take a necessary period away from the microphone to focus entirely on getting better.

    The decision, announced yesterday, June 26, came after Nelson underwent routine checks that prompted him to seek follow-up testing. While he kept the specifics of his diagnosis private, he shared a message with his followers, emphasising the importance of focusing on facts rather than speculation during this time.

    “Some of you may already have noticed that I’ve not been on my daily Radio 2 slot this week,” Nelson explained. “After a routine check-up I was advised to have some follow up tests. As a result, I will be taking some further time off. As I’m sure you can appreciate with health issues, it’s important to deal with facts and not speculate.”

    Nelson stressed his commitment to recovery, noting that he is currently “concentrating on getting better, being back to 100% me and to getting back behind the mic and the decks.”

    The pause in Nelson’s broadcasting schedule comes amidst a notable career. Earlier this year, he was recognised for his extensive work across radio and television, receiving special prizes at the Television and Radio Industries Club (Tric) Awards, along with the Judge’s Special Recognition Award at the ARIAs, and celebrated a significant milestone of 30 years with the BBC.

    The news of his break was met with an immediate and heartfelt wave of support from the broadcasting community and fans. Celebrities and fellow artists quickly flooded social media with messages of encouragement, demonstrating Nelson’s deep connections within the music world.

    Artists such as Stormzy, Mel B, Beverley Knight, Jools Holland, and Alesha Dixon offered warm wishes, reminding him to listen to his body and take things one step at a time. Singer Beverley Knight noted, “Health. First and always,” while Corinne Bailey Rae encouraged him by saying, “Well done for listening to your body.”

    The support extended beyond the music sphere. Vernon Kay paid a personal tribute on his show, expressing his admiration for Nelson’s career and sending well wishes for a quick recovery.

    While Nelson is focusing on his health, his listeners remain connected. Next week, Clara Amfo will step in to cover his weekday show, and DJ Spoony will manage the programming from July 6th until further notice. Fans can still catch him live on BBC Radio 2 for special events, such as the Music is Black concert from Hackney Empire on Sunday night.

    Credit: NME

  • Missing Glastonbury? There’s a festival on your doorstep that’s saving grassroots venues

    When the massive cultural behemoth of Glastonbury takes a year off, an unexpected opportunity arises for those who believe in the heart of the music scene: a chance to celebrate the venues and artists that make the UK live music culture thrive. This weekend is dedicated to this idea, with the launch of Everywhere At Once festival taking hundreds of stages across the UK in grassroots venues.

    Artists like Rizzle Kicks and Inspiral Carpets are among those taking part, highlighting why supporting these essential spaces matters for the creative ecosystem. They are demonstrating that the magic doesn’t just happen on massive stages; it flourishes in community-focused environments.

    The push for this kind of grassroots support comes at a critical time. The Music Venue Trust (MVT) CEO, Mark Davyd, pointed out that the pause in major events created a turning point, sparking a discussion about the sector’s future. He noted that money will start flowing from the grassroots levy, signaling a much-needed shift.

    Davyd provided compelling statistics, emphasizing the potential: if all UK grassroots music venues were operating at full capacity, they could host 252,000 people—exactly the size of Glastonbury. This scale underscores the enormous untapped potential lying within local spaces.

    This renewed focus has seen major industry figures call upon stars like Becky Hill, Fatboy Slim, and Tinie Tempah to participate in this movement, sending a powerful message: these venues are still vital and continue to host incredible shows.

    The true story of the grassroots scene is deeply embedded in its history. For bands like Rizzle Kicks, small venues were crucial training grounds, providing the foundation for playing to massive crowds later on. They recount how growing up in smaller spaces taught them invaluable lessons about performance and audience connection—a perspective that remains vital today.

    The struggle for these venues is palpable. Over the last decade, the UK has lost more than 300 treasured grassroots music spaces, and recent reports indicate that over half of UK grassroots venues made no profit in 2025, contributing to a wider crisis in the touring landscape.

    This loss has created a significant gap, leaving thousands of fans without easy access to live music and countless artists without the opportunities needed to hone their craft. Many argue that the lack of small-to-mid-sized venues makes it nearly impossible to progress from local garage bands to headlining arenas.

    The legacy of venue culture is undeniable. Legends like Oasis and the Inspiral Carpets built their careers by relentlessly touring and performing in smaller, local spots. It was in these spaces that talent was discovered and skills were developed, proving that genuine success often requires mastering the grassroots circuit first.

    Today, the message is clear: supporting venues like the small pubs, dive bars, and community hubs is not just sentimental; it is practical. As Live events manager Ben Street observed, these intimate spaces are the beating heart of communities, offering an authentic alternative to arena shows for fans who seek connection over spectacle.

    Everywhere At Once acts as a reminder that while the larger world shifts, there is still incredible, authentic music happening on every doorstep. The call is simple: celebrate the places that keep music alive and give new artists the platform they need to shine.

    The festival runs until Sunday 28 June, inviting everyone to explore local talent and rediscover the magic happening right where we live.

    Credit: NME

  • ‘The Bear’ honours late guest star Rob Reiner with heartfelt nod in series finale

    When The Bear”> reached its final chapter, it did so with an emotional resonance that went beyond the frantic kitchen chaos. The series’ conclusion offered more than just a wrap-up; it provided a heartfelt tribute to the late director and actor Rob Reiner, weaving his memory into the fabric of the story.

    Created by Christopher Storer, the acclaimed drama stars Jeremy Allen White as Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, Ayo Edebiri as Sydney Adamu, Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richard “Richie” Jerimovich, and Abby Elliott as Natalie “Sugar” Berzatto navigated the high-stakes world of fine dining. But their final episode found a profound moment of reflection by honoring Reiner, who had played Albert Schnurr, a consultant crucial to the restaurant’s journey.

    The narrative arc took a poignant turn when line cook Ebra delivered news about the future of the restaurant, connecting the professional stakes with deeply personal memories. In a subtle nod to cinematic history, Ebra’s parting words echoed a classic moment from The Princess Bride>, adding an unexpected layer of bittersweet recognition to the dramatic scene.

    This emotional thread ran deeper than the episode itself. The crew was already grappling with unimaginable personal loss; Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found murdered in Los Angeles late last year. This tragic backdrop underscored the intense pressure felt by Carmy and his team as they faced their own impending crisis.

    As The Bear”> moved into its final season, the focus shifted to a raw survival story. With money dwindling and uncertainty looming, Sydney, Richie, and Natalie were left to carry the weight forward without Carmy at the center of the action. The final moments presented the group attempting to keep the restaurant alive amidst a torrential storm hitting Chicago—a true test of their resilience.

    The final episode succeeded not by offering easy answers, but by providing a satisfying emotional release. A review noted that while it might not reach the boiling temperatures of the show at its peak, it delivered a necessary and touching conclusion to these unlikely comrades.

    The impact of the series was further amplified by the widespread tributes poured in for Reiner following his death. Celebrities like Jack Black, Jane Fonda, Stephen King, Barack and Michelle Obama, Paul McCartney, and Meg Ryan all shared moving reflections on the late filmmaker, highlighting the universal human response to tragedy and lasting legacy.

    Credit: NME

  • Dua Lipa to open library of banned and censored books in Portugal

    When a global superstar takes a passion project and grounds it in radical literary activism, the resulting vision is anything but ordinary. Singer Dua Lipa is not just promoting music; she is challenging the structures of power by opening her first library dedicated entirely to banned and censored books in Portugal.

    This new venture, known as the Manifesto Library, is set to open today, June 27, and will find a permanent home within the historic Livraria Lello bookshop in Porto. It joins an international literary celebration, BABELL – City of Books, marking a powerful statement about the role books play in society.

    Lipa’s ambition stems from her long-standing advocacy for reading. In 2023, she established the Service95 Book Club, a platform that pairs monthly book recommendations with interviews and podcasts, fostering a community dedicated to exploring literature. Now, she is channeling that energy into making sure voices that have been silenced are finally heard.

    The Manifesto Library is more than just a collection; it is a shrine to books that have disappeared, representing authors whose courage has exposed systemic control. Inside the library, nearly 100 volumes will explore pivotal themes of power, control, voice, and memory. This curated selection features challenging works, including Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Reginald Dwayne Betts’ Felon, alongside selections from major writers like Salman Rushdie and Olga Tokarczuk.

    Lipa describes the library as a dream partnership, recognizing that reading is fundamentally a technology of freedom. “When I founded the Service95 Book Club, my ambition was for it to become a home for writers and readers, wherever they are and whatever their circumstances,” she shared. She continues, inviting visitors to “decide for yourself what belongs on these shelves,” emphasizing that sometimes the most subversive act is simply reading and speaking about what you find.

    For 120 years, Livraria Lello has stood on the conviction that the book is a technology of freedom. The Manifesto Library builds upon this legacy, asserting that the ability to read, interpret, and build one’s own future is central to a society’s well-being.

    Credit: NME

  • Tom Hardy set to release collab album with underground hip-hop collective Czarface

    Tom Hardy Pivots from Screen to Studio with Explosive Debut Rap Album

    From the gritty landscapes of television to the rhythm of hip-hop, actor Tom Hardy is making a bold move, stepping into the spotlight as he prepares to release his highly anticipated debut rap album. This project sees Hardy collaborating with the legendary East Coast supergroup Czarface, promising a fusion of intense cinematic gravitas and raw lyrical delivery.

    The collaboration centers around Czarface—a dynamic collective composed of producer 7L, rapper Esoteric, and members of the Wu-Tang Clan, Inspectah Deck. For this new offering, Hardy adopts the persona of Frankie Pulitzer, also known as Face Puller, weaving his signature intensity into a modern hip-hop framework.

    A sneak peek into the project came in the form of the single Brothers Grimm. Set to a classic ‘90s hip-hop beat, the track introduces Czarface’s Inspectah Deck and Esoteric before Hardy unleashes his verse, delivering sharp lines that capture a visceral edge: “Came with blood in a flash you get dashed / Karambit to jugular femoral to the gambit / Arterial spray from the carotid to the ceiling.”

    This move marks an evolution for Hardy, who has long been deeply immersed in the world of rap. Back in 2011, he had already established a history with the genre, having secured a record deal and recorded substantial material that eventually surfaced, including the leaked mixtape Falling on Your Arse in 2018.

    Hardy’s history with Czarface is already deep. He has previously contributed to the group’s EP Good Guys, Bad Guys under the Frankie Pulitzer moniker in 2021, and earlier work with Method Man on their project Knull & Void.

    The artistic pivot is paralleled by some recent career developments. Amidst the music buzz, Hardy’s professional life has seen shifts related to his involvement in television. Rumors had circulated regarding his departure from the drama series MobLand. While initial chatter suggested a separation, later investigations revealed a different story: Hardy was not fired.

    Sources close to production confirmed that there is still room for him on the show, with creative discussions underway for season three. This ongoing process suggests that the door remains open, demonstrating a willingness from the creators and producers to work through creative disagreements.

    MobLand made its debut on Paramount+ in March 2025, where Hardy starred as Harry De Souza, a fixer navigating the notorious Harrigan crime family. The first season earned acclaim, with critics noting that Hardy, described as both endearing and menacing, was easily the best element of the show.

    Credit: NME

  • Noah Kahan asks fans to stop stealing road sign in his home town

    Noah Kahan is turning to his fanbase with an earnest request concerning a beloved piece of local history, asking fans to refrain from stealing a street sign in his Vermont hometown. This plea comes into focus after the road name has been referenced in one of his songs, connecting the pursuit of musical fame with a real-life local issue.

    The request stems from Kahan’s song The View Between Villages, which features lyrics referencing the area, including lines like Past Alger Brook Road, I’m over the bridge/A minute from home, but I feel so far from it. While these lyrics aim to capture a feeling of distance and longing, they have inadvertently sparked some fans seeking souvenirs by taking photographs or physical pieces of the Alger Brook Road sign.

    The repeated removal of this marker has become a nuisance for local residents. In response, Kahan stepped in publicly, asking his community to stop the behavior and expressing his sincere regret. He explained that he felt the act was a total disrespect to the hardworking and kind people who live on that road, causing unnecessary headaches for the town to manage.

    “I hate that because I put the road name in a song that some people have taken that as an invitation to disrupt the lives of the hardworking and kind folks who frequent it,” Kahan shared on social media. He apologized, emphasizing that he was sorry for the disruption caused by his work.

    Beyond the specific issue of the sign, Kahan used the opportunity to address a broader theme: respecting privacy and sanctuary. He reminded his growing community about how deeply he values the protection of his family and the peacefulness of his home environment. He urged fans to respect these places and the people who call them home.

    This message echoes the deeper themes present in his recent work. Kahan’s fourth studio album, The Great Divide, explores feelings of separation and expanse. He has reflected on writing about these feelings—the gaps between old friends, family, and the sense of place—in quiet settings, seeking to delve into the people and places that shape him.

    “I wrote them down next to a piano in Nashville, next to a pond in Guilford Vermont, in a legendary studio in upstate New York, on a farm with a firetower in Only, Tennessee,” Kahan reflected on the process of creating his music. He stated that these songs are the words he would say if he could, capturing the fears and feelings that guide him.

    Ultimately, Noah Kahan’s appeal is a call for empathy. By asking fans to respect the history and privacy of his home, he connects the ephemeral nature of fame with the enduring importance of place and community, reminding everyone that true appreciation involves listening not just to the music, but also to the world around them.

    Credit: NME

  • Madonna plays coy about rumoured Kylie Minogue collab on ‘Confessions II’: “It’s my job to be mysterious”

    The glittering world of pop music is always buzzing with speculation, but when it comes to some of the biggest names, the rumors often feel like a warm invitation. Pop legend Madonna, currently preparing for her fifteenth studio record, Confessions II, has masterfully handled the buzz surrounding potential collaborations, choosing to keep the narrative delightfully mysterious.

    This deliberate ambiguity came into sharp focus during a recent appearance on The Graham Norton Show, where she was discussing her upcoming album. The focus inevitably turned to one of the industry’s most intriguing possibilities: whether fellow superstar Kylie Minogue will be featured on the new project.

    When pressed by the host about the enduring whispers concerning a potential duet, Madonna offered a playful deflection, leaning into her signature mystique. While fans were desperate for a concrete answer, the legendary artist simply declared, “It’s my job to be mysterious.” This response perfectly encapsulated her approach—allowing the anticipation to build while keeping the creative journey delightfully opaque.

    Yet, collaboration isn’t new territory for the two icons. Kylie Minogue has repeatedly teased possibilities for working alongside Madonna, pointing back to their shared history, including iconic stage moments together at events like the Kia Forum in Los Angeles where they performed duets of classics like ‘Can’t Get You Out Of My Head’ and ‘I Will Survive’.

    Their connection extended beyond music. In a moment of genuine support, Minogue sent Madonna a heartfelt message following her recent hospitalisation, acknowledging the immense strain of touring and offering solidarity to those working in the spotlight.

    Madonna herself has reflected on the exhilarating, sometimes challenging nature of being famous. She acknowledges that celebrity status carries both rewards and complexities, noting that the great advantage is having a voice to spread messages and fight for others, and the ability to share resources with those in need.

    As the anticipation for Confessions II builds, Madonna is not just focusing on music; she is engaging in some spectacular, high-profile creative endeavors. She recently surprised fans in New York City by playing an impromptu set at Times Square and sharing a star-studded short film accompaniment to the record, featuring talents like Sabrina Carpenter, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Shygirl.

    Further cementing her status as a cultural force, Madonna has also taken on extraordinary platforms. She is confirmed to be one of the co-headliners for the first-ever FIFA World Cup halftime show alongside global figures Shakira and BTS. Even in her downtime, she continues to pursue passion projects, hinting that bigger opportunities may lie ahead, with whispers suggesting 2027 could finally bring a chance to perform at Glastonbury.

    Credit: NME