Music News
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Charli XCX and Noah Kahan are joining Chappell Roan in supporting artists facing healthcare challenges.
On Saturday (Feb. 8), the 32-year-old British pop star shared on her Instagram Story that, like Kahan, she is matching Roan’s pledge to donate $25,000 to help artists who are struggling to afford healthcare after being dropped by their record labels.
“hey @chappellroan i am going to match your 25k to support artists’ access to healthcare. i saw @noahkahanmusic say that he would do the same and so i thought i’d follow suit,” Charli wrote, alongside a photo of the word “money” with an arrow pointing to her mouth. “your speech at the grammys was inspiring and thoughtful and from a genuine place of care. happy to help get the ball rolling too. money where mouth is xx.”
Charli’s donation was inspired by Kahan, who also shared on his Instagram Story that he would match the financial donation. “Hey @chappellroan, I’m going to match your 25K to support artist’s access to healthcare,” the “Stick Season” singer wrote. “I’m inspired by you. Happy to help get the ball rolling. Money where mouth is!”
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During her best new artist acceptance speech at the 2025 Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, Roan called out record labels for failing to provide livable wages or healthcare coverage to their artists, citing her own experience after being dropped by Atlantic Records in 2020.
“If my label would have prioritized artists’ health, I could have been provided care by a company I was giving everything to,” she told the audience.
In the days that followed, Roan’s comments sparked criticism from former A&R executive Jeff Rabhan, who wrote a guest column for The Hollywood Reporter, calling her speech “wildly misinformed.”
Roan responded to Rabhan on social media, challenging him to contribute to the cause. “@jeffrabhan wanna match me $25K to donate to struggling dropped artists?” she wrote on her Instagram Story. “My publicist is @biz3publicity let’s talk.”
The 26-year-old pop star assured her fans that she would keep them “updated on the much awaited @jeffrabhan response,” sharing receipts of any donations, and even directing a final message to the former executive: “Mr. Rabhan, I love how in the article you said ‘put your money where your mouth is,’” Roan wrote. “Genius !!! Let’s link and build together and see if you can do the same.”
Some industry executives and advocates responded positively to Roan’s speech at the Grammys. In an interview with Billboard, the Music Healthcare Alliance’s founder and CEO, Tatum Allsep, said he was “jumping on my couch” when he heard her remarks.
“I was like, ‘Gosh, thank you for bringing this up.’ The conversation was started,” Allsep said. “What’s really important to know for all the young artists who are listening is you don’t have to go without if you are making a living within our industry.”
David Schwimmer is calling for Ye’s removal from X after the rapper posted a series of controversial and antisemitic remarks.
On Saturday (Feb. 8), the Friends star took to social media to address Elon Musk, urging the X owner to ban Ye — formerly known as Kanye West –from the platform.
“This is so 2022. We can’t stop a deranged bigot from spewing hate filled, ignorant bile… but we CAN stop giving him a megaphone, Mr. Musk,” the Jewish actor, 58, wrote on Instagram. “Kanye West has 32.7 million followers on your platform, X. That’s twice as many people than the number of Jews in existence. His sick hate speech results in REAL LIFE violence against Jews.”
In recent days, Ye has gone on a tweet spree filled with hate, once again praising Nazis and Adolf Hitler while targeting the LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities. In addition to embracing antisemitic stereotypes and hate speech, the 47-year-old rapper also tweeted support for Diddy, who is currently in jail awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Schwimmer continued, “I don’t know what’s worse, the fact that he identifies as a Nazi (which implies he wants to exterminate ALL marginalized communities including his own) or the fact that there is not sufficient OUTRAGE to remove and ban him from all social media at this point. Silence is complicity.”
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In his posts, Ye also referenced Musk’s repeated use of a Nazi-like salute at a Donald Trump inauguration event in January, which was widely criticized. Musk responded to the backlash, telling critics they “need better dirty tricks.” “Elon stole my Nazi swag at the inauguration… yooo my guy get your own third rale,” Ye wrote, adding, “I can say Jew as much as I want. I can say Hitler as much as I want.”
Ye was initially banned from X (formerly Twitter) in October 2022 for antisemitic posts, briefly reinstated in November, then re-suspended later that month after he posted an image of a swastika intertwined with a Star of David. Eight months later, Musk reinstated West’s account once again.
Claiming he has no interest in “adjusting nothing I do or say for anybody,” West promised to “normalize talking about Hitler they [sic] way talking about killing ni–as has been normalized,” followed by “Hitler was sooooo fresh” and “call me Yaydolf Yitler.”
Amid Ye’s earlier embrace of Hitler and Nazi propaganda, experts spoke to Billboard about the dangers of someone with such a vast social media following promoting antisemitic tropes, especially at a time when hate crimes against Jews and Jewish institutions had reached alarming levels.
“At a time when the community is dealing with this level of hatred to have one of the most well-known entertainers in our culture making statements like ‘I like Hitler’ and showing up on [Jones’] InfoWars is not just vile and offensive, but it’s also endangering Jews by giving people permission to express that kind of prejudice,” Jonathan A. Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League, said at the time. “People in the mainstream did not make such overtly awful, inflammatory comments before like this.”
Less than a week after stealing the show at the Grammy Awards and winning the best rap album trophy, Doechii brought her magnetic stage presence to the Big Easy with a late night performance at the House of Verizon activation during Super Bowl weekend in New Orleans on Saturday night (Feb. 8). Explore Explore See […]
Sabrina Carpenter, who took home her first Grammy awards last weekend, has given fans a glimpse at her celebratory night — on film. Featured in her photographs are industry peers Taylor Swift, Jack Antonoff, Chappell Roan and Beyoncé, among others.
The Short n’ Sweet singer seemingly went to a Grammys after party also attended by Swift, Antonoff, Margaret Qualley and Amber Mark. She shared a snapshot of herself getting cozy with the group on a couch, and another in which Swift, wearing the jacket that she caught from Janelle Monáe during Sunday’s (Feb. 3) ceremony, embraces her with a big hug.
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Carpenter posted her pictures on Instagram on Friday (Feb. 7), captioning the collection “film from Sunday,” with a smiley face.
In the slideshow of 15 pictures is a shot of Carpenter with Roan, both with wide, ecstatic grins. Another special moment captured on film is the “Espresso” star getting a hug from album of the year winner Beyoncé.
Carpenter’s photos also document her glamorous Grammy Awards look: that backless, baby blue gown.
She left the 2025 Grammy Awards as a winner in the best pop vocal album and best pop solo performance categories.
Post-Grammys, Carpenter announced a deluxe edition of breakthrough album Short n’ Sweet, with Dolly Parton on a remix of “Please Please Please.” The deluxe release also features bonus tracks “15 Minutes,” “Couldn’t Make It Any Harder,” “Busy Woman” and “Bad Reviews.” It’ll be out on Feb. 14.
The original Short n’ Sweet debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart in August. Three singles from the album charted on the Hot 100, led by “Please Please Please,” which reached No. 1.
Nelly brought his St. Louis swagger to a New Orleans institution, turning a nearly seven-decade-old restaurant into a Super Bowl week party.
The multi-Grammy winner packed Brennan’s on Friday night (Feb. 7), delivering a hit-filled set at h.wood’s “Homecoming.” As fans rushed the stage, pro football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe and actor Jaleel White kicked back in the VIP area, while Flavor Flav enjoyed the show from a prime onstage spot.
Chainsmokers went on before Nelly, performing a number of their hits, from “Closer” to “Roses.”
Before Nelly’s appearance, attendees mingled for a few hours at the invite-only event. Once he arrived, many flocked toward the stage and pulled out their phones to capture his set.
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While Flavor Flav recorded him, Nelly went on to perform several jams including “Ride Wit Me,” “E.I.” and “Air Force Ones.” Many in the crowd recited the Kelly Rowland-sang chorus of “Dilemma,” which won a Grammy in 2003. Nelly also performed “Hot in Herre,” another Grammy winner in that same year.
The Homecoming show was a part of a night filled with other concerts across the New Orleans area before the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday.
Shaquille O’Neal held his carnival-style Shaq’s Funhouse with Ludacris and John Summit headlining the concert. Some attendees included rapper Sexyy Red, football player Desean Jackson, NBA great Paul Pierce and Patrick Surtain II, who was recently awarded the NFL’s defensive player of the year honor.
Nelly recently performed at the Liberty Inaugural Ball, held for the presidential inauguration of Donald Trump on Jan. 20. He commented on his decision to take part in the inauguration concert, saying, “I’m not doing this for money. I’m doing this because it’s an honor. I respect the office. It don’t matter who is in office, the same way that our men and women, our brothers and sisters who protect this country, have to go to war and have to put their life on the line for whoever’s in office. So if they can put their life on the line for whoever in office, I can damn sure perform for whoever.”
Chelsea Handler made a Wicked joke about Ariana Grande and Ethan Slater that didn’t quite land with the audience at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards. Grande and Slater were seated side-by-side and posed for photos together at the event Friday night (Feb. 7).
Handler, who hosted the awards ceremony for the third year in a row, directed her attention toward the couple during Friday’s speech at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, Calif.
“It is so nice to see some of our beloved child stars all grown up and thriving. Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez and Ariana Grande are all nominated tonight,” Handler said, leading up to the joke.
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“And now, Ariana has even found love with a Munchkin,” she quipped, to a quiet response in comparison to the laughs she’d gotten elsewhere in her comedic speech. Grande’s been linked to Slater since 2023, when they met on the set of Wicked.
Handler attempted to quell the seemingly awkward reaction from the crowd, insisting, “That’s good news, everybody.”
Slater portrayed Boq, a character from Munchkinland, in the film.
The pop star and actor have mostly kept their relationship private. Grande was previously married to luxury realtor Dalton Gomez; the pair finalized their divorce in March 2024. Slater was previously married to therapist Lilly Jay, with whom he shares a young child; they settled their divorce in September 2024.
When it came time to mention Wicked star Cynthia Erivo in her speech, Handler heaped praise on her performance.
“My god,” the host said. “The most radical hero of any movie this year, or maybe even this decade. And not because you were green — because you were, and you are, epic, and it’s an honor to be in the same room as you.”
Then came a punchline involving Erivo and Grande: “I loved the Wicked press tour,” said Handler. “The two of them all over each other. I remember the first time I did molly.”
The Wicked team took home three honors at the 2025 Critics Choice Awards: Jon M. Chu won best director, Nathan Crowley and Lee Sandales won for best production design and Paul Tazewell won for best costume design. The film was nominated for a total of 11 awards, including for best picture, which Wicked lost to Anora. Best actress went to Demi Moore (The Substance) rather than Erivo, while best supporting actress went to Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) rather than Grande.
See Handler’s bit about Grande and Slater in the clip from her Critics Choice Awards speech below.
Grupo Frontera is addressing the backlash following allegations of supporting Donald Trump.
On Friday (Feb. 7), the Mexican-American band shared a statement on their Instagram Story, clarifying that they do not align with any U.S. political party.
“We want to clarify that Grupo Frontera has NO affiliation not alliance with any political party that’s against immigrants and the Latino community,” Grupo Frontera wrote in Spanish. “Like many of you, our families and [group] members have fought and struggled for a better future, and we will always take our people’s side, defending our roots and values.”
The Texas-based Música Mexicana band added, “It’s important you know that the opinions of our friends and family don’t represent Grupo Frontera. We are immigrants, we are from the border, and Grupo Frontera will always be by and for the people.”
Grupo Frontera — which includes members Adelaido Solís III (“Payo”), Juan Javier Cantú, Julián Peña, Alberto Acosta, Carlos Guerrero and Brian Ortega — came under fire after a viral video showed the grandmother of a band member celebrating Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election, according to The Latin Times.
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As fans began to react to the viral clip, Grupo Frontera remained largely silent on social media.
The controversy coincided with Trump’s promise to begin large-scale deportations when re-elected, a move that would heavily impact Latinos.
“i will no longer support grupo frontera because, how are you voting for Trump while being latino? mind you I live in their surrounding era and it’s heavily latino populated too like???” one fan wrote on X.
According to the LT, other various social media responses included: “Make music in English now,” “Never come back to Mexico,” “Latinos are the ones who listen to your music, and you’ve let us down,” “This kind of betrayal comes at a high price” and “We should cancel them all.”
Artists such as Residente, Selena Gomez, Lupillo Rivera, Becky G, Chiquis and Ángela Aguilar have spoken out against the deportations.
Grupo Frontera will be performing at Billboard THE STAGE during SXSW in Austin on March 14.
Noah Cyrus is showing support for her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus, and his new music amid family drama.
On Friday (Feb. 7), the 25-year-old singer took to her Instagram Story to share a post about Billy Ray’s latest single, “Lost.”
“so proud of my Dads INCREDIBLE new single LOST with my good, old friend @samtinnesz and @tommeeprofitt,” she wrote, alongside a brief teaser of the track and a pair of red heart emojis.
Billy Ray’s “Lost,” featuring Tinnesz and Profitt, marks the 63-year-old country singer’s first new release since his rocky performance at the Liberty Ball during Donald Trump’s inauguration. His appearance on Jan. 20 was plagued by technical difficulties, leading him to perform “Achy Breaky Heart” a cappella for the crowd.
Following the controversial performance, Billy Ray’s son Trace Cyrus, older brother to Miley and Noah, shared an open letter on Instagram expressing concern for his father’s well-being.
“Me and the girls have been genuinely worried about you for years but you’ve pushed us all away,” he wrote. “Noah desperately has wanted you to be a part of her life and you haven’t even been there for her. That’s your baby girl. She deserves better. Somehow just like me she still idolizes you though.”
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On Jan. 25, Trace posted another Instagram letter, claiming Billy Ray had threatened him with legal action after the public plea for his father to “get help.”
Billy Ray, along with his ex-wife Tish, is the parent of Brandi, 37, and Trace, 35, both of whom Billy Ray adopted after marrying Tish. Together, they also share Miley, 32; Braison, 30; and Noah. He is also the father of 32-year-old Christopher, his son with ex-girlfriend Kristin Luckey.
In late January, Billy Ray announced an upcoming album, produced by Braison. The album is expected to be released sometime this summer.
“This is art imitating life, imitating art,” Billy Ray said of the album. “It starts and ends with art. Braison is very talented and ‘25 is his year. I’m glad to be a part of it. This record is gonna be special. I’m gearing up for what will be the journey of a lifetime.”
Ashanti is opening up following the death of Irv Gotti.
On Friday (Feb. 7), the R&B star shared a heartfelt tribute on social media to honor the Murder Inc. Records founder after his passing.
“I can’t believe things ended like this….and it makes me so sad,” Ashanti wrote on her Instagram Story, according to TMZ. “We weren’t on the best terms the past few years but as I’ve always said, through our ups and downs I will forever be grateful for everything that you’ve done for me. We made history and that will remain infinite..”
The “Foolish” singer continued, “I’ve always respected your musical genius and ability to push me to be my best.. All the greatness and positive things that came, far outweigh the dark and negative times. I have always prayed for you to find peace. Sending love and prayers to the entire family. Rest well. Rest in Peace Irv.”
Along with the post, Ashanti also reportedly shared a series of throwback photos from her Murder Inc. days, including an image from the release of her 2002 self-titled debut album.
Gotti, who co-founded the iconic Murder Inc. Records and helped launch the careers of Ja Rule and Ashanti in the early 2000s, passed away on Feb. 5 after suffering a stroke. He was 54 years old.
Alongside his brother Chris, Irv Gotti (born Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr.) launched Murder Inc. in 1998 as an imprint of Def Jam, following his success in helping bring DMX to the vaunted hip-hop label. Ja Rule became the flagship artist for Murder Inc., and the label’s first release was his 1999 debut album, Venni Vetti Vecci.
In addition to Ja Rule, Gotti also discovered Ashanti when she was a teenager. She went on to achieve fame with memorable hooks on rap hits and her own solo R&B success. Ashanti’s three biggest hits all came in 2002: Ja Rule’s “Always on Time,” featuring Ashanti, topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for two weeks; Fat Joe’s “What’s Luv?,” featuring Ashanti, peaked at No. 2; and her own “Foolish” spent 10 weeks at No. 1 on the Hot 100.
Billboard recently named “Foolish” and “I’m Real” among the Top Hot 100 Songs of the 21st Century.
Gotti won a Grammy in 2003 for co-producing Ashanti’s eponymous debut album, which earned best contemporary R&B album. He was nominated again the following year for co-writing Ashanti’s “Rock Wit U (Awww Baby),” which was a finalist for best R&B song.
Primus has found a new drummer.
About four months after the abrupt departure of longtime percussionist Tim “Herb” Alexander, the veteran band revealed their new timekeeper following a global open call for auditions.
“Hoffington!!! Welcome aboard! @johnhoffmandrums,” Primus singer and bassist Les Claypool wrote on Instagram Friday (Feb. 7), alongside a photo featuring Claypool with new drummer Hoffman and guitarist Larry LaLonde.
Primus announced on Oct. 29 that Alexander had resigned suddenly on Oct. 17 via email, citing a “loss of passion for playing” — a reason that Claypool and LaLonde admitted “came as a complete shock.”
Following Alexander’s departure, Primus announced they would be holding auditions for a new drummer. “Taking submissions from all points in the universe for the position of Primus drummer/percussionist,” the band wrote, adding, “Flashy chops are wonderful, but groove, pocket, and the ability to listen, react, and contribute to the musical conversation is a must.”
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Primus took to social media again in late December to warn applicants of scammers who had begun contacting hopefuls ahead of in-person auditions.
Hoffman, a drummer from Shreveport, La., documented his preparation for the audition on YouTube.
“Luck is when preparation meets opportunity,” the drummer wrote on Instagram in late January. “I came and did my thing the way I do it. It went as well as I could have hoped. Maynard James Keenan was sitting directly in front of me and watched my entire audition. He gave me this towel. It’s been one of the most incredible days of my life. I love you all. We did this.”
Primus’ first show since Alexander’s final appearance in August took place as part of the band’s New Year’s Eve celebration at the Fox Theater in Oakland, Calif., on Dec. 30. The night began with sets from Claypool’s other projects, Holy Mackerel and Frog Brigade, and concluded with a six-song performance by Primus, featuring Bryan “Brain” Mantia on drums.
Check out Primus’ new drummer announcement on Instagram here.