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Shakira’s Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour has been making waves across the globe, selling out stadiums, smashing records, and solidifying the Colombian superstar’s legacy as one of the most powerful voices in music and culture. But behind the eye-popping performances, emotional highs and dazzling fashion, French photographer Nicolas Gerardin has been translating the energy, intimacy and humanity of it all into images that speak louder than words.Known for his work with celebrities across industries — including Lisa of BLACKPINK, Nick Jonas, Jeff Bezos, Leo Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo — the fashion and celebrity photographer brings a unique mix of precision and emotional storytelling to his photography. His collaboration with Shakira began two years ago, right around the time of her groundbreaking Bizarrap release that marked a new milestone in her career. Since then, Gerardin has become an integral part of her creative team, joining her on her current world tour, which kicked off in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Feb. 11.
“When photographing Shakira, I focus on capturing what makes her a legend — her presence, energy, and the essence that has made her an icon for decades,” Gerardin tells Billboard Español, who also shot her on recent magazine covers for GQ, Elle, and Marie Claire. “It’s about telling her story in every shot. I always aim to showcase her true essence, her artistry, and the depth of her impact.”
“She’s aware of everything, from production to lighting. She knows everything about cameras. She knows what’s best for her,” he explains, noting how her hands-on approach ensures every moving piece of her tour aligns with her meticulously curated vision.
Despite her global fame, Gerardin credits her sensitivity and emotional connection with her art as the driving force behind her appeal. “She’s very involved emotionally in everything. She always wants the best for her fans. She’s a woman full of emotion, very sensitive. She’s caring for everyone… She wants to give the best for the fans,” he shares.
His dedication to capturing Shakira’s tour goes beyond the stage or performance photography. Gerardin’s work often focuses on backstage moments, the quieter fragments of her life away from the spotlight that tell their own story. “My vision is to create an iconic image that’s going to stay forever,” he says. “It can be her putting her makeup on or her after finishing the last song exhausted.” These fragments come together to create a portrait of a woman in motion — a legend embracing transformation in real-time.
Among his favorite images he took is a high-concept promotional shoot for her latest album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran. In one particularly striking shot, Shakira is captured arm wrestling a man. “It was an exciting challenge because I wanted to capture both her strength and the bold energy of the album while keeping the visual storytelling dynamic and impactful,” recalls the photographer.
For this shoot, Shakira granted him full creative freedom, an example of the trust and respect their working relationship has cultivated.
Despite touring with Shakira, Gerardin emphasizes that he does not define himself as a concert photographer. His background in fashion photography shapes the unique angle he brings to his work — whether backstage or during live shows. “Most global artists that work in the music industry, when they take me on tour, they don’t expect me to shoot the live show. I’m here to capture the fashion side of the tour,” he explains. With Shakira, he adds, “We just want to create history at this point.”
Check out the gallery below for an exclusive look at Gerardin’s stunning photography.
“You make me laugh and I like it/ You get away with murder so innocent/ But when you throw a moody/ You’re all claws and you bite/ That’s all right!” To those unfamiliar, these may seem like lyrics written by a loving pet parent — and they’d be right. Those sweet and amusing words were penned by none other than the late, great, cat-loving rock icon Freddie Mercury of Queen, for the band’s Innuendo track “Delilah,” which is about his beloved feline of the same name.So, musicians — they’re just like us! Or is it that we, the normies, are just like them? After all, which of us with furry family members hasn’t made up silly little ditties to sing to our much-adored dogs and cats? (Granted, we don’t get to record them for Billboard-charting albums, but whatever.) Billboard staffers are no different. Not only do we love our four-legged pals, we sing to them, and sometimes, even name them after our favorite musicians!
There’s staff writer Hannah Dailey, who has an adorable kitty named after her “songwriting hero” Stevie Nicks. “Stevie is the first pet I ever owned by myself, so I wanted to give her a name that was particularly special,” she says. “And because she makes me so happy, it only felt right for her to share a name with someone whose music has also added so much to my life.”
Senior photo editor Jenny Regan nearly named her mini goldendoodle Robert Plant because the pooch’s golden locks resembled those of the Led Zeppelin singer in his youth. “But [we] didn’t like ‘Robert’ for a dog,” she shares, noting that her husband is a fan of the band. So the pup was named after another member — Jimmy Page.
While not everyone on our staff has a pet named after a famous artist, some of our furbabies do have their own favorite (and least favorite!) songs and musicians. Take kitty Boba, who prefers to never hear Alvin and the Chipmunks’ cover of “I Gotta Feeling” ever again; good boy Riggins, who is partial to Bad Bunny; regal Paco, who prefers Norah Jones’ soothing tunes during thunderstorms; or Murphy, who’s a huge Swiftie, just like her mom.
Want to meet and learn more about the Billboard staff’s beloved pets? Keep pawing down!
Howie
Parent: Jenny Sargent, Photography DirectorHometown: Los AngelesBreed: Lhasa ApsoAge: 15 yearsFavorite food: Eggs, bacon, popcorn, anything that humans get to eat.Fun fact: His haircuts are more expensive and often than his human’sFavorite nap spot: On the balcony in the sunPet Rescue: Bichons and Buddies
Benito
Parent: Ingrid Fajardo, Senior Social Media Manager & Staff Writer, LatinHometown: MiamiBreed: PomeranianAge: 5 yearsFavorite toy: Birthday Party Lamb ChopHow does your pet react when you’re playing music? Depends on the mood, he either makes a dance around me or gives me the side-eye look!
Tangy & Zeke
Parent: Samantha Xu, Deputy Photo DirectorHometown: Hackensack, N.J.Age: 4 years (Tangy) and 1.5 years (Zeke)How does your pet react when you’re playing music? Tangy is a girly princess who loves to nap and luxuriate, so she prefers music with lo-fi chill vibes and female vocals. Zeke is a very active social boy who is not bothered by loud or fast music — it helps him get hyped for playtime!Favorite music/song: Tangy loves SZA, Lana Del Rey, Alt R&B, Lofi Girl Radio on Youtube. Zeke loves Turnstile, Power Trip, thrash metal, hardcore punk, jock jams.Pet Rescue: Rock n’ Rescue (Tangy) and East Coast Maine Coon Rescue (Zeke)
Riggins
Parent: Josh Glicksman, Deputy Managing EditorHometown: DallasBreed: Australian cattle dog/American pit bull terrier mixAge: 1.5 yearsFavorite music/song: Bad Bunny. Any time he sees Bad Bunny on TV or hears his music, he’s completely enthralled.Favorite nap spot: Sunbathing and taking a snooze on his dog bed next to our record player.Fun fact: Riggins was a member of Team Fluff on Animal Planet’s Puppy Bowl XX.Pet Rescue: Heart & Bones Rescue
Gaia & Terra
Parent: Eric Renner Brown, Senior EditorHometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.Breed: dilute tortieAge: 3 yearsFavorite nap spot: Gaia’s favorite spot is the coveted cat tree hammock or, when mischievous, the turntable!Favorite food: Terra’s favorite food is any human food she isn’t supposed to be eating!Pet Rescue: Whiskers-A-GoGo
Jimmy Page
Parent: Jenny Regan, Senior Photo EditorHometown: upstate New YorkBreed: mini goldendoodleAge: 4 yearsFavorite food: Cheese or anything on our platesFavorite toy: Stolen socksFavorite nap spot: Hanging halfway off the couchHow does your pet react when you’re playing music? He jumps up to give you a hug and slow dance with you.
Boba
Parent: Naomy Pedroza, Assistant Photo EditorHometown: Providence, R.I.Breed: BombayAge: 4.5 yearsHow does your pet react when you’re playing your music? Boba is a true music critic — she is very vocal about the songs she loves and the songs she loathes.Favorite music/song: “Right Where You Left Me” by Taylor Swift, but she’s also partial to Boygenius, Norah Jones and Vampire Weekend.Fun fact: Boba’s least favorite song is a cover of “I Gotta Feeling” by famed rodents Alvin & the Chipmunks.Pet Rescue: Dixie Girl Dog Rescue
Mortimer
Parent: Michael Calcagno, Photo ResearcherHometown: Yuma, Ariz.Age: 1.5 yearsFavorite toy: Squeaky pizza toy (courtesy of Billboard‘s own Anna Chan)Favorite music/song: “Angel of My Dreams” by JADE. My wife and I were obsessed with the song around when we adopted him, and we sing it to him all the time now.Pet’s best friend: His grandma. She sneaks him what we’ve dubbed as “cute treats” (i.e., treats for just looking cute and not doing anything), and also loves slipping him McDonald’s fries.Pet Rescue: Friends for Life Animal Rescue
Mabel & Bean
Parent: Anna Chan, Deputy Editor, DigitalHometown: Seattle (Mabel) & New York (Bean)Age: 19 years (Mabel) and 9 years (Bean)How did your pet come into your life? With Mabel, I was volunteering at PAWS in Seattle when I peeked into a cage and found the most brilliant pair of sparkling blue peepers — aka White Walker Eyes — staring back at me from behind the litterbox. The moment we locked eyes, I knew Mabel was mine.It’s a similar story with Bean: I was doing my weekly volunteer shift at Best Friends when I spotted the cutest Resting Bitch Face of my life. I sat down to pet the little petite black cat, who immediately began to purr — then slapped me quickly and repeatedly with her tiny paw. I was in love with Bean from that moment on.Pet Rescue: PAWS (Mabel) and Best Friends Animal Society (Bean)
Paco
Parent: Dan Rys, Director, Business NewsHometown: Brooklyn, N.Y.Breed: Boston terrierAge: 12 yearsFavorite toy: Noise ball because he’s blindFavorite music/song: Norah Jones when he’s scared or nervous from thunderFavorite nap spot: On the bed underneath a fur blanket
Tucker
Parent: Becky Kaminsky, Director, Social MediaHometown: GeorgiaBreed: SupermuttAge: 6Favorite food: Beef lungs and beef sticksFavorite toy: Benebone wishbone and Nylabone footballHow does your pet react when you’re playing your music? He gets very hyped if the vibes are there. We always have music playing if we’re cooking or cleaning, and he’ll partake in a dance break with us. He’ll stand up on his hind legs (which makes him almost as tall as me) and two-step with me.What is your pet’s favorite music or song? Probably all the jingles I make up for him on a daily basis. It’s a full catalog at this point.Pet Rescue: Puppies and More Rescue
Stella “Grumble Grumble” & Ace “Soggy Paws”
Parent: Taylor Mims, Senior EditorHometown: Long Beach, CABreed: French bulldogAge: 13 years (Stella) and 4 years (Ace)Favorite nap spot: Anywhere in the sun for StellaFun fact: Stella loves to go paddleboardingHow does your pet react when you’re playing music? Stella snores … very loudly!Favorite music/song: Ace’s is “Aquí Te Cuido” by Reyna TropicalFavorite food: Ace’s are rocks, that’s why he’s so heavy!Pet’s best friend: Ace’s is sister Stella, but she does not feel the same way.
Rooney
Parent: Abby Webster, Assistant Social Media EditorAge: 2 yearsFavorite food: Cheddar cheeseHow did your pet come into your life? My roommate needed safety and companionship after a mouse infestation in her first NYC apartment.How does your pet react when you’re playing music? She’s a big music video lover. A recent favorite is “Sports Car” by Tate McRae.
Murphy
Parent: Danielle Pascual, Social Media ManagerHometown: Noti, Ore.Breed: Mini AussiedoodleAge: 4 yearsFavorite toy: Chuckit! squeaker ball — it always has to be near even when sleeping, eating and on walks.Favorite music/song: “Betty” by Taylor Swift, except every instance of “Betty” is changed to “Murphy”Favorite nap spot: Mom’s laundry hamperWhat is the best thing that your pet has changed about your life? Murphy always knows when I’m having a bad day, and through cuddles and kisses, she never fails to make me feel better.
Roman & Elliot
Parent: Evan Burke, Producer/EditorHometown: Los AngelesAge: 5 years (Roman) and 10 years (Elliott)Favorite toy: Roman’s is a catnip filled avocado toastHow did your pet come into your life? Roman was adopted on Christmas Eve of 2020 when I needed something to make being stuck at home more tolerable.Fun fact: Roman is named after Nicki Minaj’s alter ego because I would hear “Roman’s Revenge” in my head when he would get the zoomies.Favorite nap spot: Elliot, who is a dachshund terrier, likes to nap next to any humanPet Rescue: Elliot is from the Amanda Foundation
Ziggy
Parent: Ciara Zimring, Director of Strategy & Production, VideoHometown: Los AngelesBreed: goldendoodleAge: 5Favorite Toy: Giant Lamb ChopFavorite music/song: Ziggy loves Noah Kahan!What is the most important lesson your pet has taught you? She’s taught us to stop, slow down and enjoy the present moment. Sometimes life and work can get so hectic, but taking a pause and being in the moment with her has taught us to slow down.Fun fact: She’s freakishly good at catching any ball that you throw at her. I keep telling her we’re going to put her in the Puppy Olympics!
Murray
Parent: Jason Lipshutz, Executive Director, MusicHometown: Madison, N.J.Breed: Treeing Walker coonhoundAge: 6 yearsHow did your pet come into your life? We rescued Murray in December 2019 — he was a sweet boy who simply needed a family. We coordinated an elaborate system of dog walkers while we were at work, but then in less than three months, we were home every day due to the pandemic!What is the most important lesson your pet has taught you? Murray can be loud, overexcited, needy and destructive, but for every trying moment, there are 100 happy memories. Just like with anyone you love unconditionally, we have adapted to Murray’s rhythms, and our lives are fuller for it.Pet Rescue: St. Hubert’s Animal Welfare Center
Bandit
Parent: Dave Brooks, Senior Director, Touring/LiveHometown: Long Beach, Calif.Breed: terrierAge: 13Favorite food: hot dogsFavorite nap spot: Living room couch with front door cracked so he can bark at the mailman.Fun fact: Bandit has completed extensive training with obedience, obstacle courses and tricks. He can still do tricks, even at 13!What is the most important lesson your pet has taught you? Dogs are better than people in nearly all measurable categories.Pet Rescue: Long Beach SPCA
Stevie Nicks
Parent: Hannah Dailey, Staff WriterHometown: Bloomington, Ind.Breed: torbieAge: 4 yearsFavorite food: dry ass kibbleFavorite toy: my chargersFavorite music/song: Not even kidding, Stevie hates music. Whenever I start singing, she jumps on me and bites me. She’s a hater.Who is your pet’s best friend? Her little stuffed elephant I bought for her at IKEA. She drags him around everywhere. His name is Mr. Elephant.
Freddy
Parent: Rob Levine, Editor at LargeHometown: BerlinBreed: CavapooAge: 1 yearFavorite food: Whatever the humans are eating!Favorite toy: Whatever ball is WAY under the couch at any given momentFavorite music/song: “Who Let the Dogs Out”How does your pet react when you’re playing music? Concern about the fairness of streaming royalty rates
Oreo Lola
Parent: Christina Medina, SVP Talent & ProgrammingHometown: West Covina, CalifBreed: shih tzuAge: Oreo Lola went to Doggy Heaven on March 18, 2025, at age 17 yearsFavorite food: wedding cakeFun fact: She loved blueberry facials.Favorite nap spot: Outside in the sun, she loved to sunbathe!
Five-time Billboard Country Airplay chart-topping artist Jon Pardi releases his new studio album, Honkytonk Hollywood, on Friday (April 11), as he gears up to launch his headlining Honkytonk Hollywood Tour in the United States later this month. But in March, the “Friday Night Heartbreaker” singer took his high-octane, neo-traditional country sound Down Under, giving Australian […]
J. Cole’s Dreamville Festival returned to Raleigh, North Carolina, for its fifth — and final, at least as we currently know it — edition under the Dreamville banner on April 5-6. Held at Dorothea Dix Park, the sold-out festival drew over 50,000 fans who braved the scorching heat to experience two days of hip-hop, R&B, and unforgettable moments. (See some of our favorite moments from the memorable festival weekend here.)
From the larger-than-life photo opportunities to the diverse food vendors and the exclusive pop-ups, Dreamville Fest 2025 was more than just a music event — it was a full-fledged cultural experience. The lineup featured legends and rising stars alike, with Lil Wayne (alongside Hot Boys and Big Tymers), 21 Savage, and Ari Lennox performing Saturday (April 5), while Coco Jones, GloRilla, Wale and J. Cole took over Sunday (April 6). Additional performers included Tems, PartyNextDoor, Erykah Badu, Ludacris, Keyshia Cole, BigXThaPlug, J.I.D, Ab-Soul, Lute, Chief Keef, Omen, Young Nudy, Anycia, EARTHGANG, Bas, Cozz, Akia and Kai Ca$h & Niko Brim.
While Dreamville Festival as we know it has come to an end, a similar event will continue under the direction of the city of Raleigh. J. Cole made sure to give fans a proper send-off, running through classics from his discography like “No Role Modelz,” “Can’t Get Enough,” “Lights Please,” and “Lost Ones.” As fireworks lit up the sky for the final time, he closed his set — and Dreamville Fest —with “Farewell.”
Billboard captured exclusive behind-the-scenes moments with some of this year’s performers, shot on the Leica Q3. See intimate portraits of Dreamville stars Coco Jones, Wale, Ab-Soul, Lute, Chief Keef, Omen, EARTHGANG and Cozz below.
Coco Jones
Image Credit: Chris Claxton
One of Jimmy Fallon’s most popular segments on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon is his subway busking bit, where he and a superstar go incognito down in the New York City subway stations to perform songs.A number of celebrities have taken part in the series, including Miley Cyrus, Green Day, Bad Bunny, U2, Maroon 5 and more. Ed Sheeran is the latest to join the fun, rocking early-2000s emo outfits with the talk show host, complete with straight black wigs, hoodies and sunglasses.
Eventually, the gig was up and Sheeran performed hits as himself for the lucky fans who happened to walk by.
The subway busking comes following the release of his new single, “Azizam.” Sheeran explained to Fallon during an interview last week that the title of his new song translates into “my dear” in Farsi, inspired by the song’s Persian producer, Illya Salmanzadeh. “We were creating a lot of music and he suggested we create something within the Persian culture,” said Sheeran, who noted that they’ve done a full version in Farsi as well. The song recently got its live debut at a pop-up show in New Orleans, where Sheeran was joined by the second-line Soul Rebels brass band.
Sheeran also confirmed that his upcoming album is called Play and that after his Mathematics album series, which included five studio records — + (2011), x (2014), ÷ (2017), = (2021) and – (2023) — his next run is based on an idea he had when he was 18. Back then, the now-34-year-old singer cooked up a 10-album plan, starting with maths, and followed by Play, Pause, Rewind, Fast-Forward and Stop.
To celebrate Sheeran’s new album era, check out some exclusive photos of his subway busking segment with Fallon below, and watch the full episode on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, which airs on NBC weeknights at 11:35 p.m. ET before it streams the next day on Peacock.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Fallon subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Jimmy Fallon and Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Fallon subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Fallon subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Fallon subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Fallon subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Image Credit: Todd Owyoung/NBC
Ed Sheeran and Jimmy Fallon subway busking on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ on April 8, 2025.
Artist honorees at this year’s star-studded event included Doechii, receiving the Woman of the Year Award, as well as aespa (Group of the Year), Ángela Aguilar (Breakthrough Award), Erykah Badu (Icon Award), GloRilla (Powerhouse Award), Gracie Abrams (Songwriter of the Year), JENNIE (Global Force Award), Megan Moroney (Rulebreaker Award presented by Crown Royal Whisky), Meghan […]
Influential women in music graced the red carpet at Billboard’s 2025 Women in Music event, which took place on Saturday (March 29). See the best red carpet photos from the night here.Host Laverne Cox, music stars and industry leaders were pictured on the carpet ahead of the ceremony that honors accomplished women and their contributions to the music industry, their communities and beyond.
Artist nominees at this year’s prestigious event include Doechii, receiving the Woman of the Year Award, as well as aespa (Group of the Year), Ángela Aguilar (Breakthrough Award), Erykah Badu (Icon Award), GloRilla (Powerhouse Award), Gracie Abrams (Songwriter of the Year), JENNIE (Global Force Award), Megan Moroney (Rulebreaker Award presented by Crown Royal Whisky), Meghan Trainor (Hitmaker Award), Muni Long (Rising Star Award Presented by Honda Stage) and Tyla (Impact Award presented by Bose). Global Women of the Year are ANNA (Billboard Italy Woman of the Year) and Charlotte Cardin (Billboard Canada Woman of the Year).
Tina Knowles, mom to Beyoncé and Solange Knowles, is the first-ever Mother of the Year honoree at Billboard’s Women in Music, held at the YouTube Theater at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, Calif.
The list of presenters features Becky G, Kali Chis, Madison Beer, Julia Michaels, Lauren Jauregui, Mickey Guyton, Suki Waterhouse, Summer Walker, Tanner Adell, Victoria Monét and Zara Larsson.
The red carpet was also expected to see appearances from Ari Lennox, Ashe, Ava Max, Bella Poarch, Heidi Montag, JoJo Siwa, Kandi Burruss, Keyshia Cole, Loren Gray, Madison Bailey, Queen Naija, Sophia Culpo, Tinashe, Victoria Justice and more.
See many of them pictured on the red carpet in this photo gallery of not-to-be-missed moments.
Meghan Trainor
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Meghan Trainor at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Kali Uchis
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Kali Uchis at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Victoria Monét, Ari Lennox & Muni Long
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Victoria Monét, Ari Lennox and Muni Long at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Julia Michaels
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Julia Michaels at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Zara Larsson
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Zara Larsson at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Ravyn Lenae
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Ravyn Lenae at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Tinashe
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Tinashe at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Maeta
Image Credit: Michael Buckner
Maeta at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Ledisi
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Ledisi at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Dalia Ganz
Image Credit: JC Olivera
Dalia Ganz at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Cindy Oliver
Image Credit: Jesse Grant
Cindy Oliver at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Sabrina Phillips, Pam Sturchio & Elena Quandt
Image Credit: Jesse Grant
Sabrina Phillips, Pam Sturchio and Elena Quandt at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Rania Aniftos
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Rania Aniftos at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Tanner Adell
Image Credit: Michael Buckner
Tanner Adell at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Diane Warren
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Diane Warren at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Laverne Cox
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Laverne Cox at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Melody Thornton
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Melody Thornton at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Mary Conde & Judy Heyman
Image Credit: JC Olivera
Mary Conde and Judy Heyman at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Gina Harrell
Image Credit: JC Olivera
Gina Harrell at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Kiona Nikiy Reaves & Alexandra Lyzwa
Image Credit: JC Olivera
Kiona Nikiy Reaves and Alexandra Lyzwa at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Meg Donnelly
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Meg Donnelly at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Queen Naija
Image Credit: Michael Buckner
Queen Naija at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Mickey Guyton
Image Credit: Michael Buckner
Mickey Guyton at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Megan Moroney
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Megan Moroney at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Ari Lennox
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Ari Lennox at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles,.
Muni Long
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Muni Long at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Bella Poarch
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Bella Poarch at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Madison Bailey
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Madison Bailey at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Melissa Ruderman
Image Credit: JC Olivera
Melissa Ruderman at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Lauren Jauregui
Image Credit: Michael Buckner
Lauren Jauregui at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Dana Droppo & Mike Van
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Dana Droppo and Mike Van at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Kiana Lede
Image Credit: Christopher Polk
Kiana Lede at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Victoria Monét
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Victoria Monét at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Suki Waterhouse
Image Credit: Gilbert Flores
Suki Waterhouse at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
Jenna Park Adler
Image Credit: JC Olivera
Jenna Park Adler at the Billboard Women in Music 2025 held at the YouTube Theater on March 29, 2025 in Los Angeles.
On March 12, a video surfaced online that caused quite a stir. It was a new Coca-Cola ad featuring K-pop group NewJeans, also known as NJZ, which is currently at the center of much controversy. The ad quickly garnered reactions from around the world.One comment on the ad effectively captures the essence of the project: “Is this from the ’80s or 2025? Is it real or is it a dream? Is it nostalgia or a memory of something I never experienced? It’s a work that confuses all of this. It feels like it’s depicting the past, but actually, it seems like an idealized version of the present moment. Ordinary yet beautiful people, scenes that feel both real and dreamlike, all captured with ethereal music and visuals. I can’t stop replaying it, as I don’t want to let go of the dreamlike feeling it gives me.”
The campaign, with creative direction by Billboard Korea, presented a unique blend of subtle retro vibes and fresh, modern sensibility that immediately caught fans’ attention. More than just a brand advertisement, it has been recognized as a work that conveys cultural and emotional interpretation. In the conversation below, Billboard Korea explains how they created a unique sensibility connecting the 1980s with Seoul in 2025.
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How was the theme “I Feel Coke” conceptualized for the ad?
“I Feel Coke” was both the theme of a Coca-Cola Japan ad series that aired between 1987 and 1990 and the title of a song by Daisuke Inoue, which was featured in those commercials. The original ad was widely praised for capturing the spirit of Japan’s economic boom in the 1980s. In the 2025 Seoul version, we reinterpreted it as a tribute, blending nostalgia with a contemporary twist.
The new ad was inspired by the concept of Anemoia, a term that describes a sense of longing for a time or culture one has never actually experienced. We wanted to evoke the emotions tied to Coca-Cola from past eras while reimagining them in a fresh, modern way. Every detail was carefully crafted to preserve that feeling of nostalgia while making it relevant to today’s audience.
Can you explain “Anemoia” in more detail?
The term Anemoia was first introduced in 2012 by American writer John Koenig in “The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows.” It describes the feeling of nostalgia for a time or culture one has never personally experienced. This emotion resonates strongly with Generation Z, who, amid uncertainty and anxiety, find themselves longing for the perceived prosperity and joy of past eras.
This growing fascination with revisiting and reinterpreting the past played a key role in shaping our creative direction. Our goal was to modernize nostalgia—capturing the essence of past memories while making them feel fresh and relevant today.
It’s clear that NewJeans being the models fits well. They both represent Gen Z and evoke nostalgia.
Exactly. NewJeans effortlessly blend a “longing for the past” with the “sophistication of the present.” As highlighted in Billboard Artist last October, they are not only icons of Gen Z but also a reflection of the nostalgia this generation experiences. Their unique ability to reimagine past eras with a fresh, modern twist made them the perfect match for this project and that synergy shines through in the ad.
What elements from the past were specifically referenced and which parts were reinterpreted in a new way?
One element that deeply moved us in the original ad was the happiness depicted — especially the brief moments of happiness that can be found in everyday life. We also paid close attention to authentic 1980s Japanese elements, such as the yuppie lifestyle, baseball, pay phones, leisure and health aesthetics, and more. In the 2025 Seoul version, we sought to reframe these experiences through the lens of Gen Z, while still capturing the sense of longing that was present in the original ad, reimagined with modern sensibilities.
What aspects of 2025 Seoul did you incorporate into the ad?
We aimed to capture different aspects of everyday life in 2025 Seoul, from the city’s efficient transportation system and vintage markets to social media content creation, instant photography and young adults moving into their first apartments. We also highlighted outdoor delivery meals and romantic moments on college campuses, small yet authentic elements that will resonate with people for years to come. These moments represent the happiness of today’s youth, which was at the heart of our vision for this project.
NewJeans’ rendition of “I Feel Coke” has garnered attention for its refreshing and dreamy vibe. How does it differ from the original song from the past?
ADOR and its A&R team aimed to preserve the essence of both the original song and the era it came from while capturing the signature feeling of the Coca-Cola brand. At the same time, they wanted to reinterpret it through the emotions NewJeans embodies today. The goal was to craft a track that complements NewJeans’ warm, understated, yet sophisticated vocal style.
The intro’s synthesizer melody follows the same pattern as the original, but with a fresh sound design. As the song progresses, the synthesizer and electric guitar in the second verse echo the original’s nostalgic vibe, while the outro introduces a saxophone, bridging the dreamy atmosphere of the past with a modern, refreshing touch.
How was the vocal distribution among the members decided?
ADOR carefully arranged the vocal distribution to highlight each member’s individual strengths. For the final choir section, they focused on enhancing the harmonies, ensuring that each member’s unique tone blended seamlessly while preserving the choral beauty of the original song.
Were there any special episodes during the arrangement and recording process?
During the arrangement process, the members of NewJeans gave input on the intro sound, helping refine it to perfectly complement the visuals of the ad. During recording, they focused on making the song their own while also capturing Coca-Cola’s signature sense of energy and refreshment, making the entire experience truly special.
In addition to the main ad video, there were also sub-content pieces. What were they?
Yes, we created several additional content pieces to enhance the campaign. For example, we designed illustrated posters featuring the 1980s Coca-Cola logo and imagined what Billboard Korea magazine covers might have looked like if it had existed back then.
NewJeans also shared behind-the-scenes collage videos filmed with disposable cameras and camcorders, capturing candid and intimate moments. These extra elements added emotional depth to the ad and gave fans a rare, personal glimpse into the members’ real personalities.
After the online release, there was an overwhelming public response. Can you share some memorable comments?
We got a lot of reactions, like: “It’s strange that I cried even though it’s just a commercial.” “It feels like watching an uplifting youth movie.” “The legendary collaboration between Billboard and Coca-Cola.” “I can’t stop replaying it.” “I’m only drinking Coca-Cola now.” (Fun fact: Coca-Cola sales went up on the release day and the day after.) The project manager at Coca-Cola Korea also shared that the comment “It delivers happiness in chunks” really stood out to them.
The collaboration between Billboard and Coca-Cola was also unique.
Exactly. We often take “happiness” for granted because it’s always around, and we think we understand it. But one of the simplest yet most essential ways to capture that feeling is through music. That’s why we believe music is the perfect medium to express the “feeling of happiness” that Coca-Cola stands for. The partnership between Coca-Cola and Billboard, with their rich histories, created a unique connection between music and advertising.
Do you have any behind-the-scenes stories you can share?
The sunny, warm summer vibe in the ad was actually filmed on a snowy day. [Laughs]
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