Music news

Short summaries of current music and artist stories, with links back to the original reporting.

K-Pop Artist Samuel Releases EP 'SAMUELito' Blending Latin and Reggaeton

forbes.com · Jun 18, 2026

Forbes reports that musical artist Samuel has released the EP 'SAMUELito,' a project designed to embrace his diverse roots. The artist, who spent years training in the Korean music system, explains that the album blends Latin rhythm and reggaeton energy with his K-pop experience. Samuel states he felt compelled to return to his origins regarding his upbringing and environment, describing the release as a fresh way to show his true identity. The outlet notes the timing was perfect for him to pursue Spanish music after his extensive background in the Korean pop scene. Readers are advised to follow the original Forbes link for the full story.

RAEGAN Releases New Single 'Crying Is A Girl's Best Friend'

shorefire.com · Jun 17, 2026

Rising theatre-pop artist RAEGAN has unveiled her latest single, 'Crying Is A Girl's Best Friend,' described as a glamorous act of self-love that transforms heartbreak into empowerment. The track serves as a centerpiece for her upcoming EP, 'RAEGAN CORE,' blending Broadway-style grandeur with contemporary pop sensibilities. Accompanied by a high-drama music video, the song features RAEGAN reflecting on personal resilience, stating it represents her 'Disney princess moment.' The outlet reports the release as a smooth, emotional spectacle designed to celebrate self-worth after rejection.

CMAT Releases 2025 Album 'EURO-COUNTRY' on Agonistic Public Space

diggitmagazine.com · Jun 17, 2026

Irish artist CMAT has released her 2025 album 'EURO-COUNTRY,' a work described as transforming private grief into public confrontation. The project addresses Ireland's post-Celtic Tiger legacy, utilizing the viral title track set against imagery of abandoned houses to surface unresolved social wounds. According to Diggit Magazine, the album functions as a political intervention, creating spaces where collective reflection on suppressed experiences can occur. CMAT noted that while this intense artistic output stems from a national struggle, it remains distinct from her own personal experience. Readers are encouraged to follow the original source link for the full report.

Grammys Announce Five New Categories Including First Asian Pop Award

abcnews.com · Jun 17, 2026

The Recording Academy has announced five new categories for the 69th Grammy Awards, set to air on February 7, 2027. The most notable addition is the Best Asian Pop Music Performance award, designed to recognize excellence in K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop recordings featuring Asian languages. Four other new categories include Best Latin Song, Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance, Best R&B Collaboration or Duo/Group Performance, and Best Traditional Folk Album. According to the Academy, these changes aim to reflect the growing global impact of Asian pop and provide distinct recognition for traditional folk recordings. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story on these industry updates.

Madonna Releases 'Bring Your Love' Video with Sabrina Carpenter

newsweek.com · Jun 17, 2026

Madonna has unveiled a new music video for her dance anthem 'Bring Your Love,' featuring Sabrina Carpenter. The release precedes her upcoming album, 'Confessions II,' which is scheduled for July 3 on Warner Records. According to Newsweek, the track has already achieved commercial success, reaching number one on the U.K. Club Chart. Additionally, another single from the album, 'I Feel So Free,' topped Billboard's Dance Airplay Chart. The report highlights Madonna's enduring chart appeal in 2026, noting her ability to connect with both long-time fans and a new generation of listeners. For the complete story on the video and album details, please follow the original source link.

Rookie K-Pop Group AND2BLE Secures First Music Show Win

markets.businessinsider.com · Jun 17, 2026

Rookie K-pop boy group AND2BLE has achieved a significant milestone by clinching their first music show victory on 'THE SHOW' immediately following their debut. According to a report from Business Insider, the group also successfully completed all three tiers of the global fan campaign titled 'THE K-POP Cheer Up!', highlighting their strong international support. An official from BIGC noted that these early accomplishments reflect the unity of fans across borders. These achievements mark a promising start for the new act in the competitive global market. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story and additional details on the group's recent success.

Newsweek Register: New Electro-Pop Release and TV Cuts

newsweek.com · Jun 17, 2026

Newsweek's latest entertainment roundup highlights the New York electro-pop duo Fcukers, reporting their new release titled *Ö* as a standout late-night album of the summer. The outlet also covers a podcast appearance by *RuPaul's Drag Race* alumni Ginger Minj and Jujubee, who discussed their project *Stop! Train!* and revealed that RuPaul is reportedly playing the President of the United States in an upcoming production. Beyond music, the report indicates NBC is canceling several programs, including *The Kelly Clarkson Show*, to better align with viewer preferences. For the complete details on these new bands, industry shifts, and celebrity updates, readers should follow the original source link for the full story.

VPM Explores Pop Album Narratives Amid Lizzo and Imani Imani Releases

vpm.org · Jun 17, 2026

VPM reports on the current state of pop albums, suggesting they are increasingly defined by heavy narratives. The outlet highlights the simultaneous June 1 releases of major albums from pop star Lizzo and rising artist Imani Imani as key examples. The article contrasts Lizzo's new track "Too Nice" from her album _Bitch_ with her previous reputation for "yas queen" enthusiasm, noting a shift in her musical approach. While the report indicates a broader industry trend toward storytelling, it questions what happens when listeners engage with these records without prior context. Readers should follow the original source link for the full analysis of these releases and the evolving pop landscape.

Jennifer Lopez Mocked for Knicks Celebration

skynews.com.au · Jun 17, 2026

Sky News Australia reports that Jennifer Lopez is facing online mockery for what host Rita Panahi describes as a 'weird' celebration following the New York Knicks' championship win. Panahi characterizes the singer as constantly 'attention-seeking,' suggesting her inner circle fails to offer honest feedback. The report highlights the public's reaction to Lopez's enthusiastic display of support for the basketball team. While the outlet focuses on the social media reaction, the story centers on the pop star's public persona. Readers should follow the original source link for the full video report and additional commentary on the event.

2027 Grammys Introduce Five New Categories and Rule Changes

grammy.com · Jun 17, 2026

The Recording Academy has announced significant updates for the 69th Grammy Awards, scheduled for February 7, 2027. According to the official outlet, five new categories and various rule modifications are now in effect following proposals from the membership body. These changes aim to reflect the current dynamic musical landscape and the industry's extraordinary growth. Notably, the Best R&B Performance category has been revised and renamed Best R&B Solo Performance. CEO Harvey Mason Jr. stated that these adjustments highlight the breadth of today's music industry, encompassing diverse genres and creators. The ceremony will air live on ABC, Disney+, and Hulu. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story regarding these specific category additions and procedural shifts.

Grammys Announce 2026 Rule Changes and New Categories

apnews.com · Jun 17, 2026

The Recording Academy has introduced significant updates for the 2026 Grammy Awards, including the addition of five new categories. AP News reports that a new Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance category will honor artists whose work cannot be intermingled with present pop forms. Additionally, the rules for Best New Artist have been tweaked, with a screening committee now tasked with determining if an artist attained a high degree of industry impact prior to the eligibility year. These changes aim to refine how musical achievements are recognized. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story on these industry adjustments.

Faith No More Signs Global Tour Deal with 30e; Hatebreed Inks Album Contract

billboard.com · Jun 17, 2026

Billboard reports that rock icons Faith No More have signed a comprehensive global deal with Brazilian entertainment giant 30e. According to the outlet, this partnership positions the Latin American company as the strategic hub for the band's upcoming worldwide tour, covering operations across five continents and new fan experiences. The report notes this move challenges the traditional US-Europe industry axis. Additionally, the publication states that hardcore band Hatebreed has signed with Frontiers Label Group's BLKIIBLK Records for an album release scheduled for this fall. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story on these significant industry developments.