Music news

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

France Bans Alcohol at Music Festivals Amid Heatwave

bbc.com · Jun 21, 2026

The BBC reports that France has implemented a ban on alcohol consumption at state-organized music festival events due to a severe heatwave. As temperatures approach record levels, the government issued red alerts for 35 departments, impacting the annual Fête de la Musique celebrations which typically draw millions. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu's office stated that instructions were given to not offer alcohol at these events to preserve emergency and healthcare services. This measure aims to allow medical staff to focus on caring for the most vulnerable during the ongoing disruption, which has also forced train cancellations and class suspensions across the country. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story.

Brother Wallace Performs 'Let's Get Together' on CBS News

cbsnews.com · Jun 21, 2026

CBS News reports that Brother Wallace, a Georgia-bred artist known for evoking the Golden Age of Motown, gospel, and soul, recently performed 'Let's Get Together' for the outlet's Saturday Sessions. The long-time music teacher, who has also worked with the U.K. rock band The Heavy, has released his debut album, 'Electric Love,' which is available now. This video segment highlights his live performance capabilities and musical style. Readers should follow the original source link for the full video and story details.

Concertgoer Dies During Goose Show at Madison Square Garden

nypost.com · Jun 21, 2026

The New York Post reports that a 51-year-old concertgoer fell to his death during a performance by the rock band Goose at Madison Square Garden on Saturday night. Police stated that officers found the man unconscious inside the venue around 9:51 p.m. The band, consisting of Rick Mitarotonda, Trevor Weeks, Peter Anspach, and Cotter Ellis, expressed that they were heartbroken upon learning of the tragedy during their second night of a two-night run. This incident occurred as part of the group's Summer 2026 tour, which includes 27 concerts across the US and Canada. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story and further details regarding the incident.

Iron Maiden Enforce Phone-Free Standing Area for Paris Concert Film

billboard.com · Jun 21, 2026

Billboard reports that Iron Maiden is implementing a phone-free policy for the standing area at their upcoming June 22 show at Paris La Défense Arena. The band confirmed this measure via social media to ensure an optimal experience for filming their forthcoming Run For Your Lives Tour concert movie. Fans in the General Admission section will be required to use Yondr pouches, a lockable storage solution, to keep phones away during the performance. This initiative continues the band's advocacy for phone-free concerts throughout their 2025 tour run. For the complete details on the policy and the tour film, readers should follow the original source link.

Tens of Millions of Songs Used to Train AI Music Models

gigazine.net · Jun 21, 2026

GIGAZINE reports that a massive dataset containing tens of millions of songs is currently being utilized to train AI models for music generation. The outlet notes that while some tracks in these datasets are protected by copyright, others require specific licensing agreements for AI use. This practice has drawn significant criticism toward AI music generators Suno and Udio, which have faced legal challenges from major labels including Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Records. The report highlights ongoing concerns regarding how copyrighted material is integrated into AI training processes. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story on this developing industry issue.

Bobby Prince, Legendary Video Game Composer, Dies at 81

kotaku.com · Jun 21, 2026

Kotaku reports that Bobby Prince, the celebrated composer and sound designer behind iconic PC games like Doom, Duke Nukem, Wolfenstein, and Commander Keen, has passed away at the age of 81. Originally a lawyer, Prince transitioned into music after connecting with Apogee founder Scott Miller through online forums, eventually creating the distinctive MIDI soundscapes that defined the shareware era. Working closely with id Software and 3D Realms during their formative years, his contributions helped bring many foundational titles to life. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story on his career and legacy.

Vinyl Sales Surge as NYC Non-Profit Hosts Listening Sessions

nbcnews.com · Jun 20, 2026

NBC News reports that vinyl record sales surpassed one billion dollars last year, prompting a New York City-based non-profit to host community listening sessions. The outlet indicates these events offer a modern twist on enjoying music the "old school" way while helping to preserve music history. With the recording industry seeing significant growth in physical media, these gatherings aim to foster community through shared audio experiences. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story on how this trend is reshaping local music appreciation.

Report: Major AI Music Databases Include Canadian Artists Without Consent

ca.billboard.com · Jun 20, 2026

Billboard Canada reports that a new data leak reveals four massive song datasets, including one with 12 million tracks, are being shared within the AI development community. The report indicates that numerous Canadian acts, such as Drake, The Weeknd, and Tre Mission, have their music included in these databases without proper licensing or explicit consent. Tre Mission expressed disappointment, stating he never agreed to this usage and generally dislikes AI in music. While the leak highlights growing concerns about uncredited usage, the full scope of affected artists and the specific licensing implications remain under investigation. Readers should follow the original source link for the complete story and additional details on the database compilation.

Calgary Festivals Face New Midnight Curfew; Rolling Stones Reveal Album Inspiration

ca.billboard.com · Jun 20, 2026

Billboard Canada reports that Calgary music festivals, including the Stampede, must now conclude by midnight on weeknights under new city noise guidelines. A city memo indicates this change aims to facilitate orderly patron exits, though 'cool-down music' may continue until 12:30 am. In separate news, Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood told the Canadian Press that the band's upcoming album, *Foreign Tongues*, is inspired by their 1977 performances at Toronto's El Mocambo. The record is scheduled for release on July 10. For the complete details on these industry updates, please follow the original source link.

Keith Urban's Nicole Kidman Tattoo Sparks Speculation

skynews.com.au · Jun 20, 2026

Reports indicate that country music star Keith Urban may still be emotionally connected to his ex-wife, Nicole Kidman, following a recent red carpet appearance. During the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas in May 2026, Urban rolled up his sleeves to display a tattoo dedicated to Kidman. According to a source cited by Woman's Day, this specific choice of attire and pose was a deliberate message regarding his feelings. The outlet suggests this gesture hints at lingering emotions or regrets concerning their past relationship. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story and additional details on this celebrity theory.

Madison Beer Brings 'Locket' Tour to San Francisco

sfchronicle.com · Jun 20, 2026

The San Francisco Chronicle reports that rising pop star Madison Beer is bringing her tour to the Bay Area following a viral TikTok moment. The 27-year-old singer is scheduled to perform at the Bill Graham Civic Center on Tuesday, June 23, in support of her third studio album, 'locket.' This follows her 2023 release, 'Silence Between Songs,' which earned a Grammy nomination. Her track 'bittersweet' recently marked her first entry on the Billboard Hot 100, while 'Make You Mine' secured a second Grammy nod. The article also notes her relationship with NFL quarterback Justin Herbert, who appeared in her 'lovergirl' music video. Readers should follow the original source link for the full story.

Kim Kardashian Spotted at Ariana Grande's 'Eternal Sunshine' Tour

tmz.com · Jun 20, 2026

TMZ reports that Kim Kardashian attended a Los Angeles stop of Ariana Grande's 'Eternal Sunshine' tour, creating a viral moment for the concert. The SKIMS founder was seen in the audience alongside former 'American Horror Story' co-star Emma Roberts and Grande's mother, Joan. Although the group attempted to blend into the crowd, fans quickly spotted them and shared clips online. Kardashian also posted her own video from the venue, showing herself singing along to hits during the sold-out performance. For the full details on the celebrity sighting and fan reactions, please follow the original source link.