After five long….long….very long years, Bruno Mars is back.
We’ve been “waiting on the other side” for some time now, but our patience has finally proven worth the wait. We had a sneaky feeling Bruno Mars would be dropping new music in 2026, but this new era is proving to be more exciting than we thought. Hey, a little groove hurt nobody.
‘I Just Might’ Gets Groovy
Ahead of his highly anticipated album, The Romantic, releasing on Feburary 27, Bruno Mars gave us a little groovy gift. Queue outfits from the 70’s, colorful lights, and a whole lot of stylish instruments, and you’ve got ‘I Just Might.’ This new track is a Bruno Mars hit through and through. If you loved Bruno’s collaboration with Anderson .Paak on Silk Sonic, this new era of Bruno music is going to be your new favorite, afterall, “what good is beauty if your booty can’t find the beat?” We certainly like what we’re hearing and are eagerly waiting for more on the upcoming album.
Hey, Mr. DJ – we’re getting a full album!? Come Feburary 27, 2026 (pre-save The Romantichere), Bruno Mars is dropping a new album after five years of heart-aching silence. We’re getting nine new tracks, including ‘I Just Might,’ which sits at track #3. Will we be getting more of the same 70s groovy sound? Or, will be getting more sad love ballads like ‘Talking To The Moon?’ Either way, we want them all!
A new single and a new album. What else can we add to the tab? How about a stadium world tour…?
Image Source: Courtesy of Atlantic Records
The Romantic On Tour
Bruno Mars hasn’t gone on a world tour in a long time. He’s been busy performing residencies in Las Vegas and keeping much else a secret from fans. The wait is over! We’re seeing Bruno Mars perform live in 2026 (hopefully more than once). The Romantic Tour spans nearly 40 stadium shows across North America, Europe, and the UK. The tour kicks off in Las Vegas (surprise, surprise) with some special guests. Of course, Bruno picked the best possible openers – Leon Thomas, Victoria Monét, RAYE, and Anderson .Paak. Um, is this a dream?
Sign up for the fan pre-sale for your city here. Good luck getting tickets, honeybee! We’ll be fighting that Ticketmaster war along with you.
Are you excited for Bruno Mars’s new album, The Romantic? Will you be getting tickets to the tour? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
The earnest superhero team-up tale “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” and Tracy Morgan returning to TV with a new comedy called “Crutch” are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you.
Also among the streaming offerings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: The upstairs-downstairs drama “Downton Abbey” bids farewell in a final movie, Kim Kardashian plays a divorce attorney in Hulu’s “All’s Fair” and Willie Nelson continues to demonstrate his prolific output with the release of yet another new album this year.
New movies to stream from Nov. 3-9
— Guillermo del Toro realizes his long-held dream of a sumptuous Mary Shelley adaptation in “Frankenstein” (Friday Nov. 7 on Netflix). Del Toro’s film, starring Oscar Isaac as Victor Frankenstein and Jacob Elordi as his monster, uses all the trappings of handmade movie craft to give Shelley’s classic an epic sweep. In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr wrote: “Everything about ‘Frankenstein’ is larger than life, from the runtime to the emotions on display.”
— Matt Shakman’s endearingly earnest superhero team-up tale “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” (Wednesday on Disney+) helps alleviate a checkered-at-best history of big-screen adaptations of the classic Stan Lee-Jack Kirby comic. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach and Joseph Quinn play Mister Fantastic, Invisible Woman, the Thing and the Human Torch, respectively. In 1964, they work to defend Earth from its imminent destruction by Galactus. In my review, I praised “First Steps” as “a spiffy ’60s-era romp, bathed in retrofuturism and bygone American optimism.”
— “Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” (Friday, Nov. 7 on Peacock) bids goodbye to the Crawleys 15 years after Julian Fellowes first debuted his upstairs-downstairs drama. The cast of the third and final film, directed by Simon Curtis, includes Hugh Bonneville, Michelle Dockery and Paul Giamatti. In her review, AP’s Jocelyn Noveck wrote that the film gives “loyal Downton fans what they want: a satisfying bit of closure and the sense that the future, though a bit scary, may look kindly on Downton Abbey.” Peacock is also streaming the two previous movies and all six seasons of “Downton Abbey.”
— “The Materialists” (Friday, Nov. 7 on HBO Max), Celine Song’s follow-up to her Oscar-nominated 2023 breakthrough “Past Lives,” stars Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans in a romantic triangle. The New York-set film adds a dose of economic reality to a romantic comedy plot in what was, for A24, a modest summer hit. In her review, AP’s Jocelyn Noveck called it “a smart rom-com that tries to be honest about life and still leaves us smiling.”
— The legendary Willie Nelson continues to demonstrate his prolific output with the release of yet another new album this year. “Workin’ Man: Willie Sings Merle,” out Friday, Nov. 7, is exactly what it sounds like: Nelson offering new interpretations of 11 classic songs written by Merle Haggard. And we mean classics: Check out Nelson’s latest take on “Okie From Muskogee,” “Mama Tried,” “I Think I’ll Just Stay Here And Drink” and more.
— Where’s the future of the global music industry? All over, surely, but it would be more than just a little wise to look to Brazil. Not too dissimilar to how Anitta brought her country’s funk genre to an international mainstream through diverse collaborations and genre meddling, so too is Ludmilla. On Thursday, she will release a new album, “Fragmentos,” fresh off the heels of her sultry, bilingual collaboration with Grammy winner Victoria Monét, “Cam Girl.” It’s a combination of R&B, funk and then some.
— Tracy Morgan returns to TV with a new comedy called “Crutch.” Morgan plays a widowed empty-nester whose world is turned around when his adult children move home with his grandkids in tow. The Paramount+ series debuts Monday.
— Kim Kardashian says she will soon learn whether she passed the bar exam to become a lawyer, but she plays a sought-after divorce attorney in “All’s Fair,” her new TV series for Hulu. Kardashian stars alongside Glenn Close, Sarah Paulson, Niecy Nash-Betts, Naomi Watts and Teyana Taylor in the show about an all-female law firm. Ryan Murphy created the show with Kardashian in mind after she acted in “American Horror Story: Delicate.” It premieres Tuesday on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+.
— The old saying about truth being stranger than fiction applies to Netflix’s new four-episode limited-series “Death by Lightning.” It’s a historical dramatization (with some comedy thrown in) about how James Garfield became the 20th president of the United States. He was shot four months later by a man named Charles Guiteau (Matthew Macfadyen), who was desperate for Garfield’s attention. Two months after that, Garfield died from complications of his injuries. It’s a wild story that also features Betty Gilpin, Nick Offerman, Bradley Whitford and Shea Whigham. The series premieres Thursday.
— HBO offers up a new docuseries about the life of retired baseball superstar Alex Rodriguez. “Alex Vs. A-Rod” features intimate interviews with people who are related to and know Rodriguez, as well as the man himself. The three-part series premieres Thursday.
— The next installment of “Wicked,” called “Wicked: For Good,” flies into theaters Nov. 21 and NBC has created a musical special to pump up the release. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande lead “Wicked: One Wonderful Night,” a concert event that premieres Thursday on NBC and streams on Peacock Friday, Nov. 7. Additional film cast members like Michelle Yeoh, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode and Ethan Slater appear as well.
— It’s going to be a while until the next Legend of Zelda game, but if you’re craving some time with the princess, check out Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. In this spinoff, a prequel to 2023’s Tears of the Kingdom, Zelda travels back in time to join forces with the Six Sages in a war against the invader Ganondorf. You can also drag another human into battle with split-screen or the GameShare feature on Nintendo’s new console. Like the previous collaborations between Nintendo and Koei Tecmo, it’s more hack-and-slash action than exploration and discovery. It arrives Thursday on Switch 2.
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign rally on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the site of the former Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo: Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice)
The “When We Vote We Win” rally was similar to the many Harris has held in metro Atlanta, featuring high-profile politicians, musical artists, actors, and local celebrities and large, energetic crowds. On Saturday rappers 2 Chainz and Pastor Troy performed, and director Spike Lee, actress, singer Victoria Monet, and Atlanta’s own Monica made appearances on behalf of the Harris-Walz ticket.
“I really do believe Atlanta will be a difference-maker in this election. If you think you can sit this one out, you are absolutely wrong.”
Victoria Monet
Several large American flags served as a backdrop for what is Harris’ last rally in the largest county in battleground Georgia. As of Friday, more than four million Georgians cast ballots, according to data from the Secretary of State’s Office. Fulton County saw a 58% turnout during early voting, which amounted to 439,944 ballots. If Harris was going to reach any undecided voters it might not be in decidedly blue Atlanta. She was amongst friends and ardent supporters on this day.
“I really do believe Atlanta will be a difference-maker in this election. If you think you can sit this one out, you are absolutely wrong,” said Victoria Monet.
A first-time voter, Justin Martinez Posadas welcomed Harris to the stateg just before 2 p.m. Martinez, a senior at a local high school, said he cast his first ever presidential election ballot for Harris alongside his grandparents.
Harris took the stage and immediately thanked Martinez and the many Georgia politicians in attendance, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Georgia Senator Rev. Raphael Warnock.
“In less than 90 days it’s either going to be me or him in the Oval Office,” said Harris. “It’s time for new leadership in America and I’m ready to be that leader.”
Harris pledged to the supporters in attendance to be a “President for all people” and asked them for their vote. “Now please talk to your friends, neighbors, coworkers, and your families.”
Victoria Monet speaks during a campaign rally for the Democratic nominee for U.S. President, Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at the site of the former Atlanta Civic Center in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo: Itoro N. Umontuen/The Atlanta Voice)
To people who haven’t voted, Harris said to have a plan for when and where they votes. “Polls are open here in Georgia from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.,” she said.
“We are all here because we love our country, and we know that when you love something you fight for it,” Harris said.
Harris told the crowd to be intentional in how they build community. “There is power in that and it will strengthen our country,” Harris said during her closing remarks.
ONE Musicfest (OMF), presented by Procter and Gamble, in collaboration with Live Nation Urban (LNU), announced its eagerly awaited lineup for its 15th anniversary of music, culture, and celebration.
The annual two-day festival, founded by Jason “J” Carter, is set for Saturday, Oct. 26, and Sunday, Oct. 27, at Central Park in Atlanta.
The City Girls perform during One Music Fest at Central Park in Atlanta on Sunday, October 9, 2022. Photo by James Ivory Smith/The Atlanta Voice
OMF has always catered equally to both R&B and Hip-Hop lovers, and this year is no different. For those who enjoy soulful tunes, you can expect to sing along to new hits and timeless classics from artists like headliners Jill Scott, Victoria Monét, and Earth, Wind & Fire, with other performances by Dru Hill, Fridayy, Destin Conrad, Fantasia, Jeremih, Gospel singer Koryn Hawthorne and more.
Rap fans are in for a treat as well, with performances from headliners Cardi B and Gunna, along with performances by Sexyy Red, Glorilla, Nelly, BigXthaPlug, Young Nudy, T.I., Bossman Dlow, Method Man & Redman, and both DJ Mustard and DJ Drama, who will be bringing along a few of their friends. Usher’s longtime DJ, and well-respected Atlanta transplant, DJ Mars, will also curate a set of thrilling performances to keep the crowd moving.
For the eclectic ears, new wave country artist and recent LVRN Records signee Tanner Adell will likewise grace the stage at OMF, her first Black festival performance. This year’s lineup was selected especially with the fan first in mind, offering everything from a meet-and-greet experience with Method Man to surprise pop-out performances from special guests.
Nicknamed the greatest homecoming on earth, festivalgoers will enjoy a smooth entry process and a variety of stages showcasing continuous music, the festival is celebrating bigger than ever with exciting new activations, partnerships, and energetic performances. Fans can expect special social media experiences, never-before-featured health, and fitness initiatives, and pop-ups curated by Atlanta creatives.
Romance is in the air for Victoria Monét weeks after she announced her split from former partner John Gaines. She was recently spotted sharing a romantic moment with British rapper Stormzy at London’s Heathrow Airport.
As per People, the On My Mama singer can be seen kissing Stormzy at the London airport in photos captured by The Sun. The duo was spotted spending quality time in each other’s embrace as per the outlet. These PDA-filled moments came not long after Monét disclosed her divorce from Gaines with whom she has a three-year-old daughter Hazel. Meanwhile, Stormzy and Maya Jama announced separation three months ago.
The last time fans heard from Monét and Gaines together was when they revealed their separation on September 23rd. They came on their social media where they shared that they were no longer together. In the announcement, they made it clear that their relationship was over for 10 months now, but they remained silent until they faced questions about their relationship and “extremely false accusations” about their origin story.
In the joint statement, the former couple cleared the air stating, “We spent the last 10 months trying to respectfully and privately navigate the fact that we are no longer in a relationship. Though we still completely adore and respect each other, we are not a couple anymore. There was no infidelity, toxic behavior or drama.”
The couple promised their followers that they still had each other’s love, care, and respect, putting co-parenting Hazel at the core of their interactions. Their love was over, but they accepted what had happened.
Monét and Gaines went on to add how they needed to focus on personal growth embarking on separate journeys to be the best versions for their daughter, Hazel. They wrote, “It simply didn’t work out and that’s okay. We still think the world of each other and operate with love in every interaction for our family. We have an incredible daughter to raise for life and that is undoubtedly our number 1 priority forever.”
Meanwhile, similarly, Stormzy and Maya Jama had informed their fans via social media about their breakup in July. The couple in their 30s previously dated between 2014 and 2019 and went back together in 2022. They said in their joint statement that they made every effort to rekindle their relationship but in the end, it did not work out.
This week’s episode of The Acolyte, “Choice,” gave fans with an end-credits song inspired by the show’s core sisterhood between Osha and Mae (Amandla Stenberg). Though it’s not what fans expect when they call Star Wars music to mind (cue the John Williams), “Power of Two” is not actually Star Wars‘ first official pop song.
The track from Victoria Monét closes out the penultimate chapter of season one, a flashback that reveals the truth about the tragedy that ultimately separated the twins. Titled “Power of Two,” its lyrics explore the themes of duality and destiny shared by the sisters. More like a song of Star Wars lore than a Disney-style soundtrack needle drop, the song would fit right into the in-universe canon as a musical piece about the twins’ High Republic-era saga.
Listen to it below!
As novel as “Power of Two” is, this is not the first official pop song sanctioned by Lucasfilm. Fans of Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and the now-shuttered Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, will know that pop and rock does indeed exist alongside the in-universe jizz music. Gaya, a Twi’lek singer, was introduced into the lore post-Star Wars: The Last Jedi as a real celebrity with a full album of galactic pop songs inspired by the mythology of the resistance and figures within it. She was a key character aboard Galactic Starcruiser‘s Halcyon cruise ship, performing a concert that was a highlight for visitors. Her sound was very much in the vein of “Power of Two,” and while the song is just an end-credits track in the context of The Acolyte, you could imagine Gaya having it in her repertoire as a classic from the High Republic era.
Other musicians recently added to Star Wars canon include Star Waver, a rock band from Lucasfilm’s animated anthology Star Wars: Visions; it was featured in “Tatooine Rhapsody” playing “Galactic Dreamer.” And even before Weird Al’s incredible saga of Star Wars parody songs with hits like “Yoda” and “The Saga Begins,” the infamous but beloved Star Wars Holiday Special featured original music too, performed by cast members like Carrie Fisher with “A Day to Celebrate,” Bea Arthur’s “Good Night But Not Goodbye,” and musical guest Jefferson Starship’s “Light the Sky on Fire”. And let’s not forget the Max Rebo Band’s “Lapti Nek” showstopper in Return of the Jedi.
There have been highs and lows across the decades, but pop has always been in the Star Wars universe. And we’d say “Power of Two” is more subdued as an excellent song added for storytelling subtlety. Whether in the canon itself or just on soundtracks, we are here for more genre music in Star Wars. Give us an officially licensed, sick Sith metal album from the band Ghost.
All eyes were on ageless stunner Mýa who slayed alongside Victoria Monét at a star-studded Essence Fest party this past weekend in New Orleans.
Source: Prince Williams/WireImage
Monét, who co-headlined this year’s Essence Fest concert with Janet Jackson, could be seen vibing with Mýa who headlined AT&T’s Dream in Black connected stage in the bustling Convention Center.
“Right off the bat, I thought it was an interesting idea, the Dream in Black [platform] celebrating Black culture,” said Mýa in an interview with Adweek.
“And New Orleans itself is a beautiful place with so much culture and a place that everyone comes to. It’s also Essence’s 30th celebration, a huge milestone. I love being a part of cultural events. All the aspects of Essence Fest—I love what it stands for. It’s motivating, it’s inspiring, it’s empowering.”
Naturally, everybody from Luke James to Lance Gross made their way over to Mýa who’s still very much that girl nearly 30 years after her R&B reign.
Source: Prince Williams/WireImage
Source: Prince Williams/WireImage
Source: Prince Williams/WireImage
At 44, Mya is finer than fine while staying booked and busy on the booming festival circuit. Seriously, look at the material.
Source: Prince Williams/WireImage
In an interview with Essence GU, the proud vegan and self-care advocate shared some of her beauty secrets that keep her looking ageless.
“As far as skincare, I use natural products,” she revealed. “I use African black soap from Ghana. I also use shea butter as a natural sunblock if I plan on being in the sun [and also] for daily moisturization. I save my peels on my papayas and my mangoes. The papaya peel is a natural moisturizer, I use the mango peel as a skin tightening mask for about 10-15 minutes. So I just use everything natural on my face – I use lemon as astringent, too.”
What type of vibe would you want from a Victoria and Mya collab? Tell us down below and peep Mya and Victoria’s most recent slays on the flip.
Everyone has been on our girl Megan Thee Stallion for every little thing, and with her newest self-titled album, MEGAN, she continues to shut all the haters down. With what she has gone through these past couple of years, we can’t help but always want to support our girl, and you know what? She makes it really, really easy to love her, especially with this newest album.
So, we heard a couple of songs from MEGAN before its release, ‘BOA,’ ‘HISS,’ and ‘Cobra,’ which set up what was expected from the album, and we instantly knew we wouldn’t be disappointed. It doesn’t matter if you hit shuffle, click a random one, or start with the first one on the album; this album will be your fave release of the year. With this album, we have 15 brand-new tracks, and as we said, it was hit after hit after hit.
We just had a lot of fun while listening to MEGAN; we went from dancing to crying to dancing again. Which made it harder when picking our faves, but honestly, we can’t stop listening to ‘BOA,’ ‘Where Them Girls At,’ ‘Moody Girl,’ ‘Mamushi (feat. Yuki Chiba),’ and ‘Otaku Hot Girl,’ but don’t tell the rest of the tracks. And though we weren’t surprised at the Anime references, we were still shocked at the beginning of ‘Otaku Hot Girl,’ if you haven’t listened to it and are a Jujutsu Kaisen fan, you’re gonna love it. We also really liked the diverse collabs she had on the album; we love hearing familiar voices, as well as falling in love with people we might not be familiar with.
Now because we had so much fun with this album, we thought we might tell you some of our fave lyrics in a fun little way. So here are some MEGAN lyrics in the format of old Tumblr posts.
‘Moody Girl’
Source: Canva, Edited by: Valerie Valdez
“So many friends but I still feel lonely / How come none of y’all call to check on me?”
‘Find Out’
Source: Canva, Edited: Valerie Valdez
“Before I get played, I play with myself, cross me, I don’t care, I’m still blessed”
‘Cobra’
Source: Canva, Edited By: Valerie Valdez
“Breakin’ down and I had the whole world watchin’ / But the worst part is really who watched me”
‘Worthy’
Source: Canva, Edited By: Valerie Valdez
“I’m worthy, not worthless”
‘BOA’
Source: Canva, Edited by: Valerie Valdez
“All the sudden, they vegan, they don’t want beef”
There’s really so many more we could’ve done, because Megan truly killed it with the bars on MEGAN. We can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us with this album. She has been teasing music videos, so keep your eyes peeled. And just because Pride month is ending doesn’t mean your support of everyone’s fave bi-icon, Megan Thee Stallion, has to stop now; make sure you stream her self-titled album here.
What is your favorite track from the album? Which lyrics are your favorite? Let us know in the comments down below or over on Twitter @thehoneypop, and don’t forget to talk to us on Facebook and Instagram!
Today, celebs flocked to L.A.’s Peacock Theater for the 2024 BET Awards for the ceremony hosted by Taraji P. Henson.
Source: Paras Griffin / Getty
The actress was spotted on the carpet donning custom Balmain styled by superstar stylists Wayman and Micah accessorized with intricate nail art.
Source: Michael Buckner / Getty
She also wore a chic bob by Tym Wallace and makeup by Saisha Beecham.
Also seen on the scene was Victoria Monét.
Source: Amy Sussman / Getty
Ahead of lighting up the stage with performances of “On My Mama” and “Alright”, the stunning songstress wore a dark blue strapless dress with bedazzled embellishments.
In the words of Renee Rapp: “Can a gay girl get an amen?”
In the song “Not My Fault,” Renee Rapp teamed up with Megan Thee Stallion on an unapologetically gay anthem for the major motion picture, Mean Girls: The Musical. The song starts with the now-iconic clip from the original movie in which Cadie confronts Janice with the accusation: “It’s not my fault you’re like, in love with me or something.”
Since Mean Girls dropped in 2004, there have been many think pieces about Janice’s role as forming the caricature of early-2000s red-scare lesbian panic. That was the year after Madonna and Britney shocked the world by kissing on the VMAs stage. It was four years before Katy Perry solidified her stardom with her hit “I Kissed A Girl.”
Sapphic stars had, of course, achieved fame and success before — in the 90s, having a k.d. Lang poster in your room was the equivalent of listening to Girl in Red (we’ll get to that) — but queerness was still othered. For better or worse, Glee wouldn’t toxify our airwaves until 2009. And queerness was something to be whispered about, especially sapphic relationships — which went either ignored or fetishized.
Now, in 2024, having an explicitly queer song leading a major studio film shows a seismic sapphic shift. Janice is no longer at the fringes of the film’s plot. And the implications of having a lesbian play Regina George? Yes, a gay girl can get an amen from me.
Renee Rapp is just one of the young, sapphic popstars gracing the airwaves today. In those toxic early-2000s, a popstar’s success depended on how well their sexuality could be marketed by and to men. Hindsight has us reckoning with the egregious objectification of Britney Spears and her peers in recent years. But now, with social media, the biggest popstars have more control over their image and have achieved success by unapologetically marketing to women — 2023 wasn’t the year of the girl for nothing.
The biggest stars in the world are leveraging predominantly female audiences — Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and even male pop giants like Harry Styles. And now the queer girls are taking over by singing not just about girlhood, but explicitly about sapphic desire. Within this zeitgeist, they’re remaking what it means to be a girl for everyone. No longer is it about appealing to the male gaze, it’s about identifying with people who make you feel seen and follow your interests unapologetically. This message is resonating with the straights and sapphics alike. Particularly on TikTok, it’s causing some to realize they’re not as straight as they thought.
From Gay-Famous to Mainstream-Famous
There’s long been a category of celebs who are irrefutable icons in the queer space but who go largely ignored by the mainstream music crowd. Think Troye Sivan. He’s been gaymous since his first album, Blue Neighborhood. Close to a decade later, he’s finally broken through to the mainstream. Traversing from queer subculture to mainstream pop culture usually takes years. What’s exciting about the latest class of girls who like girls is that they’re starting their careers with mainstream recognition — and a lot of that is thanks to TikTok.
From young artists coming out in the past few years to emerging artists branding themselves as queer from the get-go, queerness is no longer relegated to the sidelines.
However, niche queer music communities are alive and well. It’s how “do you listen to Girl In Red” became code for asking if a girl was queer. And it’s why, on TikTok, algorithms are leading individuals to queer content creators and suddenly realizing they, too, are queer. “If TikTok is showing you this, you might be gay,” read a wave of videos during the pandemic. And for many people, TikTok was right. Perhaps this surge of sexual awakenings has something to do with a new generation looking for queer representation in music. And finally, finally, it’s here.
Perhaps this is what Jojo Siwa was talking about when she declared in her now-notorious interview that she was the harbinger of “gay pop.” When she said in an interview that she “wanted to start a new genre … called ‘gay pop,’” she might have been onto something. She later clarified that she didn’t mean she invented the genre, but wanted to be part of brining it mainstream. “There’s so many gay pop artists … but I think that those gay pop artists do deserve a bigger home than what they have right now,” she said.
Fortunately for Jojo Siwa, she’s getting what she wanted — gay pop artists are getting way bigger platforms. Unfortunately for Jojo Siwa, it’s not her.
Femininomenons
Take Coachella 2024. It might as well have been Pride. One of the hottest queer moments was the rise of Chappel Roan. Bard of bisexuals everywhere, Chappell Roan has been giving gay girls infectious pop hits since 2020, with “ Pink Pony Club,” the lead single of her debut album The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.
After her Coachella set and her viral summer single “Good, Luck Babe!” — a song about a queer girl who leaves the singer for a man — Chappell is one of the biggest rising stars to emerge from the desert, the people’s princess. Roan’s album is full of soaring pop bangers that put queerness at the center. The opening track, “Femininomenon” is a neologism Chappell created that combines “feminine” and “phenomenon.” The songs that follow are about coming of age, coming into one’s queerness, and discovering one’s whole self — themes that have earned her a cultish fanbase and a viral Tiny Desk Concert, the hallmark of any true indie artist.
Other femininomenons are shaking up the industry scene across all genres — both on and off stage. Billie Eilish has been a global megastar since she was only a teenager. After coming out as bisexual in 2023, Billie made headlines at Coachella for her undeniable queer energy. Having a Grammy-winning pop superstar be openly queer is a sure sign that the tide is changing. Especially since, after penning the song that defined girlhood last year — “What Was I Made For?”, which won Song of the Year at the Grammys for Barbie — her new album, HIT ME HARD AND SOFT, features songs like “Lunch” about queer desire.
Billie isn’t the only established young female singer to explore queer themes in their music and videos. Singers like Madison Beer, who was discovered in 2012 at the age of 13, has since come out as bisexual and talked about songs on her new album that are inspired by relationships with women. And these go beyond the lyrics.
Her newest single, “Make You Mine,” is accompanied by visuals inspired by emblematic bisexual film, Jennifer’s Body. Her other single, “Sweet Relief,” features a trans model as the love interest — which should not be revolutionary in 2024, but in the mainstream pop world, it still is.
Then there are the bevy of alternative and rock artists who have become queer icons. From Phoebe Bridgers and Boygenius to MUNA and Remi Wolf, Gen Z favorites are here, queer, and soon everyone will be talking about them.
The industry and mainstream audiences are finally feeling the heat from these female stars and paying attention in a huge way. In the words of Chappell Roan herself: “You’d have to stop the world just to stop the feeling.”
Here are the young, queer popstars singing about sapphic love:
Renee Rapp
Our media-untrained princess is a loud and proud lesbian force. After declaring “a huge thank you to every man that helped make me realize that I was a lesbian” at the GLAAD Media Awards, I’m excited to see where her music and personality take her next.
Chappell Roan
This Midwest princess launched the gay pop hit of the summer with “Good Luck, Babe!” We’ve been massive Chappell fans for years, and we love watching her finally get the attention she deserves. Sapphic sleeper hits from her debut album include “Naked in Manhattan.” Stream The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess now!
Billie Eilish
Billie’s latest era promises to be her most authentic yet. She has always been known for her daring fashion and unconventional approach to popstardom — traits that many have read as signals of her queerness — and it’s thrilling to see her step into her new album bringing an unapologetic vibe to everything she does. Stream “Lunch” now.
Victoria Monét
After winning Best New Artist at the 2024 Grammy Awards, Victoria Monét’s career is primed to to hit the stratosphere. A songwriter and frequent collaborator with big names like Ariana Grande, Monét has been behind the scenes for years. But now her own songs are poised to take over the airwaves. She’s also confirmed her bisexuality and how coming out freed her as an artist — perhaps allowing her to earn her a Grammy.
“In songwriting, I stopped writing pronouns that weren’t accurate,” she told Em Rata on High Low. “It was really freeing, and it opened up another window of creativity where I could say whatever I actually feel and be true.”
Phoebe Bridgers
Phoebe Bridgers has been the unchallenged giant of the confessional indie singers since her debut album Stranger in the Alps. Collaborations with artists like MUNA, she has confirmed her queerness in her music and in everything from Sapphic sartorial choices and of course, her work with Boygenius. At this year’s Grammys, Bridgers issued a direct FU to the straight male gatekeepers of the industry, using her way with words to say: “the ex-president of the Recording Academy, Neil Portnow, said that if women want to be nominated and win Grammys, that they should “step up” … To him, I’d like to say, ‘I know you’re not dead yet, but when you are, rot in piss.’”
Boygenius
Comprised of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker, Boygenius is a collaborative project of Sapphic singers singing rock bangers. The 2024 Grammys saw them winning in traditionally male categories such as best rock song and best rock performance for their single “Not Strong Enough,” as well as best alternative album for their debut studio album, The Record.
Ethel Cain
Another for the sad, ex-Tumblr girls, Ethel Cain’s melancholy melodies are finally gaining mainstream attention. Ethel Cain’s character says Southern gothic fantasy of Hayden Anhedönia, a 24-year-old artist whose stage persona is much like character-based singers of yore — think Marina and the Diamonds. The world she creates in Preacher’s Daughter and her other work is similar to the dark fantasies of Lana Del Rey. And similarly, this world is about chasing freedom above all else.
“I want some variation for the trans experience as depicted in trans art,” Anhedönia told Billboard in 2022. “Ethel Cain the character is trans, but I didn’t make it a big part of the story because to me, being transgender is kind of boring. It’s like, ‘I have brown hair, I’m transgender’ — it’s very ‘whatever,’ you know? Ultimately, it’s not about the identity itself, it’s about the freedom to be whatever you are.”
MUNA
MUNA is an indie-pop comprised of Katie Gavin, Josette Maskin, and Naomi McPherson who have been gaymous since their
debut album in 2017. Thanks to collaborations like “Silk Chiffon” with Phoebe Bridgers and features in queer films like Alex Strangelove, they’ve been reaching an increasingly mainstream audience with their infectious gay pop bangers.
Remi Wolf
With multiple viral hits under her belt and one of the most impressive voices on the pop scene, Remi Wolf is the coolest Gen Z stars out there. Her eclectic style, genre-bending sound, and energetic stage presence make her a certified superstar. And her indiscriminate use of pronouns in her music solidifies her as a bisexual superstar.
Girl in Red
Girl in Red used to be an IYKYK niche music act known pretty much only by girls who like girls. If she came up on your Spotify algorithm, it was trying to tell you something. But she has since exploded and become an indie-pop darling — even collaborating with pop princess, Sabrina Carpenter on “ You Need Me Now?”
Madison Beer
Like Billie, Madison’s latest phase feels more herself and unrestrained. A child of the Tumblr days, it’s no surprise that she’s drawn to queer ephemera like Jennifer’s Body. As she blossoms as a musician, let’s hope we hear more sapphic themes in her lyrics.
It seems like there’s a new “emerging artist” every day. TikTok viral hits become international earworms overnight, propelling artists to instant, but fleeting, fame. It makes sense then, that artists with staying power have often toiled away for years before achieving mainstream success.
It’s easy to believe that, these days, the music industry values virality above all. But the artists shaping music as we know it rarely emerge from nowhere.
Just look at the 2024 Grammy Award Winner for Best New Artist, Victoria Monét. Monét released five EPs before her debut studio album, Jaguar II (2023), and its lead single, “On My Mama,” gave her commercial success. But before Monét’s solo career took off, she was a frequent collaborator of Ariana Grande. She’s also worked on songs and albums for artists like Nas, Travis Scott, Blackpink, Fifth Harmony, T.I., Lupe Fiasco, Chrisette Michele, Brandy, Coco Jones, Chloe x Halle, and more. Over a decade in the industry prepared her to become the verifiable star she is now.
Some of our other artists to watch for 2024 have experienced similar tenures in the industry before finally garnering long-term success. Sabrina Carpenter started her career with Disney and has finally become the popstar she was born to be with Emails I Can’t Send — her fifth studio album. Same with queer trailblazer Renee Rapp, who starred in Mean Girls: The Musical on Broadway before landing the role in the film adaptation and bursting onto the music scene with her debut album Snow Angel.
What sets these artists apart from the bright but brief flames sparked on TikTok is their dedication to their artistry and self-image. Years of learning how to perform, sharpen their sound, and crafting their public persona prime them for impact and longevity. It takes time to hone lasting talent. And time makes it more satisfying when a musician or a band finally punches through to the mainstream.
Many artists thrive in niche subcultures playing to curated crowds. Those are some of my favorites — there’s nothing like a basement show packed shoulder-to-shoulder with a small group of people who share your private music obsession. But the artists that shape music as we know it today are coming from all genres. They manage to transcend their niches and add to the collective conversation in a fresh way. But how do they do it? And how do we know which artists are changing music in real-time?
What is the Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase?
Everyone fancies themselves a music critic these days. I’m not immune to this. I watch deep dives on my favorite artists on TikTok, curate my Spotify playlists like they’re museums, and wax poetic about why my favorite albums deserved Grammys.
Here at Popdust, we know a thing or two about emerging artists. Which is why we went down South to Austin, Texas for SXSW to catch some of this year’s most exciting acts in person.
SXSW 2024 was bigger and better than ever. Its crowning jewel is the Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase, which brings together the buzziest and best music acts across genres. The four-night event caps off each evening at SX, bringing an array of artists and audiences together in Austin, Texas.
What an ideal compliment to the dive bar shows and daytime music showcases. But this high-octane event is more than just a flashy festival. It’s a great predictor of the artists who will prove themselves influential in the coming years. “Artists of tomorrow,” as Rolling Stone likes to call them.
Last year’s performers included artists like Coco Jones, Remi Wolf, Chlöe Bailey, Blondshell, and others who have only become even bigger stars over the past year.
After this year’s lineup, wiill Rolling Stone’s penchant for successful predictions be proven again? Given the record-level excitement for the event, all signs point to yes.
Emerging Artists to Watch From the Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase 2024
With 40,000 fans RSVP’ing for the ACL Live event, Austin’s iconic Moody Theater was packed. Each night, fans lined up for hours for a chance to make it into the venue — some for over 14 hours — with the line for Música Mexicana superstar Peso Pluma stretching for blocks and blocks. Sponsors like StockX, ~Pourri, and Bacardi also put on activations and events to celebrate the music and the fans.
With this much fan excitement, the lineup simply had to deliver. Genres included urbano, Southern rock, Afrobeats, hip-hop, amapiano, soul, funk, and good old indie-alt.
Here is each day’s lineup:
Day 1 (Tuesday, March 12) — Teezo Touchdown, Veeze, Lola Brooke, and Chase Shakur
Day 2 (Wednesday, March 13) — Peso Pluma, Young Miko, Kevin Kaarl, J Noa, and Pink Pablo
Day 3 (Thursday, March 14) — Flo Milli, Pheelz, Preacher, Uncle Waffles, Black Sherif, and Flyana Boss
Day 4 (Friday, March 15) — Faye Webster, Red Clay Strays, Scowl, Dylan Gossett, and Jackie Venson
Take note — you’ll be seeing these names everywhere soon.
Recap: Everything you missed at Rolling Stone’s SXSW Showcase
While all of the artists highlighted at this year’s Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase are sure to be somewhat influential, we’re most excited to see the trajectory of the headliners who are changing the game right now.
Here’s a recap of their performances and why, if you’re not already a fan, you will be soon.
Teezo Touchdown
Texas’s own Teezo Touchdown headlined opening night. You’ve probably heard him on “RunItUp” by Tyler, the Creator; “Modern Jam” by Travis Scott; or “Amen” by Drake. After years of high-level features, he finally released his debut album How Do You Sleep at Night? in September 2023. On stage at SXSW, it’s clear that Teezo’s experience opening for Tyler, the Creator in 2022, and Travis Scott last year has contributed mightily to his magnetic stage presence. Running across the stage brandishing a microphone wrapped in a flower bouquet, Teezo’s energy was infectious. And the crowd ate it up.
His blend of rock, rap, and pop music is telling of his generation — one who resists genres and embraces the fluidity of form. He also shared a heartwarming story about how he busked at SXSW in 2018. Look at him now! He recently announced a single “MASC” with Doja Cat and A$AP Rocky for Doja’s Scarlet 2 Claude Deluxe album. Touchdown’s only getting hotter and hotter.
Peso Pluma
Mexico’s favorite rockstar headlined Night 2. After earning the longest lines in SXSW history, his performance proved well worth the wait. Peso Pluma’s signature brand of “música mexicana,” took the crowd to exciting heights. His youthful energy filled the theater — especially when he joined the audience in the pit. It was a sight to behold.
Dubbed the “Mexican Mick Jagger,” the Gen Z star will release his new album this summer. His undeniable charisma is embedded in his music, earning him a fanatic base of loyal listeners and a chokehold on the music scene. Just wait, he’ll soon transcend boundaries beyond Latinx Pop and hit everyone’s speakers this summer.
Flo Milli
Flo Milli had a lot to celebrate as she headlined Night 3 literally as her second album dropped. Iconic behavior. She took the crowd through familiar favorites, her new songs, and premiered a new remix featuring Cardi B and SZA — not bad co-signs for an emerging artist.
I saw Flo Milli perform in 2020, and watching her on the giant Moody Theater stage was like watching her come alive on a whole new level. After her song “Never Lose Me” got massive attention last year, Flo Milli is poised to be one of music’s next It-Girls. Her versatility is thrilling and admirable, so is her personality and signature tag — if you know, you know.
Faye Webster
Like Flo Milli, I’ve seen Faye Webster before. Not once, not twice, but three times. The first was in 2017 — how can it be six and a half years ago? My penchant for “sad girl music” drew me to Webster’s artfully whiny voice and nostalgic yearning. But the Atlanta native is more than another girl whining about her breakups (even though, from Taylor Swift to Olivia Rodrigo, I eat them all up).
Webster was signed to a rap label and takes lyrical influence from hip-hop and blues artists. She has an energetic stage presence that matches her quirky sound that kept the crowd moving all throughout her set.
From the sultry sweetness of her TikTok viral hit “Kingston” to the high kicks and guitar riffs pulled off during songs like “I Think I’m Funny Ha Ha” and “In A Good Way,” Faye proves herself to be music’s ultimate cool girl. Rockstar and cry-inducing crooner in one? It’s giving Billie Eilish.
What to learn from the Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase 2024
The future of music, according to Rolling Stone, is genre-fluid, youthful, and packed with energy. It also has one important factor: the ability to connect to an audience. Whether it’s on stage of through headphones, all the emerging artists have managed to connect with their ideal audiences and stay there thanks to their dedicated artistry and unique perspectives.
I’m excited to see what all these acts have in store for us next. And for Rolling Stone Future of Music Showcase at SXSW 2025!
Look, concerts are great. I would love to see my entire Spotify Wrapped lineup live. And I’ve spent thousands of dollars on Harry Styles alone — judge me if you want, I don’t plan on stopping. But my wallet isn’t as enthusiastic.
That’s where the beloved music festival comes in. It’s the best opportunity to see a bunch of artists in the span of a few days. You either love them or you’re not built for them…and I fall somewhere in between.
A music festival is the equivalent of an appetizer sampler; you get to see some artists you normally wouldn’t spend money on, and you also get some of your classic favorite artists all on the same lineup. For example, I went to Firefly Music Festival to see Billie Eilish…and left loving The Killers.
Now that the weather is getting warmer and we are increasingly more open to the idea of leaving our homes, festival season is quickly approaching. Coachella, one of the world’s most famous (and potentially overrated) festivals, occurs every year in April and kicks off a slew of fun music festivals to attend.
The only issue is: how do you choose the best music festival for you? With over 50 festivals listed already this Spring and Summer 2024, it can be hard to choose. I like to check out the lineups and see which festivals have the most new artists for me to discover. Then, I take a look at where they’re happening and make my decision from there.
I’ve rounded up a few festivals happening in the US in 2024 that are both newsworthy and will get you to see the most relevant artists in the industry. Enjoy the food, the shopping, the arts, and the acts!
Who? Dominic Fike, Duke Dumont, Hippo Campus, Gorgon City, SG Lewis, Dayglow, DRAMA, and more.
What? A music festival thrown by non-profit, The M3F Fund, where 100% of proceeds go to charities like Habitat for Humanity, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Arizona Helping Hands, and more. It’s a great way to give back while having fun with your friends and family, and their lineup is always good.
Who? Lana Del Rey, Tyler, The Creator, Doja Cat, Lil Uzi Vert, John Summit, Dom Dolla, Jon Batiste, Bleachers, No Doubt, J Balvin, and more.
What? The festival where spotting an influencer or two will be the highlight of your trip. You probably won’t make out with Timothee Chalamet, but you definitely will eat some overpriced food. However, you have to go to Coachella once in your life. This year marks the reunion of No Doubt — and perfect timing, since TikTok has revived their music for Gen Z.
Who? Noah Kahan, Weezer, Queens of the Stone Age, Foo Fighters, Arcade Fire, Young the Giant, Girl in Red, and more.
What? A great mix of indie and rock acts spread throughout the weekend. I would travel far and wide to see Noah Kahan ahead of his summer arena tour, and this is a great excuse to do so.
Who? Zach Bryan, Lana Del Rey, Odesza, The Chainsmokers, Cage The Elephant, Renee Rapp, Dominic Fike, Dom Dolla, and more.
What? One of the most diverse music festivals in terms of genre…Hangout Music Festival has everything- from popular EDM acts to country to pop. It’s also one of the few tour dates Lana Del Rey has right now, so go see her while you can.
Who? Post Malone, The Killers, 21 Savage, Sabrina Carpenter, SZA, Peso Pluma, Sexxy Red, Renee Rapp, Labrinth, Goth Babe, and more.
What? Located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Gov Ball is an iconic festival to start the summer. This year’s lineup is worth your time with festival favorites like The Killers and Post Malone, and exciting additions like Goth Babe and Sabrina Carpenter.
Who? FISHER, Post Malone, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fred Again…, Maggie Rogers, Cage The Elephant, Cigarettes After Sex, Diplo, Two Friends, Carly Rae Jepsen, Lizzy McAlpine, and more.
What? Bonnaroo hosts some of the hottest musical acts in the industry year after year. This year’s lineup includes Megan Thee Stallion, Renee Rapp, T-Pain, Sean Paul, and more. I couldn’t think of anything better.
Dua Lipa attends the 66th Grammy Awards. Getty Images for The Recording A
Awards season is upon us, and after a month of celebrating the best in film and television, it’s time to honor those in the recording industry. Tonight (Feb. 4), the 66th annual Grammy Awards will recognize the top artists, songs, albums and recordings of the past year, with Trevor Noah hosting the ceremony at Cypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
The best and brightest in the industry always come out to celebrate the biggest night in music; tonight, performers include Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Joni Mitchell, Travis Scott, Luke Combs and Billy Joel, as well as SZA, who garnered the most nominations (a staggering nine) of any of the nominees this year. Other nominees
The 2024 Grammy Awards, which air at 8 p.m. ET on CBS, will also feature three new categories: Best African Music Performance, Best Alternative Jazz Album and Best Pop Dance Recording.
Before the Let’s not forget about the pre-show extravaganza, though, because A-listers always bring their sartorial best when it comes to dressing for the Grammys red carpet. Below, see all the best red carpet moments from the 2024 Grammy Awards.
Miami Art Week recently witnessed a revolutionary blend of technology and music as AustinMillz, recognized not only as a prolific artist/producer, but also a true pioneer in his craft, collaborated with Meta for the Meta Sonic Listening Party alongside 10x Grammy-nominated artist Victoria Monét. This dynamic event, aligned with Meta’s “It’s Your World” campaign, delivered a unique and immersive experience that left the city buzzing.
Austin Millz is incredibly talented both on stage and in the studio, especially on the keys, which is part of what made this so special. During the event, Austin demonstrated the capabilities of the Meta Quest 3 by teaching Victoria how to play the piano using the innovative PianoVision feature. This live demonstration added an interactive element to the experience, creating a first-of-its-kind mixed reality jam session that blurred the lines between the virtual and the real.
MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 09: Victoria Monét and Austin Millz playing on PianoVision with Meta Quest 3 at the Meta Sonic Listening Party during Miami Art Week on December 09, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Meta)
Following the success of last year’s viral Meta House experience, Meta transformed Miami Art Week into a mixed-reality playground, providing a platform for emerging artists, musicians, and creators to redefine the future of creative expression. The “It’s Your World” campaign brought together a diverse array of talents to showcase the limitless possibilities of mixed reality across various experiences throughout the city, making it only fitting that Austin was involved.
We had the opportunity to chat with Austin about this experience and what’s ahead, check it out below!
Collaborating with Victoria Monét in a mixed-reality jam session is an innovative approach. How did the idea for this come about, and what excites you most about merging technology with live musical performances?
Austin Millz: I think merging live music with technology is the future, whether you’re collaborating in the studio or collaborating in real time and real life. I think what just happened this past weekend was the first of its kind. I think it’s going to pave the way for newer events of this nature and push the boundaries of creativity. Meta had the right idea with the Meta Sonic Listening party and this experience. It was great.
During the session, you used PianoVision on Meta Quest 3 to teach Victoria Monét how to play the piano. Can you share more about the creative process behind incorporating virtual reality into a live music experience, and how it enhances the learning and collaboration aspects of the performance?
Austin: For sure. Just knowing how to intertwine and really know how to navigate technology is one helpful thing. But Meta Quest and the PianoVision technology is so user friendly that honestly, it’s half and half, the technology is so amazing that it can really allow the user to feel comfortable. It gives that real IRL effect of having somebody in person helping you, but the technology is so amazing that having a person there too is not essential, but it helps to have somebody there just for that real life aspect. This new technology is so captivating and innovative that you can just really be hands-on with it.
TheMeta Sonic Listening Party is part of Meta’s “It’s Your World.” campaign, celebrating the next generation’s creative expression. How does your collaboration with Meta align with this campaign, and how do you see technology influencing the future of music and art?
Austin Millz: I think Meta is really pushing the envelope in terms of innovation. For me, I’m using Meta everyday—whether it’s Facebook or Instagram, and it’s just really allowing me to have my music across the world. It’s allowing me to touch different audiences, and allowing me to just really take my creativity to new heights. I’m super excited for the new technology, because I think it’s going to take it to a whole other new level. The “It’s Your World.” campaign has allowed me to create my own world with Meta.
As a creator yourself, how do you personally leverage Meta’s products or immersive technology in your creative process? And how do you think these tools can inspire and assist other artists in pushing boundaries and exploring new avenues in their work?
Austin Millz: I’m super excited to see what I’m going to do with them. I already have so many different ideas, even with the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses, I’m definitely going to use those during my live shows. I can capture content and really have the user or the audience or people watching my content feel like they’re at a live show. That’s something that I’m really looking forward to. There’s so many things in terms of the apps too that are in Meta Quest 3 that you can just really be hands-on with, and have things be really accessible and just really be able to learn things that you never thought you could before, because Meta’s going to allow you to be hands-on with the technology. Whatever age you are, it’s going to allow you to feel like you’re getting there. I think Meta is allowing the average consumer to really be hands-on with anything they want to create their own world.
How do you see events like the Meta Sonic Listening Party contributing to the intersection of art, technology, music, and what impact do you hope that these experiences will have on the creative community overall?
Austin Millz: I would love for it to just expand people’s thoughts. There’s people that are still on the fence about using this technology or AI, and I hope that the Meta Sonic Listening Party experience could move people one step closer to express their thoughts and really live a little, and take a risk in allowing themselves to embrace this new technology. That’s the way of the future, so I feel like Meta is really leading the force with this next wave of technology. I hope that users who had second thoughts about using it can now go, “You know what? Let me just embrace this and embrace the future.”
How have the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses played a role in your day-to-day creative process or interactions?
Austin Millz: Honestly, like I said earlier, it’s really something that I’m looking forward to using at my live shows. It’s an easier way to capture content for something that I could have been using another device for but instead I can just have the glasses on my face, recording live. Like I said, it is an easier way to use technology in a way that hasn’t been done before.
Anything else that you would like to share with the YourEDM readers?
Austin Millz: Yes. I’m going on a headline tour in 2024 end of February until June. Go get your tickets on AustinMillz.com and, yeah, I want to see you all at a show soon! Happy New Year!
MIAMI, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 09: Austin Millz on stage at the Meta Sonic Listening Party during Miami Art Week on December 09, 2023 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for Meta)
Timing is everything. After dropping “On My Mama” this summer, many fans campaigned for Victoria Monét to join the impressive lineup of performers at the MTV VMAs on Sept. 12. Despite all the people championing her new music, the 30-year-old singer-songwriter still ended up at the award show as an attendee instead of a performer. Hearing the disappointment from her supporters, she explained the situation in more depth on social media.
“I see your advocation for me to have performed tonight and I’m so grateful to you!! Sincerely!” Monét wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “My team was told it is ‘too early in my story’ for that opportunity so we will keep working!” She went on to thank fans, maintaining a positive attitude as she pointed to the upcoming tour for her new album “Jaguar II,” with shows beginning on Sept. 15.
“My team was told it is ‘too early in my story.’”
Understandably, not everyone was comforted by this explanation. “I love you and your beautiful positive SWEET ASS SELF OMG but also they’re full of sh*t lol,” former Fifth Harmony member Lauren Jauregui responded. Others pointed out that Monét has been a game-changer in the music industry for years, making the reported reasoning behind her missed performance opportunity even more frustrating.
Disappointment aside, Monét previously told POPSUGAR in an Aug. 21 interview that she considers herself to be in her “level-up” era. “I feel really thankful whenever the opportunities come,” she said. “Obviously, in my life span, I don’t feel like a ‘new artist.’ I’ve been an artist since I was 17. So I’m never really surprised at doing new things still . . . I think everything happens when it’s supposed to.”
Maybe the VMAs weren’t ready for Monét just yet, but she still has faith they’re headed in her direction. “The things that I’ve been wishing for are on the way,” she said. And when they finally arrive, we’ll be ready.
Victoria Monét is currently on a roll. The acclaimed singer-songwriter extraordinaire is gearing up for the release of her next project, “Jaguar II,” the follow-up to 2020’s “Jaguar,” on Aug. 25. As part of the rollout, she premiered the highly anticipated music video for her third single from the upcoming project, “On My Mama.” And it is a crash course in peak Black Y2K fashion.
The high-impact visual, styled by renowned stylist Kollin Carter and choreographed by Sean Bankhead, serves as an ode to Black early-aughts and 2010s culture, with the styling and choreography aiding in showcasing the said homage. From the references to Southern hip-hop and R&B, like Usher‘s “You Don’t Have to Call,” to Ciara‘s dance style to the sampling of Texas rapper Charlie Boy’s 2009 hit, “I Look Good,” the video is a beautiful snapshot of an influential era in pop culture. There’s a great appreciation of Black hip-hop fashion as well, like the tall tees celebrating the almost 20th anniversary of the song “White Tee” and jersey dresses made popular by beloved R&B singer Mya. In fact, Monét took to Twitter to shout-out Mya and Ciara, whose influences are hugely felt in the video, writing, “I love you Mya!! I love you Cici!!”
Fitted baseball caps, Girbaud jeans, tall white tees, airbrushed T-shirts, long white socks paired with white Air Forces, untied du-rags worn under hats, jorts, laced-up jersey dresses: the nostalgia is ever present. In fact, the “Party Girls” singer has referenced sartorial eras of yesterday throughout her career. Her previous aesthetic delved into the ’70s, with tributes to disco fashion, sequins, browns, taupes, and gold, as she channeled titans like Donna Summer and Diana Ross. In contrast, her earlier work was deeply inspired by Janet Jackson and Mariah Carey, with ’90s-inspired looks like double denim, crocheted tops, and bandana headscarves taking center stage.
As with any press run, Monét has been unveiling a new style that fits perfectly with her latest project. From LaQuan Smith and Blumarine to Priscavera and Loewe, her Instagram, as of late, is full of nothing but stellar looks. Between her personal style, her red carpet appearances, and the strong aesthetic language in her recent video, we can’t wait to see what she delivers next.
Ahead, see snapshots of Monét’s many Y2K-inspired looks from her “On My Mama” music video.
To further prove that every celebrity is ultimately just in love with themselves, Sabrina Carpenter has released a video for her new single from emails i can’t send, “nonsense.” Which is sure to get a playlist boost from her recent photo appearance—the one at the American Music Awards where she was pictured sandwiched between two very tall, FUPA-parading women—Taylor Swift and GAYLE (who will open for Swift during select dates of the already controversial Eras Tour). But even without their help, “nonsense” was a “pop hit’ (as Carpenter refers to it in the song) already.
A large part of that has to do with something of an Ariana Grande-esque formula (and the way Carpenter “hits the octave”). The one she implemented so well during her thank u, next cycle. An album that was better-promoted with the release of a video for “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored” the same day as the record came out. Showing off her sense of humor at a time when she had just ended her engagement with Pete “Rebound” Davidson, maybe there was a jocular tone to the idea that Grande would try lesbianism next (she is, after all, into dabbling—if her blackfishing is an indication).
So it is that the big “plot twist” of the video is that she’s been more interested in her pony-tailed lookalike, played by Ariel Yasmine, the entire time. The dalliance commences at a club (how very 2000s) wherein Yasmine and her boyfriend, played by Riverdale’s Charles Melton, invite Grande (sporting a blonde coif that’s more in keeping with her Sweetener era) to join them in their dance. This being Los Angeles, Grande isn’t averse to a one-night throuple scenario. And yet, maybe it isn’t just one night. For how else would a blonde-haired Ariana have had time to pull a single white (yes, white) female by emulating Yasmine’s look (itself emulating Ariana’s during that period)? Maybe she was invited to a party at their house on another night after meeting them at the club… or did she go home and dye her hair before showing up at the party—who knows? But the timeline doesn’t feel linear. The point is, Ari has become narcissistically attracted to someone who looks just like her. Her doppelgänger, if you will (a word that often doubles for “alter ego”—usually embodying a darker [or at least slightly more irreverent] persona).
Carpenter decides to take that concept one step further in the Danica Kleinknecht-directed video for “nonsense” by enlisting none other than herself (as opposed to a “mere” lookalike) to play the alter ego. She goes further still by making that alter ego male instead of female. And then there is the context of this duo’s encounter. Despite being twenty-three (as Olivia Rodrigo was so fond of pointing out her “older” age in “drivers license”), there is a more teenaged (or college, at the latest) sensibility to the concept of the setting in lieu of Grande’s more “adult” nightclub backdrop, followed by a lavish house in the Hills. Conversely, in the opening scenes of “nonsense,” we see Carpenter preparing for a house party (seemingly one that she’s throwing) that the boy version of herself, outfitted with a trucker hat that says “Dipshit” on it, also attends. Because, yes, like Ari before her, Carpenter only really has eyes for, well, herself. Something Lady Gaga additionally proved when she showcased her own male alter ego, Jo Calderone.
Whether Carpenter named her “drag king” is unknown, but it’s quite apparent she’s very attracted to him. Even though he comes off like an even worse version of Amanda Bynes doing drag in She’s The Man. Yet somehow, he has the appearance of someone much younger than Carpenter, who he spots from across the room as he exhales a cloud of smoke from his vape.
It doesn’t take long for the two to find a “quiet corner” amid the red Solo cups and impromptu karaoke sessions. Because, really, who hasn’t been attracted to a male or female version of themselves (see: Brad Pitt and Gwyneth Paltrow in the late 90s)? As the two get increasingly drunk, interspersed scenes of Carpenter dancing around and looking at herself in the mirror add to the overall narcissistic motif that Grande also showed us with just as little subtlety in Hannah Lux Davis’ visuals for “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored.”
Carpenter even sounds like Grande in general—and then very specifically… closing “nonsense” with some spoken dialogue that reminds one of Ari’s back-and-forth with Victoria Monét at the end of “monopoly.” Both moments feature gigglingly-stated lines. In Carpenter’s case, it’s the brush-off that this song will never make the cut for the album, laughing, “That one’s not gonna make it.”
Luckily for Carpenter’s fans (and even Grande’s), it did. For it’s just the sort of gushing love song that might prompt one to make out with their reflection in the vanity. Self-love (and sologamy), after all, has never been chicer. Even if shown in the self-deprecating way that Taylor Swift does it with her alter ego in the video for “Anti-Hero.” In which she “sarcastically” remarks, incidentally, on her self-obsession via the lyrics, “Did you hear my covert narcissism I disguise as altruism?” In contrast to Grande and Carpenter, Swift appears to more openly admit to it with her take on this ostensible “doppelgänger” trend in music videos (regardless of whether that double is a male or female version of oneself).
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