Starsplash Music News

On Wednesday (September 17), it was announced that the Wicked: For Good soundtrack is set to be released on November 21, alongside the film's highly-anticipated theatrical premiere. The new collection features a total of 11 tracks, including beloved songs from the original Broadway musical as well as two brand-new originals: “No Place Like Home,” performed by Cynthia Erivo (who also co-wrote the emotional ballad), and “The Girl in the Bubble,” sung by Ariana Grande. “I’m especially happy that the soundtrack album for Wicked: For Good has so much new music on it,” said Stephen Schwartz, who composed the score for the Wicked stage production and has worked on the music for the movies. “In addition to two brand new songs, there is a lot that’s new in several other existing songs.” The soundtrack aims to follow its predecessor’s chart success, after the original Wicked album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, marking the highest debut for a film adaptation of a stage musical. (Billboard)

The decomposed body found in the trunk of a 2023 Tesla registered to singer D4vd (David Anthony Burke) on September 8 has been identified through forensics as Celeste Rivas, a 15-year-old girl reported missing since April 2024 in Riverside County. Discovered at a Hollywood tow lot following reports of a foul odor, her remains were severely decomposed and the cause of death remains undetermined. D4vd, 20, is reportedly cooperating fully with authorities as the investigation continues. Sources in the Hollywood Hills' Bird Streets neighborhood have reported that the 2023 Tesla Model Y, linked to the investigation, was spotted parked in multiple locations over recent months, including its final resting place on Bluebird Avenue where it remained for about three weeks. D4vd is currently on his Withered World Tour across North America, including upcoming shows planned in San Francisco and Los Angeles before European dates in October, though it is uncertain if his scheduled performances will proceed amid the ongoing inquiry. (Billboard)

On Wednesday (September 17), Miley Cyrus took to social media to announce the upcoming release of a deluxe edition of her ninth album, Something Beautiful, which drops this Friday (Sept. 19). The expanded collection features the 13 songs from the original album alongside two new bonus tracks: “Secrets,” with Lindsey Buckingham and Mick Fleetwood, and “Lockdown,” featuring David Byrne. “Secrets” was initially teased by Billy Ray Cyrus as a birthday gift from Miley that includes the legendary musicians from Fleetwood Mac, with Miley also previewing the track on Tuesday in a brief clip on Instagram. Originally released in May, Something Beautiful was accompanied by a film that premiered at Tribeca Film Festival. The album debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, and Miley played a series of intimate performances at Los Angeles’ Chateau Marmont and Maxim’s de Paris to promote the project. (Variety)

During an interview segment on CBS Mornings on Wednesday (September 17), Cardi B announced that she is pregnant with her fourth child. “Yes, I am [pregnant]. I’m having a baby with my boyfriend, Stefon Diggs,” Cardi said, revealing her pregnancy with the NFL star. “I’m excited. I’m happy. I feel like I’m in a good space. I feel very powerful that I’m doing all this work.” In addition to being an expecting mother, the 32-year-old Grammy-winning rapper is preparing to release her long-awaited sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, on Friday (Sept. 19), and will launch her Little Miss Drama Tour in February. Already a mother of three with ex-husband Offset, Cardi insists she’ll be prepared for the upcoming live shows after the birth of her new baby. “I’m ready, even when I’m pregnant I'm very, very ready,” she said about gearing up for her first-ever arena tour. “As soon as I give birth, tour rehearsal stars. I don’t come from weak women.” (Billboard)

Justin Bieber has secured a seven-figure deal – reportedly worth over $10 million – to headline Coachella 2026. The pop superstar negotiated directly with festival promoter Goldenvoice without an agent, a move highlighting his growing independence in the music industry. Marking his first U.S. performance since 2022’s Justice World Tour, Bieber’s headline slot follows the successful rollout of his Swag I and II albums, which debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 as a combined project. “It’s a groundbreaking move for a headliner, and it’s something he built entirely on his own,” says a source close to Bieber. “Between headlining Coachella and the success of Swag, it’s clear this is the start of an exciting new era for Justin — one where he’s fully in the driver’s seat.” Bieber will join fellow headliners Sabrina Carpenter and Karol G at Coachella 2026, with the source adding that his performance “won’t just be a headlining set, but a once-in-a-generation spectacle from a once-in-a-generation pop icon.” (Rolling Stone)

Sidney "Omen" Brown, the Grammy-winning producer and DJ known for his work with Drake, Beyoncé, Ludacris, and Lil Wayne, has died at the age of 49. Brown, a Harlem native, was found in his New York City apartment on September 13 by a family member after missing a work shift. Brown made a name for himself by producing hits for Mýa, Fabolous and other artists on the Roc-A-Fella label, but his major break came when he produced Ludacris’ track “Tell It Like It Is” from the rapper’s 2006 album, Release Therapy, which earned him a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. He went on to co-produce Drake’s “Shut It Down” from his 2010 debut album, Thank Me Later, and he co-wrote and co-produced the Beyoncé track, “Mine,” featuring Drake, from her 2013 self-titled album. While details surrounding his death remain undisclosed, tributes have poured in from venues where Brown DJed and worked, remembering him as a talented artist and beloved friend who made a significant impact on hip-hop and R&B music. (People)

At the Greetings From Your Hometown Tour stop in Salt Lake City, Utah on Saturday night (September 13), the Jonas Brothers surprised a fan by revealing the sex of her baby onstage during a heartwarming moment that was captured in a fan shot video. Joe Jonas is shown talking to someone in the audience before announcing, “I’m very excited about this” as he displayed an envelope given to him by the fan. “Let’s find out, shall we?” Before the big reveal, the group performed their song "Little Bird," which is a tribute to their daughters. After joking that he “forgot” about the fan’s announcement, Joe opened an envelope and excitedly announced, "It's a girl! Congratulations!" as pink lights illuminated the stage. The band shared the joyous occasion with their fans, as Joe, Nick, and Kevin – who are all fathers themselves – celebrated the new arrival alongside the proud parents of the baby girl on the way. (People)

On Tuesday (September 16), Cardi B announced the dates and details of her first-ever headline arena run, the Little Miss Drama Tour. The 31-date North American jaunt is set to launch next year in support of Cardi’s upcoming sophomore album, Am I the Drama?, which drops on Friday (September 19). The tour kicks off on February 11 in Palm Desert, California, and concludes on April 17 in Atlanta, with stops in major music markets like Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia. “HELLO!! 🐦‍⬛ We putting the kids to bed early because the Little Miss Drama Tour is coming to a city near you!,” Cardi captioned her tour announcement on Instagram. Artist presales begin on Tuesday (September 23), with general on-sales starting on September 25. Earlier this week, Cardi disclosed that her new album features high-profile collaborations with Janet Jackson, Selena Gomez, Summer Walker, Lizzo, Cash Cobain, Tyla, and Megan Thee Stallion, heightening anticipation for both the record and the tour. (Rolling Stone)

Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce attended Patrick Mahomes' 29th birthday party following the Kansas City Chiefs' first home game of the season on Sunday (September 14). The event was held at 1587 Prime, the steakhouse in Kansas City owned by Kelce and Mahomes, with country star Kane Brown sharing a group photo from the party on Instagram. Swift, dressed in a chic taupe and brown plaid two-piece set by Simkhai, joined Kelce, who wore a white shirt and navy Thom Browne suit shorts, alongside Mahomes and his wife Brittany, and Brown and his wife Katelyn. Brown captioned his post, “happy birthday Pat & congrats TT❤️ thanks for hosting us Britt 🙏🏽.” The couple, who announced their engagement on Instagram in August, enjoyed the celebration after Swift cheered on Kelce and the Chiefs during their game against the Philadelphia Eagles, a Super Bowl rematch that the Eagles won 20-17. Swift is preparing to release her highly-anticipated upcoming album, The Life of a Showgirl, which is set to drop on October 3. (People)

Coachella 2026, set for April 10-12 and 17-19 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, will be headlined by Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, and Karol G, with all artists at the peak of their careers following recent commercial success. Karol G will make history as first Latina artist to headline the festival, while Carpenter will be supporting her Billboard No. 1 album, Man’s Best Friend, and Bieber’s surprise two-part release, SWAG, features the No. 2 hit, “Daisies.” The full lineup, revealed late Monday night (September 15), also features standout acts like Italian-American techno producer Anyma presenting a world premiere event, Æden, along with a curious special billing called “The Bunker Debut Of RADIOHEAD KID A MNESIA,” potentially celebrating the 25th anniversary of the band’s classic albums.

Also of note is a listing for Nine Inch Noize, a possible unique collaboration between Nine Inch Nails and the electronic producer Boys Noize, who opened for the industrial rock titans on their Peel It Back Tour. Other notable performers include The XX, Disclosure, Turnstile, Teddy Swims, Ethel Cain, KATSEYE, and Devo on Day One, while Day Two features The Strokes, GIVĒON, Addison Rae, SOMBR, David Byrne, Interpol, and Alex G, and Day Three includes Young Thug, Kaskade, Laufey, Iggy Pop, Wet Leg, and Clipse. Festival passes go on-sale Friday (September 19) at 11am PT. (Billboard)

Jelly Roll, who once struggled to perform overseas due to past felonies, made a remarkable comeback by singing his collaboration "Hard Fought Hallelujah" with Brandon Lake at the Grace for the World event in Vatican City's St. Peter’s Square on Saturday (September 13). His visit also included a memorable meeting with Pope Leo XIV, which Jelly Roll celebrated on Instagram as a journey "from rock bottom to holy ground." Directed by Pharrell Williams and Andrea Bocelli, the historic concert – the first at the Vatican in 2,000 years – featured a star-studded lineup including Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, and Karol G. In addition to the performance, Jelly shared a subsequent post capturing his dramatic weight loss journey. The country singer has lost nearly 200 pounds since 2022 by overcoming food addiction and changing his lifestyle, and he showcased his dramatic weight loss by wearing a Louis Vuitton outfit at the event in Vatican City. Sharing a photo of himself in the designer look, he humorously captioned the post, “I can fit in Louis Vuitton now. Pray for my bank account.” (People)

A heartfelt letter from Lady Gaga to David Bowie is now on display at the newly opened David Bowie Centre in London. The undated note – likely written in late 2012 or early 2013 – reveals Gaga’s admiration for Bowie after she received an advance copy of his 2013 album, The Next Day. “Dear David Bowie,” the letter begins, “It was truly an honor to receive an advanced copy of your album. I cried, in fact, listening to each song. How does he know I exist? I feel as though my entire career has been an artistic plea for you to notice me. I'm finishing my album ARTPOP and am in New York. I would be grateful and honored to meet you. Love + Art, GAGA.” She eventually released ARTPOP in November 2013, though the two music superstars never did get the chance to meet in person. Following Bowie’s death in 2016, Gaga paid tribute to him at the Grammys by performing a medley of his hits that included “Space Oddity,” “Fashion,” “Let’s Dance,” “Rebel Rebel,” and “Heroes.” (Rolling Stone)

On Monday (September 15), Mariah Carey announced the dates and details of her 2025 holiday residency, Mariah Carey’s Christmastime in Vegas. The run of festive shows are set to take place at Dolby Live at Park MGM from November 28 through December 13. The five-time Grammy winner, known as the Queen of Christmas and famed for her iconic holiday hit, “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” announced the 10-show run on Instagram by writing, “Excited to bring Christmastime to the Dolby Live at Park MGM in Vegas! 💕💕” Tickets go on-sale to the general public on Saturday (September 20), with presales launching on Wednesday (September 17). Following her successful The Celebration of Mimi Live In Las Vegas residencies in 2024 and 2025, Carey continues to captivate audiences, and was recently honored with MTV’s prestigious Video Vanguard Award in recognition of her legendary career and enduring impact on pop and holiday music. (Billboard)

HUNTR/X’s “Golden,” from the chart-topping soundtrack to Netflix’s smash film KPop Demon Hunters, notches a fifth week at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the longest-leading hit by an animated act in the chart’s 67-year history. Two previous songs by cartoon bands each reigned at No. 1 for four weeks: The Archies, with “Sugar, Sugar” in 1969, and The Chipmunks with David Seville, with “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)” during the holiday season in 1958. KPop Demon Hunters extends its record as the first soundtrack to generate four simultaneous Hot 100 Top 10s in chart history, placing those same songs in the tally's upper tier for a fourth straight week, with Saja Boys’ “Your Idol” and “Soda Pop” both moving up a spot to return to their respective Nos. 4 and 5 peaks, and HUNTR/X’s “How It’s Done” ascends one slot to a reach a new high of No. 8.

The rest of the Hot 100 Top 10 is rounded out by Alex Warren’s “Ordinary” holding at No. 2, while Sabrina Carpenter places two songs in the region, as “Manchild” rises one spot to No. 3 while “Tears” falls three slots to No. 6. Morgan Wallen’s “What I Want,” featuring Tate McRae, remains at No. 7, Ravyn Lenae’s “Love Me Not” falls one spot to No. 9, and Justin Bieber’s “Daisies” moves up one slot to No. 10. (Billboard)

On Monday (September 15), Demi Lovato took to social media to announce the details of her ninth studio album, It’s Not That Deep, which is set for release on October 24 via DLG Recordings/Island Records. Marking a new dance-pop era for the singer, the 11-track album is executive produced by Zhone (known for work with Charli XCX and Kylie Minogue), and features the lead singles “Fast” and “Here All Night.” “This music is a perfect reflection of where I’m at today. It was such a freeing experience to let loose and have fun with it,” said Lovato in a press release. “It’s Not That Deep is meant for late nights and dancefloors, and I can’t wait for you all to dance with me.” Lovato’s previous album, 2022’s Holy Fvck, reached No. 7 on the Billboard 200. The pop star is also busy with other projects, recently appearing in the new film Tow, and she has a cookbook due out in March 2026. (Variety)

During a quick on the street interview by TMZ, Usher publicly endorsed Metallica as his personal choice for headliner at the Super Bowl LX Halftime Show, which is scheduled to take place on February 8, 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco. The support from Usher – who previously headlined the Super Bowl Halftime Show in Las Vegas in 2024 – adds momentum to the heavy metal band’s bid to perform in their adopted hometown, with drummer Lars Ulrich recently expressing the band’s eagerness to play the event. While hard rock has a limited presence in Super Bowl history – with classic bands like The Who and Aerosmith joining Guns N’ Roses’ guitarist Slash as the heaviest artists to have played the halftime show – Metallica’s chart-topping history and worldwide albums sales of 125 million, along with their nine Grammy wins, make the metal band a solid potential choice to headline the Super Bowl halftime show. (Consequence of Sound)

Lil Nas X is currently receiving inpatient treatment at an undisclosed out-of-state facility following his arrest last month on multiple felony charges, including battery on police officers and resisting arrest. His lawyers confirmed at a court hearing on Monday (September 15) that the Grammy-winning artist, born Montero Hill, remains in treatment. “We’re doing what is best for [him] from a personal standpoint and a professional standpoint, but most importantly, for his well-being," says Hill’s lawyer, Drew Findling. The judge modified the conditions of Hill’s release to allow for his continued inpatient care and sealed the details of the type of care Hill is seeking, while setting the next hearing for November. Hill pleaded not guilty after he was charged following an August incident in which authorities allege he was “strolling naked” down Ventura Boulevard and allegedly assaulted officers when they tried to apprehend him. If convicted of all charges, Hill faces up to five years in prison. (Rolling Stone) 

Lenny Kravitz’s friends say the rocker dad warmly approved of his daughter Zoë’s budding romance with Harry Styles after the trio enjoyed a lighthearted lunch together in New York City. Apparently Lenny found the former One Direction singer polite, down-to-earth, and genuinely interested in getting to know the family while they dined together recently at Sant Ambroeus in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood. Despite being protective of Zoë, the 61-year-old singer appreciated Harry’s sense of humor and felt he respected Zoë, whom he wants to see with someone who values her. The couple, who sparked romance rumors in August, have been seen multiple times in public together as of late, with the actress, 36, and the pop star, 31, spotted walking hand-in-hand in Brooklyn around the time of their lunch with Lenny. Zoë divorced actor Karl Glusman in August 2021, and got engaged to Channing Tatum in October 2023, before they called off the engagement in October 2024. Meanwhile, Harry split from actress Taylor Russell in May 2024. (People)

Charli XCX and George Daniel, who married in a private London ceremony on July 19, celebrated their love with a second, star-studded wedding in Sicily on Sunday (September 14). The nuptials were attended by Daniel’s bandmates from The 1975, including frontman Matty Healy, who missed their prior wedding due to attending a film premiere in Los Angeles with his fiancée, Gabbriette Bechtel, who is also one of Charli’s best friends. Daniel’s other bandmates Ross MacDonald and Adam Hann were also in attendance, alongside the couple’s close friends and family. The couple shared a series of photos on Instagram capturing their pre-wedding festivities exploring Sicily, with Lorde commenting on the post, “My fomo activating.” Charli and Daniel got engaged in November 2023, and the couple’s Sicilian nuptials fulfilled their dream of a larger, private Italian wedding with friends and loved ones. (People)

On Friday (September 12), the first trailer was shared for the upcoming documentary, Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery — The Untold Story, which is set to premiere on Hulu and Disney+ on September 21. The film celebrates the groundbreaking all-female music festival through interviews with co-founder Sarah McLachlan, festival veterans like Sheryl Crow, Paula Cole, Bonnie Raitt, and Erykah Badut, and younger artists such as Olivia Rodrigo. “All of my favorite artists played at this event,” Rodrigo says in the trailer. “I was in disbelief I had never heard of it before.” The documentary is directed by Ally Pankiw and produced by Dan Levy’s Not a Real Production Company, with the project receiving the full support of the original Lilith Fair founders. The film features rare performances and backstage footage, highlighting the festival’s powerful, supportive environment and its impact on women in music. It will also debut on CBC in Canada on September 17. (Rolling Stone)