Global Music Scene Buzzes with Major Announcements: Albums, Tours, Festivals & Industry Shifts on January 14, 2025

The global music industry is experiencing a surge of activity as January 14, 2025, brings forth a wave of significant announcements encompassing new album projects, expansive tour plans, major festival lineups, and pivotal industry developments.

Noteworthy Album and EP Announcements

Several prominent artists have revealed details about upcoming releases, setting expectations for the year ahead. Experimental electronic musician Loraine James is set to deliver a new project. Acclaimed singer-songwriter Jason Isbell has announced his first solo album in a decade, a highly anticipated return for fans. Hip-hop pioneers De La Soul have officially released a rare EP, notably featuring collaborations with legendary group A Tribe Called Quest, making previously hard-to-find tracks accessible. Avant-garde artist serpentwithfeet is preparing to unveil a new work titled “GRIP SEQUEL.” Additionally, Spellling has announced her new album, “Portrait of My Heart,” and Hamilton Leithauser, known for his work with The Walkmen, is also set to release a new solo album. Metal veterans Corrosion of Conformity are reported to be back in the studio, hinting at new material on the horizon. The anticipation for 2025 releases is further underscored by The FADER’s recent publication of their list of the most anticipated albums of the year.

Extensive Tour and Live Music Updates

The touring circuit is heating up with several major acts declaring their road plans. Alternative rock band Wilco has announced a spring tour, where they will be joined by Waxahatchee. Industrial rock icons Nine Inch Nails have confirmed plans for a 2025 world tour; however, the official announcement has been temporarily delayed, reportedly due to the impact of the Los Angeles fires. Progressive rock group Coheed and Cambria will embark on a tour alongside Taking Back Sunday and Foxing, promising a strong bill for fans of the genre. Hardcore veterans Agnostic Front have announced both US and European tours, coinciding with their plans to release a new album later this year.

Major Festival Lineups Revealed for 2025

Several key music festivals have started rolling out their 2025 lineups, offering glimpses into the summer’s major events. Governors Ball 2025 is set to feature prominent headliners including Olivia Rodrigo and Tyler the Creator. The BottleRock 2025 festival lineup includes diverse acts such as Green Day and Justin Timberlake. Bonnaroo 2025 has announced Tyler, the Creator as a headlining act. On the hip-hop festival front, Rolling Loud California will be led by headliners Peso Pluma, Playboi Carti, and A$AP Rocky. The BeachLife Festival 2025 lineup features rock and soul legends, headlined by Lenny Kravitz, Sublime, and Alanis Morissette.

Industry Developments and Legal Matters

Beyond releases and tours, the music industry is abuzz with significant legal and business news. Hip-hop superstar Drake is reportedly involved in a lawsuit against Universal Music Group. A separate copyright lawsuit has emerged, involving major artists Travis Scott, Future, and SZA. Meanwhile, artist The Weeknd has offered insight into his future plans, explaining his consideration to retire his widely known stage name. In management news, SZA has reportedly split from her longtime manager at TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment).

Tributes and Losses in the Music Community

The music world is also mourning the loss of several influential figures. Soul legend Sam Moore, half of the iconic duo Sam & Dave, has passed away. Peter Yarrow, a founding member of the legendary folk trio Peter, Paul & Mary, has also died. Additionally, Wayne Osmond, a member of the famous musical family The Osmonds, has passed.

Impact of Los Angeles Fires on Musicians

The recent Los Angeles fires have had a tangible and devastating impact on the music community. Reports indicate that artist Madlib, Iron Maiden guitarist Adrian Smith, and a guitarist for the band Primus have lost homes due to the blazes. In response, band Dawes performed a tribute, and the band Ice Nine Kills has successfully raised over $100,000 for relief efforts, demonstrating solidarity within the community during this difficult time.