Global Music Scene Buzzes: New Releases, Major Tours, and Festival Lineups Announced March 16, 2025

LONDON, UK – March 16, 2025 marked a significant day across the international music landscape, with a cascade of announcements spanning new single releases, highly anticipated albums, major festival lineups, and extensive tour plans. The sheer volume of news underscored a vibrant moment for artists and fans alike, offering glimpses into the year’s forthcoming musical offerings.

Fresh Tracks Hit Streaming Platforms

The day saw the debut of several new singles and tracks from a diverse array of artists. Electronic music producer Sub Focus collaborated with bbyclose on the new track “On & On,” adding to the drum and bass pioneer’s catalogue. American rock band OK Go released two new songs, serving as precursors to their first full-length album in a decade, signaling a return to their signature innovative sound. Indie artist Cautious Clay unveiled his latest, titled “Tokyo Lift (5am),” offering another introspective piece. The improvisational jazz trio The Thing released a track called “Dave’s TV.” Meanwhile, Somebody’s Child shared what is being billed as their final single before a new album, the track “Porcelain (Losing All My Patience).” Folk-indie artist Bon Iver released a new song, “If Only I Could Wait,” notably featuring a collaborator, details of whom were eagerly awaited by fans. Hip-hop heavyweight Kendrick Lamar made waves by appearing on three tracks from Playboi Carti’s newly released album, “I Am Music,” highlighting a significant collaboration. Chappell Roan presented her contribution to the burgeoning “lesbian country song” genre with a track titled “The Giver.” Pop superstar Lizzo also entered the fray, dropping a new single, “Still Bad,” confirmed to be from her upcoming fifth studio album, generating considerable excitement for the full release.

Album and EP Announcements

Beyond singles, March 16, 2025, brought substantial news regarding albums and EPs. Actor and musician Will Smith announced his intention to release his first studio album in 20 years, marking a major return to music after a long hiatus. Playboi Carti officially released his much-discussed new album, “Music,” featuring the aforementioned Kendrick Lamar collaborations. The enigmatic artist Parannoul dropped a new album under the moniker Huremic Seeking Darkness, continuing a pattern of varied project identities. Hip-hop legends De La Soul unveiled the ‘Clear Lake Auditorium’ EP, adding new material to their esteemed discography. Rikas released their project “Soundtrack For A Movie That Has Not Been Written Yet,” suggesting a conceptual work. Progressive rock band The Mars Volta provided intricate details for their upcoming album, confirming its title as “Lucro Sucio; Los Ojos Del Vacio.” In addition to a new single, Sleep Token announced a new album and simultaneously revealed plans for a significant US arena tour, cementing their rising status.

Festival Circuit Updates

The global festival circuit also saw major updates on this date. Rolling Loud California 2025 announced its official YouTube livestream schedule, allowing fans worldwide to tune into performances. The full lineup for Pitchfork Music Festival CDMX 2025 was revealed, featuring prominent acts such as Beth Gibbons, Earl Sweatshirt, and Oneohtrix Point Never, bringing a diverse roster to Mexico City. Tomorrowland Winter 2025 detailed its streaming program, ensuring that the electronic music festival’s mountain edition is accessible globally. Legal news surfaced regarding the band Tool, facing a class action lawsuit concerning their performances at festival events, highlighting potential complexities in live music arrangements. A new festival, UNHINGED, announced its arrival, with Knocked Loose and Lamb Of God confirmed as headliners, signaling a focus on heavier genres. The MEO Kalorama 2025 festival lineup was unveiled, featuring a compelling mix including Pet Shop Boys, FKA Twigs, Jorja Smith, and Father John Misty. Capping off the festival news, the highly anticipated Glastonbury Music Festival 2025 lineup was officially revealed, an announcement that traditionally garners global attention.

Tour and Live Performance Plans for 2025

Live music plans for 2025 were also front and center. Everything But The Girl announced their first live performances in 25 years, a momentous return to the stage for the iconic duo. Third Eye Blind performed a Tiny Desk Concert, bringing their hits to the intimate NPR setting. Deftones revealed extensive 2025 North American tour dates, set to be joined by support acts IDLES and Phantogram, promising dynamic live shows. The Lemon Twigs detailed their touring schedule, including dates across the US, Mexico, and South America for 2025. In news that generated significant speculation, the full band lineup was reportedly revealed for an Oasis reunion tour planned for 2025. The Smashing Pumpkins announced a unique undertaking, bringing their seminal album “Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness” to the opera stage in Chicago. MJ Lenderman scheduled summer 2025 UK/European live dates, expanding his reach. Finally, Sunny Day Real Estate announced plans for a 2025 tour, confirming their continued activity on the live circuit.

The confluence of these announcements on March 16, 2025, painted a vivid picture of a dynamic and active music industry, with artists across genres preparing to release new material and connect with audiences through extensive touring and major festival appearances throughout the coming year.