Singer-songwriter Ava Della Pietra has released her latest single, “Single for Life,” accompanied by a high-concept music video that blends personal storytelling with cinematic humor. The track explores the shifting dynamics of friendship and the surreal comedy of modern dating, sparked by the relatable tension that arises when a best friend prioritizes a new relationship. From a slumber party opening to a montage of disastrous speed-dating encounters—featuring everything from shirtless posers to iguana enthusiasts—the visuals capture a lighthearted jealousy spiral and the eventual embrace of self-identity. Choreographed with a playful “friends goofing off” energy, the video builds on the stylistic foundations of Della Pietra’s previous work, such as ‘Marionette’ and ‘Moon Over Capri’, while marking her most accessible and narrative-driven release to date. With a final wink toward the fluidity of relationships, “Single for Life” serves as a bold anthem for anyone navigating the joyful chaos of being on their own.
PRESIDENT Issues a Call to Resistance with New Single “Destroy Me”
Anonymous collective PRESIDENT has released their powerful new single “Destroy Me,” a track that has quickly become a standout fixture in their high-intensity live sets. The single serves as the final preview of their debut EP, ‘King of Terrors’, which arrived on September 26 via King of Terrors / ADA. Taking its title from biblical imagery, the EP explores the intersections of darkness, religion, and mortality through a blend of heavy music, electronic experimentation, and cinematic atmosphere. The release has propelled the group into a busy touring season, beginning with a series of high-profile “U.S. Rallies” this December and an Australian run supporting Architects. Looking ahead to 2026, the band will embark on “The Campaign Trail,” their inaugural headline tour across the U.K. and Europe, which has already seen several dates sell out instantly. Described by the band as a “march” rather than a mere performance, this movement aims to unite listeners under a banner of volume and resistance, transforming their philosophical inquiries into a visceral, live-action statement.
Jackson Dean Flashes His Wit on Charismatic New Single “Make A Liar”
Platinum-selling artist Jackson Dean has released his cheeky new track “Make A Liar,” out now via Big Machine Records. Co-written with frequent collaborators Luke Dick and Randy Montana, the bass-heavy song utilizes a clever lyrical twist where Dean presents a list of false indifference before daring a love interest to “make a liar” out of him. The single follows the sultry “Be Your Man” as part of a new sonic chapter for Dean, building on the success of his sophomore album On The Back Of My Dreams. Currently, Dean is dominating the airwaves with his Top 15 hit “Heavens To Betsy” and maintaining a rigorous global touring schedule. Following high-profile performances like Taylor Sheridan’s inaugural Bosque Ranch Live, Dean is set to support Lee Brice this fall before taking his headlining world tour to Australia and New Zealand, eventually joining Brad Paisley’s tour for dates across Canada this winter.
Mae Estes Solidifies Her Country Roots with New Self-Titled EP
Rising singer-songwriter Mae Estes has released her self-titled EP, Mae Estes, out now via Big Machine Records. The five-track collection serves as a definitive showcase of her signature sound, seamlessly moving from introspective ballads to high-energy “back porch barnburners.” Featuring standout tracks like “Mr. Fix It” and “Mountain Of A Man,” the EP also introduces fans to the vulnerable single “Drunk On That” alongside previously unreleased songs “I Better Go” and “What She’s Havin’.” Estes, who has spent the year touring and building a dedicated fanbase, describes the release as a celebration of finding the community that resonates with her authentic storytelling and traditional instrumentation.
The EP’s latest focus, “Drunk On That,” captures a narrator spiraling through the physical reminders of a lost relationship—vinyl records, packed bags, and a diamond ring—using them as a catalyst for overindulgence. Written by Jay Brunswick, Josh Dunne, and Chancie Neal, the track highlights Estes’ hypnotic vocals and her commitment to preserving classic musical aesthetics. By blending vivid imagery with modern vulnerability, Estes continues to establish herself as a steady torchbearer for her craft. With the full EP now available, she provides a well-rounded musical statement that reinforces her place as one of the most promising voices in the new wave of traditional artists.
Zac Brown Band Teams with Dolly Parton for “Butterfly”
Multi-platinum group Zac Brown Band has released their seventh studio album, Love & Fear, highlighted by the stirring single “Butterfly” featuring the iconic Dolly Parton. Written by Brown as a message of resilience for his children, the track showcases a raw, harmonized performance that Brown describes as “pure magic.” The album, which also features a guest appearance by Marcus King and the standout track “Give It Away,” serves as a deeply personal and transformative exploration of Brown’s life journey. From themes of heartbreak and hardship to growth and redemption, the project reflects the constant evolution of the band’s storytelling, blending their signature country-rock sound with some of the most intimate lyrics of their career.
The release was celebrated through a historic residency at Sphere in Las Vegas, which concluded its initial run this month. The unprecedented show utilized Sphere’s next-generation technology, including the world’s highest-resolution LED display and Immersive Sound system, to create a fully 360-degree visual environment. Moving beyond a traditional concert format, the engagement offered fans a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the journey that shaped Brown as an artist and a person. By integrating high-tech visuals with the raw storytelling found on Love & Fear, Zac Brown Band has established a new benchmark for live performance, marking a powerful and innovative chapter in their two-decade legacy.
Global Icons Collide on ‘KPopped (Apple TV+ Original Soundtrack, Vol. 1)’
Sony Music Masterworks has released KPopped (Apple TV+ Original Soundtrack, Vol. 1), the first installment of music from the high-stakes global song battle series. Executive produced by Megan Thee Stallion and Lionel Richie, the album captures the cross-cultural synergy of the show’s epic collaborative performances live from Seoul. This seven-track collection features Western legends like Patti LaBelle, TLC, and Boyz II Men joining forces with K-pop powerhouses such as Itzy, Kiss of Life, and Billlie to reimagine iconic hits. From a high-energy rendition of “Wannabe” featuring Mel B and Emma Bunton with Stayc, to a soul-stirring “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men and Jo1, the soundtrack reflects the innovative spirit of the series, which is hosted by K-pop pioneer Psy.
The soundtrack release follows the global premiere of the eight-episode series on Apple TV+, where audiences voted on these unique reinterpretations of chart-topping classics. Highlights of Volume 1 include the genre-bending “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice and Blackswan, and a fiery “Let Me Blow Ya Mind” featuring Eve and Kiss of Life. By blending the polished precision of K-pop with the timeless hooks of Western pop, R&B, and hip-hop, KPopped serves as a definitive musical bridge between East and West. With Volume 2 set to arrive later this month, this first volume establishes the series as a landmark cultural event that honors the legacy of legendary performers while showcasing the next generation of global superstars.
Crumb Delivers Atmospheric In-Studio Session for KEXP
Psychedelic indie-rock quartet Crumb has released a mesmerizing full-session performance recorded live at the KEXP studios. Hosted by Evie Stokes, the set captures the band’s signature blend of jazz-inflected rhythms and dream-pop textures, featuring standout tracks from their latest album AMAMA alongside fan favorites like “Ghostride” and “Ice Melt.” The session showcases the tight-knit chemistry of Lila Ramani, Bri Aronow, Jesse Brotter, and Jonathan Gilad, blending intricate saxophone layers with hypnotic guitar riffs to create a live experience that is as fluid as it is technically precise.
Serious Child Explores the Joy of Discovery on New Album ‘What Lies Beneath’
West Sussex-based songwriter Alan Young, better known as Serious Child, has released his fourth studio album, What Lies Beneath, out now via all major platforms. A thematic exploration of the hidden layers of everyday life, the record draws inspiration from diverse sources ranging from Tony Harrison’s poetry to the Georgian lullaby “Iavnana.” Produced by longtime collaborator Chris Pepper, the album features a rich, acoustic-forward sound brought to life by classical violinist David Grubb and bass clarinettist Anna Perry. From stories of isolation to the thrill of personal expression, the collection serves as a musical excavation of the human experience, capturing both the unease of ancient burial chambers and the simple warmth of communal connection.
The album is led by the joyful single “First Tattoo,” a track Young describes as a “family affair” featuring backing vocals from his daughter Rosa and his partner Kate. The song’s whimsical interplay of clarinet and violin sets the tone for a narrative about midlife spontaneity, accompanied by a charming music video filmed in Brighton that follows Young’s own journey toward getting inked. Beyond the playfulness of the lead single, What Lies Beneath dives into more profound territory with tracks inspired by Robert Macfarlane’s Underland, tackling themes of discovery and what remains hidden beneath the surface of our routines. With its blend of folk storytelling and sophisticated arrangements, the album confirms Serious Child’s reputation as one of the UK’s most observant and empathetic songwriters.
Dave Stewart Honoring Bob Dylan in Season Two Premiere of ‘Recorded Live at Analog’
Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and Eurythmics co-founder Dave Stewart has kicked off the second season of Recorded Live at Analog with an intimate performance dedicated to the music of Bob Dylan. Accompanied by Nashville’s Lockeland Strings and legendary harmonica player Mickey Raphael, Stewart delivers a setlist that balances iconic hits like “Knockin’ On Heaven’s Door” with deep cuts such as “Spanish Harlem Incident” and “Emotionally Yours.” The performance serves as a live extension of his project Dave Does Dylan, which was released across all streaming platforms via Surfdog Records earlier this year. Originally an exclusive Record Store Day vinyl, the 14-song collection features Stewart’s raw and inspired takes on Dylan’s catalog, culminating in a stirring live rendition of “To Ramona” that highlights Stewart’s deep connection to the folk legend’s songwriting legacy.
The Happy Fits Dive Into Emotional Surrender on Riotous New Single “Black Hole”
The Happy Fits have released their latest single, “Black Hole,” a riotous anthem that serves as a cornerstone of their acclaimed sophomore album, Lovesick. Built upon a foundation of theatrical strings, driving guitars, and a signature earworm chorus, the track explores the exhausting reality of losing one’s sense of self while trying to save a failing relationship. Frontman Calvin Langman describes the song as a lesson in the necessity of letting go, capturing the frustration of giving until there is nothing left to offer. “Black Hole” joins a string of successful singles from the project—including the “dance-punk” energy of “Wild In Love” and the orchestral “Do You See Me?”—which have earned the New Jersey trio praise from outlets like FLOOD Magazine and Earmilk. Accompanied by an immersive official video, the track perfectly encapsulates the “unhinged” and hopelessly romantic spirit that defines the band’s current creative era.