Charli XCX Calls Paris Hilton A ‘Pop Genius’

As 2026 approaches, the global music landscape is gearing up for a wave of major album releases spanning rock, pop, metal, indie and beyond. From long‑anticipated studio efforts by established acts, to fresh explorations from rising stars, the first half of the year promises some of the most eclectic offerings in recent memory. Here's a comprehensive look at the key releases set from January through April.

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards took over New York’s UBS Arena for a night of spectacle, show-stopping performances and landmark wins. Hosted by LL Cool J, the ceremony balanced the best of today’s hitmakers with a nod to icons of the past, including a star-studded tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne that had the entire arena on its feet.

Berlin-based producer Mechatok, born Emir Timur Tokdemir in 1998, is set to make his Australian debut with a four-city headline tour in March 2026. Kicking off in Brisbane before heading to Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, the tour marks a new chapter in the rising star’s career. Tickets go on sale at 11 am local time on Friday, 29 August.

Charli XCX has secured the highest number of nominations for the 2025 BRIT Awards.

Billie Eilish brought Charli XCX on stage to perform the Guess remix during her recent show in Los Angeles.

Charli XCX has announced that she will curate and headline her own Party Girl festival at London's LIDO festival next year.

Beyoncé has been nominated for 11, Billie Eilish, Charli xcx, Kendrick Lamar and Post Malone for seven and Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan and Taylor Swift have six nominations each for the 2025 Grammy Awards to be announced February 2, 2025 in Los Angeles.