Hot Hits News

Katseye to Release Third EP, 'Wild,' on Aug. 14

Posted by hothits — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 14:15 GMT

Katseye will release "Wild," the group's third EP, on Aug. 14. The upcoming project follows last year's "Beautiful Chaos."The announcement comes after Katseye made its Coachella debut last weekend, performing its latest single, "Pinky Up," and "Gnarly." The group was joined by the singing voices of Huntr/X from "KPop Demon Hunters"-EJAE, Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna-for a special performance of the Oscar-winning song "Golden." Katseye is scheduled to return to the Sahara stage Friday.In addition to Coachella, Katseye is set to headline the Head In The Clouds and Hinterland music festivals and perform at The Governors Ball.Earlier this week, the group received three nominations at the American Music Awards: new artist of the year, best music video (for "Gnarly") and breakthrough pop artist.Formed through HYBE and Geffen Records' Dream Academy, Katseye rose to prominence as K-pop trainees on a reality competition series. The group became breakout performers shortly after, and earlier this year received a Grammy nomination for best new artist. Their song "Gabriela" was nominated for best pop duo/group performance.Katseye has released two previous EPs: 2024's "SIS (Soft Is Strong)" and 2023's "Beautiful Chaos," as well as several singles. "Gnarly," co-written by Alice Longyu Gao, became their first track to reach the Billboard Hot 100 last year. Subsequent singles include "Gabriela," "Gameboy" and "Internet Girl," with "Internet Girl" debuting at No. 29 on the chart.Upcoming Katseye Festival Dates:- April 17 - Indio, Calif. - Coachella Music and Arts Festival - June 5 - New York - The Governors Ball Music Festival - July 30 - Saint Charles, Iowa - Hinterland Music Festival - Aug. 8 - Pasadena, Calif. - 88rising Festival: Head In The Clouds

Taylor Swift Leads 2026 American Music Awards Nominations as Fan Voting Opens

Posted by hothits — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:17 GMT

Taylor Swift, who holds the record for the most American Music Awards with 40 wins, leads the nominations for the 2026 AMAs with eight nods. Morgan Wallen, Olivia Dean, Sabrina Carpenter and Sombr follow with seven nominations each. Alex Warren and Lady Gaga each received six nominations.With eight nominations, Swift is poised to extend her lead for the most AMA wins. Michael Jackson is currently second with 24 awards, followed by Alabama with 23 and Whitney Houston with 21.Justin Bieber, who has four nominations this year, could also move up the all-time AMA leaderboard. Bieber has 18 awards; a single win this year would tie him with Kenny Rogers for the second-most wins among male artists. Jackson leads among male artists.Dean and Sombr are nominated in three categories: new artist of the year, song of the year, and breakthrough album of the year. The two artists previously competed for best new artist at this year's Grammy Awards, with Dean taking home the prize. Other first-time AMA nominees include Warren, BigXthaPlug, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, PinkPantheress, Raye, Role Model, Sienna Spiro and Tate McRae.Teyana Taylor is a first-time AMA nominee for best female R&B artist. Taylor has received recognition across the industry this year, including an Oscar nomination and Golden Globe win for best supporting actress for "One Battle After Another," a Grammy nomination for best R&B album for "Escape Room," and will be honored with the Visionary Award at Billboard Women in Music 2026.The singing voices of HUNTR/X - EJAE, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami - are nominated in three categories: song of the year, best vocal performance and best pop song for their hit "Golden" from "KPop Demon Hunters." The trio will also be honored as Women of the Year at Billboard Women in Music.The 52nd American Music Awards will take place Monday, May 25, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, the largest venue in the show's history. Queen Latifah will host the event, which will air live on CBS and stream on Paramount+.Fan voting is now open at VoteAMAs.com and on the @AMAs Instagram account for all categories. Voting closes Friday, May 8, at 11:59 a.m. Pacific, except for social song of the year and tour of the year, which will remain open through the first 30 minutes of the broadcast.Nominees are determined based on key fan interactions such as streaming, album and song sales, radio airplay and tour grosses, tracked by Billboard and Luminate during the eligibility period from March 21, 2025, through March 26, 2026.The American Music Awards, created by producer Dick Clark, launched in 1974 and is recognized as the world's largest fan-voted award show. Tickets are available at AXS.com.

Justin Bieber Earns Praise from Fellow Artists After Emotional Coachella Headlining Set

Posted by hothits — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 14:13 GMT

INDIO, Calif. - Justin Bieber is earning praise from fellow musicians after his headlining set at Coachella.Lizzo shared a heartfelt Instagram post Sunday, a day after watching the Canadian pop star perform. She posted screenshots from the festival livestream showing Bieber on the main stage, along with an old YouTube video of him as a child playing on the big screen behind him."I watched a pop star who grew up in front of the world fully transcend into his artistry last night," Lizzo wrote. "I watched someone who gave us his all, his whole life... finally nourish himself. I have no pictures or videos because I was fully present in the moment. Justin invited us and whoever chose to come with him was blessed with a beautiful ride. When you use your gift for God, it will make people uncomfortable. But that's OK because the ones who stick beside you will feel the love."Labrinth, a singer and producer, also praised Bieber's performance on his Instagram Story, writing, "Justin... I see what you're doing and I love it... Be true! Forget what anyone else thinks."Bieber's set took place on the festival's second day. The first weekend of Coachella began Friday with Sabrina Carpenter headlining and concluded Sunday with Karol G. All three headliners, along with other artists on this year's lineup, are scheduled to return for the festival's second weekend, beginning Friday, April 17.Bieber's performance was notable for a segment in which he scrolled through YouTube, watching some of his earliest viral videos on stage with the audience.Other celebrities also reacted to the performance. Katy Perry, who attended the festival with boyfriend Justin Trudeau, joked on Instagram, "Thank God he has Premium. I don't want to see any ads." Singer Zara Larsson shared a video of herself watching Bieber's set at home, writing, "It's giving let's smoke and watch YouTube."

Hot 10 Recap - Week of 4/11/26

Posted by hothits — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00 GMT

NEW YORK (AP) - A wide mix of country, pop, K-pop and alternative influences defines the latest Billboard Hot 100 dated April 11, 2026, with Ella Langley maintaining her No. 1 spot.Langley's "Choosin' Texas" claims the top spot, buoyed by strong streaming numbers and continued airplay growth across country and crossover formats. The track's ascent underscores the continued commercial strength of country music within mainstream charts.At No. 2, global supergroup BTS maintains a strong presence with "Swim," a polished pop release that continues to perform well internationally. Its sustained chart position reflects the group's enduring global fanbase and consistent digital performance.British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean lands at both No. 3 and No. 6, signaling a breakout moment. "Man I Need" climbs into the top three, driven by critical acclaim and streaming momentum, while "So Easy To Fall In Love" continues its steady rise. The dual placements mark a significant milestone in Dean's expanding international reach.Veteran performer Bruno Mars sits at No. 4 with "I Just Might," a track that blends his signature retro influences with contemporary production. The song's performance highlights Mars' continued relevance in a rapidly evolving pop landscape.At No. 5, Alex Warren reaches a career high with "Ordinary," a ballad that has gained traction on streaming platforms and social media, reflecting the growing influence of viral discovery in chart success.A collaboration between PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson lands at No. 8 with "Stateside." The track blends U.K. dance sensibilities with mainstream pop appeal, contributing to its cross-market success.At No. 7, "Golden," featured in the film K-Pop Demon Hunters, continues to gain traction for Huntrx, benefiting from soundtrack exposure and fan engagement tied to the project.Pop mainstay Taylor Swift appears at No. 9 with "The Fate of Ophelia." While not at the summit, the track's chart presence adds to Swift's extensive list of Hot 100 entries and reflects continued listener interest in her latest material.Rounding out the top 10, Kehlani debuts at No. 10 with "Folded," a smooth R&B offering that marks a return to the artist's core sound and signals potential upward movement in the coming weeks.The current chart illustrates the ongoing blending of genres and the importance of global audiences in shaping music consumption trends, as artists from varied backgrounds continue to find space at the top of the industry's most closely watched ranking.

Hot Hits Weekend Best Bets - 4/10-4/12/26

Posted by hothits — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 04:00 GMT

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A wide range of entertainment, sports and cultural events are scheduled across Columbus and Central Ohio for the weekend of April 10-12, 2026, offering residents and visitors options that range from large-scale arena shows to community festivals and live performances.Monster trucks will take center stage at the Schottenstein Center as Monster Jam returns for a three-day run beginning Friday. The event features competitions and fan experiences, including a pit party where attendees can meet drivers and see the trucks up close.Live theater and performing arts also highlight the weekend calendar. The Tony Award-winning musical "Shucked" continues its run with multiple performances from Friday through Sunday, while additional productions such as "Let's Misbehave: The Songs of Cole Porter" and "Mozart & Schnittke" are scheduled across Columbus venues.Sports fans will find no shortage of action. A Columbus Blue Jackets home game is scheduled for Sunday evening at Nationwide Arena, while amateur and youth competitions-including the Spring Sizzle basketball tournament at Polaris and The Cheer Expo-will bring regional teams into the city throughout the weekend.Community and participatory events are also prominent. The Ohio State 4 Miler will take place Sunday, drawing thousands of runners and walkers to Ohio Stadium for a race that finishes on the field. Meanwhile, the Columbus Museum of Art will host its "CMA Family Fest: Art Starts Here" on Saturday, featuring hands-on activities, music and gallery experiences for families.Seasonal and cultural celebrations continue as part of the Greater Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs through late April and includes programming during the weekend. Additional community offerings include educational programming such as a hydrocephalus awareness event Saturday morning and ongoing free and low-cost activities across the region.Music and nightlife round out the weekend, with concerts scheduled at venues across the city, including a Friday night performance by the Concrete Boys at A&R Music Bar and other live shows throughout the area.Altogether, the weekend's lineup reflects a mix of large-scale entertainment, local arts and community engagement, underscoring Columbus' position as a regional hub for events spanning sports, culture and family-friendly activities.

NSYNC 30th Anniversary Reunion Unlikely For Now Per Joey Fatone

Posted by hothits — Thu, 9 Apr 2026 14:24 GMT

Fans hoping for an NSYNC reunion tour to mark the band's 30th anniversary may want to temper their expectations, according to group member Joey Fatone.While promoting his new docuseries "Boy Band Confidential" this week, Fatone told Entertainment Tonight that the likelihood of a reunion with Justin Timberlake, JC Chasez, Lance Bass and Chris Kirkpatrick is slim. Next year marks the anniversary of the band's self-titled 1997 debut album, but Fatone said he does not see a reunion in the near future."Do I see anything in the near future? No, I don't," Fatone said.The group has been on hiatus since 2002 after the "Celebrity" tour, though they never officially broke up. Fatone said he is frequently asked about plans to get back together.In May, Chasez mentioned at the Rewind Washington convention that all five members were scheduled for a Zoom call. Fatone confirmed to ET that the call took place. "All of us were there," Fatone said. "Talking, just talking to each other. 'Hey, do we see anything? Or anything like that? It's like ... no.'"Fatone said he would be willing to reunite, but emphasized the decision is not solely his. "Some of the other guys? Maybe not. I can only speak for myself," he said, noting that some members have young children or conflicting commitments.When asked about speculation that Timberlake is the main "holdout," Fatone said that might seem accurate, but the decision is a group matter. He also acknowledged concerns among the members about whether they could recapture their earlier success."I know it sounds crazy, but we also have the doubt of, 'What happens if this sucks? What happens if it ain't good?'" Fatone said.Fatone recalled that the group, minus Timberlake, performed with Ariana Grande at Coachella in 2019. He also said he continues to perform in Broadway and solo shows and intends to keep doing so."I'm ready to go! So whenever you guys are ready," Fatone said.The members have appeared together for special occasions. In October, all five shared a video celebrating the 30th anniversary of their formation. "Thirty years. October 1, 1995, feels like yesterday... and somehow a lifetime ago. Five guys chasing a dream turned into something bigger than we ever imagined," the post read.From 1995 to 2002, NSYNC released four albums and had several chart hits, including the No. 1 single "It's Gonna Be Me" in 2000, the No. 2 hit "Music of My Heart" with Gloria Estefan in 1999, "Bye Bye Bye," and other top-five singles.The group reunited for a performance at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards, a 2018 Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, and collaborated on the song "Better Place" for the 2023 animated film "Trolls Band Together." They also recorded "Paradise" for Timberlake's 2024 solo album.Despite these collaborations, Fatone said a full reunion tour is unlikely at this time."I've always pushed the issue," Fatone told ET. "I'll be honest, I always say, 'Hey, why not?' because I think I'm ready. I don't think everybody else is ready yet."

Former ENHYPEN Member HEESEUNG Rebrands as EVAN, Prepares for Solo Debut

Posted by hothits — Wed, 8 Apr 2026 14:17 GMT

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) - Former ENHYPEN member Heeseung has announced the beginning of his solo career under the name EVAN, unveiling a new visual identity and social media presence Wednesday.The 24-year-old K-pop singer, who departed the now six-member group in March, introduced his solo Instagram account featuring a series of close-up images and a brief video that showcases a minimalist aesthetic. The photos and video present EVAN with minimal makeup and simple styling, which a press release described as representing the artist in his "most authentic form."Label BELIFT LAB stated that the new visuals capture "the purest form of EVAN - an artist at the very beginning of his identity, before any external definition is applied." According to the release, the new stage name reflects the singer's artistic integrity and personal narrative."This is a name I've cherished since childhood, one that holds many of my most precious memories," EVAN said in the statement. "Through this name, I hope to reach fans with music that fully expresses my most honest and natural self."Heeseung debuted with ENHYPEN in 2020, performing alongside Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, Jungwon and Ni-ki. In addition to his vocals on three studio albums and seven EPs, he contributed as a songwriter and producer on tracks including "Highway 1009" and "Dial Tragedy."Upon his departure, BELIFT LAB said in a statement, "Through in-depth discussions with each of the members about the future they envision and the direction of the team, it became clear that Heeseung has his own distinct musical vision."Heeseung also addressed ENHYPEN's fans, known as ENGENE, writing, "The past six years have been filled with moments that are difficult to put into words - moments that were overwhelmingly meaningful and incredibly precious to me. Sharing so many emotions with the members, and having ENGENEs always there to support us, helped me move closer, step by step, to a dream that once felt out of reach. I truly believe none of this would have been possible without you. Those memories will remain some of the most shining and unforgettable moments of my life. I will never forget them, and I want to continue supporting ENHYPEN as someone who will always cheer them on."As of press time, there was no additional information regarding the timing of EVAN's solo musical debut.

Harry Styles Announces Lineup for 2026 'Meltdown Festival' in London

Posted by hothits — Tue, 7 Apr 2026 14:17 GMT

LONDON - Harry Styles will curate the 2026 edition of Meltdown Festival, bringing a carefully selected lineup to London's Southbank Centre from June 11 to 21."Music is my life; every artist involved in this year's Meltdown festival means so much to me, both as a fan and a musician," Styles said in a statement. "It's a true honor to host legends who have paved the way for the generations that follow them, as well as new acts that have inspired me to push my creative boundaries."The festival's program reflects Styles' broad musical interests, blending established alternative acts with emerging voices in indie, jazz, electronic and pop. Styles is also set to headline the Royal Festival Hall during the festival.Artists scheduled to perform include Stephen Fretwell, Dev Hynes (also known as Blood Orange), Orlando Weeks, Nil fer Yanya, Bar Italia and Warpaint. The lineup also features newer acts such as Bristol-based duo Getdown Services and Australian DJ and producer Ninajarichi.The jazz segment will include performances by Kamasi Washington and Mulatu Astatke, along with U.K. artists Yussef Dayes and Shabaka Hutchings. Experimental pop acts Erika de Casier and Foushe join ambient and electronic performers including Jon Hopkins, Beverly Glenn-Copeland and James Murphy of LCD Soundsystem, the latter cited by Styles as a key influence for his recent album "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally."Further lineup details, including ticketing information for Styles' show at Royal Festival Hall, will be announced soon. Tickets for the rest of the festival will be available to Southbank Centre members at 10 a.m. BST on Thursday, April 9, via the venue's website. General sale begins at 10 a.m. BST on Friday, April 10.Styles follows previous Meltdown curators including Robert Smith of The Cure, David Byrne, Grace Jones, Nick Cave, Jarvis Cocker and Little Simz."Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally" debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and the Official U.K. Albums Chart upon its release March 12. The album's lead single, "Aperture," reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, while "American Girls" topped the U.K. singles chart. Styles will support the album with the Together, Together Tour, beginning May 16 at Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam.

TOMORROW X TOGETHER Unveils '7th Year' Mini Album with Thorn Themed Visuals and Emotional Tracks

Posted by hothits — Mon, 6 Apr 2026 14:52 GMT

TOMORROW X TOGETHER revealed the track list and concept photos for its eighth mini album, "7th Year: A Moment of Stillness in the Thorns," on Monday, April 6. The six-track project features a visual theme centered on thorns, with concept images shared across the K-pop group's social media channels. The photos showcase color-coded versions of the album in pink, purple, green and yellow.The lead single, "Stick With You," will be previewed with a video teaser on April 11. Both the mini album and the full video for the track are scheduled for release on April 13. According to a press release, "Stick With You" is described as an electro-pop song built around a high-impact chorus, featuring vintage 909 drum sounds and elements of techno punk. The track explores the struggle of holding onto a relationship at the brink of a breakup and expresses the desperation of wanting to hold on for "just one more day." The song also serves as a metaphor for the group's own determination to pursue their dreams as they enter their seventh year together, signaling a new beginning rather than an ending.The album opens with "Bed of Thorns," inspired by the idiom "you've made your bed, now lie in it," and addresses embracing the consequences of one's choices. The third track, "Take Me to Nirvana," featuring Vinida Weng, is described as capturing the sense of liberation that comes with letting go of uncertainty. Additional songs include "So What," "21st Century Romance," and "Dream of Mine," which closes the album with a message of anticipation for the future.The group, which includes members Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun and Hueningkai, began previewing the album's themes last month with a concept trailer featuring a figure in a spiked black leather suit and a mask, accompanied by the caption, "From where does anxiety arise, and how may this pain be stilled?" The trailer introduced four main concepts: "Thorn," "Hunger," "Tension" and "Anxiety," each representing different emotional states tied to the album's central metaphor.According to the release, the "Thorn" concept uses monochrome visuals to suggest rebirth and the start of a new chapter. The "Hunger" concept contrasts the members' calm expressions in pajamas with thorn-covered debris, symbolizing emptiness after emotional turmoil. The "Tension" concept features wallpaper covered in thorns, evoking a moment of uneasy stillness, while "Anxiety" depicts the group in a surreal forest, representing acceptance of the unknown and readiness for what lies ahead."7th Year: A Moment of Stillness in the Thorns" follows TOMORROW X TOGETHER's fourth full-length album, "The Star Chapter: Together," which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart in 2023.TOMORROW X TOGETHER is set to headline KCON LA 2026 on Aug. 16 with a solo set.

Hot 10 Recap - Week of 4/4/26

Posted by hothits — Mon, 6 Apr 2026 04:00 GMT

NEW YORK (AP) - Global superstars BTS return to the summit of the Billboard Hot 100, as their latest single "Swim" claims the top spot on the chart dated April 4, 2026. The track underscores the group's continued dominance in the global pop market, blending polished production with their signature vocal interplay and reaffirming their staying power years into their international breakthrough.Rising country voice Ella Langley secures the No. 2 position with "Choosin' Texas," a song that continues to gain traction across both country and crossover audiences. Its steady climb reflects growing listener demand for modern country narratives rooted in regional identity and authenticity.At No. 3, British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean lands with "Man I Need," marking her second appearance in the top 10. Dean's soulful delivery and introspective songwriting have positioned her as a consistent presence on the chart, appealing to listeners seeking emotionally grounded pop.Pop veteran Bruno Mars follows at No. 4 with "I Just Might," a track that leans into his hallmark blend of funk and R&B influences. Mars' ability to balance nostalgia with contemporary production continues to resonate with a wide demographic.At No. 5, Alex Warren reaches a career milestone with "Ordinary," his highest-charting single to date. The song's stripped-down arrangement and confessional tone have driven its viral growth, particularly across digital platforms.Electronic-pop act Huntr/x claims the No. 6 position with "Golden," maintaining momentum with a polished, high-energy sound that has found favor among younger audiences and streaming listeners.Returning to the chart at No. 7, Olivia Dean's "So Easy to Fall In Love" reinforces her breakout year, giving her two simultaneous top 10 entries. The song's warm instrumentation contrasts with the more somber tone of her higher-charting single, showcasing her versatility.At No. 8, PinkPantheress teams with Zara Larsson on "Stateside," a cross-Atlantic collaboration that merges UK electronic influences with mainstream pop sensibilities. The pairing highlights the increasingly global nature of chart-topping hits.Taylor Swift continues her consistent chart presence at No. 9 with "The Fate of Ophelia." The track adds to her extensive catalog of Hot 100 entries, reflecting sustained fan engagement and strong streaming numbers.Rounding out the top 10, Kehlani lands at No. 10 with "Folded." Known for her smooth vocal delivery and R&B influences, Kehlani's latest offering maintains her reputation for crafting emotionally resonant music.The April 4 chart reflects a broad mix of genres - from K-pop and country to R&B and electronic pop - underscoring the increasingly eclectic tastes of listeners and the global reach of today's music industry.

Olivia Rodrigo Announces New Album, Out June 12

Posted by hothits — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 14:10 GMT

Olivia Rodrigo announced Thursday that her third album, "You Seem Pretty Sad for a Girl So in Love," will be released June 12.Rodrigo shared the news on Instagram, along with the album's cover photo, which shows her leaning backward on a swing against a pale blue sky. "I am so proud of this record and I can't wait for you to hear it," Rodrigo wrote. Preorders for the album are available.The album will be sold in multiple formats, including vinyl, CD and cassette, according to Rodrigo's website. Signed copies will feature a photo of Rodrigo in a pink dress in a grassy field at night.Rodrigo's previous album, "Guts," was released in 2023 and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The album's lead single, "Vampire," reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100. Rodrigo's Guts World Tour ran from February through October 2024, with additional performances scheduled for the first half of 2025.Rodrigo's debut album, "Sour," also reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and produced several hits, including chart-toppers "Drivers License" and "Good 4 U."In a recent interview with British Vogue, Rodrigo described her new album as containing "sad love songs," inspired by her belief that many romantic songs are "beautiful because they had a tinge of fear or yearning." She added, "I thought that the second I'm in a really great relationship, I'm gonna start feeling good about myself, and this stuff is going to fall into place. But it just doesn't work like that."Rodrigo, who starred in "High School Musical: The Musical: The Series," was last linked to actor Louis Partridge.

Hot Hits Weekend Best Bets - 4/3-4/5/2026

Posted by hothits — Thu, 2 Apr 2026 14:09 GMT

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Central Ohio is heading into the first weekend of April with a diverse lineup of events, ranging from live music and festivals to sporting events and family-friendly activities, offering residents and visitors multiple entertainment options from Friday, April 3 through Sunday, April 5.Live music highlights the weekend, with legendary singer Patti LaBelle scheduled to perform Friday night at Mershon Auditorium on the campus of Ohio State University. The performance is part of a broader spring concert lineup bringing national touring acts to Columbus venues.Additional concerts continue Saturday, including country artist Wyatt Flores, who brings his "Drive All Night Tour" to KEMBA Live! on April 4. The show will also feature Kashus Culpepper and includes a charitable component supporting music industry health initiatives.Festival season also begins to take shape across Central Ohio. The Greater Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival continues through April, with a featured event scheduled Saturday at Franklin Park. The celebration includes cultural programming, outdoor activities and a scavenger hunt centered around the park's blooming cherry trees.Sports fans will find several opportunities to attend games throughout the weekend. The Columbus Fury professional volleyball team is slated to play Friday and Sunday, while the Columbus Blue Jackets host a home game Saturday night at Nationwide Arena as they continue their late-season push.Downtown Columbus also features interactive entertainment, including "The Dinner Detective," a live-action true crime murder mystery dinner show scheduled for Saturday evening. The event combines theater and dining, placing attendees inside an unfolding mystery.Family-friendly activities are available across the region, particularly with Easter-themed events. Seasonal attractions such as Easter Bunny photo opportunities at area shopping centers and free museum admission programs for select visitors are scheduled throughout Saturday.Local arts and nightlife round out the weekend, with smaller live performances and community events taking place in neighborhoods like the Short North and at venues such as The Summit Music Hall, which hosts concerts and themed events throughout the weekend.Columbus tourism officials note that spring marks a transition into one of the city's busiest event seasons, with a steady increase in concerts, festivals and outdoor activities expected throughout April and into the summer months.Event organizers encourage attendees to check individual event listings for updates on times, ticket availability and potential changes.

KATSEYE Announces New Single 'Pinky Up'

Posted by hothits — Wed, 1 Apr 2026 14:23 GMT

KATSEYE is taking EYEKONS to etiquette classes, starting with one rule: pinkies up.The HYBE K-pop girl group announced its new single, "Pinky Up," through a series of social media posts this week. The first post, shared Monday, March 30, featured a cryptic video of the Mona Lisa lifting a cup of tea with her pinky raised. The following day, Tuesday, March 31, the group posted a video of an arcade claw machine labeled "KATSEYE." In the clip, the claw retrieves a sword from among stuffed animals and a teacup. The caption read, "We're screaming from cloud nine!!," possibly hinting at the new song's lyrics.A third post confirmed the single and revealed its artwork: a person kneeling on a carpet with a teacup on a saucer and a toy cat, with the song title in hot pink lettering. The caption read, "PINKY UP SINGLE RELEASE," along with the release date and time: April 9 at 9 a.m. Pacific and noon Eastern."Pinky Up" is set to be released just ahead of KATSEYE's Coachella debut on Friday, April 10. It marks the group's first new music since HYBE and Geffen announced last month that member Manon Bannerman would be taking a break from the band. Since Bannerman's hiatus, KATSEYE has continued scheduled appearances, including performances at Lollapalooza Argentina and Lollapalooza Chile.On March 24, the group was announced as the headliner for the 2026 Head in the Clouds Music & Arts Festival, scheduled for Aug. 8 in Pasadena, California.

Taylor Swift Sued Over Album Title, Accused of Trademark Infringement

Posted by hothits — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:25 GMT

LAS VEGAS - Taylor Swift is facing a lawsuit filed Monday in federal court that accuses the singer of trademark infringement related to her latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl."Las Vegas performer Maren Wade alleges Swift named her album despite knowing about the similarity to "Confessions of a Showgirl," a column Wade has written for Las Vegas Weekly since 2014, according to the complaint. Wade later adapted the column into a live show and a book, both using the same title.Wade obtained a registered trademark for "Confessions of a Showgirl" from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in 2015. The trademark was later granted "incontestable" status after years of consistent use, which gives Wade exclusive rights to the mark, the lawsuit states.When Swift applied to trademark "The Life of a Showgirl," the application was denied due to its similarity to Wade's existing trademark, according to Wade's attorney, Jaymie Parkkinen. "They continued using it anyway, expanding it across a coordinated commercial program and distributing it through retail channels reaching millions of consumers," the lawsuit said, referring to Swift's team. Wade was never contacted about the use of the title, the complaint alleges.The lawsuit claims Swift's album title damaged Wade's personal brand, which she had spent more than a decade developing. "She registered it. She earned it," Parkkinen said in a statement. "We have great respect for Swift's talent and success, but trademark law exists to ensure that creators at all levels can protect what they've built. That's what this case is about."Wade's complaint argues that the similarities between "Confessions of a Showgirl" and "The Life of a Showgirl" are immediate, citing the structure and dominant phrase of both titles, as well as their use in overlapping markets and targeting of similar consumers.In addition to trademark infringement, the suit accuses Swift and UMG Recordings of unfair competition and false designation, alleging that their actions misrepresent the origin of goods in commerce. UMG Recordings, a division of Universal Music Group, and Bravado International Group Merchandising Services, another UMG branch, are also named in the suit.Wade is seeking unspecified damages for what she describes as "irreparable harm to her business, reputation, and goodwill," as well as a court order to prevent Swift from continuing to use the album title.The lawsuit contends that Swift's commercial success "does not depend on the continued use of any single designation," while "Confessions of a Showgirl" is Wade's only trademark and the foundation of her professional identity."It is not one mark among hundreds," the complaint states. "It is the only one she has."Representatives for Swift did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

LISA Becomes First K-Pop Artist to Headline Vegas Residency

Posted by hothits — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:53 GMT

LAS VEGAS (AP) - LISA of BLACKPINK is set to make history this fall with a residency at Colosseum at Caesars Palace. The singer will become the first K-pop artist to headline a Las Vegas residency when she performs her "VIVA LA LISA" shows Nov. 13-14 and Nov. 27-28. Fans can register for a presale beginning April 22 at 10 a.m. PT through 10 p.m. PT that same day. The artist presale will run during that window, followed by a general on-sale starting April 23 at 10 a.m. PT. LISA released her debut solo album, Alter Ego, in March 2025. The project debuted at No. 1 on Billboard's Top Album Sales chart. She became the second member of BLACKPINK to earn a solo top 10 album on the chart, following ROS , whose album rosie reached No. 3 on the Dec. 21, 2024-dated chart. In addition to touring with BLACKPINK, alongside members JENNIE and Jisoo, LISA participated in the group's "Deadline" world tour and its recent EP release. She also made her acting debut in 2025 with a role in the HBO series The White Lotus. A documentary from Sony Music Vision is in development and will follow a year in her life as she focuses on solo projects.

Hot 10 Recap - Week of 3/28/26

Posted by hothits — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 04:00 GMT

NEW YORK - Country-tinged pop sensation Ella Langley soared to the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 this week with her catchy anthem "Choosin' Texas." The track marks a career milestone for Langley, highlighting her distinctive blend of storytelling and contemporary production that has resonated nationwide. In the No. 2 position, British singer-songwriter Olivia Dean climbs with "Man I Need," a soulful reflection on love and longing. Dean also holds a second Hot 100 entry at No. 9 with "So Easy to Fall In Love," demonstrating her growing influence across pop and R&B audiences. Taylor Swift continues her chart dominance with two entries this week. "Opalite," her latest ethereal single, sits at No. 7, while the dramatic narrative-driven "The Fate of Ophelia" holds steady at No. 8. Both tracks showcase Swift's lyrical storytelling and genre-spanning sound that keeps fans engaged with every release. Rounding out the top five, Huntr/x's energetic track "Golden" comes in at No. 5, highlighting the artist's ascent in the alternative-pop scene. Pop collaboration "Stateside" from PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson lands at No. 6, blending nostalgic '90s vibes with contemporary electronic production. Alex Warren earns a top-four placement with the introspective "Ordinary," a song noted for its heartfelt lyrics and melodic hooks. Meanwhile, Bruno Mars adds another entry to his storied career at No. 3 with "I Just Might," combining classic funk influences with modern pop sensibilities. Closing out the top 10, Harry Styles' upbeat "American Girls" continues to charm listeners at No. 10, reflecting the enduring appeal of his solo work since leaving One Direction. The Hot 100 chart this week reflects a mix of emerging talent and established stars, with a strong showing of both pop and crossover genres that signal a diverse musical landscape for 2026.

Hot Hits Weekend Best Bets 3/27-3/29/26

Posted by hothits — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:18 GMT

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Central Ohio is offering a wide variety of cultural, sports, family-friendly and community events for the weekend of March 27-29, ranging from live performances and athletics to seasonal celebrations and expos. THEATER, MUSIC AND COMEDY A number of local venues are staging entertainment throughout the weekend:

"Miss Saigon" continues performances in downtown Columbus, bringing the acclaimed musical to area audiences.
Comedian Hannah Berner is set to perform Friday evening at the Wexner Center for the Arts' Mershon Auditorium.
Punk rock icons Circle Jerks with Gorilla Biscuits are scheduled at Newport Music Hall Friday night.
Comedy fans can catch nationally touring acts at Funny Bone Comedy Club in Columbus.

Live music and performances continue Saturday and Sunday at venues including Natalie's Grandview and The Bluestone, where local and touring artists will be on stage. FAMILY & COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Seasonal attractions and community festivals are prominent:

The Anthony-Thomas Candy Company in south Columbus hosts its Easter Open House Saturday, featuring behind-the-scenes tours of the historic chocolate factory, free samples and special promotions.
Easter-themed activities such as egg hunts, photos with the Easter Bunny and children's play events are happening throughout Columbus and surrounding suburbs on Saturday and Sunday.
Indoor markets and fairs, including the Worthington Indoor Farmer's Market and Scott Antique Market, offer shopping and browsing opportunities for all ages.

SPORTS & COMPETITIONS Athletics headline part of the weekend calendar:

Ohio State lacrosse hosts Penn State at the Ohio State Lacrosse Stadium Friday evening.
March Madness excitement continues with local collegiate games; Ohio State's women's team has drawn attention for its tournament performance.
Softball at Buckeye Field and other collegiate matchups are scheduled Sunday afternoon.

EXPOS AND SHOWS Central Ohio's convention calendar also contributes:

The Columbus Home Improvement Show runs Friday through Sunday at the Ohio Expo Center, offering exhibits, demonstrations and vendor displays.
The S.P.A.C.E. Small Press & Alternative Comics Expo brings independent artists and fans together on Saturday and Sunday at the Expo Center.

OUTDOOR & FREE EVENTS For outdoor and budget-friendly options:

Highbanks Metro Park hosts a Walk With a Doc health walk Saturday morning.
The Columbus Museum of Art offers Free Sundays on March 29, including general admission and family activities.

As the community transitions from winter into spring, weekend visitors and residents alike will find a mix of arts, recreation, and seasonal festivities to explore across the Columbus metro area.

Niall Horan Reflects on Career Milestones, Upcoming Album and U.S. Tour

Posted by hothits — Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:17 GMT

Niall Horan is no stranger to chart success. As a member of the British-Irish pop group One Direction, Horan helped make Billboard chart history in 2012 when the group's debut album, "Up All Night," opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. One Direction became the first British act to debut atop the chart with its first album.The group went on to achieve three additional consecutive No. 1 debuts with "Take Me Home" (2012), "Midnight Memories" (2013), and "Four" (2014), making them the first group in Billboard 200 history to see its first four studio albums enter at No. 1. In the United Kingdom, One Direction also notched four No. 1 albums and four No. 1 singles.As a solo artist, Horan topped the Official U.K. Albums Chart twice, with "Heartbreak Weather" in 2020 and "The Show" in 2023. His debut solo album, "Flicker," reached No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in 2017.Horan, 32, has also served as a coach on NBC's "The Voice" for three seasons, earning three wins-an undefeated record for a coach.Horan appeared on ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Wednesday to discuss his forthcoming fourth studio album, "The Show: Dinner Party Edition," due out June 5. He also spoke about his admiration for the Eagles, the Laurel Canyon music scene, and his upcoming touring plans.Horan will support the new album with an arena tour of the U.K. and Ireland, followed by a European run beginning Sept. 22 at Utilita Arena in Birmingham, England. "We're still to announce more dates," Horan told Kimmel. When asked about North American plans, he said, "It's not announced, but yeah." Currently, Horan has two U.S. dates scheduled for summer 2026: July 9 at Geodis Park in Nashville, Tennessee, and July 18 at Hersheypark Stadium in Hershey, Pennsylvania.During the interview, Horan described installing a pub in the basement of his home in the U.K., telling Kimmel, "I built a pub in the basement, and it must be the worst idea I've ever had." Because pubs in the U.K. typically close at 11 p.m., Horan said gatherings often continue at his house, but he has learned to close his home pub efficiently by turning off the music, shutting off the lights, and directing guests to exit by a side pathway.On the show, Horan also invited the social media user whose phrase "your eyes could grow flowers" appears as a lyric on the upcoming album's track "Flowers" to get in touch, saying he would like to offer them songwriting credit.Earlier in the episode, Horan participated in a trivia game against a fan named Rachel to see who knew more about his career. After losing, Horan remarked, "Wow, what just happened? I'm shook."

IVE Expands World Tour with New North American and Asian Dates

Posted by hothits — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:16 GMT

K-pop group IVE is expanding its world tour, with the group announcing Wednesday through Billboard that it will add multiple dates in North America and additional performances in Asia.After completing their previously announced shows in Asia, Australia and New Zealand, group members An Yujin, Gaeul, Rei, Jang Wonyoung, Liz and Leeseo will bring the tour to Canada and the United States, starting in late July. The tour will include stops in Toronto and Montreal, followed by performances in New Jersey, Texas, California and Washington. The group will then return to Canada for a show in Vancouver, British Columbia.In September, IVE will continue with previously announced concerts in China and Taiwan."We're so excited to finally meet our fans around the world on this tour," IVE told Billboard. "We worked hard to show our unique style and growth, and we can't wait to share it with as many fans as possible in person. There are so many songs we're excited to perform live, including new tracks from 'Revive+.' Each member has also prepared a special solo stage, so fans can see some fun and unexpected sides of us too. We're really looking forward to it."IVE released the 12-track album "Revive+" in February, which reached No. 3 on Billboard's World Albums chart. The album arrived nearly a year after their previous full-length release, "I've IVE," which came out in April 2023.The tour follows a successful 2024 run for IVE, who, according to Billboard Boxscore, completed the seventh-highest grossing K-pop tour of that year, earning $10.8 million from 10 shows.The full list of tour dates is as follows, with new shows indicated:April 4 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - Axiata Arena April 25 - Manila, Philippines - SM Mall of Asia Arena May 9 - Singapore - Singapore Indoor Stadium May 23 - Macao - The Venetian Arena May 24 - Macao - The Venetian Arena June 13 - Sydney - Qudos Bank Arena June 16 - Melbourne, Australia - Rod Laver Arena June 20 - Auckland, New Zealand - Spark Arena July 21 - Toronto, Ontario - Scotiabank Arena July 23 - Montreal, Quebec - Bell Centre July 25 - Newark, N.J. - Prudential Center July 29 - Austin, Texas - Moody Center Aug. 1 - Los Angeles - Kia Forum Aug. 4 - Oakland, Calif. - Oakland Arena Aug. 7 - Seattle - Climate Pledge Arena Aug. 9 - Vancouver, British Columbia - Rogers Arena Sept. 4 - Hong Kong - Asia World Arena Sept. 5 - Hong Kong - Asia World Arena Sept. 11 - Taipei, Taiwan - Taipei Arena Sept. 12 - Taipei, Taiwan - Taipei Arena

Miley Cyrus Celebrates 20 Years of Hannah Montana with Selena Gomez and Chappell Roan

Posted by hothits — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:20 GMT

Miley Cyrus' "Hannah Montana" 20th anniversary special premiered Tuesday, March 24, on Disney+, featuring appearances by Chappell Roan and Selena Gomez.The special included Cyrus revisiting the set and music of "Hannah Montana," the Disney Channel series that launched her to stardom in 2006. At one point, Roan, who has cited the show as an inspiration for her own music career, joined Cyrus on set."You literally walked so I could run," Roan, a Missouri native, told Cyrus. "What I do on stage, where I can just go on a red carpet and be ... that was because you took a lot of the heat for that in 2012, 2013. I don't have to deal with that as much because you really - the world took it out on you."Roan was referencing a viral moment in 2024 when she confronted a photographer at the MTV Video Music Awards, which Cyrus, in the special, said left her "gagged." Cyrus also said she was moved hearing Roan watched "Hannah Montana" as a child."I'm so grateful that I get to be a part of this," Roan said. "I grew up watching 'Hannah' at my grandparents' house."Gomez, who appeared in several episodes of "Hannah Montana" as pop star Mikayla, also visited the set. She and Cyrus discussed their shared beginnings on the Disney Channel."I thought that this would overwhelm me more, and I would feel super emotional and not be able to control the tears, but it's actually been really fun," Cyrus told Gomez.Gomez recalled wearing "blue weird makeup" for one episode, saying, "I remember feeling ugly in that, because we're, like, 15, and I want to feel pretty, and I'm like, 'Ugh.'" She laughed about how "mean" their characters were to each other, adding, "I don't think they would get away saying half of that now."Gomez also told Cyrus, "The whole 'Meet Miley' album was, like, my life. You created culture, babe."The special featured Cyrus performing songs from the franchise, including "The Climb" and "This Is the Life." She also sat for an interview with "Call Her Daddy" host Alex Cooper, spoke with her parents, Billy Ray and Tish Cyrus, and reminisced about moments such as Taylor Swift's cameo in the "Hannah Montana" movie and touring with The Jonas Brothers.