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BonnaBlues: Bonnaroo Cancelled After 1 Day

Bonnaroo 2025 boasted an eclectic mix of artists on the lineup that was meant to run over four nights on the Farm in Manchester, Tennessee. It had a really great lineup that mostly never came to fruition. Fans could enter the grounds and begin camping starting on Tuesday, but the music didn’t start until Thursday. That evening, Marcus King’s soulful, raspy voice and guitar riffs filled the night air on the main stage during the first sunset of Bonnaroo 2025. 

Thursday also boasted a headline set by Luke Combs, Bonnaroo’s first ever country headliner on the main stage. He had an unforgettable set, including starting the performance by shotgunning a beer and sharing stories of how he wrote his songs. He brought out legendary country singer Miranda Lambert as a surprise guest and she sang “Kerosene” as well as Marcus King for his last song, “No Rain in Oklahoma.”

This year, Bonnaroo also debuted the Infinity Stage, an open-air dome designed stage with spacial sound and a 360 experience. Of The Trees B2B Tape B and Rebecca Black DJ’d there on the first night of the festival, with lasers and totems surrounding the entire area. There were mixed reviews for the stage – fans inside the audio experience said it was great, but fans outside couldn’t hear as much and it didn’t provide great visuals from farther away.

The Who stage, located at Outeroo’s Plaza 7, highlighted up-and-coming artists and rising stars. And of course, the iconic Other stage hosted Dom Dolla, who mixed songs together for a two-hour headlining set on Thursday as part of their new After Hours lineup with late night live performances lasting well into the early morning. 

Friday morning started strong with hundreds of people doing Yoga in Centeroo and enjoying their High Five Friday on the Farm. Things only got worse from there. Early in the afternoon, before the festival had even opened to music, rain storms with lightning and thunder passed over the festival, causing the campground to be completely flooded and many campsites to be destroyed. After an entire day of delays, Bonnaroo announced that they were forced to cancel the rest of the festival and that fans were encouraged to leave on Saturday. Fans will also receive a 75% refund on their tickets and camping passes since there were no sets from Friday to Sunday. 

Sets that never came to fruition included Friday’s John Summit headlining and Infinity stage takeover sets, Avril Lavigne and Olivia Rodrigo on Saturday night, Remi Wolf’s Superjam on Sunday, and Hozier closing out the weekend. This was a disappointing end for this year’s Bonnaroo. They were forced to cancel in 2020 due to Covid-19 and again in 2021 due to inclement weather, so to have to cancel again in 2025 is especially unfortunate. Next year, the festival organizers might have to reconsider when they host the festival, due to the large amounts of rainfall in Tennessee in the summer.

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Sips and Sounds Fest

The annual Sips and Sounds Fest started on the first day of SXSW this year in Austin with some impressive artists, including night one headliner Halsey, who played rock inspired versions of her hits. Fans had lots of activations to enjoy, including a Silent Disco and Coca Cola Fan Zone, where they could relax and grab a drink.

There were many fun musical highlights from day one. Ashe arrived in a sparkly pink dress and twirled the stage as she sang her hits, along with a cover of “Unwritten” by Natashia Beddingfield and “Love Story” by Taylor Swift.

Ashe

Disko Cowboy DJ’d a hype set of country hits mixed with EDM beats, and the crowd was loving it. He was accompanied by two dancers donned in sparkly cowboy hats.

Suki Waterhouse
Disko Cowboy
Blusher

Suki Waterhouse brought out Ashe as a surprise guest to sing their collab song, “Pushing Daisies.” Australian trio Blusher had choreographed moves to go with their upbeat pop-inspired songs. 

The two-day fest was sponsored by Coca Cola, with an option to recycle bottles and cans to redeem festival swag. To make recycling easy and accessible, “Recycle & Refresh” stations were set up throughout the festival grounds, supported by volunteers from Keep Austin Beautiful. With Austin food favorites like Amy’s Ice Cream and Southside Flying Pizza, there were plenty of tasty options for festival goers.

The Cinemark activation provided a bit of shade in the hot Texas heat, with a cool building you could enter to watch movie trailers and get free popcorn.

Khalid

The Austin skyline sparkled prominently in the background as the sun set over the city, and Khalid serenaded the crowd with hit after hit, including fan favorites “On The Way,” and “Location.”

Halsey pranced around in black cowboy boots and a white dress, singing her songs to the large crowd in downtown Austin, including her new single, “Safeword.” She closed the Friday fest with her popular song “Without Me.”

Paul Russell
Nessa Barrett

Day two was a bit cooler in temperature but with just as much excitement. Paul Russell kicked off the day with his TikTok hit “Boo Thing.” Nessa Barrett brought the brooding vibes and strummed guitar to her set.

Chelsea Cutler and Jeremy Zucker
Claire Rosinkranz

Musicians Chelsea Cutler and Jeremy Zucker performed emotional songs from their collaboration project “Brent.” Singer songwriter Claire Rosinkranz told the crowd that she would be performing mostly new material to get a feel from the crowd if they like them or not (they liked them!).

AJR

AJR was a wild set of chaos, dancing, and hats. Brothers Adam, Jack and Ryan (hence the name) performed their hit songs, building up the songs and creating fun moments for the crowd. They ended with their song “Weak.”

Benson Boone

Benson Boone closed out the weekend with a performance full of backflips, fireworks and glitter. He kept the crowd entertained and singing along despite the chilly weather.

This iteration of Sips and Sounds Fest was the best yet. Fans loved the downtown location, impressive lineup, and great weather. We can’t wait to see what’s in store next year.

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Music News Reviews

David Archuleta finds his “Freedom”

David Archuleta has long been known for his smooth vocals and heartfelt performances, ever since winning over audiences on American Idol. With his cover of George Michael’s iconic hit
“Freedom,” Archuleta takes on a musically dynamic and deeply symbolic song. Initially released in 1990 as an anthem of self-expression and liberation, “Freedom” remains one of Michael’s
most celebrated tracks. Archuleta’s interpretation of the song presents an intriguing blend of nostalgia and fresh artistry, raising the question—does he do justice to the original while making it his own?

Archuleta’s vocal prowess, a defining feature of his artistry, is on full display in his rendition of “Freedom.” His signature clarity and emotional depth bring a new dimension to the song. From the first notes, Archuleta delivers the song with a smooth yet powerful delivery that aligns well with its anthemic nature. His ability to seamlessly transition between soft, controlled verses and soaring, passionate choruses adds a new layer of intensity to the track, leaving the audience in awe of his vocal control and emotional depth.

One of the most notable aspects of Archuleta’s performance is his attention to phrasing and nuance. While Michael’s original featured a mix of grit and effortless cool, Archuleta leans into a more polished and emotive approach. His vocal runs are clean and precise, and he adds subtle embellishments that personalize the song without straying too far from the original melody.

In the high-energy sections, particularly in the chorus, Archuleta delivers with a sense of conviction that makes the message of “Freedom” feel just as urgent and relevant as it did in the ’90s. While his tone is naturally softer than Michael’s, he compensates with expressive vocal dynamics, building tension and release in all the right places. His controlled yet impassioned delivery ensures that the song remains a vocal showcase and a heartfelt tribute to the late music legend.

David Archuleta’s cover of “Freedom” is a minute shorter than George Michael’s original, offering a more streamlined version of the song that still packs an emotional punch. While Archuleta trims some of the song’s length, he retains the powerful gospel elements that made the original so stirring. The background choir and soaring backing vocals remain key to the arrangement, providing a sense of uplift and reverence.

What’s striking is how Archuleta delivers the song with his soulful flair. His version feels intimate yet powerful, leaning into the song’s celebratory spirit with subtle yet impactful vocal runs. The
production stays true to the spirit of Michael’s version but with a slightly more stripped-back, organic feel that highlights Archuleta’s vocal strength. Rather than overpowering the song with excessive layers, the production lets his voice shine, offering a modern yet respectful tribute to Michael’s legacy.

As the first cover I’ve heard from Archuleta, his take on “Freedom” left a strong impression. Archuleta has always carried an air of sincerity and vulnerability in his music, and “Freedom” perfectly matches his personal identity. With its message of liberation and self-expression, the song pairs effortlessly with Archuleta’s journey, especially in recent years, as he’s embraced his freedom and authenticity in his music and public life. His heartfelt delivery feels genuine as if he’s not just covering a classic but embodying the spirit of the song.

The cover has deeply resonated with Archuleta’s fans, who are drawn to his openness and courage. For newer listeners, it introduces them to the powerful message of “Freedom” while showcasing Archuleta’s ability to reinterpret well-known songs. This cover fits naturally within his evolving artistic direction, demonstrating a willingness to take on a bold, empowering anthem. Archuleta’s version doesn’t just revitalize the classic; it enhances it, offering a fresh perspective that feels deeply personal and authentic. The shared appreciation for this cover creates a sense of community among his fans and listeners.

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Noah Kahan Perfectly Blends Midwest Nostalgia at ‘Live From Fenway Park’

Noah Kahan has swiftly transitioned from a humble Vermont native with a knack for heartfelt storytelling to a folk-pop sensation captivating audiences worldwide. Known for his introspective lyrics and raw, passionate vocals, Kahan’s music resonates deeply with fans who cherish his ability to turn personal experiences into universal anthems. His breakout moment came with Stick Season, an album that celebrated the beauty and bittersweetness of New England life, firmly establishing him as a voice for both his generation and his home region.

With its historic and iconic appeal, Kahan recently performed live at Fenway Park in Boston, where fans experienced Stick Season. This album serves as a landmark moment in the singer’s career. Although I didn’t experience the album live, I gathered one of the best renditions of the Spotify experience. 

The crowd’s energy appeared incredible and extremely vocal as fans didn’t skip a beat regarding Kahan’s lyrics. The acoustics sounded crisp and clear, which is as close to the real deal as possible! The singer thanked the fans for listening to his “depressing music,” which included depictions of growing up in the Midwest. He also repeatedly admitted his love for Fenway Park. 

As the band opened up with an intro to “Dial Drunk,” there was a clear sense of vulnerability and a moving prelude to what the night held for fans. The song had an anthem-like energy and was a definite crowd-pleaser. Kahan commonly left little to the imagination, leaving small performance gaps for fans to fill with the lyrics. Additional tracks included “Northern Attitude” and “Homesick” to name a few. 

Kahan’s Live From Fenway Park is a testament to his evolution from a promising singer-songwriter to a seasoned live performer capable of captivating a massive audience. Unlike his earlier, smaller-scale performances, this album showcases his ability to connect with fans on an intimate level, even in a venue as grand as Fenway Park.

Vocally, Kahan shines throughout the recording, demonstrating a maturity and control that elevate his live renditions beyond their studio counterparts. His raw, emotive delivery on tracks like “Growing Sideways” and “The View Between Villages” captures the essence of his storytelling, amplifying the vulnerability and authenticity that define his music. He balances tender, heart-wrenching moments with spirited anthems like “Northern Attitude,” proving his versatility as an artist.

Kahan’s stage presence is another standout aspect of the performance. His witty, self-deprecating humor and heartfelt anecdotes create a warm, inviting atmosphere, making every listener feel as though they’re part of a much smaller, more intimate show. His interactions with the crowd—cheering on Boston’s sports culture or reflecting on his Vermont roots—further highlight his ability to bring his personality to the stage in a way that resonates deeply with his audience.

This performance also demonstrates Kahan’s growth as a bandleader. The chemistry between him and his supporting musicians brings a rich, layered sound to the live album, elevating songs like “She Calls Me Back” and “Homesick” with dynamic arrangements and energy that fill the stadium. His ability to lead such a cohesive performance on such a massive stage marks a new level of confidence and skill in his career.

In many ways, Live From Fenway Park feels like the culmination of years of hard work, growth, and a deep connection to his roots. It’s not just a live album—it’s a celebration of how far Kahan has come and a glimpse into the bright future ahead.

Photo: Gaby Deimeke

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Concert Photography

The Beaches + Charlie Houston at the Fillmore

By Bethany Ivan

Going out on a Monday, knowing that you have work the next day is one thing, but that excitement of clocking out from a 9am-5pm job, and driving to the Fillmore in Charlotte to see The Beaches perform is definitely next level, especially when you know that the band has a few fun and exciting songs to perform. 

The Beaches took a stop in the city on Sept. 30 on their ‘Blame My Ex’ Tour, with supporting acts by Charlie Houston. Houston, who opened for the band, started us off with some mellow tunes, which is something I needed after a long day of work. The audience was also in for a treat as Houston played a cover of “Year 3000” by the Jonas Brothers. 

As The Beaches began to perform, three words came to mind: energetic, powerful, and fierce. The band not only served looks but with their talent, their performance was completely unforgettable. Leandra Earl and Kylie Miller amazing guitar playing, the fun and mesmerizing voice of Jordan Miller, and Eliza Enman-McDaniel’s wicked talent on drums made it all worthwhile.  Songs  such as “Blame Brett,” “Jocelyn,” and “Shower Beer,” filled the venue of excited fans. Throughout their whole performance, it felt like one extended weekend, which was very well needed. 

I have never really liked Mondays, but after seeing The Beaches and Charlie Houston live in concert, it’s safe to say that I appreciate the day a bit more as I either put my headphones on at work or turn up the radio in my car, with the band and Houston playing through the speakers on full blast. I may or may not say this a lot, but these two artists are definitely going on my playlists on Spotify, where I will listen to their songs on a constant repeat. 

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Cascade Equinox Festival 2024

The Cascade Equinox Festival, held from September 20-22, 2024, in Redmond, Oregon, was a vibrant celebration of community, music, and art. For the second year of the festival, held at the Deschutes Fairgrounds, we spent the weekend nestled in the beautiful high desert
overlooking the stunning views of the mountains.

The festival brought together an eclectic mix of artists, musicians, and attendees seeking to mark the transition of summer into fall with dance, creativity, and connection.


This year’s event featured an impressive lineup that brought festivalgoers from all over the country. From CLOZEE throwing it down on the mainstage Friday night, to STS9 and Liquid
Stranger headlining Saturday and no better way to end the weekend on Sunday night with the performance of a lifetime by JUNGLE that got the crowed moving and grooving. We also really enjoyed Marc Rebillets set, which was very interactive with the crowd, totems, and the environment.

Something we saw a huge difference in this year compared to last year was the implementation of more areas around the festival to explore with friends. From a pop up DJ cart in front of Cosmic Drip at midnight, to a roller rink inside one of the barns, to swings at the Grove – we were pleasantly surprised with how many additions there were to the festival grounds.

Cascade also brought many Immersive art installations throughout the grounds, engaging attendees with interactive and sensory experiences that merged enlightenment and creativity. Workshops and wellness sessions offered a space for personal growth and reflection, from yoga
and meditation to talks on sustainability. Families were welcomed with kid-friendly zones, while food vendors provided a variety of delicious foods. We personally loved Dump City and went every day of the festival – no better way to warm up those 40 degree nights than with dumplings!


As the sun set on this year’s festival, attendees left not only with memories of a weekend full of music and art but also a renewed sense of community and connection within themselves. With how much we saw added to this year, we can only see potential for growth for this special festival in Central Oregon and can’t wait for the future.

Photos by Megan Dirksen, Article by Aly Martin

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Music News

SZA – S.O.S Aus Tour

Fresh from performing at this year’s GRAMMYS and taking home 3 awards including Best Urban Contemporary Album and Best RnB Song – music trendsetter and icon SZA announces her return to Australia for a run of dates this April with two additional shows. Making it her first visit to the country in nearly five years!

This tour has been highly anticipated by her fans after SZA released her chart topping S.O.S album in December 2022 with hit songs such as “Kill Bill” and “Snooze.”

Tour dates and locations listed below!

Friday, April 19 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Saturday, April 20 – Brisbane, Australia – Brisbane Entertainment Centre *NEW SHOW*

Tuesday, April 23 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena

Wednesday, April 24 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena

Friday, April 26 – Sydney, Australia – Qudos Bank Arena *NEW SHOW*

Monday, April 29 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena

Tuesday, April 30 – Melbourne, Australia – Rod Laver Arena

Tickets:

Tickets for SZA’s Australian tour are on sale now and available at Live Nation‘s website! Don’t miss your chance to witness this incredible artist live in concert.