Sharon Osbourne teases Black Sabbath hologram show after final gig
Sharon Osbourne is open to the idea of a Black Sabbath hologram show in the future as Ozzy Osbourne prepares for a final performance with the band. The heavy metal legends will headline a festival in Birmingham on July 5th, featuring bands they've inspired. Sharon also addressed the possibility of drummer Bill Ward's return and expressed respect for him. Ozzy, who has health issues, will only do bits and pieces for the Black Sabbath gig. Tickets for the concert sold out in 16 minutes.
Rage Against The Machine, Green Day, Papa Roach and more confirmed for 'Devil May Cry' anime soundtrack
Netflix has unveiled the soundtrack for season one of Devil May Cry, featuring big bands like Evanescence, Limp Bizkit, Rage Against The Machine, and Papa Roach. Green Day's song on the soundtrack has been redacted, sparking speculation about its significance. The series follows Dante, an orphaned demon hunter, as he navigates the portal between human and demon realms. Creator Adi Shankar promises a unique theme song and title design for each season, set in a late '90s/early 2000s era.
Jack White Drops a Surprise 7-Inch and Extends the 'No Name' Tour
Jack White is set to release a limited-edition 7-inch vinyl of "Archbishop Harold Holmes" ahead of his No Name Tour. The release includes a live version of the song recorded at The Blind Pig in Ann Arbor, MI.
The No Name Tour, which has already traveled to various locations, will resume with a show in St. Louis, MO. White's album "No Name" has been nominated for a GRAMMY Award for Best Rock Album.
BAD WOLVES Part Ways With DOC COYLE And KYLE KONKIEL, Announce Replacements
Bad Wolves announces the departure of guitarist Doc Coyle and bassist Kyle Konkiel, who are stepping away to pursue new creative endeavors. Original guitarist Chris Cain is rejoining the band, bringing his signature energy back into the fold. Swiss-born musician Kevin 'The Creekman' Creekman is joining as the new bassist, replacing Kyle Konkiel. The band expresses gratitude to fans, crew, and everyone they have met, signaling a new chapter for Bad Wolves.
Alice in Chains replaces Mötley Crüe at Boardwalk Rock Festival
MÖTLEY CRÜE has pulled out of the Boardwalk Rock Festival lineup due to vocalist Vince Neil's required medical procedure. ALICE IN CHAINS will be taking their place at the event in Ocean City, MD on May 17. The band expressed their support for Neil's recovery and thanked their fans for understanding. Neil apologized to fans for the rescheduled Las Vegas residency, emphasizing his health as a top priority.
RICHIE SAMBORA Reveals The Real Story Behind Life In BON JOVI On BILLY CORGAN’s “The Magnificent Others” Podcast; Video
Billy Corgan, frontman of The Smashing Pumpkins, has launched a new podcast called “The Magnificent Others” with a candid conversation with Richie Sambora. The episode delves into the challenges of success, life in Bon Jovi, and the balancing act of fame and family. The two musicians discuss their craft, personal challenges, and the road they've traveled in the music industry. The podcast offers a raw and honest look at the lives of these rock legends both on and offstage.
Kirk Hammett praises Metallica and Lou Reed's 'Lulu' and says one song makes him cry
Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett has praised the band’s 2011 collaborative album with Lou Reed, ‘Lulu,’ despite its critical panning and commercial failure. Hammett described the experience of working with Reed as profound and highlighted the emotional impact of the track ‘Junior Dad.’ Reed's aversion to guitar solos was a challenge for Hammett, but he found the lyrics and poetry of the album compelling. The album's significance and personal connection to Hammett have led him to defend ‘Lulu’ and appreciate its artistic value.
50 Million More Americans Are Paying for Music Than in 2014
The music industry is experiencing a resurgence, with 132 million Americans now paying for music, a significant increase from 2014. Streaming, vinyl, and live shows are all seeing growth, indicating fans are willing to spend on their favorite music. Vinyl sales rose by 6% in 2024, and the average American spent $112 on recorded music. Live music spending increased by 17%, with more people buying tickets compared to the previous year. The industry is projected to see 8% annual growth through 2030, with expectations of more subscribers by 2028. Despite lingering piracy, the industry is thriving with over 100,000 new tracks uploaded daily.
Godsmack confirm split with Shannon Larkin and Tony Rombola
After nearly three decades, two cherished members of the band have decided to retire on good terms to pursue a simpler life away from touring. Tony Rombola and Shannon Larkin have been integral to the band's history, bringing their unique talents and passion to shape the music and message. While their departure marks the end of an era, it also opens the door for new possibilities. The band is grateful for the memories created with fans and will continue the journey with new directions and potential
replacements for Tony and Shannon. Will Hunt and Sam Koltun are currently filling in for the departing members on European dates.
"Becoming Led Zeppelin" Has A DIgital Streaming Premiere Date
It's already been a huge hit on the big screen; now the documentary "Becoming Led Zeppelin" can put your home theater to the test. The only documentary to receive the band's blessing will be available via digital platforms next Monday. The film had the biggest opening weekend ever for an IMAX-exclusive music release, taking in $2.6-million in its first three days. Featuring never-before-seen interviews and performances, the documentary brings fans back to the pre-Zep days in 1960s England, through their climb to becoming one of the most legendary bands of all time
RISE AGAINST Punch On With Latest Single 'Prizefighter'
RISE AGAINST, fresh off a performance at Los Angeles's Kia Forum and the release of their single "Nod," has unveiled their second single of 2025, "Prizefighter." The song delves into the struggle between creating art, maintaining autonomy, and meeting the demands of a rapidly changing world. The band's vocalist, Tim McIlrath, explores the artist's responsibility to their audience and mental health in the face of fame. With a music video highlighting their live energy and fan devotion, RISE AGAINST continues to deliver powerful messages through their music, setting the stage for their upcoming album.
BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN: Tracks II Is on the Way
That mysterious tease from Bruce Springsteen yesterday? We now know what it was about. The Boss has announced that he's releasing a new box set that’s a sequel to his 1998 rarities collection "Tracks." According to his followup social media post, the upcoming project is titled "Tracks II: The Lost Albums." An official website, LostAlbums.net, has been launched specifically for this release. Fans can submit their email address on the site to receive updates about the collection. The website also features an image of a studio track sheet that suggests the box set will feature recordings spanning from 1983 to 2018.
In 2022 he told Rolling Stone, “I have a box set of five unreleased albums that are basically post-1988. People have always wondered … People look at my work in the Nineties, and they go, ‘The Nineties wasn’t a great decade for Bruce. He was kind of doing this, and he wasn’t in the E Street Band …’ I actually made a lot of music during that period of time. I actually made albums. For one reason or another, the timing wasn’t right or whatever, I didn’t put them out.” Springsteen's last archival release to contain unreleased songs was 2016's Chapter and Verse. His last album of new material was the covers project Only the Strong Survive in 2022.
In other Springsteen news, he has made Forbes’ World’s Celebrity Billionaires list with $1.2-billion. Other musicians on the list include Rihanna $1.4; Taylor Swift $1.6; and Jay-Z $2.5.
"Becoming Led Zeppelin" Has A DIgital Streaming Premiere Date
It's already been a huge hit on the big screen; now the documentary "Becoming Led Zeppelin" can put your home theater to the test. The only documentary to receive the band's blessing
will be available via digital platforms next Monday. The film had the biggest opening weekend ever for an IMAX-exclusive music release, taking in $2.6-million in its first three days. Featuring never-before-seen interviews and performances, the documentary brings fans back to the pre-Zep days in 1960s England, through their climb to becoming one of the most legendary bands of all time.
THE WHO or PINK FLOYD: Which One Invented Stadium Rock?
Pete Townshend, in the liner notes to his new box set, The Studio Albums, writes: "I handed the stadium stage to Queen and U2, and of course to Bruce Springsteen. That wasn’t a bad thing. But we should have been a part of that post-punk legacy act resurgences that those acts enjoyed?” Asked by Rolling Stone to elaborate on that, Townshend said, "The Who invented Stadium Rock. We gave it away. Our timing was terrible. When we did Live Aid, we could barely play. Queen were in the middle of a tour, walked out there, took the whole thing, and turned it into an advert for themselves. "I never really appreciated what Queen was about, to be honest. I liked ABBA, but I didn’t really connect it with the lighthearted pop diversity of Queen’s catalog. I’m a huge fan of Bruce, of course, and a big fan of U2, and very happy to see the way that they took the stadium mantle. "But with songs like 'Won’t Get Fooled Again' and 'Baba O’Riley,' I nailed it. There’s no question. And I gave that instrument away. But it would be wrong to say that I regret it, because I don’t. I have to look back and say, 'Well, what is, is.' But where it really bit for us all was financially, because that moment was one where instead of playing places like the Fillmore and the occasional arena, the big acts were playing consistently huge venues."
One person who may take exception with Townshend's claim is Roger Waters who in 2022 told us he's responsible for all the over-the-top concert productions. The [Rolling] Stones were the first big band to copy it all and then everybody did. So, without being stupid, I'm sort of the granddaddy of all of that. It all started with Pink Floyd. All the big rock shows started with the Animals tour in 1977. So, no, I don't go to them and see if I can get any ideas. I've got enough ideas and it's hard enough to do without worrying about what other people are doing. Good luck to everybody obviously." Pink Floyd followed up the 1977 In the Flesh tour in support of Animals with The Wall tour in 1980 and '81. Waters has done the same for his solo shows such as The Dark Side of the Moon from 2006 to 2008; The Wall Live from 2010 to '13; Us + Them in 2017 and '18; and his last one, 2022 and 23's This Is Not A Drill, which had him playing in the round for the first time.
Stadium rock -- not exactly as we know it today with big productions -- was started by promoter Sid Bernstein when he booked The Beatles to perform in New York's Shea Stadium in 1965 and '66.
Rare John Byrne painting of The Beatles sells for more than £27,000
A rare painting of The Beatles by the late John Byrne has sold for £27,700 at auction, more than double its original estimate. The painting, created in 1969, features each Beatle seated beside a “spirit animal” while Yoko Ono is seen in a crystal ball held by John Lennon. The artwork was one of ten early Byrne works bought by his local parish priest in the early 1970s and sold at Lyon & Turnbull's Contemporary Art sale. The painting was a precursor to a larger version created for Byrne's 1969 show at London's Portal Gallery and was later used as the cover of The Beatles Ballads LP. The collection, which included works from Byrne's "Patrick" era, attracted international interest and totaled £90,000 at the auction.
John Fogerty announces 80th birthday concert at Beacon Theatre. Get tickets
John Fogerty is set to celebrate his 80th birthday with a concert at New York City's Beacon Theatre on May 28. This show marks his only New York performance this year. Fans can purchase tickets for this historic event and other upcoming shows on secondary market ticketing platforms like Vivid Seats. Fogerty will also perform at the New Orleans Jazz Festival and the Hollywood Bowl later this year.
LENNON, MOON & HENDRIX: Heavenly Counselors
The Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp had themselves a chuckle this past Tuesday when they announced a "new" camp -- an "immersive" experience with John Lennon, Keith Moon, Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. "Unleash your inner rock star at this once-in-a-lifetime four-day Rock Camp, where you’ll jam, learn, and perform alongside the absolute most iconic names in rock history. This immersive experience is perfect for musicians of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players, offering a chance to hone your craft, make lifelong connections and create memories you’ll never forget. "Beyond the masterclasses, Q&A with the rockstars, band rehearsals and jam sessions over four days, the Rock 'n' Roll Fantasy Camp offers a holistic experience designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and camaraderie..."Rockstar Counselors will include: Robert Johnson, Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain, Amy Winehouse, Brian Jones and more!"
And, if that wasn't special enough, the camp secured one of roadie for a day packages Gene Simmons is selling for $12,500. "For one day only (because that’s all the world can handle), we’re offering an exclusive, never-before-seen Gene Simmons Ultimate Roadie Experience—absolutely FREE with your Rock Camp registration! Here’s what you’ll get:
·24 Hours with Gene Simmons. Yes, you heard that right. Watch him sleep peacefully while dreaming of the millions of women he’s courted over the decades.
·Breakfast with 'The Demon.' You’ll get to feed Gene grapes, scrambled eggs, and his preferred breakfast cereal.
·Signature Tattoo. Gene will autograph any part of your body—except the chest area. That’s a premium add-on. (Hey, even April Fools has boundaries.)
·Gene might discover you like he did with Van Halen… or he might just tell you to carry his amp. Either way, it’s a story you’ll be telling for the rest of your life—or at least until someone calls security.
"Don’t miss this once in a lifetime your chance to live the dream! Or at least prank your friends by forwarding this to them and pretending it’s real. (We won’t tell.) Happy April Fools' Day from your favorite Rock Camp crew." The irony in all this is that you have a better chance of taking lessons from a dead rock star than you do of Gene Simmons parting with one of his overly priced fan experiences for free.
BLACK SABBATH: Dancing Queens?
While this coming July 5th in Birmingham, England promises to be the last performance ever by Black Sabbath, they could live on as avatars. Sharon Osbourne tells Metal Hammer
magazine she's not opposed to staging a show along the lines of what ABBA are doing and what KISS have in the works. "Technology keeps moving on and on," she explained. "You can do incredible things now, so what you could do in five years will be even better. You never know what the opportunities are." If becoming avatars requires the full physical cooperation of the band, as is the case with ABBA and KISS, then it will be interesting to see what Sabbath can do as Ozzy's Parkinson's disease has severely limited his mobility.
SABBATH, METALLICA, GHOST: Different Impact on Different Acts
Kirk Hammett of Metallica and Tobias Forge of Ghost are both playing the Black Sabbath and
Ozzy Osbourne Back to the Beginning show this summer and both recently spoke about the impact Sabbath had on their careers. Hammett told Heavy Consequence that “If it wasn’t for those four guys, man, we might still be wandering around in the dark. But the fact that they created a genre -- not only created it but then developed it and then turned it into a few different things over the course of their career-- is completely awe-inspiring to me and my peers musically. I mean, how do you thank someone like that?” Forge told The Mistress Carrie Podcast that he feels people overlook Sabbath's "more proggy albums. When I'm talking about my Black Sabbath influence, especially on Ghost and as a songwriter, it's much more their mournful, big ballady or their big songs of Vol. 4, Sabotage and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, that sort of stuff, when they were really brave. And Geezer's [Butler] lyrics were so deep and naked and not at all dark and gloomy."
Besides the final sets by Black Sabbath and Ozzy, the shows will features performances by Metallica, Guns n' Roses, Tool, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Alice in Chains, Halestorm, Lamb of God, Anthrax and Mastodon. Tom Morello will also lead an all-star band that will feature Duff McKagan and Slash of GNR, Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins, Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit, Wolfgang Van Halen, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Vernon Reid of Living Colour, David Draiman of Disturbed, Jonathan Davis of Korn, Lzzy Hale of Halestorm, Sammy Hagar and Tobias Forge of Ghost.
This is the Metallica song that makes Kirk Hammett cry – and it’s really not the one you’d expect
Metallica guitarist Kirk Hammett revealed that the song "Junior Dad" from the band's 2011 collaboration album with Lou Reed, Lulu, brings him to tears. Despite the mixed reviews and backlash the album received, Hammett finds the lyrics and poetry of the track meaningful. He shared a touching moment with Reed and bandmate James Hetfield while listening to the song, reflecting on its emotional impact. Metallica and Reed have defended the album, with drummer Lars Ulrich attributing the negative fan feedback to ignorance. The band released their latest album, 72 Seasons, in 2023 and will embark on a North American tour starting later this month.
John Lydon says he will never return to ‘woke’ Sex Pistols
Former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon has been vocal about his former bandmates and their new alliance with Frank Carter, criticizing their performances as "awful" and "mediocre." Lydon has expressed his disapproval of the new incarnation of the band, calling it "woke" and "a clown's circus." Despite the critical acclaim received by the new lineup, Lydon has made it clear that he will not reunite with his former bandmates due to their "dirty deeds" and the direction they have taken the band. The Frank Carter-led version of the Sex Pistols will be out on a North American tour, with Carter stating that the world needs a band like the Sex Pistols.
Todd Rundgren Says "Walk On By" Changed His Life
Todd Rundgren might be known for progressive rock, but he says it was a Dionne Warwick song that steered his musical direction. Perhaps it's more accurate to say it was a Burt Bacharach composition sung by Warwick. Rundgren says he was a teen during the 60s when The Beatles "sort of became everything." But then he heard "Walk On By" and said it had this "whole spooky thing" and a "different kind of sensibility from your typical pop song."Rundgren calls Bacharach the "greatest songwriter of my lifetime" and is paying tribute to him in his current tour. Rundgren and an ensemble of artists are on the "What the World Needs Now" tour, which features entire concerts of Burt Bacharach songs. The ensemble is led by longtime Burt Bacharach arranger and music director Rob Shirakbari. The tour began two weeks ago in Ventura, California and played in Detroit last night.This weekend, the tour will stop in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on Friday and hit Atlantic City Saturday.
IN OTHER NEWS
Just when you thought there possibly couldn’t be any more to write about The Beatles
comes John & Paul: A Love Story in Songs by Ian Leslie on April 8th. The description says it follows the “twists and turns” of their relationship and how “these shifts manifested themselves in the music.”
Chicago will release a Dolby Atmos mix of Chicago II on April 25th on Blu-ray followed by a two-LP black vinyl set on May 23rd.
Geddy Lee of Rush will make an appearance at Dine Alone Store in Toronto at noon on April 12th for Record Store Day. He will sign vinyl copies of The Lost Demos, which features two tracks he wrote during the sessions for his only album, 2000's My Favorite Headache.
Bob Weir and Wolf Bros will head to London to play at the Royal Albert Hall with the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra on June 21st. It'll be Weir's first show in London in over two decades.
Richie Sambora is this week's guest on Billy Corgan's The Magnificent Others podcast. Check it out on YouTube. Sambora left Bon Jovi 12 years ago today – April 2nd, 2013.