Dillon Francis and Diplo have respectively built massive careers within dance music — but as they proved on May 15, they may have been just as successful doing stand-up comedy.

The two producers came together at the GRAMMY Museum's Clive Davis Theater for a wisecracking exchange, marking the 10-year anniversary of Francis' breakthrough song with DJ Snake, the platinum-certified "Get Low." It also felt like a celebration of 

their longstanding friendship — which predates "Get Low" — as the conversation was filled with humorous anecdotes, insider stories about key moments in Francis' career, and some of Francis' favorite memories with Diplo.

Since "Get Low," Francis has had a mercurial music trajectory. Though he's released three studio albums and a number of EPs, his landmark mixtapes — 2015's This Mixtape Is Fire and last year's This Mixtape is Fire TOO — are the key highlights. Like many dance acts, collaboration has been at the core of Francis' work, particularly within the electronic community; he's teamed up with the likes of Skrillex, Calvin Harris, Martin Garrix, Kygo, Alison Wonderland, Illenium, Alesso, and even Diplo's trio Major Lazer. 

More recently, Francis has released collaborations with Ship Wrek, Space Rangers and Sophie Powers, and the moombahton Pero Like EP with Good Times Ahead. The EP includes the bouncy "LA On Acid," whose video — which premiered at the South By Southwest Festival in March — features Diplo in its opening sequencing, along with cameos from Euphoria's Chloe Cherry, Righteous Gemstones' Tony Cavalero and Master of None's Eric Wareheim.

Three days after stopping by the GRAMMY Museum, Francis headed out to Las Vegas to perform at North America's largest electronic dance music festival, Electric Daisy Carnival, on May 18. It was one of many festival appearances for Francis this summer, along with one of several trips to Las Vegas, as he has a residency at the Wynn's XS Nightclub.

Below, take a look at five takeaways from Francis' spirited conversation with Diplo at the GRAMMY Museum.

Francis Met Diplo By Sliding Into His Twitter DMs

The two met in person 16 years ago in Francis' hometown of Los Angeles. Before that, Francis would send Diplo demos for consideration for the latter's record label, Mad Decent. Once Francis realized Diplo had heard his song "Masta Blasta," he slid into Diplo's Twitter DMs — and never left. "I was harassing him so much," Francis quipped. "'Let's please hang out right now. God, please let me come and hang out.'"

Diplo invited him to a bar, and they watched the Phillies (Diplo's team) lose. "It was one of my first blind dates," Diplo said. "I tried to make [Dillon] my ghost producer." 

Shortly after their first meeting, the pair worked together on a dubstep remix for Kelly Rowland's "Motivation" — and the more exposure he had to Francis' production skills, the more convinced Diplo was of his talent. "[Dillon is] too good to be my ghost producer. He's already better than me. We got to do a real record with this guy."

Francis' Superior Social Media Skills Began As A Class Assignment In High School

Francis' comedic online presence is the perfect combination of humor and authenticity, adding another layer to his appeal alongside his music. He traced his savvy skills back to his time at Los Angeles County High School for the Arts and a new genres course he took. His teacher considered everything as art, and their creations could be whatever they wanted.

"My friend and I would make comedy videos, basic sketch shows, and we passed the class with flying colors," Francis recalled. "When Vine came around, I did what I did in that class. It was another way of doing stuff I love to do, which is making people laugh."

Diplo then chimed in with a hilariously fitting observation. "You are the Weird Al Yankovic of electronic music," he said. "You had bangers, but you made them funny and you made them accessible to people."

He also commended Francis for opening his eyes to what social media can do for a creator. "You put me onto interaction on social media in different ways," Diplo added. "I don't think any other electronic music DJs were putting their personality out there like you did. You were the first one to do that properly."

Francis' Musical Education Came From Collaboration

As Francis revealed, he dropped out of college after a semester. But as someone who has built his career on collaboration, he's learned everything he needs to know by working with other artists. In fact, he thinks of working with other producers as interning. 

"It's my favorite thing to do," he said. "They're going to learn the way that you produce, you're going learn the way they produce. You can cross-pollinate your ideas and come away with new ways to make music. I feel like it also helps with evolving as an artist."

Diplo agreed, noting that Francis' time as a young producer, interning at studios, learning from producers and gaining relationships in the process was essential to his career. "Not to encourage more people to drop out of college," he joked.

Furious 7 Was A Key Player In The Success Of "Get Low"

Diplo pointed out that "Get Low" had its crossover moment after being included in the soundtrack for Furious 7, the 2015 installment of the Fast and Furious franchise. He asserted that it is special for a producer to have a song in a big movie, as he experienced with M.I.A.'s "Paper Planes" (which he co-wrote and co-produced) after it was featured in 2008's Pineapple Express.  

As Francis recalled, "Get Low" was already well-received and being played by the DJ community, with about five million plays on Spotify before Furious 7. But once it was part of Furious 7 — first in the trailer and then in the film — it ramped up significantly (and now has more than 200 million Spotify streams as of press time).

"This is when people were buying music on iTunes," Francis remembers. "From the trailer, it peaked at number 5 or something like that, which is huge for any artist in dance music. We're not usually on that chart. To be right next to Selena Gomez with a song that says, 'Get low when the whistle goes,' is crazy."

He Had A Life-Altering Turning Point At 18

After Diplo concluded his questions, Francis took a few from the audience. In response to one fan about what he would have done differently early in his career, Francis opened up about one of the worst moments in his life — which actually turned into a great learning experience. 

As he explained, at the age of 18, Francis was charged with a DUI (which was eventually downgraded to wet reckless). His parents spent their savings on a lawyer; he lost his car; he lost his license for a year; he did the DUI classes. And all of it put things into perspective.

"That was the first moment where I realized, things can get messed up and lost," he said. "I was like, 'I need to figure out my career. I'm going to go make money and I'm going to pay [my parents] back.' That was a very big driving factor for me."

Now 36, Francis views the incident as one of the best things to ever happen to him — and, in turn, for his path in dance music. "If that didn't happen, I don't think I would be sitting here on the stage today."

8 Essential Latin Electronic Releases: Songs And Albums From Bizarrap, Arca & More

As November arrives, the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles opens its doors to an exciting array of live events and exhibits celebrating music’s most influential artists.

This month’s programming spans a mix of genres and features an impressive lineup, including intimate performances and conversations with artists like Soul Asylum, Grace VanderWaal, and rising talent Grace Bowers. Visitors can also explore a tribute to the legendary Luther Vandross, alongside new exhibits from renowned rock photographer Jay Blakesberg.

Whether you’re drawn to rock, pop, or the timeless elegance of soul, Nov.’s events offer fans a window into the creative journeys of music’s celebrated voices. Join the GRAMMY Museum in Downtown L.A. to experience unforgettable moments that connect fans directly with the artistry that shapes today’s music scene.

On The Red Carpet

Ongoing from Nov. 4, 2024

L.A.

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"Who are you wearing tonight?" It's the question GRAMMY nominees can count on as they step onto Music’s Biggest Night — and On The Red Carpet delivers an exclusive look at those jaw-dropping fashion moments. 

This display showcases unforgettable ensembles worn by icons like Shania Twain and Lizzo at the GRAMMYs and Latin GRAMMYs, where the red carpet has become a high-stakes runway for bold, original style statements. Each outfit on display captures the essence of this electrifying event, where designers pull out all the stops to create head-turning looks as unforgettable as the night’s epic performances and awards.

Sensory Friendly Saturdays

Nov. 9, 2024 from 9 to 11 a.m.

L.A.

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Experience Sensory Friendly Saturday on the second Saturday of every month. Families can enjoy our space with less crowding, quieter sound levels and lower lighting on the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Guests can purchase tickets when they arrive at the Museum or they can purchase online for the applicable Saturday.

RetroBlakesberg: The Music Never Stopped

Nov. 8, 2024 until June 15, 2025

L.A.

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The GRAMMY Museum is proud to launch an exciting new exhibit, RetroBlakesberg: The Music Never Stopped, showcasing iconic rock photographer Jay Blakesberg’s captivating film work. The exhibit spans three decades of music history, featuring 150 vivid photographs, from rare portraits of artists like Björk and Snoop Dogg to immersive captures of the Grateful Dead’s psychedelic scene. 

Blakesberg’s "blue" portraits, an innovative collection of images using unconventional film techniques, spotlight musicians like Green Day and Joni Mitchell. Curated by Blakesberg and his daughter Ricki, this exhibit offers an unparalleled visual journey through the artists and movements that have defined music culture.

Family Free Day Celebrating Latin GRAMMYs’ 25th Sponsored by Intocable

Nov. 9, 2024 from 10a.m. to 6 p.m.

L.A.

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Admission to the GRAMMY Museum will be free thanks to the generous support of INTOCABLE, the Latin music pioneers and Latin GRAMMY and GRAMMY-winning band. 

The day will celebrate Latin music and culture through educational and community-based events. In addition to free admission to the museum all day, the first 300 attendees on-site will receive a free taco lunch on the Ray Charles Terrace and parking vouchers (for the L.A. Live East Garage only). The celebration will open with the Mariachi Tierra Mia band, followed by a panel on diversity in Latin music at the Clive Davis Theater. After lunch, Leslie Ferreira from 3rd Street Dance Studio will teach a salsa lesson on the Ray Charles Terrace, and the day will conclude with Lucky Diaz and the Family Jam Band.  

While visiting the museum, check out the Intocable artifacts on display for our current exhibit, LATIN GRAMMYs 25 – A Legacy Of Musical Excellence. This event will kick off the 2024 Latin GRAMMYs airing later that week on Thursday, Nov. 14. 

Read more: 2024 Latin GRAMMYs: See The Full Nominations List

The Drop: Soul Asylum

Nov. 12, 2024 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

L.A.

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The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to welcome Dave Pirner and Ryan Smith of Soul Asylum to the Museum’s intimate 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for an evening celebrating the release of their album, Slowly But Shirley. Matt Pinfield will moderate the discussion about their creative process, with a performance to follow.

Soul Asylum’s early indie success paved the way for their major-label debut in 1988 with Hang Time and its follow-up, And the Horse They Rode In On (1990). Their breakthrough came in 1992 via the triple-platinum Grave Dancers Union, featuring the GRAMMY-winning hit "Runaway Train" and "Black Gold." The group released Let Your Dim Light Shine in 1995, which included the hit "Misery." 

After 1998's Candy from a Stranger, the band returned with The Silver Lining (2006), Delayed Reaction (2012), and Change of Fortune (2016). Their 2020 album Hurry Up and Wait marked their highest Billboard Chart position since 1995, coinciding with Pirner’s release of Loud Fast Words, a book of his lyrics and reflections on Soul Asylum's journey.

Spotlight: Grace Bowers

Nov. 13, 2024 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

L.A.

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The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to welcome Grace Bowers to the Museum’s Clive Davis Theater for an evening celebrating her debut album, Wine on Venus. The event includes a discussion about her creative process and rising career, with a performance to follow.

Grace Bowers is an 18-year-old, award-winning guitarist and songwriter rapidly gaining fame with her debut album produced by John Osborne (Brothers Osborne). The album received praise from Forbes as "an infectious, joyous party," and Rolling Stone named Bowers "Nashville’s new guitar hero." 

Inspired by blues legends and soulful funk, Bowers began in dive bars and rose to viral fame during the pandemic. She has since debuted on "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" and toured with acts like Gary Clark Jr. and the Allman Betts Family Revival. This fall, she will perform with The Roots for Why Hunger and join Bob Weir in Mexico for Dead Ahead Fest, with additional festival appearances at Bourbon & Beyond and Bottlerock.

2024 Chart Toppers: Today’s Hitmaking Songwriters/Producers

Nov. 18, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

L.A.

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In association with the Songwriters Hall of Fame, the GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to present 2024 Chart Toppers: Today’s Hitmaking Songwriters/Producers, the latest in a continuing series of special Songwriters Hall of Fame events celebrating acclaimed hitmakers behind some of the most impacting songs on the charts. 

Held in the museum’s Clive Davis Theater, the program will feature an illustrious panel discussion with GRAMMY-nominated and award-winning songwriters, who will share insight into their craft and career, as well as behind-the-scenes stories. Among the panelists are Dan Nigro (Beyoncé, Miley Cyrus, Rihanna, Olivia Rodrigo, Sky Ferreira) and Theron Thomas (Beyonce, Miley Cyrus, Lil Durk feat. J. Cole, Lizzo, Nicki Minaj, Saweetie and Doja Cat). 

Proceeds from this event go to the educational initiatives of the Songwriters Hall of Fame and GRAMMY Museum.

Spotlight: Grace VanderWaal

Nov. 19, 2024 from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

L.A.

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The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to welcome Grace VanderWaal to the Museum’s Clive Davis Theater for an evening discussing her latest music, rising career, and more, with a performance to follow.

Grace VanderWaal entered a new era with a distinct voice in today’s pop landscape. Her first two song releases arrived just ahead of her role in Francis Ford Coppola’s star-studded film Megalopolis, which premiered on Sept. 27. In the months leading up to the premiere, she dedicated time to her upcoming album, influenced by indie favorites like Lorde’s Melodrama, Girl in Red, and Suki Waterhouse. Originally rising to fame at age 12 after winning "America’s Got Talent" as a quirky singer/songwriter, VanderWaal, now 20, has redefined her image, emerging as a mature artist with a unique perspective.

Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance

Nov. 20, 2024 until June 15, 2025

L.A.

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The GRAMMY Museum will celebrate the legendary career of Luther Vandross with a new exhibit, Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance, opening on Nov. 20, 2024, in partnership with Primary Wave Music and the Luther Vandross Estate. Vandross, an eight-time GRAMMY winner, captivated audiences as a revered songwriter, arranger, producer, performer, and one of the most gifted vocalists in music history.

Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance offers an intimate glimpse into Vandross' creative process, showcasing his ornate stage wardrobe, exclusive performance footage from his popular tours, and a never-before-heard recording of him in the studio. The exhibit opens with an exclusive screening of the feature documentary Luther: Never Too Much directed by award-winning director Dawn Porter. 

Read more: GRAMMY Museum To Celebrate Luther Vandross' Legacy With 'Artistry And Elegance' Exhibit

The GRAMMY Museum will celebrate the legendary career of Luther Vandross with a new exhibit, Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance, opening on Nov. 20, 2024, in partnership with Primary Wave Music and the Luther Vandross Estate. Vandross, an eight-time GRAMMY winner, captivated audiences as a revered songwriter, arranger, producer, performer, and one of the most gifted vocalists in music history.

Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance offers an intimate glimpse into Vandross' creative process, showcasing his ornate stage wardrobe, exclusive performance footage from his popular tours, and a never-before-heard recording of him in the studio. The exhibit opens with an exclusive screening of the feature documentary Luther: Never Too Much, directed by award-winning director Dawn Porter. 

Produced by Raindog Films and Foxxhole Productions for Sony Music Entertainment and Sony Music Publishing, in association with Trilogy Films, the documentary will later premiere on CNN, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network, and Max in 2025. Attendees of the opening night will also enjoy a panel discussion with the filmmakers and a sneak peek at the exhibit.

Tickets for the opening will be available starting Thursday, Oct. 31, and the exhibit will run until June 15, 2025.

In conjunction with the exhibit, Vandross' previously unreleased soulful rendition of the Beatles' "Michelle" is available now, and it will be featured on Never Too Much: Greatest Hits, a new compilation set to release on Dec. 13.

Luther Vandross first captured the spotlight in the 1970s as a sought-after backup singer, collaborating with luminaries such as David Bowie, Roberta Flack, Quincy Jones, Chaka Khan, Bette Midler, and Carly Simon. As a solo artist, he became renowned for his relatable lyrics about love and mesmerizing live performances, characterized by dynamic bands, elaborate stage designs, and striking custom costumes worn by his background singers. Vandross achieved remarkable success, charting a Top 10 R&B hit every year from 1981 to 1994 and releasing 11 consecutive platinum records, with over 40 million albums sold worldwide.

"The Luther Vandross Estate is excited to be sharing Luther's musical legacy with the GRAMMY Museum and its visitors through this upcoming exhibit. It is a special window into all of Luther Vandross' talents — singer, of course; but also music producer, live performer, stage craft master, wardrobe designer, and songwriter. Showcasing all of these amazing elements of Luther the artist via the long-cherished possessions of his personal archives is a treat for die-hard fans and new ones," the Luther Vandross Estate said in a statement.

Marcus Miller, a longtime collaborator, added that Vandross carved out "his own totally unique space" among other talented vocalists. "No one could replicate Luther's sound, his songwriting genius, or even his covers of other people's songs," Miller continued. "Luther was a complete and utter perfectionist with a very specific vision of how he wanted things to be. His shows were theatrical masterpieces, and Luther was involved in every detail of their production: his vocals, his background singers' harmonies, their choreography, and even his background singers' gowns. The gown beading had to be exquisite and authentic. The furs had to be real. I would say, 'Luther, no one's gonna know if the furs are real!!' To which he would reply: 'I will know!'

"That was part of the magic of Luther, his unyielding commitment to excellence. It was truly an honor to have worked with my friend and big brother, Luther Vandross," Miller said in a statement,

"Luther Vandross is a cherished icon who defined the smooth, jazz-inspired era of R&B and whose timeless love songs have graced countless weddings, graduations, and family reunions for the past several decades," added Kelsey Goelz, Curator at the GRAMMY Museum. "The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to provide fans a close look into his incredible achievements in the studio and onstage."

Exhibit highlights include:

• Hand-beaded suits and jumpsuits worn by Vandross and his background singers during the Power of Love Tour in 1991.

• An emerald green hand-beaded suit and two matching gowns worn by Vandross' background singers, alongside Vandross' black tuxedo from his 1993-94 performances.

• Original fashion sketches of Vandross' tour wardrobe.

• Handwritten lyrics and studio notes for "I Can Make It Better," featuring an exclusive recording of Vandross crafting the song.

• Handwritten lyrics and original sheet music for several of Vandross' hits, including "Think About You" and "Never Too Much."

• Six of Vandross' eight GRAMMY Awards.

For tickets and more information on Luther Vandross: Artistry and Elegance, visit grammymuseum.org.

Latin GRAMMY-winning artist Christian Nodal brought his unique blend of mariacheño music to an select audience at the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles on Oct. 16, as part of the 2024 Latin GRAMMY Acoustic Sessions. With just his guitar, a few accompanying musicians, and his powerful voice, Nodal delivered a deeply personal performance that celebrated the heart and soul of música Mexicana.

The evening featured a carefully curated setlist, including crowd favorites like "Bandolebrios," "La Intención," and "Quédate." Nodal's stripped-down versions highlighted his masterful storytelling and connection with his roots, making the night truly unforgettable.

"We are grateful to Christian Nodal for his support of our Academy and for sharing his artistry as part of our road to the 25th Annual Latin GRAMMYs," said Manuel Abud, CEO of The Latin Recording Academy. "Christian has played a pivotal role within our community and has contributed to the rise of the Regional Mexican genre."

The Latin GRAMMY Acoustic Sessions are a series of invitation-only events held throughout the U.S. and internationally, offering fans and Academy members an exclusive opportunity to witness performances by some of Latin music's most talented artists. Christian Nodal's performance at the GRAMMY Museum highlighted his dedication to the craft and his connection with his fans, creating an intimate atmosphere where his music could shine.

Nodal also took a moment to thank The Latin Recording Academy for their continuous support of music creators and their contributions to music education. "This acoustic was put together with a lot of love," Nodal shared. "Thank you for this opportunity to do what we love most: music. Long live music!"

A Rising Star Of Música Mexicana

Christian Nodal has emerged as a major force in música Mexicana, blending mariachi and norteño sounds to create his signature style, "mariacheño." At just 25 years old, Nodal has already won six Latin GRAMMY Awards and received three GRAMMY nominations. 

His recent collaborations, such as the urban-infused hit "Botella Tras Botella" with Gera MX, demonstrate his ability to both honor and redefine traditional Mexican music. Throughout his career, Nodal has worked with renowned artists like Ricky Martin, Christina Aguilera, Peso Pluma, and Andrea Bocelli. 

Read more: 6 Regional Mexican Music Acts Redefining The Genre: Christian Nodal, Grupo Firme, Ángela Aguilar & More

More Latin GRAMMY Acoustic Sessions

The Latin GRAMMY Acoustic Sessions have become a cornerstone of The Latin Recording Academy's efforts to elevate Latin music, offering an up-close experience with both established icons and emerging talent. Initially launched as in-person events for small audiences, the sessions have since expanded to include a global digital franchise, ensuring Latin musical excellence is accessible to all.

The Acoustic Sessions celebrate the diversity of Latin genres, and previous sessions have featured artists from a wide range of musical backgrounds. As Christian Nodal took his place among the iconic performers who have graced the stage, it was clear that his voice and vision continue to shape the future of Latin music.

Click here to see more photos or check out the Latin GRAMMYs on Instagram.

On New Music Fridays, we wear pink! Or black! That’s because, for the third week in a row, one of BLACKPINK’s members has launched a new solo era. This week, ROSÉ recruits Bruno Mars for "APT.," the infectious lead single to her forthcoming debut full-length, Rosie.

Elsewhere, Bishop Briggs unveils Tell My Therapist I’m Fine, American Authors deliver Call Your Mother and Dillon Francis marks the tenth anniversary of his debut album Money Sucks Friends Don’t with a star-studded remix album.

Plus, Tyler, The Creator heralded the arrival of his eighth album CHROMAKOPIA later this month, and hotly anticipated singles arriving this week include JADE’s "Fantasy," Bailey Zimmerman’s "Holding On," Tiwa Savage’s "Forgiveness," and Estelle’s "Fire."

Below, dive into nine new releases worth checking out from the worlds of K-pop, country, hip-hop, Latin and more.

"Game, start!" Taking its title from the popular Korean drinking game "Apartment," the giddy first taste of Rosie ingeniously meshes ROSÉ’s K-pop polish with everything from surf rock and bubblegum pop, to the kind of suave vintage soul favored by duet partner Mars. Together, the duo creates an earworm that feels both wholly original and instantly unforgettable. Try getting the peppy, chant-ready hook out of your head by the time Mars cheekily asks, "Geonbae, geonbae, girl, what’s up?"

Using an appropriately rosy backdrop, matching leather jackets and just a few instruments at their disposal, ROSÉ and Mars show off their new friendship — and electrifying musical chemistry —  on the track’s goofy music video, which racked up nearly seven million views within just a few hours of its release. While "APT." may be a left turn from what BLINKs and Number Ones expected, it’s clear ROSÉ is swinging for the fences and so far, everything’s coming up rosy.

Read more: Breaking Down Every Solo Act From BLACKPINK: From Jennie's "Solo" To Jisoo's 'Me'

Joy Oladokun flexes her talents for introspection and insight on her fifth album, OBSERVATIONS FROM A CROWDED ROOM. 

Songs like "AM I?," "NO COUNTRY" and "DUST/DIVINITY" are thoughtfully punctuated by a number of spoken word interludes. "Where is the safe space for me?" Oladokun muses before launching into apocalyptic daydreams on "STRONG ONES," while she questions the cost of near-constant vulnerability in service of the career of her dreams ahead of standout "I’D MISS THE BIRDS."

Read more: Joy Oladokun's 'Proof Of Life' Honors Her Own Experience — And Encourages Others To Do The Same

The title of SEVENTEEN’s 12th mini album comes with a hidden message. An anagram for "I FELT HELPLESS," the six-track project promises a new level of emotional vulnerability from the 13 idols and contains DJ Khaled-assisted single "LOVE, MONEY, FAME," plus highlights like "Eyes on you," "1 TO 13," and "Candy."

Released on Monday,Oct. 13, SPILL THE FEELS arrives just in time for the K-pop boy band’s latest world tour, which shows up stateside on Oct. 22 after opening earlier this week with back-to-back shows at South Korea’s Goyang Stadium. After kicking off the American leg in Rosemont, Illinois, the tour will make stops in Belmont Park, New York; San Antonio, Texas; Oakland, California and Los Angeles through Nov. 10.

Read more: 5 Songs To Get Into Seventeen

Project 2024 is more than just a new release for BRELAND, it’s an intensely personal musical examination of the singer’s roots. Following his 2022 debut album Cross Country, as well as his recent duet with Shania Twain on the Twisters soundtrack, the pioneering country artist decided to return to Selma, Alabama — home to generations of his family tree as well as defining moments that helped turn the tide of the Civil Rights movement. 

The result is a powerful and inherently political celebration of life told in BRELAND’s inimitable voice across six tracks — from the proud resilience of opener "Grandmaman’em" and flirty lead single "Icing" to the dancehall-tinged "Motion" and uplifting closer "Same Work" featuring The War & Treaty.

After rocketing to streaming numbers that shot past the billion mark with his 2019 hit "Be Alright," Dean Lewis is back with his third full-length album The Epilogue. As its title suggests, the new body of work purposely adds a postscript to the viral success the shaggy-haired Australian troubadour experienced in the late 2010s while also crafting a soundtrack to hint at his next move.

"An Epilogue typically sums up a book, answers any unanswered questions, and hints at what’s to come," Lewis said in a statement of the LP, which contains heart-wrenching fare like "Empire," "All I Ever Wanted," and "Trust Me Mate." "This is a new chapter. It feels like the ending of the last few years of my life and the beginning of the next. I really tried to define my own style. For me, the music wraps up the past and shines a light on what to expect going forward."

Jean Dawson continues to push the boundaries of experimental pop on Glimmer of God, his fourth full-length studio release. The follow-up to 2022’s Chaos Now (as well as EP Boohoo from earlier this year) takes sonic cues from influences like Prince, Stevie Wonder and Zapp & Roger — all artists he found himself inspired by while growing up between the U.S. and Mexico. 

Led by "Die For Me," a collab with tourmate Lil Yachty, and second single "Houston," Dawson’s album taps into his inner feminine on tracks like "Darlin’," "Black Sugar" and "Murciélago" and also features a guest turn from BONES on album cut "P4IN."

It’s sheer coincidence that Alana Springsteen shares a last name with a living musical legend (no, she’s not related to the Boss). But the rising country phenom has carved her own path through the music industry since she was a child, earning a publishing deal in the mid-2010s at just 14 years old.

The TWENTY SOMETHING singer’s latest singles come two-for-one after she decided on a whim to drop "cowboy" and "hold my beer" simultaneously at midnight on Friday. The former finds Springsteen looking back with regret after getting lassoed by a particularly disappointing cowboy ("He roped me in like no one could/ And in the end, he really broke me good"), while on the latter, the Virginia Beach, Virginia native dusts herself off, gets back on the proverbial horse, and commits to making some delightfully rowdy choices that would make her mama proud. 

Read more: Alana Springsteen Isn't Just Living Her Teenage Dream. She's Speaking To An Entire Generation.

Jordan Adetunji has "Options" on his new single with Lil Baby. Fresh off his viral hit "KEHLANI", the Belfast native remains unthreatened at the prospect that his lover would go off and choose another man, confidently declaring, "I got options/ Baby, you got options/ If you with me, not an option/ Baby, it’s the weekend/ Need it often/ Girl you know that I’m the one to solve your problems."

On the track’s accompanying music video, Adetunji boards a luxurious yacht teeming with bikini-clad video girls, only to later be joined by Lil Baby, who confesses, "Four, five times a day, I check your page/ I’m your lil stalker" at the top of his own, sexually charged verse.

Sevdaliza and Karol G join forces for their new collaboration "No Me Cansaré." The mid-tempo bilingual ballad opens with the Iranian Dutch singer intoning, "Don’t have fear, I won’t let go/ You protect my inner child" before sharing the spotlight with the Latin pop sensation on the breathy second verse. 

"No Me Cansaré" — which translates to "I Won’t Get Tired" in English — also comes with a sultry black-and-white music video depicting the two songstresses as winged angels watching placidly over younger versions of themselves.