During an appearance on Howard Stern’s radio show on Tuesday (December 2), Kenny Chesney reminisced about Jimmy Buffett’s posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024. Buffett was honored with a heartfelt tribute performance of his 1974 song, “Come Monday,” by his close friends Chesney, James Taylor, and Mac McAnally, with McAnally secretly carrying Buffett’s ashes – given to him by Buffett's daughter Savannah – in his coat pocket on stage. “We were backstage warming up, trying to figure out our parts and stuff, and Mac comes up to me and he goes, ‘Look at this.’ And it was a small urn,” Chesney recalled. “And he had Jimmy’s ashes in his coat pocket. So Jimmy’s ashes were in Mac McAnally’s coat pocket on stage with us as he was getting inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. So even after he passed, Jimmy found a way to join the party.” (People)

Six months after his death, Ozzy Osbourne was posthumously honored with Birmingham’s Lord Mayor’s Award on Wednesday (December 3), on what would have been the heavy metal legend’s 77th birthday. The accolade recognizes his outstanding contribution and deep connection to his hometown, with his daughter, Kelly Osbourne, expressing gratitude to Birmingham’s citizens for "showing up for my father in a way that made him the happiest man on the planet." Kelly and her mother, Sharon Osbourne, were on hand to receive the award and a book of condolences containing thousands of tributes from fans. The Lord Mayor called Ozzy, “An iconic and much missed son of Birmingham, the city he loved so much 🖤 Ozzy forever.” Osbourne passed away on July 22 at the age of 76, and Sharon commemorated her late husband with a heartfelt birthday tribute on social media, writing: “I celebrate the day you were born. I will never let go of your hand until I see you on the other side.” (Billboard)

HBO’s new documentary, Counting Crows: Have You Seen Me Lately?, is set to premiere on December 18 as part of their Music Box series, and an official trailer for the film was just released. The rock doc offers an intimate look at the band’s rise to fame in the early ‘90s following their breakout hit “Mr. Jones” and 7x-platinum debut album, August and Everything After, which earned Counting Crows a Best New Artist Grammy nomination in 1995. Centered on frontman Adam Duritz, the film explores the emotional challenges and creative pressures the group faced during the making of their 1996 follow-up album, Recovering the Satellites. The documentary features interviews with various band members, along with famous peers like Chris Martin and Cyndi Lauper, as well as rare archival footage. Directed by Amy Scott (Melissa Etheridge: I’m Not Broken), the documentary delves into the highs and lows of sudden stardom, and will also be available to stream on HBO Max. (Parade)

To celebrate the 50th anniversary of Wish You Were Here, Pink Floyd is launching pop-up stores in London, Barcelona, Los Angeles, and Paris in collaboration with Sony Music and News & Coffee. These kiosks will feature exclusive commemorative merchandise, a limited anniversary pressing of the album, and a special edition of the Brain Damage fanzine, marking a revival of the original editorial project that was founded and produced by renowned Floyd author and historian Glenn Povey. The announcement coincides with the upcoming deluxe box set release of Wish You Were Here 50 on December 12, which includes unheard versions of classic tracks available on digital platforms and various physical formats, including 3LP, 2CD, and Blu-ray sets. Additionally, comedian and artist Noel Fielding has created a series of Syd Barrett-inspired paintings honoring the reissue of "Shine On You Crazy Diamond.” “What’s amazing about Pink Floyd, especially with ‘Wish You Were Here,’ is that the artwork was as good as the music,” Fielding says. (NME)

Guns N’ Roses surprised fans with the release of two new singles on Thursday (December 4), with the origins of both tracks dating back to the Chinese Democracy sessions in 2008. The soaring ballad “Nothin’” is reminiscent of “November Rain,” with emotive piano, heartfelt vocals from Axl Rose, and soulful guitar work from Slash, while the hard-rocking “Atlas” features aggressive riffs and another signature Slash guitar solo. These new tracks are produced by Rose and Caram Costanzo, and credited to the full band. “Nothin’” and “Atlas” continue GNR’s recent pattern of releasing a series of standalone singles, joining 2023’s “The General” and “Perhaps,” along with 2021’s “Hard Skool” and “Absurd.” While no official new album has been announced, despite having “so much” new material according to Slash, the group is still preparing for a major 2026 world tour across North and South America and Europe, with these new songs and upcoming live shows reigniting excitement among longtime fans. (Billboard)

During an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Wednesday (December 3), Gwen Stefani shared her excitement about No Doubt’s upcoming reunion for a residency at the Sphere in Las Vegas in 2026. The initial 12 shows in May quickly sold-out, so they added six additional "final" dates in June. “We’re excited,” she told Fallon. “We did Coachella (in 2024) and it was so unbelievably amazing. And we were talking for a while, and trying to find that thing that would be as good. And I think the Sphere is, like, the future. It’s kind of a cross between a concert and a movie.” Stefani aims to create a “really nostalgic” experience for fans, blending concert and cinematic elements as they carefully plan the setlist. Meanwhile, Stefani has embraced the holiday season with a new Christmas song, “Shake the Snow Globe,” featured in the holiday film, Oh. What. Fun., and an updated deluxe version of her festive 2017 album, You Make It Feel Like Christmas. (Billboard)

Jillian Lauren-Shriner has filed for divorce from Weezer bassist Scott Shriner after 20 years of marriage, citing irreconcilable differences. The couple, married since 2005, share two teen sons – Jovanni Starshine, 13, and Tariku Moon, 17 – and she is seeking joint custody, spousal support, and to restore her maiden name. The filing follows a turbulent year for Lauren-Shriner, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in March and underwent multiple surgeries, including a full hysterectomy. She was also involved in a police shooting incident in April near their Los Angeles home where she fired at officers conducting a manhunt for three suspects involved in a hit-and-run, with Lauren-Shriner getting shot in the shoulder and arrested for attempted murder. She was later charged with assault and negligent discharge of a firearm, and was granted a diversion program instead of jail due to mental health issues. (People)

On the 10th anniversary of Scott Weiland’s death (December 3), a previously unreleased song from the late Stone Temple Pilots frontman, “If I Could Fly,” was made available to stream via Primary Wave/Virgin. Weiland wrote the tune in 2000 after the birth of his son Noah, with the emotional track officially unveiled on vinyl for Record Store Day Black Friday on November 28. “This is the first unheard song from Scott’s archive since he left us,” reads a post on the musician’s official Facebook page. “It is personal, raw and a reminder of the heart that ran through all his work.” To honor his father, Noah Weiland performed a tribute concert on Dec. 3 in Orange County, California, featuring a setlist of hits and deep cuts from throughout his dad’s career, alongside fellow musician Jakob Nowell, the son of late Sublime singer Bradley Nowell. (Consequence of Sound)

The BBC has acquired Hamburg Days, a six-part drama series depicting The Beatles’ formative years in Hamburg during the 1960s. The project is based on the autobiography of artist Klaus Voormann – who created the iconic cover art for the band's 1966 album, Revolver –  with the onetime Beatles session musician also consulted on the show. Developed by Benjamin Benedict and head-written by Succession’s Jamie Carragher, the series explores how the band’s time in Hamburg’s St. Pauli district, alongside artists Voormann and Astrid Kirchherr, transformed them into global icons. German director Christian Schwochow (The Crown) serves as showrunner, with Mat Whitecross (Coldplay: A Head Full of Dreams, Oasis: Supersonic) set to direct, and music curated by BAFTA-winning composer David Holmes. Casting of the Fab Four in Hamburg Days has not yet been revealed, with the series set to join other upcoming Beatles projects like Sony’s highly-anticipated four-film series by Sam Mendes that is set for release in 2028. (Variety)

After 26 years, Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando is retiring the Aerosmith-branded Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, which opened in 1999, to be reimagined with The Muppets’ Electric Mayhem as the new musical theme. The indoor roller coaster will close for an overhaul in spring 2026 and reopen next summer. The new ride will take fans on board “a very fast limousine” to “take a twisting, turning, and screamingly fun road trip across Hollywood to reach the concert in time,” Disney shared in a blog post. “Throughout the journey, you’ll hear the Electric Mayhem playing some of the most iconic, rockin’ hits in your ears to keep the music and adrenaline pumping.” This follows a similar rebranding at Disneyland Paris, where the ride was transformed into Avengers Assemble: Flight Force in 2022. The Aerosmith ride will remain open through the end of 2025 before the transition. (Rolling Stone)

Steve Cropper, the legendary guitarist and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer known for shaping the Memphis soul sound with Stax Records, died on Wednesday (December 3) at the age of 84. No cause of death has been shared as of yet. “While we mourn the loss of a husband, father, and friend, we find comfort knowing that Steve will live forever through his music,” his family said in a statement. “Every note he played, every song he wrote, and every artist he inspired ensures that his spirit and artistry will continue to move people for generations to come.” As a founding member of the Mar-Keys, who eventually became Booker T. & The MG’s (fronted by Mar-Keys keyboardist Booker T. Jones) and the Stax house band, Cropper played on and co-wrote iconic tracks such as "Green Onions," Wilson Pickett’s "In the Midnight Hour," and Otis Redding’s "(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay," helping define the contemporary sound of soul and R&B music.

Revered for his distinctive, soulful guitar style, he went on to collaborate with numerous artists including John Lennon, Ringo Starr, the Blues Brothers, and Neil Young, and produced albums for major acts like the Jeff Beck Group, John Prine, and John Mellencamp. Cropper’s indelible musical contributions earned him two Grammys as well as the Grammys’ lifetime achievement award in 2007, and he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 as a member of Booker T. & the MG’s, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of modern music’s most influential guitarists. (Rolling Stone)

Fender has launched a new collection of signature guitars and basses celebrating Iron Maiden's 50th anniversary, featuring models representing guitarists Dave Murray and Janick Gers, and bassist Steve Harris. Highlights include the $11,000 Limited Edition Masterbuilt Dave Murray Stratocaster, crafted with Murray and masterbuilder Andy Hicks for high performance on tour, and more affordable Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Stratocasters for both Murray ($1,799.99) and Gers ($1,699.99) with customized pickups and vintage-inspired features. “Dave Murray has always been my favorite guitar hero,” said Hicks in a press release. “It was an absolute honor to build this guitar for him and I will never get over the excitement of seeing my favorite player from my favorite band playing one of my guitars.” The collection also includes the $1,699.99 Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Steve Harris Precision Bass, designed with Harris’s signature specs. Iron Maiden will continue to commemorate their 50th anniversary milestone with a North American tour next summer alongside Megadeth and Anthrax. (Consequence of Sound)

All Time Low have earned their third No. 1 on Billboard’s Alternative Airplay chart with “The Weather,” marking the band’s first chart-topper since 2023’s “Sleepwalking.” The Maryland rock band’s other No. 1 hit, 2020’s “Monsters” featuring Blackbear, ruled the chart for 18 weeks, which remains the fourth-longest-leading hit in the survey’s 37-year history. Since first entering the Alternative Airplay chart in 2020, all five of All Time Low’s entries have reached the Top 10, including “Once in a Lifetime” (No. 5 in 2021) and “Calm Down” (No. 7 in 2023). Concurrently, “The Weather” climbed two places to reach a new peak of No. 10 on the Rock & Alternative Airplay chart, following a 9% increase of 3 million audience impressions. The track is the lead single from the band’s 10th studio album, Everyone’s Talking!, which debuted at No. 46 on the Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart, and has earned 23,000 equivalent album units to date. (Billboard)

Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea has announced his debut solo album, set for release next year on Nonesuch Records, and dropped its lead single, “A Plea,” a nearly eight-minute free jazz/spoken word track featuring his electric bass, trumpet, and socially reflective lyrics calling for peace and love amidst division. The music video was directed by his daughter Clara Balzary, and showcases Flea’s freestyle dance moves. “A Plea” features a stellar lineup of modern jazz collaborators including double bassist Anna Butterss (Boygenius), guitarist Jeff Parker (Tortoise), drummer Deantoni Parks, percussionist Mauro Refosco (David Byrne), alto flutist Rickey Washington, and trombonist Vikram Devasthali (Angel Olsen), with additional vocals provided by Chris Warren and the song’s producer, Josh Johnson (Leon Bridges), who is also featured on alto sax. The tracklist, guest appearances, and additional details for Flea’s as-yet-untitled solo project will be revealed early next year. (Billboard)

Foo Fighters have announced a benefit concert on January 14 at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles to support homeless nonprofits Hope the Mission and Los Angeles Mission, coinciding with frontman Dave Grohl’s 57th birthday. Fans can access a pre-sale ticket opportunity on December 7 through an in-person donation drive at the Forum, where attendees are encouraged to bring essential items like clothing and food to aid unhoused and food-insecure Angelenos. “What better way to spend my 57th birthday than making a bunch of noise with a bunch of people for a good cause,” Grohl said in a statement, while adding, “This ain’t just a big ass rock show, it’s a big ass party with a heart. The best gift is TO GIVE.” Dennis Oleesky, CEO of Los Angeles Mission, adds: “The impact of this event goes far beyond one night of incredible music. Every ticket purchased and every donation will directly help feed and house our unhoused neighbors.” (Billboard)

On Tuesday (December 2), Gorillaz announced on social media that they will bring their immersive ‘House of Kong’ exhibit and full-album performances of their upcoming LP, The Mountain, to Los Angeles this February. The exhibition – which previously ran in London this summer – will be on display at Rolling Greens from February 26 to March 19, with two special concerts planned at the Hollywood Palladium on February 22 and 23. Created by Blur/Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn, artist and illustrator Jamie Hewlett, and creative director Stephen Gallagher, the exhibit offers a multi-media journey through the band’s unique history and creative evolution. “House of Kong is not a retrospective, it’s an audio-visual artwork; an installation that takes a glance backwards in order to identify the path ahead,” Gallagher said in a statement. Presale ticket holders for the exhibit gain exclusive access to the Palladium shows, while The Mountain is set for release on March 20 via the band's own label, Kong, the day after the L.A. exhibit closes. (Rolling Stone)

The 2026 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, set for June 11-14 in Manchester, Tennessee, will be headlined by Skrillex, The Strokes, Turnstile, Rüfüs Du Sol, Teddy Swims, Noah Kahan, and Kesha, with additional performances by Yungblud, Mt. Joy, The Neighbourhood, Alabama Shakes, Geese, Lil Jon, Clipse, Wet Leg, and many more acts set to play across the ground's 10 stages. Skrillex will open the festival on Thursday night alongside Four Tet and Vince Staples, while Friday features The Strokes and Turnstile, Saturday showcases Rüfüs Du Sol and Teddy Swims, and Sunday highlights Noah Kahan, Kesha – who will also curate a special SuperJam event dubbed “Kesha Presents: Superjam Esoterica: The Alchemy of Pop” – and Role Model. The event promises numerous upgrades to the festival grounds, including improved drainage and 135 acres of newly installed turf following last year’s weather-related cancellation that flooded the campgrounds. Tickets go on sale on Friday (December 5) at 10 a.m. CT. (Billboard)

Foo Fighters scored their 15th No. 1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart with “Asking for a Friend,” breaking a tie with Metallica for the fourth-most chart-toppers in the tally’s 44-year history. The song reached No. 1 in only its fifth week, marking the the fastest rise to the top of the chart this year. It follows Foo Fighters' previous chart-topping hit, “The Glass,” from April 2024, and marks the band’s first release featuring their new drummer, Ilan Rubin. “Asking for a Friend” also remains at its No. 5 peak on Alternative Airplay while spending its second week at No. 1 on the Rock & Alternative Airplay chart following a 3% increase to 5.9 million audience impressions during the week ending Nov. 27. The track is currently a standalone single promoting Foo Fighters’ upcoming 2026 stadium tour, and positions them just behind Five Finger Death Punch (17), Three Days Grace (19), and Shinedown (21) on the all-time leaders list for most Mainstream Rock Airplay No. 1s. (Billboard)

Radiohead have postponed two shows in Copenhagen on their European comeback tour due to frontman Thom Yorke’s “extreme throat infection.” The Grammy-winning British band have rescheduled their December 1 and 2 performances to Dec. 15 and 16, while still aiming to proceed with their final Copenhagen shows on Dec. 4 and 5, as well as their upcoming four-night stand in Berlin starting on Dec. 8. “We are devastated to have to postpone these two shows at such short notice but Thom has been diagnosed with an extreme throat infection which has made it impossible for him to sing,” reads the band’s statement on Instagram shared Monday morning. The band revealed that “treatment is underway” and they remain “hopeful Thom will recover in time” for the remaining shows. “We have been so blown away by the audience reactions on these dates and are loving being back on stage again,” they concluded, while adding, “we feel terrible that we have been forced to postpone these shows.” (Billboard)

On Monday (December 1), Evanescence announced the dates and details of their first major headlining world tour in four years, which is set to kick off on June 11, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, and span 47 dates across North America, the U.K., and Europe. The tour will feature special guests Spiritbox and Nova Twins in North America, Poppy and Nova Twins in Europe, and Poppy and K.Flay – who appears on Evanescence’s latest single “Fight Like a Girl” – opening the U.K. dates, with K.Flay also supporting the tour’s final stop at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado, on October 26. Singer Amy Lee expressed excitement about sharing the stage with these inspiring artists and unveiling new music on the tour. “I can’t wait to share what we’ve been working on, and I can’t wait for this incredible tour,” she said in a statement. The band will donate $1 from every ticket to humanitarian aid through non-profit PLUS1, with pre-sales beginning Tuesday (December 2) followed by general on-sale on Friday (Dec. 5). (Billboard)