Here’s which pop star embodies your zodiac sign


We hate to burst your bubble but Pop stars are here to stay.

Short for “popular,” these musicians representing genres that run the gamut from country and rap to R&B and of course Pop, have become some of the greatest icons of the modern day.

It’s no surprise that when it comes to some of the biggest celebrities on the globe, those who bring us our favorite tunes, pull on our heartstrings with powerful lyrics and speak the universal language of music, are indeed the ones that rule the world.

We become captivated by their albums, singles, stories and legacies, fascinated by who they are on—and off—stage. Buckle up as we dive into some of your favs!

To understand the world of pop music, the New York Post spoke exclusively with celebrity music producer Craig J Snider. As a team, we put our heads together to create the definitive list of pop stars astrology and the zodiac.

During our conversations, Craig discussed wanting to think outside of the box when it comes to his choices—so very few of the pop stars we’ve labeled actually are their particular zodiac sign. He wanted to spin it in a way that each of his choices mirrors the energy of each zodiac sign—and I totally applaud his creativity for that!

ARIES (MARCH 21 – APRIL 19): Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga embodies the archetype of Aries.
Getty Images for Live Nation

When it comes to a powerhouse who was “born this way,” there’s only one Lady Gaga. Her legacy exemplifies a “no holds” barred approach to life, music, songwriting, fashion, acting and more. This is why she’s the perfect embodiment of the fire within an Aries! This queen has not only pushed the cultural and musical needle forward, but reinvented herself as an artist and performer numerous times. She’s a straight up warrior, for love and pop poetry! Anyone that can dominate remaking “A Star is Born” is a true legend.

TAURUS (APRIL 20 – MAY 20): Nicki Minaj

Nicki Minaj is a pop star not to be messed with.
PA Images via Getty Images

When it comes to a pop star with a hard-hitting, stubborn edge, there’s none other than Nicki Minaj. As if she’s ruled by the planet Venus—just like Tauruses are—she brings a swag, confidence and feminine glamour to her work. Minaj is immensely strong and lives like a queen: just like the zodiac sign of the bull. However, the point that sealed the deal with this pop star pick is that she definitely has the temperament of the bull—peaceful and charming, and never someone to mess with. Beware her horns if you’ve pushed her too far!

GEMINI (MAY 21 – JUNE 20): Katy Perry

Katy Perry brings a mysterious, exciting edge to everything that she does.
ABC via Getty Images

Spontaneous, hilarious and unique, Katy Perry is tremendously multi-faceted. The thing about her is that you can’t keep her in a cage! She is also the queen of camp, showing that she isn’t afraid of keeping things fresh and entertaining while having fun—just like a Gemini. She’s very smart and witty, always ready for her next big adventure. Also, anyone that jumps off the Auckland Harbour Bridge mid-tour in New Zealand is about as badass as it gets!

CANCER (JUNE 21 – JULY 22): Post Malone

Post Malone sings from the heart.
Getty Images

Post Malone exemplifies the Cancer energy—and it also happens to be his actual zodiac sign! This is because on the outside, he can show he has a tough exterior, but underneath it all, he’s as sensitive, emotional and passionate as they come! This shows pure and potent Cancer vibes. He has the heart of a lover and even has found that becoming a parent is one of his greatest journeys: something that all Cancers thrive within.

LEO (JULY 23 – AUGUST 22): Beyoncé

Beyoncé is regal being that became a real life Queen.
Getty Images For Parkwood Entert

When we talk about “the Queen B,” there’s no other Beyoncé! She embodies the raw fire and energy of a leader and the regality of royalty more than any other pop star on this list—and because of that, she’s the Leo pick! Since her first days in Destiny’s Child, she’s shown that she’s the main event and can carry powerful, deep musical narratives throughout her body of work.

Not only this, though, she knows how to break musical boundaries, truly create along many different mediums and “break my soul.” Another trait that links her to the Leo archetype is that she’s as loyal as they come—always standing by her man—Jay-Z. Talk about a power couple!

VIRGO (AUGUST 23 – SEPTEMBER 22): Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez has unlimited tenacity.
Daniele Venturelli/Getty Images

When it comes to one of the hardest working pop stars on Earth, Jennifer Lopez embodies the unending tenacity, perseverance and desire for perfection that aligns with the archetype of Virgo. Her list of accomplishments—and skills—continues to go on and on as she pushes herself to be the best version of herself at all times. She’s a multi-talente dancer, singer, actress, fitness buff, business woman and mother. No one works harder with more esprit de corps than J Lo! What a force to be reckoned with!

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23 – OCTOBER 22): Jay-Z

Jay-Z has unlimited charm.
FilmMagic

When it comes to a pop star who can spit rhymes, keep people on their toes and build an empire, there’s the king of hip hop for all time: the great Jay-Z! He knows how to work people—and crowds and the media—with the perfect sense of grace. Just as Libra is ruled by the planet Libra, Jay-Z knows how to blend art, music, business and pleasure! He can spin all the plates strategically and with ease!

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23 – NOVEMBER 21): Madonna

Madonna slithers with sex.
Getty Images for dcp

When it comes to a pop star who embodies pure and total sexual desire and raw power, there’s the one-and-only Madonna. Her ability to push boundaries—as well dive into her “shadow self” and emerge like a phoenix through her art and life—aligns her with Scorpio.

Scorpio rules sex—as well as transformation—something we’ve seen her do in her art, performances, video and other masterpieces, as well. She’s also “all or nothing” about everything with endless passion, drive, business-saavy and sexual libido in spades!

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 21): Lizzo

Lizzo is unapologetic.
AFP via Getty Images

Sagittarius energy is all about being big, bold, beautiful and unapologetic! This is why Lizzo embodies the archetype of always feeling “good as hell!” Jupiter, the planet of miracles and expansion, rules Sagittarius and is an optimistic, “go big or go home” vibe—and also aligns with how Lizzo has absolutely taken the world by storm. Lizzo’s persona bucks the current trend of lithe waifs that sing breathlessly in your ear. She comes roaring like a cannonball and dominates the stage! She is eager—and confident—as she breaks the barriers of what female artists should look and sound like. And then coming in hot with the flute? Slay, queen, slay.

CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22 – JANUARY 19): DJ Khaled

DJ Khaled is a powerhouse.
Getty Images

Capricorn energy is ambitious, long-lasting and business-saavy—so our choice for this zodiac sign is DJ Khaled! Not only has he built an empire over the last decade, he’s shown that he was a mastermind all along. This “big boss” energy—by orchestrating masterful collaborations with A-list “who’s who” music celebrities—has shown that he likes his luxury and can manifest swag forever.

AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 18): Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is a revolutionary.
Getty Images for Amazon

Multi-faceted, ever fluid and groundbreaking: there’s only one Taylor Swift. Aquarius is ruled by the planet of freedom and the future, Uranus. Swift brings a genre-bending and ever evolving approach to her music: from country to pop to dance to indie singer-songwriter!

The other reason we placed her here is because she’s unafraid of change and growth, as the Aquarius archetype always seeks progressive transformation. Community is also a big part of Aquarian energy, and when it comes to an artist who has inspired a generation of women—as well as a devoted, large and fierce fan base—Swift has done it all.

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20): Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber possesses tremendous levels of creativity.
WireImage

Of all the icons that embody the multi-dimensional energy of Pisces, there’s only one Justin Bieber. Built from a passion to sing, express his creativity and lay his heart on his sleeve, Bieber has shown that he’s a feelings first kind of pop star! Not only this, but as Pisces is the zodiac sign most closely aligned with spirituality due to them being ruled by Neptune, he’s even found his divine connection to his “holy energy.”

Special thanks to celebrity music producer Craig J Snider for collaborating with me on this article!

Craig J Snider, Celebrity Music Producer. @CraigJSnider
INKEDKENNY

Craig J. Snider is a Composer, Producer, Remixer, Songwriter, and Multi-instrumentalist who works between Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago.  His work includes 35+ Billboard Dance Chart #1 hits by artists such as Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake and Madonna. Recently, he and his band “The Shamanic” scored top ten hits with their first singles’ “Fire” and “FK Always.”


Astrology 101: Your guide to the stars


Kyle Thomas is a globally recognized pop culture astrologer who has been featured in “Access Hollywood,” E! Entertainment, NBC & ABC television, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Hulu, Bustle, Elite Daily, Marie Claire and more. He is known for his cosmic guidance for celebrities, business executives and prominent influencers. His work harnesses the power of the stars in regards to entertainment lifestyle and trends affecting people worldwide. For more information, visit KyleThomasAstrology.com.



Heardle Today: Heardle, December 29: Clues and answer for today’s music puzzle


Every day at 12 a.m. The Heardle app refreshes and new music is released. One thing to bear in mind is that the length of the track grows with each incorrect guess. This implies that the music displays itself more fully, making it simpler to guess. As a result, the challenge must be solved in the fewest number of attempts possible.

While the songs included in the game span from Kiss and ABBA to The Weeknd and Taylor Swift, it’s crucial to remember that the songs shared by the game are among the most streamed of the last decade.

However, both classic rock and modern music enthusiasts have an equal chance of solving the riddles and continuing their winning streak on Heardle. Get someone to play with you if you can’t recall the name of the music performed in today’s ‘Heardle’ challenge. If it doesn’t help, look at some of the hints.

Hint 1: The song was released in 2019.

Hint 2: The song is of the pop genre.

Hint 3: Lewis Capaldi’s single.

Hint 4: The length is 3:35.

Hint 5: There are three words in the song title.

Hint 6: It starts with the letter “B.”

Hint 7: The song can be found on the album Divinely Uninspired to a Hellish Extent.

Answer for Heardle December 29

‘Before You Go’ by Lewis Capaldi is the music included in today’s Heardle challenge.

The game, like Wordle, gives players six opportunities to guess the name of a song and its artist by listening to the first few seconds of a popular song’s opening. Heardle’s tracks vary from 1970s classics to modern-day hip-hop staples.

FAQs:

  1. Where can I find old Heardle games to play?
    Go to the Heardle game page using the app heardle. You can play any older Heardle game in the same way. To play another old game, right-click the Date and Time shown on the taskbar in the bottom right corner of the screen.
  2. Is the app Heardle free?
    The agreement is part of Spotify’s strategy to make its app more interactive to diversify its income streams. The game’s appearance and feel will remain unchanged, and it will remain free for players.

Disclaimer Statement: This content is authored by an external agency. The views expressed here are that of the respective authors/ entities and do not represent the views of Economic Times (ET). ET does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of its contents nor is responsible for them in any manner whatsoever. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified. ET hereby disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the report and any content therein.

Culture reporter shares her best albums of 2022


In music, 2022 was a year full of stunning releases — in which a pop star showed growth, an icon displayed her roots, a British band felt like home, a folk band went for the dark and the light, and a Puerto Rican star reveled in his global appeal.

The albums to which I gravitated are, I expect, the last remnants of the musical and creative surge artists experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. As people started to come out of isolation, these musicians were ready to greet them.

Here are my seven favorite albums of 2022:

“Harry’s House,” Harry Styles

Following up the success of his sophomore album “Fine Line” could have proven an impossible task for Styles, but “Harry’s House” meets that challenge — and in many instances, the album outpaces the rest of his discography.

On “Harry’s House” we get a bit more lyrical exploration from Styles, backed with stellar production and thoughtful instrumental use. It’s also the best album to showcase his range as a vocalist, with high notes in “Daydreaming” and a lower, equally evocative register in “Love of My Life.” It’s one of those albums where there isn’t a single bad song.

Styles’ self-titled debut album was safe, while “Fine Line” was a step up, a sign of Styles coming into his own. “Harry’s House” launches what I anticipate to be the beginning of a more experimental, free era in his discography.

“Being Funny In A Foreign Language,” The 1975

The British pop band’s fifth album was somewhat of a relief for die-hard 1975 fans, after their last two albums didn’t hit the spot. “Being Funny in a Foreign Language” is a return to some of the crucial elements for which the band is known: Gut-wrenching, emotion-driven lyrics set to a background of catchy, experimental pop.

It’s like coming home, which might be what inspired their home-themed stage set-up on tour. But it also pays homage to the heavier, more melancholic melodies and ideas the band explored in their last two albums. Dolled up with saxophone and other jazz hints, “BFIAFL” is the perfect showcase of a band that exploded onto the scene and now has the freedom to experiment while staying true to its roots.

(Lola & Pani ! Island Records/Interscope) The cover of Dermot Kennedy’s album
“Sonder.”

“Sonder,” Dermot Kennedy

Dermot Kennedy’s second album, “Sonder,” in many ways, is the exact opposite of his debut “Without Fear.” The first album was chock-full of intensity, while “Sonder” feels like its bright, untainted younger sibling. Even the cover is lighter, a gentle, brighter picture compared to the dark, brooding image on “Without Fear.”

“Sonder” is delicate and thoughtful, with Kennedy being reflective and thankful. His knack for empathetic songwriting and killer production shine.

The singles from “Sonder” did well on their own, but the album’s true merit comes from the fact that you must listen top to bottom, just to get the full effect of the stunning closer, “Blossom.”

(Republic Records via AP) This image released by Republic Records shows “Midnights” by Taylor Swift.

“Midnights,” Taylor Swift

I admit to being a bit underwhelmed by Swift’s 10th studio album, but it still charts high on my 2022 list because of its best moments.

“Anti-Hero” is some of her finest lyrical work. The album has other gems, including “Lavender Haze,” “Snow On The Beach” (her duet with Lana Del Rey) and “You’re On Your Own, Kid.” “Midnights” is also a nod to Swift’s roots from all of her past albums. In each track and progression, true Swifties can pinpoint which previous album/era it can fit in with.

(The album also got a midnight listen from Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and his daughter.)

(Dualtone/Decca Records) The cover of The Lumineers’ album, “Brightside.”

“Brightside,” The Lumineers

You know a band is good when you have trouble picking just one of their albums as a favorite. That’s the case for me with The Lumineers, though “Brightside” might just be at the top.

The Americana folk band is known for its penchant of staying true to the genre and also having general popularity. “Ho Hey” from their 2012 self-titled album is what many think of, and for the deeper fans, anything from “Cleopatra.”

“Brightside” is a perfect combination of those two albums, a listen for the bright days and the dark. It’s melancholic and appreciative. It’s proof that the band just keeps getting better.

“Un Verano Sin Ti,” Bad Bunny

At this point in the year, it feels like a monumental task to try and describe why I loved “Un Verano Sin Ti,” what with all its success.

There’s something for everyone on this album, whether you are a native Spanish speaker or not. There are hints of reggae, dance, bomba and bachata. All 23 songs are perfectly crafted, but my favorites are “Moscow Mule,” “Tarot” (featuring Jhayco) and “Un Ratito.”

What’s most remarkable about the album is its ability to achieve mass audience appeal, a testament to the changing face of what’s deemed “world music” and its popularity in general music markets.

“Superache,” Conan Gray

There’s a subset of younger artists coming into the pop music scene that are brimming with talent. (Examples include Olivia Rodrigo, Joshua Bassett and Gracie Abrams.) Conan Gray isn’t necessarily new to the music industry, but “Superache” is the album that put him on the spot for me.

In all 12 tracks, Gray manages to capture a unique sense of isolation, loneliness and longing. Each song has a sense of rekindled and familiar pain to it. With Dan Nigro’s production, “Superache” is an anthem album that often can be devastating. It’s for those who have experienced heartbreak, unrequited love, or just feel like they’ve been processing certain things for far too long. It comfortably licks old wounds in a crafty way.

The singles

I’d be remiss in not mentioning singles from artists I discovered through the app TikTok that I spinned all year, many on constant repeat: “21″ from Gracie Abrams, “July” from Noah Cyrus & Leon Bridges, “Evergreen (You Didn’t Deserve Me At All)” from Omar Apollo, “Quarter Life Crisis” from Taylor Bickett and “Can I Be Him” from James Arthur.

Through TikTok, too, I discovered (and re-discovered) past releases that I fell in love with all over again, including “For Emma, Forever Ago” by Bon Iver, “Speak Now” by Taylor Swift (arguably one of her best albums) and “Strange Desire” from the Bleachers.

CMHOF to offer free admission Sunday


NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Those who happen to be visiting Nashville Sunday and want to check the Country Music Hall of Fame off their bucket list, or even locals who have not had a chance to go to the museum in a while, Sunday is your lucky day – CMHOF is offering free admission as part of its annual Ford Community Day, sponsored by the Ford Motor Company Fund.

It will also be a busy day of performances and programs for the whole family, such as a performance by Runaway June and a songwriter session with Parker Welling. Charlie McKoy will also be featured as a musician spotlight.

People can bring their kids to the Taylor Swift Education Center for cool activities like a ukulele workshop and a musical instrument petting zoo.

People can also get some special discounts on food and at the museum store if you are a Ford driver. All you have to do is show your keys and get 10% off your purchase.

Those who want a membership to the museum can get $5 off on individual passes, or $10 off for the family.

The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free tickets can be reserved on the Country Music Hall of Fame’s website. There will also be a limited number of tickets available at the door.


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AMAs 2022: Taylor Swift makes SURPRISE appearance to accept Favorite Pop Album award


Taylor Swift made a surprise appearance at the 2022 American Music Awards in LA on Sunday to accept a trio of awards – amid her tour ticket fiasco with Ticketmaster.

Accepting her first gong for Favorite Pop Album for  Red (Taylor’s Version), the star, 32, was visibly emotional as she reflected on the win for the 2021 release – which was one of six albums she re-recorded after Scooter Braun purchased her entire music catalog out from underneath her and then sold it without her knowledge for $300million to Shamrock Holdings. 

The Anti-Hero singer, who earlier skipped the red carpet, was delighted as she picked up the first of a trio of awards on the night, saying: ‘Wow. This album is a re-recorded album, and I cannot tell you how much my rerecorded albums mean to me, but I never expected or assumed that they would mean anything to you. 

‘So I can’t thank you enough for caring about this album that I’m so proud of. I have some people who made this happen who I really want to thank.    

She added: ‘Chris Row who co-produced this album with me, hours and hours and hours in the studio recreating Red, an album I love so much. I want to thank all the artists who featured on the vault tracks, 

Wow: Taylor Swift made a surprise appearance at the 2022 American Music Awards in LA on Sunday to accept a trio of awards – amid her tour ticket fiasco with Ticketmaster (pictured accepting the Favorite Pop Album for Red (Taylor’s Version)

‘Chris Stapleton, Phoebe Bridgers. I want to thank my live touring band who played on this album, and I want to take a moment — there was a music video that I did that I was very happy about, so I want to say thank you to Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien, and my brilliant director Blake Lively, and Mike Teller and Kelly Teller for being in the music video. 

‘I want to thank you guys for making this a possibility for To the fans, I cannot thank you enough. This is so special. Thank you.’

Taylor, who last week revealed she was ‘p****d off’ following Ticketmaster’s botched handling of sales for her The Eras Tour, looked radiant in a glittering gold backless jumpsuit.

The Bejeweled hitmaker showed of a hint of her cleavage in the Hollywood glamor number, with her tresses styled in soft waves.

What fiasco? Taylor, who last week revealed she was ‘p****d off’ following Ticketmaster’s botched handling of sales for her The Eras Tour, looked radiant in a glittering gold backless jumpsuit – she would win three awards on the night 

Feud: Red (Taylor’s Version) was one of six albums Taylor re-recorded after Scooter Braun purchased her entire music catalog out from underneath her and then sold it without her knowledge for $300million to Shamrock Holdings (Braun pictured 2019)

Release: The star released Red (Taylor’s version) in 2021 and the album achieved renewed success – the original album was released in 2012

Delight: Taylor looked emotional as she accepted the award for her re-recorded album

Back in 2019, Taylor called Scooter out over the sale in a social media post and claimed that he intentionally kept her in the dark while he turned a hefty profit on her hard work. 

Prior to that, in 2019 Braun had purchased Nashville-based independent record label Big Machine, first taking the rights to Taylor’s body of work and at the time, she voiced public outrage at being cut out of the deal.

Swift said the news made her ‘sad and grossed out’ because, in part, she claims Braun perpetuated ‘incessant, manipulative bullying’ against her for years.

She also released Fearless (Taylor’s Version in April 2021. Red was originally released in 2012 and Fearless in 2009.

In September 2022, entertainment executive Braun responded to the controversy, telling Wendy Williams, ‘I learned an important lesson’ from the purchase. 

Stunning: The Bejeweled hitmaker showed of a hint of her cleavage in the Hollywood glamor number, with her tresses styled in soft waves

Glitz: The star looked incredible in her gold bejewelled number as she accepted the award

Emotional: The star was emotional as she addressed the crowds at the Microsoft Theater

Hug: Taylor embraced Karrueche Tran as she accepted the award 

He appeared to be referring to Big Machine owner Scott Borchetta, 60, when he claimed, ‘When I did that deal, I was under a very strict NDA with the gentleman who owned it, and I couldn’t tell any artist.’ 

Braun also indicated in the interview he wasn’t as realistic as he should have been when signing on the dotted line.

‘I was excited to work with every artist on the label. So when we finalized the deal, I started making phone calls to say, hey, I’m a part of this. And before I could even do that – I made four phone calls; I started to do those phone calls – all hell broke loose.’

‘So the regret I have there,’ he continued, ‘is that I made the assumption that everyone, once the deal was done, was going to have a conversation with me, see my intent, see my character and say, great, let’s be in business together. And I made that assumption with people that I didn’t know.’ 

 The New York native claimed he learned an important lesson from the controversy. ‘I can never make that assumption again. I can’t put myself in a place of, you know, arrogance to think that someone would just be willing to have a conversation and be excited to work with me.’  

Taylor also won the awards for Favorite Music Video for All Too Well: The Short Film and  Artist of the Year. She released the track and its accompanying 10-minute short film towards the end of 2021 and sparked rumors that the ‘red scarf’ she sings about was still in the possession of ex-boyfriend Jake Gyllenhaal, 41.

However, she has now admitted that the garment was simply a storytelling device, with the color chosen after its parent album’s title. 

The ‘Shake It Off’ hitmaker alleges in the lyrics that she left a scarf at the house of a sister to a man she was dating and fans believe that she is alluding to the ‘Brokeback Mountain’ actor – whom she dated from October 2010 until January 2011 – and his sister Maggie.  

True to life? All Too Well is believed by fans to be inspired by her brief relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal whom she dated from October 2010 to January 2011; Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien in All Too Well

Doppelgängers: Taylor, who made her directorial debut with the short and also wrote and produced it, appeared in it as an older version of Sadie’s character

All Too Well originally debuted in a five-minute version on her hit 2012 album Red, but Taylor had originally written a 10-minute draft of the song with her cowriter Liz Rose, who helped her edit it down for the album.

After Taylor set about rerecording her catalogue, she finally recorded the original 10-minute version of All Too Well and included it as a bonus track on the album.

To accompany the new song, she created the nearly 15-minute short film to serve as its music video.

The film was deemed eligible for Oscar consideration in the best live action short film category, The Hollywood Reporter revealed last month.

The film appears to act out a version of Taylor’s relationship with Jake, with Sadie Sink, 20, playing the Taylor stand-in — referred to only as Her — while Dylan O’Brien plays a version of Jake, known as Him.

Taylor is also featured toward the end of the short as an older version of Sadie’s character, and she sports red hair to match.

In addition to making her directorial debut, Taylor also wrote and produced the short film.   

Win three: The star looked emotional as she collected the gong for Artist of the Year 

Two icons: Taylor posed up with Smokey Robinson at the event 

Accepting the award Taylor said: ‘Alright! This short film was ten years in the making, and the only reason I got to write and direct the film is because you the fans chose the song all too well. You chose it. No one at a record label chose it. You picked it. You said that is the song that matters to us, and it was just so happens that it was the song that matters the most to me. 

‘I’m very happy we all agreed on that. So the people who helped me make this, I really want to ssay this forever, Sadie Sink and Dylan O’Brien, thank you so much for trusting me as a director with your immense talent… I’m so proud of it. I’m so happy you like it too. This is so special and wonderful and — ahh, thank you. Thank you for this.’

And accepting her third award of the night, Taylor said: ‘You know, in the past few years, I have released more music than I did in the entire decade preceding that, and I really feel like that’s down to the fact that you, the fans, made it clear that you wanted to hear lots of music that I would make. 

‘You encouraged me. And so, I found that the more music I made and the more music I put out, the happier I was. The more I just kept that channel open and just kept creating, kept making things, and the more that happened, the more you guys were like, yeah, keep doing it. 

And the happier I was, so I have the fans to thank, essentially, for my happiness and — [ cheers and applause ] — And I love you more than I can say. I cannot express how unbelievable it is to me that I still get to do this and that you still care, so thank you underlined with 13 exclamation points. I don’t know what to say. I love you.’

This comes as Ticketmaster blamed a ‘staggering number of bot attacks’ for causing a tidal wave of problems for Taylor fans seeking to purchase tickets for her Eras Tour.

On November 1, Swift announced a 27-date tour across 20 U.S. cities, running from March to August next year – sparking fan chaos.

Tickets went on sale on Tuesday, but what Ticketmaster termed a ‘historically unprecedented demand’ from millions of fans saw the site crash repeatedly and the process descend into a fiasco, with her supporters furious at the soaring prices and spending hours waiting in line.

Last week Swift has blasted Ticketmaster for the mayhem surrounding her recent ticket sale, claiming that she was ‘assured’ the company could handle the high demand ‘multiple times’

Ticketmaster canceled her public sale due to ‘insufficient remaining tickets’

Taylor blasted Ticketmaster for the mayhem surrounding her recent ticket sale, claiming that she was ‘assured’ the company could handle the high demand ‘multiple times’ and calling it ‘excruciating’ to ‘watch mistakes happen with no recourse.’ 

Ticketmaster has cancelled the scheduled public sale of tickets for Taylor Swift’s Eras tour on Friday, citing ‘high demands on ticketing systems and insufficient remaining ticket inventory.’

In a tweet, Ticketmaster said ‘Due to extraordinarily high demands on ticketing systems and insufficient remaining ticket inventory to meet that demand, tomorrow’s public on-sale for Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour has been cancelled.’

Now, Taylor has spoken out about the situation in a statement posted to her Instagram Stories, and she said she is just as ‘pissed off’ as everyone else is.

‘It goes without saying that I’m extremely protective of my fans,’ she began in the lengthy post. 

‘We’ve been doing this for decades together and over the years, I’ve brought so many elements of my career in house.’

Taylor went on to explain – without mentioning the company by name – that she chose to use Ticketmaster’s Verified Fan system because she thought it would ‘improve the quality of her fans’ experience,’ despite it being ‘really difficult’ for her to ‘trust an outside entity.’

Swift accomplished the record-breaking feat of having all 10 of the Billboard Top 100 singles at once, with 10 songs from her new album Midnights

Response: The site has issued a lengthy response blaming bots and fans without invite codes for causing ‘unprecedented traffic’ of 3.5billion users – four times the normal amount.

‘I’ve done this SPECIFICALLY to improve the quality of my fans’ experience by doing it myself with my team, who care as much about my fans as I do,’ she continued. 

‘It’s really difficult for me to trust an outside entity with these relationships and loyalties, and excruciating for me to just watch mistakes happen with no recourse.’ 

The Cardigan songstress added that there were ‘multiple reasons why people had such a hard time trying to get tickets’ and that she’s currently ‘trying to figure out how the situation can be improved moving forward.’

‘I’m not going to make excuses for anyone because we asked them, multiple times, if they could handle this kind of demand and we were assured they could,’ she said. 

‘It’s truly amazing that 2.4 million people got tickets, but it really pisses me off that a lot of them feel like they went through several bear attacks to get them.’

She concluded her message with a note to those who weren’t able to get their hands on a ticket, writing, ‘All I can say is that my hope is to provide more opportunities for us all to get together and sing these songs.

‘Thank you for wanting to be there. You have no idea how much that means.’   

Now, after Tennessee’s attorney general Jonathan Skrmetti revealed he was launching an investigation into Ticketmaster, the site has issued a lengthy response blaming bots and fans without invite codes for causing ‘unprecedented traffic’ of 3.5billion users – four times the normal amount.

A statement read: ‘The Eras on sale made one thing clear: Taylor Swift is an unstoppable force and continues to set records. We strive to make ticket buying as easy as possible for fans, but that hasn’t been the case for many people trying to buy tickets for the Eras Tour. We want to share some information to help explain what happened.

Ticketmaster explained that fans needed to register with their system Verified Fan before the sale began, which is designed to ‘help manage high demand shows – identifying real humans and weeding out bots.’   

The statement continued: ‘Based on fan interest at registration we knew this would be big. Over 3.5 million people pre-registered for Taylor’s Verified Fan, which is the largest registration in history.  

‘The huge demand for Taylor’s tour informed the artist team’s decision to add additional dates – doubling the tour and number of tickets available so more fans could make it to shows.

‘Historically, around 40% of invited fans actually show up and buy tickets, and most purchase an average of 3 tickets. So working with the artist team, around 1.5 million people were invited to participate in the on sale for all 52 show dates, including the 47 sold by Ticketmaster.

‘The remaining 2 million Verified Fans were put on the waiting list.’

Adding the demand for Taylor ‘broke records and parts of our website’, the statement continued: ‘Historically, working with Verified Fan invite codes has worked as we’ve been able to manage the volume coming into the site to shop for tickets. 

‘However, this time the staggering number of bot attacks as well as fans who didn’t have invite codes drove unprecedented traffic on our site, resulting in 3.5 billion total system requests – 4x our previous peak.

‘Never before has a Verified Fan on sale sparked so much attention – or uninvited volume. This disrupted the predictability and reliability that is the hallmark of our Verified Fan platform.  

‘It usually takes us about an hour to sell through a stadium show, but we slowed down some sales and pushed back others to stabilize the systems. The trade off was longer wait times in queue for some fans.

‘Overall, we estimate about 15% of interactions across the site experienced issues, and that’s 15% too many, including passcode validation errors that caused fans to lose tickets they had carted.’

They added: ‘The biggest venues and artists turn to us because we have the leading ticketing technology in the world – that doesn’t mean it’s perfect, and clearly for Taylor’s on sale it wasn’t. But we’re always working to improve the ticket buying experience. Especially for high demand on sales, which continue to test new limits.

‘Even when a high demand on sale goes flawlessly from a tech perspective, many fans are left empty handed. For example: based on the volume of traffic to our site, Taylor would need to perform over 900 stadium shows (almost 20x the number of shows she is doing)…that’s a stadium show every single night for the next 2.5 years.

‘While it’s impossible for everyone to get tickets to these shows, we know we can do more to improve the experience and that’s what we’re focused on.’

The Eras Tour would sell a staggering and record-breaking 2 million tickets in just one day. 

The situation also launched an investigation into Ticketmaster from the the Justice Department, according to the New York Times.

‘The Justice Department has opened an antitrust investigation into the owner of Ticketmaster, whose sale of Taylor Swift concert tickets descended into chaos this week, said two people with knowledge of the matter,’ the outlet reported.

‘The investigation is focused on whether Live Nation Entertainment has abused its power over the multibillion-dollar live music industry.’                   

Fans of Swift had been vocal Tuesday about problems purchasing tickets for her The Eras Tour with a pre-sale code through Ticketmaster 

 Coming soon: Swift will kick off the American leg of her tour March 18 at Glendale, Arizona’s State Farm Stadium, and will continue through an August 5 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (pictured last week)

Puerto Rican rapper and singer Bad Bunny landed the most nominations at this year’s American Music Awards.

He leads fellow rapper Drake and pop superstars Beyonce and Taylor Swift on the list of contenders.

Bad Bunny received a total of eight AMA nominations and will compete for artist of the year against British singers Adele and Harry Styles and Canadian musician The Weeknd.

Drake, Beyonce and Swift also are in the running for artist of the year and received six nominations each.

The nominations are based on performances on the Billboard music charts, streaming and album sales, radio play and social media engagement. 

Winners will be determined by fan votes and announced at the ceremony at Microsoft Theater at L.A. LIVE in Los Angeles.

Bad Bunny’s other nods included favorite male pop artist, favorite music video and favorite touring artist.

The singer set a record this year for the highest-grossing tour by a Latin artist in history. His album ‘Un Verano Sin Ti’ just topped the Billboard charts for a 13th week.

The latest: Dove Cameron won the honors for best new artist of the year at the 2022 American Music Awards

Cameron defeated fellow nominees GAYLE, Latto, Måneskin and Steve Lacy for the honor 

If Bad Bunny wins all eight awards he is eligible for, he would tie 1980s superstars Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston for the most AMA wins in a single year.

Organizers added a category this year for favorite K-pop artist. Contenders are BTS, BLACKPINK, SEVENTEEN, Tomorrow X Together and Twice.  

First-time AMA nominees included rapper Jack Harlow, K-pop band BLACKPINK and Scandinavian DJ group Swedish House Mafia.

In country music categories, Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen are among the nominees for favorite male country artist.

Carrie Underwood, Maren Morris and Miranda Lambert will compete for favorite female country artist. 

Pink is set to honor the late Olivia Newton–John with a musical performance at the show.

The performance in Newton–John’s memory follows her death at age 73 in August from a years-long battle with breast cancer.   

The beloved British–Australian singer and actress had a lengthy association with the award show.

She co-hosted the ceremony with Aretha Franklin and Glen Campbell in 1976, two years before her success in films spread to the US with her role in 1978’s Grease.   

Newton–John was also presented with 10 AMAs during her lengthy career.

Machine Gun Kelly took home the honors for favorite rock artist 

He bested a field including Imagine Dragons, Måneskin, Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Lumineers 

Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney of Dan + Shay were seen accepting the honors for favorite country duo or group

Pink (real name: Alecia Moore) was previously announced as a performer at the AMAs, and her tribute number will be her second performance of the evening.

The hitmaker is also scheduled to give her new single Never Gonna Not Dance Again its live performance debut. 

Lionel Richie will also be honored at the ceremony, where he is set to receive the Icon Award.

Stevie Wonder will be leading the performance for his contemporary, while Charlie Puth and Ari Lennox will be joining the keyboard virtuoso for a medley of Richie’s most popular material.

The ceremony, which is being hosted by Wayne Brady, was previously announced to have performances from Carrie Underwood, Imagine Dragons, JID, and Yola, among others. 

Presenter Kelly Rowland accepted an award on behalf of Chris Brown, who was not present to accept the honor for favorite male R&B artist

Anitta, 29, won favorite female Latin artist, prevailing in a category including Becky G, Kali Uchis, Karol G and Rosalía 

Presenter Latto accepted the honors on Wizkid’s behalf after his win in the category of favorite Afrobeats artist

Måneskin members (L-R) Victoria De Angelis, Damiano David, Ethan Torchio and Thomas Raggi accepted the honors for the favorite rock song award for their song Beggin’

Wayne Brady was the host for Sunday’s proceedings stemming from Southern California 

Presenter Kim Petras accepted the honors on behalf of Harry Styles, who was not at the show on Sunday.

Bebe Rexha and David Guetta will be performing their hit I’m Good (Blue), while Dove Cameron will make her debut at the show with a performance of her song Boyfriend.

The rapper GloRilla and Anitta will also be making their performance debuts at the show. 

The 2021 ceremony saw K-Pop icons BTS earn the most wins with three including top honor artist of the year as the most nominated singer Olivia Rodrigo earned new artist of the year.

The seven member South Korean pop boyband – who also earned favorite pop group or duo and favorite pop song  – was given the most coveted crystal pyramid trophy of the night as they beat out heavy hitters including Ariana Grande, Drake, Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, and The Weeknd.

American Music Awards 2022: NOMINATIONS

ARTIST OF THE YEAR 

Adele 

Bad Bunny 

Beyoncé 

Drake 

Harry Styles 

Taylor Swift (Winner)

The Weeknd

NEW ARTIST OF THE YEAR

Dove Cameron (Winner)

GAYLE

Latto

Måneskin

Steve Lacy

COLLABORATION OF THE YEAR

Carolina Gaitán, Mauro Castillo, Adassa, Rhenzy Feliz, Diane Guerrero, Stephanie Beatriz & Encanto Cast – We Don’t Talk About Bruno

Elton John & Dua Lipa – Cold Heart – PNAU Remix (Winner)

Future ft. Drake & Tems – WAIT FOR U

Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow – INDUSTRY BABY

The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber – STAY

FAVORITE TOURING ARTIST

Bad Bunny

Coldplay

Ed Sheeran

Elton John

The Rolling Stones  

FAVORITE POP SONG 

Adele – Easy on Me

Carolina Gaitán, Mauro Castillo, Adassa, Rhenzy Feliz, Diane Guerrero, Stephanie Beatriz & Encanto Cast –  We Don’t Talk About Bruno

Harry Styles – As It Was (Winner)

Lizzo – About Damn Time

The Kid LAROI & Justin Bieber – Stay

FAVORITE COUNTRY ALBUM  

Carrie Underwood – Denim & Rhinestones

Luke Combs – Growin’ Up

Cody Johnson – Human: The Double Album

Taylor Swift – Red (Taylor’s Version)

Walker Hayes – Country Stuff: The Album

FAVORITE COUNTRY SONG  

Chris Stapleton – You Should Probably Leave

Cody Johnson – Til You Can’t

Dustin Lynch ft. MacKenzie Porter –  Thinking ‘Bout You

Jordan Davis ft. Luke Bryan – Buy Dirt

Morgan Wallen – Wasted on You

FAVORITE MALE HIP-HOP ARTIST  

Drake

Future

Kendrick Lamar

Lil Baby

Lil Durk

FAVORITE FEMALE HIP-HOP ARTIST  

Cardi B

GloRilla

Latto

Megan Thee Stallion

Nicki Minaj

FAVORITE MALE R&B ARTIST  

Brent Faiyaz

Chris Brown (Winner)

Givēon

Lucky Daye

The Weeknd

FAVORITE FEMALE R&B ARTIST

Beyoncé

Doja Cat

Muni Long

Summer Walker

SZA

FAVORITE MALE LATIN ARTIST  

Bad Bunny

Farruko

J Balvin

Jhayco

Rauw Alejandro

FAVORITE FEMALE LATIN ARTIST  

Anitta (Winner)

Becky G

Kali Uchis

Karol G

Rosalía

FAVORITE ROCK ARTIST  

Imagine Dragons

Machine Gun Kelly (Winner)

Måneskin

Red Hot Chili Peppers

The Lumineers

FAVORITE ROCK SONG  

Foo Fighters – Love Dies Young

Imagine Dragons x JID – Enemy

Kate Bush – Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God)

Måneskin – Beggin’ (Winner)

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Black Summer

FAVORITE ROCK ALBUM

Coldplay – Music of the Spheres

Ghost – Impera

Imagine Dragons – Mercury – Act 1

Machine Gun Kelly – mainstream sellout

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Unlimited Love

FAVORITE DANCE/ELECTRONIC ARTIST  

Diplo

Marshmello

Swedish House Mafia

The Chainsmokers

Tiësto

FAVORITE AFROBEATS ARTIST  

Burna Boy

CKay

Fireboy DML

Tems

Wizkid (Winner)

 

FAVORITE MUSIC VIDEO

Adele – Easy On Me

Bad Bunny ft. Chencho Corleone – Me Porto Bonito

Harry Styles – As It Was

Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow – INDUSTRY BABY

Taylor Swift – All Too Well (Taylor’s Version) (Winner)

FAVORITE MALE POP ARTIST

Bad Bunny

Drake

Ed Sheeran

Harry Styles

The Weeknd

FAVORITE FEMALE POP ARTIST

Adele

Beyoncé

Doja Cat

Lizzo

Taylor Swift

FAVORITE POP GROUP OR DUO

BTS

Coldplay

Imagine Dragons

Måneskin

OneRepublic

FAVORITE POP ALBUM

Adele – 30 

Bad Bunny – Un Verano Sin Ti

Beyoncé – Renaissance

Harry Styles – Harry’s House

Taylor Swift – Red (Taylor’s Version) (Winner)

The Weeknd – Dawn FM

FAVORITE MALE COUNTRY ARTIST

Chris Stapleton

Cody Johnson

Luke Combs

Morgan Wallen

Walker Hayes

FAVORITE FEMALE  COUNTRY ARTIST

 Carrie Underwood

Lainey Wilson

Maren Morris

Miranda Lambert

Taylor Swift

FAVORITE COUNTRY DUO OR GROUP

Dan + Shay (Winner)

Lady A

Old Dominion

Parmalee

Zac Brown Band

FAVORITE HIP-HOP ALBUM  

Future –  I Never Liked You

Gunna – DS4EVER

Kendrick Lamar – Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

Lil Durk – 7220

Polo G – Hall of Fame 2.0

FAVORITE HIP-HOP SONG  

Future ft. Drake & Tems – Wait For U (Winner)

Jack Harlow – First Class

Kodak Black – Super Gremlin

Latto – Big Energy

Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow – Industry Baby

FAVORITE R&B ALBUM  

Beyoncé – Renaissance

Drake – Honestly, Nevermind

Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak) – An Evening with Silk Sonic

Summer Walker – Still Over It

The Weeknd – Dawn FM

FAVORITE R&B SONG

Beyoncé – Break My Soul

Muni Long – Hrs And Hrs

Silk Sonic (Bruno Mars & Anderson .Paak) – Smokin Out The Window”

SZA – I Hate U

Wizkid ft. Tems – Essence

FAVORITE LATIN DUO OR GROUP  

Banda MS de Sergio Lizárraga

Calibre 50

Eslabon Armado

Grupo Firme

Yahritza Y Su Esencia

FAVORITE LATIN ALBUM  

Bad Bunny – Un Verano Sin Ti

Farruko – La 167

J Balvin – Jose

Rauw Alejandro -Vice Versa

Rosalía – Motomami

FAVORITE LATIN SONG  

Bad Bunny ft. Chencho Corleone – Me Porto Bonito

Becky G x Karol G – MAMIII

Karol G – Provenza

Rauw Alejandro – Todo de Ti

Sebastián Yatra – Dos Oruguitas

FAVORITE INSPIRATIONAL ARTIST  

Anne Wilson

for King & Country

Katy Nichole

Matthew West

Phil Wickham

FAVORITE GOSPEL ARTIST  

CeCe Winans

DOE

E. Dewey Smith

Maverick City Music

Tamela Mann

FAVORITE SOUNDTRACK  

ELVIS

Encanto

Sing 2

Stranger Things: Soundtrack from the Netflix Series, Season 4

Top Gun: Maverick

FAVORITE K-POP ARTIST  

Blackpink

BTS

Seventeen

Tomorrow X Together

Twice

 



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12 of the Best Podcasts About Pop Music for SEO


Image: Podcast logo

There’s this sexist notion that women are incapable of being true music fans, when in reality, it is often the fangirls who are powering the music industry and forecasting the future of sound. Name 3 Songs sprang from the idea that a woman might be asked the insulting question, “you like music? Name three songs.” On their show, co-hosts Sara Feigin and Jenna Million discuss feminist issues in music and pop culture, taking a critical lens to the music industry, artists’ careers, the media’s contribution to controversy and sexism, and industry’s role in creating and upholding sexist archetypes. It’s a celebration of pop and the women who love it. Filled with interviews and smart commentary about why gay men stan divas to reject the patriarchy, why we love to hate on girl groups, the cultural impact of celebrity abuse cases, and so much more, Sara and Jenna will give you a greater appreciation for the cultural value of pop.



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Pat McGrath talks Taylor Swift’s ‘Bejeweled’ music video makeup looks


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Taylor Swift can still make the whole place shimmer.

On Tuesday, the superstar dropped her second “Midnights” music video, for synth-pop bop “Bejeweled” — and the Cinderella-inspired clip is chock-full of Easter eggs, celebrity cameos and dazzling makeup moments.

Swifties can thank legendary artist Pat McGrath for the latter; the beauty pro not only masterminded the shoot’s many makeup looks, but also made a cameo in the video herself.

“Taylor called me with two questions. The first was to ask me if I would do all her beautiful looks; the second request was to be her queen in the video. It was such an honor,” McGrath tells Page Six Style exclusively.

The makeup maestro joined a cast that also included Laura Dern (as the evil stepmother), the Haim sisters (as the stepsisters), Dita Von Teese (as the fairy godmother — or “fairy goddess,” per Swift) and “Midnights” producer Jack Antonoff (as the prince), with the singer directing the video in addition to starring as Swifterella.

“When Taylor told me that she wanted me to play the role of the queen in her ‘fairytale with a twist,’ I was so flattered,” McGrath says.

“I’m usually a behind-the-scenes person, but Taylor was the most extraordinary director. With her guidance, she made me feel confident, secure and empowered to become Queen Pat. It was a day I will never forget.”

McGrath made a regal cameo in the clip.
Taylor Swift/VEVO

As for that glittering glam, McGrath and Swift worked together to dream up a trio of looks fit for a storybook princess, including a bedazzled cat eye the pair teased on the VMAs 2022 red carpet back in August.

“We had such a fabulous time creating the looks for ‘Bejeweled’ — Taylor is such a visionary and thinks about all the details,” McGrath says. “When she mentioned that she wanted to make a video just for the fans who like shimmer, I knew this was going to be magical.”

“Shimmer” might be an understatement; between Swift, Von Teese and the video’s dancers, McGrath says she wound up using over 1,000 crystals for the shoot.

And while the beauty pioneer plays coy when asked whether she and Swift have more projects in the pipeline — “Mother never tells,” she quips — she was happy to break down the three magical makeup moments in “Bejeweled,” so fans can “polish up real nice” at home.

Look 1: Midnight Muse

To achieve this “powerful jeweled wing,” McGrath began by defining Swift’s eyes with PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencils ($29) in Blitz Blue and Xtreme Black. Next, she created a cat eye by blending the Nocturnal Navy shadow from her Mthrshp Mega: Celestial Nirvana palette ($82) at the outer corner, followed by the Aquarian Dream and Bronze Infatuation shades on the lid “for added metallic shimmer.” Finally, McGrath reached for her Mothership II: Sublime Palette ($128), applying Blitz Emerald from the inner corner of the eye to the center of the lid.

For the look’s glossy nude lip, McGrath used PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil ($29) in Structure to define Swift’s mouth, followed by a slick of MatteTrance Lipstick ($39) in Femme Bot and Lust Lip Gloss ($29) in Bella.

Sephora

Mthrshp Mega Eyeshadow Palette: Celestial Nirvana ($82)


Look 2: Bejeweled Beauty

This look “embodies elegance and empowerment,” McGrath says. For the “champagne crystalized eye,” she started with the shade Desert Divinity from the Mthrshp Mega: Celestial Nirvana palette ($82) both in the crease and beneath the eye, followed by Sterling from the Mothership IV: Decadence palette ($128) to add a metallic sheen. McGrath then created a classic wing using PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil ($29) layered beneath Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner ($34), which she embellished with “sapphire tears” (blue crystals) in the inner corner and under the eye to complete the effect.

It wouldn’t be a Taylor Swift production without a red lip somewhere — and for this “bold, opulent ombré” look, McGrath applied LiquiLust Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick ($32) in Elson 4 after defining the lips using PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil ($29) in Blood Lust — and then blending the same product in a darker shade, Deep Dive, around the outer corner of the mouth.

Sephora

Pat McGrath Labs LiquiLust Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick ($32)


Look 3: Dreamy Decadence

To create Swift’s “futuristic jeweled wing,” McGrath drew a cat eye (sharp enough to kill a man) using PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil ($29) topped with Perma Precision Liquid Eyeliner ($34). Next, she applied Astral Lilac Aura from the Mothership X: Moonlit Seduction palette ($128) for a “mesmerizing sparkle.” And while Swift didn’t exactly have diamonds in her eyes, she did have plenty of crystals — 70, to be precise, which McGrath placed on the lid and inner and outer corner using eyelash adhesive.

Building off the red ombré lip seen earlier in the video, McGrath deepened the look by using the same PermaGel Ultra Lip Pencil ($29) in Deep Dive to fully shade Swift’s mouth before blending LiquiLust Legendary Wear Matte Lipstick ($32) in Elson 4 on top.

Sephora

Pat McGrath Labs Mothership X Eyeshadow Palette: Moonlit Seduction ($128)



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All The Best New Pop Music This Week


October is ending with arguably the wildest week for the best of new pop music. Two of the biggest pop stars released brand new albums on the same day. One of the previously-mentioned powerhouse performers broke a ton of records with said album, and even released a special 3am Edition with seven new songs as a surprise. In addition, a certain Disney actor returned with another single this week. (It rules.)

Continue scrolling to see everything pop-focused that Uproxx loved this week. Here’s the best new pop music this week.

Taylor Swift — “Sweet Nothing”

On Taylor Swift’s Midnights album, “Sweet Nothing” serves as the soft side to all the hints of Reputation-era energy early on in the tracklist (“Karma” and “Vigilante Sh*t”). Co-written with her longtime partner, the two find comfort in one another and the little moments as they manage to ignore all the external drama surrounding them. However, as most Swift songs go, the bridge stands out as the most heartbreaking part. “And the voices that implore, you should be doing more / To you, I can admit, that I’m just too soft for all of it,” she notes, tying it with “You’re On Your Own, Kid” and “Would’ve, Could’ve Should’ve” as the album’s saddest.

Carly Rae Jepsen – “Surrender My Heart”

Carly Rae Jepsen opens her new album with “Surrender My Heart,” a song that sparkles as the arpeggiating synths propel it forward. Despite being one of the shortest run times on the record, it sets the tone for the themes to come. “I’m trying not to f*ck this up,” Jepsen declares just before the pre-chorus kicks in. There’s tinges of sadness, but at its core, it is a carefree dance anthem about craving openness in a relationship.

Ellie Goulding — “Let It Die”

“Let It Die” carries a similar dance floor energy, just with the production over Ellie Goulding’s vocals giving the song more of an EDM feel rather than pure pop. As a single, it’s not quite Goulding’s strongest — compared to her past hits of “Love Me Like You Do” and “Lights” — as the electronic style seems to take over the track. She has a powerful and recognizably unique voice, which deserves the chance to shine. It is, however, perfect if you take it as a quick-paced party play, earning it a spot on this list.

Blu DeTiger — “Elevator”

Bass queen Blu DeTiger is back with a new single, “Elevator.” Gritty and incredibly catchy, she brings a blend of retro indie rock vibes with a story about a nighttime party scene. “Call your mama, call your karma, I don’t wanna dance with you,” DeTiger detests before recognizing, “I can be a big shot too.” It’s one of those nights where you just want to do your own thing, and won’t let anybody stop you.

Joshua Bassett — “I’m Sorry”

Opening with a somber acoustic guitar line, Joshua Bassett’s latest weekly single, “I’m Sorry,” is a sympathetic message to someone he used to love. He paints pictures, from writing songs after a few drinks late at night to wondering whether someone’s mother hates him. At the end of all of it, he takes the blame and is incredibly apologetic to the unnamed person.

Caroline Polachek — “Sunset”

“Sunset” is a fast-paced, flamenco-inspired single from Caroline Polachek that shines on the instrumental and production style. The music video finds Polachek at a party, driving through the streets of Barcelona, and wandering the beach… just as the sunset comes. Through it all, she encapsulates wanting to run away with a relationship — all while providing some fun claps in the background.

Katherine Li — “Miss Me Too”

Katherine Li opens “Miss Me Too” with a sample of a voice recording, where she warns listeners that she “just woke up” and “it might be a little rough.” The exact opposite proves true, as Li glides through the song, despite the emotional detailing about her feelings of reminiscing on a relationship. Her message boils down to one line in the chorus: “I hope that you still miss me too.”

Emlyn — “Girl’s Girl”

Bringing the pop-rock fire, “Girl’s Girl” is Emlyn’s take on supporting fellow women when it comes to handling toxicity. Each line is biting, bringing a unique rhyme as it digs at a certain type of man. “So, she broke your PS4 / But didn’t you go and break her to her core?” Yeah.

Bishop Briggs — “Superhuman”

Bishop Briggs’ “Superhuman” places her powerful vocals at the forefront, with a soft piano ballad about making it through tough times. By the chorus and second verse, Briggs transforms the song by introducing layered harmonies and percussion. The enthusiasm she has for someone surviving “the eye of the storm” explodes by the end, truly carrying home the message.

Kenzie — “100 Degrees”

Kenzie might be most recognizable for her past appearances on Dance Moms. However, her new single “100 Degrees” proves she has the power to propel her career in music forward. A synth-heavy pop hit-in-the-making, Kenzie weaves in autobiographical lyricism to piece together the picture about missing someone. “Tell me, is your halo heavy?” she poses on the second verse. Sleek and seamless, there is serious potential for this one to go far, especially with TikTok’s popularity.

Some artists covered here are Warner Music artists. Uproxx is an independent subsidiary of Warner Music Group.



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