Back on tour(s)!

 

For those who didn’t follow the news recently, things are heating up between the US and China. But that’s not the point of this article, nor this blog. What is the point, however, is the recent record-breaking residency the Fab Seven, as they should be called, or BTS, as they are usually called, just ended in Los Angeles, showing if there ever was doubt that these guys are the new global pop juggernaut. Well, K-pop juggernaut. But that is merely one story related to performing, touring and otherwise enjoying live music; below are a few more lurking on the horizon:

• Olivia Rodrigo, this year’s break-out (pop) revelation, announced her first ever headliner tour for next year. That little shindig will take her all across the US and Canada next spring, before heading to the old continent with stops in Germany, France, Italy… ending with a bang in London, as one does. For her first major live effort, the young singer is doing it right and hitting all the hot spots — at least many of them…
• My Chemical Romance is announcing new tour dates. The now classic alternative band, which had once broken up, chose to reunite in 2019, a somewhat fateful decision. The global pandemic that ensued did not deter Gerard Way’s crew, though: they recently released new UK tour dates after pushing back an Australian leg for an extra year. But it will be coming down under… eventually.
• Talking about veteran acts, Hawaii’s own Jack Johnson also announced a 2022 summer tour across North America. The uplifting freshness of Johnson’s will definitely be welcome: you want to be thinking good thoughts when listening to music these days… Some of the dates will also feature Ziggy Marley: should be fresh!
• Meanwhile, Haim shared more information about their 2022 US tour. It will start in Las Vegas, will drop by LA as well as a large portion of the arguably even larger country. They will also feature interesting supporting artists including Princess Nokia and Faye Webster. We’re interested.
• Finally, LA’s new festival Primavera Sound is set to debut next week, and its first line-up looks gorgeous: Lorde, Arctic Monkeys, Mistki, Nine Inch Nails, Kim Gordon and King Krule are among the many names announced there. Beyond the sheer volume of quality music that this list promises to bring, what is interesting is the rather strong musical statement that is being made here, one of alternative, experimental and/or indie fare that is also in great need…

The one bad note comes from increasing bans, however. Germany and France are set to close their night clubs again, Australia and New Zealand are being cautious… Most of the plans announced above start next Spring. We very much hope that, by then, all we will be concerned about will be listening to the best music, as DJ Khaled would likely say…