Billboard News
Billboard is the world’s most influential music media brand, with an unmatched authority among artists, fans and the industry.
Billboard powers the ultimate global music destination and magazine, featuring unrivaled reporting on music news, issues and trends,
Ed Sheeran Shows Off His Batting Skills During Practice With Seattle Mariners’ Julio Rodriguez
Cata Balzano (05/08/2026)
The British singer hung out with the MLB star, who complemented his technique.
Ed Sheeran can sing and play ball.
The singer took a break before his Loop Tour performance in Seattle to take batting practice with Seattle Mariners center fielder Julio Rodríguez, also known as J-Rod. In a video posted by the Mariners and Major League Baseball on their social media accounts, Sheeran appears inside the batting cages taking swings at pitches from a simulated pitching machine, as well as soft tosses from Rodríguez.
Related
Rodríguez appears in the video cheering on Sheeran, whose swing connected with every pitch. “I’m surprised, though — I’m surprised,” says the athlete, who at the end of the video, exits the protective tent and shakes hands with Sheeran, who successfully hit all three balls.
The two connected during the artist’s tour stop in Seattle on Aug. 1, when the singer hung out with Rodríguez, who was still in the clubhouse after a Mariners win, according to an article on MLB.com. Following batting practice, J-Rod signed a baseball bat for Sheeran, who gifted the athlete suite tickets to his concert and promised to send him a custom guitar.
Sheeran’s Loop Tour kicked off Jan. 16 in Auckland, New Zealand, following the release of his eighth studio album, Play, in September 2025. The tour features arena performances in Australia and Latin America and is currently in North America.
Following its release, Play debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard 200. The album’s Persian-infused lead single “Azizam” reached the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 while surging into the top 10 across several of Billboard’s radio airplay charts.
This Official ‘KPop Demon Hunters’ Karaoke Machine Is Designed for Amateur Singers & (Soda) Pop Stars Alike
Tim Chan (05/08/2026)
The officially licensed release features a portable karaoke setup in the film's purple colorway, and finished with the HUNTR/X logo.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Another day, another KPop Demon Hunters collab, only this is one that hardcore fans and aspiring performers alike will want to pick up.
Netflix and eKids have released an official KPop Demon Hunters Karaoke Machine, available now for under $20 on Amazon. The portable karaoke machine comes in the film’s signature purple colorway, with the HUNTR/X logo on the speaker grill.
SING AT HOME
KPop Demon Hunters Bluetooth Karaoke Machine
Save 10% off for a limited time when you apply the on-site coupon on Amazon.
The officially-licensed karaoke machine lets you sing your favorite songs from the Oscar-winning animated film (or any song, really) while enjoying an accompanying light show from the built-in, color-changing lights. Five different voice effects let you turn your sing-along into a real performance, whether you’re rehearsing for the Idol Awards or just sharing your “Strategy” at home.
This Amazon deal gets you a 9 x 3.7-inch speaker, a wireless microphone, built-in multi-colored LED lights and an included mini disco ball, that you can hang on the side of the speaker for every more lighting effects. Play your music by connecting the speaker to your phone, laptop or music player via Bluetooth (you can also plug in a flash drive).
Everything powers up via the built-in rechargeable battery, and a charging cable is included with the set. A handle on the speaker makes it easy to take your K-pop karaoke on the go.
LARGER SETUP
KPop Demon Hunters Bluetooth Karaoke Machine With Microphones
Want to take your soundtrack session up a notch? Sam’s Club sells this official KPop Demon Hunters karaoke machine which comes with a larger speaker and two wireless microphones (with the ability to plug in a third mic via a wired mic jack).
This karaoke system also lets you stream audio via Bluetooth and features seven light modes, including a “reactive” mode that pulses to the beat of your music. The two included mics have four built-in voice-changing effects, and you can also use the control pad at the top to adjust echo levels, volume, skip tracks and more.
Like the Amazon model, this Sam’s Club KPop Demon Hunters karaoke machine comes in a purple colorway with a glowing HUNTR/X logo front and center. And if you don’t have WiFi or Bluetooth, you can also connect your music via AUX, USB, and SD card inputs. Though it’s larger than the Amazon unit, this karaoke machine is still super portable, measuring approximately 7 x 10 inches in size.
Note: you don’t need to be a Sam’s Club member to score this KPop Demon Hunters karaoke setup, but non-members will be charged a 10% extra service fee online (consider it like a guest membership that lasts for 24 hours).
If you do want to sign up for a membership to the big box store, Sam’s Club is currently offering more than 50% off annual plans, with a subscription starting at just $25 (regularly $60+). Your membership lets you shop at Sam’s Club retail locations and online, and also gets you savings on gas, pharmacy, optical, auto servicing and more.
OFFICIAL LIGHT STICK
KPop Demon Hunters HUNTR/X Light Stick
Add to your karaoke night by picking up the official KPop Demon Hunters Light Stick. This HUNTR/X-themed device features five light-up colors and more than eight light sequences.
The official karaoke machines, meantime, come as the KPop Demon Hunters soundtrack continues to break records. The multi-platrinum album was the highest-debuting soundtrack of 2025 on the Billboard 200 chart, while lead single, “Golden,” topped Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and broke the record for longest leader on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart, earning a record-breaking 20th week at No. 1 on the latter chart in January.
Inside BTS’ Skincare Routines: SUGA’s Go-To $18 Sunscreen & More K-Beauty Favorites Worth Shopping
Camila Quimper (05/08/2026)
The “BTS effect” has reached the beauty aisle, turning everyday skincare and lip care products into fan-favorite essentials.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
The “BTS effect” is real – and it goes far beyond music. Whenever one of the seven members shares a favorite snack, drink, fashion piece or beauty product, fans around the world take notice. In the beauty space, that influence has helped introduce millions of people to the world of K-beauty. Now, as BTS continues their ARIRANG World Tour, fans are celebrating the group’s return while revisiting the products and trends endorsed by the members.
The latest product receiving the BTS fan treatment is mixsoon’s Bean Sunscreen, an SPF 50 Korean sunscreen that SUGA was spotted applying in a lifestyle vlog. After the moment gained attention online, mixsoon’s sunscreen quickly became a talking point among fans and beauty creators alike.
Already a popular pick among shoppers, the lightweight formula has sold more than 9,000 units on Amazon in the last 30 days. The sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays while delivering a hydrating, dewy finish without the heavy feel or white cast often associated with sunscreen. Its formula includes fermented soybean, pomegranate, barley and Korean pear extracts designed to nourish skin while providing everyday protection.
SUGA’S SKINCARE FIND
Mixsoon Bean Sunscreen SPF 50 Moisturizer
A shopper-loved Korean sunscreen with 9,000+ units sold on Amazon in the last month.
Thanks to one viral clip, mixsoon’s Bean Sunscreen is becoming one of K-beauty’s most talked-about SPFs. After SUGA was seen applying the sunscreen, fans quickly took notice. The SPF 50 formula protects against UVA and UVB rays while ingredients like fermented soybean, pomegranate, barley and Korean pear extracts help keep skin hydrated and glowing.
That viral moment is just the latest example of BTS’ impact on beauty trends. From Jin’s connection to Laneige’s Lip Sleeping Mask to the skincare and self-care products fans have spotted throughout the members’ careers, BTS has played a major role in making K-beauty a global phenomenon.
With BTS currently on their ARIRANG World Tour following their highly anticipated reunion, the Billboard Shopping team rounded up the beauty products connected to the members — from viral sunscreens to skincare staples — that have sparked buzz among ARMY, BTS’ dedicated global fandom.
BTS’ Members Favorite Beauty Products
CUSTOM LIP MASK
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask
Two-Scent Custom Swirl
A customizable lip mask featuring Berry Fruit Complex and nourishing butters.
BTS’ Jin (Kim Seok-jin) brought even more attention to Laneige when he became the brand’s first-ever male ambassador in 2024. Now, fans can shop a new take on one of the brand’s most recognizable products: the Lip Sleeping Mask. Available exclusively on Amazon, the customization experience lets shoppers blend two scents into their own overnight treatment powered by Berry Fruit Complex, vitamin C, murumuru seed butter and shea butter.
SKIN BARRIER CARE
Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer
The K-beauty essential featuring ceramides, peptides and soothing white leaf tea water.
Laneige’s Cream Skin Toner and Moisturizer was one of the products featured in Jin’s 2024 campaign with the brand. Starting at $16, the multitasking formula uses ceramides and peptides to help strengthen the skin barrier, while white leaf tea water provides soothing hydration. The lightweight, milky texture leaves skin looking soft, smooth and radiant.
V’S BEAUTY PICK
TIRTIR Mask Fit Red Cushion Foundation
The K-beauty cushion foundation that became an Amazon bestseller.
Following BTS’ return from military service, TIRTIR was among the brands that partnered with the members, launching a viral global campaign featuring V, also known as Kim Tae-hyung. The campaign earned more than 80 million views within hours, putting the spotlight on the brand’s Mask Fit Red Cushion. The K-beauty favorite offers buildable coverage, a lightweight texture and a natural-looking finish.
BTS’ Suga and J-Hope (Jung Ho-seok) revealed their skincare routines during a 2017 VLive, showing just how different their approaches can be. While the members didn’t share the same number of steps, they found common ground with Mediheal sheet masks. The popular K-beauty brand offers targeted formulas made with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and botanical extracts to help support hydrated, healthy-looking skin.
JIMIN’S BEAUTY PICK
Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tinted Balm
Jimin’s longtime lip balm favorite with a hydrating tinted finish.
When BTS’ Jimin, also known as Park Ji-min, opened up about his favorite essentials for Vogue’s “In the Bag” series, one product stood out: Bobbi Brown’s Extra Lip Tint. The longtime beauty favorite combines the comfort of a lip balm with a hint of color, making it an easy everyday step for hydrated, naturally tinted lips.
TRAVEL BEAUTY ESSENTIAL
L'Occitane Immortelle Overnight Reset Oil-in-Serum
The overnight serum formulated with a resilient botanical extract.
BTS brought their skincare essentials along for the ride during Bon Voyage Season 4, where Jimin and J-Hope were spotted using L’Occitane’s Immortelle Overnight Reset Serum. Featuring immortelle, a resilient botanical known for its antioxidant benefits, the serum helps support skin against daily stress while boosting the look of radiance and hydration.
SMELL LIKE BTS
Hermès Terre d'Hermès Pure Perfume Spray
A woody Hermès fragrance combining fresh citrus with earthy notes.
J-Hope’s beauty essentials go beyond skincare and grooming. In a backstage “What’s In My Bag” clip from his Hope on the Stage Tour, he revealed Terre d’Hermès Original Parfum as his cologne pick. The Hermès scent blends woody cedar, citrus grapefruit and herbal notes, all housed in a bottle inspired by the brand’s travel heritage.
With “Swim” topping the Billboard Hot 100 and ARIRANG landing at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, BTS’ return has been nothing short of historic. As the group continues its ARIRANG World Tour, the BTS effect remains stronger than ever — from sold-out shows to the beauty products fans can’t stop shopping.
How Much Has the Success of ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ Helped Boost Soundtrack Songs by Tame Impala, Steve Lacy & More?
Andrew Unterberger (05/08/2026)
This week's Trending Up looks at the songs featured in the movie that now has the biggest opening weekend in U.S. history, as well as recent breakouts by ADÉLA and Dolly Babe.
Welcome to Billboard Pro’s Trending Up newsletter, where we take a closer look at the songs, artists, curiosities and trends that have caught the music industry’s attention. Some have come out of nowhere, others have taken months to catch on, and all of them could become ubiquitous in the blink of a TikTok clip.
This week: Spider-Man: Brand New Day songs new and old experience huge gains, while ADÉLA takes another step towards stardom, U.S. listeners mourn a couple sadly passed European artists and more.
‘Brand New’ Streaming Gains for Tame Impala, Steve Lacy Songs in New ‘Spider-Man’ Movie
It was a blockbuster opening beyond all other blockbuster opening for Spider-Man: Brand New Day over the weekend. The fourth film about the superhero as part of the extended Marvel Cinematic Universe, led by the now-married real-life couple Tom Holland and Zendaya, debuted to over $360 million in domestic box office returns in its first weekend, topping 2019’s Avengers: Endgame for the biggest opening weekend in U.S. history.
Unsurprisingly for such a widely watched movie — with a fairly diverse soundtrack of classic hits and underground staples, with a couple modern favorites mixed in — the streaming gains for its most prominently featured songs have been similarly robust. Each of the older songs featured in the film (from iconic artists as far-flung as Chaka Khan and Brian Eno) have seen increased streams, with the biggest catalog beneficiary undoubtedly being TV on the Radio’s “Wolf Like Me,” featured in the film’s opening montage. The ‘00s indie standard-bearer racked up over 550,000 official on-demand U.S. streams during the film’s first four days of release (July 31-Aug. 3), according to Luminate — a 353% gain over its total from the prior Friday-to-Monday period.
But the biggest winners overall from the soundtrack are likely its two most contemporary hitmakers: Steve Lacy and Tame Impala. Lacy’s “Oh Yeah?,” which debuted on his parent album of the same name two weeks earlier featured over the film’s end credits, rose 181% to nearly 2.5 million streams over the same four-day period. Meanwhile, Tame’s “Loser,” from the artist born Kevin Parker’s polarizing 2025 album Deadbeat, skyrocketed a jaw-dropping 838% to over 2.6 million streams in the movie’s first four days.
As Brand New Home keeps on raking in the millions, expect the soundtrack cuts to continue to make their presence felt — and possibly make a visit to the Hot 100, the first for “Loser” since it debuted at No. 91 in November, and the first of any kind for “Oh Yeah?” – ANDREW UNTERBERGER
ADÉLA Levels Up With Fast-Rising New Single “Ain’t in L.A.”
Dream Academy alum and rising pop star ADÉLA has been steadily building buzz over the past year with a string of pithy, punchy singles and acclaimed live shows. Now, she’s eyeing her first proper streaming hit with her newly released “Ain’t in L.A.,” single which dropped on July 23.
According to Luminate, “Ain’t in L.A.” earned over 1.74 million official on-demand U.S. streams during the four-day period of July 24-27. A week later (July 31-Aug. 3), that number leapt 34.7% to over 2.35 million official on-demand U.S. streams. Over on TikTok, the song’s official sound plays in over 280,000 posts, while its official music video has collected over three million views in just under two weeks. “Ain’t in L.A.” also features in over 12,000 Instagram Reels.
The song’s hefty debut was buoyed by both ADÉLA’s overall momentum and her steady, months-long teasing of the soaring synth-pop track. During her opening stint on Demi Lovato’s arena-headlining It’s Not That Deep Tour, ADÉLA performed several new tracks, including “Ain’t in L.A.” — and over the weekend (Aug. 2) the song was a standout moment in her Lollapalooza debut.
With the song’s barre choreography frequently going viral and the overlooked-but-mighty cohort of “small town baddies” continuing to rally around the song’s rejection of Los Angeles exceptionalism (ambition lives everywhere!), expect “Ain’t in L.A.” to continue scaling the charts. — KYLE DENIS
Streaming Audiences Mourn Glen Hansard and Kavinsky
Two very different cult-favorite European artists died very unexpectedly last week, with news of both deaths emerging early on Wednesday (July 29). Glen Hansard, the Irish singer-songwriter who first came to national prominence as leader of The Frames at the turn of the century before earning global notice with his starring role in 2006’s musical drama Once, died in a motorcycle crash at age 56. And Kavinsky, the French house DJ/producer known to international audiences for his work on the soundtrack to the 2011 thriller Drive and his performance at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, was found dead at his home at 50, with his exact cause of death still pending.
Both artists experienced a posthumous boom in streams immediately following their passing. Hansard’s solo catalog racked up over 4.1 million official on-demand streams in the five days after his death (July 29-Aug. 2), a 2,221% gain over the 177,000 streams he amassed in the same five-day period a week before. (“Falling Slowly,” Hansard’s signature Oscar-winning hit alongside co-star and partner Marketá Irglová, was the biggest beneficiary, gaining 1,025% to 713,000 streams.) And The Frames also saw a major boost, totaling 570,000 streams over the five-day period after just 14,000 a week before, a gain of 3,903%.
And Kavinsky also saw an enormous rise in streams over the same period, with his catalogue rising 348% to nearly 3 million streams for the five-day span. The biggest chunk of that of course belonged to “Nightcall” — the nocturnal Drive anthem that the DJ/producer played at the Olympics, and which Billboard named the No. 6 Greatest Dance Song of the 2010s in 2019 — which was up 256% to 1.4 million streams. – AU
Dolly Babe Turns Viral TikTok Sound Into Streaming Hit With “Pink Blush”
After flipping Beyoncé’s classic “Diva” into a viral TikTok sound last summer, Dallas rapper Dolly Babe has landed herself a legitimate streaming hit with “Pink Blush.” Trading on her bubbly, tongue-in-cheek delivery, onomatopoeia-laden bars and Danielwsp’s crisp production, “Pink Blush” has quickly grown into TikTok’s favorite audio of late.
The most recent trend tied to the song finds a group of friends or colleagues — normally all men — seductively lip-syncing Dolly Babe’s cunnilingus-exalting post-chorus as a camera pans around the circle. Whether you’re a multi-generational content creator family, an HVAC crew or a group of mechanics, “Pink Blush” is for everybody!
During the week of July 17-23, “Pink Blush” earned 57,000 official on-demand U.S. streams. By the following week (July 24-30), that figure exploded by a massive 1,166% to over 731,000 official on-demand U.S. streams. More recently, during the four-day period of July 31-Aug. 3, “Pink” collected just under 790,000 official streams, up 188% from the 273,000 streams it logged the week prior (July 24-27). On TikTok, “Pink Blush” plays in over 839,000 posts, while a From the Block live performance video of the song has earned over 187,000 views in just eight days. “Pink Blush” also features in over 10,000 Instagram Reels.
With celebrities from Chlöe Bailey to Shenseea showing love to the song, it looks like “Pink Blush” is just getting started. — KD
Amazon’s $36 Air Conditioner Has Shoppers Praising Its Surprising Cooling Tech to Help Them Through Heat Waves
Rylee Johnston (05/08/2026)
These compact and portable options serve chill vibes even during summer's hottest days.
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Billboard may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
A few years ago, it was considered to be the hottest summer in the global temperature record, according to NASA findings, and this summer is proving to be similarly toasty. Staying cool during especially hot days is essential for your health and safety, whether it’s with a handheld fan or turning up the air conditioner. Increased use of your AC though, means you’ll likely have higher electric bills, but that’s where owning a personal air conditioner can come in handy.
Amazon has discounted one of its most highly sought after personal air coolers by nearly half off, bringing it down to a wallet-friendly $36 (was $70) — which is its all-time lowest price ever. The retailer says more than 1,000 shoppers have purchased the device during the last month, with reviewers praising its “quiet operation, rechargeable battery, and compact size.”
Amazon’s portable air conditioner isn’t a traditional air conditioner per se, but it offers similar cooling capabilities for a major steal, compared to the in-window units that typically run for hundreds of dollars. While it won’t be powerful enough to turn your room into arctic-like temperatures, it does have the ability to decrease the heat by using a cooling fan system that relies on ice and water. The device has a 1200-ml capacity and turns ice water into a cold breeze.
Unlike a regular air conditioner, this portable version operates using low energy to help save you money. The unit also allows you to change the settings, whether you want to add a timer, change the fan speed, or have some light misting. And since it comes in a compact size, you can take it practically anywhere.
Shoppers can’t get enough of how “outstanding” the cooler works, claiming when you add ice to the reservoir, it can last a day, making it a “good replacement for an air conditioner.”
There are a variety of other air-cooling solutions out there that will have you ditching an oscillating fan to keep your room at a more comfortable temperature. The main differences between a traditional air conditioner and air cooler is that an air conditioner must be vented in order to circulate cold air whereas an air cooler doesn’t need ventilation — just add water and the device will suck fresh air through a filter and produce colder air in turn.
What Are the Best Personal Air Conditioners?
To help you find the best personal air conditioners and cooling fans, Billboard rounded up a variety of top-rated models you can buy online now.
This portable air conditioner from Walmart eliminates the need for having to stick a hose out of your window thanks to its slim construction. All you need to do is add water to the reservoir (up to 800 ml) and turn it on. There are three fan settings to choose from and you can also switch the device from a portable AC to a humidifier or just a plane fan. The touchscreen also includes a built-in light for added ambiance.
Some reviewers have labeled the bestselling mini air cooler “better than an oscillating fan” claiming the light misting helps quickly cool them down — especially when you place it next to you at night.
EvaChill’s evaporative cooler keeps things compact in a small size that you can easily place on a side table without leaving it feeling cluttered. It uses evaporative technology that utilizes water as a way to push cold air into your space. Attached to the design is a built-in handle that’ll allow you to transport the mini air cooler from one place to another more easily. This is the one we have on our desk at work.
Verified Amazon reviewers have described how “shocked” they are over its cooling results, saying it “adds just the right amount of cool to keep me comfortable all night long without drying me out like a fan.”
120-DEGREE OSCILLATION
Landeagle Swamp Coolers Evaporative Air Cooler
Best Evaporative Cooler Pick
For 40% off, you can score Amazon’s freestanding evaporative cooler, which will help bring a chill vibe (literally) to your room. Unlike a personal air cooler, an evaporative design like this model will cool the air by using evaporated water. This design comes with a tank that holds up to six gallons of water. Its versatile build also allows it to switch to a fan, humidifier and purifier just through a push of a button on the included remote. And it has a 120-degree oscillation feature to ensure the whole room gets a cool breeze.
Reviewers claim it’s best for “drier” climates since the device adds cold moisture to the air using evaporated water. We also like the wheeled design, which makes it easy to take from room to room.
Newair is a more super-sized version of an evaporative cooler, that will help chill your room using a honeycomb cooling pad that can turn hot air into a cool breeze. On the side of the fan is a removable water tank that can hold up to 3.17 gallons of water. You can also use the included remote control to adjust the speed and time you want the cooler on. As an added bonus, it can also transform into a regular oscillating fan.
Amazon reviewers are blown away, saying that it’s “great at beating the heat” even recommending adding “ice packs to super cool your space.”
timelesz’s ‘Kienai Hanabi’ Scores No. 1 as Five ‘Chiikawa’ Film Tracks Chart on Japan Hot 100
Katie Atkinson (05/08/2026)
ILLIT's "I Got Your Back (feat. JISOO, MOMOKA of HANA)" debuts at No. 2.
timelesz’s “Kienai Hanabi” hits No. 1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100, on the chart released Aug. 5.
The title track of the second single released under the group’s new lineup serves as the theme song to Kimi to Hanabi to Yakusoku to, in which member Shori Sato makes his animated feature film lead debut. It sold 424,416 copies in its first week to rule sales, while coming in at No. 3 for downloads and No. 15 for radio airplay. Under the timelesz name, the group’s previous peak on the overall chart was No. 2 with “Steal The Show,” making “Kienai Hanabi” the group’s first No. 1.
ILLIT’s “I Got Your Back (feat. JISOO, MOMOKA of HANA)” debuts at No. 2. The title track of the group’s second Japanese single features HANA members JISOO and MOMOKA, who also contributed lyrics. Following a digital pre-release on July 26, the CD dropped July 29, moving 85,475 copies to hit No. 5 for sales, while also placing No. 3 for radio and No. 15 for video views.
ATEEZ’s “BAD,” the group’s fifth Japanese single, jumps 64-3 with 259,030 copies to come in at No. 2 for sales and No. 22 for streaming.
Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s “Brand New” slips 2-4, but dominates streaming (7,510,396 weekly streams) for the second consecutive week while also topping radio. FRUITS ZIPPER member Yui Sakurai’s solo major-label debut single “Natsu Izon” debuts at No. 5 with 96,545 copies, followed by OCTPATH’s 10th single “Natsumeki” at No. 6 with 90,719 copies. CLASS SEVEN’s “I Know Hero” bows at No. 7 with No. 2 on radio and No. 6 on sales.
At No. 8 is M!LK’s “Sukisugite Metsu!” charting for its 40th week, posting No. 2 on streaming, video, and karaoke. King Gnu’s “GO GHOST” — the opener to the TV anime THE GHOST IN THE SHELL — lands at No. 9 with 13,349 downloads (No. 2).
Nineteen tracks debut this week. BE:FIRST’s “BRUCE WAYNE feat. Flo Milli, ATL Jacob,” released digitally on July 31, tops downloads and enters at No. 18. Gen Hoshino’s “Suki,” the theme song to the TBS drama Kimi no Suki wa Muteki, enters at No. 19 with No. 4 on downloads. ONE OR EIGHT’s “YANKEE SQUAT” arrives at No. 37 with No. 4 on radio, and Rikondensetsu’s “Daikuko,” the theme song to the TV Asahi drama Daikuko: GATE24, enters at No. 46 with No. 6 on radio.
Five tracks tied to Chiikawa the Movie: The Secret of Mermaid Island, released in theaters July 24, also chart this week. “Shima no Uta (Siren ver.)” enters at No. 50, “Tsukue Sasuru” at No. 54, opening theme “Kutsuzure” at No. 68, and two versions of “Usagi Rap” at No. 75 and No. 86 — collectively sweeping the downloads list from No. 6 through No. 9.
The Billboard Japan Hot 100 combines physical and digital sales, audio streams, radio airplay, video views and karaoke data.
See the full Billboard Japan Hot 100 chart, tallying the week from July 27 to Aug. 2, here. For more on Japanese music and charts, visit Billboard Japan’s English X account.
Mrs. GREEN APPLE Wraps ZENJIN MITO Tour, Capturing the Band’s Present & New Horizons Ahead: Concert Recap
Katie Atkinson (05/08/2026)
The tour consisted of a total of six shows: four shows at MUFG Stadium, in April and July, and two shows in Osaka’s Yanmar Stadium Nagai in May.
Mrs. GREEN APPLE played the last shows of their ZENJIN MITO TO IM/MUTABLE stadium tour on July 4 and 5 at Tokyo’s MUFG Stadium (the National Stadium).
The tour consisted of a total of six shows: four shows at MUFG Stadium, in April and July, and two shows in Osaka’s Yanmar Stadium Nagai in May. This made them the first band ever to put on four shows at MUFG Stadium (the National Stadium). The two shows at Yanmar Stadium Nagai and the two July shows at MUFG Stadium (the National Stadium) were exclusive shows, limited to members of the “Ringo Jam” fan club.
ZENJIN MITO is Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s series of self-produced concerts, which the band began in 2014. The scale of the ZENJIN MITO shows has grown gradually since their first performance, and this was the first time for it to take the form of a stadium tour with four performances at the National Stadium. “ZENJIN MITO” is Japanese for “unprecedented,” and this tour was, indeed, an unprecedented feat.
On the day of the July 4 Tokyo show, the high temperature was 27°C. The skies were covered by thick clouds, but the fears of potential rain did not manifest, and a cool breeze cut through the muggy air, making it a pleasant day. The stadium thronged with people—men and women, young and old alike. Many people came with children, a testament to Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s broad listener base.
One minute before the show, a countdown appeared on-screen. The JAM’S (the name of Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s fans) shouted along, counting down, “10, 9,…0!” and then the show began. A dynamic computer-generated video depicted the great outdoors, with soaring birds and galloping animals such as giraffes, elephants, and lions. A tremendous cheer rose from the audience when Motoki Ohmori (vocals and guitar), Hiloto Wakai (guitar), and Ryoka Fujisawa (keyboards) appeared. The opening song was “Magic.” The JAM’S sang along to the powerful song, with its bright melody, and the performance was livened with colorful lighting and fireworks. You could tell Ohmori was loving it up on stage, calling out to the crowd, “ZENJIN! Are you ready to have fun? Can you hear us? Can you feel our love?!”
“Magic” was followed by “I’m invincible” and “Stardom.” Then Ohmori spoke to the crowd again. “Welcome to ZENJIN MITO TO IM/MUTABLE! Today, the National Stadium is reserved just for you fan club members!” Wakai hyped up the audience, shouting “JAMS, can I hear you get even louder!?” and Fujisawa joined in, saying “I’ve been looking forward to seeing you all! Are you ready for some fun?!” You could feel the connection between the band and the fans. Mrs. GREEN APPLE then performed songs from various stages of their history. During their performance of “StaRt,” which they released when making their major label debut in 2015, the audience joined in, singing the chorus and clapping their hands. Then there was “Avoid Note,” with its intricate and distinctive guitar riffs. “Apollodorus” showed off the band’s musical potential, including everything from delicate piano playing to energetic, soaring parts. During their performance of “familie,” Ohmori asked, “Are you guys alright with me going to the back?” Then he took to the runway that circled the arena, and the audience was united as one as he sang the lyrics “The place where your heart is always welcome/Your beloved familie.”
In “Carrying Happiness,” the band’s performance overflowed with joy, and then each member played a solo. Wakai’s guitar solo was straight out of the hard rock and heavy rock vein, while Fujisawa played a classical melody on flute. Ohmori did an acoustic performance of “BFF,” leading into a phrase from “Variety,” which they’d revealed in their 10th anniversary debut show. As he sang “I’m waiting for you, here,” he pointed at the crowd, an image that made a particularly deep impression.
As the evening darkened, the band began “ANTENNA,” which started with sound effects like a transmission from space, speckled with noise. The venue glowed red from light sticks during “KUSUSHIKI,” followed by “Loneliness,” featuring a sharp guitar solo by Wakai, and then the band put on a performance of “Dear,” dedicated to the cherished people in one’s life. Ohmori shouted “I love you!” and the venue was engulfed in loud cheering. The message of “Bokuno Koto” is that even if your efforts are unrewarded—even if you experience failure—the road you travelled was a beautiful one, and this heartfelt message rang through the stadium, carried by Ohmori’s overwhelming vocal skills.
The band continued with “Naniwo Naniwo” and “Lilac,” the pinnacle of Mrs. GREEN APPLE’s distinctive brand of guitar rock. Standout moments included the massive chorus during the line “Remember the blue of those days,” and the shouts of surprise and joy from the crowd when the band played “lulu.,” a new song released in January of this year. Ohmori expressed his gratitude to the audience, saying “Playing four shows at the National Stadium is amazing. And we owe it all to our JAM’S!” He went on to talk about their song “Brand New,” the Japanese version of the theme song for Spider-man: Brand New Day, and the new album they were currently working on.
The show began rapidly climbing to its climax with “Ao To Natsu.” In “Columbus,” Wakai and Fujisawa walked the runway, and then, when Ohmori shouted “ZENJIN! Let’s keep in going forever, together!” the band launched into “GOOD DAY,” filling the stadium with joyous vibes. The band closed with “Darling.” The song resounded with a message of struggle and setbacks and the light that lay beyond them. The hearts of the 70,000 JAMS in the audience soared, and everyone was profoundly moved. Toward the end of the song, the National Stadium was ringed by countless fireworks, finishing the set with an astounding spectacle. The massive chorus of the entire audience made for a powerful ending.
For their encore, Mrs. GREEN APPLE played two of their earlier songs, “CONFLICT” and “Wind and Town.” Ohmori spoke to the crowd, saying “We started Phase 3 by appreciating the value of where we are, but we still want to explore new horizons. Will you come along with us?” Then the band played their final song of the show, “Que Sera Sera,” the biggest sing-along of the evening.
Following the show, drones assembled to light up the sky with the words “Ringo Jam 10th” and the Mrs. GREEN APPLE logo. Of course, while this cutting-edge technological performance was wonderful, the heart of the show was in the music itself. Lyrics with a heartfelt, universal message. A pop-inspired sound that transcended genres. The voices and instruments of the members. These all connected directly with the audience, and that’s what made ZENJIN MITO TO IM/MUTABLE so meaningful.
—This article by Tomoyuki Mori first appeared on Billboard Japan
Cardi B Is the Face of This Denim Campaign: ‘When You Have a BBL It’s Hard to Find Jeans’
Michael Saponara (05/08/2026)
Wisdom Kaye and Quen Blackwell appear alongside Cardi in the Western-themed ad spot.
Cardi B loves herself a new pair of jeans, and the Bronx bombshell is the face of Old Navy’s fall denim campaign.
Cardi stars in the Western-themed commercial alongside Wisdom Kaye and Quen Blackwell, which arrived on Tuesday (Aug. 4).
The clip finds the Grammy-winning rapper cruising on set in a green drop-top convertible. Then Cardi hops into the director’s chair and starts barking out orders at the rest of the cast and crew.
“When you have a BBL it’s hard to find jeans… but Old Navy got everything for everybody,” she captioned a post to X promoting the ad spot.
Cardi admitted in an interview with People that even with all of the fame, riches and designer clothes in her wardrobe, she’s still shopping at Old Navy these days. “What is my life without jeans? I still shop at Old Navy. I think it’s very long-lasting,” she said.
The 33-year-old also revealed that she was insecure about the fit of her jeans growing up to the point that she would stuff her jeans to make her figure look curvier.
“I would put like two, three tights under my jeans so my butt and my thighs could be thicker. Being from the hood or, you know, my culture, being thick is better,” she added. “I always was scared for my butt to look extra flat in jeans.”
The dark denim jeans Cardi is modeling boast a high waist and wide-legged cuffs, which are currently on sale and come in seven different colorways on the company’s website. This fall’s It’s Old Navy campaign builds off the same series that was launched in the summer featuring Paris Hilton.
On the music side, Cardi released her first single of 2026 on Friday (July 31) with “Ah Ha.” She also picked up another plaque after the RIAA certified the Billboard Hot 100-topping “WAP” as diamond; it’s her fourth diamond song.
Watch the Old Navy spot below.
Cheers to International Beer Day! Here Are the 13 Best Songs About Crackin’ Open a Cold One (Staff Picks)
Hannah Dailey (05/08/2026)
Bottom's up!
They say that music is the universal language, but so, you could argue, is beer.
From IPAs to stout, pale ales, pilsner, porter, dark lagers, sours and more, just about everywhere in the world has its signature type of brew. There’s also hardly a country on Earth where you can’t pull up to a local bar, pub, dive or tavern and put your differences aside to enjoy a nice pint with whoever’s sitting on the stool next to you — regardless of whether it’s “cheers,” “sláinte,” “salud,” “cin-cin” or “kanpai” that you’re saying before it goes down the hatch.
That’s exactly why the global calendar features a very special holiday each year: International Beer Day, which in 2026 is taking place on Friday (Aug. 7). It’s the perfect date to gather some friends and celebrate over your beer — and receptacle, whether it’s a plastic cup, glass, bottle, can or funnel — of choice. Of course, you’re also going to want to have some good music going as well to complete the experience, and that’s where Billboard has you covered. Humanity’s love of brewskis has fostered a number of songs dedicated in some way, shape or form to the ritual of cracking open a cold one, and we’ve curated 13 of the best ones to froth up your playlists.
From classic drinking songs like the aptly named “Beer, Beer, Beer” to modern country smashes such as Luke Combs’ “Beer Never Broke My Heart” (which, by the way, is the Billboard Hot 100‘s highest peaking track with “beer” in the title to date at No. 21) see our top beer song selections below.
Tyla Talks World Cup Collab With Future But Shoots Down Romance Rumors: ‘Calm Down!’
Alicia Urrea (05/08/2026)
On Feeding Starving Celebrities, the South African artist also discussed her new A-Pop album, talked "Water" success & addressed "Chanel" claims.
Tyla dished out more than dinner during her visit to Quen Blackwell’s YouTube series Feeding Starving Celebrities.
The South African star joined Blackwell in the kitchen to prepare a menu inspired by her home country, including rooibos peach tea punch, malva cake and bobotie with chakalaka. While cooking, the pair discussed Tyla’s recent FIFA World Cup collaboration with Future, her thoughts on artificial intelligence in music, how she navigates fame and more.
Related
When asked about her latest album, A-Pop, Tyla said the project mixes many musical genres that she personally loves and impacted her decision to become a singer. She explains that African music, R&B, pop and house music were the main musical influences on the project, emphasizing all of the elements that turned her sound into something that feels true to her identity.
She also looked back on the explosive success of her smash hit “Water,” which peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2024, catapulting her to global stardom practically overnight. Tyla admitted the song’s rapid rise took time to adjust to, saying she was shocked by the fame because it was foreign to her.
“I come from a very simple life. I was not a rich kid,” the singer said. “There was no example for me, really. Not a lot of people do what I did from where I’m from.”
Elsewhere in the conversation, Tyla recalled how her FIFA World Cup song “Game Time” featuring Future came together. She said she first met the rapper while attending last year’s Met Gala, and the collaboration materialized when the song was sent to both of them for the FIFA tournament. She reminisced on their FIFA World Cup 2026 performance together, but debunked rumors of a romance.
“He’s very chill, so we were just vibing [during the performance],” Tyla said. “People were making it look like [something] between us. Calm down, I’m a working woman!”
One of the episode’s more thought-provoking moments came when the singer shared her perspective on artificial intelligence in music. While acknowledging the technology’s growing presence, Tyla expressed hesitation about AI-generated artists.
“Honestly, I feel like it’s just going to make real music more valuable,” she shared.
Nearing the end of the episode, Blackwell put Tyla “on the spot,” a notorious segment of her show where she asks raw, rapid-fire questions to her guests. Standing in the glow of a spotlight, Tyla addresses online speculation surrounding her song “Chanel,” responding to rumors that she had copied the track from Yung Miami, whose real name is Caresha Brownlee. Tyla pushed back on the claims, clarifying that the song was sent to her independently by songwriter Badriia “Bibi” Bourelly, with the lyrics and musical concept newly introduced to her.
While Tyla plates their finished dinner, the conversation veered into fashion, and even potential future collaborations. The popiano musician thought back to her iconic 2026 Met Gala look, reflecting on the big moment and how she deals with the comedown of adrenaline after a massive event.
“In this industry, everything happens so fast that it’s hard to always take everything in when it [first] happens,” the singer said. “Sometimes I don’t feel [things] in the moment, but then when [I’m] alone, I just [think], ‘Wow, God really is with me.'”
Blackwell then pivots the conversation toward Tyla’s birthday celebration earlier this year, specifically referencing the online video of American rapper Trim gifting her a Chanel bag. When asked if Tyla would ever make a song with the fellow female musician, Tyla simply brought her finger to her lips with a smile.
The full episode of Feeding Starving Celebrities is available to watch now on Quenlin Blackwell’s YouTube channel, available below.
