Random music news for Tuesday, May 5, 2026

If you’re a frequent flyer, you probably use in-flight WiFi. These airlines have the best connectivity. I’m surprised how poorly some of the premium airlines do. Once you’re done there, connect with music news for May 5, 2026.

1. Jason Newsted, one-time bassist for Metallica, says he has throat cancer.
2. Ross Davidson used to sing for Spandau Ballet. He’s been arrested.
3. Fugees rapper Pras Michel turned himself in to start serving a 14-year prison sentence. He vows to appeal.
4. There was a shooting near the home of singer Chris Brown. Someone has been arrested.
5. Apparently, Albania has no problem hosting a Kanye West concert. The prime minister even announced it.
6. Meanwhile, North West, son of Ye and Kim, is officially a metalhead. He has a new song.
7. And still with family news, Mike D of the Beastie Boys recently showed up to perform with his sons.
8. Good news: TuneCore, a big distributor of music to digital music services, says it will no longer handle tracks made using “pirate studios.” These are self-serve studios used to make AI slop. That includes Suno, one of the biggest.
9. As of last Friday, four fake AI songs were in the top ten on the iTunes singles chart.
10. The Oscars will not allow AI actors and writers to win awards. Good. Are you listening, music industry? (Via Rick J)
11. Are you a music fan of a certain age longing to relive your youth? Check out all these festivals that are just for you.
12. This is good. Alberta has launched The Alberta Music Action Plan.
13. This is probably too fast for a desktop computer. Still…
14. Imagine working at a radio station called this.
15. Slipknot and Dolly Parton, together at last! (Via Rick J)

More music news? Go here.

BONUS: A lot of people–and I mean a LOT–are having romantic relationships with AI. But another survey says that the more young people use AI, the more they hate it.