Turn up the volume! It’s time for another weekly instalment of What’s Going On. From blazing hip hop bangers to face-melting cosplay metal (yes, really) and plenty more in between, we’ve got the sounds to shake up your playlists and maybe even your mood. As always, if you dig what you hear, be sure to stream and follow these artists.
Midnight Til Morning – Every generation has its boy bands that they fall in love with, and the hottest new group of the moment is Midnight Til Morning. The four-piece (Conor Smith, Mason Watts, Shane Appell, and Zach Newbould) unveils the cinematic music video for their debut single “Bye,” showcasing the emotional depth that has propelled them from Netflix’s hit reality competition series Building the Band to global buzz. Directed by Josh Harris, the visual captures themes of heartbreak and letting go through moody, intimate storytelling. Alongside the release, the boyband announced additional sold-out tour dates in NYC, LA, and Toronto, cementing their rise as one of 2025’s most exciting new acts.
Watch the new music video for Midnight Til Morning’s “Bye” below.
Kid Cudi – Rapper and all-around pop culture icon Kid Cudi is out now with his 13th studio album Free, marking a bold new chapter in his sonic journey. Following singles “Neverland,” “Grave,” and “Mr. Miracle,” the album has a cinematic feel. Free also comes with an accompanying Ti West-directed short film. After a record-breaking 2024, including RIAA Diamond status for his classic hit “Day ‘N’ Nite,” Free proves Cudi’s sound remains as innovative, expansive, and culturally resonant as ever.
Listen to Kid Cudi’s new single “Mr. Miracle” below.
Olivia Dean – Buzzworthy English singer Olivia Dean has hearts racing with her vibrant new single “Man I Need,” the third taste of her upcoming album The Art of Loving (out September 26 via Capitol Records). Blending smooth neo-soul vocals with a bold, dance-ready groove, the track celebrates self-worth and fearless love. Directed by Jake Erland, the accompanying video continues Dean’s visually rich era as she readies one of 2025’s most anticipated releases.
Listen to Olivia Dean’s new single “Man I Need” below.
Offset – Rap superstar Offset is back with his third solo album, KIARI. Out now via Motown Records, this is his most personal and introspective project yet. Named after his birth name, the 18-track release blends raw vulnerability with high-energy anthems, showcasing Offset’s range as both storyteller and hitmaker. Featuring guest spots from JID, Gunna, John Legend, Ty Dolla $ign, and more, the star-studded album cements the Atlanta icon’s evolution while reflecting on his journey, identity, and legacy in hip-hop.
Listen to “Different Species” featuring Gunna from Offset’s new album KIARI below.
Galactic Empire – Galactic Empire, the galaxy’s premier Star Wars cosplay metal band, is back with their latest single, “Avengers.” As you could guess from the title, the track is a thunderous tribute to the iconic Avengers theme from Marvel Studios ‘ Planet Earth by Alan Silvestri. The track is part of the band’s upcoming album Cinemetal, due out October 24 via Pure Noise Records. The album will feature metal renditions of themes from Superman, Harry Potter, Back to the Future, and more. Known for viral videos, massive tours, and their signature cinematic flair, Galactic Empire continues to conquer stages across galaxies with their unique fusion of fandom and face-melting riffs. We’ll be bringing you an interview with the guys from Galactic Empire soon. Stay tuned!
Listen to Galactic Empire’s new single “Avengers” below.
