Music

Ed Sheeran's tour in trouble after opening acts drop out in solidarity with rapper Macklemore
Ed Sheeran's tour of North and South America was plunged into chaos when four of his supporting acts quit in solidarity with the rapper Macklemore, who was dropped for making pro-Palestinian comments.
Rising musician Sophie Hiroko getting ready to record her debut album
Duluth native Sophie Hiroko started 2026 by releasing a new single. And she shared at the MPR State Fair Stage that she has secured studio space to record her first album.
Local actor reflects on Dolly Parton's passion for spreading joy
Ruthie Baker landed a role in playing the country singer in a Christmas musical in 2018 where she met the entire cast before the performance. “She wanted us to shine as brightly as we could on that stage.”
Dolly Parton, music star, actor and beloved figure who spanned generations has died at 80
Dolly Parton, the beloved music and film star known for her vibrant personality and poignant songwriting, has died. She was 80 years old. Her career spanned decades, with hits like “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You.”
Frank Beard, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame drummer of boogie-rock trio ZZ Top, dies at 77
Frank Beard, the drummer for ZZ Top, has died at 77. He passed away Tuesday at his ranch in Richmond, Texas, with family by his side. ZZ Top sold over 50 million records and had six No. 1 singles on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Airplay chart.
Fargo-based country musician Zach Thomas to make debut at giant Detroit Lakes festival
WE Fest starts Wednesday outside Detroit Lakes, Minnesota. Zach Thomas is from nearby Wendell, Minnesota and will play a set at the festival for the first time Thursday.
Target Field concession workers plan one-day strike during Noah Kahan concert
Target Field concession workers will strike during Wednesday’s sold-out Noah Kahan concert as contract negotiations with Delaware North remain stalled over wage increases, tipped-worker classifications and health care eligibility.
Minnesota choir set to head to South Korea for choral cultural exchange
On Friday, the music of Korea will be showcased in a special performance by the Oratorio Society of Minnesota and the University of Minnesota School of Music. Then in August, members of the choir will travel to South Korea for a cultural exchange.