Lauren Spencer-Smith: Too Broke for Christmas This Year

rtemas has been making waves in the music world lately, and his recent RIAA certifications are a huge deal. His singles "if u think i'm pretty" and "i like the way you kiss me" have officially hit Gold and Platinum status, respectively. For an artist still early in his career, this kind of recognition is big. It signals not just that people are listening, but that they’re connecting with his music on a large scale.

Starting around 2019, Artemas began to stand out with a style that doesn’t quite fit into any one genre box. His sound pulls in bits of alternative pop, dark wave, and R&B, with lyrics that are introspective and, at times, almost haunting. He’s found a way to make pop music that feels moody and personal without losing its catchiness, which isn’t easy to pull off. "if u think i'm pretty," released in late 2023, is a perfect example. It’s got a steady beat that drives it forward, but the lyrics and melody have this raw, almost vulnerable edge to them. It’s the kind of song that sticks with you, so it makes sense that it resonated enough to reach Gold, meaning it’s sold over 500,000 units in the U.S.

Then there’s "i like the way you kiss me,"  which came out earlier this year and hit Platinum on the same day "if u think i'm pretty" went Gold. This song digs even deeper into Artemas’s darker, more atmospheric sound. It has this retro 80s-inspired synth vibe mixed with themes of attraction and complicated relationships. There’s a sense of nostalgia to it, but it doesn’t feel outdated. The music video for "i like the way you kiss me" has been especially popular, racking up over 114 million views on YouTube in just six months since its release, while the lyric video has added another 42 million views. With over a million units sold in the U.S., it’s clear this track has struck a chord with listeners.

Looking ahead, it’s easy to see why fans are excited to see what Artemas will do next. With his unique style and these recent successes, he’s got a lot of momentum behind him. Whether he’s working on more singles, an album, or live performances, there’s a sense that he’s just getting started. Artemas has shown that he’s willing to dive into honest, raw emotions in his music, which is rare these days. That vulnerability, combined with his knack for a memorable melody, makes him one to keep an eye on.

Watch Artemas's, 'i like the way you kiss me' music video below: 

October 28, 2024, Chappell Roan’s songs and her debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, achieved notable certifications, including a Platinum award for her viral hit "Good Luck, Babe!" and Gold certifications for other fan-favorites such as “Red Wine Supernova,” “Pink Pony Club,” “Casual,” and “Hot To Go!” Additionally, the album itself earned a Gold certification—a significant achievement that underscores its widespread appeal and Roan’s unique impact on contemporary pop music.

The Platinum-certified "Good Luck, Babe!" stands out as a cultural milestone, not only for its commercial success but also for its resonance within the LGBTQ+ community. The track, which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100, became a defining anthem for Chappell Roan, celebrated for its bold, unapologetic embrace of queer themes. Its success extended beyond streaming platforms; high-profile artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Kelly Clarkson have covered the song, a testament to its influence in the pop music world. For Roan, "Good Luck, Babe!" represents a high point in her career, connecting deeply with audiences and solidifying her status as a powerful voice in modern music.

Chappell Roan’s other singles, including “Red Wine Supernova” and “Pink Pony Club,” also received Gold certifications, reflecting substantial streaming numbers and dedicated listener support. These tracks, along with “Casual” and “Hot To Go!,” add layers to her narrative, each capturing different facets of her journey of self-discovery and queerness. These songs have played a crucial role in defining Roan’s artistic identity, which is characterized by a playful mix of theatricality and introspection. The Gold certification of The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess further validates the album’s impact, establishing it as one of 2024’s standout releases and confirming Roan’s rising influence.

Adding to the album's cultural resonance, Roan’s track “Femininomenon” was featured in the historic 2024 return of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York City. The song opened the models' catwalk set, marking a bold choice that infused the show with Roan’s signature blend of camp and empowerment. This high-profile feature reflects Roan’s crossover appeal and the song’s infectious energy, further cementing its place in pop culture. “Femininomenon,” with its catchy hooks and playful lyricism, captures the spirit of Roan’s approach to pop—unapologetic, vibrant, and deeply personal.

Beyond these certifications, Chappell Roan’s career has been marked by important commercial and critical milestones. Her role as an opening act for Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour and her performances at major festivals, including Coachella and Governors Ball, propelled her from a cult favorite to a mainstream presence. By mid-2024, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess had reached No. 1 in Ireland, New Zealand, and the UK, and climbed into the top five of the U.S. Billboard 200. The album’s sustained chart presence across multiple countries underscores its universal appeal, amplified by the momentum from Roan’s certifications.

The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess is celebrated not only for its catchy pop hooks but also for its exploration of identity and self-expression. Tracks like “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” channel Roan’s camp sensibility, drawing from queer-coded cultural references and embodying her journey as an outsider finding her voice in the mainstream. Her visuals and live performances frequently incorporate theatrical elements and drag-inspired aesthetics, resonating with audiences who value her authenticity and individuality. The album’s Gold certification serves as a testament to its depth and to Chappell Roan’s ability to connect meaningfully with listeners.

ua Lipa took to Instagram on November 8, 2024, to deliver disappointing news to her fans in Indonesia: her highly anticipated Jakarta performance, scheduled for November 9, had to be canceled due to safety issues with the stage setup. In her message, Dua expressed heartbreak, explaining, "It has been determined that it is not safe for the performance to carry on due to safety issues with the staging." This unexpected development has been met with understanding from her loyal fanbase, though the disappointment is palpable, especially for fans who had eagerly awaited her return to the country after several years.

This cancellation marks an early setback in Dua Lipa's ongoing Radical Optimism Asia tour. The Asian leg officially launched in Singapore with two shows at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on November 6 and 7, 2024. These performances were the first of a packed regional schedule, with Jakarta intended as her next stop. After Singapore, the tour will continue to the Philippines, Japan, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, and South Korea, concluding with a grand performance at Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome on December 4, 2024.

Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism tour has been eagerly awaited, marking her return to the stage with a renewed sound and an ambitious staging concept designed to immerse fans in her latest musical vision. Her team has worked tirelessly to ensure that each venue meets the tour’s high production standards. Unfortunately, the Jakarta venue's staging failed to meet the rigorous safety protocols required for a performance of this scale. In her statement, Dua expressed her sincere regret, underscoring how much she was looking forward to performing for her Indonesian fans. "It truly pains me that we cannot perform for you all, especially after such a long time since my last performance in Jakarta," she added, addressing the unique bond she shares with her audience in the country.

Dua Lipa assured fans that refunds would be available at their original points of purchase, showing her commitment to a fair and transparent process in the wake of this unexpected cancellation. Despite the setback, her message resonated with empathy and optimism, expressing her hope to return to Jakarta under safer conditions. "I love you all and truly can’t wait to be back together in the same room with you, singing and dancing our hearts out as soon as possible," she concluded, leaving fans with a promise that this unfortunate pause would not mark the end of her connection with them.

Following the Jakarta cancellation, Dua Lipa’s Radical Optimism tour will resume as planned, with her next performance set for the Philippines. This Asia leg of the tour includes a whirlwind schedule that highlights the enthusiasm of her fanbase across the region, who have followed her career with unwavering support. Each venue has been chosen to accommodate the scale of Dua Lipa’s vision for this tour, which emphasizes a polished and highly energetic performance style.

elly Roll is hitting some impressive milestones lately, further solidifying his position as a force in country music. His 2021 album Ballads of the Broken has officially gone Gold, a well-deserved recognition for an album that blended his hip-hop roots with a more country-infused sound. Featuring standout tracks like "Son of a Sinner" and "Dead Man Walking," the album’s raw, emotional themes struck a chord with fans, earning 500,000 certified sales since its release. For an artist who came from a background of struggle, his ability to convey vulnerability and real-life hardship has made his music deeply relatable.

But that’s not all for Jelly Roll. His 2023 album Whitsitt Chapel, a gritty exploration of addiction, redemption, and faith, has also earned Gold certification. Released in June 2023, the album offers some of his most personal work to date, with its lead single "Need a Favor" climbing to new heights. The track, which lays bare the complexities of guilt and prayer, has been upgraded to 2x Platinum, signifying over two million units sold. Its success is not limited to the country world—"Need a Favor" also reached No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100, a testament to Jelly Roll’s broad appeal.

"Save Me," one of his most powerful and enduring songs, has also garnered attention. Originally released in 2020 and reimagined with country star Lainey Wilson for Whitsitt Chapel, this heart-wrenching ballad has racked up over 69 million views on YouTube. Although it was initially thought to have reached 3x Platinum, the track is officially certified 2x Platinum by the RIAA. Its impact is undeniable, resonating with anyone who’s struggled with inner demons.

Beyond the charts, Jelly Roll’s talent has been recognized by the industry itself. At the 2023 People’s Choice Country Awards, he received a whopping eight nominations, including Male Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for "Need a Favor." It’s clear that his authentic, no-holds-barred style of storytelling is resonating with both fans and critics alike.

These recent accomplishments paint a picture of an artist who’s not only evolving but also breaking barriers between genres. Jelly Roll’s unique mix of country, rock, and hip-hop, combined with his ability to tell deeply personal stories, is what sets him apart. As his career continues to ascend, one thing is clear—Jelly Roll is here to stay, and he’s making a lasting impact on country music in ways that few could have anticipated.

Watch Jelly Roll's 'Need A Favor' below.

iam Payne, former One Direction member, was found dead at 31 in Buenos Aires on October 16, 2024. Payne reportedly fell from the third floor of the Casa Sur Hotel in the Palermo neighborhood, and emergency services confirmed his death at the scene. Local media, La Nacion, reported that police had been called to address an "aggressive man possibly under the influence of drugs and alcohol."

City ambulance service spokesman Alberto Crescenti stated that Liam Payne had fallen approximately 40 meters and sustained "severe injuries which were incompatible with life." He explained: "The alarm was raised at 5:04 p.m. local time, reporting a person lying in an internal patio at Casa Sur. By 5:11 p.m., an ambulance arrived, and the man was certified dead." Crescenti added, "Afterwards, we learned he was a famous singer. Unfortunately, the injuries from the fall were fatal, and there was no possibility of resuscitating him."

Payne rose to global fame as part of One Direction alongside Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan after competing on The X Factor in 2010. The group became one of the best-selling boy bands of all time before disbanding in 2016, allowing each member to pursue solo careers.

In the days leading up to his death, Payne's ex-fiancée Maya Henry, Texan model, 23, had initiated legal proceedings, accusing him of obsessive contact following their breakup in 2022. Their turbulent relationship had garnered significant media attention, with Henry recently speaking out about Payne’s erratic behavior and accusing him of stalking.

Liam Payne’s career after One Direction included hit singles such as "Strip That Down," but his personal struggles with addiction and relationships often overshadowed his professional life. His sudden death has left fans around the world mourning the loss of a talented singer who significantly impacted the music industry.

More information regarding the incident and its circumstances is expected to emerge as investigations continue.

Watch Payne's heartbreaking acoustic performance of his final single, "Teardrops," below.

October 11, 2024, Gracie Abrams earned RIAA Gold certifications for three of her singles: "I Love You, I’m Sorry," "21," and "Feels Like." Each of these tracks, from her album The Secret of Us, surpassed 500,000 units in sales and streams. The certifications reflect Abrams' growing success as a pop artist known for her introspective and emotionally resonant songwriting.

Released in June 2024, The Secret of Us features production from Aaron Dessner and explores themes of heartbreak, personal growth, and relationships. The album also includes the popular track "us," a collaboration with Taylor Swift, which has resonated deeply with fans for its seamless vocal blending and emotional depth.

In addition to these certifications, Abrams is preparing to release a deluxe edition of The Secret of Us on October 18, 2024. The new edition will feature four additional tracks and three live versions of songs from the original album, offering fans even more of her signature storytelling.

These certifications mark a pivotal moment for Gracie Abrams as she continues to gain traction with her blend of introspective pop and compelling storytelling. Her ongoing tour has further amplified her reach, drawing attention to her evolution as an artist. The Gold certifications affirm Abrams’ growing influence in the music industry, highlighting her ability to connect deeply with listeners.

ustafa's debut album Dunya was released on September 27, 2024, and it presents a deeply personal exploration of faith, trauma, and life in his Toronto community. The album's title, which translates from Arabic to “the world in all its flaws,” reflects its thematic focus on imperfections and Mustafa's journey to reconcile with the grief and loss that have shaped his life. Known for blending folk music with influences from his Sudanese heritage, Mustafa brings traditional instruments like the oud into his compositions, creating a unique and introspective sound.

On Dunya, Mustafa collaborates with artists such as Rosalía, Aaron Dessner (of The National), Clairo, and Nicolas Jaar. Tracks like “Name of God” explore Mustafa’s relationship with his Muslim faith, while "Gaza is Calling" delves into the story of a childhood friend separated from him by the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The album also touches on personal loss, particularly in the track "I’ll Go Anywhere," where Mustafa mourns his brother Mohamed, who was tragically killed in 2023.

Mustafa has a background as a poet and songwriter, having written for artists like The Weeknd, Camila Cabello, and Justin Bieber. However, Dunya stands apart from his previous work in the pop world, offering a raw and honest account of his own lived experiences. His ability to merge folk, Middle Eastern, and hip-hop elements into a cohesive narrative has drawn comparisons to artists like Joni Mitchell and Sufjan Stevens, while maintaining a unique voice that speaks to his heritage and identity.

Listen to the album: 

Watch Mustafa, 'Name Of God' (Live):

lex Warren’s debut album You’ll Be Alright, Kid (Chapter 1) is a deeply personal release that highlights his journey of emotional growth and resilience. Released under Atlantic Records, the album gives listeners a peek into Warren’s life with its mix of heartfelt lyrics and folk-pop vibes. Warren himself described the project as something he’d show his younger self, reflecting the challenges that have shaped him along the way.

With 10 tracks, the album features fan favorites like "Burning Down," a viral sensation on TikTok, and "Carry You Home," which has racked up over 151 million streams globally. The latter has also achieved Gold certification in Australia. This song, released around the time of Warren’s wedding to Kouvr Annon, taps into a folk-rock sound and its accompanying music video, focused on a wedding scene, has resonated with fans worldwide.

One of the standout tracks, "Troubled Waters," dives into Warren’s struggles, portraying his emotional battles through the metaphor of a storm. The music video, in which Warren is rescued by his wife, adds a powerful visual layer to the song. This raw emotional expression runs throughout the album, making it a highly relatable experience for his fans.

The album’s release coincides with a completely sold-out world tour, reflecting Warren’s growing fanbase. Shows across Europe and North America, including performances in major cities like Dublin, London, and Berlin, sold out fast.

For Warren, You’ll Be Alright, Kid (Chapter 1) isn’t just music—it’s an open letter to his younger self and a way to connect with listeners on a personal level. The album’s viral success, coupled with its emotional depth, sets the stage for what’s sure to be a bright future in Warren’s music career.

Listen to the album: 

Alex Warren, Burning Down:

abrina Carpenter’s career has hit a major milestone with her latest album Short n' Sweet reaching Platinum certification from the RIAA, just a month after its release. For an artist who's been steadily building her reputation, this achievement is a huge validation of her growth and determination. Hitting Platinum means the album has sold over a million units, and it’s the first time one of her full-length projects has reached this level.

Short n' Sweet, released on August 23, 2024, showcases Carpenter’s ability to balance catchy, feel-good pop with moments of introspection. It’s clear her fans have resonated with this evolution—after debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, the album stayed there for three weeks, fueled by hit singles like “Please Please Please” and “Espresso,” which also grabbed their own Platinum certifications. First-week sales alone hit a jaw-dropping 362,000 units, which speaks volumes about Carpenter’s rising star power.

But it's not just about the numbers. This Platinum certification is symbolic of Carpenter stepping out of the shadow of her Disney Channel days and into a new realm of pop stardom. Her previous album, Emails I Can’t Send, which went Gold earlier in 2024, was a step toward finding her voice, but Short n' Sweet is the moment where it all comes together.

Carpenter’s ongoing Short n' Sweet tour, her first headlining arena tour, launched on September 23, 2024, and is already making waves. Fans have flocked to see her perform across 29 North American cities, and she’s bringing something special to each show. Alongside a setlist packed with fan-favorites, she’s adding a fun twist by spinning a bottle on stage each night to select a surprise cover song, which so far has included everything from ABBA’s "Mamma Mia" to Sixpence None the Richer’s "Kiss Me." It’s little touches like this that make her concerts a must-see event.

There’s also a bigger mission behind the tour: Carpenter has partnered with PLUS1 to launch the Sabrina Carpenter Fund, supporting causes like mental health, animal welfare, and LGBTQ+ rights. This shows how she’s using her platform not just for entertainment, but to give back in meaningful ways, something her fans have rallied behind.

Overall, 2024 has been a breakout year for Sabrina Carpenter. Short n' Sweet is more than just another pop album—it’s a statement of her talent and staying power. With her tour gaining momentum and fans eager for more, it’s clear Carpenter’s moment is now, and she’s fully owning it.

yga’s 2018 single "Taste," featuring Offset, has officially reached Diamond certification from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) as of September 24, 2024. This achievement signifies the track surpassing 10 million units in combined sales and streaming, marking a significant moment in both artists' careers.

Released on May 16, 2018, "Taste" quickly became a major success. It peaked at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating Tyga’s return to the mainstream after several years without chart success. The track’s smooth production, courtesy of D.A. Doman, combined with Offset's dynamic feature, made it a standout hit that summer. Its longevity on streaming platforms and its consistent presence on social media and playlists contributed significantly to reaching the Diamond milestone.

The RIAA Diamond certification is reserved for tracks that have moved 10 million units, which can be either digital sales or streaming equivalents. The song’s enduring popularity across streaming services like Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music played a critical role in this achievement. Tyga expressed his gratitude to fans on social media, recognizing the role they played in streaming and supporting the song.

For Offset, "Taste" represents his first Diamond-certified track, adding a new accomplishment to his already successful career. As a member of Migos, Offset has had multiple hits, but this certification highlights his individual achievements as a featured artist on one of Tyga’s biggest songs.