Gayety

Tag: ava max

  • Ava Max Is Hitting the Road With Her ‘Don’t Click Play’ Tour

    Ava Max Is Hitting the Road With Her ‘Don’t Click Play’ Tour

    Ava Max is ready to press play on a brand new era.

    The platinum-haired hitmaker behind “Sweet but Psycho” is returning to the stage this fall with the Don’t Click Play tour, a North American trek launching alongside her upcoming third album of the same name. Starting Sept. 3 at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, Max will crisscross the continent with stops in major cities including New York, Chicago, Toronto, and Atlanta, and yes, she’s already teasing an international leg.

     

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    A New Album, A New Era

    After the shimmering disco-pop of Diamonds & Dancefloors, Max is doubling down on introspection and empowerment with Don’t Click Play. The album, her third full-length project, has already given fans a taste of what’s to come with singles like “Lovin’ Myself” and “Lost Your Faith.”

    “This song came from a moment where I finally realized I didn’t need anyone else’s validation to feel whole,” Max shared in an interview. “The highs, the lows, the comments section, it all pushed me to prioritize the relationship I have with myself.”

    From the sounds of it, this record is less about chasing trends and more about finding solid ground. Think less “club anthem” and more “mirrorball therapy session.”

    Catch Her If You Can

    The Don’t Click Play tour kicks off in California and moves steadily across the U.S. and Canada throughout September and early October. Pre-sale tickets will be available June 17, with general sale opening June 20 at 10 a.m. local time. Fans are already bracing themselves for what’s expected to be Max’s most dynamic live show yet, and if her last tour was any indication, there’ll be plenty of confetti, big notes, and high drama.

    Tour Dates:

    • Sept. 3 – Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre

    • Sept. 6 – San Francisco, CA @ The Masonic

    • Sept. 10 – Denver, CO @ Fillmore Auditorium

    • Sept. 13 – Irving, TX @ Toyota Music Factory

    • Sept. 14 – Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center

    • Sept. 16 – San Antonio, TX @ Boeing Center at Tech Port

    • Sept. 18 – Franklin, TN @ FirstBank Amphitheater

    • Sept. 20 – Atlanta, GA @ Chastain Park Amphitheater

    • Sept. 22 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Met

    • Sept. 24 – Washington, D.C. @ The Anthem

    • Sept. 25 – Boston, MA @ MGM Music Hall

    • Sept. 28 – Laval, QC @ Place Bell

    • Sept. 29 – New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall

    • Oct. 1 – Toronto, ON @ Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto

    • Oct. 2 – Sterling Heights, MI @ Freedom Hill Amphitheatre

    • Oct. 4 – Chicago, IL @ Huntington Bank Pavilion

    Fans Are (Predictably) Unhinged

    The second Max dropped her announcement, fans flooded social media like it was Black Friday. “Signed up for pre sales! Kinda geeked about it. Hopefully theres a VIP or meet and Greet!” one user posted. Another simply wrote, “Oh we will be attending!”

    At this point, it’s clear: Ava Max is playing the long game, and we’re all just background dancers in her neon-lit universe.

  • Laverne Cox Hosts ‘Billboard Women in Music’ as Doechii Receives ‘Woman of the Year’ Award

    Laverne Cox Hosts ‘Billboard Women in Music’ as Doechii Receives ‘Woman of the Year’ Award

    Billboard’s Women in Music event, held Saturday night, honored the influential women making waves in the music industry, from chart-topping artists to groundbreaking executives. Hosted by Laverne Cox, the star-studded evening featured electrifying performances, heartfelt speeches, and awards that celebrated the accomplishments of women who have redefined the music scene. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout moments from the event.

    Doechii Named Woman of the Year

    Doechii, an artist known for blending rap, R&B, and innovative sounds, was named 2025 Woman of the Year. Presented with the award by DJ Miss Milan and Jayda Love, Doechii’s acceptance speech was both empowering and reflective. “In 2025, lack of inclusion and sexism are, unfortunately, still an issue in this industry. That’s why I’m grateful for Billboard Women in Music,” she said. “While I may be front and center performing, I’m not alone. There are brilliant women behind me, both personally and professionally, who support me every step of the way.”

     

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    Meghan Trainor Honored with the Hitmaker Award

    Meghan Trainor, celebrated for her pop anthems and songwriting prowess, received the Hitmaker Award from Madison Beer. Beer praised Trainor as not only a hitmaker but also a powerhouse songwriter who has penned tracks for some of the biggest names in the music industry. During her acceptance speech, Trainor opened up about the therapeutic power of music. “I write songs to combat insecurity,” she shared, underscoring the personal connection she has with her work.

     

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    Rulebreaker Award: Megan Moroney

    Megan Moroney, known for her bold blend of country and emo influences, took home the Rulebreaker Award, presented by Tanner Adell and Crown Royal. Moroney delivered a memorable performance of her hit song “Am I Okay” before accepting the honor. Her performance was a testament to her unique voice and vision in the ever-evolving music landscape.

    GloRilla Takes Home the Powerhouse Award

    Rapper and singer GloRilla was honored with the Powerhouse Award, presented by country music artist Mickey Guyton. Guyton praised GloRilla for her dynamic voice, authenticity, and ability to blend femininity, toughness, and optimism in her music. GloRilla’s groundbreaking work in hip-hop has cemented her as a force to be reckoned with in the genre.

    Songwriter of the Year: Gracie Abrams

    Gracie Abrams received the Songwriter of the Year Award from Victoria Monét, who praised her for her prolific songwriting and emotional performances. Abrams gave an emotional acceptance speech, reflecting on the power of songwriting. “It’s sometimes wildly embarrassing… but it’s our most private diary entries and our loudest clarion calls,” she said. Abrams also thanked Taylor Swift for being a mentor and influence, noting that working with Swift had been a defining moment in her career.

    Tyla Wins Impact Award

    South African artist Tyla was presented with the Impact Award by Becky G, who highlighted her global influence in bringing South African culture to the world. Tyla’s performance of “Push to Start” left the crowd in awe, and in her acceptance speech, she reflected on the impact of her music on others. “You never know how something you say or do might ignite someone else,” she said. Tyla’s journey from South Africa to international stardom has made her a role model for women artists worldwide.

    Icon Award: Erykah Badu

    Erykah Badu was presented with the Icon Award by Summer Walker, who spoke about Badu’s mentorship and influence on her career. Walker shared that Badu had been a safe space for her, even serving as her doula during childbirth. Badu’s career spans decades, and her contributions to music and culture were celebrated by all in attendance.

    Additional Award Winners and Performances

    Other notable award recipients included:

    • Muni Long, who received the Rising Star Award presented by Julia Michaels and delivered a stunning performance of “Superpowers.”
    • Tina Knowles, who received the Mother of the Year Award from Billboard Editor-in-Chief Hannah Karp, reflected on the joys and challenges of motherhood, particularly her role in guiding her daughters Beyoncé and Solange.

     

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    • JENNIE, of K-pop group BLACKPINK, was recognized with the Global Force Award for her impact on music and culture, presented by Kali Uchis.
    • Ángela Aguilar, who performed “Cielito Lindo” before accepting the Breakthrough Award from Lauren Jauregui.
    • aespa, the K-pop girl group, took home the Group of the Year Award and delivered a high-energy performance of “Whiplash.”

    Celebrating International Excellence

    Zara Larsson presented the Global Women of the Year Award to Italian rapper ANNA and Canadian singer/songwriter Charlotte Cardin for their outstanding contributions to music on a global scale.

    Attendees and Performances

    The event was filled with high-profile guests, including Ari Lennox, Ashe, Ava Max, Bella Poarch, JoJo Siwa, Kandi Burruss, Keyshia Cole, Tinashe, and many others. Performances throughout the evening were nothing short of spectacular, with artists like Tyla, Muni Long, and Gracie Abrams delivering unforgettable moments.

    Streaming and Access

    For those who missed the live event, the Billboard Women in Music 2025 show is available for streaming on VIZIO’s WatchFree+ and the VIZIO mobile app. The show offers viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiring women shaping the music industry, featuring in-depth interviews, artist performances, and more.

    The Billboard Woman of the Year Award has become one of the most prestigious honors in the music industry. Past recipients include SZA, Olivia Rodrigo, Cardi B, and Taylor Swift, all of whom have made an indelible mark on the global music scene. With Doechii now joining this elite group, it’s clear that women continue to lead the way in the ever-evolving world of music.