Coachella 2025 Weekend 2 Recap

Coachella at night is magical. Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Weekend 2 of the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival was one of discovery to be sure. I not only enjoyed catching a number of artists for the first-time ever, I was more able to fully appreciate a few returning favorites (Lady Gaga, Japanese Breakfast, The Marias) and saw the Go-Go's for the first time in more than 30 years! Here I showcase my favorite artists seen as Coachella last weekend (April 18-20).

Glixen performing at Coachella on April 18.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Glixen — The first artist I caught on day one (April 18) was Glixen, a strong shoe gaze-styled quartet whose sound came off as a cross between Mazzy Star and Dinosaur Jr. The band made the most of its 30-minute set inside the Sonora tent and pleased the enthusiastic crowd on hand with a powerful set of heavy originals. 

TOPS — Canadian quartet TOPS blended melodic rock, ear candy-styled songcraft, new wave, occasional jazzy flourishes and winning vocal harmonies across their 40-minute set in the Sonora tent. 

Belinda Carlisle of the Go-Go's at Coachella.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

The Go-Go's — Although the Go-Go's were not as tight as many of the other bands that appeared at Coachella over the weekend, there is no denying the unbridled enthusiasm of the groundbreaking all-female Los Angeles outfit elevated their performance on the Outdoor Theatre stage on Friday afternoon. With a setlist filled with catchy and memorable material, the band thrilled the faithful with tracks including "Vacation," "Lust to Love," "Head over Heels," "Our Lips Are Sealed" and set-ending "We Got the Beat." However, I thought the single best selection of their set was "This Town," a song that showcased the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers' formidable strengths.

Benson Boone performing his new advance track "American Heart" at Coachella.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Benson Boone — The biggest surprise of Weekend 1 was when rising 22-year-old singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Benson Boone covered Queen's timeless hit "Bohemian Rhapsody" and brought out that band's Brian May to play his timeless lead guitar work on that 1975 classic. Although May didn't show up for Boone's Weekend 2 set on the Coachella Stage, Boone had no trouble impressing the audience with his signature style of modern pop-rock. Opening with "Sorry I'm Here For Someone Else," other uptempo cuts included "Cry" and "Mystical Magical." He proved equally skilled when sitting on the piano and performing more intimate material as evidenced by the early sections of "Slow It Down," "There She Goes" and the piano-anchored power ballad "Forever and a Day." Late set standouts included the title track from his forthcoming album ("American Heart"), a stunning take on Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" (the latter complete with a large vocal choir) and rousing version of his 2024 hit "Beautiful Things."

Maria Zardoya of The Marias.
Photo courtesy of Coachella

The Marias — Los Angeles' the Marias attracted such a large and enthusiastic crowd to the Outdoor Theatre it's clear the quartet could have performed on the larger Coachella stage. Lead singer Maria Zardoya is a particularly charismatic singer and she connected strongly with Coachellagoers on Friday; the stylish talents of drummer Josh Conway, guitarist Jesse Perlman and keyboardist Edward James enhance the Marias' remarkable style. Highlights included a shimmering take on "Real Life," the fanciful "Only in My Dreams" (the latter a track fully utilizing the striking set design), intense "Hush" and bewitching "Paranoia." The Marias closed with the Spanish language gem Cariño," with Zardoya venturing out into the crowd to greet excited fans. 

Parcels — One of the best sets of Weekend 2 belonged to Parcels, a five-member Berlin, Germany-based group that masterfully blended synth pop, disco, funk and alternative dance styles together on the Outdoor Theatre stage. Opening with the intoxicating dance track "Overnight," the group proceeded to keep the dance-minded party going with winning tracks including the harmonies-adorned "Lightenup," "Tieduprightnow" and the new single "Safeandsound," the latter featuring an explosive finale.

Fans watch Lady Gaga perform on one of the massive Coachella Stage screens.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Lady Gaga — No matter any Coachellagoer's specific taste in music — be it rock, jazz, dance, rap, hip-hop or you name it — there is a better than good chance they were blown away by Lady Gaga's 20-song performance spread over five specific acts on the Coachella Stage to cap the opening day of Weekend 2. The large audience was immersed in the artist's so-called "Mayhem Ball" (named after her mega-successful new album Mayhem), and were treated to a fast-moving concept concert featuring Lady Gaga singing and dancing up a storm. Following her acclaimed Coachella Weekend 2 performance, it was announced that Lady Gaga will bring her "Mayhem Ball" tour across the nation beginning in Las Vegas on July 16.

Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast on April 19, 2025.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Japanese Breakfast — As wonderful as indie art rock troupe Japanese Breakfast was at Weekend 1, the Michelle Zauner-led band was even more impressive Weekend 2. Over the course of 45 magical minutes the band ( which also features guitarist Peter Bradley, bassist Deven Craige and drummer-keyboardist Craig Hendrix) brought a mix of literate, musically diverse and fun material to the Outdoor Theatre stage. Zauner played guitar at times, danced at others and sang with palpable emotion throughout. A wide range of material connected with the crowd including alt rock ("Honey Water"), uptempo dance-minded cuts ("The Woman That Loves You," "Paprika," "Be Sweet"), breezy pop ("Road Head," "Picture Window") and semi-acoustic sorties ("Winter in LA," "Kokomo, IN"). 

Beth Gibbons at Coachella.
Photo courtesy of Coachella

Beth Gibbons — Best known as the singer and lyricist for groundbreaking English band Portishead, Beth Gibbons delivered one of the most ambitious and memorable sets of Weekend 2. Like Radiohead, Kate Bush and Peter Gabriel, Gibbons brings an intensity, depth and immersive soundscape to her sonic world. Backed by a seven-member band of virtuoso players, Gibbons made the most of every moment of her 45-minute set in the Gobi tent. Her set featured a number of amazing originals from her acclaimed 2024 album Lives Outgrown including her set opening "Burden of Life," the lush "Floating on a Moment," the edgy "Rewind" with its creative use of strings and a horn, and "Lost Changes" — the latter with its probing and potent exploration of mortality and love. Additionally, she thrilled music lovers with a powerful take on the Portishead favorite "Glory Box."

The Beaches turned in an impressive set at Coachella.
Photo courtesy of Coachella

The Beaches — Canadian indie rock heroes the Beaches were one of my top discoveries of Coachella 2025. The all-female band blended New Wave, post punk and alt rock sonics throughout their fiery audience-pleasing appearance on Sunday. It's rare for a modern rock band to have undeniable chemistry across their complete lineup but Jordan Miller (lead vocals, bass guitar), Kylie Miller (guitar, backing vocals), Leandra Earl (keyboards, guitar, backing vocals) and Eliza Enman-McDaniel (drums) showcased that in spades. Standouts of the Beaches' set included the catchy opener "Cigarette," '80s-flavored "Takes One To Know One," sweeping "Jocelyn," confessional rocker "Edge of the Earth" and explosive closer "Blame Brett."

Kraftwerk — Pioneering German electronic band Kraftwerk conjured up the beginnings of electronic music with a set of the quartet's distinctive material constructed via generally sparse arrangements, mechanical vocals, drum machine-driven rhythms, synthesizers and snappy melodies. Led by co-founder Ralf Hütter, highlights included the driving opener "Numbers / Computer World / Computer World 2," unsettling "Autobahn," pulsating "Radioactivity" and engaging "The Robots." 

Regarding the widely reported antisemitic, jew-hatred performance by the Irish rap group Kneecap, I encourage everyone to read the "Setting the Stage for Hate: Kneecap and Coachella's Collapse of Conscience" Opinion piece in the Hollywood Reporter HERE. Although this writer did not see any of that performance, I was contacted by many who knew I was at Coachella and concerned to see a performer spewing these hate-filled views at the festival. There is no place for this type of hate at Coachella.

Robert Kinsler

New Music: Albums shine a light on diverse sounds

Several outstanding reissues and a terrific new album are worth exploring this week.

Artist: The Go-Go's

Title: God Bless The Go-Go's (Eagle Records)

You might like if you enjoy: The Go-Go's, Belinda Carlisle

Tell me more: God Bless the Go-Go's, the Los Angeles' quintet's 2001 reunion album has just been released as a must-own deluxe edition. Celebrated in connection with its 20th anniversary, God Bless the Go-Go's has been reissued on CD, vinyl and digital formats via Eagle Records. This is the first time the original album version of the album is available on LP (pressed on 140-gram, blue colored vinyl). The deluxe CD and digital versions feature new cover art and both include two bonus tracks. The album fully captures the power and magic of the Go-Go's' groundbreaking 1981 debut Beauty and the Beat. The driving "Unforgiven" (featuring guest Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day), "Stuck In My Car" and "Automatic Rainy Day" display a flair for melody and power pop without abandoning the group's punk roots. Equally potent are the tuneful mid-tempo confessionals "Apology," "Vision of Nowness" and "Insincere" as well as the shimmering ballad "Here You Are." The two winning bonus tracks – the straightforward rocker "I Think I Need Sleep" and melodic "King of Confusion" – definitely make this collection worth adding to your collection. Here is one fan happy to hear that singer Belinda Carlisle, lead guitarist Charlotte Caffey, singer-guitarist Jane Wiedlin, bassist Kathy Valentine and drummer Gina Schock are set to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's class of 2021 on Oct. 30. Information: gogos.com.

Artist: The Palace Guard

Title: All Night Long: An Anthology, 1965-1967 (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: The Animals, 1960s rock, the Kingsmen

Tell me more: The explosive sound of '60s garage rock is captured across the outstanding new compilation All Night Long: An Anthology, 1965-1967 featuring the Palace Guard. Although poor management ultimately dimmed The Palace Guard's prospects for widespread acclaim, the Hawthorne, CA-based troupe did have enough regional success in Southern California to record enough great material to fill a disc. There are rousing rockers – notably the opener "All Night Long" along with "Falling Sugar," "Oh Blue (The Way I Feel Tonight)," "Saturday's Child" and "Party Lights" – which collectively capture the spirit of the era. Just as impressive are the wistful mid-tempo rock cuts showcasing the band's wonderful vocals ("Playgirl," "A Girl You Can Depend On," "If You Need Me" and more). The psychedelia-styled "Greed" is another true gem on the set. The Palace Guard featured brothers Don, John and David Beaudoin, their roommate Mike Conley, drummer Emitt Rhodes (who subsequently enjoyed success with Merry Go Round and a solo career), bass guitarist Rick Moser and lead guitarist Chuck McClung; Terry Rae replaced Rhodes in 1966 while Teddy Rooney replaced Moser in early 1967. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com.

Artist: Weezer

Title: Van Weezer (Atlantic / Crush)

You might like if you enjoy: Weezer, 1970s and '80s hard rock

Tell me more: Weezer explores their adolescent influences along with an appreciation of the electric guitar on their fifteenth album Van Weezer which has its obvious roots in the band's early love affair with melodic hard rock of the 1970s and '80s. Weezer (singer-songwriter-guitarist Rivers Cuomo, guitarist Brian Bell, drummer Pat Wilson and bassist Scott Shriner) conjures up the days of Van Halen, Ozzy Osbourne and Whitesnake to deliver a batch of instantly-likable tracks. Take "Blue Dream" – which sonically echoes Osbourne's 1980 classic "Crazy Train" – Weezer blend their signature melodic sheen with plenty of guitar-anchored hard rock attack. "The End of the Game" with its hammering guitar intro and in-the-pocket crunchy verses evokes hits by Whitesnake and 38 Special. Even while cranking up the guitars the band's melodic sense rules the day; the head-banging "1 More Hit" is bolstered by a vocals-heavy chorus and a wicked mid-song heavy metal break while "I Need Some of That" is equally strong with an undeniable chorus and tuneful guitar lines. Elsewhere, Weezer's own distinctive style is showcased on several of the disc's best cuts; "All the Good Ones" recalls the sound of their 2005 favorite "Beverly Hills" while "Sheila Can Do It" mirrors Weezer's mid-90s power pop-meets-indie rock approach. Always eager to surprise, Weezer closes with the gentle acoustic ballad "Precious Metal Girl." Information: Weezer.com.

Artists: Steve Goodman

Title: It Sure Looked Good on Paper: The Steve Goodman Demos (Omnivore Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: Steve Goodman, John Denver, Don McLean

Tell me more: Blessed with a terrific voice and equally impressive talents as a top-tier songwriter and acoustic guitar player, Steve Goodman sadly lost his battle with leukemia at the age of 36 in 1984 – before the Chicago native could be acknowledged beyond the small and dedicated group of artists and fans who recognized his greatness during his lifetime. Los Angeles' Omnivore Recordings has gone a long way over the past several years to reintroduce Goodman to a wider audience of discerning followers; the newly-issued It Sure Looked Good on Paper: The Steve Goodman Demos is packed with 20 previously-unissued recordings that include both solo acoustic and band demos. The range and depth of the material is truly impressive; an uptempo run through his beloved original "City Of New Orleans," winning Gram Parsons-flavored decree "Eight Ball Blues," romantic "Would You Like To Learn To Dance" and "Yellow Coat," countrified standout "You Never Even Call Me By My Name" co-written with John Prine (and a 1975 hit for David Allan Coe), melancholic "Song For David" and lovely closer "The Water Is Wide." The collection features restoration and mastering by Grammy Award-winning engineer Michael Graves, who has again teamed up with Grammy-winning producer Cheryl Pawelski (who compiled this 20-track collection) to add another important chapter in celebrating the work of Goodman's legacy. Available via audio CD and gatefold double LP, the release features new liner notes by Lee Zimmerman and photos from the Goodman family archive. Information: OmnivoreRecordings.com. 

Artist: John Linnell

Title: State Songs (Craft Recordings)

You might like if you enjoy: They Might Be Giants, Fountains of Wayne

Tell me more: An expanded digital edition of John Linnell's 1999 cult classic State Songs has just been released via Craft Recordings. One half of groundbreaking outfit They Might Be Giants (along with John Flansburgh), Linnell introduced "State Songs" via a five-song EP issued in 1994; five years late a full-length album was released on audio CD by Zoë/Rounder Records. More than two decades after its creation, "State Songs" remains a fun and fascinating listen with a vast array of far-flung instruments, wide-ranging musical styles and smart lyrics fused together into something special. The instrumental carousel-flavored "Illinois," power-pop gem "The Songs of the Fifty States," sly "West Virginia," buoyant "South Carolina,"glorious "Montana" and Americana art damage cut "Pennsylvania" are among the early standouts on the timeless collection. Just as inviting are the genre-defying "Utah," lovely "Arkansas," swirling "Maine" and the catchy bonus track "Louisiana" (the latter initially released as a B-side on the 1999 vinyl single of "Montana" - a collectible die-cut record in the shape of the USA). For those who love "State Songs" the additional good news is that Linnell is readying his next solo release, "Roman Songs"; that forthcoming EP is reportedly made up of songs written entirely in Latin. Information: CraftRecordings.com.

Robert Kinsler

New Music: 'The Go-Go's' documentary, The Band, Brigitte DeMeyer & Will Kimbrough, Beth Lee

The legacy of groundbreaking artists the Go-Go's and The Band, as well as exceptional studio albums from emerging duo Brigitte DeMeyer and Will Kimbrough, and Austin songstress Beth Lee are worth exploring.

Artist: The Go-Go's

Title: The Go-Go's (Mercury Studios / Eagle Rock)

You might like if you enjoy: The Go-Go's, Belinda Carlisle, Jane Wiedlin

Tell me more: Released via digital formats on Feb. 5, "The Go-Go's" is a compelling and satisfying documentary revisiting the story of the seminal all-female band that topped the charts in the early '80s. Directed by Alison Ellwood, "The Go-Go's" does an excellent job of chronicling the band's rise as a punk-rock outfit and their authentic movement into a more talented pop-rock territory. There are archival photos and early video of the women performing in the late 1970s and modern-day interviews that deal with the highs and lows of the collective featuring singer Belinda Carlisle, lead guitarist Charlotte Caffey, drummer Gina Schock, bassist Kathy Valentine and rhythm guitarist Jane Wiedlin.  Early in the film one of the band members notes how in the span of only a year singer the Go-Go's went from playing "dive bars to playing Madison Square Garden." Indeed, the Los Angeles-spawned band's 1981 debut Beauty and the Beat paved the way for many groups. The documentary is compelling in its ability to tap into the affecting moments such as when there was tension among members, and when the band initially broke up in 1985. "We didn't speak to each other for five years after that," recalls Caffey of that painful chapter. The documentary completes its run with a look at a 2019 reunion and the release of the group's first new song in 19 years, the infectious "Club Zero." Information: mercurystudios.co.

The Band's 'Stage Fright (50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition)' is being released on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021.

Artist: The Band

Title: Stage Fright (50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition) (Capitol/UMe)

You might like if you enjoy: The Band, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Flying Burrito Brothers

Tell me more: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame outfit The Band rose to fame in the late 1960s with a groundbreaking mix of folk, rock, country soul, R&B and jazz. On Friday, Feb. 12, the Canadian-American quintet's third full-length album Stage Fright will be released via several newly remixed, remastered and expanded 50th anniversary editions. The quality and richness of the remastered tracks is only equaled by the strength of the troupe's timeless songs and inspired performances. The loose "The W.S. Walcott Medicine Show," rollicking "The Shape I'm In," gorgeous "Daniel and the Sacred Harp" and arresting "Stage Fright" are among the early nuggets on the album. The Americana-styled rocker "Time To Kill," sweeping "Just Another Whistle Stop," gentle "All La Glory" and rowdy "Strawberry Wine" are late album standouts. Bonus tracks include alternate mixes of "Strawberry Wine" and "Sleeping." All of the editions were overseen by principal songwriter Robbie Robertson and feature a new stereo mix by Bob Clearmountain from the original multi-track master tapes. Additionally, "Stage Fright" is presented in the originally-planned song order. Other features of this 50th anniversary title include a slew of raw Calgary Hotel Recordings" captured in 1970 and an outstanding previously-unissued "Live at the Royal Albert Hall, June 1971" concert performance (which features "Stage Fright" songs along with favorites such as "The Weight," "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" and "Up On Cripple Creek"). Listening to this essential collection is to be reminded how enduring The Band's sound remains. Information: amazon.com.

Artist: Brigitte DeMeyer and Will Kimbrough

Title: Mockingbird Soul (BDM Music)

You might like if you enjoy: The Civil Wars, Larkin Poe, Bright Blue Gorilla 

Tell me more: On their first official full-length collaboration Mockingbird Soul, Brigitte DeMeyer and Will Kimbrough display how their individual talents as singers, songwriters and instrumentalists take on even greater resonance when they join forces. Mockingbird Soul is set in a sonic sphere rooted in blues, Americana and Southern soul, layered with their beautiful voices. The span of material extends from the shimmering vocals-drenched "Everything" and "Little Easy" to the bluegrass-mining "Running Round" and soul-meets-blues title track. The Nashville-based duo strike musical pay dirt with every offering on the album, creating a mesmerizing listen via a dozen songs that are uniformly literate and beautiful. EDITOR'S NOTE: This album was released two years ago, but I just recently discovered it in my overwhelmed music library! Information: brigittedemeyer.com and willkimbrough.com.

Artist: Beth Lee

Title: Waiting On You Tonight (Beth Lee)

You might like if you enjoy: Carla Olson, Hope Sandoval & the Warm Inventions

Tell me more: Austin-based artist Beth Lee's rewarding return Waiting On You Tonight is filled with confessional roots rockers that hit their mark. A gifted singer-songwriter armed with an authentic approach that blends Americana, Southern soul and melodic rock, Lee's soprano is perfectly suited to deliver the parade of reflective originals that are wonderfully free of cliché and instead mine deeper emotional terrain. The irresistible "Waiting on You Tonight," country rocker "Yale St and 45," amped "Pens and Needles," '50s-tinged retro delight "It Was Enough" and reflective "Understand Me" and are among the superb songs on the album. The Vicente Rodriguez-produced Waiting On You Tonight is set for release on Feb. 12. Information: BethLee.net/.

Robert Kinsler

The Go-Go's 'God Bless The Go-Gos' to be re-issued on May 14, 2021

Exciting news as it relates to groundbreaking all-female group the Go-Go's...

THE ORIGINAL ALBUM VERSION OF GOD BLESS THE GO-GO’S MAKES ITS VINYL DEBUT IN CELEBRATION OF ITS 20th ANNIVERSARY

THE DELUXE CD AND DIGITAL RELEASES TO INCLUDE NEW ARTWORK & BONUS TRACKS

New York, NY (February 5, 2021) – On May 14, 2021, The Go-Go’s’ critically acclaimed 2001 reunion album, God Bless The Go-Go’s, celebrates its 20th anniversary and will be reissued on CD, vinyl and digital formats via Eagle Records. This is the first time the original album version of God Bless The Go-Go’s will be available on LP and is pressed on 140gram, blue colored vinyl. The deluxe CD and digital versions feature new cover art and includes the bonus tracks “I Think I Need Sleep” and “King of Confusion.” Pre-order here. Featuring Charlotte Caffey (lead guitar, keyboards, vocals), Belinda Carlisle (lead vocals), Gina Schock (drums, percussion, vocals), Kathy Valentine (bass guitar, vocals) and Jane Wiedlin (guitar, vocals), God Bless The Go-Go’s was the band’s first studio album in 17 years following 1984’s Talk Show and reached No. 57 on the Billboard 200 and No. 17 on the Top Internet Albums chart. The album was produced by Paul Kolderie and Sean Slade (Radiohead, Hole) and features Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong on the single “Unforgiven,” Rame Jaffee (The Wallflowers and Foo Fighters) on “Here You Are,” as well as Roger Manning (Jellyfish. Imperial Drag and The Moog Cookbook) on the track “Daisy Chain.” Upon its original release, it was hailed by Uncut magazine for its “sheer, punchy exuberance” while Billboard was impressed with its “deliriously buoyant, unadulterated adult-made pop.” In addition, February 5 sees the release of their universally acclaimed, 2020 Critics Choice Award winning documentary THE GO-GO’S through digital download & rental services via Eagle Vision, followed by the 2-Disc set (DVD + Blu-ray) via Polygram/UMe on February 26. Pre order the DVD/Blu-ray here. The Alison Ellwood-directed THE GO-GO’S documentary, which first premiered at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, aired over the summer on Showtime to rave reviews, achieved a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and won a 2020 Critics Choice Award for “Best Music Documentary” in addition to receiving the honor of “Most Compelling Living Subjects in a Documentary.” With their roots in the L.A. punk scene, the candid and archive-rich documentary assesses the group’s place in music history this serious appraisal of their story is the first to set the record straight about their historical ascent to global stardom. A major highlight of the film focuses on their collaborative efforts in writing a new song, the female empowerment anthem “Club Zero,” which became the first Go-Go’s single in nearly 20 years and hit the Top 10 on the Rock Digital Song Sales chart.

VINYL TRACK LISTING: SIDE 1 1. La La Land 2. Unforgiven 3. Apology 4. Stuck In My Car 5. Vision Of Nowness 6. Here You Are 7. Automatic Rainy Day SIDE 2 1. Kissing Asphalt 2. Insincere 3. Sonic Superslide 4. Throw Me A Curve 5. Talking Myself Down 6. Daisy Chain CD/DIGITAL TRACK LISTING 1. La La Land 2. Unforgiven 3 .Apology 4. Stuck In My Car 5. Vision Of Nowness 6. Here You Are 7. Automatic Rainy Day 8. Kissing Asphalt 9. Insincere 10. Sonic Superslide 11. Throw Me A Curve 12. Talking Myself Down 13. Daisy Chain 14. I Think I Need Sleep 15. King Of Confusion *Bonus Tracks In June, The Go-Go’s will perform a series of summer 2021 North American tour dates in conjunction with the documentary release. Starting at San Francisco’s Masonic Auditorium, they’ll perform at intimate venues across North America, giving fans a chance to see them up close and personal. Summer 2021 North American tour dates: Jun 18 The Masonic San Francisco, CA + Jun 23 Humphreys San Diego, CA + Jun 24 Humphreys San Diego, CA + Jun 27 Pechanga Resort Casino Temecula, CA + Jun 29 Orpheum Theater Los Angeles, CA + Jun 30 Orpheum Theater Los Angeles, CA + Jul 7 Theatre at Westbury Westbury, NY Jul 8 Parx Casino Bensalem, PA Jul 10 Foxwoods Resort Casino Mashantucket, CT Jul 11 Stone Pony Asbury Park, NJ + ▪ Date changes The Go-Go’s skyrocketed to superstardom after they released one of the most successful debut albums of all time, 1981’s Beauty And The Beat, a collection of hook-laden, infectious songs that stayed at No. 1 on the Billboard charts for six consecutive weeks, spawning the hits “Our Lips Are Sealed” (named one of Rolling Stone’s Top 100 Pop Singles) and “We Got The Beat” and also earned them a Grammy nomination for “Best New Artist.” They have the notable distinction of being the only all-female band to write their own songs and play their own instruments on a No. 1 album. Their 1982 follow-up, Vacation, hit Top Ten on the Billboard 200 and featured the Top Ten title track “Vacation.” They have sold over 7 million records worldwide and continue to blaze new trails, kicking down the doors for women in particular.

Trailblazers The GO-GO’S to release first new single in 20 years

Here is great news about new music coming from legendary Los Angeles band The Go-Go's!

ORIGINAL LA PUNK TRAILBLAZERS THE GO-GO’S TO RELEASE FIRST NEW SINGLE IN 20 YEARS 

‘CLUB ZERO’ RELEASED ON JULY 31^st

POLYGRAM ENTERTAINMENT DOCUMENTARY 

‘THE GO-GO’S’ PREMIERES AUGUST 1 ON SHOWTIME^®

“The Go-Go’s reveals a story of talent, will, friendship, addiction, and forgiveness. The backdrop of the male-dominated music business highlights that these ladies who have stayed brash and whipsmart have always been entirely punk” –FILM THREAT

“Don’t think of the Go-Go’s as a bit of Reagan-era nostalgia, the musical equivalent of a Rubik’s cube. Think of them as a first-tier, kick-ass rock group, period, full stop, the end. Mission accomplished”– ROLLING STONE

“…in the fresh bopping beauty of their punk romantic sound, they kicked open a door of perception” ­– VARIETY

 “…the group formed in the late ’70s and quickly scaled local line-ups — and eventually, the pop charts — as the first multi-platinum-selling all-female band to play their own instruments, making history and blazing a trail for dozens upon dozens of future artists”– THE WRAP

“The first and still only all-female band to write their own songs, play their own instruments and top the Billboard album charts gets a spirited salute in Alison Ellwood's doc for Showtime” – HOLLYWOOD REPORTER

LOS ANGELES, CA – July 1, 2020 – The Go-Go’s, the iconic all female L.A. punk band, will release their first new recording in nearly 20 years, “CLUB ZERO,” on July 31st on UMe. The band can be seen working on an early version of the song in their new documentary THE GO-GO’S, directed by Alison Ellwood (Laurel Canyon, History of the Eagles) which premieres August 1st at 9 pm ET/PT on SHOWTIME. View the official trailer HERE and music, HERE.

Propelled by the spirited, melodic punch we’ve come to expect from the Southern California band, as well as a catchy, call-to-action chorus, “CLUB ZERO” will certainly join the ranks among an esteemed catalog of Go-Go’s classics.

The self-produced track was created via email exchanges amongst bandmembers and recorded at Lucky Recording in S.F. with Co-Producer/Mixer/Engineer Travis Kasperbauer and in Los Angeles with Lead Vocal Recording/Producer Gabe Lopez. As the band’s stance has always been fervent when it comes to relevant issues, the anthemic, punk-infused paean arrives just in time for a world in desperate need of a voice of optimism and change:

“HEY WE’VE GOT SOMETHING TO SAY

‘GONNA MAKE THE WORLD SHAKE’

READY OR NOT HERE WE ARE”

A live version of “CLUB ZERO” featured in the THE GO-GO’S documentary shows the evolution of the track as the band writes and works out the melody in preparation for their performance at their early stomping grounds The Whisky a Go Go on The Sunset Strip. The documentary directed by Alison Ellwood (Eagles, Laurel Canyon) premiered at the Sundance Film Festival this past January to standing ovations and critical acclaim. With full access to The Go-Go’s, both past and present, this candid archive-rich documentary assesses the group’s place in music history as it focuses on their roots as a formidable contender in L.A.’s late ‘70s punk scene, detailing their rise to the top as they become one of the decade’s most beloved acts as well as an unstoppable force. It also examines the personalities and dynamics behind their rise, fall and numerous reincarnations.   Until this definitive film, there has never been a serious appraisal of and showcase for The Go-Go’s’ talents or achievements – as musicians, groundbreakers, but even more so, as survivors. 

To date, The Go-Go’s have the notable distinction of being the only all-female band to write their own songs and play their own instruments on a #1 album. Formed in 1978, they were a vital part of the early Los Angeles punk scene. Following the release of their debut album in 1981, the landmark multi-platinum Beauty And The Beat, they topped the Billboard 200 chart for six consecutive weeks and received a nomination for Best New Artist at The 24^th Annual Grammy® Awards. Their 1982 follow-up, Vacation, hit Top Ten on the Billboard 200 and featured the Top Ten title track “Vacation.” Overall, they have sold over 7 million records worldwide and continue to tour with the “classic lineup” from 1981 – Belinda Carlisle (vocals), Jane Wiedlin (guitar), Charlotte Caffey (guitar), Kathy Valentine (bass) and Gina Schock (drums).  More recently, Head Over Heels, a musical featuring the songs of The Go-Go’s, had a successful run on Broadway in July of 2018. 

THE GO-GO’S is fully financed by Polygram Entertainment, the film and television division of Universal Music Group, and presented and produced by Polygram, Universal Music Publishing Group, Interscope Films, Fine Point Films and Fadoo Productions. Alison Ellwood (History of The Eagles, American Jihad) directs the film with Trevor Birney, Corey Russell and Eimhear O’Neill producing. Polygram Entertainment’s David Blackman and Daniel Inkeles are executive producing; the creative team also includes editor Brett Banks and executive producers Brendan J. Byrne. Wally Eltawashy & Arturo Cisneros serve as co-executive producers.

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The Go-Go’s coming to Segerstrom Center during 2016 the Go-Go’s Farewell Tour

With the upcoming closure of Irvine Meadows later this year, Orange County is going to have to get pretty creative in order to get some of the more high-profile shows. Nice to see the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa is hosting one of the Go-Go's Farewell Tour dates...

The multi-platinum rock group The Go-Go’s will embark on their farewell tour this summer to commemorate a groundbreaking 38 years in the music industry. Kicking off August 2, 2016 in Clearwater, FL, the month-long trek will hit major cities including New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. before wrapping in Southern California at Segerstrom Center for the Arts on August 28 and Los Angeles at the Greek Theatre on August 30. 

The tour will feature members Charlotte Caffey,Belinda Carlisle, Gina Schock and Jane Wiedlin performing their timeless catalog. L.A. based rock duo Best Coast will appear as special guests on most dates and rising star Kaya Stewart will open all shows. 

Tickets start at $49 and go on sale Friday, March 25 at 10 a.m. PST and will be available online at SCFTA.org, by calling (714) 556-2787 and at the Box Office at 600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa. Details on VIP meet and greet packages are forthcoming. For complete tour information visit: http://gogos.com.

Inbox Update: Alanis Morissette, Belinda Carlisle, Brent Amaker and The Rodeo

Happy Friday everybody! Here is the latest batch of releases to share...

On April 23, 2013, Eagle Rock Entertainment will release Alanis Morissette: Live At Montreux 2012 on DVD, Blu-ray, and CD


Live At Montreux 2012 is Alanis Morissette’s first live release in 10 years. Filmed in high definition on July 2, 2012, this set features a blend of songs from her most recent album, Havoc And Bright Lights a bevy of her beloved hits: “Ironic,” “Hand In My Pocket,” “You Learn” and “Thank U,” as well as the revolutionary kiss-off “You Oughta Know.” This stop on the Guardian Angel tour (in support of Havoc) was Alanis’ third appearance at the famed Montreux Jazz Festival.

Of course, the sheer poetry and emotional spirit of Alanis Morissette’s music is what’s truly on display here. The genuine, honest soul-baring nature of her songs, carried by her instantly recognizable and absolutely unique vocal style is on evident on Live At Montreux. Alanis is one of the most successful female artists and songwriters of all time, having sold in excess of 60 million albums worldwide. It is plain to see why she has achieved such accolades when you witness a performance like this set at Montreux.

Alanis Morissette: Live At Montreux 2012 features the following line-up: Julian Coryell (guitar); Michael Farrell (keyboards); Jason Orme (guitar); Cedric Lemoyne (bass); Victor Indrizzo (drums).

Click here to view a video of “Guardian”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJYHSfEKGG8

Eagle Rock Entertainment is the largest producer and distributor of music programming for DVD, Blu-Ray, TV, Audio and Digital Media in the world. Eagle works directly alongside talent to produce top quality, High Definition and 3D programs, both concerts and documentaries, including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, The Who, Queen, The Doors, Jeff Beck, U2, Peter Gabriel, Paul McCartney and Ozzy Osbourne. Eagle is a Grammy Award winning company and has received over 30 multi-platinum, over 50 platinum and over 90 gold discs, worldwide. Eagle Rock Entertainment has offices in London, New York, Toronto, Paris and Hamburg.



Belinda Carlisle, best known to fans worldwide for her hugely successful solo career as well as the lead vocalist/songwriter of one of the most successful female bands of all time, the Go-Go’s, is the latest artist to get the ICON treatment with the release of Belinda Carlisle - ICON on March 19 through Universal Music Enterprises (UMe).

Carlisle was recently inspired to return to the studio where she recorded a new track, “Sun.” The new track is exclusively available physically on this ICON collection as well as digitally available on Best Of, both which brings Carlisle’s biggest hits together on one album. “Sun” will also be available for download as a digital single as well.


The first all-female band to write their own music and play their own instruments, The Go-Go’s, were the first to achieve a No. 1 album, Beauty and the Beat, which featured the hits "We Got the Beat" and "Our Lips Are Sealed." Although The Go-Go’s disbanded in 1985, Belinda Carlisle embarked on a solo career. Her Gold-certified solo album debut, Belinda, was released in 1986 and featured the #3 hit single "Mad About You." Carlisle returned with her second solo album in 1987, releasing Heaven on Earth which shot to Platinum certification within a few months, fueled by its #1 smash single, “Heaven Is A Place On Earth,” the #2 hit "I Get Weak," and the Top 10 "Circle in the Sand." Runaway Horses, Carlisle’s Gold-certified third solo album, was released in 1989 and included the hits "Leave a Light On" and "Summer Rain” all of which are featured on the ICON release.

Carlisle released four other solo albums before going on a musical hiatus, during which Carlisle penned her autobiography Lips Unsealed, which quickly reached the top of the NYTimes bestsellers list. She also launched Belindia, an Indian-inspired home goods textiles company which features designs by Belinda, inspired by her time living in India. Belindia's blankets and throws are produced in association with — and a portion of the proceeds go to — Shuktara Project, a Calcutta-based charity that offers care to abandoned children with disabilities.
In 2012, the Go-Go’s reunited to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their double-Platinum I.R.S. Records debut, Beauty and the Beat, with a remastered and expanded commemorative edition, a successful “Ladies Gone Wild” summer tour, and a new star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Belinda Carlisle: ICON [CD], BEST OF [DIGITAL],

1. Sun [EXCLUSIVE NEW SONG]

2. Heaven Is A Place On Earth

3. I Get Weak

4. Shades Of Michelangelo

5. Leave A Light On

6. Circle In The Sand

7. Mad About You

8. Summer Rain

9. (We Want) The Same Thing

10. Do You Feel Like I Feel?

11. Live Your Life Be Free

Brent Amaker and The Rodeo. Photo credit: Lance Mercer

Seattle record label Fin Records have announced the signing of Brent Amaker and The Rodeo to their roster, as well as their upcoming full length Year of The Dragon, slated for release June 4th. Their fourth full length record, Year of the Dragon will be released on vinyl, cd, and digital download. Full album details, including the artwork, track list, and first single, will be announced soon.

When asked for a note on the upcoming Year Of The Dragon, Fin Records owner Christian Fulghum expressed his enthusiasm by stating, "Working with Brent Amaker and The Rodeo is fun because they are taking all-American Cowboy iconography and cross-breeding it with Krautrock and the Boys from Akron. The songwriting is by turns sly, funny, and subversive. My kind of music.”
Mr. Amaker noted, "This latest LP may just expand your perception of American Western music. We've been on a strange and wonderful trip these past several years and the new songs reflect that. Year of the Dragon is darker than previous stuff and more fully expresses where the band is going. And on top of that, I couldn't be happier to be releasing the next Rodeo LP under the Fin Records imprint. They produce a high quality product and they keep the focus on the artist. It's truly exciting to be part of their family. Now saddle up and get yourself ready!"

Fin Records is an up and coming label that has already given homes to a wide swath of acts ranging across a vareity of genres, from Hip Hop to Noise, to Country, and then some. Recently named "Local Record Label of The Year 2012' by the Seattle Weekly, the two year old label has recently released acclaimed works from the likes of J. Pinder, The Walkabouts, Red Jacket Mine, Long Distance Poison, Davidson Hart Kingsbery and many more.

Brent Amaker and the Rodeo will be playing in Olympia, WA next Friday, 3/8. at the Royal Lounge, and touring through out 2013. Stay tuned.