Music

Revival and Rhythm: A Look at Columbus' Vibrant Music Scene in May

authorBy hmyworldfix

DateMay 02, 2025

Read time2 min

In the heart of spring, Columbus is set to transform into a bustling hub of musical talent with an array of concerts and festivals. From rock legends reuniting to electronic dance music electrifying the night, this month promises unforgettable performances. Among the highlights are the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival featuring Metallica, Korn, and Linkin Park with their new co-vocalist Emily Armstrong, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo bringing decades of rock history to Mershon Auditorium, and the Breakaway Music Festival showcasing EDM sensations like Dom Dolla, SOFI TUKKER, and Marshmello. Each event offers unique experiences, from reserved Rock Royalty packages to artist meet-and-greets, ensuring fans enjoy every note.

Sonic Temple Unveils its Grand Spectacle

From May 8-11, Historic Crew Stadium becomes the epicenter of sound for the Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival. This festival features iconic headliners such as Metallica performing two distinct sets across the weekend, Korn joined by original vocalist Adam Gontier, and Linkin Park making waves with their new co-lead singer Emily Armstrong. The lineup boasts over 100 acts including Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie, and Incubus, creating a diverse tapestry of sounds under one roof. Meanwhile, on May 23, Mershon Auditorium hosts Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo, celebrating over four decades of their harmonious partnership. In late May, the Breakaway Music Festival lights up the stadium again with electrifying beats from Dom Dolla, SOFI TUKKER, and Marshmello.

Breakaway’s Electric Pulse

On May 30-31, Historic Crew Stadium once more welcomes revelers for the Breakaway Music Festival. Opening night brings house music sensation Dom Dolla, known for collaborations with Nelly Furtado and Dua Lipa, alongside dance duo SOFI TUKKER whose tracks have graced global charts and even Hollywood films. The second evening belongs to Marshmello, whose enigmatic presence and chart-topping hits continue to captivate audiences worldwide.

This vibrant season of music not only entertains but also unites communities through shared passion. As these artists descend upon Columbus, they remind us that music transcends boundaries, offering solace, joy, and inspiration. Whether you're swaying to classic rock anthems or losing yourself in pulsating beats, there's something magical about experiencing live performances that resonate deeply within us all.

Empowering Young Musicians: A Symphony of Growth and Community

This episode of Teachers’ Lounge features Blakeley Menghini, Education and Community Engagement Director for the Rockford Symphony Youth Orchestra. The orchestra, comprising around 50 middle and high school students from northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin, offers a supportive environment for playing challenging music. Blakeley emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming multiple players of the same instrument to foster learning and growth. As a music educator and professional violist, she encourages student participation and public support for the orchestra. Teachers’ Lounge highlights educators nominated by listeners, sharing their impactful stories. The podcast airs monthly on 89.5 FM and streams at WNIJ.org, with the next episode on May 30th. Listeners can nominate educators via email at teacherslounge@niu.edu.

By hmyworldfixMay 02, 2025

Exploring the Intersection of Music and Storytelling in "Sinners"

In "Anatomy of a Scene," Ryan Coogler narrates a pivotal sequence from his film "Sinners." Set in a juke joint owned by twins Smoke and Stack, the scene features Sammie Moore's performance, highlighting the collision of music's history and future. Coogler emphasizes the importance of blues as sacred and powerful, using fluid editing to establish character stakes. A voice-over by Annie connects the music to conjuring spirits, while an ambitious tracking shot introduces various eras of musicians. The choreography evolves subtly, blending traditional and modern elements. This sequence underscores the film's exploration of music's transformative power and its ability to transcend time.

By hmyworldfixMay 02, 2025

Bernstein's Legacy Amidst Political Turmoil

The article reflects on Leonard Bernstein's connection to the Kennedy Center, initiated when Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis invited him to be its first executive director. Though he declined, he contributed by composing the "Mass," performed at the center's inauguration in 1971. Now, with President Trump asserting control over the Kennedy Center, some artists have protested by severing ties. As rights holders of Bernstein's music, his family considered withdrawing his works from a gala but decided against it, knowing their father would want his music heard. Bernstein believed in uniting humanity through music, aligning with the Kennedy Center's mission to uplift all Americans and visitors. Despite past pressures, including during the Red Scare, Bernstein always prioritized artistic expression.

By hmyworldfixMay 02, 2025

Unveiling the Best New Music Releases of the Week

This New Music Friday, NPR Music's Stephen Thompson and Julie Bee from Marfa Public Radio highlight recent album releases to enhance your weekend. Featured artists include Car Seat Headrest with "The Scholars," Samantha Crain’s "Gumshoe," PUP's "Who Will Look After The Dogs?," Jenny Hval’s "Iris Silver Mist," and Jolie Laide’s "Creatures." The hosts delve into the stories and standout tracks of these albums. Over 50 new releases are available to stream through NPR's New Music Friday playlist. The production team includes producers and editors dedicated to bringing listeners the latest in music. Explore the full list of May 2 releases on npr.org/music.

By hmyworldfixMay 02, 2025

Royal Melodies: A New Chapter in Music Romance

Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco have released a new song titled "Talk," featured on the deluxe edition of their collaborative album, *I Said I Love You First...And You Said It Back*. The track interpolates Cake's "Never There" and showcases Gomez reflecting on a recent breakup. Accompanied by a prom-themed music video directed by Tony Yacenda, the song highlights Gomez’s first prom experience. The deluxe album includes four new tracks such as “Stained” and features collaborations with artists like GloRilla and Cigarettes After Sex. Engaged couple Gomez and Blanco initially launched the album in March, earning praise for its uplifting pop themes. Rolling Stone reviewer Rob Sheffield expressed hope for future sequels to the project.

By hmyworldfixMay 02, 2025