Insights | October 1, 2026
September Music Industry Trends & Insights Report
The G7 Music Industry Trends & Insights Report is a monthly snapshot of the moments, movements, and signals shaping the music business. Designed for marketers, each edition highlights key developments across touring, releases, technology, and culture.
The latest wave of music industry headlines points to a music landscape where touring, technology, and artist-fan connections continue to expand in new directions. From major artists announcing new tour markets and milestone performances to platforms turning playlists into live experiences and creating new pathways for emerging artists, the lines between discovery, fandom, and participation continue to blur. At the same time, partnerships like Metallica’s work with the American Red Cross and Marshall’s support of grassroots venues show how artists and brands can use music to create experiences with impact beyond the stage.
Tour Announcements
- In support of her next album, Victoria Monet is hitting the road with the ‘Frequency of Love Tour’.
- In 2027, Harry Styles is expanding his ‘Together, Together’ Tour to 12 new markets.
- In honor of the 50th anniversary of the ‘Songs In the Key of Life’ album, Stevie Wonder has announced a celebratory tour by the same name.
- This fall, Julien Baker is making her return to the stage with the ‘Road with Rock Club’ Residency tour.
Awards & Honors
- MTV VMAs 2026: Taylor Swift and Madonna win at awards dominated by female artists.
- The Country Music Association has released the names of the final nominees for ‘The 60th Annual CMA Awards.’
- Dolly Parton will be honored with Nashville Chamber’s 2026 Icon award for her outstanding contributions to Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
- Molly Tuttle, Tyler Childers, and Brandi Carlile took home the top honors at the 25th annual Americana Honors & Awards.
News In Tech
- Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” topped TikTok’s summer rankings, proving the app’s power to revive classic hits.
- Amazon Music Live is back for its fifth season, featuring performances from Noah Kahan, Don Toliver, Lainey Wilson, and Doja Cat.
- Spotify is transforming its popular RNB X playlist into a live Dallas music festival, complete with exclusive concert streaming.
- Spotify’s new Fresh Finds Forward program will offer year-long support and promotional benefits to roughly 10,000 emerging independent musicians annually.
Relevant Industry News
- Metallica teamed up with the American Red Cross to create a backstage-themed blood donation pop-up in Las Vegas.
- Marshall launched a ‘The Dead Venue Series’ bringing live performances to former venue sites to support grassroots music spaces.
- Ella Langley’s “Choosin’ Texas” broke the record for the longest-running #1 song in Billboard Hot 100 history.
- Taylor Swift will drop her new song “Patient Zero” and premiere its star-studded music video during Sunday’s MTV Video Music Awards.
The music industry moves fast. The best brand strategies move with it.
From emerging artist trends to live experiences and cultural moments, G7 helps brands identify opportunities to connect with audiences through entertainment. Connect with our team to explore your next partnership or activation.