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The Grammy-nominated singer, known for hits including “Knock You Down,” “Pretty Girl Rock,” and her work with Timbaland on “The Way I Are,” performed on Saturday, August 29, at Nibiru Arena in Costinești. She shared the bill that night with Fat Joe during the three-day event (August 28–30) dedicated to the sound and culture of the 2000s.
RETROGRADE closed NIBIRU’s inaugural summer season. The new entertainment destination between Costinești and Tuzla billed itself as Europe’s largest of its kind, running daily events from mid-July into early September and drawing millions of visitors.
Keri Hilson Brings 2000s R&B to Romania’s Black Sea Coast for NIBIRU’s RETROGRADE Festival
Headliners across the weekend included Timbaland and Eve on Friday and Busta Rhymes on Sunday, with Ja Rule also on the lineup. Organizers framed the festival as a nostalgia event that connected generations around MTV-era hits still widely recognized more than 20 years later.
Romanian coverage described packed crowds and a lively atmosphere that spilled onto the beach the next morning. Attendees and organizers highlighted the cross-generational appeal of the 2000s catalog. NIBIRU reported tens of thousands attending the festival nights as part of a first-season total exceeding 2.6 million visitors to the complex.
This Romania date stood out because most of Hilson’s 2026 bookings were in the United States—festival and package shows in cities including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Norfolk, Omaha, and Hawaii—plus earlier appearances in Kazakhstan. Tour aggregators listed only a handful of remaining U.S. dates after the summer, with no additional confirmed European legs appearing in major listings as of early September.
Hilson’s live activity in 2026 coincided with her return to recording after a long hiatus. She discussed a new album, We Need To Talk, her first in 15 years, and expressed interest in more touring, including smaller venues where she could connect directly with audiences. The Romania booking placed her back on a large outdoor stage with fellow 2000s names, including her frequent collaborator Timbaland, in a market where those records still carry strong recognition.14
NIBIRU’s model—multiple themed festivals across one seasonal site rather than a single weekend event—gave the Romanian coast a high-profile international R&B and hip-hop booking that had been relatively rare. For Hilson, it was a visible European stop during a year focused on reconnecting with fans through both new music and catalog performances.
Fortunately, there are other ways and venues to enjoy live music in Atlanta. Our Atlanta Live Music Guide lets you know every week and each fun-filled weekend who’s playing and where.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
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The Midnight train to Georgia is slowing down.
Gladys Knight is easing back from touring after recent concerts sparked concern about her well-being, announcing she will take on fewer live performances as she enters a new chapter.
The 82-year-old Motown legend and seven-time Grammy winner posted a statement on Instagram on August 27, 2026, saying she had done “much soul searching.” She wrote that she will be “easing into fewer performances while focusing on transitioning into the next stage of my career and life moving forward.”
Gladys Knight Health Concerns: What We Know
Knight added that she plans to spend more time on projects with her husband, William McDowell, and visiting her grandchildren. She described the shift as a “new era” rather than a full retirement.
“I’d like to take a moment, in advance, to thank all my fans over this last three quarters of a century for making a little girl’s dream come true and supporting her every step of the way,” she continued. “I hope to see your smiling faces out and about and on the road. God bless all of you and hope to see you soon.”
Knight still has dates booked through mid-November 2026. Her next scheduled appearances include a September 11 show in Cincinnati, with her final listed date on November 14 in Highland, California. The status of those remaining concerts is not fully clear, though her statement indicates she intends to keep performing, just less frequently.
The announcement followed reports of uneven recent shows. At a July 25 concert at the Hollywood Bowl, Knight appeared to lose her place during “Midnight Train to Georgia,” turning her back to the audience and beginning to walk offstage; a backup singer’s attempt to guide her was reportedly shaken off.
An August 18 performance at Detroit’s Fisher Theatre saw her take multiple breaks and look exhausted, with some audience members leaving early. Sources connected to the tour also described an April Las Vegas date with Smokey Robinson as particularly concerning.
McDowell, who is both her husband of 25 years and her manager, told TMZ that Knight has “good days and bad” and that “all she wants to do is sing.” He said she has not been diagnosed with dementia but that they plan to have her evaluated by a doctor.
He indicated he would closely watch a September 5 show and could cancel remaining dates if it went poorly. McDowell also said he is building a performance facility near their North Carolina home so she can continue singing without the demands of constant travel.
This is not the first time questions have arisen about Knight’s touring pace. In 2025, during The Queens Tour with Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, and Stephanie Mills, her son Shanga Hankerson publicly said the schedule was “detrimental” to her health and accused McDowell of pushing her to perform. Knight and her representatives rejected those claims at the time, with Knight stating she was “healthy and happy.”
Knight’s voice has been widely described as still strong when she is fully engaged. Observers have noted that she often leans on her backup singers during weaker moments. A Billboard critic who reviewed the Hollywood Bowl show wrote that she “barely got through this show, and only by leaning heavily on her backup singers.”
Georgia remembers Dolly Parton.
The Empress of Soul has been performing for roughly 75 years, first rising to fame with Gladys Knight & the Pips. Hits such as “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” and “Neither One of Us” made her one of the defining voices of soul and R&B. She was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Pips.
Her latest statement frames the change around family, new projects, and gratitude rather than a specific medical diagnosis. Fans and industry observers will now watch whether the remaining 2026 dates proceed and how the next phase of her career takes shape off the road.
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Dolly Parton was a Tennessee original, but Georgia has spent the last day mourning her as if she belonged to the Peach State too. The country music titan died Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026, in Nashville at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer. Within hours, Georgia-born and Georgia-based musicians — from country radio fixtures to Atlanta R&B royalty and hip-hop stars — began saying what her songs had always made feel obvious: she was theirs as well.
Parton’s Georgia story started before most of the tributes did. In 1966 she and Carl Dean slipped across the state line and married at Ringgold Baptist Church, a quiet elopement that the north Georgia town still treats as civic history. She later filmed Joyful Noise and Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings around metro Atlanta, played Georgia Tech’s Alexander Memorial Coliseum in 1977, and, in 2002, invited Midtown drag performers onstage at Center Stage to sing “Jolene.” Those ties help explain why the grief here has felt so personal.
‘A rhinestone example of what it means to be giving’
Jennifer Nettles, the Sugarland frontwoman who came up in Atlanta, knew Parton as more than an influence. Nettles portrayed Parton’s mother in the NBC films Coat of Many Colors and Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love. After the news broke, she wrote that the world was better because Parton had been in it.
“She was a singing, dazzling, rhinestone example of what it means to be giving, kind, generous, gracious, and loving,” Nettles said. “She leaves us an artistic legacy that will never even remotely be rivaled, and moreover, she showed us what it means to be a leader of culture and an ally to those who need it most. And she did it all with a twinkle in her eye.”
Zac Brown: “She was a real angel long before now”
Zac Brown’s connection was more recent and more intimate. The Georgia bandleader shared the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame stage with Parton at her 2022 induction and recorded the 2025 collaboration “Butterfly” with her. In his tribute he reached first for faith, then for the studio memory.
“She was a real angel long before now. Her faith was number one. There will never be another Dolly Parton,” Brown wrote. “Pure talent, pure soul, pure love. She lived by example. My wife and I are heartbroken but so blessed to know her heart. … She sang her heart out on Butterfly, and I will never forget the first time that I heard what she sang on it.” He added that she would want people to “be true to who we are, and show each other love and kindness.”
Jason Aldean and Cole Swindell: doors she kicked down
Macon native Jason Aldean, posting Tuesday night, treated the word “legend” as something that had been overused until Parton made it exact.
“The term ‘legend’ gets thrown around a lot these days but she really was,” Aldean wrote. “An icon to the entire entertainment industry, especially the Country Music family. I had the privilege being around her a few times over the years and she was truly a bright light that shined just a little brighter than anyone else in the room. … Rest easy Dolly and thank you for the contributions you made and the doors you kicked down for all of us that came after you.”
Glennville’s Cole Swindell kept it shorter and just as final, calling Parton “one of a kind.”
Atlanta across genres: Gladys Knight and Lil Nas X
The remembrances did not stay inside country radio. Gladys Knight, one of Atlanta’s defining voices, remembered Parton as a peer and a model. “Dolly was one of a kind and the ultimate role model for women both in and out of our musical industry,” Knight wrote. “I admired her in every way possible.” Parton had covered Knight’s “Midnight Train to Georgia” on a 1977 television special — a small, elegant loop between two Southern catalogs.56
Lil Nas X, the Atlanta artist who recast “Jolene” in 2021, posted a photo of himself with Parton and a caption that needed no extra ornament: “THE ONE AND ONLY! FLY HIGH MISS DOLLY!”30
The Atlanta tribute circuit felt the loss in a more workaday way. Katie Coleman of the metro Atlanta band Run Katie Run has spent the past year leading the Dolly show Here I Come Again after years of playing Dollywood. “She’s just been such a model of what it means to have insane integrity,” Coleman told CBS Atlanta. “Like, start with kindness in every situation, and love and acceptance. … I wasn’t ready. That was the first thing that crossed my mind. I wasn’t ready for her to be gone.” At the Atlanta Eagle, a Midtown gay nightclub that has long claimed Parton as an ally, staffer Richard Ramey put it more bluntly: “She never turned her back on us. Never.”55
An older Georgia circle
Some of the Georgia connections predate the social-media era. Atlanta’s Brenda Lee knew Parton when both were young Nashville hopefuls in the 1960s and later recorded with her on the 1982 album The Winning Hand. Clarkdale musician Ray Stevens produced Parton’s early single “Dumb Blonde,” the song that first announced she would not be reduced to the joke in its title. Those names remind listeners that Parton’s Georgia story is not only condolence posts. It is also a working history of Southern studios, television specials, and shared bills.30
Former longtime Atlanta resident Elton John, who crossed paths with the city during his own years here, called her “a giant of an artist — unique and irreplaceable.”
What Georgia is holding onto
Gov. Brian Kemp called Parton an “American treasure” whose loss is felt “all the more in the South where she was so deeply loved.” Ringgold’s mayor, Kelly Bomar, said the town would keep the marriage story, the mural, and the annual Dolly Days festival as local inheritance. Those civic notes sit beside the musicians’ words without competing with them. The artists keep returning to the same few qualities: the songs, the work ethic, the refusal to sneer, the habit of opening doors and then leaving them open.32
Parton’s family has asked that memorials go to the Imagination Library rather than flowers. In Georgia, that request lands with extra weight. The program sent books into counties that still talk about her as the woman who married in Ringgold and then spent a lifetime making sure other people’s children could read. The artists remembering her this week are not only saluting a catalog. They are describing a neighbor who made Southern show business look like generosity with sequins on it.
There will be more official tributes — the Grand Ole Opry has already set a dedicated night — but the Georgia chorus is already clear. Nettles thanked her “for everything.” Brown said there will never be another.
Aldean thanked her for the doors. Knight called her the role model. Lil Nas X told her to fly high. In a state that produces country, soul, and hip-hop in the same week, that range is the point. Dolly Parton made room for all of it, and Georgia’s musicians are answering in the only language she would have trusted: they are saying her name, and then they are going back to work.
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During the August 8 co-headlining performance with Chris Brown as part of The R&B Tour at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, viral clips of Usher’s set sparked intense online debate. Fans scrutinized footage of a performer they insisted looked different from the R&B superstar, dubbing him “Varnell Hill” (a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Martin TV character) or even a “clone.”
Usher Lookalike at Concert: Varnell Hill or Usher?
Side-by-side comparisons flooded social media, with some concertgoers expressing frustration over high ticket prices and jokingly—or seriously—calling for refunds.
The 82,500-seat venue hosted the second of two consecutive nights for the stadium run (August 7–8), uniting two of R&B’s biggest names for a high-energy show packed with choreography, hits spanning decades, and special appearances. Distant camera angles, a low-pulled hat, sunglasses, and stadium lighting appear to have fueled the speculation that a stand-in had taken the stage for portions of the set. Similar “clone” or look-alike theories had briefly circulated during Usher’s 2024 tour, making this a familiar (if exaggerated) internet phenomenon.1
Usher himself quickly shut down the rumors in Instagram comments under one of the circulating clips. “Y’all are funny. Clone? They can’t clone this,” he wrote, later adding, “How y’all come up with this? AI ain’t that advanced.” The lighthearted dismissal turned much of the chatter into playful tour buzz rather than lasting controversy.2
While a portion of online commenters remained convinced a double or impersonator had appeared early in the performance, closer-up footage and reviews from attendees confirmed it was the real Usher Raymond IV throughout. The show’s energy stayed high thanks in part to surprise guests, including Jadakiss (who joined for a “Throwback” performance) and Fat Joe, who helped deliver a New York-flavored hip-hop moment amid the R&B spectacle. (Similar guest spots, including 50 Cent, highlighted the previous night’s storm-delayed set.)40
The episode underscores how social media can amplify fleeting visual quirks at massive outdoor venues into full-blown conspiracy theories—especially when tickets carry premium price tags. Ultimately, Usher’s humorous response and the overall positive reception to the co-headlining dates appear to have kept the focus where it belongs: on the music and the spectacle of two R&B icons sharing a stadium stage.
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Few Atlanta artists this century have had the wide-ranging popularity like Future. With him dropping “The Real Me” on Friday, July 10, it’s time to take a retrospective look at his music career.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Future’s albums and music of the most prolific and popular Atlanta rapper in the past quarter-century.
Future (Nayvadius DeMun Wilburn), born November 20, 1983, in Atlanta, Georgia, stands as one of the most influential and prolific figures in modern trap and hip-hop. A product of the Dungeon Family extended universe (via cousin Rico Wade), he emerged from Atlanta’s street and club scenes with a groundbreaking blend of Auto-Tune-drenched melodies, gritty trap beats, and raw depictions of excess, pain, relationships, drugs (especially lean/codeine culture in his early work), wealth, and emotional vulnerability.
Future Albums: What to Know
His style—often called “mumble rap” or melodic trap—pioneered a sing-rap hybrid that influenced Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, and countless others. Future built his career through relentless mixtape output before transitioning to major-label albums, achieving an unprecedented run of commercial dominance (multiple #1 Billboard 200 debuts, including back-to-back in 2017 with Future and HNDRXX). He holds records for most #1 albums on the Top Rap Albums chart and has amassed billions of streams.
His discography mixes high-energy bangers, introspective ballads, and experimental sounds. While he has dozens of projects (including many mixtapes treated as full albums by fans), this guide focuses on his 10 solo studio albums (plus key collaborative ones), with context on pivotal mixtapes. Data draws from Billboard, RIAA certifications, Album of the Year (AOTY) aggregates, and critical consensus.
Pivotal Early Mixtapes (The Foundation)
Before his major debut, Future dropped regional heaters like Dirty Sprite (2011). The 2014–2015 run defined his peak:
- Monster (2014) — Raw, emotional trap classic with “Codeine Crazy” as a cultural anthem. Highest user score among many projects on AOTY (83). albumoftheyear.org
- Beast Mode (2015, with Zaytoven) and 56 Nights (2015, with DJ Esco) — Zaytoven’s piano-laced production and dark, cinematic beats showcased Future at his hungriest. Both highly rated by fans and critics. complex.com
These built massive buzz leading into his studio albums.
Solo Studio Albums
Pluto (April 17, 2012)
Debut studio album. Peaked at #8 on Billboard 200; later Platinum.
Breakdown & Themes: Introduced Future’s signature Auto-Tune croon over booming 808s and futuristic production. Tracks like “Turn On the Lights,” “Same Damn Time,” and “Tony Montana” (feat. Drake) blended street narratives with melodic hooks. It captured Atlanta trap’s evolution from raw to polished.Reactions: Breakthrough project that brought his sound mainstream. Critics praised the innovation (AOTY critic 66, user 57). Fans loved the fresh energy; some found it uneven compared to later peaks. It established him as a star.
Honest (April 22, 2014)
Peaked at #2; Gold certified.Breakdown & Themes: More polished and pop-leaning with features from Pharrell, Pusha T, and Kanye West (“I Won,” “Move That Dope”). Singles like the title track and “Honest” showed commercial ambition alongside vulnerability.Reactions: Mixed-to-positive. Stronger songwriting and production than Pluto, but some felt it strayed from raw trap roots (AOTY critic 76, user 64). It has aged well as an underrated transitional album.
DS2 (Dirty Sprite 2) (July 17, 2015)
#1 debut; 3× Platinum. One of his biggest commercial and critical successes.
Breakdown & Themes: Peak Future—dark, atmospheric trap with Southside/Metro Boomin production. Standouts: “Thought It Was a Drought,” “I Serve the Base,” “Where Ya At” (feat. Drake), “Stick Talk,” “March Madness.” Heavy on lean, flexing, and paranoia.Reactions: Widely regarded as his masterpiece and a trap classic.
Highest scores overall (AOTY critic 77, user 80). Critics and fans hailed it as a cultural moment that defined mid-2010s trap. Many rankings place it #1 in his discography.
Evol (February 6, 2016)
#1 debut; 2× Platinum. Shorter, more focused project.Breakdown & Themes: Darker, atmospheric vibes with introspective moments amid bangers. Strong production and consistent mood.Reactions: Solid follow-up (AOTY critic 69, user 68). Praised for cohesion but sometimes seen as less explosive than DS2. Fans appreciate its replay value.
Future (February 17, 2017)
#1 debut; 2× Platinum.
Breakdown & Themes: Raw trap energy with aggressive flows and flexes. Standouts include “Mask Off” (his massive hit) and “Rent Money.”Reactions: Strong trap project (AOTY critic 65, user 66). Fans loved the bangers; some noted it felt like a victory lap after the mixtape run. It set up the historic back-to-back with HNDRXX.
HNDRXX (February 24, 2017)
#1 debut (replacing Future at #1—the first back-to-back for an artist); Platinum.
Breakdown & Themes: The melodic, R&B-leaning counterpart—vulnerable, romantic, and introspective (“Use Me,” “Incredible,” “Fresh Air,” “Solo”). Features from The Weeknd and Usher.Reactions: Often cited as a fan favorite or even his best for its emotional depth and polished melodies (AOTY critic 75, user 69). Many rankings put it at or near #1 alongside DS2. It showed Future’s range.
Key Collaborative Albums
- Pluto x Baby Pluto (2020, with Lil Uzi Vert) — #2 peak. Fun, melodic trap synergy (AOTY user 49).
- We Don’t Trust You (2024, with Metro Boomin) — #1 debut. Massive cultural impact (“Like That” sparked major conversations). Strong user reception (AOTY 72).
- We Still Don’t Trust You (2024, with Metro Boomin) — #1 debut. More R&B-leaning sequel. Solid but slightly lower scores than the first (AOTY user 59).
Mixtape Pluto (2024) — Surprise #1 mixtape that continued his hot streak.
The Wizrd (January 18, 2019)
#1 debut; Platinum.
Breakdown & Themes: More experimental/psychedelic trap with futuristic production. Standouts: “Rocket Ship,” “Crushed Up,” “Promise U That.”Reactions: Well-received for ambition (AOTY critic 66, user 74). Some found it inconsistent or overly long, but fans praised the creativity and energy.
High Off Life (May 15, 2020)
#1 debut; 2× Platinum. Features “Life Is Good” (with Drake).Breakdown & Themes: Consistent, vibe-heavy trap with strong hooks and features. Balanced flexing and reflection during the pandemic era.Reactions: Solid and reliable (AOTY critic 62, user 62). Fans enjoyed the consistency and hits, though not always ranked among his absolute peaks.
I Never Liked You (April 29, 2022)
#1 debut; 2× Platinum. Massive commercial success with multiple Hot 100 hits (“Wait For U” with Drake became a #1 and Grammy winner for Best Melodic Rap Performance).
Breakdown & Themes: Blend of raunchy bangers and melodic/emotional tracks. Standouts: “712PM,” “Puffin on Zootiez,” “Wait For U,” “Love You Better,” “Back to the Basics.”
Reactions: Strong comeback—best since HNDRXX for many (AOTY critic 65, user 64). Praised for replay value, hits, and balance of moods. Some called it one of his most cohesive recent efforts.
The Real Me (July 10, 2026)
Tenth solo studio album. No guest features. Released very recently (as of this writing). Projections around 125k–150k first-week units.
Breakdown & Themes: Early reports suggest a return to core Future sound with various trap producers (including Pharrell). Tracks like “Radio” and “Fk A Interview” highlighted in promotions. No features emphasize a solo, introspective or raw focus.Reactions: Too new for full consensus (early AOTY user score ~51). Fans excited for a pure Future project post-Metro collabs. Early buzz around its timing and “Pluto Summer” vibe.
Overall Legacy and Reception Trends
Future’s discography shows remarkable consistency and evolution: from raw innovator (Pluto) to trap king (DS2), melodic explorer (HNDRXX), and enduring hitmaker (I Never Liked You, recent collabs). DS2 and HNDRXX frequently top fan and critic rankings, with Monster and early mixtapes beloved for hunger.
Critic scores peak around 75–77 for his strongest works; users often rate mixtapes and DS2 highest. He excels at creating immersive atmospheres and quotable lines, though some projects face criticism for length or repetition. His influence on melody in rap remains unmatched.
Future’s output rewards deep dives—start with DS2 or HNDRXX for essentials, then explore the full catalog for the complete Pluto experience. His work captures the highs and lows of success like few others. As of 2026, with The Real Me just out, the legend continues.
Fortunately, there are other ways and venues to enjoy live music in Atlanta. Our Atlanta Live Music Guide lets you know every week and each fun-filled weekend who’s playing and where.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
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Video footage allegedly showing rappers Pooh Shiesty, Big30, Pooh Shiesty’s father, and several others holding Gucci Mane at gunpoint inside a Dallas recording studio has surfaced online, reigniting public interest in a high-profile federal case. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the incident occurred in January 2026 at a music studio in Dallas, Texas.
Prosecutors allege that Pooh Shiesty (real name Lontrell Williams Jr.) lured Gucci Mane—whose real name is Radric Delantic Davis—and members of his entourage to the location under the pretense of discussing a recording contract or business matters related to Gucci Mane’s 1017 record label.
Pooh Shiesty, Gucci Mane Video: What Really Happened
Once inside, the group allegedly initiated an armed takeover. Court documents claim that Pooh Shiesty and his associates, including Big30 (Rodney Wright Jr.) and Pooh Shiesty’s father, Lontrell Williams Sr., held Gucci Mane and at least two other victims at gunpoint. They reportedly robbed the victims of cash, jewelry (including Gucci Mane’s wedding ring, earrings, and watch), and other valuables. One victim was allegedly choked during the confrontation.
A key element of the alleged scheme was coercion: prosecutors say Pooh Shiesty forced Gucci Mane to sign paperwork releasing him from his contract with The New 1017 label at gunpoint. Big30 is accused of blocking the exit and recording a statement in which Gucci Mane verbally confirmed the release.
Federal authorities charged nine individuals in total with offenses including kidnapping, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, armed robbery, and related charges. All nine have been arrested. Pooh Shiesty, Big30, and others are awaiting trial, with court dates pushed into 2027 in some instances. If convicted, the defendants could face significant prison time, including potential life sentences on the most serious counts.
The case has drawn widespread attention in the hip-hop community, especially given the prior professional relationship between Pooh Shiesty and Gucci Mane. Pooh Shiesty had been signed to the 1017 label before the alleged events. Following the charges, Gucci Mane released a diss track titled “Crash Dummy,” in which he addressed the incident.
Recent online videos purporting to show the confrontation have circulated widely on social media, though authorities have not officially confirmed their authenticity in public statements. The footage appears to align with details in the federal complaint, including the presence of multiple armed individuals in the studio setting.
This remains an ongoing federal prosecution. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case highlights ongoing tensions in the music industry involving contracts, trust, and street-influenced disputes. Updates are expected as trial proceedings advance.
Did somebody say live music? That’s what Atlanta has a lot of. From the small cubby holes you’ll find in the suburbs to the elegant stages of Midtown and Buckhead, ATL has music for your ears. Check out our Atlanta Live Music Guide to see who’s performing where.
You might also enjoy some spoken word or jazz brunches that Georgia’s largest city has to offer. We get down not just on fun-filled weekends, but through the week as well.
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Atlanta, GA – June 22, 2026 – Football fans and music lovers alike are gearing up for an unforgettable evening as chart-topping artist Naomi takes the stage for a special live performance at the FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta.
When Is Naomi Performing at FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta?
Naomi is set to take the stage at FIFA Fan Festival on Friday, June 26.
The free public celebration returns to the heart of downtown at Centennial Olympic Park, transforming the iconic venue into a vibrant hub of global football culture. Attendees can expect a high-energy atmosphere filled with live entertainment, fan activations, interactive exhibits, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate the beautiful game during this major international tournament period.
Naomi, known for her powerful vocals, infectious beats, and dynamic stage presence, is expected to deliver a show-stopping set that blends pop, R&B, and global rhythms perfectly suited for the international crowd. Festival-goers have described past performances at similar events as “unmissable,” and anticipation is already building for what promises to be one of the standout moments of the Atlanta Fan Festival.
“We’re thrilled to bring Naomi to Centennial Olympic Park for this special night,” said a festival organizer in a statement. “The FIFA Fan Festival is all about uniting communities through football and culture, and her performance will add an incredible layer of energy and excitement for fans of all ages.”
What to Expect at FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta
- Live Music & Entertainment: Naomi’s headlining set alongside other local DJs and performers throughout the evening.
- Fan Zones: Giant screens for match viewing, football skill challenges, merchandise, and food vendors offering local and international favorites.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Activities suitable for all ages in the park’s open green spaces.
- Vibrant Downtown Setting: Easy access via MARTA, with nearby parking options and pedestrian-friendly routes.
Read our guide on the FIFA Fan Festival.
Gates and programming typically begin in the afternoon, with Naomi’s performance scheduled for the prime evening slot. Organizers recommend arriving early to secure good viewing spots near the main stage.
This event is part of the broader FIFA Fan Festival series taking place in host cities across North America, offering Atlantans and visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the tournament spirit without needing a match ticket.
Event Details
Date: Friday, June 26, 2026
Venue: Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta
Time: Afternoon through evening (Naomi performance in prime time)
Admission: Free and open to the publicFor the latest updates on the lineup, schedule, and any weather-related changes, check the official FIFA Fan Festival Atlanta page or follow local event alerts.
Don’t miss this chance to experience world-class entertainment and football fever right in the heart of Atlanta. See you at the park!
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ATLANTA – The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) has teamed up with hometown superstar Big Boi to encourage residents and visitors to leave their cars behind and ride public transit during the excitement of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The new “LET MARTA DRIVE” campaign highlights the convenience of MARTA’s rail and bus network for getting to matches, fan festivals, concerts, and other downtown events while promoting the agency’s ongoing “Ride with Respect” initiative, which asks riders to treat fellow passengers, employees, and public spaces with courtesy and care.
MARTA Partners with Big Boi to Launch ‘LET MARTA DRIVE’ Campaign for FIFA World Cup
Big Boi – Grammy Award-winning artist, entrepreneur, philanthropist, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, and one-half of the iconic duo OutKast – brings authentic Atlanta energy to the partnership.
His deep roots in the city and decades-long influence on its global cultural footprint make him an ideal ambassador for showcasing how the city moves during one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
“Big Boi’s music is deeply embedded in the culture of Atlanta, making him the perfect person to help us welcome soccer fans from around the globe,” said MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt. “We look forward to bringing his unmistakable voice directly to our riders through exclusive station announcements and digital content. This partnership is an exciting way to showcase our world-class transit network while reminding everyone to ride safely and with respect.”
Through the campaign, Big Boi will urge fans to skip the traffic jams and parking headaches by hopping on MARTA to reach key venues across Downtown Atlanta. The approach aims to reduce congestion, ease parking pressure, and create a smoother, more connected experience for everyone attending World Cup events.
“Atlanta has always been a city that moves people and sets trends,” Big Boi said. “When the world comes here, I want everyone to feel that energy without the stress. MARTA makes it easy to get downtown, to the events, and everywhere in between. I’m proud to be part of what keeps Atlanta moving and shows the world how we do it.”
The collaboration blends Atlanta’s signature cultural swagger with practical transit solutions, positioning MARTA as more than just a way to get around—it becomes part of the World Cup experience itself. As the city prepares to host the world in 2026, the “LET MARTA DRIVE” campaign seeks to turn visitors into temporary locals who embrace the city’s rhythm, respect its shared spaces, and discover why Atlanta’s transit network and vibe are unmatched.
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Atlanta’s award-winning venue unveils a star-studded 19-night concert series featuring global superstars, perfectly timed with the world’s biggest soccer tournament.
ATLANTA — As Atlanta gears up to welcome the world for eight FIFA World Cup 2026 matches at nearby Mercedes-Benz Stadium, State Farm Arena is set to deliver an unforgettable soundtrack to the city’s summer celebration.
The downtown venue just announced Summer Kickoff ATL, a major concert series running from early June through late July that will bring chart-topping artists and global icons to its stage for 19 nights of high-energy performances.
“We are thrilled to have this fantastic lineup of global superstars, and welcome fans from around the world to State Farm Arena this summer,” said Trey Feazell, Executive Vice President of Arena Programming for the Hawks and State Farm Arena. “As we celebrate the best of live entertainment, where music, sports and culture intersect, we’re ready to provide fans and concertgoers alike some truly unforgettable nights.”
Star-Studded Lineup Coming To State Farm Arena This Dummer
State Farm Arena’s summer schedule features a diverse mix of genres and some of the biggest names in music:
- June 8 & 9 – Megan Moroney – The Cloud 9 Tour
- June 11 – A$AP Rocky – Don’t Be Dumb World Tour
- June 12 – Summer Walker – Still Finally Over It Tour
- June 16 – 5 Seconds of Summer – Everyone’s a Star! World Tour *
- June 25 – Alex Warren – Little Orphan Alex Live! *
- June 26 & 28 – Shakira – Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour *
- July 2 – Joji – Solaris Tour *
- July 6, 8 & 9 – Ariana Grande – The Eternal Sunshine Tour
- July 11 & 12 – Tame Impala – Deadbeat Tour *
- July 17 & 18 – J. Cole – The Fall-Off Tour
- July 19 – Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire – Sing A Song All Night Long Tour
- July 22 – Louis Tomlinson – How Did We Get Here? World Tour
- July 24 – Daniel Caesar – Son of Spergy Tour
(*Denotes shows that are part of Summer Kickoff ATL)
Shakira Spotlight
A major highlight of the series comes on June 26 and 28 when Shakira brings her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour to Atlanta. The Colombian superstar will perform at State Farm Arena just weeks before co-headlining the historic FIFA World Cup 2026™ Final Halftime Show on Sunday, July 19. Her new single “Dai Dai,” the Official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Song featuring Burna Boy, is available now on all major streaming platforms via Sony Music Latin.
A Venue Built for Big Moments
Renowned for its world-class production and intimate-yet-massive atmosphere, State Farm Arena has consistently ranked among the top 10 venues worldwide for live entertainment. Located steps away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium, it serves as the perfect companion venue during Atlanta’s landmark summer as a World Cup host city.
Fans can view the full schedule and purchase tickets at StateFarmArena.com/events.
Golden Ticket Sweepstakes
To build excitement, State Farm Arena is launching a limited-time “Golden Ticket” sweepstakes. One lucky winner will receive a pair of tickets to every show on the summer schedule from June 9 through July 24. Details on how to enter are available on the arena’s website and social channels.
With Atlanta poised to be a global focal point this summer, State Farm Arena is ensuring the city’s music scene shines just as brightly as its soccer spotlight. The venue’s stacked lineup promises nights of pure celebration — where music, culture, and world-class entertainment collide in the heart of downtown Atlanta.
Did somebody say live music? That’s what Atlanta has a lot of. From the small cubby holes you’ll find in the suburbs to the elegant stages of Midtown and Buckhead, ATL has music for your ears. Check out our Atlanta Live Music Guide to see who’s performing where.
You might also enjoy some spoken word or jazz brunches that Georgia’s largest city has to offer. We get down not just on fun-filled weekends, but through the week as well.
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Have you ever wanted to just get out of the house and take in some live music?
Atlanta’s music scene stays red-hot through the second half of 2026, with stadium-filling headliners, genre-crossing superstars, and massive tours lighting up venues like Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena.
Major Concerts in Atlanta in 2026
Here are five of the biggest shows you won’t want to miss this summer through fall.
1. Usher & Chris Brown – The R&B Tour
(November 7, 8, 10 & 11)
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Two R&B icons join forces for a high-energy co-headlining stadium run. With multiple nights added due to overwhelming demand, expect smooth vocals, slick choreography, and decades of hits from “Yeah!” to “Forever.” This is one of the most anticipated tours of the year for Atlanta’s music lovers.
2. Karol G – Viajando Por El Mundo Tropitour
(September 24)
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Colombian superstar Karol G brings her tropical, reggaeton-fueled world tour to Atlanta. Known for explosive live performances and chart-dominating anthems, this stadium show promises a vibrant celebration of Latin music energy.
3. AC/DC – Power Up Tour
(August 27)
Mercedes-Benz Stadium The legendary rock band returns with thunderous riffs and high-voltage anthems. Joined by special guests, this is a must-see for classic rock fans—expect “Thunderstruck,” “Highway to Hell,” and the full arena-shaking experience.
4. Doja Cat – Tour Ma Vie World Tour
(November 17)
State Farm Arena Doja Cat’s genre-bending creativity and theatrical stage presence take center stage. Fresh off major releases, this stop on her world tour blends rap, pop, and experimental vibes for a night that’s equal parts chaotic and captivating.
5. Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Show
(August 21)
Mercedes-Benz Stadium (with Lainey Wilson & Ashley McBryde) Grammy-winning country powerhouse Chris Stapleton headlines with soulful vocals and powerhouse performances. Special guests Lainey Wilson and Ashley McBryde round out an all-star country night perfect for fans of heartfelt ballads and foot-stomping anthems.
Honorable Mentions
Other big names filling the calendar include Mumford & Sons (August 4 at State Farm Arena), Ed Sheeran (October 3 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium), Journey (October), and Megan Moroney (June at State Farm Arena).
Pro Tips: Tickets for these major shows sell out fast—check Ticketmaster, venue sites, or official artist pages early. Sign up for presales if possible, and consider verified resale options.
Atlanta traffic can be heavy on show nights, so plan to arrive early and use rideshares or MARTA where available. Stay tuned to AtlantaFi.com for updates, presale codes, and more as additional tours are announced. Which show are you most excited for? Let us know in the comments!
Fortunately, there are other ways and venues to enjoy live music in Atlanta. Our Atlanta Live Music Guide lets you know every week and each fun-filled weekend who’s playing and where.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
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