Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams released a pointed protest song on Canada Day, July 1, pushing back against President Trump’s repeated talk of absorbing Canada. The track, titled “51st State,” dropped on YouTube and social media platforms, coinciding with the 159th anniversary of Canadian Confederation. Without naming Trump directly, Adams sings, “You might have too much on your plate/ Go’n load us up with tariffs/ But we’ll never be the 51st State.” The energetic rock tune also references the longstanding alliance between both nations. Adams released the song on his own Bad Records label. He kicks off a U.S. summer tour July 24 in St. Louis. Story URL
Rush has postponed two remaining shows at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas, after lead singer and bassist Geddy Lee was diagnosed with laryngitis and bronchitis. The June 30 and July 2 dates will now take place July 11 and July 13. Guitarist Alex Lifeson said Lee could “barely speak, let alone sing” during soundcheck. “We can’t do a show that’s not 100 percent,” Lifeson added. The band stated, “After more than 50 years of touring, we’ve always believed that if we’re going to step on stage, we owe you the very best performance we can give.” Previously purchased tickets will be honored. Fans unable to attend the rescheduled dates can seek refunds through their original point of purchase. Story URL
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is launching a new exhibit celebrating female voices in heavy metal. Titled “Women in Metal: You Will Know My Name,” the showcase opens July 10 and features artists including Lzzy Hale, Lita Ford, Alissa White-Gluz, Taylor Momsen, and Courtney LaPlante. Rock Hall assistant curator Haley Cronin said, “Women have been pivotal influencers and changemakers in the metal genre since its inception.” Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale added, “I’m honored to stand next to my sisters of scream.” The opening event will include a short acoustic set from Hale and guitarist Joe Hottinger, plus performances from Storms Within, MAXILLA, and Reign of Z. Story URL
Victor Willis, the founding lead singer of Village People and co-writer of “YMCA,” has died at 74. The group announced his passing on Facebook, stating he died June 30, 2026, “of a short but aggressive illness.” Willis grew up in San Francisco singing in his father’s Baptist church and later appeared in the original Broadway production of The Wiz in 1976. After meeting French disco producer Jacques Morali, he fronted the debut Village People album in 1977. Willis co-wrote the group’s biggest hits, including “YMCA,” “In the Navy,” and “Go West.” In 2020, the Library of Congress added “YMCA” to the National Recording Registry. Willis returned as lead singer in 2017 following a legal settlement over song ownership. Story URL