The Music – Australia's daily music and entertainment newsletter

The latest music news from TheMusic.com.au, covering Australia's daily music and entertainment scene, artists new releases and where to get new mp3 songs.

1. A Minute Of Silence: In Memory Of The Hidden Track

   Once a mandatory – if secret – part of the musical experience, the hidden track has fallen by the wayside. Let's revisit its history and some of its greatest hits.

2. Don’t Blink, Because You Don’t Want To Miss Lennon Wells

   “We did this album purely for us,” explains Benjamin Wells. “We were so locked in by the motivation of wanting to make a record that we were really proud of."

3. Live Review: Anastasia The Musical @ Regent Theatre, Melbourne

   Exuding royal grandeur, 'Anastasia The Musical' brings history and legend to life in an enchanting journey of love, loss, and discovery.

4. Former KISS Members Defend High Prices For New Releases

   “Consider the analogy to caviar or fine art,” wrote former KISS guitarist Vinnie Vincent. “Not everyone can afford it.”

5. The Cure Guitarist & Keyboardist Perry Bamonte Passes Away, Aged 65

   “Quiet, intense, intuitive, constant and hugely creative, ‘Teddy’ was a warm hearted and vital part of the Cure story," the band wrote in a statement.

6. 'An Evening With Elton John And Brandi Carlile' Concert Special Heading To SBS This New Year's Eve

   Elton John and Brandi Carlile's friendship and collaborative history will be celebrated by live performances in an upcoming Dan Levy-hosted special.

7. Private Function Announce Their Split: 'We're Breaking Up LOL'

   After nine years together, Melbourne's Private Function have announced they'll be breaking up in 2026.

8. Ultra Music Festival 'Phase One' Lineup Announced

   Chainsmokers and DJ Snake lead the announcement.

9. Stephen Drozd Officially Confirms Departure From The Flaming Lips

   "I can’t thank all the fans enough for support and concern, and I wish the Lips well," Drozd wrote on Threads.

10. Queen To Release Unheard 1974 Christmas Song

    "It’s a song that goes back a very long way, but to my knowledge no one has ever heard this version,” guitarist Brian May claimed.

11. English Blues Rocker Chris Rea Passes Away, Aged 74

    “Chris’s music has created the soundtrack to many lives, and his legacy will live on through the songs he leaves behind.”

12. 'Most Insane Night Of My Life': Dom Dolla Becomes First Electronic Act To Headline An Aussie Stadium Show

    Appearing before 40,000 at Sydney's Allianz Stadium, Dom Dolla has set new heights for Aussie electronic music.

13. Crowded House To Perform At Australian Open 2026 Opening Ceremony

    “Crowded House are delighted to be appearing centre court to mark the opening of the Australian Open,” Neil Finn said in a statement.

14. 'I Don't Know If I'm Up For Doing That Again': SoSo On Their Chart Success, Passionate Fans, And Unconventional Marketing

    Sydney party-punk group, SoSo, open up about their viral bid to be a number one ARIA band across the board, and the reality of being an independent band.

15. Enter Santaman: Metallica's James Hetfield Shares Spoken Word Rendition Of ''Twas The Night Before Christmas'

    “Grab your cocoa and settle in by the fire before your long winter’s nap for a reading of ''Twas The Night Before Christmas' by Papa Het,” Metallica urged fans.