The NAACP Image Awards have added 10 new categories to recognize the achievements of African artists. Previously, there were no dedicated African categories. The new categories are:

Here’s how the NAACP framed these new categories in a statement: “With ten new African categories, the NAACP Image Awards expands its historic mission of recognizing Black excellence, building a cultural bridge between Africa and the global Black diaspora while celebrating the continent’s growing influence across film, television and music—and establishing the Image Awards as a global standard-bearer for Black creative achievement.”

Submissions for nomination consideration in 108 categories spanning motion picture, television + streaming, recording, literature and podcasts are now open on the NAACP Image Awards website.

The 58th NAACP Image Awards will also mark the return of four daytime drama categories: outstanding daytime drama series, outstanding actor in a daytime drama series, outstanding actress in a daytime drama series and outstanding supporting actor in a daytime drama series.

Nominees will be announced on Jan. 7, 2017. That is also the date that public voting opens. Public voting closes on Feb. 1. The date of the awards ceremony will be announced later. The 2026 show, hosted by Deon Cole, was held on Feb. 28 at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, Calif.

A performance or project that occurs between Jan. 1, 2026 and Dec. 31, 2026 qualifies to be submitted this year. Information and guidelines for submitting are available on the website. 

Here’s a full list of recording categories for the 58th NAACP Image Awards:

Eladio Carrión scores his second No. 1 on Billboard’s Latin Airplay chart, as “Polaroid” jumps 3-1 on the Sept. 5 dated ranking. The new winning chapter lands two years after the Latin rapper last held the crown in April 2024.

“Polaroid” completes its climb to the top of the overall Latin radio chart after a lengthy 18 weeks. It cracked the top 10 on Aug. 15 (climbing 11-9), but then dipped to No. 13 the following week, before jumping back into the top 10 on Aug. 29 (rising 13-3). A 13% audience gain drove the track to 6.9 million impressions in the United States during the tracking week ending Aug. 27, according to Luminate, sending Carrión to its first No. 1 since 2024’s “TQMQA.”

“Polaroid,” produced by Carrión, Hide Miyabi and AndrahPR, broke into the charts in May as its parent album, CORSA, stormed into the top 10 on the Top Latin Albums chart. The song also put a spin on Latin radio, sampling Michael Sembello’s Flashdance classic “Maniac” the 1983 Billboard Hot 100 chart-topper. That’s not all the recent popularity surrounding the latter’s 80s hit, as it landed on the 2026 Greatest of All Time Songs of the Summer chart.

Adding on, thanks to its radio haul, Carrión’s “Polaroid” climbs 40-35 on the hybrid Hot Latin Songs chart, its highest rank dating to its debut at No. 25 in May.

La Arrolladora Banda El Limón Reaches New Milestone: Elsewhere on the Latin charts, La Arrolladora Banda El Limón de René Camacho banks its 23rd champ as “Si Las Miradas Mataran” races 9-1 on Regional Mexican Airplay. The feat breaks its tie with Banda MS for the second-most leaders, behind only Calibre 50’s 29 No. 1s.

“Si Las Miradas Mataran” reaches the summit with 6.3 million audience impressions, up 39%, during the tracking period. Released May 29 via Ferca/UMLE as the title track of a seven-song set, it also appears on the deluxe edition of its parent album, released May 28.

Beyond its Regional Mexican Airplay coronation, La Arrolladora adds a fourth entry on Hot Regional Mexican Songs, with “Si Las Miradas” debuting at No. 18.

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In an increasingly noisy world, our hearing is taking a beating, and for musicians, the loud sounds that make their work possible can also become an occupational hazard.

That risk has gained attention as BTS member V recently revealed he was receiving treatment for significant hearing loss while on tour, while DJ and producer Alesso spoke about tinnitus and its impact on his touring last year. Furthermore, Chris Martin, Dave Grohl and Neil Young are among the other artists who have opened up about the impact years of exposure to loud music has had on their ears.

While custom in-ear monitors (IEMs) can be an alternative to earplugs, they don’t suit every musician and music event. When you consider marching band performances, orchestra pits, mariachi bands, garage jam sessions and DJ sets, a good pair of earplugs is an appropriate choice, not to mention an affordable option to pricey custom IEMs.

When shopping for earplugs, you’re going to come across the term “dB” (decibels) a lot. This is the unit used to measure a sound’s loudness. To put this into perspective, the International Noise Awareness Day says the sound of normal breathing is 10 dB, while a normal conversation is 60 dB, making the dB levels below per earplug a useful indicator of how much noise they can reduce.

Loop Switch 2 offers three levels of passive noise reduction, making it useful when your surroundings change throughout the day. Its dial lets you move between quiet, engage and experience modes, with a stated 20 to 26 dB SNR range. A slimmer design and four ear-tip sizes aim to improve comfort. The set also includes a protective carrying case. Loop is a popular choice among musicians and is even Harry Styles-approved, following his collab with the brand earlier this year.

Eargasm’s high-fidelity earplugs are designed to lower loudness while keeping music and speech relatively clear. They provide up to 21 dB of noise reduction, with a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 16 dB, and use filters intended to attenuate sound across frequencies. Two silicone shell sizes help with fit, while the included waterproof aluminum case makes them convenient for concerts, festivals and gigs.

The Alpine MusicSafe Pro gives musicians three interchangeable filter options rated at 16, 19 and 22 dB signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). That makes it possible to choose different attenuation levels depending on your instrument, venue or position onstage. Its acoustic filters are designed to reduce loudness without heavily altering the character of music. The earplugs also come with a compact storage case.

Earasers are designed for musicians who want to reduce loud sound without losing the detail between different instruments. The manufacturer lists up to 19 dB of reduction at peak frequency, with an SNR of 14 and average attenuation figures that vary across frequencies. They use soft silicone and an ear-shaped design intended for extended comfort. A case and one-year warranty are included.

The Etymotic ER20XS uses a tuned resonator and acoustic resistor to reduce sound more evenly while retaining speech and musical detail. The manufacturer rates them for up to 20 dB of sound reduction. Their low-profile, stemless design sits discreetly in the outer ear and can work under hats or other headgear. Each pair includes a neck cord and a carrying case.

Decibullz takes a different approach by using heat-moldable thermoplastic pieces that can be shaped to your ears. With the included foam tips, the manufacturer lists a maximum 31 dB NRR, making these useful when stronger attenuation is needed. They can be reheated and remolded if the first fit is imperfect. The package includes multiple tip options and a carrying pouch.

ZovGemy’s reusable silicone earplugs are built more for general noise reduction than specifically for preserving musical detail. They claim up to 33 dB of noise reduction and come with four ear-tip sizes to help create a secure seal. Soft silicone is intended for extended wear, while washable tips and a snap-close case make them practical for traveling.

How We Chose the Best Earplugs for Musicians

To choose the best earplugs for musicians, we compared several popular models with at least a 4-star rating and/or a significant number of positive reviews from customers. We looked for noise reduction, sound quality, fit, comfort and features that matter when performing or listening to loud music. We reviewed each manufacturer’s stated noise reduction rating (NRR) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) while keeping in mind that these ratings measure noise reduction differently. We also looked at features such as interchangeable or adjustable filters, multiple ear-tip sizes, low-profile designs and custom molds that can help create a better fit.

Since musicians need to protect their hearing without losing important musical details, we focused on earplugs designed to lower loud sounds while keeping music clear. We also compared practical details, including carrying cases, reusable or washable parts, warranties and included accessories.

Sophie Dunne is an e-commerce writer at Penske Media Corporation, writing across Billboard, The Hollywood Reporter, Rolling Stone, WWD, and Footwear News. Originally from Ireland and based in Los Angeles, she previously worked at Static Media as a writer and editor, covering entertainment, lifestyle, fashion, and travel. Her bylines have appeared in Women’s Health, The List, Women.com, Islands, Grunge, WebMD, and more. Before beginning her writing career in 2019, Sophie lived in Dubai for four years working as an Emirates cabin crew member. Having traveled to 71 countries with the airline, she began writing for an LA-based publication as a travel writer during her final year. Sophie has a degree in Humanities from Carlow College, St. Patrick’s (now South East Technological University) in her native Ireland. She studied English, history, philosophy, and psychology. Sophie mostly reports on entertainment merchandise and celebrity brand partnerships.

The third annual Find Your Light Benefit Concert for Arts Education featuring Josh Groban and Friends will take place on Monday, Oct. 19, in the Appel Room at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Hosted by Groban, the concert will honor trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis and The Oliver Sacks Foundation.

The event will feature performances and appearances by Groban, Marsalis, Stephen Colbert, Louis Cato, Betsy Wolfe, Lorna Courtney, *NSYNC’s Joey Fatone and more.

“At a time when access to the arts is more important than ever, I’m honored to once again host the Find Your Light Benefit Concert in support of arts education,” Groban said in a statement. “Every year, I’m inspired by the incredible organizations and educators across the country who work tirelessly to make sure young people have the opportunity to discover their creativity, build confidence, and experience the transformative power of the arts. This special evening is about coming together to celebrate their work and raise the vital funds needed to keep these programs thriving.”

This year alone, the Find Your Light Foundation has awarded over $1.5 million to 257 nonprofit organizations in 40 states, ensuring access to high-quality arts education for over 600,000 K-12 youth.

On being honored with the Find Your Light Award, Marsalis said, “I have followed the excellent work that Josh and his family have devoted themselves to for two decades with their Find Your Light Foundation. The foundation’s mission is life-affirming, healing, and vital. Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover the transformative power of music and the arts.”

On being honored with the Arts for Healing Award, executive director Kate Edger stated, “The Oliver Sacks Foundation is delighted to accept this award acknowledging Dr. Sacks’s work and legacy in bringing the powers of music to public awareness.”

Tickets to the benefit concert range from $125 to $500 and will be available through the Jazz at Lincoln Center Box Office beginning Wednesday, Sept. 2. A gala VIP reception will precede the concert in the Ertegun Ballroom at JALC for sponsors and patrons. To purchase tickets, go here.

Lizzo has spoken out after one of the lawsuits against her was dismissed by a federal judge on Tuesday (Sept. 1).

In a video posted to Instagram shortly after the ruling, the hitmaker stood in front of the camera without speaking, looking thoughtful. In text layered over the clip, she wrote, “Today I am relieved to announce that I have won the case against me and my touring company Big Grrrl Touring.”

“All the ridiculous claims by a wardrobe assistant who worked on tour for less than 3 weeks (including a claim they broke an acrylic nail) have been dismissed,” she continued. “It was all so shocking because I was being sued by someone who admittedly never met me. I prayed for the truth to come out and thanks to my incredible lawyers, the truth has prevailed.”

The Grammy winner added, “The truth matters more to me than anything, and I told y’all I will continue to fight every vicious claim that has been made against me and my businesses.”

Lizzo’s post refers to the case brought against her by Asha Daniels, who sued her in 2023 over claims of alleged sexual harassment as well as racial, gender and disability discrimination, which the Yitty founder consistently, vehemently denied. Lizzo herself was dismissed from the case in 2024, and the new ruling means that Big Grrrl Touring is off the hook as well.

“In our view, the ruling appears to minimize evidence of a sexually charged work environment by assessing incidents too narrowly … rather than considering their cumulative impact,” Ron Zambrano, lead counsel for Daniels, said in a statement shared with Billboard. “We respectfully disagree with the Court’s approach and are considering appropriate next steps.”

The musician is still in the midst of fighting another sexual harassment and toxic workplace lawsuit levied against her by three former backup dancers, which Lizzo’s attorneys have denied as “fabricated sob story” launched by “opportunists” seeking “a quick payday.”

See Lizzo’s video below.

View this post on Instagram

A host of Latin stars will arrive in Las Vegas to take part in the traditional Mexican Independence Day celebrations, with an ambitious lineup that includes Alejandro Fernández, Carlos Santana, Maná, Marc Anthony, Marco Antonio Solís and Los Tucanes de Tijuana, performing at 10 different venues throughout the city, Live Nation Las Vegas announced on Tuesday (Sept. 1).

This year’s impressive roster also includes Los Ángeles Azules, Zoé, Soda Stereo, Chuy Lizárraga & Julio Preciado, Grupo Duelo, José María Napoleón, Matute, Palomazo Norteño, Teo González & Jorge Falcón and Yolanda del Río, as well as famous comedians.

Mexican Independence Day is celebrated on the evening of Sept. 15 to commemorate the Cry of Dolores, which re-enacts the speech given by Father Miguel Hidalgo in the historic early morning hours of Sept. 16, 1810, in Dolores Hidalgo, Guanajuato.

Below is the lineup for the Mexican Independence Day weekend:

Sept. 11

Stand-up comedian Alfred Robles will return to The Palazzo Theatre at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas with his “Vatos with Gatos” Tour.

Maná, the most influential and iconic Latin rock band of all time, will bring their hugely successful Vivir Sin Aire Tour to the T-Mobile Arena.

Matute will take the stage at The Venetian Theatre inside The Venetian Resort Las Vegas as part of his acclaimed Disco Stereo Tour.

Global icon Marc Anthony will perform at the Bleaulive Theater inside the Fontainebleau Las Vegas as part of his acclaimed residency, “VEGAS… MY WAY!” from Sept. 11-19.

The legendary Marco Antonio Solís will bring his TOUR GRATITUD 2026 to Dolby Live at Park MGM.

Sept. 12

The Mexican cumbia icons Los Ángeles Azules will bring their highly celebrated Cumbia Sin Fronteras Tour to PH Live at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

The regional Mexican band Grupo Duelo will present their Gravedad Tour 2026 at the House of Blues Las Vegas.

José María Napoleón, known as “El Poeta de la Canción,” will bring his farewell tour to Las Vegas with a show at the Pearl Concert Theater at the Palms Casino Resort.

Marco Antonio Solís will step onstage again at the Dolby Live at Park MGM.

Comedians Teo González and Jorge Falcón will perform at The Palazzo Theatre inside The Venetian Resort Las Vegas.

Latin alternative rock icons Zoé will play at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace.

Sept. 13

Chuy Lizárraga and Julio Preciado will bring their new tour, El Chou de Chuy Lizárraga and Chuy Lizárraga y Julio Preciado, to the T-Mobile Arena.

Palomazo Norteño will present their Clase Maestra Tour 2026 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

Legendary Argentine rock band Soda Stereo will bring their innovative ECOS Tour to Dolby Live at Park MGM.

Los Tucanes de Tijuana, one of the most influential norteño groups, will perform at PH Live in Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino.

Yolanda del Río, nicknamed “La Gran Señora de México,” will sing at the Pearl Concert Theater at the Palms Casino Resort on Sunday, Sept. 13.

Sept. 15

Mexican music royalty Alejandro Fernández will bring his acclaimed De Rey A Rey Tour to the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Tuesday, Sept. 15, marking his 23rd year celebrating the Fiestas Patrias in Las Vegas.

Sept. 16

And to wrap things up, Carlos Santana will return with An Intimate Evening with Santana: Greatest Hits Live: Presented by SiriusXM at the House of Blues Las Vegas. The residency is now in its 14th year and will run through Sept. 27.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit livenation.com.

Ariana Grande is falling for Ricky Alvarez all over again. The pop star made another heartfelt tweak to her “Thank U, Next” lyrics while performing in London at the final Eternal Sunshine Tour show on Tuesday (Sept. 1).

“Wrote some songs about Ricky/ I’m tryna make him my last,” she sings on the latest version, further fueling rumors that Ari and her ex are head over heels for one another.

Grande has kept fans updated about her love life and rekindled romance with Alvarez through lyric changes throughout the trek.

“Wrote some songs about Ricky/ We always find our way back,” she sang during a July 13 show in Brooklyn, which marked a stark pivot from the original, “Wrote some songs about Ricky/ Now I listen and laugh.”

The Grammy-winning singer has all but confirmed she’s back together with Alvarez. In August, Grande posted several selfie photos cuddled up with her former backup dancer on IG, which Arianators essentially took as the couple being “Instagram Official.”

Ari and Ricky Alvarez dated from 2015 to 2016 for about a year, after meeting and working together on Grande’s Honeymoon Tour.

“Thank U, Next” served as the lead single of Grande’s album of the same name and launched atop the Billboard Hot 100 in November 2018.

The 33-year-old wrapped up her Eternal Sunshine Tour in London with a 10th O2 Arena show on Tuesday, which featured the live debut of petal‘s “Nowhere, Nobody.” Grande was emotional when calling the tour “one of the most extraordinary and beautiful experiences” of her life while on stage.

Ariana Grande returned with her eighth studio album, petal, in July, which debuted atop the Billboard 200 with 295,000 total album-equivalent units earned.