Musical acts to keep an eye and ear on in 2025

Brian Johnson and Angus Young are the only surviving members of the classic, post-Bon Scott era of the band, but that isn't stopping the famed duo, along with guitarist Stevie Young, drummer Matt Laug and bassist Chris Chaney, from hitting the road for a series of North American shows. After spending time in 2024 playing dates in Europe, AC/DC  begins this 13-date run in Minneapolis on April 10. Even in the dawn of the band's career, AC/DC has shown it can still deliver at a relatively high level, so it will be interesting to see if this leg runs smoothly. 

AG Club is more than a hip-hop group; it's a dynamic experience of sound and sight. Since 2023, this Bay Area group of artistically brilliant performance artists has continued to gain praise, while not conforming to any specific musical genre. AG Club includes vocalist Baby Boy, who also happens to be a graphic designer. Rappers Jody Fontaine and Mick Anthony and visual director Manny aka 777MEDIA. Expect to hear much more from AG Club in 2025. 

Just 20 years old, Philadelphia's Lay Bankz cracked the mainstream rap and R&B world in 2024 with her debut studio record After 7. Which included the single "Tell Ur Girlfriend," a TikTok favorite that led to her introduction into the Billboard Hot 100. As for 2025, Bankz's innovatively retro 1990s vibe is likely to keep turning heads. Especially when it comes to her collaboration work, which has already been on high from working with the likes of Bumble Bee and Kino. 

Boone, the former American Idol contestant, is still riding the residual success of his 2024 debut Fireworks & Rollerblades album. Notably the mega-popular track "Beautiful Things," which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Not to mention his opening slot on The Eras Tour for Taylor Swift in London. The question now for Boone is what comes next? It's quite possible a collaboration is in the making? Perhaps more live appearances? Regardless, fans are eager to see if Boone can build on his 2024 success. 

The iconic R&B, pop, hip hop and even country star recently teased a potential 2025 tour. However, after postponing any announcement regarding '25 plans in respect to those victims of the California wildfires, it remains uncertain just what this year will bring for Beyoncé, who is among the biggest entertainment personalities in the world. And, eyes are always on her -- in regards to her next move. We'll see just what 2025 has in store for Beyoncé, especially if she's ready to hit the road. 

For those not familiar with New York City's Daisy Grenade, do yourself a favor and make a point to do so. The duo of Dani Nigro and Keaton Whittaker have blended a shredded pop punk sound with grunge ethos that have made for an enjoyable musical experience.  Signed to DCD2 Records, run by Fall Out Boys' Pete Wentz, Daisy Grenade has released two EPs,  Sophomore Slump (2022) and Cult Classic (2023), and will spend plenty of time on the road in 2025 as fans wait for any new music to be released. 

Hailing from the United Kingdom, English Teacher made a name for itself with the smashing 2024 debut album This Could Be Texas. The record was highly praised by critics -- in the U.K. and beyond. The group's indie rock credibility (notably the infectious voice of singer Lily Fontaine) is undeniable and it leaves plenty of fans eagerly waiting for what could be in store for English Teacher for a potentially big 2025. 

After legendary singer Ann Wilson was diagnosed with cancer, Heart canceled its European dates on the final end of a 2024 tour. However, Wilson is back in good health. And, along with sister Nancy, set to continue touring this year. The Wilson sisters are still quite popular with classic rock fans, who should be thrilled they will again be playing live shows in 2025. The hope is that Ann will sound fine and the tour churns on without incident. 

One of the biggest rock stories of 2024 came late in the year, when it was announced longtime Maiden drummer Nicko McBrain was retiring from touring with the legendary band. McBrain has dealt with some health issues in recent years, but it remains to be seen if he will work with the band on any new material. As Iron Maiden, veteran drummer and longtime Steve Harris collaborator Simon Dawson finished out the 2024 tour and is slated to be behind the kit for 2025-26's "Run For Your Lives" Tour

Another TikTok favorite, Jayy-D is a name to remember. Within the current rap and hip hop climate, Jayy-D, by all accounts from those tastemakers, is that the South African will be the next breakout star in the genre. Raw, unabashed and a budding star songwriter, Jayy-D has been praised for his creative rhymes and relatable lyrics that have shown his potential to flow and tell stories with the best that's out there at the moment. Rap fans need to follow Jayy-D in 2025.

This Ukrainian metal outfit has been around since 2008, but 2025 might finally be the moment it breaks through within the genre's most celebrated bands of the time. Fronted by the energetic and intense Tatiana Shmayluk, Jinger is set to release its fifth studio album, Duel, in early '25. According to metal critics and others in the know, it could be the best the band has offered, and finally brings more consistent praise to the cause.

The release of November 2024's From Zero marked the return of Linkin Park to the mainstream rock/alternative/nu-metal scene. This was the band's first studio album since 2017, the same year popular frontman Chester Bennington took his own life. With Emily Armstrong, co-founder of L.A. alt-rock outfit Dead Sara, now handling most of the vocals, the record received relatively positive reviews. Linkin Park is slated for headline slots on several festival lineups in 2025, and it's somewhat surprising that its fan base was so receptive to the return with a new -- female -- singer. Especially considering how iconic Bennington was within the confines of the band and this particular genre of rock. 

Shocker! Mötley Crüe is another in a long list of bands that put on a farewell tour only to quickly turn around and keep playing live. Even more stunning, its fans don't care that they were duped and still want more from the aging rockers. With virtuosic guitarist John 5 in place of the venerable Mick Mars, the Crüe has a Las Vegas residency booked for April 2025. Always unpredictable, this remains one rock act that continues to draw attention to itself. 

When it comes to rising stars, Jane, born in New York while also spending time in California, seemingly has an immensely bright 2025. She made a name for herself with the 2024 EP Sweet Talk. Songs like "TACOBELL" and "Grown Ups" showed off Jane's unlimited potential as a singer/songwriter, with a tastefully sinful and emotional vibe. And, why some critics have compared her to likes of Alanis Morrisette. Jane is poised for even bigger success with the scheduled release of her first studio album.

When it comes to rock music in 2025, all eyes should be fixed on Oasis. Brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher have apparently brushed aside their lingering differences to earn a massively sizable 2025 payday. This anticipated Oasis reunion, which the masses have long been clamoring to happen but thought would never see the day, was announced in August 2024. Arguably the hottest rock ticket for 2025, when the tour begins July 4 in Wales, then plays spots in the U.K. before heading to the States, Mexico, Asia, South America and Australia. Of course, tickets were gone in a heartbeat and steeped in controversy. Meanwhile, fans also can't wait for the expected drama that is likely to be associated with the brothers and the tour in 2025. 

The Isle of Wight has become a mini haven for indie/alternative/punk to enjoy international appeal. The Pill is the latest band from that area of the United Kingdom to draw raves. The infectiously quirky duo (Who does that remind of? Wait to see, please.) of Lottie and Lily enjoyed 2024 success with its debut single “Bale of Hay.” Now, in 2025, the pair that doesn't take itself too seriously, blending raunchy, fuzzy guitars with comedic lyrics, might be ready to take the next step toward international stardom. 

This under-the-radar indie rock quartet from Los Angeles just seems ready to pop. Rocket got going in 2021, and released its stellar Versions of You two years later. However, it's the band's live performances that have helped Rocket gain attention through word of mouth and sound. Loud, fuzzy guitars and strong melodies have Rocket blazing a path toward alternative commercial greatness. When that comes, though, remains to be seen. Perhaps 2025?

Look closely into the landscape of the alternative punk rock scene and find this Italian teen trio. The summer of 2024 was big for Spleen, with the release of its EP and the impressively polished "Dystopic School." There's a definite Queens of the Stone Age vibe to Spleen (not be confused with the number of other international bands boasting that name). However, what's highly impressive is the group's tight sound for such young rockers. Authentic to the core, there is hope for the future of rock and roll. 

In the case of the biggest entertainment superstar on the planet, Swift's plans for 2025 are not quite known, but she did open the year watching her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, in some NFL playoff action. However, much like the aforementioned Beyoncé, it will be interesting to see what Swift has in store for 2025. The belief is that she will be working on new material and a some live shows could be in the cards -- like a concert in China, perhaps? What we do know is that speculation on Swift's every move will be covered.

It's been nearly three years since Wet Leg put the aforementioned Isle of Wight back on the musical map with its stellar indie rock, self-titled debut. However, of late, the Grammy Award-winning duo of Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers have been relatively quiet. While Wet Leg is slated to play some European festivals in 2025, the release of new music or decision to take on a full-blown tour -- as potential headliners -- remains up in the air.