Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the music industry

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the music industry, mirroring its impacts across all arts sectors. Numerous music events, including music festivals, concert tours, and award shows, have been cancelled or postponed. While some musicians and composers were able to use the time to create new works, there were flow-on effects on the many supporting people who relied on performers for their income.[1] Various album releases have been delayed as well.[2][3][4] Pollstar estimated the total lost revenue for the live music industry in 2020 at more than $30 billion.[5]

Music events

Many concert tours,[6] music festivals, and other events were canceled or postponed.[7][8]

Impacted music festivals

FestivalLocationDetailsSource
80/35 Music FestivalWestern Gateway Park, Des Moines, Iowa, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[9]
Afro Nation Puerto RicoBalneario de Carolina, Carolina, Puerto Rico2020 edition cancelled.[10]
All Points EastVictoria Park, London, England2020 edition cancelled.[9]
AsunciónicoJockey Club, Asunción, ParaguayPostponed until late 2020.[11]
BassinthegrassDarwin, Northern Territory, AustraliaRescheduled to May 15, 2021.[12]
BBC Radio 1's Big WeekendCamperdown Park, Dundee, Scotland2020 edition cancelled.[13]
Beale Street Music FestivalTom Lee Park, Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to October 16–18, 2020.[14]
Beyond WonderlandNOS Events Center, San Bernardino, California, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[15]
Big Ears FestivalKnoxville, Tennessee, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Billboard LatinFest+Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.2020 event cancelled. Winners announced online on May 18, 2020.[17]
Bonnaroo Music FestivalGreat Stage Park, Manchester, Tennessee, U.S.Rescheduled to September 24–27, 2020.[18]
BoomtownMatterley Estate, Winchester, Hampshire, England2020 edition cancelled.[19]
Boston Calling Music FestivalHarvard Athletic Complex, Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[20]
BottleRock Napa ValleyNapa Valley Expo, Napa, California, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to October 2–4, 2020.[16]
The BPM Festival: MiamiThe Lawn at Island Gardens, Miami, Florida, U.S.Postponed until further notice.[9]
British Summer TimeHyde Park, London, England2020 edition cancelled.[21]
BUKU Music + Art Project FestivalMardi Gras World, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.2020 edition cancelled[22]
Bunbury Music FestivalSawyer Point Park & Yeatman's Cove, Cincinnati, Ohio, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Burger BoogalooMosswood Park, Oakland, California, U.S.Rescheduled to October 31 to November 1, 2020.[9]
Byron Bay BluesfestByron Bay, New South Wales, Australia2020 edition cancelled.[23]
C2C: Country to CountryThe O2 Arena, London, England and The SSE Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland
3Arena, Dublin, Ireland
Postponed. Rescheduled to March 12–14, 2021.[10]
California Roots Music and Arts FestivalMonterey County Fairgrounds, Monterey, California, U.S.Rescheduled to October 9–11, 2020.[24]
Calle Ocho FestivalLittle Havana, Miami, Florida, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[25]
Cape Town International Jazz FestivalCape Town, South Africa2020 edition postponed for the foreseeable future.[26]
CMA Music FestivalNashville, Tennessee, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[27]
CMC Rocks QLDWillowbank Raceway, Ipswich, Queensland, Australia2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Coachella Valley Music and Arts FestivalEmpire Polo Club, Indio, California, U.S.Initially rescheduled to October 9–11 and October 16–18, 2020, and later cancelled.[28]
Dark MofoHobart, Tasmania, Australia2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Download Festival AustraliaMelbourne Showgrounds, Melbourne, Victoria and The Domain, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia2020 event cancelled.[29]
Download Festival JapanChiba City and Osaka, JapanPostponed until further notice.[30]
Download Festival UKDonington Park, Derbyshire, EnglandPostponed. Rescheduled to June 4–6, 2021.[31]
Eden FestivalRaehills Meadows, Moffat, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland2020 edition cancelled[32]
Dreamville FestivalDorothea Dix Park, Raleigh, North Carolina, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[33]
Electric Daisy CarnivalLas Vegas Motor Speedway, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to October 2–4, 2020.[34]
EpicenterCharlotte Motor Speedway, Concord, North Carolina, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[35]
Essence Music FestivalMercedes-Benz Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16][36]
Estéreo Picnic FestivalBogotá, ColombiaPostponed. Rescheduled to December 4–6, 2020.[37]
Firefly Music FestivalThe Woodlands of Dover International Speedway, Dover, Delaware, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Flow FestivalSuvilahti, Helsinki, Finland2020 edition cancelled.[38]
Forecastle FestivalLouisville Waterfront Park, Louisville, Kentucky, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[39]
Gathering of the JuggalosNelson Kennedy Ledges State Park, Garrettsville, Ohio, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[40]
Glastonbury FestivalPilton, Somerset, England2020 and 2021 edition cancelled.[41][42]
Governors Ball Music FestivalRandalls Island, New York City, New York, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Hammersonic FestivalCarnaval Beach Ancol, Jakarta, IndonesiaRescheduled to January 15–17, 2021.[43]
Hangout Music FestivalGulf Shores, Alabama, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[44]
Isle of Wight FestivalSeaclose Park, Newport, Isle of Wight, England2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Istanbul International Jazz FestivalIstanbul, TurkeyPostponed until further notice.[45]
Killin Music FestivalKillin, ScotlandPostponed to June 18–20, 2021.[46]
KnockengorrochGalloway, ScotlandPostponed to September 10–13, 2020.[47]
Korea Times Music FestivalHollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, California, U.S.Postponed to October 23–25, 2020.[48]
La Linea – The London Latin Music FestivalLondon, EnglandRescheduled to September 4–October 19, 2020.[16]
Life Is Beautiful Music & Art FestivalDowntown Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[49]
Lightning in a BottleBuena Vista Lake, California, U.S.2020 edition cancelled. Virtual festival[50][51]
Lockn' FestivalOak Ridge Farm, Arrington, Virginia, U.S.Rescheduled to October 1–3, 2021.[52]
Lollapalooza ArgentinaHipódromo de San Isidro, Buenos Aires, ArgentinaRescheduled to November 27–29, 2020.[53]
Lollapalooza BrazilAutódromo de Interlagos, São Paulo, BrazilRescheduled to December 4–6, 2020.[54]
Lollapalooza ChileO'Higgins Park, Santiago, ChileRescheduled to November 27–29, 2020.[53]
Longitude FestivalMarlay Park, Dublin, Ireland2020 edition cancelled.[55]
LowlandsBiddinghuizen, Netherlands2020 edition cancelled.[56]
Lost & Found FestivalSt. Paul's Bay, Malta2020 edition cancelled[57]
March Madness Music FestivalCentennial Olympic Park, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.Music festival coinciding with the 2020 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament cancelled following the tournament's cancellation.[10]
MawazineRabat, Morocco2020 edition cancelled.[58]
Melbourne Jazz FestivalMelbourne, Victoria, Australia2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Meltdown FestivalSouthbank Centre, London, England2020 edition cancelled.[9]
Mission Creek FestivalEnglert Theatre, Iowa City, Iowa, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[10]
Montreal Jazz FestivalMontreal, Quebec, Canada2020 edition cancelled.[9]
Montreux Jazz FestivalMontreux, Switzerland2020 edition cancelled.[59]
Mountain JamBethel Woods Center for the Arts, Bethel, New York, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Movement Electronic Music FestivalPhilip A. Hart Plaza, Detroit, Michigan, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to September 11–13, 2020.[60]
MusicNOW FestivalCincinnati, Ohio, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[9]
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage FestivalNew Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.2020 edition canceled.[61]
Newport Folk FestivalFort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island, U.S.2020 edition canceled.[62]
Newport Jazz FestivalFort Adams State Park, Newport, Rhode Island, U.S.2020 edition canceled.[62]
Ojai Music FestivalOjai, California, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[63]
Oslo SommertidBjølsenfeltet, Oslo, Norway2020 edition cancelled.[64]
Ottawa Jazz FestivalOttawa, Ontario, Canada2020 edition cancelled.[9]
Pal NorteFundidora Park, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico2020 edition cancelled.[65]
Parklife FestivalHeaton Park, Manchester, England2020 edition cancelled.[9]
Primavera Sound BarcelonaParc del Fòrum, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Primavera Sound PortoParque da Cidade, Porto, Portugal2020 edition cancelled.[66]
Pulp Summer SlamMall of Asia Arena, Bay City, Pasay, Philippines2020 edition cancelled.[67]
Rakrakan FestivalCCP Open Grounds, Pasay, PhilippinesOriginally rescheduled to April 25, 2020, and then postponed until further notice.[68]
Rock am RingNürburgring, Nürburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany2020 edition cancelled.[69]
Rock im ParkZeppelinfeld, Nuremberg, Bavaria, Germany2020 edition cancelled.[69]
Rock in RioBela Vista Park, Lisbon, PortugalRescheduled to June 19–20 and June 26–27, 2021[70]
Rock the Ocean's Tortuga Music FestivalFort Lauderdale Beach Park, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, U.S.Rescheduled to October 2–4, 2020[16]
Rock WerchterFestivalpark, Werchter, Belgium2020 edition cancelled.[71]
Roskilde FestivalRoskilde, Denmark2020 edition cancelled.[72]
ShambhalaSalmo, British Columbia, Canada2020 edition cancelled.[73]
SnowbombingMayrhofen, Tyrol, Austria2020 edition cancelled.[74]
Sónar Hong KongHong Kong Science Park, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong KongPostponed until further notice.[75]
South by SouthwestAustin, Texas, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[76]
Splendour in the GrassNorth Byron Parklands, Yelgun, New South Wales, AustraliaRescheduled to October 23–25, 2020.[77]
Stagecoach FestivalEmpire Polo Club, Indio, California, U.S.Initially rescheduled to October 23–25, 2020, and later cancelled.[28]
SummerfestHenry Maier Festival Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.Rescheduled to September 3–5, 10–12, and 17–19, 2020, then cancelled.[78][79]
SunFestWest Palm Beach, Florida, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[80]
Tallinn Music WeekTallinn, EstoniaRescheduled to August 2020.[34]
Texas Music RevolutionAmphitheater at Oak Point Park, Plano, Texas, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to July 31 and August 1, 2020.[16]
TomorrowlandBoom, Antwerp, Belgium2020 edition cancelled.[81]
Tomorrowland WinterAlpe d'Huez, France2020 edition cancelled.[82]
Towersey FestivalThame, Oxfordshire, England2020 edition cancelled.[83]
Treefort Music FestBoise, Idaho, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to September 23–27, 2020.[84]
Ultra Music FestivalBayfront Park, Miami, Florida, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[85]
Ultra Abu DhabiDu Arena, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates2020 edition cancelled.[16]
Wacken Open AirWacken, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany2020 edition cancelled.[69]
Wanderland Music and Arts FestivalFilinvest City Event Grounds, Muntinlupa, PhilippinesPostponed until further notice.[86]
Waterfront Blues FestivalTom McCall Waterfront Park, Portland, Oregon, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[87]
Welcome to RockvilleDaytona International Speedway, Daytona Beach, Florida, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[88]
WOMAD Charlton ParkCharlton Park, Malmesbury, Wiltshire, England2020 edition cancelled.[89]
WOO HAH!Safaripark Beekse Bergen, Hilvarenbeek, NetherlandsRescheduled to July 9–11, 2021.[90]

Impacted music conferences

NameLocationDetailsSource
ASCAP ExperienceInterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, Los Angeles, California, U.S.2020 edition cancelled.[16]
FastForwardStudios 301, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia2020 edition cancelled.[16]
International Music SummitIbiza, Balearic Islands, SpainPostponed until further notice. Virtual version of the event will take place.[16]
MidemPalais des Festivals et des Congrès, Cannes, France2020 edition moved online.[16]
Music Biz 2020JW Marriott Nashville, Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.Postponed. Rescheduled to August 16–19, 2020.[16]
Winter Music ConferenceMiami, Florida, U.S.Postponed until further notice.[91]

Impacted concert performances

ArtistVenueDetailsSource
Bad BunnyHiram Bithorn Stadium, San Juan, Puerto RicoRescheduled to October 30 and 31, 2020.[16]
Car Seat HeadrestMassachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, North Adams, Massachusetts, U.S.Rescheduled to September 4, 2020.[16]
Charli XCXEl Plaza Condesa, Mexico City, MexicoRescheduled to October 21, 2020.[10]
Chris TomlinBridgestone Arena, Nashville, Tennessee, U.S.Tomlin's annual "Good Friday Nashville" concert postponed.[16]
CiaraUSO Fort Hood, Killeen, Texas, U.S.Postponed until further notice.[16]
Glass AnimalsNeumos, Seattle, Washington, U.S.Concert cancelled.[16]
Josh GrobanRadio City Music Hall, New York City, New York, U.S.Groban's "Great Big Radio City Show" postponed to October 5, 2020.[16]
JuanesMovistar Arena, Bogotá, ColombiaJuanes' "Para Todos" show postponed until further notice.[16]
Liam GallagherHeaton Park, Manchester, EnglandConcert cancelled.[92]
Mariah CareyNeal S. Blaisdell Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.Postponed to November 28, 2020.[16]

Impacted concert tours

TourArtistDetailsSource
11:11 World TourMalumaSelect dates of the European leg postponed until further notice.[16]
20th Anniversary TourMurder by DeathAll spring dates postponed until further notice.[93]
2020 TourAgainst Me!Spring tour dates and summer co-headlining tour with Baroness both canceled[94]
2020 TourBon JoviTour cancelled.[95]
2020 TourBhad BhabieTour cancelled.[96]
2020 TourDev HynesNorth American shows postponed.[10]
2020 TourDisclosureEuropean shows postponed.[10]
2020 TourIggy PopShows in Montpellier and Besançon cancelled. Shows in Monaco, Marseille, Lyon, Strasbourg, and Nantes rescheduled to September 2020.[10]
2020 TourMaroon 5Final two shows of the South American leg and all shows in the North American leg has been rescheduled to both from the 2021 Tour and the World Tour 2022, respectively. Maroon 5 has already concluded nine shows in South America.[97][98]
2020 TourMatchbox TwentyTour cancelled, with the rescheduled dates will be billed as the 2021 Tour.[99]
2020 TourThe NationalNorth American shows postponed.[100]
2020 TourTones and IEuropean shows postponed until further notice. Australian shows rescheduled to September 2020.[10][101]
2020 TourPixiesShows in Brisbane, Sydney, and Perth postponed until further notice.[10]
2020 TourUmphrey's McGeeVarious dates, including spring concerts in California, Indiana, and Missouri were postponed to the fall. The band's Rockjavik event in Iceland was also postponed.[102][103][104]
2020 TourLea SalongaShortly after performing in Dubai, the North American tour was postponed, then again postponed to Fall 2021, and finally to Spring 2022. The postponed tour was later renamed The Dream Again Tour and a UK leg was added.[105][106][107][108][109][110]
2020 Monsta X World TourMonsta XNorth American leg postponed until further notice.[111]
2020 North American TourMandy MooreTour cancelled.[112][113]
2021 TourMatchbox TwentyThis tour was previously announced as the 2020 Tour is cancelled, with dates has now been moved to 2022.[114]
2022 TourMatchbox TwentyThis tour was previously announced as the 2020 Tour and 2021 Tour is cancelled, with dates has now been moved to 2023.[115]
2022 UK & Ireland TourSigridTour rescheduled to November 2022.[116]
30th Anniversary TourBéla Fleck and the FlecktonesAll March and April concerts postponed[117]
30th Anniversary TourThe House of LoveAll dates postponed.[118]
American Standard TourJames Taylor and Jackson BrowneAll summer dates postponed[119]
April/May Van Tour 2020Foo FightersPostponed to October 2020, then cancelled.[34]
The Awards TourNCT 127All North American shows canceled.[120]
The (Arena) TourDan + ShayMarch and April shows postponed. Rescheduled to July, August, September, and October 2020. The duo has already concluded three shows with two in Nashville and one in Columbus.[121]
Australia! 2020 Tour – BackTim MinchinShows in Sydney, Newcastle, Melbourne and Brisbane postponed.[122]
Brightest Blue TourEllie GouldingTour rescheduled to October 2021[123]
Burn the Ships World TourFor King & CountryCanadian dates postponed and were eventually cancelled. The band visited a number of stops in 2023 as part of their What Are We Waiting For Tour.[124][125]
Chillaxification TourKenny ChesneyFirst 11 shows in the United States postponed.[16]
Chris Stapleton's All-American Road Show TourChris StapletonShow in Birmingham, Alabama cancelled. Shows in Biloxi, Austin, and Arlington rescheduled to September 2020.[10]
The Chromatica BallLady GagaTour dates postponed until 2021.[126]
The Confetti TourLittle MixUK dates postponed until 2022.[127]
Courage World TourCeline DionMarch and April shows of the North American leg postponed until further notice.[16]
Dave & Kris Go to Europe: Acoustic Tour 2020David Cook and Kris AllenTour cancelled, with the rescheduled dates rescheduled to August 2020 and the tour will be billed as Dave & Kris Go to Europe: Take 2.[128]
The Dedicated TourCarly Rae JepsenNorth American leg cancelled.[129][130][131]
Dinah Jane World TourDinah JaneTour postponed.[132]
D.R.E.A.M. The TourJoJo SiwaNorth American leg postponed twice from 2020 and 2021, with the rescheduled dates in 2022.[133]
End of the Road World TourKissEurope and United States legs postponed to summer and fall 2021.[134][135]
An Evening with Michael BubléMichael BubléHalf of the North American leg postponed until further notice.[16]
Farewell Yellow Brick RoadElton John19 North American concerts rescheduled to 2021.[136]
Flood 30th Anniversary TourThey Might Be GiantsMarch and April dates postponed[137]
Free Spirit World TourKhalidAsian leg postponed until further notice.[16]
Free Time World TourRuelAsian leg postponed until further notice.[16]
Friends and Heroes TourBlake SheltonFinal two weekend shows postponed until Spring 2021.[16]
Future Nostalgia TourDua LipaAll shows rescheduled to January 2021. Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo shows cancelled. Vienna and Munich shows postponed until further notice.[138]
Gigaton TourPearl JamNorth American leg postponed until further notice.[34]
Good to Know TourJoJoPostponed in 2020 for dates in 2021, but later canceled entirely in January 2021.[139]
The Great Bambino Tour 2020Action BronsonPostponed until further notice.[10]
Guns N' Roses 2020 TourGuns N' RosesLatin American leg rescheduled to November 2020.[16]
Head Above Water TourAvril LavigneEuropean and Asian legs postponed until further notice.[34]
Heavy Is The Head TourStormzyShow in Zürich and Asian leg cancelled.[140]
Heavy Love TourLouiseRemaining dates of the tour was postponed. Louise has already concluded 4 shows with her tour.[141]
Hella Mega TourGreen Day, Fall Out Boy, and WeezerAsian leg postponed until further notice.[34]
Here We Go Again TourCherNorth American spring dates rescheduled to fall 2020[142]
High Road TourKeshaAll shows postponed albeit later cancelled in May 2020.[10]
Hotel California 2020 TourEaglesAll shows postponed and rescheduled to fall 2020[143]
Hot Pink TourDoja CatAll shows postponed.[140]
Human. :II: Nature. World TourNightwishAll shows postponed. European shows rescheduled to May and June 2021, North American shows rescheduled to October 2021.[144][145]
I Disagree TourPoppyEurasia dates postponed, later canceled in March 2021.[146]
I, I TourBon IverEuropean leg postponed. Rescheduled to January 2021.[147]
Ich hasse Kinder TourLindemannEuropean leg postponed. Rescheduled to November 2022, then 2023.[148][149]
I-Land: Who Am I(G)I-dleAll shows canceled.[150]
The Jesus and Mary Chain Play DarklandsThe Jesus and Mary ChainEuropean spring tour canceled, three UK dates rescheduled to 2021.[151]
JoJo Tour 2022JoJo3 dates of the North American leg was cancelled due to COVID-19 capacity restrictions.[152]
Justice World TourJustin BieberAll shows are postponed until further notice.[153]
K-12 TourMelanie MartinezNorth American summer dates postponed until further notice. Martinez has already concluded 48 shows with her tour.[154]
Kamaitachi Tour 2020Kyary Pamyu PamyuAll shows canceled.[155]
Kenny G ConcertKenny GRescheduled show in Genting Highlands, Malaysia supposedly held in October 2020 was cancelled and a 2021 edition of the concert was planned for the second quarter of 2021, while shows in Florida and Singapore postponed until further notice.[156][157][158]
The Last Domino? TourGenesisTour postponed. Rescheduled to April 2021[159]
Louis Tomlinson World TourLouis TomlinsonShow in Milan, Italy, cancelled. Shows in Ukraine, Russia, Asia, Oceania, and Latin America postponed until further notice.[16]
Love On TourHarry StylesEuropean leg postponed. Rescheduled to February 2021.[160]
Lover FestTaylor SwiftPostponed in 2020 for dates in 2021, but later canceled entirely in February 2021.[161][162]
Madame X TourMadonnaFinal two shows in Paris, France, cancelled.[34]
Map of the Soul TourBTSEntire tour cancelled. An alternative event, BTS Map of the Soul ON:E, was held online and took place on October 10 and 11, 2020.[163][164]
Mind Hive TourWireAll spring European and North American dates postponed.[165]
Miraculous 2020 World TourSantanaAll shows postponed.[10]
Moving On! TourThe WhoUnited Kingdom and Ireland shows postponed. Rescheduled to March 2021.[166]
Miss Lauryn Hill Live in ConcertLauryn HillShow in Upper Darby Township, Pennsylvania postponed until further notice. Show in Northfield, Ohio rescheduled to September 9, 2020.[10]
Music for CarsThe 1975North American leg in 2020 postponed for dates in 2021, but later cancelled entirely in January 2021. The 1975 has already concluded 149 shows for their tour.[167][168]
My Chemical Romance Reunion TourMy Chemical RomanceOceania and Japan legs postponed until further notice. European and North American legs rescheduled to summer and fall 2021.[34][169]
Neon Future IV: The Color of Noise TourSteve AokiAll shows postponed.[140]
Never Ending Tour 2020Bob DylanShows in Japan cancelled.[10]
Nice To Meet Ya TourNiall HoranAll shows cancelled.[170]
The Nightfall TourLittle Big TownAll shows postponed. Rescheduled to August 2020.[34]
No Filter TourThe Rolling StonesSecond North American leg postponed until September 2021, six shows cancelled.[171]
No Shame Tour5 Seconds of SummerAll shows rescheduled to March 2021. Seven Europe leg shows and two North American shows cancelled.[172]
North American TourToolAll spring 2020 tour dates postponed[173]
Ocean 2020 TourLady Antebellum / Lady ATour cancelled.[174]
Ode to Joy TourWilcoShows in Calgary, Missoula, Salt Lake City, Seattle, Vancouver, Portland, Las Vegas, and California postponed until further notice.[10]
Ol' Black Eyes Is Back: Alice CooperAlice CooperSpring 2020 North American leg postponed until further notice.[10]
The Old Friends Acoustic TourBen RectorThe concert began in November 2019, and most shows were cancelled by August 2020.[175][176]
One More Haim TourHaimAll European tour dates postponed[177]
OneRepublic: Live in ConcertOneRepublic2020 European leg rescheduled to 2021, then 2022.[178]
The Owl TourZac Brown BandAll shows cancelled.[179]
Pentatonix: The World TourPentatonixEuropean leg postponed until further notice.[16]
Perfume 8th Tour 2020 "P Cubed" in DomePerfumeFinal show in Tokyo Dome on February 26, 2020, cancelled[180]
Phoenix World TourRita OraRemaining dates of the tour was cancelled and some were postponed until 2021. Ora has already concluded 50 shows with her tour.
Public Service Announcement TourRage Against the MachineFirst half of its North American leg postponed until further notice.[34]
Rammstein Stadium TourRammsteinThe North American and European legs has been postponed until 2021.[181][182]
Reunion showBestial WarlustInitially postponed to an as-yet unspecified date in March 2021, then to 11 September 2021 before being cancelled.[183]
Reverie TourBen PlattNorth American leg postponed. Rescheduled to September 2022.[184]
The Rhapsody TourQueen + Adam LambertEuropean leg postponed. Rescheduled to May 2022.[16]
Roar With The Lions TourZac Brown BandAll shows cancelled.[179]
The Romance TourCamila CabelloAll shows are postponed until further notice.[34]
Runaway TourPost MaloneSome shows are cancelled and remaining dates postponed until further notice.[185]
Saint Cloud TourWaxahatcheeAll April and May dates postponed and are to be rescheduled for later in 2020.[186]
Screamer Part 2 TourThird Eye BlindRescheduled to May 2020.[140]
Sling TourClairoTour postponed.[187]
Summer Tour 2020Dave Matthews BandAll shows were rescheduled for Summer Tour 2021.[188]
Summer Tour 2020Dead & CompanyAll shows cancelled[189]
Summer Tour 2020Little MixTour cancelled[190]
Summer Tour 2020PhishAll shows postponed until summer 2021[191]
Summer Tour 2020Trey Anastasio BandAll shows cancelled; Anastasio and his band held an eight-week residency in the empty Beacon Theatre in fall 2020, which was livestreamed on Twitch.[192][193]
Sunshine Kitty TourTove LoFinal eight shows of her European leg postponed.[10]
SuperM: We Are the Future LiveSuperMThe show in Tokyo Dome on April 23, 2020, postponed.[194]
This Is Not a Drill TourRoger WatersAll North American dates postponed[195]
Three. Two. One.: The TourLennon StellaTour cancelled.[196]
Time to Shine TourAlly BrookeTour cancelled.[197]
Tomorrow's Modern Boxes TourThom YorkeNorth American leg postponed.[10]
Tour for YouTinasheTour cancelled.[198]
Twicelights World TourTwiceSeoul and Tokyo shows cancelled.[199][200]
Unfinished BusinessThe Pussycat DollsEntire tour cancelled.[16][201]
The Us TourLaura MaranoTour postponed to August 2022.[202]
The Velvet TourAdam LambertEuropean leg postponed until further notice.[203]
We Don't Need This Fascist Groove Thang! TourHeaven 17All dates postponed, including the band's first-ever North American concerts.[204]
We Paint Electric Rhythm Colour TourKing CrimsonAll dates postponed until 2021.[205]
Where Do We Go? World TourBillie EilishEilish has already concluded three shows in the North American leg. Rest of the tour cancelled and plans to move for a followup tour.[206]
Wildcard TourMiranda LambertRemaining dates postponed until October 2020.[207]
Winter Tour 2020MoeRemainder of tour canceled, The band's Snoedown festival postponed until 2021.[208][209]
Wonder: The World TourShawn MendesEuropean leg postponed from 2022 to 2023. Later, Mendes cancelled the entire tour due to his mental health.[210][211]
Worlds Collide TourEvanescence and Within TemptationTour postponed. First rescheduled to September 2020, then rescheduled again for September 2021, and a third time for April 2022.[212]
WorldWired TourMetallicaSouth American dates rescheduled from April to December.[213]

Impacted concert residencies

TitleArtistVenueDetailsSource
David Lee Roth Rocks Vegas!David Lee RothHouse of Blues Las VegasLast six shows postponed.[16]
Diana RossDiana RossEncore TheaterPostponed until further notice.[10]
Gwen Stefani – Just a GirlGwen StefaniZappos TheaterFinal leg cancelled[214]
Jonas Brothers in VegasJonas BrothersPark TheaterAll shows cancelled.[34]
Kelly Clarkson: InvincibleKelly ClarksonZappos TheaterAll shows from April to July 2020 cancelled.[34]
Lady Gaga EnigmaLady GagaPark TheaterFirst six shows of the fifth run were cancelled[215]
Let's Go!Shania TwainZappos TheaterAll shows from March 18 to December 2020 were cancelled[16]
Lionel Richie – Las VegasLionel RichieEncore TheaterPostponed until further notice.[10]
Robbie Williams Live in Las VegasRobbie WilliamsEncore TheaterShows from March 24 to April 4, 2020, postponed.[10]
Together in VegasReba McEntire and Brooks & DunnThe Colosseum at Caesars PalacePostponed until June 2020.[216]
ZZ Top: Viva Las VegasZZ TopThe Venetian TheatrePostponed until further notice.[216]
Weekends with AdeleAdeleThe Colosseum at Caesars Palace2022 residency postponed.[217]

Impacted benefit concerts

NameHeadlinersVenueDetailsSource
Bans Off My BodyCourtney Love and Melissa Auf der MaurThe Town Hall, New York City, New York, U.S.Benefit concert promoting gender equality and access to sexual and reproductive health care cancelled.[16]
Farm AidDave Matthews, John Mellencamp, Willie Nelson with Lukas and Micah Nelson, and Neil YoungVarious locationsConverted to a series of home shows that were broadcast as "At Home with Farm Aid"[218]
Teenage Cancer Trust ConcertThe Who and Mumford & SonsRoyal Albert Hall, London, EnglandPostponed until further notice.[10]
World Tour Bushfire ReliefMiley Cyrus and Robbie WilliamsLakeside Stadium, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaBenefit concert raising funds for those affected by the 2019-20 Australian bushfire season cancelled after headliner Miley Cyrus withdrew of the event.[140]

Impacted award ceremonies and song contests

EventDetailsSource
55th Academy of Country Music AwardsPostponed to September 16, 2020. A television special, titled ACM Presents: Our Country, was aired in place of the ceremony's original April 5, 2020, timeslot on CBS.[219]
APRA Music Awards of 2020Rescheduled to May 26, 2020, and was presented as a streaming "virtual" event.[16]
2020 BET AwardsPresented as a streaming "virtual" event.[220]
2020 Billboard Music AwardsPostponed to October 14, 2020.[17]
2020 Billboard Latin Music AwardsPostponed to October 27, 2020.[17]
15th Canadian Folk Music AwardsCeremony cancelled. Winners announced on live stream on April 4[221]
18th Chopin CompetitionPostponed to 2021[222]
Dansk Melodi Grand Prix 2020Event was pushed through, though no live audience was admitted inside the venue, the Royal Arena in Copenhagen.[223]
29th Detroit Music AwardsLive show suspended. An online streaming event was held in place of the ceremony.[16]
Eurovision Song Contest 2020Competition cancelled, marking the first time that the contest was not held since it began in 1956. A live television program, titled Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light, was broadcast in place of the show's grand final on May 16, 2020.[224]
Eurovision Young Musicians 2020Competition cancelled.[225]
26th Fryderyk AwardsCeremony cancelled. Originally, the ceremony was planned to take place without an audience, but it was scrapped. Instead, the winners were announced online.[226]
63rd Annual Grammy AwardsRescheduled to March 14, 2021, following a surge in infections in Los Angeles County.[227]
2020 iHeartRadio Music AwardsCeremony cancelled for the first time since the iteration of the event. Winners were revealed on September 4–7, 2020. A charity event, titled iHeart Living Room Concert for America, was aired in place of half of the ceremony's original March 29, 2020, timeslot on Fox.[228][229]
Juno Awards of 2020Ceremony cancelled and was changed to virtual winner reveal, rescheduled to June 29, 2020. It was the first time the Juno Awards was cancelled since 1988.[230]
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonyRescheduled to November 7, 2020. A television special, titled The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2020 Inductions, was aired in place of the ceremony on HBO.[34]
Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremonyRescheduled to June 10, 2021.[140]

Music releases

Several musical artists delayed the releases of albums amid the pandemic.[231] The Record Store Day, which would have seen the release of several re-issues and exclusive material, was rescheduled from April 18 to June 20.[232] But added with 3 dates: August 29, September 26, and October 24.[233] In contrast, some musical acts, such as Dua Lipa, Sufjan Stevens, and Laura Marling, moved up the release dates of their upcoming albums.[234][235] Others, such as Taylor Swift, Nine Inch Nails, Phish, X, and Fiona Apple, released new albums with little or no advanced notice.[236][237][238][239] Swift intended to release her 2019 song "Cruel Summer" as a single in early 2020, but the outbreak of the pandemic disrupted her plans.[240][241]

Many albums have had release dates pushed back as a result of the pandemic, including:[242]

Impacted album releases
ArtistAlbum titleOriginal dateRescheduled dateSource
The 1975Notes on a Conditional FormApril 24, 2020May 22, 2020[243]
Biffy ClyroA Celebration of EndingsMay 15, 2020August 14, 2020[244]
Luke BryanBorn Here Live Here Die HereApril 24, 2020August 7, 2020[245]
Carach AngrenFranckensteina StrataemontanusMay 29, 2020June 26, 2020[246]
Deep PurpleWhoosh!June 12, 2020August 7, 2020[247]
Dixie Chicks / The ChicksGaslighterMay 1, 2020July 17, 2020[248]
DMA'sThe GlowApril 24, 2020July 10, 2020[244]
Jarv IsBeyond the PaleMay 1, 2020July 17, 2020[244]
Liam GallagherMTV UnpluggedApril 24, 2020June 12, 2020[244]
Ellie GouldingBrightest BlueJune 5, 2020July 17, 2020
Coheed and CambriaVaxis – Act II: A Window of the Waking MindMay 27, 2022June 24, 2022[249]
HaimWomen in Music Pt. IIIApril 24, 2020June 26, 2020[244][250]
HindsThe Prettiest CurseApril 3, 2020June 5, 2020[244]
Adele30September 2020November 19, 2021[251]
Alicia KeysAliciaMarch 20, 2020September 18, 2020[252]
Miley CyrusPlastic Hearts2020November 27, 2020[253]
The KillersImploding the MirageMay 29, 2020August 21, 2020[254]
SugababesOne Touch: 20th Year Anniversary Edition2020October 1, 2021[255][256][257]
Hans ZimmerNo Time to Die: Original Motion Picture SoundtrackMarch 27, 2020October 1, 2021[258][259]
Kanye WestDonda (then titled God's Country)July 24, 2020August 29, 2021[260]
Lady GagaChromaticaApril 10, 2020May 29, 2020[244][261]
Demi LovatoDancing with the Devil... the Art of Starting Over2020April 2, 2021[262]
Bettye LaVetteBlackbirdsMay 8, 2020August 28, 2020[263][264][265]
The Lemon TwigsSongs for the General PublicMay 1, 2020August 21, 2020[266]
Declan McKennaZerosMay 15, 2020September 4, 2020[267]
Alanis MorissetteSuch Pretty Forks in the RoadMay 1, 2020July 31, 2020[252]
Willie NelsonFirst Rose of SpringApril 24, 2020July 3, 2020[244]
Nick Mason's Saucerful of SecretsLive at the RoundhouseApril 17, 2020September 18, 2020[268]
The PretendersHate for SaleMay 1, 2020July 17, 2020[269]
Matt BerningerSerpentine PrisonOctober 2, 2020October 16, 2020[270]
I Dont Know How But They Found MeRazzmatazzOctober 16, 2020October 23, 2020[271]
Margo PriceThat's How Rumors Get StartedMay 8, 2020July 10, 2020[244]
ProtomartyrUltimate Success TodayMay 29, 2020July 17, 2020[272]
The Psychedelic FursMade of RainMay 1, 2020July 31, 2020[273]
Sam SmithLove Goes (then titled To Die For)May 1, 2020October 30, 2020[274]
Steven WilsonThe Future BitesJune 12, 2020January 29, 2021[275]
Throwing MusesSun RacketMay 22, 2020September 4, 2020[276]
Rufus WainwrightUnfollow the RulesApril 24, 2020July 10, 2020[277]
Phantom PlanetDevastatorMay 8, 2020June 18, 2020
WeezerVan WeezerMay 15, 2020May 7, 2021[278]
Bon Jovi2020May 15, 2020October 2, 2020[279]
OneRepublicHumanMay 1, 2020August 27, 2021[280]
Billy OceanOne WorldApril 17, 2020September 4, 2020[281]
YungbludWeird!November 13, 2020December 4, 2020[282]
Lana Del ReyChemtrails over the Country ClubSeptember 5, 2020March 19, 2021[283]
Zella DaySunday in Heaven2021October 14, 2022[284]
Ben RectorThe Joy of Music2020March 11, 2022[176][285]

Virtual performances

Many artists elected to stream performances online. Virtual concerts, such as the iHeart Living Room Concert for America and Together at Home, were organised to provide entertainment to the public, and to raise awareness methods to combat the virus, notably social distancing.[286][287] Artists such as Christine and the Queens, Ben Gibbard, and Katharine McPhee broadcast daily livestream performances from their homes.[288][289] Several major bands including Pink Floyd, Radiohead, and Metallica offered free livestreams of archival concerts,[290] as did several in the jam band scene, including Phish, Dead & Company, Widespread Panic, and The String Cheese Incident.[291][292]

In April 2020, Beyond Live, the first paid concert streaming service in the world which provides full-scaled live online concert aided by technology – including augmented reality and real-time interactions between artists and live audience – was launched to deliver K-pop concerts.[293][294] Since its creation, multiple K-pop artists have delivered full-length live concerts via this platform, and other K-pop entertainment enterprises started to produce virtual live concerts in similar format throughout 2020.

On May 27, 2020, One Love Asia brings all artists and YouTubers together to perform in one big virtual concert to heal the world against coronavirus and to protect and advance the welfare of all people.

In August 2020, the American singer Bilal live streamed his three-day remote recording of an experimental three-song EP titled VOYAGE-19. Spanning 54 hours, he wrote, recorded, and produce one song per day in virtual collaborations with producer Tariq Khan and 30 other musicians, including Erykah Badu, Robert Glasper, Keyon Harrold, Marcus Strickland, Raymond Angry, Ben Williams, Brandee Younger, and Marcus Gilmore. The stream simultaneously showed the EP's artwork being made, with a group of three visual artists enlisted for each song, including Angelbert Metoyer. Proceeds from the sale of the broadcast's pre-order and the EP's digital download were distributed among the participants, a number of whom were struggling financially due to the pandemic.[295][296]

In November 2020, Taylor Swift released a concert film, titled Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions, to Disney+. The film saw Swift, Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff quarantine themselves in an isolated recording studio and perform live every song from her eighth studio album, Folklore (2020).[297] In September 2021, Billie Eilish similarly released a concert film to Disney+, titled Happier Than Ever: A Love Letter to Los Angeles, where she performed live every song from her second studio album Happier Than Ever (2021) at an empty Hollywood Bowl alongside her brother Finneas O'Connell, with guest appearances from well-known musical figures in Los Angeles.[298]

Songs and recordings inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects

Artist(s)SongNotesSource
Broadway Boys"Nag-iisa"This is a song that was released in 2020 that dedicates to frontliners and patients who survived the COVID-19 pandemic. Also it is a part of 500-year commemoration of Christianity, victory and humanity as part of the quincentennial commemorations.
Raizo Chabeldin, Biv de Vera and ABS-CBN regional news anchors"Pag-ibig ang Hihilom sa Daigdig"This is a song that was released by ABS-CBN on April 3, 2020, and performed by Raizo Chabeldin and Biv de Vera. Aside from "We Heal As One" that was released a week ago, the song inspires all the Filipinos to spread love and hope amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. At the end of the song, ABS-CBN's regional news anchors were also featured to sing "Don't share the hate and scare, spread never-ending love and care" two times, along with the real Kapamilyas from different provinces. It is the official theme song for ABS-CBN Foundation's Pantawid ng Pag-ibig. The music video was released on April 3, 2020.
K-Pop artists"We Can!"This song interpolates Pinkfong's "Baby Shark".[299]
Vice Ganda"Corona Bye-Bye Na!"This song was performed at ABS-CBN's Pantawid ng Pag-ibig: At Home Together Concert, A Kapamilya Special Concert that hopes all Filipinos to follow the law to protect themselves from the COVID-19 pandemic widespread. Hosted by ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs' correspondents, Alvin Elchico and Zen Hernandez.
BTS"Life Goes On"The lyrics of the song have been described as uplifting and seeking to provide hope to fans during the pandemic.[300]
BTS Skytrain Employees"Covid-19: Dance Against the Virus"This song was featured on online newspapers such as Hong Kong's South China Morning Post, Indonesia's The Jakarta Post and Thailand's Thai Rath. It reminds passengers to wash their hands, wear a facemask, practice social distancing, and to stay home or go to the hospital for testing and treatment if infected. This is part of the train service's 20th anniversary campaign.
CMC Vision Sisters"Go Away Corona!"A secular upbeat song to uplift and enlighten people for them to be safe against COVID-19.
SB19"Ikako"An SB19 song which encourages Filipinos to uplift their positive attitude despite the COVID-19 pandemic and other bad news in 2020.
Kim Chiu"Bawal Lumabas"A Kim Chiu's statement regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the ABS-CBN franchise renewal controversy that was made into a song, which became a dance challenge on YouTube and TikTok.
Julie Anne San Jose"Pagbangon"A GMA News and Public Affairs charity single which is dedicated to all frontliners and patients who survived the COVID-19 pandemic to raise awareness against the virus. Also it is part of commemoration of GMA Network's 70th anniversary campaign, Buong Puso Para Sa Pilipino.
Morissette"Phoenix"The song's music video is an audio-visual feast, featuring Morissette's clear and powerful vocals, as well as amazing visual components and narration about how a dull and lifeless environment during the COVID-19 pandemic could be turned around by hope and chance.[301]
Jamie Rivera, Iñigo Pascual, Julie Anne San Jose, Jed Madela, Robert Seña, Isay Alvarez-Seña, Mark Bautista, Rita Daniela, Gary Valenciano, Paolo Valenciano, KZ Tandingan, Aicelle Santos, Ogie Alcasid, Menchu Lauchengco, Michael Williams, Alden Richards, Ken Chan, Christian Bautista, Sarah Geronimo, Martin Nievera, Pops Fernandez, Bamboo Manalac, Apl.de.ap, Lani Misalucha, and Lea Salonga"We Heal As One"A reworked version of the 2019 Southeast Asian Games theme song, "We Win As One", originally performed by Lea Salonga. This version brings all OPM singers together to raise awareness against COVID-19 pandemic and pays tribute to the frontline workers. GMA News and Public Affairs, particularly Jessica Soho is the first one to promote this song. It is produced by Floy Quintos & composed by Ryan Cayabyab. Also it is part of commemoration of GMA Network's 70th Anniversary campaign, Buong Puso Para Sa Pilipino.
AKB48"離れていても" "Hanareteitemo" (Even When We Are Apart)An AKB48's charity single which is dedicated to all frontliners and patients who survived the COVID-19 pandemic. This song brought all of its current members, in addition to all former aces of the entire group. Jurina Matsui is the only non-AKB48 active member and an SKE48 member to take part of this song, as well as Sayaka Yamamoto who was an NMB48 graduate and Rino Sashihara who was an AKB48 & HKT48 former ace & alumnus.
BNK48 and CGM48"Touch by Heart"A charity single which is dedicated to all frontliners and patients who survived the COVID-19 pandemic. It has 8 versions that were performed by the groups' members. Special version was performed by all members in two sister groups, Thai version for BNK48 & CGM48 leaders, Grab, English, Japanese & Isan versions for selected 1st Generation members, Lanna version for all CGM48 members & Chinese version for selected members in BNK48's 2 generations.
AKB48 Team SH and CGM48"Dareka no Tame Ni"Chinese and Thai versions of AKB48's digital single. This is dedicated to all frontliners and patients who survived the COVID-19 pandemic, and to all Chiang Mai residents who survived the bushfire.
Namewee and Malaysian musicians and singers"OK Lah"A song which is dedicated to all frontliners and patients who survived the COVID-19 pandemic. Also it is connected with Malaysia's Ministry of Health to impose Movement Control Order to stop the spread of COVID-19.[302]
Anonymotif and Justin Trudeau"Speaking Moistly"Press conference remarks by Canadian prime minister Trudeau served as basis for YouTube remix by Edmonton-based producer anonymotif (Brock Tyler).[303]
ArtistsCAN"Lean on Me"Bilingual rendition of Bill Withers song performed at Canadian benefit concert Stronger Together, Tous Ensemble. Single released in aid of Canadian Red Cross. Initiated by Tyler Shaw and Fefe Dobson; features Michael Bublé, Justin Bieber, Avril Lavigne, Bryan Adams and others.[304]
Cardi B and iMarkkeyz"Coronavirus (Remix)"Remix by Brooklyn DJ iMarkkeyz of an Instagram video posted by rapper Cardi B.[305]
Michael Ball and Captain Tom Moore"You'll Never Walk Alone"British fundraiser in aid of NHS Charities Together, recorded by actor-singer Ball, Second World War veteran Moore and NHS Voices of Care Choir. The song reached UK number 1 on April 24, 2020, days before Moore celebrated his 100th birthday.[306]
Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo"Together"[307]
Alec Benjamin"Six Feet Apart"Lyrics relate to compliance with social distancing guidelines.[308]
David Bisbal and Aitana"Si tú la quieres"Bisbal remixed his song with new vocals from Aitana, accompanied by a video showing the two singers in isolation.[309]
James Blunt"The Greatest"Single released in aid of British National Health Service.[310]
Bono, will.i.am, Jennifer Hudson and Yoshiki"#Sing4Life"Bono originally performed the song on March 17, 2020, as "Let Your Love Be Known"; remixed version with collaborators was released on YouTube on March 24, 2020.[311]
Brujeria"COVID-666"[312]
Koffee"Lockdown"
Buddy Brown"The Coronavirus Song"[313]
Michael Bublé, Barenaked Ladies and Sofia Reyes"Gotta Be Patient"Original song was by three Barcelona roommates performing as Stay Homas during their lockdown. Bublé's cover version is in aid of Canadian Red Cross and Argentine Red Cross.[314]
Jackie Chan, Xiao Zhan, Wang Leehom and others"坚信爱会赢" (Believe Love Will Triumph)Collaboration between Chinese singers and actors, released by Chinese state media.[315]
Charli XCX"Claws"Lyrics discuss love in time of self-isolation; second single from her album How I'm Feeling Now, which was recorded during lockdown.[316]
Luke Combs"Six Feet Apart"Title refers to social distancing guidelines issued by the CDC in the USA.[317]
Alice Cooper"Don't Give Up"Lyrics relate to staying strong in the face of the virus.[318]
Neil Diamond"Hands... Washing Hands"Diamond re-recorded the classic song "Sweet Caroline" with updated lyrics about washing hands for safety during the pandemic.[319]
Fleur East"Not Alone"Charity single in aid of British NHS COVID-19 Appeal.[320]
Melody Gardot"From Paris with Love"Collaborative project featuring a "global digital orchestra".[321]
Ben Gibbard"Life in Quarantine"[322]
Gmac Cash"Coronavirus"Detroit rapper Gmac Cash later released "Big Gretch", a tribute to Gretchen Whitmer's handling of the pandemic.[323]
Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber"Stuck with U"The collaboration is in aid of the First Responders Children's Foundation. Topped the US Billboard Hot 100.[324]
Kamal Haasan, Ghibran and others"Arivum Anbum"Tamil-language song with lyrics written by actor-politician Haasan and composed by Ghibran, with performances by many Indian musicians.[325]
Hopsin"Covid Mansion"[326]
Iceage"Lockdown Blues"[327]
Miley Cyrus"Angels like You"A music video about the singer's performance at the Super Bowl LV pre-game show on February 7, 2021. At the end of the video, a message was endorsed the COVID-19 vaccine.[328][329]
Italian Allstars 4 Life"Ma il cielo è sempre blu [it]"Italian all-star cover version of Rino Gaetano's 1975 hit. Released in aid of Italian Red Cross. Features over 50 artists including Eros Ramazzotti, Nek and Diodato.[330]
Jöran Steinhauer"Vi vogliamo bene"
Elisa and Tommaso Paradiso"Andrà tutto bene"Title inspired by the slogan used by Italian people during quarantine.
Avril Lavigne"We Are Warriors"[331]
Lady Leshurr"Quarantine Speech"[332]
JJ Lin and Stefanie Sun"Stay with You"Song by two of Singapore's best-known singers in tribute to medical staff in Wuhan, China.[333]
Oh Land"I Miss One Week Ago"[334]
Katherine McNamara"Just Like James"Lyrics refer to the character James Bond. As part of a donation by WHO for the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.[335]
Live Lounge Allstars"Times Like These"Cover of Foo Fighters song by charity supergroup organised by BBC Radio 1. Originally shown as part of The Big Night In telethon. Reached number one in the UK.[336]
BBC Radio 2 Allstars"Stop Crying Your Heart Out"Cover of Oasis song by charity supergroup organised by BBC Radio 2. Originally shown as part of Children in Need telethon. Reached number seven in the UK.[337]
Matt Lucas"Thank You Baked Potato"Reworked version of his "Baked Potato Song" from Shooting Stars. In aid of the Feed NHS campaign.[338]
Mister Cumbia"La Cumbia del Coronavirus"[339]
New Kids on the Block"House Party"Featuring Boyz II Men, Big Freedia, Naughty by Nature and Jordin Sparks.[340]
NIOEH, Khắc Hưng [vi], Min and Erik"Ghen Cô Vy"Song doubling as a public service announcement, issued by Vietnam's National Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health to encourage COVID-19 hygiene measures. An English-language version was also released.[341]
OneRepublic"Better Days"Released in aid of MusiCares Foundation's COVID-19 Relief Fund.[342]
Piso 21"Tomar distancia"Title is Spanish for "Keep your distance".[343]
Pitbull"I Believe That We Will Win (World Anthem)"Released in aid of various charities around the world according to the music video.[344]
Psychs"Spreadin' (Coronavirus)"[345]
Queen and Adam Lambert"We Are the Champions"Revised version, released in aid of COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.[346]
A. R. Rahman and Prasoon Joshi"Hum Haar Nahi Maanenge"Single released by Indian composer Rahman, lyricist Joshi and other Indian performers in aid of PM CARES Fund.[347]
Selena Gomez"Dance Again"As part of a donation by MusiCares for the MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund.[348]
Jaden Smith"Cabin Fever"[349]
Reignwolf"Cabin Fever"[350]
Residente"Antes que el mundo se acabe"[351]
Resistiré 2020"Resistiré"All-star Spanish cover version of Dúo Dinámico's 1988 hit. Song became anthem during Spain's lockdown, popularly sung by citizens to encourage Spanish health system. Performers include David Bisbal, Melendi, Álex Ubago and Álvaro Soler.[352]
Resistiré México"Resistiré"All-star Mexican cover version of Dúo Dinámico's 1988 hit. Performers include Belinda, Cristian Castro and Gloria Trevi.[353]
Taylor Swift"Epiphany"From her album Folklore (2020), recorded during the COVID-19 lockdowns[354]
Stunna 4 Vegas"Covid-19"From his album Welcome to 4 Vegas (2020)[355]
Thomas Rhett"Be a Light"Features Keith Urban, Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott and Chris Tomlin. In aid of MusiCares COVID-19 Relief Fund.[356]
The Rolling Stones"Living in a Ghost Town"Mick Jagger fast-tracked the release of the song due to its relevance to social distancing and changed some lyrics to refer to the pandemic.[357]
Molly Sandén, Victor Leksell and Joakim Berg"Sverige"Cover version of 2002 song by Berg's band Kent. Released in aid of Sweden's Radiohjälpen's (Radio Aid) campaign for coronavirus.[358]
Adam Sandler"The Quarantine Song"Film actor Sandler debuted the song on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on April 2, 2020.[359]
Cast of Pitch Perfect"Love On Top"Cast members of the film franchise Pitch Perfect, performed a rendition of the Beyoncé song. Recorded in isolation as part of the charity for Unicef, from the COVID-19 pandemic and the explosion of Beirut.[360]
Clairo"Just for Today"[361]
Tix"Karantene"Lyrics refer to the COVID-19 lockdowns and quarantine measures. The song topped the Norwegian singles chart in April 2020.[362]
Till Lindemann and David Garrett"Alle Tage ist kein Sonntag"[363]
Maroon 5"Nobody's Love"This song was inspired by COVID-19 and the George Floyd protests.[364]
Avenue Beat"F2020"Lyrics refer to the events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic.[365]
Twenty One Pilots"Level of Concern"Lyrics refer to quarantine and concern about the virus. In aid of Live Nation's Crew Nation charity.[366]
Tyga x Curtis Roach"Bored in the House"[367]
Chris Webby"Quarantine (Freeverse)"[368]
Weezer"Hero"Lyrics pay tribute to "the stay at home dreamers, the Zoom graduators, the sourdough bakers and the essential workers".[369]
Yofrangel"Corona Virus"Released on February 9, 2020, Dominican singer Yofrangel's viral hit was one of the earliest songs on the subject.[370]
Ladilla Rusa"A un metro y medio de ti"The track, a techno-rumba anthem in a world starring COVID-19, is about an impossible love in a supermarket queue. Although they didn't want to write anything related to the pandemic, this makinero drama stems from an anecdote in which they had to separate a metre and a half to smoke on the terrace of a bar.[371]
Coheed and Cambria"Comatose"
"Disappearing Act"
"Love Murder One"
"The Liars Club"
Several songs on their album Vaxis – Act II: A Window of the Waking Mind were inspired by the quarantines and lockdowns experienced during the pandemic.[372]
Lea Salonga"Dream Again"Released on August 21, 2020, the single is "an anthem for resilience and hope and a reminder for all of us that dreamed once before that it’s time to dream again." The music video for the song features fans holding up signs of things they dream of doing again. Profits from the single were donated to charities supporting COVID-19 relief around the world, including The Actor's Fund.[373]
Ben RectorA Ben Rector ChristmasWith the lack of business responsibilities amidst the pandemic following the cancellation of his tour, Rector focused all of his attention on his creative works. He would rewrite most of his upcoming album The Joy of Music. In addition he found time to write a Christmas album, a project he had always wanted to do. The pandemic would influence the lyrics of one of the songs' tracks, "The Thanksgiving Song", with the line, "we’ve made it through / I do believe / the longest year in history."[176][374][375]
Billy PilgrimIn the Time MachineFrom cleaning out his house during the pandemic, country singer Kristian Bush discovered a copy of an unreleased album from his old band Billy Pilgrim, In the Time Machine. They had assumed all 500 copies of the album were sold after the master tapes of the recordings burned in a studio fire in 2000. He reformed Billy Pilgrim with Andrew Hyra to re-release the album.[376]

See also

References