NEWS
DJ Snake, Ozuna, Megan Thee Stallion, Lisa of BLACKPINK in "SG"
Courtesy ImageAdele's reign continues on the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. and Billboard Global 200 charts, while Swedish House Mafia and The Weeknd fly in with "Moth to a Flame," new in the top 10 of the latter list, dated Nov. 6.
Meanwhile, another all-star collaboration launches just outside the top 10 of each tally: "SG," teaming DJ Snake, Ozuna, Lisa from BLACKPINK and Megan Thee Stallion, debuts at Nos. 13 and 19 on the respective rankings.
"SG" is the latest in a select group of global chart hits to feature acts from four international territories. DJ Snake hails from France, Ozuna from Puerto Rico, Lisa from Thailand (and currently based in South Korea) and Megan Thee Stallion from the U.S. (Puerto Rico and the U.S. are tracked separately for the global charts, give the former's distinct musical identity). Combined, the four artists have 25 prior Global 200 hits to their names.
The track follows 2020's "Relación," a pan-Latin joining of artists from Panama (Sech), Puerto Rico (Daddy Yankee and Farruko), Colombia (J Balvin) and Spain (Rosalía). Perhaps more directly, it looks a lot like "Big," a cross-genre meet-up of the UK's Rita Ora, French producer David Guetta, Kazakhstan's Imanbek and American rapper Gunna.
There's also "Taki Taki," DJ Snake and Ozuna's first collaboration, also featuring Selena Gomez and Cardi B. That track's 2018 release predated Billboard's global charts but proved itself a worthy recipe for success, crowning Hot Latin Songs for 13 weeks and reaching No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. It has racked up 891 million on-demand audio streams in the U.S. since its release, according to MRC Data.
Comparing the global and U.S. start for "SG, " it debuts at No. 2 on the U.S.-based Hot 100's Bubbling Under chart, and at No. 11 on Hot Latin Songs. Of its 19,000 first-week global sales, 82% were from outside the U.S., compared to the week's average of 46%, according to MRC Data. More dramatically, the song drew 45.3 million streams around the world, 92% from outside the States, well beyond the week's average of 76%.
The greater international chart success so far for "SG" shouldn't be shocking given its co-headline lineup. It follows the aforementioned "Big," which also paced stronger out of the gate around the world, though not as heavily as "SG," with 84% of its streams and 71% of its sales from outside the U.S. (compared to, again the 92% and 82% splits, respectively, for "SG").
Just as rare as acts from four territories on one song, "SG" highlights a particular cultural swath with the pairing of Ozuna and Lisa, bridging the gap between Latin and Korean pop. Bad Bunny raps in Spanish and Japanese on his hit "Yonaguni" and NCT Dream's "Hot Sauce" includes lyrics in English, Korean and Spanish. But "SG" marks the global charts' first collaboration between acts from these opposite corners of the world. Adding European dance via quarterback DJ Snake and hip-hop via Megan Thee Stallion, "SG" makes for one of the most diverse hits of the year.
NEWS
Kelly Rowland has shared some heartfelt guidance for KATSEYE as the girl group faces a challenging period, with Sophia Laforteza and Manon Bannerman temporarily stepping away to prioritise their mental health.
Having experienced worldwide fame at an early age with Destiny’s Child, Kelly understands the intense pressure that comes with success and changes within a group. During an interview with Rolling Stone, she encouraged the KATSEYE members to look after their own needs while continuing to stand by one another.
She explained: “In an industry as fast-paced as music, where there are constantly eyes on you and pressure to keep rising, your health is one of the most sacred things you have.
“I learned during my time in Destiny’s Child that you can show up for your fans and your group while still honouring what you need as an individual.”
Kelly then revealed what she would personally tell the group: “My advice to the KATSEYE girls would be to listen to themselves, be kind to themselves, and continue supporting one another through every season.”
As KATSEYE continue their Wildworld tour, Kelly also highlighted the importance of making space to recharge: “Especially on tour, it’s so important to intentionally carve out time to rest and reset in their daily routines. Taking care of your mind and body is what allows you to bounce back, stay resilient, and keep doing what you love.”
KATSEYE began their Wildworld tour on Tuesday (01.09.26), although neither Sophia nor Manon was present.
Sophia discussed her decision on Instagram Stories, telling fans: “I cannot express how much I want to participate in this tour and perform for you all. I have to remind myself every day that our health and mental wellbeing should always be prioritised.
“When I show up for you, I want you to get the best version of me. I've been in ongoing treatment and doing everything I can to stay healthy, occupied and happy.
“You can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s important to care for yourself.”
KATSEYE later posted an official announcement on Instagram, saying: “We would like to share an update regarding Sophia’s upcoming schedule.
“Sophia is focusing on her wellbeing, and the company remains fully committed to providing her with all the support and resources needed.”
Signed by HYBE and Geffen Records, the announcement verified that Sophia “will not be participating in the Wildworld Tour in Europe and the UK”.
However, no reference was made to the group’s scheduled performances in North America.
The statement added: “We sincerely ask for EYEKONS’ warm understanding, as our highest priority will always be the health and long-term well-being of our artists.
“We will share further updates as they become available. Please continue to send your love, warmth, and support to Sophia and KATSEYE.”
Sophia also expressed her appreciation for the care she has received from her management team and fellow members while dealing with her health concerns.
She added: “There’s been nothing but love and support from the company, my members, and everyone else around me as I work to get well. I can’t wait until I return and share the stage with my sisters again.
“They’re gonna put on an extraordinary performance for you. Trust me, I’ve been watching and they’re absolutely giving.”
Ending her message with gratitude, she told supporters: “I love you all so much. Thank you for understanding.”
The Pinky Up singers, whose lineup also includes Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel and Yoonchae Jeung, have appeared with five members since February after Manon took a break to concentrate on her “health and wellbeing”. Sophia’s temporary absence means the group is currently performing with four members.
