Phil Upchurch, an iconic guitarist and session musician who collaborated with Donny Hathaway, Michael Jackson and countless other music legends, has died. He was 84.

Upchurch passed away on Nov. 23 in Los Angeles, according to his wife, Sonya Maddox-Upchurch. A cause of death was not revealed.

“Phil Upchurch was my personal gift from God, he was my best friend, my music partner, my life, and my hero,” she said in a statement. “Our love was supernatural, endless, timeless and as true as his favorite color blue. He was a master of chords and emotions. Anything that he placed his mind to complete — he did it. Well done my love. I love you more than words can say and the heart can hold.”

Over a remarkable career, Upchurch recorded nearly 30 albums and appeared on more than 1,000 recordings. Notable contributions include Chaka Khan’s 1978 hit “I’m Every Woman,” which topped Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for three weeks, and Michael Jackson’s “Workin’ Day and Night,” from his 1979 solo album, Off the Wall.

Upchurch was also featured on all of Donny Hathaway’s solo studio and live albums, as well as Curtis Mayfield’s soundtracks for the films Superfly, Claudine, Let’s Do It Again and Sparkle, the latter featuring Aretha Franklin.

He also performed or recorded with other music legends, including George Benson, Bob Dylan, Quincy Jones, Luther Vandross, B.B. King, Dizzy Gillespie, John Lee Hooker and Stan Getz.

Born on July 19, 1941, in Chicago, Upchurch began making music at a young age, starting with the ukulele at 13 before quickly mastering guitar, bass and drums. Influenced by jazz greats Oscar Peterson and Jimmy Smith, he began his professional career touring with the singing group the Spaniels after graduating high school in 1958. In 1961, he scored a hit under his own name with “You Can’t Sit Down.” Two years later, he was part of a studio band that backed Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay) on the spoken-word/comedy album I Am the Greatest!

In the mid-1960s, Upchurch served two years in the U.S. Army in Germany. Upon returning, he became a regular session musician at Chicago’s Chess Records, collaborating with legends such as Ramsey Lewis, John Klemmer, Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, the Dells and Etta James.

Beyond performing, Upchurch authored two instructional music books and completed an autobiography, which is set to be released posthumously.

Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau just went Instagram official.

On Saturday (Dec. 6), the 41-year-old pop star shared a series of photos and videos from her trip to Japan, including several cameos by former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, 53.

“tokyo times on tour and more,” Perry captioned the Instagram gallery.

In one snapshot, the former American Idol judge and Trudeau pose cheek-to-cheek outdoors, while another shows the pair sharing sushi in a black-and-white clip. A third image captures them admiring what appears to be a sparkly art installation.

The Instagram carousel arrives amid Perry’s travels to Japan, where she has been performing dates on her ongoing Lifetimes Tour. During her visit, the “Dark Horse” singer joined Trudeau as he met with former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and his wife, Yuko, following a formal lunch.

Earlier in the week, Kishida shared a photo of the two couples smiling together in front of a colorful Christmas tree in an ornately decorated room.

“Former Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau visited Japan with his partner and joined my wife and me for lunch,” Kishida, who now serves in the House of Representatives of Japan, wrote on X. “During [Trudeau’s] time as [Canadian] prime minister, we met multiple times as fellow leaders. “I am delighted that we continue to maintain this friendship in this way.”

Trudeau replied in the comments, “Katy and I were so glad to have the chance to sit down with you and Yuko. Thank you, Fumio, for your friendship and your continued commitment to both the international rules-based order and to a better future for everyone.”

Speculation about Perry and Trudeau’s relationship arose earlier this year. They were publicly seen together in Paris in late October, marking one of their first widely reported appearances together.

Check out Perry and Trudeau’s first Instagram photo together here.

From career milestones to new music releases to major announcements and those little important moments, Billboard editors highlight uplifting moments in Latin music. Here’s what happened in the Latin music world this week.

Mon Laferte, Lunay & More Dazzle at Fashion Awards with Willy Chavarría

The Fashion Awards, often referred to as the U.K.’s Met Gala, brought together global stars on Monday (Dec. 1) in London. Mexican-American designer Willy Chavarría’s brought a dynamic group of Latin artists including Mon Laferte and Lunay, as well as Mahmood and Ellie Goulding. Chavarría, who was nominated for designer of the year, used the prestigious event and his brand’s mission to promote human dignity. 

Chilean superstar Mon Laferte turned heads in a ruby red leather coat-dress paired with platinum blonde hair, while Puerto Rican artist Lunay donned a zoot suit-inspired metallic, olive-tone trench coat — designed by Chavarría. “Collaborating with Willy is always a thrill,” Lunay told Man About Town. “Being surrounded by creativity and coming as Willy’s guest is such an honor. This is where the best in fashion come together, and I love being inspired […] Every time we work together, I walk away feeling like the strongest, most authentic version of myself.”

The New York-based designer is renowned his sharp tailoring that blends high fashion with street style, oversized silhouettes, and an unmistakable Chicano and Latino flair. His creations are a fixture on red carpets and in pop culture.

Becky G’s Premieres Rebbeca in Her Hometown Inglewood

Becky G hosted the premiere of her documentary Rebbeca at the Miracle Theatre in Inglewood on Sunday (Nov. 30). Sponsored by Miracle Theatre and Patrón Tequila, the premiere took place ahead of the film’s nationwide theatrical release on Dec. 10 and 13. Attendees included Wilmer Valderrama, will.i.am, Chiquis Rivera, Dolores Huerta and Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts Jr., along with members of the Inglewood City Council.

“It was never a question for me if the premiere of this documentary would be in the city that raised me because my pride for where I come from is as real as it gets,” Becky said ahead of the screening. “But what I wasn’t prepared for emotionally was seeing this room filled with so many familiar faces. Little me used to buy her school uniform next door, and I don’t think she could’ve imagined days like today.” Tickets for the film are available at beckygisrebbeca.com.

Industry Leaders Share Keys to Música Mexicana’s Global Rise

Industry leaders came together on Tuesday (Dec. 2) for The Rise of Música Mexicana: Lessons for the Global Music Industry, a panel exploring the genre’s exponential growth and its impact on the global music scene. Moderated by Billboard Español‘s Isabela Raygoza, the discussion featured Lorena Cabral (director, A&R, Downtown Artist & Label Services), Daniel Luna (CEO, D Luna Music), Carlos Santos (label manager and co-founder, K Music), and Jorge Navarro (music partnerships manager, MX & CO, YouTube Music).

As part of Music Biz Passport Series — that highlighted global territories such as Brazil, France, and China — the conversation focused on how Mexican music evolved from a regional genre into a global force, highlighting artists like Peso Pluma, Luis R. Conriquez, Netón Vega and more breaking cultural barriers and dominating global streaming. Panelists explored how this genre’s success can serve as a blueprint for other artists to expand their reach and transcend boundaries. Watch the full panel discussion below.

Marc Anthony Lights Up Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center

This year’s Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting took place on Wednesday (Dec. 3), marking the start of the holiday season in New York City. Broadcasted live on NBC and Peacock, the centerpiece was a 75-foot Norway Spruce from East Greenbush, New York, adorned with 50,000 LED lights and a Swarovski star. Performers included Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Michael Bublé, Laufey, Halle Bailey, and Marc Anthony. The salsa superstar delivered performances of “Christmas Auld Lang Syne,” “Feliz Navidad,” and his mega hit “Vivir Mi Vida,” delighting the crowd while celebrating the season.

Fuerza Regida Recognized by Harvard University

On Tuesday (Dec. 2), Fuerza Regida was honored with the Harvard-Radcliffe RAZA Trailblazer Award, recognizing their contributions to regional Mexican music and its growing influence on global charts. The award celebrates the band’s role in bringing Mexican music into mainstream audiences. As part of the event, the San Bernardino troupe participated in a Q&A session with Harvard students, co-hosted by Neon16.

Gloria Trevi Announces Show Celebrating Her Birthday

It’s a Gloria Trevi Live Celebration! The legendary Latin pop singer announced a one-night-only concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday (Dec. 2) to celebrate another revolution around the sun. The event will take place on Feb. 28 at BMO Stadium, and tickets go on sale Friday (Dec. 5) via LiveNation.com.

“Celebrating my birthday on stage is the best way to thank life and my fans for so many years of love and resilience,” said Trevi in a press release. Promoted by Live Nation, Great Talent, and Latino Live, this exclusive performance promises to be a “historic celebration of her music, her legacy, and her fans,” states the release.  

XG member Cocona has publicly come out as transmasculine non-binary, sharing a heartfelt letter with fans in honor of their 20th birthday.

The rapper, vocalist, and performer from the Japanese girl group posted an emotional statement on Instagram on Saturday (Dec. 6) reflecting on identity, growth, and self-acceptance.

“Today, I turned 20,” Cocona wrote. “As I reach this new chapter in my life, I want to share something that’s been in my heart for a long time. I am AFAB transmasculine non-binary. Earlier this year, I had top surgery. I was born and perceived as female, but that label never represented who I truly am.”

Cocona continued, “The hardest thing I’ve ever faced was accepting and embracing myself… Now, I can finally say, ‘There’s nothing wrong with who I am inside.’” The performer also expressed gratitude toward their XG bandmates, XGALX founder and producer Simon (Jakops), and their parents, adding that their support helped make the journey possible.

The message quickly drew an outpouring of love and praise from fans, with XG supporters and members of the LGBTQIA+ community celebrating Cocona’s honesty. The post, which included emoji symbols of unity and infinity, ended with the words: “May these words gently light a spark in someone’s heart. And to everyone who needs it — may my love reach all of them.”

Shortly after, XGALX CEO and artistic director Simon (Jakops) shared his own statement on Instagram, expressing respect and support for Cocona. “I am deeply moved and filled with respect as Cocona courageously shared their passion with the world,” he wrote. “I will continue to provide sincere support so that each member can be truly respected not only as a ‘working artist’ but also as a person.”

Simon reflected on the group’s journey together — noting that all members have now reached adulthood — and reaffirmed that XG’s mission goes beyond music and visuals, aiming to share “the pure and essential heart of each member” with fans around the world.

Since debuting under XGALX in 2022, XG has earned international recognition for their polished performance style, multilingual lyrics, and message of female empowerment. Cocona’s coming-out marks a significant and visible moment for LGBTQ+ representation within the global pop landscape — particularly in the Japanese and Korean entertainment industries, where conversations around gender identity continue to evolve.

After facing sharp criticism from Sabrina Carpenter and her fans, the Trump White House has quietly removed a controversial video that featured her song “Juno” in a post promoting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity.

The post quickly went viral—but not for the reasons the administration may have hoped, as the White House seemingly deleted the post on Friday without explanation.

On Tuesday (Dec. 2), the pop star slammed the government for posting a compilation of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers chasing, tackling and handcuffing people on the streets while a snippet of the Short n’ Sweet hit “Juno” plays. “This video is evil and disgusting,” Carpenter wrote on X.

“Do not ever involve me or my music to benefit your inhumane agenda,” she continued.

Following Carpenter’s objection earlier this week, in a response shared with Newsweek, spokesperson Abigail Jackson said, “Here’s a Short n’ Sweet message for Sabrina Carpenter: We won’t apologize for deporting dangerous criminal illegal murderers, rapists, and pedophiles from our country. Anyone who would defend these sick monsters must be stupid, or is it slow?”

As of press time, the White House has not posted an explanation for the removal, and representatives for Carpenter have not issued additional comment beyond her viral reply. Carpenter closes a breakout year with multiple Hot 100 hits and a sold-out arena run, and “Juno” remains one of her most visible live moments.

The deleted clip followed recent instances in which official Trump-era channels paired pop hits with political messaging — a tactic that’s drawn pushback from artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, who last month condemned the White House for pairing a video encouraging self-deportations to her song “All-American Bitch.”

“Don’t ever use my songs to promote your racist, hateful propaganda,” she wrote at the time.

The recent use of Carpenter’s “Juno” was especially charged given the song’s fan-favorite status on Carpenter’s Short ’n Sweet Tour, where she playfult “arrested” people for being too attractive just before performing “Juno” each night. Before the trek wrapped in November after more than a year on the road, Carpenter had distributed fuzzy pink handcuffs to everyone from Millie Bobby Brown, to TWICE, SZA and Miss Piggy of The Muppets.