Man arrested in connection to Beyoncé’s stolen music

September 17, 2025 – Radio 854 Music News:

A suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the theft of unreleased Beyoncé music and tour materials, Atlanta police confirmed Tuesday.

What Happened

• On July 8, two members of Beyoncé’s touring crew — choreographer Christopher Grant and dancer Diandre Blue — parked a rental Jeep Wagoneer in Atlanta. When they returned roughly an hour later, they discovered the back window broken and two suitcases stolen.

• Among the stolen items were five thumb drives, laptops, and other gear. Crucially, those thumb drives contained unreleased, watermarked music, footage and plans for Beyoncé’s show, set lists (both past and upcoming), and other sensitive materials.

• The theft occurred just two days before Beyoncé was scheduled to perform at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium as part of her Cowboy Carter tour.

The Arrest

• The arrested suspect is Kelvin Lanier Evans, who was taken into custody in Hapeville, Georgia, a suburb just south of Atlanta.

• He faces charges including entering a vehicle with intent to commit theft. He was already in custody for a parole violation at the time of arrest.

• As of now, police say the stolen hard drives and other materials containing Beyoncé’s unreleased music have not yet been recovered.

Implications & Reactions

• This case underscores how high the stakes are when it comes to safeguarding unreleased work in the music industry. Metadata like “watermarked” tracks is often used so that if works leak, the source can be traced.

• Surveillance footage and digital tracking (including “pinging” of stolen AirPods) have played a role in the investigation.

• Artists, their crews, and associated teams are increasingly aware of risks when transporting sensitive materials — from hard drives and laptops to set lists and tour plans.

What’s Still Unclear

• Whether any of the stolen unreleased music or tour materials have been recovered.

• The extent of the impact this theft may have on Beyoncé’s upcoming performances or releases.

• Whether Evan’s attorney or legal team has made public statements or what the suspect’s defense may be.