A man accused of stealing unreleased music linked to Beyoncé has been sentenced to two years in prison after pleading guilty in an Atlanta court.
Kelvin Evans accepted a plea deal shortly before his trial was due to begin. Prosecutors said he broke into a vehicle used by members of Beyoncé’s tour team during the singer’s Cowboy Carter tour stop in Atlanta in July 2025. Authorities said a flash drive containing unreleased songs was among items taken from the vehicle.
Investigators said the vehicle, a rented SUV, was parked in a garage near the venue where Beyoncé performed. Members of the tour crew later reported missing luggage and damaged windows. Surveillance footage shown in court reportedly captured Evans breaking into the car.
Evans had earlier pleaded not guilty to the charges but changed his plea in court on Tuesday. Prosecutors said he could have faced up to six years in prison if the case had gone to trial.
His lawyer told the court Evans hoped to move on from the case and rebuild his life after serving his sentence. Court records also showed he had previous offences linked to vehicle break-ins and parole violations.
Following his prison term, Evans is expected to spend three years on probation. Reports said he will not be eligible for parole under the terms of his sentencing.
The theft drew attention because it involved unreleased material connected to one of the music industry’s biggest global tours. Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter tour went on to record strong ticket sales worldwide despite the incident.
The case has also renewed discussion around music piracy and the protection of unreleased material in the entertainment industry. Industry groups have continued to warn about losses linked to piracy and illegal distribution of music content.
Ademide Adebayo
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