Editor's Note: First Notes is a weekly update of recent happenings in the world of music.

* Country singers Ty Herndon and Billy Gillman both came out as gay last week. Herndon was married, twice, previously to women but says he has been in his current relationship for years and always struggled with his sexuality. Gillman revealed his orientation via Twitter and a YouTube video to his fans.

* There have been rumors for weeks, but it was finally confirmed that Katy Perry will be the halftime performer at Super Bowl XLIX on February 1, 2015.

* One Direction won Artist of the Year honors at the American Music Awards last night. For a complete list of winners, go here.

* Harry Connick Jr. will perform at Belk Theater on Feb. 17, 2015.