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Wet Leg return with new single ‘moisturizer’ ‘ and new UK tour dates

By
Jimmy Mavroudis
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Wet Leg - Photo credit: Iris Luz

Wet Leg – the Isle of Wight five-piece founded by Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers – have announced their eagerly anticipated second album moisturizer will be released on July 11th.

Joined by Ellis Durand (bass), Henry Holmes (drums), and Joshua Mobaraki (guitar, synth), moisturizer is fun and freaky and fabulous, an unbridled display of the live muscle Wet Leg have built up over a few years of non-stop touring. Punchier, prettier and more perverted where it counts, moisturizer is an album of manic love songs and well-timed kiss-offs, delivered by a clan of the UK’s most beloved oddballs.

Touring all over the world, Wet Leg developed into a taut, caustic live operation that made good on their debut album’s success: #1 chart placements at home and abroad, three Grammys, two Brits and over half a billion streams. If success presents a fork in the road for any new band – to “go pop” or keep following your muse – Wet Leg emphatically chose the latter path – including working with Dan Carey again as their producer. In March 2024, the band decamped to Southwold to write; living together, working all day, watching horror movies all night, they soon locked into a new sense of symbiosis. Subsequently, all five members of Wet Leg have writing credits on moisturizer – “We were just kind of having fun and exploring,” says Chambers. “We focussed on: Is this going to be fun to play live? It was very natural that we would write the second record together” adds Teasdale.

Alongside the album announcement, the band also share the first taste of moisturizer with its frenetic, alluringly combative lead single “catch these fists.” Kicking things off with an untameable, electrified groove from its opening seconds, “catch these fists” is dance-punk par excellence – bass notes ricocheting off a wall of howling synth, thunderous beats catching strays from Teasdale’s cruel deadpan.

Watch the video for “catch these fists”.

The video, directed by the band and shot on the island, nods to Ti West, Cameron Crowe and their own “Wet Dream” video and is a suitably off-kilter introduction to moisturizer valley.

As happens a couple of times on moisturizer, the major animus behind “catch these fists” was an interaction with a belligerent man, as chronicled in the song’s final verse. This is not to say sh*tc*nt men are the sole focus of moisturizer — no matter how much album track “mangetout”, with its withering chorus of “get lost forever” may feel like the Nicole Kidman divorce photo in song form. On the contrary, this largely is an album about being, as the band exclaim on “pond song”, so “DEEP! IN! LOVE!!!!” moisturizer contains love songs of every stripe: stressed-out, gooey-eyed, gratuitously horny, blissed out, obsessive and mysterious.

Although Teasdale previously felt allergic to writing love songs, moisturizer is defined by its sheer exuberance and Teasdale ended up finding the process empowering. That new sense of ownership extends to moisturizer’s album art, an instant-classic freak-fest in which Chambers and Teasdale bare long, ghoulish claws; Teasdale, sporting long, kitschy socks and sans eyebrows, grins fiendishly into the camera. It reflects the album, moisturizer is the band turning the dial up and delivering a record that is unapologetically bolder, stronger and raunchier.

Tracklisting:
1. CPR
2. liquidize
3. catch these fists
4. davina mccall
5. jennifer’s body
6. mangetout
7. pond song
8. pokemon
9. pillow talk
10. don’t speak
11. 11:21
12. u and me at home

Upcoming live dates
Tue 8th April – The River, Los Angeles

Wed 21st May – O2 Academy, Birmingham
Fri 23rd May – O2 Academy Brixton, London
Tue 27th May – Usher Hall, Edinburgh
Wed 28th May – O2 Academy, Leeds
Thu 29th May – O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester

Fri 6th June – Primavera Sound, Barcelona
Sat 14th June – NOS Primavera Sound, Porto
Sat 21st June – Hurricane Festival, Scheessel
Sun 22nd June – Southside Festival, Neuhausen ob Eck
Fri 27th June – Glastonbury Festival, Shepton Mallet

Wed 2nd July – Roskilde Festival, Roskilde
Fri 4th July – Rock Werchter, Werchter
Sat 5th July – Down the Rabbit Hole Festival, Beuningen
Sun 6th July – Festival Beauregard, Herouville Saint-Clair
Fri 11th July – TRNSMT, Glasgow
Tue 15th July – I-Days Milan, Milan w/ Olivia Rodrigo
Wed 16th July – Acieloaperto Festival, Cesena

Fri 1st Aug – All Together Now, Waterford
Sun 3rd Aug – Wilderness Festival, Oxfordshire
Thu 7th Aug – Oya Festival, Oslo
Fri 8th Aug – Way Out West, Gothenburg
Sun 10th Aug – Boardmasters Festival, Newquay
Fri 15th Aug – Green Man Festival, Crickhowell
Sun 17th Aug – Cabaret Vert Festival, Charleville-Mézières

Tickets for the May UK tour will be on pre-sale from Wed 9th April at 10am local time, general sale from Fri 11th April at 10am local time.

Pre-order the album for access to the first pre-sale.

moisturizer is available to pre-order on limited edition 3D gatefold cream coloured vinyl w/ signed photo, picture disc vinyl, standard vinyl, cassette, CD and digitally. Pre-order: Wet Leg’s store | Digital

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USHER Kicks Off the First Night at The O2, London

By
Jimmy Mavroudis
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0
Usher performs on stage at The O2 Arena on March 29, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for USHER

Saturday night (29 March) saw London come alive as global icon USHER put on the show of a lifetime for 20,000 fans at The O2 in London, the first of 10 London shows as part of the USHER: Past Present Future Tour. The show has already been highly praised by critics with 4 and 5 star reviews.

From the moment USHER ascended to the stage, the atmosphere was charged with pure energy and excitement. Moving seamlessly through his extensive catalogue, he commanded the arena with a show divided into 10 distinct acts. His signature blend of smooth vocals and highly advanced and precision choreography, including a 15 minute skate routine, made each moment feel larger than life. The setlist spanned three decades of hits, taking the audience on a journey through USHER’s evolution. He revisited “Call Me A Mack”, global smash hits like “Yeah!”, “U Got It Bad”, “Love In This Club”, and “There Goes My Baby”. Moving into the 2010s and beyond, he delivered the emotive “Climax” and his recent hit “Good Good”, a reminder of the global entertainer’s incredible longevity.

Taking a moment to reflect on his 30-year career, he spoke directly to the crowd, acknowledging the deep connection he shares with his London fans: “Hopefully my music has been something to you. Maybe we fell in love together, maybe we had a good time together, but something brought you here. And I just want you to know, I appreciate the connection. If I didn’t have you to cheer me on, I wouldn’t continue to do this.”

Usher performs on stage at The O2 Arena on March 29, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for USHER )

Ever the showman, he made his way through the crowd during My Boo, handing out his own USH POUNDS and pouring shots for fans. Embracing the local spirit, he joked, “I will take a pint as we’re here in London!” to the delight of the audience.

The final act brought a poignant moment, as USHER introduced it with a Zoom call to his younger self, offering a chance to reflect on three decades of music and legacy, before USHER closed with anthemic club tune, Without You.

Fashion was just as much a part of the spectacle as the music. USHER’s wardrobe was a masterclass in style, featuring a bespoke Union Jack jacket and trousers by Mowalola, alongside collaborations with Robert Wun, Ralph Lauren, Edward Cumming, Luis De Javier, Luar, David Koma and Alpine Stars. Each look, for both him and his dancers, was as carefully curated as the show itself.

Plus, the stars came out on Saturday night to see the legend in action, including model Leomie Anderson, presenters Maya Jama and Judi Love as well as A list actor Daniel Kaluuya.

After the show, USHER marked the occasion with a stylish celebration on the River Thames. Joined by over 100 VIP guests, he set sail from North Greenwich Pier on a deluxe Uber Boat by Thames Clippers, taking in iconic landmarks like The London Eye and Tower Bridge before arriving at Embankment Pier. The night was a fitting tribute to his milestone residency; elegant, vibrant, and full of energy. From there, the celebrations continued at his own aftershow “The Yeah Man” at The Box Soho, with guests including musician RAYE and Burberry CCO Daniel Lee, rounding off an unforgettable night in London.

From mid April, USHER continues on to perform in Paris, Berlin and Amsterdam, before returning to London on 6th and 7th May to close out the tour.

For tickets visit UsherWorld.com

During USHER’s 10-night UK-exclusive residency at The O2, fans will be able to feel the excitement before entering the arena as active lifestyle company, Flipper’s, heads to The O2. Entertaining the crowds from 6pm each event day, the Flipper’s sQUAD will perform to some of USHER’s biggest hits.

It’s been a spectacular few years for USHER, from his powerhouse Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime performance, where he dazzled millions with an epic medley of hits alongside special guests Alicia Keys, Ludacris, Lil Jon, H.E.R., Will.i.am, and Jermaine Dupri, to his incredible two-year, 100-show My Way: The Las Vegas Residency and a legendary eight-night run at Paris’ La Seine Musicale. In 2024, he kicked off his Past Present Future tour across North America, selling out over 60 shows and delivering unforgettable performances. Now, he makes his highly anticipated return to Europe, his first arena tour since the 2015 UR Tour.

USHER: PAST PRESENT FUTURE UK / EUROPEAN 2025 TOUR DATES:
Sat 29 March – London, UK – The O2
Tues 01 April – London, UK – The O2
Wed 02 April – London, UK – The O2
Sat 05 April – London, UK – The O2
Sun 06 April – London, UK – The O2
Tues 08 April – London, UK – The O2
Wed 09 April – London, UK – The O2
Fri 11 April – London, UK – The O2
Tues 15 April – Paris, France – Accor Arena
Wed 16 April – Paris, France – Accor Arena
Sat 19 April – Club Social @ Etihad Park, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Sun 20 April – Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Tues 22 April – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Wed 23 April – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Fri 25 April – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Sat 26 April – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Mon 28 April – Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Ziggo Dome
Thurs 01 May – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena
Fri 02 May – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena
Sun 04 May – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena
Tues 06 May – London, UK – The O2
Wed 07 May – London, UK – The O2

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Inside Ariana Grande’s Short Film Brighter Days Ahead

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Staff Writer
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Photo Credit: Katia Temkin

Ariana Grande is closing the chapter on her Eternal Sunshine era in style, unveiling a brand-new short film, Brighter Days Ahead, as the visual companion to the deluxe edition of her album, Eternal Sunshine Deluxe: Brighter Days.

Set to the music of the expanded album, the film is co-directed by Grande herself alongside longtime collaborator Christian Breslauer. It explores themes of love, loss, personal growth, and the ephemeral nature of memory, delivering an emotional and cinematic farewell to this chapter of her artistry.

The story picks up seventy years after we last saw Peaches (played by Grande). Once again, she finds herself in the waiting room of Brighter Days Inc., but this time for a very different reason. The company now specialises in advanced memory restoration, allowing her to relive carefully selected moments from her life—both joyful and painful. As Peaches embarks on this immersive journey, she revisits the experiences that shaped her, reconnecting with her younger self, who has been waiting in the wings for over a decade.

Through this process, she confronts the challenges of fame (as the daughter of Brighter Days Inc.’s famous founder), the relentless scrutiny of the public eye, and the weight of generational trauma. With the support of her loved ones and the healing power of art, she ultimately finds her way back to herself. But there’s a catch—once a memory is relived, it vanishes forever.

The release of Brighter Days Ahead coincides with the one-year anniversary of Eternal Sunshine, Grande’s critically acclaimed, Grammy-nominated album. The record debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, marking her sixth chart-topping album. Since then, it has been certified platinum by the RIAA, boasting hit singles like We Can’t Be Friends (Wait for Your Love), Yes, And?, and The Boy Is Mine. Notably, Eternal Sunshine became the only album of 2024 to produce multiple Billboard Hot 100 number-one hits, further solidifying Grande’s place at the top of the pop world.

As she bids farewell to this era, Brighter Days Ahead offers a poignant, visually stunning reflection on the journey so far—one that fans won’t want to miss.

 

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BST Hyde Park announces first wave of support acts for Noah Kahan

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Staff Writer
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BST Hyde Park have announces some of the line-up of guest acts for acclaimed folk-pop star Noah Kahan’s headliner show this summer.

Kahan will be joined by an outstanding list of artists on Friday, 4 July, including the previously announced Grammy-nominated star Gracie Abrams and newly unveiled support acts Finneas, Gigi Perez, Paris Paloma, Hazlett, Jo Hill, Sebastian Schub, Sydney Rose, Kevin Atwater and Lily Fitts.

Over the past year, Grammy-nominated Vermont singer-songwriter Noah Kahan has exploded from his New England roots into the global mainstream, solidifying himself as one of this year’s biggest and best new artists.

Across three albums and two EPs, Kahan has garnered global renown for his singular mix of Folk, Americana, and Rock, landing more than five billion streams, a Double Platinum Certification for hit single ‘Stick Season’, and collaborations with Post Malone, Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Brandi Carlile, Gracie Abrams, Sam Fender and more.

A major global success, ‘Stick Season’, a song based on the malaise he felt staying in his hometown, became Kahan’s first UK Top 10 single. Climbing all the way to Number 1, it sat atop the UK charts for seven weeks and, in February this year, he landed the Official Chart double – as both ‘Stick Season’ and its accompanying album took the Number 1 spot on both the Official Singles and Albums Chart simultaneously. Last year, the track was named the UK’s Biggest Song of 2024 by Official Charts.

Shows in support of his widely adored, Platinum-Certified album, Stick Season, sold-out across North America, selling over half-a-million tickets – just a prelude to his stadium and arena dates on his sold-out world tour that followed. In 2024 here in the UK, Kahan sold-out two nights at OVO Wembley Arena, following up with two sold-out shows at the O2 Arena just a few months later. Now the singer joins the incredible list of headliners to play BST Hyde Park’s Great Oak Stage, for one of the biggest shows of his career so far.

Since making her debut in 2019, Gracie Abrams has emerged as one of the most compelling songwriters of her generation. Her debut project minor was released in summer 2020, featuring her beloved singles ’21’, ‘I miss you, I’m sorry’, and ‘Long Sleeves’. In 2021, Abrams returned with EP This Is What It Feels Like, before sharing her long-awaited debut album Good Riddance, produced by Aaron Dessner of The National. Praised by Rolling Stone as “one of 2023’s best debuts”, they hailed Abrams as “one of pop’s buzziest young artists”. Her latest offering, the 2024 sophomore album The Secret of Us, was created soon after Abrams took the stage at stadiums across the US as support for Taylor Swift’s blockbuster Eras Tour. Don’t miss her BST Hyde Park debut next July.

Joining Noah Kahan will be 10-time Grammy-winning songwriter and producer Finneas. Known for his standout discography, the 27-year-old has made his name as a front-runner in alternative pop. His debut EP, Blood Harmony, was released in 2019 to wide praise. Since then, the musician has been honoured at the Santa Barbara Film Festival, receiving the Variety Artisans Award for his work as a Songwriter on the Barbie (2023) soundtrack. He has also produced Billie Eilish’s record-breaking dark pop third studio album, Hit Me Hard And Soft. Last year, the singer released his outstanding sophomore album For Cryin’ Out Loud!, which peaked at the top 20 Billboard Top Rock & Alternative Albums chart.

Breakout American singer-songwriter Gigi Perez is known for her intricate songwriting and poignant lyricism. The artist’s haunting debut How To Catch A Falling Knife garnered attention for her powerful, queer songs ‘When She Smiles’ and ‘Kill For You’. Since then, the musician has been known for her sapphic hit, ‘Sailor Song’, which landed at No. 1 in the Official Singles Charts. Perez’s incredible talent has made her a new generation favourite, now with over 28.3 million listeners on Spotify.

Derbyshire songwriter Paris Paloma stormed the internet with her breakthrough single ‘Labour’, which became her first charting success on the UK’s Official Charts and Billboard US charts. The upcoming musician started releasing music in 2021 and released her debut EP, cemeteries and socials, the same year. Paloma’s debut album Cacophony was released in 2024 was was praised by Pitchfork: “[Paloma] taps into genuine, conflicted feelings about womanhood that are, for better or worse, timeless.”

For fans of Hozier, Hazlett has quietly been dominating the internet. A self-labelled “romantic guy”, the Australian-born act is having a whirlwind career. Marked as a rising act by Line Of Best Fit, the singer-songwriter has over 2.5 million listeners on Spotify and has wrapped up an incredible European opening for Calum Scott. Make sure to catch Hazlett live at BST Hyde Park.

Hailing from Cheddar, England, newcomer Jo Hill layers honest lyrics and soulful vocals with combinations of rock and indie pop. For fans of Fleetwood Mac, Remi Wolf, and Kacey Musgraves, Hill channels her hometown charisma across her bold and newly released debut album, girlhood.

German-born and London-based, Sebastian Schub is taking off. With nearly 1 million listeners on Spotify, the singer has quickly become known for his emotional, raw songs. His breakthrough track ‘Sing Like Madonna’ is an ode to letting go and breaking free. Earmarked as an “artist to watch” by Atwood Magazine, you’ll be seeing plenty more of Schub soon.

Plus, Nashville-based singer Sydney Rose will be bringing her viral sad girl hits to the sunny Hyde Park. A rising act, Rose is making waves with her newly released song, ‘We Hug Now’, which landed in the Top 3 of the Spotify US and Global Viral 50 Charts. With an incredible year in the works, Rose will be bringing her songwriter flair to London this summer.

New Yorker singer Kevin Atwater is inspired by folk music. Taking up music, he learned to play the piano, clarinet, guitar and immersed himself in theatre. Learning from his folk and contemporary songwriter idols, including Nick Drake, Adrianne Lenker, Clairo, Moses Sumney and Phoebe Bridgers and Conan Gray. Atwater writes intimate music that taps into topics of queerness, masculinity and identity.

Indie-folk singer Lily Fitts also joins the American Express presents BST Hyde Park bill. Inspired by her upbringing in Boston, the 23-year-old is crafting heartfelt, introspective tunes. Labelled as “the best of folk-infused pop” by Spotify, Fitts brings together modern pop and folk music to a whole new audience.

BST Hyde Park’s headliners for 2025 are: Olivia Rodrigo (27 June), Noah Kahan (4 July), Sabrina Carpenter (5 + 6 July), neil young and the chrome hearts (11 July) and Jeff Lynne’s ELO (13 July). Expect more incredible announcements soon for the 2025 edition of the UK’s
most anticipated summer event.

BST Hyde Park again brought a hugely diverse range of superstars to the Royal Park in 2024
across three weekends – SZA to Kings of Leon, Morgan Wallen, Andrea Bocelli, Robbie
Williams, Shania Twain, Stevie Nicks, Kylie Minogue and Stray Kids.

Remaining tickets are available at www.bst-hydepark.com.

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BST Hyde Park announces Stevie Wonder as final headliner

By
Jimmy Mavroudis
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0

American Express presents BST Hyde Park has announced its next 2025 headliner, the true music legend Stevie Wonder is topping the bill in Hyde Park on Saturday 12 July as part of the LOVE, LIGHT & SONG UK 2025 performances. Tickets go on general sale at 10am GMT on Friday 21 March.

American singer, songwriter, musician, and producer, Stevie Wonder is one of the most celebrated and prominent figures in popular music who, at the age of 12, was the youngest recording artist to have achieved a #1 single with “Fingertips Part 2”, and subsequently the first to simultaneously reach #1 on Billboard’s Hot 100, R&B Singles and Album Charts.

To date he has amassed 49 TopForty singles, 32 #1 singles and worldwide sales of over 100 million units. Stevie has won 25 Grammy Awards, the prestigious Grammy Lifetime AchievementAward, a Golden Globe and an Academy Award. Stevie’s iconic album, Songs In The Key of Life, is archived in the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress, for its cultural, historic and aesthetic significance.

While Stevie Wonder’s songs are unequivocally classic and his influence timeless, equally laudable are his humanitarian efforts, philanthropic leadership, and generosity of spirit. He has received numerous accolades including awards from the President’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Children’s Diabetes Foundation and the American Association of People with Disabilities.

In 1983, Stevie spearheaded the realisation of Martin Luther King Day as a US national holiday and his song ‘Happy Birthday’, became the rallying song for the movement. His participation in the 1985 ‘We Are The World’ fundraiser for hunger in Africa is a music industry milestone while his involvement to put an end to apartheid in South Africa is legendary. He is the youngest recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors, is a Commander of France’s National Order of Arts and Letters and has been inducted into, among others, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and the NAACP Hall of Fame. Upon being awarded the Library of Congress’ Gershwin Prize for Popular Song, Stevie performed his commission, ‘Sketches Of A Life’, which placed him in a very select group of eminent composers who have received library commissions. In 2024 Stevie was awarded the George Peabody Medal for Outstanding Contributions to Music and Dance in America by Johns Hopkins University. Stevie is the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Wolf Prize Laureate, and is a designated U.N. Messenger of Peace with special focus on persons with disabilities. He continues to be a pivotal influence in U.S. and world events, demonstrating the activism that has made him such a vital voice for social progress and world harmony.
Wonder is no stranger to BST Hyde Park either, having dazzled audiences on the Great Oak Stage not once, but twice.

Stevie Wonder joins previously announced headliners for 2025; Olivia Rodrigo (27 June), Zach Bryan (28 & 29 June), Noah Kahan (4 July), Sabrina Carpenter (5 & 6 July) and Jeff Lynne’s ELO (13 July). Expect more incredible announcements soon, for the 2025 edition of the UK’s most anticipated summer event.

BST Hyde Park again brought a hugely diverse range of superstars to the Royal Park in 2024 across three weekends – SZA to Kings of Leon, Morgan Wallen, Andrea Bocelli, Robbie Williams, Shania Twain, Stevie Nicks, Kylie Minogue and Stray Kids.

www.bst-hydepark.com | @bsthydepark

Tickets:
Amex Presale Tickets® begins 10am GMT on Monday 17 March, ends 10am GMT on Wednesday 19 March
Artist Fanclub – 10am GMT Wednesday 19 March
General On Sale – 10am GMT on Friday 21 March

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Rising Star Precious Pepala Releases Vulnerable New Single ‘First Love’

By
Jimmy Mavroudis
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0

Sheffield’s Precious Pepala, rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting breakthrough artists in the UK, has today announced her forthcoming EP, Dark Days, set for release 2nd May via Modern Sky. With the announcement comes vulnerable new single ‘First Love’, which sees Precious explore complex, highly personal emotions through expressive, universally resonant lyricism.

Co-written and co-produced with Eg White (best known as Adele’s producer/co-writer) and Jordan Rabjohn, ‘First Love’ sees Precious’ raw vocals take centre stage. Backed by a piano accompaniment and building in sonic power, the track is a pop ballad that’s equally fresh as it is timeless, Precious putting her own signature spin on the subgenre.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that ‘First Love’ is a story about someone in a romantic relationship finding out about their partner’s previous lover. However, carefully disguised behind the lyrics is the real story. The story of someone who grew up thinking that they were their parents’ first-born child, only to find out that they had an older sibling who tragically passed away at a young age. Love, grief, jealousy and guilt are just a few of the complex emotions that Precious explores lyrically when writing about such a uniquely heartbreaking situation in ‘First Love’.

Of the track, Precious Pepala said: “The perhaps misleading nature of the lyrics is completely intentional and meant to make the song more universally relatable whilst guarding the identity and emotions of the people involved in the real story”.

The new single comes as Precious is mid-tour, supporting Victor Ray on his six-date UK run. Fans can catch Precious opening for Ray in Newcastle, Nottingham, Brighton, Manchester, Bristol, and Birmingham, where she’ll captivate audiences with her powerful live vocals and magnetic stage presence.

STREAM ‘FIRST LOVE’ GLOBALLY

‘First Love’ follows the January released ‘Lullaby’, a brooding blend of dark and alternative pop that swells into anthemic production from the eerie tones of a music-box. Her “anthem for introverts”, ‘Lullaby’ is a candid reflection on Precious’ own love for solitude, and an invitation to retreat from the demands of reality. She wanted to imagine the track “as if a Tim Burton movie became a pop song”. Sonically, Precious very much offers something different with each release.

As well as ‘First Love’ and ‘Lullaby’, late-2024 releases ‘Sunday Morning’ and ‘The Effect’ will also feature on the forthcoming EP, set to cement Precious as a uniquely captivating artist and undeniable talent. Sonically, Precious is happy to not fit in a box, blending dark pop, alternative and rock music with gospel and soul influences.

Vulnerability doesn’t come easily to everyone. As the daughter of a preacher, raised in a family where hard discussions and honesty at the dinner table just didn’t happen, Precious needed to find an outlet. “When you don’t find a way of getting negativity out, it comes out in negative ways. The only way for me to talk about my feelings was through music. Especially when I was questioning a lot of things about religion and dealing with years and years of pent up guilt because my parents love this thing so much and I don’t. Writing music about it gave me a way to say to my parents ‘I’m not like you’. Music put it into words for me. It was a way to open the door for those difficult conversations to happen.”

The songs on Dark Days are those conversations. From religion to queerness, sexual assault to finding strength again after becoming an independent artist, the EP doesn’t just track Precious’ journey but is the words she needed to move through it and move past things. Dark Days shares the conversations that saved her to an audience she hopes to help too.

After being signed to a major label when she was a teenager, this EP marks the rebirth of Precious Pepala. “I’m older, so I’m a lot more likely to say no to people than I was when I was 16…I’ve got my voice and I know what I want”. Still only 20 years old, Precious consistently displays an emotional maturity far beyond her years, addressing important themes within her music while tapping into the universal feelings of her own peers. As a black, female artist, who stands at just 5-feet tall, she is “not the stereotypical face of power and change”. However, thanks to her vocal power, songwriting talent and ever-growing social media presence, Precious is rapidly becoming a voice for her generation, as she continues to push boundaries and vital conversation with new music.

Born and bred in Sheffield in the North of England, with family roots in Zambia, Precious began singing at the local church where her father was a pastor. A native of the streaming generation, she used the internet to discover Destiny’s Child, Brandy, and Aaliyah who inspire her laidback 90’s aesthetic; and poured over the performance prowess of Beyoncé, Billie Eilish and Lady Gaga – using this rich tapestry of influences to study how to become an artist to be reckoned with.

After learning guitar at school and starting a band with her schoolmates, Precious started writing songs by herself. The result was a fully formed, brilliant new voice who has already won over a legion of fans online and within the media, eagerly awaiting her next move. Precious has had radio support across the likes of BBC Radio 1 (Future Artists with Jack Saunders, Future Alternative, Future Pop and Future Soul shows), BBC Music Introducing Sheffield and Apple Music 1.

Precious Pepala – First Love

Listen to First Love by Precious Pepala.

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JADE Returns With The Mighty ‘FUFN (Fuck You For Now)’

By
Staff Writer
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Fresh from her triumphant night at the BRIT Awards winning ‘Pop Act’, global music superstar JADE returns with the mighty ‘FUFN (Fuck You For Now)’.

Written by JADE with music icon RAYE, Dave Hamelin and co-produced by Lostboy, ‘FUFN (Fuck You For Now)’ is an electrifying and dramatic pop song packed with attitude. Bursting with raw emotion, JADE sings “Don’t you tell me to calm down” on the song’s explosive chorus.

The song was teased during the new Fendi campaign for their Mamma Baguette bag, which JADE stars in.

JADE says: “FUFN is the escalation of an argument we’ve all had, knowing it’s not the end but feeling all the anger in the moment. It’s the channeling of female rage into a badass big pop banger.”

Listen here: https://jade.me/FUFNPR

JADE delivered the stand-out performance of the night at this year’s BRIT Awards, performing her superhit ‘Angel Of My Dreams’. The performance video has been viewed over 1.4 million times and JADE also scooped up her first solo BRIT award in the ‘Pop Act’ category.

The Guardian called JADE’s performance ‘An episodic live performance so peculiar it stole the show’, whilst NME said it was ‘A staggering, theatrical performance’. Clash Magazine named it one of the greatest BRITS performances of all time.

JADE finished 2024 by winning the Trailblazer Award at The Rolling Stone UK Awards and appearing on the cover of the magazine. She was also included on many of the end of year ‘Best Of’ lists. ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ was named the No.1 song of 2024 by DIY Magazine and a Top 10 song by The Guardian, DORK, Clash and NME. In addition Dazed named JADE’s ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ video of the year.

‘Angel Of My Dreams’ has been a huge commercial success. The track has accumulated over 100 million streams to date, entering the UK Official Singles Chart at No.7, the third highest new entry for a British artist last year. The accompanying video was a No.1 YouTube trending video for 10 days and has had 12 million views. The song remained in the Official UK Singles Chart Top 20 for two months.

Since then JADE has dropped three more tracks, ‘Midnight Cowboy’. a sultry, understated bass heavy bop about owning your sexuality, the sleek disco-tinged ‘Fantasy’, complete with a video directed by the iconic David LaChapelle and the bold anthem ‘IT girl’.

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James Arthur Releases new single ‘Karaoke’ & February 2026 UK Arena Tour Announced

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Staff Writer
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Following the emotional depth of his recent single “Celebrate,” James Arthur returns with “Karaoke,” out now. The track, the latest from his highly anticipated album PISCES, offers a bold departure from the introspective vulnerability of “Celebrate.” With a grunge-inspired guitar riff at its core, “Karaoke” pulses with energy as James channels raw emotion into a plea for a partner to embrace their wild side, despite the scars of a past relationship. Listen below.

Today also brings the news that James will embark on a UK Arena tour in February 2026. Kicking off in Nottingham on the 3rd February, it concludes in Manchester on the 21st February. Tickets go on sale Friday 21st March 2025 at 09:00 GMT from HERE.

James says, “I had the best time I’ve ever had on the Bitter Sweet Love world tour last year so I couldn’t be more thrilled to be hitting the road once again for the Pisces world tour. I hope to see some familiar faces back again and hopefully some new ones. Can’t wait to get in my feels with you all and have a big old sing song in some gargantuan rooms. See you on the road!”

“Karaoke” defies expectations, with its title almost serving as a red herring. The track’s relentless guitar line is a far cry from the carefree karaoke image, instead delving into the emotional turbulence of a relationship. James sings the chorus like a mantra: “I want you dancing on the table, want you making a scene / I want you acting like a nightmare while you look like a dream,” expressing the push-pull of love and desire amidst unresolved trauma.

This single marks another bold step in James’ artistic journey, as he continues to explore themes of vulnerability, trauma, and the complexity of human relationships. “Karaoke” is a testament to his growth as an artist, blending electrifying rock influences with his signature raw emotion and storytelling.

The release of “Karaoke” sets the stage for James Arthur’s sixth studio album PISCES on April 25, 2025. With PISCES, James Arthur dives deeper into his personal struggles, blending atmospheric production with his powerful, raspy vocals to create a collection that is as introspective as it is sonically adventurous.

For more information and to pre-order PISCES, visit:
www.betweendreamsandreality.com

PISCES out April 25th

Listen to content by James Arthur.

The full list of live dates are:

February 2026
3rd                    Nottingham, Motorpoint Arena
4th                    Glasgow, OVO Hydro
6th                    Newcastle, Utilita Arena
7th                    Aberdeen P&J Live
10th                   Birmingham, bp pulse LIVE
11th                   Bournemouth, International Centre
13th                   Sheffield, Utilita Arena
14th                   Liverpool, M&S Bank Arena
16th                   Cardiff, Utilita Arena
18th                   London, The O2
21st                   Manchester, Co-op Live

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BST Hyde Park announces full lineup for Zach Bryan

By
Jimmy Mavroudis
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Zach Bryan

American Express presents BST Hyde Park have announce the full line-up of guest acts for acclaimed singer-songwriter Zach Bryan’s headliner shows this summer. Remaining tickets are available at www.bst-hydepark.com.

Bryan will be joined by an incredible list of country and indie singer-songwriters, musicians and bands on Saturday 28 June, including Dermot Kennedy, Mt. Joy, Gabrielle Aplin, Willow Avalon, Ole 60, Noeline Hofmann, Waylon Wyatt, Aaron Rowe and Nadia Kadek.

For his second headliner date on Sunday 29 June, the singer-songwriter will be rejoined by special guests Dermot Kennedy, Willow Avalon, Ole 60, Noeline Hofmann and Waylon Wyatt, as well as new exciting new additions Turnpike Troubadours, Gabriella Rose, Bo Staloch and Jasper Hodges.

Tickets have already sold out for Bryan’s first show (Saturday 28 June), which will see the contemporary breakthrough country act make his first-ever UK headliner festival debut.

Joining Zach Bryan on Saturday 28 June will be Irish singer-songwriter Dermot Kennedy. The musician began his career busking as a teenager and has since become a chart-topping arist. Kennedy broke onto the scene in 2019 with his magnetic single ‘Outnumbered’. Since then, his career has flourished, writing his name as one of modern music’s brilliant new voices. The singer’s 2019 album, Without Fear, and 2023 project, Sonder, both achieved a no.1 spot on the Official UK Charts, making him one of Ireland’s greatest breakthrough acts.

Plus, Philadelphian rockers, Mt. Joy. Known for their festival-ready indie grooves and rich-sounding melodies, the band’s self-titled album Mt. Joy was praised for its joyous, easy-listening sound. As described by NPR, the band are best and “ideally configured for open-air festivals on hot days.”

Beloved British singer-songwriter Gabrielle Aplin is known for her delicate, hauntingly beautiful discography. Aplin first gained attention in 2013 for her captivating cover of ‘The Power Of Love’ by Franke Goes To Hollywood. Since then, she’s released acclaimed albums English Rain, Dear Happy, Light Up The Dark, and Phosphorescent. Aplin’s vibrant vocals have built her a cult fanbase, making her one of British music’s mainstay musicians.

Willow Avalon is another breakthrough act joining the BST Hyde Park bill. Described as a country star redefining modern country by Earmilk magazine, the singer has garnered attention due to her viral song ‘Homewrecker’, which pulled in over 7 million streams. The upcoming musician has also been a “must-hear” 2025 country artist by Billboard and a “memorable” name by Holler Country.

Ole 60 are rebirthing country music in their own style. A bold medley of grunge-era rock and classic country and Southern rock influences, their hot-shot sound has quickly found an audience. Following their viral single ’smoke & a light’ took off, the Hawesville band have amassed over 2.3 million listeners, bringing modern country rock to a new generation of fans.

Born and raised in Alberta, Canada, Noeline Hofmann is a new era talent. The 20-year-old country artist was named Holler Country’s top artist for 2024 — and her name is continuing to boom. The singer performed and wrote ‘Purple Gas’ with headliner Zach Bryan and has continued to pave an incredible path into the industry.

Red dirt-inspired act Waylon Wyatt has gone from construction work to country music. A newcomer to the scene, the self-labelled “small town Arkansas boy” has become a sensation with nearly 3 million listeners online. The newcomer has been spotlighted by Rolling Stone and labelled as “putting his own spin on red dirt” music.

Another act joining the BST Hyde Park bill is newcomer Aaron Rowe. Hailing from Dublin, the singer-songwriter is known for his powerful vocals and emotional storytelling, marking him as one of today’s most promising talents.

British-Indonesian artist Nadia Kadek is quickly becoming a sought-after singer-songwriter. Currently working on her debut project, the musician has a name as a talented acoustic artist, blending influences of indie, pop and folk to create her mesmerising fusion sound.

For Bryan’s second headliner show on Sunday 29 June, the singer-songwriter will be joined by Turnpike Troubadours, Willow Avalon, Ole 60, Noeline Hofmann, Gabriella Rose, Waylon Wyatt, Bo Staloch and Jasper Hodges.

Turnpike Troubadours are all about community. A staple for Country fans, the Oklahoma band have fused with the contemporary music scene. Known for their gritty sound, their debut album, Goodbye Normal Street, charted in the Billboard 200 and Billboard Country Albums chart. Similarly, their 2023 album A Cat In The Rain charted in the top 100 Scottish album charts and landed at number 5 on the Billboard Independent Albums chart and number 9 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart.

Born-and-raised Austin artist Bo Staloch is also joining the BST Hyde Park bill. An up-and-coming talent, the artist released his first single, ‘Springtime Red Tulips’, in 2023, which earned over 2.5 million streams online. Now, he’s quickly making his name as a must-see act, with over 300,000 monthly listeners on Spotify.

Homergrown Pacific North West singer-songwriter Gabriella Rose is making music in her own likeness. A breakout country musician, she gained popularity for her single ‘Doublewide’, which has earned over 13 million streams. Channelling her Chrisitian upbringing into 50s-inspired music, her sound has resonated with over 640,000 listeners online, making her one of today’s freshest voices in country.

Kent singer-songwriter Jasper Hodges started writing music inspired by acts like Zach Bryan and Ben Howard. Inspired by them, the new artist has built a promising online following by writing a new song daily to draw in listeners. Hodges’ visceral, cutting acoustic-only sound showcases his authentic lyrics and soulful melodies, making him a new era talent to watch out for.

A unique story, Zach Bryan has steadily risen to superstar status with the songwriting skill of a classic Americana troubadour and collaborations with a range of incredible artists, paving his own road.

Hailing from Oologah, Oklahoma, he has swiftly risen to become one of the most captivating storytellers and voices of his generation. Starting out while serving in the U.S. Navy, he independently released his debut albums, DeAnn (2019) and Elisabeth (2020), gaining a huge following through his YouTube performances. In 2021, after signing to Warner Records and leaving the Navy, he released the 34-track album American Heartbreak, claiming his rightful place in the music world.

Bryan’s breakthrough continued with collaborations alongside Maggie Rogers, Noah Kahan, Bon Iver, and Kacey Musgraves, earning his first U.S. Number 1 single in 2023 with “I Remember Everything” and landing his first Grammy. His music has drawn comparisons to icons like Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, with critics also noting the influence of Bruce Springsteen.

2023’s self-titled album further established him as a modern-day storyteller, with his July 2024 release, The Great American Bar Scene, blending country, bluegrass, rock, and gospel, cementing him as a Gen Z poet and featuring collaborations with John Mayer and Bruce Springsteen. He has amassed over 21 billion global streams, garnered 31 RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications, multiple Grammy nods, and performed sold-out shows worldwide, including the Burn, Burn, Burn tour, and the subsequent Quittin Time Tour both which broke several arena and football stadium attendance records. Bryan is now set to take the stage at London’s BST Hyde Park, continuing the legacy of legends who have graced the Great Oak Stage.

BST Hyde Park’s headliners for 2025 are: Olivia Rodrigo (27 June), Noah Kahan (4 July), Sabrina Carpenter (5 + 6 July), neil young and the chrome hearts (11 July) and Jeff Lynne’s ELO (13 July). Expect more incredible announcements soon for the 2025 edition of the UK’s most anticipated summer event.

BST Hyde Park again brought a hugely diverse range of superstars to the Royal Park in 2024

across three weekends – SZA to Kings of Leon, Morgan Wallen, Andrea Bocelli, Robbie

Williams, Shania Twain, Stevie Nicks, Kylie Minogue and Stray Kids.

Tickets on sale now

www.bst-hydepark.com | @bsthydepark

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Arthur Black Releases New Track “Renascence” Ahead of Debut EP Release

By
Jimmy Mavroudis
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Arthur Black has released their new single, Renascence, on 10th March, offering a first glimpse into their upcoming debut EP, Burning Side of View, out this June. Before the full release, fans can also expect another track, Burning Side of You, arriving in early May.

Arthur Black’s journey into music is anything but ordinary. Raised off-grid, constantly moving between hostels, refuges, and temporary housing, Arthur’s upbringing was shaped by a bohemian, nomadic lifestyle. Music became a refuge after a family tragedy, when Arthur was gifted a guitar and began playing and singing. Without internet access, they learned songs by ear from family CDs and the radio.

At 17, Arthur ran away to Kansas in search of a new life, but after their Green Card was rejected, they returned to the UK. By then, their online following had grown thanks to a series of captivating cover versions. As their confidence in songwriting grew, so did their ambition.

Building a Sound

After joining the same Artist Development scheme that has nurtured acts like Nilüfer Yanya, Ed Sheeran, and Let’s Eat Grandma, Arthur formed a band and spent 2024 writing, recording, and performing. They played at festivals such as Latitude, Brighten The Corners, First Light, Reading, and Beyond The Music, cementing their place in the live scene.

Arthur’s music blends the raw emotion of Big Thief with the melodic storytelling of The Cranberries and the timeless energy of Fleetwood Mac. Their debut EP was crafted with an impressive production team, featuring Jack Halsall (Pleasure Inc) and Lavar Bullard (Ethel Cain, Kali Uchis, Olivia Rodrigo), with contributions from Harry Edwards (Beyoncé, Travis Scott).

 I-Tunes Pre Save/ Apple Music Pre Save etc here 

Instagram: @arthurblackofficial
YouTube: @ArthurBlack58
TikTok: @arthurb1ack

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