Home Blog Page 3

Sex Pistols, Guns N’ Roses, Biffy Clyro, Kneecap & more added to Rock For People 2025!

0
Sex Pistols members Paul Cook, Steve Jones and Glen Matlock alongside Frank Carte

Rock for People, Europe’s most dynamic and increasingly popular alternative festival, has unveiled more headliners among 40+ new names, and added an extra day to the weekend for its 30th-anniversary celebration from 11 to 15 June 2025!

Joining previously announced Slipknot, Linkin Park and Avenged Sevenfold, Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter complete the festival’s headline bill from Wednesday to Saturday, with Guns N’ Roses set to close out the weekend with a massive extra day on Sunday.

Legends of the punk-rock subculture Sex Pistols make their Rock for People debut at Park 360 in Hradec Králové and their first show in Czechia since 1996. Celebrating half a century since bursting onto the scene, the influential band perform with an old-new line-up comprised of original and founding Sex Pistols members Paul Cook, Steve Jones and Glen Matlock alongside Frank Carter (of Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes and Gallows). One of the most surprising and admired musical returns, this celebrated new partnership brings an album of vital tracks like ‘Anarchy In The UK’ and ‘God Save the Queen’ back to life in the most iconic fashion.

As part of this milestone edition, Rock for People will offer something truly extraordinary: an exclusive extra day on Sunday, 15th June, headlined by none other than Guns N’ Roses. Fans can add this special day as part of a monster 5-day weekend ticket, for a unique opportunity to see one of the most influential rock bands of all time. With anthems like ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’, ‘November Rain’ and ‘Paradise City’ the Guns N’ Roses legacy is undeniable. For a day also featuring the likes of Rival Sons and more to be announced, all full-festival 4-day festival ticket holders have the opportunity to purchase Sunday’s programme at a discounted price.

In addition to the final headliners, Rock for People announced over 40 more acts and revealed the day splits from Wednesday to Sunday for their first-ever 5-day weekend. Visitors can look forward to Scottish rock behemoths Biffy Clyro, Belfast rap trio Kneecap, L.A. rock band AWOLNATION, the singular talent that is Marc Rebillet, Norwegian star Sigrid, New Jersey deathcore band Lorna Shore, Australian cult metal septet Battlesnake, Swedish hardcore punks Refused on their farewell run, plus Eagles Of Death Metal, Circa Waves, The Ghost Inside, Deafheaven, Kim Dracula, RØRY, Imminence, Mallrat, DVNE, Bad Nerves, Imminence, DVNE, Sylosis, Lake Malice, The Haunt, Urne and many more.

These new names will be joining the jaw-dropping line-up featuring Wednesday headliners Avenged Sevenfold, Thursday headliners Slipknot, Saturday headliners Linkin Park, alongside the likes of Fontaines D.C., IDLES, In Flames, Motionless In White, Poppy, Skillet, Alice in Chains’ Jerry Cantrell, and many more besides.

Rock for People has built a reputation for curating a varied line-up that delights fans of alternative, metal, indie, and punk music, making it an unmissable event for UK festival fans looking for a unique and international experience combining unbeatable value, flawless production, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Each year Rock for People brings several days of high quality energetic music as well as additional supporting programming in the form of performances, dance, stand up comedy and engaging discussions, with even more to be announced in the coming months.

Some of the festival tickets are already sold out, such as the one-day Saturday tickets with headliner Linkin Park. More information and ticket sales can be found on the festival’s brand new website: https://rockforpeople.cz/en/.

Festival founder Michal Thomes said: “I dare say the lineup we’ve managed to put together for this year’s show is truly exceptional. The bar for the festival is once again being raised and we are seeing a huge demand for tickets that we have never seen before. We are enlarging the venue, moving the Fat Lady main stage further away, while strengthening the infrastructure of Park 360 and other services to maintain the comfort that visitors are used to. Despite this, six months before the event, 90% of the capacity of full-festival tickets is sold out already.”

Since 1995, Rock for People has been delivering world-class experiences, ever-committed to driving forward the new generation of modern rock in all its forms. Held in the unique location of Park 360 in the historic city of Hradec Králové, Czechia, two iconic outdoor main stages and big tops are surrounded by a complex of ex-military airport bunkers, now playing host to incredible food & drink arenas, expansive merch stalls, late-night parties, and more. The festival offers great value, with affordable travel and accommodation options, making it an increasingly popular choice for UK music fans. With its 30th-anniversary edition, Rock for People promises to go bigger than ever.

Rock for People takes place 11–15th June 2025 at Park 360, Hradec Králové, Czechia. With more to be announced, information and tickets are available now via: https://rockforpeople.cz/en/

LINEUP & DAY SPLITS ANNOUNCED SO FAR

Wednesday 11. 6.
Avenged Sevenfold
Awolnation, Grandson, Kneecap, Poppy
Archars, Bad Nerves, Currents, Karen Dió, Kittie, Mallrat, House Of Protection, Polaris, SiM, Sylosis, The Haunt, The Southern River Band, Trophy Eyes, Vowws

Thursday 12. 6.
Slipknot, Lorna Shore
IDLES, Marc Rebillet, The Ghost Inside
Arrows In Action, Castle Rat, Dayseeker, Dead Poet Society, Dream State, DVNE, Eagles Of Death Metal, Floya, Halocene, Kim Dracula, The K’s, TX2, Static Dress, Superheaven, Unprocessed, Yard, Zebrahead

Friday 13. 6.
Sex Pistols ft. Frank Carter, Skillet
In Flames, Jerry Cantrell
6arelyhuman, Amira Elfeky, Cam Cole, Circa Waves, Deafheaven, Ewa Farna, Imminence, Horkýže Slíže, Kadavar, Lake Malice, Nothing More, Paleface Swiss, RUWORR!ED, Seven Hour After Violet, The Living Tombstone

Saturday 14. 6.
Linkin Park, Biffy Clyro
Fontaines D.C., Motionless In White, Sigrid
Battlesnake, Creeper, DZ Deathrays, Fickle Friends, French Police, Refused, RØRY, Sawyer Hill, Thrice, URNE, ZillaKami

Birthday RFP, Sunday 15. 6.
Guns N’ Roses, Rival Sons and many more

Advertisement

Red One: this Dwayne Johnson flop demonstrates Hollywood’s longstanding problem with Christmas

0
Red One. Warner Bros Pictures

By Alexander Sergeant, University of Westminster

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – a time for carolling and concerts, trees and tinsel, mulled wine, open fires and, of course, The Rock (aka Dwayne Johnson). Or at least, that is, according to Hollywood. The action star’s latest film, Red One, has been playing in cinemas across the world since mid-November. But critically, it’s been regarded as a bit of a stinker.

For those who missed it, the film was conceived as the first instalment of a Christmas-themed action franchise. It casts Dwayne Johnson as Callum Drift, commander of the North Pole’s Enforcement Logistics and Fortification (ELF) – Santa’s security team.

When Santa is kidnapped on Christmas eve, Drift must team up with a band of Santa soldiers and mercenaries played by action stalwarts like Chris Evans and Lucy Liu, all of whom must punch their way through Lapland to defeat the evil forces attempting to destroy Christmas.

In the words of its own marketing team, Red One sells itself to audiences as a “globe-trotting action packed mission to save Christmas”. But exactly whose Christmas it thinks its saving remains unclear.

The film currently has score of 31% on Rotten Tomatoes, and opened to poor box office numbers worldwide. Some analysts have predicted that the film will make a loss in the region of US$100 million (£78 million).

Despite the all-too-easy temptation to mock Red One as a clearly ill-conceived project, this is not simply a one-off disaster. On the contrary, Red One is just the latest in a long line of infamous attempts made by Hollywood studios to make a spectacular Christmas action film.

In the 1980s, we had Santa Claus: The Movie (1985), brought to us by the producers of Superman: The Movie (1978). If Superman famously made some viewers believe a man could fly, Santa Claus: The Movie tried to use the same pioneering special effects to make us believe that reindeers could fly, turning Santa’s sleigh ride into the stuff of blockbuster cinema. It was a flop.

In the 1990s, there was Jingle All the Way, an ill-conceived Arnold Schwarzenegger vehicle which, despite being the subject of many festive memes was nevertheless a critical disaster. In 2010, Arthur Christmas, a co-production between Aardman Studios and Sony Pictures, attempted to modernise Santa’s infrastructure to upgrade his sleigh to a rocket ship. Yet again, the film was a box office disappointment, despite earning positive reviews from critics.

Of course there are exceptions to the rule of Christmas action films creating box office bombs. Let us not forget that, for many fans, Die Hard is a Christmas movie. But the history of Hollywood trying to bring together the aesthetics of the action-adventure genre with that of Christmas has almost always ended in failure.

So why does Hollywood persist with this strategy? Largely, because it has boxed itself into a corner. In its heyday, Hollywood produced Christmas classics like Miracle on 34th Street (1947), Meet Me in St Louis (1944) and White Christmas (1954).

These films are cosy, warm and comforting. They established the template not only for the ritual of watching films at Christmas time, but also what that Christmas viewing experience should be. But they were all made before the popularisation of television. And, as home viewing has intensified over the past 75 years, Hollywood has been forced to position itself as a distinctly un-cosy equivalent to the armchair and roaring fire.

Watching films at home is relaxing. When we picture our cinematic Christmas routines, I suspect many of us are imagining being surrounded by loved ones, in comfy pyjamas, enjoying a cosy night in together watching Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol or Love Actually with some mulled wine and a tin of Quality Street.

Going to the cinema, however, is supposed to be spectacular. It is loud, booming, thrilling and visceral. All of that feels a bit intimidating and unnecessary when you’re sitting in your jim-jams with a nice turkey mayo sandwich and cup of tea.

If we don’t want our Christmas movies to look like Red One, we should perhaps ask ourselves what we do want from our seasonal viewing experiences. Statistics show that Christmas is still the time of the year that people are most likely to go the cinema. But the core audience needed to keep cinemas afloat is a younger demographic, that prefers the big superhero, action and science-fiction franchises.

The rest of us, however, are left yearning for a Christmas viewing experience that now seems to have been taken over by the likes of the Hallmark channel and Netflix, which even has a dedicated Christmas section. This is great news for Lindsay Lohan, who seems to be experiencing something of a career renaissance by executive-producing and starring in some questionable Christmas “classics” like Falling for Christmas (2022) and, most recently, Our Little Secret.

These films might be cheesier than a festive baked Camembert, but there’s a reason they’re popular. They remind us of the ghosts of Christmas movies past that big film studios seem unable or unwilling to make today.

The movie industry needs to think hard about the kinds of films it hopes to contribute to the Christmas film tradition in future. But we too need to accept that we might be asking Hollywood for something that even Santa would struggle to deliver.The Conversation

Alexander Sergeant, Lecturer in Digital Media Production, University of Westminster

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Advertisement

Faithless To Play Newmarket Racecourses – Friday 8th August 2025

0
Faithless - Photo credit: Sanjay Bults

Following the announcement of Ministry of Sound Classical earlier this month, Newmarket Nights is thrilled to be welcoming another dance music icon next Summer. Faithless will perform a full headline live set after racing on Friday 8th August.

It’s been almost three decades since their debut album ‘Reverence’ was released, and in that time the legendary UK act has made an unparalleled impact on the dance music landscape. One of the most influential electronic artists of the 21st century, they’ve sold over 20 million albums including seventeen Top 40 singles, including the juggernaut ‘Insomnia’, six Top 10 albums (three at #1) and amassed over a billion combined streams to date.

The band’s cultural significance is unparalleled – leading the charge of dance acts cutting through on
a global level and demonstrating electronic music deserves its place on the main stages. Throughout their incredible career, Faithless have continued to prove it’s possible to achieve critical and commercial success while delivering boundary pushing dance music immersed in feeling and integrity.

Earlier this year, and eight years on since their final live performance, Faithless returned to the global stage with a triumphant headline set at Glastonbury. With a 7-piece band, they have entered an exciting new era to continue their reign at the forefront of dance music.

Sophie Able, Newmarket Racecourses and International Director, said
“Dance music is an integral part of Newmarket Nights, and we always look forward to hosting the biggest names of the genre each year. We’re elated that Faithless will be making their live debut at the racecourse this Summer.”

Faithless said: “2024 has been a landmark year for the group, returning to live performances after an eight-year break. We had the best time at festivals this Summer and can’t wait to party the night away with you all at Newmarket Nights on Friday 8thAugust!”

The award-winning Newmarket Nights series continues to be the premier entertainment destination for the East. The concerts stage some of the nation’s biggest music talents for a full headline set after racing, with recent headliners including Bastille, Olly Murs, Busted and Becky Hill. In addition to world-class live music and an electric evening at the races, the events provide a selection of culinary delights for all, ranging from street food to Newmarket’s array of exceptional restaurants.

Tickets for Faithless at Newmarket Racecourses will be on sale at 10am on Friday 20th December via thejockeyclublive.co.uk, with a presale available to customers at 10am on Wednesday 18th December.

Advertisement

Albion Nights Kitchen Sessions: Finn Doherty – Call It Off

0

Finn Doherty debuts a stunning acoustic rendition of his track “Call It Off” as part of a special series of stripped-back performances at Albion Nights called the Kitchen Sessions.

Taken from his recently released EP “If You’re Bored of This City”, the intimate performance showcases Doherty’s raw talent, accompanied by the beautiful tones of Miles Lavelle Golding on Rhodes. Filmed in the warm, homely setting of Albion Nights, the video captures a stripped-down, heartfelt performance that beautifully reflects the mood and vibe of the sessions.

Finn Doherty with Miles Lavelle Golding on the Rhodes

Watch the full video below and follow the Albion Nights YouTube channel to see the next instalment in this series.

This production wouldn’t have been possible without the collaboration and support of the incredible team involved.

Credits

  • Paul Thompson: Camera and Edit
  • @hal_o_jones: Camera
  • Jonty Rea: Camera
  • @fifthelementz: Audio
Advertisement

Jessia Reveals New Single, ‘I’m Not Gonna Cry’

0
Jessia - Photo by Chase Hanssen

Pop singer and songwriter JESSIA continues her meteoric rise with the release of her new single, “I’m Not Gonna Cry.” Fresh off her first-ever headline tour, which wowed audiences across the US and Canada, JESSIA delivers a track that perfectly encapsulates her signature blend of infectious pop melodies and heartfelt lyricism.

“I’m Not Gonna Cry” is an anthem of resilience and self-empowerment. “This song is about the will to keep showing up for yourself, even when life gets tough,” JESSIA explains. “It’s choosing to celebrate the good things instead of dwelling on the negative. I want it to pick the listener up, dust them off, and get them ready for their busy day or their girls’ night out.” With its vibrant production and uplifting message, the track is tailor-made for blasting on repeat.

Since her debut in 2021, JESSIA has captivated the world with her raw talent, dazzling pop melodies, and deeply personal storytelling. Originally from Vancouver and now based in Los Angeles, she quickly became a global sensation with her viral breakout hit, “I’m not Pretty.” Her debut EP, How Are You?, garnered widespread acclaim and cemented her as a powerful voice in pop, earning her the prestigious Breakthrough Artist Award at the 2022 Juno Awards.

With over 400 million streams across her catalog, JESSIA’s music captures life’s highs and lows, delivering songs that can make you laugh, cry, and believe in better days. Her sophomore EP, Okay With Every Part, released independently in 2024, marked a bold new chapter in her career. This creative freedom fueled her headline tour, where she showcased her powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence.

JESSIA’s fearless spirit and unwavering authenticity continue to set her apart. With “I’m Not Gonna Cry,” she adds another anthemic track to her growing repertoire, solidifying her place as one of pop’s most exciting and relatable voices.

“I’m Not Gonna Cry” will be out on all streaming platforms on December 13th.

Advertisement

Ministry of Sound Classical at Newmarket Racecourses – Friday 20th June

0

Making its much-anticipated racecourse debut next summer, Ministry of Sound Classical will transform Newmarket Nights into the legendary home of dance music on Friday 20th June.

Clubs do not come more iconic than Ministry of Sound. The prominent London venue was at the heart of the huge house scene of the ‘90s and is one of the biggest global brands in dance music. In their hugely acclaimed Ministry of Sound Classical show, a breathtaking 30-piece orchestra recreates and celebrates the very best hand-picked tunes from the genre’s history.

Joined by top DJs, stunning vocalists and a sound and light experience like no other, expect to hear your favourite dance tracks re-imagined and re-lived. With the setlist including the ultimate dance hits from the 90s from acts such as The Chemical Brothers, Dario G, Faithless, Fatboy Slim plus many more, Friday 20th June will be an unmissable night for any dance music fan.

Sophie Able, Newmarket Racecourses and International Director, said
“The music of the white isle has a very special place at Newmarket and we can’t wait to welcome the exceptional show from Ministry of Sound Classical on Friday 20th June. With tickets on sale now for Richard Ashcroft, we’re excited to reveal soon further acts joining next Summer’s line-up. Keep your eyes peeled!!”

Ministry of Sound Classical said
“This ain’t no DJ set! We’re excited to bring our show to you all next summer, packed full of dance anthems as you’ve never heard them before. Take a break from the ordinary and immerse yourself in the extraordinary with us!”

The award-winning Newmarket Nights series continues to be the premier entertainment destination for the East. The concerts stage some of the nation’s biggest music talents for a full headline set after racing, with recent headliners including Bastille, Olly Murs, Busted and Becky Hill. In addition to world-class live music and an electric evening at the races, the events provide a selection of culinary delights for all, ranging from street food to Newmarket’s array of exceptional restaurants.

Tickets for Ministry of Sound Classical at Newmarket Racecourses will be on sale at 10am on Friday 13th December via thejockeyclublive.co.uk, with a presale available to customers at 10am on Wednesday 11th December.

Sign up to The Jockey Club Live’s mailing list to secure the best price by buying in advance during the presale window. Tickets are priced starting from £28 for presale, and from £33 general sale. There will be hospitality packages available to suit all budgets.

The Jockey Club Live will be hosting live concerts after racing at racecourses across the country including Sandown Park, Market Rasen, Carlisle, Warwick, Newmarket, Aintree and Haydock Park in 2025.

Advertisement

Reading and Leeds Festival 2025: Headliners Announced

0
This marks the only European appearance of Travis Scott in 2025

The Reading and Leeds Festival has officially revealed its four headline acts for the August Bank Holiday weekend for 2025. With this first line up announcement, Reading and Leeds Festivals welcome the most dynamic and essential names across multiple genres to the festival weekend, between 21st-24th August 2025.

As announced by BBC Radio 1’s New Music Show with Jack Saunders today, Travis Scott, Chappell Roan, Bring Me The Horizon and Hozier have been revealed as the headliners for 2025. Alongside the likes of AJ Tracey, Becky Hill, Sammy Viriji, Trippie Redd, Amyl and The Sniffers, Conan Gray, The Kooks, The Dare, Bloc Party, Enter Shikari, Wallows, Sea Girls, Mannequin Pussy, SOFT PLAY, Lambrini Girls, DJ EZ and many more announced today.

Synonymous with modern culture, Reading and Leeds Festival never stands still. A pivotal platform for shaping the careers of countless artists and delivering some of the most iconic moments in global music history. With the first look at next summer’s line up, 2025 is set to move things forward again, shaping the cultural landscape of the here and now. Following the Three and Festival Pre-Sale, Day and Weekend Tickets for the 2025 edition will go on sale Monday 9th December at www.readingfestival.com/tickets and www.leedsfestival.com/tickets.

When you think of defining figures in modern culture right now, you think of Chappell Roan. Taking the planet by storm with one of the most stratospheric breakthroughs of the decade so far, the release of Chappell’s debut album ‘The Rise And Fall Of A Midwest Princess’ ushered in a generation-defining talent that has seen mammoth crowds gather to witness an artist like no other. A global must-see artist, her headline performance debut at Reading & Leeds is set to be a true moment of celebration, showcasing her bold vision for the future of pop music with 2025’s must-see headline show ready to etch another chapter in Reading & Leeds history.

One of the most influential and dynamic artists of this generation, Travis Scott will head to Reading & Leeds with a European Exclusive performance. From his breakout album ‘Rodeo’ to his latest masterpiece ‘Utopia’, this rapper-turned-visionary has one of the most astronomical back catalogues of the last decade. Culturally relevant in every continent, audiences across the world have been swept up in the hypnotic energy of his live sets and larger-than-life production. His debut headline turn at Reading & Leeds promises to be an epic celebration that can only be found over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Bring Me The Horizon’s explosive return is a moment fans have been eagerly awaiting. Fresh from the release of their monumental seventh studio album ‘Post Human: Nex Gen’, Bring Me The Horizon are experts in reinvention and reimagination, taking each iteration of the band to a new level every time. With frontman Oli Sykes at the helm, Bring Me The Horizon have been responsible for opening up the worlds of metalcore, rock and electronic genres to so many. Their last appearance at Reading & Leeds saw a surprise appearance from Ed Sheeran and earned a glowing-five-star review from NME. Next summer as a UK Festival Exclusive, Bring Me The Horizon put a marker in the sand for why they sit as one of the biggest and most influential bands of the 21st century.

Bring Me The Horizon’s frontman Oli Sykes said: “We are beyond excited to be returning to Reading & Leeds for our first fully fledged headline slot. We are going to bring hands down the greatest show of our careers. It’s going to be our only UK performance next year and the final European show of the NEX GEN campaign before the band take time away, so if you want to see BMTH next year, this truly is your only chance. Can’t wait.”

Headlining a UK Festival for the very first time, Hozier brings his universal tales to Reading & Leeds in 2025. One of the most distinctive and powerful voices in contemporary music, he has spearheaded a new generation of modern folk to become an undeniable global leader. His latest album ‘Unreal Unearth’ gave him his first-ever UK number-one album, outselling the entire UK Top 5 in its release week, and also topped the charts in Ireland. Continuing a string of career-defining milestones, his first-ever UK number-one single, ‘Too Sweet’, racked up 1.6 billion global streams. Hozier solidified his place among musical greats this summer, selling out major outdoor shows including London’s Finsbury Park. First appearing at Reading & Leeds in 2014, his headline slot at Reading & Leeds in 2025 as a UK Festival Exclusive performance promises to be a stunning showcase for an artist constantly looking forward and standing for more.

Joining the Reading & Leeds line-up today is two-time BRIT Award winner Becky Hill, whose powerhouse vocals and genre-blending style have established her as one of the UK’s most exciting dance pop stars. From chart-topping singles to electrifying festival sets and sellout arena shows, her seamless mix of chart-topping dance and pop hits guarantee a standout performance. AJ Tracey, a leading light in UK rap with hits like ‘Ladbroke Grove’ and ‘Rain’, this moment will see him continue to evolve and lift the scene. Rising star Sammy Virji brings his infectious energy and innovative blend of house, garage, and grime to the line-up, marking him as one of the most exciting new voices in UK dance music.

Widely acclaimed American songwriter Conan Gray is announced off the back of new album ‘Found Heaven’ and sold out shows at Madison Square Garden and Wembley Arena. SOFT PLAY will be returning to Reading and Leeds stages after successfully re-staking their claim for the top with potent new album ‘Heavy Jelly’, whilst US rap sensation Trippie Redd takes to the stage to show why he sits as one of the most popular names in modern hip-hop. Also confirmed are genre-blending pioneers Enter Shikari. Known for their politically charged lyrics, the group have used Reading and Leeds’ stages before as their platform for making statements to the world. Joining them are Melbourne’s unapologetic punks Amyl and the Sniffers, set to unleash their full ferocity at Reading & Leeds in the wake of their acclaimed new record ‘Cartoon Darkness’.

Bloc Party have been announced to play the inaugural Icon Slot at R&L 2025, which will celebrate the defining acts synonymous with the festival. Bloc Party, one of the most iconic bands of the century, has forged a historic relationship with Reading & Leeds Festival and are set to play a special set. Their previous performances, following the release of their acclaimed debut album ‘Silent Alarm’, cemented them as festival favourites. From 2005 to 2009, they delivered consecutive electrifying sets that helped define the era and their enduring presence through to 2022 album ‘Alpha Games’ and recent tours alongside acts like Paramore, has brought in a new generation of fans.

The Kooks will serve a dose of absolute glee to Reading & Leeds audiences, bringing feel-good indie nostalgia to an eager new generation of fans. One of the most successful drum and bass acts from the last decade, Rudim3ntal bring their hard-hitting visual heavy DJ show to the fields next summer.

Offering a launchpad that propels emerging acts from rising stars to household names, today’s first line up announcement presents a broad array of the most exhilarating emerging artists from all around the world, all in one place. Mixing the hotly-tipped High Vis and The Dare, with pure Australian punk spirit of The Chats and one of the hottest bands in the UK right now: Wunderhorse – the line-up spans genres and continents. From Philadelphia’s explosive Mannequin Pussy and Brighton’s fierce Lambrini Girls, to the Brooklyn indie pop project Del Water Gap, the eclectic mix continues with must-see talents Suki Waterhouse, Nieve Ella, Luvcat, and Sofia Isella. Adding to the mix are the soaring pop-rock stylings of Pale Waves, South London drill and Afroswing pioneer Blanco, and East London rapper Lancey Foux. Dancefloor icons DJ EZ and UKG revivalists Girls Don’t Sync share the bill with South Korean collective Balming Tiger, American country-metalcore outfit Bilmuri, Detroit electro-pop duo Snow Strippers, and Toronto indie-rock band Good Kid. Also featured are Antony Szmierek’s poetic blend of spoken word and indie hip-hop, Reading’s own Songer, alt-rock favorites Wallows, indie mainstays Sea Girls, sunny indie pop duo Royel Otis and much more.

Advertisement

Sabrina Carpenter to headline BST Hyde Park 2025

0

American Express presents BST Hyde Park announces its next 2025 headliner, the renowned, x6 GRAMMY-nominated pop powerhouse Sabrina Carpenter will be headlining in Hyde Park on Saturday 5 July. Sabrina will be joined by special guests Clairo and beabadoobee, with the full line-up still to be announced. Tickets go on general sale at 10am GMT on Wednesday 11 December.

Reigning queen of the charts Sabrina Carpenter’s headline BST Hyde Park show comes hot on the heels of the incredible success of her No.1 album Short n’ Sweet, which topped the charts in 19 countries including the Billboard 200 and UK Official Albums Chart. The platinum album boasts a trinity of hits, including the viral summer sensation ‘Espresso’, ‘Please Please Please’ and ‘Taste’, all of which reached No.1 in the UK, spending a combined total of 21 weeks in the top spot. With this remarkable trio, Carpenter became the first artist since the Beatles to chart their first three top five US hits in the same week.

Carpenter’s monumental success in 2024 continued with her debut at Coachella festival, her performances as Taylor Swift’s special guest on the Eras Tour across Latin America, Australia, and Singapore, and her own Short n’ Sweet tour across North America. Her tour has earned glowing reviews, with Consequence of Sound praising her for “making pop music feel larger than life”. Last month in Los Angeles, she even welcomed the iconic Christina Aguilera to the stage for a duet. Sabrina also recently announced her festive special, A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter, landing on Netflix today (6th Dec) in the US and tomorrow (7th Dec) in the UK. The special will feature performances, a host of special duets and guest acts, including comedians and ‘unexpected’ appearances.

Joining Sabrina Carpenter at London’s BST Hyde Park is special guest, American indie luminary Clairo. Named NME’s Best New Act in the World in 2020, Clairo earned her first No.1 on the TikTok Billboard Top 50 in August 2024, with her song ‘Juna’ off of her third studio album, Charm. Pitchfork described the singer’s soft-rock album as “a lush, rich production”, giving it an impressive 7.5 rating. The American singer-songwriter also gained popularity with her cult debut album single ‘Bags’ and TikTok viral hit ‘Flaming Hot Cheetos’, which has amassed over 452 million streams on Spotify.

beabadoobee also joins the line-up for BST Hyde Park. Known for her lush, introspective sound that bridges 90s alt-rock and modern indie pop, the London-based artist has become a defining voice of her generation. Fresh from her headline performance at Alexandra Palace, which Clash described as “a homecoming,” beabadoobee continues to win over fans with her heartfelt songwriting and magnetic stage presence. Her latest album This is How Tomorrow Moves, which shot to No.1 in the UK Albums Chart, has propelled her from indie darling to mainstream sensation, cementing her status with the Alexandra Palace milestone and now a coveted slot at BST Hyde Park.

Sabrina Carpenter joins previously announced headliners for 2025, Olivia Rodrigo (27 June), Zach Bryan (28 + 29 June), Noah Kahan (4 July), Hugh Jackman (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 – begins 10am GMT Friday 6 December, ends 9am Wednesday 11 December
Artist Fanclub – 10am GMT on Monday 9 December
General On Sale – 10am GMT on Wednesday 11 December

Advertisement

2025 MOBO Awards Nominations Announced for Newcastle Ceremony

0
Little Simz on stage after accepting the Best Hip Hop Act during the 2024 MOBO Awards ceremony at Utilita Arena Sheffield (Photo by Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images For MOBO)

The MOBO Awards, the UK’s premier celebration of Black music and culture, have announced the nominees across 20 categories for their 2025 edition. For the first time, the iconic ceremony will take place in Newcastle at the Utilita Arena on Tuesday 18 February. Tickets are on sale now.

For nearly three decades, MOBO has celebrated established stars and some of the fastest-rising talent in music and the 2025 edition once again shows that breadth.

The British R&B scene shines brightly this year, with triple MOBO nominees Jorja Smith and Cleo Sol leading the charge. This year, got2b is the official sponsor of the hotly contested Best Female Act category, as well as the MOBO Awards’ Official Hair Styling Partner, and both stars are nominated in the category, and for Album of The Year and Best R&B/Soul Act supported by Kiss FM.

Sampha topped the UK R&B charts with his second album, Lahai, and is nominated by MOBO for Best Male Act and Album of The Year and his music video ‘Only’, directed by Dexter Navy, has been shortlisted for Video of the Year in Association with LNER – MOBO is proud to announce that LNER (London North Eastern Railway) is the Official Travel Partner for the awards.

Also nominated for three awards each are Central Cee, Bashy, Ghetts and Odeal. Central Cee now attracts more than 25 million monthly streams, and 2024 saw the release of singles including ‘BAND4BAND’ featuring Lil Baby, which receives a Song of the Year. A debut studio album, Can’t Rush Greatness, is due in 2025. Having won Best Male Act for the last two years, he is nominated once again, as well as being up for Best Drill Act.

While rooted in music, the MOBO Awards also spotlight cultural contributions. This year, Netflix’s hit series Supacell sees Best Performance In a TV Show/Film nominations for Ghetts for his role as Krazy, as well as for Josh Tedeku, who plays Tazer, and Tosin Cole as Michael. EastEnders picks up nominations in the same category for Angela Wynter as Yolande Trueman and Diane Parish as Denise Fox. These nominations showcase the breadth of diverse talent across TV and film, highlighting the richness of creative storytelling and the depth and diversity of talent shaping today’s TV and film industry.

Having built a successful acting career, including his role as Jermaine Newton in Top Boy, Ashley Thomas, aka Bashy, returned to music with his first studio album in 15 years. The record, Being Poor Is Expensive, is an intimate look back at his childhood and earns him nominations for Best Male Act, Best Hip Hop Act and Album of The Year.

After a stunning year in her career, RAYE is nominated twice and has a chance of a second win in a row in Best Female Act in association with got2b.

At the heart of MOBO’s mission is championing emerging talent. This year, MOBO UnSung alumni Jordan Adetunji, who has had a big year with his track ‘KEHLANI’ clocking up more than 275 million streams after going viral on TikTok, picks up two nominations for Best Newcomer and Song of The Year. MOBO UnSung Top 20 finalist, Native James, is shortlisted for Best Alternative Music Act in association with Marshall, reflecting the UnSung programme’s enduring impact on the industry.

The MOBO Awards celebrate the most exciting artists in the world today in categories including Best Caribbean Music, as well as Best Jazz Act and Best Gospel Act supported by Premier Gospel.

Both Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar, are among the nominees for Best International Act but the year has been notable for the rise of a number of female African stars, with Ayra Starr, Tems and Tyla all nominated in both Best African Music Act in Association with Loco Music and the Best International Act category.

Marshall, the premier amplifier company, returns for a third year to sponsor Best Alternative Act. Loco Music, a Cape Verdean music company, is once again sponsoring the Best African Music Act category. This year, got2b is the Official Hair Styling Partner and also the sponsor of the hotly contested Best Female Act category.

MOBO Founder Kanya King CBE said: “Each and every time we unveil the MOBO Awards nominations, I am taken aback by the sheer amount of incredible talent we have in the UK. It inspires us all to continue pushing the industry to be more inclusive of a greater variety of Black music and culture. The music coming out of the UK this past year has been some of the best we have had in years. These distinct, uncompromising voices – across different genres from R&B and Soul to Grime, Hip-Hop to Jazz and Alternative – are not just soundtracks for our days. They provide healing and reflection, and also escapism in times of need. For several years now we have also seen the growth of our MOBO UnSung talent programme, as it continues to be a beacon for spotlighting and empowering emerging artists. Some of the artists tipped by UnSung have gone on to achieve great things and we’re so proud to be following their journey, and celebrating their success. A huge congratulations to all our nominees across music, film and television, and entertainment. We look forward to welcoming you in Newcastle!”

Since its inaugural ceremony in 1996 at London’s Grand Connaught Rooms, MOBO Awards has become a calendar staple in the UK and its iconic trophy is now one of the highest accolades in music. The Awards have honoured music stars such as Central Cee, Stormzy, Janet Jackson, Little Simz, Davido, Rihanna, RAYE, Wizkid, Beyoncé and Jay Z, while also helping to elevate the careers of rising stars in the industry.

The impact of the MOBO Group extends far beyond the annual awards show. MOBO is deeply committed to promoting social change and inclusion, supporting the development of young talent, and advocating for diversity across the entertainment industry and beyond. Through mentorship programmes, partnerships with educational and charitable organisations, and career development opportunities with leading organisations, MOBO has been a driving force for positive change.

By championing creativity, providing platforms for new voices, and advocating for equality, the MOBO Awards and the wider MOBO Group continue to inspire and empower talents and communities across the UK and beyond.
2025 MOBO AWARDS NOMINATIONS
Winners will be revealed on 18 February 2025
BEST MALE ACT
BASHY
CENTRAL CEE
D-BLOCK EUROPE
GHETTS
NEMZZZ
SAMPHA

BEST FEMALE ACT IN ASSOCIATION WITH got2b
CLEO SOL
DARKOO
JORJA SMITH
LITTLE SIMZ
NIA ARCHIVES
RAYE

ALBUM OF THE YEAR
BASHY – BEING POOR IS EXPENSIVE
CLEO SOL – GOLD
GHETTS – ON PURPOSE, WITH PURPOSE
JORJA SMITH – FALLING OR FLYING
SAMPHA – LAHAI
SKRAPZ – REFLECTION

SONG OF THE YEAR
CENTRAL CEE FEAT. LIL BABY – ‘BAND4BAND’
CHASE & STATUS, STORMZY – ‘BACKBONE’
DARKOO FEAT. DESS DIOR – ‘FAVOURITE GIRL’
JORDAN ADETUNJI – ‘KEHLANI’
LEOSTAYTRILL – ‘PINK LEMONADE’
ODEAL – ‘SOH-SOH’

BEST NEWCOMER
CHY CARTIER
ELMIENE
FIMIGUERRERO
FLOWEROVLOVE
JORDAN ADETUNJI
LEN
LEOSTAYTRILL
MYLES SMITH
ODEAL
POZER

VIDEO OF THE YEAR IN ASSOCIATION WITH LNER
MEEKZ – ‘MINI ME’S’ (DIRECTED BY KC LOCKE)
MNELIA – ‘MY MAN’ (DIRECTED BY FEMI BELLO)
RAYE – ‘GENESIS’ (DIRECTED BY OTIS DOMINIQUE & RAYE)
SAMPHA – ‘ONLY’ (DIRECTED BY DEXTER NAVY)
SKEPTA – ‘GAS ME UP (DILIGENT)’ (DIRECTED BY STEVEO)
UNKNOWN T FEAT. LOYLE CARNER – ‘HOCUS POCUS’ (DIRECTED BY FELIX BRADY)

BEST R&B/SOUL ACT SUPPORTED BY KISS FM
CLEO SOL
ELMIENE
FLO
JAZ KARIS
JORJA SMITH
NIPPA
ODEAL
SASHA KEABLE
SHAE UNIVERSE
SINEAD HARNETT

BEST ALTERNATIVE MUSIC ACT IN ASSOCIATION WITH MARSHALL
ALT BLK ERA
BOB VYLAN
HAK BAKER
KID BOOKIE
NATIVE JAMES
SPIDER

BEST GRIME ACT SUPPORTED BY TRENCH
CHIP
D DOUBLE E
DUPPY
KRUZ LEONE
MANGA SAINT HILARE
SCORCHER

BEST HIP HOP ACT SUPPORTED BY BBC RADIO 1XTRA
BASHY
CRISTALE
HEADIE ONE
NINES
POTTER PAYPER
SKRAPZ

BEST DRILL ACT
163MARGS
CENTRAL CEE
HEADIE ONE
KAIRO KEYZ
K-TRAP
POZER

BEST INTERNATIONAL ACT
ASAKE
AYRA STARR
BEYONCE
GLORILLA
KENDRICK LAMAR
LATTO
MEGAN THEE STALLION
NICKI MINAJ
TEMS
TYLA

BEST PERFORMANCE IN A TV SHOW/FILM
ANGELA WYNTER AS YOLANDE TRUEMAN IN EASTENDERS
CAROLINE CHIKEZIE AS NOMA IN POWER BOOK II: GHOST
DIANE PARISH AS DENISE FOX IN EASTENDERS
DIONNE BROWN AS QUEENIE IN QUEENIE
GHETTS AS KRAZY IN SUPACELL
JACOB ANDERSON AS LOUIS IN INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE
JASMINE JOBSON AS JAQ IN TOP BOY
JOSH TEDEKU AS TAZER IN SUPACELL
KINGSLEY BEN-ADIR AS BOB MARLEY IN BOB MARLEY: ONE LOVE
TOSIN COLE AS MICHAEL IN SUPACELL

BEST MEDIA PERSONALITY
90’S BABY SHOW
AJ ODUDU
CHUCKIE ONLINE
CRAIG MITCH
HENRIE KWUSHUE
MADAME JOYCE
MICAH RICHARDS
SPECS GONZALEZ
THE RECEIPTS PODCAST
ZEZE MILLZ

BEST AFRICAN MUSIC ACT IN ASSOCIATION WITH LOCO MUSIC
ASAKE (NIGERIA)
AYRA STARR (NIGERIA)
BNXN & RUGER (NIGERIA)
KING PROMISE (GHANA)
ODUMODUBLVCK (NIGERIA)
REMA (NIGERIA)
SHALLIPOPI (NIGERIA)
TEMS (NIGERIA)
TYLA (SOUTH AFRICA)
UNCLE WAFFLES (SOUTH AFRICA)

BEST CARIBBEAN MUSIC ACT
POPCAAN
SHENSEEA
SKILLIBENG
SPICE
VALIANT
YG MARLEY

BEST JAZZ ACT
AMY GADIAGA
BLUE LAB BEATS
EGO ELLA MAY
EZRA COLLECTIVE
KOKOROKO
YUSSEF DAYES

BEST ELECTRONIC/DANCE ACT SUPPORTED BY MIXMAG
ELIZA ROSE
NIA ARCHIVES
PINKPANTHERESS
SALUTE
SHYGIRL
TSHA

BEST PRODUCER
CEEBEAATS
INFLO
JULS
M1ONTHEBEAT
P2J
SAMMY SOSO

BEST GOSPEL ACT SUPPORTED BY PREMIER GOSPEL
ANNATORIA
IMRHAN
LIMOBLAZE
REBLAH
STILL SHADEY
VOLNEY MORGAN & NEW YE

Advertisement

Moana 2: dazzling sequel redefines the Disney princess with strength, independence and leadership

0
Moana 2 - Credit: Walt Disney Pictures

By Laura O’Flanagan, Dublin City University

Moana isn’t a typical Disney heroine, stating quite clearly in the latest instalment, Moana 2, that she is not a princess. Her friend Maui’s response – “Well, a lot of people think you are” – elicited knowing laughter from the audience when I saw the film. This shows just how much Moana has redefined what it means to be a Disney princess.

Unconcerned with traditional tropes like ballgowns and romance, Moana embodies strength, independence and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. She powerfully demonstrates how human action can effect real environmental healing and transformation; through collaborating with the forces of nature, the world can be saved from environmental catastrophe.

In Moana 2, her commitment to protecting the Earth again takes centre stage – but this time going even further to deliver a powerful call for collective action, to restore environmental harmony and strengthen human interconnectedness. Answering the call of her ancestors, Moana sets out on a treacherous ocean voyage to ensure the survival of her island against the wishes of Nalo, a powerful storm god who is determined that humans should remain isolated from one another.

Moana 2 – Credit: Walt Disney Pictures

Moana, of course, shares several traits with earlier Disney princesses. Like Belle from Beauty and the Beast and Jasmine from Aladdin, she dreams of a life beyond the confines of her immediate world. Similar to Ariel from The Little Mermaid and Mulan, she sets off on a dangerous adventure far from home. And like all the princesses before her, Moana has animal companions – Pua the pig and Hei-Hei the chicken. But what sets Moana apart is how her connection to nature is portrayed.

Disney has a long legacy of linking its princesses with nature, from Snow White and Cinderella, who recruit small animals to assist with their domestic chores, to Elsa in Frozen who can magically control ice and snow. But Moana’s relationship with the natural world is more than just symbolic interaction. Her bond with nature is an active, collaborative partnership.

This is not a typical Disney princess story of self-discovery, but of active engagement with the world around her. In the first film, Moana embarks on a dangerous oceanic journey to “restore the heart of Te Fiti” – that is, repair the environmental damage caused by the trickster demi-god Maui and restore harmony to the natural world. In doing so, she sets her island and the Disney princess in a new direction.

In the sequel, Moana is more mature, more experienced as a wayfinder, and is a highly respected member of her island community. This new story sees her lead a group of fellow islanders on a voyage to find the lost island of Motufetu and reconnect isolated island communities across the ocean. Through this, she demonstrates the power of collective action. She partners with human and non-human entities in pursuit of these goals, which will lead to better environmental outcomes and greater human connection.

Instead of simply reacting to or passively experiencing nature, as many of her Disney predecessors have, Moana works with forces of nature including the ocean, which is a key character in both films. Unlike typical 3D animation processes, where water is created through automated particle simulations, Disney artists have animated the ocean in Moana as a character, giving it more human-like movement and personality.

This approach allows the ocean to become a true partner in Moana’s journey, guiding her and actively engaging with her in meaningful ways as she restores balance to the environment and connects isolated island communities.

This is a visually stunning sequel that recaptures and builds on the magic of the first film, and should be seen on a large screen. Dazzling artistry fills every frame – in particular, bioluminescent sea life is spectacularly rendered. Polynesian culture is represented in more detail, with traditional rituals, dancing, artwork and singing giving the film a weightier authenticity.

As a musical, the songs are not initially quite as catchy as in the first film, but time will tell if they resonate with audiences. The characters have grown since we last encountered them. Moana flourishes in her role as both a leader and a protector of the Earth. We also see her develop into the role of “big sister” – to her younger sibling Simea and, symbolically, to all who she encounters.

There are heartfelt callbacks to the first film as we see Moana share her knowledge of the ocean and pass on the wisdom she has received from her grandmother, now in spirit, who is portrayed beautifully onscreen in human form and as a manta ray. Moana’s relationship with the egotistical Maui is again a source of comedy, but now contains an emotional depth that comes from a platonic friendship with roots.

Through Moana, we have moved into a new era of the Disney princess. Physically strong and fit, a skilled navigator and blossoming leader, she is a heroine on screen and in the world of the film, where she is depicted on decorative tapa cloths alongside gods and myths. She announces herself as “Moana of the land and of the sea”.

In her seminal work Feminism and The Mastery of Nature, ecofeminist and environmental philosopher Val Plumwood
wrote:

If we are to survive into a liveable future, we must take into our own hands the power to create, restore and explore different stories, with new main characters, better plots, and at least the possibility of some happy endings.

Through stories of human interconnectedness, ecological harmony and respect for the natural world, Disney’s Moana 2 appears to be doing just that.The Conversation

Laura O’Flanagan, PhD Candidate in the School of English, Dublin City University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Advertisement