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      ‘We were a curious mixture of   ambitious & self-conscious,’ Keane’s Tom Chaplin opens up ahead of 20th anniversary

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      “WHEN I see old footage of myself from those days I think, ‘That guy really doesn’t know what he’s doing’.”Over lunch in a country pub in Sussex, singer Tom Chaplin is reminiscing about the early days of Keane.Jesse Quin, Richard Hughes, Tim Rice-Oxley and Tom Chaplin are heading out on their 20th anniversary tourCredit: Alex LakeBack in the early days, Tom, Tim and Richard in2004Credit: AlamyTim, Tom and Richard in enjoying the weather in Amsterdam in 2004Credit: AlamyHe says: “We were a curious mixture of being ambitious, with idols who were very big and successful bands and, at the same time, we were self-conscious, self-deprecating and very unsure of ourselves.“Thank God there wasn’t social media back then.”Nodding in agreement, keyboardist Tim Rice-Oxley says: “I cringe too, and we were never organised about how we presented ourselves. We did what came instinctively, but it was such a ride.”Next week, to mark the 20th anniversary of the release of their debut album, Hopes And Fears, they will put out a special reissue, and tonight they kick off their world tour at the First Direct Arena in Leeds.READ MORE ON KEANEChaplin, Rice-Oxley, drummer Richard Hughes and bassist Jesse Quin, who officially joined the band in 2007, are looking forward to being out on the road again.“Touring was very different to how it is today,” says Chaplin. “For the first Hopes And Fears tour we rented a van and I had loads of cushions stacked up around me in the back to stop the equipment falling on top of me.I remember we played our first gig in Amsterdam and I thought ‘Wow, we’ve gone international’.“It wasn’t very safe but when you’re that age, you don’t give a s**t.“Tim and Richard were at the front sharing the driving as I was too young to drive the van. I couldn’t snooze either as I had to make sure the driver was awake.Most read in Music“I remember we played our first gig in Amsterdam and I thought ‘Wow, we’ve gone international’.”Their dream back then was to one day play arenas.Huge 90s and 00s band release first new music for five years after global fame and 13m record sales Rice-Oxley says: “We thought that might only happen after ten years, though. In those days we were excited to be playing the [London pub and venue] Bull And Gate.“I remember in 2004 we played the Kentish Town Forum, which is about 2,000 capacity, and we thought that was massive.“We thought of it as a process that we were starting and this was the first step, but more and more people kept turning up to our gigs.”Early songs written for the album included She Has No Time, This Is The Last Time and Bedshaped, but it was only when original guitarist Dominic Scott left in 2001, that Keane found their piano-driven sound.Rice-Oxley recalls: “We desperately wanted to be Radiohead and Dominic wanted us to be U2.” The Ivor Novello Award-winning songwriter, who had turned down an invitation to be Coldplay’s keyboardist in 1997, adds: “We were a guitar band and I was the bass player, but I only learned the bass to be in the band.“Keyboards are where I felt most comfortable. It took us a while to find our way together as we were still very young at that point.”Emotional reachChaplin adds: “We were a very conventional guitar band. Like a lot of other indie bands that were on the circuit at the time. But then Dominic left and the new sound became a signature of what we were like.“It seemed that not having a guitarist was a brilliantly conceived plan, but it was just by necessity. The piano was doing so much of the work that a guitar would normally do.“When Dominic left, it forced our hands into doing something more unconventional.”It was signing a record deal with Island Records in the summer of 2003 that “unlocked a whole other layer,” says Chaplin. “It went from nobody really being interested to Steve Lamacq playing the Fierce Panda Records single of Everybody’s Changing on the radio and then it was doing the tour of all the labels and then they were schmoozing us.”The head of the label told us they expected us to sell a million records by the end of the year. We thought they were having a laugh.How do Keane feel the tracks on Hopes And Fears have aged?Chaplin says: “The songs on Hopes And Fears have a grand and far-reaching quality to them. They’re classic songs with an emotional reach.“Back then hearing it on the radio piped across the airwaves, it sounded great.“It made us think, maybe we do deserve a place at the table.“I remember when I first heard This Is The Last Time thinking this is a real step-up for Tim’s writing.”Rice-Oxley adds: “I remember writing Everybody’s Changing at my mum and dad’s and doing this Thom Yorke-esque whining over the top, and then our publisher loved it and told me to finish that one so that was our homework.”Island bosses could see Keane’s potential even if the band couldn’t quite believe what they were being told.Chaplin admits: “The head of the label told us they expected us to sell a million records by the end of the year.“We thought they were having a laugh. But they clearly knew what they were talking about.”Singles Somewhere Only We Know and Bend And Break helped Hopes And Fears became the second best-selling album of 2004, behind the Scissor Sisters. It went nine times platinum and was the ninth highest-selling album of the 21st century in the UK, also earning itself a Brit Award for Best Album.Rice-Oxley says: “It didn’t feel at all real. The label knew after the first day it was going to be massive.“I remember one exec saying, ‘Oh by the way, the album has already gone platinum’. After the first day.”By that point the band had been together almost ten years, having formed while still at school in 1995. Chaplin says: “It was a very heady feeling. People thought we’d suddenly just arrived fully formed, but it was after years of being s**t. We’d learned how to get better.“We were used to bad news and knockbacks, so to be bombarded with all this good news felt absurd and surreal.”Rice-Oxley cites the 2004 Glastonbury Festival and going to the US as favourite memories from the album’s release.He says: “Glastonbury was such a big deal because you could see people in the crowd, which you can’t in a dark venue. They were definitely there. And going to America we were meeting all these names because we were signed to Interscope.”BulletproofChaplin says: “We got schmoozed by [label founder] Jimmy Iovine and hung out with Trent Reznor at his house.”Rice-Oxley refers to this as the “golden period” when Keane could do no wrong. But they found it tough when criticism inevitably came their way.Chaplin says: “The way people laid into us for being posh and calling us bedwetters is funny now, but back then we were thin-skinned.“What does music for bedwetters even mean?“I think we were true to ourselves and people thought we were posher than we were.I remember the first time I’d heard anything bad about us… the reviewer said, ‘I am sick of bands who want to be another Radiohead’.“I was criticised because of the way I looked and it’s something you only get better at dealing with with age. We weren’t bulletproof then and were much more sensitive.”Rice-Oxley adds: “It’s all about wanting validation. You’re on the radio, on TV and even in the cool magazines then suddenly you reach critical mass and people turn on you.“I remember the first time I’d heard anything bad about us, I was sat listening to a radio roundtable with my mum and dad and the reviewer said, ‘I am sick of bands who want to be another Radiohead’.“We were fair game.”Chaplin, who in the past struggled with drug addiction, added: “For me, there was a dangerous cocktail of stuff that happened so fast.“I was so insecure and thought the success of the band would fix the way I felt inside. In some ways, it does. But it’s temporary.“As well as the adulation, there’s also the paranoia. I remember thinking everywhere I went that people were talking or laughing about me, which is unnerving.” As well as dark times, there has been plenty of fun along the way.Chaplin says: “We’ve had loads of high points, Live 8 was pretty mad. Macca at the side of the stage singing along and then touring with U2 and the Grammy’s after party, which was mad.“I was holding court with Bono, Bruce Springsteen, Eminem, Dr Dre and Green Day. I may have been a bit pissed and talking absolute crap but it was fun.”Special magicRice-Oxley says: “Whenever we go out together, we are laughing and now it’s the best time to be in Keane. We all feel good about the band.”Songs from Hopes And Fears are still a huge part of Keane’s live shows, but not just the biggest hits.Chaplin says: “I love Bend And Break. It’s our battle cry. It reminds me of not being sure of what was going to happen with the band.”Bedshaped is particularly special to Rice-Oxley, who says: “It takes me back to when we were playing bigger shows. You’d have groups of big lads, like the football fans, and they loved Bedshaped.“They’d have their arms around each other at the end of the gig. Slightly scary-looking dudes all bellowing at the top of their lungs and crying. I love that. There is something about that song that has a light to it.” Chaplin adds: “There’s always been a special magic to Keane through Tim’s writing and my singing. And I’m singing better than ever.Streaming has opened our music to a younger audience. When I look out there’s a new layer of fans. And there are about 100 new songs already.“Friendship is central to this band and the difficult times, the fallouts, the resentments — a lot of the baggage has been offloaded.“I can really see why so many bands implode but my friendship with Tim is such a fundamental relationship in my life.”It’s been five years since Keane released comeback album Cause And Effect, after a four-year hiatus. Is a new album on the horizon?Chaplin answers: “We were slightly circumspect about doing 20 years of Hopes And Fears as we are slightly cautious about nostalgia.Next week, to mark the 20th anniversary of the release of their debut album, Hopes And Fears, they will put out a special reissueCredit: Alamy’I remember we played our first gig in Amsterdam and I thought ‘Wow, we’ve gone international,’ says TomCredit: Alamy“Streaming has opened our music to a younger audience. When I look out there’s a new layer of fans. And there are about 100 new songs already.”Rice-Oxley adds: “As much as we’d love to make another album, we are too busy touring. And I’m always very torn because I feel a lot of imposter syndrome. I never think, ‘I’m just going to pop in the studio and turn out a couple more hits’.”READ MORE SUN STORIESChaplin smiles: “That’s the thing with Tim, though, he always does.”
      Keane’s UK tour starts tonight at Leeds First Direct Arena, playing two nights at London’s O2 on May 10 and 11. Keane’s 20 Hopes And Fears album is released on May 10.
      Hopes And Fears album is released on May 10Credit: Alex LakeKEANEHopes And Fears (20th anniversary)★★★★★ More

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      Power problems, loose wiring and gigs cancelled last minute, inside £365m Manchester Co-op Live Arena launch catastrophe

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      IT was hailed as the most revolutionary venue in the country – one that would usher in a new era of live music.But a week after the £365million Co-op Live Arena was due to open in Manchester, it has turned into a catastrophe.The revolutionary plans of the £365million Co-op Live Arena have been put on hold after its opening has turned into a catastropheCredit: William Lailey / SWNSComedian Peter Kay’s opening performances were cancelled TWICE last monthCredit: GettyUS rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie was due to launch the arena last night instead – but was axed 10mins before the doors openedCredit: GettyConcerts have been cancelled and fans left devastated, while the venue’s chief executive has also quit.US rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie was due to launch the arena — which counts singer Harry Styles as a minority shareholder — last night after comedian Peter Kay’s opening performances were twice cancelled last month.But as queues gathered outside, punters were told the gig had been axed at the last minute, throwing the saga into another level of turmoil.And tonight, Take That and Keane announced their gigs due this month had been called off too, with Take That moving theirs to the nearby AO Arena.READ MORE MUSIC NEWSYesterday’s plans were halted after part of an air-conditioning unit fell off, striking fear into a city already uneasy about venues after the bombing of Ariana Grande’s show at the AO Arena in 2017.An initial test event at Co-op Live in mid-April highlighted major concerns, with loose wiring, unfinished interiors and some cables even gaffer-taped to walls.The capacity for that event, which featured a performance from Rick Astley, had to be cut by 4,000 with two hours to go due to power issues.When it was first announced, the Co-op Live — the biggest indoor arena in Britain with a capacity of 23,500 — promised to “elevate both the artist and fan experience”.Most read in MusicBut the current shambles has raised a series of questions about how long it could take to finally get the building up to scratch — and whether anyone will actually want to perform, or go, there once it is.‘Miracle no one hurt’Grammy’s 2022: Olivia Rodrigo Wins Best New ArtistA music industry insider told The Sun: “The whole thing is a nightmare and an embarrassment.“The developers are absolute experts on building venues so it is shocking how wrong it has gone.Olivia Rodrigo shared how ‘disappointed’ she was after her performance had to be axedCredit: Getty“Every issue which the operators have is to do with the building itself.“When Peter Kay was first supposed to perform in April, half the building didn’t even have electricity.“There have been loads of problems with getting power, which is pretty key. You can’t have a gig in front of 23,500 people with no power.“But the fact something fell off the air con is even more concerning. It’s a miracle no one was hurt.“It doesn’t bear to think about what could have happened if people had been allowed in as planned.”It has also been reported that the backstage toilets are still incomplete, meaning artists have to use the public loos until they are finished.After Wednesday’s cancelled gig, a statement from operator Oak View Group said: “During soundcheck, a component of the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system, used to direct air, separated from the ductwork. There was nobody injured.“Although we believe this to be an isolated incident caused by a factor defect, we were not able to verify that all similar nozzles were free of such defects.”In response, a spokesman for The Co-op Group said: “As the naming rights sponsor for Co-op Live, we are shocked at the incident which has led to late cancellation of tonight’s show at the arena.“We are relieved that no one has been injured, but we share the disappointment and frustration of ticket holders.”US superstar Olivia Rodrigo’s opening shows of her UK tour, which were scheduled to take place tonight and tomorrow at the venue, have now been axed.Olivia, who would have appeared suspended from a crescent moon hanging from the ceiling, was understandably upset — as were almost 50,000 fans who were due to see her.She wrote on Instagram: “I’m sooooo disappointed that we’re unable to perform in Manchester due to ongoing venue-related technical issues. We’re doing our best to reschedule the show.“I’m so bummed and I really hope to see you all soon.”TikToker Chelsea Salt, who was due to attend, said in a video: “We spent so much time planning, talking about it, booking hotels, booking surprises. “I booked my make-up online to get done, I bought matching bracelets, spent time talking about outfits.“I’m just absolutely gutted. It’s just such a shame and they’ve let so many people down.”Olivia was part of an all-star line-up for the launch season. But there are now questions over which concerts will go ahead, meaning hundreds of thousands of fans are still in limbo. But there are now questions over which concerts will go ahead, meaning hundreds of thousands of fans are still in limbo.Currently, still due to perform this month are Elbow, The Black Keys (rescheduled from an axed April gig), Eric Clapton, Barry Manilow, Nicki Minaj and the Eagles.But panicked stars are understood to be frantically trying to make alternative arrangements in case the lucrative shows are cancelled.Nicki Minaj is due to play on May 25 and May 30Credit: GettyTake That were supposed to be lined up for May 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12 but confirmed that they’ve been axed, tooCredit: GettyThe Black Keys had to reschedule after their plans in April were cancelledCredit: GettyThe Eagles are set to play five nights from May 31 as part of an exclusive residency on their Long Goodbye tour — the last chance to see the band perform in the UK.They are believed to have been booked due to their link with former manager Irving Azoff, whose son Jeffrey manages co-owner Harry.However, Liam Gallagher said he is hopeful his concerts on June 15, 16, 27 and 28 will go ahead.In response to a post questioning whether they will happen, he tweeted today: “Keep the faith Rastas.”Speaking about yesterday’s gig cancellation, headliner A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, real name Julius Dubose, told Good Morning Britain: “I just grabbed a glass of wine and started drinking like, damn.“Cancelling a show a week or two weeks, a month ahead of time . . . but never the day of.“This is crazy. A lot of fans in my DMs [direct messages] going off.”Last week, Gary Roden, the venue’s general manager, resigned after the original series of problems and delays.He is understood to have been paid hundreds of thousands in his role — but failed to deliver the building in time.And he faced a backlash after claiming, ironically, that small music venues are closing down because they are poorly run.Rebecca Kane Burton, who was previously in charge at London’s O2 Arena, has been brought in as interim general manager.Former Westlife star Brian McFadden, who lives in Manchester and has played at the nearby AO Arena multiple times, said he saw no use for the costly new venue — which is just a five-minute walk from Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium — in the first place.Brian, now touring in duo Boyzlife, told The Sun: “The AO is a fantastic arena. The arena is just minutes from the Etihad stadiumCredit: Peter Byrne“When I was in Westlife we did ten nights sold out when it was called the MEN Arena and I still to this day remember it. It was by far the best venue.“It had the best facilities and it was big. It was always amazing.“I understand London having a few venues but the Liverpool Echo [now M&S Bank arena] is not too far away and you’ve got the Leeds First Direct Arena. “I’m not sure they needed another one. Someone clearly thought they did and they’re probably regretting it now.”On what will happen next, the venue admitted it has no answers over when things will finally be sorted.A Co-op Live spokesman said: “We understand the need to reassure fans over future shows. “We are working with artist management and promoters to limit the impact on the opening season schedule.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Where necessary, we will identify alternate dates, and will continually reassess to provide fans with sufficient notice regarding imminent shows.“Should shows be cancelled or rescheduled, fans will be contacted by their point of purchase and offered a full refund where preferred.”Rick Astley’s audience was cut as thousands mist out on the test eventCredit: MEN MEDIAKeane were set to play on Sunday but it’s no longer possible for them nowCredit: GettyElbow are set to play on May 14Credit: GettyEric Clapton is supposed to perform on May 18Credit: GettyThe schedule has Barry Manilow up for the following dayCredit: GettyEagles are suppoed to be playing on May 31 and then on June 1, 4, 7 and 8Credit: GettyLiam Gallagher is up for June 15, 16, 27 and 28Credit: The Mega Agency More

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      Music that will help you feel Youngr

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      MANCHESTER electronic music producer Youngr went viral with his one-take videos of dance-floor-friendly bootlegs.The multi-instrumentalists’ take on The Temper Trap’s Sweet Disposition hit more than 15 million views in less than two weeks.[embedded content]After releasing music on huge record labels, Youngr decided to take the power back and now operates under his own Blue Llama imprint, on which he has just released his new album Let The Music Guide Us.CLICK OR TAP ARTWORK TO STREAM YOUNGR – LET THE MUSIC GUIDE US ON SPOTIFYThe first single from the album, Tried So Hard takes a Linkin Park classic on an immersive house trip.[embedded content]As he tours the UK, we caught up with him and he’s compiled a playlist of music that inspires him.Simply Red – FairgroundThis track basically inspires every song I write. Simply Red are one of my biggest inspirations of all time. I remember it was around 1996, I was in the car with my mum driving to the shops and Fairground came on and I was like “what’s this!” At that time the only way I could get my hands on the record was going to the local library, luckily I found it on cassette, ran home, recorded it onto another cassette and played that track on repeat.[embedded content]RÜFÜS DU SOL – On my kneesThis production on this song is just outrageous. RÜFÜS DU SOL are masters at evoking deep emotion through their sound. I already had a lot of admiration for this track, but seeing RÜFÜS DU SOL live and experiencing this track live, cemented ‘On My Knees’ as one of the sickest dance tracks of all time for me.[embedded content]Calvin Harris – Flashback Most read in MusicI don’t know if the old school Calvin Harris sound gets the full credit it deserves, but that era where performed his own vocals and with a full band was truly epic. The whole Ready for the Weekend album is incredible, but Flashback will always be a stand out track for. It was the first track that I remixed, and it essentially spurred me on to create the idea of Youngr![embedded content]Delirium – SilenceWhat a tune! The definition of a classic and an absolute masterclass in the power of a strong vocal hook. That 90s trance still goes off even two decades later.[embedded content]Faithless – Become OneAnother group who has had a big influence on my sound is Faithless. Maxi Jazz’s vocals on Become One are pure perfection, that synth is just godly and the whole composition is amazing. It’s an all-time favourite of mine for sure.[embedded content]Chemical Brothers – GoodbyeI’m not alone in saying the Chemical Brothers are a constant source of inspiration for fellow musicians and humans everywhere! What a track Goodbye is, I mean that synth line is just insane. What a band and what a catalogue of music.[embedded content]Booka Shade – In White Rooms I first heard this tune whilst I was out in a club in Berlin, I must have been around 18 years old at the time and it melted my brain. It’s a simple track but the arrangement is design to get completely lost in and I’ve certainly tried to channel that hypnotic feeling into some of my own productions over the years.[embedded content]Deadmau5, Kaskade – I RememberI’ve always loved this tune. The warmth of the production is like a big friendly hug, and paired with the ethereal delivery of the vocals, it’s a superb combo and a real summer anthem.[embedded content]The Streets – Weak Become Heroes I’m not kidding when I say this whole album changed my childhood. It opened my ears to different styles of production and showed me there are no limits on creativity. That line in the 2nd verse “as the piano loops over, arms wave, eyes roll back and jaws fall open, I see in soft focus…” it’s just one of those lines that I’ll remember forever.READ MORE SUN STORIESStardust – Music Sounds BetterThis tune is just an absolute feel-good belter. The groove, the bass, the electro twang, just the whole feel of the song speaks to my soul. It’s always a feeling I try to achieve with my own music, and I hope people feel that.[embedded content] More

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      Dilby gets together a selection of amazing electronic dance music

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      DILBY is an artist that continues to set fire to my inbox.We caught up with the prolific producer at the end of last year for a great chat and he recorded an amazing mix for The Night Bazaar Sessions. Read the interview and listen to Dilby’s mix HERE.CLICK OR TAP IMAGE TO READ OUR INTERVIEW WITH DILBY AND LISTEN TO HIS EXCLUSIVE MIX FOR THE NIGHT BAZAAR SESSIONSAs Dilby continues his mission releasing music that delights and excites dance floors across the world, with his latest release Get Together currently doing the business, we caught up with him again. This time he compiled and talked us through a playlist of dance music favourites, including his current track Get Together.Dilby – Get Together [Déepalma]My latest outing on Déepalma from southern Germany is a grooving house jam that has been doing the business in my sets for sometime now. Perfect timing to welcome in the warmer weather and party season.[embedded content]Echomen – Substance [Forensic Records]This is an absolute classic in my opinion and a record that still inspires me now. I would consider Echomen a direct precursor to my sound and a constant point of reference for my work in the studio. Echomen were also part of influential groups including Lexicon Avenue, Mooncat, and Happy Clappers. I may or may not have an official remix of this track in the works…[embedded content]Bario Bros – Hold On To Your Love (Warehouse Mix) [Shaboom]If you could imagine a musical representation of the phrase “good vibes” it would sound like this. Bario Bros was an alias of Joeski and Onionz, two absolute legends from the US house scene. Hold On To Your Love brings back great memories of a wasted youth spent roaming around club dancefloors. [embedded content]Dilby – The Station feat. DNCN [8bit Records]Most read in MusicThe Station is a track from my recent EP on Gorge and Nick Curly’s label 8bit. DNCN is a super talented vocalist and has worked with the likes of Maceo Plex and Riva Starr to name a few. The track has been a standout in my sets since we wrote it at the start of summer 2023. I’m very proud of this one![embedded content]DJ Deep – What’s Going On [COD3 QR]This is such an understated bomb. It’s got the right combination of good vibes and a hypnotic groove. The bunchy sub bass, fantastic drums and deep synth chords just roll along perfectly.[embedded content]Silicone Soul – Chic-O-Laa (H-Foundation Remix) [Soma Records]H-Foundation (aka Hipp-E & Halo Varga) reworked Silicone Soul’s disco-sampling house  record into a twisted, driving, tribal workout which destroyed many a dancefloor around 2000 when it was released. In all honesty this track is here to represent the sound I first fell in love with and could just as easily be a track from Peace Division, John Creamer & Stephane K, Oscar G & Ralph Falcon, Joeski, Chris Lum or countless others. It feels and sounds like home![embedded content]Tom Evans, Bruno Blanc, Monochrome – Play It Twice (Dilby Remix) [Valiant]It was an absolute pleasure to remix this record. The original has such a cool, classic style to it and I enjoyed every second of working on the project. It’s made quite a splash, which is always nice to see. It’s been sitting on the Deep House Top 10 on Beatport and reached number 5 in the ARIA Club Charts (Australia’s version of Billboard). [embedded content]Jerome Sydenham & Dennis Ferrer – Sandcastles (Pete Heller Re-Edit) [Ibadan Records]Pete Heller is undoubtedly best known for his timeless hit Big Love. But he is also one of the most prolific and influential producers of the last 25 years and did everything from filtered disco to tribal to deep house and back again. I just love the depth and musicality of this record and I consider it a timeless classic.[embedded content]Jamie Stevens & Anthony Pappa – Here We Go [Selador]This track just ticks all the boxes for me. It has a feel very akin to the music that got me into DJing and writing house records but is expertly crafted to sound bang up to date. As a producer I can often listen to a song and have a pretty good understanding of how it’s been constructed but this track has so many layers and details which have all been meticulously tweaked to perfection. It’s an absolute masterclass!READ MORE SUN STORIESCrazy P – Give It Up ( Laid Mix ) [Paper Recordings]I just love this funky, loopy, trippy, space-disco vibe of this record. Crazy P are such a cool live act and the original is actually a very cool soulful house song. Laid who did the remix is actually an alias of Stockholm’s Zoo Brazil, one of my favourite artists to this day. I still play this as a closing track in my sets from time to time.[embedded content] More

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      Fans left furious as US rapper’s Manchester show is cancelled just hours before he’s due on stage

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      FURIOUS fans have been left seething after the doomed Co-Op Live cancelled a major US rapper’s show with just hours to go.Excited fans were already at the state-of-the-art Manchester arena in their droves before being told to head home after the venue cancelled the performance.A Boogie wit Da Hoodie’s concert was axed at the last momentCredit: GettyThe Co-op Live has been beleaguered by countless issuesCredit: SWNSUS rap superstar A Boogie wit Da Hoodie was scheduled to perform at the UK’s biggest arena this evening but technical issues at the venue saw the concert axed with just moments to go.The Co-Op Live has been hit with consistent problems over the past few months with countless rescheduled shows and technical problems.The venue is yet to successfully host an event having either cancelled all other performances or cancelled a large number of tickets at the last moment.Confirming that the Swervin rapper would not be playing as expected, Co-Op Live said: “Due to a venue-related technical issue, tonight’s A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie show will no longer go ahead. Read More on Co-op Live”We kindly ask fans to leave the area. “Tickets holders will receive further information in due course.”We deeply apologise for the significant inconvenience this will cause for many.”Saddened concert-goers could be seen leaving the arena in disbelief upon the announcement being made.Most read in MusicOne fan’s parent raged online: “This is a joke. My daughter has paid for travel and hotel to get there and cancelled. You said it was going ahead last week. This place needs shutting down.”Another added: “Compensation claim! Hotel, trains and waste of 2 days off work. Absolute joke.”Music video for Vroom Vroom featuring A Boogie Wit da Hoodie, Don Q and Trap MannyBefore another added: “This is genuinely beyond ridiculous now. people have booked non refundable hotels and transport so if you know that the venue can’t handle these shows an official announcement just needs to be put out.”The Look Back At It star is not the only performer to have seen his concert axed.The Sun exclusively revealed that Olivia Rodrigo had been left “furious” at the venue cancelling her weekend shows at the last moment.Promoters are scrambling to reschedule the gigs although it is not yet clear whether that will be possible.Olivia, who topped the charts with her second album Guts last year, is said to be gutted about the news.It was the third time that the opening night has been cancelled, after Peter Kay twice had to postpone his show, which had been due to launch the venue last month.Co-op Live manager Gary Roden resigned last week amid the delays and following furore over comments he made about grassroots venues in the UK.Olivia Rodrigo, who is touring UK arenas for the first time, will now launch the UK leg of her tour in Glasgow instead.READ MORE SUN STORIESShe is due to perform two shows at the OVO Hydro next Tuesday and Wednesday.Co-op Live had previously faced problems with opposition raised just weeks ago which saw a local council row, including a battle with rival Manchester arena, AO Arena.The rap icon’s fans have been left guttedCredit: Getty More

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      Olivia Rodrigo left ‘furious’ after her show at doomed Manchester venue Co-Op Live is postponed

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      OLIVIA Rodrigo’s shows in Manchester this week have been axed amid the continuing chaos at new venue The Co-Op Live.The American star was due to kick off the UK leg of her Guts World Tour at the state-of-the-art arena on Friday and Saturday.Olivia’s concerts have been pulled amid chaos at the Co-Op LiveCredit: GettyThe US singer is said to be furious about the decisionCredit: GettyBut The Sun can exclusively reveal that the concerts have now been pulled due to continued technical issues at the venue.Promoters are scrambling to reschedule the gigs although it is not yet clear whether that will be possible.Olivia, who topped the charts with her second album Guts last year, is said to be gutted about the news.It is the latest disaster for the new venue, after fans turned up on Wednesday night to see US rapper A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, only for the show to be cancelled at the last moment.Read More on Olivia RodrigoIt was the third time that the opening night has been cancelled, after Peter Kay twice had to postpone his show, which had been due to launch the venue last month.At 6.40pm this evening, the arena announced that tonight’s show would not be taking place and said ticket-holders would “receive further information in due course.”In a tweet, posted as gig-goers queued, the venue said: “Due to a venue-related technical issue, tonight’s A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie show will no longer go ahead.”Co-op Live manager Gary Roden resigned last week amid the delays and following furore over comments he made about grassroots venues in the UK.Most read in MusicOlivia Rodrigo, who is touring UK arenas for the first time, will now launch the UK leg of her tour in Glasgow instead.She is due to perform two shows at the OVO Hydro next Tuesday and Wednesday.Grammy’s 2022: Olivia Rodrigo Wins Best New Artist More

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      British girl band legend and stunning reality TV favourite sign up for gruelling Bear Grylls’ Netflix show

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      It’s a telly show that is finally getting me excited again, with Netflix sending a group of celebrities deep into the Costa Rican jungle where they will be hunted down by Bear Grylls.The casting producers have gone all out to secure some decent names for Bear Hunt, which is being hosted by Holly Willoughby.I can exclusively reveal Saturdays singer Una Healy will be taking part in Bear HuntCredit: GettyKate Moss’ half-sister Lottie has also signed up to take part in the seriesCredit: GettyNetflix is sending a group of celebrities deep into the Costa Rican jungle where they will be hunted down by Bear GryllsCredit: GettyI can exclusively reveal Saturdays singer Una Healy and Kate Moss’ half-sister Lottie have both signed up to take part in the series, alongside Mel B, Shirley Ballas and Danny Cipriani.Insiders told me the pair signed big-money deals to take part with Bear.And over the weekend, I found myself queuing next to Una in the world’s longest, and hottest, immigration line at Houston’s international airport — as she caught a connecting flight on to South America and I headed off to do an interview with Ronnie Wood.A source said: “Netflix have chucked a serious amount of money at Bear Hunt and they have worked hard to get celebrities you might not expect to find in the Costa Rican jungle.READ MORE ON BEAR HUNT“Una has signed up to try and show a different side to her.“People know her for the Saturdays, and for her short-lived fling with David Haye. Taking part in Bear Hunt will show a side of her that the public haven’t seen before.“Lottie is very much signed on for the same reason.“She has become a celebrity in her own right and has a really interesting backstory.Most read in Bizarre“Lottie is a tough cookie and while she is very glamorous, she loves to get her hands dirty and will put everything into succeeding on Bear Hunt.”After bumping into Una inside Houston airport, where she was heading to Costa Rica with TV’s Big Zuu, she, like me, looked pretty knackered after the ten-hour flight from London.Bear Hunt is being hosted by Holly WilloughbyCredit: instagram/Holly WilloughbyUna Healy wows fans with ‘top class’ rendition of famous song as everyone says ‘we want an album’ But she has got a bit of time to relax now as she is holed up in a very nice hotel in the country with the other stars.They will be topping up their tans by the pool and getting some rest before having to rough it in the jungle.I hope they enjoy the complimentary toiletries and mini bar while they can.Anya and Chris need rain MaxAnya Taylor-Joy promoting her new film Furiosa: A Mad Max SagaCredit: GettyAnya has replaced Charlize Theron as Furiosa in the movieCredit: EPAAnya with co-star Chris Hemsworth in SydneyCredit: GettyRain didn’t stop play for Anya Taylor-Joy as she promoted her new film Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.She has replaced Charlize Theron as Furiosa in the movie and was photographed dodging puddles with her co-star Chris Hemsworth.Despite the showers, Anya looked immaculate in an off-the-shoulder top and burgundy mermaid-style skirt.The pair were in Circular Quay in Sydney, for their ongoing press tour.Thor actor Chris looked back on form following a nasty knee injury he picked up during filming for Extraction 2 and said working on the new Mad Max film got him back to his best.He added: “As soon as I got to rehearsals, everything lifted. I just got reinvigorated.“Suffering without a purpose is awful. Suffering with purpose can be rejuvenating and replenishing.”I’ll tell my boyfriend that the next time he tries to throw a sickie when he’s got man flu.Kendrick Lamar has gone to war with Drake in a brutal six-minute takedown called Euphoria, weeks after the Canadian dropped his own diss track called Push Ups.While Drake mocked his rival’s height, Kendrick has got far more personal in his new song, calling him a “scam artist”, “mass manipulator” and “liar,” as well as saying he’s a bad father.The song, which has been released on YouTube, also sees him mock Drake for using an A.I. version of Tupac on Push Ups, with Kendrick saying it would make the late rapper “turn in his grave”.As if all of that wasn’t clear enough, he raps: “I hate the way that you walk, the way that you talk, I hate the way that you dress.”Something tells me he isn’t a fan.Damon rakes in £16,000 a dayDamon Albarn has been banking a fortune thanks to his work with Gorillaz, making £16,205 a day, according to his accountsCredit: GettyThree decades have passed since the wild days of Britpop but Blur’s Damon Albarn is still raking it in.I can reveal the singer has been banking a fortune thanks to his work with Gorillaz, making £16,205 a day according to his latest set of accounts.Documents filed at Companies House for March 2022 to 2023 show he made £5.9million in profits with his firms G Tour LLP and Humanz LLP. In total, his firms have assets of £10.4million after he set them up the in 2017.Damon will have made even more money in the past 12 months, given Blur reunited for sell-out shows at Wembley Stadium and had a No1 album. The Ballad Of Darren.He was furious last month when the band performed at Coachella in California and dimwits in the crowd refused to sing along to some of Blur’s biggest hits.I wouldn’t worry about that, Damon.With earnings like these rolling in, you never need to bother with gigs like those again.Zayn’s sell-out returnZayn Malik has announced a one-off show at the 2,000-capacity Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London for May 17Credit: GettyGood news for Zayn Malik . he is finally returning to the stage.The former One Direction star has announced a one-off show at the 2,000-capacity Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London for May 17, which is the same day his fourth album Room Under The Stairs is released.It is a major U-turn for the singer who hasn’t performed live in eight years. When Zayn went solo in 2016, he played a short set at a festival in California and sang on The Voice USA.But minutes before he was due to headline Capital’s Summertime Ball at Wembley Stadium that year, he pulled out, citing his crippling anxiety.Anyone hoping to grab tickets will have to pre-order his new album through the link on his social accounts, which have all the details.Rizzle Kicks singer Jordan Stephens got so drunk at one of Nick Grimshaw’s parties before V Festival that he missed his alarm and had to go on stage still half cut.Jordan said on the Red Carpet Treatment podcast that he got buzzed by one of his security team and was driven in a van to the gig. He added: “I got woken up, put on stage, 60,000 people.”Dating disasters for DuaDua Lipa has confessed to have been in relationships that have been ‘hurtful’Credit: APEven Dua Lipa has been hurt by blokes in the past – so I despair at the chances for the rest of us.The Illusion singer dated celebrity chef Isaac Carew and model Anwar Hadid before meeting current boyfriend, actor Callum Turner.Dua, right, said: “I think I’ve had relationships which have been really hurtful, especially earlier on, where I feel like I’ve been made to feel not good enough, or have made me lose my confidence.”On Apple Music 1, she added: “You learn about your own non-negotiables – that’s an important thing. It’s of course the right person, but it’s really about the right relationship. I want someone who’s loyal, open and honest, and that’s what I’m willing to be as well in return.“You figure out what those things are for you.”Lucy: Pal Si is best manLucy Spraggan with girlfriend Emilia SmithCredit: InstagramWith X Factor pal Simon Cowell walking her down the aisle, Lucy Spraggan is in good hands.Her wedding is only weeks away and Lucy told me that she is counting down the days until she ties the knot with girlfriend Emilia Smith.She said: “The wedding is in East Yorkshire, Simon will have to get the chopper over. I’m getting married in a month, well, 49 days.”Of Simon, who has become a close friend, she added: “He’s definitely a male role model that I look up to a lot and fills a lot of gaps in my life. He’s just a really great guy.”Chatting with me at Diva’s 30th anniversary party, Lucy also spoke about her relationship with another great man in her life, Robbie Williams.She opened for him when he played at Sandringham last year and they have since created a reworking of her 2021 song Sober.Lucy said: “Robbie is a role model of mine and an inspiration.READ MORE SUN STORIES“The song is going to be re-released as a duet with Robbie, which is a pinch-me moment. I never in my wildest dreams thought that would happen.“I hope in some way he relates to the lyrics as well. I wrote the song a week into being sober and I wrote it to remind myself why I was making that decision, so it’s a good foundation.” More

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      Rock frontman reveals ‘homecoming’ tour in UK after ‘leaving things unsaid’ about band’s savage break-up 15 years ago

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      LEGENDARY frontman Richard Ashcroft is heading back out on tour – 15 years since his break-up from The Verve. During the height of the Britpop era in the 90s, The Verve charmed audiences with hits including Bittersweet Symphony and The Drugs Don’t Work. The Verve were one of the most defining British bands of the 90sCredit: GettyRichard Ashcroft is heading on a homecoming tour later this yearCredit: Getty – ContributorSince their break-up in 1999, Richard Ashcroft has arguably seen the most success from his efforts, releasing six albums since 2000, all of which made it into the UK Top 5. In 2019 he was recognised by the Ivor Novellos for his outstanding contribution to music. Now, the Wigan native is heading back on the road again – with massive dates on his home turf. “After 25 years, I’m back playing in my hometown,” Richard said. “Looking forward to an amazing night inWigan.”READ MORE MUSICThe star will be playing two dates at Wigan’s Robin Park on Saturday 20 July and Sunday 21 July. Cast, Redrum and Maxwell Varey will support him on Saturday, with The Zutons, The Royston Club and Stanleys supporting him on Sunday. Tickets to Saturday’s show has already sold out, prompting them to add the second date. With the release of their 1997 album Urban Hymns, the group – with Ashcroft as front man, guitarist Nick McCabe, bass guitarist Simon Jones and drummer Peter Salisbury – became international success stories. Most read in MusicThey won Brit awards for best British band, were nominated for a Grammy for Bittersweet Symphony and even knocked Oasis off the number one spot in the UK charts. However, just two years later the band had bitterly split, with physical fights among their numerous issues. After one fight in Dusseldorf, McCabe quit the band while they were on tour, and after that the band began to fizzle out – suffering a further setback when Massive Attack pulled out of their US tour. Officially breaking up in 1999, the band since made attempts to reunite, but largely found success with their own solo projects. When asked if they would ever reform, Ashcroft joked: “You’re more likely to get all four Beatles on stage.”However, they did reunite from 2007 to 2009 before going their separate ways again. None of the band have ever given a definitive answer behind their break-up, with Ashcroft acknowledging to NME that there were “things left unsaid” back in 2018. “If you wanted me to give clarity on why or what was the main factor, what I’d be doing was changing… I made a decision quite a number of years ago that I’d see how it pans out,” he told Radio X.“I’ll see if any other member tries to re-write history, you know. I’ll see how many bizarre takes on events stack up and then maybe one day I’ll go: ‘You know what? I’ll write the book’.”READ MORE SUN STORIESIn the same chat, he later added: “There was real people’s lives. It was real emotions, and I’ve never really thought about completely clarifying it because I know the damage that clarifying it will do.“So I am prepared to take any bizarre misshapen f**ked-up version of that reality said by anyone,” he concluded.
      “Any ex member of the band can say what the fuck they like, because I know the truth and I’m cool with it. And I know what I’ve done since the band, and I know what I’ll continue to do. Judge me by my works…”
      The star has been celebrated for his contribution to British musicCredit: Getty Images – GettyAshcroft will be performing two massive hometown shows in JuneCredit: Alan MacGregor Ewing – The Sun GlasgowThe band fell apart at the seams in 1999Credit: Getty More