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    Dua Lipa taps up 80s chart legend for surprise cameo during her Glastonbury headline set

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    Girls really do just want to have fun, just ask Dua Lipa.Today the pop star dropped her much anticipated third studio album, Radical Optimism, and there’s no other way to put it: this record is a bop.Girls really do just want to have fun, just ask Dua Lipa – she is in talks with Cyndi Lauper about joining her at GlastonburyCredit: GettyCyndi Lauper is also playing the Pyramid StageCredit: RexThe timing of the album couldn’t be more crucial for Dua, who is about to embark on the biggest summer of her career to date – with a headline slot on the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury just eight weeks away.As well as performing some of her biggest hits, including Levitating and New Rules, at Worthy Farm, Dua will play brilliant new tracks from her album including catchy songs End Of An Era and Falling Forever – which, when you hear them, I guarantee will be stuck in your head for days.Insiders told me how Dua was going all out for her big moment. And while her new tunes will resonate with her fans, she is in talks with legend Cyndi Lauper to come out as a special guest.A source said: “Dua is raring to go for Glastonbury and she can’t wait for people to hear her new music.READ MORE ON DUA LIPA“She knows the record will strike a chord with her fans but for the old school muso’s at the Farm, she wants a touch of nostalgia.“Kevin Parker from Tame Impala, who worked on Radical Optimism with Dua is another.“She wants this set to go down in history.”Straight to the No1 Dua’s work ethic, passed down to her from her mother and father, who fled Kosovo as refugees in the 1990s as war broke out, is impressive.Most read in BizarreShe has grafted, like us, and worked her way up from being a waitress in a bar to being one of the UK’s most successful pop exports.Radical Optimism should go straight to the No1 spot on Friday, but with record-breaker Taylor Swift’s new album, The Tortured Poet’s Department, still holding strong – Dua may find herself resigned to being a runner up.How Dua Lipa and Callum Turner are set to be Hollywood’s hottest itemBut if that is the case, it is, by far, only bad luck which will keep her from landing a second No1 album following 2020’s Levitating.The lyricism on Dua’s new 11-track record is some of her best work yet and she has clearly poured her heart into the songs.Happy For You is by far my favourite song and tells the story of seeing your ex find love again – a reality many of us can relate to.Lyrics on the track include: “I must have loved you more than I ever knew, I am happy for you.“Looking back now I hope you see it, even the hard parts were for the best“I see where you’re at now, you picked up the pieces and gave them to somebody else.”While End Of An Era, which is nailed on to become the next single after the already released Houdini, Training Season and Illusion, is the perfect soundtrack for this summer.Like Taylor, Dua doesn’t shy away from her own personal relationships on the record.While she is loved up with British actor Callum Turner, tracks like French Exit and These Walls hint at her break ups with American model Anwar Hadid and Parisian born film director Romain Gavras.Lyrically, it’s Dua’s strongest and emotionally mature album yet – but is tinged with the catchy beats and melodic guitar riffs she has become best known for.READ MORE SUN STORIESWelcome back, Dua. It’s been worth the wait. More

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      Glastonbury 2024 headliner plans most ambitious set ever with revamped stage and multiple outfit changes

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      HER headline set on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury will be the biggest performance of her career – and Dua Lipa is going all out to impress.I can reveal the Training Season star is putting on one of the most ambitious shows in Worthy Farm history, including moving platforms, a troupe of dancers and very special guests.Dua Lipa will start gruelling dance rehearsals in the coming weeks to make sure she is fully prepared for her slot at GlastonburyCredit: GettyInsiders have told me Dua is starting gruelling dance rehearsals in the coming weeks to make sure she is fully prepared for her slot, which will also feature loads of fast outfit changes.They added: “Dua is the most pop focused headliner Glastonbury have had in years and she is pulling out all the stops to impress.“She knows how to put on a big show and she is planning to bring all of that to Worthy Farm.“Dua will have a dance troupe on stage and will be performing some seriously tricky choreography.READ MORE ON DUA LIPA“She is taking some inspiration from Kylie Minogue and will have moving platforms on the stage like Kylie did during her headline slot in 2019.“Dua will have special guests coming outtoo.“In many ways Dua feels like everything since her debut track New Love in 2015 has been leading up to this moment, so it will be a really emotional night for her.”We first revealed in October how Dua was in talks for Glasto.Most read in BizarreShe was also offered a headline slot at US festival Coachella, but chose the farm because . . . well, who the hell would turn down Glastonbury.Confirming her slot — on Friday June 28 — last month, Dua said: “I have dreamt of this moment all my life.How Dua Lipa and Callum Turner are set to be Hollywood’s hottest item“Something that lived only in my wildest dreams and highest manifestations.“I am so excited to see you all in my favourite place on earth and make it a night to remember.”We’ll see you there, Dua. We can’t wait. More

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      Music icon working on explosive tell all autobiography ahead of huge Glastonbury set

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      Lulu went out with a Boom Bang-A-Bang as she completed the last night of her final tour at a sold-out London Palladium.But after six decades in showbiz, it sounds like her retirement from going on the road might be very short-lived.Lulu went out with a Boom Bang-A-Bang as she completed the last night of her final tour at a sold-out London Palladium – but it looks like she’ll be back soonCredit: GettyI’ve learned there was so much demand for the shows that she is now planning to return for an encore.The Scottish singer spoke to Bizarre after coming off stage on Wednesday evening, when she revealed she is planning on adding more dates — on top of her performance at Glastonbury in June.And even that won’t be the last anyone hears of her, as she is putting pen to paper on an autobiography.Speaking about her love of performing, she said: “I love it, it energises me. I’ve always wanted to do this and I’m meant to do this.”READ MORE ON LULUShe added: “I’m doing a book and I’m working on a couple of things but I’m also doing Glastonbury. And the people who organised this tour want me to do an extension of it because of the demand.”Although it now won’t actually go down as the last night of her tour, it was a triumphant evening, with Jennifer Saunders, who she starred opposite in Absolutely Fabulous, appearing as a surprise guest to introduce her on stage.Then fellow Scot Emeli Sande dropped by to sing her song Next To Me with her, as superfan Graham Norton watched on from the crowd.The concert also saw Lulu, perform moving collaborations on screen with late stars David Bowie and Tina Turner and receive four standing ovations.Most read in BizarreThere were also humble brags about being nominated for a Grammy, before she showed her vulnerable side as she opened up about life as a single woman at 75.She told the crowd: “People say to me, ‘Are you dating?’, I mean, are you having a laugh? They say, ‘You must be lonely’, but I’m not lonely in the slightest.”’I’m not lying, admits Lulu as icon reveals strict tour regime ahead of huge farewell tourGesturing to the audience, she continued: “Because I have this. I have you. This relationship is perfect.“This is the love of my life. The men have come and the men have gone, but the music, it goes on.”Hear hear.Travolta can still strut itJohn Travolta shows his moves as the cast of Pulp Fiction reunited to mark the movie’s 30th anniversaryCredit: GettyIn the movie with Uma ThurmanCredit: AlamyJohn Travolta can still strut his stuff as the cast of Pulp Fiction reunited to mark the movie’s 30th anniversary.John danced his way into the TCM Classic Film Festival in Hollywood alongside Pulp pals Samuel L Jackson, Harvey Keitel and Uma Thurman.But John and Uma decided against recreating their dance scene, above, from the 1994 hit. Co-star Bruce Willis, who is living with dementia, was unable to attend, but he sent along his daughter Tallulah and wife Emma Heming Willis.John paid tribute to Bruce, who played Butch Coolidge. He said: “Bruce and I had a history.“We did Look Who’s Talking together, and we had a massive success with it. We were friends. It was very easy to be with each other and relax, you know?“And there was real genuine care. And we felt lucky we were in a very special movie.”Coa was no goer for spaced-out LilyLily Allen’s verdict on Coachella: ‘It reminds me of like a s**t fair that turns up at your local green’Credit: AP:Associated PressYou won’t catch Lily Allen at the second weekend of Coachella today, after she slated the US festival.On her Miss Me? podcast, Lily, who now lives in New York, said: “I could say what I really think about Coachella, but on the very small chance that I ever might get invited back, I probably won’t.”But instantly doing the exact opposite, she continued: “It reminds me of like a s**t fair that turns up at your local green.“I did Coachella in, I think, 2007 or 2008. I played. But I don’t even know if we can use that word in conjunction with whatever it was that I was doing.“Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan were at the side of stage. Somehow in amongst that crowd, I got passed what was my first ever experience with Cali weed, which is different to what I was used to smoking in London.“I’m not exaggerating, I got on stage and I forgot every single word to every single song of mine and I literally just held the microphone out to people like, ‘You do it!’.”Headie One and Stormzy have released their brand new collaboration, Cry No More.They joined forces for a cool music video filmed in Romford High Street which I showed you last week.Tottenham-born Headie is reflective in the song, rapping: “Sometimes you gotta lose the battle, just so you can win the war, you gotta go back and forth, from the court to the roads to the court.”Stormzy also gives a shout out to his girlfriend Maya Jama, rapping: “I just laugh when they say that I can’t go higher, I’m a frequent flyer.“My last albums cold but my new one’s fire, I might call it Maya”.I’m sure she’ll love that.So-phie so goodSophie Ellis-Bextor has teamed up with king of disco Nile Rodgers.Credit: GettyShe is no stranger to a good boogie, with her hit Murder On The Dancefloor having a recent resurgence.Now Sophie Ellis-Bextor has teamed up with king of disco Nile Rodgers.Sophie, inset, landed a new deal with Universal after her 2001 track shot back up the charts when it featured in film Saltburn last year.She is now hard at work on a new album to capitalise on her recent success. And it sounds like she is bringing out the big guns, including Nile.With his band Chic, he is responsible for hits such as Good Times and Le Freak. And he also worked on Daft Punk’s Get Lucky, David Bowie’s Let’s Dance and Madonna’s Like A Virgin.Talking about making music with Nile at ­London’s Abbey Road Studios, Sophie said: “I’ve been songwriting. I’ve been in the studio with Ed Harcourt and Nile Rodgers.“That was actually really fun. Would you believe it? We’ve done something kind of funky. I do like it. I like it a lot.”She will also be heading out on the road around the UK from June with Nile and his band.So I’ll keep my fingers crossed that we get to hear what they’ve been working on then.Rihanna has teased that her two kids could feature on her new music when she finally returns with an album – eight years after the previous one, Anti, came out.Speaking about sons Riot and Rza, who she shares with rapper boyfriend ASAP Rocky, she said: “It’s up to them. I feel like I already got stuff that I could make hits out of.“Me and Rocky are trying to figure out who’s going to use what. It’s so good.”At an event in London on Wednesday, she also met up with Nigerian singer-songwriter Ayra Starr and said she is keen to collaborate with her.After being told by Ayra that she is putting the finishing touches to her album, RiRi replied: “If you’ve got an extra verse for me, call me.”Rihanna wanting to work with you is one hell of a compliment.Zen is shiningZendaya went without trousers as she arrived to be interviewed on Jimmy Kimmel Live!Credit: GettyZendaya has been legging it all over the world to promote her new movie, including popping into a Los Angeles telly studio this week.The actress went without trousers as she arrived to be interviewed on Jimmy Kimmel Live! where she opened up about a racy threesome scene in her new movie Challengers.On watching her family’s reaction to the X-rated scene at the film’s premiere, she said: “I forewarned them. It was honestly my favourite part of the night.“I know when the scenes are coming so when those scenes were happening I just was watching my family because they were behind me.“It was hilarious.”I guess they say three’s a crowd . . . pleaser.Faithless have announced their live comeback after eight years – 16 months after vocalist Maxi Jazz died.They will perform at London’s Roundhouse as well as a string of festivals this summer and have teased new music is also on the way.The electronic band said: “As many of you have noticed, we’re back… Some shows have already been announced but we couldn’t start the summer without a little personal note.“Maxi died just over a year ago and obviously we miss him every day.READ MORE SUN STORIES“In the meantime, we never stopped – couldn’t stop, never wanted to stop! – making music.“Even during Maxi’s long illness we recorded and released All Blessed and now finally, eight years after our last live performance, we are returning to festival stages across the summer and are planning some of our own shows later this year.”Rockers James top the charts for the first time since 1998 with their new album Yummy, preventing Beyonce from a return to pole position.
      In the singles chart, Hozier is at No1 for a second week although there are promising new entries in Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso and Dua Lipa’s Illusion.
      Singles

      Too Sweet – Hozier
      Beautiful Things – Benson Boone
      I Like The Way You Kiss Me – Artemas
      Lose Control – Teddy Swims
      Texas Hold ’Em – Beyonce
      Espresso – Sabrina Carpenter
      Austin – Dasha
      We Can’t Be Friends (Wait For Your Love) – Ariana Grande
      Illusion – Dua Lipa
      Forget About Us – Perrie Edwards

      Albums

      Yummy – James
      Cowboy Carter – Beyonce
      One Deep River – Mark Knopfler
      Papercuts – Linkin Park
      Halo Effect – Kris Barras Band
      The Highlights – The Weeknd
      Guts – Olivia Rodrigo
      This Could Be Texas – English Teacher
      Stick Season – Noah Kahan
      Hombres – Gun More

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      Huge 80s pop star admits his debut smash hit which catapulted him to instant fame is a ‘s*** song’

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      RICK Astley has admitted hit Never Gonna Give You Up is a “s* song” — but Glastonbury turned it into something magical.The singer, 58, belted out his 1987 No1 hit in front of adoring young crowds at last year’s festival.Rick Astley has admitted hit Never Gonna Give You Up is a ‘s*** song’Credit: GettyAnd he said: “Festivals – and Glastonbury particularly – have an almost magical ability to elevate s* songs.”He added: “It’s basically what happened with Never Gonna Give You Up. Suddenly you just find yourself singing along.”Rick was catapulted to instant fame with his debut single.The 58-year-old says: “My most ridiculous moment of celebrity came when I was very high up a mountain in the Italian alps and two nuns asked me to sign their bibles.READ MORE CELEB NEWS“I just thought, ‘OK, fine. I’m not sure what’s going on here but that’s just silly.’ I signed the first page, but it just made me just think, ‘OK, that’s what happens when you become like…famous’.“For three or four years I was actually properly famous, to the point of playing arenas in Tasmania.”He later quit the music business after a string of top ten hits before returning in 2016.However, he scoffs at the idea of him being a “national treasure”, saying it was “a lot of b**ks”.Most read in CelebrityHe says: “When I hear people describe me as a national treasure, I think, ‘It’s the end of my career’.”
      RICK has a new album, Are We There Yet?, and is touring the UK, headlining Latitude in July.
      Rick Astley ignites ‘feud’ with BBC Breakfast star as he threatens to ‘choke’ them in baffling interview- More

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      Music legend to play last ever gig at Glastonbury 2024 weeks after wrapping up final tour in London

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      LULU is planning to go out with a Boom Bang-a-Bang after announcing her retirement from touring this year.I can exclusively reveal that the Scottish singer is heading to Worthy Farm in June to play one final set at Glastonbury.Lulu is set to perform her final live show at Glastonbury in JuneCredit: GettyHer last ever tour will wrap up at the London Palladium on Wednesday next week but Lulu will soon announce this very exciting final date.She played her first and only gig at the festival nine years ago and will bow out with a huge set in the Field of Avalon.A source said: “Lulu is going to be announced as a performer at Glastonbury next week. “It’s a massive deal for her and she can’t wait to play the Avalon stage.read more on glastonbury“When Glasto organiser Emily Eavis got in touch about going down to the farm she couldn’t turn it down.“It will be an emotional moment for her as it’s the last time she will ever play Glastonbury.“It was magical for her when she last played on that same stage in 2015.”Lulu, whose ten Top Ten singles include Relight My Fire with Take That — which hit the top spot in 1993 — has said that playing at Worthy Farm was one of the best gigs of her career.Most read in BizarreShe added: “The roar from the crowd was deafening. “I was very surprised, as I didn’t really know what to expect. It was just fantastic and I had so much fun.Inside Lulu’s huge plans for her farewell tour as she speaks for first time after announcing retirement“My daughter-in-law Alana took the best picture afterwards of my son Jordan and I laughing backstage.“And she made me a mug as a present for my birthday with the photo on it.“On the back it says, ‘My mother just rocked Glasto’. I drink out of that mug every day now. I love it.”I told in February that Lulu was preparing to hang up her microphone after a six-decade career.Fans who have seen her performing on her Champagne For Lulu tour so far have raved about how good she sounds, which is impressive given she is just five years away from turning 80.Lulu said of her final live dates: “This is my farewell tour, with family and friends.“Because last year I did a tour that was kind of gruelling — it was successful, it went well — but you need an army to be a success in your career these days.”I can’t wait to see her at Glasto — it’ll be a set to Shout about.VICK’S SWIFT STROLLVICK HOPE has a flare for style.The Radio 1 DJ was spotted enjoying a break from the non-stop rain outside Broadcasting House in London.Vick Hope took a stroll in flares outside Broadcasting House in LondonCredit: SplashVick has admitted to being a fan of husband Calvin Harris’ ex Taylor SwiftCredit: The Mega AgencyShe admitted this week to being a secret Taylor Swift fan but said she couldn’t listen to her songs when husband Calvin Harris with Vick, was around – because he dated her.Vick said: “As soon as my husband goes away, I listen to Taylor.“That’s just when I get my little fill, just a couple of songs, get it out of my system and then it’s done.”Better not show Calvin your Spotify wrapped, Vick.Just in case.BELL: SOME MIGHT SAY REUNION IS POSSIBLEOASIS guitarist Andy Bell is convinced the band will reunite despite Liam and Noel Gallagher’s constant snipes at each other.They split 15 years ago after an almighty row but Andy, who is also in the band Ride, said he is quietly confident they will get back together.Noel Gallagher doesn’t want you getting your hopes up about an Oasis reunionCredit: GettyAsked on Virgin Radio if he thought reuniting would ever be on the cards, Andy who played with Oasis from 1999 to 2009, said: “I’m going to say a qualified yeah, I think they probably will.“I don’t think it looks likely right now but I think life is long, isn’t it?“As a Roses fan, I remember the Stone Roses reunion happened, and that happened completely against the way things were looking.“At the time they were not getting on at all and there was a lot of bad blood in the press and stuff with the Roses then suddenly you were hearing about gigs and all the Roses fans around the world rejoiced.“So we could see something like that with Oasis.”Liam, top left, who has been very vocal about wanting to reunite with Noel, responded to Andy’s interview yesterday saying: “Andy Bell from Ride, the shoe- gazing phenomenon, should really not be getting people’s hopes up. It’s not big and it’s not clever.”Pot, kettle, Liam.MAND OVER BOARDTHINK Amanda Holden might have been watching a little too much Below Deck on Netflix.The Heart FM DJ, who returned to work on Monday after spending Easter with her kids, took a trip on board a posh yacht to model her new clothing range with Lipsy.Amanda Holden took a trip on board a posh yacht to model her new clothing range with LipsyCredit: LipsyThe collection, which includes bikinis, summer dresses and cover-ups, is on sale now.At 53, Amanda has never looked in better shape and if I look as good as her in 18 years, I’ll be laughing.THEY had a love-in backstage at The Brit Awards in February after Dua Lipa handed Kylie Minogue her Global Icon gong.Now Dua is paying Kylie the ultimate compliment.Dua Lipa has used Kylie Minogue’s video for Slow as inspiration for her Illusion videoCredit: PAWe can reveal she has used Kylie’s video for her 2003 hit Slow as inspiration for her video for new single, Illusion. Insiders told us it was filmed at the same location, the Montjuic swimming pool in Barcelona, Spain.Dua will drop the promo for illusion this week.It’s great to see women supporting each other.RIHANNA: I WANT A BABY GIRLSHE was the soundtrack to my boozy years at Leeds Uni – and with her Superbowl 2023 half-time show Rihanna proved she is still one of the greatest performers of all time.But the singer is now playing down rumours that she is on the cusp of making a return to the charts.Rihanna would love to have a baby girl with her partner ASAP RockyCredit: SplashShe is instead focusing on expanding her family with rapper ASAP Rocky.The pair already have sons Rza and Riot and Rihanna said: “I would go for more than two. “I would try for my girl. But of course if it’s another boy, it’s another boy.“The only thing that I knew I wanted, or that I could imagine, was motherhood. “I didn’t know how it would come but it is the best part of my journey so far.”Rihanna has been dating Rocky, as she calls him, since 2020, after a long friendship turned into romance.In a rare chat with Interview magazine, she said: “Covid sped up our relationship. “And had it not been for Covid, we would’ve taken a lot more time to get comfortable with each other, to even know that we were ready.“I mean, we didn’t even really talk about it. There was no denying it. “It was the best thing that ever happened to us. It just happened.”Rihanna, who previously dated Chris Brown and Drake, added: “I let God lead and just let go.“In previous relationships I tried and tried and tried my best, and you still feel like it’s not enough.“So when someone sees you completely, and believes in you, and thinks you’re worthy of being the mother of their kids, it’s a great feeling.“I felt the same about him. I knew he would be a great dad.”AARON BACK IN BLACKHE’S been offered the chance to take centre stage as the next 007 but Aaron Taylor-Johnson was in a supporting role at the Back To Black premiere after-party.Looking sharp in this black leather jacket and strides, left, he was by his wife Sam’s side at the bash at 100 Wardour Street in London’s Soho following the screening in Leicester Square.Aaron Taylor-Johnson was in a supporting role at the Back To Black premiere after-partyCredit: Doug SeeburgShe directed the film about the late, great Amy Winehouse’s life, which has been well received by her family.David Furnish and Nick Cave and were also at the party, along with Marisa Abela who plays Amy, and Jack O’Connell, who features as her ex-partner Blake Fielder-Civil.The film, which hits cinema screens on Friday, is a Hollywood-friendly tribute to Amy’s life.And while some snobby critics have written it off, I think it’s a brilliant celebration of one of our country’s most talented singers.STONES SAVE A SHOPTHE Rolling Stones have always been pretty natty dressers.Now Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood have pumped in cash to bring their favourite clothing store back to life.Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood have pumped in cash to bring their favourite clothing store back to lifeCredit: AlamyThe trio are lifelong fans of Granny Takes A Trip, a boutique on the Kings Road in West London which shut in 1979, and are preparing to relaunit the brand online.A source said: “Mick, Keith and Ronnie have invested in Granny and it’s new website will go live today.“It’s a really cool shop which stocks one-of-a-kind pieces and when the opportunity came up for them to invest and support it they jumped at the chance. “The Stones’ touch can now be seen on the brand, with shoppers getting emails with the sign-off line ‘Satisfaction, always’.”The rockers, who kick off their Hackney Diamonds tour in Houston, Texas, on April 28, spent a lot of cash at the iconic store during the Sixties. Well, a lot of cash in old money, as a receipt for Keith proved.The handwritten note from 1967 and signed by him was auctioned for more than £1,500 when it was dug out a few years ago.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe receipt shows how Keith spent £34 13 shillings – around £775 today – on a trousers suit, two pairs of velvet trousers and two Indian smocks.Groovy. More

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      Nineties rock icon, 56, looks like she’s ageing backwards after becoming a mum at 54 and headlining Glastonbury

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      A NINETIES rock icon looks the same as her heyday in fresh snaps showing her ageless beauty.The lead vocalist and guitarist of the hit Brit group, formed in 1994, was front and centre of their numerous Glastonbury performances from 1999.Skin (pictured on the left) appears to be ageing backwards after becoming a mum at 54Credit: instagram/@skin_skunkanansieSkunk Anansie frontwoman enjoys family life with her wife and tot LevCredit: instagram/@skin_skunkanansieThe band has performed at Glastonbury four timesCredit: GettyLondon-born Skin is known for her skinhead look and unique styleCredit: GettyNow Skin, aged, 56, has revealed her fresh-faced look decades on.The Londoner, whose real name is Deborah Anne Dyer, has an OBE for her Services To Music.Known for her skinhead look and glowing complexion, she was a founder member of Skunk Anansie back in the day.Skin has kept her signature bold eye makeup and edgy fashion sense.READ MORE 90S STARSBack in October 2021, we reported how she was set to become a mum for the first time at the age of 54.She welcomed her tot with writer and events planner Rayne Baron, known as Ladyfag, with the pair deciding against revealing the baby’s gender.At the time, Skin told told OK! Magazine: “It’s weird, I didn’t think that at my age and in my life it would happen. It’s very exciting.”Now, they often showcase happy family snaps with tot Lev on Skin’s Instagram page.Most read in MusicBAND GANGThe Selling Jesus hitmakers disbanded in 2001 but then re-formed eight years later.They include Ace on guitar and backing vocals, Cass on bass guitar and Mark Richardson on drums and percussion.The gritty band name’s formation is two-fold – the word “Skunk” was used to “make the name nastier” while Anansie is taken from the Akan folk tales of Anansie, a spider-man of Ghana.The Masked Singer’s mysterious duck sings Stormzy’s Blinded By Your Grace and fans are convinced it’s Skin from Skunk AnansieThey have clocked up six studio albums and several hit singles including catchy tracks Charity and Hedonism.The band also has a stellar track record at Glastonbury.It’s weird, I didn’t think that at my age and in my life it would happenSkinSkunk Anansie FrontwomanThey have performed at Worthy Farm a whopping four times, first playing there in 1995 with their last stint in 2022.OPENING UPSkin recently opened up on an “abusive” and “controlling” relationship during her teenage years which led to the band’s track, Weak.The openly gay star said at the time, she believed the relationship dynamics to be “normal.”The Masked Singer competitor told Absolute Radio presenter Tim Burgess on his podcast, Tim’s Listening Party: “I was going out with this much older guy.I remember sitting down with my new guitar and thinking about one time when he hit me and he started cryingSkinSkunk Anansie Frontwoman”Not through choice, but because I was a quiet, vulnerable 16-year-old Christian girl and this guy was like 29.”He’d give you a lift home [from church] and that’s how he ended up knowing where I live.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He would just turn up and say I’m taking you out. He was abusive and controlling but I actually didn’t realise that it was an abusive relationship.”I remember sitting down with my new guitar and thinking about one time when he hit me and he started crying.”Skin, 54, has kept her ageless look throughout her careerCredit: GettyThe rock band is known for tracks including Selling Jesus and HedonismCredit: Getty More

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      Chaka Khan reveals the real reason she rejected Glastonbury 2024 legends slot

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      CHAKA Khan has confirmed in an exclusive chat that she had to let Shania Twain take on the Legends slot at Glasto.And it was all because she couldn’t change her jam-packed schedule.I’m Every Woman singer Chaka Khan has told how she couldn’t make Glasto 2024 because of her jam-packed scheduleCredit: GettyIn December we told how the pair were battling for the festival gig. Chaka is now keen to keep the conversation with organiser Emily Eavis going.When we asked if she’d take them up on the chance next year, the American superstar replied: “Yeah, sure – I would love that.” The I’m Every Woman singer Chaka is tied up with the Meltdown festival at London’s Southbank Centre, where she is following in the footsteps of names including David Bowie and Yoko Ono by curating the event.READ MORE ON GLASTONBURY 2024Opening up about Glastonbury, Chaka said: “They did approach me but I can’t because of this.”She is on board Meltdown to celebrate 50 years in music, a landmark she reached last year after the 1973 release of her debut album with R&B band Rufus. The group broke through in 1974 with Tell Me Something Good and Chaka scored a series of platinum-selling albums before going solo.With 12 solo albums, she is not done with making new music, and last year worked with Bombay Bicycle Club.Most read in BizarreWe’re looking forward to seeing you on the farm, Chaka. We’ll save a warm pint for you.Glastonbury Festival 2024 headliners revealed as three huge pop acts including legendary Brit band and US superstarLIZZO: I WON’T QUIT MY MUSICLIZZO has spoken out to clarify what she said after defiantly declaring she had “quit” in an Instagram post last week.Fans were worried the American singer had turned her back on music for good.Lizzo cleared up a social media post she made earlier, explaining she’s shutting out ‘negative energy’ and not quitting musicCredit: Yui Mok / PA WireBut now Lizzo has insisted to her devoted followers, myself included, that she is only shutting out “negative energy” and not her love of making songs. In a new video clarifying her comments, the Juice singer said: “I mean I quit giving any negative energy attention.“What I’m not going to quit is the joy of my life, which is making music and connecting to people. And I know I’m not alone.“In no way, shape or form am I the only person who is experiencing that negative voice that seems to be louder than the positive.”MATT HAS MONEY TO BURNRYAN Reynolds did it with Wrexham and Boyzone at Chorley FC – now Matt Smith wants to get involved with buying a football club.The Doctor Who actor is interested in reviving his beloved Blackburn Rovers, but doesn’t think he’s rich enough to pull a bid together.Doctor Who star Matt Smith dreams about buying beloved football club Blackburn RoversCredit: GettyMatt said: “I dream about it on a daily basis. If I could buy Blackburn Rovers and I had the money – I know it’s squandering it – I would do it in a heartbeat.“I’m very proud to be a Blackburn fan. I would love to see that club restored.”He added on the Headliners podcast: “You heard it here first. I’m gonna try and stick in a bid.”Matt and his mates definitely have a few more bob than the rest of us, so I’m sure they can jumble enough cash together to give it a go.ANYA Taylor-Joy secretly got hitched two years ago on April Fool’s Day.The Queen’s Gambit actress has just revealed she married rocker Malcolm McRae in New Orleans.Among the guests was Cara Delevingne.In a post showing them eating cakes that look like hearts, Anya said: “Two years ago, on April Fools, I secretly married my best friend in New Orleans. “The magic of that day is ingrained in every cell of my being, forever.”ANIMALS’ F-WORD RETURNGLASS Animals will return with a fourth album called I Love You So F***ing Much.The band, fronted by Dave Bayley, who spent 73 weeks in the Top 40 with the huge hit Heat Waves after it was released in 2020, have dropped the first single Creatures In Heaven. Glass Animals, fronted by Dave Bayley, is set to return with fourth album I Love You So F***ing Much on July 19Credit: GettyThey will put out their full record on July 19.Bristol-born Elles Bailey is also back with her fourth record, Beneath The Neon Glow. The album, out on August 9, is preceded by her new single Enjoy The Ride, which got Cerys Matthews’ seal of approval on Radio 2 earlier this week.It’s an earworm for sure.Halsey up to Monkey businessHALSEY took a break from the studio for a date night at the premiere of Dev Patel’s new film Monkey Man.The singer, out with boyfriend Avan Jogia, showed off her tattoos in a cute silk dress at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood.Halsey showed off her tats in this cute silk dress at the premiere of Dev Patel’s new film Monkey ManCredit: GettyHalsey is back in the studio with Indie star Alex G, giving hope she is closer to revealing the follow-up to 2021 album If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power.BILLIE Piper has revealed her old Sylvia Young Theatre School classmate Amy Winehouse was picked on as a teenager.And it all boiled down to jealousy. Billie said: “Amy was always cheeky. She could do everything.Billie Piper told how Amy Winehouse was picked on by others at the Sylvia Young Theatre SchoolCredit: Splash News“She was super-clever and super-bright, unlike any other girls in that school. “She got bullied quite a lot in school because, you know, she was doing her own thing and liked to push buttons and do weird stuff.”On the Table Manners podcast, Billie also revealed she was offered the role of Sally Bowles in West End show Cabaret after Jessie Buckley, but turned it down.Asked if she had been approached to take the part, which has been played by Self Esteem and Cara Delevingne, she said: “Yeah, after Jessie. “I would have loved it but those big numbers are brutal. You’ve got to really watch yourself and I can’t be bothered. “I don’t like the idea of having to take care of myself that well all the f***ing time.”TAYLOR Swift is bringing along boyfriend Travis Kelce on the European leg of her Eras Tour next month.The NFL player is desperate to visit London for her shows, where she will be playing to more than 700,000 fans.He said: “I think she’s at Wembley eight times. It is mind-blowing that she can do that many shows in one stadium and fill that thing up.“And London is always an amazing city. Paris is a beautiful city and she will be all over Europe.“There won’t be a bad show, I promise you that.”Travis, who won the Super Bowl this year with Kansas City Chiefs, added: “I’m the happiest I’ve ever been.“My glass is all the way full. I’m oozing life right now.”Good on you Taylor.Becky’s shiner momentsTHERE are seven weeks to go until Becky Hill drops her second album Believe Me Now? – and she’s already put on a shiny dress to celebrate.She posed in this eye-catching outfit on the set of the video for her latest single Outside Of Love, which came out on Friday.READ MORE SUN STORIESBecky Hill poses in this eye-catching outfit on the set of the music video for her new single Outside Of LoveBecky, who shot the visuals in Slovenia, said: “I really hope people connect to this frustrated and isolated love song and still feel like they wanna dance their way through the shared sadness.”We’re right there with you, Becky. More

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      US superstar admits playing Glastonbury is on their bucket list

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      SHE gave me chills while performing with Usher at the Super Bowl last month.And now Alicia Keys has another major gig in her sights — after admitting a trip to Glastonbury is on her bucket list.Alicia Keys has admitted a trip to Glastonbury is on her bucket listCredit: RexAlicia performed with Usher at the Super BowlCredit: AFPIn an exclusive chat following her performance at the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Saudi Arabia, the Fallin’ singer said she was keen to make her mark on Worthy Farm after lighting up the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for her American football show-stopper which was beamed to more than 123million people around the world.Alicia said: “With the Super Bowl, when you prepare for something like that your heart is racing.“Even though I am not doing a dance, your voice can’t keep up with it because of the adrenalin.“When you’re chilling in your room and then you are out there in front of 80,000 in the stadium it is ridiculous.read more on glastonbury“It has trained me on how to figure out my breath and to learn how to keep my voice calm when everything else is chaotic and full of energy.“And Glastonbury? I think that needs to happen, don’t you?” Emily Eavis, I hope you’re reading this. With more than 90million record sales worldwide and nine Top Ten UK singles, Alicia is a self-made superstar — growing up in New York’s tough Hell’s Kitchen neighbourhood before hitting the big time. Most read in BizarreHer journey, Alicia told me, saw her drawing comparisons to our very own British rising star Raye.Alicia said: “I love Raye. Me and Raye singing together, that would be incredible.Alicia Keys’ husband Swizz Beatz takes sly dig at Usher after wife gets ‘very cozy’ with singer at Super Bowl“I am so excited for the way women are taking over music. “We have an organisation called She Is The Music and it is about really increasing the numbers of women on every side of the industry, from producers to engineers to lawyers and creatives and business entrepreneurs.“You do see a lot of growth. “We now have a seat at our own table to dictate the way things are going. You really do see women. “There is so much creativity. We are totally unfathomable, so I am really excited for Raye.”On her own inspirations, Alicia said: “I was raised by a single mother and she is a rock to me, unbelievable.“I am so happy the way I was raised by an inspirational woman like her who was so fierce and so determined.“She showed me about being a woman and about owning your power. “You need to be tough and it taught me to be my version of strong.As part of her performance at the F1, which was hosted by MDLBEAST, Alicia performed alongside acts including Pharrell Williams, Asap Rocky and Martin Garrix. And Away from pop music, Alicia worked hard to get a new theatre show, Hell’s Kitchen off the ground.The stage production mirrors Alicia’s story of reaching the spotlight and she now hopes to get it on to Broadway.She added: “My eyes are definitely on that. It would be a dream come true.“A lot of people will assume it is my life story but it is influenced by my experiences. “Growing up in New York is a very specific experience, as you have all different sides that reflect the culture. “Hell’s Kitchen is a unique world which I have not seen pieces on.“New York is such a melting pot, as you get a diverse sense of styles, places and dress. “There are no limits to the culture or the sounds you hear. “The city represents our dreams and what we want to achieve. “If you haven’t seen New York, if you see this piece you will feel it and a kindred spirit to the city. I am a kid with a dream. Aren’t we all?”You said it, Alicia.LILY LOVES A HAIRY STRIKERLILY ALLEN and I have more in common than I thought.The singer turned actress says she’s got a thing for big men with beards.Lily Allen says she’s got a thing for big men with beardsCredit: GettyOn her new podcast Miss Me?, with Miquita Oliver, Lily said: “I have daddy issues, don’t I? “I just want a big, old, hairy daddy. It’s all I want.”I’m sure her husband, Stranger Things actor David Harbour, will be thrilled.Lily talked about David’s dress sense, admitting he wears “a lot Stone Island”, a brand popular with footie hooligans. She added: “It’s strange seeing an American in something I associate with a very particular part of British culture. “I love my husband dearly, but he doesn’t understand what he’s wearing.”Lily needs to have a firm word.I can’t wait to see this.DEMAND for Usher’s UK gigs next year is so huge the Burn singer has added a tenth date at London’s O2 Arena.The 180,000 tickets for his first nine shows were snapped up in minutes last month. So he has added another on March 29, with tickets going on sale at 10am on Friday. He is one of my favourite singers, and you lot seem to like him too.LIV LOVER: WE’LL STAY LOW KEYOLIVIA RODRIGO’s British actor boyfriend has broken his silence on dating the US singer – four months after we revealed they were a couple.Louis Partridge did not to name the Good 4 U hitmaker but said they wanted to keep their relationship as low key as possible.Louis Partridge has spoken about dating Olivia RodrigoCredit: Getty Images – GettyLouis said they wanted to keep their relationship as low key as possibleCredit: Getty Images – GettyHe explained: “Dating probably shouldn’t be done in the public eye.”She’s got tons and tons of eyes on her case.”On how he blocks out online opinions, Louis told British Vogue mag: “If there’s a load of people nattering in a room about you, you can choose to put your ear to the door to hear what they say or not.”You’re probably better off not letting curiosity get the better of you.”DAVID GUETTA has become a dad for the third time.The DJ and Baby Don’t Hurt me hitmaker, who has a son and a daughter with ex-wife Cathy Lobe, has had a baby boy with his girlfriend, Cuban actress Jessica Ledon.David Guetta has become a dad for the third timeCredit: InstagramHe shared their happy news on Instagram and said: “Love is in the air. Welcome Cyan.”BLUD IS BUILDING FESTIVALFANS of Yungblud are in for a treat after he announced his very own festival.The aptly named Bludfest will take place on August 11 at the Milton Keynes Bowl in Buckinghamshire.Yungblud has announced his very own festivalCredit: GettyIt will feature performances from the man himself.Also playing will be rapper Lil Yachty, as well as singers Nessa Barrett and Lola Young.Yungblud, real name Dominic Harrison, said: “Bludfest will blur the lines of genre and destroy the limitation of imagination.“It will be a festival that cuts the corporate b*****ks and is all about the people. “My plan is to take it worldwide but this summer is the first one and it’s gonna be something no one has ever seen before in the UK.” He added: “Five years ago we imagined a world of our own. “In Bludfest we have physically built one. “It feels like the next logical step for me. “I want to create a physical safe space where people can come and celebrate the ideologies of this community, where unity, individuality and love is the main focus. READ MORE SUN STORIES“We bring the world of Yungblud to fing life right before your eyes.”I am expecting chaos. Brilliant, organised chaos. More

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      Glastonbury failed fans like me without huge rock acts – we need The Rolling Stones to make it great again

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      By Simon Cosyns, Deputy EditorA few weeks before Glastonbury 2008, I was asked to meet festival founder Michael Eavis for a “crisis” meeting.We sat in a veggie restaurant somewhere in London, mulling over the huge backlash against the upcoming headline appearance of superstar rapper Jay-Z.If the Rolling Stones weren’t touring America in June and Mick Jagger had agreed to strut his way across the Pyramid Stage, it’s all anyone would be talking aboutCredit: GettyRapper Jay-Z appearing at the festival in 2008Credit: GettyNoel Gallagher has said the festival was ‘built on a tradition of guitar music’Credit: GettyThe furore was fuelled by Noel Gallagher, brash but much-loved Epiphone-toting Oasis loudmouth, who had said the festival was “built on a tradition of guitar music”.“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it,” he added. “Sorry, but Jay-Z?”I remember saying to Eavis and daughter Emily that if they had 99 problems, Jay-Z wasn’t one, that his signing was genius and that The Sun would wholeheartedly back the rapper’s appearance.READ MORE ON GLASTONBURYThankfully, he was an unqualified triumph, famously opening his set with a montage of people hating on him, including Noel, and performing a sublime cover of Wonderwall to bring the house down and turn the “crisis” on its head.My point is that I’m open to Glastonbury moving with the times, drawing on popular music’s ceaseless shifts in trends and its wonderful diversity.Dua Lipa is a fabulous pop star, Shania Twain is a country diamond and SZA is R&B heaven.But, when it comes to the 2024 line-up and without wishing to sound like a “male, pale, and stale” old fart, I’m also mindful of Noel’s stance.Most read in BizarreAs Joan Jett once sang, I love rock and roll… and would love to think that it had a more prominent place among the myriad acts that make Glasto the greatest music festival on earth. Put it this way, say the Rolling Stones weren’t touring America in June and Mick Jagger had agreed to strut and shimmy his way across the Pyramid Stage, it’s all anyone would be talking about.Furthermore, there’s no Springsteen, AC/DC, Foo Fighters, Pearl Jam or Metallica on the bill. No Macca or Elton because they’ve just done it. And no chance of a reunion by Led Zepplin or Pink Floyd.As for Britpop, Blur had their moment at Wembley last year. Noel and Liam still need to kiss and make up (perish the thought).So we’re left with Glasto stalwarts Coldplay, God bless ‘em, who, under Chris Martin’s guidance, will do a lovely, phone-lights-in-the-air show.But they simply haven’t got riffs at their disposal like the monsters that usher in Satisfaction, or Highway To Hell .On the plus side, because Glastonbury is so huge and diverse, there’s rock gold to be found in them there Somerset pastures. Idles, The National, The Breeders and two lots of Irish rabble rousers, Fontaines DC and The Mary Wallopers, among them.But to borrow from Led Zep, let’s hope it won’t be a long lonely lonely time before the Pyramid Stage rocks and rolls again.MOVE OVER, OLD FARTS, AND LET THE YOUNG STARS SHINEBy Howell Davies, Associate Bizarre Editor
      Glastonbury is finally moving with the times, and it’s great to see.
      Yes, there will be old farts complaining that it was better in their day. What’s new there?
      Really, this is the music that people are listening to in 2024.
      I’ve been to the festival every year since 2015 and I’m bored of seeing the same crusty old white men as headliners. This twist is refreshing for a pop fan like me.
      Of course there is a place for everyone, but old acts have dominated the line-up for years. And after a backlash over 2023’s all-male headliners, I love that there’s such a diverse roster.
      Dua Lipa is Britain’s biggest superstar in years, making waves around the world. Coldplay are one of the most successful bands of the 21st Century, with phenomenal stage shows.
      SZA had one of the most-played albums of 2023 with SOS – and has an incredibly exciting future.
      And in the legends slot, Shania Twain – who has the biggest-selling album of all time by a female artist with Come On Over – will have punters of every age singing along to her hits. No one talked about Guns N’ Roses when they headlined last year, but Stormzy’s debut headline set in 2019 felt historic.
      I’m sure some people will be disappointed that veteran acts like the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and Stevie Wonder aren’t topping the bill.
      But we have to give younger stars the chance to headline now.
      If not, when the “classic” Glasto headliners are all dead and buried, who will fill those slots as music legends and icons? More