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    Iconic Noughties rock stars reunite ahead of UK tour – and fans are convinced they’ve ‘worked out’ new member

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    NOUGHTIES rock fans are moshing for joy after an iconic band finally reunited on stage before they prepare to head to the UK. Heavy metal band Slipknot were spotted performing together at a tiny ‘honky tonk bbq restaurant’ called Pappy + Harriett’s in California last weekend. Rock band Slipknot is heading to the UK this yearCredit: RexThe band has a new drummer after Jay Weinberg was droppedCredit: GettySlipknot has been teasing his identity with pictures like theseCredit: INSTAGRAMThe wild group are gearing up for a tour across America and Europe – including the UK – to celebrate their 25th anniversary. And they have a brand new member to boot. Staying true to form, Slipknot head-banged away during the energetic and chaotic performance in California and they kept their faces hidden behind their trademark masks.Drummer Jay Weinberg was the second drummer of the band from 2014 but he was reportedly ‘fired’ last November due to “creative issues”. READ MORE ON NOUGHTIES MUSICWeinberg’s replacement was on stage performing in California and fans are convinced they have worked out his identity. Rumours are rife that Brazilian drummer Eloy Casagrande has taken over from Weinberg – and the band has been fuelling the fire. Last month, they shared a photograph of snapped drumsticks on Instagram with the caption: “Rehearsal.”Writing on Reddit, one Slipknot fan said: “As most of you probably know Slipknot fired Jay Weinberg last year. Most read in Music”Some have speculated that Eloy Casagrande (ex drummer for Sepultura) would be replacing him. “This morning the official Slipknot X page posted a photo of Casagrande’s signature sticks broken in half with the word ‘Rehearsal’ above it. Iconic Nineties band reveal new music and tour as they reunite with Oasis star 30 years after split”I don’t know about you, but it seems like Slipknot just confirmed he is the drummer. Or they’re just trolling.”Replying, another music lover said: “Hard to say. This would be the first actual bit of evidence to suggest it is Eloy, but considering how hard the fanbase has been rising the theory over nothing at all, the band could also be doing this as a troll. “Be nice if it was him though. He’s a killer drummer.”Slipknot was formed in the US in 1995 and it has seen several lineups over the years. For a decade, they performed as a nine-piece and enjoyed success the world over despite their aggressive image. Several band member swaps took place following the death of bassist Paul Gray in 2010. Another member, former drummer Joey Jordiso, passed away in 2021. Slipknot still has nine members, with five longstanding ones, and will be travelling to the UK later this year. The rock artists will perform at Leeds, Glasgow, Manchester and Birmingham in December, before finishing up at London’s O2 Arena on December 20 and 21. READ MORE SUN STORIESThey will also be visiting Germany, Amsterdam, Switzerland and France during their European leg. The tour, which will see them perform in Mexico and Brazil, marks Slipknot’s 25th anniversary. Jay is said to have left Slipknot over ‘creative’ issuesCredit: RexSlipknot fans are convinced Brazilian drummer Eloy Casagrande has replaced JayCredit: AlamySlipknot celebrates its 25th anniversary this yearCredit: Rex More

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      Nineties rock frontwoman, 70, has barely aged a day 34 years after her cult band inspired Kurt Cobain

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      NINETIES icon Kim Gordon appears to have stopped the clock since her cult rock band stormed the charts. Kim and her Sonic Youth bandmates made huge waves in their heyday and were even credited for inspiring the late Kurt Cobain.Kim Gordon was the frontwoman of 90s band Sonic YouthCredit: GettyThe singer turns 71 this weekend but has barely aged a dayCredit: InstagramThe singer was widely considered a mentor figure to the Nirvana frontman, who tragically took his own life in 1994.Kim, who turns 71 this weekend, has taken part in a new interview for Instagram and she doesn’t seem to have aged a day. In the chat with podcasters The Daft Hunks, the singer – who released a new solo album called The Collective last month – has talked all things music to the pair.Kim was 14 years older than Kurt and their bands shared the same management company. READ MORE ON 90S MUSICNirvana supported Sonic Youth on tour in 1991 and Kim also went on to grow close to Kurt’s wife Courtney Love.This month marked 30 years since Kurt’s death. The musician battled with a drug addiction and depression. He also struggled with pain and chronic bronchitis due to an undiagnosed stomach condition. On April 8, 1994, Kurt was found dead at his home in Washington having suffered a gunshot wound to his head several days previously. Police found a note nearby and confirmed the music star’s death was a result of suicide.Most read in MusicKim, who divorced from her Sonic Youth bandmate Thurston Moore in 2013, recently spoke to Rolling Stone magazine about the milestone anniversary of Kurt’s passing.She said of the 30 years: “That is hard to believe, but it makes sense. My daughter was born that year and she’s 29 now. “I still have very vivid images of him laughing, smiling, and goofing around backstage. And doing these amazing shows, throwing himself into his drum kit. Really just going for it in a way I’d never seen anyone quite do.” Kim has one child, daughter Coco, and she lives in Los Angeles.
      The rock icon also works as an artist following the disbandment of Sonic Youth in 2011.
      Kim has enjoyed a hugely successful music careerCredit: RedfernsThis singer and her band Sonic Youth inspired Kurt Cobain and NirvanaCredit: GettyLead singer Kurt Cobain, who died in 1994, looked up to KimCredit: GettyKim has just released a solo album and also works as an artistCredit: Instagram More

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      Nineties indie band frontwoman, 47, has barely aged a day 26 years after quitting group and starting new life in LA

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      NINETIES indie band frontwoman Isobel Campbell has barely aged a day 26 years after quitting Belle and Sebastian and starting new life in LA. The 47-year-old shot to fame when she was just 19 as part of the popular band.Isobel Campbell looks incredible 26 years after quitting Belle and SebastianCredit: InstagramThe singer pictured back in 2006Credit: Times Newspapers LtdBelle and Sebastian was founded in 1996 by Stuart Murdoch.The group consisted of Stuart, Isobel, Stuart David, Stevie Jackson, Chris Geddes and Richard Colburn.Over the years they has released 12 studio albums which include hits such as The State I Am In and If You’re Feeling Sinister – and they are still a band now. However, Isobel is not part of it anymore.Read more on musicAfter six years in the group, Isobel decided to part ways with Belle and Sebastian.In 2002 the singer began working on her solo career. During her time as a solo artist, she also decided to leave Scotland and move over to Los Angeles with her husband Chris Szczech. At first she was known as Gentle Waves, but then decided to change her stage name to her own moniker.Most read in MusicDuring her time as Gentle Waves, she released two albums The Green Fields of Foreverland in 1999, and Swansong for You the following year.Three years later Amoirno followed, then Milkwhite Sheets in 2006.During lockdown There Is No Other was released.To this day Isobel is still creating music. Earlier this month her new single ‘Everything Falls Apart’ was released – which is from her new album Bow To Love, released next month.Speaking about her latest music, she said: “The album is about what we’re all in right now, and my response to that and my life as a microcosm within that.“I think there’s a quote from A Course In Miracles which says, ‘Love brings up everything unlike itself for the purpose of healing and release.’ “Maybe these horrible things are coming up and out so we can get rid of them and things can be better.”Back in 2020, when asked how her music has evolved she told PRS for Music: “I feel like I’ve been studying it my whole life.”It’s one of my favourite things to do. It’s like completing a puzzle. In the beginning I was much less experienced. “After doing it for a while I learned to trust that even if something is not coming together sometimes something will, and it will be really good. “And sometimes if it doesn’t come together then just leave it, you can’t really force it.”I usually just trust what will feel right, but then try not to worry too much if it doesn’t.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I think it’s good to edit a lot and move on to the thing that is actually working. “And sometimes it’s unpredictable, because sometimes an idea that I’m most excited about will be quite disappointing and then sometimes something that’s throwaway will be the best thing. It’s a mysterious mistress.” More

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      With Vampire Weekend there’s no rules…we want to get out there & everyone go wild with us, says Ezra Koenig on UK tour

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      FOR Ezra Koenig, the critical response to Vampire Weekend’s new album has been more than satisfying.Their fifth album Only God Was Above Us has been met with heaps of praise.A dog, held by Ezra, gives Chris Baio a kiss and, right, Chris TomsonCredit: Michael SchmellingKoenig says: ‘I can’t deny it’s a good feeling to know people have connected with the music and they get it’ as the band’s album has been praisedCredit: Michael Schmelling“I don’t want it to be important to me. But I can’t deny it’s a good feeling to know people have connected with the music and they get it,” says frontman Koenig.It’s been five years since the band from New York put out Father Of The Bride, essentially a solo record by Koenig.“It doesn’t feel like five years,” he tells me via a video call from his home in LA.“Not at all. I was just doing an interview with Rick Rubin for his podcast and we went through our entire career, album by album.READ MORE IN SHOWBIZ“I remember how much pressure I felt to get Contra out within two years of the first album. Back then it felt like a long time but now, even though I’d like to release music more often, five years feels like nothing.”Only God Was Above Us is the first album Koenig has written since he became a dad. He and his wife, actress Rashida Jones (daughter of music legend Quincy), had Isaiah five years ago.“It’s always been important to me to come back to normal life as I don’t like to feel like a full-time musician,” says Koenig. “With these long breaks, you get a chance to go back into regular life and being a parent is the ultimate regular life.Most read in Music“You’re engaging in family life and responsibility. This will be an interesting year because I haven’t toured much since he was a baby.“But, even back in the day, if I got home from tour, I’d be back to the laundromat or the supermarket to feel like I was connecting with real life again. Taylor Swift’s new album takes aim at ex boyfriends”But even that’s not quite as real as waking up early the next morning to drive to school.“Our son is aware of what Mum and Dad do. My wife has done voices on some kids’ shows. There’s a cartoon of the Grinch where she does a voice and he got really obsessed with that for a while.“And part of the reason the album took a long time is there were long periods where I’d go with my family to London and Tokyo, because Rashida had work in those places.“I feel like I’ve really defeated my workaholism. Now, when I have time off, I really want to hang out with my family, and take long walks and read rather than lock myself in the studio.”I feel like I’ve really defeated my workaholismKoenig Sonically, the new album is “dark and light” and the “most aggressive record Vampire Weekend have made”.But Koenig says: “This album contains some of our most positive messages and my most optimistic worldview as a lyricist.”The contrast can be heard on album opener Ice Cream Piano which begins with a muttered “f*** the world” before it transitions into a galloping indie romp.The record finishes with the eight-minute epic Hope with its gentle message of acceptance and repeated refrain of “let it go” delivered with warming brass lines and a piano riff. It’s a heavenly album.Koenig says: “I love having the dark and light together not because I like to be a smart ass but because I believe that’s the real texture of life. That’s what being human really feels like.”The album is like a journey from a kind of uneasy attitude towards a type of acceptance and hope.As a staunch supporter of US leftwinger Bernie Sanders during both his 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, how does Koenig feel about the possible return of Trump as President?‘Lot of admiration’He says: “It’s nothing but chaos but whatever happens it’s about accepting the things you cannot change.“I’ve never been in AA, but I know people who are and have a lot of admiration for it and I think whether you’re an alcoholic or not the Serenity Prayer can be very meaningful to all people.“So many people on this planet have been through so many things and we have thousands of years of human history to take inspiration from.”Father Of The Bride, Vampire Weekend’s 2019 album, was essentially a solo record by Koenig. But for this new release drummer Chris Tomson and bassist Chris Baio are back on board, again working with producer Ariel Rechtshaid.The singer tells me: “This album is the first time CT and I have a song, Gen-X Cops, we wrote together on it.This album contains some of our most positive messages and my most optimistic worldview as a lyricistKoenig “Over the course of the band, I’ve been lucky that I’ve received a huge vote of confidence from both Chrises. They trust me, as a songwriter and as a leader to take the band to good places.Vampire Weekend’s fifth album Only God Was Above UsCredit: Michael SchmellingKoenig and his wife, actress Rashida Jones (daughter of music legend Quincy), have a son togetherCredit: Getty“That stuff’s not always easy when you’re in your 20s. Famously, so many bands have personality conflicts, but I think we’ve reached a place where they have put their faith in me and I’ve put my faith in them.“Over the course of five albums, we’ve done it so many ways. “We’ve done four guys in a room; the singer and the producer hunched over a laptop, I did that with Rostam Batmanglij and I did it with Ariel.”Vampire Weekend is always going to be a community and it’s not just three of us. It’s the live members and the team we work with including producers.”The Surfer is another album standout that Koenig had originally worked on with former band multi-instrumentalist and producer Rostam.We have thousands of years of human history to take inspiration fromKoenig “Yes, that was one that Rostam and I started a long time ago and it was pretty different,” says Koenig. “The album version was more like Ariel and I working on new music.“I’d never quite found the right place for it on an album, but I found myself returning to the lyrics I’d written and it was suddenly darker and slower and took on a life of its own. That song was kind of reborn.”On the harmonious Prep School Gangsters — inspired by a New York magazine cover story from the 90s — Blood Orange aka Dev Hynes plays drums. Koenig is a huge fan.He says: “I’ve just always loved Dev, he’s a great person to talk to. Whenever we’re in the same city, we love to hang out and catch up.Psychedelic playfulness“This time, me and Ariel were working in New York and Dev stopped by. He’d just broken his arm playing football and had a cast on. So, he played on the album with his broken arm.”New single Mary Boone is another Vampire Weekend classic which celebrates the legendary New York art gallery owner with a psychedelic playfulness and shuffling percussion lifted by a sample of the drum loop from Soul II Soul’s Back To Life“That sample was Ariel’s idea,” explains Koenig. “And when it comes in, it’s 100 per cent worth it and we’re lucky we were able to clear it.“A big part of what Vampire Weekend does is push our music as far as it can, while having a sense of familiarity. That’s the frequency we’re trying to operate on.”Since making Only God Was Above Us, which comes from a New York Daily News headline on the album’s cover, Koenig says he’s only concentrating on Vampire Weekend.A big part of what Vampire Weekend does is push our music as far as it can, while having a sense of familiarityKoenig Past extracurricular activities have included creating an animated series for Netflix, Neo Yokio, and writing and producing songs for Beyonce, Liam Gallagher and — for the Peter Rabbit soundtrack — James Corden.But he says: “Lately, I feel mostly excited about continuing to work on my albums but I enjoy working and writing for others. “Liam was a great experience and I could listen to him talk forever. He’s such a funny guy.”After two years of not touring, Koenig has been enjoying getting back on stage and played a special show in Texas to celebrate the solar eclipse — also the day of his 40th birthday — plus a “last-minute addition” to the Coachella line-up where Paris Hilton joined them for the end of their set.“Playing a release show in Texas and then Coachella was a good week. It felt like our community coming together,” says Koenig.“Seven years ago, at the last total eclipse, I’d made a mental note that the next one was coming and it was my 40th birthday. “We’d booked the show and because it was a show in the day it meant I could enjoy myself with my family and friends. You don’t want to party at midnight when you’re 40!”Vampire Weekend will be in the UK touring in December but before that you can see them at Radio 1’s Big Weekend on Sunday, May 26, at Luton’s Stockwood Park.Koenig says: “We can’t wait. And it’s funny it’s in Luton, because I just went there for the first time in February — I went to see a Luton match.I feel mostly excited about continuing to work on my albums but I enjoy working and writing for otherKoenig “My manager is involved with the team so we got to meet some of the players and we had a great time. Harry Styles was also there.“We can’t wait to play London in December as well as we’re doing four different shows which also gives us a nice opportunity to switch things up. It’s been fun to rehearse the new album and breathe some more life into it and at the same time go back to some of the old songs.“With Vampire Weekend there’s no rules. We just want to get out there and everyone go wild with us.”READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Only God Was Above Us is out now. Vampire Weekend play Radio 1’s Big Weekend on Sunday, May 26.

      VAMPIRE WEEKENDOnly God Was Above Us★★★★★ More

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      Paul Oakenfold and Carl Cox unite to celebrate 30 years of Perfecto

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      Paul Oakenfold and Carl Cox have united for their first collaboration concentrate, released as part of Perfecto 30 – a huge celebration of the labels’s 30th anniversary.Paul says; “I’m going back to doing straight club records – underground tracks that I love. Perfecto is now a 30- year old brand. There are generations that have grown up with the sound. They got into dance music and have grown up with the label. It’s turned into much more than a label.”Carl Cox and Paul Oakenfold – AI style!A seamless blend of Paul and Carl’s unique styles, Concentrate is a testament to their collective prowess showcasing a fusion of cutting-edge sounds and infectious rhythms, an exhilarating slice of techno from two giants of dance music doing what they do best. And what better way to mark 30 years of Paul’s iconic label.Paul tells us; “Teaming up with Carl for ‘Concentrate’ was a natural evolution for us. It’s our way of paying homage to our history and to show where we’re at right now musically.  Carl is a pioneering legend that was signed to the label so it marks a nice full circle moment. This is the first collaboration of many to come.”Carl Cox adds, “Working with Paul on this track was an absolute blast. ‘Concentrate’ represents the perfect synergy between our styles, and we can’t wait for our everyone to hear it.”[embedded content]Concentrate comes out as part of this year’s Perfecto 30 – a year of special releases, remixes, collaborations and live events to celebrate a huge milestone of one of dance music’s most iconic labels. There’s a documentary coming, Welcome to Perfecto (which features commentary from the legendary likes of Fatboy Slim, Carl Cox, Todd Terry and David Guetta and more) and Paul himself will make a series of special DJ appearances crisscrossing America and the UK to Ibiza and Australia –involving the parties, festivals, and superclubs like Cream where he made his name. CLICK OR TAP THE IMAGE TO LISTEN OR DOWNLOAD PAUL OAKENFOLD’S PERFECTO 30 CHART ON BEATPORTHe’ll be revisiting Perfecto classics and deep cuts like PPK’s ResuRection, Planet Perfecto’s Bullet in a Gun, and his own smashes like Starry Eyed Surprise (the hit collaboration with Crazy Town’s Shifty Shellshock from Oakenfold’s platinum debut solo album, 2002’s Bunkka). And they’ll be releases from today’s most cutting-edge artists and producers including Velvet Cash, Danny Stubbs, Blink, Adam White, and Nat Monday.For the next chapter of Perfecto, Oakenfold claims he’s returning to the roots of the label’s original mission. “I’m going back to doing straight club records – underground tracks that I love,” Oakenfold says.LISTEN TO PAUL OAKENFOLD’S EXCLUSIVE MIX FOR THE NIGHT BAZAAR SESSIONS HEREWe caught up with Paul to find out more this week and he very kindly recorded an exclusive mix for The Night Bazaar Sessions which you can listen to by clicking or tapping the image above.Reflecting on the three decades since Perfecto’s inception, how do you feel the label has influenced the global dance music scene, and what does this milestone mean to you personally?Most read in MusicPerfecto Records is one of Britain’s longest independent dance labels with over 10 million records sold. We’ve flown the flag for British dance music around the world and pioneered some of Britain’s biggest dance acts. The milestone is a big personal achievement for me, and I think a lot of artists on the label and dance music in general, we are no longer seen as a small industry. Dance music is global now and massive. Paul Oakenfold was the focus of The Night Bazaar in Something For The Weekend on Friday 26th April 2024You’ve been recognized by Pete Tong and even the British Empire for your contributions to dance music. Can you share a moment or decision in your career that you believe was pivotal in earning you the Pioneer of the Nation accolade?It’s an absolute honour to be recognized by the British Empire as a Pioneer of the Nation by spreading dance music around the world. I’ve been making, releasing, and signing dance music for over 40 years now. Proud to be British.I’d say some pivotal moments would be becoming a DJ opening for one of the biggest bands in the world, playing stadiums for two years, championing British music. And then playing at the special Olympic Games in Abu Dhabi to over a billion people worldwide. Paul Oakenfold – A true British electronic dance music pioneer and legendWith Perfecto 30 marking a return to your roots, what inspired you to focus on underground club records again, and how do you feel the current dance music landscape has evolved to embrace these sounds?It certainly made me want to head back to my roots and make some great underground dance music I can share with a lot of people. We are starting off with my collabs with Franky Wah and Carl Cox.The current landscape in dance music is incredibly healthy. It’s a worldwide industry that gets richer ever year. Your last album, Shine On showcased an impressive array of collaborations. How do you choose your collaborators, and is there an artist or producer you’re particularly excited to be working with for the Perfecto 30 series?I really enjoy collaborating with young new artists and established artists from different genres. I choose my collaborations based on talent and being a fan. There’s so many great young musicians out there. Barry Can’t Swim, Anyma, John Summit, Rebuke, Teddy Swims, Anne-Marie, Anunnakis, Velvet Cash, AP Dhillon, and LUM1NA. [embedded content]You’ve performed at some of the world’s most unique venues, from Stonehenge to the Great Wall of China. Can you hint at any upcoming performances that might continue this tradition of groundbreaking shows?After I DJ’d at Basecamp Mt. Everest, and then I went to DJ in Area 51 in Nevada, I’m being offered a lot of unique and wonderful locations, which I’m certainly looking at.Looking back at the journey of Perfecto and your career, how do you want to be remembered in the dance music world, and what future ambitions do you have for both yourself and the label?Perfecto will be doing festivals and signing new talent from around the world. It’s a very exciting time for the label. It’s been a wonderful achievement for Perfecto and the artists on the label. We have a documentary coming out toward the end of the year, where we interviewed lots of colleagues. And we are signing a lot of new young artists, helping them today and making them stars tomorrow. Paul Oakenfold and Carl Cox at Stonehenge in 2018 – Picture: Carl Cox official Facebook pageIn an unprecedented collaboration, you and Carl Cox have joined forces to create Concentrate marking the first time you two legends have produced a track together. Can you share the creative process behind this collaboration and what it was like to blend your distinct styles into a single track? Additionally, what do you hope listeners and fans of both your music will take away from Concentrate?I loved working on this track with Carl. It’s a blend between techno, trance, and the old rave scene. It’s a really unique sounding record.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe process behind any collab is back and forth, whether you’re in the studio or not. It was the same working with Carl. Ideas flow and you share them. It was a great experience. I hope everyone likes the song!Concentrate by Paul Oakenfold and Carl Cox is out now.CLICK OR TAP IMAGE TO PURCHASE DOWNLOAD ON BEATPORT More

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      Keyboardist Mike Pinder dead at 82 as The Moody Blues fans mourn death of final original band member

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      THE MOODY Blues keyboardist Mike Pinder has died at the age of 82. It comes months after the death of the other surviving original bandmate Denny Laine.The Moody Blues keyboardist Mike Pinder has died at the age of 82Credit: GettyMike’s death comes months after the death of bandmate, Denny LaineCredit: GettyThe Moody Blue’s current guitarist John Lodge, and Mike’s family, confirmed the keyboardist died on Wednesday in Northern California.Laine’s widow Elizabeth mourned Mike’s death with an Instagram post showing the keyboardist playing Go Now! at the piano.She wrote, “Very sad news, the last of the original lineup of the Moody Blues has passed away.”He is now reunited with Denny, Ray, Graeme and Clint; what a joyous reunion that must be.”Elizabeth signed off, “Rest in peace and give my Denny a hug.”Fans shared their condolences in the post’s comment section. One person wrote, “Oh no! RIP Michael!””So sad to hear that, but now they’re together playing these beautiful songs,” commented another. Most read in EntertainmentA third added, “RIP” and “such a gifted person.”On Thursday, Lodge and The Moody Blues confirmed in a Facebook post that Mike had died.The Moody Blue’s current guitarist John Lodge, and Mike’s family, confirmed the keyboardist died on Wednesday in Northern CaliforniaCredit: GettyMike was the last surviving original Moody Blues band memberCredit: GettyThe post read, “All the love possible goes out from the Lodge family to Mike’s family today.”Mike’s family paid tribute in a separate statement posted by Lodge and The Moody Blues.The tribute read, “Michael’s family would like to share with his trusted friends and caring fans that he passed peacefully.”His final days were filled with music, encircled by the love of his family.” The statement continued, “Michael lived his life with a childlike wonder, walking a deeply introspective path which fused the mind and the heart.”He created his music and the message he shared with the world from this spiritually grounded place; as he always said, “Keep your head above the clouds, but keep your feet on the ground.”His authentic essence lifted up everyone who came into contact with him. His lyrics, philosophy, and vision of humanity and our place in the cosmos will touch generations to come.”A cause of death has not yet been revealed.THE MOODY BLUESThe Moody Blues formed in Birmingham in May 1964 and included members Mike, Denny Laine, Ray Thomas, Graeme Edge, and Clint Warwick.The rock band made several radio hits, such as Nights in White Satin, Tuesday Afternoon, and Isn’t Life Strange. Laine died four months ago on December 5, 2023. After contracting Covid-19 in 2022, the guitarist had been hospitalized several times leading up to his death. READ MORE SUN STORIESMike shared a son Daniel with his first wife Donna Roth and had two more sons, Matt and Michael, with his second wife, Tara Lee.All three of his sons are musicians. The original Moody Blues band members Ray Thomas, Mike Pinder, Denny Laine, Graeme Edge, and Clint WarwickCredit: GettyThe Moody Blues formed in Birmingham in May 1964Credit: GettyMike pictured with his first wife Donna and their son Daniel ElanCredit: Getty More

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      Watch the moment Matty Healy breaks his silence on ex Taylor Swift’s song branding him ‘the smallest man in the world’

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      TAYLOR Swift’s ex-boyfriend Matty Healy has finally revealed what he thinks about her new album after fans claimed a number of tracks are about him.The 1975 frontman dated Taylor following her split from Brit actor Joe Alwyn last year.Matty Healy has broken his silence on Taylor Swift’s new albumCredit: GettyTaylor’s The Tortured Poets Department has got everyone talkingCredit: EPATaylor Swift’s ex Matty Healy is working on new music for The 1975Credit: GettyThe whirlwind rebound romance saw the pair spend time together on both sides of the Atlantic, before Taylor moved on with her beer-chugging NFL superstar partner Travis Kelce.Swifties have been poring over every track of her new record, The Tortured Poets Department, and believe tracks like The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived, Guilty as Sin? and But Daddy I Love Him are all about Healy.The critical lyrics of ‘Smallest Man’ read: “Was any of it true?/ Gazing at me starry-eyed/ In your Jehovah’s Witness suit/ Who the f*** was that guy?/ You tried to buy some pills/ From a friend of friends of mine/ They just ghosted you/ Now you know what it feels like.”The frontman had a mature response when a journalist approached him on the street in the US and asked for his thoughts on Taylor’s “diss” track about him.READ MORE ON TAYLOR SWIFTWearing a navy hoodie and white vest top, a surprised Matty said: “My diss track? Oh [laughs], I haven’t listened to the album much but I’m sure it’s good.”He then politely continued on his way, casually walking along the sidewalk.The response garnered respect from music fans.One person said: “This is a very mature response coming from someone’s ex tbh.”Most read in MusicAnother agreed, saying: He’s known for being incredibly mature about all of his relationships since becoming a famous musician so this is just normal Matty Healy stuff.However, his true feelings might be different when his band’s sixth album is eventually released.Travis Kelce plans to take his Kelce Jam festival on nationwide tour to 8 cities with help of girlfriend Taylor SwiftLast night we exclusively revealed that Healy is working on new music and, crucially, didn’t sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) during his romance with Taylor.Those who know Healy told us he had no idea he was going to be referenced and only found out when his name started trending on social media last Friday.A source said: “Matty is currently keeping a low profile working on The 1975’s next album.“This time last week he had no idea he was about to become one of the most talked about men on the planet. “He has opted to keep silent, but no NDA has been signed. “Like Taylor, he uses his music as a form of release and storytelling. “It’s naturally caused him to think about their time together and he’s never been one to hold back when speaking his mind.“Also like Taylor, he’s moved on and is very happy with his current relationship with Gabbriette Bechtel.“But there is nothing stopping him from writing about his romance with Taylor and having his say on what she said about him.“Fans of the band should be keeping an eye out when that album drops.”Healy has got form when it comes to writing about his love life.He previously wrote about his relationship with American star Halsey, after she hammered him on her 2016 single Colours.On the song, she said of Healy: “You’re only happy when your sorry head is filled with dope/I hope you make it to the day you’re 28 years old.”The 1975’s 2016 track She’s American is thought to be about Halsey, and was far more favourable than her ode to him.READ MORE SUN STORIESIn it, Healy sings: “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It.”Taylor is in a relationship with NFL star Travis KelceCredit: GettyTaylor was with Joe Alwyn for six yearsCredit: GettyTimeline of Taylor and Joe’s RelationshipThe couple had six years together, much of which they tried to keep a secret.
      Here we take a look at the timeline of their romance: More

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      Noughties rock legend, 45, has barely aged a day 24 years on from band’s debut album and messy split from famous ex

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      SHE’S the punk/rock heroine whose riotous sound was inspired by Hole frontwoman Courtney Love.Brody Dalle’s band The Distillers were a breath of fresh air when they exploded onto the scene in 2000 with their self-titled debut.Brody Dalle performing at Reading FestivalCredit: GettyDripping with attitude, snarling vocals and fast riffs, the band matched and, in many cases, surpassed their male led contemporaries.The Distillers were formed when headstrong Dalle, 45, moved from her native Australia to Los Angeles after falling in love with Rancid frontman Tim Armstrong.However, there was also a darker reason for wanting to flee her homeland.”I moved to America with money I got from the government of Australia for being sexually abused,” she told the Guardian.READ MORE ON ROCK MUSIC”I’d gone through a couple of court cases when I was 14, 15 years old, and I’d been compensated for one of them. When I turned 18, I got that money and got the f**k outta there.”Dalle was just 16 and playing with her band Sourpuss when she met punk legend Armstrong, then 30, at a festival Down Under in 1995.Two years later they were engaged and a wedding followed months later.The marriage ended in 2003 amid allegations of controlling behaviour while Dalle said it took her three years to pluck up the courage to finally call it quits. Most read in MusicIt was at this time that The Distillers were at the height of their powers releasing sophomore record Sing Sing Death House and their most commercial record Coral Fang.However, the intensity of their touring schedule led the band to implode in 2005, with Dalle explaining: “We were sick of each other, uninspired.”Brody with her NME Rock ‘n’ Roll Woman of the Year AwardCredit: AlamyQueens of the Stone Age’s Josh Homme with ex-wife BrodyCredit: AlamyRock poster girl Dalle’s personal life was blooming even if musically she was at a crossroads.She married Queens of the Stone Age frontman Josh Homme that year, quit drugs, and their first child, daughter Camille, was born in January 2006.They went on to have sons and two sons Orrin, 12, and Wolf, eight, before their marriage hit the skids too in acrimonious fashion.Dalle filed for divorce in 2019 citing Homme’s substance abuse as the reason.Though they managed to co-parent successfully initially, things took a dark turn and a bitter custody battle saw accusations of domestic abuse from both parties and restraining orders filed.In March 2022, the Los Angeles Family Court awarded Homme sole legal custody of all three children.A further custody hearing had been scheduled for late last year but no updates have been reported.Last year Homme told the Sun why he doesn’t speak publicly about the court battle.He said: “For a guy who will talk s**t there’s some things that I would never engage in.“Many times, I’ve behaved very feral and made mistakes but certain things that are just sacrosanct. There’s a time to be quiet. I have no presence online.“There are lines I just won’t cross. You close your eyes and let it wash over you and just be quiet.”After the Distillers split in 2005, Dalle continued making music.Her Spinnerette project with QoTSA collaborator Alain Johannes released an album in 2009, while Dalle put out her one solo album, Diploid Love, in 2014.The Distillers reunited in 2018 but have yet to put out a fourth album.READ MORE SUN STORIESRevealing why the band reformed in a 2020 interview with Kerrang, Dalle said: “I don’t know, I think it’s just about magical timing. We were all in the right place in our lives and we all missed it so much. “For me there wasn’t a day that I didn’t think about The Distillers. We had tried to get back together briefly about eight years ago, but it just didn’t feel right. This time felt immediately right.”Brody’s band The Distillers have released three albumsCredit: Alamy More

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      ‘So pretty’ gush music fans as 90s pop star has barely aged a day 29 years after fame as she reveals new job

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      NINETIES music fans have been left doing a double take after seeing new pictures of a popstar from the iconic decade. Jewel stormed the charts in the mid-90s but she has now decided to put down her mic in favour of an entirely different job. 90s popstar Jewel has barely aged a day in 29 yearsCredit: GettyThe American singer is now 49 and looks incredibleCredit: instagramThe 49-year-old has reached for a paintbrush and shown off some rather impressive paintings online. But fans are also stunned by how young Jewel looks, despite it being almost three decades since her pop heyday. Jewel – real name Jewel Kilcher – took to Instagram to reveal her latest painting, which is of her son Kase. She captioned a video of her impressive artwork: “I wanted this painting to represent my devotion as a mother.”READ MORE ON 90S MUSICJewel’s video shows a step-by-step of her creating a fantastic work of art while using a photo of Kase for reference. “Wow girl wow! You’ve got mad talent!!!!” one of the singer’s fans replied when seeing the finished picture. Another replied: “Amazing painting, I had no idea what you’ve been up to!”And a third said: “Okay this is incredible!!!!”Most read in MusicOn other posts, Jewel’s army of followers have also commented on just how fabulous she is looking for 49 years old. Someone gushed: “So pretty in the morning!”Nineties one hit wonder has barely aged a day 28 years after record breaking single Another fan commented: “You are truly in your prime now!”Jewel grew up singing and yodeling with her father in Alaska. In 1995, following a stint at the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, she was offered a recording contract with Atlantic Records. Jewel, then aged just 20, released her debut album, Piece Of You, in the same year and it went Platinum 12 times over. She released three singles from the album – Who Will Save Your Soul, You Were Meant For Me and Foolish Games – and they stormed America’s Billboard Hot 100 chart. Jewel has gone on to have a hugely successful music career and is the proud owner of four Grammy nominations. In 2010, she released Stay Here Forever, from the soundtrack to the smash hit film Valentine’s Day, starring Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, Bradley Cooper, Jamie Foxx and Jennifer Garner. READ MORE SUN STORIESJewel is also a successful poet and the founder of nonprofit organisation Higher Ground for Humanity. She has also campaigned for better research into breast cancer and for clean water in third world countries. Jewel scooped numerous awards in her 90s pop heydayCredit: ReutersShe has now shown off her talents in another areaCredit: instagramJewel is a keen artist and has revealed a painting of her sonCredit: INSTAGRAMThe amazing oil painting could be mistaken for a photoCredit: INSTAGRAM More