Pop Music

A CLASSIC British rock band’s touring plans have been put on hold until one member gets a bill of clean health.

The band YES was due to embark on an 11-date European tour this month, launching in Glasgow on April 22nd – but the group’s guitarist Steve Howe has to undergo essential surgery, forcing the band to announce a change in plans.

YES was set to play their much-loved 1971 album Fragile in full, after the success of their North American tour in 2025.

But taking to Instagram, the group have issued a statement explaining the need to postpone.

“The upcoming YES ‘Fragile’ UK and EU Tour has had to be postponed as guitarist Steve Howe requires an essential operation that requires recovery time,” read the statement on social media.

“This decision has been made to ensure that Steve can return to the stage in full health and deliver the performances that fans deserve.

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“We are working hard to reschedule the UK and EU shows to a later date, with full details to be announced after Easter.

“Steve Howe and YES would like to thank their UK fans and hope for their continued support at this time.”

The post explained that tickets would be valid for the rescheduled dates and that the concerts would take place later in 2026.

Fans took to the comments underneath the post to express concern for Steve, wishing him well.

One wrote: “The most important thing is Steve’s health… wishing a full and speedy recovery to one of rock’s greats!”

YES released Fragile as their fourth album – and it’s widely considered their best among fans and critics alike.

The group formed in 1969, but Steve didn’t join until a year later, replacing original guitarist Peter Banks.

The group gained considerable recognition with their third and fourth albums – The Yes Album and Fragile – which were both released in 1971.

The latter included famed single Roundabout.

Over the decades, 20 different members have been part of YES, including founding members Jon Anderson, Chris Squire, Bill Bruford and Tony Kaye.

Steve is the only remaining member of his era, now joined by lead singer Jon Davison, drummer Jay Schellan, keyboard player Geoff Downes, and Billy Sherwood on bass.

In 2017, the group had to cut another tour short due to personal circumstances when Steve’s 41-year-old son tragically died from a heart attack.

YES are considered the pioneers of progressive rock by many music fans, known also for their impressive live performances, and are members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The band originally split in 1980, with some members attempting to launch spin-off groups, which mostly failed to take off.

One of these groups ended up comprising mostly of ex-YES members, and in 1983 the band was re-launched.

More incarnations of the group followed, with Steve eventually leaving in the early 1990s, returning later that decade, before the group split again in the early 2000s.

They reformed again in 2009 and have recorded new material and toured on-and-off ever since, marking their 50th anniversary in the process.

In 2024, former keyboardist Rick Wakeman left the group, saying he felt it was “time to call it a day”.

Steve and the other current line-up have continued with the group without Rick over the past two years.

DELTA Goodrem’s first album in half a decade is just around the corner.

The Australian singer, 41, has opened up to The Sun about the project – admitting fans won’t have long to wait.

Chatting ahead of a surprise pop set in Camden, London with Australian chocolatey biscuit Tim Tam, Delta said: “I have finished the new album.

“When Eurovision came up I was in the studio already as it was naturally time to create the new album.

“I am doing a new video next week when I am back in Aus again for the next song.

“That will be straight out the gate and the new album will be there straight away.”

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The record, her eighth, will be Delta’s first since 2021’s Bridge over Troubled Dreams.

During her north London set, Delta performed her Eurovision track Eclipse for the first time in the UK.

The Born To Try singer will represent Australia next month at this year’s contest in Vienna, Austria.

Previously speaking to The Sun, Delta admitted while she’s toyed with the idea of doing Eurovision for a few years, it wasn’t until she opened up about her dreams to Bizarre last May that things really started taking shape.

Delta said: “This is, literally verbatim, all your fault. It is all on you — Bizarre started this.

“Your article went back to the Aussies who were like, ‘Do you want to do this?’ So thank you. I have a big job to do.”

Delta will head to Vienna this May to compete with her song Eclipse and it ticks every box, with an infectiously camp chorus and a complex piano bridge.

A beaming Delta explained: “From your article, people started reaching out.

“Then one of the songwriters, Jonas Myrin, who I wrote the song with, took a screengrab of the article and sent it to me saying, ‘Delta, if you ever go to Eurovision, I want to write the song with you’.

“He’s in Sweden. Sure enough he flew to Australia when I said I was doing it.

“Even the first question I got asked when doing my first Australian interview was, ‘We heard it all started from an article from the UK,’ and yes, it did.”

It’s been three years since Australia last qualified for the live final, which adds to the pressure on Delta, who has sold eight million records worldwide.

Delta added: “Of course I am nervous, but it’s so joyous and I am so excited to be a part of it.”

MEL B has shut down rumours the Spice Girls will reunite to mark the 30th anniversary of Wannabe.

The singer has quashed speculation the band will get back together to celebrate three decades since their debut hit.

Wannabe was released in June 1996, with debut album Spice following that September.

Mel has now confirmed a reunion is not on the cards, disappointing millions fans who had hoped the milestone would bring the group back together.

She reunited with Geri Horner, Emma Bunton and Melanie Chisholm for a string of stadium shows in 2019, although  Victoria Beckham did not take part.

Speaking to HELLO!, Mel said: “I can tell you it’s not happening. If it does, it’ll be a shock to me, let’s put it that way.”

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Reflecting on the last tour, she added: “When I look at that and at the feeling it gave me, I was in my element, but there comes a time… I’m 50.

“You can’t be nagging everyone to go on tour if they don’t want to. I laid that to rest when I turned 50.”

Asked if she would return to the stage if the others signed up, Mel admitted she is unsure.

The 50-year-old said, “I honestly don’t know. I’ve got a lot of respect and love for those girls. I wouldn’t be sitting here if it wasn’t for me being part of the Spice Girls.

“They’ve done a lot for me as a person and in my life. I’ve got fond memories, but I don’t know if I would want to go back up on stage.”

She added: “I can’t even begin to tell you what our bond is – it’s just something that will always be there.

“We’re like family; our umbilical cords are all tied together.”

For now, fans may have to settle for a potential Netflix documentary, in the style of recent Beckham projects.

Mel said: “I think we’ve all been asked and we’re all thinking about it at some point.

“But it has to be done in the right way, and it has to be honest – and not everybody wants to be honest.”

A planned Netflix drama based on the group was shelved last month amid tensions in the group.

Reports in 2024 claimed Geri had concerns about the deal, which is said would have netted the girls a cool £1 million each.  

Sources also alleged tensions between Geri and Mel are making any Spice Girls comeback nearly impossible.

The infamous rift exploded in 2019, after Mel sensationally claimed that she had a secret fling with Geri during the band’s early years in an interview on Piers Morgan’s show.

Geri denied the claim, saying that Mel ‘dreamed it up’ to sell more copies of her Brutally Honest biography.

The Sun told last April how Geri, 53, was back in touch with the band’s former manager Simon Fuller and had flown out to Miami to try and agree on a deal.

As recently as January, Mel C had insisted they were still in active discussions about celebrating the milestone.

And even Victoria, 51, had prompted hopes she could return to the group, saying she “loves” the idea of a residency at Las Vegas venue Sphere.

The Spice Girls have not performed together as a five-piece since the London 2012 Olympics closing ceremony.

ARLO PARKS’ third album is a reset, inspired by the nightlife, freedom and spontaneity she missed out on when she broke through as a teenager. 

For Ambiguous Desire, the London-born singer-songwriter wanted to escape from way she had created songs in the past.  

Arlo, 25, says: “I wanted this to be from ground zero and exactly how I feel now, while I’m really living. 

“When I got to the end of the cycle for my second record, My Soft Machine, I was like, ‘OK, I want to see what it’s like when I DECIDE the path of my days’.  

“I wanted to spend more time in nocturnal spaces, making friends with DJs, club organisers and people in different collectives, and getting inspired by exploring the subcultures and the history and the architecture of those spaces. That’s what was fascinating.” 

Using voicenotes, journal entries and memories from nights out, the Mercury Prize winner’s intimate album is rooted in storytelling.  

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She says: “For this record, my mantra was to write it exactly how it felt.  

“In the past, I was focused on making things as beautiful and poetic as possible, but this time I stripped it right back to the lean truth of it, and that felt more authentic.  

“I also wanted to bring in those references exactly as I heard them, without softening the edges or maybe adding guitars to bring it into the indie world. 

“I wanted it to be inspired by house and garage, the music I’ve been loving. It was just about being true to myself.” 

This raw approach to songwriting runs through 12-track Ambiguous Desire. 

Arlo, real name Anais Marinho, says: “I wanted to make the music feel exciting and dynamic, so the song Jetta is just a voicenote in an Uber with my friends from one of those nights. 

“It’s the sound and the stories of people. Even the vinyl cover and the inserts are photos I took of my friends on nights out.” 

I chat to Arlo at her London record label office the day before she flies back to LA, which has been her home for the past four years. 

Arlo, who won the Brit Breakthrough Artist Award in 2021, following the success of her debut album Collapsed In Sunbeams, says: “LA does feel like home, but London will always BE home.  

“When I moved to LA, I was coming into myself as an artist, so I see it as the place where I built my community and grew into my confidence. But London is where I grew up, where my roots are, where I wrote my first word and heard my first song.”  

While London holds emotional ties — Arlo has been staying with friends and family while in the capital — LA has provided the creative community and space to push her sound. 

She says: “It’s the place where I met a lot of the people that I make music with. And there’s something about the pace of life there, the nature and the sunshine that gives me this sense of peace, where I can just sit and write.  

“My main collaborator, Baird, lives there and we made the whole record in the space he shares with his brother. 

“It’s like a living-room studio with pianos, acrylic paints, sewing machines — it’s an amazing creative hub. The place has been really inspiring for me and given me the peace to experiment.” 

Club culture became both creative research and a release from everyday worries.  

She says: “In New York, we were going to clubs like Nowadays and Basement, which is more in the techno world, and then in LA there are nights like Midnight Lovers. 

“The scene there feels much more DIY, more warehouses than big institutions like London’s Fabric.  

“It was nice to have that as part of our week, like knowing on a Saturday we’d go out and experience it. 

“And I love living in LA because so many artists pass through, so you can catch shows all the time. People like Jamie xx in those spaces were amazing.” 

The euphoric dancefloor-inspired Heaven was the first song that Parks wrote and knew she was on to something special.  

She recalls: “I’d been out with my friend Kelly [DJ Kelly Lee Owens], who was supporting Caribou and, the night after, I’d written all of these little fragments in my journal, like my friend wearing pink Adidas shoes. That’s in the song, which came together exactly like the night had felt.  

“I was able to distil that experience into a song. It felt very cinematic.” 

Clubbing helped Arlo reconsider how songwriting can be a collective experience rather than just a personal one.  

That instinct carries into the brilliant 2Sided, the first track released from the album, which describes the heat and chaos of a night out with friends at a club. 

She says: “It felt like the right song to start this era, and it came about really naturally.  

“I felt it when I made it, and also a lot of my friends — my partner, everyone in my life — were like, ‘That’s the one’.” 

Her other standout tracks explore different themes.  

The dreamy Beams includes the line “I know it’s not a way to treat people you love”, and Parks says: “I think that sentiment is really simple.  

“There’s a moment where you’re in a situation or a relationship and you’ve become used to being treated a certain way and then you realise, ‘Wait, that’s not actually how you treat people. You should be softer, kinder’.  

“It’s about that realisation of what you actually deserve.” 

Luck Of Life is another brilliant track, which explores grief. Arlo says: “That started just me on my computer at the kitch­en table.  

“It’s about loss, something we’ve all experienced whether it’s someone passing away or a break-up, but the impact those people had on our lives and, hopefully, bringing comfort to people who are hurting.” 

On Senses, a collaboration with Sampha, she says: “It’s soothing. I think a lot of that comes from Sampha, as he’s just such a soulful person. 

“He’s always tried out lots of different genres in his career, which is really inspiring to me.” 

For her forthcoming live shows in the UK, US and Europe, Arlo has made some changes. 

She says: “It makes sense to shift the set-up as well for these shows. For a long time, it’s been kind of indie — I had a guitar band — but I want to bring the samplers and the drum machines in.  

“I’ve been inspired by how Massive Attack are touring now and bringing those Nineties sounds into more contemporary spaces. 

“With the smaller shows we did at the end of last year, I had this idea of a light box above with a blue wash, and the stage being in the round with all my samplers and equipment in the middle.  

“I wanted to feel like those nights. Even the imagery came from that.  

“We went back to some of those clubs and did this kind of guerilla-style photography with my friends.  

“It was about staying true to what really happened and trying to recapture that.”  

In 2022, Arlo cancelled some US tour dates due to “debilitating” mental health issues. She has since learned to slow down to avoid another burnout. 

She says: “Music is what I love most in the world, so if I ever feel anything negative, I know it’s because I’m feeling overworked, not because of the music itself.  

“It’s my passion, it’s very much at the centre of who I am.” It is why she also took her time making Ambiguous Desire.  

She says: “I didn’t really want it to be this sprint where I would then have a crash, I want to do this for the rest of my life.”  

Arlo, who became a Unicef UK Ambassador in 2024, to advocate for child mental health, adds: “I’ve always wanted to be a career artist and be making music forever. I knew that I had to pace myself a bit. And, looking back, I’ve had some amazing times. 

“Thinking back to Glastonbury and winning the Mercury Album Of The Year [for Collapsed In Sunbeams] as well, I couldn’t believe it.  

“There’s something really specific about the Mercury because it’s just one winner and it was at the Hammersmith Apollo, which I used to cycle past on the way to school, which made it surreal.” 

Parks has previously been hailed a “voice of her generation”, but that must come with pressure.

She says: “I felt like I was speaking to collective experiences we were going through, rather than being some kind of spokesperson. I never really saw myself as that, so I didn’t feel pressure to be a certain way.  

“I was just telling stories about what I was seeing and living, and that happened to connect with teenagers at that time. 

“But, anyway, my fan base is broad — I love it when I see whole families at a gig and I’ve seen grandparents with grandkids as well as groups of friends. It really is a bit of everything. And I love that. That makes me feel really happy.” 

Ambiguous Desire concludes with track Floette, which she describes as “a note of hope”. 

Arlo says: “I wanted to embrace the fact that change is inevitable and part of life, and we’re all growing and trying our best.  

“ ‘We’re blossoming’ as it says in that song.  

“Looking at myself, I’m more confident and I feel happier than ever.  

“I’ve made something I’m really proud of, which colours the lens that I’m looking at things through.  

“It’s the start of something new, and in the future, I’d love to write a book and a screenplay and be part of a soundtrack for a film.  

“It’s like I’m coming of age. Maybe it’s just growing up. 

“While I’m proud of the music that I made before, this feels a little bit more different.  

“I feel like I’ve finally arrived, after years of making music. I’ve found the confidence to step away and do things my way, take a risk and witness it pay off. 

“I trust myself and my intuition more than ever.” 

• Ambiguous Desire is out today. 

ARLO PARKS
Ambiguous Desire

★★★★☆

AWARD-winner Olivia Dean is on cloud nine posing in a fluffy white coat.

The So Easy (To Fall In Love) singer was also pictured in a red mini-dress for Elle magazine.

The London-born star, 27, said: “My heart is extremely full.”

But she knows to keep up her guard too, adding: “People can get lost within this industry.

“You have to be quite mentally strong.”

So far in 2026 Olivia has scooped four Brits, three Mobos and a Grammy.

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Last week she won Best Female Act, Album Of The Year for The Art Of Loving and Song Of The Year for Man I Need at the Mobos, cementing her reign at the top.

At February’s Brits her album The Art of Loving was named Album of the Year.

Screaming in joy as she received the award on stage, she said: “Making this album has changed my life.

“I feel so proud to have made it and to have worked with everyone that I did on it. Max Bastian, Zack, thank you for believing in me…”

Breaking down in tears again, she added: “This album is just about love and loving each other in a world that feels loveless right now.

“So… I don’t know. Thank you, bye!”

PIANO Man Billy Joel has recorded a special interview to air during Eurovision thanks to his song named after host city Vienna, I can reveal.

Afterwards, Austrian singer Cesar Sampson, who finished third in 2018, will cover the song before the results are revealed.

I’m told there were hopes Billy could fly over to make a surprise appearance at the contest.

But it was ruled out on health grounds.

Billy was diagnosed last May with a rare neurological disorder that can cause issues with hearing, balance and vision, although he is having physical therapy to treat it.

The musician has already cancelled all of his 2026 concerts, including shows in Edinburgh and Liverpool.

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However, he did make a surprise appearance in Florida on January 2.

A source close to the singer, who will turn 77 a week before the final on May 16, said: “Billy has recorded an interview talking about his love for Vienna and his links to the city, which is all tied into his song.

“Organisers originally hoped he could perform but that was ruled out. They will be making a big deal of this very rare interview with him.”

He has sold more than 160million records and is one of the best-selling artists of all time.

Vienna was released in 1977 as the B-side to Just The Way You Are, and is now among his most popular tracks.

Ultravox’s 1980 hit, also called Vienna, is arguably even more popular.

But frontman Midge Ure certainly won’t be there, as he will be in the middle of a UK tour.

The 70th edition of the contest will take place at the Wiener Stadthalle arena after 166million tuned in to see Austrian singer JJ win with Wasted Love last year.

Celine Dion had been in talks to perform at the 2025 event in Switzerland, but it didn’t happen as she continued to battle Stiff Person Syndrome.

I’ll have to keep my fingers crossed that the Eurovision entries themselves provide plenty of entertainment instead.

NELLY Furtado has silenced body shamers in a curve-hugging strapless red gown, as she was honored with a Hall of Fame award.

The iconic singer, 47, has faced cruel comments about her figure since her return to the spotlight, but defied the haters to accept the coveted achievement.

Nelly looked stunning in her dress, as she was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame at the 2026 Juno Awards.

The stunning star oozed sex appeal in the incredible dress as she collected her gong.

The Grammy Award winning artist wore her brown locks tied back, and she accessorised with huge earrings.

Nelly beamed and threw her arms in the air as she walked on stage to be inducted into her native country’s Hall of Fame.

Addressing the audience, the thrilled star said: “Honestly, I’m just really proud to be Canadian. I live in Canada.

“I make my music in Canada.

“I work with Canadian musicians, songwriters, producers because I totally believe in the Canadian dream.

“Please believe it, too.”

It comes after Nelly revealed how she was retiring from performing, after 25 years in the spotlight.

Taking to Instagram last October, the Grammy winner made an emotional post expressing gratitude for her career but that she felt it was time for a change.

Addressing fans, Nelly said: “I have decided to step away from performance for the foreseeable future and pursue some other creative and personal endeavours that I feel would better suit this next phase of my life.

“I have enjoyed my career immensely, and I still love writing music as I have always seen it as a hobby I was lucky enough to make into a career.

“I’ll identify as a songwriter forever.”

Nelly shot to fame in 2000 with her debut album Whoa, Nelly!.

The record was a huge success and spawned the single I’m Like A Bird which went was played on radio stations around the world.

The star is also well known for her song Promiscuous as well as her collaboration with singer James Morrison on Broken Strings.

Another huge hit for Nelly was her chart topping song Maneater.

TAKE That’s Howard Donald has revealed he is selling off his beloved campervan home for a FIVE figure sum, and said that ‘it saddened” him to part with it.

The singer, 57, owns an impressive car collection, but now is selling off his VW camper – but asked fans: “What am I doing?”

The minted star, who has made his millions from touring and making records with Take That, is now giving fans the opportunity to snap up the luxury motor.

For £50K, Howard‘s loyal followers can buy the campervan from him.

The star shared the news on Instagram with a slew of pics of the cosy looking vehicle.

In one snap, Howard is seen standing next to the campervan, as he got ready to say goodbye to it.

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He captioned the pictures with: “FOR SALE!!! VW rare double door 4 berth camper van.

“It saddens me to sell this but I never used it!

“I even look at it now and think what am I doing?!”

Howard’s post got some cheeky comments from his fans, with one writing: “Can you be the driver please?!”

Another said: “Does the model come with the car???”

A third quipped: “I think a few of us Take That fans should put in some cash together and buy it and use it at the venues on tour to queue up!”

This saucy fan added: “Does it come complete with you tied up in the back of it?! If so I’ll sell my house and buy it instantly!”

Howard is well known for his impressive car collection, with his VW camper being just one of the multi-millionaire’s impressive motors.

Among the collection, the singer owns a Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, which he uses to drive his family, a 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280SE Cabriolet, and a 1959 Chevrolet Brookwood.

Howard previously revealed he believes he has around 17 supercars – but that he finds it hard to store them all.

The star told the Fuelling Around podcast in 2023: “It’s come to a point where you’re trying to put them in other people’s garages and you’re thinking, “No, it’s too ridiculous’.”

At the time he said that he was planning to sell some of his cars to pay for his children’s education.

“One day, it’ll come to the crunch where Take That probably will stop eventually, and then you think, ‘I’m going to have to sell one of my cars’,” the star said.

He joked: “I really hate my kids for that, though.”

Howard shot to fame in the early 90s as one of the five original members of Take That.

The Lancashire lad completed the line-up consisting of Gary Barlow, Mark Owen, Robbie Williams and Jason Orange.

The band went onto to have huge success with songs like Back For Good, Relight My Fire and Never Forget.

Robbie left the band in 1995, and the rest of the group parted ways the following year.

However, they got back together in the early noughties as a foursome, with Jason parting ways with the group in 2014.

But Howard, Gary and Mark continue to fly the Take That flag and are heading out on tour this summer.

Since January 2015, Howard has been married to illustrator Katie Halil, and they share two kids.

He also has two daughters from two separate relationships.

IT’S being billed as a huge tribute concert to Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield, who died in November.

But I’m told the “Manichester” event in honour of the Stone Roses bassist, organised by his brother Greg, has caused a rift in the family.

The concert will see musicians including Zak Starkey, Baz Fratelli from The Fratellis, John Mcclure from Reverend And The Makers and Simone Butler from Primal Scream come together at Manchester’s Diecast in May.

Cast are also lined up to perform, along with Mick Rossi from Slaughter & The Dogs and Stone Roses guitarist Aziz Ibrahim.

But while the concert was believed to have the full support of Mani’s family, which includes his twin sons Gene and George, insiders say not everyone is in agreement.

A source said: “Mani’s legacy and celebrating that is so important to so many people.

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“But not everyone related to him is happy about this concert.

“Even his young son Gene has voiced his concerns on social media.

“It is all very messy and is spilling over into the public domain.

“This is not what Mani would have wanted. His twin boys were everything to him.”

Greg confirmed earlier this month that he was organising the tribute concert, and said there were hopes of snaring Noel and Liam Gallagher to perform, as well as Johnny Marr.

He said: “I think it will be brilliant.

“With the names already in the hat, and the names we’re yet to announce, it’s a worthy thing, a tribute to our kid, a Mancunian legend, and I know he’d love it.

“He would be absolutely buzzing about it.”

Mani, who was best known for his work with Stone Roses and Primal Scream, died at home in Manchester aged 63.

Noel and Liam made an on-stage dedication to him during their Oasis ’25 Live reunion tour, while rock icons including Stone Roses singer Ian Brown turned out to pay their respects at his funeral.

As a fan of Mani, I hope this can be resolved quickly and without further upset.

LITTLE BRIT OF FAMILY TIME

BRITNEY SPEARS is being supported by her sons following her arrest for driving under the influence – and it’s about time too.

For years, the Circus singer was deserted by her boys – who she has with ex-husband Kevin Federline.

But it seems they are back in her life and bringing a smile to her face.

She shared a video on Instagram on a boat with Sean and Jayden, during a getaway, including a shot of them smiling together.

Britney wrote: “Thank you guys for all your support… Spending time with family and friends is such a blessing!”

AITCH FIZZES MUSIC

HE was flying high after his stint in I’m A Celebrity last year.

But now Aitch is facing another trial, and it could be just as gruesome.

I’m told the Strike Me A Pose rapper is embroiled in a legal row over his Syps drinks brand with two former directors of the company.

Aitch, real name Harrison Armstrong, created Syps back in 2023 with businessmen David Olusegun and Alexander El-Nemer – with the trio proudly showing off their fizzy, flavoured water at events across the UK.

But I’m told that partnership is now well and truly over, with David and Alexander resigning as directors.

A source said: “Harrison has fallen out with David and Alexander and it seems there is no going back.

“They’re in a full-blown legal dispute and it’s all in the hands of their lawyers.

“The three created the brand together so it could get messy.

“Harrison is still working on the brand and is running things with his manager.

“How quickly this is going to get resolved is the question. One thing is for sure though, Harrison wants it dealt with so he can move on.”

TAMER ROLE FOR HARDMAN ACTOR

TAMER HASSAN is swapping punch-ups for pull-ons after landing a major new deal with sportswear giant Reebok.

The hardman actor has filmed an advert for a bold campaign inspired by Robin Hood, of all people.

It sees Tamer playing a cheeky “friendly villain” who nicks sports kits before handing them out to kids.

He is joined by UK rapper K-Trap, and starry cameos from
Gary Oldman, Laila Morse and Lisa Maffia.

An insider said: “Tamer is genuinely thrilled to be part of something revitalised and forward-thinking.

“Reebok is part of the culture, and seeing it evolve with fresh energy in 2026 makes this really exciting.”

The retro-style campaign is also a nod to 2005 British crime flick The Business, which starred Tamer alongside Danny Dyer.

Filmed at a secret North London location, the advert is set to drop later this month and marks the start of a huge year for the actor.

He’s gearing up for the premiere of Rise Of The Footsoldier: Retribution at Cannes in May, ahead of its UK cinema release this summer.

From the big screen to the high street, it sounds like Tamer has a lot going for him right now.

TEARY NIGHT FOR ELLIE’S WOLF PACK

WOLF ALICE had an emotional night headlining the final evening of the Teenage Cancer Trust’s concert series – with frontwoman Ellie Rowsell breaking down in tears.

The group debuted two new songs, Hit The Sky and Gospel Oak, and towards the end of the latter, her voice broke and she became teary.

She asked the band to restart the track from the beginning of the final verse and was then hugged by guitarist Joff Oddie and bassist Theo Ellis.

Later, Theo admitted that performing in London’s Royal Albert Hall for the charity concert was making him emotional, too.

He said: “These are my best friends. It’s unbearable how much I want to cry all the time in this gaff.”

They deservedly picked up the British Group gong at the Brit Awards last month following the success of their fourth studio album, The Clearing – one of the best British albums of 2025.

If you’re yet to see them, make sure you make it to one of the festivals they’re playing across the UK this summer.

BENSON SWOON

BENSON BOONE got his fans hot under the collar while cooking up this tour announcement.

He whipped off his top, cracked eggs with his biceps and showed off his rippling muscles as he added ingredients to a bowl while baking a cake.

It was eventually topped with the poster for his new Wanted Man tour.

I have to applaud him for the sexy and hilarious snippet posted on Instagram, but it’s a sea change from 12 months ago when he told Rolling Stone magazine that he didn’t want to rely on his body to sell shows.

He told the mag: “I definitely remember there was a time where I would take my shirt off because I didn’t know what else to do.

“I don’t want to rely on my physical form to be the primary driver of my shows.”

It’s a good job he’s had a fair few hits.

YOU BOOTY, KATYA

STRICTLY’S Katya Jones looked the part – and had the footwear to match – when she strutted in to watch the opening night of musical Kinky Boots.

And she was in for a real treat.

With glitter, tinsel, red leather and high heels, this latest production of the hit show is a dazzling spectacle, the likes of which the West End has rarely seen.

Fellow Strictly star Johannes Radebe is mind-blowing as drag queen Lola, above, proving his singing voice and stage charisma are almost as brilliant as his dancing.

But playing the perfect straight man is X Factor winner Matt Cardle as Charlie Price, who inherits his father’s ailing shoe factory in Northampton and comes up with a plan to save it by making footwear for Lola and her fellow artistes.

Fun, feel-good and unforgettable, everyone should try these Kinky Boots for size.

A MAJOR band from the eighties have revealed that they won’t be performing live on stage again.

It comes nearly two years after the group sparked reunion rumours when they met up together in New York after attending the Brit Awards.

Erasure were responsible for some utterly iconic tunes back in their day, many of which have stood the test of time.

But now they’ve revealed that they have already performed their final gig.

Speaking to The New Cue newsletter, Erasure’s Vince Clarke spoke about the decision to stop touring and how it wasn’t an easy choice.

Vince was asked: “What’s the bravest career decision you’ve ever made?,” in an interview with the outlet.

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To which Vince responded: “To stop touring.”

He then continued to explain the reasoning behind the decision in more depth.

Vince elaborated: “What happened was [Erasure singer] Andy Bell and myself, we did these fan shows before Christmas and they were great but…

“It’s difficult to explain… the simple answer would be is I just don’t want to be really old and going onstage!

“I just don’t want to do it anymore.”

Vince and Andy sent fans rushing to conclusions of a reunion years ago after posting a vague post online with the caption: “plotting and planning.”

The news thrilled fans on X, who immediately started speculating what they had up their sleeves. 

“Let’s GO! Gotta see Erasure again live soon, it’s been way too long!” wrote one fan. 

“So thrilled you two are still working together all these years later,” said a second.

A third noted: “New album? Would kill for a follow up to Erasure” 

Erasure released their debut album Wonderland in 1985, and in the following year they broke into the UK charts with their single, Sometimes. 

Since that time, they have released a staggering 19 albums, with their last being 2022’s Day-Glo.

They won Best British Group at the 1989 Brit Awards, with other hit tracks including A Little Respect, Always, Chains of Love and Breath of Life.

Andy went on to have a successful solo career, while Vince Clarke had previously been a founding member of two more iconic bands, Depeche Mode and Yazoo. 

EMMA Bunton has been spotted beaming alongside pal Holly Willoughby at a Disney launch after the Spice Girls reunion was cancelled.

The singer, 50, attended the press day of Disney Adventure World and World Of Frozen at Disneyland Paris in France on Saturday.

She appeared to put her band’s woes to one side as she posed for pictures with her longtime friend Holly, 45.

Baby Spice got into the spirit of things by donning a pair of Mickey Mouse ears as well as a tie with the famous character on it.

She looked chic in a white shirt tucked into a pair of straight leg jeans and a cream wool coat.

Emma wore her blonde locks straight and opted for a subtle make-up look.

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Meanwhile, Holly wore a black t-shirt tucked into jeans with a black coat and some brown boots.

She too got into the Disney spirit with a set of ears as the two put on their widest smiles for photos.

The two women have been firm friends for several years and are often spotted socialising with their group of friends, including Melanie Blatt and Christine Lampard.

Emma’s appearance comes after The Sun exclusively revealed that the Spice Girls’ 30th anniversary reunion has been cancelled after they failed to pull their plans together in time.

Emma, as well as Mel C, Mel B, Victoria Beckham and Geri Halliwell-Horner had been in talks to reunite for a string of concerts to mark three decades since the release of their debut single Wannabe.

The Sun understands they failed to reach an agreement and plans for a comeback tour in 2026 have been ditched.

Confirming the news during an interview on The Smallzy Show on Australia’s KIIS Radio, Mel C, 52, said: “No, there is no reunion.

“We are communicating all the time. We want to do something – who knows when.

“But I still feel very optimistic and I keep my fingers crossed that you will see the Spice Girls together at some point in the future.”

The Sun told last April how Geri, 53, was back in touch with the band’s former manager Simon Fuller and had flown out to Miami to try and agree on a deal.

As recently as January, Mel C had insisted they were still in active discussions about celebrating the milestone.

And even Victoria, 51, had prompted hopes she could return to the group, saying she “loves” the idea of a residency at Las Vegas venue Sphere.

She said in October of the prospect: “It would be tempting. But could I take on a world tour? No I can’t. I have a job…

“How good would the Spice Girls be at the Sphere! I love the idea of it. I mean I don’t know if I could even still sing, I mean I was never that great!”

However, in recent weeks, plans have fallen apart, with just a collectible coin from the Royal Mint being announced to mark the anniversary.

A planned Netflix drama based on the group was shelved last month amid reported tensions in the group.

The Spice Girls have not performed together as a five-piece since the London 2012 Olympics closing ceremony.

They last reunited without Posh in 2019 for a sold out 13-date stadium tour of the UK and Ireland, selling 700,000 tickets and making £4.4m each.

A FOUNDING member of Seventies glam rock band Showaddywaddy, guitarist Trevor Oakes, has died the group announced today.

Former lead singer Dave Bartram who is now manager, said the 79-year-old musician passed away peacefully on February 18 after “a long illness”.

The band specialised in Fifties and Sixties classics including their only UK No1 single Under the Moon of Love in 1976 and still tours but with only drummer Romeo Challenger from the original line-up.

It enjoyed 15 Top Twenty hits during their peak from 1974 to 1979.

Bartram, also the group’s manager, said: “Trevor was a unique character and a dedicated professional, without whom the band would never have quite scaled the dizzy heights we seemed destined to achieve.

“He was also a caring and affectionate family man, with a mischievous sense of humour, which will be sadly missed by all those dear to him.

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“ I could write a book about the incredible memories we’ve shared over the past fifty-seven years, but most of all I thank him from the bottom of my heart for his unwavering friendship. Your true friend Dave.”

A source claimed to The Sun that Bartram died in a Leicester care home and that his funeral has already taken place.

No further details have been released about Oakes’ illness or cause of death.

The musician was born in Leicester and worked as press knife maker before becoming a professional musician.

Oakes quit the band when he was aged 62 in May 2009 after suffering ill health, according to his biography on its website.

He has two ex-footballer sons, Stefan Oakes who played for Leicester City in the Premier League, and Scott Oakes, whoi had a spell at Luton Town.

JEDWARD star John Grimes hard launched his new girlfriend on social media today, and she’s absolutely stunning.

It comes just before the singer is due to appear on Celebrity Ex On The Beach.

Taking to the official Jedward Instagram page that he shares with twin brother Edward, John shared some cosy snaps of himself with his lady on a day out in London.

In the photos the loved-up duo are standing in front of the iconic Tower Bridge.

The beautiful brunette rests her hand on John’s chest while he wraps his around her waist.

The happy couple beam at the camera, both dressed up with sparkles as the sun sets.

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John is wearing a pair of silver sequin trousers with a matching black jacket with silver accent details.

Meanwhile his girlfriend is wearing a pretty pastel blue dress with large round sequins clinging to the skirt.

Penned sweetly in the caption, John romantically said: “Here’s to a new chapter and making memories with the best girl xxx.”

Fans of the star rushed to the post’s comments section to share their congratulations and wish the pair lots of happiness.

One user said: “So happy for you.”

A second shared: “Wishing you both all the best!,” followed by emojis of a heart and a sparkle.

A third added: “Congrats! Wishing you and this lovely lass all the best!”

A fourth said: “10 year old me would’ve cried my eyes out at this back in 2009.”

John’s time on Celeb Ex On The Beach will mark his first professional project away from his twin brother.

In the first-look at the new episodes, John is stunned to be reunited with former flame Sarah Carragher – but it’s not long before they pick up where they left off.

He tells her: “No one really ever came close to what we had.” 

John and Sarah are then seen kissing, suggesting the shock reunion was a successful one. 

While he’s never publicly spoken about his relationship with Sarah, John previously revealed he prefers to keep his private life separate from his work after shooting to fame on The X Factor in 2009.

He said in 2017: “I’ve had two long-term relationships that were private. That wasn’t part of my career.”

FOR Dermot Kennedy’s third album, he wanted to explore both the beauty and burden of a successful music career. 

The award-winning Irish singer might headline huge arenas but he has always had his feet firmly on the ground, valuing a normal life, privacy and simple things such as walking in his local woods — the theme of his new record. 

He says: “I feel I’m at a sweet spot, because I can play The O2 in London but I can walk around all day and no one really knows who I am. 

“Having a career in music is a blessing. It’s the most amazing thing, but at the same time, there are certain challenges that come with it. It tests relationships and tests your own resolve, it’s a ­pressure. And I wanted to write about that.” 

The pull of nature as a place to reset became more powerful to the singer as he found success — both his previous collections, Without Fear (2019) and Sonder (2022), topped the album chart. 

“With a career in music, you’re not anonymous, you’re constantly moving from city to city,” he explains. 

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“Being somewhere where you can only see trees in every direction has become more and more important to me, and more powerful. Where I live is quite remote, and that’s the way I want to be.”

This recurring woodland imagery reflects a sense of calm and nostalgia to Kennedy, and the cover of his new album, The Weight Of The Woods, features the singer in a woodland setting. 

As we chat in his central London record label offices, he’s signing a huge pile of his new CDs.  

“It’s a great album cover,” he says smiling. “Even signing these all morning, I’m not sick of looking at it yet.” 

A standout on Kennedy’s new record is the track Sycamore, a gorgeous introspective ode to home and identity. 

“The Irish landscape has always been important to me,” he says. “Where we took the picture for the album still resonates. It’s a big part of how I’m inspired.” 

Working with producer Gabe Simon — who produced Noah Kahan’s 2022 breakthrough album, Stick Season — Kennedy made The Weight Of The Woods in ­Ireland, Nashville and Norway. 

He says: “Sycamore is lush and smooth, which felt different for me. It was the first song we made when Gabe came over — there’s a sycamore tree right in front of my house that’s become a kind of ­talisman in my life. It felt like a lovely way to start. 

“A lot of these songs carry a vulnerability I haven’t shown before, and that felt important, because you can’t pretend you’re 100 per cent all the time. It’s just not true.” 

This shift shows a new confidence, one that allows him to do things his own way. 

“Generally, I’m a quiet person, so on previous albums I wasn’t the loudest in the room whereas with this one, I have the confidence to shout for it and take my time. 

“It’s taken this long to get to a point where I know what I want — what I need and what’s authentic.” 

The Weight Of The Woods reflects a stage in his life where Kennedy feels more secure, more at home and more fully himself. Now married with a baby daughter, his perspective has shifted in ways he struggles to fully articulate. 

“How has fatherhood changed me?” he ponders. “It’s hard to sum up, I can’t explain it in a couple of minutes. 

“It just means the world to me and gives you a completely new perspective on life. 

“It makes you realise there are more important things than chasing goals in music. 

“The best thing I can do now is make music that moves me and try to live in a way that feels like the purest version of who I am. It becomes the centre of everything. 

“Fatherhood has given me more confidence, but also a different kind of fragility, making me more emotionally open. 

“A lot of these songs carry a vulnerability that I haven’t shown in my music before, and that’s important.”  

Musically, Kennedy feels the album has a strong Irishness, though it was not a deliberate concept.  

Honest is a track that feels especially personal, as it directly references where he is from in Ireland. 

He says: The first lyric is about Kilteel [near Rathcoole, Co Dublin] which is an important part of where I’m from. It’s a more personal record so I needed to tell the story of where I’m from.” 

He reflects on the pull of home: “Sometimes when you’re trying to have a career in music, people assume they need to move away and live somewhere else. 

“But in Ireland we have one of the richest musical landscapes in the world, you know? So, it’s nice to be a part of that. 

“And it’s the most Irish-sounding track. I played the bodhran [a traditional Irish frame drum] on it, the drum you hear at the beginning, and there’s also a tin ­whistle. It all came together very naturally so these songs feel dynamic to me and they’re really going to work live.” 

Wasted is a favourite of Kennedy’s on the record. Inspired by US singer and producer Dijon, he says: “It felt like it had that excited, upbeat energy without being pop. It felt real in the room and exciting.” 

Then there’s The Only Time I Prayed, which explores the singer’s relationship with faith. 

“I’ve got songs like Glory, and lyrics about the devil, but I’d consider myself definitely agnostic. I believe in otherworldly things but I’m not a practising Catholic. 

“Still, when things get difficult, people pray — regardless of faith. It comes from desperation, and I find that fascinating. Sometimes I even feel envious of people with a strong faith.” 

Another highlight on the record is Funeral, a stunning track about letting go of the past to move forward. 

“I just wanted that song to be about ditching any difficult stuff I’ve been through,” he says. 

“Songwriters spend an awful lot of time wallowing in the past and I wanted it to feel triumphant — moving forward into something more positive. 

“It felt good and the vocal carries an energy which is always a fun thing on a song.” 

On this third album, Kennedy feels more confident, self-assured and clearer about what is authentic to him. 

He says: “It’s less inhibition and less stress — not poring over every decision. So confidence showed up in quite a carefree, exciting way.” 

It was important to Kennedy that the album was stripped back and imperfect to add to the studio atmosphere. 

“Musically, if you listen closely, there are lots of imperfections, little noises other artists or producers might take out,” he says.  

“You can hear someone talking, a chair creaking. It puts me back in that room, and I don’t want to lose that.” 

That same approach mirrors a wider creative release: “I feel like I’ve let go massively, which is a good thing.” 

That sense of letting go has also reshaped how he defines success. 

“Any pressure that came with the second album was internal, applied by myself,” he says. “I don’t think being competitive puts me in the best place to be the best artist I can be. I’m pretty sure it doesn’t.  

“Tracking streams or records isn’t success to me. With this record, it was just lovely to get back to a place where I really enjoyed making the music, the visual world around it, and playing the songs.  

“Don’t get me wrong, I still want lots of people to hear it, but I feel like I’ve already succeeded with this project.  

“If it reaches a ton of people, that’s fantastic, but I had a beautiful time making it, and that’s everything. 

“When you chase numbers and all that stuff, it’s all quite surface level and not very fulfilling in the end. 

“I don’t think trying too hard is the move. It’s important to work hard and promote things, but being overly try-hard isn’t appealing.  

“It’s better to sit back and let the music do the work. By letting go — stepping back from social media and putting the music first — it feels more likely to set my career up the way I want it.” 

Live performance remains central to Kennedy’s identity. He feels he has built his career the “old-fashioned way” by playing rooms and winning audiences over. 

He says: “Nowadays, there’s so many ways that someone can forge a career. You can blow up on the internet or go viral. For me, it’s never really been like that. 

“It’s been more about getting people into a room. I think I can play in such a way that they might want to come back and see it again next time.” 

“For me, when I dreamed about having a career in music, all I thought about was playing in big, beautiful theatres. So playing live is an important part of what I do.” 

Even as he now fills large venues, Kennedy is keen to preserve a sense of intimacy within those spaces. 

He explains: “We’re going to do it differently. There are lots of ways you can use tech in a live show. You can run tracks for things like horns and production, but then the whole show ends up on track and can feel like elevated karaoke. 

“You can come off stage feeling like you haven’t really achieved much. So, with this tour, we’ve got rid of the click track and any backing tracks. It’s about keeping it real and letting the performance have more freedom. 

“We’re getting rid of any kind of bells and whistles, and it’s just fun. I could start a song at any tempo, I could be feeling a certain way that ends up being a faster version with more energy, or we could pull it right back. 

“You go to a live show for the energy, and I think it’s far easier to tap into that special place if you don’t have that stuff.” 

Kennedy is also more careful about looking after his voice when he tours 

“I try not to do more than two nights in a row, because it compromises the rest of the tour. It means I can walk on stage excited, instead of just hoping I get through it.” 

It’s part of a wider shift in how he approaches performance. “It’s a process as well, working with vocal coaches and stuff. I run a lot more now, because you need that lung capacity. I’m not sure about other ­people’s experience touring, but it feels like a sport sometimes.” 

That mindset has also made him more aware of the level required to sustain a major live career — something he saw first-hand watching ­Taylor Swift live. 

“Well, I saw her at the venue I’m playing this summer, and it was inspiring.” he says. “I saw Travis, her fiancé, talking about her fitness regime and just how she’s operating at a kind of scary level. 

“I find that really inspiring, because it makes you realise this is a very high level of what we do — you have to take it seriously. When someone is that on top of their game, it’s just incredibly motivating.” 

“The show is, what, three hours long? It was wild to see. And honestly, it was just cool to be in Dublin and see people so excited by those songs.  

“What really struck me was that it was just her songs. You realise this is someone who started out just writing songs, and now it’s millions of people all over the world. 

“But it doesn’t feel like some manufactured pop machine. It just feels like someone who writes songs, and that’s what makes it so powerful.” 

• The album The Weight Of The Woods is out on April 3. 

DERMOT KENNEDY 

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★★★★☆

OLIVIA DEAN proved she’s unstoppable after sweeping the MOBO Awards – just weeks after dominating the Brits.

The singer scooped Best Female Act, Album Of The Year for The Art Of Loving and Song Of The Year for Man I Need, cementing her reign at the top.

It means Olivia has now cleaned up at two of the biggest nights in British music in a matter of weeks – a seriously impressive streak.

Fresh from her chart-topping success, she also wowed with a stunning performance of A Couple Minutes, marking the song’s first televised outing.

There was another huge moment when Alesha Dixon made a surprise appearance to present Album of the Year to Olivia.

Elsewhere, Jim Legxacy took Best Male Act, Central Cee won Best Hip Hop Act and Raye picked up Video Of The Year, while Flo continued their rise with Best R&B/Soul Act.

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Special honours went to Pharrell Williams and Slick Rick, with the latter also taking to the stage.

Performances were just as big, with Flo debuting new music, Aitch bringing out schoolkids to join him on stage, and a huge Grime 25 medley featuring Chip and Wiley.

The star-studded night drew a huge crowd, with Leigh-Anne Pinnock, Emeli Sande, Tinie Tempah and Love Island stars Indiyah Polack and Ella Thomas all spotted on the carpet.

Earlier in the day, I caught up with some of them on the VIP train from London, where DJ Davda had kicked the party off.

In an exclusive chat, Keisha Buchanan – who later presented an award alongside Little Mix‘s Leigh Anne – told me: “It’s always a vibe – they have the best parties.”

Teasing new Sugababes music, she added: “We have new music coming this year, sooner than people think.”

Indiyah and Ella were dancing through the aisles, with Ella even bringing her dog along for the ride as the carriage turned into a rave.

Meanwhile, Tobi Brown kept it real, saying: “I don’t function this early.”

• The bash airs on BBC One at 11.25pm tomorrow night

GO to Dungeon Lane today and it’s strange to think it occupies a special place in Paul McCartney’s heart.

Yet it will go down in pop history alongside other street names associated with him, joining Penny Lane and Abbey Road.

Situated in the Speke neighbourhood of Liverpool, the L24 postal district, a faded road sign sets the tone for its desolate air.

It is bordered on one side by a solar farm business and, on the other, by a fenced-off area of scrubland which separates it from the city’s John Lennon Airport.

Before you get very far, a bright yellow “emergency access gate” bars further exploration.

But, as a child, Dungeon Lane was McCartney’s gateway to a stunning rural idyll where he could escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.

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In the Fifties, the lane took him past a daffodil farm to the Oglet Shore on the widest stretch of the River Mersey.

I wonder if young Paul, a keen birdwatcher, ventured into this wilderness clutching his trusty The Observer’s Book Of Birds.

There, he may have spotted any number of waders — curlew, snipe, dunlin, black-tailed godwits.

What we do know is that his lifelong love of our feathered friends began in those days.

This helps explain the compositions dotted through his career such as Blackbird with The Beatles, Single Pigeon with Wings, Two Magpies with The Fireman and solo efforts Jenny Wren and Long Tailed Winter Bird.

To McCartney, his early rambles into the countryside represent humbler, simpler times before The Fab Four exploded on to the scene, before his storied life in the dazzling glare of publicity.

Sir Paul, 83, has called his 19th solo album The Boys Of Dungeon Lane . . . which is, as he suggests, a trip down memory lane.

He got the title from the lyrics of its first single, Days We Left Behind, released yesterday, a nostalgia-filled acceptance that he has a far longer past than future.

Intimate, beautifully sung with Macca playing acoustic guitar, bass, piano and harmonium himself (how does he do that!?), it is the first taste of a project that has been five years in the making.

“This is very much a memory song for me,” he says. “I was thinking about just that . . . the days I left behind.

“And I do often wonder if I’m just writing about the past — but then I think, how can you write about anything else?”

For McCartney, the song conjures up “a lot of memories of Liverpool. It involves a bit in the middle about John [Lennon] and Forthlin Road which is the street I used to live in. Dungeon Lane is near there.”

Paul was born on June 18, 1942, to his midwife mother Mary and salesman father Jim, and they moved with younger brother Mike to 20, Forthlin Road, Allerton, in the mid-Fifties from Speke, where they had lived since 1947.

We also know that Paul first bumped into John on July 6, 1957, at roughly 4pm, at a garden fete behind St Peter’s Church, Woolton.

In Days We Left Behind, he sings of the bond he formed with the lanky lad 20 months older than him: “We met at Forthlin Road/And wrote a secret code/To never be spoken.”

Continuing his reflection on the song, he says: “I used to live in a place called Speke which is quite working class.

“We didn’t have much at all but it didn’t matter because all the people were great and you didn’t notice you didn’t have much.”

As already mentioned, birdwatching was a hobby, one that required little cash and gave him a lot of pleasure “in the nearby woods and fields”.

A recent entry in Macca’s Spotify playlists, under the banner Sticking Out Of My Back Pocket, came accompanied by these musings . . .

“My mum had the midwife’s house on the edge of Liverpool, where we lived,” he says.

“It was where Liverpool just stopped and became deep countryside, so that was when I had the opportunity to do quite a bit of birdwatching.”

He particularly cherishes the moment he saw a “skylark rising into the sky, singing its sweet song”.

That unforgettable sight has found its way into Days We Left Behind, with its lines, “In the skies the skylarks rise/Above the sounds of war/Since that day I knew they’d stay/With me for evermore.”

All these decades later, he reflects: “And now because I live part-time on a farm [in Sussex], I’m able to see a lot of birds and I don’t need The Observer’s Book Of Birds quite so much as I did back then.”

McCartney’s new album promises to be one of the most personal, most autobiographical song cycles he’s ever recorded, while also finding room for up-to-date love songs dedicated to third wife Nancy.

Yesterday’s announcement states that it finds him in a “candid, vulnerable and deeply reflective mood, writing with rare openness about his childhood in post-war Liverpool, the resilience of his parents, and early adventures shared with George Harrison and John Lennon”.

I’m guessing here but songs yet to be heard, Momma Gets By and Salesman Saint, appear to be affectionate remembrances of mum Mary, who died when Paul was just 14, and dad Jim.

This is not the first time Macca has delved into his early years for songwriting inspiration.

I talked to him about the playful On My Way To Work, which appeared on his 2013 album, New.

He called it a “collection of memories all morphed together”, providing a fascinating glimpse into his life before Beatlemania.

“It’s about me going to my first job, before The Beatles took off, which was working on a lorry for a delivery company called Speedy Prompt Deliveries — SPD.”

McCartney described going to work on the council-run green and cream buses which led to him looking at risqué magazines like Parade.

“I’d go on the bus at some unearthly hour of the morning,” he said. “I might buy a magazine and look at the nudies. I was too young to be interested in the news!”

He remembered how hard-up kids like him ripped the fronts off cigarette packets and traded duplicates with their mates, instead of collecting “football cards or, like in America, baseball cards”.

“It was like, ‘I’ll swap you two Craven A for a Woodbine’. Then there were the posh brands because this bus route went from the centre of Liverpool to the outskirts.

“Posh people would be smoking Passing Clouds or Sobranies and packets of those were very prized.”

Another song, Queenie Eye, referenced a childhood street game from “1940s Britain”.

“It’s what we used to get up to before video games and that whole home entertainment thing,” he said.

“Someone would be elected to be ‘the one’ or the ‘queenie eye’. We’d all stand behind that person and he would throw a ball over his head and one of us would catch it and hide.

“Then we would all chant, ‘Queenie eye, queenie eye, who’s got the ball? I haven’t got it. It isn’t in my pocket!’ It was simple entertainment for simple minds but great fun.”

Now it is time to return to the 2020s and the creation of The Boys Of Dungeon Lane, the follow-up to his captivating lockdown album, McCartney III.

This time, we’re told we can expect “Wings-style rock, Beatles- style harmonies and McCartney-style grooves”.

The process began around five years ago when Macca met American live-wire producer Andrew Watt, known for his work with Ozzy Osbourne, Lady Gaga, Post Malone and The Beatles’ greatest Sixties chart rivals, the Rolling Stones.

Watt, I gather, “pulled a guitar” on his latest rock icon, who instantly happened upon a chord he didn’t recognise.

As the story goes, the ever- experimental McCartney changed one note, then another, until he had a three-chord sequence.

That led to his new record’s opening track, As You Lie There, which in turn set the ball rolling for the other 13 songs.

It’s remarkable that, as with McCartney III, he is credited with playing all the instruments himself across the whole thing.

It brings to mind how at ease this enduring music obsessive seemed as he suggested specific drum beats and fills to Ringo Starr in The Beatles’ Get Back documentary.

With Macca still touring and playing momentous shows like his 2022 Glastonbury epic, Days We Left Behind has been honed over half a decade when time permitted.

During that period, he even managed to introduce the Stones to producer Watt, who helmed their 2023 comeback album, Hackney Diamonds.

When McCartney was in Los Angeles working with Watt, he was brought in to play bass on Mick Jagger and Co’s punk blast, Bite My Head Off.

Upon its release, I spoke to Keith Richards who was made up over their special guest.

“Yeah, Macca just strolled in with his bass,” the guitar legend drawled. “I think the song reminded him of those times [in the Sixties]. Beatlemania was equally as bizarre as Stones mania.”

There’s a moment towards the end of Bite My Head Off where you can hear someone saying, “Come on Paul, play something”.

“That might have been me,” smiled Richards.

But this is all about Britain’s greatest living songwriter, Paul McCartney, and his new album The Boys Of Dungeon Lane.

Time is precious but when it comes to music and life, he’s still facing forward at 83 — even if he’s remembering a youth long ago when “in the skies, the skylarks rise”.

CHAPPELL Roan has spoken out again in the war of words between her and the famous family who accused her of being rude to fans.

A storm of controversy was sparked when ex-Chelsea and Arsenal footballer Jorginho accused the singer of sending her “aggressive” security over to his step-daughter and allegedly berating the child and her mother at a hotel in Sao Paulo.

Jorginho is married to Catherine Harding who shares the 11-year-old girl, named Ava, with her ex, British actor Jude Law.

After the footballer lambasted Chappell on Instagram, the Pink Pony Club singer posted a video saying she had not noticed the young girl and did not send security over to speak to them.

But then Catherine weighed in on her own social media saying the security was very aggressive and left Ada in tears.

Now that the incident has gone viral, Chappell has issued another statement through her spokesperson.

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“Chappell was not aware of any interaction between this mother/daughter and a third-party security office,” the spokesperson said.

“She did not see them at breakfast in her hotel, as she said in her video. She did not direct her personal security or anyone on her team to interact with them.”

The statement continued: “Chappell holds her own teams to the highest standards and has zero tolerance for any kind of aggressive behaviour towards her or her fans.”

Catherine and Ada had planned to attend Chappell’s set at the Lollapalooza festival as part of the child’s birthday present, but skipped it after the interaction with the security guard.

The furore kicked off when Jorginho put Chappell on blast when he wrote about an “upsetting situation” that had occurred at the hotel.

“My wife (@catcavelli) is in Sao Paulo for @lollapaloozabr. This morning, my daughter woke up incredibly excited, she even made a sign because she was so happy to see an artist she really admires, or used to admire.”

He continued: “By coincidence, they’re staying at the same hotel as this artist.

“During breakfast, the artist walked past their table. My daughter, like any child, recognized her, got excited, and just wanted to make sure it was really her.

“And the worst part is she didn’t even approach her. She simply walked past the singer’s table, looked to confirm it was her, smiled, and went back to sit with her mum. She didn’t say anything, didn’t ask for anything.

“What happened next was completely disproportionate.”

After Jorginho’s post blew up, Chappell filmed a video from her bed to refute his claims.

“I did not ask the security guard to go up and talk to this mother and child. I did not. They did not come up to me. I did not do anything. It’s unfair for security to just assume someone doesn’t have good intentions when they have no reason to believe it as there’s no action been taken,” she said.

“I do not hate people who are fans of my music. I do not hate children, like that is crazy. I am sorry to the mother and child that someone was assuming something.

“If you felt uncomfortable that makes me really sad. You did not deserve that.”

Jorginho and Catherine now live in Rio de Janeiro where he plays for the club Flamengo.

In 2014, Catherine was briefly in a relationship with Hollywood A-lister Jude Law.

Catherine fell pregnant during their time together, and the singer-songwriter gave birth to daughter Ada.

She and Jorginho started dating in 2019 and the pair welcomed their first child, son Jax, to the world in September 2020.

Jorginho and Catherine tied the knot in a stunning ceremony in Lake Como in 2025.

The Irish-born singer, 32, appeared on the 2020 edition of The Voice UK – under the name Cat Cavelli.

AN ICONIC noughties star looked unrecognisable to many as he took to the stage during this weekend’s Estero Picnic Festival in Columbia.

Over two decades since his initial rise to fame, the now 52-year-old musician looks a far cry from the twenty-something many fans remember.

Do you recognise him?

The singer in question in Travis frontman Fran Healy!

Known for hits such as Why Does It Always Rain On Me? and Sing, Travis dominated the music scene in the late nineties and early noughties.

Lead singer Fran has swapped the bright red hair he rocked a few years ago for a bleached look, donning a sky blue jumper as he joined numerous stars in fronting the Columbian festival this weekend.

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Alongside his Travis bandmates, Dougie Payne, Andy Dunlop and Neil Primrose, Fran took to the festival’s Smirnoff stage to perform to the waiting crowds on Sunday.

The three-day festival also saw Sabrina Carpenter, Tyler The Creator, Swedish House Mafia and The Killers perform.

Alongside their own set on Sunday, Travis joined The Killers on stage to perform with them on Saturday.

Born in Stafford, Fran was raised in Glasgow and formed Travis back in 1991 while studying at the Glasgow School of Art.

Still going strong, the band are performing across Chile this month and next, with gigs in Viña del Mar, Frutillar and Santiago.

While the band have taken breaks throughout their lengthy career, they are famous for having never split up.

Their tenth studio album, L.A Times, was released in 2024.

Fran was in a relationship with German photographer Nora Kryst for 23 years before splitting back in 2019.

They share a 20-year-old son named Clay.

Last year, during one of Travis’ US gigs, Fran was rushed off stage and to the hospital after twisting his ankle on stage.

At the time, Fran took to Instagram to explain that he was wheeled out on a gurney and put into an ambulance.

Admitting that he thought he’d broken his ankle, the musician confirmed it was simply a “gnarly sprain”.

THE secret son of late Bee Gees star Maurice Gibb has refuted singer Lulu’s claims that he was conceived during the time she was married to him.

Sixties icon Lulu told Louis Theroux on his latest podcast that she only recently learned Maurice had another son and that he might have been the product of a one-night stand during their marriage.

But Nick Endacott-Gibb, 57, insists he was conceived around two years before Lulu and Maurice’s romance began.

He told the Mirror: “I was born in April 1968, conceived in August 1967. Lulu and Maurice weren’t married until 1969, after what has been described for decades as a ‘whirlwind’ romance.

“Were you together with him, Lulu? Two years does not a whirlwind make. I’m as curious as she is about whether Maurice was with her at the time I was conceived. It was the summer of love, after all!”

Hove-based Nick was adopted from a children’s home at 18 months old by secretary Peggy and her chartered quantity surveyor husband David.

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Nick’s biological mum is former music studio manager Patti Nolder, who he met for the first time in 2003 after uploading his details onto the Missing You database — a long-running message board style online community that helps reunite families.

Initially, she told him his dad was Chris Andrews, guitarist and vocalist of 60s psych-pop band The Fleur de Lys, but a DNA test confirmed this was not the case.

It was Patti’s sister who threw Maurice’s name into the mix and, after uploading his DNA to an ancestry website, he matched 100 per cent with Maurice’s other son Adam, who had uploaded his own DNA.

Further matches with cousins of the Gibb brothers followed and Nick struck up a close relationship with their older sister Lesley and her daughter Debbie, who live in New South Wales, Australia.

Nick never got the chance to meet Maurice before his death from a heart attack in 2003, but he said: “I’m sad he died before I got the chance to meet him, but his memory lives on in the songs.”

Lulu was married to Maurice for six years, with their relationship officially ending in 1975. They never had children together.

She admitted the news of Nick’s existence came as a complete surprise decades after their relationship ended.

Louis said: “You know, we’re not always our best selves and that Maurice, I think it’s openly acknowledged now, had a fling with Barbara Windsor while he was with you.”

Lulu admitted: “I think he’s got a son. It might have happened when we were married.”

She continued: “I just found out someone showed me something with a guy, and I can’t remember the year he impregnated this girl after a one-night stand, and she has a son who has had his genes taken.

“It’s proven he’s 100 per cent Maurice.”

A shocked Louis asked: “While he was with you?”

Lulu answered: “I didn’t do the math because it wasn’t that important.”

Louis replied: “Why isn’t it important?”

Lulu responded: “Today, c’est la vie.”

The Bee Gees are one of the most successful bands of all time, dominating the charts with a string of global hits.

From disco anthems like Stayin’ Alive and Night Fever to timeless ballads, the group sold over 200 million records worldwide and helped define an entire era of music.

He had two children — daughter Samantha and son Adam — with his second wife, Yvonne Spenceley.

Following her divorce, Lulu went on to date celebrity stylist John Frieda but the romance was rocked by a short-lived affair with David Bowie.

She continues to perform live, with shows lined up in the UK, including a major concert at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2026.

As well as music, she’s been opening up about her life in recent years, releasing her memoir, If Only You Knew, and speaking candidly about her past struggles, including her battle with alcoholism and journey to sobriety.

DUA Lipa looked stunning as she showcased her toned abs in a sun-soaked new snap this weekend.

The chart-topping singer took to her Instagram page with a new update as she posed in a sequin-covered bikini.

Lounging in the sun, Dua showed off her tanned and toned physique in the turquoise number.

She has been enjoying the warmer temperatures across the pond in California over recent weeks.

“A few weeks on the west coast,” captioned Dua as she teamed the bikini pic with numerous other snaps for her 88.6million followers.

Other pictures in the carousel showed Dua at Elton John’s Oscars viewing party, which had an exclusive celeb guest list and also saw the likes of Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz in attendance.

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The bash is an annual event hosted by Elton for his AIDS foundation, and welcomed the A-listers who weren’t at the Academy Awards themselves.

It acts as a fundraiser to support global HIV prevention.

Donning a plunging shimmer dress for the evening, Dua posed alongside close friend Elton and her fiancé Callum Turner.

Another picture showed her watching the Indian Wells Open tennis tournament, as others showed Dua spending time with pals.

It comes after a busy few weeks for the pop star, who made a surprise appearance at The BRITs last month.

She appeared alongside Mark Ronson as he performs a medley of his hits on stage at Manchester’s Co-op Arena.

Dua and Mark won a Grammy for their 2017 hit Electricity and worked together again on Dance The Night from the 2023 film Barbie.

They joined the likes of Olivia Dean, Harry Styles and Robbie Williams; who all performed throughout the evening.

Singer Dua, who originally hails from London, is known for sharing glamorous pictures to her social media as she travels the world with other half Callum.

Alongside her music career, she also maintains lucrative multi-million dollar deals as a global ambassador for YSL Beauty, along with partnerships with Porsche, Versace, and Puma.

NEVER mind the spotlight – it seems Harry Styles prefers a different type of glow when he is not on stage.

I have been told that the fitness-obsessed pop star has splashed out £20,000 on an infrared sauna for his North London home.

The Watermelon Sugar singer is following in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo, Ellie Goulding and Lady Gaga in snapping up the very latest wellness status symbol.

A source said: “Harry is incredibly health-conscious these days.

“He loves running and needs to be on top of his health during his upcoming tour. He’ll be able to use the sauna in between shows to help repair his muscles.

“He loves running now and it’s the perfect antidote to training.”

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I reached out to Harry’s spokeswoman for comment.

The high-tech light therapy helps reduce pain, blood pressure and inflammation, as well as burning calories.

Harry will grace the May cover of fitness mag Runner’s World and completed the Berlin Marathon in under three hours last September.

He told the mag: “During my early days in One Direction, we spent so much time inside hotels and venues that there are countries I’ve been to that I didn’t really experience.

“So when I travel now, it’s about committing to going outdoors to see some stuff, whether that’s running or walking. You experience places in a whole different way.”

It comes as Harry, who is currently dating American actress Zoe Kravitz, is set to kick off his Together, Together tour in May in Amsterdam.

Meanwhile, his new album — Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally — holds the top spot for a second week on the UK Albums Chart.

After a busy start to the year, Harry will definitely be red-dy to recharge.

Making a meal of it Ron

HE is considered one of the greatest footballers in history.

But even his skills on the football pitch could not score Cristiano Ronaldo a seat at London’s latest celebrity haunt.

The Portuguese footballer, above, was turned away from posh pub

The Devonshire in Soho because he hadn’t booked a table.

Landlord Oisin Rogers said: “Cristiano Ronaldo tried to come to the restaurant when we were full, and we just didn’t have a table.

“We told his team that he could have a table in half an hour. But he wasn’t happy with that, so there was nothing we could do.”

It happens to the best of us.

Madge pops out after dark to shoot new vid

SHE has filmed a star-studded video to launch her big comeback.

But I have heard that Queen of Pop Madonna turned into a night owl during production – only shooting between the hours of 5pm and 2am.

Model Kate Moss, along with movie stars Gwendoline Christie and Benedict Cumberbatch, were recruited for the huge video.

A source said: “Madonna prefers to work in the evening, so the crew filmed late into the night to make the shoot happen.”

Our sister column Biz revealed how Madonna, right, spent four days and nights holed up at Black Island Studios in West London to film the X-rated music video.

It will accompany the first single from the new album, which will be a sequel to her 2005 record Confessions On A Dancefloor.

And I have heard whispers that Madonna has also recorded a track for The Devil Wears Prada 2 film.

A source said: “Madonna’s hit song Vogue was used in the trailer and the film is set to be a massive hit.”

The comedy – which stars Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep – is out on May 1.

SIMON COWELL wants Jeremy Clarkson to join The Hawkstone Farmers’ Choir on Britain’s Got Talent.

Judge Amanda Holden pressed her golden buzzer last night for the group, who were founded by Jezza.

Simon said: “He has a responsibility to be there. Mind you, can he even sing?”

Robbie comes undone

ROBBIE WILLIAMS is in the best shape of his life after losing weight.

Even so, the Come Undone hitmaker, who is 52, has revealed he has been struck by a host of physical issues.

He told radio station Gold: “There’s always something going on for the middle-aged man. We used to be elasticated silly putty, and now we are frozen silly putty that just snaps.

“I did my groin in by sitting down. I did that for the first time this year – sat on a testicle.

“I put my back out by turning around – turning around! You know, what you are supposed to do as a human.”

The star added: “I’ve got arthritis in my facet joints in the base of my spine and I’ve got two discs that are popping out – one in the neck, one in the lumbar.”

Robbie is heading to Dusseldorf in June for the next leg of his Britpop world tour.

I hope there’s a good physio on the bus.

Aitch Surrey not sorry

MANCHESTER rapper Aitch has moved down South.

I can reveal that the I’m A Celeb star has splashed out on a plush six-bedroom mansion in Camberley, Surrey, for £1.6million.

A source said: “This house is a dream come true for Aitch and shows how hard he works.”

Aitch recently shared a glimpse of his new garden to his 2.9million Instagram fans, captioned: “Go step closer to that goal cos why not.”

The move comes after proud Northerner Aitch revealed that his second album 4 was inspired by his Manchester postcode M40.

Speaking last year, he said: “Since we were kids, when we used to take pictures, we always used to throw fours up.”

Lily furs night show in West End

LILY ALLEN looks like she’s raided the costume department in specs and a fur-trimmed coat as she leaves the London Palladium in London’s West End following the Friday night performance of her latest album.

An onlooker revealed she headed into a cab with her fella, writer and artist Jonah Freud.

The singer has won rave reviews for the tour, where she performs her fifth album West End Girl in its entirety each night.

A source said: “Fans have been blown away by her career-defining work.

“She’s on the best form and is loving being back on stage.”

Caught Live: Don’t myth out on hit

THIS odyssey through the underworld, led by former X Factor contestant Rachel Adedeji, offers a spellbinding love story.

Rachel shines as Persephone, delivering a vocally rich performance, while leads Bethany Antonia and Marley Fenton stand out.

After a storming run on Broadway, this tragedy remains compelling and haunting as ever.

The musical blends two ancient Greek mythic love stories – Orpheus and Eurydice, and King Hades and his wife Persephone.

Eurydice travels to Hadestown after being convinced by Hades that she will have a better life.

Desperate to keep her safe, her lover Orpheus follows her to bring her back to the living world.

Dancing On Ice pro Vanessa Bauer, actress Mia McKenna-Bruce, Vanessa Feltz and actor Mark Bonnar attended the gala night.

THIS is the moment Justin Timberlake is put in cuffs as the body cam footage of his arrest for drink driving is released.

The pop star, 45, was arrested in Sag Harbor, New York, in June 2024 after he failed to stop at a stop sign and could not stay in his lane.

Shortly after leaving The American Hotel following a night out with friends, the singer was pulled over while traveling southbound on Madison Street, a public highway in the Hamptons village.

Cops, often stationed nearby, noticed Justin swerving on the road and blowing through a stop sign.

They later smelled alcohol on his breath and noted that he was unsteady on his feet and also had slowed speech and glassy eyes.

The body cam footage of his arrest was released on Friday after the star’s legal team reportedly tried to previously prevent its release.

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In the video, an officer can be seen shining a flashlight in Timberlake’s face at the roadside before the star performs poorly on sobriety tests.

He is asked to walk in a straight line but has difficulty with the instructions, appearing confused.

Timberlake tells them: “Guys, I’m just following my friends back to my house. I’m not doing anything.”

While attempting the sobriety test, he stumbles before apologising and saying ” I’m a little nervous”.

When asked to do the next test, the officers are forced to explain multiple times before Timberlake says “sorry, my heart is racing” while clutching his chest.

Looking unsteady on his feet, the singer is then heard saying: “By the way, these are like, really hard tests.”

After failing the roadside tests, an officer is then seen asking Timberlake “turn around for me please”.

Saying nothing and looking resigned, he slowly turns before he’s put in handcuffs.

A friend appears and is shocked when police tell her Justin is going with them, saying: “You’re arresting Justin Timberlake? Stop it. What?”

She pleads with the officers to speak with him and give him his phone before she takes his car home.

She begs: “Can you guys please do me a favour because you loved Bye Bye Bye or Sexy Back, do me one favour. This is insane.”

At the end of the footage, the 10-time Grammy winner can be seen in the back of a cop car behind bars.

He was taken into custody that night and arraigned in Sag Harbor Village Justice Court the following morning.

He was released without bail on his recognizance and was also charged with one count of DWI due to his refusal of the breathalyzer, according to Justin’s lawyer.

Timberlake’s lawyers previously sued the Village of Sag Harbor to prevent the release as it showed him “in an accutely vulnerable state”, reports CBS.

It was later agreed it would be released with redactions.

That September, Timberblake reached a plea deal to bring the case to an end.

The judge sentenced Justin to a $500 fine with a $260 surcharge, and 25 hours of community service at the nonprofit of his choosing.

After the sentencing, Justin said: “Even if you’ve had one drink, don’t get behind the wheel of a car.

“There are so many alternatives. You can call a friend [or] take an Uber.”

He added: “This is a mistake that I made, but I’m hoping that whoever is watching and listening right now can learn from this mistake. I know that I certainly have.”

During the proceedings the star remained standing throughout and gave a statement in which he expressed remorse for his actions.