rock music

IRON Maiden rocker Bruce Dickinson says he took up fencing to help him fend off sex-hungry groupies. 

The heavy metal star, 67, turned to the sword-fighting sport to keep a clear mind — but ended up as one of Britain’s best competitors. 

Run to the Hills singer Bruce — worth about £100million – was at one point ranked No7 in the UK and an outside contender for the Olympics. 

He tried fencing as a teenager and then took it up as a hobby in 1983 to distract himself from the temptations of sex, booze and drugs after finding fame. 

He spent months training with Team GB and represented a semi-pro club.  

Asked why he picked up the blade, he told Classic Rock mag: “I was busy sh*****g everything that moved and none of it was healthy.  

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“I remember something that (The Who guitarist) Pete Townshend once said about groupies — ‘The moment you realise you can click your finger and manipulate people into having sex with you, that’s the moment you’re going down the slippery slope’. 

“You can’t believe women are throwing themselves at you. You think, ‘Well this is nice’. And it is. It’s f*****g great. But there’s a dark side to this.  

“Where do you stop? When does it become a prop, like alcohol or cocaine?

“So that’s when I started doing extracurricular activities like fencing.  

“I was thinking, ‘I’ve got to do something to keep my brain clean’.”  

Bruce, also a qualified pilot who flies Iron Maiden’s private 747 on tour, still takes part in fencing competitions for his age group.  

The band has sold more than 130million albums since forming in London in 1975. 

THE Love Actually reunion no one saw coming just happened – and it’s still 49 days until Christmas.

My insiders tell me that stars of the seasonal rom-com Martine McCutcheon and Thomas Brodie-Sangster have signed up for Google Pixel’s new festive ad.

They filmed the top-secret project in London yesterday afternoon — 22 years after appearing opposite each other in the 2003 hit film.

A source said: “Nothing says Christmas like Love Actually, and so Google Pixel are bringing a sprinkling of it back to insert some nostalgia into the festive period.

“It’s still such a firm favourite with millions of people, so they tapped up Martine and Thomas for the sweet reunion.

“The ad is going to be packed full of throwbacks — especially because Thomas was only 13 when he was in Love Actually.

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“A whole street in London was transformed into a winter wonderland and Martine and Thomas were in great spirits.

“They’re really happy with how the ad worked out. It’s going to be one people are talking about for a while.”

If you’ve lived under a rock and have never seen Love Actually, it’s one of Richard Curtis’s best films.

Martine plays hapless PA Natalie, swept off her feet by the Prime Minister, played by Hugh Grant.

And Thomas took on the role of sweet, love-stricken Sam, who went all out to impress his teen crush.

Google Pixel isn’t the only brand getting in on the Love Actually nostalgia for their Christmas ad.

Aldi revealed their famous Kevin the Carrot will propose to his sweetheart Katie in their festive offering this year using cue cards — inspired by the scene in the film where Andrew Lincoln’s character Mark professed his love for Juliet, played by Keira Knightley.

Without wanting to be too sentimental, it proves love really is still all around us.

And I’m definitely going to be renting it on Prime Video tonight.

KYLIE MINOGUE used a stocking from the filming of her CBeebies bedtime story last Christmas in the music video for her new festive single Xmas.

The Aussie pop star is celebrating the tenth anniversary of her Christmas album with a new version of the record, Kylie Christmas (Fully Wrapped), which features four new songs.

Speaking to Scott Mills on the BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show about the video, Kylie said: “Because I was on the road we didn’t get to go so Christmassy.

“I think it was from a CBeebies Christmas story | did and they gave me a Christmas stocking.

“I thought, I have got to take something Christmassy and I think that’s it. That’s the one thing that you may see.

“We didn’t get to do fairy lights. We didn’t get to do paper chains. But in spirit we were very Christmassy.”

JOSH’S TOP DAY WITH SPINAL TAP

JOSH GROBAN was one of a few artists asked to perform with Spinal Tap for their next film, Stonehenge: The Final Finale.

I exclusively revealed the ­parody band had shot a concert alongside Eric Clapton and Shania Twain at the ­landmark in August, and now US star Josh has told me all about taking part.

He said: “Singing with Spinal Tap at Stonehenge – I don’t care how much you’ve done, that’s an experience for anybody. Eric Clapton felt it, Shania Twain felt it.

“Everybody was going, ‘I can’t believe we’re doing this’. I can’t tell you the song but it was ­ridiculous and amazing.”

Josh is returning to the UK on April 1 next year for a date at London’s O2 Arena, with tickets on sale tomorrow.

And on November 14 he will drop his next record, Hidden Gems.

The album is a collection of fans’ favourite tracks not available on streaming platforms.

Speaking after an intimate show in ­London at Union Chapel, Josh says: “These are all songs from my past.

“They’re B-sides and special-editions. I’ve also been working on new music.”

MUMMY’S THE WORD, BRENDAN

BRENDAN FRASER and Rachel Weiz are teaming up again for The Mummy 4, 17 years after the last film in the franchise.

They both starred in 1999’s The Mummy and 2001’s The Mummy Returns, below, but Rachel skipped 2008’s The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor.

Plans for a fourth film were ditched in 2012 before Tom Cruise tried to reboot the series in 2017 with another movie called The Mummy, but it lost millions at the box office.

The original followed treasure hunter Rick (Brendan), who wakes up an ancient Egyptian priest with special powers.

The latest news comes three years after Brendan’s career comeback in The Whale, which landed him a much-deserved Oscar for Best Actor.

YUNG HIT IN TRANS PIC SHOW

YUNGBLUD has provided the soundtrack for a new photography exhibition that tells the stories of 13 trans people from across the UK.

His song Hello Heaven, Hello will be used on screens at Outernet, right outside Tottenham Court Road Tube Station in central London, for the free exhibition called Trans Is Human from November 17.

Yungblud said: “I’m honoured that Hello Heaven, Hello will be a part of this exhibition.

“Trans Is Human is all about celebrating truth, identity and the beauty of being yourself.

“That’s something I’ve always tried to celebrate in everything I do.”

BABYSHAMBLES have returned with their first song in 12 years, Dandy Hooligan.

The band, fronted by Pete Doherty, dropped the track yesterday ahead of the launch of their comeback tour.

Pete said: “It’s a well turned-out, ­elegantly crafted reggae-ska-pop song . . . with a sweet melody to bowl along to with your sharpened walking cane.”

They were back on stage in Hastings last night for a warm-up gig ahead of their tour later this month.

ED’S PERFECT PITCH MEANS ALL KIDS CAN LEARN MUSIC

ED SHEERAN has once again proved he is a voice for good after a successful ­campaign to give all kids access to ­creative subjects at school.

Back in March, the Shape Of You singer wrote to No10 urging the government to look at the critical state of music education – and, incredibly, they’ve listened.

Keir Starmer yesterday heralded Ed’s letter, which was backed by stars including Harry Styles, Stormzy and Annie Lennox, as “powerful”, and told him: “I wanted you to know that your voice has been heard.”

In a letter to Ed which has been shared with me, the PM said: “The review ­places creative ­subjects firmly at the centre.

“We are revitalising arts ­education, strengthening music and drama, and launching a new National ­Centre for Arts And Music Education to support teachers and raise standards.

“We will make sure every child has access to those experiences – from arts and ­culture to nature and civic engagement – so that creativity isn’t a privilege, but a right.”

It is a huge victory for Ed and the Ed Sheeran Foundation, which has ­campaigned for accessible, meaningful education for all young people.

In a statement, Ed said: “I set up the Ed Sheeran Foundation because every child deserves to have access to a meaningful music education, and the chance to experience the joy and confidence that musical expression can bring.

“Shortly after ­setting up my foundation, I wrote an open letter to the Prime Minister about the critical state of music education in the UK and the fact it was slipping through the cracks.

“With the help of the letter and everyone who signed it, I’m happy to say that some of the key points we raised have been recognised by the government, marking the first change to the music ­curriculum in over ten years.”

All power to you, Ed. This is ­brilliant news.

COAT AND TAYLS

TAYLOR SWIFT has gone quiet since dropping her album The Life Of A Showgirl last month, but she re-emerged in New York for a night out with Gigi Hadid on Monday.

The singer wrapped up in a coat and knee-high boots alongside the model who is a long-time friend.

I’m sure they had plenty to catch up on, with a wedding to plan for Taylor, while Gigi’s romance with Bradley Cooper seems to be going from strength to strength after two years together.

Perhaps wedding bells will be ringing for her, too, before long.

JENNIFER LAWRENCE has let slip that she’s co-producing a movie with Emma Stone based on Miss Piggy, being written by US comedian Cole Escola.

Asked on the Las Culturistas podcast whether the actresses will also star in the film, she said: “I think so, we have to.”

On working with Emma for the first time, she added: “It’s f***ed up. It’s dark that we haven’t done a movie together.”

CYNTHIA’S IN GOOD MOOD FOR PREMIERE

CYNTHIA ERIVO was grinning from ear to ear at the premiere of Wicked: For Good, despite the fact her co-star Ariana Grande missed the big launch.

The British actress, who returns as Elphaba in the second flick, wore this quirky, tummy-baring outfit and was joined at the event in Sao Paulo by co-star Jonathan Bailey ahead of the London premiere on Monday.

Hopefully, Ariana will make it over here after a fault with a plane meant she couldn’t get to Brazil in time for Tuesday’s event.

She apologised on Instagram, but was then subjected to vile abuse.

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Later on, she wrote online: “Please don’t wish danger on us.

“It’s a sad state of affairs when fans are so vicious over something so unimportant.”

DOWNLOAD festival has landed a Hollywood A-lister to perform at the rock and metal event next summer.

The 2026 line-up was announced this evening and features the surprising actor, as well as three American bands topping the bill.

Download will return to Leicestershire’s Donington Park from June 10 to 14, with The Matrix and John Wick star Keanu Reeves set to play.

The band Dogstar, for which he plays bass, are among a series of acts which have been officially unveiled.

Limp Bizkit will headline the Friday night, followed by Guns N’ Roses on the Saturday.

Linkin Park will close the festival on the Sunday night, marking their first performance at the festival since frontwoman Emily Armstrong was brought in.

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They previously headlined four times between 2004 and 2014 with their original line-up.

And it comes after Linkin Park played a sold out concert at Wembley Stadium in June.

Tickets are already on sale for the 23rd annual festival, which will also feature performances from Pendulum, Trivium, The All-American Rejects, Mastodon and Bush.

Other acts on the line-up include Feeder, Ash, Tom Morello, The Pretty Reckless and Those Damn Crows.

Limp Bizkit’s booking comes just a fortnight after it was revealed that bassist and founding member Sam Rivers had died aged 48.

They paid tribute to him last month when they described him as not “just our bass player” but “the soul in the sound.”

The band said: “From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced.

“His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous.”

The full rundown of artists was revealed at a launch event at the Barbican in central London, where guests were entertained by fortune tellers and a string quartet.

GRATEFUL Dead singer Donna Jean Godchaux-MacKay has sadly died at the age of 78.

The singer, who made a name for herself in the band in the 70s, was also a backup singer for Elvis Presley and Percy Sledge.

The rocker sadly died on Sunday after a lengthy cancer battle.

A statement was released after she died at Alive Hospice in Nashville.

The statement announced her passing reads, “She was a sweet and warmly beautiful spirit, and all those who knew her are united in loss.

“The family requests privacy at this time of grieving.

“In the words of Dead lyricist Robert Hunter, ‘May the four winds blow her safely home’.”

Fans have already flocked to social media to express their sadness over her tragic passing.

One person on X said, “Donna was awesome. Really sad about this.”

Another penned, “Beautiful and powerful voice, there will never be another Donna Jean.”

A third person added, “So sad to learn of the passing of Donna Jean Godchaux.

“Through most of the 1970s, she made her mark on American music as a singer with the Grateful Dead. May she rest in peace.”

And a fourth said, “RIP Donna Jean Thatcher Godchaux-MacKay.

“Helluva singer who worked with the Grateful Dead & Elvis and put up with a sh**load of misogyny. Tough, special lady.”

Damon Albarn has opened up about his emotional journey while recording Gorillaz’ upcoming album.

The singer and his bandmate Jamie Hewlett poured the grief of losing their dads into their ninth record, The Mountain, and Damon revealed he scattered his father’s ashes in India while making the collection.

“Both Jamie and I lost our fathers,” Damon said.

“We did two quite amazing, magical trips to India.

“India is a very interesting place to carry grief, because they have a very positive outlook on death.

“England is just really bad at dealing with death.

“In a way, I think this record is in that tradition of celebrating their lives.

“I did things I’d never done before. I swam in the Ganges in Varanasi.

“I watched the bodies being burnt on the banks of the Ganges.

“In England when we cremate a body we don’t even look at the bodies, it’s covered up immediately and then it’s put in the fire, the little curtains close and that’s it.

“On the banks of the Ganges, every family is there with the body wrapped in a shroud and they’re burnt, and it’s going on everywhere. It goes on 24 hours a day and it’s been going on for thousands of years.

“I took my dad’s ashes there and I cast them in the river. It was very beautiful.”

Indian culture helped shape the record — which will be released in March — with the album’s cover art featuring the title in Devanagari, a script used to write the Indian Sanskrit language.

And this time around the pair will not make their famous, animated music videos and instead are creating a one-off production.

Damon added: “We’re making a full eight-minute thing.

“This is why there are no videos at the moment, because it’s serious stuff. It’s really great that Jamie is concentrating on doing one animated thing.

“It’s a big amount of work, any animation. It’s kind of our Achilles’ heel because no other band has to spend that kind of time just to produce one small thing.

“So let’s make it a piece of art in itself and not really rely on it for the promotional aspect of things and let it breathe in its own way.

“I think fans are going to love every aspect of this record.”

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Personally, I cannot wait.

Jen’s perfect pairing

Jennifer Lawrence put on her poshest frock to party in the Big Apple after promoting her new film, Die My Love.

The Hunger Games star appears alongside Robert Pattinson in the black comedy, out this Friday.

And the pair coordinated their outfits for the New York premiere at the AMC Lincoln Square Theater.

J-Law then changed into a blue gown before heading out for a night on the town with her pals.

The actress has a busy few months coming up. She is starring in and producing upcoming murder-mystery movie The Wives, before kicking off a new project with legendary director Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Jen and Leo are set to play the leads in a terrifying film adaptation of Peter Cameron’s ghost story, What Happens at Night.

She did the chart double last month but Olivia Dean is keeping her feet firmly on the ground.

The singer scored No1s with her album The Art of Loving and single Man I Need, becoming the first British solo female artist to top both charts simultaneously since Adele in 2021.

Asked whether she’s let her success go to her head, she said: “I don’t think so. I feel like I try really hard and think all the time about not becoming a p***k. That would just be horrible.

“I’ve met some and it’s just like, ‘Oh no, it got to you’.”

On how success depends on the people around you, Olivia continued: “A lot of people work really, really hard. It’s really important to recognise that yes, you’ve worked on your skill or your craft, but all the people around you had to believe in it and be there to make it happen as well.

“It takes a village of people to make an album or do a campaign. There’s a lot that people don’t see.”

It sounds like Olivia has a lot of goals in the future, though – including headlining Glastonbury and releasing an album of standards.

On the And The Writer Is… with Ross Golan podcast, Olivia was also asked if she had written a musical yet.

She said: “No, but I would like to in the future. It’s definitely on the bucket list for me.”

Time to say ’ello to Eli

Hot prospect Eli released debut album Stage Girl at the weekend, jam-packed with infectious melodies.

It looks like her label, RCA Records – also home to Britney Spears, P!nk and Shakira – has unearthed another gem.

But her collection of tunes also features references to a battle with her identity, which the American singer has now overcome.

In an exclusive interview, Eli, who is a trans woman, said of her album: “It was made in a flow state.

“But that was after a year or two of complete wits’ end, last straw, end of the rope, repressing everything under the sun as a human being for 20 years of my life.

“I was just like, ‘I need this joy and I need this super-extravagant pop’.”

Part of her journey of discovery is related to listeners in album highlights Girl of Your Dreams and Falsetto, and Eli now hopes that her music will help people to accept those in the queer community.

She explained: “I like the idea that this is going to play in Walmart in Kansas, for the lady who thinks I’m the spawn of Satan.

“And she’s going to be like, ‘Wow, this song is so good’.

“I feel like there is a sort of trickle-down effect of awareness of my humanity and trans humanity in general.”

Eli is already feeling the love following her album release – Mark Ronson, Demi Lovato and Zara Larsson have all voiced their support and her fan base is growing and growing.

Eli added: “I feel so excited by the community I’m existing in in LA right now.

“I feel like everyone is so supportive of each other.

“And it’s so refreshing and so cool.”

Dazzled by Doja

Doja Cat looked a true member of the glitterati as she joined A-listers for a night out.

The rapper sported a sparkly orange dress at the LACMA Art+Film Gala in Los Angeles and completed the ensemble with a curly blonde wig in a nod to Marilyn Monroe.

This is not the first time she has gained inspiration from the Hollywood legend. At the 2022 Grammys, she wore a custom-made crystal Versace gown – which took 475 hours to make.

Doja attended the fundraising bash alongside a host of stars, including actresses Demi Moore, Salma Hayek and Cynthia Erivo all of whom dazzled in their ’fits.

Keep sparkling, ladies.

Robyn’s return so sexi

Singer Robyn is planning to drop a new single in the next few weeks, then her ninth album in 2026.

It is seven years since the Swedish-born star put out her last collection, Honey, and an industry insider tells me the new one, with alluring title Sexistential, promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

They said: “Robyn has spent years working on this music and has been really inspired by loads of up-and-coming artists.

“She has worked with some very cool people and all the stops are being pulled out for this to be her biggest record in decades.”

Robyn has joined Gracie Abrams and Charli XCX on stage for surprise performances over the past year.

But by the sounds of it, next year she will likely be performing plenty of big gigs of her own.

Cat Burns opens up about losing her grandad and breaking up with a long-time girlfriend on her new album How to Be Human.

The singer and Celebrity Traitors star told The Sunday Times’ Style mag: “While grieving, a quote that stood out to me was: ‘Grief is just love with no place to go’. That helped guide the message of the album.”

A Brum deal for Benson

Benson Boone is due back on stage tonight at London’s O2 Arena after he was forced to cancel his Birmingham show on Saturday.

The Beautiful Things singer, who is on his American Heart World Tour, told fans he wouldn’t have been able to put on the show at the Utilita Arena due to problems with his voice.

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In a statement, he told fans: “Birmingham I am so so sorry but I will not be able to perform. I have tried everything I can to revive my voice, but I cannot give you the show I’d like to be able to give you with the condition of my throat right now.

“I’m working with my team to find a date to reschedule as soon as possible. I promise I will do everything in my power to make it up to you. I love you guys so much.”

We’re sending you our best, Benson, and we hope you can make the show tonight.

STRANGER Things star David Harbour admitted he has “made mistakes” over the last 10 years just WEEKS before ex-wife Lily Allen released her bombshell album.

The couple, who split after a five year marriage in February this year, have had their relationship thrust into the spotlight after Lily’s blistering attack on her marriage on new album, West End Girl.

The 14-track album was dropped last week, but shortly before the release, Harbour briefly spoke about ‘regrets’ while promoting the upcoming final season of Stranger Things.

Talking to Esquire Spain, Harbour was asked to reflect on the past decade of his life in line with how long he has played burly cop Jim Hopper on the show.

He responded by calling it a “hard question” and, while not addressing Lily specifically, he said: “I would change either everything or nothing. 

“You either accept your path completely and realise that even the pain and the slip-ups and the mistakes are all part of the journey, and that there’s truth and growth, wisdom and deeper empathy and connection in all that.”

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“It’s kind of like a house of cards,” he added. “The minute you try to change one thing you kind of have to change it all.”

Ultimately he said he’d change “everything” and “just make his life happy and silly”, though it would “suck” not to be an actor.

West End Girl

On West End Girl, Lily chronicles her relationship with Harbour, starting with their whirlwind relationship after meeting on Raya in 2019 and setting up their life together in New York.

However, she notes things began to unravel after she landed a part in a West End production of 2:22 A Ghost Story, which required her to come back to London.

She then accuses him of getting close to a woman she names “Madeline”, despite them having an “arrangement” for him to sleep with other people.

Mentioning her on the track ‘Tennis’, fans were abuzz with the question: “Who the f**k is Madeline?”

While Lily has said the album, which features alleged dates and supposed voice notes, is a mixture of fact and fiction, the the real life “Madeline” has spoken out, with New Orleans based costume designer Natalie Tippett, 34, claiming to have been involved in the fling.

David and Natalie reportedly began an affair while working on 2021 film We Have A Ghost, despite marrying Lily the previous year in Las Vegas.

He later allegedly flew Natalie to his home in Atlanta, Georgia.

Since the album has been released, Harbour has not commented on the claims on the songs – which took Lily 10 days to make and record.

It’s also unclear where the line between fact and fiction stands on the album.

Despite this, Lily made another dig at her ex – dressing up as cartoon character Madeline for Halloween as she partied with friends in Los Angeles.

LIAM GALLAGHER let rip in fury yesterday at a fan who fired a flare into the crowd during an Oasis concert.

The band were kicking off the Australian leg of their world tour, at Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium in front of a 55,000-strong audience, when the incident happened.

The flaming missile landed on a packed moshpit as Oasis belted out 1996 hit Champagne Supernova.

Liam continued singing but later called out the disruptive act from the stage, wagging his finger at the crowd and telling fans:  “That was naughty — naughty, naughty, naughty.”

Brother Noel is also reported to have been not at all best pleased — looking “concerned”.

The band were then fuming backstage, as Liam took to X yesterday and blasted: “To the massive C* who launched that flare into the crowd last night at the gig in Melbourne, you are one seriously f**d up individual and you will get yours, trust me.”

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‘A bit intense’

One member of the crowd revealed: “People were scared as they didn’t know what was going on.

“No one expects to see flames in the crowd at a gig.

“It was all a bit intense for a few split seconds.”

A venue spokesman said: “Security acted quickly, but the patron involved in throwing the flare wasn’t found. Thankfully no one has ended up getting injured.”

Earlier on in the evening, Liam was in high spirits as he told an anecdote about a kangaroo that had the audience laughing.

Meanwhile, Liam’s sons Lennon and Gene had been enjoying the Asian leg of the tour last month.

A source tells me: “When they were in Japan last week they went all out and did a tea ceremony, they went to a temple and got blessed by a monk, and they had Samurai lessons.

“They are living the dream.”

With their dad laying low after a few too many parties on tour,  I’m glad his lads are having fun.

JACOB’S COFFEE DATE

HUNKY actor Jacob Elordi is wasting no time after splitting from his glamorous YouTuber girlfriend after four years.

The Aussie, who stars in new Netflix film Frankenstein, was spotted grabbing coffee with model Kristen Kiehnle after the movie’s premiere in Los Angeles.

Kristen, who has 83,000 Instagram followers, is often seen flaunting her svelte physique on her holidays.

A source said: “Jacob and Kristen have been hanging out in LA. His romance with Olivia Jade has fizzled out and Jacob is concentrating on the film.”

Jacob and Olivia, were first linked in 2021, but called it quits after rekindling their relationship two months ago.

Olivia, the daughter of actress Lori Loughlin supported Jacob at the Toronto International Film Festival for the premiere of Frankenstein in September.

He may be playing Frankenstein’s monster, but it sounds like Jacob won’t be single for long.

BRIT OF LUCK FOR LILY

SHE’S already announced a 13-date UK tour next year, but I can reveal Lily Allen could be gracing us with a live performance before then.

I hear that the star, whose record West End Girl came out last month, is on the most wanted list to sing at the Brit Awards in February.

A well-placed music source tells me: “Lily’s album has gone stratospheric.

“Not only will she be a shoo-in for a gaggle of nominations, but bosses think she’d be ideal as a centre-piece for the performers on the night.

“She epitomises British talent and deserves to be on that stage being celebrated.

“It’s early days, but planning has already begun.”

Lily last performed at the Brits – which take place at the Co-op Live in Manchester for the first time next year – in 2010.

Back then, she belted out chart-topper The Fear.

Over the years, the star has been nominated for nine Brit Awards, but has only taken one home.

I’m sure that will change, though, with her latest musical offering detailing the breakdown of her marriage to Stranger Things actor David Harbour.

Despite the exposing compilation, Lily – who dressed up as kids’ book character Madeline for Halloween in a nod to the name she gave David’s alleged mistress on the album – says she doesn’t want “revenge”.

She told Interview magazine she now feels “differently” about their marriage breakdown, adding: “I wrote this record in ten days in December, and I feel very differently about the situation now.

“We all go through breakups, and it’s always f***ing brutal.

“But I don’t think it’s that often that you feel inclined to write about it while you’re in it.”

I think Lily crooning Pussy Palace on stage at the Brits would be iconic British behaviour . . .

IT’S NOUGHTIES BUT NICE, LADS

THE BUSTED vs McFly tour served up a dose of Noughties nostalgia as it hit London’s O2 arena.

The two groups are going head to head on a shared series of gigs around the UK, in a battle of the bands to finally settle their rock rivalry.

McFly – Tom Fletcher, Danny Jones, Harry Judd and Dougie Poynter – opened the London show with Where Did All The Guitars Go? before they had the whole room swaying with 2005 hit All About You.

Next, it was time to welcome their older brothers, in the form of Busted’s Matt Willis and Charlie Simson.

The pair paid tribute to bandmate James Bourne who has quit the tour for health reasons.

Matt said: “James Bourne, our best friend, is not with us right now – it sucks, we miss him and we love him. James is really fing sick so we are playing without him. It has been so fing weird but thank you for supporting us.”

After Busted reeled off their hits Crashed The Wedding and What I Go To School For, they belted out Year 3000 – joined by McFly. That song may be about the future, but I was happy to be back in the Noughties.

HE may pocket £500,000 as host of This Morning, but Ben Shephard has got a nifty side hustle on the go.

The presenter, who co-hosts the ITV daytime show with Cat Deeley, has set up an enterprising firm called Sweet Spot, which matches celebs with commercial opportunities.

Featured celebs include Joel Dommett, Gemma Atkinson and Love Island stars Will Young and Jessie Wynter.

Sweet Spot is actively looking for investors to help celebs create their own brands.

A source said: “Ben saw a gap in the market and doesn’t want to rely on telly work forever.”

Clever clogs.

ARGGH MAYA HEARTIES

CELEBS love to dress up for the cameras and Halloween gave them the perfect excuse.

Olivia Attwood went as Toy Story’s Jessie the cowgirl to a bash hosted by Heidi Klum, who was in full scare mode as Medusa.

In Manchester, Maya Jama and her footballer boyfriend Ruben Dias dressed up as characters from Pirates Of The Caribbean, while his Man City team-mate Erling Haaland appeared as The Joker.

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Paris Hilton sprinkled some Tinker Bell magic, while Sabrina Carpenter opted for a Fred Flintstone look.

Mariah Carey threw on a long pink wig, Hailey Bieber dressed as one of The Incredibles and Simon le Bon sang on stage with Duran Duran as a zombie.

THIS 90s pop star looks unrecognisable 24 years after his hit single and name change.

The hitmaker is very different as he posted a new clip of him on stage at a performance in Liverpool.

The musician was seen belting out one of his tracks while holding a guitar.

The former solo singer was accompanied by his band, which was formed in 2019.

Some fans may not recognise him, not just because he looks so different, but also because he has a new name.

But have you worked out who this huge star is yet?

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It’s none other than Terence Trent D’Arby, who now goes by the name Sananda Maitreya, after changing it in 2001.

His singles Sign Your Name, If You Let Me Stay, and Wishing Well all stormed up the charts on both sides of the Atlantic.

Sananda created The Sugar Plum Pharaohs as part of his new identity and to separate from his past as Terence.

The band was featured on the 2019 live album Live From The Ruins. 

In a new post, Sananda shared a clip of the band performing at their latest gig.

He wrote: “The Sugar Plum Pharaohs & I would love to THANK THE DENIZENS OF LIVERPOOL for last evenings great hospitality.

“It is NEVER NOT A PRIVILEGE to entertain the Liverpudlian Spirit.
A Scouser’s embrace is a thing to cherish & hold close to the heart.

“We LOVE YOU, & hope to see you all again sooner rather than later.

“LONG LIVE THE RUTLES!”

PAST SUCCESS

His debut album Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D’Arby went five times platinum, selling 1.5 million copies and earning him a Grammy.

And he had no bigger fan than himself.

In typically humble style he declared the work “the most important album since Sgt Pepper“.

But his follow up album, Neither Fish Nor Flesh, failed to hit the high notes and he fell out with his record company, blaming their “wholesale rejection of it” for its commercial failure.

He became Sananda Maitreya, a moniker which came to him in a series of dreams in 1995, and officially changed his name in 2001.

Claiming his second album had killed his stage persona, he said: “Terence Trent D’Arby was dead… he watched his suffering as he died a noble death.

“After intense pain I meditated for a new spirit, a new will, a new identity.”

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Speaking on another occasion about his name change, he said his alter-ego had joined the 27 Club, referring to the tragic artists who died at that age, including Jim Morrison, Kurt Cobain, and Amy Winehouse.

He said: “It felt like I was going to join the 27 Club, and psychologically I did, because that is exactly the age I was when I was killed.”

A COUPLE from a huge rock band have SPLIT after 22 years of marriage and historic “sexual misconduct” allegations.

The two members of a Canadian indie group have decided to call time on the relationship after over two decades together.

The couple in question are Arcade Fire‘s Win Butler and Regine Chassagne, who wed in 2003.

The pair announced their shock split on the band’s official Instagram page.

The statement read: “After a long and loving marriage, Win & Regine have decided to separate. They continue to love, admire and support each other as they co-parent their son.”

They added that their “bond as creative soulmates will endure, as will Arcade Fire. The band send their love and look forward to seeing you all on tour soon.”

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Their split comes three years after Win was hit with misconduct claims from three women and a gender fluid individual.

The allegations included the sending of unsolicited explicit messages, coercive control, emotional abuse and physical assault.

Win responded to the allegations in 2022, admitting to having had relations with all of the claimants, however, he insisted each was consensual.

In a statement given to Pitchfork, he said, “While these relationships were all consensual, I am very sorry to anyone who I have hurt with my behaviour.

“As I look to the future, I am continuing to learn from my mistakes and working hard to become a better person, someone my son can be proud of. […]

“I’m sorry I wasn’t more aware and tuned in to the effect I have on people – I f**ked up, and while not an excuse, I will continue to look forward and heal what can be healed, and learn from past experiences.”

The band’s avant-garde sound has always been an acquired taste, though they have conquered the mainstream, headlining festivals such as Glastonbury and scoring three number one albums in the US.

It comes after Arcade Fire were recently slammed when they appeared on US TV show, Saturday Night Live.

The band performed two tracks from their forthcoming sixth album, Pink Elephant, in what was their second appearance on the show this series.

However, musically, their performance on May 10, left many viewers cold.

Others weren’t comfortable with the band getting such a prominent television gig after the troubling claims.

One person wrote on X, “If different people accusing you of sexual misconduct is not enough to prevent you being on this show twice in one season, how many people is?”

Another said, “Arcade Fire landing on SNL in the big 2025 is wild. Who the hell did Win Butler pay?”

THE original line-up of Five have finally stepped back on stage for the first time in 25 years.

Eight months since they announced their comeback in Bizarre, fans swarmed to the Utilita Arena in Cardiff.

Five hours before kick-off, I joined Abz Love, Jason “J” Brown, Ritchie Neville, Scott Robinson and Sean Conlon as they flitted between agony and ecstasy backstage . . . 

Sipping an Asahi 00, Scott says with a laugh: “I’m a nervous wreck,” just as Ritchie brings me a handmade lucky charm from a fan who has flown all the way from China.

He says: “Do you want to have a hold of my ball?”

J adds: “He’s flown over from China. It’s taken him 15 hours. He’s taken two weeks off work and he’s seeing six shows.

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“He’s renamed himself J and he gave us all these lovely gifts. He made that ball himself.

“And he’s got silk scarves for us all too. He embroidered them all himself. It’s a really nice touch.”

Telling me the ball is a symbol of good luck, Abz interjects and jokes: “Or he’s cursed them and we’re all f***ed.”

‘Getting shirty’

But they most certainly are not. As Five walk on stage to deafening screams later in the evening, they are slick, solid and on song.

The set begins with a bang, with the lads emerging from a haze of smoke before they burst into Slam Dunk (Da Funk) and Got The Feelin’.

For a band who last performed together two decades ago, they’ve not lost their chemistry.

Recalling the run-up to the first night, Ritchie explains: “The rehearsals had all gone great but two days ago, I was a wreck.

“As it went on, for the first time we had a couple of moments where we were getting shirty with each other.

“We all had to just step back and say, ‘Let’s just really look at the situation with 48 hours to go until the first gig.

“Let’s just acknowledge that whatever level of stress you think you’re at, you’re actually probably a little bit more’.

“We just worked to get through it all.”

The screams of fans — including a woman holding up a message that reads: “Get your tops off” — never subside as they whip through their back catalogue. Their rendition of 1998 track When the Lights Go Out proves emotional.

Fans who were looking forward to seeing the proper Nineties choreography got a treat.

It’s clear the lads have worked hard to get to this point.

“We’ve actually got new routines,” J says with a smile.

Scott adds: “The old moves didn’t come back immediately but there was some muscle memory there.

“Paul Domaine, our choreographer, he’s less spiky than he was in the Nineties.”

Abz jokes: “We’re better behaved now,” before J adds: “We’re better than we were before, but we’re not giving the behaviour of fully grown men with kids at nearly 50 years of age.”

Ritchie adds: “He was dealing with naughty school kids but now at least we’re applying ourselves a bit.”

Sitting in the underbelly of the arena, Five are physically and mentally in the best place they’ve ever been.

“We’ve been saying to everyone that we’re going to do the best tour ever,” Scott tells me.

“We said we would bring it all: the vocals, the dance moves. We weren’t just saying it though. We believed it.”

Sean adds: “It is 100 percent the best show we have ever done. Better than anything in the Nineties.

“It’s like everything’s been delayed to get to this point. It’s been 25 years. It’s meant to be.”

A-list celebrities including Cara Delevingne have been slipping into their DMs to blag tickets to the tour, which will see Five playing 24 more shows across the UK and Ireland, including Brighton tonight.

But Five have kept the first night more intimate.

Scott says: “My wife Kerry is here with my twin girls.

“They’ve never seen us perform as a five-piece in their lives.

“On the journey up here, one of my girls sent me a message and I let the boys read it. I couldn’t do it because I kept crying.

“She said how proud she was of me. She’s 11 years old. I thought, ‘This is going to be epic’.

“All I know is that I am going to be crying my eyes out.”

The atmosphere rocks up a notch with Let’s Dance and Everybody Get Up, before Five knock through a medley of House Of Pain’s Jump Around, Place Your Hands by Reef and Daft Punk’s Get Lucky.

A final encore of Keep On Movin’ closes a history-making first night and Five are grinning like Cheshire cats.

On stage, Sean takes a moment to reflect and turns to his bandmates as he says: “We are lucky guys.”

As the band rallies round him, he adds: “I just wanted to say, I did not expect that so many years on it would mean so much to so many people.”

Ash a Madge coney phoney

ASHLEY ROBERTS looked the image of Madonna in this outfit for Halloween – as hopes build she will return with the Pussycat Dolls.

She was certainly more treat than trick in bright-red lippy and iconic Jean Paul Gaultier-style cone bra, just like the pop superstar on her Blond Ambition tour from 1990.

It comes as Ashley’s former bandmate Nicole Scherzinger teased “possibilities” for the group, after settling a legal dispute with the group’s founder Robin Antin, which derailed their planned 2020 arena tour.

Nicole told LA Times: “Our lawsuit is settled. That should have never happened. That was an unfortunate mistake on someone’s part – not mine.

“However, time heals things, and grace is always beautiful in life. I’m very positive and, dare I say, excited for the possibilities to come on the horizon.”

Shona bid for charts stardom

EASTENDERS’ Shona McGarty is following in the footsteps of fellow Walford favourites Nick Berry, Martine McCutcheon, Sid Owen and Michelle Gayle with a music career.

The actress, who played Whitney Dean in the soap from 2008 to 2024, has today dropped her debut single Unapologetically Me in a bid to make a name as a powerhouse vocalist.

The track was co-written and produced by hitmaker Steve Anderson.

He has previously worked with Kylie Minogue and Britney Spears, so she’s off to a good start.

Shona said: “I wrote Unapologetically Me as a reminder to myself, and to anyone who’s ever felt pressure to be someone they’re not – that it’s OK to simply be who you are.

“Having spent years in the public eye, surrounded by glitz, glam, and expectation, I’ve often felt the need to play a character, to present a polished version of myself that fits what people want to see.

“But beneath all that, I’m just human. I’m silly, sensitive, strong, and imperfect, and that’s OK.”

Freya returns as Wicker Woman

FREYA RIDINGS is pulling no punches on comeback single Wicker Woman – the first taste of her third album that’s coming out in 2026.

The English singer-songwriter, who posed in this striking and spooky black dress, said of the song that is released today: “It’s an unashamed, euphoric celebration of reclaiming primal feminine power, a return to the core of who we are, and an ode to the forgotten women and gods who came before us.”

Mika is also making a return today with his single Modern Times, ahead of an arena tour next spring, and Jessie J releases H.A.P.P.Y.

British boyband ABSNT MIND have put out their latest single Stitch and fresh from winning over a new fanbase on The Celebrity Traitors, Cat Burns has dropped her second album, How To Be Human.

Lily on tour

LILY ALLEN will perform her new album West End Girl in its entirety on a 13-date UK tour next year.

She will hit the road for the first time since 2019, kicking off at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall on March 2.

Tickets go on sale from 10am next Friday.

KT’s got eye on Prada 2

SOMEHOW it has been 20 years since KT Tunstall broke on to the scene with her debut album Eye To The Telescope.

The record peaked at No3 in the UK charts and spawned a series of hits including Black Horse And The Cherry Tree, Other Side Of The World and Suddenly I See, which featured in 2006’s The Devil Wears Prada.

Now with Devil Wears Prada 2 set for release in 2026, KT is back in the studio working on a follow-up track which she hopes film bosses will use in a full-circle moment.

KT told Bizarre: “I would love them to use Suddenly I See, but I think they will want to move it on.

“I am writing a song to pitch to them as it’s the 20th anniversary of that too and they are using the same cast.

“I am coming up with a sequel. Who knows if they will be interested but I am going to give it a shot.”

She has today released a special 20th anniversary edition of Eye To The Telescope featuring a series of new tracks including Anything At All – which sees KT duet with her younger self.

She said: “It was so weird. I’m listening to this young woman who hasn’t had a record out yet.”

The never-before-heard title track is also on there.

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She added: “I’d only written the verse and chorus and then I abandoned it.

“But the record label said, ‘Why don’t you finish that song?’ It was difficult as I couldn’t really get myself back to what I was thinking at the time. It’s really cool it has taken 20 years to write the song.”

Promising hint

FLEETWOOD MAC greats Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks have given a promising hint that the band will reunite for the 50th anniversary of their album Rumours.

The former couple had a huge fallout in 2018 but have revealed they are now back in touch after re-releasing their 1973 joint album Buckingham Nicks – so they really could come back together for the band.

The pair were interviewed separately about the making of the record, for the podcast Song Exploder.

But proving they are back in touch, Stevie said on the episode: “Lindsey and I started talking about it last night. This whole thing seems really like yesterday to us.”

BON JOVI are going to hit the road next year for what is set to be a tour for the ages.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve been a fan for years or heard ‘Living on a Prayer’ at a disco as a child, the chances are you’re aware of them and their impact on the music industry.

Their catalogue promises anthems galore to get ready to scream out at the top of your lungs throughout their show.

Last Friday, Jon Bon Jovi answered fans’ prayers when he confirmed that the band would perform in the UK for the first time since 2019.

Having recently received vocal cord surgery he says he is now “ready and excited” to get back on the road.

The tour is a celebration of the band’s new music, including their 2024 album Forever, and will feature an extensive setlist of their greatest hits.

When is Bon Jovi’s tour?

The announced UK and Ireland tour dates are:

• Friday, August 28, 2026: Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh
• Sunday, August 30, 2026: Croke Park, Dublin, Ireland
• Friday, September 4, 2026: Wembley Stadium, London

The UK and Ireland ‘ Forever’ tour is set to follow a 6 show run that they are set to do at Madison Square Garden next July.

How can I get Bon Jovi tickets?

The crucial opportunity for all fans to secure their seats for the Bon Jovi ‘Forever Tour’ is the official General Sale, which is set to begin on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 9:00 am local time.

Tickets for both the Edinburgh Murrayfield Stadium and London Wembley Stadium shows will be made available through major official ticketing outlets.

Prior to the general sale, several exclusive presales have been running, though these opportunities are now drawing to a close.

The Live Nation, O2 Priority, and Artist presales for Bon Jovi’s ‘Forever Tour’ are all currently active today.

Bon Jovi tickets are available at the following places:

Ticketmaster

Live Nation

See Tickets

Viagogo

Vivid Seats

Stub Hub

How much are Bon Jovi tickets?

Wembley Stadium prices:

Seated Ticket Tiers (Reserved Seating):

• Category One (Premium Seated): £125
• Category Two: £95
• Category Three: £85
• Category Four: £75
• Category Five: £65
• Category Six (Budget Seated): £45

Standing Ticket Tiers (Pitch Access):

• Gold Circle Standing (Closest to Stage): £125
• General Admission Standing: £75

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VIP & Hospitality Packages (Experiences by Wembley Stadium):

• Gold Package: Starting from approximately £549 per person.
• Diamond Package: Starting from approximately £699 per person.

ANOTHER TikTok trend has taken off, this time featuring a combo of iconic tracks from different genres and eras.

Here’s everything you need to know about the Beez in the Trap trend, which is clocking up tens of millions of views and spawning hundreds of thousands of videos.

What is the Beez in the Trap trend? 

The Beez in the Trap trend is a viral TikTok phenomenon combining two iconic tracks.

The mashup has produced a surge of videos, with participants lip-syncing lines from both songs in a duet or surprise reveal.

As of October 2025, it is one of the platform’s most popular viral sounds.

The remix at the heart of the trend was originally made by TikToker DJ Auxlord in August 2025, but didn’t explode online until a few months later.

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What were the original songs? 

The original songs fuelling this trend come from different genres and eras – Nicki Minaj’s 2012 hip hop single Beez in the Trap and 4 Non Blondes’ 1993 alternative rock hit What’s Up.

Beez in the Trap, featuring rapper 2 Chainz, was released on May 29, 2012 as a single from her second studio album Pink Friday: Roman Reloaded.

Minaj said the phrase “I beez in the trap” means she’s always making money, as she explained on the Graham Norton Show when the song came out.

During the interview, Minaj clarified that “beez” is slang for “I am always” and “the trap” refers to any place where money is made.

The other single, 4 Non Blondes’ What’s Up, was released on June 11, 1993 and went on to become one of the decade’s definitive rock anthems.

Written and sung by Linda Perry, the song’s rallying chorus of “what’s going on?” became ingrained in pop culture.

The mashup has brought both songs new attention on social media.

The clips usually begin with someone lip-syncing the opening line from What’s Up over the beat of Minaj’s track.

The focus then swaps to another participant, who delivers Minaj’s razor-sharp hook.

As of November 28, 2025, the trend has seen over 600,000 TikTok videos created.

It has been embraced by both of the original artists, with 4 Non Blondes’ Linda Perry telling Rolling Stone it is “ridiculous in all the best ways”.

What celebrities have been doing the trend? 

Education advocate and youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai joined Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show for a rendition, which has been viewed over 73million as of November 28, 2025.

Sabrina Carpenter and Marcello Hernandez did a version that has so far been viewed over 18million times.

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Other major celebs taking part in the trend include rapper Ice Spice with PinkPanthress and Quen Blackwell, while Jennifer Lopez and former 4 Non Blondes singer Linda Perry – who sang the vocal on the original – have joined in on the fun.

Kylie Jenner and Khloe Kardashian have also had a go, as well as Gordon Ramsay, his wife Tana and daughter Tilly.

HE’S got some time on his hands after pushing back the release of new album Britpop until February.

And after announcing he was planning on opening a luxury hotel in Dubai, Robbie Williams is now working on another madcap idea.

“I want to open a University of Entertainment,” Robbie, right, revealed. “I did notice nobody else is doing it.”

He said of the inspiration behind his dream school: “I grew up as a vaudevillian. That’s what I am. I am cabaret.

“I spent all of my youth watching my dad do cabaret and watching all of the acts that he would bring off and on stage — and how talented and hard-working they were, and how genuinely funny the funny acts were, and how genuinely amazing the vocalists were.”

Robbie, who left Take That in 1995 before launching his hugely successful solo career, added: “I arrived in 1995, after Take That, I want to be Oasis.

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“I want to be Radiohead. Then, when I opened my mouth and my mind, I came out instead and I’m not cool. And you go, ‘OK, so what am I? Oh, I’m all of these people that I loved — Tommy Cooper, The Two Ronnies and Morecambe and Wise.

‘In a different place’

“The way they made me feel is how I want to make people feel.”

Robbie will be back on stage next year, kicking off a mini-tour in Glasgow on February 4, before playing three more intimate shows in Liverpool, London and Wolverhampton.

And until then, he said he’s going to be busy working on his new plans.

He told the Heretics podcast: “I’ve got so many fingers in so many pies, giving me so much to peruse. My ambition and my want and my need and my desire has not abated. But the oxygen I once had in my career, where I couldn’t miss every time I went to the table, has been taken away from me just because I’m an older pop star now.

“The rise was a long time ago, 1990 till, say, 2010.

“It’s only different as it’s different for everyone else lucky enough to have had my kind of career. I was the most played artist for ten years in a row.

“And, you know, thank you. I’ve had a nice run, but I’m in a different place now.

“And it’s not over. Where does all of that naked ambition and drive go?

“It goes into purpose. It goes into creating.”

If it ever gets off the ground, I’ll make sure to sign up for a night class.

Good friendships in the Mix

THEY may no longer be making music together, but Little Mix are still best of pals.

Pregnant Perrie Edwards and Leigh-Anne Pinnock were backstage at the Roundhouse in Camden to support Jade Thirlwall at her gig.

Leigh-Anne shared this sweet snap of them together, and one of my mates spotted them dancing and singing along to Angel Of My Dreams.

Jade, whose debut album, That’s Showbiz Baby, peaked at No3 when it came out last month, is now preparing to head Stateside in the New Year.

Let’s hope she can do what Little Mix couldn’t and crack America.

Jade kicks off a run of 14 shows in San Diego on January 30.

Fergie up fur reunion

IT looks like Fergie can’t decide if she’s too hot or too cold.

The Black Eyed Peas singer teamed this crop-top with a faux fur jacket as she performed at One Musicfest in Atlanta, Georgia.

The I Gotta Feeling singer wowed fans at the event in Piedmont Park, belting out some of her biggest hits including amazing 2006 single London Bridge.

Earlier this year, I revealed that Fergie had created a whole new music video for the track in the capital as part of Lena Dunham’s Netflix series, Too Much.

Fergie left the Black Eyed Peas in 2018, but I told you this summer that discussions are under way about a possible reunion with her bandmates Will.i.am, APL.DE.AP and Taboo.

I’d love to see this happen.

Jovi’s got the Midas Tuchel

I TRIED my hardest to make Jon Bon Jovi a Spurs fan when I hung out with him last week, but his legendary PR Alan Edwards – a die-hard Gooner – persuaded him to follow the reds.

Jon was obviously something of a lucky charm as Arsenal managed a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

He later hung out with England boss Thomas Tuchel and Jason Sudeikis.

It was Jon’s first Premier League game and I bet my last quid it’ll be his last given how rubbish Arsenal are.

You should have watched Spurs instead, Jon.

We battered Everton 3-0.

Is Geri in a bad Spice?

THE Spice Girls were all smiles at the launch of Victoria Beckham’s Netflix documentary this month.

But insiders say those grins were more like grimaces once the cameras were off – and the finger of blame is being pointed at Geri Horner.

A well-placed mole told me that while Mel C and Emma Bunton were together on row D, Geri was placed in a different area with her husband Christian Horner.

And the apparent snub is now the talk of the town.

Our source explained: “All people are still talking about what happened with Geri that night.

“She was seated away from Mel C and Emma, which seems weird given they were there to support Victoria. Inside the party she only seemed to talk to Victoria, too. It all felt rather frosty. No one has seen a photo of the four of them together either.”

Something is definitely up.

Last November, I revealed how Geri was dragging her heels over a new Netflix band biopic.

And last week, The Sun reported the band – completed by Mel B – were planning on implementing a “rule of four”, to allow the show to go ahead even if Geri wasn’t on board.

A telly insider said: “Geri has been dragging her heels for almost a year now and the rest are keen to plough ahead, as next year marks the 30th anniversary of first single Wannabe.”

Get it together, Ginger.

Cops get Raye on track

RAYE has revealed the police have found her stolen car – with her songwriting books on the backseat.

The Where Is My Husband! singer was forced to push back her second album after the thieves nicked her motor last year.

But now Raye is busy putting the finishing touches to the record after getting them back.

Appearing on Global’s Big Top 40, Raye, right, said: “It was a rollercoaster journey but what I didn’t tell people is that the police called me two or three months ago and said, ‘We’ve found your car.’

“Not only did they get it back but not one thing had been taken out of the car.

“All my songwriting books were there untouched.

“There was so much important stuff in there and when I was flicking through it I was like, ‘Thank God this has been returned to me’.”

Mark: I still get nervous

MARK RONSON has a load of hits to his name but has admitted he still questions if he’s any good every time he gets into the studio.

On Radio 2’s Tracks Of My Years, which airs all this week on Vernon Kay’s morning show, Mark said: “Every time I get into the studio with somebody for the first time, or even if it’s someone like Dua Lipa, or someone I’ve worked with a lot, it’s that combination of like, before the first day of school meets a blind date, meets every insecurity.

“Am I going to think of an idea? Am I going to be able to deliver?

“I still have that and I know people might be like, ‘That’s ridiculous, you’re good, don’t worry about it’.

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“But I think it’s served me well in my career because it’s always made me work extra hard.

“I wouldn’t know what to do if I fully lost that.”

THIS the stuff of Dreams for millions of fans across the globe and now there’s fresh hope for a Fleetwood Mac reunion.

The group have not performed together since 2019 and they were left devastated when Christine McVie died in 2022.

But I’ve been told that there are serious discussions behind the scenes about a series of projects involving all of the remaining members to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their album Rumours, which is among the best-selling and most critically acclaimed records of all time.

At the centre of the plans is said to be Mick Fleetwood, who is leading peace talks between former couple Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham, as well as John McVie.

A one-off show, a TV special and a documentary about the making of Rumours are among options being discussed for the 2027 milestone.

And Warner Records is also preparing a special re-release of the album featuring unheard material from the original studio sessions.

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A source close to Mick in the US said: “Fleetwood Mac are discussing new projects and how to mark Rumours’ big 5-0. For certain there is a special edition version of the album coming, which the band and label have been secretly looking at.

“But also there is a significant hope that it is time for the definitive documentary on all the chaos in the studio that created the magic on record.

“John and Christine were divorcing and she was dating their lighting guy. Stevie and Lindsey were over just before she and Mick enjoyed a brief fling. And drugs and booze were everywhere.

“The desire is for everyone to sit down and present their side of events on screen.

“And then of course comes the potential for a stage reunion and concert. That is the goal from Mick.

“Stevie has said it would not feel right being on stage without Christine, but also she and Lindsey are on a healing journey right now, which could be the path to a new show.

“However there is a desire to pay tribute to Christine in some way and a live show around Rumours seems a very fitting way.

“The gig would fill a stadium dozens of times because of the love they command.

“But unless some major shift happens, a tour is unlikely at this stage.”

Aaron Bay-Schuck, co-chairman and CEO of Warner Records confirmed at LA’s City of Hope gala that “some very special” music leftover from the making of Rumours had been found.

He said: “We will do everything in our power to respect that anniversary as long as they’ll let us.”

Last month, Stevie and Lindsey suggested relations had thawed when they reissued their 1973 Buckingham Nicks album.

And in March, Mick admitted: “I always have a fantasy that [Stevie] and Lindsey would pal up a bit more and just say everything’s OK for them both.”

They are beloved by an entirely new generation now thanks to social media, so there will be millions around the globe hoping they can patch things up for one last hurrah.

Aaron Bay-Schuck was at City of Hope’s Spirit of Life gala to celebrate co-chairman and Warner Records COO Tom Corson, who was honoured at the event.

It is the centrepiece of the music, film and entertainment industry’s annual philanthropic campaign and raised nearly $6million.

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Funds from the campaign are fueling leading research and survivorship programs for young adults, including music therapy.

Michael Buble, Cher and members of Linkin Park were among other guests who were there in LA last week.

LIMP Bizkit bassist Sam Rivers shared a final glimpse of his life just weeks before his sudden death aged 48.

The late star posted a picture of himself relaxing in the back of a limo during a trip to London.

The August 22 Instagram post, now flooded with tributes, showed the rocker leaning back in the plush seat, looking calm and content as he soaked up the moment in the UK capital.

“I hope everyone is having a great day. In London with my fav and and the LB Fam #limpbizkit #limpbizkitstyle #limpbizkitfamily #nothingbutlove,” Rivers captioned the photo.

The laid-back, joyful snapshot has now taken on heartbreaking new meaning after his death.

The founding member of the rap-rock giants passed away on Saturday, though a cause of death has not yet been revealed.

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His bandmates confirmed the news in an emotional statement to fans.

They wrote: “In Loving Memory of Our Brother, Sam Rivers. Today we lost our brother. Our bandmate. Our heartbeat.

“Sam Rivers wasn’t just our bass player — he was pure magic. The pulse beneath every song, the calm in the chaos, the soul in the sound.”

They added: “From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced. His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous.

“We shared so many moments — wild ones, quiet ones, beautiful ones — and every one of them meant more because Sam was there.

“He was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of human. A true legend of legends. And his spirit will live forever in every groove, every stage, every memory. We love you, Sam.

“We’ll carry you with us, always. Rest easy, brother. Your music never ends. — Fred, Wes, John & DJ Lethal.”

DJ Lethal shared his own heartfelt message, writing: “We love you Sam rivers. Please respect the family’s privacy at this moment. Give Sam his flowers and play Sam rivers basslines all day! We are in shock.

“Rest in power my brother! You will live on through your music and the lives you helped save with your music, charity work and friendships. We are heartbroken enjoy every millisecond of life. It’s not guaranteed.”

Rivers, born in Jacksonville, Florida, co-founded Limp Bizkit in 1994 alongside frontman Fred Durst and drummer John Otto, later joined by guitarist Wes Borland and DJ Lethal.

Together they reshaped late-’90s rock with hits like Break Stuff, My Way, Behind Blue Eyes and Take a Look Around, and their albums — including Significant Other and Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water — became era-defining records, with four going platinum or multi-platinum.

The band earned three Grammy nominations and a Billboard Music Award, cementing their status as one of the most influential rock acts of their generation.

Rivers’ journey wasn’t without battles.

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He left Limp Bizkit in 2015 after being diagnosed with liver disease caused by excessive drinking, later revealing he underwent a life-saving liver transplant in 2017.

He rejoined the band in 2018 after recovering, continuing to perform with them until his death.

SAM Rivers, bassist for rock-rap group Limp Bizkit, has died aged 48, according to an emotional statement from the band.

His fellow band members paid tribute to their “brother” on social media after he passed away on Saturday evening.

Announcing the news to fans on Instagram, the band wrote: “In Loving Memory of Our Brother, Sam Rivers. Today we lost our brother.

“Our bandmate. Our heartbeat. Sam Rivers wasn’t just our bass player — he was pure magic.

“The pulse beneath every song, the calm in the chaos, the soul in the sound.”

They added: “From the first note we ever played together, Sam brought a light and a rhythm that could never be replaced.

“His talent was effortless, his presence unforgettable, his heart enormous. We shared so many moments — wild ones, quiet ones, beautiful ones — and every one of them meant more because Sam was there.”

“He was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of human. A true legend of legends,” the statement continued.

“And his spirit will live forever in every groove, every stage, every memory.”

The band concluded: “We love you, Sam. We’ll carry you with us, always. Rest easy, brother. Your music never ends. — Fred, Wes, John & DJ Lethal.”

The 48-year-old’s cause of death is yet to be revealed.

In 2015, Rivers left the band after being diagnosed with liver disease due to excessive drinking.

He revealed that he had undergone a liver transplant before rejoining the band in 2018.

Rivers was a founding member of Limp Bizkit, having formed the band with Fred Durst and John Otto in 1994.

The band then added guitarist Wes Borland and DJ Lethal in 1996.

The group dropped six albums, including critically-acclaimed “Significant Other” and “Chocolate Starfish and the Hot Dog Flavored Water”.

Rivers has played on all six albums, four of which have been certified platinum or multi-platinum.

Limp Bizkit are best known for songs including “Behind Blue Eyes” and “Take a Look Around.”

A SONG by Pulp was wrongly subtitled with lines from Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple in a BBC blunder.

Phrases such as “Morning, Miss Marple. How’s the leg?” accompanied Jarvis Cocker.

Hard-of-hearing viewers were baffled as the frontman belted out Spike Island at the Mercury Prize awards ceremony on Thursday night.

Subtitles as he prowled the stage included, “Oooh then… Then the secretary girl came up with Heather Babcock”.

He also appeared to sing, “Dr Haydock, I would be very distressed if I thought you believed”, as well as “On and on she went” and “Honestly, she did go on so!”

Jarvis, 62, later posted snaps online, and wrote: “It appears our performance was accompanied by…… the subtitles to an episode of Miss Marple!”

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The singer, quizzed by police when he wiggled his bum at Michael Jackson at the 1996 Brit Awards, wrote: “Whodunnit?”

He added: “I suspect the butler….”

Fans lapped it up, with some saying they could be real Pulp lyrics.

Another joked, in the style of 1995 classic Common People: “Miss Marple from St Mary Mead she had a thirst for sleuthing.”

Christie’s 1980 movie The Mirror Crack’d, with Angela Lansbury as Miss Marple, was shown earlier on BBC4.

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A BBC star’s nepo daughter has revealed her addiction battle on her new single.

The singer has opened up for the first time about struggling with addiction, ADHD and substance abuse.

Line of Duty star Adrian Dunbar‘s daughter, Madeleine Dunbar, 37, whose artist’s name is Minx has explored her past in her new music video.

The artist took to Instagram with an image of herself spread across a lime satin bedspread with beer cans rolled into her hair as curlers

In the image she is surrounded by lines of fake white powder, pill packets and bottles.

The artist said: “My name is Madeline Dunbar, My artist name is Minx.

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“I am a recovering addict. I am a NeuroSpice.

“Messy, Messy ADHD Queen and I am writing songs about it.

The camera then flips to Madeline’s cat and she jokes: “Oh that’s my cat Tony. I think he thinks I’m relapsing.

“Don’t worry baby boy we are not going back there. That is just my ADHD medication crushed up on a golden plate.”

Madeline then bursts into laughter and adds: “Anyways if any of this stuff resonates with you in the right place.

“I’m about to release a track called Dopamine on the 1st November.

“I think you’re gonna f**k with it.”

The singer describes her music as “high-energy pop rap with hip hop, house and Latin influences”, drawing inspiration from Madonna, Lady Gaga, Janelle Monae and Rosalia.

Lyrics from the song include: “And every time I think that I’m in control / You serve another cocktail of chemicals / And it’s nice, but I wonder”

In an earlier post the singer wrote: “Fully clean and sober writing songs about addiction is cathartic but sitting in front of my favourite vices (albeit fake substitutes) was a bit triggering.

“It also made me feel a great sadness for the person I once was and the people still suffering.

“This track is a foray into the desperation felt by anyone suffering with adhd or addiction or like me, both!

“The frenzied need to feel better to feel different to feel normal.

“The futile necessity of instant gratification because that low dopamine is REAL and makes you feel so f***ing empty and unenthused.

“If you or a loved one are struggling speak out and seek help. It can be done, we do recover.”

Madeline’s father Adrian is best known for his starring role in Line of Duty as Superintendent Ted Hastings, the head of an anti-corruption squad.

But the Northern Irish actor has actually enjoyed a varied acting career, which also includes movies.

Line of Duty has run for six seasons so far, with fans begging for a seventh series of the hit BBC One cop drama.

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Adrian is wed to his Australian actress wife Anna Nygh, after they got married in 1986 – as well as Madeline he also has a stepson with Anna.

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A HUGE rock band has split after a decade together – and fans are completely gutted over the news.

Irish rockers Kodaline, known for their hits such as Brother, All I Want, and Moving On, have announced that they will soon be parting ways.

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Taking to social media to share the sad news, the band, which formed in 2005, wrote: “After over a decade, it’s time to say goodbye.

“With all our love. VSMJ.”

The caption accompanied a video, which saw the band performing on stage with a voiceover that played over the top.

In the voiceover, the band members could be heard saying: “After over a decade together we’ve made the difficult decision to say goodbye to Kodaline. 

“It might come as a surprise, and it’s definitely bittersweet for us too.

“What we’ve shared has changed our lives forever. 

“From busking on the streets of Dublin to playing shows across the world, it really has been the stuff that dreams are made of.

“We want it to end on a high, so before we say goodbye, we’re heading into the studio one last time to record our fifth and final album as Kodaline. 

“We are, and always will be, forever grateful for your love and support.”

They went on: “It’s been a journey that we’ll never forget and we hope that the music stays with you long after we’re gone. 

“With all our love Vinny, Steve, Mark and Jay.”

Fans rushed to the comments to react to the heartbeaking news.

One person wrote: “Nah why you gotta ruin my week like this.”

“Please don’t,” pleaded another.

“Thank you for being there for so many of us through your songs,” added a third.

A fourth said: “Through every heartbreak and healing, your songs stayed. I’ll always love you—honestly, completely, endlessly.”

While a fifth penned: “NOOOO PLEASEEE i’ve never been to your concert wdym i’ll never have the chance to see you guys live.”

And fellow Irish musicians Jedward added: “You can never fully say goodbye to Kodaline so we’ll see ya in the year 2030 something.

“Cause your to iconic not to come back and slay once again.”

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A POPULAR rock star has pulled out of his band’s 25th anniversary tour – after his wife’s death.

Greg Tribbett, 56, is the lead guitarist and a founding member of Mudvayne.

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Writing on social media, Greg’s bandmates confirmed his absence from their 25th anniversary tour following his wife Debbie’s passing.

They penned on social media: “Tour starts today!

“We are going to miss our brother Greg on this tour, sending him and his family all the love.

“- Chad, Matt, Ryan, & Mudvayne crew.”

Mudvayne’s tour began on September 11 and will continue until October 26.

According to a GoFundMe campaign, Debbie had been diagnosed with Angiosarcoma, a rare form of cancer.

Meanwhile, a fan page wrote on social media earlier this week: “With the heaviest of hearts we mourn the loss of our dearest most beautiful friend Debbie Tribbett.

“Anyone who has been here from the start of the Mob family knows she was a huge integral part of this page and the family she did take a step back once she needed to but was still watching and sharing as she always did.

“She was fiercely supportive of MUDVAYNE and her loving husband Greg always so proud!

“I thank her for bringing her love and light to so many of us who were lucky enough to connect with her.

“We miss you beautiful sweet friend more than words can say god bless you and may your family be blessed with strength.”

One person commented: “Ah man this is so sad to hear. Praying for Greg and the children. This is tough.”

Another added: “I heard the news yesterday and cried my eyes out. Makes my heart hurt for her babies.”

Mudvayne formed in 1996 with Greg, vocalist Chad Gray, drummer Matthew McDonough and bassist Shawn Barclay.

Ryan Martinie joined the group a year later, to replace Barclay as bassist.

Mudvayne went on hiatus in 2010 before returning to the stage in 2021.

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