Navigating self-discovery and grappling with mental health challenges is a narrative many pop stars tread, often set to the backdrop of glossy productions and earworm choruses that seamlessly soundtrack daily life. Yet, few dare to peel back the layers and reveal their raw, unfiltered truths. Harrogate-based artist and songwriter Litany stands among those rare artists.
Litany sharpens her introspective, shimmering pop sound with a standout collaboration alongside rising star Kai Bosch on her new single Hello, Anxiety released via Nettwerk.
Following her sold-out headline show at London’s The Lower Third and recent releases Future Us and Jelly Tot, this latest track unpacks the haunting duality of dreamlike success and the heavy weight of unresolved trauma, vividly portraying how even the brightest moments can collapse under the shadow of crippling anxiety.
Discussing her new single, Litany (aka Beth Cornell) opens up about the personal struggles that inspired Hello, Anxiety: “Despite living the life I’d so desperately craved—making life-long, like-minded friends, writing songs full-time, and attending glitzy London parties—my untreated past trauma manifests in crippling anxiety, leading to everything I’d worked so hard for crashing down around me. Again.”
Kai Bosch, who features on the single, immediately connected with its themes. “When Beth sent me Hello, Anxiety, I immediately fell in love with the song. I felt so much of myself in her lyricism that writing my verse felt effortless—it just slotted into place. It’s been incredibly reassuring to bond over these shared feelings and know I’m not alone in experiencing them.”
Turning down the volume on the music industry while cranking up the raw, unfiltered realities of life is something Litany knows all too well. Her reluctance to face her inner turmoil is understandable when you consider her journey. Since launching her career in 2015, she’s worked intensely to elevate her project to new heights. Her breakthrough came with Bedroom, a track that exploded in popularity after its brief feature in a Wrigley’s Extra commercial, amassing nearly 60 million streams on Spotify. Her ascent seemed unstoppable, further bolstered when national treasure Joe Lycett directed her music video for the single Uh Huh.
Litany’s initial years in London were a whirlwind of parties and dazzling city lights, fulfilling the dreams she had long harbored. But as 2019 gave way to 2020, she found herself grappling with mounting anxiety, stress, and depression.
Following a string of standout airplay moments—including BBC Radio 1’s Future Pop, BBC Radio 2, and a glowing endorsement from Elton John on his Rocket Hour show—Litany is poised to begin an exciting new chapter, with whispers of a debut body of work on the horizon. Having already sold out iconic London venues like The Garage, Scala, and more recently The Lower Third, she’s now gearing up for additional headline dates in February 2025, with stops in London, Leeds, and Manchester. Tickets available HERE.
Tue 18th Feb – Headrow House, Leeds
Wed 19th Feb – Night and Day, Manchester
Fri 21st Feb – Oslo, London
Let us know your thoughts on X (formely Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow Litany on her socials and stream Hello, AnxietyHERE and stay tuned for more from Litany!
2024 was so last year but it was a very demure, very cutesy and very mindful year for pop music!
Happy new year to you….and TO YOU! Music has been embedded in my life ever since I was in the womb, my Mum and Dad basically raised me on music, especially POP music! I grew up listening to Madonna, Mariah Carey, Kylie Minogue, Spice Girls, Britney Spears and even AQUA and I’ve always been obsessed with pop culture and Eurovison! I love sharing my favourite songs and album every month with the world from Scene HQ!
Sabrina Carpenter made history in 2024 with song of the summer Espresso which was number 1 on the UK official charts for seven non-consecutive weeks.
Charli xcx gave us a Brat summer and celebrated her first ever UK number to single as a lead artist.
All 5 members of the Spice Girls reunited for Victoria Beckham‘s 50th birthday party!
Beyoncé became the first black artist ever to take a country album (COWBOY CARTER) (not even Dolly Parton has a number 1 country album in the UK omg) to number 1 in the UK and also the first artist ever to achieve a UK official chart double with a country album and country single! (TEXAS HOLD ‘EM). Queen Bey followed Shania Twain‘s footsteps who was the first female country artist to bag a UK number 1 album when Come On Over topped the official albums chart in 1999.
Madonna brought Kylie on stage for an epic Celebration Tour performance-and it was International Women’s Day!
Honestly 2024 was that girl.
It’s been super hard to pick my favourite songs from 2024 because there were too many but I’ve tried my best so bare with, Spotify Wrapped did help though YAY!
US singer and actor Sabrina Carpenter dominated 2024 after Espresso received widespread acclaim from critics and became a commercial breakthrough hit and spent five consecutive weeks at the top of the official singles chart then returned to the top of the chart again for a further two weeks, replacing her own song Please Please Please (from her sixth studio album Short n’ Sweet-which went to number 1 too obvs on the official album chart) from the summit where it stayed for two consecutive weeks and became just the second female artist ever to replace themselves at number one after Ariana Grande, and then Espresso was dethroned from the top of the charts by Please Please Please omg.
Espresso was named the UK’s song of the summer 2024 by Official Charts!
Oh oh and fun fact: Sabrina opened for Taylor Swift on her The Eras Tour before her caffeinated success and I predicted Sabrina is pop’s next best thing HERE see!
Ariana Grande – yes, and?
It’s almost hard to remember life before the smash-hit musical movie Wicked but Ariana dropped this banger back on the 12th January 2024, the same year as Wicked, which is wild to me! Ari was definitely paying tribute to Madonna‘s Vogue but also Paula Abdul‘s Cold Hearted video too….slay.
In both videos, Paula and Ari are dancing in a room full of dancers and for Ari the dancers seem to be a nod to her critics and for Paula the dancers represented judgemental record label executives. Paula noticed too and posted on the gram saying “WOW! Waking up to see @arianagrande pay homage to ‘Cold Hearted’ in her new music video ‘yes, and?’ was EVERYTHING!!! What an honor! What was your favorite part of the video? I love you, Ari!!! XoP.” Oh and don’t forget about the remix with Mariah Carey too which dropped February last year which slapped!
Katy Perry – LIFETIMES
I’m not a happy bunny that everyone slept on this summer banger. Katy Perry dropped this shimmering, high-octane reflection on the infinity of love in August 2024 which should’ve been a number 1 global smash IMPO! LIFETIMES was my top song on my Spotify Wrapped in fact and I was in the top 0.0005% of listeners worldwide.
Katy said “LIFETIMES is a song about eternal love,” and “It’s about finding that one deep and satisfying love of your life. A soulmate doesn’t always have to come in the form of a partner – it can come in all different ways, a child, a best friend, a pet. For me it is my daughter – I ask her every night, ‘Will you find me in every lifetime?’ She says yes, and I feel found. You’ll find each other, over and over again, for lifetimes.” naww, and it’s a bop! Btw the video was shot in Ibiza baby!
Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe!
Wowowow Queer hero Chappell Roan unveiled Good Luck, Babe! and took over the world in 2024 with this electrifying track transcends the ordinary with a blend of nostalgic 80’s synth-pop and balladier vocals. With raw vulnerability, Chappell bares her emotions, belting out an empowering anthem that explores leaving behind a romantic relationship and exploring authentic love and self-acceptance.
Chappell said “I needed to write a song about a common situationship within queer relationships — where someone is struggling with coming to terms with themselves. It’s a song about wishing well to someone who is avoidant of their true feelings”. Relatable!
Like I said above, Chappell Roan took over the world in 2024 and I predicted she would back in May 2024 HERE hehehe. I’m still obsessed with her performance at the MTV VMAs 2024 btw, it was, well, a femininomenon.
Olly Alexander – Dizzy
Olly Alexander aka Years & Years represented the UK in Malmö, Sweden for Eurovision2024 and even though we didn’t get the result we all hoped for, I still love Olly and I still love Dizzy and it was my third most played song on Spotify Wrapped in 2024!
Dizzy has a synth-y Hi-NRG beat, combined with Olly’s emotive vocals creates an irresistible and exciting energy and it was perfect for Eurovision, Olly was perfect for Eurovision too and a long time fan of the contest himself. Olly said “It goes right back to being a kid and watching the show with my family – ordering pizza and spending all night in front of the TV watching this insane, amazing show. It’s a bit like a spiritual homecoming for me because I love Eurovision so much.”
Dizzy is taken from Olly’s upcoming album Polari which is out next month and it’s his first album under his own name. Olly said “I probably first heard the word Polari about fifteen years ago when I was a newly out homosexual, I knew it was some kind of ‘lost gay language’ but I didn’t take too much interest in gay history back then, looking to the past felt difficult. Polari was a gay relic that I put alongside hanky codes, secret handshakes and Edna Everage. Ten years later I would play Ritchie in It’s A Sin and get to grapple with my gay identity in a way that totally transformed my life. I loved learning about queer history so much, it gave me a new way to understand myself. Now after more than a decade of releasing music as Years & Years, I’m about to release my first album under my own name. I asked myself… what is an Olly Alexander album? If I wanted to distil the purest essence of whatever it is inside of me, I needed to try something new.”
Polari is out on the 7th February and Olly’s going on tour too, get tickets HERE.
JADE – Angel Of My Dreams
JADE aka Jade Thirlwall from Little Mix was the final Little Mix girlie to release solo music and I’d say it was more than worth the wait. Angel Of My Dreams is a frenetically shapeshifting, gloriously OTT pop banger that explores her love/hate relationship with the music industry.
Jade said “I didn’t want to do a safe first single, that was really important to me,” and “I’m setting the tone of who I am as an artist on my own. I want people to hear it and be like ‘what the fuck is that song?’. My worst nightmare is for someone to hear my song and go ‘that’s nice’.”
Built around a cheeky, knowing sample of Sandie Shaw’s 1967 Eurovision hit Puppet on a String, lyrically Jade wanted to reflect on her time in an industry that has brought her highs and lows. “It’s about how obsessed I am with the industry – so there are lyrics like “love when you call me a star” – but also there’s the dark side that comes with that. It’s not as glam as it seems.” The sample, which Jade had wanted to use in a song for years was chosen very specifically. “In the beginning of our career you do think you are this puppet, but at the same time it isn’t true – we wrote a lot of our songs, and we were behind a lot of what we put out there. I resented that as a statement. So it felt natural to take that and show that it can be true and untrue at the same time.”
Beyoncé – TEXAS HOLD ‘EM
Beyoncé’s latest musical venture took an unexpected turn in 2024 as she dived into the world of country music! I was so excited when she dropped TEXAS HOLD ‘EM (and 16 CARRIAGES) because after Daddy Issues and her performance with The Chicks I was secretly hoping she’d enter her country era one day!
Queen Bey invites us to a dusty dance floor where banjos twang and line-dancing commands echo. The track exudes a playful energy, punctuated by enthusiastic “woo hoo!” exclamations that might as well be “yee haw!” I personally don’t think Beyoncé’s foray into country music is just a detour or a Grammy-grabbing move, her mum (Tina Knowles) posted on the gram too saying Beyoncé has celebrated cowboy culture since childhood. “We also always understood that it was not just about it belonging to white culture only. In Texas there is a huge black cowboy culture.” Cowboy Carter was definitely a contender for AOTY for me btw.
Oh and did you catch her spectacular NFL Christmas Day halftime show aka Beyoncé Bowl on Netflix after the Gavin & Stacey finale?! And and and immediately after Bey posted a teaser video on social media for something happening on the 14th January!
Act III or visuals or a tour?! I’ve got my credit card ready.
Dua Lipa – Training Season
Dula Peep delivered a sleek and dancefloor-ready track with Training Season (as usual), she never disappoints.
Dua said “I had been on a string of bad dates, and the last one was the final straw,” and “The next morning I arrived to the studio to [cowriters] Caroline and Tobias asking me how it all went and I immediately declared ‘TRAINING SEASON IS OVER,’ and like the best ‘day after’ debriefs with your mates, we had a lot of laughs and it all quickly came together from there.” and “while it is obviously about that feeling when you are just absolutely done telling people…men specifically in this case, how to date you right; it is also about my training season being over and me growing with every experience. I have never felt more confident, clear or empowered. And while it may be that training season is never over for any of us, you start to see the beauty in finding that person to experience it with. You stop looking for the trainees and become more interested in having someone where you are and someone to grow with.” nawww.
Btw this song is a sly, irresistible wink for fans who notice the ABBA references!
Delta Goodrem – Hearts On The Run
Another Aussie pop icon and one of my faves, Delta Goodrem returned to planet pop in 2024 with Hearts on the Run. This 80’s-inspired uptempo banger is a testament to Delta’s versatility and vocal prowess and transports you to the neon-lit dancefloors of the 80’s. With funky guitar licks and infectious beats, the song invites you to groove and you can’t help but smile.
Hearts on the Run made waves in the pop world and feels nostalgic and refreshing at the same time. Basically this song will keep your heart racing!
Tate McRae – It’s ok I’m ok
Last year Multi-platinum pop girlie Tate McRae dropped It’s ok I’m ok featuring an irresistible chorus alongside the Britney Spears inspired official music video accompanied by a killer dance visual, marking a new chapter for the star.
Tate said “I’m so beyond excited to share “It’s ok I’m ok” with the world and this new chapter of my music. This song is a byproduct of reflecting back on past relationships to now and how much I’ve grown and learned from them. It’s a playful take on knowing your worth and the all too relatable feeling of never wanting someone back.”
I still reckon we need to start calling her Ate McRae because she’s constantly eating.
The Weeknd, Playboi Carti and Madonna – Popular
The Weeknd, Playboi Carti, and the Queen of Pop aka Madonna dropped this song in the summer of 2023 then the official music video dropped in 2024!
Popular is such a bop and it’s a part of the soundtrack for HBO’s series The Idol (which I still need to watch despite the bad reviews eeeep).
The chorus and hook of Popular are super catchy. Abel‘s (The Weeknd) signature vocals blend seamlessly with the beat, creating an infectious rhythm. Madonna adds her flair to the mix and Playboi Carti’s contribution raises eyebrows. His verses feel experimental, I think some listeners might find it intriguing, while others might scratch their heads and maybe hate it! Hate’s a strong word though.
Also fun fact: Madonna made chart history again (proving again why she’s the Queen of Pop), Popular entered the official UK top 10 charts making this Madonna’s first new top 10 hit in 15 years. The last time she was in the top 10 was back in 2009 with Celebration which climbed to number 3!
Abel is such a Madonna fan and said “I’ve always wanted to work with her,” and “I’ve always wanted to write and produce a Madonna album… Well, co-produce with her, of course. She’s a visionary and she has such a singular vision. And I just want to come into her world and create a classic Madonna album. That was always my dream. Hopefully this is the appetizer for that.” Welllll Madonna revealed recently that she’s back in the studio with Stuart Price and has music ready for 2025-let’s go!
Faouzia – ICE
Super talented singer-songwriter Faouzia is honestly an artist to watch. Her voice is just euphonious, if you’ve not heard of her yet, you’re welcome.
“I wrote this song during a period of my life where I felt extremely jaded and numb. After feeling every emotion so strongly my entire life, I was hit with this cold feeling that enveloped my mind and I was afraid I would never be able to escape it. After all the tears spilt, it felt like one day they just … stopped. With no end in sight, I found comfort and familiarity in this hollowness and found inspiration for my new song ICE. Using classical and dark melodies I love so much, the song just came pouring out.” Faouzia will be one of the main pop girlies in no time at all.
Jacqline – Effortless
Jacqline made her debut at Melodifestivalen last year and Effortless was written by Cazzi Opeia (a Melodifestivalen legend)! Jacqline performed this infectious track effortlessly.
POP PERFECTION. She was robbed too after being the favourite to represent Sweden but I reckon she’ll be back this year (I hope).
FKA twigs – Eusexua
FKA Twigs dropped her best song yet IMPO but when I first heard Eusexua I was like huh what does that word mean?
Twigs said Eusexua is “that feeling of when you’ve been out all night and you lose 7 hours to music, and you look at your phone and you think, “Oh, my gosh, it’s 8:00 in the morning.” And last time you looked, it was 1:00. It’s because you’ve been in a state of eusexua. It’s also if you meet somebody that you really like, and you just kiss all night and you kiss for all hours. You lose time. It’s like your bodies become one and you’re just like an amoeba. And it’s like this kind of meditative, like, amazing physical experience. For me, it’s also the moment before I get a really good idea of pure clarity. Like, when everything moves out the way, everything in your mind is completely blank and your mind is elevated. That’s eusexua and that is the only place I want to be now.”
Hopefully Eusexua will be added to the dictionary! I’d love a word I invented to be added to the dictionary and like Gemma Collins famously said, “I’m a massive fan of the dictionary” too, and Eusexua. Eusexua is taken from Twigs upcoming third album with the same name and will be out at the end of this month-24th January!
Swedish House Mafia, Alicia Keys – Finally
Finally dropped in 2024 (after teasing the track for nearly two years omg) and it was worth the wait. Swedish House Mafia and Alicia Keys joined forces and Alicia’s powerful vocals complement the music perfectly, adding a layer of emotion and depth to the song.
The collab marks the first time the two acts have come together on record and it’s actually a rework of Kings Of Tomorrow‘s 2000 house classic of the same name. It’s such a banger though, perfect for the gym or pre drinkles.
Rebecca Black – TRUST!
The one and only Ms Rebecca Black dropped her most bold and confident pop anthem yet IMPO that showcases her growth as an artist. TRUST! has an infectious beat, catchy melody, and powerful vocals that create an irresistible combo. The Friday star has come a long way since erm Friday, more than a decade ago!
The lyrics on TRUST! explore themes of self-empowerment and trust (obvs), resonating with listeners who are seeking to break free from negativity. TRUST! is a refreshing and empowering track that solidifies Rebecca’s position as a rising star in the pop music scene, I’m definitely ready for what comes next.
Natasha Hamilton – Edge Of Us
OMG this was a comeback that we didn’t know we needed! After a 16 year break, Natasha Hamilton from platinum selling Atomic Kitten dropped her solo debut Edge of Us and her voice sounds so good-it really does. I’m kinda obsessed.
Natasha’s powerful vocals resonate as an anthem of resilience, encouraging listeners to find their inner strength and make bold choices. She sings about overcoming tough times and celebrating the courage to say enough is enough, and basically dump your partner if you’re not being treated how you should be treated!
Natasha said: “Edge of Us marks a thrilling homage to the torturous feelings that haunt you when it comes to the end of a relationship. It delves into the depths of all emotions and feelings, yet ultimately celebrates the courage to say “enough” and walk away from what no longer aligns with you. This song resonates as a powerful anthem of resilience, inspiring people to embrace their inner strength and make bold, transformative choices.” YASSS, we’ve all been there and sometimes we just need a push.
Edge of Us is an iconic step for Tash, and it’s great to see her smashing it as a soloist!
Quavo, Lana Del Rey – Tough
American queen Lana Del Rey dropped highly anticipated collab with Quavo from Migos and it’s giving country marries trap. Tough really is like the best parts of all of her albums mixed into one so it’s a great time to be a Lana stan. My soul leaves my body when their voices hit harmony.
Lana said last year at a pre-Grammys event that her upcoming tenth studio album will be country inspired and named Lasso so I think Tough is a tiny taster of that. Hopefully! I’m too excited for Lana’s country era hehefekkdkewmvfsbvdfmfdbfsbdfmbsd.
Eminem – Houdini
Guess who’s back? Back again?
Eminem obvs, with Houdini, and fun fact: Houdini is produced by Eminem himself and features a sample and interpolation of Steve Miller Band’s 1982 hit, Abracadabra (oh that was 2 fun facts soz). Before he dropped it, Eminem teased the bop on social media in a FaceTime with David Blaine – the clip ended with the magician eating a wine glass (lol) and Em declaring, “Well, for my last trick, I’m gonna make my career disappear.”
Houdini was the first single from Eminem’s 12th album The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce) which came out on my birthday (12th July)-#JustSayen and his first album since 2020’s Music to Be Murdered By. The Death of Slim Shady (Coup De Grâce) became Eminem’s 11th number 1 album in the UK and fun fact: made history by pulling level with David Bowie and U2 who also have 11 chart-topping albums apiece, deserved!
Prince Joshua – LET THEM EAT CAKE
Last summer for his 27th birthday, Joshua Montoya aka Prince Joshua dropped his third single (and my personal fave so far) called LET THEM EAT CAKE. It’s a bop tbh. Joshua said “I wanted to make a song that all queer people in the LGBTQIA+ community can feel empowered by while having fun and shaking their ass. My music is for those who want to live life unapologetically themselves, know they’re a bad bitch, and get right back up every time they get knocked down.” and “This is my first solo single about letting guys eat a delicious treat.”
Prince Joshua dropped his debut full EP 2nd today, yep on New Year’s Day! CROWNED features queer artists Big Dream and Bama Babii! Joshua said “I am dropping a music video with my EP to the song BAR-KING where I feature some of LA’s pup community. The song is about men “cat calling” or as I say “barking” at me. I wrote this song from my experiences with street and online harassment from being fawned and gawked at to being called derogatory names. The song and especially the music video shine a light on these experiences by masking unwanted comments with barking.”
Check out my interview with Prince Joshua last year HERE.
Kesha – JOYRIDE
Ke dollar sign ha (only animals will know) is finally in her independence era. JOYRIDE is an absolute bop, which she released on the 4th July (Independence Day in America) and also, her first release since parting ways with Dr.Luke‘s record label, also it’s her first release via her own label KeshaRecords-exciting times!
Kesha said “I’m really excited for Kesha Records to expand and grow in all the ways that people would think, but also in unexpected ways because I’m currently looking into the tech space and I’m looking to find partners who have the values that I align with. So, in addition to the traditional record label model, I’m also looking to the future and I’m looking for some really creative, boundary-pushing, innovative tech creators that want to change how the music business works and bring a new level of transparency to the whole business.” MOTHER!
Back to JOYRIDE, it’s definitely the most Kesha-sounding song she’s made in so long and omg….can you imagine a lip sync for your life to this?! OMG.
Tom Aspaul – Cabin Fever
Cabin Fever is the first single from Tom Aspaul‘s third upcoming album, also called Cabin Fever, distributed via Downtown Artist & Label Services and set for release in the spring/summer. The record is inspired by an uneasy and revealing acid trip, which took place in a small cabin on an isolated island in the middle of the Stockholm archipelago during Midsommar weekend. Each song acts as a vignette throughout the day as the LSD takes hold, reality unravels and lines become blurred. The single opens the album and lyrically juxtaposes Swedish sauna bathing rituals with late night trips to a gay men’s bathhouse. It’s a song about lust, confusion and carnality-I’m getting Liberty XDoin’ It vibes?!
Sonically the record is a much more organic and moody direction for Tom, with influences from Tango In The Night-era Fleetwood Mac, late-stage ABBA, William Orbit, Tame Impala and darker 70s funk with psychedelic overtones. The album is co-written and co-produced by frequent collaborator Gil Lewis.
Tom said “I would never recommend hallucinogens to a friend because that day in Sweden was an absolute nightmare. We got through it together and it spawned an amazing album, so it’s not all bad! Over the last 12 months, I’ve been reliving every second of it with Gil Lewis and I’m so thrilled (and relieved) to finally share this crazy experience with everyone. The song really sets the tone for the rest of the album, you’re never quite sure where the narrative voice is coming from, am I tripping? Am I reminiscing? Or am I actually inside a gay sauna? I want to keep the listeners guessing. It’s a different direction for sure, but I sit so comfortably in this psychedelic, dark, trippy and (dare I say it) funky new lane.”
Vanessa Williams – Legs (Keep Dancing)
Wilhelmina Slater oops I mean Vanessa Williams, the legendary star of stage, screen, and the music scene (ooooh that rhymed) casually made a comeback in 2024 with new music at 61 years old, her last song was in 2009-15 years ago so this is wayyyy overdue.
Vanessa said “What a joy it is to be making new music behind the mike again with old friends,” and “There’s a certain comfort in creating new works in the studio while reminiscing about how so many years in this business have brought successes, excitement, and lasting memories. Always moving forward is what drives me. Every challenge is exciting. And more new music to share with my fans is the fuel that lights my fire.”
Nessa released her ninth studio album, Survivor last year too, which features Legs and it’s her first album since 2009.
Also, she released it independently and said “I had been in talks with a few labels on the record side and a lot of labels have disappeared, disintegrated. Everyone is consolidating, not very many people are getting signed…before COVID, I went into the studio and said, ‘You know what? I’m going to pay for it myself and just start recording. I want to do songs that matter to me for my life.’”
The album is amazing btw and I still can’t get over that I saw Vanessa Williams in real life on stage for The Devil Wears Prada musical. Check out my review HERE.
Charli xcx, Billie Eilish – Guess
2024 was such an epic year for Charli xcx. Brat was everywhere, and Charli teamed up with long-time friend Billie Eilish for the Guess remix.
The iconic duo both appear in the official music video directed by Aidan Zamiri. All bras and underwear used in the music video have been donated to I Support The Girls. ISTG are a non non-profit organisation that collects and distributes essential items, including bras, underwear, and menstrual hygiene products, allowing people experiencing homelessness, impoverishment, or distress to stand tall with dignity.
Guess gave Charli her second ever UK number 1 single and her first as a lead artist-so deserved and way overdue! She should’ve had a million number 1’s by now. Her first number 1 was back in 2012 as a feature on Icona Pop‘s I Love It (a classic).
Kylie Minogue – Lights Camera Action
Lights Camera Action was the first single taken from high octane Tension II, and captures the carefree spirit of the nightclub and continues the euphoric, electronic sound of Kylie Minogue‘s previous album Tension. Produced by Lewis Thompson and written by Kylie, Thompson and Ina Wroldsen – who co-wrote smash hit single Padam Padam – the high energy club-inspired track is the perfect follow up to recent dance hit and Ibiza favorite Edge of Saturday Night with The Blessed Madonna.
The stunning video, directed by Sophie Muller and shot in Budapest, sees Kylie assuming multiple roles in several ultra iconic guises. From photographer to film star Kylie is in front of the camera and behind it in this instant classic. My favourite lyrics are “I look stellar tonight, my armour is by (Jean Paul) Gaultier” ICONIC!
Lady Gaga – Disease
Mother Monster began her LG7 era with new dark pop just in time for spooky season too (just before Halloween she dropped this banger). Disease is a reminder of why Lady Gaga is one of the most exciting and influential pop stars of her generation and follows on from Harlequin, a companion album to her new film Joker: Folie à Deux which I STILL need to see!
Disease evokes the raw energy of The Fame Monster and Born This Way and came out just in time for Halloween (Gaga know’s what she’s doing) and is written and produced by the singer alongside Andrew Watt and Cirkut, with Gaga’s fiancé Michael Polansky also listed as a co-writer.
Gaga posted about Disease on her socials saying “I think a lot about the relationship I have with my own inner demons. It’s never been easy for me to face how I get seduced by chaos and turmoil. It makes me feel claustrophobic. Disease is about facing that fear, facing myself and my inner darkness, and realizing that sometimes I can’t win or escape the parts of myself that scare me. That I can try and run from them but they are still part of me and I can run and run but eventually I’ll meet that part of myself again, even if only for a moment.” and “Dancing, morphing, running, purging. Again and again, back with myself. This integration is ultimately beautiful to me because it’s mine and I’ve learned to handle it. I am the conductor of my own symphony. I am every actor in the plays that are my art and my life. No matter how scary the question, the answers are inside of me. Essential, inextricable parts of what makes me me. I save myself by keeping going. I am the whole me, I am strong, and I am up for the challenge. Happy Halloween.”
Mirror, mirror on the wall, come see the naughtiest North East Adult Panto of all!
Brighton (and Nottingham) audiences are in for a treat this January when Snow White & the Seven Drag Queens roars into their towns for one naughty night only as part of its first-ever UK tour.
And alongside the celebrity cast, including Gogglebox favourite and Queen of the Jungle Scarlett Moffatt, Celebrity Big Brother Winner David Potts, and Ru Paul’s Drag Race icons, Michael Marouli and Tomara Thomas, there’ll be another familiar face taking to the stage – with special guest, and Married at First Sight star Ella Morgan set to join both performances as the Magic Mirror.
Ella Morgan is the breakout star from Celebs Go Dating and Married at First Sight UK, becoming a rising talent in broadcast and digital media. As the first openly transgender participant on the show, Ella’s journey has not only increased visibility for transgender individuals but also sparked crucial conversations about acceptance and understanding, seeing her become a beacon of inspiration in the LGBTQ+ community, Passionate about empowerment and confidence, she is carving a path as a presenter, fashion influencer, and advocate for the trans community, inspiring audiences with her authenticity and charm.
Ella will be helping to keep the Evil Queen on her toes alongside a cast including Drag favourites Ophelia Balls from Pride Radio and international drag sensations Janice Dickinson, Andi Martine, Miss Dixie Swallows and Brenda LaBeau. Amelia Cavagan plays Snow White, with Danny Emmerson-Ducasse as the dashing Prince Albert and expect laughs aplenty from Corey Clarke as Muddles, the very naughty Jester.
After two sell-out seasons in Geordieland, the North East Adult Pantomime is taking the fun to audiences across the country, with its Leeds performance coming as part of a very first UK tour. Following a big opening in Newcastle, there are stops in Brighton, Nottingham, London, Cardiff, Glasgow, Manchester, and Wolverhampton from 4th to 12th Jan 2025.
Locked inside her magic chamber, an Evil Queen keeps a watchful eye over her beautiful step-daughter Snow White, who has just turned eighteen. When the Queen’s faithful mucky-mouthed Mirror informs her she no longer is the fairest of them all, she concocts her malevolent plan – to take Snow White deep into the Doggers Wood and make sure she is never seen again.
Snow White escapes, and stumbles upon a Cottage, where she is kidnapped by a gang of girls that time forgot – not the Spice Girls – but seven fabulous Drag Queens – Itchy, Bitchy, Tipsy, Tiny, Horny, Windy and Pot. They decide to adopt her and make her their new drag project. Their party is interrupted when a knock at the door reveals a mysterious lost hag. Will they buy something from her Avon catalogue, or can she persuade Snow White to try an apple shot – it is her birthday after all? Snow White and her Drag sisters overindulge and soon find themselves trapped in a deathly sleep. Will the Wicked Queen get to wear her crown forever, or has she overlooked the wandering Prince Albert, who is looking for his own happy ending in the woods?
With fabulous costumes, stunning effects and a soundtrack camper than Elton John in a boob tube at Christmas, save the date for this unmissable, fabulously filthy night out!
January is always a bleak month, but it doesn’t have to be! Join Gogglebox favourite and Queen of the Jungle Scarlett Moffatt, alongside Celebrity Big Brother Winner David Potts, and Ru Paul’s Drag Race icons, Michael Marouli and Tomara Thomas.
Starring alongside them are Drag favourites Ophelia Balls from Pride Radio and international drag sensations, Janice Dickinson, Andi Martine, Miss Dixie Swallows and Brenda LaBeau. Amelia Cavagan plays Snow White, with Danny Emmerson-Ducasse as the dashing Prince Albert and expect laughs aplenty from Corey Clarke as Muddles, the very naughty Jester.
And that’s not all! The Cast will be joined on stage each night FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY by a very special guest star playing the Magic Mirror – meaning no show will ever quite be the same.
Locked inside her magic chamber, an Evil Queen keeps a watchful eye over her beautiful step-daughter Snow White who has just turned eighteen. When the Queen’s faithful mucky-mouthed Mirror informs her she no longer is the fairest of them all, she concocts her malevolent plan – to take Snow White deep into the Doggers Wood and make sure she is never seen again.
Snow White escapes, and stumbles upon a Cottage, where she is kidnapped by a gang of girls that time forgot – not the Spice Girls – but seven fabulous Drag Queens – Itchy, Bitchy, Tipsy, Tiny, Horny, Windy and Pot. They decide to adopt her and make her their new drag project. Their party is interrupted when a knock at the door reveals a mysterious lost hag. Will they buy something from her Avon catalogue, or can she persuade Snow White to try an apple shot – it is her birthday after all? Snow White and her Drag sisters overindulge and soon find themselves trapped in a deathly sleep. Will the Wicked Queen get to wear her crown forever, or has she overlooked the wandering Prince Albert, who is looking for his own happy ending in the woods?
With fabulous costumes, stunning effects and a soundtrack camper than Elton John in a boob tube at Christmas, save the date for this unmissable, fabulously filthy night out!
So like we said, we have 2 tickets that YOU could win! Alllllllll you have to do is check out our post on X below:
WIN X2 TICKETS to Snow White and the 7 DRAG QUEENS
Join Tomara Thomas, Scarlett Moffatt, David Potts & Michael Marouli @ Brighton Centre on 05/01/25.
Tickets are valid for Snow White and the Seven Drag Queens at the Brighton Centre on Sunday, 5th January 2024, at 8pm only. One pair of tickets per winner only. Strictly Ages 16+. No purchase is necessary. Tickets are non-exchangeable. The closing date for entries is 20/12/24;
entries received after this date will not be counted. The box office will email winners their tickets a few days before the show. Any travel and accommodation will not be included in the prize. You can buy tickets HERE.
Get ready to LOVEmas this Christmas! Today John and Edward Grimes aka Jedward have released their first ever Christmas song and first song since 2020, (LOVEmas) and it’s a festive bop! Definitely one to add to your Christmas 2024 (and beyond) playlist immediately, if you don’t like it then just admit that you don’t like fun!
The jepic duo said “LOVEmas is a song with a mission to share the love this festive season! Our first Christmas song we feel like Wham!we have fun memories meeting George Michael every Christmas we celebrate this legend! Our song is inclusive for everyone because love is universal and we all need a fun Jepic 2024 anthem to bring everyone together dancing to the LOVEmas dance. The song includes fun pop culture references with lyrics like: ‘we’re reunited once again like Oasis singing wonderwall’ and ‘The Christmas dinner’s Hot to Go, Santa’s singing expresso’ paying homage to Chappell Roan and Sabrina Carpenter. it also includes classic christmas references like ‘Home alone’s playing on the tv’ The song includes deeper lyrics such as ‘wanna be wrapped up in your angel wings tonight’ dedicated to anyone that has lost anyone. The harp in the artwork is the symbol for our Irish Hearts ♥️”
Let us know your thoughts on X (formely Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow Jedward on their socials HERE and stay tuned for more new music-hopefully! Stream LOVEmas HERE.
Last weekend I stepped into the glamorous world of Runway Magazine at the Dominion Theatre in London’s West End for the new Devil Wears Prada musical with my BFF, (hey doll if you’re reading this :)).
Vanessa Williams, best known for her celebrated roles in Ugly Betty and Desperate Housewives and as a multi-award-winning singerplaysthe irrepressibleMiranda Priestly, alongside Olivier Award winner, Matt Henry,as Runway’s Creative Fashion Director, Nigel.
They are joined by Georgie Buckland (Shrek The Musical; Bedknobs and Broomsticks) making her West End debut playing the driven Andy, Amy Di Bartolomeo (SIX; We Will Rock You) as the icy First Assistant to Miranda, Emily, James Darch (Mamma Mia!; Wicked) as the devious journalist, Christian, and Rhys Whitfield (The Phantom of the Opera; Summer and Smoke) as Andy’s long-term boyfriend, Nate.
Completing the cast are: Maddy Ambus, Gabby Antrobus, Selena Barron, Pamela Blair, Robertina Bonano, Josh Damer-Jennings, Lloyd Davies, Elishia Edwards, Akeem Ellis-Hyman, Elizabeth Fullalove, Jinny Gould, Natasha Heyward, Samuel How, Luke Jackson, Debbie Kurup, Liam Marcellino, Ciro Lourencio Meulens, Theo Papoui, Christopher Parkinson, Eleanor Peach, Ethan Le Phong, Jon Reynolds, Harriet Samuel-Gray, Olivia Saunders, Kayleigh Thadani, Ella Valentine, Rhys Whitfield and Tara Yasmin.
The Devil Wears Prada musical is based on the 2006 Twentieth Century Studios blockbuster film (my favourite film) which went on to gross $326 million worldwide and received two Academy Award nominations and Lauren Weisberger‘s best-selling 2003 novel. The show features an original score by music icon, and Olivier and Tony Award winnerElton John, lyrics by singer-songwriter Shaina Taub and Mark Sonnenblick, book by Kate Wetherhead with direction & choreography by three-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell.
The show is hilariously fun and fabulously stylish and tells an inspiring story about discovering what kind of person you truly want to be. Choose your outfit carefully and get ready for a new musical that’s hautter than hell!
The Devil Wears Prada musical is produced by Tony Award winner Kevin McCollum (In the Heights, Avenue Q, Rent, SIX and Mrs. Doubtfire), Rocket Entertainment/David Furnish (Tammy Faye, Billy Elliot: The Musical) and Jamie Wilson (Mrs Doubtfire, Ain’t Too Proud, Sister Act The Musical)as a co-production with Theatre Royal Plymouth, and presented by special arrangement with Buena Vista Theatrical.
Jerry Mitchell now steers this brand-new reimagined production of The Devil Wears Prada to new heights following a developmental run in Chicago in 2022.
So, not sure whether to book tickets? Please bore someone else with your questions.
Book tickets HERE. Tickets from £20. Booking until October 2025. If like me you’re a big fan of The Devil Wears Prada movie, you absolutely must see this show! It’s the most incredible musical I’ve ever experienced and I’ve seen a lot of musical theatre.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 out of 5 stars) #DALEYPOP approved! That’s all.
Music has been embedded in my life ever since I was in the womb, my Mum and Dad basically raised me on music, especially POP music! I grew up listening to Madonna, Mariah Carey, Kylie Minogue, Spice Girls, Britney Spears and even AQUA and I’ve always been obsessed with Eurovison! I love sharing my favourite songs and album every month with the world from Scene HQ! Follow my socials here 🙂 and Merry Christmas!!!! xoxo
Ava Max – 1 Wish
Mariah (Carey) better watch out! Global superstar Ava Max kicks off Christmas with 1 Wish, an original brand new Christmas song that captures the essence of Christmas cheer YAY. With its catchy melody and upbeat tempo, the song instantly makes you feel festive as fuck (excuse my French)-unless you’re a Grinch.
Ava’s powerful vocals shine as she expresses her simple wish for everyday to feel like Christmas. The lyrics convey the joy and warmth associated with the festive season. 1Wish is a fun and uplifting track that is sure to become a Christmas classic in a few years to come, mark my tiny words! I’m manifesting an Ava Max Christmas album now too, maybe this time next year?! Ava could be in the studio right now as I’m typing this!
Stewart Taylor – EVEN
Stewart Taylor has released the music video for his new single Even, an explosive dance-pop anthem inspired by a tumultuous relationship. Driven by honest lyrics and compelling visuals, Even explores the rollercoaster of love and conflict, capturing the highs and lows of a relationship headed for the rocks. With a distinct European dance-pop vibe courtesy of Romanian hitmaker MADS and a futuristic visual.
Stew describes Even as a “pre-breakup song” that dives into the complexities of relationships. “The language of the heart is tricky,” he explains. “You can be very much in love with someone and end up on opposing teams.” Through the song, Taylor navigates these contradictions, highlighting the frustration and longing that comes from constantly trying to “get even” with a partner. The song’s message about love and accountability resonates as Taylor ultimately advocates breaking the cycle of pain through personal responsibility rather than revenge-it’s a meaningful and relatable bop.
Astels – Lonely
Spotify knows me so well🥹. Spotify recommended me Astels recently and I’m so grateful because they’re SO GOOD! Astels are a French duo who both come from rich musical backgrounds, creating a bold fusion of 80s and 90s retro aesthetics, imbued with their multiple musical influences. Their music, a blend of Funk, Hip-Hop, House, Pop, RnB and Soul and I have to use my favourite word: swanky, and has already won over a large community of fans around the world (and I’m one of them now woo), as evidenced by the millions of views on the videos the duo regularly post on social networks.
Lonely is their latest release which captivates a blend of indie pop and electronic elements that creates a melancholic yet uplifting atmosphere.
The duo’s smooth vocals and introspective lyrics paint a vivid picture of longing and isolation, while the pulsating beats and ethereal synths provide a sense of hope and resilience. The song’s production really is impeccable, with each instrument and vocal layer contributing to the overall sonic experience. After the success of their first fabulous EP (Lost In A New Era), they’ve announced their first album, The Meeting, coming in April 2025-I can’t wait!
Tom Aspaul – Cabin Fever
Cabin Fever is the first single from Tom Aspaul‘s third upcoming album, also called Cabin Fever, distributed via Downtown Artist & Label Services and set for release in spring/summer 2025. The record is inspired by an uneasy and revealing acid trip, which took place in a small cabin on an isolated island in the middle of the Stockholm archipelago during Midsommar weekend. Each song acts as a vignette throughout the day as the LSD takes hold, reality unravels and lines become blurred. The single opens the album and lyrically juxtaposes Swedish sauna bathing rituals with late night trips to a gay men’s bathhouse. It’s a song about lust, confusion and carnality-I’m getting Liberty XDoin’ It vibes?!
Sonically the record is a much more organic and moody direction for Tom, with influences from Tango In The Night-era Fleetwood Mac, late-stage ABBA, William Orbit, Tame Impala and darker 70s funk with psychedelic overtones. The album is co-written and co-produced by frequent collaborator Gil Lewis.
Tom said “I would never recommend hallucinogens to a friend because that day in Sweden was an absolute nightmare. We got through it together and it spawned an amazing album, so it’s not all bad! Over the last 12 months, I’ve been reliving every second of it with Gil Lewis and I’m so thrilled (and relieved) to finally share this crazy experience with everyone. The song really sets the tone for the rest of the album, you’re never quite sure where the narrative voice is coming from, am I tripping? Am I reminiscing? Or am I actually inside a gay sauna? I want to keep the listeners guessing. It’s a different direction for sure, but I sit so comfortably in this psychedelic, dark, trippy and (dare I say it) funky new lane.”
Litany – Future Us
The journey of self-discovery and mental health struggles has become a familiar path for many pop stars, often marked by polished productions and catchy hooks that blend into everyday moments. However, artists who are willing to expose their deepest, most sincere selves are a true rarity. Enter Litany.
Harrogate-based artist and songwriter Litany brings her introspective, shimmering pop into sharper focus with her latest single, FutureUs. Following her recent track Jelly Tot, this new single hints at a larger project on the horizon and showcases her talent for crafting refined pop hooks around themes of real-life relatability. With her rich and resonant vocal, blending vulnerability and defiance, Litany (aka Beth Cornell) dives into the bittersweet optimism of long-distance relationships, capturing the resolve to make it work despite the distance in hopes of a brighter future together.
Discussing her new single, Litany said “This is a bit of a fantasy about someone I loved moving very far away for work. Instead of calling it quits like we might in real life, we both agree to make it work and try long distance—thinking future us will be grateful! Bittersweet, right?”
Infernal – Bending the Rules
From Paris to Berlin to Bending the Rules, Danish duo Infernal have blessed us with many euphoric dance-pop tunes over the years and they’re still delivering the goodies. Generously, they’ve gifted us another Europop-banger. Bending The Rules!
Think – only tasteful, modern and full of feels.
Infernal has never shied away from big songs with a message that is more than ‘put your hands in the air’ – time and time again, they have given us bangers, you want to scream from the top of your lungs on the dance floor and this one is no different. Or is it? With this one, PawLagermann and LinaRafn demonstrates that they are at the top of their game after more than 25 years in the industry. This could be a debut single for a new, cool pop outfit – that’s how fresh it feels. But it isn’t. It is Infernal manifesting that they are never stuck in the past.
Big synths and an emotional vocal tied together by lyrics speaking of day vs. night and drawing the line in a toxic situationship.
Bending the Rules ticks all the right boxes. Taken from upcoming album INF:ALBUM. The track’s infectious beat, catchy melody, and Lina’s powerful vocals create a euphoric listening experience, so tak Lina, tak Paw!
Rebecca Black – TRUST!
The one and only Ms Rebecca Black has dropped her most bold and confident pop anthem yet IMPO that showcases her growth as an artist. TRUST! has an infectious beat, catchy melody, and powerful vocals that create an irresistible combo. The Friday star has come a long way since erm Friday, more than a decade ago!
The lyrics on TRUST! explore themes of self-empowerment and trust (obvs), resonating with listeners who are seeking to break free from negativity. TRUST! is a refreshing and empowering track that solidifies Rebecca’s position as a rising star in the pop music scene, I’m definitley ready for what comes next.
Girls Aloud – I’ll Stand By You – Sarah’s Version
Nadine Coyle, Kimberley Walsh, Nicola Roberts and Cheryl debuted Sarah’s Version on The Girls Aloud Show tour this year and have released it as the official 2024 BBC Children in Need track. A chart-topping single for Girls Aloud back in 2004, the brand-new cut of Pretenders cover I’ll Stand By You now includes Sarah Harding exclusively on lead vocals in tribute to the late star who tragically died in 2021.
The girls posted on socials saying “This year marks the 20th anniversary of our BBC Children in Need single I’ll Stand By You. To celebrate and honour our amazing Sarah, we’re releasing a brand-new studio version of the track once again in support of BBC Children in Need. I’ll Stand By You (Sarah’s Version) features Sarah on lead vocal throughout using vocals we discovered in the Girls Aloud vault from the original recording sessions. The track played a key part in our The Girls Aloud Show arena tour this summer and was an emotional moment for us all”.
Chrissie Hynde from the Pretenders who wrote the song alongside Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly said: “How wonderful to hear I’ll Stand By You with the lovely vocals of Sarah Harding leading the way for BBC Children in Need. Happy Christmas all!”
ALBUM OF THE MONTH:Jennifer Hudson – The Gift Of Love
Seeing as it’s almost Christmas, my album of the month had to be a festive one!
History’s youngest female EGOT-winner Jennifer Hudson has released her first ever Christmas album (and her first album in 10 years omg), and captures the magic of the festive season on her InterscopeRecords debut, The Gift of Love.
With her effortless range and melodic tone, the genre-defying vocalist brings to life seasonal faves like O Holy Night,Winter Wonderland and Auld Lang Syne alongside brand new original Christmas song that bring fresh meaning to the holidays (omg I sound so American).
JHud said “I have been dreaming of this moment for as long as I can remember. As a holiday fanatic, I could not be more excited to give you all this early Christmas gift,” and “My love for this album runs deep. I am beyond grateful for all the amazing people that helped me bring it to life. It has truly been a labor of love!”
Oh also, Jennifer has joined forces with Hallmark to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Countdown to Christmas programming event and Hallmark’s 2024 Joy to Your World holiday campaign. The campaign features Let There Be Joy, an exclusive original song from JHud. Songs from The Gift of Love also appear in Hallmark Christmas programming. Speaking on her collaboration, Jennifer said, “No one does the holidays quite like my friends at Hallmark, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to celebrate the season together with my new song ‘Let There Be Joy,’ as we Countdown to Christmas.” and “Music and movies have always been a favorite holiday tradition for me and my family, so I hope this song can become the same tradition for everyone on Santa’s list this year!”
The Gift of Love includes Carol of the Bells featuring The Joy, a South African quintet known for their blend of traditional Zulu music and modern acappella. Jennifer also collaborates with fellow GRAMMY Award winner and boyfriend Common for the original song Almost Christmas and finally records her stunning take on Hallelujah. Ryan Tedder (OneRepublic) served as Executive Producer of the album and produced several tracks. I’m excited to hear what Jennifer Hudson has in store for us now that she’s signed with Interscope Records. I can’t wait to hear new music from her in 2025-hopefully!
For rising Swedish artist and producer Sam Ezeh, the past three years have been a journey of reflection and reinvention. Emerging from this period of self-discovery is LOVELACED, a transformative new EP, out right….now!
Following closely behind the surf-rock-infused single EARLY BIRD’S NEST and sonically intimate AUDIOCORE, Ezeh’s new EP LOVELACED emerges as a compelling evolution of his artistry. Written and produced between 2022 and 2023, the record was shaped within the intimate solitude of his bedroom studio — a space synonymous with his self-styled sound.
However, LOVELACED marks a turning point. For the first time, Ezeh invited collaborators and session musicians into his creative orbit, resulting in a dynamic interplay of perspectives. The EP introduces a first-time feature and pushes his signature sound into new, textured territory. While retaining his singular vision, his EP offers a glimpse of the transformative power of collaboration in his ever-expanding sonic universe.
Surf-rock-inflected comeback single EARLYBIRD’S NEST introduced a new chapter for Ezeh, bridging his earlier work and the boundary-pushing world of LOVELACED. The EP, steeped in lush textures and layered metaphors, signals a shift into more mature, freeform storytelling. Where past projects felt lyrically guarded, LOVELACED draws from Ezeh’s fascination with personas and narratives — real or imagined — to explore love in its myriad forms, with newfound depth and vulnerability.
Musically, LOVELACED channels the hazy psychedelia of Tame Impala, the sultry grooves of Blood Orange, and the avant-garde edge of Yves Tumor and Dean Blunt. Tracks like LEISURE (featuring bbymutha) embrace dancefloor euphoria, while AUDIOCORE delves into the science of connection, layering synths and undulating basslines to mimic the physicality of sound waves. The title track’s swirling frequencies evoke a narcotic, after-hours intimacy, bringing together Ezeh’s influences with striking originality. This EP is a sonic kaleidoscope — tender, experimental, and utterly transportive.
Reflecting on his new EP, Ezeh shared, “Each song explores love in its many forms, written during a time of loneliness, when I was yearning to love and be loved. It’s not just about romantic love; it’s about the love for friends, for music, for humanity, and for life itself. A lot of the people close to me had moved away, and I wasn’t very connected with anyone in my town. Conceptually, I like to think of the tracks as ‘enchanted’—’laced’ with a touch of my love, which is where the title LOVELACED comes from.
This ‘lacing’ is also reflected sonically through varied textures, best heard in the title track itself. I wanted the production to have dreamy, rose-tinted, glossy, and shimmery qualities, with soft vocals recorded up close to create an intimate feel. I layered multiple vocals on each track — it was a fun but challenging process, especially since I engineered it all myself. One last thing I’d like to add is how everything I sang on this record ended up manifesting in my life later on. It’s a testament to how music can be like a spell, a powerful force that shapes reality.”
Sam’s LOVELACED marks a bold transition as he steps into 2025, creating immersive sonic landscapes that invite listeners to escape and process emotions. With this project, Ezeh aims to craft an otherworldly experience, where the music becomes a space for emotional exploration, signaling the beginning of an exciting new era. Stay tuned for more coming soon!
Let us know your thoughts on X (formely Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow Sam Ezeh on his socials HERE.
Manchester-based poet, writer, and producer Antony Szmierek has unveiled a new song from his upcoming debut album, Service Station At The End Of The Universe (not the title of a Lana Del Rey track or album btw hehe) set to release on February 28th. The latest track, Yoga Teacher, offers a satirical, true-to-life tale layered over 80s-inspired synths and a funky bassline, showcasing Szmierek’s signature lyricism and smooth flow. Released via Mushroom Music/Virgin Music Group, the song is accompanied by an official music video, made with previous collaborator Zak Watson, featuring Antony in full vinyasa flow. Speaking about the track, Antony said “the narrator wrestles with his own feelings towards masculinity, sexuality and his absentee father over the course of a surrealist and dreamlike yoga lesson. The more he tries to let go, the more his anxieties come to the surface. breathe in, hold… release”.
Yoga Teacher follows Antony Szmierek’s recent single The Great Pyramid Of Stockport, which dropped alongside the news of his debut album and has subsequently been added to BBC 6 Music’s playlist, as well as receiving significant support from BBC Radio 1 and further plays across BBC Radio 2.
The past few years have been a wild ride for the artist. Cutting his teeth on the Manchester spoken word scene and gaining notoriety for his seamless flow skewering everything from the hardships of contemporary British life to finding the unexpected beauty in the everyday, it was the 2023 release of his single The Hitchhiker’s Guide To The Fallacy that kicked off his meteoric ascent. Set against the backdrop of a pounding kick drum and club-ready synths, Szmierek lets loose a stream of consciousness that lays out his vision of musical vulnerability and communal escapism: “Everything’s ironic now, post-post-punk. Take me away” he says on the track.
The earworming record soon found its way onto the BBC 6 Music airwaves and led Szmierek to be named an Artist of the Year 2023 by the station. There followed appearances on Later… with Jools Holland, a BBC Radio 1 Maida Vale session, multiple triumphant Glastonbury sets and a flurry of comparisons: to the pavement prose of The Streets, the poetry of John Cooper Clarke if he found himself at the Haçienda, or like Jarvis Cocker for the UK Garage generation. Yet, with the release of his 2023 indie-influenced EP Poems To Dance To and now his banger-filled, dancefloor-focused debut album, Service Station at the End of the Universe, Szmierek cements his sound as one that is distinctly his own.
Following a busy festival-filled summer, which included the aforementioned Glastonbury performances that were highlighted by The Guardian and praised by NME as a festival highlight, as well as playing to packed crowds at Truck, Latitude, and Boardmasters, Szmierek is currently travelling the breadth of the UK & Europe as support to Faithless. He has announced his own headline tour across the continent in support of the album release next year. Full date listings as follows:
Let us know your thoughts on X (formely Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow Antony Szmierek on his socials HERE and stay tuned for more new music and news on the forthcoming record to follow.
For newcomers and latecomers alike, there has been no better introduction to the piercing talents of rising artist and songwriter de clair. than her recent debut EP, hiding mountains in the palm of my hand. With notable praise for her ability to delicately push the boundaries of folk, de clair brings forth songs that tackle life’s big questions: love, friendship, sadness, hope, gratitude, loneliness, and the journey from youth to adulthood—while daring to confront the raw truths of it all.
Today, de clair returns for one final moment in 2024 with her most intimate offering yet, the new single seatbelt. Stripping back her sound to its gleaming bones the song was recorded in a single take, live in an industrial space in Kuldīga, Latvia, showcasing her flawless talent for poignant lyricism, seamlessly fused with a minimalistic aesthetic. The single is paired with a mesmerising live video filmed at the time.
Speaking about her new single, de clair explains, “What you hear was recorded in one take, and it was also the first time I sang the entire song, which influences how it sounds—it feels like it was created specifically for that room.” and “seatbelt is about seeing others, but also slowly realising that you yourself are not seen—neither by yourself nor by others. It’s like looking through an old family photo album and not finding yourself. Sad, but not uncommon, I think. This time, we mixed through a tube compressor instead of tape. During my time in Kuldīga, I wrote a lot of new music, but the process around ‘seatbelt’ was special. It was unexpectedly high summer, the last of the year when I was there, and I swam in Europe’s widest waterfall and hung out with Mikael’s dog, Lester.”
At the tender age of ten, de clair, whose real name is Clara Rudelius, embraced the guitar before transitioning to a black grand piano that awaited her in the living room. Inspired by musical luminaries like Nico, Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, and Björk, de Clair’s songwriting embodies a unique fusion of indie, alternative, and folk, using lyrics as a vehicle for her music.
Marking a pivotal moment, a serendipitous turn of events in October 2023, de clair received an unexpected call while en route to a birthday party. Sub Pop‘s waterbaby invited her to perform as the opening act for the tour finale in Stockholm that very night. With no rehearsal or sound check, de clair entranced the audience, garnering a growing legion of fans eager to encounter her enigmatic talent.
Let us know your thoughts on X (formely Twitter) @SceneLGBTQ and @DaleyPopScene and follow de clair. on her socials HERE and stay tuned for more music coming from de clair in 2025!
Also, she released it independently and said “I had been in talks with a few labels on the record side and a lot of labels have disappeared, disintegrated. Everyone is consolidating, not very many people are getting signed…before COVID, I went into the studio and said, ‘You know what? I’m going to pay for it myself and just start recording. I want to do songs that matter to me for my life.’”
Seeing as it’s almost Christmas, my album of the month had to be a festive one!
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