Music News
Music News
Years & Years' Olly Alexander "felt like such a loser" before becoming a musician.
The trio's frontman has admitted he finally feels content now he is in the successful band because he never felt like he fitted in before embarking on a career in music.
Speaking in a video for Vevo LIFT, he confessed: "It's so much easier being in a band, especially because, as a teenager I felt like such a misfit and I wouldn't say I had a happy childhood really, I was quite a nervous kid and never enjoyed being at school and never got on with the kids that well. I just felt uncomfortable in my own skin and, I always wanted to be someone else, like be somewhere else, and I felt like such a loser but music gives you identity. And it made me feel like I could do something."
The 'King' songwriter continued to say performing to huge audiences along with bandmates Mikey Goldsworthy and Emre Turkmen has helped him to be more confident as he knows he's part of a team, which makes him feel like a "high end version" of himself.
He added: "When you're singing or playing music to an audience - that's a special relationship that maybe you don't get in another part of your life. You have a unit there and it's less intimidating going out on stage, 'cause you know you've got other people to rely on and who can back you up. Yeah, I think that's priceless, that kind of support.
"You get up on stage and become someone else, you know, you become a more kind of high end version of who you are, and the situation's high end, and all the rules are different. You use extrovert behaviour to kind of counteract feeling shy and insecure."
Years & Years are the second LIFT act of 2015 following on from James Bay. 2014's acts included Foxes, Sam Smith, Gorgon City, Ella Eyre and Rixton.
Years and Years’ Olly ‘felt like a lose’ before band
Years & Years' Olly Alexander "felt like such a loser" before becoming a musician.
The trio's frontman has admitted he finally feels content now he is in the successful band because he never felt like he fitted in before embarking on a career in music.
Speaking in a video for Vevo LIFT, he confessed: "It's so much easier being in a band, especially because, as a teenager I felt like such a misfit and I wouldn't say I had a happy childhood really, I was quite a nervous kid and never enjoyed being at school and never got on with the kids that well. I just felt uncomfortable in my own skin and, I always wanted to be someone else, like be somewhere else, and I felt like such a loser but music gives you identity. And it made me feel like I could do something."
The 'King' songwriter continued to say performing to huge audiences along with bandmates Mikey Goldsworthy and Emre Turkmen has helped him to be more confident as he knows he's part of a team, which makes him feel like a "high end version" of himself.
He added: "When you're singing or playing music to an audience - that's a special relationship that maybe you don't get in another part of your life. You have a unit there and it's less intimidating going out on stage, 'cause you know you've got other people to rely on and who can back you up. Yeah, I think that's priceless, that kind of support.
"You get up on stage and become someone else, you know, you become a more kind of high end version of who you are, and the situation's high end, and all the rules are different. You use extrovert behaviour to kind of counteract feeling shy and insecure."
Years & Years are the second LIFT act of 2015 following on from James Bay. 2014's acts included Foxes, Sam Smith, Gorgon City, Ella Eyre and Rixton.
Music News
Sam Smith has vowed not to "hide anything" on his next record.
The 22-year-old star performed a sold out concert at Brixton O2 Academy in London on Wednesday (25.03.15), revealing he felt like his best-selling debut album 'In the Lonely Hour' was like a "diary", and will continue to be honest on the record's eagerly-anticipated follow-up.
Speaking to the audience, he said: "I had a very broad idea of things I needed to do to become well known. And I thought that if I lost loads of weight ... then people would listen, but the truth was people only started to properly listen to me when I started being myself. And the way for me to do that through music was to be honest. This album is my diary, I've hidden nothing from anyone and I won't hide anything from anyone on my future record, my future songs."
The show was one of a string of sold out UK gigs following tours across Europe and USA, and although he has picked up four Grammys and two BRITs already this year, the 'Lay Me Down' hitmaker confessed no awards can compare to the feeling he gets when he performs for his adoring fans.
He added: "The last few month with the Grammys and the Brits have been, have been so amazing, but truly for my heart all these awards are great but nothing, nothing compares to standing and singing to you guys. So thank you, thank you for coming and supporting me."
The chart-topping star will head to Australia and New Zealand next month to continue the 'In the Lonely Hour Tour', before performing shows across North America and a selection of festivals.
Sam Smith promises honesty in new music
Sam Smith has vowed not to "hide anything" on his next record.
The 22-year-old star performed a sold out concert at Brixton O2 Academy in London on Wednesday (25.03.15), revealing he felt like his best-selling debut album 'In the Lonely Hour' was like a "diary", and will continue to be honest on the record's eagerly-anticipated follow-up.
Speaking to the audience, he said: "I had a very broad idea of things I needed to do to become well known. And I thought that if I lost loads of weight ... then people would listen, but the truth was people only started to properly listen to me when I started being myself. And the way for me to do that through music was to be honest. This album is my diary, I've hidden nothing from anyone and I won't hide anything from anyone on my future record, my future songs."
The show was one of a string of sold out UK gigs following tours across Europe and USA, and although he has picked up four Grammys and two BRITs already this year, the 'Lay Me Down' hitmaker confessed no awards can compare to the feeling he gets when he performs for his adoring fans.
He added: "The last few month with the Grammys and the Brits have been, have been so amazing, but truly for my heart all these awards are great but nothing, nothing compares to standing and singing to you guys. So thank you, thank you for coming and supporting me."
The chart-topping star will head to Australia and New Zealand next month to continue the 'In the Lonely Hour Tour', before performing shows across North America and a selection of festivals.
Music News
Rita Ora is set to collaborate with Jess Glynne.
The 24-year-old singer has enlisted the help of the rising star to help make some new music, and Jess has confirmed she has sent demos over to her with the idea of the pair recording one of them as a duet.
She revealed: "I've spoken to Rita a few times and she's asked me to collaborate. So I've done some stuff for her, she's had my songs sent to her to work on and yeah, I'm up for it."
The collaboration follows Jess's work with Clean Bandit on the smash hit 'Rather Be', and Rita's track with fellow female Charli XCX, 'Doing It'.
However, although they could be recording together in the near future, Jess, 25, admitted she is anxious of performing in front of Rita this weekend when she sings her new single 'Hold My Hand' on 'The Voice UK', on which the 'I Will Never Let You Down' singer is a coach.
She told the Daily Star newspaper: "I'm so nervous of these TV shows.
"You have all the judges in front of you, that's my worst nightmare doing an audition. I've never met Tom or Ricky - I could never be a contestant, I'm too scared."
Rita Ora for Jess Glynne duet
Rita Ora is set to collaborate with Jess Glynne.
The 24-year-old singer has enlisted the help of the rising star to help make some new music, and Jess has confirmed she has sent demos over to her with the idea of the pair recording one of them as a duet.
She revealed: "I've spoken to Rita a few times and she's asked me to collaborate. So I've done some stuff for her, she's had my songs sent to her to work on and yeah, I'm up for it."
The collaboration follows Jess's work with Clean Bandit on the smash hit 'Rather Be', and Rita's track with fellow female Charli XCX, 'Doing It'.
However, although they could be recording together in the near future, Jess, 25, admitted she is anxious of performing in front of Rita this weekend when she sings her new single 'Hold My Hand' on 'The Voice UK', on which the 'I Will Never Let You Down' singer is a coach.
She told the Daily Star newspaper: "I'm so nervous of these TV shows.
"You have all the judges in front of you, that's my worst nightmare doing an audition. I've never met Tom or Ricky - I could never be a contestant, I'm too scared."
Music News
Ne-Yo wants to work with Adele and Sam Smith.
The 'Let Me Love You' hitmaker has revealed he is keen to get into the studio with the multi-Grammy Award winners because he is such a fan of their powerful voices.
He revealed: "[I'm] loving what's going on with Sam Smith right now.
"[I'm] waiting for Adele to come back. I heard she's about to get into the studio. I'd love to get in and do some stuff with her."
The 35-year-old singer and producer - who recently released his new album 'Non-Fiction' - has previously worked with artists including Beyonce, Rihanna and Celine Dion, but explained he prefers British acts because they are more focused on the "artistry" of the music, as opposed to stories surrounding their personal lives.
He continued: "It seems like over there the focus is on the music and the artistry.
"Whereas [in America] we kind of get caught up more a little bit in the controversy, the scandal, the back story, the imaging and all of that."
However, the crooner revealed he is going to continue working with Pitbull - with whom he created the hits 'Give Me Everything' and 'Time of Our Lives' - because "it just works".
He told ETOnline: "It's me and Pit's second time working together and definitely not our last.
"I don't know, maybe it's our appreciation for suits but for whatever reason it just works."
Ne-Yo wants to work with Adele
Ne-Yo wants to work with Adele and Sam Smith.
The 'Let Me Love You' hitmaker has revealed he is keen to get into the studio with the multi-Grammy Award winners because he is such a fan of their powerful voices.
He revealed: "[I'm] loving what's going on with Sam Smith right now.
"[I'm] waiting for Adele to come back. I heard she's about to get into the studio. I'd love to get in and do some stuff with her."
The 35-year-old singer and producer - who recently released his new album 'Non-Fiction' - has previously worked with artists including Beyonce, Rihanna and Celine Dion, but explained he prefers British acts because they are more focused on the "artistry" of the music, as opposed to stories surrounding their personal lives.
He continued: "It seems like over there the focus is on the music and the artistry.
"Whereas [in America] we kind of get caught up more a little bit in the controversy, the scandal, the back story, the imaging and all of that."
However, the crooner revealed he is going to continue working with Pitbull - with whom he created the hits 'Give Me Everything' and 'Time of Our Lives' - because "it just works".
He told ETOnline: "It's me and Pit's second time working together and definitely not our last.
"I don't know, maybe it's our appreciation for suits but for whatever reason it just works."
Music News
Gene Simmons has accused U2 and Rolling Stones of relying heavily on backing tracks at their gigs.
The Kiss rocker believes the iconic bands are being dishonest to their fans by using pre-recorded content when they perform, and thinks it is unfair to charge high ticket prices if shows aren't entirely live.
He ranted: "I have a problem when you charge $100 to see a live show and the artist uses backing tracks.
"You're paying $100 - 30 to 50 per cent of the show is (on) backing tracks and they'll sing sometimes, sometimes they'll lip-synch. At least be honest.
"It's not about backing tracks, it's about dishonesty.
"There's nobody with a synthesiser on our stage ... no samples on the drums, there's nothing. There's very few bands who do that now - AC/DC, Metallica, us. I can't even say that about U2 or the (Rolling) Stones. There's very few bands who don't use (backing) tracks."
Despite slamming the use of synthesisers and backing tracks, the 65-year-old star went on to gush about 'Applause' hitmaker Lady Gaga, who he thinks should ditch pop music to make a rock record because she has such a great voice.
He told News.com.au: "Lady Gaga I like. She's the real deal. She's come to our shows. What she's done with Tony Bennett shows that, above the backing tracks and dancers from Las Vegas on poles, she can really sing.
"I'd like to see Gaga come out with a real rock band and do a rock record. She is the real deal, unlike all the others. She can do what Madonna can't - she can sing."
Gene Simmons slams Rolling Stones and U2 for ‘dishonesty’
Gene Simmons has accused U2 and Rolling Stones of relying heavily on backing tracks at their gigs.
The Kiss rocker believes the iconic bands are being dishonest to their fans by using pre-recorded content when they perform, and thinks it is unfair to charge high ticket prices if shows aren't entirely live.
He ranted: "I have a problem when you charge $100 to see a live show and the artist uses backing tracks.
"You're paying $100 - 30 to 50 per cent of the show is (on) backing tracks and they'll sing sometimes, sometimes they'll lip-synch. At least be honest.
"It's not about backing tracks, it's about dishonesty.
"There's nobody with a synthesiser on our stage ... no samples on the drums, there's nothing. There's very few bands who do that now - AC/DC, Metallica, us. I can't even say that about U2 or the (Rolling) Stones. There's very few bands who don't use (backing) tracks."
Despite slamming the use of synthesisers and backing tracks, the 65-year-old star went on to gush about 'Applause' hitmaker Lady Gaga, who he thinks should ditch pop music to make a rock record because she has such a great voice.
He told News.com.au: "Lady Gaga I like. She's the real deal. She's come to our shows. What she's done with Tony Bennett shows that, above the backing tracks and dancers from Las Vegas on poles, she can really sing.
"I'd like to see Gaga come out with a real rock band and do a rock record. She is the real deal, unlike all the others. She can do what Madonna can't - she can sing."
Music News
Zayn Malik "couldn't handle" being in One Direction.
The 22-year-old singer announced his decision to quit the band yesterday (25.03.15), with an insider revealing he grew tired of the pressures fame brought.
A source explained: "Zayn simply had enough and couldn't handle it. The lads respected his decision and although it was a tough call, Zayn feels it was the right one.
"He couldn't cope with the scrutiny of his private life."
Last week, Zayn left the band's On the Road Again Tour due to stress and is reportedly relieved to have told the remaining members - Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Liam Payne - and their fans of his decision to quit for good.
The insider told The Sun newspaper: "Zayn's been struggling for months and the high level of intensity had taken its toll.
"The decision is still fresh but he can sense the weight will eventually lift off his shoulders. Although he acknowledges that he faces an incredible amount of scrutiny over the next few days."
In an official statement yesterday, Zayn said: "I feel like it's the right time. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right."
He added: "I want to be a normal 22-year-old."
Zayn Malik ‘couldn’t handle One Direction fame’
Zayn Malik "couldn't handle" being in One Direction.
The 22-year-old singer announced his decision to quit the band yesterday (25.03.15), with an insider revealing he grew tired of the pressures fame brought.
A source explained: "Zayn simply had enough and couldn't handle it. The lads respected his decision and although it was a tough call, Zayn feels it was the right one.
"He couldn't cope with the scrutiny of his private life."
Last week, Zayn left the band's On the Road Again Tour due to stress and is reportedly relieved to have told the remaining members - Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Liam Payne - and their fans of his decision to quit for good.
The insider told The Sun newspaper: "Zayn's been struggling for months and the high level of intensity had taken its toll.
"The decision is still fresh but he can sense the weight will eventually lift off his shoulders. Although he acknowledges that he faces an incredible amount of scrutiny over the next few days."
In an official statement yesterday, Zayn said: "I feel like it's the right time. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right."
He added: "I want to be a normal 22-year-old."
Music News
Labrinth, Basement Jaxx and Laura Mvula are among acts confirmed for Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF).
The musical stars will perform at the free entry LIMF Summer Jam, which is being held as part of the broader third annual festival aiming to celebrate the city's cultural diversities and music heritage.
As well as the dance music duo, 26-year-old producer Labrinth and 'Green Garden' hitmaker Laura, local talents Echo & the Bunnymen will perform at the event in Sefton Park, along with 'Lights On' singer Katy B, chart-topping DJ Naughty Boy and rising star Becky Hill.
Speaking about the event, Becky said: "I'm really excited to be announced as part of the Liverpool International Music Festival this year! Can't wait to play in Liverpool again alongside such brilliant acts."
Other artists set to perform include Bipolar Sunshine and Rae Morris, who released her debut album 'Unguarded' last month.
Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said: "The 2015 LIMF line-up is testament to the success of this event after just two years. The number of high calibre, diverse acts is staggering and I'm positive the Summer Jam element in Sefton Park is unrivalled anywhere else in Europe - what other city stages household-name music acts and up and coming talent in the beautiful surroundings of a Grade I park and all for free?"
Further information about LIMF including the other events taking place can be found on the official website http://www.limfestival.com/
Labrinth and Basement Jaxx for Liverpool International Music Festival
Labrinth, Basement Jaxx and Laura Mvula are among acts confirmed for Liverpool International Music Festival (LIMF).
The musical stars will perform at the free entry LIMF Summer Jam, which is being held as part of the broader third annual festival aiming to celebrate the city's cultural diversities and music heritage.
As well as the dance music duo, 26-year-old producer Labrinth and 'Green Garden' hitmaker Laura, local talents Echo & the Bunnymen will perform at the event in Sefton Park, along with 'Lights On' singer Katy B, chart-topping DJ Naughty Boy and rising star Becky Hill.
Speaking about the event, Becky said: "I'm really excited to be announced as part of the Liverpool International Music Festival this year! Can't wait to play in Liverpool again alongside such brilliant acts."
Other artists set to perform include Bipolar Sunshine and Rae Morris, who released her debut album 'Unguarded' last month.
Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, said: "The 2015 LIMF line-up is testament to the success of this event after just two years. The number of high calibre, diverse acts is staggering and I'm positive the Summer Jam element in Sefton Park is unrivalled anywhere else in Europe - what other city stages household-name music acts and up and coming talent in the beautiful surroundings of a Grade I park and all for free?"
Further information about LIMF including the other events taking place can be found on the official website http://www.limfestival.com/
Music News
Blur's new album is an apology from Graham Coxon to Damon Albarn.
The guitarist worked with producer Stephen Street to transform shelved recording sessions the band undertook in Japan in 2013 into tracks for 'The Magic Whip' and says one of the reasons he undertook the project was to "make amends" with the singer for the problems they have had in their friendship.
Graham said: "Part of the reasons why I wanted to do it was to make amends.
"Damon and I have an increased respect for each other because of this record, and we're not ashamed to let each other know about that increased respect.
"But what we also have a lot of is history and our friendship - like any friendship between two people who are in a band together - has had to go through a lot.
"It's been put to the test and we've often let each other down. This record was a way of saying, 'Sorry for being such a pain in the a**e for the last 20 years.'"
Meanwhile, Damon addresses the pair's relationship in a track on the album, 'My Terracotta Heart', which surprised Graham when he heard it.
He told NME magazine: "I knew it was going to be an incredibly sad song, which is why I put the crying guitar on there.
"What I didn't know at the time was that the lyrics would turn out to be about Damon and I, our long friendship and the ups and downs we've had.
"It's a lovely song. The four of us have kind of met in the middle with this album - we've all been off on our own individual journeys, but when we come together and something like 'My Terracotta Heart' is the result, that's a good marriage of all our different tastes and outlooks."
Blur’s new album was an apology from Graham to Damon
Blur's new album is an apology from Graham Coxon to Damon Albarn.
The guitarist worked with producer Stephen Street to transform shelved recording sessions the band undertook in Japan in 2013 into tracks for 'The Magic Whip' and says one of the reasons he undertook the project was to "make amends" with the singer for the problems they have had in their friendship.
Graham said: "Part of the reasons why I wanted to do it was to make amends.
"Damon and I have an increased respect for each other because of this record, and we're not ashamed to let each other know about that increased respect.
"But what we also have a lot of is history and our friendship - like any friendship between two people who are in a band together - has had to go through a lot.
"It's been put to the test and we've often let each other down. This record was a way of saying, 'Sorry for being such a pain in the a**e for the last 20 years.'"
Meanwhile, Damon addresses the pair's relationship in a track on the album, 'My Terracotta Heart', which surprised Graham when he heard it.
He told NME magazine: "I knew it was going to be an incredibly sad song, which is why I put the crying guitar on there.
"What I didn't know at the time was that the lyrics would turn out to be about Damon and I, our long friendship and the ups and downs we've had.
"It's a lovely song. The four of us have kind of met in the middle with this album - we've all been off on our own individual journeys, but when we come together and something like 'My Terracotta Heart' is the result, that's a good marriage of all our different tastes and outlooks."