Music | 25HourNews

As Black Sabbath Takes the Spotlight, ELO Bids a Poignant Farewell in Birmingham While most eyes in Birmingham may be turned toward Black Sabbath’s thunderous farewell this weekend, another chapter in the city’s rock-and-roll legacy is quietly coming to a close. Jeff Lynne, the mastermind behind the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), will take the stage at the Utilita Arena for the final time in Birmingham, offering fans a bittersweet goodbye as the band wraps up its farewell tour. Lynne, who hails from the Shard End area of Birmingham, co-founded ELO in 1970 with fellow musician Roy Wood. With its genre-blending orchestral rock sound and a catalogue of hits like Mr. Blue Sky and Evil Woman, ELO quickly became one of the UK’s most innovative and beloved bands. The tour, which concludes with a high-profile performance in London’s Hyde Park, marks what Lynne has described as ELO’s "final goodbye." And while Black Sabbath’s explosive send-off may grab the headlines, ELO’s departure is no less significant to the generations of fans who grew up with their anthems. For fans like Ann Gumery from Solihull, attending ELO’s final Birmingham performance is more than just a night out it’s a moment of musical history. “When I saw it was their last tour, you've got to go, haven't you?” she said. Attending with her husband, Gumery expects the night to be filled with emotion. “There may be a few tears,” she admitted, adding that the simultaneous farewell of both bands makes for “a crazy” weekend in the city. The overlapping farewell concerts have created a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere in Birmingham, celebrating the city’s incredible contribution to global music. From heavy metal pioneers like Black Sabbath to symphonic rock legends like ELO, Birmingham’s influence on the sound of the 20th century is undeniable. As both bands bow out, fans across the city will be united by gratitude for the memories, the music, and the magic these local legends have shared with the world.
BTS Confirm Comeback with New Album and World Tour Set for 2026 The wait is officially over. Global K-pop sensation BTS has confirmed their highly anticipated comeback, announcing a brand-new album and a worldwide tour scheduled for 2026. The news was shared during their first group live stream since all seven members completed South Korea’s mandatory military service. “Hey guys, we are back,” said Jimin during the live broadcast, which marked the group's long-awaited return to the spotlight. The members revealed that they will travel to the United States later this month to begin working on their new album. The group confirmed that the album is slated for release in spring 2026, making it their first group project in several years. In addition to the album, BTS also revealed plans for a global tour, promising to reconnect with fans around the world. “We're also planning a world tour alongside the album. We'll be visiting fans all around the world, so we hope you're as excited as we are,” the group said during the stream. This marks a significant moment for BTS and their fans, known collectively as ARMY. Since enlisting in the military, the group had been on hiatus from group activities, with members occasionally releasing solo work. Their reunion signals a return to their collective musical journey, something fans have been eagerly anticipating. Social media platforms lit up with excitement following the announcement, with hashtags like #BTSisBack and #BTS2026 trending globally. As the countdown to their new album and tour begins, one thing is certain: BTS is ready to take the world stage once again.
The Birth of a Musical Legend: The Story of the First Ever Glastonbury Festival The Humble Origins of an Iconic Event More than five decades ago, in September 1970, a dairy farmer named Michael Eavis hosted a small gathering on his family’s land in Somerset that would one day evolve into the Glastonbury Festival — one of the biggest and best-known music festivals in the world. At the time, Eavis was grappling with a massive overdraft that threatened the survival of his farm, and he hoped that a music event might be the solution. “I think this is the quickest way of clearing my overdraft,” he said during a interview on the eve of the festival. A Farmer’s Musical Dream Eavis had long been passionate about music. Even as a boy at boarding school, he was punished for smuggling in a radio to listen to Radio Luxembourg. As an adult, he combined this passion with farm life, rigging a sound system in the milking shed and playing music for the cows — a practice he claimed boosted milk production. After attending the Bath Festival of Blues and Progressive Music in 1970, Eavis was inspired by the communal atmosphere of the event. “The sun was shining, people looked beautiful, and the songs were moving,” he said. “With my Methodist background and slightly puritanical upbringing, it felt like a revelation. I thought, ‘My God, I’ve got to do this.’” The First Glastonbury Originally called the Pilton Pop, Folk and Blues Festival, the event launched in September 1970. Entry cost just £1 — roughly £14 today — and attendees were offered free milk from the farm. The first festival featured Marc Bolan and Tyrannosaurus Rex, thanks to a stroke of luck after The Kinks pulled out. At the time, the festival drew roughly 1,500 people, many of whom were left in tears upon learning of Jimi Hendrix’s death, announced from the festival’s tiny stage. Challenges and Changes While the festival didn’t make a profit for 11 years, it gained a reputation as a haven for music lovers and free spirits. The controversy surrounding its creation — and resistance from authorities — only added to its allure, making it a rallying point for counterculture and music enthusiasts. From Small Gathering to Cultural Phenomenon Today, the Glastonbury Festival is a sprawling, iconic event that attracts top musical acts such as Neil Young, Billie Eilish, Stevie Wonder, and The Rolling Stones. What began as an attempt to save a struggling farm has become a global symbol of music, art, and communal spirit. Eavis may not have solved his fi
Dua Lipa Rocks Wembley Stadium in Historic Debut with Special Guest Jamiroquai Pop sensation Dua Lipa made history with her first-ever headline concert at Wembley Stadium, treating 70,000 devoted fans to an unforgettable night of music and emotion. The British singer delivered a spectacular two‑hour show that combined high‑energy dance tracks, nostalgic hits, and an unexpected collaboration with Jamiroquai’s frontman, Jay Kay. Midway through the concert, the stadium erupted as Jay Kay emerged in a tasseled white cowboy jacket and pink jeans to join Dua Lipa for a rendition of Jamiroquai’s classic “Virtual Insanity” — a hit that topped the charts when Lipa was just one year old. The singer introduced Jay Kay as “a massive trailblazer for British music” before launching into the duet, creating one of the night’s biggest moments. “This is such a massive milestone for me,” Dua Lipa told the crowd, holding back tears. “I’ve had a lump in my throat from the moment this show started.” The star reflected on her remarkable rise to the top tier of pop music, saying, “It’s been ten years since our first ever London show — in a room of about 350 people — and I dreamt of a night like this. To be in front of 70,000 people… I’m so, so blown away.” The concert featured many of the songs that shaped her career, from early singles like “Hotter Than Hell” — the track that earned her a recording contract — to more recent chart‑toppers like “Physical”, “One Kiss”, “New Rules”, and “Levitating”. The setlist drew comparisons to her iconic Glastonbury performance, packed with sharp choreography, futuristic visuals, and powerhouse vocals that have become Lipa’s signature. Throughout the night, the singer connected with her audience in a deeply personal way. She borrowed phones for selfies, signed vinyl records from the front row, and even used a fan’s scarf as a fashion accessory. This genuine interaction underscored why Lipa has become only the second British woman, after Adele, to headline Wembley Stadium. With a voice that seamlessly blended strength and emotion — showcased in tracks like “Falling Forever” and the flamenco‑inspired “Maria” — Dua Lipa reaffirmed her status as one of the biggest and most captivating stars of her generation. The Radical Optimism Tour marks a bold new chapter in the singer’s story, cementing her place in music history.
Black Welsh Music Awards: Celebrating Excellence in Wales' Black Music Scene A new chapter in Welsh music history is being written with the launch of the Black Welsh Music Awards, a platform created to celebrate and recognise the incredible contributions of Black artists across Wales. This initiative aims to shine a light on talent that has often gone underrepresented in mainstream Welsh music culture. Founded by a group of musicians, creatives, and cultural leaders, the awards seek to give Black Welsh artists the recognition they deserve. From hip-hop and R&B to soul, jazz, and beyond, the awards will showcase the diversity and richness of the Black music community in Wales. The idea stems from years of calls for better representation and inclusion within the Welsh arts scene. Many Black artists in Wales have long expressed the feeling of being overlooked, despite their significant contributions to local and national music culture. The awards will feature several categories, including Best Male and Female Artist, Breakthrough Act, and Outstanding Contribution to Welsh Music. Public nominations and votes will be combined with decisions from a panel of judges made up of industry professionals and community leaders. Organisers hope the awards will not only recognise existing talent but also inspire young Black musicians across Wales to pursue careers in the industry. "This is more than an award show," said one organiser. "It’s about building a movement that values and uplifts Black voices in Welsh music." The inaugural ceremony is set to take place later this year, with plans for live performances, special guests, and community involvement. As the music world becomes more inclusive, the Black Welsh Music Awards stand as a powerful step forward in ensuring every voice is heard and celebrated.
Young Parents Raise Awareness with Powerful Mental Health Music Video A pair of young parents have released a heartfelt music video to shed light on mental health struggles, aiming to inspire and support those facing similar challenges. Their emotional project blends music with a powerful message, encouraging open conversations about mental well-being. The couple, who have experienced mental health challenges firsthand, used their creativity to express the highs and lows of their journey. Through touching lyrics and compelling visuals, the video captures the emotional battles many young parents face while balancing responsibilities and personal struggles. Mental health awareness has become an increasingly important topic, especially for young families dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression. The duo hopes their music will resonate with others who feel isolated or overwhelmed, reminding them they are not alone. Since its release, the video has gained traction on social media, drawing support from mental health advocates and fellow parents. Viewers have praised the raw honesty of the lyrics and the emotional depth of the storytelling. Many have shared their own experiences, highlighting the importance of breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. By using music as a tool for awareness, the young parents are encouraging others to speak up and seek help when needed. Their initiative serves as a reminder that mental health struggles are real but can be managed with the right support and understanding. As the video continues to reach more people, the couple remains hopeful that their message will inspire open discussions, reduce stigma, and provide comfort to those who need it most.
Cheltenham Music Festival Unveils 2025 Artist Lineup The highly anticipated Cheltenham Music Festival 2025 has revealed its lineup, featuring an impressive array of talented artists from across the globe. Known for its rich blend of classical, contemporary, and experimental music, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers.Celebrating its 80th anniversary, the festival will take place across the town from 4 to 12 July 2025. This year’s lineup includes Britain's Got Talent stars Braimah and Isata Kanneh-Mason, Seckou Keita, and Dames Sarah Connolly DBE and Imogen Cooper DBE. The festival continues its tradition of bringing together renowned orchestras, celebrated soloists, and rising stars, ensuring a dynamic mix of performances.Jack Bazalgette, the festival's artistic director, expressed his excitement about the milestone event, stating: "Over the last 80 years, it's created crazy, bonkers, and beautiful music every year, and we're continuing to take that tradition into 2025 and beyond."In addition to captivating concerts, the festival will offer interactive sessions, masterclasses, and panel discussions, providing deeper insights into the music industry. Visitors can also explore local food and cultural attractions, making the event a complete artistic retreat.With a combination of traditional and modern influences, Cheltenham Music Festival 2025 is set to be an extraordinary celebration of sound and creativity. Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so attendees are encouraged to book in advance. For more details on the lineup, schedule, and ticket bookings, visit the official Cheltenham Music Festival website.
Cheltenham Music Festival 2025: Exciting Lineup of Artists Revealed The highly anticipated Cheltenham Music Festival has officially announced its lineup for 2025, bringing together some of the most talented musicians from around the world. Known for its rich musical heritage and diverse performances, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for classical music enthusiasts and contemporary music lovers alike. This year’s festival will feature a blend of world-renowned orchestras, exceptional soloists, and rising stars in the industry. From breathtaking symphonies to experimental compositions, the programme will cater to a wide range of musical tastes. Some of the headline performers include celebrated conductors, acclaimed pianists, and innovative ensembles that push the boundaries of classical and modern music. In addition to performances, the festival will host a variety of workshops, discussions, and interactive sessions, allowing audiences to engage with the artists and gain deeper insights into their creative processes. Music lovers can expect thought-provoking talks, masterclasses by experts, and special performances in unique venues across Cheltenham. The Cheltenham Music Festival has long been a staple in the UK’s cultural calendar, drawing visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re a seasoned concertgoer or a newcomer to classical and contemporary music, the festival offers something for everyone. Tickets for the event are set to go on sale soon, and with such an exciting lineup, early booking is highly recommended. Stay tuned for more details on performance schedules and special events as Cheltenham gets ready to celebrate another year of musical brilliance.