Eternal’s Reunion: A New Chapter with Familiar Harmonies
The iconic British R&B group Eternal is poised for a comeback, 27 years after their last studio album. Sisters Vernie and Easther Bennett, the core members of the group, are reigniting the Eternal flame, joined by new member Christel Lakhdar. They are eager to return to their musical roots, focusing on creating timeless music with the same enduring appeal as their past hits. While the current lineup doesn’t include original members Kelle Bryan and Louise Redknapp, Vernie and Easther are confident in Christel’s vocal prowess and believe she seamlessly blends with their signature sound. The sisters are excited to share their revitalized energy and harmonious blend with fans, promising a fresh take on classic Eternal while staying true to their musical legacy. Their upcoming show at Scala in London is a highly anticipated event, marking a significant step in their resurgence. The group emphasizes the importance of quality songwriting, aiming to craft music that resonates with listeners long after its release, much like the timeless hits of Whitney Houston and other iconic artists.
The road to this reunion hasn’t been without its bumps. In 2023, a publicized dispute arose involving the sisters and former members Louise and Kelle regarding potential participation in Pride and LGBTQ+ festivals. Vernie and Easther were accused of excluding these events from their touring plans, leading to Louise and Kelle distancing themselves from the reunion. Vernie and Easther addressed the controversy, explaining that their decision not to participate in the proposed reunion tour stemmed from contractual issues, work commitments, and family priorities, rather than any stance against the LGBTQ+ community. They expressed deep disappointment over the misrepresentation of their views and values, emphasizing their ongoing support for the LGBTQ+ community and their desire to move forward with positive energy. They are grateful for the support of their fans and are choosing to focus on their music and their upcoming comeback.
Balancing Motherhood and Music: A New Approach for Eternal
As Vernie and Easther embark on this new chapter of their musical journey, they are navigating the challenges of balancing motherhood with the demands of a music career. They acknowledge that their approach to touring and performing will be different this time around. Reflecting on the intense schedules and pressures of their earlier years, they have decided to prioritize their families and adopt a more balanced approach. Watching Louis Theroux’s documentary on Nineties boybands triggered memories of the demanding lifestyle they once lived, reinforcing their decision to create a more sustainable and fulfilling career path. While they cherish the memories of performing at prestigious events like the Brit Awards and sharing the stage with Whitney Houston, they are determined to avoid the overwhelming pressures and constant travel that marked their earlier career.
Their experience performing for the Sultan of Brunei alongside Whitney Houston remains a particularly cherished memory. The sisters recall the surreal experience of being treated like royalty and sharing the stage with their idol. They also cherish their performance at the 1995 Brit Awards, where they emulated the Supremes, arriving on stage in a vintage car and captivating the audience with their rendition of "Baby Love." These moments, while memorable, also serve as reminders of the intense pace of their earlier careers. The sisters are committed to crafting a new approach that honors their musical passions while prioritizing their well-being and family life.
Industry Buzz: From Rosé to the Oscars
Beyond Eternal’s comeback, the entertainment world is buzzing with other exciting news. Blackpink’s Rosé is featured in a Valentine’s Day campaign for Kim Kardashian’s Skims brand, showcasing her versatility and influence. Meanwhile, her bandmate Jennie is gearing up to release her debut solo album, "Ruby," featuring collaborations with prominent artists like Dua Lipa and Dominic Fike. The MOBO Awards are also generating anticipation, with comedian Eddie Kadi and former Love Islander Indiyah Polack hosting the upcoming ceremony in Newcastle. The event promises a celebration of black music and culture, featuring performances by acclaimed artists like Spice, Krept & Konan, and Bashy.
Coldplay has released a unique film, “A Film For The Future," to accompany their album "Moon Music." This 45-minute visual experience showcases the work of over 150 directors and animators from around the world, offering a diverse and creative interpretation of the album’s themes. Businessman and podcast host Steven Bartlett is expanding his reach, signing a deal with a major US talent agency, WME. This move signifies his growing influence and ambition to make a significant impact in the American market. Finally, the Oscars are approaching, with ITV1 securing the broadcasting rights for the second year in a row, hosted by Jonathan Ross. The awards ceremony is expected to be a major television event, celebrating the best in film.
Judi Dench’s Challenges and Coldplay’s Creative Vision
Dame Judi Dench, the acclaimed actress, has opened up about her struggles with age-related macular degeneration, which has significantly impacted her eyesight. She revealed that she now requires assistance when going out due to her limited vision. Despite this challenge, she remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry and continues to inspire with her resilience. Her openness about her condition raises awareness about the challenges faced by those with visual impairments.
Coldplay’s innovative film project for "Moon Music" highlights the band’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries. By enlisting the talents of numerous directors and animators, they have created a truly global and collaborative piece of art. The film’s diverse visual styles offer a unique and immersive experience for viewers, showcasing the power of music to inspire creativity across different cultures and perspectives. Frontman Chris Martin has expressed immense pride in the project, calling it the best thing the band has ever been involved in. The film is available on YouTube and is complemented by immersive experiences in London and Manchester.
Reflecting on the Past, Embracing the Future
Eternal’s journey reflects the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. From their early successes to the challenges they faced along the way, Vernie and Easther have demonstrated resilience and a commitment to their musical passions. Their reunion marks a new beginning, one that prioritizes balance and artistic fulfillment. As they prepare to share their music with the world once again, they are embracing the future with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep appreciation for the enduring power of their music. They are ready to reclaim their place in the spotlight and create new memories with their fans.
