Jade Thirlwall, renowned for her time in the girl group Little Mix, celebrated her upcoming 32nd birthday with a fantastical, themed extravaganza. Donning a striking blue and silver sequined bodysuit, she later embraced the party’s theme fully by transforming into a majestic blue centaur, complete with a dramatic four-legged horse costume, a voluminous black wig, and captivating makeup. The guest list included notable figures like Radio 1 DJ Clara Amfo, dressed as an angel, and former X Factor contestant Marcus Collins, embodying Elphaba from the musical Wicked. Thirlwall’s boyfriend, Jordan Stephens of Rizzle Kicks, opted for a more casual Arsenal football kit, likely a playful nod to his passion for the sport and fantasy football. The venue, styled like a basement, was adorned with giant toadstools and featured a stage where Thirlwall treated her guests to an exclusive preview of her upcoming single, “It Girl.” This track, following her debut solo release, “Angel Of My Dreams,” offers a biting commentary on the music industry.
Thirlwall’s “It Girl” delves into the pressures and expectations placed upon female artists, touching on themes of commodification and the loss of autonomy. Lyrics like “Sign on the line for me. Smile but don’t show your teeth. Say goodbye to autonomy. Now your body belongs to me” and “Put me on a pedestal watch me dance. Dance to the beat till I can’t stand” highlight the demanding and often exploitative nature of the industry. With her debut solo album anticipated in the near future, 2025 is poised to be a pivotal year for Thirlwall as she embarks on her solo career. This new musical direction allows her to explore more mature themes and showcase her individual artistry beyond the confines of a girl group dynamic.
Meanwhile, the highly anticipated film adaptation of the musical “Wicked,” starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, has generated significant buzz. Despite the potential for competitive pressures, Grande and Erivo have demonstrated a strong bond and mutual support throughout the process. Grande revealed their collaborative approach, emphasizing their commitment to working together and ensuring their needs are aligned. This collaborative spirit underscores their dedication to the project and their respect for each other as artists. Their united front suggests a positive working relationship, which bodes well for the film’s success.
Calum Scott, known for his hit song “You Are The Reason,” is preparing for a busy and exciting 2025. He recently released a new festive single, “Kid At Christmas,” with Christina Perri, and has revealed ambitious plans for the coming year, including the release of his third album and a tour. Adding a surprising twist to his plans, Scott is also learning to fly a plane, hoping to eventually pilot himself to his own shows. This adventurous pursuit reflects Scott’s drive and desire to push his boundaries beyond his music career. While he intends to moderate his alcohol consumption in preparation for his busy schedule, Scott plans to enjoy a traditional New Year’s Eve celebration in his hometown of Hull. This grounded approach, despite his growing fame, emphasizes his connection to his roots.
Music legend Sir Paul McCartney delivered a memorable performance at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, marking his first “Got Back” tour date on home turf for 2024. The show was a spectacular affair filled with fireworks, a flurry of paper snow, and a deeply moving performance of “I’ve Got A Feeling” featuring an AI-generated image of his late Beatles bandmate, John Lennon. This emotional tribute brought McCartney to tears, highlighting the enduring bond between the two iconic musicians. The concert was a nostalgic journey through McCartney’s extensive catalog, featuring a plethora of Beatles hits, some rarely performed live, alongside selections from his Wings era. His performance was a testament to his enduring talent and his connection with his fans.
The concert was a masterclass in showmanship, with McCartney holding the audience captive for nearly three hours without a support act or lengthy breaks. He shared anecdotes and stories from his six decades in the music industry, offering glimpses into his remarkable career. The performance was punctuated by touching tributes to George Harrison, John Lennon, Jimi Hendrix, and McCartney’s wife, Nancy. The festive spirit was embraced with a rendition of “Wonderful Christmastime” performed alongside a children’s choir, and the venue’s advanced visual capabilities were showcased during a dazzling rendition of “Helter Skelter.” At 82, McCartney continues to deliver electrifying performances, leaving audiences with cherished memories.
