Statistics from the BPI showed that UK-recorded music saw an increase in sales and streams by 9.7% in 2024, to 200.5 million albums (or their equivalent), up from 182.8 million in 2023. This highlights a decade of uninterrupted growth.

The 11% rise in the streaming market has driven this growth – 199.6 billion audio streams were racked up over the past year, as opposed to around 179 billion in 2023. Streaming now makes up 88.8% of music consumption, a 1% increase from last year. In May, the Official Charts Company reported over four billion audio streams in a single week for the first time ever.

The BPI says that audio streaming consumption has more than doubled in six years, proclaiming it a result of “long-term investment and backing of record labels in supporting a diverse range of artists and new talent”. Between 2018 and 2023, UK record labels invested over £2 Billion in marketing and A&R.

Physical sales have also seen an uptick – for the first time since 1994, the sales of physical albums (vinyl, CD, cassette and others) increased by 1.4 percent. The rise in sales has been driven by new releases from artists such as Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish, who dropped multiple editions of their latest albums on the vinyl format, as well as classic records from Oasis and Fleetwood Mac. The vinyl market is now at a three-decade peak, with sales up 9.1 percent. In contrast, sales of physical CD’s have declined 2.9 percent.

The stats show that it’s been a great year for female artists – in 2024, six of the top 10 and half of the 20 biggest albums of the year were by women. To no surprise, Taylor Swift headed this progression, with ‘The Tortured Poets Department’ garnering 738,000 sales by the years end, the highest for any artists release in a calendar year since 2017.

Charli XCX left 2024 as the highest selling UK artist on the Official Album Charts, in an undeniable year that’s seen her earn grammy nominations, rave reviews, and pop culture frenzy for her club-influenced ‘Brat’ album. The release was one of 12 by female artists to top the UK album charts in 2024 – other UK female artists to do so were Dua Lipa with ‘Radical Optimism’, Beabadoobe with ‘This Is How Tomorrow Moves’ and The Last Dinner Party and their debut offering, ‘Prelude To Ecstasy’.

It’s been an interesting year for music, with both familiar names and emerging artists gathering accolades in streaming and sales. You can see our write-up on the UK’s five biggest songs of the year here, and the full list of 2024’s top-ranking albums and singles here.

Official Album Charts, 2024:
1. Taylor Swift – ‘The Tortured Poets Department’
2. The Weeknd – ‘The Highlights’
3. Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Short N’ Swet’
4. Noah Kahan – ‘Stick Season’
5. Billie Eilish – ‘Hit Me Hard And Soft’
6. Chappell Roan – ‘The Rise And Fall Of A Midwest Princess’
7. Fleetwood Mac – ’50 Years – Don’t Stop’
8. Charli XCX – ‘Brat’
9. Coldplay – ‘Moon Music’
10. Olivia Rodrigo – ‘Guts’

Radio 1 presenter Sam MacGregor told BBC: “There has been a history of people who, when they have done a UK tour or European tour, have missed off Wales. But it’s exciting to see artists are starting to change that perception. And if people like Taylor Swift, the biggest artist in the world right now, can come to Cardiff, they why can’t some of the smaller or medium scale artists come?”

Fans had been eagerly awaiting information regarding Swift’s upcoming tour, and when the 34-year-old announced what cities she, along with support from American rock band Paramore, would be visiting, many were ecstatic to discover the singer would be hitting Cardiff this summer. The “Anti-Hero” singer will be playing Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on June 18, her only Welsh date for the entire tour.

Really can’t contain my excitement because… we’re adding 14 new shows to The Eras Tour. And I get to travel the world doing shows with @paramore!! Hayley and I have been friends since we were teens in Nashville and now we get to frolic around the UK/Europe next summer??? I’m… pic.twitter.com/kl1aijxR2o

— Taylor Swift (@taylorswift13) July 5, 2023

Taylor Swift isn’t the only superstar to be performing in Cardiff this summer, as the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Foo Fighters, Billy Joel, and Pink will be performing at the Principality Stadium, giving Wales an unforgettable summer of live music.

Emily Cotterill from FOR Cardiff, a group representing businesses in the city centre, believes each event is a big opportunity. She said: “We want people who have maybe come to Cardiff once for a gig to think ‘we want to go back and spend a weekend’. Lots of the time, especially with these big names, they are a reason to come here for the first time and then it’s up to us to help those people come back for a second, third or fourth time.”

For more information on Taylor Swift’s upcoming Eras Tour, click here.

Tour dates:

07/06/2024 – Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium – Edinburgh
08/06 – Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium – Edinburgh
09/06 – Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium – Edinburgh
13/06 – Anfield Stadium – Liverpool
14/06 – Anfield Stadium – Liverpool
15/06 – Anfield Stadium – Liverpool
18/06 – Principality Stadium – Cardiff
21/06 – Wembley Stadium – London
22/06 – Wembley Stadium – London
23/06 – Wembley Stadium – London
28/06 – Aviva Stadium – Dublin
29/06 – Aviva Stadium – Dublin
30/06 – Aviva Stadium – Dublin
15/08 – Wembley Stadium – London
16/08 – Wembley Stadium – London
17/08 – Wembley Stadium – London
19/08 – Wembley Stadium – London
20/08 – Wembley Stadium – London

Dame Shirley told PA News, “Receiving the Order of the Companions of Honour is just one of the most wonderful feelings. Music has always been a constant companion throughout my life. As a young girl growing up in Tiger Bay, I would dream of exploring the world, never imagining that my voice would lead me to where I am today. Every step of my career has been about taking risks, believing in myself, and seizing opportunities.” She further added, “Singing is my passion, and performing brings me immense joy. Entertaining audiences for over 70 years has been an absolute privilege. My heart is filled with emotions, and I am truly humbled.”

Born as the youngest of seven children in Tiger Bay, Cardiff, Dame Shirley initially worked in a factory’s wrapping and packing department while performing at working men’s clubs on weekends. After touring the UK in various revues and variety shows, she achieved her first major success in 1957 with the calypso-style hit, “Banana Boat Song.” In January 1959, she became the first Welsh singer to top the charts with her single “As I Love You” from the album ‘The Bewitching Miss Bassey.’

Throughout her career, she has achieved numerous milestones, including being the first recipient of the Brit Award for Best British Female Solo Artist in 1977 and receiving the Freedom of the City of Cardiff. Her success has been unparalleled, with her records spending more time in the UK charts than any other British female artist. Between 1961 and 1991, she had an impressive 29 albums registered as best sellers. In 1964, she gained international fame with the iconic James Bond theme song, “Goldfinger,” and went on to record the theme songs for “Diamonds Are Forever” and “Moonraker.” In 1997, she achieved another notable hit with the Propellerheads and “History Repeating.”

She became the first female music artist to receive a dedicated stamp issue, marking a significant milestone in her career. The stamps showcased various iconic moments in her musical journey, including her performances at renowned venues and events. These included her captivating performance at the Pigalle nightclub in 1965, her memorable appearance in Bournemouth in 1974, and her electrifying presence at the BBC Electric Proms in 2009. Additionally, the stamps highlighted her powerful rendition of “World In Union” alongside Bryn Terfel during the opening ceremony of the Rugby World Cup in 1999, as well as her enchanting performance at the Oscars in 2013.

Furthermore, this powerful and sultry performer paid tribute to her extraordinary talent by releasing a limited-edition series of coins. These coins featured a design that showcased her name and silhouette, capturing her iconic arms-outstretched pose. The coin also honoured her connection to her roots with a depiction of the Welsh dragon, while the names of her three James Bond theme tunes were elegantly embossed on the coin’s surface. This commemorative coin serves as a timeless tribute to her remarkable contributions to the world of music.

According to reports, Charli XCX spent time in the studio earlier this year, working on one of Britney’s new songs. With the guidance and support of the iconic pop star, Charli XCX crafted a powerful and captivating track that is likely to make it onto the album. A source for the sun revealed, “Charli has a proven track record of writing clever pop songs. She collaborated with Britney earlier this year, and they have created something truly remarkable.”

@fckyeahcharli Replying to @nicky @Charli XCX playing Mind Your Business by Britney Spears & Will.I.Am @Britney Spears #charlixcx #britneyspears #pcmusic #agcook #charli #britney #mindyourbusiness ♬ original sound – CHARLI XCX UPDATES

This exciting collaboration comes on the heels of Britney’s recent musical ventures. Last year, she featured in a song titled “Mind Your Business” with fellow superstars will.i.am and Elton John’s “Hold Me Closer.” Notably, Britney and will.i.am previously worked together in 2012 on the hit single “Scream & Shout,” which showcased Britney singing with a distinct British accent. The dance-pop track was a massive success, selling over 3 million copies in the USA alone and reaching number one on nearly 30 charts worldwide, including the UK.

Britney’s temporary hiatus from music was due to her legal battle to be released from a controversial 13-year conservatorship, which finally came to an end in November 2021. Now, with her freedom restored, Britney is ready to reclaim her rightful place in the music industry.

Charli XCX has also made a name for herself in the music industry since signing with Asylum Records in 2010. She gained prominence with her collaboration with Icona Pop on the international hit “I Love It.” The talented singer-songwriter has worked with renowned artists such as Selena Gomez, Raye, Blondie, Gwen Stefani, and notably, Shawn Mendes.

Fans of both Britney Spears and Charli XCX can look forward to an incredible musical collaboration that is sure to captivate audiences worldwide. With their combined talent and creativity, the upcoming album is bound to be a sensational success when it hits the airwaves in 2024.

The lineup for these shows will feature original members Trey Spruance and Trevor Dunn, alongside two thrash metal legends, Scott Ian and Dave Lombardo. The addition of Ian and Lombardo is sure to bring a new level of energy and intensity to Mr. Bungle’s already eclectic sound.

These shows will be part of Ipecac Recordings’ 2024 Geek Show European Vacation, a tour that showcases some of the most innovative and boundary-pushing acts in the music industry. Joining Mr. Bungle on the lineup will be Oxbow and Spotlights, two bands known for their unique and captivating performances.

Ipecac Recordings, founded by Patton and Greg Werckman in 1999, has been a platform for releasing groundbreaking music. It all started with the release of Fantômas’ first album, and since then, the label has continued to push the boundaries of what is considered mainstream.

The 2024 edition of the Geek Show will take place in various cities across Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Luxembourg, and Holland. Fans from all over Europe will have the opportunity to witness the incredible talent and creativity of these three bands.

In addition to the Geek Show, Mr. Bungle, Oxbow, and Spotlights will also be performing at Hellfest in France, one of the most renowned metal festivals in the world. This will give them the chance to showcase their music to a wider audience and solidify their status as influential figures in the rock and metal scene.

Mr. Bungle’s most recent album, “The Raging Wrath Of The Easter Bunny Demo,” was released in 2020 to critical acclaim. The album showcased the band’s ability to seamlessly blend different genres and experiment with their sound, further solidifying their reputation as pioneers of experimental rock.

However, in September 2021, Patton announced that he would be unable to commit to future touring plans with both Faith No More and Mr. Bungle due to mental health reasons. Despite this setback, Patton expressed gratitude for the support of his bands and his commitment to working through these challenges in a healthy way. He said “I have issues that were exacerbated by the pandemic that are challenging me right now, I don’t feel I can give what I should at this point, and I am not going to give less than 100 percent. The bands’ support me in this decision,” he continued, “and we look forward to working through this in a healthy way.”

A statement from Mike Patton pic.twitter.com/uUIZdlefAm

— Ipecac Recordings (@IpecacRec) September 14, 2021

Tour dates listed below and tickets can be purchased here.

16/06/2024 X-Tra – Zurich – Switzerland
17/06 – Mangolia – Milan – Italy
19/06 – Huxley’s – Berlin – Germany
23/06 – Atelier – Luxembourg – Luxembourg
24/06 – 013 Poppodium – Netherlands – Tilburg

To achieve this, Massive Attack has implemented a range of innovative measures. The concert will be powered entirely by renewable energy sources, with solar panels and wind turbines providing the necessary electricity. The stage and lighting equipment will be energy-efficient, utilising the latest technology to minimise energy consumption.

Transportation to and from the event will also be environmentally friendly. Massive Attack has partnered with Train Hugger, a company that promotes sustainable travel, to offer discounted train tickets to concert-goers. Additionally, the band has collaborated with Ecotricity, a green energy supplier, to provide electric vehicle charging stations at the venue.

In terms of waste management, the Act 1.5 event will prioritise recycling and composting. Attendees will be encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and food containers, and there will be designated areas for waste separation. The concert organizers have also committed to offsetting the carbon emissions associated with the event through various initiatives, such as tree planting and investment in renewable energy projects.

Furthermore, the Act 1.5 event will serve as a platform for education and engagement. Massive Attack has invited climate scientists and experts from the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research to give talks and presentations on the urgency of climate action. There will also be interactive exhibits and workshops where attendees can learn about sustainable practices and how to reduce their carbon footprint.

By organizing Act 1.5, Massive Attack aims to set a new standard for environmentally friendly live music events. They hope that their efforts will inspire other artists and event organizers to prioritize sustainability and take meaningful action to combat climate change. Through their music and activism, Massive Attack continues to use their platform to drive positive change and create a more sustainable future.

Massive attack have used their social media platform to support their work but more importantly the causes they stand by and stand up for. Most recently they posted a copy of a letter that was addressed to the President from the band, to which they highlighted, what they believed to be a responsibility of the international community to end this crisis. It read,
“The international community has a responsibility to use all its influence to prevent further escalation and end this crisis. I urge the members of the Security Council  to press to advert a humanitarian catastrophe. I reiterate my appeal for a humanitarian ceasefire to be declared. This is urgent. The civilian population must be spared from greater harm. With an humanitarian ceasefire the means of survival can be restored and humanitarian assistance can be delivered in a safe and timely manner across the Gaza Strip.”

Don’t miss the highly anticipated Massive Attack concert with special guests at Clifton Downs in Bristol on August 25th, 2024. Gates open at 14:00, so get your tickets now for an unforgettable experience. Purchase here.

Dubbed as Summer Solstice II, Serge and his bandmates will grace the stage at Leicester’s Victoria Park, captivating an audience of 38,000 music enthusiasts. This marks their return to the public space in their hometown after a decade since their last headline performance. The announcement has sent fans into a frenzy, with social media buzzing with excitement.

SUMMER SOLSTICE II. Victoria Park, Leicester on July 6th 2024! For pre-sale tickets pre-order our new Album “Happenings” dropping next summer https://t.co/iuINNTXMmx pic.twitter.com/BjiYx9sOPy

— KasabianHQ (@KasabianHQ) December 4, 2023

Following the tremendous success of their previous album, The Alchemist’s Euphoria, which reached Number One last summer, there are no indications that Kasabian will be slowing down anytime soon.

An electric show is not the only thing that fans can expect from the Kasabian lads. They have also announced that the Kaiser Chiefs will be joining them as a support act, with more acts to be announced later. Although their last headline performance at Victoria Park was ten years ago, the rockers performed a secret set at the venue in 2016 to celebrate Leicester City winning the Premier League.

Serge, speaking about the show, expressed the significance of creating lasting memories and experiences. He emphasized the impact of witnessing such an event in one’s hometown, with the sound, noise, and music etching unforgettable memories in one’s mind. Serge believes that these memories are what people carry with them when reflecting on their lives. He emphasised the importance of attending the gig, stating that it is an experience that cannot be missed. He said, “Seeing something like this in your hometown, you know – the sound, the noise, the music – those memories, that’s what you take with you when you look back on your life and it’s like, you’ve gotta be there, you can’t miss it, you can’t let this happen and not be at that gig, you know? It’s creating those moments and doing it where you’re from and inspiring the next wave, hopefully, of young kids in Leicester seeing it happen and then them starting a band, that’s kind of what it’s all about.”

Listen here to Algorithms – Kasabian

Chris, on the other hand, highlighted the significance of this show being a decade after their first one. He expressed that it has always been their desire to do it again and to give back to the city. As there is no large arena in Leicester, this show serves as their arena, where big shows happen. Chris considers it a privilege to be able to perform in their hometown once more. He said,“It’s 10 years after the first one, it’s something we’ve always wanted to do again, and it’s something that we can give back to the city. There’s no big arena in Leicester, so this is our arena. This is where the big shows happen. And so to be able to do it again is just a privilege.”

The fan pre-sale will begin at 9.30am on December 7, followed by the general sale on Friday, December 8 at 9.30. You can find tickets here.

the sound of 2024 longlist is here ✨

a selection of the artists will be performing at maida vale studios on monday 8th january 2024. if you want to be there, register now: https://t.co/O2HAQ3FGLx pic.twitter.com/tdHSIJiiJI

— BBC Radio 1 (@BBCR1) December 4, 2023

 The top ten acts are (in alphabetical order): Ayra Starr, Caity Baser, CMAT, Elmiene, Kenya Grace, The Last Dinner Part, Olivia Dean, Peggy Gou, Sekou and Tyla. From January 1, 2024, a countdown will kick off across Radio 1, counting down the top 5. The number one spot will be revealed live on Radio 1 on Friday, January 5.

It’s very hard to not be grateful ! I’m filled with so much joy and gratitude! Thank you too all my starrs , I see all your messages on me being your top artist , I’m so glad to be doing this life thing with you and that my music brings you peace and joy ! Ayra mob we just… pic.twitter.com/7N3TnyyNk7 — Celestial being (@ayrastarr) December 1, 2023

Head of Radio 1, Chris Price spoke of his excitement about the gender dynamic on the list, mentioning “With so many female artists on the Sound Of list this year, I’m really encouraged about the next generation of festival headliners. The list is as diverse as ever, reflecting the genre-agnostic nature of BBC Radio 1, which has supported every single one of the acts on the longlist. 2024 promises to be a great year for new music!”

The countdown of the Top 5 will kick off across Radio 1 on January 1st, 2204. The winner will be revealed live on Radio 1 during a special broadcast on Friday, January 5th. An event will be hosted at Maida Vale by Radio 1 called ‘BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2024 Live’ on January 8 2024. There is an application for tickets which is now open on the BBC Show And Tour website – see here for details.

The competition dates back two decades, with the first BBC Sound of in 2003! Among the success stories, boasts Ellie Goulding, 50 Cent, Sigrid and last year’s winner, girl group, FLO.

BRIT School alumna, Olivia Dean has also been named ‘BBC Introducing Artist of the Year’ live on-air, after the ‘secret’ award was announced unknowingly to Ladies Room’ singer, Olivia in an interview with presenter Jess Iszatt. The artist humbly accepted the award, thanking the emerging talent organisation BBC Introducing for all their support. She commented “Thank you so much for all the support over the years BBC Introducing! You are such an important and valuable platform for up-and-coming musicians. From my very first gig at the Lexington until now – poof crazy! So excited to be your artist of the year!!”

i won @bbcintroducing artist of the year !!
wow @jjiszatt thank u for being there from the beginning ❤️ https://t.co/5hSRHCy1J3

— Olivia Dean (@oliviadeano) November 28, 2023

 The popular music festival has hosted big names to date, some of whom include Lizzy Mcalpine, Erykah Badu and Stormzy. It was awarded the NME Award For Best Festival at the Music Week Awards back in 2019 and has been nominated in the years since. Also playing at the festival include jazz and afrobeat newcomers 2023 Mercury award winners Ezra Collective, American rapper, Nas and Paris-based artist, Sainte.

Your soundtrack to Saturday 17 August at Uber One presents All Points East featuring @LoyleCarner, @Nas, @EzraCollective, Sainté and many more ✨

Listen now on Spotify at https://t.co/tVKQSn3eYX #AllPointsEast #LoyleCarner pic.twitter.com/zhlMC4qmAc

— Uber One presents All Points East (@allpointseastuk) November 27, 2023

Studying at The Brit School, home to current creative talents such as Ella Eyre, Freya Ridings, Raye and countless more, Loyle Carner grew up in a nurturing musical environment. The artist started producing at the age of around 14 and built his network of musicians through home studio sessions. This collaborative way of working has led to popular names such as Jorja Smith, Tom Misch and Jordan Rakei.

 Aged 29, Loyle Carner has had a bright decade of inspiring young people and creatives through music (and food!) Nearly ten years ago, he was in London’s Old Street teaching kids with ADHD how to cook. Whilst speaking about his time working with the kids, his inspiring nature as a teacher and positive influence beams through “We had warnings from some of the parents that their kids might do this or that…but they’ve been brilliant. There has been no talking back, no aggression. Everyone is happy and learning.”

 The foodie’s love of cooking, bringing mental well-being and positivity has led to restauranter-inspired hits:

As well as this lesser-known talent, Benjamin has a shining skill for writing effortless lyrics in his music which captures the hearts of many. In 2018 he won the NME Award for Best British Solo Act, following his 2017 Mercury prize, for his debut album Yesterdays Gone

The humble artist has a talent for sending the ‘right’ message across. Whilst discussing rappers’ responsibility to portray a particular message, he says “I don’t think music necessarily needs to have a message BUT there is a responsibility that you carry with music as a songwriter or rapper…It’s frustrating when grown men are still talking about selling or doing drugs, shooting people, sleeping with women”

 This festival is one of a few outdoor summer shows announced by Carner in the UK and Ireland for 2024. The one-day music event is happening on August 17 2024 and tickets are out now. Get hold of one here

The singer announced on his Instagram: “The CHAMPAGNE & ROSES TOUR is going overseas! Excited to be hitting Europe & the UK with my brother @marioworldwide in 2024! Tickets go on sale 11/24!”

Check out Ne-Yo’s tour announcement on Instagram below:

Ne-Yo, also known by his birth name Shaffer Chimere Smith, was born in Arkansas to two African-American parents. Both his parents were musicians, but was raised by his mother in Las Vegas, Nevada after she separated from his father. While he was at the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts, Ne-Yo joined an R&B group named Envy. However, the group disbanded in 2000.

The American songwriter began to gain recognition when he wrote Mario’s hit single “Let Me Love You”. According to the Billboard Hot 100 Songs of the Decade Chart in 2009, the song was the eighth most successful single of the decade. The song ranked number one on the Billboard Hot 100, and held that position for nine weeks. After the success of “Let Me Love You”, Ne-Yo had a meeting with the American multinational record label Def Jam. He was eventually signed by Jay-Z, the then-CEO of the label.

In 2006, Ne-Yo released his debut album titled In My Own Words. The album consisted of thirteen tracks including songs such as “So Sick”, “When You’re Mad”, “It Just Ain’t Right”, and “Sexy Love”. Ne-Yo worked with a number of musicians on the album inlcuding Ron “Nef-U” Feemster, Brandon Howard, Shea Taylor, and Curtis “Sauce” Wilson. Rappers Peedi Peedi and Ghostface Killah also feature on songs in the album.

The album was positively received and earned a Grammy Award nomination in the Best Contemporary R&B Album category. Furthermore, In My Own Words debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 and became a platinum-seller in Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom. In August 2006, Ne-Yo went on tour with Chris Brown and Dem Franchize Boyz.

Listen to Ne-Yo’s 2006 song “So Sick” on YouTube below:

Last year, Ne-Yo released his ninth studio album Self Explanatory. The album debuted at number 184 on the US Billboard 200 which is his lowest charting album in the country. The album contains thirteen tracks with features from Jeremih, Trippie Redd, and Yung Bleu. Self Explanatory is available to listen on all platforms.

Listen to the album on Spotify below:

Champagne & Roses UK Tour Dates:

07/03/2024 – AO Arena – Manchester
08/03 – First Direct Arena – Leeds
09/03 – Utilita Arena – Cardiff
11/03 – Utilita Arena – Newcastle
13/03 – The O2 – London
14/03 – Resorts World Arena – Birmingham
15/03 – Resorts World Arena – Birmingham
16/03 – The O2 – London
18/03 – OVO Hydro – Glasgow
19/03 – AO Arena – Manchester

Tickets for the tour are available to purchase here