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	<title>mxdwn.co.uk &#187; myles smith</title>
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		<title>Ed Sheeran Leads Call for £250 Million Investment in Music Education</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/ed-sheeran-leads-call-for-250-million-investment-in-music-education/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/ed-sheeran-leads-call-for-250-million-investment-in-music-education/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 23 Mar 2025 15:05:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ali Krausova]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Annie Lennox]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ed Sheeran]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ed sheeran foundation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[elton john]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Harry Styles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Keir Starmer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Music education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Paloma Faith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UK government]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=108026</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[British singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has joined forces with over 500 musicians, including Elton John, Harry Styles, and Coldplay, to urge the UK government to invest £250 million in music education. In an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the artists warn that without immediate action, music programmes in state schools will continue to [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">British singer-songwriter <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/ed-sheeran-debuts-new-song-in-the-streets-of-new-orleans/" target="_blank">Ed Sheeran</a> has joined forces with over 500 musicians, including <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/elton-john-urges-uk-government-to-reconsider-copyright-law-changes/" target="_blank">Elton John</a>, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/harry-styles-rumoured-for-las-vegas-sphere-residency/" target="_blank">Harry Styles</a>, and <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/coldplay-drop-official-music-video-for-man-in-the-moon/" target="_blank">Coldplay</a>, to urge the UK government to invest £250 million in music education. In an open letter addressed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the artists warn that without immediate action, music programmes in state schools will continue to decline, depriving the next generation of opportunities to explore and develop their talent.</p>
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src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js" async=""></script></a> The initiative comes amid growing concerns over cuts to arts funding and the diminishing role of music in the national curriculum. <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/subject-report-series-music/striking-the-right-note-the-music-subject-report?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank">Reports have shown that music education in state schools has suffered significantly over the past decade</a>, particularly in economically disadvantaged areas. The open letter argues that without proper funding, music will become an exclusive privilege for wealthier students, further deepening inequalities in the industry.</p>
<p>Sheeran, who himself benefited from state-funded programmes in his youth, stressed the importance of ensuring that young people, regardless of background, have the chance to pursue a career in music. In his <a href="https://www.instagram.com/teddysphotos/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> post, the musician said: &#8220;As a young music student and aspiring artist, I benefited from opportunities in and out of school to learn &amp; grow. Unfortunately, after decades of defunding and de-prioritising, music is no longer a right for all children &#8211; it’s a luxury for only a few.&#8221;</p>
<p>Other notable artists who have co-signed the letter include <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/paloma-faith-teases-new-album/" target="_blank">Paloma Faith</a>, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/elton-john-and-annie-lennox-call-for-boris-johnson-to-help-in-the-fight-against-aids-in-open-letter/" target="_blank">Annie Lennox</a>, and <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-reveals-dream-collaborations-and-his-songwriting-secret/" target="_blank">Myles Smith</a>, who also commented on Sheeran&#8217;s post stating: &#8220;Governments need to realise the importance of music not only as a cultural export and financial hub, but as the foundation and key feature of our society and community. Growing up in working-class Luton, access to music wasn’t just a way out &#8211; it was a way of living. It gave me purpose, belonging, and a voice. That’s why investing in music matters. It changes lives. It changed mine.&#8221;<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RJ7tSqfLl2Y?si=_k11oY1wr7cAk3Bx" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> <span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">In January 2025, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/ed-sheeran-creates-foundation-to-support-music-education/" target="_blank">Sheeran has established the Ed Sheeran Foundation</a>, aiming to empower children across the UK with meaningful music education.</span> T<span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">he foundation seeks to address the decline in music education within state schools by providing support and advocating for equal access to high-quality music programs.</span> ​</p>
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<p><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DEmkVmho3hP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Ed Sheeran Foundation (@edsheeranfnd)</a>
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<p><a href="http:/blockquoteclass=instagram-mediadata-instgrm-captioneddata-instgrm-permalink=https://www.instagram.com/p/DEmkVmho3hP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loadingdata-instgrm-version=14style=background:#FFF;border:0;border-radius:3px;box-shadow:001px0rgba(0,0,0,0.5),01px10px0rgba(0,0,0,0.15);margin:1px;max-width:540px;min-width:326px;padding:0;width:99.375%;width:-webkit-calc(100%-2px);width:calc(100%-2px);divstyle=padding:16px;ahref=https://www.instagram.com/p/DEmkVmho3hP/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loadingstyle=background:#FFFFFF;line-height:0;padding:00;text-align:center;text-decoration:none;width:100%;target=_blankdivstyle=display:flex;flex-direction:row;align-items:center;divstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;border-radius:50%;flex-grow:0;height:40px;margin-right:14px;width:40px;/divdivstyle=display:flex;flex-direction:column;flex-grow:1;justify-content:center;divstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;border-radius:4px;flex-grow:0;height:14px;margin-bottom:6px;width:100px;/divdivstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;border-radius:4px;flex-grow:0;height:14px;width:60px;/div/div/divdivstyle=padding:19%0;/divdivstyle=display:block;height:50px;margin:0auto12px;width:50px;svgwidth=50pxheight=50pxviewBox=006060version=1.1xmlns=https://www.w3.org/2000/svgxmlns:xlink=https://www.w3.org/1999/xlinkgstroke=nonestroke-width=1fill=nonefill-rule=evenoddgtransform=translate(-511.000000,-20.000000)fill=#000000gpathd=M556.869,30.41C554.814,30.41553.148,32.076553.148,34.131C553.148,36.186554.814,37.852556.869,37.852C558.924,37.852560.59,36.186560.59,34.131C560.59,32.076558.924,30.41556.869,30.41M541,60.657C535.114,60.657530.342,55.887530.342,50C530.342,44.114535.114,39.342541,39.342C546.887,39.342551.658,44.114551.658,50C551.658,55.887546.887,60.657541,60.657M541,33.886C532.1,33.886524.886,41.1524.886,50C524.886,58.899532.1,66.113541,66.113C549.9,66.113557.115,58.899557.115,50C557.115,41.1549.9,33.886541,33.886M565.378,62.101C565.244,65.022564.756,66.606564.346,67.663C563.803,69.06563.154,70.057562.106,71.106C561.058,72.155560.06,72.803558.662,73.347C557.607,73.757556.021,74.244553.102,74.378C549.944,74.521548.997,74.552541,74.552C533.003,74.552532.056,74.521528.898,74.378C525.979,74.244524.393,73.757523.338,73.347C521.94,72.803520.942,72.155519.894,71.106C518.846,70.057518.197,69.06517.654,67.663C517.244,66.606516.755,65.022516.623,62.101C516.479,58.943516.448,57.996516.448,50C516.448,42.003516.479,41.056516.623,37.899C516.755,34.978517.244,33.391517.654,32.338C518.197,30.938518.846,29.942519.894,28.894C520.942,27.846521.94,27.196523.338,26.654C524.393,26.244525.979,25.756528.898,25.623C532.057,25.479533.004,25.448541,25.448C548.997,25.448549.943,25.479553.102,25.623C556.021,25.756557.607,26.244558.662,26.654C560.06,27.196561.058,27.846562.106,28.894C563.154,29.942563.803,30.938564.346,32.338C564.756,33.391565.244,34.978565.378,37.899C565.522,41.056565.552,42.003565.552,50C565.552,57.996565.522,58.943565.378,62.101M570.82,37.631C570.674,34.438570.167,32.258569.425,30.349C568.659,28.377567.633,26.702565.965,25.035C564.297,23.368562.623,22.342560.652,21.575C558.743,20.834556.562,20.326553.369,20.18C550.169,20.033549.148,20541,20C532.853,20531.831,20.033528.631,20.18C525.438,20.326523.257,20.834521.349,21.575C519.376,22.342517.703,23.368516.035,25.035C514.368,26.702513.342,28.377512.574,30.349C511.834,32.258511.326,34.438511.181,37.631C511.035,40.831511,41.851511,50C511,58.147511.035,59.17511.181,62.369C511.326,65.562511.834,67.743512.574,69.651C513.342,71.625514.368,73.296516.035,74.965C517.703,76.634519.376,77.658521.349,78.425C523.257,79.167525.438,79.673528.631,79.82C531.831,79.965532.853,80.001541,80.001C549.148,80.001550.169,79.965553.369,79.82C556.562,79.673558.743,79.167560.652,78.425C562.623,77.658564.297,76.634565.965,74.965C567.633,73.296568.659,71.625569.425,69.651C570.167,67.743570.674,65.562570.82,62.369C570.966,59.17571,58.147571,50C571,41.851570.966,40.831570.82,37.631/path/g/g/g/svg/divdivstyle=padding-top:8px;divstyle=color:#3897f0;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:550;line-height:18px;ViewthispostonInstagram/div/divdivstyle=padding:12.5%0;/divdivstyle=display:flex;flex-direction:row;margin-bottom:14px;align-items:center;divdivstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;border-radius:50%;height:12.5px;width:12.5px;transform:translateX(0px)translateY(7px);/divdivstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;height:12.5px;transform:rotate(-45deg)translateX(3px)translateY(1px);width:12.5px;flex-grow:0;margin-right:14px;margin-left:2px;/divdivstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;border-radius:50%;height:12.5px;width:12.5px;transform:translateX(9px)translateY(-18px);/div/divdivstyle=margin-left:8px;divstyle=background-color:#F4F4F4;border-radius:50%;flex-grow:0;height:20px;width:20px;/divdivstyle=width:0;height:0;border-top:2pxsolidtransparent;border-left:6pxsolid#f4f4f4;border-bottom:2pxsolidtransparent;transform:translateX(16px)translateY(-4px)rotate(30deg)/div/divdivstyle=margin-left:auto;divstyle=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src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js" async=""></script></a></p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Additionally, The UK-based charity, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/youth-music-launches-rescue-the-roots-campaign-to-save-grassroots-projects/" target="_blank">Youth Music</a>, invests in grassroots organisations and young creatives to ensure all young people have access to music. Over 25 years, Youth Music has invested over £263 million to secure music&#8217;s future and improve industry representation, making the next generation of creative talent more diverse and inclusive.​<span class="relative -mx-px my-[-0.2rem] rounded px-px py-[0.2rem]">In November 2024, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/spotify-and-youth-music-partner-to-save-grassroots-spaces/" target="_blank">they partnered with Spotify</a> to create a dedicated fund aimed at supporting 15 grassroots youth spaces across the UK that were facing imminent closure or struggling to survive.</span></p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">The letter calls for a long-term funding commitment to improve music education infrastructure, hire specialist teachers, and provide instruments to students in need. Whilst the government has yet to issue a formal response, campaigners hope that growing public support will put pressure on policymakers to act swiftly. This bold move by Sheeran and his fellow artists signals a crucial moment for the future of music education in the UK.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>BRIT Awards 2025: Charli XCX, Ezra Collective, JADE Amongst Winners</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brit-awards-2025-charli-xcx-ezra-collective-jade-amongst-winners/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brit-awards-2025-charli-xcx-ezra-collective-jade-amongst-winners/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 01 Mar 2025 22:33:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ali Krausova]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BRIT Awards 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charli XCX]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ezra Collective]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[JADE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liam Payne]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[RAYE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stormzy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Last Dinner Party]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=107332</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[&#160; The 45th Brit Awards unfolded tonight, March 1, at London&#8217;s O2 Arena, celebrating the pinnacle of musical talent from the past year. Hosted by Jack Whitehall for the fifth time, the ceremony was marked by standout performances and notable victories. Charli XCX won Song of the Year for her collaboration with Billie Eilish on [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>The 45th <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jade-myles-smith-the-last-dinner-party-and-more-to-perform-at-this-years-brit-awards/" target="_blank">Brit Awards</a> unfolded tonight, March 1, at London&#8217;s O2 Arena, celebrating the pinnacle of musical talent from the past year. Hosted by <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jack-whitehall-confirmed-as-brit-award-host-for-2025/" target="_blank">Jack Whitehall</a> for the fifth time, the ceremony was marked by standout performances and notable victories.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/charli-xcx-wins-early-prizes-at-grammy-awards/" target="_blank"><strong>Charli XCX</strong></a> won <strong>Song of the Year</strong> for her collaboration with <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/charli-xcx-joins-billie-eilish-at-la-show-to-perform-guess-remix/" target="_blank">Billie Eilish</a> on ‘<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0IsIY8pfu1yaGkPUD7pkDx?si=ea388d5f14284fde" target="_blank">Guess</a>’. The singer was against The Beatles, Dua Lipa, Myles Smith, and JADE in this category. In her acceptance speech, she said: &#8220;Thank you, this is cool. I’m pretty happy that a song about underwear now has a Brit Award.&#8221;</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Charli xcx accepts the award for ‘Song of the Year’ at The BRIT Awards 2025. <a href="https://t.co/d3bbkxVknc">pic.twitter.com/d3bbkxVknc</a></p>
<p>— xcxshake (@xcxshake) <a href="https://twitter.com/xcxshake/status/1895937254381744360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
<p><a href="http:/blockquoteclass=twitter-tweetplang=endir=ltrCharlixcxacceptstheawardfor‘SongoftheYear’atTheBRITAwards2025.ahref=https://t.co/d3bbkxVkncpic.twitter.com/d3bbkxVknc/a/p—xcxshake(@xcxshake)ahref=https://twitter.com/xcxshake/status/1895937254381744360?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwMarch1,2025/a/blockquotescriptasyncsrc=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jscharset=utf-8/script"><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script></a> The singer also won <strong>Best Album</strong>, <strong>Best Dance Act</strong>, <strong>Songwriter of the Year</strong>, and <strong>Artist of the Year</strong>, a total of five awards. <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jade-teases-new-single-it-girl-and-reflects-on-her-bittersweet-rise-to-fame/" target="_blank"><strong>JADE</strong></a> won <strong>Best</strong> <strong>Pop Act</strong>. Other nominees included Myles Smith and Lola Young. This marks JADE&#8217;s first solo Brit Award since Little Mix announced their hiatus in 2022. The singer also delivered a captivating performance of her debut solo single &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/46cW6zufU9Woo11TLs2i6X?si=8d8c0376a5984389" target="_blank">Angel of My Dreams</a>&#8216;.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4C4KePfjqqY?si=z1ZBE-soGmSWqleg" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/sam-fender-speaks-out-against-the-music-industry-calling-it-rigged-for-the-upper-class/" target="_blank"><strong>Sam Fender</strong></a> won <strong>Best Alternative/Rock Act </strong>against The Cure and also delivered a performance of his latest single &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3ZZyUf7WkhfN1JkQZZ00fI?si=7eead8c4389a4846" target="_blank">People Watching</a>&#8216;. The musician expressed his gratitude to his fans, acknowledging their pivotal role in his success. He further thanked his band, stating: &#8220;I want to say a huge thanks to my band, who without, I&#8217;m just a mad person shouting at walls.&#8221;</p>
<div class="relative inline-flex items-center"><strong>The Rising Brit Award</strong> went to <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-wins-brit-rising-star-2025-uks-new-music-sensation/" target="_blank"><strong>Myles Smith</strong></a>. The award is traditionally announced in advance to allow the winner to be celebrated in the lead-up to the event and often gives them the opportunity to perform during the ceremony itself. Both Smith and Georgia Davies of <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/the-last-dinner-party-confronts-misogyny-in-music/" target="_blank"><strong>The Last Dinner Party</strong></a>, who won <strong>The Best New Artist Award</strong>, used their acceptance speeches to address <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/kate-nash-performs-at-uk-parliament-to-advocate-for-grassroots-music-venues/" target="_blank">concerns regarding the UK government&#8217;s support for the music industry</a>. Davies said: &#8220;We wouldn&#8217;t be a band, and a lot of the artists here would not be bands either, without the UK&#8217;s incredible independent venues, and they are the lifeblood of the music industry and they are dying.&#8221;<br />
 <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RJ7tSqfLl2Y?si=bZXqZRctUXHS8tqe" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div>
<div class="relative inline-flex items-center"><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/barry-cant-swim-and-ezra-collective-named-in-bbcs-sound-of-2025-countdown/" target="_blank"><strong>Ezra Collective </strong></a>won<strong> Group of the Year</strong>, their first Brit Award. The band was against Bring Me The Horizon, Coldplay, The Cure, and The Last Dinner Party. <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/fontaines-d-c-uk-ireland-tour-2024/" target="_blank"><strong>Fontaines D.C.</strong></a> won <strong>International Group of the Year</strong>. <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/sabrina-carpenters-short-n-sweet-set-to-reclaim-number-one-with-deluxe-release/" target="_blank"><strong>Sabrina Carpenter</strong></a> was presented with the <strong>Global Success</strong> award.</div>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>
Sabrina Carpenters acceptance speech for the Global Success award at the 2025 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRITs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRITs</a>!<a href="https://t.co/fCRHsgjA1K">pic.twitter.com/fCRHsgjA1K</a> — Sabrina Carpenter Daily (@SCdailyupdates) <a href="https://twitter.com/SCdailyupdates/status/1895952302835724603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2025</a>
</p></blockquote>
<p><a href="http:/blockquoteclass=twitter-tweetplang=endir=ltrSabrinaCarpentersacceptancespeechfortheGlobalSuccessawardatthe2025ahref=https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRITs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw#BRITs/a!ahref=https://t.co/fCRHsgjA1Kpic.twitter.com/fCRHsgjA1K/a/p—SabrinaCarpenterDaily(@SCdailyupdates)ahref=https://twitter.com/SCdailyupdates/status/1895952302835724603?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwMarch1,2025/a/blockquotescriptasyncsrc=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jscharset=utf-8/script"><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script></a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/chappell-roans-the-rise-and-fall-of-a-midwest-princess-is-back-at-number-one/" target="_blank">Chappell Roan</a></strong> won <strong>International Song of the Year </strong>for &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0WbMK4wrZ1wFSty9F7FCgu?si=faeeee08942346e3" target="_blank">Good Luck, Babe</a>&#8216;. The track entered the <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/chappell-roan-good-luck-babe/" target="_blank">Official Singles Chart</a> Top 40 in April 2024. It peaked and remained in the Top 10 for 16 weeks and was the eighth biggest single of 2024 in the UK. The singer also won <strong>International Artist of the Year</strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/stormzy-joins-forces-with-mcdonalds-uk-for-famous-order-meal/" target="_blank">Stormzy</a> </strong>won his fourth Brit Award for <strong>Best Rap/ Hip-Hop Act </strong>and <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/raye-gives-a-moving-performance-of-oscar-winning-tears-at-2025-grammys-2/" target="_blank"><strong>RAYE</strong></a> secured her seventh Brit Award for <strong>Best R&amp;B Act</strong>.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Raye‘s acceptance speech for ”Best R&amp;B Act“ at the 2025 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRITs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BRITs</a>. <a href="https://t.co/OQPvTaawXR">pic.twitter.com/OQPvTaawXR</a></p>
<p>— RAYE Infos (@rayeinfos) <a href="https://twitter.com/rayeinfos/status/1895958452440371650?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
<p><a href="http:/blockquoteclass=twitter-tweetplang=endir=ltrRaye‘sacceptancespeechfor”BestR&amp;BAct“atthe2025ahref=https://twitter.com/hashtag/BRITs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw#BRITs/a.ahref=https://t.co/OQPvTaawXRpic.twitter.com/OQPvTaawXR/a/p—RAYEInfos(@rayeinfos)ahref=https://twitter.com/rayeinfos/status/1895958452440371650?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwMarch1,2025/a/blockquotescriptasyncsrc=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jscharset=utf-8/script"><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script></a></p>
<p>A heartfelt tribute was paid to <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/liam-payne-friend-claims-singer-was-close-to-death-multiple-times-before-argentina-fall/" target="_blank">Liam Payne</a>, who tragically passed away in October 2024 at the age of 31. The ceremony featured a video montage celebrating Payne&#8217;s life and illustrious career, from his early days on The X Factor to his monumental success with <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/one-direction-tracks-set-to-re-enter-the-charts-following-liam-paynes-death/" target="_blank">One Direction</a> and his subsequent solo endeavours. The montage included performances, childhood photos, and personal moments with his family, all set to the backdrop of One Direction&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0TAmnCzOtqRfvA38DDLTjj?si=8af8498c864949b7" target="_blank">Little Things</a>&#8216;.<br />
<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8NktXQhO0RA?si=BlkPGPK1Pp2R8LBf" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>As the 2025 Brit Awards came to a close, the night celebrated the very best in British and global music, with standout performances and unforgettable moments. The prestigious awards highlighted the diverse talent shaping the music scene, from breakthrough stars like Myles Smith to industry icons like Charli XCX. As the music world continues to evolve, the BRITs 2025 undoubtedly set the stage for another year of exceptional creativity and success.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Myles Smith Reveals Dream Collaborations and his Songwriting Secret</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-reveals-dream-collaborations-and-his-songwriting-secret/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-reveals-dream-collaborations-and-his-songwriting-secret/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 02 Feb 2025 19:08:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Francesca Chiari]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UK artists]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=106143</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Luton-born up and coming singer-songwriter Myles Smith has revealed in a recent exclusive interview with Guitar.com that he would love to, one day, collab with Ed Sheeran; furthermore, he also added that he aims to eventually collaborate with Mumford and Sons and &#8216;Stick Season&#8217; star Noah Kahan. In the interview, Smith said: &#8220;I’d love to have [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Luton-born up and coming singer-songwriter Myles Smith has revealed in a recent exclusive interview with <a href="https://guitar.com/features/interviews/myles-smith-interview-guitar-open-mic-tiktok/" target="_blank">Guitar.com</a> that he would love to, one day, collab with Ed Sheeran; furthermore, he also added that he aims to eventually collaborate with Mumford and Sons and &#8216;Stick Season&#8217; star Noah Kahan. In the interview, Smith said: &#8220;I’d love to have a song with Ed, one with Mumford and Sons, and Noah Kahan.&#8221; The artist&#8217;s most recent collaboration, titled &#8216;Waste&#8217; featured James Bay.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z3wqtFz9WuA?si=Fdy4C_--Qbox7Uy9" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>Smith first attracted popularity and acclaim over TikTok, where some of his covers went viral; the videos caught the attention of music labels such as RCA, with which the artist eventually signed. Before making this big jump in the music industry, the artist wanted to be sure of who he was and what he was doing: &#8220;I didn’t ever want to go to a major label without fully knowing who I was, what I wanted to be, and how I wanted to present myself to the world. I had a lot of grasp of who I was as a person, as an artist, and so I wasn’t comfortable doing anything before that point.&#8221;</p>
<p>Ever since, he has released various EPs including, most recently, &#8216;<em><a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/myles-smith-a-minute/" target="_blank">A Minute</a></em>&#8216;, which was released in late 2024 and peaked at number 63 in the UK.</p>
<p>Smith is perhaps best known for his hit song &#8216;Stargazing&#8217;, which peaked at number four in the UK and spent 37 weeks charting. The song was included in Smith&#8217;s debut EP titled &#8216;You Promised a Lifetime&#8217;. The song was then confirmed by Official Charts as the <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/chart-news/the-official-biggest-songs-of-2024/" target="_blank">biggest single of 2024 by a British Artist</a>.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tKml80alH3Y?si=v9Jbt0GrbnNkdrNV" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>Despite the singer-songwriter&#8217;s music heavily falls into the folk genre, the artist told Guitar.com that he &#8220;doesn&#8217;t want to be put in a box&#8221;, further explaining the statement saying: &#8220;It’s nice that I’m being recognised and that my music’s going far and wide, but I also never want to box myself into one category. It’s about treading the line of accepting and embracing the music that I make and the things I love to do, but also letting people know that there are many angles and different shades of what I do.”</p>
<p>The delicate and honest storytelling present in each of Smith&#8217;s songs have made the artist the voice of a generation who feels a lot, and the artist recognises this: in fact, he is used to people coming up to him and telling him his music changed their lives. About his songwriting, Smith says: &#8220;I feel like I only write songs when I have something to say or when I have something meaningful to contribute to the world, then they have become a nice snapshot of where I’m at at the time.&#8221;</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/971emDbfJ0M?si=TLCwasHU82yJuMar" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
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		<title>JADE, Myles Smith, The Last Dinner Party and more to perform at this year’s BRIT Awards</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jade-myles-smith-the-last-dinner-party-and-more-to-perform-at-this-years-brit-awards/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jade-myles-smith-the-last-dinner-party-and-more-to-perform-at-this-years-brit-awards/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 02 Feb 2025 08:00:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Amy Maloney]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2025 BRITs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brit Awards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[JADE]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Shaboozey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[teddy swims]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Last Dinner Party]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=106095</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Just a week after the announcement of this year’s nominees for the upcoming BRIT Awards and the news that Jack Whitehall will be returning for another year as presenter, the BRITs has announced their first set of performers to grace the stage during the ceremony at London’s O2 Arena on March 1. Arguably one of [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="font-weight: 400;">Just a week after the announcement of this year’s <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brit-awards-2025-charli-xcx-leads-nominations-beatles-make-historic-comeback/" target="_blank">nominees</a> for the upcoming BRIT Awards and the news that <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jack-whitehall-confirmed-as-brit-award-host-for-2025/" target="_blank">Jack Whitehall</a> will be returning for another year as presenter, the BRITs has <a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/news/2025/first-performers-announced/" target="_blank">announced</a> their first set of performers to grace the stage during the ceremony at London’s O2 Arena on March 1.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Arguably one of the most exciting acts to be confirmed is <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jade-teases-new-single-it-girl-and-reflects-on-her-bittersweet-rise-to-fame/" target="_blank">JADE</a>, who will be making her solo debut at the BRITs. This follows her performance of ‘Woman Like Me’ with Little Mix in 2019 and her last award at the ceremony in 2021, when the group won ‘British Group’ as a trio, being the first girl group to ever win the award. Following a monumental resurgence to the industry as a solo artist, the singer is up for ‘Pop Act’ and her debut single ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ is up for ‘Song Of The Year With Mastercard’.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UEc-oy93lf8?si=I4L1awgtM6612Hk0" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Regarding the recent announcement JADE <a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/news/2025/first-performers-announced/#:~:text=JADE%20said%3A%20%E2%80%9CI%E2%80%99ve%20honestly%20manifested%20every%20day%20since%20the%20release%20of%20Angel%20Of%20My%20Dreams%20to%20perform%20at%20the%20BRIT%20Awards.%20I%20cried%20when%20I%20found%20out.%20I%20can%E2%80%99t%20wait%20to%20bring%20a%20huge%2C%20chaotic%20pop%20moment%20to%20the%20BRITs%20stage!%E2%80%9D%C2%A0" target="_blank">commented</a>: “I’ve honestly manifested every day since the release of ‘Angel Of My Dreams’ to perform at the BRIT Awards. I cried when I found out. I can’t wait to bring a huge, chaotic pop moment to the BRITs stage!”</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Joining JADE is this year’s winner of the <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-wins-brit-rising-star-2025-uks-new-music-sensation/" target="_blank">BRITs Rising Star</a> award, Myles Smith. The rising star is nominated in three major categories, including: ‘Best New Artist’, Song Of The Year’ with ‘Stargazing’ and ‘Pop Act’. Smith began performing covers on social media and now five years later will take the stage at the BRITs. His breakthrough hit, ‘Stargazing’, peaked at No. 4 on the <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/myles-smith-stargazing/" target="_blank">UK Official Singles Chart</a> and has over 640 million streams on <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3VNxRarx9HUI5w7DHv0TBj?si=JD5CuHbiSPKgQEkJlkBaMQ" target="_blank">Spotify</a>.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tKml80alH3Y?si=TmD6oS_pGb9tD5tr" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">When the announcement was confirmed, Smith <a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/news/2025/first-performers-announced/#:~:text=Myles%20Smith%20said,onto%20that%20stage.%22" target="_blank">said</a>: “Performing at the BRITs is such an incredible honour, and it feels surreal to even say it out loud. To think I was sitting at home watching it last year, and now I’m performing the very next year… it’s just insane. Grateful for this opportunity ad can’t wait to step onto that stage”.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">The Last Dinner Party have been confirmed alongside JADE and Myles Smith. The group were catapulted into the spotlight when their single ‘Nothing Matters’ gained considerable traction on <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/Nothing-Matters-7220249655555131394?is_from_webapp=1&amp;sender_device=pc" target="_blank">TikTok</a> early last year. Their critically acclaimed debut album ‘<em>Prelude to Ecstasy’ </em>reached No. 1 on the <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/last-dinner-party-prelude-to-ecstasy/" target="_blank">UK Albums Chart</a>, selling over 32,000 copies in its opening week and was shortlisted for the <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/mercury-prize-2024-nominations-announced-charli-xcx-the-last-dinner-party-and-nia-archives-among-nominees/" target="_blank">2024 Mercury Prize</a>. The ‘Sinner’ performers have secured four BRIT nominations making them more than worthy performers at this year’s ceremony.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pETz4IMmeDU?si=C7eEiGni5DQf2fnX" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Singer-songwriter Shaboozey will also be taking the stage on March 1. The singers amalgamation of country and hip-hop, as seen in his hit track ‘A Bar Song (Tipsy)’, which achieved No. 6 on the <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/shaboozey-a-bar-song-tipsy/" target="_blank">Singles Charts</a>, has earned Shaboozey a nomination in the ‘International Song of the Year’ category.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Shaboozey spoke on the news of his performance and nomination, <a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/news/2025/first-performers-announced/#:~:text=Shaboozey%20said%3A%20%22I%E2%80%99m%20beyond%20grateful%20and%20humbled%20to%20not%20only%20be%20nominated%20for%20a%20BRIT%20Award%20but%20to%20take%20the%20stage.%20This%20past%20year%20has%20been%20huge%20for%20me%20with%20my%20records%20getting%20love%20from%20all%20over%20the%20world%20and%20now%20I%20can%20celebrate%20with%20my%20friends%20and%20fans%20in%20London%E2%80%9D" target="_blank">stating</a>: “I’m beyond grateful and humbled to not only be nominated for a BRIT Award but to take the stage. This past year has been huge for me with my records getting love from all over the world and now I can celebrate with my friends and fans in London”.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t7bQwwqW-Hc?si=0iZrelsd6620i0-V" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">With euphonically powerful vocals which seamlessly blend R&amp;B, soul and pop, Teddy Swims, concludes the first set of performers to be announced, and will be riding the wave of his continued success with a performance at this year’s BRITs. His <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/teddy-swims-ive-tried-everything-but-therapy-pt-1/" target="_blank">debut album</a> ‘<em>I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1)’ </em> features many multi-platinum hits including, ‘<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3dj4wgM3cPeuLwMNHDuBon?si=843da58cf202428f" target="_blank">The Door</a>’ and ‘<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/6usohdchdzW9oML7VC4Uhk?si=6f3ac56041c942da" target="_blank">Lose Control</a>’, the latter of which features within the ‘International Song Of The Year’ category.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GZ3zL7kT6_c?si=w5EbAN1cA3QjpHof" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">The five artists confirmed to be performing at the BRITs (thus far) summarise the previous year of music within the UK. With exciting announcements already made, stay tuned for more updates on this year’s BRIT Awards.</p>
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		<title>BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025: Sam Fender and First Acts Announced</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-radio-1s-big-weekend-2025-sam-fender-and-first-acts-announced/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-radio-1s-big-weekend-2025-sam-fender-and-first-acts-announced/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Jan 2025 23:51:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Lewis Pinto]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC Radio 1's Big Weekend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Blossoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Liverpool]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lola young]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Radio 1 Big Weekend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sam fender]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sefton park]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[UK festival]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wet Leg]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=105938</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[BBC Radio 1 has revealed the first acts in what is bound to be a star-studded lineup for this year&#8217;s Big Weekend. Myles Smith, Wet Leg, Blossoms and Lola Young will all join Sam Fender, who was announced as one of the event&#8217;s headliners.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by BBC Radio [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/radio-1-big-weekend-2025#:~:text=The%20festival%20shines%20a%20light,out%20almost%20immediately%20every%20year." target="_blank">BBC Radio 1 has revealed the first acts</a> in what is bound to be a star-studded lineup for this year&#8217;s Big Weekend. Myles Smith, Wet Leg, Blossoms and Lola Young will all join Sam Fender, who was announced as one of the event&#8217;s headliners. </span></p>
<blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFXOcB9NQu3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14">
<div style="padding: 16px;"><a style="background: #FFFFFF; line-height: 0; padding: 0 0; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; width: 100%;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFXOcB9NQu3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank"><br />
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<div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DFXOcB9NQu3/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by BBC Radio 1 (@bbcradio1)</a></p>
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</blockquote>
<p><script src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js" async=""></script><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sam Fender’s headline slot is no surprise. <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/54705/sam-fender/" target="_blank">With two Number 1 albums already under his belt</a>, he’s set <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/sam-fender-releases-new-single-in-anticipation-for-album-people-watching/" target="_blank">to release his highly anticipated third album, ‘</a></span><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/sam-fender-releases-new-single-in-anticipation-for-album-people-watching/" target="_blank"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">People Watching’</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, in February. <a href="https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/sam-fender-tickets/artist/5242347" target="_blank">Fender’s summer tour doesn’t kick off until June</a>, meaning fans at the Big Weekend will be among the first to hear the album’s new material.</span> <strong><strong> </strong></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Blossoms are still riding high after their <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/blossoms-release-cover-album-gary-a-unique-indie-take-on-iconic-tracks/" target="_blank">Number 1 album ‘Gary’, released last year</a>, and <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/60545/wet-leg/" target="_blank">Wet Leg</a>, who headlined at 2023’s Big Weekend, make a return to the festival after <a href="https://www.setlist.fm/stats/wet-leg-33f20085.html" target="_blank">three years of extensive touring</a>.</span> <strong><strong> </strong></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/gracie-abrams-returns-to-number-one-as-christmas-tracks-fall-out-of-top-charts/" target="_blank">Lola Young knocked Gracie Abrams off the top of the UK Charts</a> last week <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/lola-young-messy/" target="_blank">with her hit ‘Messy’</a>, and featured on Tyler, The Creator’s October album, ‘</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">CHROMAKOPIA’</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/myles-smith/" target="_blank">Myles Smith</a> played the  Music Introducing stage at last year&#8217;s Big Weekend, and <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/radio-1-big-weekend-2025#:~:text=The%20festival%20shines%20a%20light,out%20almost%20immediately%20every%20year." target="_blank">called it a “dream come true”</a> to return to the festival. Smith was also <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-announces-first-two-artists-in-sound-of-2025-countdown/" target="_blank">shortlisted for the BBC Introducing Sound of 2025 Award</a>, eventually coming 4th.</span></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BS0iQYu04H8?si=f14s22DwlWPSiM9L" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This year’s Big Weekend marks the event’s first return to the North West since 2007, when it was held in Preston. Liverpool’s iconic Sefton Park will play host this year, as part of a busy first half of the year which will also see the park <a href="https://www.liverpooltheatres.com/event/candlelight:-bowie-to-pink-floyd-_-rock-ballads-tribute" target="_blank">hosting a candlelight concert</a> and a <a href="https://www.liverpooltheatres.com/event/danny-rampling" target="_blank">DJ set from Danny Rampling</a>.</span> <strong><strong> </strong></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The format has changed over its two-decade-long history, with stages coming and going, but if the previous years are to be repeated, then fans will be treated to four different stages. With the Main Stage, Future Sounds, Dance Stage, and BBC Introducing, there will be plenty of acts to see for fans of all genres.</span></p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p>
Quality lineup so far guys</p>
<p>— John Hamilton (@stigcocard) <a href="https://twitter.com/stigcocard/status/1884192732262064443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 28, 2025</a>
</p></blockquote>
<p><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/mediacentre/2025/radio-1-big-weekend-2025#:~:text=The%20festival%20shines%20a%20light,out%20almost%20immediately%20every%20year." target="_blank">BBC Radio 1’s Head of Station, Aled Haydn Jones, said</a>: “We’re thrilled to bring Radio 1’s Big Weekend 2025 to Liverpool. Liverpool’s vibrant music scene and rich history make it the perfect setting for this iconic event. It’s set to be an unmissable weekend.”</span><strong><strong> </strong></strong></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Taking place over 23-25 May, the festival lines up with the final day of the Premier League season. With Liverpool Football Club on track to lift the trophy, the city could become euphoric, making the weekend even more special for those lucky enough to attend. </span></p>
<blockquote class="reddit-embed-bq" data-embed-showtitle="true" data-embed-height="316"><p><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Samfender/comments/1ibxltw/comment/m9mbylg/">Comment</a><br />
by<a href="https://www.reddit.com/user/Different-Rough3142/">u/Different-Rough3142</a> from discussion<br />
in<a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Samfender/">Samfender</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script src="https://embed.reddit.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="UTF-8"></script></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Tickets for the Big Weekend used to be free, but this changed in recent years, with <a href="https://www.prolificnorth.co.uk/news/radio-1-big-weekend-2025-everything-you-need-to-know-about-tickets-lineup-and-more/" target="_blank">2024’s tickets costing £34 all in</a>. They are released in batches and will prioritise local residents first. This approach has led to the BBC saying the event brings superstars to your doorstep, and it’s hard to argue with them when they have Sabrina Carpenter performing in Luton, and The Jonas Brothers in Dundee. </span></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0LPFT7Eraz4?si=yoP9qPsh03pmsP31" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Big Weekend <a href="https://festivalcalendar.uk" target="_blank">kicks off the UK’s festival season</a> and is followed by the likes of Download Festival and Glastonbury in the following month. The first phase of tickets can be expected to be released toward the end of March and anybody wanting to snag a ticket should keep an eye out for any announcements. </span></p>
<p><br style="font-weight: 400;" /><br style="font-weight: 400;" /></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>BRIT Awards 2025: Charli XCX Leads Nominations, Beatles Make Historic Comeback</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brit-awards-2025-charli-xcx-leads-nominations-beatles-make-historic-comeback/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brit-awards-2025-charli-xcx-leads-nominations-beatles-make-historic-comeback/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jan 2025 23:30:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ali Krausova]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BRIT Awards 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Central Cee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charli XCX]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dua Lipa]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ezra Collective]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sam fender]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Beatles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Last Dinner Party]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[The BRIT Awards have unveiled their 2025 nominations, with Charli XCX leading the pack with five nods, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for &#8216;Brat&#8216;. Dua Lipa follows closely with four nominations, amongst them Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for &#8216;Radical Optimism&#8216;. Notably, The Beatles have received [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/nominees/" target="_blank">The BRIT Awards</a> have unveiled their 2025 nominations, with Charli XCX leading the pack with five nods, including Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for &#8216;<em>Brat</em>&#8216;. Dua Lipa follows closely with four nominations, amongst them Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for &#8216;<em>Radical Optimism</em>&#8216;. Notably, The Beatles have received their first nomination since 1977 for their AI-assisted track &#8216;Now and Then&#8217;. The ceremony is scheduled for March 1 at London&#8217;s O2 Arena, with <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jack-whitehall-confirmed-as-brit-award-host-for-2025/" target="_blank">Jack Whitehall returning as host</a>.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">they&#8217;re out in the world now&#8230; who&#8217;s your big winner for BRITs 2025? <a href="https://t.co/slX7UeEbpw">pic.twitter.com/slX7UeEbpw</a></p>
<p>— BRIT Awards (@BRITs) <a href="https://twitter.com/BRITs/status/1882533767811682372?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 23, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
<p><a href="http:/blockquoteclass=twitter-tweetplang=endir=ltrthey'reoutintheworldnow...who'syourbigwinnerforBRITs2025?ahref=https://t.co/slX7UeEbpwpic.twitter.com/slX7UeEbpw/a/p—BRITAwards(@BRITs)ahref=https://twitter.com/BRITs/status/1882533767811682372?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwJanuary23,2025/a/blockquotescriptasyncsrc=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jscharset=utf-8/script"><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script></a> <a href="http:/blockquoteclass=twitter-tweetplang=endir=ltrthey'reoutintheworldnow...who'syourbigwinnerforBRITs2025?ahref=https://t.co/slX7UeEbpwpic.twitter.com/slX7UeEbpw/a/p—BRITAwards(@BRITs)ahref=https://twitter.com/BRITs/status/1882533767811682372?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwJanuary23,2025/a/blockquotescriptasyncsrc=https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jscharset=utf-8/script"><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script></a></p>
<p>In the Album of the Year category, Charli XCX&#8217;s &#8216;<em>Brat</em>&#8216; will compete against The Cure&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/4wjxmqXnSQvBZWL3IbYngX?si=WYnZSbk4QR-QpyWYxtl4lg" target="_blank"><em>Songs of a Lost World</em></a>&#8216;, Dua Lipa&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1Mo92916G2mmG7ajpmSVrc?si=aiFZ8zqiSv2RZ4uiR6Dmeg" target="_blank"><em>Radical Optimism</em></a>&#8216;, Ezra Collective&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/08jeayZieCHTosu0K5tzf9?si=N6Po1cfpSBipQzvIPn4XWg" target="_blank"><em>Dance, No One&#8217;s Watching</em></a>&#8216;, and The Last Dinner Party&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1ycq58KRtWt3wFtbuIkvLn?si=F6g72qJaTP6NmnWr2So4ag" target="_blank"><em>Prelude to Ecstasy</em></a>&#8216;.<a href="http:/iframestyle=border-radius:12pxsrc=https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/2lIZef4lzdvZkiiCzvPKj7?utm_source=generatorwidth=100%height=352frameBorder=0allowfullscreen=allow=autoplay;clipboard-write;encrypted-media;fullscreen;picture-in-pictureloading=lazy/iframe"><iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/2lIZef4lzdvZkiiCzvPKj7?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></a><strong>The Artist of the Year nominees:<br />
</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Beabadoobee</li>
<li>Central Cee</li>
<li>Charli xcx</li>
<li>Dua Lipa</li>
<li>Fred again..</li>
<li>Jamie xx</li>
<li>Michael Kiwanuka</li>
<li>Nia Archives</li>
<li>Rachel Chinouriri</li>
<li>Sam Fender</li>
</ul>
<p>For Song of the Year, contenders are Artemas&#8217; &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3JG1uFc40wfyrqaWC7iv0e?si=c32b0db90f084c89" target="_blank">i like the way you kiss me</a>&#8216;, The Beatles&#8217; &#8216;Now and Then&#8217;, Charli XCX&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0IsIY8pfu1yaGkPUD7pkDx?si=efea1c533d3048ca" target="_blank">Guess</a>&#8216; featuring Billie Eilish, and Coldplay&#8217;s &#8216;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/49S3znqBAQyPyMpEuKeyJ6?si=81fc57cbe97a4d5f" target="_blank">feelslikeimfallinginlove</a>&#8216;. The Group of the Year category features Bring Me The Horizon, Coldplay, The Cure, Ezra Collective, and <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/lincoln-venue-releases-statement-following-multiple-security-incidents-at-the-last-dinner-party-show/" target="_blank">The Last Dinner Party</a>.<strong><br />
</strong></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Opxhh9Oh3rg?si=ijOin1gwOqqU_GCI" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Song of the Year nominees:</strong></p>
<ul class="news-item__list">
<li>Artemas &#8211; i like the way you kiss me</li>
<li>The Beatles &#8211; Now And Then</li>
<li>BL3SS x CamrinWatsin (feat. bbyclose) &#8211; Kisses</li>
<li>Central Cee (feat. Lil Baby) &#8211; BAND4BAND</li>
<li>Charli xcx Ft Billie Eilish &#8211; Guess featuring billie eilish</li>
<li>Chase &amp; Status / Stormzy &#8211; Backbone</li>
<li>Coldplay &#8211; feelslikeimfallinginlove</li>
<li>Dua Lipa &#8211; Training Season</li>
<li>Ella Henderson (feat. Rudimental) &#8211; Alibi</li>
<li>JADE &#8211; Angel Of My Dreams</li>
<li>Jordan Adetunji &#8211; KEHLANI</li>
<li>KSI (feat. Trippie Redd) &#8211; Thick Of It</li>
<li>Myles Smith &#8211; Stargazing</li>
<li>Sam Ryder &#8211; You&#8217;re Christmas To Me</li>
<li>Sonny Fodera / Jazzy / D.O.D &#8211; Somedays</li>
</ul>
<p>The Best New Artist nominees are English Teacher, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/barry-cant-swim-and-ezra-collective-named-in-bbcs-sound-of-2025-countdown/" target="_blank">Ezra Collective</a>, The Last Dinner Party, Myles Smith, and Rachel Chinouriri. <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-wins-brit-rising-star-2025-uks-new-music-sensation/" target="_blank">Myles Smith has already won the Rising Star Award</a> for 2025 as it is traditionally announced ahead of the main Brit Awards ceremony. This allows the winner to be celebrated in the lead-up to the event and often gives them the opportunity to perform during the ceremony itself. International Artist of the Year nominees include Adrianne Lenker, Asake, Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, and Taylor Swift.</p>
<div class="relative inline-flex items-center">
<div class="relative inline-flex items-center">The BRIT Awards continue to celebrate a diverse range of musical talent, both established and emerging, reflecting the dynamic landscape of the music industry. Tickets can be purchased directly through the BRIT Awards&#8217; official <a href="https://shop.axs.co.uk/Lw%2fYCwAAAAAwvCUEAgAAAABo%2fv%2f%2f%2fwD%2f%2f%2f%2f%2fCkZfTzIgQXJlbmEA%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f%2f8%3d/shop/search?skin=britawards&amp;tags=&amp;cpch=&amp;cpdate=&amp;cprid=&amp;cpid=&amp;cpcn=&amp;cpdid=&amp;cpdn=&amp;cpsrc=&amp;intoff=&amp;cid=&amp;utm_source=&amp;utm_medium=&amp;utm_campaign=&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=&amp;aff=&amp;clickref=&amp;promocode=&amp;originalReferringURL=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.brits.co.uk%2F&amp;upgrade=&amp;mkt_campaign=&amp;irclickid=&amp;q=5891e500-72e6-449e-b8bf-a0fdc0783405&amp;p=c30903d9-9997-46d8-b918-0a9a3a922555&amp;ts=1737674313&amp;c=axseu&amp;e=19870903933826236&amp;rt=Safetynet&amp;h=0c26f31f8e06889c3124d9b31b571bd7" target="_blank">website</a>.</div>
</div>
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		<title>Myles Smith Leading at Number One on Most Downloaded Albums and Songs</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-leading-at-number-one-on-most-downloaded-albums-and-songs/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-leading-at-number-one-on-most-downloaded-albums-and-songs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Jan 2025 15:52:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Francesca Chiari]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[a minute]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[download charts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nice To meet you]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Official Charts]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=105757</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[British singer and songwriter Myles Smith is leading the charts for most streamed album and songs, with his latest release &#8216;A Minute&#8217;. Smith begun his career on TikTok shortly after graduating, and ever since his songs have caught the attention of a world wide audience, making him one of the most promising figures in the UK [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>British singer and songwriter Myles Smith is leading the charts for most streamed album and songs, with his latest release <em>&#8216;A Minute&#8217;. </em>Smith begun his career on TikTok shortly after graduating, and ever since his songs have caught the attention of a world wide audience, making him one of the most promising figures in the UK music industry. The artist won the BBC Introducing Artist of the Year Award in 2024.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/artist/myles-smith/">Smith</a> is originally of Luton, and has said that his music was inspired by different genres and cultures that he used to listen to and has experienced in childhood. He begun performing at open-mics nights before starting to post covers on TikTok in 2022. These caught the attention of many, including his future agents, and by the time Smith begun releasing music, he had already built a significant audience. About his musical upbringing, Smith told Official Charts:</p>
<blockquote><p>Growing up I listened to a lot of Green Day. Weirdly, they were one of the first artists who made me feel liberated in liking music that was different . Then there’s Adele, who really taught me not only how to write gut punches, but to be able to explore the depths of my emotions when it came to love. Labrinth was another person I idolised, as a young British black guy doing something so different at the time. That was a real nod to say &#8216;hey, you don’t have to go down the route of grime, trap, rap or hip-hop.&#8217; You can make pop music as a black guy from England and still be accepted.</p></blockquote>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@mylessmithuk/video/7336933988432432417" data-video-id="7336933988432432417"><section><a title="@mylessmithuk" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mylessmithuk?refer=embed" target="_blank">@mylessmithuk</a> You promised a lifetime, but left in a moment… <a title="newmusic" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/newmusic?refer=embed" target="_blank">#newmusic</a> <a title="acoustic" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/acoustic?refer=embed" target="_blank">#acoustic</a> <a title="singersongwriter" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/singersongwriter?refer=embed" target="_blank">#singersongwriter</a> <a title="♬ SOLO by Myles Smith - Myles Smith" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/SOLO-by-Myles-Smith-7336934088929839904?refer=embed" target="_blank">♬ SOLO by Myles Smith &#8211; Myles Smith</a></section>
</blockquote>
<p><script src="https://www.tiktok.com/embed.js" async=""></script></p>
<p>After releasing a few successful songs, Smith released his first EP titled &#8216;<em>You Promised a Lifetime</em>&#8216;, which debuted in March of 2024. While the album didn&#8217;t to appear on Official Charts, off of it the song &#8216;Solo&#8217; peaked at number 69 and spent 11 weeks on charts. The artist then releasing &#8216;Stargazing&#8217;, his most successful single so far, which peaked at number four in the UK. &#8216;Stargazing&#8217; anticipated Smith&#8217;s second EP, &#8216;<em>A Minute</em>&#8216;, released in November 2024.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CPbqm-0B-Is?si=LTkG3y3ZVFcYJPEg" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>&#8216;<a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/albums/myles-smith-a-minute/"><em>A Minute</em></a>&#8216; is currently at number one on most <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/charts/albums-downloads-chart/">Downloaded Albums</a>, while &#8216;<a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/myles-smith-nice-to-meet-you/">Nice To Meet You</a>&#8216; is peaking at number one on <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/charts/singles-downloads-chart/">Singles Download Charts</a>. Both the album and the song has spent 10 weeks on Download Charts, with the former debuting at number six and the latter debuting at number four; this week marks a peak for Smith, whose releases are re-climbing charts after falling out of the top 40 a couple weeks ago.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9VbDkDALT7w?si=drPcIL74QmkPdZ3G" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>Smith&#8217;s latest album debuted on Official Charts in November, spending two weeks at number 63 and number 90. &#8216;Nice To Meet You&#8217; peaked at number six and has, so far, spent ten weeks on charts. After falling out of the top ten a couple weeks ago, the song re-entered the top-spots of charts this latest weeks and, seen that it is currently leading the Download Charts, it could climb even higher.</p>
<p>Other records in this week&#8217;s Album Download Charts are &#8216;Who Let the Dogs Out?&#8217; by the Lambrini Girls, Franz Ferdinand&#8217;s new release &#8216;Human Fear&#8217;, Heidi Montag&#8217;s &#8216;Superficial&#8217; and Tremonti&#8217;s &#8216;The End Will Show Us How&#8217;.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Myles Smith Wins Brit Rising Star 2025: UK&#8217;s New Music Sensation</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-wins-brit-rising-star-2025-uks-new-music-sensation/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/myles-smith-wins-brit-rising-star-2025-uks-new-music-sensation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 19:25:10 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ali Krausova]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BRIT Awards 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ed Sheeran]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Brit Rising Star]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=105271</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The English musician, Myles Smith, has been awarded the Brit Rising Star award for 2025. The 26-year-old singer-songwriter from Luton is being celebrated as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music, with his soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics resonating across generations. In addition to his recent accolade as the Brit Rising Star for [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="font-weight: 400;">The English musician, Myles Smith, has been awarded <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/the-brit-awards-2025-what-we-know-so-far/" target="_blank">the Brit Rising Star award</a> for 2025. The 26-year-old singer-songwriter from Luton is being celebrated as one of the most exciting voices in contemporary music, with his soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics resonating across generations. In addition to his recent accolade as the Brit Rising Star for 2025, Smith secured the fourth position in BBC Radio 1&#8217;s prestigious <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-announces-first-two-artists-in-sound-of-2025-countdown/" target="_blank">Sound of 2025 </a>poll.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brits-announce-nominees-for-best-rising-star/" target="_blank">The Brit Rising Star Award</a>, previously known as the Critics&#8217; Choice Award, has a legacy of spotlighting future icons, with past winners including Adele, Jorja Smith, and Sam Smith. Smith was up against the indie duo Good Neighbours and the soul singer Elmiene in the category.  The Brit Rising Star Award is traditionally announced ahead of the main Brit Awards ceremony. This allows the winner to be celebrated in the lead-up to the event and often gives them the opportunity to perform during the ceremony itself. The ceremony will happen on March 1, 2025.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/news/2025/myles-smith-wins-brits-rising-star/" target="_blank">Commenting on his win</a>, Smith said: &#8220;Winning the BRIT award for Rising Star is such a surreal moment. Music has always been about connecting with people, and to see it resonate on this level is incredible. I’m so grateful to my team, my family, and especially the fans who’ve supported me every step of the way. Your belief in me means everything. This is just the beginning, and I’m so excited for what’s to come. Thank you for being part of this journey.”<iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qm2SmNmu8ws?si=Bnv3yfKnp_-52EOs" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Myles Smith’s journey began performing in pubs in his hometown. His big break came with the release of his single ‘Stargazing’, which quickly gained traction on streaming platforms and was notably featured on Barack Obama’s summer playlist. The song&#8217;s success cemented Smith as a rising talent, blending R&amp;B, pop, and indie influences. It achieved significant success on the <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/myles-smith-stargazing/" target="_blank">UK Singles Chart</a>. The track peaked at number 2 and remained on the chart for 34 weeks, with 18 of those weeks spent in the Top 10.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="http:/iframestyle=border-radius:12pxsrc=https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/3Vr3zh0r7ALn8VLqCiRR10?utm_source=generatorwidth=100%height=352frameBorder=0allowfullscreen=allow=autoplay;clipboard-write;encrypted-media;fullscreen;picture-in-pictureloading=lazy/iframe"><iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/track/3Vr3zh0r7ALn8VLqCiRR10?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></a></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">2025 is set to be a landmark year for Smith. His debut album, rumoured to feature collaborations with top artists like <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/jorja-smiths-2025-falling-or-flying-uk-tour-dates/" target="_blank">Jorja Smith</a> and <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/sam-fender-releases-music-video-track-me-and-the-dog/" target="_blank">Sam Fender</a>, is expected to drop later this year. Smith is also planning a headline tour, following his current stint as the opening act for <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/ed-sheeran-creates-foundation-to-support-music-education/" target="_blank">Ed Sheeran</a>. Fans are particularly excited about his potential appearance at major festivals, including a speculated slot at <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/the-maccabees-reunion-sparks-glastonbury-rumors-ahead-of-all-points-east-return/" target="_blank">Glastonbury 2025</a>.</p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">Myles Smith’s rise is a reminder of the power of authentic artistry in an era of fleeting trends. His ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level is what sets him apart and promises a lasting legacy in the music world.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>BBC Announces First Two Artists in Sound of 2025 Countdown</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-announces-first-two-artists-in-sound-of-2025-countdown/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-announces-first-two-artists-in-sound-of-2025-countdown/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jan 2025 10:48:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Amira Duggin]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[2025 tour]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC Sound of 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[English Teacher]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=105171</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Indie band English Teacher and singer-songwriter Myles Smith have secured the fifth and fourth spots in BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2025 countdown.  The Sound of 2025 is an annual poll that highlights the most promising emerging artists with the potential to make a significant impact in the music industry over the coming year. The [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Indie band English Teacher and singer-songwriter Myles Smith have secured the fifth and fourth spots in <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0k4b2cq" target="_blank">BBC Radio 1’s Sound of 2025</a> countdown. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Sound of 2025 is an annual poll that highlights the most promising emerging artists with the potential to make a significant impact in the music industry over the coming year. <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-announces-long-list-for-sound-of-2025/" target="_blank">The 2025 longlist</a>, unveiled last year, featured 11 acts, including Chappell Roan, <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/kneecap-win-discrimination-case-against-uk-government-they-broke-their-own-laws/" target="_blank">KNEECAP</a>, Pozer, and Ezra Collective. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Curated by 180 music industry experts, the poll has a reputation for predicting future stars with <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckgvpz0kry8o" target="_blank">“the best chance of mainstream success”</a>. Past winners include Adele, Sam Smith, and Michael Kiwanuka, who have all become internationally renowned artists. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The countdown is being revealed throughout the week, with the announcement of the winner on Friday (January 10). </span></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chappell Roan and Ezra Collective on BBC Sound of 2025 list <a href="https://t.co/cCUFmwZZvg">https://t.co/cCUFmwZZvg</a></p>
<p>— BBC News (UK) (@BBCNews) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCNews/status/1859486678110363897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2024</a></p></blockquote>
<p><script src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" async="" charset="utf-8"></script><span style="font-weight: 400;">Landing at number five is Leeds-based quartet English Teacher. Known for their bold post-punk sound, the band captivated audiences and critics alike with their Mercury Prize-winning debut album <em>‘This Could Be Texas’</em>. The record is a vivid exploration of life in northern England and the universality of these experiences, contrasting enduring friendships with the challenges of social issues.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since their debut single ‘R&amp;B’ in 2021, the group has continued to delve into societal issues through their music and was <a href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/english-teacher-win-2024-mercury-prize/" target="_blank">praised by the Mercury Prize judges</a> for their <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8jlngl2wk4o#:~:text=Judges%20praised%20its%20%22winning%20lyrical,mark%20of%20a%20future%20classic.%22" target="_blank">“winning lyrical mix of surrealism and social observation”</a>, applauding their <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8jlngl2wk4o#:~:text=Judges%20praised%20its%20%22winning%20lyrical,mark%20of%20a%20future%20classic.%22" target="_blank">“fresh approach to the traditional guitar band format.”</a></span></p>
<p><iframe style="border-radius: 12px;" src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/4gd3XcQ7dR37m8GimBfiYT?utm_source=generator" width="100%" height="352" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckgx2w78ppwo" target="_blank">Speaking to the BBC</a>, guitarist Lewis Whiting described their creative process as exploratory: “We never really set out with an aim to create something specific. But, that’s the fun part, right? Trying to make something new and interesting.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Formed at the Leeds Conservatoire, the group’s sound continues to evolve characterised by shifting time signatures and distinct guitar riffs that showcase their unique artistry. Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the band found their footing in 2023. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckgx2w78ppwo" target="_blank">Lead vocalist Lily Fontaine reflected to the BBC</a>, “I feel like it was only late into 2023 that we really found our confidence.” By which point they were already deep into recording their critically acclaimed debut album. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As English Teacher prepare to kick off their <a href="https://www.englishteacherband.com/tour/" target="_blank">2025 Tour</a>, fans are eagerly anticipating what this year has in store for the band.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In fourth place is singer-songwriter Myles Smith. His breakout hit ‘Stargazing’, became <a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/chart-news/the-official-biggest-songs-of-2024/" target="_blank">one of the best-selling singles of 2024</a> and even featured on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DD0dWQ3vAJW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&amp;igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==" target="_blank">Barack Obama’s favourite music of 2024</a>. The single describes a moment of human connection, a theme which runs throughout Smith’s discography notably through songs like ‘River’ and ‘Wait For You’. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Set to receive the <a href="https://www.brits.co.uk/news/2025/myles-smith-wins-brits-rising-star/" target="_blank">BRIT Rising Star Award</a> in March, Smith follows in the footsteps of its past recipients like Sam Fender and Adele. </span>Though his rise to stardom has been rapid, Smith has been a fan of music since he first heard Coldplay’s ‘Yellow’ and was inspired to write his own music at age 11.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9p9EauIOPm8?si=U0-UKo5tDzdSJYPx" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reflecting on his early influences, <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvg6m07qpymo" target="_blank">he said to the BBC</a>: “I went through a lot of stages. I was a huge Green Day fan at one point. I even went through a bit of a Screamo phase.” He began to find his own style while playing open mic nights in Luton, performing covers of Ed Sheeran and Marcus Mumford, which have contributed to his unique Folk-Pop style. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After earning a sociology degree in 2019 and becoming an entrepreneur, Smith began creating music in his spare time. <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvg6m07qpymo" target="_blank">To the BBC, he noted:</a> “I understood quite early on that just because I’m good at something, it doesn’t necessarily mean I’m passionate about it.” But it wasn’t until his viral cover of ‘Sweater Weather’ by The Neighbourhood in 2022 that he pursued music full time. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Turning to <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mylessmithuk?is_from_webapp=1&amp;sender_device=pc" target="_blank">TikTok</a>, he began to release more covers, but it was his original song ‘Solo’ that gained massive traction and landed him a deal with RCA Records. Speaking about the power of social media in the music industry, Smith said: “If your objective is to go viral, then you’re always going to be fighting a losing battle. But if your objective is to establish a community and a place where your music belongs, it becomes a lot more rewarding.”</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With his EP <em>‘<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0BNzjDHvi3stIakYKnQoBY?si=4aDNHY8NT3yl5A-kJWJahw" target="_blank">A Minute’</a></em> now out and preparations for his debut album and <a href="https://www.mylessmith.co.uk/events/" target="_blank">upcoming tour</a> underway, Smith is poised for a big year ahead. </span></p>
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@mylessmithuk/video/7336933988432432417" data-video-id="7336933988432432417"><section><a title="@mylessmithuk" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@mylessmithuk?refer=embed" target="_blank">@mylessmithuk</a> You promised a lifetime, but left in a moment… <a title="newmusic" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/newmusic?refer=embed" target="_blank">#newmusic</a> <a title="acoustic" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/acoustic?refer=embed" target="_blank">#acoustic</a> <a title="singersongwriter" href="https://www.tiktok.com/tag/singersongwriter?refer=embed" target="_blank">#singersongwriter</a> <a title="♬ SOLO by Myles Smith - Myles Smith" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/SOLO-by-Myles-Smith-7336934088929839904?refer=embed" target="_blank">♬ SOLO by Myles Smith &#8211; Myles Smith</a></section>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Sound of 2025 countdown celebrates the depth and variety of today’s emerging talent. English Teacher’s bold Post-Punk approach and Myles Smith’s heartfelt Folk-Pop set the stage for the remaining three acts, highlighting the diverse creativity of this year’s nominees. With the countdown ongoing, the top three are certain to feature artists destined for groundbreaking success.</span></p>
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		<title>Official Chart&#8217;s 2025 Ones To Watch</title>
		<link>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/official-charts-2025-ones-to-watch/</link>
		<comments>https://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/official-charts-2025-ones-to-watch/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Dec 2024 18:28:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Francesca Chiari]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Addison rae]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brits Rising Star]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diet pepsi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lola young]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[messy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[myles smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Official Charts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ones to watch 2025]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stargazing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/?p=104668</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The UK&#8217;s very own Official Charts have released a list of what they think will be topping charts in the upcoming year. The list includes Lola Young, Addison Rae and Myles Smith. With the arrival of the new year, new artists to watch also arrive. Artists that maybe have had one or two songs going viral [&#8230;]]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The UK&#8217;s very own Official Charts have released a list of what they think will be topping charts in the upcoming year. The list includes Lola Young, Addison Rae and Myles Smith. With the arrival of the new year, new artists to watch also arrive. Artists that maybe have had one or two songs going viral on TikTok in the past year, who had their first single charting in the UK&#8217;s top ten, or new bands that have released their debut albums and booked a few festival slots.</p>
<blockquote class="tiktok-embed" style="max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;" cite="https://www.tiktok.com/@lolayounggg/video/7452367907083848992" data-video-id="7452367907083848992"><section><a title="@lolayounggg" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@lolayounggg?refer=embed" target="_blank">@lolayounggg</a>ft my mums v clean room</p>
<p><a title="♬ original sound - lolayounggg" href="https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7388945594758318881?refer=embed" target="_blank">♬ original sound &#8211; lolayounggg</a></p>
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<p>One thing about music, is that it will always have new faces and voices; specifically in the UK, there are many awards and prizes reserved for these new artists that begin to make their way in the hearts and charts of the UK: <a title="BBC Announces Long-List for “Sound of 2025″" href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/bbc-announces-long-list-for-sound-of-2025/">BBC&#8217;s Sound of&#8230;</a> Award, the <a title="BRITs Announce Nominees for “Best Rising Star”" href="http://www.mxdwn.co.uk/news/brits-announce-nominees-for-best-rising-star/">BRITs&#8217; &#8220;New Rising Star&#8221; category</a>. With British artists like Adele and Sam Fender winning these in previous years, and international stars like Chappell Roan being nominated, UK awards for emerging artists are always spot on to anticipate which new artist will achieve greatness.</p>
<p>Lola Young is an artist from London who has had a very exciting last few weeks: her latest single titled &#8220;<a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/lola-young-messy/"><em>Messy</em></a>&#8221; has granted her a commercial breakout that her career had long been awaiting after going super-viral on TikTok. It reached position number seven on UK charts over the December period, where usually it is less likely that new artists climb charts since these are mostly taken by Christmas songs. But Lola Young did it, and the single originally released in May and part of her second studio album &#8220;<em>This Wasn&#8217;t Meant For You Anyway</em>&#8221; became a radio hit after a quick climb on charts that begun in late November. The music video currently counts over five million views, and it is clear that 2025 will be a big year for Young</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k-k2_Liofy8?si=iMVfeL-mZTqwngRP" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>Addison Rae is next on the list, after her single &#8220;<a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/addison-rae-diet-pepsi/"><em>Diet Pepsi</em></a>&#8221; has convinced the world that she is in fact meant to be a pop star. Rae&#8217;s beginnings in the music industry were arguably underwhelming, as the artist was overshadowed by her TikTok persona and the public did not believe much in her possibilities. While her first singles, &#8220;<em>I Got It Bad</em>&#8221; and &#8220;<em>Obsessed</em>&#8221; failed to chart in the UK&#8217;s top 100, everything changed after the release of &#8220;<em>Diet Pepsi&#8221;</em>, under the label Columbia, which highlights Rae&#8217;s talent as a singer and is exactly the type of music the makes numbers in the market nowadays; the song peaked at number 10 in the UK and was followed by another release, &#8220;<em>Aquamarine</em>&#8220;, which peaked at 45. The lights are shining on Rae in 2025.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hki6RqI-eMA?si=BUUvh9sr_hxcQRoA" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
<p>Lastly, Myles Smith makes the list after winning the BRIT&#8217;s Rising Star Award Title earlier this month. His single &#8220;<a href="https://www.officialcharts.com/songs/myles-smith-stargazing/"><em>Stargazing</em></a>&#8221; was his first to reach the UK&#8217;s top ten peaking at number four, and remains one of the best releases of the year, then followed by his biggest debut yet with the song &#8220;<em>Nice To Meet Ya</em>&#8221; which peaked at number twelve and stayed on charts for six weeks. Great things are awaiting Smith in 2025.</p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9p9EauIOPm8?si=JigDKYvoO-8jAu3_" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p>
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