Taylor started his musical journey learning piano at age 6, before embarking into the world of highlife through his love of the guitar. As lead-guitarist and arranger for Stargazers Band and Broadway Dance Band, Taylor found fame, writing their acclaimed tracks including ‘Sika Enibre’, ‘Owu Na Mewu’ and ‘Dofo’. These songs would help define the highlife sound and inturn, afro-beat.

In 1962, Taylor went to the UK to study at the Eric Guilder School of Music in London, where he’d establish a West African music scene, fronting the Ghana Black Star Band. Returning to Ghana in 1965, Taylor joined the Uhuru Dance Band, eventually leading it in 1970. Uhuru Dance band encompassed a high-energy Afro-house and funk fusion, featuring heavy percussion and bluesy vocals. Their name represents Ghana’s independence, with Uhuru meaning freedom in Swahili. With an unmatched effervescence, the band would go on to be one of Ghana’s most beloved and historic.

From the early 70s, Taylor would establish his solo sound, releasing the 1975 album ‘Ebo Taylor and The Pelikans’ before his first complete solo release in 1977 with his historic self-titled record. In the 80s, Taylor would pass down his eclectic knowledge, teaching at Ghana University, which enable his expansion of his musical research, contributing to his acclaimed return.

In 2010, at age 74, Taylor saw triumphant global success with the release of his album ‘Love & Death’, named after his early acclaimed single from the 1980s album ‘Conflict’. Produced with Berlin-based Afrobeat Academy on Strut Records, ‘Love & Death’ revitalised his radiant afro-jazz-funk sound with an innovation whilst maintaining Taylor’s genuine, vintage-esque roots planted firmly in the ground of his early sound. The majority of the tracks were newly written, bar the hit title track, which featured a new revised version. This single, originally written about his wife leaving him in the 1980s, is arguably his most successful, with streams reaching several million and being a classic play at countless afro, funk and jazz DJ sets around the world.

Taylor’s legacy also resides within modern pop culture and R&B music. Countless artists would go on to sample his work in R&B hits like Usher’s ‘She Don’t Know’, which samples his major track ‘Heaven’. More recently, Kelly Rowland of Destiny’s Child’s ‘Black Magic’ samples Taylor’s ‘Odofo Nyi Akyiri Biara’.

Ebo Taylor repeatedly established his legendary status decade upon decade, only showing his true devotion and adoration of his craft. He put Highlife music and West African scenes on the musical map and, although no longer with us, his impact ever-lingers and ever-inspires.

Taking to the stage in New York, they performed a medley of Ozzy Osbourne’s classics, ‘Crazy Train’, ‘Changes’, and ‘Mama I’m Coming Home’.

Prior to the performance, Osbourne’s youngest son, Jack, along with several of his grandchildren, appeared in a pre-recorded video to introduce the musical icon.

Speaking to E! News on the red carpet before the award show, Yungblud revealed that he still wears Ozzy Osbourne’s cross necklace, which he gave to him while he was still alive.

“To get to know a hero of yours and then he passes away, right as you kind of start to really get to know each other as humans, was really hard,” Yungblud said.

YungBlud honors Ozzy Osbourne by wearing his cross necklace at the #VMAs. pic.twitter.com/2gpOOHV5gO

— E! News (@enews) September 7, 2025

Yungblud had previously performed ‘Changes’ during the Back To The Beginning show at Villa Park in Birmingham , later releasing a live version with all the process going to charity.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by YUNGBLUD (@yungblud)

In an interview with Rock Sound, Yungblud said: “This was hands down one of the biggest moments of my life. I got to stand on stage and honour one of my heroes and the fact that it has touched so many is truly overwhelming.”

“The best part about this release is that we can take such a monumental moment, immortalise it on tape, release it and donate all the money to such important causes in Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Acorns Children’s Hospice. This is what rock’n’roll is about. Stream it, buy it, add it to your playlist – let’s raise some fucking money.”

Following the news, British pop icon Elton John took to Instagram to post a throwback picture of him and Brian in a recording studio. The caption read: “Brian Wilson was always so kind to me from the day I met him. He sang ‘Someone Saved My Life Tonight’ at a tribute concert in 2003, and it was an extraordinary moment for me. I played on his solo records, he sang on my album, The Union, and even performed for my AIDS Foundation. I grew to love him as a person, and for me, he was the biggest influence on my songwriting ever; he was a musical genius and revolutionary. He changed the goalposts when it came to writing songs and shaped music forever. A true giant.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Elton John (@eltonjohn)

Among the many names that spoke about Wilson and his genius, kindness and love, folk singer Bob Dylan also shared a statement that read: “Heard the sad news about Brian today and thought about all the years I’ve been listening to him and admiring his genius. Rest in peace dear Brian.”

Brian’s band also shared a statement, talking about the musician as well as his time and input within the iconic band The Beach Boys: “The world mourns a genius today, and we grieve for the loss of our cousin, our friend, and our partner in a great musical adventure. Brian Wilson wasn’t just the heart of The Beach Boys – he was the soul of our sound. Together, we gave the world the American dream of optimism, joy, and a sense of freedom – music that made people feel good, made them believe in summer and endless possibilities. We will continue to cherish the timeless music we made together and the joy he brought to millions over the decades,” they wrote. “And while we will miss him deeply, his legacy will live on through his songs and in our memories.”

Celebrating Bob Marley on what would have been his 80th birthday.

A pioneering artist who has shaped minds and music across many generations. RIP

Photo: Bob Marley in Leeds, 1974, by Dennis Morris pic.twitter.com/f5WgyAnAWK

— Rough Trade (@RoughTrade) February 6, 2025

Across London, venues from Brixton to central hotspots have rolled out events that capture the spirit of Marley’s music. Standout events include the ‘Bob Marley’s Birthday Party at 229′, a night featuring films, DJ sets, and a live performance by a leading Marley tribute act. In Brixton, the famed Hootananny venue is set to host Sir Lloyd Coxsone Outernational Sound System, while Dingwalls 2 promises an evening of live music dedicated to Marley’s timeless sound.

Bob Marley’s Birthday Party at 229:
Kick off the celebrations at this exclusive event featuring films, DJ sets, and a live performance by Bob Marley Revival. Doors open at 7 pm, with tickets starting at around £23.08.

Bob Marley Birthday with Sir Lloyd Coxsone at Hootananny Brixton:
Experience an unforgettable night at Hootananny in Brixton, where reggae vibes take center stage with Sir Lloyd Coxsone Outernational Sound System. This event, which opens its doors at 8 pm, offers a more intimate yet equally passionate homage to Marley’s legacy with tickets available for just £5.

Bob Marley’s 80th Birthday Celebration at Dingwalls 2:
Join the celebration at Dingwalls 2 for an evening dedicated to live music and the timeless sounds of Marley. With doors opening at 7 pm and tickets for £10, this tribute promises to be a memorable nod to Marley’s revolutionary impact on music.

Bob Marley’s influence in London stretches back decades, with the city not only embracing his music but also serving as a creative sanctuary for his artistic expression. A defining moment in Marley’s career was the recording of ‘Exodus‘ (1977) in London. This album, renowned for its fusion of powerful lyrics and soulful reggae rhythms, has since become legendary, symbolising a time when London’s diverse cultural landscape nurtured one of the most influential musical projects of all time. ‘Exodus‘ remains a testament to Marley’s artistry and his ability to bridge cultural divides through music.

A recent report from the music licensing company Phonographic Performance Limited (PPL) reveals that the UK’s favorite Bob Marley track is the 1980 hit ‘Could You Be Loved’, which has been played an average of 15 times per day since the start of the century.Bob Marley passed away on May 11, 1981. His death was caused by malignant melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer that began as a spot on his toe and eventually spread throughout his body. As London comes together to celebrate the musician this year, these tribute events not only highlight the vibrant, ongoing impact of his music but also invite fans to revisit a significant chapter of the city’s musical history. While London is leading the charge with large-scale tribute events, fans across the UK can still look forward to celebrating Bob Marley’s timeless music in their local areas.

“Marianne passed away peacefully in London today, in the company of her loving family.

She will be dearly missed.”

The pop icon, known for songs like ‘The Ballad of Lucy Jordan ’, had previously struggled with health, battling bulimia, breast cancer and emphysema caused by decades of smoking.

In 2020, she was hospitalized after contracting Covid-19, and doctors didn’t expect her to survive – ever resilient, she pulled through and released her 21^st album, ‘She Walks in Beauty‘, a year later.

Tributes have come in, with Mick Jagger posting on Instagram describing her “a wonderful friend, a beautiful singer and a great actress,” saying he was “so saddened”.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mick Jagger (@mickjagger)

His bandmates Keith Richards and Ronnie Woods also posted online, paying their respects. Richards gave his “heartfelt condolences to Marianne’s family”, and Wood said that “Marianne will be dearly missed.”

The singer was married and divorced three times, having her only child with artist John Dunbar. She is survived by her son, Nicholas Dunbar.

Born in Hampstead in December 1946, Marianne was known for hits like ‘Come and Stay with Me’ and ‘As Tears Go By’, and roles in films such as 1968’s The Girl On A Motorcycle. She was a prolific entertainer, releasing six albums throughout the 60’s, and even contributing backing vocals for the Beatles.

She was also famous for her relationship with Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger. She was first discovered by the Stones’ manager at age 16 and given ‘As Tears Go By’, one of Jagger and Richards earliest compositions. Her soft, breathy voice and the songs folky arrangement were a hit, and the song made the top 10 in the UK.

Her whirlwind romance with Jagger was a hot topic for the tabloids. She was infamously found by police wearing only a bear skin rug when they raided Keith Richard’s home in 1967, with her and Jagger subsequently arrested.

Once her and Mick had split, she went through a rough period in her life, suffering from anorexia and heroin addiction. She spent two years homeless on the streets of Soho, before she started living in a squat.

She then bounced back, re-emerging in the late 70’s with two albums. Her 1979 new-wave influenced album, ‘Broken English’, may be her standout work. Included today in various top album lists, the record was a commercial and critical success, even earning her a grammy nomination. She also received high praise for her 1987 album, ‘Strange Weather’, reinventing her sound with blues and jazz influences.

She also had a productive career in film, television, and stage, with an output spanning nearly six decades. She first appeared as herself in Jean-Luc Godards’ 1966 crime comedy film Made in Usa.

Other notable roles include in I’ll Never Forget What’sisname, famously being the first person to use the F-word in mainstream film. Her first lead part came in The Girl on a Motorcycle, playing a newlywed who absconds on her motorbike to meet with a recent lover.

More recently, she starred in 2007’s Irina Palm, with a performance that received a nomination for a European Film Award for Best Actress. She also provided voice work for the 2021 remake of Dune as a Bene Gesserit, and in 2023’s Wild Summon.

Gallagher, who performed at the venue more than 20 times, first graced its stage in June 1971 and returned regularly until February 1988. His willingness to play in Belfast during the height of the Troubles earned him a unique place in the hearts of locals. According to fan site Shadowplays, Gallagher’s concerts at the Ulster Hall brought together Protestants and Catholics, offering “a few brief hours of respite” where the music took precedence over the surrounding conflict.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Rory Gallagher (@rorygallagherofficial)

Gallagher already had a commemorative plaque outside the venue, but the new statue, overseen by the Rory Gallagher Statue Project Trust, provides a more visible tribute to the guitarist. Barry McGivern, frontman of Ireland’s longest-running Rory Gallagher tribute band, and Donal Gallagher, Rory’s brother and longtime agent, were among the trust’s members.  

Speaking at the unveiling, fellow trustee Frank Girvan said: “It has been many years in the making, and we are incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from fans, fellow musicians and all those who continue to show their commitment to keeping Rory’s legacy alive.”

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Waterfront Hall & Ulster Hall (@waterfront_ulster_hall)

The statue was created by Bronze Art Ireland, a company renowned for its fine art castings and work on high-profile TV shows such as Vikings and Game of Thrones. The statue’s pose is based on a photograph from a 1972 Melody Maker cover, taken during one of Gallagher’s celebrated performances at the Ulster Hall.

Sorry.. Don’t like this at all. I appreciate the fact that he’s honoured, but come on! The likeness is zilch, and the guitar he loved more than any other wasn’t a Tele. C’mon guys do your homework.

(@dlight2112) January 4, 2025

Hundreds of fans attended the ceremony, joined by members of Gallagher’s family, including his brother Donal and nephews Daniel and Eoin Gallagher. However, some fans expressed disappointment with the statue’s design, pointing out that the guitar depicted is a Fender Telecaster, rather than Gallagher’s more iconic Fender Stratocaster. One social media user wrote: “I appreciate the honour, but the likeness is zilch, and they’ve chosen the wrong guitar.”  

The unveiling was not without logistical hiccups either. Some fans criticised the event on Reddit, citing poor sound and the ceremony starting earlier than advertised, leaving late arrivals unable to witness the unveiling. “This unveiling was a disgrace,” one attendee wrote.

Comment byu/NutzPup from discussion innorthernireland

Despite these criticisms, the statue has been widely welcomed as a fitting tribute to a musician whose influence extended far beyond Belfast. Artists such as Johnny Marr, Phil Lynott, and The Edge have cited Gallagher as an inspiration. Even Jimi Hendrix reportedly once answered the question of who the greatest guitarist in the world was by saying, “I don’t know, ask Rory Gallagher.”

Gallagher’s impact is further commemorated in Dublin, where a replica of his Fender Stratocaster adorns a corner in Temple Bar, alongside a sign in Gaelic and English honouring the musician. He is also honoured with a statue in his hometown of Ballyshannon.

The unveiling coincided with U2 frontman Bono receiving a Presidential Medal of Freedom in the United States for his humanitarian work. Both moments highlight the global impact of two Irish musicians, not only for their artistry but for their broader cultural contributions.

Gallagher’s music continues to inspire fans worldwide, regularly included on lists of the greatest guitar players of all time, and the statue outside Ulster Hall stands as a testament to the unifying power of his performances—both then and now.

The group have reportedly already filmed the music video for the new track, with an inside source sharing that they are dressed as “superhero characters complete with Wonder Woman-style costumes and capes.” The video is said to have been shot at a North London studio, with the band secretly reuniting to complete the project.

Following the passing of Sarah Harding, the remaining Girls Aloud members are keen to honour her memory. The group, made up of the now mononymous Cheryl, Nadine Coyle, Nicole Roberts and Kimberly Walsh, are said to be excited by their new upcoming chapter, teasing many new plans.

An inside source shared, “The girls really came back together as friends to rally around when Sarah died, and it repaired some of the old rifts and put things into perspective. Suddenly the reunion which had seemed totally impossible for so long just felt a totally natural thing to do – in Sarah’s honour.”

They also shared, “this has been one of the best-kept secrets in pop, but it’s actually happening now,” with a possible upcoming album and tour being hinted at too. The newly reunited Girls Aloud are said to be “very excited to be back working together, even if there is a bittersweet element to it,” promising that there will “always be nods to Sarah’s contribution to the group” as they move forwards.

The news of the new single has sparked rumours surrounding Girls Aloud as a headlining act at Glastonbury 2024. Nothing has been confirmed as of yet, however bets are already being placed on their place in the lineup, with Alex Apati of Ladbrokes Live saying that they have “sent the British pop world into complete meltdown this morning with the announcement of a new single… and given the reception they’ve had, we wouldn’t be surprised to see them take centre stage at Glastonbury next year.”

Throughout their career, Girls Aloud achieved 21 top 10 UK singles with this including 5 no.1 songs, as well as amassing 5 Brit Award nominations.

Their comeback is already being celebrated on social media, with one fan writing “I am not joking when I say the last girls aloud comeback changed the trajectory of my life.”

I am not joking when I say the last girls aloud comeback changed the trajectory of my life, we are so readyyy https://t.co/9EzQXpzIB6 pic.twitter.com/Gq41ehNwAf

— (@scottgayham) November 8, 2023

girls aloud my queens i’m so happy to hear about news of new music possibly coming even if it’s not confirmed yet it’ll never be the same without sarah but i’m still so excited to possibly experience a girls aloud era for the first time ever pic.twitter.com/OkF8V2IyTl

—

No official cause of death has been announced, though fans were aware that Garner had been battling cancer. Media outlets had also been reporting his age as 61, however Ian Brown, frontman of The Stone Roses, corrected this information via Twitter.

Brown wrote, “Our lovely friend Pete was only 59. RiP Pete X.”

Yes John, nice tribute.Our lovely friend Pete was only 59. RiP Pete X

— Ian Brown (@ianbrown) November 3, 2023

He continued, “Yeah very sad. We were young punk rockers when we met in 77. The nite before Petes maths and geography O levels we went to see the Clash. Always made me chuckle he did that and of course he made the right decision! X.”  

Yeah very sad. We were young punk rockers when we met in 77. The nite before Petes maths and geography O levels we went to see the Clash. Always made me chuckle he did that and of course he made the right decision! X — Ian Brown (@ianbrown) November 3, 2023

Garner was a member of the band from 1983-1987, playing on some of the band’s most beloved tracks, including “Sally Cinnamon,” “Tell Me” and “So Young.” Garner met Ian Brown and guitarist John Squire at school and was asked to join The Stones Roses three years later.

Garner reportedly made the decision to leave The Stone Roses in favour of working at an HMV because he “believed he wasn’t good enough for them.” He was initially replaced by Rob Hampson, before Gary ‘Mani’ Mounfield assumed the role in 1987.

Ian Brown also shared that “few loved music as much as Pete,” calling him “off the scale nice.”

Everything you’re sayin brother! Few loved music as much as Pete he been bathing in music since Anarchy in the Uk came out that i can vouch for and Pete was off the scale nice, an old skool nice that ya just dont get no more! He got that from his lovely Mum! GOD Bless Pete RiP X

— Ian Brown (@ianbrown) November 3, 2023

One fan made a tribute video, celebrating Garner’s contribution to The Stone Roses by putting together rare footage and photos of the band’s early days.  

A tribute to Pete Garner. Enjoy pic.twitter.com/Vx5tCpoLUo — Reni (@renifanpage) November 4, 2023

Other fans also shared their appreciation for Garner, with one writing, “he laid the foundations of the band.”

No way was listening to tell me last night thinking of how great the bass is! he laid the foundations of the band

— Sam Taylor (@SamBFC91) November 3, 2023

Shortly after exciting fans with the news of the S Club reunion tour in February this year, former member Paul Cattermole sadly passed away at age 46 due to an underlying heart condition. After the news of Cattermole’s death, fellow bandmate and former girlfriends Hannah Spearritt dropped out of the tour, leaving the 5 remaining members to hit the road under the new name S Club.

On the opening night of the tour, S Club delighted their fans by performing their classic hits such as “Don’t Stop Moving”, “Have You Ever” and “Reach”. In addition to their set, the group took some time to pay tribute to their late bandmate.

As a montage of images of Cattermole flooded the arena screen, S Club member Bradley McIntosh informed the crowd “That’s our brother right there, man. Gone but you’ll never be forgotten. We miss you every single day”

As part of the show, the S Club members left the stage as a video of Paul Cattermole singing their song “Good Times” played. The singers then rejoined the stage to sing the end of the song before paying individual tributes.

Rachel Stevens told the crowd “Thank you so much from the bottom of our hearts for all the love and support, all the incredible messages you’ve sent through this time, and all your support always. We love you so much.”

Tina Barrett, also paying tribute said “Thank you so much Manchester. Tonight is a celebration so let’s bring it all back for Paul.”

Band member Jon Lee added “Thank you so much, it’s very special for us this evening obviously, we dedicate this performance to Paul and to the British Heart Foundation so thank you so much for being here.”

Finally, Jo O’Meara stated “Thank you so much [for] all the messages and love and support you’ve all shown all of us and to Paul’s family. We are so grateful for every single one of you.”

Tickets for the rest of S Club’s Good Times tour are available here.

Tour dates:

14/10/2023 – Utilita Arena – Sheffield                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        16/10 – 3Arena – Dublin                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    18/10 – OVO Hydro – Glasgow                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    19/10 – Utilita Arena – Newcastle                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                20/10 – First Direct Arena – Leeds                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              21/10 – AO Arena – Manchester                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  23/10 – Utilita Arena – Cardiff                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      24/10 – Motorpoint Arena – Nottingham                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  26/10 – Utilita Arena – Birmingham                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            27/10 – The O2 – London                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              28/10 – The O2 – London                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              29/10 – Utilita Arena – Birmingham                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          30/10 – M&S Bank Arena – Liverpool

Attention D-ciples in Europe and the UK! The Spicy Meatball Tour rolls on…
Pre-sale starts NOW – password “SPICY”
Public on-sale is Fri, 6 Oct 10am BST / 11am CEST
Tickets @ https://t.co/cs5HdC9y3L pic.twitter.com/1pgbfXWY8c

— Tenacious D (@tenaciousd) October 4, 2023

The ‘Spicy Meatball‘ tour has been ongoing since the duo, made up of Jack Black and Kyle Gass, performed their song of the same name as the tour at Shaky Knees Festival in Atlanta in May 2023. The tour has since come to Europe and has seen Tenacious D perform a headline show at The 02 in London this past June before revisiting North American once more.

Watch Tenacious D perform ‘The Spicy Meatball Song‘ at The 02 in London this summer below:

Tenacious D was formed in Los Angeles in 1994 by actors and friends Jack Black and Kyle Gass. Prior to signing with Epic Records in 2000, the comedy rock duo supported larger rock acts such as Weezer, Tool and Beck, and released their debut, self-titled album Tenacious D in 2001, an album that featured a backing band, including Dave Grohl on drums. This first album also contained the track ‘Tribute‘, a song that has since catapulted the duo to worldwide fame.

Tenacious D released their second album, The Pick of Destiny, in 2006, an album that also featured as the soundtrack to Tenacious D in The Pick of Destiny, a film the duo starred in. Their third album, Rize of the Fenix, was released in 2012 via Columbia Records and their fourth and most recent album came in 2018 as the duo released Post-Apocalypto, an LP that accompanied the hand-drawn Youtube web series Tenacious D in Post-Apocalypto.

Watch the music video for ‘Tribute‘ below:

In May the comedy duo released ‘Video Games’, their first track in five years and first music video since 2012. See below for the music video:

See below for tour dates:

29/04/2024 – Hovet – Stockholm
30/04 – Oslo Spectrum – Oslo
01/05 – Royal Arena – Copenhagen
03/05 – Rockhal – Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg
05/05 – 3Arena – Dublin
07/05 – Resorts World Arena – Birmingham
08/05 – AO Arena – Manchester
09/05 – OVO Hydro – Glasgow
11/05 – First Direct Arena – Leeds
12/05 – Motorpoint Arena – Nottingham
13/05 – The Brighton Centre – Brighton
15/05 – Accor Arena – Paris

You can purchase pre-sale tickets here using the password ‘SPICY’.