Category Archives: music

culture, design, fashion, heritage, music

Burberry’s Festival Beat

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Daniel Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry Group, used the Burberry Spring 2026 collection to connect music with fashion in clear, direct ways. The runway was set under a sky-patterned tent in Perks Field at Kensington Palace, creating a setting that felt like a festival backstage. The floor was covered in dirt, while guests laughed and moved like a crowd eagerly waiting for a headline act.

The clothes maintained British tailoring but offered a music lover’s wardrobe with polish for the stage and durability in the mud. The collection balanced heritage with hedonism, featuring utility pieces built for both performance and weather. Lee referenced decades of British music culture—from the Mod period to folk rock and the current indie revival—filtering these influences through Burberry’s practical design to give each reference a modern shape.

“Musicians have always had incredible style, and together with fashion, they form a really strong culture,” Lee explained. The clothes embodied this idea with cropped A-line coats in Pop-Art checks and tartans in vibrant apple green and acid yellow. Classic camel coats kept their traditional structure while allowing a swinging hem.

The front row added to the festival atmosphere. British cultural icon Twiggy (Dame Lesley Lawson) arrived ahead of a group of musicians, joking, “I want to get in before the boy band arrives.” Also present were Elton John, Vanessa Williams, Skepta, Central Cee, and Naomi Campbell. Anna Wintour attended alongside US tennis star Jack Draper. Benji B, one of the world’s most respected music curators, mixed Black Sabbath tracks into the soundtrack, underlining the connection between rock heritage and new audiences.

Shine and weather protection remained central themes throughout the collection. Sequinned mini kilts flashed Burberry checks in pink and green, while glossy bomber jackets and wet-look leathers reflected light. Trench-inspired pieces appeared in denim, raffia, and waterproof cotton, proving that Burberry still designs with the elements in mind. Crochet and chainmail dresses were paired with fringe and flat lace-up shoes, perfect for festival grounds.

Suits stayed slim and short in silhouette, often featuring a Canadian-denim twist. Other looks were accented with hot pink polish or brown coatings featuring 1960s edges. Accessories included oversized fringe bags, skinny crochet scarves, and belts with prominent buckles—each serving a practical purpose while adding visual impact.

Daniel Lee delivered a focused vision: rock and roll style works when adapted for a modern mindset. In this latest collection, heritage pieces met a festival mood, and England felt ready to swing again.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346803-burberrys-festival-beat

culture, design, fashion, heritage, music

Burberry’s Festival Beat

Leave a comment

Daniel Lee, Chief Creative Officer of Burberry Group, used the Burberry Spring 2026 collection to connect music with fashion in clear, direct ways. The runway was set under a sky-patterned tent in Perks Field at Kensington Palace, creating a setting that felt like a festival backstage. The floor showed dirt while guests laughed and moved like a crowd waiting for a headline act.

The clothes maintained British tailoring while offering a music lover’s wardrobe polished enough for the stage and durable enough for the mud. The result was a balance of heritage with hedonism, featuring utility pieces built for both performance and weather. Lee referenced decades of British music culture—from the Mod period to folk rock and the current indie revival—filtering these influences through Burberry’s practical design to give each reference a modern shape.

“Musicians have always had incredible style, and together with fashion, they form a really strong culture,” Lee said. The clothes followed this idea, showcasing cropped A-line coats in Pop-Art checks and tartans in apple green and acid yellow. Classic camel coats retained their structure while allowing a swinging hem.

The front row added to the festival vibe. Twiggy (Dame Lesley Lawson), a British cultural icon, arrived ahead of a group of musicians. “I want to get in before the boy band arrives,” she said playfully. Elton John, Vanessa Williams, Skepta, Central Cee, and Naomi Campbell were also present. Anna Wintour attended alongside US tennis star Jack Draper.

Music curator Benji B, one of the world’s most respected in his field, mixed Black Sabbath into the soundtrack to highlight the connection between rock heritage and new audiences.

Shine and weather protection remained central themes throughout the collection. Sequinned mini kilts flashed Burberry checks in pink and green, while glossy bomber jackets and wet-look leathers reflected light. Trench-inspired pieces appeared in denim, raffia, and waterproof cotton, reminding guests that Burberry still designs for the elements.

Crochet and chainmail dresses came with fringe and flat lace-up shoes suitable for festival grounds. Suits stayed slim and short in silhouette, often with a Canadian denim twist. Others featured hot pink polish or brown coatings with 1960s edges.

Accessories included oversized fringe bags, skinny crochet scarves, and belts with prominent buckles. Each piece served a practical purpose while adding visual impact.

Daniel Lee delivered a focused concept: rock and roll style works when adapted for a modern mindset. In this latest collection, heritage pieces met a festival mood, and England felt ready to swing again.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346803-burberrys-festival-beat

celebration, culture, india, music

Nisha’s Mumbai: Of Patriotism, Parties, And Pioneering Design; Nisha JamVwal Gives A Glimpse Of Her Spectacular Week

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When Music Becomes a Love Letter to the Nation

I cannot begin this column without giving due credit to national awardee lyricist Manoj Muntashir, the master storyteller who, in collaboration with composers Ajay-Atul and some exceedingly talented singers, presented the untold story of our Honourable Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a musical at NMACC titled *Mera Desh Pahle*. Little-known vignettes of his childhood and journey were given life through this emotional musical that had audiences shouting desh bhakti slogans.

The moment that stirred my soul was when the entire auditorium rose in spontaneous chants for our Prime Minister, voices merging in *Vande Mataram* and *Mera Bharat Mahan*. I had goosebumps as this opening night swept up in a wave of passionate pride. I wholeheartedly agree with CM Devendra Fadnavis that our Prime Minister has elevated us to such heights internationally that we feel this profound pride in being Indian.

We stand tall today thanks to one man’s extraordinary vision and relentless efforts, and this musical epitomizes his remarkable journey.

—

### Art of Turning Fifty in Feathers and Finery

Close on the heels of the larger-than-life Gautam Singhania extravaganza came another marquee celebration—grand, familial, and utterly enchanting. While the beautiful lady who had this special birthday will remain anonymous, I must share that one guest—the lovely Jaya Raheja in her show-stopping red feather gown—once again proved her artful penchant for avant-garde experimental excellence. Wow, did she steal the show!

The entire venue, which used to be a much-loved movie studio, was transformed into opulent banquet rooms, bars, and dining spaces to accommodate friends and family who flew in from across the globe, along with Mumbai’s glittering ‘set.’

Cars snaked their way in, filled with women trying to decode the mysterious theme. The glamour quotient was sky-high, and the band elevated the energy to euphoric levels. It was one of those evenings where celebration becomes an art form.

—

### When Design Dreams Take Flight

Ashiti Bhartia of the Elle Magazine group hosted the ID Design and Architecture show, and it outdid every design exposition I’ve attended this year. This sprawling showcase of India’s finest design brands was nothing short of spectacular.

It’s transformational how AI and technology have become a big part of design, making life more seamless for designers, architects, and house-proud shaukeen DIY clients who wish to design their homes on their own. The choices available today are simply magnificent.

The opening night drew architects and interior designers in droves, creating a buzzing hive of creative energy with music and bartenders juggling glasses and drinks. What struck me most was how the event transformed from a mere exhibition into a confluence of artistic minds—each corner revealing innovative concepts that push the boundaries of Indian design sensibilities.

It’s events like these that remind me why Mumbai remains the cultural pulse of our nation.

—

*Write to Nisha JamVwal at nishjamwal@gmail.com*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/lifestyle/nishas-mumbai-of-patriotism-parties-and-pioneering-design-nisha-jamvwal-gives-a-glimpse-of-her-spectacular-week

celebrity, entertainment, events, music, uk

Lewis Cap-Aldi surprises shoppers with gig on supermarket roof

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Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi surprised shoppers with an impromptu gig on the roof of an Aldi supermarket in Nottingham. Performing his new single, *Something In The Heavens*, Capaldi entertained customers from the rooftop while the store temporarily rebranded itself as “Cap-Aldi” with a makeshift cardboard sign.

The 28-year-old singer joked during the performance, saying: “This is Capaldi on the roof of an Aldi. Sorry to get in the way of anyone’s shopping. I was back there earlier—some excellent produce, brioche buns, carrots, the lot.”

The rooftop set on Friday, which took place just days after the release of his new single, also included renditions of his hits *Survive* and *Someone You Loved*.

Capaldi is scheduled to perform later that night at the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham, before heading to Dublin’s 3Arena for shows on Monday and Tuesday, September 29th and 30th.

The singer recently returned to the spotlight after a two-year break from touring, which he took to manage the symptoms of Tourette syndrome. His challenges became public during his performance at Glastonbury in 2023. However, Capaldi made a triumphant comeback earlier this summer with a surprise 35-minute set on the Pyramid Stage at the Somerset festival.

Since then, he has embarked on a UK and Ireland tour, describing the experience as “the most incredible, surreal feeling” after all shows sold out.

Looking ahead, it was announced earlier this month that Capaldi will headline both BST Hyde Park and the Roundhay Festival next summer. Additionally, he is set to perform at Dublin’s Marlay Park on June 23rd and 24th, 2026.

Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, expressed excitement about the event, saying: “It doesn’t get more heavenly than Lewis Capaldi on the roof of an Aldi. It feels like this moment was written in the stars. Our customers were treated to something truly unforgettable, and Lewis turned an ordinary day into supermarket history.”

Lewis Capaldi has achieved six UK number one singles, including *Before You Go*, *Pointless*, and *Wish You The Best*. Both of his studio albums have also reached number one on the UK Albums Chart.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/entertainment/lewis-cap-aldi-surprises-shoppers-with-gig-on-supermarket-roof-1811491.html

entertainment, family-friendly, music, shows

‘Suddenly we were just… gone’: Former 4MINUTE member Jeon Jiyoon opens up about life after disbandment

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**Jenyer (Jeon Jiyoon) Opens Up About Emotional Struggles Following 4MINUTE’s Disbandment**

Jeon Jiyoon, known by her stage name Jenyer, recently opened up about the emotional challenges she faced following the disbandment of the iconic girl group 4MINUTE in 2016. Reflecting on the experience, she described the feeling of being “erased” overnight and the profound sense of loss and displacement that followed.

### The Impact of 4MINUTE’s Disbandment

4MINUTE, a group renowned for their edgy style and powerful performances, officially disbanded after seven successful years in the K-pop industry. During a recent appearance on her fellow bandmate Kwon Sohyun’s online channel on September 23, Jenyer candidly shared how difficult the years following the group’s breakup were for her.

“The first year or two after we disbanded was the toughest. We had belonged somewhere for years, and then suddenly we were just… gone. It was devastating. I had no sense of belonging, and no desire to recover from it,” she revealed during the interview.

Sohyun echoed these sentiments, calling the experience intense. She recalled receiving the official notice from their company’s CEO, saying, “It felt like the world was collapsing.”

### Thoughts on a Possible Reunion

The two also discussed the possibility of a reunion with all the original members. While Jenyer expressed excitement about the idea, she was uncertain whether such a reunion could fully capture the essence of their earlier days.

“It would be fun to get together, but after so many years, I wonder if it could ever feel like the old days again,” she shared thoughtfully.

### A Look Back at 4MINUTE

4MINUTE debuted in 2009 with members Jihyun, Gayoon, Jiyoon, Hyuna, and Sohyun. The group quickly became a trendsetter in K-pop, well-known for their edgy and eccentric aesthetics as well as their dynamic music.

Over their career, 4MINUTE released a Japanese album, seven EPs, and a full-length studio album titled *4Minutes Left*. Their contracts with their management agency expired in June 2016, marking the end of an era as the group officially disbanded.

—

Follow us on social media for more updates and exclusive interviews.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/k-pop/music/news/suddenly-we-were-just-gone-former-4minute-member-jeon-jiyoon-opens-up-about-life-after-disbandment/articleshow/124103532.cms

entertainment, music, politics

Pop singer Dua Lipa reportedly drops Jewish agent who urged Kneecap’s removal from Glastonbury

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**Pop Singer Dua Lipa Reportedly Drops Agent Over Glastonbury Kneecaps Removal Dispute**

Pop star Dua Lipa has reportedly ended her professional relationship with her Jewish agent, David Levy, following disagreements related to the Glastonbury music festival. According to a music industry source speaking to The Mail, Dua made it clear through her representatives that Levy would no longer be involved in managing her music career.

The source also revealed that Dua Lipa’s openly pro-Palestine stance was at odds with David Levy’s views, contributing to the split.

Dua Lipa, known for her powerful voice and chart-topping hits, continues to make waves both on and off the stage. Recently, she was seen attending Paris Fashion Week on July 7 in Paris, France.

*Photo Credit: Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images*

By GRACE GILSON/JTA
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868400

arts, culture, jazz, live performance, music

Andy Sheppard & Michael Arbenz – jazz opposites attract

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Swiss pianist Michael Arbenz and living jazz legend, British saxophonist Andy Sheppard, are set to captivate audiences at the Clarence Jazz Club with their innovative new project, *From Bach to Ellington*. This concert promises to be a mesmerizing dialogue between the timeless elegance of J.S. Bach and the lyrical beauty of Duke Ellington, blending Baroque counterpoint with jazz improvisation in a unique and emotionally charged performance.

The duo’s collaboration draws on a rich history of shared musical exploration, rooted in years of mutual respect for each other’s work. Their new album, also titled *From Bach to Ellington*, merges original compositions inspired by Bach’s works with reimagined Ellington classics. The result is a sound that balances historical reverence with contemporary reinvention, characterized by subtle rhythms, chamber-like textures, and striking melodic clarity.

Michael Arbenz, a classically trained pianist with a passion for jazz, brings a unique perspective shaped by his studies in Basel. His deep exploration of jazz improvisation, combined with a rigorous classical background, has fueled a successful career that includes performances with international jazz stars such as Greg Osby and Ron Carter. Known for his eccentric style, Arbenz adds a distinctive flavor to the project.

Andy Sheppard is one of the most influential British jazz artists and a longtime ECM recording artist, celebrated for his imaginative yet tradition-grounded sound. He is among the few soloists to have performed with postwar big bands led by Carla Bley, Gil Evans, and George Russell. Sheppard’s singular tenor sax voice complements Arbenz’s inventiveness perfectly, making their collaboration a truly compelling musical experience.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience *From Bach to Ellington* live — a concert that bridges centuries of musical heritage through innovation and heartfelt artistry.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/21/andy-sheppard-michael-arbenz-jazz-opposites-attract/

arts, culture, jazz, live performance, music

Andy Sheppard & Michael Arbenz – jazz opposites attract

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Swiss pianist Michael Arbenz and living jazz legend, British saxophonist Andy Sheppard, are set to mesmerize audiences at the Clarence Jazz Club with their innovative new project, *From Bach to Ellington*. This concert promises a captivating dialogue between the timeless elegance of J.S. Bach and the lyrical beauty of Duke Ellington, blending Baroque counterpoint with jazz improvisation in a performance that is both unique and deeply emotional.

The duo’s collaboration draws on a rich history of shared musical exploration, rooted in years of mutual respect for each other’s work. Their new album, also titled *From Bach to Ellington*, merges original compositions inspired by Bach’s works with reimagined Ellington classics. This creates a soundscape that balances historical reverence with contemporary reinvention, characterized by subtle rhythms, chamber-like textures, and striking melodic clarity.

Michael Arbenz is a hugely eccentric, classically trained pianist with a passion for jazz, shaped by his studies in Basel. His exploration of jazz improvisation, combined with a rigorous classical background, has fueled a successful career, including performances with international jazz stars such as Greg Osby and Ron Carter.

Andy Sheppard, one of the most influential British jazz artists and a long-time ECM record label collaborator, is renowned for his imaginative yet tradition-grounded sound. As one of the few soloists to perform with the postwar big bands of Carla Bley, Gil Evans, and George Russell, Sheppard’s singular voice on the tenor saxophone perfectly complements Arbenz’s inventiveness.

Together, Arbenz and Sheppard offer a mesmerizing musical journey that bridges centuries and genres, inviting audiences to experience the fusion of Baroque sophistication and jazz artistry like never before. Don’t miss this exceptional performance at the Clarence Jazz Club.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/21/andy-sheppard-michael-arbenz-jazz-opposites-attract/

architecture, art, design, literature, music

Word of the Day: Motif

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**Word of the Day: Motif**
*By Simran Jeet | Sep 21, 2025, 05:05 pm*

—

**What’s the story?**
The word **”motif”** (noun) refers to a recurring theme, pattern, or idea that appears in art, literature, music, or design. It describes an element—such as an image, sound, or phrase—that repeatedly appears to provide deeper meaning and unity within a work. Motifs help bring various parts of a work together, adding depth and interest.

—

**Origin**
The origin of the word *motif* comes from the French word *motif*, meaning “pattern” or “theme.” It entered the English language in the mid-19th century, initially used to describe repeated designs and symbolic elements. Today, the term is widely used across literature, fashion, art, and architecture to highlight recurring symbols or ideas.

—

**Synonyms**
Some common synonyms for *motif* include:
– Theme
– Pattern
– Symbol
– Design
– Concept
– Idea
– Figure

These words all describe repeated elements that contribute meaning, beauty, or connection within creative works.

—

**Usage**
Here are examples of how to use *motif* in different contexts:

– *“The novel uses light as a recurring **motif** of hope.”*
– *“Floral **motifs** decorated the ancient pottery.”*
– *“Music often relies on repeating **motifs** to build emotion.”*

—

**Why use the word?**
Using *motif* allows you to highlight elements that appear repeatedly to create meaning. It enriches descriptions of art, literature, and design by illustrating how repeated symbols or themes shape an entire work. Whether in stories, music, or visuals, a *motif* ties everything together with clear purpose.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/lifestyle/word-of-the-day-motif/story

country, disaster, entertainment, industry, music

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brett James (57) dies in plane crash

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**Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Brett James (57) dies in plane crash**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | Sep 19, 2025, 01:37 PM*

Brett James, a celebrated American country music singer-songwriter and record producer, has tragically died in a plane crash in North Carolina on Thursday (US time). He was 57 years old. The news of his untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the music industry, with fans and fellow musicians expressing their grief and paying tribute to the late artist.

### Crash Details
James was one of three people on board a Cirrus SR22T aircraft that crashed in a field in Franklin, North Carolina, at around 3:00 PM local time on Thursday. The plane departed from Nashville’s John C. Tune Airport and went down near Iotla Valley Elementary School, close to Macon County Airport, surrounded by open fields.

### His Impact on the Music Industry
Brett James was a prolific songwriter, having penned some of the biggest hits for artists such as Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Kelly Clarkson, Brantley Gilbert, Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, Bon Jovi, and Kenny Chesney. Among his most acclaimed works is Carrie Underwood’s 2006 chart-topper *Jesus Take the Wheel*. The track earned Grammy Awards for Best Country Song and Best Female Country Vocal Performance, and it was also nominated for Song of the Year at the 49th Grammy Awards in 2007.

### Personal Tributes
Dierks Bentley, who collaborated with James on his 2013 hit *I Hold On*, paid a heartfelt tribute to the late songwriter. Bentley described James as “a total legend” and shared how James helped him refine the song’s concept following his father’s death. “The chorus is all him. Our friendship and that song changed my life. Prayers for his family,” Bentley wrote on social media.

### A Look at His Career
Born in Columbia, Missouri, Brett James attended music school in the early 1990s but decided to drop out to pursue a career in music. He released his self-titled debut album in 1995, featuring charting singles such as *Female Bonding*, *If I Could See Love*, and *Worth the Fall*. From the early 2000s onward, James became widely known as a gifted songwriter for other country and pop artists.

Brett James’s contributions to music have left an indelible mark, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/songwriter-brett-james-dies-in-plane-crash-at-57/story