WE7 Your Own Personal DJ

We were ‘App of the Week’ in Sunday’s...

annikawalsh — Tue, 15 May 2012 16:16:00 +0100

We were ‘App of the Week’ in Sunday’s Mirror!

Have you downloaded the free app yet? Head over to iTunes now!

Shake It Up: Live 2 Dance

geeyoonit — Mon, 14 May 2012 14:55:00 +0100

Having been shaking up Chicago, and the world, for nearly two seasons, the talented stars of Disney’s “Shake it Up” are back with their new album “Shake it Up: Live 2 Dance”, featuring the likes of Selena Gomez and Adam Hicks. Ahead of the release, we had the chance to meet up with the stars of the show Bella Thorne and Zendaya.

Find out who Bella and Zendaya’s all time favourite Disney stars are in our exclusive interview, plus listen to the songs they love in their very own WE7 radio stations…[[MORE]]

Listen to Bella and Zendaya’s favourite songs in their radio stations ‘Shake It Up: Bella’ and ‘Shake It Up: Zendaya’!

Hi both, how are you?
Z: Great thanks!
B: Doing great, looking forward to meeting our fans in Europe.

How did you get into acting?
Z: My Mom worked as a house manager at a theatre called The California Shakespeare Theatre. I used to hang out at work with her and I fell in love with the theatre.
B: My brother started in acting and then I decided I wanted to give it a go.

What is your favourite part about working on the show?
Z: I love being with my Shake It Up family. We are truly one big happy family and going to work every day is so fun. Dancing and sharing this with my best friend Bella is the best.
B: My favorite part besides dancing with Zendaya is the night that we have tapings in front of an audience.

Do you have any highlights from the past two seasons, or a favourite episode?
Z: There are so many it’s really hard to choose. One of my favourites was the “Age It Up” episode where Rocky gets to go a little crazy over Justin Star. Recently we did an episode with Tyra Banks as a guest star and that was really memorable, she was so funny and really sweet to us. She’s a great role model for me and it was an honour to work with her.
B: My favorite episode hasn’t aired yet..it’s called “Made in Japan”.

The ‘Live 2 Dance’ soundtrack is out on 14th May here in the UK - is music something that is a big a passion for you as acting is?
Z: It’s one of my dreams and I can’t wait to work more on my music career. I absolutely love being on stage with my band and dancers, singing my songs… it’s an unforgettable feeling. I just love performing!
B: Performing is my great passion. So whether I am acting, dancing or singing, I am doing what I love.

You both collaborate on the album, if you had to choose one artist each to sing with who would you pick?
Z: Well I love doing songs with Bella, but if I had to choose one artist, like a dream artist, it would be Beyonce.
B: Katy Perry!

Who are your musical influences and which songs are you currently ‘shaking it up’ to?
Z: I have a lot of influences that range from Michael Jackson to Beyonce. And most recently I have been listening to my own music… I really like my own stuff haha. I know that sounds crazy but I feel like you’ve really got to love your own music! My most recent single hasn’t been released yet but it’s called “My All” and I can’t wait to put it out there for everyone to hear.
B: I love Adele. but her voice is beyond my limits. I also like Lana Del Rey, Britney Spears, Katy Perry and Kesha is fun!

Zendaya, we saw that you took part in the Disney Kids & Nature Celebration - can you tell us a little bit about it?
Z: This was really an awesome experience. I got to meet kids from all over the US who were working on projects to help their community and the planet. They were so inspiring! Did you know that Disney Chanel Friends for Change currently has almost 5 million actions taking place from people in 33 countries throughout Europe, Latin America, China and the U.S.? It’s an honour to be a part of this!

Bella, you’ve just come back from Coachella Festival - who were your favourite performances?
B: Bon Iver, Dat Sik and David Guetta. There were several that I missed because I had to leave early for work.

And finally, there have been many famous actors and singers who started out with Disney - Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake, Miley Cyrus just to name a few - who would you pick as your all-time favourite Disney star?
Z: Raven Symone is probably my all-time fave! I have had a chance to meet her and spend time with her and she was so sweet to me, giving me advice and keeping in touch. ’That’s So Raven’ was such a great show and I laughed SO hard when I watched it as a kid and still when I watch it now. She is a smart business woman too! And now she’s on Broadway… she is really so awesome!!
B: Miley for the girl, Shia for the boy.

‘Shake It Up: Bella’…

‘Shake It Up: Zendaya’…

UK Chart Watch

annikawalsh — Mon, 14 May 2012 11:16:00 +0100

Rita Ora has knocked Tulisa off the Number One spot this week with her first solo track ‘R.I.P’ selling just under 105,000 copies. She has already celebrated a number 1 single this year with DJ Fresh, providing the vocals for ‘Hot Right Now’ so is definitely one to watch this year.

Elsewhere in the charts, Alex Clare has climbed to #4 with ‘Too Close’, the song you may recognise from the Internet Explorer adverts, Far East Movement ft. Justin Bieber ‘Live My Life’ entered the chart at #7 and Rihanna’s ‘Where Have You Been’ climbed from 21-8 even though it’s not officially released for another two weeks.

Listen to the Top 40 here on WE7:

WIN tickets to see Red Hot Chili Peppers!

geeyoonit — Mon, 14 May 2012 07:02:00 +0100

We’ve got our hands on a pair of tickets for Red Hot Chili Pepper’s two live dates in June!

[[MORE]]

The rock legends are set to play Kililive’s two-nighter event at Knebworth on 23rd and Sunderland on 24th June, along with Dizzee Rascal, Reverend And The Makers, The Futureheads and The Wombats.

To be in with a chance of being a lucky winner, simply listen to our Red Hot Chili Pepper’s radio station here and tell us “Which Red Hot Chili Pepper’s hit song have we included in the station?”

You can tweet us the answer by clicking one of the below:
a. Californication
b. Under The Bridge
c. Scar Tissue

Or, simply pop your answer in the comment box, good luck!

For more information head to rhcp.kililive.com.

WIN! Tickets to see Niki & The Dove

we7blog — Tue, 08 May 2012 11:44:00 +0100

WE7 has two pairs of Niki & The Dove tickets to give away to two lucky listeners.[[MORE]]

Niki & The Dove - the Stockholm-based duo Malin Dahlström and Gustaf Karlöf whose intelligent, ethereal dance-pop has been lauded by everyone from Annie Mac to the NME - are in the UK to promote their new album, ‘Instinct’, out on 14 May. You can see details of their UK appearances throughout May below.

Earlier this year, we asked the pair to create their own WE7.com radio station, which gives an insight into what inspires their own sound. Their choice of songs, which include those from Roberta Flack and Blue Oyster Cult, represents a brilliant musical journey.

To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets for the either the duo’s Newcastle show (21st May) or their Birmingham gig (22nd May), simply answer the following question:

Which Blue Oyster Cult song do Niki & The Dove play on their favourites radio station?

You can Tweet your answer, scrawl your entry on our Facebook wall (don’t forget to ‘Like’ us!), or write it in the comments box. Please state which concert you’d prefer tickets for, either Birmingham or Newcastle! (See full T&Cs below.)

LISTEN TO NIKI & THE DOVE: MUSIC THAT INSPIRES US RADIO

Niki & The Dove on tour
Wednesday 9 May - Joiners Arms, Southampton
Wednesdat 16 May - XOYO, London
Thursday 17 May to Saturday 19 May - Liverpool Sound City
Saturday 19 May - Stag & Dagger Festival, Glasgow
Monday 21 May - The Cluny, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Tuesday 22 May - HMV Institute, Birmingham
Wednesday 23 May - The Moon Club, Cardiff
Wednesday 30 May - HMV Ritz, Manchester (supporting Miike Snow)
Thursday 31 May - O2 Brixton Academy, London (supporting Miike Snow)

‘Instinct’ comes out on Monday 14 May.

Competition terms and conditions
Competition closes 12 noon on Wednesday 16th May 2012. Two winners will be picked at random within 24 hours of this time. Only one entry per person will be admitted. There is no cash or other alternative to the prize stated and the prize is not transferable and no part or parts of the prize may be substituted for other benefits, items or additions. Winners will be contacted for details via Twitter or Facebook. The editor’s decision is final.

Blood Red Shoes New Lost Kids Video & Music That Inspires

we7blog — Sat, 05 May 2012 12:49:00 +0100

Blood Red Shoes, who we recently interviewed, release the second single from their brand new third studio album, ‘In Time To Voices’ on 14 May.

The band has created a Music That Inspires radio station for WE7 which you can enjoy here. Read the exclusive interview here and catch them live on their full UK tour.

[[MORE]]

Hear Blood Red Shoes’ barn-storming radio station of their favourite music, which also includes first single off the album, “Cold.” Listen here while you read on – and read about the songs they’ve chosen below.

UK TOUR

APRIL 2012
27th Concorde 2, Brighton
28th Wedgewood Rooms
29th 02 Academy 2, Oxford

MAY 2012
1st Trinity, Bristol
2nd Waterfront, Norwich
3rd Heaven, London
4th HMV Library, Birmingham 5th Academy 2, Manchester
7th Zanzibar, Liverpool
8th Cluny, Newcastle
9th Tunnels, Aberdeen
10th King Tuts, Glasgow
12th The Cockpit, Leeds
13th Rescue Rooms, Nottingham

Queens of the Stone Age – “Go with the Flow”
It’s a perfect rock song, with great melody. Every time I listen to this I feel like I am ready to take on the world.

Black Sabbath – “Into the Void”
Black Sabbath are a massive influence. This is one of my favorite songs of theirs. I really want to see them at Download but we are playing somewhere else that weekend, so it isn’t going to happen. But I guess I can just turn this up loud and imagine that I’m there.

Blonde Redhead – “In Particular”
There are too many Blonde Redhead songs to choose from, but I have a massive soft spot for this one. It reminds me of times in the past so is a bit nostalgic for me. Great band, great guitar progressions. Another big influence for our band.

Blur – “Beetlebum”
We both love Blur and on a recent listen to this song we rediscovered it. They’re great songwriters. I put this one in for Steven as he loves it probably more than me.

Fleetwood Mac – “The Chain”
One of my favorite bands of all time - incredible songwriters! So inspiring. The harmonies of three voices gets me every time. We love playing this in the van on tour - it suits when the weather’s nice.

Led Zeppelin – “Immigrant Song”
It’s pretty obvious to anyone that Steven and I love this band. If we are not playing them on our stereos then we are wearing their t-shirts! We met Jimmy Page recently! He was amazing! He gave me some guitar tips. This song is a great driving song; it needs to be played very loud.

My Bloody Valentine – “Soon”
This song has an amazing feel. I can’t tell you why this is my favorite song ever, but it just makes me feel hopeful , happy and young – and probably a bit nostalgic too.

PJ Harvey – “Missed”
Off our favorite PJ Harvey album [‘Rid of Me’, 1993]. There’s so much vibe in this song. She sings like she really f***ing means it. My love for Telecasters must come from always listening to this growing up.

Radiohead – “All I Need”
Such a moving song. Off one of their most incredible albums [‘In Rainbows’, 2007]. I have a friend who can beatbox this song really well.

Smashing Pumpkins – “1979”
Reminds us of our youth. People forget Smashing Pumpkins were a great band once.

The Strokes – “Reptilia”
I love The Strokes, although I have not got into the recent album. This song is just a great pop song. You can’t mess with it. It reminds me of going to indie clubs in London when I was a teen. If it came on in a club now or at any point of my life I would still enjoy it just as much.

Tame Impala – “It Is Not Meant To Be”
I discovered this band while touring last year in winter. Got addicted to their sound, and we ended up playing with them - and they are so young! One of my favorite bands around at the moment.

The Voice UK coach confirms 2nd series

we7blog — Tue, 01 May 2012 16:07:00 +0100

The coaches of the hit BBC talent show The Voice UK are to return for a second series. Jessie J, will.i.am, Danny O’Donoghue and Sir Tom Jones are all expected to appear next year, according to Sir Tom.[[MORE]]

“[The talks] are on-going but I would very much like to do it again,” Sir Tom told The Mirror. “It looks like all of us will be back, even Will.”

UK tour confirmed for September
The final eight contestants of The Voice UK will go on tour around in September, visiting 11 venues, including the O2 in London.

Tickets, which are priced from £35, go on sale this Saturday 5th May - before fans even know which eight singers will make it through to the semi-finals. The winner will be on the tour, it has been confirmed.

However coaches Jessie J, will.i.am, Danny O’Donoghue and Sir Tom Jones will not appear at the live shows though, so sorry for the misleading pic above!

This weekend Jessie J and Danny O’Donoghue’s teams step into the spotlight again, and one from each team will be sent home.

Tickets are in pre-sale from Thursday (family tickets), and then offically on sale on Saturday 5th May from www.livenation.co.uk

UK TOUR DATES
Wednesday 12th September - Bournemouth, International Centre
Thursday 13th September - Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena
Saturday 15th September – London, O2 Arena
Monday 17th September – Brighton, Brighton Centre
Wednesday 19th September – Birmingham LG Arena
Friday 21st September – Glasgow, SECC Arena
Saturday 22nd September – Aberdeen, AECC
Sunday 23rd September – Newcastle, Metro Radio Arena
Tuesday 25th September – Liverpool, Echo Arena
Wednesday 26th September – Manchester, Manchester Arena
Thursday 27th September – Sheffield, Motorpoint Arena

Photo credit: BBC

Charlie Simpson video interview, competition & Music That Inspires

we7blog — Tue, 01 May 2012 10:36:00 +0100

Check out exclusive Charlie Simpson video interview, listen to his favourite tunes - and win a signed t-shirt!

[[MORE]]WE7 recently caught up with Fightstar heart throb Charlie Simpson during his biggest UK solo tour to date. We asked the very affable Charlie about his love of playing live, the pride he takes in his Top 6 solo album ‘Young Pilgrim’ - and hear how once wanted to be a fireman. Watch our exclusive video interview below, and let us know what you think.

Charlie Simpson: Music That Inspires radio
Charlie’s passion for music is in full evidence on his amazing WE7 radio station. The singer-songwriter provides audio commentary, introducing his favourite tunes (including one that he describes as “a face-crusher”!) on this exclusive compilation which you can listen to for free.

Featuring the likes of Imogen Heap, Johnny Cash, Bon Iver and Jimmy Eat World, this would also make a perfect introduction to some great music. Hear Charlie talk about the music that makes him tick, here.

COMPETITION! WIN A SIGNED CHARLIE SIMPSON T-SHIRT!

WE7 has 2 fab Charlie Simpson T-shirts signed by Charlie himself to give away to two lucky fans. To enter our brilliant competition simply listen to Charlie’s station and tell us via Twitter which song by The National he’s chosen. Is it….?

A. “Slow Show”
B. Bloodbuzz Ohio
C. “Anyone’s Ghost”

Tweet your answer or scrawl your entry on our Facebook wall beneath the Charlie Simpson post. (Don’t forget to ‘Like’ us!) Closing date for entries is 11 May. Please read conditions below.

LISTEN TO CHARLIE SIMPSON: MUSIC THAT INSPIRES
‘Young Pilgrim’ and the ‘Farmer & His Gun’ EP are out now.

Competition terms and conditions
Competition closes 12 noon on Friday 11 May 2012. Two winners will be picked at random within 24 hours of this time. Only one entry per person will be admitted. There is no cash or other alternative to the prize stated and the prize is not transferable and no part or parts of the prize may be substituted for other benefits, items or additions. Winners will be contacted for details via Twitter or Facebook. The editor’s decision is final.

Marina And The Diamonds reschedule UK tour

we7blog — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 17:08:00 +0100

Marina And The Diamonds’ UK tour has been rescheduled on medical advice amid concerns over her voice. The entire tour, apart from the Leeds festival date will now take place in June.[[MORE]]

“I have been experiencing vocal problems for three weeks now and consequently today the doctor has told me that I cannot sing performance length shows while I undergo treatment, or I could cause permanent damage to my vocal chords,” said Marina in a statement.

The singer, who described herself as “distraught” to have to postpone the tour, said: “I promise that these shows will be the best I have ever performed for you, as hopefully I will be 100% healthy.”

All existing tickets will be valid for the new dates and the singer said that the band will return to Leeds in the autumn. The rescheduled tour dates are as follows:

June 18^th Norwich Waterfront

June 20^th Glasgow ABC

June 21^st Edinburgh Queens Hall

June 22^nd Manchester Cathedral

June 24^th Leamington Assembly Hall

June 25^th London Tabernacle

June 27^th Cardiff Corn Exchange

June 29^th Birmingham Institute

June 30^th Sheffield Leadmill

LISTEN TO MARINA AND THE DIAMONDS RADIO ON WE7

One Night Only: Music That Inspires

we7blog — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 15:14:00 +0100

Yorkshire’s indie pop stars One Night Only have created a radio station of the music that inspires them and they love - and dedicate “Long Time Coming” to one of their fans.[[MORE]]

Brothers George and James Craig introduce track-by-track some of their favourite tunes, including music from George Harrison, The Strokes’ landmark debut record, newcomers Sharks, and Foo Fighters.

They describe their admiration for Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl and the old-school recording technique of their most recent album, ‘Wasting Light’. “It’s true blue rock ‘n’ roll. As well as spinning a few Foos’ tunes, the lads play a solo song by Foo Fighters’ ‘other drummer’, Taylor Hawkins.

Bob Marley also features heavily, suggesting a major influence on the Craig brothers.

You can hear One Night Only’s new single, “Long Time Coming”, on their station - and they’ve dedicated it to one of their Twitter followers. Listen now to find out who they’re talking about…

You can see the official video for “Long Time Coming” below. Produced by Burberry to promote its new range of sunglasses, we hope the ONO lads didn’t have to give them back at the end of the shoot!

LISTEN TO ONE NIGHT ONLY: MUSIC THAT INSPIRES

The Voice: Live Show 1 Preview

annikawalsh — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:24:00 +0100

You’ve probably gathered by now that we’re big fans of the BBC’s singing contest The Voice.

We loved the spinning chairs at the Blind Auditions, we enjoyed the slightly ridiculous (and loud) Battle Rounds and now we’re looking forward to watching the final 20 (twenty!) compete for the chance to be named The Voice.

Up first to battle for the public’s vote are the artists from Team Will and Team Tom and here are the songs they’re singing:

[[MORE]]

Team Will L-R: Jaz Ellington, Frances Wood, Joelle Moses, Sophie Griffin, Tyler James
Photo Source: The Mirror

Jaz Ellington - At Last (Etta James)
Frances Wood – Ain’t Nobody (Chaka Khan)
Joelle Moses - I’m Going Down (Mary J Blige)
Sophie Griffin - Titanium (David Guetta feat Sia)
Tyler James – Higher Love (James Vincent McMorrow)

Team Tom L-R: Sam Buttery, Ruth Brown, Matt & Sueleen Fletcher, Adam Isaac, Leanne Mitchell
Photo Source: The Mirror

Sam Buttery – A Little Respect (Erasure)
Ruth Brown – Get Here (Oleta Adams)
Matt and Sueleen – Go Your Own Way (Fleetwood Mac)
Adam Isaac – All My Life (Foo Fighters)
Leanne Mitchell - Who Knew (Pink)

Listen to all these songs now for free on WE7 and remember to join us on Twitter on Saturday night at 19:00 to discuss the songs!

Music From Your TV

we7blog — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 16:23:00 +0100

Listen to WE7 radio of the songs you’ve previously heard on the telly. Yes, this is TV on your radio, featuring J-Zay’s “99 Problems”, Adele, Devon’s star on the rise Ben Howard, Lissie, and rock’s hottest twosome, The Black Keys.[[MORE]]

Sunday Girl (aka Jade Williams) whose song “Love U More” includes the immortal lines, “You can make the sun turn purple/ You can make the sea turn turtle”, brings her brand of pop to proceedings with the Pixies cover “Where Is My Mind”. Speaking of Turtles, they’re here singing “Happy Together”.

Where else could you hear a Gossip, George Formby, Magnetic Man and the Star Wars theme tune on a single channel? Nowhere, that’s where. It’s quite a ride! So click on the button below and stay tuned!

Kids In Glass Houses interview

we7blog — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:33:00 +0100

WE7 went backstage to chat with Kids In Glass Houses lead singer Aled Phillips, about cleanliness on tour, their new sound, and what it’s like being one of “five Welsh idiots in a borderline pop band”[[MORE]]

How’s the tour gone?
The tour’s been amazing. Touring with You Me At Six is great. And everyone’s known the songs and got involved.

You’re renowned for your live performances. What’s the best thing about playing live?
It’s my favourite part of being in a band. I just get a massive kick from playing to a crowd - it’s the narcissist in me, I suppose! Nah, I just love the energy and the rush from playing music live. It was something I always wanted to do - even now when I go to shows, I want to get up and play. I get frustrated when I’m watching shows now.

How often do you go to other bands’ shows?
Quite regularly. But if I’m on tour then I hate going to shows on our days off because you’re surrounded by it all the time. If I’m at home and someone’s coming through then I’ll go. I see something once a week, I guess.

What’s the worst thing about touring?
I don’t dislike any part of it really, except maybe if you don’t get a shower for a couple of days. I hate not showering! But I love seeing new places and being out of the house, really, so there’s no negative side of it. There’s no bullsh*t with us; we just get on with it.

You’ve described your most recent, third release, ‘In Gold Blood’, as a concept album. What’s the idea behind it?
It’s basically set in a post-apocalyptic world - we were going for a kind of Mad Max vibe, with the visuals and the story which is about two people setting off on a journey. It’s kind of a larger scale version of trying to deal issues that people have and we’ve experienced and put them on a dramatic scale. It deals with death, and success and failure, and other massive grown-up hurdles that we all encounter.

To what extent did world events like the Japan disaster and the Middle East uprisings influence your writing of ‘In Gold Blood’?
Yeah, we were in Belgium recording the album in March last year, so all that was going on and Syria was kicking off as well, so the news looked like life imitating art. I guess it was fate, but what was going on kind of fleshed out what we were writing about. Pretty heavy stuff to watch.

How has your sound evolved?
It’s changed in quite a lot of ways really. The way it was recorded for a start, as it was really live. Our previous albums were really clean and cut up and clinical, whereas this was like four guys in a room hammering out music really. Or, five guys - I was there singing!

I think the sound’s a bit fuller and there’s more instrumentation on there. On the first album we refused to use chords, essentially, and everyone was doing something different. You just keep learning with every album. We brought up more of our indie influences that we grew up listening to, as well as Bruce Springsteen and classic rock elements a bit more.

Like “Diamond Days”, your recent single, which is pretty anthemic?
Yeah, we stole a lyric off him!

Are you still performing in Mad Max costumes?
We’re not, no. We did it for the videos and the headline tour, where we could replicate the end-of-the-world kind of looks, and we had all sorts going on. But on a tour like, if you can’t do properly we’d rather not do it at all ‘cause it’s just not going to translate. So we’re in t-shirts and trainers - back to the old school!

Who are your favourite bands to tour with and who would be your ultimate band with which to share a billing?
This tour’s been amazing. We’ve done several with You Me At Six, including Japan and Australia, and we’re always guaranteed that we’ll get on which is a major plus. Lostprophets we’ve always got on with. We toured with Stereophonics which was amazing having grown up listening to them. Paramore and New Found Glory were amazing to tour with too.

There’s a rich heritage of rock in South Wales. Do you feel a part of a scene?
I’d like to think we are, yeah. During the Six Nations rugby at the Millennium Stadium they played one of our songs during a pre-match build-up, and that’s a really proud moment, I guess. That’s when your friends will text you to say that they’re playing our song at a major event and there’s a feeling like we’re actually done something that’s been worthwhile or contributed, and that’s the stuff you dream of, really. It counts for more than charting for us.

Your albums have reached curiously similar chart rankings, haven’t they?
We’ve been 29, 27 and 29. We’re like a consistent C-student; getting by! Just doing enough!

You’re doing more than enough if the reactions of the fans are anything to go by. You’re quite pop for a band signed to Roadrunner, aren’t you?
We’re the first band that the British office of Roadrunner ever signed, which means they actually have to manage us rather than just do promotion, so it was a big responsibility for them to undertake - trying to handle five Welsh idiots in a borderline pop band.

What are you listening to at the moment?
A lot of M83. I grew up listening to hardcore metal, and we just did Soundwave festival in Australia so I got to watch Hatebreed pretty much everyday, so I’ve been listening to them lots. Aerosmith, Glassjaw too.

What are your plans for the rest of 2012?
We’re doing a Coke thing for the Olympics and the Olympic Torch. We’re playing shows in May, which is a massive honour for us, to be a part of the Olympics in some small way. We’re doing a lot of smaller independent festivals and we’ll be headlining a lot of them, like Hit The Deck in Nottingham. After the summer, we’ll be finishing touring with a little Welsh show and then back to writing.

Kids In Glass Houses will be appearing at a free concert in association with Coca-Cola with Emeli Sande and You Me At Six on 25 May in Cardiff as part of a series of free concerts celebrating London 2012. They are also set to play Camden Crawl, Liverpool Sound City and Download festivals. ‘In Gold Blood’ is out now.

Carly Rae Jepsen: Music That Inspires

we7blog — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 16:03:00 +0100

There can be no doubting that Carly Rae Jepsen is the ‘girl of the moment’. The Canadian, who came third place on Canadian Idol in 2007, is enjoying her third week at No.1 in the UK Singles Chart with her debut, “Call Me Maybe”.

Now you can discover more about Carly by listening to her favourite songs on her own WE7 Music That Inspires radio station, here.[[MORE]]

Our incredible and highly personal station of Carly Rae Jepsen’s favourite tracks features Robyn, La Roux, Cat Power and Ella Fitzgerald. These songs obviously mean a lot to Carly - the station even includes James Taylor’s “Close Your Eyes”, which her dad would sing her to sleep with when she was a child.

“Call Me Maybe” sold a further 114,993 copies last week to extend its run to a third week at the top spot. The single’s performance is even more impressive considering that only 15 other songs have sold over 100,000 copies for three consecutive weeks this century. It is the first to do so since Adele’s “Someone Like You” back in early 2011.

The Vancouver-based musician’s station also features Marianas Trench, the band of her friend Josh Ramsay who co-wrote and produced “Call Me Maybe”. “I showed [the song] to Josh and in no time he added crazy amounts of Josh genius to make it sound pop and I had no idea how he had done it,” says Carly. The pair had previously written “Sour Candy” together, which features on the album ‘Tug of War’, originally released in Canada in 2008.

So, what are you waiting for? Listen to Carly’s by listening to her favourite songs here.

WE7 goes to the movies

we7blog — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 11:38:00 +0100

[[MORE]]WE7 is putting the pop into popcorn today by reliving the magic of some of Hollywood’s greatest moments with a radio station dedicated to music from some of our favourite blockbusters.

Featuring massive tunes from Bryan Adams, Whitney Houston, Billy Idol, Survivor, Britney Spears and Dolly Parton among many others, this is a non-stop hit station with mass appeal and huge sing-alongability (that’s now a word, okay!).

So listen to Movie Songs, featuring songs from films including Footloose, Rocky, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, The Wedding Singer, The Bodyguard and Ghostbusters here!

Jessie J makes UK chart history

we7blog — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 12:31:00 +0100

Congrats to Jessie J who has broken UK Chart records as the first UK female to have 6 top 10 hits from one album.
[[MORE]]
“Laserlight” featuring David Guetta appears on the Platinum Edition of her million-selling debut album ‘Who You Are’.

Another step closer to world domination, Jessie J has proven she is one of the hottest pop-star’s on the planet right now having hit the No.1 spot in 19 countries world-wide, selling 11 million singles and over 2.5 million copies of her multi-platinum debut album.

Listen to “Laserlight” and this week’s brand new UK Top 40 here

Queen of Hearts: In Interview & Music That Inspires

we7blog — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 08:37:00 +0100

Base-heavy synth-pop in the vein of Black Cherry-era Goldfrapp and distinctly Kylie-esque, Queen of Hearts has the sound and style to become chart royalty. WE7 caught up with the mysterious singer-songwriter to find out more about her.

[[MORE]]Queen of Hearts has also created a station of her favourite songs you can play while you read our exclusive interview below.

Hi Queen Of Hearts! We love the name, how did it come about?
I wanted an identity that combined power and vulnerability. I write songs about love: I’m obsessed with the idea of love and how it affects people, so that’s where the Heart comes in. I’m also obsessed with powerful women, elegance and all things regal, so that’s where the Queen came into it.

How did you start out making music?
I grew up around it. I was exposed to lots of different genres of music from a young age, tried most instruments and finally found my voice. I really fell in love with electronic music and began writing a couple of years ago with my producer Dreamtrak. I’m fascinated with the craft of building songs - I love to have dark, pulsing beats contrasted with floaty, ethereal vocals. I like to bring atmosphere and mystery into everything I write, and I spend hours on lyrics, trying to create double meanings, as I’m such a perfectionist.

As your sound is very much a dark take on electro-pop, what’s your favourite song to dance to?
At the moment I have Azealia Banks “212” at the top of my going out playlist, as well as some Dragonette “I Get Around”, Ruby Goe “Get On It” and Icona Pop “Manners”. As long as the bass is heavy and the synths are up loud, I’m generally happy.

There have been comparisons to artists like Goldfrapp, who are your musical influences?
As a female artist, you are always going to be compared to other females, and so far, I’ve been flattered with comparisons to Goldfrapp, Kylie and even Little Boots. They have been massive influences to me over the years, as well as the likes of Bjork, Grace Jones, Madonna, Gwen Stefani and Robyn. I’m also a massive fan of Prince and Micheal Jackson. I think you naturally absorb what you listen to, and it can creep into your sound, but it’s also important to hold your own and make your music unique.

How does the creative process of putting a song together usually work for you?
I have to start with a beat, then a melody comes, and last of all lyrics. I have to feel something when I hear the beat, otherwise I lose interest. I’m all about getting goosebumps, then I just lose myself in a melody. I find lyrics really frustrating, because I visualize what I want to say, but turning that into words can take hours. There’s nothing more satisfying than hearing a song when it’s finished, so it’s always worth it.

You’ve already worked with some amazing producers - Stuart Price, Sound Of Arrows - how was it?
In the virtual world we live in, you often don’t meet people you work with, and I quite like that, as it takes off some of the pressure. I’ve always been told not to meet your heroes, as it only leads to disappointment. I write most of my songs in my bedroom.

You have a strong image and style. Is that something that’s important to you and does it go hand in hand with the music?
I like to dress up and have fun with my style, but music will always be central to all the other madness that goes on around it. I’m a writer, so I spend hours worrying about how each little bit sounds or how a lyric scans. I love fashion and being a bit eccentric on stage. I wear statement pieces because I love the way they sit or sparkle and how they make me feel when I wear them. It’s like the first time you put on a pair of your mum’s heels - fashion is exciting.

Finally, what are your ambitions for your music?
To put out my album and tour the world is the ultimate goal. I’ve poured my heart into these songs and I want people to enjoy them, the way I do. I’m a free spirit and music is my outlet. You should enjoy everything you do, and where your journey takes you. I’ve never been much of a planner.

Queen of Hearts has created a storming station of her favourite tunes and major influences, featuring the likes of Lady Gaga (“Poker Face”), Hurts, Madonna (“Frozen”), Prince, and Robyn (“Cobrastyle”).

LISTEN TO QUEEN OF HEARTS: MUSIC THAT INSPIRES NOW

Olly Murs announces 2013 tour

we7blog — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 11:28:00 +0100

Following a hugely successful sold out arena tour this year, Olly Murs has announced a series of UK Arena dates for March 2013.

[[MORE]]Olly, whose current album ‘In Case You Didn’t Know’ has been certified platinum, is about to embark on a series of American dates with One Direction. His music will get its first release in the US later this year.

Olly is currently working on his third album, which is due for release later this year. His reality TV show on ITV2 called ‘Life On Murs’ (what else?!) starts this Thursday, which follows him on his sold out 2012 tour.

LISTEN TO OLLY MURS RADIO ON WE7 NOW!

March 2 - Sheffield, Motorpoint Arena
March 3 - Nottingham, Capital FM Arena
March 5 - Brighton, Centre
March 8 - Bournemouth, International Centre
March 10 - London, Wembley Arena
March 12 - Birmingham, LG Arena
March 13 - Liverpool, Echo Arena
March 15 - Glasgow, SECC
March 18 - Aberdeen, ECC
March 21 - Manchester, MEN Arena
March 23 - Newcastle, Arena
March 25 - Cardiff, Motorpoint Arena
March 29 - London, The O2 Arena

Tickets go on sale on 20 April 2012.

Leftfield: Music That Inspires

we7blog — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:50:00 +0100

Neil Barnes from British godfathers of intelligent electronica Leftfield, which he formed in 1990 with Paul Daley, introduces some of his favourite songs from past and present, including Kindness, John Talabot and Tapes.[[MORE]]

So welcome to the eclectic world of Leftfield. For the next hour I’m going to take you on a little journey into my musical taste, from digital reggae to dirty house music, from Burial to Apparat.

My tastes are quite diverse – I enjoy music from all areas and maybe that’s always been reflected in the music that Leftfield have made over the years. Many people have asked me to define Leftfield and to be quite honest I’ve always resisted categorising Leftfield into any one area.

At one time we were the kings of “progressive house”, something that confused us because it was just a stage we were going through. Then it was “techno gods” or dub techno etc etc.

Whatever it is, I just want to make fresh and orginial music! And that is the kind of music I like listening to…

Neil Barnes from Leftfield

Queen return to Hammersmith - with Adam Lambert

we7blog — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 09:45:00 +0100

[[MORE]]Following the disappointment caused by the shock cancellation Sonisphere 2012 two weeks ago, Queen have announced two consecutive London shows this summer with American pop singer Adam Lambert.

The band has revealed that the highly anticipated pairing of Queen and Lambert will instead take place at London’s HMV Hammersmith Apollo over two nights, 11th and 12th July.

The band will try to give priority booking to those fans who had tickets for the Knebworth concert. Tickets will go on sale next week, first to Queen fans and Sonisphere ticket holders and then on general sale. Tickets can be bought here.

The venue choice was dictated partially by there being so few options available at short notice because of the Olympics, and in part by Queen’s track record at Hammersmith.

“Somehow this feels right,” said Brian May. “The Odeon is a big part of our history, and its atmosphere is second to none. It’s the perfect place to acknowledge our faithful fans, and will be a fitting return to our roots.”

Fittingly, American superstar Adam Lambert has announced that he’ll be releasing his album ‘Trespassing’ in the UK on 2nd July. The first UK single to be released from it will be “Never Close Our Eyes”, which was writtten by Bruno Mars, comes out on 24th June.

LISTEN TO QUEEN RADIO ON WE7 NOW.