English guitarist, astrophysicist and activist, co-founder of Queen
The track Rubberz, released in June, has sparked debate over whether AI-generated elements were used. While fans push back with misinformation and speculation, Fenix has denied AI involvement and stressed that the song was recorded like any other. Industry voices are split, with some defending AI collaboration and others demanding transparency.
Queen guitarist has shared a post critiquing Meta AI’s recreation of the 1980 The Game cover, warning against AI’s growth and opposing data-centre expansion in the UK. The Independent reports, noting mixed artist responses and calls for government intervention.
A solar eclipse is observable across the North-East and Cumbria, with large viewing crowds at St Bees, Wynyard, Gateshead and Leeds. Observers report a dramatic, collective experience as the Moon covers most of the Sun, and the event is followed by high turnout for science centers and planetariums.
Skywatchers across the UK have observed a major solar eclipse, with more than 90% of the Sun obscured at peak in parts of the country. Crowds gathered at Greenwich, Edinburgh and Belfast, using ISO-rated glasses and improvised viewers to watch as daylight dimmed and a fiery ring appeared. Observers describe it as emotional and magical, while experts warn of eye safety and note the event’s scale is the strongest since 1999.
A roundup compiles notable birthdays from this week across Independent, AP News and other outlets, highlighting a cast of performers aged from 36 to 82 as of mid-July 2026.
UKRI has pulled the Lovell telescope funding, triggering a funding crisis at Jodrell Bank. Observations are due to end in March 2028 unless new funds are found. A broad coalition is calling for immediate alternative funding.