American singer, songwriter and actress
Fringe performers from The Scotsman, Guardian and Independent discuss their journeys, challenges and upcoming Edinburgh shows, offering a window into the festival’s evolving landscape.
A wave of new music sees artists blending genres and asserting creative independence. From Labrinth’s Cosmic Opera Act II to FLO’s Therapy at the Club and Shaboozey’s country-infused album, creators push for control over their work while embracing broader collaborations.
Ariana Grande has released her eighth album, Petal, and opened the Eternal Sunshine tour in London, delivering pared-back, darker songs and stripped live moments. Reviews have praised her vocal control and new material while noting production choices that bury her trademark power and that the tour feels like a possible farewell to a high-profile era.
Arlene Smith, founder of the Chantels, has died in New York at 84. Smith helped spark a wave of girl groups in the 1950s with the hit “Maybe,” elevating Black female voices in doo-wop and shaping pop history. Her career later included teaching music in New York schools.
The Independent and The Guardian report that Taylor Swift’s songs have been removed from Team Trump and White House videos after copyright issues. The TikTok posts, which mocked Swift and referenced August, no longer have sound. Swift has not commented publicly amid long-standing feuds with Donald Trump.
A Harrow Crown Court jury has found Sally-Anne Bowen guilty of seven counts of indecent assault against teenage boys who were students at Christ’s College in Finchley, north London, in the late 1980s. Bowen denies the charges and will be sentenced on November 20.
Glam-rock icon Gary Glitter faces historic sex-offence charges in London. He has pleaded not guilty to eight counts relating to a girl aged under 13 between 1978 and 1981. A three-week trial is scheduled for November 2027.
Glastonbury organisers have announced next year’s line-up progress, with three headliners confirmed and Madonna ruled out. Rumours point to Taylor Swift, Harry Styles and Oasis as contenders for 2027, with bookies’ odds reflecting growing certainty around major acts while other names circulate.
Beauty retailers are rolling out advent calendars for 2026, featuring luxury and budget options. LookFantastic, M&S, Boots, and Boots’ fragrance line unveil calendars with full-size products, elite brands, and online exclusives. The range includes premium, mid-range, and affordable options, with clear savings versus listed values.
Glastonbury has confirmed that 2027 tickets will go on sale in October, with weekend passes priced at £408 including a £5 booking fee. Coach-ticket bundles go live on 1 October and general admission on 4 October. Organisers say Madonna will not headline, but three headliners are expected. Registration remains mandatory to curb touts.
Bob Mackie, a legendary fashion and costume designer known for dazzling looks for Cher, Dolly Parton, Elton John and more, has died at 87. His career spanned six decades with nine Emmys and a Tony, and his designs shaped show business fashion while remaining controversial and iconic.
The Novig campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney has sparked a global debate on the sexualisation of women in sport. Athletes and regulators say the ad reduces female sports to appearance, while supporters frame it as a reflection of modern culture. The conversation spans Axios, The Guardian, The New York Times, The Independent and BBC Business.
Taylor Swift has released a deluxe edition of The Life of a Showgirl, titled The Encore, adding four new songs. The move follows mixed reviews of Showgirl and signals Swift’s continuing prolific output as she expands her catalog with fresh material after the original release.
Taylor Swift has received the inaugural Artist Director Honors at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, bringing her total to 31 VMAs and making her the most-awarded artist in the show's history. She has also won video of the year for "The Fate of Ophelia," premiered the music video for "Patient Zero," and dedicated her win to Dolly Parton.