Latest news with #B-infused
New Straits Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Jessie J diagnosed with breast cancer, plans surgery after upcoming London festival
LONDON: English pop star Jessie J has revealed she has been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer and will undergo surgery following her performance at Capital's Summertime Ball in London next weekend. The 37-year-old singer shared the news in an emotional Instagram video on Wednesday, with a caption that read: "I was diagnosed with early breast cancer. Cancer sucks in any form, but I'm holding onto the word 'early.'" Known for her candid humour, the artiste added, "It's a very dramatic way to get a boob job. I'm going to disappear for a bit after Summertime Ball to have my surgery, and I'll come back with massive (expletive) and more music." The Summertime Ball, a major annual music festival, is set to take place at Wembley Stadium on June 15. Jessie stated she felt it was important to speak openly about her diagnosis. "I just wanted to be open and share it. Selfishly, I don't talk about it enough. I'm not processing it because I'm working so hard. "But I know how much sharing in the past has helped me, through love, support, and hearing other people's stories. "I'm an open book. It breaks my heart that so many people are going through something similar or worse; that's the part that kills me." A Grammy-nominated artiste, she is known for her powerhouse vocals and R&B-infused pop hits, including 'Domino' and the chart-topping 2014 collaboration 'Bang Bang' with Nicki Minaj and Ariana Grande. She has released five albums, most recently the 2018 holiday project 'This Christmas Day,' and has been putting out new music in 2025, including singles 'Living My Best Life' and 'No Secrets.' A new album is expected later this year. Jessie is also a mother to her son, Sky Safir Cornish Colman, born in 2023.
Scoop
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
IA And Rei Collaborate On New Single 'He Piko He Tuna' Celebrating Love And Resilience For NZ Music Month
Taonga pūoro band IA teams up with award-winning artist Rei to launch their latest single, " He Piko He Tuna," an R&B-infused earworm fresh out now, marking the vibrant beginning of New Zealand Music Month. "He Piko He Tuna" blends smooth RnB with minimalist beats and the soothing voices of the Punga Ihu (clay nose flute), evoking nostalgic echoes of late '90s RnB and hip-hop. The song weaves a narrative around the eel (tuna), symbolising resilience, endurance, and the complexities of love. Inspired by the traditional Tainui whakataukī " he piko he taniwha," Rei reinterprets this into the central lyric "he piko he tuna," signifying love's enduring presence at every twist and turn of life's journey. Rei notes, " If eels can journey to Tonga overcoming every obstacle, surely our own relationships can endure life's hardships." IA and Rei formed their friendship at the International Indigenous Music Summit in Canada in 2023, fostering a friendship that led to this unique musical collaboration. Created remotely across Tāmaki Makaurau, Central Asia, and Ngaruawahia, the song is rooted in whakawhanaungatanga, true relationship building. Reflecting on the collaboration, Rei shares, "I t felt connected and personal, not just verses swapped remotely, but an authentic, collaborative effort from the heart." IA's Reti added, ' It felt like writing with a cuzzy who has your back, knowing that we've got theirs too. It's an indescribable feeling of being inspired by someone and who you also inspire.' Filmed in striking Taupō locations, the music video vividly captures the song's metaphorical essence. " We had great fun filming," laughs Rei, " despite sitting in freezing water from Tongariro River pretending to be relaxed, it was definitely memorable!" Band member Moetū Smith adds, " After 25 years of marriage, this waiata resonates deeply. Love isn't always easy, but patience and perseverance create something truly magical." "He Piko He Tuna" offers listeners a tranquil space to unwind, reflect, and reconnect with the calm waters of their relationships. As Reti puts it, " It's a great track for winding down, offering a moment of calm amidst life's currents." "He Piko He Tuna" is available now on all streaming platforms! Artist Bios: IA – Waikato-based duo Reti Hedley and Moetū Smith create music that seamlessly blends contemporary genres with traditional Māori instruments, exploring themes of identity, connection, and cultural heritage. Rei – Award-winning Tāmaki Makaurau-based artist known for effortlessly fusing Māori language and tikanga with modern RnB, hip-hop, and electronic influences, celebrated for innovative and soulful storytelling.
