Latest news with #DJAG
Wales Online
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Free music festival taking place in Cardiff as ticket details released
Free music festival taking place in Cardiff as ticket details released The music festival promises to be an 'unmissable celebration' of the city's grassroots music - and is even being supported by global star Ed Sheeran The free festival is being held at Clwb Ifor Bach (Image: John Myers ) Cardiff is hosting a music festival in June and tickets will be be completely free. Cardiff Music Conference (CMC) is returning for its sixth edition and it hopes to be the biggest one yet. CMC promises to be "an unmissable celebration of music, creativity, and community" in the Welsh capital. One of Cardiff's biggest grassroots music events, the festival will be hosted in Clwb Ifor Bach on Sunday, June 8 from 4pm to 10pm. There will be appearances from DJ AG, along with Grammy-award winning songwriter Amy Wadge, who is best known for penning songs such as Ed Sheeran's Shape of You. Attendees can expect a vibrant mix of hands-on workshops, expert panels, live performances, and community-led sessions designed to celebrate music not just as art, but as a vital tool for wellbeing, cultural expression, and social connection. CMC is expecting over 80 performers to take part. Sign up for free tickets to secure your place to the event here. Article continues below With support from Arts Council Wales and The Ed Sheeran Foundation, it is hoped that CMC 2025 will be the biggest one yet. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here The event is being organised by a collective from Ministry of Life Education and Ministry of Life Youth Services and is a collaboration between CMC and partners including Prestigious Pictures, New Era, Jukebox Collective, Silk Futures, Immersed, Sound Progression, Valley Events, SC Collectif, Native Radio and Diff Radio. Ministry of Life has its roots in youth-led music initiatives and has been organising events in the city since its creation in 2019. It hosted the Capital City Jam in 2013, a youth led festival in Bute Park. Article continues below Highlights of the programme of CMC 2025 include: On-site workshops delivered by partners such as Prestigious Pictures, who will host a live media workshop where young people contribute directly to CMC's digital strategy. Creative discussions from industry professionals like Amy Wadge, Elijah, and Osama Izevbigie covering everything from surviving in an evolving music industry to exploring both traditional and alternative approaches to creativity, marketing and songwriting. Grassroots Performances on the same stage as Cardiff legends and international icons - including DJ AG, Local, and Murkage.
Daily Mail
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Ed Sheeran sends fans WILD with an impromptu performance on the streets of Sheffield
Ed Sheeran sent fans into a frenzy with a surprise street performance in Sheffield on Saturday. The Shape Of You popstar, 34, got behind the decks in the centre of the city with DJ AG for one of his signature performances livestreamed on TikTok. Ed, wearing a long sleeve Corteiz T-shirt and a black leather jacket, arrived to much fanfare alongside London rapper JME before performing a mix of his biggest hits and a series of remixes. And the Ipswich-born singer's performance didn't disappoint, with Ed sending the northern crowd wild as he rapped: 'When you want to see me, when you want to see me, I'm in Sheffield town this evening.' He also shocked supporters with a remix of Gyptian's 2010 song Hold You (Hold Yuh), before transitioning into one of his own much-loved songs hits I Don't Care. But arguably the most popular performance of the night was Ed's rendition of Shape Of You which left elated fans screaming afterwards. The upbeat setlist also included performances of Peru, You Need Me, I Don't Need You and a host of collaborations with Man Don't Care MC JME. The sensational performance left viewers on social media similarly impressed, with many taking to the comments section of DJ AG's Instagram to praise Ed for the 'iconic' appearance. Fans wrote: 'Guys worth 300m and took his time out to show support. What a man', 'It was so clear Ed was in his element there, we love to see it', 'Where do I apply to be eds friend because he just seems so cool and genuine', 'Thats what I love about Ed he is the humblest guy always giving back and even with his mega celebrity status he never thinks any more of himself this man is pure gold a national treasure after Sir David', 'One thing bout it Ed is gonna deliver some clean live vocals', The sensational performance left viewers on social media similarly impressed, with many taking to the comments section of DJ AG's Instagram to praise Ed for the 'iconic' appearance 'Ed back where it all started ! The street - one of the best talents out of the UK by far'. The shock set in Sheffield comes ahead of the release of Sheeran's eighth studio album, Play, which is scheduled to drop on 12 September this year. Just last month, the Thinking Out Loud vocalist also surprised commuters in London with an impromptu gig outside King's Cross station. Dressed in a vibrant pink T-shirt, Ed setup in-front of a large pink heart emblazoned with the title of his new single, Azizam. Fans were delighted as Ed played his acoustic guitar and belted out hit songs including Shape Of You, Perfect and Bad Habits. He also appeared in his home county of Suffolk earlier this month, bringing his guitar for a performance in an Ipswich pub. The performance came after the release of Old Phone, another single off the new album. Ed shared clips of him singing on his Instagram, captioning the post: 'Brought the Old Phone for a homecoming show in Ipswich today. 'Thank you to @fishclawband for rocking it with me and for everyone who came down. Old Phone out now x.' The singer is far from the first artist to shock fans with a street performance with DJ AG however. The London-born DJ has welcomed a host of artists onto his platform including Skepta, JME, Craig David and most recently Jessie J, who sent fans wild with a performance of her hit song Price Tag. The female singer also performed hits such as Flashlight and her 2014 collaboration with American superstars Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj, Bang Bang.
BBC News
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Ed Sheeran supports Sheffield group TRACKS in surprise gig
Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran thrilled hundreds of fans with a surprise outdoor gig in Sheffield on Halifax-born pop star appeared alongside TikTok sensation DJ AG in support of TRACKS - a group that helps young people break into the music comes after the Shape of You star announced in February that his foundation would award the group three years of performing alongside the seasoned artists said it "meant the world" and hoped it would help launch their careers. London-based AG is known to draw big names for his impromptu performances, which he announces at short notice on his social media said giving young talent a platform was "extremely important" to allow them "to shine". He said: "It's not about me, I'm just a facilitator showcasing talent, trying to help, do my part, giving it everything and hopefully everyone had a good time."The event also saw TRACKS release their new single called Spotlight, from seven of their students. TRACKS performers Max, 16, and Jayden, 13, said joining Sheeran and AG made them feel like part of the music community. "It was insane, words cannot describe how good it was, it was just mad," Max said."You get nervous at the start when you are with big people like this, but it actually feels quite good to be doing this," Jayden added."I was so excited. I've never met him in person before and he's one of the nicest persons I've ever met and I mean that from the deepest point of my heart." TRACKS, a collaboration between Sheffield Music School and Sheffield Music Hub, was awarded funding from the Ed Sheeran Foundation earlier this group's music facilitator Louis Barclay said the money would help fund a youth club and more alternative provision for young people in the area."It started with Ed visiting TRACKS and seeing what we do," he said."I think he just felt the ethos of what we do and saw it was something he wanted to support." Onlooker Kim Simpson, who has been following Sheeran's career since his early busking days, said she hoped the gig would give the north "a little bit more of a name" and get young people involved in the city's music scene."What he is doing, getting young rappers out performing, supporting them to bring on a new generation of musicians - it's perfect to come and watch," she said. Busker Blue Bax said he was a "massive" Sheeran fan, adding the musician was an inspiration for him."He's the reason I picked up a guitar, he's the reason I picked up a loop pedal at all," the 21-year-old said."When I found out about this, I immediately rushed over." Sheffield City Council leader Tom Hunt, who was also among the crowd, described the three-hour event as "brilliant"."It really underscores the fact that we are a music city with an incredible pedigree of artists coming out of the city but, more importantly, that we are bursting with talent," he said."There are so many young people, performers in doing all sorts of music in this city, who, if given the spotlight, like they're being given tonight, will go on to shine." Listen to highlights from South Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Metro
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
How viral TikTok DJ went from being egged to performing with Adolescence star
DJ AG once had an Asbo because of his performances, now he isperforming alongside the likes of Jessie J, Ashley Walters, and Skepta. DJ AG is a viral TikTok performer who has amassed 906k followers on the app. Real name Ashley Gordon, the star has gained traction through his viral outdoor videos in which he invites upcoming artists to perform a set with him, typically on decks just outside Kings Cross station. As well as shining the spotlight on upcoming talent, he has performed with some major names in the music industry, bringing in more and more followers to his platform. Warm or cold, the DJ has performed across the UK and has gone viral most recently with a seemingly spontaneous performance from Jessie J. During his live stream DJ set, after performances from unknown artists, Jessie J bounded into view and quickly began belting out some of her most famous songs – along with some of her upcoming tracks. Having previously worked in sales, he quit his 60k a year job in pursuit of DJing on the streets of London. 'I was a sales manager. I worked there for my good 12 years, kind of long story short, my director was leaving, and I got passed up for the job. I thought I would have a good chance,' he told Metro. 'So my kids said, 'Oh, why don't you try TikTok? Because you DJ anyway. Like, why not go on TikTok and try.'' He admitted that he was apprehensive and thought the move was 'crazy' as he thought the app was mostly for kids. 'But I thought afterwards, like, you know what? Let me give it a go. Jumped on TikTok. I was DJing at home, and then talked to my community, and I kind of tested it for a few months, and I realised that I can monetise and survive, so I effectively quit my job.' The move was worrying for his family, especially his mother who was baffled as to why he'd make such a risky move. 'I think someone from me, coming from Tottenham, earning like £60,000a year, like, that's a big deal for my family. So it was a shock to her system, but when she started to see that one, I could monetise, but two, more importantly, I was enjoying what I was doing. It was in that acceptance that we are where we are now.' 'When I first started the walking DJ thing, I had people throw water at me, had kids throwing eggs at the equipment,' he previously told Dazed. Transitioning from an office job to making music on the streets wasn't an easy transition to make at first, as he explains, a lot of people didn't understand what he was doing. 'Well, starting the journey of going outside, so a lot of people didn't really understand why I was there, it was like a 'what is this?',' he told Metro. 'I've got heckled, water thrown at me while my decks out. Oh no, I've, I've suffered, man, so embarrassing. I've just been like, 'This is expensive stuff!' 'But look,' he adds with emphasis. 'Now I'm not suffering. Everything's fine. It's good, and it's going in an upward trajectory.' That said, when asked how he 'made it' and what his advice would be to other artists trying to break into the scene, he said: 'I would say, humbly, that I've not, I've not made it, and we're not so far away, but we've got a lot of work to do.' He adds that his secret to his success is consistency and innovation, which he jokes is what led to him being arrested at one point in his career. 'I don't think it's just one thing, but consistency does help. I think you've got to be innovative, willing to take a risk. Look, I've been arrested, man, like I've got an ASBO, like I've been in the middle of Wood Green on my own at like, 10 at night, and I'm not really saying that's a good idea, but like, I've had to go through it.' He has been recognised for showcasing both emerging and established talent in his live sets and in December 2024, he was named Time Out's Londoner of the Year and was praised as the DJ of the people. He explains that every celebrity collaboration is mutually beneficial and all about having fun. 'Someone like Jessie, J She wanted to come, so we made it happen. Yeah, I think a lot of artists want to come because it's organic and it's not a booking. 'When an artist leaves. My thing is, 'Have you had fun? Yes or no,' and if you have, regardless of the engagement, the numbers with the rest of it, whatever. Man, we made a moment, perfect.' His dream artist to appear on the stream? Drake. 'Drake is someone that I definitely wouldn't like to see on the stream. Yeah, he's given a lot to culture, and it has helped the UK, in my opinion. So I think it would be great for him to come on.' Since seeing Adolescence star Ashley Walters appear on the stream in March, fans have been keen to see fellow Top Boy actor Kano appear on the channel as well. When asked if this is a possibility, AG is earnest: 'I hope so. I hope he'll want to, but I guess it has to be right for him. Yeah, when he's ready, so maybe he might have something to release or just wants to have a bit of fun. So I hope it will happen. But again, I'm at the mercy of the artist and when they want to come.' Although I am keen to ask about his celebrity guests, he is insistent that it's not the celebrity interactions that excite him the most. 'It's great to see a celebrity, but I get a lot more pleasure from seeing an artist that has nothing and gets a bit of traction or gets producers that contact them, to radio. 'Eventually, it'd be great to see some other DJs to try and help, because this is not for everyone. But try and educate them and maybe get some more DJs to come out – because I can't cover everywhere at the same time. 'How nice would it be to have like, 50 DJs around the UK doing exactly what I do, and giving that joy, I think, will make the world a better place.' He doesn't just spread the joy on the streets of London, he also regularly visits elderly care homes and plays some of their favourite songs – streaming the event online to spread the positivity. 'I'm not here to gatekeep, but I think inevitably, for me, it's about impact. So it's not about trying to be the richest person, just trying to impact the world in a good way. 'And I think having an initiative like that, where you do teach people that you can be outside, it's safe to be here, and you can give people a chance, a space to just vent. Imagine, like, a long day, you've had a long day at work, and you see a DJ playing the music that you like. Yeah? You listen straight away. So that's why I would like to see it. But look, we've got a long way to go.' When asked about his plans going forward, he said he's hoping to inspire others so he can pass the torch on. More Trending 'I'm 39 years old, so I'm very mindful. Like, this job is very taxing mentally. Yeah, physically, it's taxing. But I think it's more than the mental side, because we're dealing with energy. So I could be outside, and you can sense frustration, and you can sense passion. You can sense people haven't got the money to then execute it,' he explains. 'So I think for me, does it have a shelf life? For me as an older man, yes, it does. How long I can do? We'll have to wait and see. 'I think for me, I'm hoping within the next 10 years, I've done my bit, and it's an opportunity to make sure the infrastructure is in place, but all the other DJs are supporting, are able to come here and beyond. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. MORE: Donald Trump becomes a lo fi guy with his own MAGA beats MORE: 90s British rock legends confirm first album in 24 years with surprise announcement leaving fans hysterical
Daily Mail
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Noughties pop star looks unrecognisable as he performs in the street 18 years after soaring to fame with huge hit single
Noughties pop star Just Jack looked almost unrecognisable as he took to the streets of London for a performance last week. The singer, 49, soared to fame back in 2007 thanks to his hugely successful song Starz In Their Eyes, which reached number two in the UK singles chart. And Just Jack, real name Jack Christopher Allsopp, left both fans and passersby thrilled as he belted out the track alongside an acoustic guitarist outside a McDonalds in King's Cross. Dressed casually in a black bomber jacket and jeans, Jack looked at ease as he performed the number alongside DJ AG on the decks. DJ AG, whose real name is Ashley Gordon, regularly showcases the talents of artists old and new with London street performances, with Jessie J recently joining him for a show. Just Jack's performance was shared to DJ AG's TikTok and fans soon took to the comments, stunned by his rare appearance. They penned: 'where has he been, thought he was gonna be huge.' 'Always wondered what happened to him.' 'Omg Just Jack, can't believe I missed him.' 'Just jack still kills it. smiley loop is a banger.' 'Oh how nostalgic, Absolutely loved him & this song!' However, some were a little critical of his vocals, writing: 'Jeeze unless I am tone deaf, it's time to hang up the mic.' 'Sounds proper out of tune at the start but fair play. Not sure why JJ didn't get real big. Had some interesting tunes. Used to love writers block.' Just Jack released his first album, The Outer Marker, in 2002, however it wasn't until five years later that he found fame with his song Starz In Their Eyes. Just Jack's performance was shared to DJ AG's TikTok and fans soon took to the comments, stunned by his rare appearance However, some were a little critical of his vocals, writing: 'Jeeze unless I am tone deaf, it's time to hang up the mic' He gained popularity with the track thanks to TV appearances on Latter... With Jools Holland and The Friday Night Project, with the track reaching number two. The song was the lead single from his album Overtones, which spawned the singles Writer's Block, Glory Day and No Time. However, Jack was unable to emulate the chart success of Starz In Their Eyes, with his closest shot being his 2009 track The Day I Died, which peaked at number 11. His career saw him taking to the stage at Glastonbury Festival, V Festival and T4 on the Beach, a stark contrast to the much smaller crowd he attracted at King's Cross last week. Despite having a much quieter career these days, he previously revealed that he's pleased with how things turned out. Speaking to LadBible in 2023, he shared: 'I never tried to make a big radio hit. I never really wanted to be like a pop star. It was a strange time, it was a stressful time. 'I ended up being in a lot of environments that I wasn't particularly comfortable in. I was grateful for the radio plays and stuff like that, but I never felt at home with pop people. That's never how I saw myself. 'I've always been a bit of a control freak. I think being in that world where you have managers and record labels and all these people around you pulling you in lots of different directions and things not always going as planned, there are so many things that you don't really have control over.' Jack noted that he now has full control over his whole career and despite it being hard work, he 'couldn't be happier'.
