Latest news with #Highgate
The Guardian
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
‘It was an I Will Survive for the 1990s': how McAlmont & Butler made Yes
I'd just left Suede and was living in a basement flat in Highgate, London, making music in my tiny box room. It was a lonely time, but a lovely summer and I decided to do something uplifting and joyous. There were a bunch of records I loved listening to on a sunny day – Dusty Springfield's I Only Want to Be With You, The First Picture of You by the Lotus Eaters, You on My Mind by Swing Out Sister, which has Bacharach key changes and strings. I wanted to make a piece of music that gave me the buzz those songs did. I didn't want to worry about an album or sleeve artwork or how the video was going to go. I just wanted people to hear the song and feel like the sun had come out. I needed strings for the demo and found a fellow who was advertising samples in Loot magazine – this was 1994, before you could get anything you needed on your laptop. I remember going round to his flat and waiting for hours while he copied them on to a floppy disc. There was never a plan to sing the song myself. I'd been writing with Julianne Regan, who was in All About Eve, so she was the first person to have a crack at writing a melody and lyrics. After she went her own way, Geoff Travis at Rough Trade played the demo to Morrissey, who asked for a meeting – we ended up playing pinball. A week later, I got a letter from him that just said: 'Dear Bernard, I'm sorry, I can't.' Then I spent an afternoon with Kirsty MacColl, who really loved what I'd done but still wanted to change everything. Someone suggested I go and see David McAlmont playing at the Jazz Cafe. During his first song, the drummer Makoto Sakamoto came on and started smashing the shit out of his drums – it was the greatest sound I'd ever heard. Then David started singing and I was like, 'Well, there it is.' I knew I needed both of them. I gave David a tape of the instrumental and two days later he came round to my flat with what he'd written. He only had words for one verse. I said: 'Just sing it twice. We'll worry about that later.' But we never got around to it and people don't seem to notice. I love the message of the lyric: it's a big 'fuck you', but delivered in the most positive way. We recorded the strings then spent a couple of days in producer Mike Hedges' chateau in Normandy. We set the drums up in the old stone cellar – Mako didn't speak English but I directed him with my arms and remember the room shaking as he produced that eruption you hear at the start of the record. David recorded his vocals in the ballroom – he seemed to find the key-change leap effortless. I was standing 10ft away thinking: 'This is going to be great.' Yes is my favourite out of all the records I've ever made. To make a song that people put on to feel good is just magic. Years after it came out, I was at a fireworks display with my kids. They always finished the night with a banger. That year, they closed with Yes. That just blew my mind. Knowing three artists before me had been given the option to do something with this great piece of music was very motivating. Bernard had evoked Motown, Burt Bacharach and Dusty Springfield, but he'd added a rocky thing. I wanted to try something simple. Initially, I came up with something quite T Rex but my flatmate said: 'It's a bit one dimensional, dear.' I remember sticking my finger into my vinyl pile, touching the soundtrack to Judy Garland's version of A Star Is Born, and thinking: 'What would Judy do?' Lyrically, it was such a punt. I'd been dating somebody who I really liked, but he'd just kind of ghosted me. I was thinking: 'What would I say to him if I became famous?' I just started singing: 'So you want to know me now?' It was delusional, really. Before Yes came out, a friend asked me: 'What kind of a song is it?' I said: 'It's an I Will Survive for the 90s.' I remember getting to the climactic point after the second chorus where the song builds and builds and I sing: 'I'm better, better, Ye-e-e-e-es!' I was thinking I was done, but then Bernard said: 'We need something for the end, a kind of refrain.' I thought: 'Smokey Robinson!' And I used my falsetto to repeat: 'I feel well enough to tell you what you can do with what you got.' The recording actually uses varispeed to pitch that part a semitone out of my comfort zone, so I was much happier performing the song with a live band on Later With Jools Holland than I was singing along to the backing track on Top of the Pops. Over the years, I've met women who have told me they left abusive relationships thanks to Yes. After our second Top of the Pops appearance, the sister of the show's producer came over to say she'd been unable to walk and the song had helped her to get up. It has a power I can't account for. After it had reached the Top 10, I went to see Jimmy Somerville live – and the guy who inspired the lyric was there. He said: 'Oh my god, David, you're doing so well!' I was standing there biting my lip, thinking: 'You have no idea.' Butler, Blake & Grant play Cambridge Junction on 6 June before touring the UK. Hifi Sean & David McAlmont's album Twilight is out now.
Hospitality Net
4 days ago
- Business
- Hospitality Net
Iconic Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki Becomes Hawaii's First Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton on the island of O'ahu, has officially joined Hilton as the first Tapestry Collection property in Hawai'i. Situated at the gateway to Waikiki, this beloved hotel blends a legacy of local charm with Hilton's globally renowned hospitality and expansive benefits. The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki is operated by Highgate, who continues to bring its expertise as a premier real estate and hospitality management company to the islands of Hawai'i. The collaboration marks a new chapter that honors the hotel's deep roots in the community while introducing guests to the distinctive, story-driven spirit of the Tapestry Collection. With magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head and the island's lush mountain ranges, The Ambassador—formerly Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador—feels like staying with a friend who knows all the best local spots. Its legacy of warm hospitality and thoughtful design is now elevated through the power of Hilton Honors' award-winning loyalty program. With its debut in Hawai'i, Tapestry Collection by Hilton introduces its signature, community-focused approach to one of the world's most iconic and culturally rich destinations. Rooted in a culture of warm, intuitive service, The Ambassador's "This Is How We Waikiki" approach reflects a local philosophy—welcoming every guest like a friend, sharing insider knowledge, and creating moments that feel both effortless and memorable. This guest-first philosophy extends beyond service—it's reflected in every detail of the hotel's design, atmosphere and sense of place. The Ambassador's newly-renovated, mid-century design celebrates the modern spirit of Waikiki with subtle nods to the property's founding origins dating back to the 1960s. The 368-room hotel offers a range of accommodations—from spacious two-bedroom suites to Waikiki's only lofted bunk-bed rooms—designed with families and groups in mind. Interiors feature a tropical-inspired palette reflecting Oʻahu's natural beauty, with thoughtful touches that immerse guests in the colors, textures and relaxed rhythm of island life. Expansive lanais, cozy lounge areas and private retreats elevate the experience, while a custom lava rock wall in the lobby pays tribute to Hawaii's volcanic landscape. The exterior preserves the hotel's iconic heritage, blending past and present seamlessly. The Ambassador offers a variety of onsite programming and elevated amenities included in each stay. Waikiki Swim & Social Club, the hotel's retro-inspired, expansive pool and cabana deck, offers an all-day menu of tropical beverages, locally inspired bites and breezy vibes reflective of the island's energy. Guests enjoy palm-fringed views, private cabanas and a refreshing dip in the sun-soaked pool. Start the day with a workout at the fully equipped fitness center or take part in weekly poolside pilates classes. Beach Candy Waikiki offers guests easy-access and essential beach rentals and bike cruisers, while the hotel's community stewardship initiatives help improve the local area, such as the King Kalakaua Park clean-up in partnership with the City of Honolulu. Favorite Son, the hotel's laid-back indoor-outdoor dining destination, serves up hearty comfort food with island flair, including gourmet sandwiches, deep-dish-style square pizzas and fresh salads. Designed for both locals and travelers on the go, it's a place to refuel, relax and savor the flavors of Waikiki with zero pretense and plenty of personality. Guests unplug early with a daily happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring craft cocktails, light bites and live local entertainment. This playful yet purposeful programming underscores the hotel's mission to be a launchpad for discovering the local lifestyle. The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton will be part of Hilton Honors, the company's award-winning guest loyalty program. Hilton Honors members can earn points through stays. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app. To learn more and book your stay, visit The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton's website and follow @ambassadorwaikiki. Hotel website
Travel Daily News
5 days ago
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki becomes Hawaii's first Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki joins Hilton's Tapestry Collection, blending local charm, modern design, and personalized hospitality in Hawaii. WAIKIKI, OAHU, HAWAII – The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton on the island of O'ahu, has officially joined Hilton as the first Tapestry Collection property in Hawai'i. Situated at the gateway to Waikiki, this beloved hotel blends a legacy of local charm with Hilton's globally renowned hospitality and expansive benefits. The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki is operated by Highgate, who continues to bring its expertise as a premier real estate and hospitality management company to the islands of Hawai'i. The collaboration marks a new chapter that honors the hotel's deep roots in the community while introducing guests to the distinctive, story-driven spirit of the Tapestry Collection. With magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head and the island's lush mountain ranges, The Ambassador – formerly Romer Waikiki at the Ambassador – feels like staying with a friend who knows all the best local spots. Its legacy of warm hospitality and thoughtful design is now elevated through the power of Hilton Honors' award-winning loyalty program. With its debut in Hawai'i, Tapestry Collection by Hilton introduces its signature, community-focused approach to one of the world's most iconic and culturally rich destinations. 'We're thrilled to be the first property in Hawaii to join Tapestry Collection by Hilton, a brand that reflects our dedication to personalized hospitality rooted in a strong sense of place,' said Brandon Kaya, General Manager, The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki. 'Our team is passionate about creating meaningful connections to local culture. It's not just about where you stay – it's about how you experience Waikiki, and we're proud to share the spirit of the island with our guests.' Rooted in a culture of warm, intuitive service, The Ambassador's 'This Is How We Waikiki' approach reflects a local philosophy – welcoming every guest like a friend, sharing insider knowledge, and creating moments that feel both effortless and memorable. This guest-first philosophy extends beyond service – it's reflected in every detail of the hotel's design, atmosphere and sense of place. The Ambassador's newly renovated, mid-century design celebrates the modern spirit of Waikiki with subtle nods to the property's founding origins dating back to the 1960s. The 368-room hotel offers a range of accommodations – from spacious two-bedroom suites to Waikiki's only lofted bunk-bed rooms – designed with families and groups in mind. Interiors feature a tropical-inspired palette reflecting Oʻahu's natural beauty, with thoughtful touches that immerse guests in the colors, textures and relaxed rhythm of island life. Expansive lanais, cozy lounge areas and private retreats elevate the experience, while a custom lava rock wall in the lobby pays tribute to Hawaii's volcanic landscape. The exterior preserves the hotel's iconic heritage, blending past and present seamlessly. The Ambassador offers a variety of onsite programming and elevated amenities included in each stay. Waikiki Swim & Social Club, the hotel's retro-inspired, expansive pool and cabana deck, offers an all-day menu of tropical beverages, locally inspired bites and breezy vibes reflective of the island's energy. Guests enjoy palm-fringed views, private cabanas and a refreshing dip in the sun-soaked pool. Start the day with a workout at the fully equipped fitness center or take part in weekly poolside Pilates classes. Beach Candy Waikiki offers guests easy-access and essential beach rentals and bike cruisers, while the hotel's community stewardship initiatives help improve the local area, such as the King Kalakaua Park clean-up in partnership with the City of Honolulu. Favorite Son, the hotel's laid-back indoor-outdoor dining destination, serves up hearty comfort food with island flair, including gourmet sandwiches, deep-dish-style square pizzas and fresh salads. Designed for both locals and travelers on the go, it's a place to refuel, relax and savor the flavors of Waikiki with zero pretense and plenty of personality. Guests unplug early with a daily happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. featuring craft cocktails, light bites and live local entertainment. This playful yet purposeful programming underscores the hotel's mission to be a launchpad for discovering the local lifestyle. The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton will be part of Hilton Honors, the company's award-winning guest loyalty program. Hilton Honors members can earn points through stays. Hilton Honors members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits, including a flexible payment slider that allows members to choose nearly any combination of Points and money to book a stay, an exclusive member discount, and free standard Wi-Fi. Members also enjoy popular digital tools available exclusively through the industry-leading Hilton Honors mobile app. The Ambassador stands as one of the island's most historic properties, seamlessly blending Hawaii's iconic charm with modern comforts for an unforgettable stay. Now part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, guests are invited to experience this iconic destination with renewed aloha and exclusive opening offers.
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
The Crown's Claire Foy cuts a casual figure in beige trench coat and dark jeans as she runs errands in Highgate
Claire Foy cut a casual figure as she ran errands during an outing in Highgate, London on Tuesday. The Crown star, 41, opted for a laid back look in a black v-neck top and dark jeans as she went food shopping. The actress wrapped up in a beige trench coat and added to her ouftit with a dark brown handbag. Styling her brunette locks into an updo, Claire completed her look with a simple silver necklace. The actress is best known for portraying Queen Elizabeth II on the first two seasons of Netflix hit The Crown. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the Daily Mail's new Showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. She received various accolades for the role including a Golden Globe and two Primetime Emmy Awards. Her role in The Crown came just one year after she portrayed another royal, Henry VIII's wife Anne Boelyn in the BBC adaptation of Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall. More recently, she appeared in the critically acclaimed drama All Of Us Strangers alongside Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott. At the end of last year, she filmed upcoming project H Is For Hawk which caused 'chaos' in a quiet residential street where it was shot. Security guards brought in by the production company of the film H is for Hawk have been accused of being 'rude and aggressive'. One security officer admitted 'things got crazy' between the film crew and local residents in the battle for parking spots. Residents have lost their parking spaces outside their front doors and are being forced to use a Pay and Display car park paid for by the film company. The production crew had been preparing the location in Plasturton Avenue, in the leafy Cardiff suburb of Pontcanna for almost a month. Claire was apparently unaware of the bitter dispute going on in the street where the movie is being shot over the next two weeks. One angry resident said: 'We are up in arms as the production crew have caused absolute chaos, blocking off massive areas along Plasturton gardens, Plasturton Ave and Sneyd Street. 'They are employing around the clock security to threaten residents if they attempt to park anywhere along the road. They were rude and aggressive. 'Some neighbours have been issued with threats of clamping and cars being removed by the production team. They are not in a position to do that.' A neighbour living just yards from the film shoot said: 'Parking is difficult here at the best of times and while it's good that films like this are being made in Cardiff it is a major inconvenience.' The hit series His Dark Materials was filmed in the same street but that all went smoothly and locals were happy to hear H is for Hawk was being filmed there. They received a letter saying they wanted to reserve some on street parking spots for technical vehicles and some 'prop cars'.
Daily Mail
20-05-2025
- Daily Mail
Neighbour who built a detached house on his driveway without permission finally makes it into a garage after six year planning row
Perplexed neighbours living next to a man who built a house on his driveway without permission have breathed a sigh of relief after he finally converted it into a garage. Homeowner Mr Singh ignited a six-year planning row after constructing the lodging outside his home in Highgate, Birmingham. Originally, he had been given planning permission to build a single-storey garage at the property in Vaughton Street in 2019. But Mr Singh left planning bosses stunned when they discovered the building had been converted into a tiny, two-storey house in October 2022. Council chiefs ordered Mr Singh to rip down the home, despite his argument that the structure only had 'minor differences' to what was agreed. The family had previously vowed to leave the 28.5ft by 15.4ft building in place, claiming they were using it as a gym. However, the lodging was converted back to a one-story property with its former front door and dormer window replaced by a garage door. Now photos this week have revealed the building has been ripped down and fully converted into the previously approved, smaller, 17.4ft by 15ft garage. Neighbours have spoke of their relief that the 'bizarre saga' was finally over following years of building work along their street. One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: 'We're glad it's finally all over now, it has been going on for years. 'I dread to think what it has cost the poor bloke. To build a house, knock it down and then build a garage instead, must have cost tens of thousands of pounds at least. 'But he's only got himself to blame, I don't know how he thought he was ever going to get away with it. 'The building work has been a bit of a pain but I'm just happy we don't have to look at that eyesore anymore. It's been a very bizarre, long-running saga.' However, another local was more sympathetic and added: 'I feel a bit sorry for him to be honest. 'Yes it wasn't what was entirely agreed, but it looked smart. And some of the houses around here are much more run down. 'You would have thought they could have come to a bit of compromise with him to save a lot of time and money.' Planners had originally given approval for a garage to be built at the location, which the new building exceeded by several metres. Planning Inspector Thomas Shields wrote in his report: 'The appellant's case is that the building already benefits from planning permission granted by the council in 2019. 'He argues that although there are differences between the approved plans for the garage and the appeal building they are minor differences. 'The approved plans for the garage show a single storey detached garage with a footprint of 5.3m x 4.6m and a height of 3.6m. 'It was also shown having a standard garage door to the front and no windows on any elevation. 'In comparison with the approved garage the appeal building has a footprint of approximately 8.7m x 4.7m and a height of 5.3m 'Consequently, it is substantially larger than the approved building. It is not a minor difference.' The row has left locals in the deprived area of Birmingham scratching their heads. Many felt sympathy with the homeowners who had taken a petition round for locals to sign in the hope of keeping their little house on the driveway. Habib, 19, a student, told MailOnline earlier this month: 'I remember walking past this on my way to school when they were building it. 'They put a lot of elbow grease into it. They were working from eight until five every day. 'It wasn't affecting anyone or blocking anyone's view of anything. It was neat. I'd be fuming if I was them.' Nessa Baharun, who can see the property from her back garden, said: 'Sometimes the Council are just a bit over the top. 'No-one has had their view ruined. If anyone was affected it would be this house and next door but it doesn't bother us. 'It just sits in the corner. I feel sorry for them. They must have lost a lot of money. 'I have seen them taking furniture out of there, so I guess they just use it for storage.' Locals said that the change from house to garage happened over two years ago. One mechanic working on Vaughton Street, a collection of modern semi-detached homes facing a small patch of grass and factory units, said: 'I don't know what it is now. You couldn't drive a car into it, you'd wreck your tyres. 'And it is definitely not a house. It's a nothing.' Other locals questioned the Council's priorities. Neighbour Kemal, a businessman in his sixties, said: 'It does look a bit weird now. It made more sense before and it was not affecting anyone because it was tucked into the corner of the drive.' Shabana Mubarik, a teacher at the nearby Chandos Primary School, said: 'This is a very deprived area. Staff regularly have to pick up canisters which are everywhere to protect the children. 'So I don't care about this little building. I guess it was some jealous neighbour who complained. You don't know. 'It makes sense to me to make use of the space you've got and their driveway allows them that space. I don't know why anyone would have an issue with it.' The Singh family initially put in their plans for a garage on their spacious driveway in 2019. But it wasn't until the aftermath of Covid that they started their build. Birmingham planners said the end result differed substantially from what was agreed and the family went on to lose an appeal against the order to tear it down. A Birmingham City Council spokesman said: 'Planning consent was granted for a single-story detached garage to the side of the property on Vaughton Street, Highgate on 7 March 2019. 'The building erected following that permission bore little resemblance to the original scale and design, as a result enforcement action followed and remedial works carried out to reduce its size, returning it to its planned use as storage/garage. 'Planning permission was already in place for a very similar building, so no further action was considered necessary. 'Planning enforcement is essential for maintaining public confidence in the planning system. 'Without it, there is a risk that unauthorised developments could undermine the legitimacy of approved plans and policies.'
