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WEST END AND BROADWAY SUPERSTAR

KERRY ELLIS

RELEASES BRAND NEW SINGLE

BATTLEFIELD
FEATURING SIR BRIAN MAY

TAKEN FROM UPCOMING ALBUM

KINGS & QUEENS

OUT 12 MAY ON WESTWAY MUSIC

 

STREAM/DOWNLOAD HERE

 

• Battlefield, out now, is the first single taken from Kerry’s upcoming studio album Kings & Queens, out 12 May
• Kings & Queens is available to pre-order via Westway Music HERE
• Tickets for Kerry’s UK tour are on sale now via See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices

 

31 March 2023: The supremely talented Kerry Ellis has today released Battlefield, the first single taken from her upcoming album Kings & Queens, out on 12 May. Featuring the legendary Sir Brian May on guitar, the track is available to stream and download now, while the album can be pre-ordered via Westway Music.

 

Battlefield is a heart-rending ballad penned especially for Kerry by esteemed genre-spanning songwriter Charlie Turner. With emotionally charged lyrics evoking a message of peace and harmony in today’s turbulent world, the track combines piano led tender rock with Kerry’s signature powerful vocals to deliver a statement of empathy and understanding during unstable times.

 

Featuring Sir Brian May on guitar, the song is the latest in a long string of collaborations between Kerry and Brian, with May producing her debut album Anthems in 2010. They went onto release Golden Days in 2017, a collaborative album released on Sony Music to great critical acclaim.

 

Kerry said, “I wanted this album and these songs to speak to people and make them feel something, in the same way that music affects me, and this song definitely pulls at the heart strings. And I’m delighted it features my dear friend, the Doc!”

 

Battlefield is the first single released from Kerry’s upcoming 4^th studio album Kings & Queens, out on 12 May. Featuring 12 tracks, including mainly original songs along with a selection of hand-picked covers, the album sees Kerry collaborate with some of music’s biggest names, including acclaimed singer-songwriters Newton Faulkner and Jamie Lawson, as well as legendary Queen guitarist and personal friend Sir Brian May.

 

This Spring, Kerry will perform tracks from Kings & Queens live for the very first time. Playing at the Salford The Lowry, Birmingham Town Hall and the stunning London Adelphi on 14, 15 and 16 May respectively, she will be joined by her incredible live band, comprised of some of the best musicians in the UK. Headed by album producer Mike Stevens on guitar, keyboards and percussion, together with Jo Webb on guitar, Donovan Hepburn on Drums, Lee Pomeroy on bass and Craig Adams on keyboards, tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster, See Tickets and venue box offices.

 

These shows will also enjoy support from two amazing choirs. In London, Kerry will share the stage with the London Show Choir, a vibrant and musically diverse choir who celebrate the worlds of musical theatre, jazz, gospel and classical music. In Manchester and Birmingham, Sing Space Choir will take their place on stage. With over 1,000 members across their 20 national choirs, they bring joyful musical theatre experiences to hundreds of people every day.

 

Kings & Queens follows three previously released solo albums from Kerry. Her debut album, Anthems, was released to huge critical praise in 2010, landing in the top 15 of the UK official albums chart. Anthems was followed by 2014’s self-titled record Kerry Ellis, and 2020’s Feels Like Home.

 

Hailed as the West End’s favourite leading Lady, Kerry was catapulted to fame in 2002 when she landed the role of Meat in the original London cast of We Will Rock You. She has gone onto star in a range of acclaimed productions on both Westend and Broadway, including Les Misérables, Wicked, Oliver! And Cats. Most recently, Kerry starred as Reno Sweeney in the UK and Ireland tour and Barbican Theatre residency of hit musical Anything Goes alongside Denis Lawson.

 

Battlefield is out now, stream and download HERE. Kings & Queens is available to pre-order HERE. Tickets for Kerry’s UK tour are available now via See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices.

 

 

TRACK LISTING

1. Kings & Queens
2. Be Tender With Me Baby
3. Battlefield
4. I Will Find You
5. Mean The World To Me
6. Big Wide World
7. The Only One
8. Fire & Rain
9. Lemonade
10. My All
11. Love Wins
12. Home Again

 

 

UK TOUR DATES

14 May            Salford The Lowry

15 May            Birmingham Town Hall

16 May            London Adelphi

Tickets available from See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices.

Ends

 

Notes for Editors

Press shots available HERE. Credit to © Matt Crockett.

A streaming link of 5 tracks from the album is available HERE. This is not for public use.

Album sleeve notes available HERE.

ABOUT WESTWAY MUSIC

Westway is the UK’s only dedicated Musical Theatre Label and has so far released music by Samantha Barks, John Barrowman, Lee Mead, Ramin Karimloo, Cassidy Janson, Jason Manford, Rachel John, Peter Joback and the original cast recording of West End musical My Son’s A Queer.

 

WEBSITE – www.westwaymusic.com

FACEBOOK – @westwaymusiclabel

INSTAGRAM – @westway.music

TWITTER – @musicwestway

 

 

WEST END AND BROADWAY SUPERSTAR

KERRY ELLIS

ANNOUNCES BRAND NEW ALBUM

KINGS & QUEENS

 

OUT 12 MAY 2023 ON WESTWAY MUSIC

 

MAY 2023 UK TOUR

TICKETS ON SALE FRIDAY 10 FEBUARY

 

• Kings & Queens is available to pre-order HERE
• Featuring Newton Faulkner and Sir Brian May
• Tickets for Kerry’s UK tour on sale on Friday via See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices

8 February 2023: The supremely talented singer, songwriter and actress Kerry Ellis has today announced the release of her 4th studio album, Kings & Queens, out on Westway Music on 12 May 2023. The album can be pre-ordered now here.  Kerry will also embark on a UK tour this Spring, with shows in Salford, Birmingham and London, presented by Case Live. Tickets on sale on Friday via See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices.   Comprised of 12 tracks, including mainly original songs, along with a handful of hand-picked covers, Kings & Queens is the album on which Kerry truly finds her voice, fusing her signature musical theatre style with the contemporary country rock theme with which she has become synonymous.

Recorded in LA and London, and produced by the award-winning Mike Stevens (Annie Lennox, ELO, James Morrison, Take That), the album sees Kerry collaborate with some of music’s biggest names, including esteemed singer-songwriters Newton Faulkner and Jamie Lawson, as well as legendary Queen guitarist and personal friend Sir Brian May.

Opening the album is title track Kings & Queens, a rousing anthemic rock track, combining Kerry’s powerful vocals with a striking melody. Both a tribute to the impending coronation of Charles III and her friendship with Sir Brian May, the song highlights Kerry’s impressive range and formidable vocal ability, cementing her status as a genre-bending and innovative entertainer.

Written by renowned songwriter Charlie Turner especially for Kerry, Battlefield is a heart-rending ballad, evoking a poignant message about the world we live in today. Featuring Sir Brian May on guitar, the song is the latest in a long string of collaborations between Kerry and Brian, with May producing her debut album Anthems in 2010. The pair went onto release a further two albums together, and have performed live as a duo in a number of high profile concerts.

Mean The World To Me was written by Kerry along with icon of British pop Ben Adams, and was inspired by the musical A Star Is Born. A duet with global hitmaker Newton Faulkner, his vocals blend with Kerry’s in perfect harmony, providing the track with elements of Americana while retaining the contemporary theme of the record.

Further original songs include I Will Find You, written by Jamie Lawson; lively country-americana numbers Big Wide World and Lemonade; as well as emotion-charged tracks The Only One, My All and Home Again.

Kings & Queens also includes a selection of stunning cover tracks, including Fire & Rain by James Taylor, and seldom re-recorded Tina Turner track Be Tender With Me Baby, both of which Kerry has reinvented in her own distinct style. Continuing the American Country theme of the album, the record also features reimagined version of Carrie Underwood’s Love Wins, adding a flare of positivity and light to the album.

Kerry said, “I have loved every second of creating this new album. Working with Mike Stevens was a dream, he edged me into a new direction which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. Each song has its own special identity and quality. The Westway team have been brilliant and so supportive and I can’t wait to perform these songs live and for everyone to hear this album – I am incredibly proud of it!”

Director of A&R at Westway Music, Rhydian Roberts, commented “Working with Kerry on this album has been nothing but a complete an utter privilege and a joy. Her talent and professionalism has made the process seamless. It’s been thoroughly enjoyable finding songs for her during the making of the album and, we’ve had the pleasure of working with the industry’s best songwriters, producers and musicians in the process. Having a rock legend in Brian May contribute the album speaks volumes of the calibre of Kerry as an artist and the quality and calibre of the new material included on this album. In Kings & Queens, I really think we’ve found Kerry’s true voice and created a stand out original album which will also take her live show to new heights. I really hope she gets the international recognition that she so justly deserves on release of this album”.

This Spring, Kerry will perform these tracks live for the very first time. Playing at the Salford The Lowry, Birmingham Town Hall and the stunning London Adelphi on 14, 15 and 16 May respectively, tickets are on sale from Friday 10 February.

Kings & Queens follows three previously released solo albums from Kerry. Her debut album, Anthems, was released to great critical acclaim in 2010, landing in the top 15 of the UK official albums chart. Anthems was followed by 2014’s self-titled record Kerry Ellis, and 2020’s Feels Like Home. Further studio albums released by Ellis include 2017’s Golden Days, a collaborative album with Sir Brian May released on Sony Music.

Hailed as the West End’s favourite leading Lady, Kerry was catapulted to fame in 2002 when she landed the role of Meat in the original London cast of We Will Rock You. She has gone onto star in a range of acclaimed productions on both Westend and Broadway, including Les Misérables, Wicked, Oliver! And Cats. Most recently, Kerry starred as Reno Sweeney in the UK and Ireland tour and Barbican Theatre residency of hit musical Anything Goes alongside Denis Lawson.

Kings & Queens is out on 12 May 2023, and available to pre-order HERE. Tickets for Kerry’s UK tour are available from Friday via See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices.

TRACK LISTING

1. Kings & Queens
2. Be Tender With Me Baby
3. Battlefield
4. I Will Find You
5. Mean The World To Me
6. Big Wide World
7. The Only One
8. Fire & Rain
9. Lemonade
10. My All
11. Love Wins
12. Home Again

UK TOUR DATES

14 May            Salford The Lowry

15 May            Birmingham Town Hall

16 May            London Adelphi

Tickets available from See Tickets, Ticketmaster and venue box offices.

Ends

Notes for Editors

 

Press shots available HERE. Credit to © Matt Crockett.

A streaming link of 5 tracks from the album is available HERE. This is not for public use.

Album sleeve notes available HERE.

 

ABOUT WESTWAY MUSIC

 

Westway is the UK’s only dedicated Musical Theatre Label and has so far released music by Samantha Barks, John Barrowman, Lee Mead, Ramin Karimloo, Cassidy Janson, Jason Manford, Rachel John, Peter Joback and the original cast recording of West End musical My Son’s A Queer.

WEBSITE – www.westwaymusic.com

FACEBOOK – @westwaymusiclabel

INSTAGRAM – @westway.music

TWITTER – @musicwestway

 

 

SIR CLIFF RICHARD ANNOUNCES RELEASE OF FIRST CHRISTMAS ALBUM IN ALMOST 20 YEARS

 

THE ONLY ARTIST IN THE WORLD TO SCORE TOP FIVE ALBUMS IN EIGHT CONSECUTIVE DECADES

 

‘CHRISTMAS WITH CLIFF’

RELEASED 25 NOVEMBER 2022

 

• Available digitally, on CD and in red and white vinyl editions
• Pre-order: https://cliffrichard.lnk.to/ChristmasWithCliff

 

6 September 2022: Today, Cliff Richard announced the release of his first dedicated Christmas album in 19 years, ‘Christmas With Cliff’ will be out on East West Records on 25 November 2022. ‘Christmas With Cliff’ features 13 Christmas classics and brand-new Christmas tracks from this British music legend synonymous for his love of Christmas. Available digitally, on CD, very special red vinyl and a limited run of white vinyl exclusive to Amazon, ‘Christmas With Cliff’ can be pre-ordered now from https://cliffrichard.lnk.to/ChristmasWithCliff

The only artist in the world to achieve top 5 albums in eight consecutive decades, ‘Christmas With Cliff’ sees Cliff fresh from celebrating his 80^th Birthday with newfound passion, bringing together an album of classics such as It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year, Sleigh Ride, Joy to the World, When a Child is Born, and many more in his own distinct style. The album also includes new Christmas songs First Christmas, Six Days After Christmas (Happy New Year) and Heart of Christmas.

Cliff Richard said: “I have always loved being in recording studios ever since Studio 2, Abbey Road, in 1958. I recorded this album in “Criteria Studios” in Miami Florida – 4,427 miles away from Abbey Road and once again I felt that I was in a world of my own! I had the help of two producers, Sam Hollander and Chris Walden. They guided me through the “well known” Christmas songs and freed me to sing them my way. They had differing approaches to the songs that I asked them to produce for me, and they gave this album the dynamics that I had hoped for. This album is not just mine. It belongs to all of us involved in creating it and I hope that we add a little something special to your Christmas season.”

His first Christmas album since the release of ‘Cliff at Christmas’ 19 years ago in 2003, Cliff is famous for owning Christmas in three decades with the release of #1 hits Mistletoe And Wine in 1988, Saviour’s Day in 1990 and The Millennium Prayer in 1999/2000.

‘Christmas With Cliff’ was recorded in 2022 in Criteria Studios, Miami and produced by Sam Hollander and Chris Walden.

TRACKLISTING 

1. It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2. Sleigh Ride

3. First Christmas

4. Joy to the World

5. Jingle Bell Rock

6. Blue Christmas

7. When a Child Is Born

8. Mary, Did You Know?

9. Heart of Christmas

10. Go Tell It on the Mountain

11. Oh Come, All Ye Faithful

12. Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree

13. Six Days After Christmas (Happy New Year)

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/sircliffrichard

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk-zULhX5gDvt9kTDeJaubA

New series of Westway Sessions announced for this summer.

 

Line-up includes Bonnie Langford and Matt Henry.

Thursday June 9^th: The Westway Sessions continue at music venue Piano, Smithfield. Set in a smart basement near The Barbican and boasting a superb setting for live music, the Westway Sessions announce their second leg of concerts. The first season, featuring artists including Cassidy Janson, John Owen Jones and Rachel John, completely sold out and will once again be hosted by new music and film label Westway. Joining national treasure Bonnie Langford and Matt Henry (Drifters Girl, Kinky Boots) on the brand-new line up: Natalie Paris (SIX), Aimee Atkinson (SIX, Pretty Woman), Cedric Neal (Back to the Future), Jennifer Tierney (Come From Away), Luke Bayer (Everyone’s Talking About Jamie), Alice Fearn (Wicked, Come From Away) Rob Houchen (Les Mis) and Sophie Evans (Wizard of Oz, Wicked).

 

 

Natalie Paris, Sunday 24^th July

Natalie trained at The Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts as well as RADA and has numerous West End credits to her name. She was the original Jane Seymour in Six The Musical, where she was nominated for an Olivier and also features on the original cast recording which has received over 200,000,000 streams.

Also, part of SVN, a girl band made up of the Original West End queens of Six The Musical. They have their upcoming headline show at the O2 Islington on 7th August and will taking part in the first ever Musical Theatre Convention Musical Con in October.

 

Aimie Atkinson, Monday 25^th July

Having originated the role of Katherine Howard in smash hit phenomenon ‘Six The Musical’ Aimie Atkinson was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best supporting Actress. Now currently starring in Pretty Woman the musical as lead Vivian Ward. Aimie has starred in varied productions and tours as well as playing Nikki Martin in BBC Doctors. Aimie is also the Winner of the prestigious BBC Radio 2 Voice of Musical Theatre award and the voice of Astana. Aimie’s debut album ‘Step Inside Love’ is available for download on all online music platforms.

 

Cedric Neal, Tuesday 26^th July

Currently staring as Goldie Wilson in Back to the Future, Adelphi Theatre, Cedric Neal, was a Semi-finalist on the 2019 series of The Voice UK and made his West End debut as Berry Gordy in the original London cast of Motown – The Musical. Roles on Broadway followed, as well as both film and television. Cedric won a Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor, Resident Musical in 2013 for his character as James “Thunder” Early.

 

Rob Houchen, Tuesday 31^st July

 

After completing his studies at the Guildford School of Acting in musical theatre, Rob has had a successful and varied West End career.

Rob, who has had roles in Les Misérables, The Light in the Piazza, City of Angels and more, will present a plethora of tunes from both the worlds of musical theatre and pop, as well as his own original material, which can be found on all major streaming platforms.

 

Jennifer Tierney, Sunday 7^th August

 

Jennifer Tierney is a British actress and Mezzo-Soprano singer from Greater London. She returns to the set of musical Come From Away this season. Working in the industry for a decade now, Jennifer has amassed an impressive CV of West End and touring roles. On the 7^th of August Jennifer will bring her stunning voice and engaging character to Piano Smithfield.

 

Luke Bayer, Monday 8^th August

 

Luke Bayer is probably most well-known for appearing as Alternate Jamie in the original West End cast of Everybody’s Talking about Jamie (for which he won a Broadway World Award). He has appeared in numerous Musicals, most recently as Mark in the acclaimed revival of RENT at the Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester.

Born and raised in North Yorkshire Luke first came to the public’s attention in 2007 when he got through to judges’ houses. He is due to appear in the European Premiere of One Man Musical, DIVA: Live From Hell at the Turbine Theatre this Summer.

 

Alice Fearn, Sunday 14^th August

 

Alice Fearn, currently to be seen as Capt. Beverley Bass and others in the award-winning West End musical Come From Away, is bringing a show featuring the hits and the music of one of her greatest inspirations, Celine Dion. Following Celine’s music through the decades, featuring her most renowned duet partners and her biggest musical moments!

Having stamped herself as one of the West End’s leading ladies in recent years, Alice has starred in Les Miserables, Shrek The Musical, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and famously as green witch Elphaba in Wicked.

 

Sophie Evans, Monday 15^th August

 

Welsh singer and actress, Sophie Evans, came to prominence in 2010 when she was picked from over 10,000 hopefuls to appear on the hugely popular BBC series Over The Rainbow. After making it to the final at only 17, Sophie was named runner-up and subsequently chosen by Lord Andrew Lloyd-Webber to don the legendary ruby slippers and play the alternate Dorothy in selected performances of The Wizard of Oz at the London Palladium in 2011. Sophie has performed in concerts around the world for over ten years alongside performers such as Kerry Ellis, Michael Ball, Katherine Jenkins, Alfie Boe, Paul Potts, Russell Watson and more.

 

Matt Henry, Tuesday 16^th August

 

Award-winning West End actor, singer, songwriter, and artist: Matt Henry MBE is coming to Piano, Smithfield! Awarded an MBE in the Queens New Year’s Honors list 2017 for his work in Musical Theatre, Grammy nominated for his solo performance for the London KinkyBoots cast recording. Winner of The Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Lola in Kinky Boots and voted by London theatre goers as Best Actor in a Musical at the What’s On Stage awards. Currently performing in Olivier nominated show The Drifters Girl musical at the Garrick theatre Playing the role of ‘Clyde Mcphatter. Matt is also billed as one of the shows co-creators.

 

Bonnie Langford, Sunday 21^st August

 

Bonnie Langford has packed a wealth of experience in her outstanding career which has embraced success in theatre, television, film and radio in both Britain and America.

Having made her theatre debut in the West End at the tender age of seven in Gone with the Wind at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, a multitude of roles in musical theatre, and on both the big and small screen followed.

Bonnie is currently playing the role of Evangeline Harcourt in Anything Goes (UK Tour).

 

Westway is a new music and film platform dedicated to the music of theatre. Formed in 2020 it has so far released projects including Samantha Barks, Ramin Karimloo, Lee Mead, Joe Stilgoe, Rachel John and Cassidy Janson.

 

Tickets available here: https://www.westwaymusic.com/tickets

 

FB @westwaymusiclabel | IG @westway.music | Twitter @MusicWestway

 

 

Box Office Radio are once again the media partner for the Sessions.

 

 

On April 29th 2022 Westway Music will release international acclaimed singer, pianist and songwriter Joe Stilgoe’s new album Theatre.

Brought up in a theatrical family, this album is Joe’s love letter to the theatre. At a time when theatres are only just getting back to (show)business each song has been chosen or written with the aim of transporting the listener straight into that hushed auditorium, ready to be absolutely steamrollered by the mixture of emotions experienced as the lights go down and the curtain goes up.

“TAKE ME BACK TO THE THEATRE”

Says Joe: ‘I perform in theatres, I write music for theatres, I love being in theatres and I love seeing things in theatres. In the last two years, the thing I have missed most is theatre. My first job when I am on stage is to entertain. That’s what I love doing. I love being a musician at the same time, but making people laugh and cry and become part of what’s happening on stage is, I’ve realised, the whole reason for me being up there.  I wanted to share that taste of theatre, that joy of theatres through this new album.’

This is Joe’s ninth studio album and continues Joe’s genius for taking great songs from the past and giving them an exciting and relevant new spin that makes them sound as if they were just written. Theatre turns the spotlight on some of the greatest songwriters past and present from Kander & Ebb, Kurt Weil and Stephen Sondheim to Pasek & Paul.

‘When I started searching for songs for this album I really focused on the lyrics. With Cabaret the first line “What good is sitting alone in your room? Come hear the music play…” is so well known but yet still managed to grab me, and I thought, this has such relevance coming out of the pandemic and where we are now. It’s incredible how some older songs seem to capture a current mood or a moment. So with the help of my producers Steve and Tom, we’ve taken Cabaret in every direction our brains could think of, bringing to mind cabaret, theatre, madness, ecstasy and debauchery (much like a Downing Street party). We gave it a new piano concerto/ big band direction – Gershwin and Bernstein fighting with Kander and Ebb,’ says Joe. 

Joe also shows his ever-evolving brilliance as a songwriter, a skill that has now taken him into the world of musicals and theatrical songwriting. During the lockdown he composed a musical for Chichester Festival Theatre to add to his already impressive body of work. Having only started writing for theatre in 2017 (The Jungle Book) Joe has now written 5 musicals (including the touring family shows Zog and Zog & The Flying Doctors), and he has just been commissioned to write a new musical with Jason Manford for the Bolton Octagon, in which they also both star. He has written three new songs for Theatre as well as the triumphant overture Theatreland (orchestrated by John Wilson’s former arranger Andrew Cottee) – these include Mr Matcham, a musical tribute to the prolific theatre architect Frank Matcham.

“IT MEANS THAT MUCH TO BE FRANK”

‘Whenever I play a theatre I take a moment to take in the architecture – the opulence and otherworldliness that transports you away from your everyday life. Frank Matcham’s designs were and are still today part of the magic of theatre. We’ve missed the theatres themselves as much as the entertainment that goes on inside them over the last two years. With the help of the wonderful Simon Callow, we pay tribute to the greatest theatre designer there ever was with a pop odyssey detailing his genius.’

Other new songs include Take Me Back (To The Theatre) and Bring Down The Curtain, which celebrate the fact that despite everything that’s gone on – and is going on- the theatre will still be there bringing people together and creating escapism and joy for so many, as the lyrics say:

’You can bring down the curtain

But don’t stop the show.’

 

Simon Callow is not the only theatrical guest on Joe’s album. Joe is joined on the album by a star- studded theatrical line -up of special guests: Anna-Jane Casey, Louise Dearman, recent Olivier-nominee Omari Douglas, Hadley Fraser, Le Gateau Chocolat, Jason Manford, Trevor Dion Nicholas, Jamie Parker and  Rebecca Trehearn. Tom Richards conducts and also appears as a guest playing soprano saxophone on the beautiful Lost In The Stars. Tom’s regular gigs including playing in Tim Minchin and Jamie Cullum’s bands, but as an arranger his star is really on the rise, with recent work including the new Michael Buble album.

The orchestrations are one of the real stars of the show on this album – Joe has worked not only with Tom Richards but also Callum Au, fresh from work on the Cats film, Evan Jolly – a noted film and TV composer, and the aforementioned Andrew Cottee. This quartet are the best in the country and in their own ways they bring so much class, humour, musical ideas, soul and emotion to the music.

To make the arrangements sound as glorious as possible, Joe and Tom both chose to work with an orchestra that many consider the finest in the world for this style of music –  the incredible Metropole Orkest from the Netherlands, who have featured on records from artists including Laura Mvula, Gregory Porter and Jacob Collier. The sessions took place just before Christmas 2022 in Hilversum, the home of the orchestra, and the recording is bolstered by the choir of Capital Voices, directed by Annie Skates.

Theatre is produced by Steve Power and Tom Richards.

“DON’T STOP THE SHOW”

To celebrate the album release, Joe and the BBC Concert Orchestra will be performing at the Barbican in London on Monday 2^nd May. Tickets are available at https://www.barbican.org.uk/whats-on/2022/event/joe-stilgoe-the-bbc-concert-orchestra

Joe is a true modern-day entertainer, known as a performer of wit, style and a level of musicianship that has seen him recognised as one of the best singer-pianists in the world. Joe’s originality lies in writing songs that feel like they’ve been around for years, and adapting classics that sound as though they were just written.

Joe has released 8 albums, 5 of which have topped the UK Jazz chart.  Joe works extensively on radio, including hosting and starring in BBC Radio 2’s Friday Night is Music Night  and being a regular guest on BBC Radio 3 and 4 and Jazz FM. Joe tours in the UK and internationally, and has performed with orchestras and bands including, The John Wilson Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, BBC Concert Orchestra, BBC Big Band and the Lahti Symphony.

On stage Joe has performed in High Society at The Old Vic and Guys And Dolls at The Royal Albert Hall. Joe’s TV appearances include performances at the Olivier Awards, in the BBC biopic Babs, and as host of BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year. Joe’s natural ability to entertain and his musicality have led to him performing for The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh’s 70th Wedding Anniversary at Windsor, and private performances for Prince Charles at St James’s Palace and the Duchess of Cornwall at The Ritz in London.

Joe is in demand as a composer and lyricist. Recent collaborations include, The Jungle Book (UK tour), The Midnight Gang (Chichester Festival Theatre),  ZOG (UK tour), ZOG & the Flying Doctors (Rose Theatre and UK tour) and A Greener Garden (Chichester Festival Theatre).

 

Release date: 29.04.2022

 

1. Theatreland
2. Take Me Back To The Theatre
3. Cabaret
4. Lost In The Stars
5. Does Anybody Have A Map
6. On Broadway
7. Mr Matcham
8. The King’s New Clothes
9. Gonna Build A Mountain
10. No More/Nothing’s Gonna Harm You/Children Will Listen
11. Bring Down The Curtain
12. 1 Jellice Songs For Jellicle Cats

For more information check out:  www.joestilgoe.com

Social handles:

Twitter: @joestilgoe | Facebook: @joestilgoeofficial | Instagram: @thejoestilgoe

Foe all media enquiries,  please contact:

Daniel Hinchliffe

daniel@thesoundcheckgroup.com

 

The Westway Sessions is a new intimate concert series launching on 9th May at music venue Piano, Smithfield. Set in a smart basement near The Barbican and boasting a superb setting for live music, it is set to host some of the most exciting names in Musical Theatre, hosted by new music and film label Westway.

 

 

Monday 9 May – Rob Houchen / Emma Kingston

Fresh from playing the leading role of Heather Chandler in Heathers: The Musical and about to star as Julie Jordan in Kilworth House’s production of Carousel, Emma Kingston is reunited with her Les Miserables co-star Rob Houchen. Emma and Rob often sing together in Various concerts up and down the country and around the world. Singing songs from West Side Story, Evita and putting new spins on some old classics, you’re set for an evening of exceptional vocals and enticing storytelling. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/1e859b33-087c-4844-bfe1-949a7bc9eab1

Tuesday 10 May – Rachel John

As one of the West End’s most versatile performers, Rachel has appeared in successful West End productions for the last 17 years. In 2017, she opened as Angelica Schuyler in the original West End cast of Hamilton, a role for which she received critical acclaim and gained an Olivier Award nomination. Rachel is looking forward to performing in this intimate venue where she’ll sing songs that are close to her heart, from a broad range of genres, including musical theatre, pop and gospel. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/1faf2a60-3389-45af-8950-1fbab71730c4

Sunday 15 May – Alice Fearn

Alice Fearn, currently to be seen as Capt. Beverley Bass and others in the award winning west end musical Come From Away, is bringing her new cabaret to the * . Having stamped herself as one of the West End’s leading ladies in recent years, Alice has starred in Les Miserables, Shrek The Musical, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and famously as green witch Elphaba in Wicked. At this intimate cabaret, Alice will explore the journey over her career spanning over 15 years. It will feature never before seen songs from the musicals and the writers that have inspired her and drive her to continue in this wonderful creative world. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/a282b524-7308-4bfe-bdcf-eae681945d45

Monday 16 May – John Owen Jones

John Owen-Jones is a West End and Broadway actor and singer. John is best known for his
performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and as The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera. John remains the youngest actor in West End history to have played Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and has performed as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera nearly 2000 times. John has appeared in concert at the The Royal Albert Hall in London, Bunkamura Orchard Hall in Tokyo, the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow and Carnegie Hall in New York. Also for BBC Proms in the Park concerts, toured the UK in concert with Katherine Jenkins and has been a special guest in concert with Michael Ball, Alfie Boe, and Bryn Terfel.
John has released six solo albums. ‘Hallelujah’ EP (2006) ‘John Owen-Jones’‘Unmasked’‘Rise’‘Bring Him Home’‘Spotlight’and ‘The Christmas Album’. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/69df4c6e-15b9-4691-a45b-997086c480a5

Sunday 22 May – Kelly Mathieson

Scottish Born actress and singer Kelly Mathieson made her name in musical theatre when she landed the prestigious lead role of Christine Daaé in the original production of ‘Phantom of the Opera’ in London’s West End. She has gone on to star in concert halls and theatres in the UK and overseas. Kelly will bring her stunning voice and engaging character to Piano Smithfield, where you can look forward to an eclectic mix of songs from musical theatre classics to Scottish folk songs. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/857b5014-6033-4067-ac63-988906fd2b65

Tuesday 24 May – Jenna Lee James

From the West End of Glasgow to London’s West End.
In this exclusive new show, Jenna takes you on a journey through her incredible career from humble beginnings in Scotland to making her debut in London’s Theatreland, and beyond. With music and stories from performances all around the world including The London Palladium, Madison Square Garden and Hollywood Bowl to name a few.
Join Jenna for an intimate evening of entertainment as she performs songs from her debut album, ‘On The Edge’, some musical theatre favourites. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/34dce4ad-9bdd-4c29-9994-b8f43e4aacd9

Sunday 29 May –  Cassidy Janson

Oliver Award Winner and star of & Juliet and Beautiful the Musical Cassidy Janson brings her exciting show to @piano for one night only as part of this series of Westway Sessions.
Cassidy brings you an hour of her favourite tunes unplugged. Ranging from Carole King, to Lady Gaga to her own originals. Look forward to a night of Cassidy’s dry humour and her powerful and unique vocals. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/74b5eae8-19ac-4372-8f92-f1d2ffb0d1d2

Monday 30 May –  Lee Mead

West End and TV star Lee Mead is one of the UK’s favourite performers and has starred in West End shows including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Wicked and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, as well as on our television screens in Holby City and Casualty. This is a fantastic opportunity to see and hear Lee up close and personal in this intimate venue, where he’ll perform favourites from his broad repertoire. https://www.musicglue.com/westway/events/04541dc7-21ad-4d48-8bb6-9be363c1bc2c

 

 

www.westwaymusic.com/events

‘The Music of Theatre’

FB @westwaymusiclabel | IG @westway.music | Twitter @MusicWestway

Westway is a new music and film platform dedicated to the music of theatre. Formed in 2020 it has so far released projects including Samantha Barks, Ramin Karimloo, Lee Mead and Cassidy Janson.

West End Sensation Rachel John announces
debut album

From My Lips to God’s Ear
Due for release 8th April 2022

Rachel John shot to fame with her Olivier nominated role in smash hit musical
Hamilton. As one of the West End’s most versatile performers, she has been
appearing in successful productions for the last 17 years. She made her West End
debut in Disney’s The Lion King in 2005 and has gone on to play major roles in We
Will Rock You, Sister Act, Memphis, The Bodyguard and The Girl from The North
Country. But it was in December 2017 that she opened as Angelica Schuyler in the
original West End cast of Hamilton, a role for which she received critical acclaim
and was nominated for an Olivier Award.

Now Rachel has returned to one of her other musical passions, gospel and has
recorded a stunning gospel album, From My Lips to God’s Ear, performing songs
that she has listened to and sung herself throughout her life.
The Executive Producer of the album is renowned West End and Broadway
performer Ramin Karimloo who suggested to Rachel that his company, Mercy
Productions, could record a filmed concert at the NTA Church in Tooting in 2021.The
event was both filmed and recorded for this album. Karimloo is making the six film
episodes exclusively available every week from 11th March on his Fan.Direct site:
https://www.fan.direct/ramin/

Neil O’Brien, Managing Director of Westway Music, said: ‘I was introduced to Rachel
last year during lockdown by Ramin. When I watched the film and heard the music
and saw Rachel’s performance, I could hear a great album and we set about working
to make it something that would really do justice to the performances. The album has
been mixed by Tim Hamil under the guidance of our A&R Director Rhydian Roberts
and we believe we are releasing a stunning debut performance that demonstrates
just why Rachel John is one of the leading vocalists of her generation and someone
we know will shine brightly in the future.’
A single of lead track, Blessed Assurance, will be released digitally on 18th March.
The album track-listing and Rachel’s personal notes on each song are here:

1. Blessed Assurance (This Is My Story)
This song emphases the safety, surety and confidence I have in being loved and
held by God. The hymn was written in 1878 by blind American poet, lyricist and
composer, Fanny Crosby, who penned over 8,000 hymns.

2. I’ve Found A Friend in Jesus (Lily Of The Valley)
This song expresses the friendship, comfort and support found in Jesus. It lists all
the hardships you can face in life, but I am reassured that I have a friend and can
face these situations with peace in my heart.

3. And Can It Be? (Amazing Love)
This song is a rhetorical question. It is a feeling of gratitude for being a recipient of a
love I do not deserve. Charles Wesley wrote over 6,500 hymns and this one was
penned because he marvelled at the Love he himself had received.

4. How Great Thou Art (Then Sings My Soul)
How Great Thou Art is a very reflective song. It looks at nature and creation and it
makes my soul sing out to Him and about Him.

5. Have You Been To Jesus? (Are You Washed?) / There Is A Fountain
During the Easter period we sing these two songs and reflect on His crucifixion and
more specifically His blood. It is a strange paradox to some ears, but we celebrate
His beautiful sacrifice and our freedom.

6. I Will Sing The Wondrous Story
My voice and my singing is my ultimate gift to God. I love to use my voice to tell God
and the world how grateful I am that I know Him and that He loves me. I will keep
telling my ‘story’ forever, in this world and the next.

7. When I Survey The Wondrous Cross / I Stand Amazed (How Marvellous)
For me, When I Survey The Wondrous Cross sums up the Easter message. I can
see myself standing and looking at the cross and the lyrics paint the picture of both
sorrow and happiness.
I Stand Amazed is another hymn that allows me to gaze at the cross and think about
His amazing love. The song warms my heart.

8. The Love Of God is Greater Far / Oh How He Loves Me (I Have A Friend A
Precious A Friend)
The song The Love of God is Greater Far, describes beautifully His love and all the
metaphors used explore the depth, height and breadth of his love.
Oh How He Loves Me, Like the previous song, is a reflection on His love and how
this draws me close and I feel a closeness to Him.

9. Jesus Shall Lead Me (Where He Shall Lead Me) / I Will Guide Thee With
Mine Eye / Guide Me Oh Thou Great Jehovah
These three songs are about God’s guidance in daily life. I am asking for, and
reminding myself, that he is the one who is looking after my life, so I can rest under
his guidance.

www.westwaymusic.com
‘The Music of Theatre’
FB @westwaymusiclabel | IG @westway.music | Twitter @MusicWestway
Westway is a new music and film platform dedicated to the music of
theatre. Formed in 2020 it has so far released projects including
Samantha Barks, Ramin Karimloo, Lee Mead and Cassidy Janson.

For all media enquiries, please contact Daniel Hinchliffe at Soundcheck PR
E: daniel@thesoundcheckgroup.com
W: www.thesoundcheckgroup.com

ITALIAN POP–LYRIC TENOR LUCA MINNELLI TEAMS UP WITH TWO INTERNATIONAL MUSIC LEGENDS BRIAN MAY AND KERRY ELLIS ON HIS DEBUT SINGLE FOREVER AND EVER WITH YOU OUT NOW ON ALL DIGITAL PLATFORMS

 

 

 

Forever and Ever With You is the debut single by Italian pop-lyric tenor Luca Minnelli.
Minnelli invited two of the world’s biggest music icons to feature on the single: legendary Queen founder and guitarist Brian May and West-End and Broadway star Kerry Ellis. May both played on the track and co-produced it with Maestro Diego Basso, one of Italy’s most highly acclaimed orchestra directors. This stunning line-up of international artists adds an extra-special touch to a new leg in Minelli’s glittering career.
Forever and Ever With You is a mesmerizing track that weaves symphony and rock with a magical ‘three-voice’ harmony. Minnelli’s virtuoso vocals wed May’s electric guitar effortlessly to craft the quintessential example of what can happen when opera and rock collide. The vocals of Ellis, who starred in the original London production of We Will Rock You, combine with Minnelli’s to carve an ambitious musical pathway.
A symphony-orchestra intro leads into the two sets of alternating vocals that culminate in a seamless harmony; they then fade to make way for a triumphant staccato guitar solo that is Brian May at his melodical best. These three different worlds reach an intimate understanding, mirror each other, then blend into one.
Forever and Ever With You showcases Luca Minnelli as a versatile, all-round artist who can turn his extraordinary talent to international sounds, as well as to classical arias and Italian romance. In doing so, he has gifted his audience with a multi-faceted gemstone that has all the qualities to become a massive chart-topping hit.

 

For all media enquiries, please contact Daniel Hinchlliffe at Soundcheck PR
daniel@thesoundcheckgroup.com
www.thesoundcheckgroup.com

Immediate release 19th OCTOBER 2021

SINGING AND MUSICAL THEATRE SENSATION KERRY ELLIS TO RELEASE HER AUTOBIOGRAPHY THIS SUMMER WITH A SPECIAL FOREWORD BY THE LEGENDARY BRIAN MAY.

KERRY ELLIS: BUMPKIN TO BROADWAY is a touching reflection into the career so far of a West End and Broadway star, who first amazed audiences as the first British lead in multi-award winning musical WICKED and has gone onto to perform around the world and partner with an icon in music history.

Fans of not only musical theatre will enjoy this thorough and humble insight into the life and career of one of the UK’s most established performers and recording artists, Kerry Ellis.

KERRY ELLIS: BUMPKIN TO BROADWAY is to be released in hardback in the UK 12th NOVEMBER 2021 and is published by Playdead Press. It will be available online and in bookshops.

BACKCOVER BLURB:

A fascinating insight into the journey behind the unique career of singer, actress and the West End’s favourite star.

BUMPKIN TO BROADWAY is a touching reflection into the career so far of a West End and Broadway star. Kerry Ellis first amazed audiences in WE WILL ROCK YOU before becoming the first British lead in multi-award winning musical WICKED. Since then, Kerry has gone onto to perform around the world and partner with an icon in music history.

Featuring top tips for budding performers plus anecdotes and notes from leading industry figures. This book is not just for fans of musical theatre; BUMPKIN TO BROADWAY will be enjoyed by fellow actors, music admirers and loved by anyone who enjoys live performance.

‘Britain’s most beautiful voice!’ Brian May

‘This generation’s Elaine Paige, with a similarly soaring, scorching voice’ Mark Shenton

ISBN: 978-1-910067-90-1

RELEASE DATE: 12th NOVEMBER 2021

RRP: £18.99

FORMAT: Hardback

PP: 252

PUBLISHER: Playdead Press

DISTRIBUTOR: Gazelle Books

-ends-

PLEASE SEE FOLLOWING PAGES FOR NOTES AND COVER IMAGE

Notes to Editors

Contacts:

For interviews or any other media enquiries, in the first instance contact Elliot Robinson via email: elliot@playdeadpress.com. Kerry’s management can be contacted by emailing Daniel via: Daniel@thesoundcheckgroup.com

Further information:

Further titles released by Playdead Press can be found on our website – playdeadpress.com – and more information about Kerry Ellis’ forthcoming autobiography and the launch of the title will be announced in due course.

About:

Playdead Press is an independent publisher based in the UK.

For any enquiries please contact Elliot Robinson on elliot@playdeadpress.com.

playdeadpress.com