‘We need artists that speak up’: Rap duo Bob Vylan climb the charts after Glastonbury controversy

Punk group Bob Vylan has surged to the top of the UK charts despite pushback from governments, as fans and other musicians express support for their anti-genocide message

Bob Vylan’s album has surged to the top of the charts(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

As the saying goes: all press is good press. Despite (or perhaps because of) Bob Vylan’s highly controversial Glastonbury performance, the rap duo surged to the top spot on the UK’s Official Hip Hop and R&B Albums Chart with their 2024 record Humble As The Sun.

This comes after the punk group had their US visas revoked after frontman Bobby Vylan led the Glastonbury crowd through a “Death to the IDF” chant. Both Radar Festival in the UK and France’s Kave Fest also pulled the act from their line-up following the uproar.

The BBC has since stated that they regret broadcasting “deeply regret” broadcasting “such offensive and deplorable behaviour”. However, the sentiment hasn’t been shared by everyone. Multiple prominent artists, including Massive Attack and Amyl & The Sniffers, have spoken out in support of the rap group.

Bobby Vylan
Bob Vylan received backlash for their “death to the IDF” chant(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

READ MORE: BRIAN READE: ‘Hypocrisy over Glastonbury IDF death chant is ludicrous’

Upon news of their chart success, Bob Vylan took to X: “Ban Bob Vylan? The people said ‘Nah’. We need artists that speak up. Our album ‘Humble As The Sun’ is back in the charts and, as an independent band releasing music on our own label, it shows the power of the people. You can’t get dropped if you own the label. Thank you all!”

Their comment section was filled with support from fans. One said: “The people resonate with what’s real, you will gain more from representing the majority interest than you ever will being a sell out…”

“Thank you! Can’t believe we need to explain this to people, but the vast majority of people living on this planet are indeed anti-genocide,” a second added. “I’m buying some of your music just off general principle!” another wrote.

Another commenter also suggested that the pushback against the group had the opposite of its intended effect. They said: “You didn’t get silenced. You got more famous. Up until 2 weeks ago I had no clue who you were now I have your album.”

Kneecap, who have received similar criticism over their vocal support for Palestine, have also seen chart success, with their debut album Fine Art reaching number five.

The BBC refused to livestream the Belfast rap trio during their Glastonbury set and instead played an edited version of the clip on their iPlayer. This came after Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh (stage name Mo Chara) was charged with terrorism over allegedly displaying a Hezbollah flag at a London gig last year.

Mo Chara, DJ Provaí and Móglaí Bap of Kneecap perform on the West Holts stage during day four of Glastonbury festival 2025 at Worthy Farm
The BBC refused to livestream Kneecap’s Glastonbury set(Image: WireImage)

However, as with Bob Vylan, many other artists were vocal in their support for the group and their message. Posted to Instagram stories, the Australian group Amyl & The Sniffers wrote: “The British media in a frenzy about Bob Vylan and Kneecap but artists all weekend at Glastonbury from pop to rock to rap to punk to DJs spoke up onstage and there were toned of flags on every streamed set.”

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They added: “Trying to make it look like just a couple of isolated incidents and a couple of ‘bad bands’ so it appears the public isn’t as anti-genocide as it is, and trying to make it look like Bob and Kneecap are one-offs, instead of that the status quo has shifted majorly and that people are concerned and desperate for our governments to listen.”

Wireless Festival fans are only just realising star performed at £4 show in London

Rapper Drake is headlining Wireless Festival 2025 this weekend at Finsbury Park in London – and many fans are only realising one thing about the Canadian superstar

Drake will be back in the UK this weekend as he headlines Wireless Festival(Image: GETTY)

Wireless Festival is returning with a bang this weekend with Drake headlining the gig after a much anticipated wait. Earlier this week the Canadian singer’s private jet named ‘Air Drake’ was spotted at Exeter Airport. An onlooker managed to snap a photo of the distinctive sky-blue aircraft and shared it with DevonLive, commenting: “Drake’s private jet is parked up at Exeter Airport.”

With weekend tickets priced up to £388, and the superstar flying over in style, it is a far cry from his early days in London. Recently fans were reminiscing on how far the star has come, and how he’s remained humble only his journey. He was previously spotted performing in London at a £4 concert.

A post was shared on X and TikTok recently which showed him making a guest appearance at the concert. One individual shared on X: “Never forget when Drake showed up at a $5 [£4] show in London. I’m convinced Drake would rather be a UK citizen.”

“He gets so much love more love from the UK than he does from America,” commented one.

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READ MORE: Fans say the same thing as Wireless line-up released four days before festival

“Drake gets super love in the UK,” noted another. “One of my favourite videos ever,” said another after viewing the clip.

One other pointed out: “It’s these little little things that Drake does that make people love him… that’s what they don’t understand.”

Another said: “People don’t get that Drakes culture when he shows up to events like this in the UK. It’s these moments that have made him one of the carriers of the culture.”

So fans are expecting big things from the beloved star this weekend.

The 38-year-old previously made surprise appearances at Wireless. He made a guest appearance at Wireless Festival in 2021, where he joined Future on stage. He also made a surprise appearance at Wireless Festival in 2018.

Who else is performing at Wireless Festival 2025?

Some 20 new names have now been added to the official line up. Each night will reflect the cream of Black music, celebrating a coming-together of global rap, R&B, Afrobeats, dancehall, grime, and trap.

New acts revealed include Leon Thomas, KWN, Odeal, Roy Woods, Sailorr, TBA, Nippa, and Kamilla Rose on Friday. Saturday will see the likes of BigXThaPlug, Lancey Foux, Nemzzz, Fimiguerrero, Sahbabii, Len, Chy Cartier, YT and Kenny Allstar perform.

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Sunday attendees will be able to see Vybz Kartel, Popcaan, Spice, Masicka, Uncle Waffles, Darkoo, Odumodublvck, Skeete and Izzy Bossy. Drake will headline all three days.

Are there any Wireless tickets left?

There was a limited number of tickets were released on Monday (July 7 2025) and are currently on sale now through Ticketmaster until the final release sells out.

Top-rated electric toothbrush that ‘feels dentist clean’ has over 50% off on Amazon Prime Day

Shoppers can bag this Oral-B electric toothbrush for less than half price on Amazon Prime Day – as people say it leaves their teeth as clean as a trip to the dentist

People say their teeth are as clean as a visit to the dentist (stock photo)(Image: Getty Images/Cultura RF)

With Amazon Prime Day in full swing, one product that has been slashed by over half price is the Oral-B iO3 electric toothbrush which shoppers say leaves their teeth feeling “dentist clean”.

Originally £189.99, it’s on sale for £69.99 for Amazon Prime Day with 69% off until today. The electric toothbrush promises healthier gums in just one week and claims to move 100 percent more plaque compared to a manual toothbrush.

It’s the ultimate gadget for your teeth that combines high-tech features with top-notch cleaning power as it a light ring sensor which has a dentist-recommended two-minute brush timer. You can also personalise your brushing by choosing among three different cleaning modes – Daily Clean, Sensitive and Whitening.

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Oral-B iO3 Electric Toothbrush
The Oral-B iO3 Electric Toothbrush is less than half price

With its magnetic iO technology, it’s all about efficiency, giving you a thorough clean without being harsh on your gums. The iO 3 electric toothbrush features Oral-B’s best technology, combining a dentist-inspired round brush head with micro-vibrating bristles for a professional purifying clean feel at home.

The clever technology also has a Smart Pressure Sensor, which helps prevent you from brushing either too hard or too softly to better protect your gums. The Gum Guard alerts you to time spent brushing with too much pressure and with a sleek design, coming in four different colours as well as a handy travel case, you can easily bring it with you on your travels.

Amazon shoppers have given the toothbrush glowing reviews with an impressive 4.5 out of 5 rating. One shopper said: “This toothbrush is the best one I’ve ever purchased, highly recommend it. Honestly, my teeth feels dentist clean due to the new i03 high quality build and powerful mechanism.”

A second said: “This is definitely a great toothbrush. It is powerful and the battery life lasts so long. I bought it when it was reduced to £60 and it is worth it. However, I would say it’s a bit harsh on the gums- possibly due to the round brush head. As a result, I am using it every other day alongside a soft and gentle manual brush.”

Another alternative is the Philips Sonicare 4100 Electric Toothbrush which is currently on sale for £49.99, originally £109.99. It helps whiten teeth every time you brush with it’s unique sonic technology. It claims to give users a powerful yet gentle clean with bristle vibrations that drive microbubbles deep between teeth, giving you two months’ worth of manual brushing in just 2 minutes.

A cheaper electric toothbrush is the MySmile DY156 Electric Toothbrush, for just £23.96 on sale down from £29.95 The automatic toothbrush has a two-minute timer to ensure that you brush your teeth at the time recommended by your dental professional and claims to effectively removes 99.9% of plaque and tartar, which is 10 times more effective than regular smart toothbrushes, leaving you with a bright smile.

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Sharon Osbourne’s plans for new life after husband Ozzy’s farewell gig

Ozzy Osbourne was recently involved in a farewell gig alongside his band Black Sabbath ahead of a new lifestyle change according to his wife

Sharon has some new plans(Image: Getty Images)

Sharon Osbourne has revealed some huge new plans for her life after her husband Ozzy’s farewell gig. The rock legend took to the stage recently alongside his band Black Sabbath in Birmingham in what they said would be their last ever show.

Sharon, who has been by Ozzy’s side through much of his career, has now said they are set for a new lifestyle. The 72-year-old reminisced on her career as she said she had been in the music industry since she was 15.

However, she’s now said she’s ready for a change and wants to step back from showbiz. The mum-of-three explained that she doesn’t want to have to “follow an itinerary” anymore.

Sharon and Ozzy have been together for decades
Sharon and Ozzy have been together for decades(Image: FilmMagic)

READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne kisses rock star Yungblud after receiving touching retirement gift

Speaking to Billboard, she said she was “done” with working in the music industry. Sharon explained: “I’ve been doing this since I was 15, and I’m done. We just want to live our life and do what we want to do and not have to follow an itinerary anymore.”

The revelation comes after Ozzy and Sharon decided to move back to the UK after living in the US for years. Sharon was more keen for the move as it seems Ozzy wasn’t so sure.

However, he has since spoken about the “crazy” gun crime in the US and how this was a worry for him. The pair’s son Jack wasn’t very excited about his parent’s move at the time.

Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy performed last weekend(Image: Ross Halfin)

The family discussed it on their podcast as Jack said: “I’m the only one in the family who thinks it’s a terrible idea…” He added: “They are going to be thousands of miles away from me, Kelly, all the grandkids. I’m like what are you guys going to do all day? Just like wander around the house?”

Sharon has a quick response as she simply said: “I’m going to bake bread and cakes, I am going to grow vegetables, I’m working on my wokeness, I will be very busy.”

Ozzy performed with Black Sabbath last weekend which brough fans around the world together for the special event. However, despite it being Ozzy’s last show, they could still be back.

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The band have trademarked their name in virtual reality, which means they could return on stage as holograms. ABBA have already done a similar thing and used avatars for their London show, Voyage, which has been running since 2022 and features younger versions of themselves.

Black Sabbath filed documents 20 years ago and could do the same. These papers trademark use of “production and presentation of animation and other special effects”. A number of other artists have taken similar action and are set to have their own hologram shows.

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Michael Caine, 92, pushed in wheelchair by Vin Diesel on lunch meeting

Sir Michael Caine, 92, headed to lunch with Vin Diesel in London this week, with the Fast and Furious actor seen pushing him in a wheelchair

Michael Caine, 92, pictured in wheelchair as he joins pal Vin Diesel for mystery project(Image: Getty Images)

Sir Michael Caine’s close pal Vin Diesel helped pushed the 92-year-old in his wheelchair as they went to lunch in Hammersmith, London. The Batman Begins star made a rare public appearance as he went to lunch at the River Cafe with Fast and Furious actor, Vin, who turns 58 next week.

Michael kept it classy in a black suit with a dark blue shirt, black trousers and comfortable black shoes. Vin, who has been friends with Michael for three decades, was by his side as they went to the popular A-list hotsput for food. Michael’s partner Shakira, 78, and Vin’s girlfriend Paloma Jimenez, 41, joined the duo for the outing.

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Michael Caine and Vin Diesel
The two were spotted enjoying lunch in Hammersmith(Image: INSTAGRAM)

In pictures obtained by the Metro, Vin was seen rocking a casual light blue polo shirt with white trousers and trainers. The group were filming for an upcoming documentary about Michael and a camera was seen placed on a tripod near the table for the two-hour meal.

The group even sang Happy Birthday Diesel before tucking into dessert ahead of Vin’s 58th birthday. Vin and Michael have been working on a project called Mark and Maurice.

Vin took to social media at the end of June to announce the indie project along with a picture of him posing with Michael. He said: “It’s crazy to see so many of you just discovering Kaulder…” referencing his character in The Last Witch Hunter, which he starred in with Michael in 2015.

The duo starred in The Last Witch Hunter together
The duo starred in The Last Witch Hunter together(Image: Shared Content Unit)

“Filming The Last Witch Hunter with Michael was such a dream come true,” he added. “The response from people discovering it now is surreal – getting to work alongside one of my dearest friends and seeing people connect with that story years later… That’s really the magic of this business.

“Michael and I have been close friends for decades. He came into my life after I had lost a childhood friend who became a New York City police officer and lost his life in the line of duty – one of my personal reasons for filming that infamous New York detective.

“Somehow Michael’s friendship was healing and loving, and I’ve been blessed to have him in my life. Over a year ago, Michael and I started working on an independent project called Mark and Maurice. I can’t wait to share what we’ve been up to.”

Michael once opened up about feeling “fed up” over never winning an Academy Award in the leading actor category.

Despite being nominated four times over a 30 year period, he hasn’t ever been awarded Best Actor in a Leading Role at the film awards ceremony in the US.

He said in an interview with Salon in 2003: “I’ve been nominated four times for a leading Oscar and you get fed up sitting there losing, you know?

“I keep sitting there with that smile on my face, that same sickly smile, saying, ‘Well done!'”

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GMB’s Susanna Reid wows in ‘bright and summery’ red dress that’s £50 off at Debenhams

Susanna Reid has been wowing Good Morning Britain viewers with her fashion choices of late – and her latest is a big hit with fans and fashion experts alike

The Karen Millen dress proved to be a hit with Susanna’s Instagram followers(Image: Instagram)

Susanna Reid brought a burst of colour to the Good Morning Britain set this week, stepping out in a red midi dress that caught the attention of viewers and fashion fans alike. The dress, from Karen Millen, is a striking formal number, ideal for the office, the races, weddings and more – and I’ve found a way to get a £50 discount on the ‘gorgeous’ ensemble.

The Compact Stretch Tab Detail Full Skirted Midi Dress is bang on trend for summer 2025 in a bold, warm, tomato red shade, perfect for brightening up your daytime dressing. Popular last year, the colour has made a strong return to fashion trends this season – Cat Deeley has also proven to be a fan of the hue in recent weeks.

The Karen Millen dress is said to ‘combine sophisticated structure with everyday wearability’. It boasts a tailored bodice with a crisp collar and full, flowing skirt, creating a ‘feminine yet functional’ silhouette.

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Made in a comfortable stretch fabric, it’s designed to ensure ‘you’ll feel as good as you look’, with the bonus of added side pockets for a practical touch. It’s said to be ‘perfect for family gatherings, gallery visits, or lunch dates’, but equally, could be dressed down with a crossbody bag and minimal jewellery for casual settings, the brand suggests.

Retailing at £259 at Karen Millen, a quick price check revealed that it’s actually on offer at Debenhams for £207.20, saving more than £50. The frock has sparked plenty of conversation online, especially after Susanna posted the look to Instagram.

The presenter shared a snap of the outfit, where fans were quick to praise the look, with comments like: “Love this dress, the colour looks fabulous on you.” Another person said: “Very bright and summery – gorgeous,” while a third wrote: “Wow, suits your figure well – looking gorgeous as always.”

The Karen Millen dress proved to be a hit with Susanna's Instagram followers
The Karen Millen dress proved to be a hit with Susanna’s Instagram followers(Image: Instagram)

Of course, not everyone was on board, with one follower calling it “another granny dress,” while a second echoed: “Wish you would stop wearing granny’s dresses.”

Elsewhere, M&S is stocking this Pure Cotton Midi Shirt Dress from Finery for £49. It’s crafted from pure cotton fabric for a crisp, cool look ideal for summer, while an elasticated waistband ensures a comfortable and ‘flattering’ silhouette.

Alternatively, at celebrity-lived Nobody’s Child, the Red Starlight Midi Dres s is currently on offer for £72.25 down from £85. It also comes in a range of other colours if red isn’t your vibe.

For those not sold by the red Karen Millen frock, that too comes in a few different colours, including navy, white and hot pink. So for those into soft neutrals or summer brights, there’s a version to suit.

The dress comes in five colours and is currently discounted at Debenhams
The dress comes in five colours and is currently discounted at Debenhams(Image: Karen Millen)

Susanna seemingly loves a red dress, having worn the Bright Red Puff Sleeve Midi Dress from Next, £36, earlier in the month. The 53-year-old presenter said in the caption of her post: “LOVE for this red dress @nextofficial.”

The midi-length number features an elegant high neck, short puff sleeves and a gathered waist, forming a flattering silhouette. It’s made from a smooth material that looks light and breezy enough for warm temperatures.

And in June, she wore this Whistles’ figure-hugging Green Brushwork Print Mesh Dress that fans went wild for. On Instagram Susanna’s post was flooded with comments like “sooo beautiful!! love the colour” and “Loving the green dress,” cementing it as one of the host’s best looks to date.

It’s currently on sale with a huge £100 off. Originally priced at £159, it’s now available for £59. Josie Gibson has also been spotted in this dress last year.

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