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Sam Fender & Olivia Dean Top Charts: Charli XCX Scores Albums No.1

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Sam Fender has achieved a historic first, claiming the Number One spot on the UK Singles Chart with his collaboration with Olivia Dean, “Rein Me In.” The track’s journey to the top has been anything but typical, breaking the record for the longest climb to Number One in the chart’s history. Meanwhile, Charli XCX continues her reign as a musical force, securing the top position on the UK Albums Chart with her soundtrack for the film Wuthering Heights.

“Rein Me In,” initially released in June 2025, finally reached the summit today, February 20, 2026, after a remarkable 35 weeks in the Top 40. This surpasses the previous record of 19 weeks held by Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” in 2014, according to Official Charts. For Fender, this marks his first ever Number One single, exceeding the peak of Number Three achieved with “Seventeen Going Under” in 2021.

Olivia Dean is enjoying a particularly successful week, dominating the charts with multiple entries. In addition to her collaboration with Fender, “So Easy (To Fall In Love)” climbed to Number Two, and her previous chart-topping single, “Man I Need,” holds steady at Number Four. The singer-songwriter now occupies three of the top four positions on the UK Singles Chart.

The resurgence of older tracks also marked this week’s chart. Zara Larsson’s 2016 hit “Lush Life” experienced a revival, climbing back to Number Three – the same peak it reached a decade ago. Bad Bunny also saw a boost in popularity following his Super Bowl halftime performance, with “DTMF” entering the Top 5 at Number Five, Official Charts reported.

UK Singles Chart – February 20-26, 2026

  • 1) Sam Fender & Olivia Dean – ‘Rein Me In’
  • 2) Olivia Dean – ‘So Easy (To Fall In Love)’
  • 3) Zara Larsson – ‘Lush Life’
  • 4) Olivia Dean – ‘Man I Need’
  • 5) Bad Bunny – ‘DTMF’
  • 6) Bruno Mars – ‘I Just Might’
  • 7) Sombr – ‘Homewrecker’
  • 8) Taylor Swift – ‘Opalite’
  • 9) PinkPantheress – ‘Stateside’
  • 10) Harry Styles – ‘Aperture’

Charli XCX Secures Third Number One Album

On the albums front, Charli XCX has cemented her status as a leading artist with Wuthering Heights, the soundtrack to Emerald Fennell’s film adaptation of the classic novel. This achievement marks her third Number One album, following Crash (2022) and Brat (2024), and her eighth Top 40 album Official Charts confirmed. The album also topped the Official Vinyl Albums Chart this week, demonstrating continued demand for physical media.

Wuthering Heights’ success pushes Olivia Dean’s debut album, The Art Of Loving, down to Number Two. Fleetwood Mac’s enduringly popular compilation album, 50 Years – Don’t Stop, maintains its strong position at Number Three. The film adaptation of Wuthering Heights also debuted at the top of the UK box office this week.

UK Albums Chart – February 20-26, 2026

  • 1) Charli XCX – ‘Wuthering Heights’
  • 2) Olivia Dean – ‘The Art Of Loving’
  • 3) Fleetwood Mac – ‘50 Years – Don’t Stop’
  • 4) The Weeknd – ‘The Highlights’
  • 5) Bad Bunny – ‘Debi Tirar Mas Fotos’
  • 6) Michael Jackson – ‘The Essential’
  • 7) Ed Sheeran – ‘+ – = Divide X – Tour Collection’
  • 8) Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Man’s Best Friend’
  • 9) Alex Warren – ‘You’ll Be Alright Kid (Chapter 1)’
  • 10) Sabrina Carpenter – ‘Short N’ Sweet’

Sam Fender is also in contention for several accolades at the upcoming BRIT Awards in Manchester on February 28, including nominations for Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for his Mercury Prize-winning album, People Watching. Charli XCX’s new film, The Moment, a music industry satire, was released in cinemas today and has received a three-star review from NME, who noted its potential for viral moments on TikTok.

With both Fender and Dean enjoying significant chart success and XCX’s continued dominance, the UK music scene is demonstrating a vibrant mix of established stars and rising talent. The BRIT Awards next week promise to be a celebration of this creativity, and the continued performance of these albums and singles will be closely watched in the coming weeks.

What are your thoughts on Sam Fender and Olivia Dean’s chart-topping success? Share your opinions in the comments below!

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Entertainment

Spice Girls Netflix Project Suspended Amid Internal Conflicts

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

A planned Netflix documentary celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Spice Girls has been put on hold due to internal disagreements among the group’s members, sources confirm. The project, intended to chronicle the iconic British pop group’s journey, faced setbacks as consensus proved elusive among Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton, Mel B, Mel C, and Geri Halliwell-Horner.

For months, reports suggested an agreement was nearing completion for all five members to participate in a special series commemorating the milestone anniversary. Still, a source speaking to The Sun indicated that fans will be “devastated” by the delay, adding that the project had been in development for years but producers were unable to secure final approval from the band. The stalled documentary highlights the complex dynamics within the group, even decades after achieving global stardom.

Tensions appear to be particularly strained between Geri Halliwell-Horner and Mel B. Rumors of Geri’s reluctance to finalize a contract intensified following Mel B’s absence from Emma Bunton’s recent birthday celebration, which was attended by the other three members. Mel B was too absent from a private gathering at Victoria Beckham’s home, citing her honeymoon in Mauritius as the reason for her absence.

Since launching “Wannabe” in 1996, the Spice Girls have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Mel C recently expressed optimism about a future reunion, stating, “I remain optimistic. It’s our thirtieth anniversary next year. We did a tour in 2019, we played at several stadiums in the UK and it was incredible,” during an appearance on Good Morning America. She continued, “We are very proud of the legacy we have and we have new generations of followers who love the Spice Girls, so I would like to get back on stage with the girls.”

Mel C explained that the difficulty in moving forward stems from the symbolic importance of the group to each member, noting, “We are talking and seeing what opportunities Notice,” and that the hesitation comes from a desire to ensure any project feels “right” and has the full support of everyone involved.

Past Conflicts Continue to Shape Dynamics

Disagreements between Halliwell-Horner and Brown are not new. In 2019, Mel B publicly revealed a past romantic relationship with Geri, a claim Geri denied, attributing it to promotion of Mel B’s autobiography. These historical tensions, coupled with Geri Halliwell-Horner’s departure from the group in 1998, continue to influence the relationships within the Spice Girls more than two decades later, according to reports.

According to British media reports, this ongoing conflict has made it challenging for the band to find a representative capable of mediating and finalizing projects, potentially costing each member a reported £1 million.

Beckham Prioritizes Design Career and Family Life

Victoria Beckham has been described as the most hesitant member regarding reunions, prioritizing her successful fashion career and family life. In an interview with the German edition of Vogue, she acknowledged the difficulty in committing to another Spice Girls tour, stating that it was a personal decision based on a shift in priorities. “I feel very happy being the woman I am,” she added, emphasizing her focus on her business and family.

However, Beckham recently surprised fans by sharing a video of herself singing an acoustic version of “Viva Forever” with her son Cruz, suggesting a continued fondness for the group’s music.

In an interview with Andy Cohen, Beckham admitted she found the idea of a Las Vegas residency appealing, wondering what the Spice Girls would look like in the Sphere, but ultimately dismissed the possibility of a world tour, stating she wasn’t sure she could still sing and never was a strong vocalist.

A Legacy of Breakups and Reconciliations

The Spice Girls have navigated numerous public breakups and reconciliations throughout their nearly three-decade career. Geri Halliwell-Horner’s departure during a 1998 world tour was particularly painful for Mel B, who recalled it being her birthday and feeling abandoned by her closest friend.

The cancellation of the Netflix project, led by producer Suzanne Mackie (known for her work on The Crown) and screenwriter Jack Rooke, leaves fans without the anticipated audiovisual tribute. While speculation arose about a parallel documentary, Netflix has not issued an official confirmation.

The future of a Spice Girls reunion remains uncertain, but Mel C’s continued optimism suggests the possibility of revisiting their iconic legacy remains alive. What comes next for the group remains to be seen, but the complexities of their individual paths and shared history continue to captivate fans worldwide.

What are your thoughts on the Spice Girls’ ongoing dynamic? Share your opinions in the comments below!

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Technology

Will.i.am & Britney Spears’ “Scream & Shout” Hits 1 Billion Spotify Streams

by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor
written by Sophie Lin - Technology Editor

The 2012 collaboration between will.i.am and Britney Spears, “Scream & Shout,” has officially surpassed one billion streams on Spotify, marking a significant milestone for the electro-house track. The song, a standout from will.i.am’s fourth studio album, #willpower (released in 2013), continues to resonate with listeners over a decade after its initial release. Its infectious chorus – “I wanna scream, and shout, and let it all out” – helped propel it to international success.

“Scream & Shout” wasn’t just a chart success; it also became a cultural moment. The song cleverly incorporates a nod to Spears’ earlier hit, “Gimme More” (2007), referencing the iconic lyric “It’s Britney, bitch.” The track’s impact was immediate, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and simultaneously becoming the first song to top the newly launched Dance/Electronic Songs chart, according to reports from 2012.

The song’s reach extended across the Atlantic, where it became will.i.am’s second consecutive number-one single on the UK Singles Chart. For Spears, “Scream & Shout” represented her sixth single to achieve this feat, and her first since “Everytime.” The song’s popularity also spawned several remixes featuring verses from artists like Lil Wayne, Hit-Boy, Diddy, and Waka Flocka Flame, further expanding its audience.

The success of “Scream & Shout” isn’t limited to audio streaming. In 2023, the accompanying music video crossed the one billion view mark on YouTube, demonstrating the song’s enduring visual appeal. The video features both will.i.am and Spears alongside a dynamic group of dancers.

A History of Collaboration

“Scream & Shout” wasn’t the first time will.i.am and Britney Spears joined forces in the studio. Their initial collaboration, “Big Fat Bass,” appeared on Spears’ 2011 album, Femme Fatale. Following the success of “Scream & Shout,” the duo continued their creative partnership with “It Should Be Simple,” featured on Spears’ 2013 album, Britney Jean. Will.i.am also served as the executive producer for Britney Jean, contributing to several tracks on the album. Their most recent collaboration, “Mind Your Business,” was released in 2023.

will.i.am’s #willpower album also showcased collaborations with other prominent artists, including Justin Bieber on the track “#thatPOWER” and Miley Cyrus on “Fall Down.” The album featured a diverse range of musicians, such as Nicole Scherzinger, Chris Brown, Juicy J, and Eva Simons.

Black Eyed Peas Join the Billion-Stream Club

The success of “Scream & Shout” adds to a growing list of billion-stream hits for will.i.am and the Black Eyed Peas. Earlier this year, the group’s 2009 smash hit, “I Gotta Feeling,” reached two billion streams on Spotify. Other Black Eyed Peas songs, including “Where Is The Love,” have also achieved the coveted billion-stream milestone.

The consistent success of these tracks highlights the enduring appeal of will.i.am’s production and the Black Eyed Peas’ innovative sound. The group’s ability to consistently deliver chart-topping hits has solidified their place in music history.

As streaming continues to dominate the music landscape, reaching one billion streams on a platform like Spotify represents a significant achievement for any artist. “Scream & Shout’s” continued popularity demonstrates the lasting impact of this collaboration between two pop music icons. The song’s energetic beat and memorable lyrics continue to attract recent listeners and keep it relevant in today’s music scene.

What does this milestone mean for future collaborations between will.i.am and Britney Spears? Only time will tell, but the success of “Scream & Shout” certainly lays the groundwork for potential future projects. Share your thoughts on this iconic track in the comments below!

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Entertainment

James Blake: New Song & 2026 North American Tour Dates

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

James Blake’s Independent Turn Signals a Broader Shift in the Music Industry

The music industry is bracing for a wave of artist independence, and James Blake is leading the charge. With the announcement of his seventh studio album, ‘Trying Times,’ arriving March 13 via his own Good Boy Records, and a subsequent 2026 North American tour kicking off in Atlanta on May 27, Blake isn’t just releasing music – he’s signaling a fundamental shift in how artists control their narratives and careers. This move, following his departure from Republic Records, is emblematic of a growing trend where established artists are opting for self-reliance, fueled by evolving digital distribution models and a desire for creative autonomy.

‘Trying Times’: A Sonic Exploration of Uncertainty

The latest single, ‘I Had A Dream She Took My Hand,’ offers a glimpse into the emotional landscape of ‘Trying Times.’ Described as a “romantic waltz” with a “stripped-back, slightly melancholic melody,” the track showcases Blake’s signature haunting vocals and explores themes of optimism intertwined with unease. The song’s lyrical content – “I had a dream she took my hand/I feel higher than storms, lighter than sand” – hints at a broader album-long exploration of solitude and the complexities of modern love. This willingness to delve into vulnerability resonates with a contemporary audience increasingly seeking authenticity in music.

The Rise of Independent Artists: A New Power Dynamic

Blake’s decision to go independent isn’t isolated. More and more artists, even those with established label relationships, are recognizing the benefits of owning their masters and controlling their creative direction. This trend is driven by several factors. Firstly, the rise of direct-to-fan platforms like Bandcamp and Patreon allows artists to cultivate loyal audiences and generate revenue without relying on traditional intermediaries. Secondly, the decreasing cost of recording and production technology empowers artists to create high-quality music independently. Finally, the increasing dissatisfaction with the often-restrictive terms offered by major labels is pushing artists to seek alternative paths.

Touring as a Cornerstone of Independent Revenue

The announced 2026 North American tour – with dates in Atlanta, New York, Boston, Washington D.C., Toronto, Chicago, Berkeley, and Los Angeles – is a crucial component of Blake’s independent strategy. Live performances are increasingly becoming the primary revenue stream for musicians, particularly in the streaming era. Artists who control their touring schedules and ticket pricing can maximize their earnings and build stronger connections with their fans. Tickets go on sale February 20 at 10am local time, and represent a direct financial benefit to Blake and his team.

Beyond Blake: A Broader Industry Reshaping

James Blake’s journey reflects a larger industry reshaping. His previous collaborations, including the ‘Bad Cameo’ record with Lil Yachty and the ‘CMYK 002’ EP, demonstrate a willingness to experiment and engage with diverse musical landscapes – a freedom often enhanced by independent status. His recent performances, from accompanying Timothée Chalamet on Saturday Night Live to participating in benefit concerts like Brian Eno’s ‘Together For Palestine’ show, highlight his continued relevance and artistic versatility. These diverse engagements are easier to navigate when an artist isn’t bound by label constraints.

The move towards artist independence isn’t without its challenges. Independent artists must accept on the responsibilities of marketing, distribution, and promotion, which traditionally fell to the label. However, the potential rewards – greater creative control, a larger share of the revenue, and a stronger connection with fans – are proving increasingly attractive. James Blake’s ‘Trying Times’ and accompanying tour aren’t just a new release; they’re a blueprint for the future of the music industry.

What are your predictions for the future of artist independence in the music industry? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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