Welcome back to The Weekly Rewind, our regular rundown of the biggest music news stories out there. Here’s what caught our ear this week.
Remembering Roy Ayers
Famed funk-jazz-soul composer and songwriter Roy Ayers has sadly passed away at age 84. Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Ayers took to music at a young age, and was inspired to learn his signature instrument, the vibraphone, after meeting jazz great Lionel Hampton. He explored its possibilities on an array of memorable music, including his best known song, “Everybody Loves The Sunshine.” (Read more at The Guardian)
Glastonbury packs it in with Olivia Rodrigo and more
The iconic UK destination festival Glastonbury has revealed its 2025 lineup. Headlining is American pop / rock star Olivia Rodrigo, along with Brit rockers The 1975 performing in collaboration with Philly’s own The Roots. The lineup also features Neil Young, Doechii, Charli xcx, Four Tet, and XPN Artist to Watch Lola Young. (Read more via The Fader)
RIP Brian James of The Damned
Another sad passing in the music world this week; Brian James, the founding guitarist and early principal songwriter of The Damned, has died at age 70. (Read more via Pitchfork)
A J Dilla action figure can be yours
Have you ever wanted a poseable miniature version of the iconic beatmaker and producer J. Dilla to set up in your home studio? You can get an action figure of architect of the Soulquarian sound over at Brooklyn Vegan, dressed in the striped shit sceen on the cover of his classic Donuts. (Read more at Brooklyn Vegan)
Nostalgic album tours for turn-of-the-millennium music lovers
Aimee Mann is going out on a North American run to celebrate the 22 1/2th anniversary (okay, this is getting a little ridiculous here) of her terrific 2002 album Lost In Space. It was an XPN staple back in the day, and the show comes to King Of Prussia’s Concerts Under The Stars on June 14th. Likewise, Belly is taking King on the road for its 30th, and that show comes to Underground Arts on October 27th. (Read more at Brooklyn Vegan and Brooklyn Vegan again)
