Arctic Monkeys are back in business, with new music on the way later this week.
The legendary Sheffield indie group have been largely silent (as usual) since the release of their last album, The Car, back in 2022.
But today, War Child has confirmed that the Alex Turner-fronted group are coming back with a new song, in support of the charity's upcoming project to provide aid for children living through war.
Arctic Monkeys are the first to be announced for the new War Child Records project, but if you leap to some conclusions based on who the new account is following, there are set to be some BIG names involved.
As well as Arctic Monkeys, War Child Records is also following 32 artists including Fontaines DC, Olivia Rodrigo, Wet Leg, Foals, Damon Albarn, Pulp, Depeche Mode, English Teacher, and Beck - to name just a few.
Based on this afternoon's teaser announcement, the new Arctic Monkeys single will be live at 3pm on Thursday 22 January.
War Child has said: "There is a group of artists who are working on something important in support of War Child. There will be more information coming soon.
"No child should be part of war. Ever. For over 30 years, War Child has worked in some of the world's most dangerous places to protect, educate, support mental health and stand up for the rights of children.
"Today our challenge is bigger than ever.
"When the legendary HELP album was released in 1995, 10% of the world's children were affected by conflict.
"That figure has almost doubled to 19%, affecting 520 million children. Right now, 1 in 5 children worldwide are at risk of losing their childhoods to conflict.
"Help us support children to heal and grow for a safer, brighter future. Donate and sign up to hear more news about forthcoming music releases."
You can sign up for the latest War Child Records announcements HERE.
Just when it you thought that the Rock N Roll Circus Sheffield line-up was complete, organisers have confirmed a major expansion for 2026.
That's right, the festival will now open a day earlier on Thursday 27 August.
The brand-new opening night will be led by The Kooks, Milburn and Miles Kane - this is going to be a bank holiday weekend you'll never forget.
Further artists for Thursday 27 August - and across the entire four-day weekend - will be announced in the coming weeks, so keep your eyes peeled.
It's a welcome addition to what was already shaping up to be one of the standout festival weekends of the summer.
Image: Supplied
Friday will see The Streets headline with a special performance of A Grand Don’t Come For Free in full. Saturday will be led by one of the UK’s most exciting modern guitar bands, Wunderhorse, supported by Baxter Dury, Mercury Prize winners English Teacher, and London favourites Fat Dog, whilst Sunday will be closed by the one and only Richard Ashcroft.
Festival Director Ali O’Reilly said:“Opening the weekend with The Kooks performing Inside In / Inside Out in full, Milburn returning home and Miles Kane joining the bill feels like a statement night for Sheffield.
“What makes Rock N Roll Circus special is that we can celebrate iconic albums and artists that shaped a generation, while also giving space to the next wave of talent coming through. That mix of heritage and hometown pride is exactly what this festival is about.
“Sheffield has always brought an incredible atmosphere to Don Valley Bowl, and expanding the programme this way gives us even more room to create something memorable for the Bank Holiday weekend.”
Rock N Roll Circus Sheffield takes place at Don Valley Bowl from Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 August 2026, and you can get your tickets here.
Iconic Sheffield music venue The Leadmill launches Crowdfunder to secure a permanent new space
Clementine Hall
The Leadmill has launched a relocation Crowdfunder after leaving its original home.
You may remember last year the trials and tribulations The Leadmill endured to try stay on Eyre Street where it had been stood since 1980.
From absolutely legendary gigs to unforgettable moments, The Leadmill provided some of the best nights in Sheffield for over 45 years, before the team unfortunately had to vacate the premises.
There is now hope though, as The Leadmill has set up a Crowdfunder and is asking the people of Sheffield to help hit a £30,000 goal to relocate to a new premises.
You can donate as little or as much as you’re able to, and all donations will go towards securing a new venue, building infrastructure, ensuring full accessibility, and even preserving the legendary neon sign.
Posting to their social media, The Leadmill wrote: "Following the departure from our original home, we’re working towards securing a new permanent venue - a space where The Leadmill can continue to grow and bring people together.
"We’re still presenting live music, comedy, club nights, cinema and talks, in various other venues but what we’re wanting to build now is our long-term future. To help make that happen, we’ve launched a public crowdfunding campaign which you can access using the link in our bio.
"This isn’t about starting over from scratch. It’s about continuing something that matters to people. If The Leadmill has ever meant something to you, we’d love you to be part of what comes next.
"Whether you’re able to donate, share the campaign, or simply send support we really appreciate the help and will not forget it. With love always, Team Leadmill ❤️"
If you want to bring The Leadmill back just as much as we do, you can donate here.
Daisy Jackson -
20th January 2026 
