Watch Rick Astley join Blossoms at Tramlines
When musical legends collide, the result is often pure magic. That’s exactly what happened recently when the celebrated singer Rick Astley joined the indie sensation Blossoms for a performance that perfectly captured the joyous spirit of live music.
The collaboration took place at Tramlines Festival in Sheffield on July 25th, where the duo delivered their track Joke About Divorce. This performance was more than just a set; it was a delightful snapshot of the unique chemistry between Astley and Blossoms.
Astley didn’t just participate; he immersed himself in the band’s world, contributing backing vocals to the studio version of the song and adding a memorable cameo to the accompanying video. It was a highlight performance that showed how seamlessly these musical forces blend together.
Blossoms also shared their recent single Meet Me In Love during the set, giving the audience another taste of their fresh sound. The band’s extensive repertoire included hits like ‘Gary’, ‘Getaway’, and ‘Nightclub’, showcasing a breadth of talent that keeps their fans constantly engaged.
The connection between Astley and Blossoms goes deeper than just a single festival appearance. They share a history rooted in collaborative spirit, most notably their joint performance covering The Smiths during a London show in September 2021.
That initial collaboration quickly took off, sparking a viral moment that led to two full concerts dedicated to the Smiths’ catalogue in London and Manchester. The atmosphere was electric, resulting in a performance that critics hailed as “the best Smiths gig since December 12, 1986,” with Astley himself being praised as “a fine substitute for Morrissey.”
This shared history continued later, as the two artists reunited for a secret Smiths covers set at Glastonbury in 2023. Astley openly admitted his love for the arrangement, noting that while it might be considered sacrilege, he simply couldn’t deny how much he enjoyed singing those iconic tracks alongside Blossoms.
Now, as Blossoms prepares for their next chapter, anticipation is high. They are set to support their forthcoming sixth studio album, Songs From The Wedding Cake, with a major headline tour planned for later this year. The UK arena run will hit Cardiff’s Utilita Arena on November 26th and feature stops in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow.
This journey—from historic tributes to new music and grand tours—demonstrates that true musical partnership isn’t just about hitting the right notes; it’s about creating an unforgettable experience that resonates long after the final chord fades.