JLS have signed a deal with BMG as well as confirming arena dates in the autumn.
The full list of rescheduled shows for the Beat Again UK and Ireland tour follows the government’s announcement on the lifting of Covid restrictions later this year.
Both the tour and record deal mark a new era for JLS, as 2021 will see them embark on both a 28-date run as well as returning with their first new music in eight years. The tour includes four nights at The O2 in London (November 4-5 and 19-20).
Billion Lights, their last single, peaked at No.19 in 2013. It was taken from Goodbye - The Greatest Hits (No.6, 175,475 sales - Official Charts Company). Across their four studio albums between 2009 and 2012, JLS racked up sales of 2,758,440, with No.1 debut LP JLS out in front with 1,461,704 sales.
In a statement, JLS said: “After eight years, it feels great to sign a new record deal with BMG. For us, music is the core of everything we do and we are so excited to bring new music to the world again.”
Jamie Nelson, VP, A&R at BMG UK, said: “We’re excited for the return of JLS. They have enjoyed a stellar career and we are delighted to be part of their next step. The music is already sounding great, they return fully on top of their game.”
The music is already sounding great, they return fully on top of their game
Jamie Nelson
Harry Magee, co-founder, Modest! Management, said: “JLS redefined the boy band genre in the UK with modern pop hits, groundbreaking brand deals and numerous huge sellout arena tours. Their success has been a proud part of Modest's history and our love for them has never diminished so we're very honoured to represent the boys on their return to do it all again!”
The new dates will see JLS launch the Beat Again tour on October 20 at Glasgow’s SSE Hydro. The tour will wrap at Birmingham’s Resorts World Arena on November 27.
The last date in the tour will encompass both an evening show as well as a free NHS matinee performance for NHS frontline staff and primary care workers.