British synthpop band Years & Years have announced that singer Olly Alexander will take the act forward as a solo project, with members Emre Turkmen and Mikey Goldsworthy taking a step back. It was also revealed that new music from Alexander will be released in Spring 2021.
Posting on Instagram, the group wrote: “There’s been some changes that we want to fill you in on. This upcoming new album has been an Olly endeavour and we’ve decided that Years & Years will continue as an Olly solo project. The three of us are still good friends. Mikey will be part of the Y&Y family and play with us live and Emre will focus on being a writer/producer. These past twelve months have been crazy for us all and we want to thank you for the love and support you’ve given us over the years (& years).”
Fans were quick to voice their support for the band’s decision.
Dontshakethatswift posted: “OMG kings we still love you and are very excited for olly’s album.”
Monpetitpitti wrote: “Discovered your music just recently…love you and your music so much though. I am sure whatever you do or decide it will be the right thing.”
Sophiellie added: “You’ve all made some amazing music together let’s see what this can bring to the table can’t wait!!”
Years & Years formed in 2010, and released their debut single I Wish I Knew in 2012. They were named BBC Sound of 2015, and released their UK number one debut album Communion later that same year. Their singles King and Shine reached number one and number two in the Uk Top 40 respectively. Their second album, Palo Santa, came out in 2018.
Alexander was recently praised for his role in Russel T Davies’ 2021 television drama It’s A Sin. He is also outspoken on LGBTQ+ rights – he said at Glastonbury in 2019: “The only reason that I’m even able to be up here talking about my gay self is because of all the people who have come before me, that fought for the rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people.”
