Renowned singer-songwriter Kate Bush has expressed a strong desire to return to music after a lengthy hiatus. The British artist, who last unveiled a studio album over a decade ago, conveyed her eagerness to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, highlighting numerous new ideas she hopes to explore.
Bush’s 2011 melancholic album, 50 Words for Snow, marked her last foray into fresh musical production. Since its release, her musical contributions have been limited to live and compilation albums. However, in a rare interview with presenter Emma Barnett, Bush discussed her ambitious plans amid the launch of a charity-focused short film titled Little Shrew.
The four-minute, black-and-white animated film is designed to generate support and awareness for War Child, a charity aiding children impacted by conflict. Set against her track Snowflake from the 2011 album, the film portrays the harrowing experiences children endure during wartime, an issue Bush feels strongly about. Little Shrew was partly inspired by the global reaction to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, further motivating the artist to channel her creativity into raising awareness.
Despite a prolonged absence from the spotlight, Bush garnered new followers in 2022, thanks to her iconic track Running Up That Hill featuring in the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. Her enduring influence in the music world is evident, yet, when asked about performing live, Bush admitted she is not ready to return to the stage, despite requests from the likes of Pink Floyd’s David Gilmour.
Beyond her musical endeavours, Bush has been immersed in archival work, such as redesigning her website and producing a lyric book. These projects reflect her ongoing dedication to her craft, even as she steps back from public performances.
Reflecting on the broader theme of her short film, Bush shared her concern about the impacts of war on innocent civilians, particularly children, emphasising the unimaginable fears they face. The 66-year-old artist added that society has been enduring “dark times,” expressing a collective exhaustion stemming from recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent conflicts.
Bush’s poignant creative projects and renewed commitment to music highlight her enduring passion and empathy, serving as a beacon of hope and a call to action in times of adversity. As she embarks on this new chapter, both her longstanding and new fans await the fresh artistic expressions of an extraordinary career. Little Shrew is available on Bush’s official site, where it encourages viewers to support causes aiding children in strife.
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