Has Aston Merrygold's solo career flopped before it's begun?

Former JLS frontman Aston Merrygold’s debut single, 'Get Stupid' debuted at a disappointing #28 on the UK official singles chart this week. This doesn't surprise me one single bit. The instant I heard 'Get Stupid,' I knew it wasn't a hit.

Everyone assumed Aston would flourish in his solo career while he was at the height of his JLS fame, but those fans who were high schoolers at the time (are probably now embarrassed to admit they were once JLS stans and have good jobs following graduation) have since moved on. Seems only Bruno Mars can rock a pompadour and a suit, while putting out retro sounding music. I feel he needed something a bit more cutting edge and contemporary because this direction was never going to work out for him. It will be interesting to see how he rebrands himself with the next single. Meanwhile, his fellow X Factor counterparts Little Mix continue to go from strength to strength scoring their longest #1 hit single with 'Black Magic' (three weeks in a row.) Congrats girls!

New Music: Jordin Sparks – ‘They Don’t Give’...

Jordin Sparks unveils another new song 'They Don’t Give,' off her new album 'Right Here Right Now' (due August 21st). It's a nostalgic love ballad about the odds being stacked against her relationship. However, when it comes to her man, it's them against the world.

'They Don’t Give' was previously issued as a sample on her '#ByeFelicia' mixtape and now we get to hear it in full. It is giving some serious throwback vibes, like classic 90s Babyface. It's proper oldschool R&B, and the legendary songwriter really went there with the deep rooted production. Jordin sounds so nice singing it, and I think her album is going to be a really solid R&B album. We could really do with one of those right now.

Off topic...

What would YOU do?!?! 

I know it's a stupid question because I know it's not possible, but really, how do you tell someone their breath smells stomach curdling vile without offending them? You should not be able to smell someone's breath when you are sitting perhaps two or three paces away from them. My colleague yawns quite a lot so it's torture and I don't want to seem like a bitch by requesting being seated elsewhere. Fuck it. I think I'm going to have to bring in my own laptop to work and seat myself somewhere else. I honestly don't know how no one in his family has not told him he has really bad halitosis. Either they're just as nasty as he is or they told him but he just doesn't care to do anything about it. And... uh... now it's back to our regularly scheduled programming.

New Music: Alicia Keys – ‘28 Thousand Days’...

Check out a brand new song from Alicia Keys called '28 Thousand Days,' which is part of Levi's new Summer/Fall campaign. The average life span of a human is 76 years (28,000 days), and Alicia is advising everyone to live their life to the fullest.

I think I've heard the same song from her a million times already. Not just lyrically but the marching drum inspired music, chants and blaring horns. It's the same anthem-ish production that she keeps reycling into the ground. It's not a bad song, but for her standards, it's basic. I miss her more soulful, R&B records and will just continue to hope we get better from her new album.

Mariah Carey hits the studio with Justin Bieber & French Montana...

Oh dear. Nothing good can come of this. And I mean absolutely nothing. In fact, any legend that wants to tarnish their legacy by duetting with Justin Bieber deserves to flop.

It was bad enough when Mariah re-recorded her festive classic 'All I Want For Christmas,' alongside the Biebs. Although I considered their pairing to be quite odd, it didn't bother me too much, as that was a 20-year-old something song, which I've heard in many (often cheese grated) versions. The cut will most likely appear on JB's upcoming new album, which is due to be released later this year.

Jennifer Lopez is readying pop return...

Jennifer Lopez is back in the studio again (as we already know), so there's very much a chance she may release a brand new single to coincide with her Vegas residency kicking off January 20th, 2016.

With an amazing record, I think J.Lo could have another hit on her hands again, but her days being a big album seller are well and truly over. She's not the best singer in the world and she's one of the few that has had to battle with ageism, but she delivers really hot performances and works her ass off. She just needs to banish Pitbull to the depths of hell and stay away from crappy cut 'n' paste producers like DJ Mustard, and the likes.

Leona Lewis performs ‘Thunder’ on ‘Kelly & Michael’...

It's sad that she's so talented yet nobody cares. Following a recent album showcase in the States this week, Leona Lewis performed her new U.S. single 'Thunder' on Kelly & Michael. Vocally, she did an amazing job, and made me like the song a little bit better.

However, this consistent empowerment trip of falling down and picking herself back up again throughout each song is something I can see myself getting tired of very quickly. I can't help but feel that had Calvin Harris gave her 'We Found Love' instead of Rihanna her career would be a very different state right now. Anyway, Leona is currently on a promo trip of the States, and while I'd like her to do well, I think her time there came and went. As for the track's upcoming visuals, she released some behind the scenes footage, which you can check out below.

Ashanti angers fans once again during Australian tour...

Aw, baby! Ashanti isn't getting much luck on the performance front. Perhaps she should just stop performing at public events since it always ends in fans being left sourly disappointed. Australian fans were left fuming when she and Ja Rule hit the stage one hour late, meaning they only ended up doing a 20 minute show.

Allegedly, one fan was so pissed they pelted her with a water bottle as she exited the stage. Though it may not have been entirely her fault. Apparently, promoters booked Ashanti to do two back to back shows on the same day, one after the other. The first show in Sydney went without a hitch, but because she never had much time to get to the second show, they had to cut it short. Bad decisions all around, which resulted in Ja Rule apologising profusedly on Twitter.

Christina Milian hits the stage...

Tina Turn Up celebrated the grand LA opening of her retail shop ‘We Are Pop Culture’ by hitting the stage at her very own block party.

A series of models also joined her on stage to show off the clothes available from Christina’s store. It would be interesting to see what Christina's setlist looked like outside of  'Dip It Low,' but hey, at least she managed to put out three albums in her career, which is more than can be said for some artists.

Ciara's presidential photoshoot for 'Noisey'...

Presidency in the future may not be in the cards for Ciara since it involves making influential decisions. However, she does look pretty chic channeling her inner political for UK's 'Noisey.'

Influential decisions and Ciara in the same sentence? Everyone knows she hasn't made much of those over the last year or two. You know, I'm not just referring to her personal life, though she has done good bagging herself a man like Russell Wilson. This is who she should have put herself with from the very beginning. All photos were lensed by Louie Banks and you can read the entire interview here. Check out more photos inside. Enjoy!

Mariah Carey channels Marie Antoinette for Harper’s Bazaar Icons issue...

This is probably the most clothes you will ever see on Mariah Carey. She's all smiles, but you just know she must have felt stifled.

Cute. At least more clothes meant the airbrushing department didn't have to worry about putting her on that dramatic crack diet again.

Rita Ora strikes a pose for new single 'Body On Me'...

Rita Ora's music may be basic as fuck, but no one can deny this bitch is beautiful. Can you imagine the damage she'd cause if she returned to her natural brunette? I'm so over this Gwen Stefani carnated imagery. It's time to switch things up!

I know she gets a lot of flack for allegedly sleeping around to further her career but too much men have publicly lashed out at her. Methinks not a coincidence. Something in the milk just aint clean. Her soured relationships with men get more press than her actual music so I'm really hoping her new single 'Body On Me' (featuring Chris Brown) does something in the States this time round.

Janet Jackson to headline iHeartRadio Music Festival...

Janet Jackson has been announced as a headlining performer at the iHeartRadio Festival on September 19th. Great news, great promo!

And contrary to reports, her 'Unbreakable' tour has not been put on hold following her father's recent hospitalization. The tour will continue to kick off on August 31st. As for her promo roll-out, I just hope she keeps it up and books herself a slot at the upcoming VMAs. A tour and some radio play is simply not enough these days, even when you're Janet Jackson.

Snapshot: Christina Aguilera performs live at 'Cisco Rocks'...

San Francisco should consider themselves lucky. If ever Christina Aguilera announces a full blown tour, grab the opportunity with both hands. Over the years Aggy has made her millions performing for billionaires and private functions like these.

Just as well really. Her last few albums have struggled commercially, and it seems she's in no rush to put out another despite being in the studio recently. Sadly, announcing a tour to support her albums has as much likelihood as Beyoncé and Keri Hilson doing a duet together. Watch some video footage here.

Congrats, Mariah!

Why has it taken so long for Mariah Carey to be honoured with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? I recall her being selected in 2007, but she should have had one so much sooner than that. It seems like quite the injustice since she is 25 years into her career and sold over 200 million records.

Better late then never, I suppose. Mimi will be the recipient of the 2,556th star at a ceremony on August 5th. LA Reid, alongside directors Lee Daniels and Brett Ratner are expected to make guest speeches on the big day. Congrats!

Jennifer Lopez puts on her B'Day Freekum dress...

No matter how much older she gets, Jennifer Lopez is going to be Jennifer Lopez and flaunt her body regardless. Jen celebrated her 46th birthday in this revealing black dress at 1Oak Southampton over the weekend. No one can deny her body is pure slayage, but it seems like she might be going through a mid life crisis.

Something about her make-up is off. I think it's the lip liner, though I do love the shorter hair. She is now officially closer to 50 than she is to 40, and she's dressing like this, to not being able to let go of her toyboy Casper Smart and releasing songs like 'Booty.' I think the dress would look tacky on anyone even if it was worn by someone 25 years younger.

Rita Ora & Chris Brown on ‘Body On Me’ video set...

Rita Ora has always been looked at as the poor man's Rihanna, so it was only a matter of time before she hooked up with Rihanna's ex. Yes, it's not farfetched to assume those two may have smashed beyond their musical chemistry. Rita has quite the reputation these days. Anyway, she posted this photo of herself and Chris Brown on the video set of her new Stateside single, 'Body On Me.'

For once, she may have a hit over there. As I say, having Breezy on her song was a good move. The video is directed by Colin Tilley and the song is produced by The Monsters and the Strangerz. The cut is scheduled to premiere in the next couple of weeks.

Video premiere: Natalie La Rose feat. Fetty Wap – ‘Around The World’...

This girl is insanely beautiful. I can't gel with her music at all, but no one can deny this video was visually stunning. In the Hannah Lux Davis-directed clip, Natalie La Rose plays a waitress and dreams of adventurous globe trotting.

It scares me how much Natalie resembles Aaliyah in this video. Her dancing is so on point, and Casper Smart did well with the choreo. She absolutely killed it! With 'Somebody' being a massive hit, her video budget clearly recieved a raise. I don't care for the song that much, as it's generic as hell but still catchy. I need to see her performing on all the big award shows. She could be the new era Britney if she plays her cards right!

New Music: Jordin Sparks - '100 Years'...

Is one hundred years enough time to love someone? Jordin Sparks doesn't seem to think so on the seductively sultry '100 Years.' Over minimalist production, Jordin is giving straight Aaliyah teas and I absolutely live for it!

'100 Years' is a nice album track, and I think all the R&B heads would appreciate it. At least as opposed to general listeners who would find it a bit on the boring side, but as I say, hardcore R&B fans would embrace it. However, it sounds quite interlude-ish or would be better served as such as far as I'm concerned. Courtesy of Billboard, Jordin is releasing one new song every Friday until the release of her brand new album 'Right Here, Right Now,' due August 21st.

Video premiere: Janet Jackson feat. J. Cole – ‘No Sleeep’...

I applaud a fully clothed Janet Jackson for putting out a tasteful, age-appropriate visual (Madonna needs to take note on how to comeback gracefully). The video was sublime and classy, but I have to be honest and say I was expecting a little more from it.

I'm not implying a near 50-year-old woman should be twerking around half naked, but a little dance break would have made the simplistic visuals a tad bit more interesting. I find Janet's youth to be very timeless. I mean, she was looking like she stepped right off the set of 'That's The Way Love Goes,' 22 years ago!

New Music: Janet Jackson feat. J. Cole – 'No Sleeep' (CDQ remix)...

The official, CDQ version of Janet Jackson's ‘No Sleeep’ remix featuring J. Cole is finally here! The duo re-recorded the track in a Los Angeles recording studio two weeks ago, and is being serviced to the Adult R&B format, Hot R&B (urban mainstream), and Rhythmic radio.

J. Coles flow really matches the sultry vibe of the song and it certainly adds that little extra umph. I like it a lot! The cut, which was co-written by Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, is currently #5 on Billboard’s Adult R&B airplay chart. Check it out!

Beyoncé hops out of NYC recording studio...

Beyoncé has been spotted at a recording studio in the last two days, and with her two headlining sets quickly approaching, fans could be in for a real treat. However, these pics of her hopping out of the studio yesterday are quite... something.

Loving the casual look, and even the wild mane. As I say, the extra weight looks great on her. She's on a papparazzi dodging spree here, seemingly. But we still see you, girl. Ever tried running and shielding your face at the same time? Well, this is what it looks like!

Janet Jackson shoots ‘No Sleeep’ music video with Dave Meyers...

Nice to see Janet Jackson and director Dave Meyers reuniting for her upcoming ‘No Sleeep’ music video. If you recall, the pair worked together previously on Janet's 'All For You' visuals. She looks really sweet and youthful lying there, but something tells me the video will be quite the opposite!

Janet also dropped the official remix to the track which features rapper J. Cole. She was spotted at the Roc Nation artist’s Staples Center tour stop in LA a few nights ago. The track premiered on Real 92.3 LA’s Hip Hop N’ R&B in Los Angles earlier today but the official drop will take place tomorrow. Copyright is preventing me posting the song, but when the official audio is up, you will see it.

Watch: Monica performs ‘Just Right For Me’ at BET Players Awards...

Monica's vocals aren't going anywhere judging by this performance. Girl sang for her bread and butter. Although I can't see ‘Just Right For Me’ doing anything major on the charts, she kept it cute and simple with her little two-step.

The song, lifted from her upcoming album 'Code Red,' is dedicated to her basketballer husband Shannon Brown, who was only too happy to stan for his wife from the sidelines. True love is certainly a beautful thing, and I hope their marriage lasts the distance.

Rihanna unwraps stunning new ad for latest fragrance ‘RiRi by Rihanna’...

Wow. Rihanna is serving old Hollywood glam here, and just off this pic alone, she should consider striking up a deal with Mattel to launch her own line of Barbie dolls. She has signed a multitude of contracts recently, so why the hell not?

Clearly, her album R8 is no longer a priority, so she may as well generate further profit in as many avenues as possible. Despite the lacefront looking too wiggy, her face is gorgeous. While her contemporaies fight on Twitter over VMA nominations, Rihanna chooses that day to extend her brand and make bank. Bitches better have her money!

Mariah Carey & Katy Perry are all smiles...

Remember this? Katy Perry seems to have forgotton her remarks while stanning for Mariah Carey backstage during the legend's show at Caesars Palace recently:

Bosom buddies huh? It all looks a bit fake to be honest, but I'm glad Mariah has younger artists eating their words just by showing themselves. As a new school artist, respect the legends that were here before you.

Tamar Braxton has issues with Rihanna’s R&B Grammy nomination...

Here's something to debate. Rihanna was previously nominated at the Grammys for Best R&B Album, and the ever outspoken Tamar Braxton doesn't agree with it. She says Rihanna isn't worthy of it because she is pop.

A lot of people may agree with her up until that point, but apparently, Beyoncé is someone she considers more R&B. Hmmmm. In my honest opinion, Rihanna and Beyoncé release the SAME type of music. Bey is no less a pop star than Rihanna is.

New Music: Leona Lewis - 'I Am'...

This campaign has seen things go belly up for Leona Lewis. She went from having *some* hype to none at all. Capitol and Radio One are not playing her records, and she has struggled to find her footing. The second UK single from Leona is the album’s title track 'I Am,' written by Leona, Toby Gad and Francis White.

'I Am' is very Emeli Sande, which makes this whole listening process so much worse. Makes one wish Emeli was singing it instead because you just know she would have offered so much more to the track. This on the other hand, sounds so damn flat and uninspiring! Granted, 'I Am' is a better track than 'Thunder,' but that's not saying much.

Rihanna hits NYC recording studio, looking like she's ready for bed...

Only Rihanna could wear pajamas, furry heels and a see-through bra to work:

Top marks for comfortability I guess.

Video Premiere: Ciara - 'Dance Like We’re Making Love'...

Aside from the over excessive product placement, this has got to be one of Ciara's most poised videos to date.

The scene of her coming out of the pool had some serious wow factor. It was like Halle Berry bikini moment in James Bond, which just leaves you in awe and admiration. The video was very upscale and the choreo was extremely good. It's just a shame that such an effort has been wasted on another half assed era yet again.

Janet Jackson & vocal coach, following 2nd tour announcement...

A beaming Janet Jackson is seen here posing with vocal coach Ron Anderson, as she puts in some serious preparation for her 'Unbreakable' world tour.

Due to overwhelming fan demand, Janet has announced a second North American leg, adding 27 new cities to the highly anticipated trek.

Janet's pull is still strong. No one is "sleeeping" on those tickets! Tickets go on sale starting July 20th at JanetJackson.com.

Video Premiere: Trey Songz - 'About You'...

Wild parties and sexy women is Trey Songz' biggest video fetish and he certainly keeps things up in the visuals for his latest single 'About You.'

This accounts for 90% of his videos these days. You see one Trigga video and you've seen them all, pretty much.

The cut serves as the latest release off his album 'Trigga Reloaded', which dropped last month.

Album cover + tracklist: Jordin Sparks - 'Right Here Right Now'...

Jordin Sparks unmasks the official artwork and tracklist for her third studio album, 'Right Here Right Now.'

The 14-track project, which serves as the follow-up to her 2014 EP '#ByeFelicia,' drops on August 21st.

It features guest appearances from 2 Chainz, B.o.B, Shaggy, and Elijah Blake. Shaggy though? He had some hits a million years ago but I haven't heard that name in a hot minute.

New Music: Rihanna – ‘Bitch Better Have My Money’ (Korn remix)...

Rock band Korn deliver some serious rage on their own remix to Rihanna's latest new tune 'Bitch Better Have My Money.'

 Me no likey.

Not because I dislike heavy metal music. I just don't think the raging instrumental blends well with her delivery. The song will always be trash, no matter how many different ways it gets spun. However, this just brings on a whole new appreciation for the initial minimalistic production.

Britney Spears hits the studio with Alex Da Kid...

Following her recent studio sessions with a certain Mr "Mustard on the beat ho!," Britney Spears hit up the recording booth with Grammy-winning producer Alex Da Kid.

His most notable works includes Rihanna’s 'Love The Way You Lie' and more recently, Rihanna's 'American Oxygen,' as well as B.o.B's 'Airplanes,' Nicki Minaj’s 'Bed of Lies,' and so much more.

This album is going to have major variety! I'm actually excited for it.

Leona Lewis' new Stateside single ‘Thunder’ is disappointing...

The official Stateside single to be lifted off Leona's upcoming new album 'I Am,' is 'Thunder.'

Def Jam are delusional for even thinking this song is worthy enough to serve as her launch pad in the States. She's setting herself up for failure.

It's as dull as dish water, so predictable and bland. How many statement songs will be released this era about growing stronger after being kicked?  We.get.it. Move the fuck on!

Kelly Rowland previews new song 'No Pressure'...

Seems like Kelly Rowland might be about to channel her inner ratchet with her new music.

She took to Instagram last night to preview a ballsy new uptempo cut, called 'No Pressure.' Can't say I'm keen on what I'm hearing so far.

I do like me some sensual, R&B Kelly to be honest. I prefer her grown and sexy vibes on previous singles. But at least it was fun to see Kelly having fun in the studio. Shake those tatas, girl!

Video Premiere: Jordin Sparks – ‘Right Here Right Now’...

The desert has Jordin Sparks showing off her sultry side in the visuals for her new single, ‘Right Here Right Now.’

This song is weird. Too much transition and it lacks a discernible chorus. I loved the beat at the beginning, and was ready to pop!

And then it fades... and switches into something less, and even after that, the beat switches again. I think I counted three different songs!

Video Premiere: Tamar Braxton - 'If I Don’t Have You'...

Tamar Braxton drops her Harlem Nights-inspired visuals for 'If I Don’t Have You.'

Cameos feature fellow reality stars 'Real Housewife of Atlanta' NeNe Leakes, Shateria Moragne-el, and 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' stars Malika and Khadijah Haqq.

Tamar works in a brothel, and finds a man but he doesn't feel the same way. RuPaul would be proud and NeNe's acting will have casting directors running for the hills!

Monica previews new song ‘Ignore The Rules’...

Monica teams up with Polow Da Don, Blanco Theory, and Sneaka Beat for a brand new cut, called ‘Ignore The Rules.’

The R&B vet previewed the intro section of the uptempo cut on Instagram, which is slated to appear on her upcoming new album, 'Code Red.'

Another banger in the works? It sounds really good so far, and of course Monica is serving vocals!

Alicia Keys previews new song ‘28,000’ in Levi's commercial...

Levi’s brand ambassador Alicia Keys previews a new song called ‘28,000’ in their brand new commercial.

The production has Swizz Beatz written all over it, and we know her hubby has been cutting some tunes for her in the studio.

As reported previously, Alicia is eyeing October for her sixth studio album. 'Girl On Fire' was a dud, and Swizz needs to stay away from this project! Their musical chemistry is wack!

Beyoncé to headline Global Citizen Festival + returns to the studio...

Is Beyoncé set to release new music ahead of her headlining set at two upcoming festivals?

She has been captured in the studio with rapper D.R.A.M. What is she up to?! 

On Saturday, September 26th, she will headline the 2015 Global Citizen Festival at New York City's Great Lawn in Central Park. 

Pics of the day...

During the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, Beyoncé, Solange and Kelly Rowland had a little catch-up with Missy.

Replace Solange with Michelle Williams, and it would be like the 'Bootylicious' remix all over again. The legendary rapper has collaborated with Destiny's Child on several occasions now.

I want a DC reunion so badly. A proper one, not just the odd song or performance. I'm talking global tour, and a new studio album!

Watch: Ciara performs at 'Wireless'...

Ciara may not be getting any bump and grind in the bedroom despite dating her hunk, but at least she finds ways of reserving it for the stage.

Over the weekend, she performed at London's New Look Wireless Festival, wowing festival-goers with a high octane set.

Her energetic showing at the capital's Finsbury Park saw the sexy singer performing some of her classic hits, as well as new cuts off her latest album, 'Jackie.'

Watch: Miguel releases 13-minute mini film from his 'Wildheart' album...

Miguel delivers a steamy 13-minute mini-movie called 'Wildheart Chapter 1: Find What You Love and Let It Kill You.'

It features three of the songs from the album, '…goingtohell,' 'Coffee' and 'NWA.' From heavy petting in a gallery to romping around in the shower, the erotic angle is further visualised. Check out a cameo from Kurupt who delivers his guest verse on 'NWA.'

Miguel’s new album ‘Wildheart’ is out now.

Britney Spears working with DJ Mustard...

Mustard on the beat ho! DJ Mustard confirms to Capital FM's Max that he has been in the studio with Britney Spears.

The producer, behind Tinashe's hit single '2 On', made his admission at the Wireless festival in London over the weekend.

Does Mustard not realise her team hates it when producers speak on their contributions prematurely?

Kiss goodbye to making the cut!

Ashanti caught in a lie over cancelled gig...

Over the weekend, Ashanti was scheduled to perform at Club Mixx in New York City.

At the last minute, she pulled out telling fans in a (now deleted) Instagram post that the venue had been shut down by police.

Apparently, she was too embarrassed to admit the real reason for being a total no show that night. The real reason?

No one showed up!

Pics of the day...

A flawless Rihanna was spotted at her favourite Italian eatery Giorgio Baldi in Santa Monica last night.

Rihanna's hair colour is everything, and then I look down at her shoes and I'm salivating like crazy!

Her 'Bitch Better Have My Money' video has been getting some very mixed reviews this week. Personally I loved it, but some of you lot are so damn uptight!

Rita Ora shoots new video with Chris Brown...

This week in Los Angeles, Rita Ora shot the music video for her Chris Brown assisted new single, with further details yet to be disclosed.

She is spotted on set with the singer himself, alongside director Colin Tilley. CB stays getting work. He is in everybody's song. Everybody's video.

This is a great look for Rita. The song will definitely impact simply because CB is featured on it. 

Leona Lewis selects debut Stateside single...

It appears Leona Lewis will be relaunching her music career in the States with 'Thunder,' which goes for Hot/Modern/AC adds on July 27th in the US.

'Fire Under My Feet' underperformed in the UK, so it is actually smart to change tactic, though I'm not sure if that song will quite cut it.

However, it would be nice if the song did see some success in the States, as it has been a while.

Janet Jackson's 'No Sleeep' debuts on the Billboard Hot 100...

Janet Jackson has scored her 40th Billboard Hot 100 this week with her comeback single 'No Sleeep.' The track debuted at a modest #67. Congrats?

Much of the song’s points were attributed from sales, pushing 38,000 units for its #35 position on the Digital Songs chart.

It's too premature to call it a flop, but considering she's been gone for seven years, her comeback hasn't had the major impact that fans were hoping for.