When I first reviewed American blues rocker Joe Bonamassa back in 2008, I described him as the most exciting guitarist in the world, writes Ian Harvey.

McFly received a rapturous welcome on their return to the Midlands for the latest stop on their new tour.

Fireworks, carnival colours and zipwires whizzing performers out over the crowd. It can only mean one thing – the X Factor circus was back in town.

Superstar Madonna is to play Birmingham NIA this summer, one of just three dates on her UK tour.

In 2011 Patti Smith was listed amongst the Time 100 most influential people in the world, as well as one of Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Artists. In 2012 she brings her latest tour to Wolverhampton.

George Michael is back in good health and preparing to return to the big stage this autumn with rescheduled dates at Birmingham’s LG Arena on September 16 and 17, 2012, after a battle with pneumonia which led to his Symphonica tour being postponed.

Hot on the heels of the amazing reception to their recent sold out live dates and forthcoming album, Feeder announce a string of UK dates for 2012, including Wolverhampton Civic Hall on Wednesday,  November 21.

Rising rapper Nicki Minaj will be returning to the UK this June for her new ‘Pink Friday’ Tour, which will stop at Birmingham’s NIA on Tuesday, June 26.

Jason Donovan has made a welcome return to the music scene with his sixth-studio album, Sign Of Your Love, which   showcases a passionate and re-energised Jason on a selection of classic covers and new recordings. Warren Higgins finds out more.

“How do you fancy going to see Elvis Presley in concert on Mother’s Day?” I asked my Mum a couple of weeks ago.

Designer clothes, trips to far-flung destinations and adoring groupies. Not bad for a lad from Bushbury.

Dressed as futuristic gladiators, JLS quite literally descended on Birmingham’s LG arena. And with a note, word and beat-perfect performance, the fabulous foursome gave the crowd everything they were screaming for – and then some.