Sugababes are riding a wave of resurgence that’s as exciting for fans as it is for the iconic trio.
Originally formed in 1998 and with a legacy that includes six UK No. 1 singles – “Freak like Me”, “Round Round”, “Hole in the Head”, “Push the Button”, “Walk This Way”, and “About You Now” – their place in pop history is unshakable.
Second only to Spice Girls among British girl groups in terms of UK chart success, Sugababes have also released five UK top ten albums, four of which were certified Platinum. They’ve also earned six Brit Award nominations, winning Best British Dance Act in 2003.
Fast forward to 2024, the original lineup of Keisha Buchanan, Mutya Buena, and Siobhán Donaghy are back and proving they’re not just here to celebrate their past – they’re looking firmly to the future.
Ahead of their highly anticipated Australian tour, which kicks off after a headlining New Year’s Eve performance at Beyond the Valley alongside names like FISHER, Ice Spice, Chase & Status, and Royel Otis, Keisha spoke to Rolling Stone AU/NZ about the group’s journey, their love for Australia, and even teased new music on the horizon.
“Oh my goodness. So, so excited,” she said of Sugababes taking the stage at Beyond the Valley. “I’m hoping I see some of my favourite acts of the people playing. I’ve always wanted to see Tinashe perform – always wanted to see that. And also Chase & Status and Natasha Bedingfield. I’ve not seen her in years, and she’s got some bops as well. So yeah, I’m really looking forward to seeing them.”
Sugababes are set to light up the stage on New Year’s Eve before taking their high-energy shows to Melbourne on Friday, January 3rd at Festival Hall, followed by a performance in Sydney on Saturday, January 4th at Enmore Theatre, and Brisbane on Sunday, January 5th at Fortitude Music Hall.
Fans can expect to hear the classics they love, with fresh takes on live performances. “We tend to throw the kitchen sink, so to speak, from the beginning,” Keisha said. “It’s high-energy from the start. Hits that you all know, and we’ve reworked a few songs to keep it very modern and fresh. We’ll be flying out our band as well, which we’re super excited about.”
The group’s ability to innovate while honouring their roots has been key to their longevity. Back in 2003, their hit “Hole in the Head” stormed the charts, becoming a global sensation and earning the group their first entry on the US Billboard Hot 100. Their knack for blending pop hooks with a bold, experimental edge continues to resonate, even as new audiences discover their music through TikTok and remixes.
It’s been a whirlwind few years for Sugababes, and their Glastonbury set earlier this year became a defining moment. “Every time there’s been, like, something massive happening around it [Glastonbury],” Keisha reflected. “The first time we were the first girl group to play the main stage – that was so controversial at the time. And then when we came back the second time, it was all about proving ourselves.
“We didn’t know if anyone was going to show up. Then, when we were about to go on stage, we heard that the police had to come and shut down the entire field – we were like, what? Fast forward to this year, and the stage we played was meant for 36,000 people, and 90,000 showed up. They had to shut the field down again. For us? It’s been so humbling.”
Part of the group’s resurgence has been driven by collaborations and remixes of their iconic hits. Tracks like “Round Round” and “Push the Button” have been reimagined for a new generation, thanks to remixes from artists like Two Shell and Joy Anonymous. “It’s been incredible to hear the different remixes,” Keisha said.
“We get so many requests all the time [to collaborate], so we only really like to collab and do things that make sense. A couple of them have gone viral first on TikTok, which obviously then opened the conversation to put it out as an official track. It’s great that we’ve got the opportunity to do that.”
Keisha was candid about the challenges the group faced over the years, particularly in reclaiming the Sugababes name and rebuilding their bond.
“I’m proud that we managed to stick together through adversity,” she said. “This has been 10 years in the making, you know? Going under the name MKS, trying to fight for the name, and also navigating getting to know each other again. There were instances where one of us wanted to give up, and the other two were still in. But we refused to compromise our talent and core morals to achieve what we have now. And by the grace of God, we’ve been able to experience the most wonderful, successful three years. It was all worth it.”
@sugababes The sacred three 🖤 #Sugababes
Perhaps the most exciting revelation from our conversation came when Keisha casually mentioned she was on her way to the studio. “Yeah, I’m actually on my way to a studio session now,” she shared. “Everything is sounding really great. We’re very optimistic. I don’t think I’m allowed to say much – secrecy is at an all-time high! But we’re really excited about it, and we’re confident people will love it too.”
Keisha’s affection for Australia is undeniable, and the group’s loyal local fanbase keeps them coming back. “The fans, 100%, but I actually feel really happy when I’m there,” she said. “People are incredibly kind, upbeat, and lovely. It’s very multicultural, and I really do feel very at home there.”
The group’s connection to Australia runs deep, following several significant visits throughout their career. In 2002, they performed as part of the Rumba Festival, leaving fans wanting more. After a two-decade gap, they returned in February 2023 for their first headlining tour, which saw sold-out venues and an outpouring of love from Aussie crowds.
With the Beyond the Valley and their headline shows just around the corner, there’s no better time to witness Sugababes in all their glory. And if their new music is anything like their history – timeless, innovative, and unforgettable – fans are in for a treat.
Sugababes Australia Tour Dates
Ticket information available here
Tuesday, December 31st 2024
Beyond the Valley, Barunah Plains, VIC
Friday, January 3rd 2025
Festival Hall, Melbourne, VIC
Saturday, January 4th 2025
Enmore Theatre, Sydney, NSW
Sunday, January 5th 2025
Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane, QLD
