Kate Bush, the iconic British singer-songwriter known for her ethereal voice and innovative music, is creating quite the buzz by announcing her plans for new musical endeavors. Following her celebrated 2011 album, 50 Words For Snow, Bush has expressed her eagerness to get back to writing and recording, indicating her return to the music world has been on her mind for quite some time.
During her recent interview with BBC Radio 4’s Today program, Bush conveyed her excitement, remarking, "I’m really looking forward to getting back to the creative space. It’s been a long time." This anticipation follows her work on her current project, the short animated film Little Shrew (Snowflake), which serves as both artistic expression and as an appeal for support for war-affected children through the charity War Child.
Little Shrew (Snowflake), which Bush wrote and directed, uses animation to depict the struggles of a shrew amid war, set to her 2011 track “Snowflake.” The poignant film showcases the impacts of conflict, especially on children, as Bush sought to highlight these horrors through the story of this small creature. "I wanted to draw attention to how horrific war is for children," Bush explained during the interview.
Reflecting on the project, she shared how she began working on it soon after the onset of the Ukraine crisis, aiming to evoke empathy by presenting the narrative through an animal rather than depicting it through human experiences. She stated, "People might be more empathetic toward a creature rather than a human," underscoring her intent to shine light on the vulnerable. At the end of the animation, viewers are encouraged to support War Child to help affected youth.
Bush's return to music has been highly anticipated, especially after the massive resurgence of her classic 1985 hit “Running Up That Hill,” which experienced new life thanks to the popular Netflix series Stranger Things. This boost has led to over 1 billion streams of this track on Spotify, reminding fans of her enduring influence and relevance. Even artists like Halsey, who released the Kate Bush-inspired single “I Never Loved You,” have acknowledged her impact on the music community.
Although Bush is enthusiastic about composing new pieces, she has clarified she isn't currently recording right now. Instead, her recent focus has revolved around reorganizing her online presence and preparing reissues of her vinyl catalog. "I'm very eager to start working on new music when I’ve got this finished," she said. Bush feels prepared and excited about these upcoming projects, hinting at plenty of ideas brewing. "Yes, it is, really. Particularly the last year, I’ve felt really ready to start doing something new," she confirmed.
Fans of the legendary artist are certainly rallying behind this announcement, hopeful for what this new musical chapter will bring. Currently emphasizing storytelling and emotional resonance through her artistic endeavors, Bush has made it clear her return to the studio will be meaningful, focusing on themes close to her heart. Her continued exploration of important social issues through her art, like the plight of children caught up in conflicts around the globe, sets the stage for thoughtful and impactful music.
Kate Bush remains one of the most compelling figures in the music world, blending artistry with activism. The combination of her powerful new animation with plans for fresh music has reignited interest and enthusiasm among long-time fans and new listeners alike. The excitement is palpable, as fans eagerly await what treasures this celebrated artist will share as she steps back onto the creative stage, ready to weave her unique, poetic narratives once more.
