ARCHIVE NEWS FROM
JANUARY - DECEMBER 2003

Some of the news items on this page have been reproduced from PetShopBoys.co.uk, with the kind permission of Bill 'Redman' Goodin.

29th December 2003 - Band Of The Year 2003

Pet Shop Boys have been voted Band Of The Year at eil.com by vistors to their mail order website.

28th December 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the album chart 'PopArt' went down 6 places to number 64.

25th December 2003 - TV Appearance

Neil and Chris wished everyone a "Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year" on 'Top Of The Pops' this afternoon.

25th December 2003 - Merry Christmas!

So Pet Shop Boys would like to wish everybody around the world a very merry Christmas.

21st December 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the singles chart 'Miracles' went out of the top 75 and in the album chart 'PopArt' went down 7 places to number 58. 'Style' by Mis-Teeq which samples 'West End Girls' also went out of the top 75 in the singles chart.

20th December 2003 - Flamboyant Rumour 3

HMV.co.uk has a release date of Monday 26th January 2004 for 'Flamboyant'. This hasn't been confirmed. Remixes are rumoured to be by DJ Hell and Scissor Sisters.

19th December 2003 - TV Appearance

'Jump London' originally shown on Tuesday 9th September 2003 will be repeated on Sunday 21st December 2003 at 6.50pm on Channel 4 in the UK. Neil and Chris make a brief appearance (as does the track, 'London') in the innovative film in which a team of French traceurs are somersaulting and vaulting across some of London's most famous buildings. It's a new street sport called Free Running which has taken France by storm.

18th December 2003 - 2003 Christmas Card

It's here, the Pet Shop Boys Club 2003 Christmas card came through my letterbox this morning.
To find out what this years Christmas card looks like see my Christmas 2003 page.

17th December 2003 - Favourite Music

Neil and Chris have each talked about their favourite music in the UK press this week.
The Christmas issue of 'Time Out' (the London listings magazine) has an interview with Chris where he lists his favourite records. And the Christmas issue of 'NME' has Neil's favourite records.
Both magazines are on sale in the UK now.

16th December 2003 - Be A Pet Shop Boy

Ever wanted to be a Pet Shop Boy, well now you can. Well you can play their music anyway. The sheet music book for 'Release' has finally been published by Wise Publications and is available in music shops now.

14th December 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the singles chart 'Miracles' went down 17 places to number 66 and in the album chart 'PopArt' went down 6 places to number 51. 'Style' by Mis-Teeq which samples 'West End Girls' went down 18 places to number 55 in the singles chart.

12th December 2003 - Questions Answered

Neil has been answering questions on PetShopBoys.co.uk:

Q. I recently heard that you were going to make a tour to Latin America. Can you tell me if this information is true or false?
A. We're having a meeting next week about touring possibilities

Q. 'Paris City Boy', is this song going to be on sale at any release?
A. We might put 'Paris City Boy' as a bonus track on a single. In France it might be a single. There is, incidentally, a version sung in French all the way through."

11th December 2003 - Flamboyant Rumour 2

'Flamboyant' is now rumoured to be released on Monday 8th March 2004. Although Neil has said that is won't be released before March and that the release date is stil to be decided.

7th December 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the singles chart 'Miracles' went down 21 places to number 49 and in the album chart 'PopArt' went down 15 places to number 45. 'Style' by Mis-Teeq which samples 'West End Girls' went down 11 places to number 37 in the singles chart.

6th December 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, went out of the top 40 singles chart.

5th December 2003 - 101 Things.....

.....to buy, see and do this Christmas, according to the 'Guardian' newspaper in the UK. At number 74, Pet Shop Boys 'PopArt'.
Out in cyberspace, there exists an internet site entirely devoted to proving that the Pet Shop Boys' 'Being Boring' is the best song ever written. 'PopArt' suggests why, a decade after their commercial peak, the duo still attract such fierce devotion. It's this year's no-brainer Christmas present for anyone with even a passing interest in pop music. A singles collection from Britain's greatest singles band of the past 20 years.
For the other 100 things to buy, see and do this Christmas visit the 'Guardian' website.

1st December 2003 - Gold PopArt

'PopArt' which entered the UK album chart at number 30 yesterday, has already attained Gold status.

30th November 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the singles chart 'Miracles' went down 18 places to number 28 and 'PopArt' entered the album chart at number 30. 'Style' by Mis-Teeq which samples 'West End Girls' went down 13 places to number 26 in the singles chart.

29th November 2003 - So Pet Shop Boys Gets A New Look

I have given my website its fourth new look. After being based on 'Disco 3', and before that 'Release', and before that 'Nightlife', I have now based it on, 'PopArt' which was released this week.

29th November 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, went back up 7 places to number 19 in the singles chart.

29th November 2003 - European Chart

This week 'Miracles' entered the Eurochart Hot 100 singles at number 19 (compiled by Billboard).

29th November 2003 - TV Appearance

Neil and Chris will be back in Berlin tomorrow to perform on the nationally televised 'Stars 2003 - Die Aids Gala'. Expect to see them live on German TV at around 10.30pm.

28th November 2003 - PopArt Night

If you live in or close to London why don't you pop in to The Fan Club on Saturday 6th December 2003 when they will be holding a special 'PopArt' night. There will be Pet Shop Boys giveaways in a prize draw (courtesy of EMI Parlophone), live electronic-oriented bands (Trademark, Ex-Rental and The Pictures) and DJs playing plenty of classics Pet Shop Boys tracks between the club's usual mix of electro, pop, new wave and disco. Doors open at 8.00pm and admission is only £5 or £4 with a flyer from The Fan Club website.

28th November 2003 - Flamboyant Rumour

The other new track on 'PopArt', 'Flamboyant' is rumoured to be released on Monday 12th January 2004.

27th November 2003 - More TV Appearances

Neil and Chris will be giving an exclusive performance of 'Se A Vida É (That's The Way Life Is)' on 'TOTP2' on Tuesday 2nd December 2003 at 6.20pm on BBC2 in the UK. They will also be performing on 'T4' on Sunday 30th November from 9.00am on Channel 4 in the UK.

26th November 2003 - TV Appearance Tonight

Chris and Neil will be on 'V Graham Norton' tonight at 10.00pm on Channel 4 in the UK. The show will also be repeated at 11.45pm on E4. As well as talking to Graham they will be performing a classic hit live in the studio.

24th November 2003 - Out Today

Don't forget that 'PopArt' is released in the UK today. Buy 'PopArt': UK CD and/or UK Limited Edition CD and/or UK Vinyl and/or UK DVD. The track listing is as follows:

Pop
Go West
Suburbia - Video Mix
Se A Vida É (That's The Way Life Is)
What Have I Done To Deserve This?
Always On My Mind
I Wouldn't Normally Do This Kind Of Thing
Home And Dry
Heart
Miracles
Love Comes Quickly
It's A Sin
Domino Dancing
Before
New York City Boy
It's Alright
Where The Streets Have No Name (I Can't Take My Eyes Off You)
A Red Letter Day

Art
Left To My Own Devices
I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Any More
Flamboyant
Being Boring
Can You Forgive Her?
West End Girls
I Get Along
So Hard
Rent
Jealousy
DJ Culture
You Only Tell Me You Love Me When You're Drunk
Liberation
Paninaro '95
Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)
Yesterday, When I Was Mad
Single-Bilingual
Somewhere

Mix
Can You Forgive Her? - Rollo Remix
So Hard - David Morales Red Zone Mix
What Have I Done To Deserve This? - Shep Pettibone Mix
West End Girls - Sasha Mix
Miserablism - Moby Electro Mix
Before - Danny Tenaglia Classic Paradise Mix
I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Any More - Peter Rauhoffer New York Mix
New York City Boy - Lange Mix
Young Offender - Jam & Spoon Trip-o-matic Fairy Tale Mix
Love Comes Quickly - Blank & Jones Mix

The 'Mix' CD is only available as part of the 'PopArt' UK Limited Edition CD. For the DVD track listing see the 'PopArt' DVD page.

23rd November 2003 - Another Top 10 Hit

'Miracles' was a new entry in the UK singles chart this evening at number 10. It's the Pet Shop Boys 21st top 10 hit single.

23rd November 2003 - UK Chart

This week 'Miracles' entered the singles chart at number 10 and it also entered the dance chart at number 1. 'Style' by Mis-Teeq which samples 'West End Girls' entered the singles chart at number 13.

22nd November 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, went back up 4 places to number 26 in the singles chart.

21st November 2003 - TV Appearance

Chris and Neil will be on 'V Graham Norton' shortly. The date when they will on the show has yet to be confirmed.

21st November 2003 - Dead Or Alive

Pete Burns from Dead or Alive has confirmed that he will be recording the song that the Pet Shop Boys wrote for him. Recording begins on 'Jack And Jill Party' during the week of Monday 24th November 2003.

20th November 2003 - Pet Shop Boys' Big Ones

On Sara Cox's show on BBC Radio One tomorrow morning, the Pet Shop Boys will be the focus of 'Coxy's Big Ones' between 9.00am-10.00am where only number one tracks from years gone by are played.
At the top of the hour, Sara Cox will ask listeners to choose their favourite Pet Shop Boys number one single, three candidates will be played and then listeners can vote via text message. The winning track will then be played shortly before 10.00am.

20th November 2003 - Literally Issue 27

It's here, Literally Issue 27 came through my letterbox this morning. To find out what's in it see my Literally page for more details.

19th November 2003 - Ain't That The Truth

These are the best quotes from a review on 'PopArt' on Channel 4's Teletext service in the UK.

The last quote is the best ever!

19th November 2003 - UK Chart Midweeks

According to the midweek sales 'Miracles' is set to enter the top 10 in the singles chart. It's currently at number 7.

18th November 2003 - Web Chat

During last night's web chat on BBC Radio 2's 'The Album Show' Chris said "Somebody really good is making a version of a really good Pet Shop Boys song at the moment. But we don't want to spoil the surprise!"
For the full transcript from the live online chat visit the Radio 2 website.

17th November 2003 - Out Today

Don't forget that 'Miracles' is released in the UK today. Buy 'Miracles': UK CD1 and/or UK CD2 and/or UK 12". The track listing is as follows:

CD Single 1 - 2 Track CD (CDR 6620):
Miracles
We're The Pet Shop Boys

CD Single 2 - Maxi CD (CDRS 6620):
Miracles - Extended Mix
Miracles - Lemon Jelly Remix
Transparent

12" Single White Vinyl (12R 6620):
Miracles - Extended Mix
Miracles - Lemon Jelly Remix
Miracles - Eric Prydz Remix

Also released today is 'Style' by Mis-Teeq which samples 'West End Girls'. The credits say the track is written by Mikkel S.E./Rustan/Hermansen/Tennant/Lowe and it contains replayed elements of 'West End Girls' as performed by the Pet Shop Boys, published by Sony ATV Music Publishing.

16th November 2003 - TV Appearance

Neil and Chris gave the first UK TV performance of 'Miracles' on last Friday's 'Top Of The Pops' and they have pre-recorded an exclusive performance of 'Se A Vida É (That's The Way Life Is)' for 'TOTP2'. The date when it will be broadcast has yet to be confirmed.
Since their first appearance almost 18 years ago in 1985, performing 'West End Girls', they have now perfomed on 'Top Of The Pops' over 30 times. For a full list of their appearances on the legendary show visit the 'Top Of The Pops' website.

15th November 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, went back up 5 places to number 30 in the singles chart.

14th November 2003 - PopArt Signings

Neil and Chris will be signing copies of 'PopArt' in the UK at London's Oxford Circus branch of HMV on Thursday 27th November 2003 at 6.00pm.

13th November 2003 - i-D Magazine

Neil and Chris will be featured in the December 2003 issue of the UK style magazine 'i-D'. Naomi Campbell is on the cover. It includes an interview with the Pet Shop Boys by Wolfgang Tillmans, the Turner-prize-winning artist who directed the video for 'Home and dry' last year.
For more information and to place orders of the magazine visit the i-D website.

12th November 2003 - TV And Radio Appearances

Neil and Chris will be giving the first UK TV performance of 'Miracles' on 'Top Of The Pops' on Friday 14th November 2003 at 7.30pm on BBC1 in the UK. They will be in Cologne in Germany this weekend for the tenth anniversary celebrations of the German music video channel, Viva. They'll be providing the finale of the show on TV. They will be interviewed on 'Popworld' on Sunday 16th November 2003 at 9.00am on Channel 4 in the UK.
BBC Radio 2 will have an interview with Steve Wright today, and Neil and Chris will be on 'The Album Show' followed by a live online chat on Monday 17th November 2003 from 7.00pm. BBC Radio 6 will have a one-hour Breakfast Show interview with Phil Jupitus on Friday 14th November 2003. Capital Gold in London will have an interview with David Jensen (the first DJ to play 'West End Girls' in 1984) also on Monday 24th November 2003. BBC Radio London will be hosting a Pet Shop Boys special on Gary Crowley's show on Sunday 30th November 2003 and the Pet Shop Boys will be talking to Jonathan Ross on Saturday 6th December 2003 on BBC Radio 2.

9th November 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the cool cuts chart 'Miracles - Eric Prydz Remix' went up 2 places to number 4.

8th November 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, went down 25 places to number 35 in the singles chart.

7th November 2003 - Pet Shop Boys Jukebox

Neil and Chris will be on the radio station Xfm catching up with Zoë Ball on Monday 24th November 2003 (the day 'PopArt is released) between 4.00pm and 7.00pm in the UK. They will be talking about 'PopArt' and they will play a selection of tracks picked by us. To hear your favourite Pet Shop Boys tracks live tell Xfm what you would love to hear. Every vote submitted will be entered into a prize draw where one lucky listener will win signed Pet Shop Boys stuff. Don't worry if you can't get Xfm you can listen to it throught their website.
For more information visit the Xfm website.

6th November 2003 - Up For Selection

The video for 'Miracles' is now available for selection on the UK satellite music television channel, The Hits. The selection number is 109.

3rd November 2003 - Questions Answered

Neil has been answering questions on PetShopBoys.co.uk:

Q. Will the 'Miracles' video be available in some format, maybe hidden on the DVD?
A. I think the 'Miracles' video will be released on one of the formats of the 'Flamboyant' single. Hopefully the 'Miracles' and 'Flamboyant' videos will be on one DVD.

Q. Do you consider yourselves as "pioneers of pop"?
A. Well we came up with the title! We might do tee shirts

Q. Will you be touring with this hits album and/or a record signing
A. No tour but maybe a couple of record signings in Britain

2nd November 2003 - UK Chart

This week 'Miracles - Eric Prydz Remix' entered the cool cuts chart at number 6. The chart comment is "Eric Prydz pulls a great mix out of the bag."

1st November 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, went up 10 places to number 10 in the singles chart.

1st November 2003 - A Reminder, Really

Just to remind you that BBC Radio 2 in the UK will be broadcasting the second part of a two-part documentary about the history of the Pet Shop Boys tonight at 9.00pm. The documentary will be presented by Jonathan Ross and is called 'Pet Shop Boys, Really'. The first part was broadcast last week on Saturday 25th October 2003 at 9.00pm.
For more information and if you can't get Radio 2 and would like to listen to the documentary visit the BBC Radio 2 website.

Part Two
The boys are on the tour and chronicler and biographer Chris Heath, author of 'Literally', the famous book of the tour is talking. Richard Niles guides us through the exhausting process of arranging strings for the boys as well as the pitfalls of conducting a 200 piece Welsh males voice choir for their Brits performance of 'Go West'. More also from collaborator Sam Taylor-Wood, Courtney Pine, Bernard Sumner and Johnny Marr.

31st October 2003 - It's A Phixx

There is no truth to the story, that Neil and Chris are so impressed by the band Phixx that they want to produce their next single, 'Contagious'.

30th October 2003 - Pet Shop Boys'll Phixx It

According to 'The Sun' newspaper, Phixx the losers from ITV's 'Popstars: The Rivals' have made a good impression on at least two people, Neil and Chris. After hearing the band's debut single 'Hold On Me' which was released this week, they want to produce their follow-up single, 'Contagious'.
Phixx are five guys who didn't make it into the 'Popstars: The Rivals' failed boyband, One True Voice. They are planning to repeat the success of Liberty X who similarly lost out in the first 'Popstars' series but went on to do better than the winners, Hear'Say.

29th October 2003 - Paris City Boy

The French release of 'PopArt' will have a unique track, 'Paris City Boy' will replace 'New York City Boy', in which the city eulogised is Paris (not New York) and the bridges and choruses of the track are sung in French.
This French version of the track was recorded at the request of EMI France and contains lyrics translated by respected French songwriter/journalist Jerome Soligny. Neil and Chris travelled to Paris in July to record new vocals on the original track. The recording and mix was engineered by Julien Delfaud who has worked with Air and Cassius. 'PopArt' is released in France on Monday 8th December 2003. Pre-order 'PopArt': French CD.

28th October 2003 - West End Laydeez

The group Mis-Teeq have sampled 'West End Girls' for their new single 'Style'. 'Style' is released on Monday 17th November 2003 the same day as 'Miracles'. Mis-Teeq will be performing 'Style' on 'Top Of The Pops' on Friday 31st October 2003 at 7.30pm on BBC1 in the UK.

25th October 2003 - Swedish Chart

'Love Life' the track that Neil and Chris wrote for Alcazar, entered the singles chart at number 20.

25th October 2003 - A Reminder, Really

Just to remind you that BBC Radio 2 in the UK will be broadcasting the first part of a two-part documentary about the history of the Pet Shop Boys tonight at 9.00pm. The documentary will be presented by Jonathan Ross and is called 'Pet Shop Boys, Really'. The second part will be broadcasted next week on Saturday 1st November 2003 at 9.00pm.
For more information and if you can't get Radio 2 and would like to listen to the documentary visit the BBC Radio 2 website.

Part One
The early days of their careers are explored, including the truth about the boys meeting in an electrical shop on the King's Road in Chelsea. Neil talks about how he met influential New York Hi-NRG producer Bobby Orlando. Rare early demos and of course the first version of 'West End Girls' can be heard. The programme takes us through 'Opportunities', 'Suburbia', 'What Have I Done to Deserve This?' and 'Rent', right up to the eve of the first tour.

24th October 2003 - Are You A Betting Person?

The bookmakers Coral have the Pet Shop Boys at 250/1 today for the UK Christmas Number 1 Single 2003.

23rd October 2003 - Miracles Details

'Miracles' was produced by and co-written with Adam F and Dan Fresh. Anne Dudley the Oscar-winning composer and Art Of Noise member, arranged and conducted the orchestra. Stuart Crichton then did the final mix.
'Miracles' will be available on two CDs and 12" vinyl. The bonus track 'We're The Pet Shop Boys' was originally written and recorded by the New York electro artist My Robot Friend on his album 'Hot Action!' as an homage to Pet Shop Boys, who then decided to record their own version of it because, according to Neil "it sums us up". The other new bonus track 'Transparent', is a Kraftwerkesque track recorded during the sessions for the 'Release' album. Remixes of 'Miracles' are by Lemon Jelly and Eric Prydz. There is also an extended mix by Stuart Crichton. The video for the track has been directed by Howard Greenhalgh. 'Miracles' will be released on Parlophone in the UK and Europe on Monday 17th November 2003. Pre-order 'Miracles': UK CD1 and/or UK CD2 and/or UK 12". The track listing is as follows:

CD Single 1 - 2 Track CD (CDR 6620):
Miracles
We're The Pet Shop Boys

CD Single 2 - Maxi CD (CDRS 6620):
Miracles - Extended Mix
Miracles - Lemon Jelly Remix
Transparent

12" Single White Vinyl (12R 6620):
Miracles - Extended Mix
Miracles - Lemon Jelly Remix
Miracles - Eric Prydz Remix

20th October 2003 - World Arts Award

On Wednesday 22nd October 2003 in Hamburg, Germany, the fourth annual World Awards will be presented by President Mikhail S. Gorbachev to deserving individuals in a variety of fields who through personal commitment, sustained efforts and excellence in their work have contributed to create a better world.
Neil and Chris are being presented with the World Arts Award 2003, for their extraordinary dedication to art, their social engagement and their unique contribution to popular music as well as their overall patronage of the arts. The previous winners of this prestigious honour include Michael Jackson (2002) and Sir Paul McCartney (2001).
The Awards ceremony will be broadcast the following day on television stations in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

15th October 2003 - Neil's A Party Monster

Neil attended the London premiere of the new film 'Party Monster' last night and bumped into Pete Burns from Dead or Alive. They discussed the track, 'Jack And Jill Party' which the Pet Shop Boys have written for him, and if and when they'll get together to record it.
'Party Monster' has an excerpt of 'It's A Sin' played during a crucial scene.

15th October 2003 - Out Today In Sweden

'Love Life' which was written by the Pet Shop Boys for the Swedish pop group Alcazar, is released in Sweden today. It was originally due for release on Wednesday 24th September 2003 but it was put back until today. The track listing is as follows:

CD Single (82876 569002):
Love Life - Original Version
Love Life - Extended Version
Love Life - FL Rebirth Club Mix

'Love Life' is included on Alcazar's album 'Alcazarized'. Buy 'Alcazarized': UK CD.

12th October 2003 - Scented Miracles

Promotional copies of 'Miracles' are scented with lavender. The cover is a simple design, by Farrow, of pastel colours. The commercial release will quite different but with the same colours.

11th October 2003 - Miracles Remixes

Two remixes of 'Miracles' have now been completed. One is by Lemon Jelly and the other is by Eric Prydz. In addition to these there will be a 'Miracles - Extended Mix' by Stuart Crichton who mixed the single version. All will be commercially released on Monday 17th November 2003.
'Miracles' got its first play on BBC Radio 2 yesterday morning. Pre-order 'Miracles': UK CD1 and/or UK CD2.

10th October 2003 - Radio Documentary

BBC Radio 2 in the UK will be broadcasting a two-part documentary about the history of the Pet Shop Boys called 'Pet Shop Boys, Really'. As well as interviews with Neil and Chris the documentary includes contributions from many others involved in the Pet Shop Boys story, including Richard Niles, Pete Gleadall, Chris Heath, Janet Street-Porter, Sam Taylor-Wood, Stephen Hague and Trevor Horn. Fellow musicians including Johnny Marr, Bernard Sumner, Andy Bell and Marc Almond are also interviewed. Excerpts from Pet Shop Boys unreleased demos are included.
The documentary will be presented by Jonathan Ross and the first part will be broadcast on Radio 2 on Saturday 25th October 2003 at 9.00pm. The second part will be broadcast the following week on Saturday 1st November 2003 at 9.00pm.

Part One
The early days of their careers are explored, including the truth about the boys meeting in an electrical shop on the King's Road in Chelsea. Neil talks about how he met influential New York Hi-NRG producer Bobby Orlando. Rare early demos and of course the first version of 'West End Girls' can be heard. The programme takes us through 'Opportunities', 'Suburbia', 'What Have I Done to Deserve This?' and 'Rent', right up to the eve of the first tour.

Part Two
The boys are on the tour and chronicler and biographer Chris Heath, author of 'Literally', the famous book of the tour is talking. Richard Niles guides us through the exhausting process of arranging strings for the boys as well as the pitfalls of conducting a 200 piece Welsh males voice choir for their Brits performance of 'Go West'. More also from collaborator Sam Taylor-Wood, Courtney Pine, Bernard Sumner and Johnny Marr.

8th October 2003 - PSB Too Late For SEB

Sophie Ellis-Bextor has reportedly turned down a track writen for her by Neil and Chris as they were too late in penning it.
Sophie said "I'd just finished writing my album when the Pet Shop Boys sent me a song they'd written for me. It was just too late. Also I prefer to write with my team, rather than have songs just given to me. I was very flattered and I'd love to work with them one day. My Dad's such a fan, he'd never for give me if I don't."

6th October 2003 - Archive TV Appearance

Neil and Chris will be on 'TOTP2' performing 'Being Boring' from a 1990 edition of 'Top Of The Pops' tomorrow at 6.20pm on BBC2 in the UK.

4th October 2003 - Happy Birthday Chris!

So Pet Shop Boys and all the many fans online wish Chris a very warm and happy 44th birthday!

3rd October 2003 - Miracles On The Radio

'Miracles' will be delivered to UK radio stations on Monday 6th October 2003. European radio stations will get their promo copies by Monday 13th October 2003. So listen out for it.

3rd October 2003 - It Takes Two

'It Takes Two: The Story Of The Pop Duo' originally shown on Sunday 5th May 2002 is being repeated tonight at 11.30am on BBC1 in the UK. It is all about pop duos (as the title suggests) from the Everly Brothers to the Chemical Brothers. Neil and Chris are featured.
Snippets of videos and 'Top Of The Pops' appearances were shown along with Neil and Chris being interviewed. They are the last duo to be featured. The show ends by saying "Most duos seem to wind up tearing each other apart. The Pet Shop Boys seem to be growing old together gracefully. Amidst all the trouble and strife it's cheering to see that some duos can stay the course."

2nd October 2003 - PopArt DVD Details

The 'PopArt' DVD will be released internationally by Parlophone/EMI. It contains 41 tracks, every video in chronological order for every Pet Shop Boys single up to and including 'I Get Along' and 'London', plus a three hour audio commentary, Pet Shop Boys in conversation with Chris Heath. Also included are 3 extended versions of videos.
The quality of both the sound and the images has been improved through remastering at Abbey Road Studios.
With a total running time of over six hours, this DVD is the definitive visual document of the Pet Shop Boys' career. 'PopArt' will be released in the UK on Monday 24th November 2003. Pre-order 'PopArt': UK DVD. The track listing is as follows:

Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money) - Original Version
West End Girls
Love Comes Quickly
Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money) - Second Version
Suburbia
Paninaro
It's A Sin
What Have I Done To Deserve This?
Rent
Always On My Mind
Heart
Domino Dancing
Left To My Own Devices
It's Alright
So Hard
Being Boring
How Can You Expect To Be Taken Seriously?
Where The Streets Have No Name (I Can't Take My Eyes Off You)
Jealousy
DJ Culture
Was It Worth It?
Can You Forgive Her?
Go West
I Wouldn't Normally Do This Kind Of Thing
Liberation
Yesterday, When I Was Mad
Paninaro '95
Before
Se A Vida É (That's The Way Life Is)
Single-Bilingual
A Red Letter Day
Somewhere
I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Any More
New York City Boy
You Only Tell Me You Love Me When You're Drunk
Home And Dry
I Get Along/E-mail
London
Domino Dancing - Extended Version
So Hard - Extended Version
Go West - Extended Version

2nd October 2003 - Miracles At Designerama

Neil and Chris have just returned from a couple of days in Berlin. Last night they appeared on MTV Germany's 'Designarama' event, performing the new single 'Miracles', and also 'Se A Vida É (That's The Way Life Is)'. As it was a fashion event, you might like to know that Chris was wearing Y3 clothes and Neil was in Dior Homme.

1st October 2003 - UK CD Singles Revamped

UK CD singles are to be given a new format in a bid to boost sales. The Official UK Charts Company has announced that a two-tier single format will be take effect from Thursday 1st January 2004. The changes which were agreed last week, are said to be the most radical review of the charts set-up in the last five years.
The CD single can have two different tracks and can have a total running time of 10 minutes or less. They cannot offer any free gifts and will have to be in standard CD jewel cases and will cost £2.00. The CD Maxi single can have three different tracks, they can also have mixes of those tracks and can have a total running time of 20 minutes or less. They can also include two enhanced videos and will cost £4.00. Three different formats will count towards the chart position.

29th September 2003 - Out Today

Atomizer are releasing 'Hooked On Radiation' today which includes 'Hooked On Radiation - Pet Shop Boys Orange Alert Mix'. 'Hooked On Radiation' is the first release by the South London synth duo, Jonny Melton & Fil Jones. Buy 'Hooked On Radiation': UK CD. The track listing is as follows:

CD Single (EFA275962):
Hooked On Radiation - Bad Boy Mix Radio Edit
Hooked On Radiation - Bad Boy Mix
Hooked On Radiation - Pet Shop Boys Orange Alert Mix

12" Single (EFA275966):
Hooked On Radiation - Bad Boy Mix
Hooked On Radiation - Pet Shop Boys Orange Alert Mix
Hooked On Radiation - Punx Sound Check Mix

23rd September 2003 - Fashion And Music

Neil and Chris will be one of the performers at MTV Germany's 'Designarama' on Wednesday 1st October 2003. 'Designarama' is an event taking place at Berlin's Congress Centre. It's a fusion of fashion and music. Young designers will present their collection and various artists will perform their music. Other artists and celebrities will be co-hosting with the MTV VJs.
For more information visit the MTV Designarama website.

21st September 2003 - Pioneers Of Pop

At last nights 'SWR3 New Pop Festival', 'Miracles' got its world premiere and Neil and Chris were presented with the A-ward for being Pioneers Of Pop.

20th September 2003 - TV Appearance

Neil and Chris are on 'SWR3 New Pop Festival' to be broadcast tonight at 10:20pm (UK time) on SWR in Germany. Don't worry if you miss it because it will be re-broadcast as 'In Concert - Live from the New Pop Festival in Rastatt/Germany' on Saturday 27th September 2003 at 10:15pm (UK time) on ZDF in Germany.

18th September 2003 - Without Sensation

Neil and Chris have recorded a new track called 'Numb'. 'Numb' was written by Diane Warren who has written hits for Starship, Michael Bolton, DeBarge, Gladys Knight, The Jets, Joe Cocker, Cheap Trick, Dusty Springfield, Daryl Hall, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion, Kenny G, Peabo Bryson, Aaron Neville, Ace Of Base, Monica, Chicago, Belinda Carlisle, Meat Loaf, Cher, Patti LaBelle, Taylor Dayne, Expose, Gloria Estefan, Roberta Flack, Michael McDonald, Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Toni Braxton, Barbara Streisand, Heart, and many, many more top artists. Diane has had her songs in more than 50 major motion pictures. She's had multiple Grammy nominations, as well as Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations.
Diane said, "It's not the sort of song people usually associate with me, but it's very beautiful and moving." 'Numb' is expected to be on the next Pet Shop Boys studio album due out next year.

17th September 2003 - PopArt Details

Parlophone/EMI will release internationally a double CD of Pet Shop Boys' hits called 'PopArt'. Since 1985, Pet Shop Boys have had 33 Top 20 hits in the UK and they will all be included on 'PopArt' plus two new tracks, the forthcoming new single 'Miracles' and 'Flamboyant'. 'Flamboyant' was written and recorded by Neil and Chris during the summer and recently mixed with additional production by Tomcraft.
The tracks are split between the two CDs as either 'Pop' or 'Art', a decision made by Neil and Chris (which will no doubt prove controversial). A limited edition of 'PopArt' will be made available, including a third CD, 'Mix', which is Neil and Chris's choice of their favourite Pet Shop Boys remixes. It includes remixes by Rollo, David Morales, Shep Pettibone, Sasha, Moby, Danny Tenaglia, Peter Rauhoffer, Lange, Jam & Spoon and Blank & Jones. There will also be a limited edition 3 vinyl box set. The artwork for 'PopArt' was designed by Farrow. 'PopArt' will now be released in the UK on Monday 24th November 2003. The USA release date for 'PopArt' has not been decided yet. Pre-order 'PopArt': UK CD and/or UK Limited Edition CD and/or UK Vinyl. The track listing is as follows:

Pop
Go West
Suburbia - Video Mix
Se A Vida É (That's The Way Life Is)
What Have I Done To Deserve This?
Always On My Mind
I Wouldn't Normally Do This Kind Of Thing
Home And Dry
Heart
Miracles
Love Comes Quickly
It's A Sin
Domino Dancing
Before
New York City Boy
It's Alright
Where The Streets Have No Name (I Can't Take My Eyes Off You)
A Red Letter Day

Art
Left To My Own Devices
I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Any More
Flamboyant
Being Boring
Can You Forgive Her?
West End Girls
I Get Along
So Hard
Rent
Jealousy
DJ Culture
You Only Tell Me You Love Me When You're Drunk
Liberation
Paninaro '95
Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)
Yesterday, When I Was Mad
Single-Bilingual
Somewhere

Mix
Can You Forgive Her? - Rollo Remix
So Hard - David Morales Red Zone Mix
What Have I Done To Deserve This? - Shep Pettibone Mix
West End Girls - Sasha Mix
Miserablism - Moby Electro Mix
Before - Danny Tenaglia Classic Paradise Mix
I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Any More - Peter Rauhoffer New York Mix
New York City Boy - Lange Mix
Young Offender - Jam & Spoon Trip-o-matic Fairy Tale Mix
Love Comes Quickly - Blank & Jones Mix

17th September 2003 - Miracles Happen

The Pet Shop Boys will release their first single for sixteen months on Monday 17th November 2003. The new single is called 'Miracles' and was produced by and co-written with Adam F and Dan Fresh. Neil describes it as, "very beautiful, very electronic". Strings for the track were arranged by Anne Dudley. Bonus tracks on the CD1 release are, 'We're The Pet Shop Boys', their cover version of a track by My Robot Friend, and 'Transparent'. Remixes of 'Miracles' are being worked on now.

14th September 2003 - New Single

The Pet Shop Boys new single will be announced later this week. Will it be the Trevor Horn production, the collaboration with Adam F, or something else, maybe a remix of an old track? We will have to wait and see.

13th September 2003 - Love Life

'Love Life' which was written by the Pet Shop Boys for the Swedish pop group Alcazar, will now get a single release in Sweden on Wednesday 24th September 2003. 'Love Life' is included on Alcazar's album 'Alcazarized'. Buy 'Alcazarized': UK CD.

11th September 2003 - Out Today In France

A new book about the Pet Shop Boys called 'Pet Shop Boys De A À Z' by the French author Vincent Laufer is released in France today. The book is in French and has no pictures, only text.

9th September 2003 - New Single Rumours

Yesterday I mentioned 'Do You Control Your Mind?' might be the new single. This has now be confirmed as a hoax. The new rumour is that the new single will be a one word title.

8th September 2003 - Rock 'n' Coke Festival

Neil and Chris played a full set last night at the Rock 'n' Coke Festival in Istanbul, Turkey. The 15 tracks included, 'Suburbia', 'Always On My Mind', 'Sexy Northerner', 'West End girls, and 'Go West'.
The Boys were joined on stage by guitarists Mark Refoy and Bic Hayes, percussionist Dawne Adams and programmers Pete Gleadall and Paul Beckett. The show was very well received by an estimated 12,000 people who earlier had watched acts including the Cardigans, Echo & the Bunnymen and Sugarbabes. This was the first major rock festival ever to be held in Turkey. It is expected to become an annual event.
A full report of the Istanbul trip with photos by Chris will be in the next issue of Literally, due in early November 2003.

8th September 2003 - New Single Rumours

A possible new single called 'Do You Control Your Mind?' might be released on Monday 3rd November 2003. This has to be confirmed.

7th September 2003 - PopArt It Is

The Greatest Hits album title has been confirmed as 'PopArt'. 'PopArt' will be released on double CD, limited edition triple CD and a limited edition 3 vinyl box set. It will released on Monday 10th November 2003. Pre-order 'PopArt': UK CD and/or UK Limited Edition CD and/or UK Vinyl.

2nd September 2003 - TV Appearance

'Jump London' will now be broadcast on Tuesday 9th September 2003 at 10.00pm on Channel 4 in the UK. Neil and Chris make a brief appearance (as does the track, 'London') in the innovative film in which a team of French traceurs are somersaulting and vaulting across some of London's most famous buildings. It's a new street sport called Free Running which has taken France by storm.

30th August 2003 - The X-Factor

Richard X may work with Pet Shop Boys next year. Richard X said, "Their management phoned me and asked me if I'd be interested in working with them. Maybe I'm the child Neil Tennant never had. It should be good. They'd be the first to admit that they're not as young as they once were but their history is so rich, I'm surprised we're not pining for people like that. Hopefully that time will come next year."

28th August 2003 - PopArt

According to Siren Disc, the Pet Shop Boys forthcoming compilation album will be called 'PopArt'. They also say 'Popart' will be released on a double CD and on a 4 disc LP. It and is due to be released on Monday 10th November 2003. All this has yet to be confirmed.

27th August 2003 - Project

More Greatest Hits 1986-2003 album title rumours. So far there has been 'Hits', and now 'Project'.

26th August 2003 - Alcazarized

Alcazar's album 'Alcazarized' which includes the Pet Shop Boys track 'Love Life' is now being released in the UK on Monday 8th September 2003. Pre-order 'Alcazarized': UK CD.

22nd August 2003 - Bonus Hits

Neil has said that there will now probably be a bonus CD with remixes, live versions etc for the 'Hits' compilation.

18th August 2003 - PSB Studio

In the last few months Neil and Chris have worked on tracks with several producers, Chris Zippel (in Berlin), Adam F (the hip-hop/drum & bass producer and DJ) and the legendary Trevor Horn.
In addition, they have written and recorded several new tracks in their own studio. One of the new tracks will be released in October as a single preceding the forthcoming compilation album.

17th August 2003 - TV Appearance

Neil and Chris make a brief appearance (as does the track, 'London') in the innovative film, 'Jump London' to be broadcast on Sunday 31st August 2003 at 9.00pm on Channel 4 in the UK.

12th August 2003 - Sophie Ellis-Petstor

Neil has said that they're not in the studio with Sophie Ellis-Bextor and he doesn't know where the idea came from.

11th August 2003 - Greatest Hits

Neil has said that they've chosen a selection of tracks that fit onto one CD (76 mins), and that they are definitive examples of what the Pet Shop Boys are about. They nearly called the album 'Definitive'.

19th July 2003 - Sophie Ellis-Petstor

Sophie Ellis-Bextor's new album, which Neil and Chris are said to be working on is scheduled for release on Monday 20th October 2003. No details have yet been released as to what involvement the Pet Shop Boys have on the as yet untitled album.
Sophie said, "I'm not intending any great changes in direction, as I still love pop. However, I want to go on a bit of a journey, so risks will be taken too."

18th July 2003 - This Is Your Life

Neil was on 'This Is Your Life' last night on BBC1 in the UK. He sent a video message to the guest, John Middleton, a vicar from the soap 'Emmerdale' (shown on ITV1 in the UK) who he used to go to school with. Included in the message was a story about a 40th birthday present given to Neil by John, a tape containing some recordings made by Neil and his acoustic guitar from their time at school together.

14th July 2003 - Rock 'n' Coke Festival

Pet Shop Boys are confirmed to headline the Rock 'n' Coke Festival in Istanbul on Saturday 7th September 2003. This will be the Pet Shop Boys first performance in Turkey. The two day Rock 'n' Coke Festival Istanbul will be the biggest outdoor festival in Turkey's live music history.
For more information visit the Biletix website.

10th July 2003 - Happy Birthday Neil!

So Pet Shop Boys and all the many fans online wish Neil a very warm and happy 49th birthday!

22nd June 2003 - UK Chart

This week the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went out of the top 100 in the singles chart. 'Walking On Thin Ice' also went out of the top 25 in the dance chart.

19th June 2003 - Archive TV Appearance

The Boys will be performing on 'The Whistle Test Years' tonight at 11.50pm on BBC2 in the UK. The BBC2 listings says, "Its 1986 and 1987 this week with music from U2, Pet Shop Boys, Elvis Costello, Paul Brady, Dwight Yoakam, Lone Justice, Ivor Cutler, The Mission, Sinead O'Connor and World Party." I can only assume that the track will be 'Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money)'.

17th June 2003 - Greatest Hits

A new Pet Shop Boys Greatest Hits compilation is planned for release in the late autumn. It is likely to be preceded by a new single in October 2003 with the album following a month later. The album will have a worldwide release, but precise details of the track listing have yet to be finalised.
Neil and Chris have been working on new material during the last three months, although much of this is intended for a new studio album. The last Pet Shop Boys Greatest Hits compilation, 'Discography' was released in November 1991. It reached number 3 in the album chart.

16th June 2003 - Next Studio Album

Neil was asked, "When can we expect a new album?" His answer was, "Not sure yet. Early 2005? Maybe sooner."

15th June 2003 - UK Chart

This week in the singles chart the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went down 32 places to number 67. In the dance chart 'Walking On Thin Ice' went down 12 places to number 17.

10th June 2003 - Kylie Rumours

Neil and Chris are rumoured to be working with Kylie Minogue again. They prevoiusly wrote 'Falling' for Kylie's 1996 album, 'Kylie Minogue' (which has just been re-released as a Special Edition CD) and she also dueted with the Boys on 'In Denial' on the 'Nightlife' album.

8th June 2003 - UK Chart

This week the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' entered the singles chart at number 35, which coincidently was also the highest chart position it reached when it was originally released in February 1981. 'Walking On Thin Ice' also entered the dance chart at number 5.

4th June 2003 - Dead Or Alive Rumour Confirmed

Neil has confirmed that the Boys have written a track for Dead Or Alive and it is called 'Jack And Jill Party'. Neil said "We wrote it, then realised it'd be perfect for Pete Burns."

3rd June 2003 - Sophie Ellis-Petstor

Neil and Chris are helping Sophie Ellis-Bextor to write her next album, the follow-up to her 2001 album, 'Read My Lips'. The Boys are in discussions over the types of songs to write.

2nd June 2003 - Out Today

Don't forget that the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' are released today. Buy 'Walking On Thin Ice': UK CD1 and/or UK 12". The track listing is as follows:

CD Single 1 - Pet Shop Boys Remixes (CDMINDS 002):
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix (Edit)
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys 7" Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys 12" Mix

12" Single (12MIND 002):
Walking On Thin Ice - Danny Tenaglia Walked Across The Lake Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix (12" Version)

30th May 2003 - Pet Shop Boys Club Vinyls

The limited editions of the 12" vinyl singles of the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Atomizer's 'Hooked On Radiation' and the Pet Shop Boys production of Kiki Kokova's 'Love To Love You, Baby' have started arriving. So if you have order your own copies look out for them arriving soon.

29th May 2003 - US Chart

This week the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went out of the top 20 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

28th May 2003 - Happy Birthday So Pet Shop Boys!

So Pet Shop Boys is three years old today!

22nd May 2003 - US Chart

This week the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went down 3 places to number 17 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

21st May 2003 - Walking On Thin Ice UK Details

The UK formats have finally been confirmed. 'Walking On Thin Ice' is to be released on Parlophone Records, through Mind Train Records on Monday 2nd June 2003. The track listing is as follows:

CD Single 1 - Pet Shop Boys Remixes (CDMINDS 002):
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix (Edit)
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys 7" Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys 12" Mix

CD Single 2 - Other Remixes (CDMIND 002):
Walking On Thin Ice - Danny Tenaglia Walked Across The Lake Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Felix Da Housecat Tribute Mix (Edit)
Walking On Thin Ice - FKEK Vocal Mix (Edit)

12" Single (12MIND 002):
Walking On Thin Ice - Danny Tenaglia Walked Across The Lake Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix (12" Version)

Pre-order 'Walking On Thin Ice': UK CD1 and/or UK 12".

15th May 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went out of the top 20 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went down 5 places to number 14 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

8th May 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went down 4 places to number 19 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went down 8 places to number 9 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

6th May 2003 - Walking On Thin Ice UK Release Delayed Again

'Walking On Thin Ice' which was scheduled to be released in the UK on Monday 12th May 2003, has now been put back another three weeks to Monday 2nd June 2003. This is the second time that the released date has been changed. Pre-order 'Walking On Thin Ice': UK CD1.

4th May 2003 - Pet Shop Boys Signed Teddy Bear T Shirt

The teddy bear T shirt signed by Neil and Chris which was on auction at eBay.co.uk raised £137 for the Birth Defects Foundation's, Newlife Action appeal.

3rd May 2003 - New Order And Dead Or Alive Rumours

Rumour number 1: Pete Burns of the group Dead Or Alive, said on the message board of Dead Or Alive's website, "Nothing is confirmed but I will leak that Neil Tennant, of the wonderful Pet Shop Boys told me that they want to work with me, and even have the song ready! I think he said it's called 'Jack And Jill'. Anyway, he asked for my number, and I couldn't remember it!! Why should I? I never have to call it! Although I am confident that if this was a serious proposal, he will be able to find me... so, there’s a bit of exclusive gossip."
Rumour number 2: Neil and Chris were in Manchester last weekend, working on a track for New Order's new album.

2nd May 2003 - Falling Again

Kylie Minogue's 1996 album, 'Kylie Minogue' will be re-issued as a double CD album on Monday 26th May 2003. The bonus CD will include, 'Falling - Alternative Mix' written by the Pet Shop Boys.

1st May 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' stayed at number 15 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 1 place to number 1 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

30th April 2003 - New Record Labels And Releases On Them

Neil and Chris have got two new record labels. First came Spaghetti, and the new labels are called Olde English Vinyl and Lucky Kunst.
The first releases on the new labels are the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Atomizer's 'Hooked On Radiation' (Olde English Vinyl) and the Pet Shop Boys production of Kiki Kokova's 'Love To Love You, Baby' (Lucky Kunst). Both are limited editions of 500 12" vinyl singles and are available through the Pet Shop Boys Club. The track listing is as follows for 'Hooked On Radiation':

Hooked On Radiation - Pet Shop Boys Orange Alert Mix
Hooked On Radiation - Pet Shop Boys Orange Alert 7" Mix
Hooked On Radiation - Pet Shop Boys Superstar Mix
Hooked On Radiation - Atomizer Bad Boy Mix

and the track listing is as follows for 'Love To Love You, Baby':

Love To Love You, Baby - The Pet Shop Boys Production
Love To Love You, Baby - The Superchumbo Mix

29th April 2003 - Literally Issue 26

It's here, Literally Issue 26 came through my letterbox this morning. It was supposed to be a bumper issue but it has less pages in it that Issue 25. To find out what's in it see my Literally page for more details.

24th April 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went up 7 places to number 15 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 2 places to number 2 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

23rd April 2003 - Pet Shop Boys Signed Teddy Bear T Shirt

Bid from today at eBay.co.uk for a teddy bear T shirt signed by Neil and Chris. Over 350 celebrities have signed and or designed tiny teddy bear T shirts in aid for the Birth Defects Foundation's, Newlife Action appeal. Bidding ends on Saturday 3rd May 2003 at 10pm.
To bid for the signed teddy bear T shirt visit the eBay.co.uk website, and for more information visit the Newlife Action website.

19th April 2003 - Hallo Spaceboy Again

David Bowie's 1995 album, 'Outside' will be re-issued as a double CD album later this year, according to Columbia Records. The bonus CD will include, 'Hallo Spaceboy - PSB 12" Version' and 'Hallo Spaceboy - Double Click Mix' produced by the Pet Shop Boys and featuring Neil.

18th April 2003 - Love Life

A new Pet Shop Boys track, 'Love Life' has been recorded by the Swedish pop group Alcazar for their new album 'Alcazarized'.
Neil and Chris met Alcazar last year when Alcazar were performing at a London club. A request for a song followed. Neil and Chris were fans of Alcazar's 'Crying At The Discotheque' (released in 2001). They gave them 'Love Life' which was begun during the 'Release' sessions. The track has not been produced by the Pet Shop Boys. Neil and Chris are happy with the interpretation of the 'Love Life' demo, and Neil said "They've got a hit." 'Alcazarized' is released in Sweden on Monday 12th May 2003. Other release dates will be announced soon.

17th April 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went up 4 places to number 22 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 2 places to number 4 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

14th April 2003 - Literally

The long-awaited (bumper) issue of Literally magazine will be ready for distribution in less than two weeks.
With this new issue, members will have the opportunity to purchase the vinyl of the Pet Shop Boys production of Kiki Kokova's 'Love To Love You, Baby' and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Atomizer's 'Hooked On Radiation'.

12th April 2003 - Smash Hits

Neil will be contributing on '25 Years Of Smash Hits' tonight at 9pm on Channel 4 in the UK.
'25 Years Of Smash Hits' is at look at the pop music magazine, 'Smash Hits' which has been a must-buy for teenagers every fortnight since its launch in 1978. Neil worked for 'Smash Hits' form June 1982 - April 1985.

10th April 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went up 1 place to number 26 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 4 places to number 6 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

9th April 2003 - Can You Forgive Her? Covered

'Can You Forgive Her?' has been covered by the Swedish blues band Sky High. It is released on their new album 'On The Cover'.

4th April 2003 - Pre-order Walking On Thin Ice

Pre-order the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice': UK CD1. 'Walking On Thin Ice' is released on Monday 12th May 2003 in the UK and is already released in the USA. Buy 'Walking On Thin Ice': USA CD.

3rd April 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went up 6 places to number 27 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 5 places to number 10 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

1st April 2003 - April Fool!

This was posted on Pet Shop Boys Community this morning:

'Love Comes Quickly' will be one of seven brand new remixes to be included on the next Pet Shop Boys compilation album, due in late October through Parlophone.
Going under the working title of 'Greatest Hits Remixed', the 18 track album has been compiled from all eras of the boys' 18 year career and is designed to complement, rather than replace, 1991s platinum selling album 'Discography', which reached number 3 in the UK charts.
Consequently, none of the original 7" mixes from 'Discography', which is still on catalogue, will feature on 'Greatest Hits Remixed', though single versions of more recent hits such as 'New York City Boy', 'Somewhere', 'Home And Dry' and 'I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Anymore' will be included, as they have yet to appear on any PSB album. As a bonus to fans, there are two versions of 'Go West', the PSB's biggest hit of the 1990s, both of which have never been commercially released before. The complete track listing is as follows:

Go West - Mark 'Spike' Stent Original 7" (Unreleased, 1992)
It's A Sin - Superchumbo Mass Mix (New Mix, 2003)
Home And Dry (7", 2002)
I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Anymore (7", 1999)
Somewhere (7", 1997)
Love Comes Quickly - Blank & Jones Ambient Remix (New Mix, 2003)
Domino Dancing - Westbam In Ibiza Mix (New Mix, 2003)
Single-Bilingual (7", 1996)
Always On My Mind - Junkie Xl Paranoid Mix (New Mix, 2003)
I Get Along (7", 2002)
A Red Letter Day (7", 1996)
What Have I Done To Deserve This - Westbam In Memphis Mix (New Mix, 2003)
Before (7", 1996)
Opportunities (Let's Make Lots Of Money) - Felix Da Housecat's Dirty Cash Mix (New Mix, 2003)
New York City Boy (7", 1999)
Being Boring - DJ Sammy's Summer Mix (New Mix, 2003)
West End Girls - Peter Rauhofer Metropolitan Mix (New Mix, 2003)
Go West - Andy Gray Millennium Mix (Unreleased, 2000)

A single featuring 'Go West - Andy Gray Millennium Mix' backed by two previously unreleased Pet Shop Boys tracks, 'A Powerful Friend' and 'You've Got To Start Somewhere', will precede the album in early October.

29th March 2003 - Friday Night With Yoko Ono

Yoko Ono was on 'Friday Night With Jonathan Ross' last night on BBC1 in the UK. Yoko said about working with Neil and Chris on 'Walking On Thin Ice', "They're remixing it and they're making it a beautiful track, they're so creative, I'm so glad I listened to it and it's just so Pet Shop Boys".

27th March 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' went up 6 places to number 33 in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 5 places to number 15 also in the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

25th March 2003 - Disco 3 In Brazil

A manufacturing fault in Brazil has resulted in a delay in the release of 'Disco 3' for this territory. EMI apologies for this. A new release date will be announced on shortly.

24th March 2003 - Walking On Thin Ice UK Release Delayed

'Walking On Thin Ice' which was scheduled to be released in the UK on Monday 21st April 2003, has now been put back three weeks to Monday 12th May 2003.

23rd March 2003 - It's A Sin Covered Again

'It's A Sin' has been covered by the German trance group X-Perience. The electrifying Euro-trance makeover was released as a promo vinyl at the end of last year and it will now be given a full release in parts of Europe. The CD single contains five mixes. 'It's A Sin' was previously covered by the band JJ72 in April 2001.

21st March 2003 - Another Blank & Jones Remix

German DJs Piet Blank and Jaspa Jones who remixed 'Home And Dry' have now remixed 'Love Comes Quickly'. Their remix is called 'Blank & Jones Ambient Remix'. It is being released on the new Blank & Jones Chillout album, 'Relax' which is released on Monday 7th April 2003. Pre-order 'Relax' on CD.
For more information visit the Blank & Jones website.

20th March 2003 - US Chart

This week the Superchumbo mixes of 'Sexy Northerner' entered the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart at number 39 and the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' went up 6 places to number 20, also on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

17th March 2003 - Bright Young Things

Neil and Chris will record a track called 'Bright Young Things' next month. They have written the track for a film of the same name. The film is written and directed by Stephen Fry and will be released later this year.

15th March 2003 - Comic Relief

Last night Comic Relief raised £35,174,798 for hundreds of groups, organisations and charities across the UK and Africa to tackle poverty and social injustice. As promised, I said that I would be donating £0.50 per hit that So Pet Shop Boys got yesterday. Well So Pet Shop Boys got 108 hits yesterday, so I have donated £54 to Comic Relief. They sent me this e-mail:

Thank you very much for your donation of £54, which we have received.
You may never meet the people your money is going to help, but it really is going to change lives for the better.
So, from them and us, thank you.

The Comic Relief team.

If you would like to donate money please visit the Comic Relief website.

14th March 2003 - Comic Relief

In 1994 the Pet Shop Boys released 'Absolutely Fabulous' which reached number 6 in the UK. Proceeds of 'Absolutely Fabulous' were donated to Comic Relief (registered charity 326568).
Comic Relief was set up by the comedy community 18 years ago. Comic Relief uses comedy and laughter to get across messages about issues and problems that affect the lives of many, many people. Since 1985 Comic Relief has raised more than £250 million from 8 Red Nose Days and other events including Sport Relief in 2001. Comic Relief supports hundreds of groups, organisations and charities across the UK and Africa to tackle poverty and social injustice.
Today is Comic Relief's Red Nose Day 2003, The Big hair Do! and I will be donating £0.50 per hit that So Pet Shop Boys gets today.
The Comic Relief single this time around is, 'Spirit In The Sky' by Gareth Gates & The Kumars which was released this week with proceeds being donated to Comic Relief. Comic Relief starts tonight at 7.00pm on BBC1 in the UK.
If you would like to donate money please visit the Comic Relief website.

13th March 2003 - US Chart

This week the Pet Shop Boys remixes of Yoko Ono's 'Walking On Thin Ice' is the number 1 breakout track on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart.

12th March 2003 - Hooked On Radiation

The latest Pet Shop Boys remix, 'Hooked On Radiation - PSB Orange Alert Mix', by Atomizer which Neil and Chris played at their DJ debut last month will hopefully be released soon. They have done two other remixes of the track. According to 'DJ' magazine the Atomizer album produced by the KLF's Jim Kauty and their new single 'Hooked On Radiation' will be released soon, hopefully it will include the Pet Shop Boys remix.

11th March 2003 - Walking On Thin Ice UK Details

'Walking On Thin Ice' is to be released on Parlophone Records, through Mind Train Records on Monday 21st April 2003.
Largely unavailable since its initial release, 'Walking On Thin Ice' now appears in a new guise, remixed by the Pet Shop Boys, Danny Tenaglia, Felix Da Housecat, Peter Rauhofer, Rui Da Silva, Orange Factory and house music legends Francois K and Eric Kupper. In the UK the Pet Shop Boys' remix will be the single version.
'Walking On Thin Ice' was originally recorded during sessions for John Lennon's and Yoko Ono's album, 'Double Fantasy' but, contrary to recent reports, it is not John Lennon's last song, rather a Yoko Ono song that was finished and released in 1981 after John's death.
Neil said "We always thought 'Walking On Thin Ice' was an amazing song and it's a real honour to have the opportunity to do a new version of it with Yoko".

1st March 2003 - New Material

The next Pet Shop Boys compilation album will have new material on it. Neil said "Parlophone want two or three new tracks. So there'll probably be a brand new single in the autumn. We're writing at the moment."

28th February 2003 - Walking On Thin Ice US Details

The UK formats have not been confirmed, but the US CD release info has. 'Walking On Thin Ice' is to be released on Capitol EMI's sister company The Right Stuff, through Mind Train Records, in conjunction with Twisted Records on Tuesday 25th March 2003. The track listing is as follows:

Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Radio Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Danny Tenaglia Walked Across The Lake Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Felix Da Housecat Tribute Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Extended Dance Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Rui Da Silva's Kismet Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Peter Rauhofer Electro Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Orange Factory Radio Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - FKEK Vocal Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Peter Rauhofer Chill Mix

This Maxi CD is the only US format that includes all three Pet Shop Boys mixes. The 12" vinyl formats feature other non Pet Shop Boys mixes not on the CD. A second 12" vinyl including 'Walking On Thin Ice - Danny Tenaglia Dub' comes out the following week.

27th February 2003 - US Chart

This week in the Billboard Top Electronic Album chart 'Disco 3' went down 5 places to number 9.

23rd February 2003 - DJ Culture

Neil and Chris (with programmer Pete Gleadall) made their DJ debut last night at 'Return to New York' at the Great Eastern Hotel in London.
They played a set of contemporary and vintage electro music, they also gave the first spins of three new records they have recently made:

Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix (by Yoko Ono)
Love To Love You, Baby - Vocal Remix (by Kiki Kokova)
Hooked On Radiation - PSB Orange Alert Mix (by Atomizer)

Release dates for 'Walking On Thin Ice' will be announced soon. 'Love To Love You, Baby' is Neil and Chris's latest collaboration with the artist Sam Taylor-Wood. It will be given a limited edition release on 12-inch vinyl soon. 'Hooked On Radiation' is the Pet Shop Boys' new production/remix of the UK electro-clash band Atomizer who are behind the London club night Nag Nag Nag.
Neil and Chris began their set with the song 'We're The Pet Shop Boys' by the American electronic singer/songwriter, My Robot Friend.
They were followed last night by New Order's Bernard Sumner and Pete Hook. No further DJ dates are planned by Neil and Chris but a good time was had by all. Chris' new long, blond hair surprising many.

20th February 2003 - US Chart

This week in the Billboard Top Electronic Album chart 'Disco 3' went down 3 places to number 4.

19th February 2003 - Producing Again

The Pet Shop Boys have produced an old Donna Summer disco track called 'Love To Love You, Baby' for the artist Sam Taylor-Wood under the alias of Kiki Kokova. This is the second time that the Boys have work with Sam the first was on 'Je T'Aime...Moi Non Plus' which was released on the second CD single of 'I Don't Know What You Want But I Can't Give It Any More'. 'Love To Love You, Baby' was given out as a white label 12" vinyl at the 'Disco 3' launch party at the beginning of February 2003. Each copy was numbered and only 180 were given out to guests who attended the party. The track listing is as follows:

Love To Love You, Baby - Vocal Remix
Love To Love You, Baby - Dub

16th February 2003 - UK Chart

This week after only 1 week in the album chart 'Disco 3' went out of the top 100.

16th February 2003 - Walking On Thin Ice

Yoko Ono has teamed up with the Pet Shop Boys for an "underground dance-style" remake of 'Walking On Thin Ice'. The dance music version has been tipped to be a huge hit.
Yoko Ono will give the first performance of the track at a New York club in the early hours of tomorrow morning, a day before her 70th birthday. It will be the second time the track has been released. The original version got to number 35 in the UK charts, two months after John Lennon was murdered by Mark Chapman in 1980. The couple were working on the track the night John Lennon was gunned down in New York.
Tomorrow's performance of the track will see her performing with renowned DJ Danny Tenaglia, who has remixed the track at New York's Arc club.
Yoko said, "This feels like a new beginning for me, with the dance community adopting me and my music. I'm very excited that people love the record. I've been asked to come over to Britain and play in some electro clubs and I think I will do that."
'Walking On Thin Ice' is scheduled to be released in the USA in March 2003 and in the UK in April 2003 with three Pet Shop Boys mixes:

Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Radio Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Electro Mix
Walking On Thin Ice - Pet Shop Boys Extended Dance Mix

15th February 2003 - On Demand

'Positive Role Model' is at number 5 on Dotmusic's On Demand chart. On Demand is a unique new music download service with access to over 120,000 tracks by most major artists where you can stream and download music from your favourite artists.

14th February 2003 - European Chart News

'Disco 3' is at number 27 in Denmark, at number 33 in Germany and at number 43 in Sweden.

13th February 2003 - US Chart

This week 'Disco 3' entered the Billboard Top Electronic Album chart at number 1.

10th February 2003 - Literally

The Pet Shop Boys Club apologises for the fact that there has not been an edition of the Literally magazine since Issue 25 was published during April 2002. However, a new magazine is in the making, and will be with members shortly.

9th February 2003 - UK Chart

This week 'Disco 3' entered the album chart at number 36.

7th February 2003 - Disco 3 Fault

If you have a faulty copy of 'Disco 3', you can exchange it for a perfect copy by e-mailing customer.services@emimusic.com with your name and address and they will send you a pre-paid envelope in which to return your copy of 'Disco 3'. As soon as they've received your copy, they will send you out a proper replacement.

6th February 2003 - Statement From EMI Records

Due to a manufacturing error at EMI Records , some UK copies of 'Disco 3' contain a fault on track one, 'Time On My Hands'. 2 minutes 16 seconds into the track, there is an unintended gap in the music.
Not all UK copies of the album contain this fault. However, if you do have a faulty copy, please call + 44 (0) 845 844 8484 and we will arrange to replace your copy.
This fault does not occur on international editions of 'Disco 3' although copies imported from the UK could be affected. If this is the case, please contact the EMI office in the country of purchase to arrange to replace your copy.
EMI Records apologises to everyone who has incurred this problem, and to Neil and Chris, for this mistake, and for any inconvenience caused.

5th February 2003 - London

Fans have been asking if 'London' will be released as a single next month in the UK, in support of 'Disco 3'. It seems that promo vinyl copies are available.
Officially, there are no plans to release 'London' as a single in the UK, though the track has been sent to radio stations. Also 3 mixes of 'London' have been sent to clubs on promo vinyl.

4th February 2003 - Disco 3 Problems

EMI Records have admitted that there is a manfacturing flaw affecting some European copies of 'Disco 3', resulting in an audible glitch on track one, 'Time On My Hands', at 2 minutes 16 seconds. They will issue a statment shortly detailing how flawed copies can be exchanged for perfect ones.
Pet Shop Boys would like to apologise to fans for the inconvenience.
It has also become apparent that there is a problem with the barcode on some copies of 'Disco 3', resulting in some sales not being reported. EMI are also investigating this at the moment.
Pet Shop Boys are unhappy with both problems which are out of their control.

3rd February 2003 - Out Today

Don't forget that 'Disco 3' is released today. Buy 'Disco 3' on CD and/or Limited Edition Vinyl. 'Disco 3' track listing is as follows:

CD (5821402):
Time On My Hands
Positive Role Model
Try It (I'm In Love With A Married Man)
London - Thee Radikal Blaklite Edit
Somebody Else's Business
Here - PSB New Extended Mix
If Looks Could Kill
Sexy Northerner - Superchumbo Mix
Home And Dry - Blank & Jones Remix
London - Genuine Piano Mix

Limited Edition Vinyl (5814581):
Side One:
London - Thee Radikal Blaklite Mix
London - Thee Radikal Dub

Side Two:
London - Westbam In Berlin Mix
Time On My Hands

Side Three:
Sexy Northerner - Superchumbo Mix
Home And Dry - Blank & Jones Remix

Side Four:
Here - PSB New Extended Mix
Here - PSB New Extended Dub

Side Five:
Try It (I'm In Love With A Married Man)
If Looks Could Kill

Side Six:
Positive Role Model
Somebody Else's Business - Extended Mix

2nd February 2003 - So Pet Shop Boys Gets A New Look

I have given my website its third new look. After being based on 'Release', and before that 'Nightlife', I have now based it on, 'Disco 3' which is released tomorrow.

30th January 2003 - TV Appearance

The Boys will be performing on the German TV show 'Was Ware Wenn' on Tuesday 12th August 2003 on ARD in Germany. Fans in other parts of the world with cable TV should be able to see it.

20th January 2003 - Updated Disco 3 Release Dates

It has been confirmed that the release dates for 'Disco 3' are as follows:

UK and Europe - Monday 3rd February 2003
USA - Tuesday 4th February 2003
Australia and Spain - Monday 10th February 2003
Brazil and Mexico - Monday 24th February 2003
Japan - Wednesday 5th March 2003

19th January 2003 - See The London Video

The video for 'London' by the acclaimed photographer Martin Parr will be on show from Wednesday 5th February 2003 to Saturday 22nd February 2003 at the Rocket Gallery, 13 Old Burlington Street, London W1. The Rocket Gallery regularly show new work by Martin Parr.

16th January 2003 - D & D Awards Exhibit

Eric Watson's photo of Chris has been used in a design and advertising exhibt called 'Rewind: 40 Years of Design & Advertising from the D & D Awards'.
For the poster of the Chris taken by Eric Watson click Here.
For more information about this organization and this exhbit visit the Victoria And Albert Museum website.

15th January 2003 - Disco 3 Press Release

Pet Shop Boys release the third album in their 'Disco' series, 'Disco 3' on Parlophone on Monday February 3rd 2003.

The album features ten dance-orientated tracks, written, recorded or remixed at the same time as the last studio album 'Release', including one track which was written in 1983 by the original Pet Shop Boys producer Bobby 'O'.

"It's the new Pet Shop Boys meets the old Pet Shop Boys" says Neil Tennant.

'Disco 3' will be available on CD and in a limited edition three-disc vinyl format, featuring extra remixes by Felix Da Housecat and WestBam. The cover of the album is a photograph of London by Turner Prize-winning artist Wolfgang Tillmans.

CD:

'Time On My Hands'
Written and recorded at the end of 2000, recently completed and mixed. Featuring vocals by Chris Lowe and Neil Tennant.

'Positive Role Model'
Recorded in Berlin with producer/programmer Chris Zippel, at the same time as 'London' and 'Somebody Else's Business'. Finished mix recently delivered by Chris Zippel.

'Try It (I'm In Love With A Married Man)'
Written by Bobby 'O' in 1983 and first heard, in a different version, on The John Peel Show last year.

'London - Thee Radikal Blaklite Edit' Remix by Felix Da Housecat. London was released as a single in Germany and has an accompanying video by Martin Parr.

'Somebody Else's Business'
Another track recorded in Berlin with Chris Zippel.

'Here - PSB New Extended Mix'
At one time, a possible single contender from 'Release'. Radical reworking of a standout track from that album.

'If Looks Could Kill'
New recording of a song which was also first heard on The John Peel Show. The song was begun in 1983 and completed in 2002.

'Sexy Northerner - Superchumbo Mix'

'Home And Dry - Blank & Jones Remix'

'London - Genuine Piano Mix'
The album ends with a quiet, piano-led version of London.

Limited Edition Three-Disc Vinyl:

Side One:
London - Thee Radikal Blaklite Mix
London - Thee Radikal Dub

Side Two:
London - Westbam In Berlin Mix
Time On My Hands

Side Three:
Sexy Northerner - Superchumbo Mix
Home And Dry - Blank & Jones Remix

Side Four:
Here - PSB New Extended Mix
Here - PSB New Extended Dub

Side Five:
Try It (I'm In Love With A Married Man)
If Looks Could Kill

Side Six:
Positive Role Model
Somebody Else's Business - Extended Mix

'Disco 3' follows in the tradition of previous 'Disco' albums, complementing the studio releases. Six months after the release of Pet Shop Boys' debut album 'Please' in 1986, its dance-remix companion followed. In 1994, 'Very' was followed by 'Disco 2'. 'Disco 3' differs from the previous 'Disco' albums in that it includes new dance tracks recorded during the studio sessions but which were not issued at the time.

12th January 2003 - Disco 3 Release Dates

It has been confirmed that the release dates for 'Disco 3' are as follows:

UK - Monday 3rd February 2003
USA - Tuesday 4th February 2003
Japan - Wednesday 5th February 2003

8th January 2003 - Pre-order Disco 3

Pre-order 'Disco 3' on CD and/or Limited Edition Vinyl. 'Disco 3' is released on Monday 3rd February 2003 internationally on Parlophone/EMI except in the USA where it's release on Sanctuary Records will follow a few days later.

7th January 2003 - Grammy Nomination For Release

Art director, Greg Foley's packaging of 'Release' has been nominated for a Grammy in the Best Recording Package category (category 83). The 45th Annual Grammy Awards ceremony takes place on Saturday 23rd February 2003 in Madison Square Garden, New York City.
To get more information visit the Grammy Awards website.

2nd January 2003 - Yoko Ono Gets Remixed

Neil and Chris will commence 2003 by remixing Yoko Ono's classic track 'Walking On Thin Ice' (originally produced by John Lennon) for her remix album, which will be released internationally in spring 2003.

1st January 2003 - Happy New Year!

What will the Pet Shop Boys be up to in 2003? Keep up to date by regularly checking back here.
All the best for 2003.