5 hours ago
Jade Thirlwall: Finding Her Solo Voice and an Empowered Audience After Little Mix
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
Jade Thirlwall’s journey from Little Mix band member to solo artist has been marked by a blend of pop innovation, bold self-expression, and unwavering LGBTQ+ advocacy. Since Little Mix announced their hiatus in May 2022, fans have eagerly followed each member’s next move, with Thirlwall’s solo chapter generating particular excitement for its creative risks and inclusive messaging .
Thirlwall’s debut solo single "Angel Of My Dreams" dropped in July 2024, quickly earning Gold certification in the UK and landing a nomination for Song of the Year at the 2025 Brit Awards. Her subsequent singles, including "Fantasy," "Midnight Cowboy," "IT Girl," "FUFN," and the June 2025 release "Plastic Box," have showcased an artist determined to surprise and delight listeners with energetic, genre-blending music .
Thirlwall’s solo material distinguishes itself through its "pop punch to the face"—her words for the high-energy, unpredictable sonic palette she has crafted. Speaking about her debut, she told Hits Radio, "What I'm going for is a pop punch to the face. I want people to be like 'oh my god, I didn't expect that' – but then want to listen to it again. I didn't want to do a safe first single" .
Her debut album, "That's Showbiz Baby," released on 12 September 2025, cements this adventurous approach. The record draws on Thirlwall’s experiences of show business, identity, and activism, blending personal storytelling with dazzling pop theatrics. Critics and fans alike have praised the album’s standout tracks for their dynamic production and candid lyricism .
Thirlwall’s relationship with the LGBTQ+ community is deep-rooted and visible. As a longtime advocate and outspoken ally, she has used her platform to support LGBTQ+ organizations, including serving as an ambassador for Stonewall and winning the Gay Times Honour for Allyship in both 2021 and 2025 . Thirlwall’s activism is not a side note but a central part of her public identity, with proceeds from select shows and merchandise regularly supporting LGBTQ+ charities.
Her music and performances reflect this commitment. At Glastonbury 2025, Thirlwall’s set on the Woodsies Stage featured not only her solo hits but also a Little Mix medley, delivered with a theatrical flair that paid homage to queer nightlife culture. Fans and LGBTQ+ media outlets highlighted how her stage presence and message of authenticity resonated powerfully with queer audiences, reinforcing her reputation as a pop artist who creates safe spaces for all identities .
In interviews, Thirlwall has spoken candidly about the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in pop music, noting, "It’s vital for young queer people to see themselves reflected in the artists they love. I want my shows and my music to be somewhere people feel seen, celebrated, and free" .
Thirlwall’s transition to solo stardom has not been without pressure, yet she has navigated the spotlight with both vulnerability and confidence. Her performance at the 2025 BRIT Awards, featuring elaborate choreography and daring set pieces, was widely praised as a career-defining moment. Dazed captured her behind-the-scenes preparation, including the now-famous trapdoor stunt that left viewers and critics marveling at her commitment to spectacle and narrative .
Her debut single alone sold over 400,000 copies in the UK, a testament to her enduring popularity and the appetite for her solo artistry . Thirlwall’s tour announcement in May 2025 further demonstrated her ability to mobilize a diverse fanbase, with tickets selling out in multiple cities. LGBTQ+ media and fans have celebrated these milestones, noting how Thirlwall’s message of empowerment and inclusion is as integral to her success as her music.
