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AlunaGeorge
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AlunaGeorge was an English electronic music duo from London, consisting of singer-songwriter Aluna Francis and producer George Reid.[1] Since 2020, the duo has been on indefinite hiatus, allowing both members to pursue solo projects.[2]
Key Information
Career
[edit]2009: Formation
[edit]The duo first met in June 2009, when Reid remixed Francis' band My Toys Like Me's track "Sweetheart".[3][4]
2012–2016: Breakthrough and Body Music
[edit]AlunaGeorge released the single "You Know You Like It" as a digital download on 20 April 2012, followed by a vinyl release on 11 June 2012. The duo's first commercial single, "Your Drums, Your Love", was released on 10 September 2012, debuting at number 50 on the UK Singles Chart.[5][6] During a visit to BBC Radio 1 on 3 January 2013, AlunaGeorge announced that their debut album would be titled Body Music and released in June 2013, along with the premiere of the full-length version of the song "Diver".[7][8] On 4 June 2013, the duo unveiled the cover art and track listing for Body Music, and confirmed the album would be released on 29 July 2013.[9]
It was announced in December 2012 that AlunaGeorge had been shortlisted for the 2013 BRIT Award of Critics' Choice.[10] Then, later in December, the BBC announced that the duo had also been nominated for the Sound of 2013 poll, in which they finished in second place.[11]
In February 2013, AlunaGeorge scored their first top-40 entry, a collaboration with Disclosure on "White Noise". The single reached number two on the UK Singles Chart. Huw Stephens also premiered a track from the group on his BBC Radio 1 show titled "Attracting Flies", which was eventually included on their debut album.[12] The duo performed at the Evolution Festival in Newcastle upon Tyne on 27 May 2013.
A collection of previously released and brand new remixes, Body Music Remixed, was released on 16 June 2014.[13] On 3 October 2014 AlunaGeorge released a single called "Supernatural".[14]
On 14 July 2015, it was announced that AlunaGeorge had signed with the American record label Interscope Records.[15]
The duo released the single "I'm in Control", featuring Jamaican artist Popcaan, on 20 January 2016.[16] That same day, Francis revealed in an interview with BBC Radio 1's Annie Mac that the duo's second studio album was titled I Remember, which was set to be released on 16 September 2016 via Island Records in the UK and Interscope Records in the US.[16][17] AlunaGeorge was an opening act with Miguel for the North American Arena tour of Australian star Sia.[18] The Nostalgic for the Present Tour ran through November 2016.
2017–present: Indefinite hiatus and solo careers
[edit]In 2017, AlunaGeorge was the main opening act for the European leg of A Head Full of Dreams Tour of the band Coldplay.[19]
In 2020, AlunaGeorge was put on an indefinite hiatus, as Francis announced that she would be releasing music as a solo artist.[20] Francis stated that AlunaGeorge was "definitely still going" and is "on hiatus rather than being over".[2] Her first single, "Body Pump", was released on 30 April 2020.[21] This was followed by her debut solo album Renaissance, which released on 28 August 2020.[22]
In 2023, Francis featured on the Skrillex track "Inhale Exhale" alongside Kito.[23] Later that year, on 7 July, Francis released her second album MYCELiUM. The big promotional track from the album "Running Blind" featuring Tchami and Kareen Lomax counts as her first solo number one on Billboard's Dance Mix/Show Airplay chart as of the week charted October 14, 2023. [24][25]
Artistry
[edit]Aluna's vocals have been described as "almost child-like" as well as being called "sugar sweet" and "emotionally soulful and heartwarming too". George's production combines sounds from bass, garage and dubstep.[26]
The band use techniques of R&B and use "futuristic pop". The musical style has been described as "advanced minimalistic polyrhythmic beats" as well as "bashment, experimental hip-hop, '90's R&B and house". The duo cite inspiration from artists including Flying Lotus, Chris Clark, Hudson Mohawke, Destiny's Child and Mariah Carey; the band also cite James Taylor, Van Morrison, Aaliyah, PJ Harvey, CocoRosie as references.[27]
Members
[edit]Aluna Francis
[edit]Aluna Francis was born in Wales on 2 July 1983 to a Jamaican father and an Indian mother. After her parents separated, she was raised in New Jersey and London.[28][29] Her name “Aluna” means “come here” in the Mwera dialect of Tanzania, “pupil” in Portuguese and “Mother Earth” in Mayan.[30] Before working in the music industry, Francis worked as a reflexologist.[31] Francis' first venture into the music industry came when she sang in a group called My Toys Like Me.[3] In 2013, Francis appeared as a panellist on the BBC music game show Never Mind the Buzzcocks.[32] In July 2019, Francis announced that she was expecting a child by the end of the year. Francis announced on 17 November 2019 via Instagram that she had given birth to a girl named Amaya.
Francis released a solo album, Renaissance on 28 August 2020 through Mad Decent.[33] In January 2022, Francis teamed up with Diplo, Kelli-Leigh, and Italian producer Durante[34] for an indie-dance single called “Forget About Me”, which was nominated for a Grammy.[35][36][37][38][39] In 2023, Francis featured on the Skrillex track "Inhale Exhale" alongside Kito.[23] Later that year, on 7 July, Francis released her sophomore album, titled MYCELiUM, featuring collaborations with producers such as Route 94, MNEK, Tchami, MK, and Chris Lake.[24]
George Reid
[edit]George Reid was born in 1989. Reid was previously a guitarist in indie-math rock band Colour. He has cited minimal American hip hop by The Neptunes, as well as Lil Wayne, as inspirations. Reid has said his approach to music-making stems from it being "so easy to get lost in software, you get to a point where so many noises might be carrying the song, rather than the song carrying everything else. So that’s my excuse for having nothing in there."[3]
Discography
[edit]- Body Music (2013)
- I Remember (2016)
Awards
[edit]| Year | Award | Category | Work | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | BRIT Awards | Critics' Choice[10] | Nominated | |
| BBC | Sound of 2013[11] | Second | ||
| MOBO Awards | Best Video in association with SBTV | Attracting Flies | Nominated | |
| Best Song in Association with PRS for Music | White Noise | Nominated | ||
| Popjustice £20 Music Prize | Best British Pop Single | Nominated | ||
| UK Festival Awards | Anthem of the Summer | Nominated | ||
| 2014 | BRIT Awards | Song of the Year | Nominated | |
| World Music Awards | World's Best Song | Nominated | ||
| 2015 | NME Awards | Best Track | Won | |
| 2016 | Billboard Music Awards | Top Dance/Electronic Song | You Know You Like It | Nominated |
Notes
[edit]- ^ Indefinite hiatus
References
[edit]- ^ Lester, Paul (8 March 2011). "New band of the day – No 977: AlunaGeorge". The Guardian. Retrieved 2 September 2016.
- ^ a b Daly, Rhian (5 June 2020). "Aluna on making music without George: "I felt self-conscious trying to drag him through my own self-discovery"". NME. Retrieved 18 September 2023.
- ^ a b c "Dynamic duo... introducing AlunaGeorge". London Evening Standard. 28 September 2012. Archived from the original on 4 October 2012. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
- ^ "My toys like me Sweetheart RMX". Myspace. 3 June 2009. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
- ^ "Your Drums, Your Love (Remixes) – EP by AlunaGeorge". iTunes Store (GB). 10 September 2012. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
- ^ Peak chart positions in the United Kingdom:
- All except noted: "AlunaGeorge". Official Charts Company. Retrieved 28 February 2016.
- "You Know You Like It" (with DJ Snake): "DJ Snake & AlunaGeorge". Official Charts Company.
- "After Light": "CHART: CLUK Update 18.08.2012 (wk32)". Zobbel. 18 August 2012.
- "I Remember": "CHART: CLUK Update 16.04.2016 (wk15)". Official Charts Company. Retrieved 30 April 2016.
- ^ Williott, Carl (3 January 2013). "AlunaGeorge Unveil Debut Album Title 'Body Music' & Full Version Of "Diver"". Idolator. Archived from the original on 16 February 2013. Retrieved 4 January 2013.
- ^ Popjustice (3 January 2013). "AlunaGeorge – 'Diver'". Popjustice. Popjustice. Retrieved 4 January 2013.
- ^ Minsker, Evan; Phillips, Amy (4 June 2013). "AlunaGeorge Reveal Body Music Cover Art, Tracklist, New Release Date". Pitchfork. Retrieved 4 June 2013.
- ^ a b "Brits Critics' Choice tips three new acts for 2013". BBC News Online. 6 December 2012. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
- ^ a b "Sound of 2013 Profile: AlunaGeorge". BBC. 10 December 2012. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
- ^ Battan, Carrie (26 February 2013). "Listen: New AlunaGeorge Track "Attracting Flies"". Pitchfork. Retrieved 26 February 2013.
- ^ Soundcloud, Cosmo's Midnight (DJ) (3 June 2014). "AlunaGeorge - Superstar (Cosmo's Midnight x Lido Remix), taken from the upcoming AlunaGeorge album 'Body Music Remixed' which was released on June 16th, 2014". Soundcloud. Retrieved 3 June 2014.
- ^ Gordon, Jeremy (3 October 2014). "AlunaGeorge Share New Track "Supernatural"". Pitchfork. Retrieved 28 February 2016.
- ^ Geslani, Michelle (14 July 2015). "AlunaGeorge signs with Interscope, announces North American tour". Consequence of Sound. Retrieved 13 August 2015.
- ^ a b Minsker, Evan (20 January 2016). "AlunaGeorge Release Popcaan-Featuring Single "I'm In Control"". Pitchfork. Retrieved 28 February 2016.
- ^ Minsker, Evan (13 July 2016). "AlunaGeorge Detail New Album I Remember". Pitchfork. Retrieved 2 September 2016.
- ^ Josephs, Brian (16 May 2016). "Sia Announces U.S. Tour With Miguel and AlunaGeorge". Spin.com. Retrieved 1 October 2016.
- ^ "Coldplay / AlunaGeorge / Izzy Bizu Rogers Centre, Toronto ON, August 22". exclaim.ca. Retrieved 31 December 2017.
- ^ Méndez, Chris Malone. "Aluna's Musical Renaissance Is Complete". Forbes. Retrieved 18 September 2023.
- ^ "Aluna Shares Debut Solo Song "Body Pump"". Pitchfork. 30 April 2020. Retrieved 18 September 2023.
- ^ "Aluna: Renaissance". Pitchfork. Retrieved 18 September 2023.
- ^ a b Skrillex, Aluna & Kito – Inhale Exhale, retrieved 17 February 2023
- ^ a b Méndez, Chris Malone. "Aluna Returns With Sophomore Album Mycelium". Forbes. Retrieved 18 September 2023.
- ^ "Dance/Mix Show Airplay". Billboard.
- ^ Davies, Howell (13 December 2012). "Introducing: AlunaGeorge". The Edge. Retrieved 6 August 2013.
- ^ "AlunaGeorge's biography at amazingtunes.com". Alunageorge.amazingtunes.com. Retrieved 6 August 2013.
- ^ Gracie, Bianca (1 September 2020). "Aluna Doesn't Want to Be the Exception to Any Rule". Vulture. Retrieved 29 November 2021.
- ^ Hess, Liam (8 February 2021). "How Aluna Found Her Renaissance in Dance Music's Queer Black History". Vogue. Retrieved 25 February 2021.
- ^ "AlunaGeorge". 18 May 2016.
- ^ "BBC Music - BBC Music Sound Of, 2013 - 2. AlunaGeorge". BBC. Retrieved 21 March 2020.
- ^ "BBC Two - Never Mind the Buzzcocks, Series 27, Episode 1". BBC. Retrieved 2 July 2025.
- ^ Legaspi, Althea (15 July 2020). "Aluna Previews 'Renaissance' LP with New Song 'Get Paid'". Rolling Stone. Retrieved 28 July 2020.
- ^ "New Music Friday: Avril Lavigne, Bastille, Years & Years & More!". 14 January 2022. Archived from the original on 14 January 2022. Retrieved 14 January 2022.
- ^ Bird, Daniel (5 November 2024). "Grammy nominated star Kelli-Leigh had to work 'harder' due to racism in music". Daily Mirror. Retrieved 2 July 2025.
- ^ "A Few Minutes With Kelli-Leigh [Interview]". Soundplate.com. 16 December 2022. Retrieved 2 July 2025.
- ^ "In Conversation with Kelli-Leigh: The Grammy-nominated singer's journey through music and why Soho remains the ultimate night-out destination". Mysohotimes.co.uk. 11 December 2024. Retrieved 2 July 2025.
- ^ "Aluna, Diplo & Durante - 'Forget About Me'". Acidstag.com. 14 January 2022.
- ^ "Aluna has dropped a new collab with Diplo and Durante, 'Forget About Me'". Readdork.com. 14 January 2022.
External links
[edit]AlunaGeorge
View on GrokipediaHistory
Formation and early releases (2009–2011)
Aluna Francis and George Reid first connected in 2009 when Reid, a producer with experience in UK garage and dubstep scenes, discovered Francis's vocals on MySpace and reached out to remix "Sweetheart," a track from her indie band My Toys Like Me. This initial collaboration sparked their partnership, with Francis contributing lyrics and vocals while Reid handled production, blending her soulful style with his electronic beats. Prior to this, Francis had been active in London's indie circuit with My Toys Like Me, while Reid had built a reputation through underground remixes and productions.[12][13] The duo quickly developed their sound through studio sessions, sharing early demos and tracks online to gauge interest. In 2011, they released their debut double A-side single, "Analyser / We Are Chosen," on the independent label Sweet Recordings, marking their entry into the electronic music landscape with glitchy, R&B-infused tracks that showcased Francis's ethereal vocals over Reid's intricate rhythms. This release, available digitally from May 2, helped establish their presence in the UK blogosphere, where outlets praised the duo's fresh take on electronic pop.[14][15][1] Throughout 2011, AlunaGeorge built momentum through initial live performances at small London venues and festivals, honing their stage dynamic as a vocal-production pair. They also gained traction via remixes for other artists and uploading polished videos for tracks like "You Know You Like It" to YouTube, which featured in the TV show Skins and drew attention from music blogs. This grassroots buzz positioned them for a signing with Tri Angle Records toward the end of the year, setting the stage for broader recognition in the electronic scene.[16][1]Breakthrough and Body Music (2012–2015)
AlunaGeorge achieved their breakthrough in 2012 with the release of their debut EP You Know You Like It in April, which featured the titular lead single and quickly garnered significant attention from UK music blogs and broadcasters. The track's infectious blend of electronic pop and R&B elements led to early airplay on BBC Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra, helping it build hype among listeners and industry insiders.[17][18] Following this momentum, the duo released their first commercial single, "Your Drums, Your Love," in September 2012 under Universal Island Records, which debuted at number 50 on the UK Singles Chart and marked their entry into major label distribution.[19][20] The duo's signing with Island Records earlier that year facilitated further growth, culminating in high-profile collaborations that elevated their profile. In early 2013, AlunaGeorge featured on Disclosure's "White Noise," released as a single in February, which became a major hit and peaked at number two on the UK Singles Chart, earning them widespread recognition in the electronic music scene.[21] This partnership not only showcased Aluna Francis's distinctive vocals but also introduced their sound to broader audiences through Disclosure's rising popularity. The track's success contributed to AlunaGeorge's nomination for Best Song at the 2013 MOBO Awards, alongside a nod for Best Video for "Attracting Flies."[22] Building on this buzz, AlunaGeorge released their debut studio album Body Music on 26 July 2013 via Island Records, a 14-track collection that captured their fusion of UK garage, R&B, and pop influences. Produced primarily by George Reid in a DIY setup, the album included standout tracks like the brooding "Diver," with its introspective lyrics and pulsing bassline, and the playful "Attracting Flies," which addressed themes of temptation through sharp, rhythmic delivery.[23][24] Body Music debuted at number 11 on the UK Albums Chart, reflecting strong initial sales and critical acclaim for its innovative production and Francis's charismatic performance.[25] To promote the album, AlunaGeorge embarked on an extensive touring schedule in 2013, including supporting slots on Disclosure's UK and European tour dates, which exposed them to larger venues and international crowds. They made their Glastonbury Festival debut that June on the newly launched West Holts Stage, performing alongside acts like Nas and Rudimental, and delivered a memorable live rendition of "White Noise" with Disclosure.[26][27] This period also saw their expansion into the US market, with Body Music receiving a stateside release in August 2013 and early performances building anticipation among American audiences.[28] Commercially, their early singles amassed over a million streams in the UK by mid-2013, underscoring their rapid ascent from underground favorites to established chart contenders.[29]I Remember era (2016–2019)
In early 2016, AlunaGeorge released the lead single "I'm in Control" featuring Jamaican dancehall artist Popcaan on 21 January, which peaked at number 39 on the UK Singles Chart.[30] The track showcased the duo's evolving sound with its blend of electronic pop and reggae influences, serving as a precursor to their sophomore efforts.[31] The duo's second studio album, I Remember, followed on 16 September 2016 via Island Records, featuring guest appearances from artists including Pell, ZHU, Leikeli47, Dreezy, and Flume.[32] Notable tracks included "My Blood" with ZHU, highlighting introspective lyrics over pulsating basslines, and "Escape," a high-energy closer emphasizing themes of liberation.[33] The album received mixed critical reception for its ambitious production but underperformed commercially, peaking at number 71 on the UK Albums Chart amid shifting electronic music trends.[34] During this period, AlunaGeorge expanded their collaborative reach, including the title track "I Remember" produced with Australian electronic artist Flume, released as a single on 15 April 2016.[35] They also contributed vocals to Flume's "Innocence" on his album Skin and to "Together" on Kaytranada's 99.9%, both released in 2016, alongside various remixes of their material for soundtracks and DJ sets. These partnerships underscored their versatility in the global electronic scene. To promote I Remember, the duo embarked on a European headline tour in November 2016, performing intimate shows in London, Paris, Brussels, and Berlin.[36] They also secured festival slots, including main stage appearances at Reading and Leeds Festivals in August 2016, where sets featured high-energy renditions of new material alongside earlier hits. By 2017–2019, AlunaGeorge continued releasing material independently after parting ways with Island Records, including singles "Last Kiss" and "Turn Up the Love" in 2017, the Champagne Eyes EP in 2018 featuring "Superior Emotion," and 2019 singles "Cold Blooded Creatures" and "Famoso," though with fewer chart successes and reduced major label support, leading to internal discussions about their creative direction that culminated in an indefinite hiatus.Indefinite hiatus (2020–present)
In June 2020, Aluna Francis announced that AlunaGeorge would enter an indefinite hiatus, explaining that the pause would allow her to pursue solo endeavors focused on self-discovery and artistic growth beyond the duo's dynamic.[37] Since the announcement, the duo has produced no new original material, with their last release being the 2019 single "Famoso." Francis quickly transitioned to a solo career, debuting with the single "Body Pump" on April 30, 2020, via Mad Decent, a house-infused track signaling her independent direction.[38] This was followed by her first full-length album, Renaissance, released on August 28, 2020, which explored diverse electronic influences including dancehall and Afrobeat through collaborations with artists like KAYTRANADA and Rema.[39] Her second album, MYCELiUM, arrived on July 7, 2023, featuring producers such as TSHA and Jayda G, and emphasizing themes of interconnectedness inspired by fungal networks.[40] In 2022, Francis earned a Grammy nomination for Best Dance/Electronic Recording for her contribution to "Forget About Me" on Diplo's self-titled album.[41] More recently, in August 2025, she released a new single amid an Instagram open letter detailing ongoing experiences of racism in the music industry, calling for greater accountability.[42] Francis continues to tour actively, with scheduled performances including Corona Capital in Mexico City on November 14, 2025.[10] George Reid has sustained his career as a producer during the hiatus, contributing to tracks for emerging artists like Tayo Sound's "Runaway" in 2021 and Master Peace's "Overdrive" that same year, while maintaining a lower-profile output compared to Francis.[43] He has been particularly vocal on social media in 2024 and 2025, promoting his solo releases under the banner of "Emotional Dance Music," including the 2024 EP 0-6M and the 2025 single "Girl I Need You" via Fool's Gold Records, though no major solo album has materialized.[44] Francis has indicated in interviews that the hiatus remains open-ended, leaving room for a potential AlunaGeorge reunion in the future, but as of November 2025, no such plans have been confirmed or announced.[45]Artistry
Musical style
AlunaGeorge's music is characterized by a fusion of electronic R&B and future garage, incorporating elements of 2-step, glitch, and early 2000s R&B to create a futuristic pop sound with wonky, wobbly beats and irresistible hooks.[24] The duo's production emphasizes minimalistic, spacious arrangements that avoid overcrowding, featuring disjointed and distorted electronics alongside heavy basslines designed for club environments.[46] This blend results in tracks that balance experimental electronica with pop accessibility, often propelled by slick, seamless synths and vocal manipulations that evoke a sense of liquidity and forward motion.[24][47] Lyrically, AlunaGeorge explores themes of empowerment, sensuality, and escapism, frequently delving into the complexities of relationships and personal identity through sassy, defiant narratives. Songs address consent, modern sexuality, and the transition from friendship to romance, using playful yet introspective language to reject conformity and embrace imaginative freedom.[47][46] Aluna Francis's delivery, marked by slightly warped, nasal tones and an ice-princess posture, enhances these themes, creating an echoing effect that underscores emotional vulnerability and confidence.[24] The duo's style evolved from more experimental, bass-heavy compositions in their early releases to a broader incorporation of pop hooks and dancehall influences in later work, introducing house-lite elements and richer undercurrents while maintaining core club-friendly sparsity.[47] For instance, Body Music (2013) extended the fluid, chirping club tracks of their debut EP with uniform slickness, whereas I Remember (2016) shifted toward diaphanous, roiling basslines and well-timed stutters for a more varied, tropical-infused palette.[24][47] This progression highlights their signature avoidance of genre rigidity, prioritizing polyrhythmic beats and thematic depth over conventional structures.[46]Influences
AlunaGeorge's sound draws from a diverse array of musical influences, blending electronic experimentation with soulful R&B elements. Producer George Reid has cited Flying Lotus as a key inspiration for his production techniques, particularly the artist's innovative use of hiccupping synthetics and abstract beats.[48][49] Similarly, vocalist Aluna Francis has drawn vocal inspiration from Aaliyah's keening choruses and Mariah Carey's emotive delivery, infusing their tracks with a sense of soulful vulnerability.[48][49] The duo also acknowledged early formative influences like Radiohead, which shaped their approach during their developmental years.[50] The UK garage and dubstep scenes profoundly impacted AlunaGeorge's rhythmic foundations and atmospheric textures, reflecting the vibrant energy of London's underground electronic landscape.[16][1] Their music often evokes the shuffled beats and bass-heavy pulses of these genres, positioning them within a lineage of British bass culture that emphasizes club-ready innovation.[51] Culturally, the duo's work is rooted in London club culture, where Black music heritage intersects with electronic dance music (EDM), highlighting R&B's fusion with experimental production to create accessible yet boundary-pushing pop.[52][53] Collaborations further expanded their sonic palette and mainstream reach. Their partnership with Disclosure on the 2013 track "White Noise" marked a pivotal push toward electronic pop accessibility, achieving a No. 2 position on the UK Singles Chart and amplifying garage-infused elements.[28] Likewise, working with Flume on "I Remember" in 2016 introduced future bass influences, broadening their appeal in global EDM circuits.[35] Reid's production roots trace back to his time in the indie-math rock band Colour, where he honed guitar-driven songwriting skills that later blended with electronic experimentation.[54] Francis, meanwhile, brought an indie background from her earlier projects, including the DIY psychedelic garage outfit Earth Leakage Trip, the guitar-based indie-rock duo The Boundary, and the avant-garde electronic band My Toys Like Me, which George remixed prior to their formation.[8][17] This shared indie foundation allowed them to merge organic songcraft with polished electronic production.Members
Aluna Francis
Aluna Francis, born on July 2, 1988, in Wales to a Jamaican father and an Indian mother of Tanzanian descent, experienced a nomadic childhood following her parents' separation. Raised primarily by her single mother in a rural area north of London, she later spent two and a half years in New Jersey during her early teens before returning to the UK.[8][55][56][57] Prior to her rise in electronic music, Francis pursued various paths, including working as a reflexologist in alternative medicine and performing as a singer in several indie bands during the late 2000s. These early experiences honed her vocal talents and exposed her to diverse musical environments, setting the stage for her professional entry into the industry.[17][8] As the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for the electronic duo AlunaGeorge from its formation in 2009 until its indefinite hiatus in 2020, Francis infused the group's output with her signature soulful, ethereal delivery often described as "sugar sweet" for its smooth, emotive quality. Her contributions shaped the duo's blend of R&B, pop, and electronic elements across EPs, albums, and singles, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.[58][2] In 2020, Francis transitioned to a solo career under the moniker Aluna, driven by a pursuit of personal self-discovery and frustrations with systemic racism and inequities she encountered in the music industry. Her debut single "Body Pump," released that April on Mad Decent, marked this shift with its house-infused energy and themes of empowerment. This was followed by her first album, Renaissance, in August 2020, which celebrated Black and queer influences in dance music history while addressing her cultural heritage as a Black woman of mixed descent.[59][60][61][62] Francis's solo trajectory continued to build momentum with the 2022 collaborative single "Forget About Me" featuring Diplo, Durante, and Kelli-Leigh, which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording—the first such nod for a project centered on her solo work. Her second album, MYCELiUM, arrived in July 2023 via Mad Decent, exploring themes of growth, community, and resilience through electronic and house sounds, with features from artists like Pabllo Vittar and MNEK. In 2025, she released the single "Sunday Best (KARABA Remix)," further solidifying her presence in the dance scene.[40] A prominent advocate for greater representation of Black women in electronic and dance music, Francis penned an open letter in June 2020 exclusively shared with Billboard, urging the industry to confront its "long standing racial inequalities" and actively include marginalized voices in its history and future. She highlighted personal experiences of discrimination, such as being undervalued in collaborations, and called for systemic change to prevent Black artists from being tokenized or erased. Her activism extends to curating all-Black, POC, and female lineups for events like the 2020 virtual "Rodeo Rave" and ongoing discussions on platforms about building inclusive communities in EDM. Notably, while Beyoncé became the first Black woman to win the Grammy for Best Dance/Electronic Album in 2023 for Renaissance, Francis has emphasized the need for broader, sustained progress beyond singular milestones.[60][63][42][64][65] In 2025, Francis maintained an active touring schedule, including club performances across Europe and the UK, alongside a headline slot at the Corona Capital festival in Mexico City on November 14. These engagements underscore her evolving role as a solo artist bridging electronic music's underground roots with mainstream appeal.[10][66]George Reid
George Edward Reid, born in 1989 in London, England, is a British music producer and instrumentalist best known as one half of the electronic duo AlunaGeorge.[67][68] Before forming AlunaGeorge, Reid was a guitarist in the indie-math rock band Colour during the 2000s.[48][69] He transitioned into electronic music production, drawing from influences like The Neptunes and Timbaland to develop a style rooted in minimal hip-hop and bass elements.[6][70] Within AlunaGeorge, active from 2009 to 2020, Reid functioned as the lead producer and instrumentalist, crafting the duo's bass-heavy, minimalistic tracks that blended garage, dubstep, and futuristic pop sounds across their releases.[16][1] His production emphasized sparse arrangements and rhythmic innovation, contributing to the group's distinctive electronic R&B aesthetic.[70] Since the duo's indefinite hiatus in 2020, Reid has pursued solo endeavors, releasing melodic club-oriented tracks through Fool's Gold Records, including the Runaway EP in 2023, the single "Feelings" in 2023, the 0-6M EP in 2024, and the single "Girl I Need You" in 2025.[71][72] As of 2025, he has not released a dedicated solo album but has focused on EPs, singles, remixes, and collaborations that highlight his production expertise.[73] Reid maintains a preference for behind-the-scenes work, avoiding onstage performances with the duo, though he has occasionally delivered live DJ sets, such as his 2025 Fool's Gold Radio mix.[74][75]Discography
Studio albums
AlunaGeorge has released two studio albums, both issued by Island Records and showcasing the duo's evolution in electronic pop and alternative R&B production. Their debut album, Body Music, was released on 26 July 2013. Primarily produced by George Reid and Aluna Francis, the 12-track album blends experimental electronic elements with influences from UK garage and R&B. It peaked at number 11 on the UK Albums Chart. Key singles from the album include "Attracting Flies" and "Diver." The tracklist for Body Music is as follows:- Outlines
- You Know You Like It
- Attracting Flies
- Your Drums, Your Love
- Kaleidoscope Love
- Bad Idea
- Diver
- Lost and Found
- Best Be Believing
- Body Music
- Altadis
- Just a Touch
- Full Swing (featuring Pell)
- My Blood (featuring Zhu)
- Not Above Love
- Hold Your Head High
- Mean What I Mean (featuring Dreezy and Leikeli47)
- Jealous (featuring Leikeli47)
- I'm in Control (featuring Popcaan)
- Inhale
- Wanderlust
- Heartbreak Horizon
- Using Me
- I Remember (featuring Flume)
Singles
AlunaGeorge's earliest release was the 7" single "Analyser" / "We Are Chosen" in May 2011 on Sweet Recordings. Their first standalone single with Island Records, "Your Drums, Your Love", followed in October 2012, peaking at number 50 on the UK Singles Chart and spending two weeks in the Top 100.[76] In 2012, the duo issued the You Know You Like It EP, which included the title track alongside "Just a Touch" and "Put Up Your Hands". The lead single "You Know You Like It" was initially released digitally in April 2012 but gained traction in 2013 after featuring in a Tesco advertisement, reaching number 39 on the UK Singles Chart. A remix by DJ Snake, released in 2014, propelled the track to greater international success, peaking at number 13 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and earning platinum certification from the RIAA.[20] The duo's breakthrough came in 2013 with "White Noise", a collaboration with Disclosure from the album Settle. The track debuted at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart, where it remained for 26 weeks, and also topped the UK Dance Chart for 47 weeks. It marked their highest-charting release in the UK and established their presence in the electronic pop genre. Later that year, "Attracting Flies" served as the lead single from their debut album Body Music, peaking at number 17 on the UK Singles Chart over 12 weeks.[21][77] Following the success of Body Music, AlunaGeorge returned in 2016 with singles from their second album I Remember. "I'm in Control", featuring Popcaan, peaked at number 39 on the UK Singles Chart and spent 13 weeks on the chart. The title track "I Remember", co-produced with Flume, was released as a single in April 2016 but did not enter the UK Top 100.[30] Despite entering an indefinite hiatus in 2020, the duo released "Girl I Need You" in August 2025. Overall, AlunaGeorge achieved five entries on the UK Top 200 Singles Chart, with four reaching the Top 100 and one Top 10 hit. Their collaborations extended their reach internationally, particularly in the US dance and electronic charts. Post-2016, the duo focused on remixes and featured appearances, with occasional original material under the AlunaGeorge name as late as 2025.[20]| Title | Year | UK Peak | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| "Your Drums, Your Love" | 2012 | 50 | From Body Music sessions; 2 weeks on chart.[76] |
| "You Know You Like It" | 2012 (original); 2013 (re-release) | 39 | Featured on You Know You Like It EP; DJ Snake remix (2014) peaked US #13.[20] |
| "White Noise" (with Disclosure) | 2013 | 2 | 26 weeks on UK chart; #1 UK Dance.[21] |
| "Attracting Flies" | 2013 | 17 | Lead single from Body Music; 12 weeks on chart.[77] |
| "I'm in Control" (feat. Popcaan) | 2016 | 39 | From I Remember; 13 weeks on chart.[30] |
| "I Remember" (with Flume) | 2016 | — | Title track from I Remember; no UK Top 100 entry.[20] |
| "Girl I Need You" | 2025 | — | Post-hiatus single; as of November 2025, chart position pending. |
Reception
Critical reception
AlunaGeorge's debut album, Body Music (2013), received generally favorable reviews, earning a Metacritic score of 73/100 based on 33 critics.[79] Reviewers praised its innovative fusion of R&B and electronic elements, with PopMatters awarding 8/10 for the duo's "intelligent hot pot of sounds all meshed together flawlessly," highlighting the seamless blend of genres.[70] The Guardian gave it 4 stars, calling it “infectiously joyous” and noting that AlunaGeorge “sound like exactly the kind of act who deserve to fill the void left when everyone finally gives up on generic pop-rave.”[80] Pitchfork scored it 7.0, commending the "sexy and strange and sugary" production but critiquing some tracks as more formulaic than groundbreaking, with an occasional overemphasis on bass-heavy rhythms.[24] The duo's sophomore effort, I Remember (2016), garnered a slightly lower Metacritic score of 70/100 from 17 reviews, reflecting mixed responses to its shift toward a more polished pop sound.[81] The Guardian awarded 4/5, appreciating the "bolder and more confident" experimentation and richer production that maintained sweet melodies while adding variety.[82] The Quietus gave 7/10, positively noting the effective sparse arrangements on standout tracks that allowed for creative exploration.[81] However, Pitchfork rated it 6.6, arguing that the album lacked the emotional depth and self-actualization promised by its pop-oriented direction, feeling like a delayed version of what was expected years earlier.[47] Overall, AlunaGeorge earned widespread acclaim early in their career, finishing second on the BBC Sound of 2013 poll, which spotlighted them as rising stars in UK electronic music.[6] Critics lauded their role in revitalizing UK garage influences within contemporary electronic pop, as seen in tracks like "Lost & Found" that incorporated sinuous garage rhythms alongside R&B vocals.[83] Some reviews pointed to the duo's short active span and 2020 hiatus as a missed opportunity to build further momentum, with outlets like Clash suggesting they had yet to fully "kick on" despite strong potential.[81] In 2020s retrospectives, their work has been recognized for laying foundational influences on future bass and more inclusive EDM scenes, particularly through Aluna Francis's subsequent solo career that built on the duo's electronic-R&B hybrid.[40] As of 2025, the duo maintains relevance through occasional festival appearances despite the hiatus.Awards and nominations
AlunaGeorge received early recognition through several high-profile nominations in 2013, highlighting their breakthrough as an electronic pop duo. They placed second in the BBC's influential Sound of 2013 poll, which spotlights emerging British artists.[84] The duo was also shortlisted for the BRIT Awards' Critics' Choice prize, a category honoring innovative new talent, alongside acts like Tom Odell and Laura Mvula.[85] [86] Additionally, they earned a nomination at the MOBO Awards for Best Video for their track "Attracting Flies," competing in the category sponsored by SBTV.[22] In 2014, AlunaGeorge's collaboration with Disclosure on "White Noise" garnered further accolades. The song won Best Track at the NME Awards, facing competition from entries like Arctic Monkeys' "Do I Wanna Know?" and Daft Punk's "Get Lucky."[87] It also received a nomination for British Single of the Year at the BRIT Awards, underscoring the track's commercial and critical impact as part of Disclosure's album Settle.[88] Following their debut album Body Music, the duo continued to receive nominations in subsequent years, though no major wins were recorded after 2014. In 2016, amid a period of reduced activity leading to hiatus, they were nominated for Anthem of the Summer at the UK Festival Awards, reflecting their festival presence and enduring popularity. No formal awards or nominations for AlunaGeorge as a duo have been documented post-2016.| Year | Award | Category | Outcome | Nominee/Work |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | BBC Sound of | Emerging Artists Poll | 2nd place | AlunaGeorge |
| 2013 | BRIT Awards | Critics' Choice | Nominated | AlunaGeorge |
| 2013 | MOBO Awards | Best Video | Nominated | "Attracting Flies" |
| 2014 | NME Awards | Best Track | Won | "White Noise" (with Disclosure) |
| 2014 | BRIT Awards | British Single of the Year | Nominated | "White Noise" (with Disclosure) |
| 2016 | UK Festival Awards | Anthem of the Summer | Nominated | AlunaGeorge |