Stereophonics are on Wales' finest ever musical exports. Having shown a real diversity in their recording prowess over thieir 12 studio albums to date, and that's not to forget their innovative side projects, that the world is more than ready for their 13th release. Entitled Make 'em Laugh, Make 'em Cry, Make 'em Wait, the singles to date have shown that they are an act who are still hitting their listeners at their core and connecting in a beautifully tender manner. We had the true privilege of catching up with frontman Kelly Jones to learn a little more about their upcoming release.

We are so excited about your new release, Make 'em Laugh, Make 'em Cry, Make 'em Wait... Tell us the story behind it...

2022 was the last Stereophonics record, which came after the pandemic, and then I released the Far From Saints album and toured that, which was amazing working with some new musicians. I then went to Norway to record Inevitable Incredible, which was then released and toured with two shows a night, so it felt comforting to return and discover what a classic Stereophonics album in 2025 would sound like. The writing process was pretty quick. The main goal I had was to make a concise, immediate album.

And what is your key ambition for the release?

I hope the songs connect with people.

This is your 13th studio album; what is the biggest lesson you've learnt from a record to date?

When you are honest with yourself and you are vulnerable when you are creating, people often connect with that music, as we all go through similar things.

Looking back, is there somewhere you should have turned left but turned right?

Yeah, boarding a few planes!

As a band, you have all explored other creative avenues. Have these experiences influenced your work with Stereophonics?

Yes; being challenged by other musicians, producers and artists always inspires.

What do you think the secret to a long-term career in music is?

Work. You only get out what you put in. Fingerprinting doesn’t work. Anger doesn’t work. Passion works. Tenacity works. Roll with the punches and follow your gut.



We want to get to know a little more about your musical taste. Tell us a song (as well as the reason for your choice) that makes you:

Smile – 'Gangnam Style', when my kids put it on in the car on the way to school.

Cry – 'Gangnam Style', when my kids put it on in the car on the way to school.

Laugh – 'Gangnam Style', when my kids put it on in the car on the way to school.

Feel Nostalgic – AC/DC The entire catalogue reminds me of being a boy with a ghetto blaster and cassettes.

Sing in the shower – I don’t sing in the shower.

Message a friend immediately – Bob Seger: Hollywood Nights.

What was the best gig you have ever been to?

The Rolling Stones – 1989 Cardiff Arms Park... Being taken by my older brothers and their mates. An eye-opening experience,

What stage have you not performed on that you dream of?

Carnegie Hall

Stereophonics 2025 Northern live dates

Thursday 05 June Belfast Belsonic

Friday 06 June Dublin St. Anne’s Park

Saturday 07 June Cork Virgin Media Park

Saturday 14 June Huddersfield - The John
Smith’s Stadium

Saturday 28 June Glasgow Bellahouston Park
smmrsessions.com

Friday 04 July London Finsbury Park

Saturday 12 July Cardiff Principality Stadium


Stereophonics will also be headlining the Isle of Wight Festival on Saturday 21 June 2025. For more information go to Isleofwightfestival.com