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Musician’s projects included Madonna’s Ray of Light, Blur’s 13 and All Saints’ chart-topping singles Pure Shores and Black CoffeeWilliam Orbit, the British music producer whose dreamy yet propulsive style invigorated work by Madonna, Blur, All Saints, U2 and more, has died aged 69.A statement on his social media, attributed to family and friends, said he died at home on 23 July. “He will be greatly missed by us and by so many whose lives he touched through his music, friendship and kindness,” the statement read. No cause of death was given. Continue reading...

• The true crime documentary "The Idaho Murders: College Nightmare" has claimed the No. 1 spot on Netflix's Top 10 list of shows in the United States. • The series achieved this ranking for the tracking week of July 27 to August 2, displacing Will Ferrell’s "The Hawk" from the top position. • This surge highlights the continued high demand for true crime content among streaming audiences.

After a blitz of small wins, PM is finding that like Keir Starmer there is only so much he can control on the big calls UK politics live – latest updatesIf Andy Burnham wanted to demonstrate he was the anti-Keir Starmer, the first fortnight could not have gone better. Instead of painting a gloomy picture of tough times and an economic black hole that would only improve with sacrifices such as cutting winter fuel allowance, Burnham’s first week was a blitz of small wins including cutting bus fares.But the new prime minister can only control so much. And like Starmer, within his first days in office he found himself facing immediate decisions where every call will make you unpopular. And – like Starmer – blaming your predecessor counts for nothing with an angry public. Continue reading...

• Approximately 60,000 migrants attempted to cross a breakwater barrier from Morocco into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta last Thursday, resulting in at least 72 deaths due to drowning and trampling. • The event has intensified political tensions as far-right parties across Europe use the crisis to promote populist, "tough on migration" agendas ahead of upcoming elections. • Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned the European response as "selfish, polarising and unlawful," arguing that other states provide insufficient support to Spain.

• Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is facing growing criticism and public dissatisfaction due to his "populist" communication style and controversial public comments. • During a recent political event in Jakarta, the President drew attention by joking about his prepared speech, signaling a preference for informal rhetoric over formal governance. • This leadership style coincides with rising tensions, as families of individuals arrested during recent protests express frustration with his administration.

• Author and journalist Fred Pearce discussed his new book, "Despite it All," in an interview with Live Science editor Hannah Osborne. • The book examines global shifts over the last 40 years, specifically highlighting the rise of renewable energy and the stabilization of the "population bomb." • Pearce argues that these developments provide a foundation of hope and practical evidence that the current climate crisis can be solved.

• BTS has decided to boycott the Grammy Awards, marking the first time the global K-pop superstars have opted out of the ceremony. • The decision follows the Recording Academy's June 16 announcement of a new award category dedicated to Asian pop music from regions including South Korea, Japan, and China. • This new category aims to recognize artistic excellence in performances that utilize Asian languages and are widely recognized within Asian markets.