Jazz Fusion Sensations Ezra Collective Celebrate Landmark First U.K. No. 1 Album!
Ezra Collective makes history with their first U.K. No. 1 album, "Here Because of Hope," adding to their recent critical accolades including the Mercury Prize and BRIT Awards. Other chart movements include Michael Jackson, Olivia Rodrigo, and Oasis, whose compilation saw a significant jump following their world tour announcement.
Ezra Collective, the acclaimed London-formed jazz group, has achieved a significant milestone by securing their first-ever U.K. No. 1 album. Their fourth LP, “Here Because of Hope,” debuted atop the Official Albums Chart, marking a new high point in their career. This achievement follows their previous chart entries with “You Can’t Steal My Joy” (No. 70 in 2019), “Where I’m Meant to Be” (No. 24 in 2023), and “Dance, No One’s Watching” (No. 7 in 2024).
The group has accumulated a string of critical successes in recent years. In 2023, Ezra Collective made history by becoming the first jazz act to win the prestigious Mercury Prize for their album “Where I’m Meant to Be.” Their recognition continued at the 2025 BRIT Awards, where they were honored with the group of the year trophy. Bandleader Femi Koleoso reflected on the band’s decade-long journey and their role as an inspiration for emerging musicians, telling Billboard U.K. that it’s “beautiful because people only can aspire to be that if they think it’s accessible and possible, and that’s how I want to come across all the time.”
Beyond Ezra Collective’s triumph, other notable movements were observed on the charts. Michael Jackson’s “The Essential” greatest hits collection ascended two positions to No. 2, while Olivia Rodrigo’s “you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love” maintained its No. 3 spot. Sienna Spiro’s “Visitor” climbed two spots to No. 4, coinciding with her song “Great Expectation” holding the summit of the Official Singles Chart for a second consecutive week.
Oasis’ “Time Flies: 1994-2009” compilation saw a significant surge, rocketing ten places to No. 5. This rise follows the announcement of their 2027 world tour, confirmed on Monday, September 14, which will feature 38 shows across the U.K., Ireland, mainland Europe, and the U.S., commencing in Glasgow on May 21. Additionally, Bloc Party secured their sixth top 10 album with “Anatomy of a Brief Romance” landing at No. 6, and Southampton-born musician RØRY earned a first top 10 with “Bloodletting” at No. 8. Bonobo achieved a fourth consecutive top 40 album with “Distance in Static” charting at No. 11.