On June 22, 2022, excited fans in Dublin, Ireland, witnessed an opening act that set the stage on fire: Arlo Parks, a British singer-songwriter known for her soulful sound and moving lyrics, shared the stage with global sensation Harry Styles during his acclaimed Love On Tour, captivating the crowd and leaving a mark on those lucky enough to witness her live. This collaboration marked a significant moment for both artists and introduced Parks to a broader audience, showcasing her immense talent and unique artistic voice.
Born Anaïs Oluwatoyin Estelle Marinho on August 9, 2000, in Paris, France, Parks has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Raised in London, her multicultural background and experiences have deeply influenced her music, creating a distinctive sound that resonates with fans worldwide. Parks burst onto the scene with her debut album, Collapsed in Sunbeams, in 2021, earning critical acclaim and accolades for her introspective songwriting and genre-blurring sound.
After her debut album, Parks continued to impress audiences with her sophomore album, My Soft Machine, which she released and toured in 2023. Her music, characterized by its fusion of indie pop, R&B, and spoken word, resonates deeply with listeners, tackling important topics with a poignant honesty.
In the literary world, Parks also made waves with her debut book, Writing in the Sun, which was published in November 2021 and features a collection of both poetry and prose. Following the success of her first book, Parks recently released her second book, The Magic Border, towards the end of 2023. This collection of poetry continues Parks’ exploration of themes such as love, identity, and self-discovery, offering readers a moving and introspective journey through her words.
Opening for Styles was a career-defining moment for Parks. In interviews following the tour, she spoke fondly of the experience, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect between herself and Styles.
“Working with Harry was an incredible experience,” Parks remarked, “His energy and passion for music are infectious, and it was an honor to share the stage with him.” She expressed gratitude for the opportunity and shared insight into working together, stating in an interview with Rolling Stone that, “Harry is not only an incredible musician but also a genuine and supportive person. Being part of Love On Tour was an experience I’ll cherish forever.”
Parks’ collaboration with Styles not only showcased her immense talent to a wider audience but also underscored her status as a rising star in the music industry. As a queer artist of color, Parks occupies a unique position within an often predominantly white, heteronormative landscape of popular music. Her visibility and unapologetic embrace of her identity serve as a beacon of representation for marginalized communities, inspiring countless fans around the world.
Throughout her career, Parks has garnered widespread recognition for her contributions to music and LGBTQ+ visibility. She has been nominated for numerous awards, including the Mercury Prize and the BRIT Awards, and has won acclaim from industry peers and critics alike. Her influence extends far beyond her musical talents as she continues to use her platform to advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights.
In short, Love On Tour not only provided an incredible platform for Parks but also introduced fans to artists, like her, who are pushing boundaries and creating impactful music. The entire tour became a well-known celebration of diversity and inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of supporting these emerging talents.
Arlo Parks is currently touring across North America, and more information can be found on her website: https://www.arloparksofficial.com/homepage/
