Nancy Nova returns with new music

Nancy Nova is the charismatic force behind some of the most iconic underground disco hits of the 1980s. Known for her striking fusion of high-energy techno and vintage electro, Nancy’s decorated musical journey has seen her become a beloved figure in the annals of retro-futuristic pop.

The daughter of celebrated UK game show host Bob Holness, Nancy initially pursued acting, training at the National Youth Theatre and Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. However, music soon became her primary focus and by the late 70s, Nancy was making an impression with her compelling voice and songwriting. A founding member of Toto Coelo, renowned for their global hit “I Eat Cannibals,” Nancy left the group before their rise to fame to sign a worldwide solo contract with EMI. Her career flourished, with tracks like “The Force,” “Made in Japan” and “Heaven” lighting up dance charts and airwaves.

Nancy’s talents extended beyond performing; she was a songwriter for Jesse Green’s 1976 hit “Flip,” which reached #26 on the UK charts. As a contributor to projects for artists such as AC/DC, Cleo Laine and Lena Zavaroni, her versatility as a musician made her a truly in-demand talent. Appearances on shows like Top of the Pops and a six-week stint on Italian television’s Non Stop only added to her growing acclaim.

Now, decades after she first stepped out as an artist, Nancy Nova is back with Tour De Force, a dazzling collection of sixteen self-penned tracks. The album reimagines her classic hits while introducing fresh material and two standout covers: ABBA’s “The Winner Takes It All” and Kate Bush’s “Wuthering Heights.” Produced and arranged by Kingbones, the record embraces European dance styles infused with a quintessentially British twist, staying true to the 80s electro aesthetic while incorporating cutting edge production techniques.

The album takes listeners on an emotional journey, stitching Nancy’s dramatic lyrics with modern techno influences. Highlights include the haunting “Lifeline,” the poignant “You Come And You Go” and the high-octane “The Force (Megamix.)” Tracks like “Heavens You Know” and “Copy” explore themes of love, loss and dystopian futures, while “Lily” serves as a powerful anti-war anthem, showcasing Nancy’s ability to pair meaningful storytelling with beat-focused energy.

Nancy’s recent resurgence is thanks in part to a growing online fanbase and praise from industry icons. Siouxsie Sioux, during a BBC Radio 6 interview, credited Nancy as a formative influence, recalling a mesmerising performance at London’s Heaven nightclub, a moment also celebrated by legendary DJ Kenny Everett. As anticipation builds, Nancy is preparing to take Tour De Force to live audiences with performances lined up at major festivals next summer. “I can’t wait to connect with fans and celebrate the 80’s electro vibe together. This album is for them—for those who’ve supported me through the years and for the new listeners discovering this timeless genre,” she shares.

Commenting on the new album, she offers, “Having been an 80’s underground disco diva, I’ve noticed a renewed love for this genre. Now is the perfect time to release my never-before-heard album, perfect for lovers of vintage electro. Tour De Force is a celebration of that vibrant era, featuring 16 tracks, including hit singles and fresh interpretations of timeless classics.”

Listen to Tour De Force below