The Nolans

The Nolans are an Anglo-Irish girl group formed in Blackpool in 1974, originally known as the Nolan Sisters. They changed their name to the Nolans in 1980. Between 1979 and 1982, they enjoyed a string of hit singles, including "I'm in the Mood for Dancing", "Gotta Pull Myself Together", "Who's Gonna Rock You", "Attention to Me" and "Chemistry". The Nolans became one of the world’s best-selling girl groups and found particular success in Japan. In 1981, they became the first European act to win the Tokyo Music Festival with "Sexy Music" and, in 1991, they received a Japan Record Award (Tokubetsu Kikaku Shō). The group disbanded in 2005 but re-formed in 2009 with four of the original members. A "farewell tour" was planned for 2013, but it was cancelled after the death of Bernie Nolan. A reality-television show featuring the group was later launched, but no further albums or tours were announced. In 2025, a second member, Linda Nolan, died of breast cancer and double pneumonia. In May 2026, Maureen, Anne and Denise announced a set of afternoon with performances in Blackpool. In June, Coleen joined her sisters to receive the prestigious Lifetime Contribution to the Music Industry Award at the Pride of Éireann International Awards. The ceremony took place on June 20 at the Manchester Hotel Deansgate, celebrating the group's 50 years in the industry.