From Little Mix to JADE: Thirlwall's Solo Rise with 'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY'

From Little Mix to JADE: Thirlwall's Solo Rise with 'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY'

The music world has been buzzing with anticipation, and on September 12, 2025, that excitement reached a fever pitch as Jade Thirlwall, under her electrifying new stage name JADE, finally unleashed her debut solo album, 'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY'. For fans who have followed her incredible journey since her days in the groundbreaking girl group Little Mix, this album represents not just a new chapter, but a bold and vibrant declaration of artistic independence. It’s a moment that celebrates growth, resilience, and the power of finding one's unique voice after years of harmonious collaboration.

The album, which is available now on streaming platforms worldwide, can also be cherished in physical form, with CD, Cassette, and Vinyl editions gracing JADE's official store. This multi-format release speaks volumes about her dedication to connecting with fans in every possible way, offering both the convenience of modern streaming and the tangible magic of a physical collection. But to truly appreciate the significance of this moment, we must first look back at the incredible foundation that shaped JADE – her unforgettable tenure with Little Mix.

The Enduring Legacy of Little Mix: A Foundation of Phenomenal Success

Long before 'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY' became a reality, Jade Thirlwall was a vital part of what many dubbed "the biggest girl group in the world." Little Mix burst onto the scene in 2011, making history on the eighth series of The X Factor. Comprising Jade, Jesy Nelson, Perrie Edwards, and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, they defied expectations to become the first and only group to win the original UK competition series. Their victory wasn't just a win for them; it heralded a much-needed girl band renaissance in the UK, inspiring a generation of aspiring artists.

Over the next decade, Little Mix cemented their status as pop icons. With chart-topping hits like "Wings" and "Black Magic," their distinctive vocals, intricate harmonies, and powerful performances garnered critical acclaim. They weren't just singers; they were a movement, advocating for empowerment and self-love, and forging a bond with their fans that was truly special. The group's impact was undeniable, making them one of The X Factor's most successful winning acts.

However, even the most formidable groups face challenges. The initial signs of change began in 2020 when Jesy Nelson announced her departure, citing the immense toll being in a band had taken on her mental health. Though Jade, Perrie, and Leigh-Anne continued as a powerful trio, they ultimately announced a hiatus in 2022. This decision, while necessary for the members' individual growth, left a void for fans and marked the end of an era for What Happened to Little Mix? Unpacking Their Hiatus and Future.

'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY': JADE's Bold Artistic Statement

For Jade Thirlwall, the transition from global girl group phenom to solo artist was a deeply personal journey. As she confessed to an outlet, she was arguably the one who "struggled the most to adapt to life after the group." While her bandmates embraced new chapters that included starting families and becoming mothers, Jade, who had "lived and breathed Little Mix" since she was 18, found herself at a crossroads. "I didn’t know what to do with myself," she admitted, reflecting on the challenging adjustment period.

But from that period of introspection and adaptation emerged JADE, an artist ready to claim her spotlight. 'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY' is more than just an album title; it's a defiant and theatrical declaration. It suggests a readiness to embrace the spectacle, the glamour, and the raw vulnerability of the entertainment world on her own terms. The album's release on September 12, 2025, solidified her solo identity and showcased an evolution in her artistry.

The critical acclaim has already begun pouring in, highlighted by her triumphant BRIT Award win for Best Pop Act for her single "Angel of My Dreams." In a moment that resonated deeply with fans, she graciously thanked her "Little Mix sisters," a poignant reminder that while she embarks on a solo path, the bond remains unbreakable. This award not only signifies her individual talent but also the powerful groundwork laid during her time in Little Mix After Hiatus: Solo Albums, Babies, and Mental Health Journeys.

Navigating Life After Little Mix: A Sisterhood Endures

The story of Little Mix is as much about sisterhood as it is about music. Even in their separate journeys, the members continue to share a deep connection. Jesy Nelson, who left the group in 2020 to prioritize her mental health, has also navigated significant life changes. After releasing three solo singles, she paused her music career to embrace motherhood, welcoming twin girls, Ocean Jade and Story Monroe, in 2025. Her journey has been marked by both immense joy and profound challenges, including her daughters' diagnosis with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) Type 1, which she bravely discussed in a February 2026 episode of Jamie Laing’s podcast, alongside the release of her Prime Video docuseries, Life After Little Mix.

Jesy’s sentiments in a February 2026 interview – that the members "genuinely were like sisters at one point" and "best friends" – echo the enduring affection between them. While she acknowledges they're all in different places now, particularly as mothers (except for Jade), the possibility of a reunion is never off the table: "Never say never," she mused, adding, "I have so much love for them and always will." Perrie Edwards and Leigh-Anne Pinnock, both now mothers themselves, are also charting their unique courses, with fans eagerly awaiting their next artistic moves.

This collective journey highlights the reality of life after a massively successful group. Each member finds their own way, some embracing motherhood, others diving into solo artistry, but all carrying the indelible mark of their Little Mix years. It’s a testament to the strength of their initial bond that, despite diverging paths, mutual respect and love persist.

The Enduring Impact and Future Aspirations

The release of 'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY' is not just a triumph for Jade Thirlwall; it's a significant moment for the legacy of Little Mix. It demonstrates how a strong foundation within a group can launch successful, diverse solo careers. It reminds us that artistic evolution is natural and that growth, even after collective success, is vital for a performer.

For aspiring artists and fans alike, JADE's journey offers valuable insights. It underscores the importance of:

• Embracing Individuality: While group dynamics are powerful, finding and expressing one's unique artistic voice is crucial for long-term fulfillment.
• Resilience in Transition: Adapting to new phases, especially after a major life change like a group hiatus, requires courage and self-discovery.
• Maintaining Connections: The lasting bonds between the Little Mix members show that genuine relationships can endure professional shifts.
• Diversifying Engagement: Offering music across streaming and physical formats caters to a wider audience and respects different fan preferences.

'THAT'S SHOWBIZ BABY' is a powerful statement, an album that not only showcases JADE's exceptional talent but also her incredible journey of self-discovery and artistic liberation. From the harmonious synergy of Little Mix to the dazzling spotlight of her solo career, Jade Thirlwall continues to captivate and inspire. Her debut album is a must-listen, solidifying her place as a formidable force in the music industry and proving that while the curtain may have momentarily fallen on one act, a thrilling new show has just begun.