homepods only play one song from single artist when request shuffle all - then quit

HomePods [1st gen] which have complete access to my extensive music library, [not Apple Music], will shuffle playlists, will play or shuffle music [including single artist] from iPad or iPhone, but WILL NOT shuffle songs from a single artist when requested.

Instead it plays one song and quits. doesn't matter what artist is requested, it will play one song, and quit. if you request "next" it quits.

this is new phenomenon and most frustrating. I have two HomePods paired and they have worked flawlessly for couple of years now but his is a real drag!! - has anyone experienced this and or have a solution??

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated! TIA........