I was lucky enough to see Beverley Knight last night at The Jam House in Birmingham's, Jewellery Quarter. The gig was run by Smooth FM as part of their 'Love Live Music' campaign.
The show was frequented by VIPs, who stood upstairs on the balcony and competition winners, who obviously stood downstairs.
The venue was rammed to capacity, hot and sweaty bodies, at times I thought I was gonna pass out at the front, the only thing keeping me from passing out was the constant supply of drinks [Thanks Nikki and Trish] and the thought that I was gonna be within touching distance of seeing Black Country Diva Knight.
The show kicked off with support provided by London Based Mamas Gun. I had previously seen these guys support Ms Knight on her previous 100% tour and I was impressed by them then. Tonight they didn't disappoint. A short 30 minute set to whip the crowd up into a frenzy before Ms Knight came on.
They showcased some of their new material off new album 'The Life and Soul' which came out on the 6th June this year. The guys went down a storm, totally.
The main event was edging ever closer, Ms Knight came on stage and the audience went wild.
Again an acoustic performance, which was totally out of this world. Supported by her regular band, minus a few members, Reidy on guitar, Ash on Keys and two amazing backing vocalists. We were in for some ride.
A ten song set ensued, I was in heaven, Songs from forthcoming album 'Soul UK', due out on the 4th July, were featured tonight. New single 'Mama Used To Say' was blasted out and the audience loved it.
'Say I'm Your Number 1' and 'Apparently Nothing' got the crowd fired up and they just wanted even more. The temperature started to rise even more in the room, never seen so many happy people singing along and actually enjoying themselves.
Old classic 'Shoulda, Woulda, Coulda' got the crowd into grooving mode. Roachford's 'Cuddly Toy' up next, I ashamedly remember the first time this song was released and it was a stonker then. Ms Knight did it justice totally, I loved it, and it was pure bliss.
Another classic Knight hit 'Keep This Fire Burning' I was totally in my element. Knight never ceases to amaze me, her vocal talent is second to none and I feel she is one of the most under rated female artists in the UK. She can belt out a song and it has meaning, her pedigree speaks for its self especially after being in the business for 17 years.
George Michael classic 'One More Try' was absolutely classy, bought a tear to my eye and was an amazing rendition.
We were supposed to be having an encore but had another song instead which was amazing: Ms Knight checked with Management and was told to carry on, so up next 'Made it Back' foot tapping and hip swinging, even some Dad dancing by me: I was well in the zone now, even put my camera down, which is unheard of.
Last song of the night 'Greatest Day', I didn't want the night to be over.
Ms Knight proved last night what a flexible vocalist she is and I think she made a few new fans.
I realised why I love her music so much. She always entertains and can belt out a tune, what else would you want?
AND she really appreciates her fans; it's just a shame that other stars don't take a leaf out of the 'Beverley Knight Guide on How to Treat Your Fans'.
You can catch Miss Knight on tour in October and November around the UK, for heavens sake do your self a favour buy a ticket, you won't be disappointed.
article by: Michelle Owen-Williams
published: 15/06/2011 07:56
FUTURE GIGS
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