If you had asked me in the late 1980s whether I would go and see Rick Astley I would have said a profound “no!” He was, in my mind, a very uncool popstar and I had zero interest in going to a Rick Astley concert. It is strange how things change over the years. Here I was some 30+ years later in a completely sold-out arena watching the man himself.
The tour publicity announced the concert thus: “After gaining worldwide success in the 1980’s with hits such as ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ and ‘Together Forever’, Rick Astley is heading out on a brand new tour to celebrate his ninth studio album, ‘Are We There Yet?’ in 2024. Rick will be joined by very special guest Belinda Carlisle.”
Rick Astley has seen a transformation and rebirth in recent years. The 80s pop star remains but the man has evolved into a much more credible artist, singing in a very soulful manner. A very successful Glastonbury performance also helped catapult him back into the limelight. Rick the teenage heartthrob popstar has become Rick the soul singer. The entire performance was very slick and professional. The stage setup and screens made great use of modern technology and Rick was accompanied by an excellent band containing an array of musicians and singers.
Add to that an excellent supporting show comprising The Lottery Winners (I arrived a little late and missed their performance) a new band each of whom is a real lottery winner, and none other than fellow 80s star, Belinda Carlisle. The arena bars emptied for Belinda Carlisle and the massive hall was full to see the lady perform a great show. I had forgotten just how many hits Belinda has enjoyed. She closed with, of course, her only number 1 single “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” and everyone was singing along. I really enjoyed seeing her. An excellent start to my evening.
After a short interval Rick Astley took to the stage. This was a supremely confident artist, clearly enjoying his recent return to fame. His set was a mix of recent songs, some very soulful, and 80s hits. They all blended together well. “I’m 58” Rick told us all, quite proud of the fact, I think. He certainly looks well for his age and, complete with quiff and snazzy, snappy, colourful suit, he led his band through his songs, with the audience fully behind him. I was surprised just how much I enjoyed the concert and how many of his 80s hits I remembered including songs like “Together Forever”.Another great moment was when, during one song, Rick asked everyone to put on the torch light on their phones. The entire arena was filled with light. It looked amazing.
During the encore Rick explained how he started off his music career as a drummer. He told us that he was quite a quiet boy at school until he got a drum kit. He joined a school band and they played at the Valentine night’s disco. That night he received 4 Valentine cards. That was it! Rick’s future was mapped out and he wished to be a popstar. Hence his transformation from drummer to vocalist. He demonstrated his drumming skills by taking up the drums stool, twirling the drumsticks between his fingers like a “proper” drummer and then launching into the AC/DC classic “Highway to Hell” providing vocals alongside his drumming. Amazing and a big surprise.
He closed with, of course, “Never Gonna Give You Up” with a massive singalong and crazy ovation from the crowd. Great fun and a fitting end to a concert that even 10 years ago I could not have imagined myself attending. It is strange how times, music and trends change and how my musical taste has broadened so much recently. Much to my enjoyment.
During the interval I purchased a couple of programmes and a T-shirt. Many thanks to Jackie for the photographs and to Chris for assisting me in creating this blog entry.
Setlist: Never Gonna Stop; Together Forever; Beautiful Life; It Would Take a Strong Strong Man; Dippin My Feet; Keep Singing; She Wants to Dance With Me / Juice; Hold Me in Your Arms; Driving Me Crazy; As It Was; Forever and More; Cry for Help; Dance; Seventeen Going Under; Angels on My Side; Whenever You Need Somebody / Good Times.
Encore: Maria Love; Highway to Hell; Never Gonna Give You Up.
Vintagerock's Weblog. 
Posted by TerriersFan on February 26, 2024 at 4:56 pm
Time is indeed a great healer – and converter of feelings!
I really don’t fancy a Rick Astley gig, Peter, but I know that my taste has mellowed greatly, especially over the last 10-15 years, so I am not surprised that you had a good time.
Glad to hear that it went well.
Roger 🤘👍
Posted by vintagerock on February 26, 2024 at 5:17 pm
Hi Roger yes my taste in music gets broader as I get older! I really enjoyed the Rick Astley concert. It was great fun! Happy days Peter