Some gigs are just made for pure joy, and a Nile Rodgers & Chic concert guarantees just that. From the moment Nile Rodgers stepped onto the stage, guitar in hand, it was clear that this was going to be a night of wall-to-wall classics, celebrating some of the most iconic songs in music history. Rodgers is a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, a multiple Grammy winner, and quite simply one of the most important figures in modern music.
Whether through his work with Chic, his collaborations with David Bowie, Madonna, Diana Ross, and Daft Punk, or his signature production style, his influence has been massive. This show was a reminder of just how many timeless tracks he has been responsible for.
The setlist was relentless, with barely a moment to catch breath between one classic after another. They kicked off in style with “Le Freak”, instantly setting the mood with its infectious groove. From there, it was an unstoppable disco-funk party, running through “Everybody Dance”, “Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah)”, and “I Want Your Love”.
It wasn’t just Chic songs either—Rodgers made sure to celebrate his wider body of work, seamlessly blending tracks he produced for other artists. Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out” and “Upside Down” flowed effortlessly into Sister Sledge’s “He’s the Greatest Dancer” and “We Are Family”, creating an atmosphere of pure celebration.
One of the most impressive aspects of the show was seeing just how many generations of music Rodgers has influenced. He took us from Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” and “Material Girl” to David Bowie’s “Modern Love”, before moving into the Daft Punk era with “Get Lucky” and “Lose Yourself to Dance”. Hearing these tracks live, played by such an incredible band, was something truly special. Even Beyoncé’s “Cuff It”, which heavily features Rodgers’ signature chic-style guitar work, sounded completely at home in the set.
This wasn’t just a nostalgia trip. Rodgers has been shaping the sound of popular music for decades, and this performance was proof that his influence is still as strong as ever. The crowd were on their feet from the first note and never sat down. By the time “Let’s Dance” kicked in, the entire venue felt like a huge dancefloor, and when the final medley of “Good Times” and “Rapper’s Delight” began, it was clear that no one wanted the night to end.
There are few musicians who can fill a setlist with so many stone-cold classics, and even fewer who can still perform them with such passion and energy. Nile Rodgers is a living legend, and seeing him live is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of the music that has shaped generations.
This wasn’t just a night of nostalgia, it was a reminder that great music never ages. And as the final notes of “Good Times” rang out, it was impossible not to smile. Because that’s exactly what a Nile Rodgers gig is all about—pure, unfiltered joy.
Setlist: Le Freak, Everybody Dance, Dance, Dance, Dance (Yowsah, Yowsah, Yowsah), I Want Your Love, I’m Coming Out / Upside Down, He’s the Greatest Dancer / We Are Family, Like a Virgin / Material Girl, Modern Love, CUFF IT, Get Lucky, Lose Yourself to Dance, Lost in Music, Notorious, Spacer, Soup for One / Lady (Hear Me Tonight), Thinking of You, My Feet Keep Dancing, Chic Cheer, My Forbidden Lover, Let’s Dance, Good Times / Rapper’s Delight
A great double act of rockers. First on the bill was the 
Jim Jones’ new band announces itself as: “Open your ears, arms, and hearts to welcome The Jim Jones All Stars into your lives! Fronted by legendary testifier Jim Jones – formerly of The Hypnotics, Black Moses, The Jim Jones Revue and Jim Jones & The Righteous Mind – his latest project sees him swan dive into not only his primordial influences and his own classic-packed back catalogue, but also into a spicy gumbo of hot, new sounds. Joined by former Jim Jones Revue members Gavin Jay (bass) and Elliot Mortimer (piano and keyboards), The Jim Jones All Stars are augmented by guitarist Carlton Mounsher, singer Ali Jones, drummer Chris Ellul and the three-way sax attack of Stuart Dace, Chuchi Malapersona and Tom Hodges. Born out of necessity, born out of wedlock, and simply born to boogie, The Jim Jones All Stars are an unholy trinity of birth.” (from Jim Jones website).
And boogie they do. Jim Jones is a full-on crazy guy who proudly fronts his review, leading them through a manic set of rock, blues, soul, and craziness. Jim is a great vocalist, full of confidence, with no fear at all. The guy commands stage, audience, and band. A fantastic warmup for the Crowes. “Necessity, being the mother of invention, surprised us all when she delivered a healthy, heavyweight, blue-eyed amalgam of incendiary ramalama soul.” Says Jim from his website.
After a short break, the curtain covering the 
The publicity for the Black Crowes latest album and tour says: “The Black Crowes are leaving the bullshit in the past. 15 years after their last album of original music, the Robinson Brothers present Happiness Bastards– their 10th studio album. Some may say the project has been several tumultuous years in the making, but we argue it’s arriving at just the right time.
Call it brotherly love or music destiny that brought them back together in 2019, the highly anticipated record consecrating the reunion of this legendary band just may be the thing that saves rock & roll. In a time where the art form is buried beneath the corporate sheen of its successors, The Black Crowes are biting back with the angst of words left unsaid penned on paper and electrified by guitar strings, revealing stripped, bare-boned rock & roll. No gloss, no glitter, just rhythm and blues at it’s very best – gritty, loud, and in your face.”
I first saw the Black Crowes at the Donington Monsters of Rock festival in 1991 where they were first on as part of a strong lineup headlined by AC/DC and featuring Metallica, Motley Crue and Queensryche. I wrote at the time: “We made sure that we arrived in time to see The Black Crowes, as I’d heard a lot about them. I remember being impressed by them, particularly by their cover of Otis Redding’s “Hard to Handle”. My friend John lives in the US and is a massive Black Crowes fan, and he keeps me up to date on them. I really must get to see them again someday soon.” Well, it was many years before I saw the Crowes again at Manchester Academy in March 2013. My friend John remains a dedicated fan and has seen them many times in the USA.
Bands like the Crowes keep the rock ‘n’ roll flag flying high. They exploded onto the stage and immediately the packed house was singing along and rocking with them. Memories of seeing Mick Jagger in the 70s come flooding back into my mind. Singer Chris Robinson has the same sort of swagger and energy. To my shame I don’t recognise many of the songs but nonetheless really enjoy the performance. Chris and his brother Rich Robinson, Chris’ seemingly quieter, more subdued on perfect electric blues/rock guitar lead the band through a set of songs which combine rock, blues, punk, and soul.
For around an hour and a half, which seems to speed through in a few moments, Chris swaggers backwards and forwards, left and right around the stage singing his heart out. Comparisons of early Faces, Small Faces and the aforementioned Rolling Stones come to mind. They even play a great version of the Stones’ “Rocks Off”. Why do I always have to draw comparisons? Not sure. It gives me a rock compass by which to measure and categorise artists. Whatever the comparisons, the Black Crowes are a force to be reckoned with.
Chris reminds us that the last time they played the City Hall was back in 1991; the same year when I saw them at Donington. Not many of the crowd seemed to register being present. I am not sure I was even aware that they were on at the City Hall at the time. Not sure why I didn’t attend. They perform “Hard to Handle” again. Magic. Their soul roots showing through and adding new life to the Otis Redding classic. A figure of Chuck Berry reminds us of their rock ‘n’ roll roots and reminds me of when I saw the great man in the same venue many years ago in the 70s.
“When it comes to live music, few bands do it better than The Black Crowes. The American rockers have had their fair share of ups and downs over the years, but they are sounding stronger than ever with their latest album, Happiness Bastards. Hitting the road with Jim Jones All Stars in support, The Black Crowes stopped off in Newcastle to sprinkle a little bit of rock and roll magic in the city’s historic City Hall. I bought a copy of the album, signed by both Chris and Rich (pictured). Class.
The band played a good mix of old and new, including a song first made famous by Otis Redding and immortalised in rock history by The Black Crowes, ‘Hard to Handle’, as well as their cover of The Rolling Stones classic ‘Rocks Off’. The night was a celebration of timeless rock played with style and swagger, thanks to Chris’ larger-than-life stage presence. Each member of the band was an integral part of an unstoppable music machine that took over Newcastle for a night.” (from Music News Monthly website).
A great night spent with two magnificent rock ‘n’ roll, soul revue bands. It doesn’t get much better. Many thanks to Elaine for the photographs and Chris for manipulating the site as usual.
Pick up the Pieces! 
I remember them as a tight rock/jazz outfit, who had some great classic singles such as the aforementioned “Pick up the Pieces”. The Average White Band split up in 1982 but regrouped after some years and have finally decided call it a day with: A Funk Finale – Farewell Tour 2024.
The publicity announced this farewell tour: “Average White Band, one of the soul and funk bands of all-time will bring their farewell tour to venues in 2024. The group will perform their biggest hits and fan favourites, such as US No.1 Pick Up the Pieces, Cut The Cake.…….Formed in London in 1972, the band – somewhat incongruously given their Scottish roots – took the influences of their R&B heroes such as Marvin Gaye, James Brown and Stevie Wonder, and Jazz greats Cannonball Adderley and The Crusaders, then developed their own authentic sound rapidly adopted by black audiences in the US, UK and worldwide.
The group’s consistently accomplished songwriting helped them to achieve several Gold & Platinum-selling albums and multiple Grammy nominations with Atlantic Records. Having remained a perennial fixture at top venues & festivals across the world for over 50 years, the Average White Band’s farewell tour is the not-to-be-missed last chance for multiple generations of fans to experience the musical energy and trademark sound of one of the world’s truly great soul bands.”
Two guitarists and vocalists Onnie McIntrye and Alan Gorrie remain from the original band, alongside a set of musicians who they have assembled over the years, including a black soul singer who now fronts the band. But Alan Gorrie was very much the bandleader, with his old friend and side kick Onnie McIntyre standing quietly to his left on guitar duties.
The Tyne Theatre was packed ready to say a last goodbye to this band. I can’t say I recognised many of the songs, but I greatly enjoyed the performance, and I was glad I took the opportunity to catch them one last time. Of course, I knew the aforementioned “pick up the pieces” and “cut the cake” but I had forgotten the great singalong “let’s go round again” which had the entire theatre audience up and dancing.
Many thanks to Jan for the photographs and to Chris for helping me manipulate the site stop
Set 2: When Will You Be Mine; Walk on By; Cut the Cake; A Love of Your Own; Whatcha’ Gonna Do for Me; Atlantic Avenue; Put It Where You Want It.
Dionne Warwick
Anyway, enough reminiscing and back to the beautiful, soulful voice of Dionne Warwick who sang so many Bacharach and David classics. The show was entitled Don’t Make Me Over, after the famous song. The Glasshouse website proclaimed her arrival:
Iconic singer Dionne Warwick brings her captivating life story and legendary catalogue to the stage for an intimate evening of conversation and song. Join the chart-topping vocalist behind classics like “Walk on By,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” and “That’s What Friends Are For” as she takes audiences through her groundbreaking 60+ year career. Warwick will share personal anecdotes and career milestones interwoven with live renditions of her hits, supported by archival footage and testimonials from figures like Elton John and President Clinton.”
The show was in two parts with a short interval. Dionne took to the stage with “don’t make me over” emblazoned on the screen above her. She started by singing that classic song. Sure, her voice may not quite as strong as it used to be, but it was tremendous to hear her sing the song again, accompanied by a small band who appeared left off stage. A large, very comfy -looking, sofa was to the right of the stage and Dionne took her place there alongside long-time collaborator Dave Wooley who was shortly to interview her.
A short excerpt from the recent documentary also entitled Don’t Make Me Over, directed by Dave Wooley was shown at the start of the performance. Publicity for the documentary explains that it “Reveals the intimate stories behind a pioneering artist who took charge of her own career and smashed through cultural, racial and gender barriers to become the soundtrack for generations.”
The conversation between Dionne and Dave began with video of her humble beginnings, gospel singing in a New Jersey church. The discussion then moved through her life and career, her first meeting with Bacharach, in the UK where he was touring as pianist and musical director for none other than Marlena Dietrich. Now that is some tour that I wish I had seen! And so, the evening progressed moving through the years, with tributes from many famous people including Smokey Robinson, former President Bill Clinton, Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Barry Gibb and many more. Dionne concluded the first set with a lovely rendition of the beautiful “I Say a Little Prayer”.
After a short break the proceedings resumed in a similar manner with Dave and Dionne chatting about her more recent achievements. Dionne talked about her family and her children. She then revealed that her drummer for the evening was none other than her son, who also sang with her. This part of the show included more songs, accompanied by her son: “Walk on By”, “Anyone Who Had a Heart” and “Heartbreaker. The evening concluded with a lovely rendition of “That’s What Friends Are For.” It doesn’t get much better than this. A lovely evening spent with a true legend and icon of our generation.
It has been a long time since I last saw 
The Forum website told me: “He’s been a major star for four decades. Paul Young broke into the big time 40 years ago when No Parlez went to number one and spawned iconic hits like Wherever I Lay led to My Hat (That’s My Home). More success followed with the number one album The Secret Of Association and the worldwide hit Everytime You Go Away, not forgetting an appearance at Live Aid and more.
Paul sustained that success – while having fun in his tex-mex band, Los Pacaminos. Now, on the 40th anniversary of No Parlez, he’s releasing a remarkable new record and publishing his extraordinary memoir; both called Behind The Lens. He’s touring the UK, too, where he’ll meet fans, sing songs and tell stories about his incredible career. It’s time to revel in the classic hits and learn the stories behind them as Paul steps out from Behind The Lens.”
As the above description explains this was very much a speaking tour, with Paul reminiscing about many career highlights, interspersed with excerpts from his back catalogue, for which he accompanied himself on acoustic guitar. He was also accompanied by one of his long-time collaborators, who also acted as the interviewer during the Q&A session. The stage was set out with a couple of seats for Paul and his friend as shown in the image. However, photography was not allowed so as not to detract from this intimate show; hence the lack of any pictures within my blog entry this time.
Paul started with tales of his youth and how he first got into music. He moved on to his early soul review band which comprised up to nine members at one-time, namely the Q-Tips, who I saw on two occasions, the first at Middlesbrough Rock Garden and then at Redcar Coatham Bowl. They were excellent on both occasions, Paul very much the front man, leading a band including vocalists and a brass section.
After Q-Tips followed The Street Band and chart success with the quirky hit record “Toast” from which he showed a short video snippet. I had forgotten this particular part of his career. Next Paul proceeded to discuss his massively successful LP record No Parlez which included the hit “Wherever I Lay my Hat” and my particular favourite “Love of the Common People” a reworking of the reggae song originally released by Nicky Thomas in 1970.
Paul then moved to his second, equally successful album, The Secret of Association, and another massive chart hit “Every Time You Go Away”. He then showed a short clip of his appearance at Live Aid, which I attended in Wembley Stadium in 1985. A fantastic memory of momentous day. It brings tears to my eyes when I think of all of the crowd walking out of the stadium singing “Feed the World” after witnessing Bob Geldof leading the entire cast of the day through the song.
The second half of the show brought us up-to-date with Paul discussing his latest band Los Pacaminos and his latest album and book Take a Piece Of Me with You. I bought a copy of the lovely book which contained an autographed card (see images). The other images of the Q-Tips ticket, the Live Aid programme and the No Parlez LP are of items from my own collection. Many thanks to Jan and Chris for the photographs and Chris for manipulating the site. A greatly enjoyable evening with a hugely talented and successful guy.
If you had asked me in the late 1980s whether I would go and see 
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.
A lovely evening spent in a great venue in my home town. I have passed on many chances to see 
For some reason, I have had Rory Gallagher in my mind lately. I was and remain, a big fan of Rory. I first saw him in 1970 when he was playing with his first band Taste. I remember Rory performing classic songs such as “Blister on the Moon” and “Catfish” complete with his battered Fender Stratocaster and a Vox AC30 amplifier. Out of pure madness I recently bought myself a Stratocaster and a Vox AC30 purely to use as ornaments with no chance of me ever being able to play them. Still, they remind me of Rory and many other great bands and guitarists. In those days the performer could fill the hall with the sound of that small amplifier; no big Marshall stacks then!
So, apologies for digressing. Why do I return to Rory? I saw glimpses of Rory in Joanne Shaw Taylor’s performance the other night in The Fire Station. Why do I need to compare people I see with my past heroes? Not sure, and it is probably an unfair thing to do. Joanne Shaw Taylor has her own, very powerful, unique repertoire to draw upon. Comparisons are unnecessary. She is a very soulful, bluesy singer who plays extraordinary electric blues guitar. How could I have missed opportunities to see this lady so many times before. Foolishness; pure foolishness, that’s all.
The Fire Station announced the gig: “Join Joanne Shaw Taylor and her stellar band performing songs from her critically acclaimed studio album, Nobody’s Fool, as well as songs from the upcoming new album. Her guitar prowess, vocal abilities, and songwriting talents reach new heights as she presents a bold slate of material at the peak of her career. Joanne will also dig deep into her rich back catalogue where she will hand-pick songs from her previous recordings along with classic blues songs.”
A mix of country, soul and blues. She even played a song from the 1960s which was very different to how I remembered it. So different that by the time I got home I had forgotten what the song was. I searched on the Internet and discovered that it was “If You Gotta Make A Fool of Somebody” which was, of course, a hit for Freddie and the Dreamers in the UK. Joanne’s version was very different; soulful and bluesy with exquisite electric guitar by Joanne herself and also her guitarist. Perhaps Joanne’s version is closer to the original song which I must look up.
Joanne is supported by a band of excellent musicians but is very much a charismatic band leader. Her performance was amazing, much better than I expected and she surely must progress to greater things. Joe Bonamassa comes to mind. Another comparison; apologies Joanne. Joe played blues clubs and small venues and gradually built up a following to the extent he now fills arenas around the world. It was a privilege to catch this great blues singer and guitarist in a small venue. Fantastic. Someone I must definitely see again.
This event has been going for many years, starting off in Leeds and then moving north to satisfy the need for an annual convention for the many fans of the great band Free in the north-east. My friend John, who is a massive Free and Paul Kossoff fan has been wanting to go for many years. However, he now lives in the USA, so arranging things to attend this event has been tricky. Things changed and this year he happened to be over in the north-east at the same time as the aforementioned convention.
Demand for tickets for the convention was such that the originally scheduled Saturday night sold out quickly and a second night, on the preceding Friday, was organised. It quickly sold out also. I had got us tickets for the Saturday night and John decided he would also attend the Friday night event. John is based in North Yorkshire when he stays in the UK, but made the journey up to Cullercoats both evenings to attend this convention. True dedication. He reported back to me that it was excellent and we were both looking forward to the Saturday show.
John arrived at my house around teatime and, with my carer Jan, we quickly set off to Cullercoats both excited about the event. In the past, the convention has featured guest performances by Free drummer Simon Kirke, and the late bassist Andy Fraser. This time we were treated to three Free tribute bands, and an excellent raffle and auction event. We arrived at the venue just before the start time of 7 PM and the organiser was very helpful in finding us a vantage point close to the stage. Many thanks indeed.
First up was a band called Stealer who played a great set based around the second Free album (the “Woman” LP). Stealer are a 3-piece rock band based in Lincolnshire play classic rock and blues covers from Free and Bad Company. They have their own following and play all over the UK. A good start and warmup to the evening.
After a short changeover the next band on stage were the Heartbreaker Collective who were absolutely fantastic. They played a set of Free classics and really did justice to the music and soul of Free. All musicians were excellent and the singer looked so cool, with a really great hairdo! See the images.Apparently this band come together once a year for this event. Considering this they were simply awesome. A group of passionate young musicians! The dancefloor soon filled and many people were up and dancing, reliving their youth. A great atmosphere.
Then it was time for the raffle. Seven items were raffled including a first prize of a magnificent Free at the Isle of Wight poster and a second prize of a lovely Paul Kossoff poster. Sadly, we did not score anything in the raffle. Next up was an auction of items signed by Paul Rogers and Simon Kirke. At this point we had to leave to catch our taxi.
A great event, and it is a massive credit to the organiser who is clearly a massive and passionate Free fan. Thank you so much John for recommending we attend. I bought a Bad Company programme from a previous tour, which I do not have in my collection. A great addition.
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