aaamusic | On 15, Sep 2014

Wednesday 10th September, London

Soul and R&B singer-songwriter Lisa Stansfield had a huge breakthrough with her first solo album Affection. Since then she’s won numerous awards and sold over twenty million albums worldwide. As an actress she appears in the film Northern Soul on cinema release in October 2014.

At this Royal Festival Hall performance Lisa sung timeless classic hits and fresh songs from her latest album Seven, her first album in a decade. She wore an elegant black dress and her raw, gutsy vocals were distinctive and infectious.

Lisa began with the catchy and exuberant ‘Can’t Dance’ followed by ‘The Real Thing’, full of joy and energy. ‘Never, Never Gonna Give You Up’ had a sexy, seductive charm, contrasting with the bluesy, sorrowful ballad ‘Stupid Heart’.  She smouldered gently with ‘Make Love To Ya’ and the sensuous ‘Time To Make You Mine’, whilst ‘People Hold On’ sounded stunning. It was success with this latter song that originally persuaded her to focus on a solo career.

Towards the end of her set it was Lisa’s  internationally adored signature tune ‘All Around The World’ and the lively, dynamic ‘Rain’ that captivated and convinced her audience.

Between songs a fan hilariously imitated her Rochdale accent with “Finish your cuppa tea love” and we were immediately taken back to her Lancashire origins. As a music icon with an impressive back catalogue, Lisa Stansfield continues to receive huge warmth and affection wherever she goes. She’s adored worldwide.

Anthony Weightman