Paul Heaton brought his back catalogue of hits to the M&S Bank Arena this week, thrilling a sold-out crowd in Liverpool. The legendary singer-songwriter was supported by Ian Broudie, who ended his set with the words: "Build a statue for Paul Heaton."
Heaton's standing in British music was underlined by the fact that he was supported by one of Liverpool's great bands, the Lightning Seeds. For 44 years, Heaton has been one of the country's finest songwriters, with an ability to tell a captivating story through his music. His socially conscious lyrics and upbeat music have made him feel like one of those artists, such as Deacon Blue, who feel Scouse even though they are not.
Homecoming show
Heaton has roots in the region, having been born in Bromborough before his family relocated to Sheffield. The 64-year-old was thrilled to be back in the area where he was born on Wednesday night (November 11), paying tribute to his surroundings by arriving on stage to the Leavin' of Liverpool by The Dubliners.
Beginning with a folk classic was a fitting opening, as Heaton told the audience: "Good evening and welcome to my 18th show in your fine city. And so far every one of them has been a pleasure so thank you for that. That could all end tonight obviously. That's in your hands."
From the moment the set began with One Eye Open, it was clear Heaton's 100% record in the city was going to continue, as he got the response he wanted from the sold-out crowd.
Career-spanning set
The musician delighted the crowd as he moved through each period of his career, from the Housemartins to the Beautiful South to his more recent solo work. By his own admission, Heaton has described his upbringing as "fairly middle class", but his songs have an ability to speak to a working class audience like few others do.
Happy Hour, Song For Whoever and Rotterdam received the reaction you'd expect, as the sold-out crowd sang along to every word. The atmosphere made it feel like being in a local pub rather than an 11,000 capacity arena.
Although dressed in an unassuming style in an anorak, the singer easily held the massive stage and his powerful voice carried throughout the arena. He was helped by his singing partner, Rianne Downey, who was another star of the night.
Rianne Downey's standout performance
Stepping in for the iconic Jacqui Abbott is no easy task, but Rianne was on superb form as she delivered her part in the classic duets with energetic style and brilliant stage presence. The 27-year-old felt at home on the stage, which is perhaps no surprise since Liverpool is now the Glaswegian's home city.
Taking to Instagram after the concert, she said: "Liverpool, that was one for the ages! I hope it was as special for you as it was for me. So proud to call this place my home now. A beautiful city filled with beautiful people and so much soul. Lucky lassie to feel so at home in so many places thanks to the power of music and all you lovely people out there cheering me on. Feeling very grateful today."
Value and encores
One of the things that has endeared Heaton to his fanbase is the way he speaks out against extortionate ticket prices. Four decades of hits for £40 at the M&S Bank Arena represents remarkably good value in a day and age when arena shows are upwards of £100.
The crowd loved every minute and were not ready for the show to end when Heaton ramped up to the close of the show. After a tongue-in-cheek boo, the singer shot back with: "That's not a good look when you've paid £40."
Only a few singers can get away with two encores, but when Heaton first leaves the stage without yet playing Caravan of Love, it's clear there's more to come. The singer arrived back on stage to play his most iconic hit as yellow confetti flew around the arena, bringing a celebratory end to a joyful evening in the company of one of the UK's finest singer-songwriters.
