Why are the Brit Awards such a magical experience, different from any other awards show? Why do I always discover a new artist, song or performance as a result? I have been a fan of the Brit Awards since the early 2000s. Back then, the broadcast was on MTV or even CBC and it was a couple of days afterwards. In advance of the broadcast, I would always purchase the compilation CD, because it was an amazing compilation of British music from that past year, many of which were songs which never received airtime here in Canada. The vibe at this awards show, even watching it televised, is different. Guests sit around round tables having drinks, possibly food, but having a lot of fun. It is a true celebration and does not seem contrived. Everyone is up on their feet, dancing and vibing and I want to be a part of that energy. It is on my bucket list. This year, Rosalia’s performance gave me chills. I had never heard this song before, but the entire performance was masterful and having Bjorn perform was just nostalgic for me. If you have not watched it, please do so: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fyufPkXLbs&list=RD7fyufPkXLbs&start_radio=1
I have seen such great performances on the Brit Stage – Florence and the Machine, Duffy, tributes to Tom Jones and Robbie Williams, performances by Amy Winehouse, Adele, Duffy, the Arctic Monkeys – all just really amazing and memorable performances. Different from what we see at North American awards shows. Honestly, I look forward to these performances every year and they always deliver.
I love watching musical performance and true musical talent. NPR and their Tiny Desk concerts have been a particular favourite. Last night, I watched Buddy Guy and Miles Canton perform with some top notch jazz musicians and it was fun and electrifying. The soundtrack from Sinners was one of my favourites.
Yesterday, I was in the mood for great music and I ended up watching Chris Stapleton perform with his wife on Austin City Limits. As I told my husband yesterday, their harmonies and the musicality are just next level and I am transformed. The other night, I was feeling nostalgic and I watched George Michael perform, Everything She Wants, from the concert tour that I attended. Watching the audience sing along with him – even when I was experiencing it, there were no words. I cannot imagine the high that the performers must experience from this level of audience participation and love.
Honestly, great live musical performances are transformative for me, and they are soothing for me. Watching someone express themselves through music, and connect with a live and televised audience – one of the blessings we have. I have so many concerts that I want to see. Right up there for me are Stevie Wonder, Sade and Radiohead. I heard someone speaking about seeing Radiohead in a small concert venue – 200 people and I cannot imagine how magical that must have been.
But that’s just one Diva’s view.
Diva's View 