It’s A Sin No More
Live performance is no longer forbidden! Welcomed back to our screens by the Brit Awards. And long may it’s return continue.
Alongside some great performances, this year the social commentary was out in its droves, with more artists that ever using their platform to comment, observe and raise awareness. If there was ever a time to do this, it is now.
Firstly, discovering the audience was filled with key workers, set the tone. It was at this point, that I knew I was going to spend much of the evening crying with joy!
The opening performance from Dua Lipa saw her transitioning between an actual tube train, to the stage and it was a spectacle befitting of an opening to the Brits ... then the crowd erupted and it was emotional to hear that many people in one place for the first time in over a year. Actual Live Music ❤️
Dua Lipa became the first artist of the evening to use her platform to dedicate her award to the NHS and call for their fair pay. Later in the evening we had Headie One who gave us the lyric “team work is working .. shout out to the key workers”. Then the mighty Taylor Swift, crowned the Brits Global icon, used her platform to thank the NHS, cite that it has been a year where we have needed music more than ever; a dig at cuts to funding for the arts, perhaps? And an observation of social media and how we have the right to prove people wrong. It was a hopeful and inspiring speech.
We also had Olly Alexander with Elton John, who gave one of the most powerful performances of the night; with charity single ‘It’s a Sin’ bringing the HIV/AIDS conversation back into the public domain.
Olly recently stared in Russell T Davis’ series of the same name. One of the most powerful pieces I’ve seen in a long time; it will take you through every single emotion. Plus Olly Alexander is emerging as a superstar and I cannot wait to see what he does next.
Other highlights included Little Mix being the first female act to win best British group: this is amazing, however I would’ve like to have seen more female groups in the nominations ... it was just them. Similarly, Best International Group went to one of my favourite bands; HAIM, but once again they were the only female group out of 6 nominees.
It was great to see the Rising Star award go to another female artist: Griff! Who received the award from previous winner; Celeste. Now we’re tackling the women; I’d like to see more breakthrough artists with some life experience. The only representation the older generation came from Coldplay, Elton John and Boy George. Already very well established artists. Controversial perhaps; but I’m certain their experience will make for some interesting music.
I’ll let the Finale speak for itself: ‘Anywhere Away From Here’ by Rag n Bone Man & Pink; featuring the Lewisham & Greenwich NHS Choirs.
I’m not crying, you’re crying!