Glasgow music fans were treated to the very best of British soul as two of the genre’s biggest artists performed at the Armadillo tonight.
The night was about Gabrielle, who brought her UK tour to the city.
But it was her support act, Tunde Baiyewu of Lighthouse Family fame, who was first to impress with his incredible voice.
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/2/24. Pic by Calum Buchan.) Kicking the show off with the 1995 hit Lifted.
The singer, 56, smiled from ear to ear as he declared: “We are out to have fun tonight.”
And he delivered on his promise, belting out the best of the Lighthouse Family back catalogue.
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/2/24. Pic by Calum Buchan.) With a tone in his voice that is a rarity, he excelled on hits including I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free/One, Ocean Drive and High.
The star of the night Gabrielle then quickly followed asking, “Glasgow! Are you ready to have a good time?”
That question was enough to get everyone out of their seats to dance as she launched into When a Woman.
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/4/25. Pic by Calum Buchan.) Give Me a Little More Time and Sunshine followed with the 55-year-old pausing for her backing singers to take over.
Apologetic and honest, she declared, “I keep getting sick
“Not that you need to know that.
“I’m here, I’m going push through.”
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/4/25. Pic by Calum Buchan.) The Glasgow audience, however, is always forgiving offering up their own vocals to cheer the singer on, and as the show progressed, Gabrielle began hitting the notes she is known for.
The East 17 duet If You Ever and Don’t Need the Sun to Shine (to Make Me Smile) showcased this and the beauty in her voice.
Even on an off night – by her standards – her talent shines through with a voice like no other.
She has a presence on stage that’s captivating and her songs mean something to people.
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/4/25. Pic by Calum Buchan.) The Bob Dylan Knockin’ on Heavens Door sampled Rise proved to be a moment to remember. It’s such a beautiful song.
While an encore of Out of Reach – which featured in the 2001 movie Bridget Jones Diary – and Dreams sent the audience wild.
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/4/25. Pic by Calum Buchan.)
(Image: Gabrielle at Armadillo in Glasgow on 2/4/25. Pic by Calum Buchan.)
Reflecting on her vocal struggle, she said: “Do you know how incredible you are? Just the fact you are all still here.
“I’m probably going to be retiring after this.
“I’m honoured to have been in your lives.”
