Wow!
The concert was absolutely superb. David Gest acted as MC, told a few funny stories and seemed genuinely humbled by the presence of so many legendary soul singers.
Edwin Hawkins, backed by a full gospel choir kicked of with a rousing version of Oh Happy Day, then it was Eddie Holman, still hitting all the high notes on Hey There Lonely Girl, a superb rendition. Freda Payne looked great but sounded a little hoarse on Band Of Gold, Dorothy Moore gave a stunningly soulful performance of Misty Blue. Billy Paul then stole the show with two superb numbers, Let Em In and of course Mrs Jones, he actually sounded in better voice than when I last saw him in concert 30 odd years ago. A truly astonishing performance from a guy who must be nearing 70. Russell Thompkins and his New Stylistics had an extended spot, showcasing many of their (I'd forgotten how many they had) UK hits. Another singer who's retained all of his vocal prowess and still hits those incredibly high notes.
The second half saw Peabo Bryson, whose voice sent shivers down my spine, so pure, clear and powerful, duetting with one of the backing singers (who was great and a hundred times better than any of the so called X Factor "stars") on a number of his hits including my favourite A Whole New World before being joined onstage by James Ingram for a sensational version of Yah Mo Be There. Freda Payne then re appeared and sounded much better vocally as she sang a jazzy song to Mr Gest, a bit cheesy but thouroughly entertaining.
Bonnie Tyler was a no show so the final act was a young white English singer (lead singer of Busted?) who did a great song called "That Guy Is Crazy" which apparently is David Gest's theme tune. The lad sounded for all the world like a young Michael Jackson.
The encore/finale saw all of the acts back onstage for a chorus of Ain't Nobody.
A thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining Saturday afternoon, if anybody is thinking of going to the London show I'd highly recommend it!