Amy Wadge live in concert. Review and photos by Kevin O’Sullivan.
The Goudies opened for Amy Wadge last night with a heartfelt performance that radiated warmth and authenticity. The duo, whose bond as both devoted partners and friends was palpable, shared their excitement at fulfilling a dream—performing at the iconic Union Chapel.
Their story of friendship and musical collaboration with Amy Wadge added a touching layer to the evening; her support has clearly been a guiding force in their journey, and they were thrilled to have her cheering them on from the wings.
Their harmonies and raw, honest lyrics captivated the audience, setting the perfect tone for the night ahead. Beautiful songs that had the audience spellbound, had pins dropped this would have been the only noise heard in the venue!
Amy Wadge delivered a spellbinding performance last night at London’s Union Chapel, a venue that could not have been more perfect for her heartfelt, acoustic music. The setting itself, with its Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows, radiated a reverent warmth, creating an intimate atmosphere that felt tailor-made for an artist like Amy. The natural acoustics of the chapel enhanced her sound beautifully, allowing every note to resonate through the space and giving her voice a haunting clarity that silenced the crowd in awe.
From the moment she stepped on stage, Amy captivated the audience not only with her extraordinary vocal talent but with her endearing and witty storytelling. Between songs, she shared personal anecdotes about her career, family, and the inspirations behind some of her most beloved tracks, giving the night a uniquely intimate feel. Her stories were often humorous and deeply relatable, drawing laughter and a genuine connection from the audience, stories that ranged from discussing chins, a court case, knocking on Oprah Winfrey’s door by mistake, her grandparents love of technology, O/D’ing with her manager on cannabis chocolate, her love for her husband and her mother, all told with humour and/or heartfelt emotion. At 49 she is looking forward to her “fuck it decade” and her songs can only get better! It’s rare for an artist to make a room as grand as Union Chapel feel like a living room, yet Amy achieved just that with her openness and humour.
Her setlist featured a mix of fan favourites, newer releases (she is working on a new album which we can’t wait for), and a few surprises including a guest appearance by Michael Ball who joined Amy in a duet of “We got tonight”. Each song was delivered with the kind of emotion and precision that only an artist who truly lives her lyrics can bring. Amy’s voice was nothing short of sublime, filling the chapel with both power and tenderness. When she sang as an encore the heart-wrenching “Faith’s Song,” there was a raw vulnerability in her voice that left many visibly moved.
Amy’s dynamic range, from delicate whispers to soaring, full-bodied notes, kept the audience hanging on every word. Her guitar and keyboard work only added to the evening’s magic, providing the perfect accompaniment to her vocals without ever overshadowing them.
As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that the audience had been part of a truly special evening. Amy’s genuine gratitude for her audience was evident as she humbly thanked everyone warmly, and the feeling was mutual—her performance was a gift. The concert was a beautiful blend of music, storytelling, and connection, made all the more unforgettable by Union Chapel’s stunning setting. A truly special night, and a reminder of the power of live music to bring people together.
Photo © Kevin O’Sullivan
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