I've been a Sugababes fan since I first heard Overload way back in 2000. It was, and still is, a pop classic. Over the years, I managed to catch them live a couple of times. The first time I caught Sugababes live was way back at Creamfields 2002. Unfortunately Siobhan had left the band by then and been replaced by Heidi, so I never got to see the original lineup. Did it matter much at the time to me? No, not at all, I was just their to party! As a side note, post Sugababes, Siobhan went on to release two solo albums, Revolution in Me in 2003 and Ghosts in 2007. The next time I saw them was at Oxegen 2008, and by then Mutya had left the band and was replaced by Amelle, leaving Keisha as the only remaining original member. It was a tad strange seeing the band with only one remaining member, but again, it was a festival and all we were looking for was a good time, which we definitely got! Another side note, just like Siobhan, Mutya went on to release her own solo work, a gr
I've known Arlene for a few years... Without being too exact, we are talking about the pre-grunge times, so yeah, a few years.
I'm quite lucky to count among my friends, many musicians, performers and singers and there is something quite magical about watching them perform. I get an immense feeling of pride in them, and, watching Arlene perform tonight, was no different.
It's no easy thing to sell out the Moat Theatre in Naas, and, contrary to what you might believe, being a local artist doesn't make it any easier, but the theatre was packed tonight with friends, family and fans, all out for a good time.
I suppose the main question is, did they have a good time? Well, the answer is yes, oh yeas indeed. From the moment Arlene ran on stage in a straight jacket, to a duet with Niamh Strong and onto the final encore, the audience sang, clapped and toe tapped along. A great night!
Just a quick word on supporting your friends in the arts. If you get the chance to catch a show, buy a ticket, maybe bring a friend. Don't stream their music, it takes thousands upon thousands of streams to make a few cents, buy their music and merch instead! Lastly, don't be shy, tell the whole world about them.
Now for some photos: