Beverley Knight, the Queen of UK Soul, celebrated her 50th birthday on 23rd March, and yes, that’s all I can really say.
She performed for nearly two hours to a capacity audience at Lafayette in North London, tickets were by invitation via a special mailing list and they ran out FAST. Then there was an After Party with her family and close friends like Brenda Emmanus MBE, Kanya King CBE, Giles Terera, Lenny Henry, Denise Lewis MBE, David Harewood, Kelly LeRoc and DonE. I honestly had no intention of staying longer than 30 minutes but DJ Munro knows how to keep a crowd on the dance floor.
Bev’s celebrations continued when she picked up an Olivier Award (at last) for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Sylvia.
To say I’m happy for Bev is an understatement, and I respect that whatever hits her she just keeps going. She’s been consistent in her craft whether recording in the studio or singing live on stage, she’s an awesome songwriter and is now recognised (as she should be) in the world of theatre having taken on leading roles in The Bodyguard, Memphis, The Drifters Girl, (and of course) Sylvia. Just after winning the Olivier, it was confirmed that Beverly and Sister Act is returning to the West End.
Beverley gives us – those who have tirelessly worked hard and long, toiled and sweated without recognition – hope. She’s proved that hard work long term (as annoying as it can be) will eventually be recognised and your flowers will be presented to you.
Keep shining Bev within the UK and beyond. You’ve given us all hope.
