The Other Songs Live 2024 at the London Palladium

Nothing could have prepared you for the emotion-filled night of The Other Songs Live 2024. The organisation returned for another year to the packed-out London Palladium to play host for a gorgeous night of celebration of the art of songwriting. In partnership with Ivors Academy, the event raised funds for three established music charities: The BRIT School, The Ivors Academy Trust and Nordoff & Robbins. Saturated with an incredible lineup – from the greats to new faces on the music scene – there was an overwhelming presence of talent in the room.

The evening was hosted by co-founder of The Other Songs, Alastair Webber, son of the world-renowned composer and musical theatre impresario, Andrew Lloyd Webber. Webber brought a gentle warmth to the night with his laid-back manner and conversational engagement with the audience and artists alike. It created a wonderful avenue of relatability between attendees and the big names on stage.

The set-up consisted of a charming living room with decor atop a large rug, much like that of the typical lounge areas located in expansive recording spaces that you find yourself at only when you know you’ve made it in the industry.

Rich with colourful anecdotes, it was enlightening to listen to the never-heard-before side of familiar numbers, many of which will have been soundtracks to different life experiences throughout the room. Particularly engaging was Bernie Taupin’s reflection on working with Elton John and what led to the creation of countless musical gems, from Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word to Your Song. The latter was then performed by New York soft-rock band, Infinity Song, whilst Taupin sat and listened from across the way. Surreal.

Celeste, Tom Odell, Jin Jin, Camille, Toby Gad, a surprise appearance from Yusuf/Cat Stevens – these are just some of the names from the extraordinary lineup to take the stage. Since 2017, these events have played a vital part in championing an often-overlooked cog in the industry: songwriters. A representative for The Ivors Academy Trust encapsulated their importance with the words: “Imagine a world without music.” It is the responsibility of us all to support and uplift the underdogs if we wish for the industry to continue to thrive as it is now, for decades to come.

Emily Downie
Photos: Mark Allan

For further information and future events visit The Other Songs Live 2024’s website here.