P!nk at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

It’s been 24 years since P!nk arrived on the scene with an R&B sound very much of its time. The artist would soon reinvent herself with sophomore effort M!ssundaztood. Largely produced by Linda Perry of 4 Non Blondes, this confessional collection of – which remains her commercial and, arguably, creative peak – reintroduced P!nk as something of a pop-rock star. Edge, attitude and authenticity continues to define a performer who is very much in her own lane.

Tonight, we paint the town pink. Over 60,000 fans are at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the first of two shows in the capital. After nine studio albums, the American singer has a considerable body of work and showcases fan favourites from various eras. There is only one song she can possibly open with, however, and Get the Party Started does just that. Raise Your Glass is anthemic – the crowd passionately belting the relatable lyrics back. Who Knew sustains the high energy and once again commands us to sing along. Just Like a Pill follows and reminds us of just how many hits the artist has put out over the past few decades.

Turbulence from latest album Trustfall slows things down, while we are gifted one of many aerial stunts. Bob Dylan’s Make You Feel My Love feels raw and pensive – P!nk’s raspy vocals complementing the track. While the singer does high-octane well, it is her quieter songs that reveal a realness and vulnerability that is unmatched in many of her peers. Just Give Me a Reason sees Nate Ruess projected on screen as he duets on the crowd pleaser. F**kin’ Perfect once again has spectators singing along.

Please Don’t Leave Me is performed acoustically before P!nk’s daughter Willow Sage Hart collaborates on Cover Me in Sunshine. Interacting humorously with the crowd, the singer feels approachable and accessible in spite of her superstar status, which is no doubt a contributing factor for her longevity.

Don’t Let Me Get Me is afforded more meaning in its stripped-down version. A cover of What’s Up? by the aforementioned Perry injects verve back into proceedings. I Am Here merges country with gospel – its spiritual message resonating. Try becomes a visual spectacle with its simply stunning choreography. The two-hour set concludes with P!nk soaring through the sky as she delights with the rebellious, rock tinged So What.

There is no one else out there who puts on a show of this calibre. With astounding vocals, a precise band and a fan satisfying setlist, we are guaranteed a good time. Acrobatics and inspired choreography ensure this is a unique entertainment experience that will become cemented in one’s memory. In addition to striking imagery, we are presented with copious intimate moments which transport us from the vast stadium to what could be a small club. Such is the prowess of an expert entertainer. Iconic, legend and star are words all too easily bandied about these days. Pleasingly, P!nk lives up to her well-warranted status. This is how to put on a show.

Jonathan Marshall
Photos: Virginie Viche

For further information and future events visit P!nk’s website here.

Watch the video for All Out of Fight here: