Jessie J at Hampton Court Palace Festival

“Who else feels like they’re at a family BBQ and the crazy aunt has decided to perform?” Jessie J asks just moments into her set at Hampton Court Palace. Arriving on stage in a sparkly catsuit, the sun is still up at the fully seated show. “Good afternoon, apparently,” she continues. The jokes write themselves.

The Essex native is a triple threat; delivering comedy, therapy and an outstanding display of vocal ability all within her nearly two-hour set. Between showcasing songs from her 14-year career, the singer cracks jokes and shares anecdotes with her adoring audience. There’s some heckling in return as the crowd loosen up and laughter ruminates through the courtyard. At times, the talking drags on a little too long, but it’s a Friday night in a palace, why not be a little unserious?

An exhilarating mash-up of It’s My Party/Sexy Lady/Wild is an early highlight and gets the crowd on their feet. The singer’s ability to blend her songs together is impressive and keeps the energy lively. Her most popular tunes are strewn across the gig, particularly helpful for those who may not be so familiar with her full catalogue.

There are several acknowledgements of how difficult some tracks are to sing live – including Thunder, a song not sung in full in over a decade and brought out of retirement solely for this evening – and yet the singer performs every note faultlessly. The voice is undeniable. The stage presence, remarkable. Audience interaction is valued; whether it be attendees being called out mid-set for not singing along, a fan being honoured with rapping Nicki Minaj’s verse in Bang Bang or the singer taking time to chat to and request chairs for two young fans who’d made their way to the front row.

Between the pop hits and self-deprecating humour are real moments of tenderness. A poignant speech about grief preludes an emotional performance of Flashlight. One of her most widely cherished songs, Who You Are, follows, further pulling at the heartstrings. Throughout the night, it is clear that this is a space in which inhibitions can be lost and people can feel truly themselves, whether that be through dance or tears.

The palace itself provides a stunning backdrop and a delightful pre-show experience of enjoying food and drinks amongst its gardens. It’s the perfect place for a popstar of Jessie J’s calibre; a sensational performer with an intoxicating charm. It’s been six years since her last album release, a record notably absent from streaming services, but the songstress remains at the top of her game. With no mention of new music to come, who knows what’s next for Jessie J. Hopefully there’ll be many more evenings like this.

Katherine Parry
Photos: Mike Garnell

For further information and future events visit Jessie J’s website here.

Watch the video for I Want Love below: