Stars from all musical backgrounds united at the Island Life concert to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Island Records. To mark this milestone the label collaborated with Island founder Chris Blackwell to arrange a week of live shows by some of the label’s biggest artists.
Island records, arguably the most prestigious record label in the history of British music,has been responsible for the careers of some of the biggest stars in music including U2, Bob Marley, Grace Jones, Sugababes, Aswad and Amy Winehouse.
The Shepherds Bush Empire saw the audience of Island Life enjoying a star packed evening singing along to famous chart toppers like “My Boy Lollypop” and “Pull up to my Bumper”. The week-long event kicked off on Tuesday 26th May showcasing island artists of the past and present.
Kid Creole & the Coconuts opened the show with an hour long set that got the audience swaying to the Jamaican rhythms. After a brilliant opening the show continued with well known classics by Sly & Robbie and the Compass Point All Stars who took us on an historical musical journey and collaborated on stage with artists such as Tinchy Stryder, VV Brown, The I-Threes and Aswad. Last but not least was the amazing Grace Jones who never fails to amaze us with her eccentric outfits, booming vocals and stunning performance, closing the show in true style.
Covering all eras dating from the 1950’s right up to the present day, the island life concert surely reached out to the tastes of the young and old and was a source of enjoyment for anyone attending.
This was definitely not an evening to be missed and for anyone who did I can assure you this was a once in a life time opportunity and I’m glad I don’t have to wait another 50 years for the opportunity to experience an evening of such musical excellence.
Words by Jacinda Furlonge
