Shooting Our Mouths Off

After three consecutive James shows in Ireland, there was little time for Saul to rest before heading to Blackpool for the city’s first-ever free concert, The People’s Stage, held at the Opera House in the Winter Gardens. Hosted by John Robb, the event both supported Blackpool’s bid to become UK City of Culture 2029 and celebrated the enduring legacy of David Bowie.

Working alongside Spencer Phillips and long-time collaborator Joe Duddell, Saul helped curate an ambitious evening that brought together an outstanding line-up of artists. Combining live music, spoken word and performance, the show featured the legendary Hallé Orchestra alongside an All-Star House Band made up of musicians from James, The Stone Roses and The Courteeners, creating one of Blackpool’s most unique live music events in recent years.

The evening was split into two halves. Little Boots opened proceedings, followed by Rae Morris, before local poet Nathan Parker provided a change of pace with a powerful reading of his poem ‘Shithole’, beautifully underscored by Saul on violin. Northern soul singer Darrell Smith then brought the first half to a close with three classic soul favourites.

KT Tunstall opened the second half with two of her biggest hits before sharing stories of her days busking across Scotland, where she would often perform James’ ‘Laid’. She was then joined by Saul and Larry Gott for an emotional rendition of the song, one of the evening’s standout moments. Jack Savoretti followed, performing a set that included his song ‘Broken Glass’, once again accompanied by Saul on violin.

To provide a fittingly heartfelt finale, all of the headline performers returned to the stage for a powerful, collective performance of David Bowie’s ‘Heroes’, bringing a remarkable evening to an unforgettable close.

The shortlist for the UK City of Culture 2029 competition will be announced later this year. If successful, Blackpool Council plans to stage a year-long programme of cultural events and celebrations, supported by a £10 million grant from the UK Government.