Old rockers get unchained hearts pumpingNot only is Cocker one of the most successful and popular singers of the last four decades, he is also one of music's most loved and most respected. This Grammy, Golden Globe and Academy Award winning artist has 21 studio and four live albums under his belt, his unmistakable bluesy soul voice a musical trademark in its own right.They may be over 60, but George Thorogood then Joe Cocker showed they have both still got what it takes – in spades – as they thrilled an almost full Trafalgar Center of Nelson fans.With many in the audience almost as old, it didn't stop them from having a rocking good time, dancing in the aisles, shaking in their seats and singing along heartily to a stream of music favorites they have grown up with.
Both men received standing ovations and encores.Everyman Records store owner in Nelson Greg Shaw said the concert had renew his faith in music."It was a full house and a lot of people got up and danced. People really enjoyed it. Cocker was passionate and soulful. I would have paid to hear him sing just one song, The Beatles cover With a Little Help from my Friends, Mr Shaw said.
Thorogood, demonstrating remarkable energy, sassy showmanship and playing up to his image of being "bad to the bone", soon had the stadium responding to his brand of take-no-prisoners rhythm and blues, pumping out hit after hit on his growing guitar , backed by his band The Destroyers.
At 66, Cocker showed that the years of hard living may have included him down a touch but not dimmed his ability to ring out raw emotion from his blues and soul anthems. Backed by a smooth band and sexy backup singers, the man from Sheffield got stronger the longer he played, with powerful versions of crowd favourites Leave Your Hat On, Unchain My Heart and With A Little Help From My Friends sending the crowd home very happy.
Joe Cocker, touring with George Thorogood and his Destroyers, will also be playing in Wellington (January 25), Auckland (January 27) and New Plymouth (January 28).
WHO DO YOU LOVE?
Rock and blues luminary Joe Cocker performed at the Trafalgar Centre
The air was thick with anticipation as the lights dimmed and the stage came to life at the renowned Trafalgar Centre. The crowd erupted into applause, their enthusiasm palpable, as one of the greatest voices in rock and blues history, Joe Cocker, took his place center stage. The man, known for his powerful and soulful voice, was ready to take the audience on a musical journey they would never forget.
Joe Cocker, with his trademark gritty vocals and passionate performances, has captivated audiences around the world for decades. His unique style, characterized by his raspy voice and dynamic stage presence, has made him a true icon in the music industry. With a career spanning over five decades, Cocker's music has stood the test of time and continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
As the band struck the first chords of his hit song "With a Little Help from My Friends," the crowd erupted into cheers. Cocker's gravelly voice filled the venue, instantly transporting everyone to a place where music becomes a language of its own. His soulful rendition of the song, originally recorded by The Beatles, showcased his ability to infuse every lyric with raw emotion and genuine sincerity.
Throughout the night, Cocker treated the audience to a range of his greatest hits, from the bluesy "Feelin' Alright" to the heart-wrenching ballad "You Are So Beautiful." Each song was delivered with such conviction that it felt as if Cocker was baring his soul on that very stage. His powerful vocals soared through the venue, leaving no doubt as to why he is regarded as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time.
But it wasn't just Cocker's voice that mesmerized the crowd. His stage presence was equally captivating. With his characteristic gestures and impassioned movements, he connected with his audience on a deeply personal level. It was evident that every note he sang, every word he uttered, came from a place of authenticity and love for his craft.
As the night drew to a close, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, begging for an encore. Cocker obliged, returning to the stage for one final song. The atmosphere was electric as he belted out his rendition of "Unchain My Heart," leaving the audience in awe of his vocal prowess and sheer energy.
Joe Cocker's performance at the Trafalgar Centre was a testament to the enduring power of music and the impact that a single artist can have on the hearts and souls of those who listen. His voice, like a force of nature, transcended boundaries and brought people together in a shared experience of love and appreciation for the art form.
As the lights dimmed and the final notes faded into the night, the audience was left with a lingering question: "Who do you love?" It was clear that Joe Cocker's love for music and his fans was immeasurable, and in return, his fans loved him right back. The Trafalgar Centre was transformed into a sanctuary of music, a place where all worries were forgotten, and only the power of Joe Cocker's voice remained.
In the end, it was a night to remember—a night where a rock and blues luminary reminded us of the universal language of music and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Joe Cocker's performance at the Trafalgar Centre will forever be etched in the hearts of those lucky enough to witness it, a testament to the enduring legacy of a true musical legend.
