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Beth Nielsen Chapman

Venue: Royal Hall
Town: Harrogate
Date: 11/02/14
Website: http://www.bethnielsenchapman.com/

This is the third time my wife and I have seen Beth and each show has been totally different. She is a wonderful writer and performer and has never failed to move me. I had tears in my eyes in the first song last night.

This tour is highlighting her latest album which comprises songs she has written for other performers but not necessarily sung herself. It shows how many singers have benefited from Beth's amazing talent. Don Williams, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Faith Hill, Vince Gill to name just a few and of course she wrote the theme from the film "Calendar Girls." They were in the audience last night too but luckily kept their clothes on. She also talked about Mindy McCready for whom she wrote too. It is now just one year since this young, beautiful and talented singer took her own life. A sad day for all C&W fans!

Beth is a natural and confident performer as well as an accomplished musician and makes you feel that she is talking directly to you. Her personal story would make a great film especially her recovery from the death of her first husband and her fight with cancer. It is great to see that she has fully recovered from both and seems to be very happy now, especially as she has just become a grandparent too.

Beth is a very good guitarist and a sublime piano player too. The solo parts of her concerts are always a bit special. In her band is a young Belfast girl called Ruth Trimble. Watch out for her. She will have an amazing career.

In support of Beth was Red Sky July, described as an alternative Country band. I have no idea what that means but they were very good too. Brilliant harmonies set to country songs. All in all, a great night out even if I needed to change my hankie when I got home. "All I have" and "Sand and water" get me every time.

Rory Stanbridge