Christmas came early for Sheffield’ers last night when some of the biggest names in music performed live at Meadowhall Shopping Centre.
Presented by Capital FM, the sold out show featured chart-topper Anne-Marie; former Wanted bandmate Nathan Sykes; X Factor 2015 winner Louisa Johnson and headline act James Arthur.
I caught up with some of some of the artists ahead of the show…
Who? Louisa Johnson
Famous for? Winning X Factor 2015
Bare faced, she enters the press cabin and runs straight back out. Louisa was clearly expecting a line-up of jounos with pens and notepads, not the 20 plus photographers and videographers stood camera ready. She returns from make-up 45 minutes later in true pop-star style…
“I didn’t realise the concert would be so big, I’m really nervous now but it’s going to be wicked. I want to enjoy it as much as I can” she tells us.
“I just want to have fun and put some energy out there and hopefully the audience will give it back to me.”
As she was there to get us in the festive spirit, we had to bring up the ‘C’ word…
“I’ve been away since October so it will be nice to be home with the family for Christmas. I’m really looking forward to it.”
What’s on Louisa’s gift list? “I need some perfume; you can never have enough perfume!”
Fans will be happy to hear there’ll be more music from the 18 year old in 2017, too…
“Next year hopefully the album will be out. Some people were expecting in it November but I never put a release date on it, I just want it to be perfect and the way I want it to be.”
Who? Anne-Marie
Famous for? Being the current UK Top 40 number one
She rocks up in a padded baby pink coat covered in love hearts teamed with a LBD and Dr Martens. You can certainly see this blonde bombshell coming.
“I’d describe my style as being comfy whilst trying to look like a popstar. I have no idea what’s going on.”
We beg to differ. This girl can pull off any look. She changes into a faux fur jacket and a necklace made of fairy lights for her performance.
“I’m spending Christmas with my parents as always” she tells us. I’m mostly looking forward to the Yorkshire puddings on my Christmas dinner.
“I don’t care what’s in my stocking as long as it’s not a lump of coal. I just plan to eat lots of food and go to lots of parties.
“If I could make one wish for 2017, it would be to get to the number one spot with my own single.”
Who? James Arthur
Famous for? Winning X Factor in 2012 then making a massive comeback in 2016
“I need a coat. Have I got time to go into the centre to buy one?” – I’m not sure he realises just how famous he is. There are thousands of fans waiting outside screaming his name. But fair play, it’s cold.
“Jeez”. He’s shocked by the amount of press squeezed into the cabin waiting to speak to him, but casually makes his way to the photographers, strikes a pose and barely flinches as the cameras flash.
“I have my fans to thank for me being here today. Reaching number one this year was unexpected but rewarding.
“After a break at Christmas, I’m excited to be coming back to Sheff on tour in 2017, too. Expect some new music.
“I’d also like to do acting next year. My ideal role would be to play someone who has a similar background to me – overcoming adversity and the journey to recovery as a mental health sufferer.”
He’s ushered out of the door but stops to shake my hand and say “nice to meet you”.
I thank him via Twitter after the interview – he likes my post and follows my account.
What a gent!
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