Most.Awesome.Concert.Ever.

The tour, named for his latest release, which in turn was named in honour of his artistic influences (1960s Rat Pack) I think is a particularly apt title for this R&B superstar. The Ne-Yo that we saw on stage was the absolute gentleman and from all appearances a true romantic too. We were a bit worried that the concert was going to be cancelled after having heard that he had taken sick during his Thursday performance in Manchester where he reportedly cried himself off stage. He really was devastated to not complete his set there. Thankfully for him and for us he seemed 200% times better at tonight’s concert.

Ne-Yo’s support acts started with esmee. I’ve never actually heard of her but she seemed alright. She came on at 7.30 and did a few songs and a 15 minute set.

After about ten minutes the next support act came on. And it was Miss Keri Hilson! She first came to my attention a couple of years ago when she sang with Timbaland in “The Way I Are” – love that song and it was on my mp3 player for ages! Her first album was released in March this year but I haven’t yet had a chance to listen to it but I’m sure it will be pretty fab.

Her set lasted for about half an hour and damn she’s sexy! Ha ha.

Ne-Yo made his appearance at about 8.50 in a blaze of fireworks and sparkly lights in his trademark hat. Damn – he was pretty sexy too! He does all the right things for a girl – he’s smooth, he’s got a great voice, he moves well and he came across so genuinely likable, sensitive and down to earth. I was truly surprised! And very impressed.

Except for a slight five minute break in the middle Ne-Yo entertained us for over half an hour including a ten minute encore and a tribute to Michael Jackson. Keri Hilson came back to help out on a couple of the Michael Jackson songs. It was pretty impressive that he was able to put a set together pretty quickly.

A standing ovation was fully deserved!