Usher Hall
Edinburgh
12 / 03 / 2025
With a sold-out night at Edinburgh’s Usher Hall on the same day that he released his first piece of music 13 years ago, this was sure to be a special night for all. Born in 1987 in the Muswell Hill area of London, Michael was soon to become one of the most respected songwriters, musician, singer and record producer of his generation. His parents (Deborah & Michael), who fled the Idi Amin regime in Uganda soon settled in London, England, and gave Michael the platform he required to develop his magical musical talent we see today.
After his early education, he went on to study Arts, Design and Media at the University of Westminster but soon found himself working as a session musician with the band “Chipmunk”, before branching out as a solo artist. His first gig at ‘The Oxford’ in Kentish Town attracted a long line of interested labels. After releasing two EPs in June 2011, he was soon supporting Adele on her ‘Adele – Live Tour’, which resulted in him signing for Polydor Records. That same year he released his first studio album “Home Again” and rose to number 4 in the UK charts, thus creating a lot of interest in Michael as an upcoming artist. After experiencing, should we say, some of the more darker sides of the music business, Michael hit back with the aptly named album “Love and Hate” in 2016, and with no surprise it hit the top spot on the UK charts. The road was now paved for Michael Kiwanuka’s next journey.
As the lights dimmed over the full house of the Usher Hall, a wonderful roar of appreciation was exhaled from the eagerly awaiting fans. The sweet smell of incense soon drifted overhead, and with the Persian rugs and quaint little side lamps lighting up the stage, it felt like we were in a smaller more personal intimate show – a bit like my living, music and incense. One by one “like the animals arriving at Noah’s Ark”, the ten band members took to the stage revealing the multitude of musical talent that was on show before Michael glided onto the stage with his calming and graceful presence. From the first chord struck and first note sung i was captivated with what I was witnessing. Having never had the pleasure to see Michael Kiwanuka live before, this was something special. What a voice! Soft, warming and soulful, his silk like tones engulfed the Usher Hall which responded with a flurry of appreciation.
Funky, slick, uplifting and with a twist of psychodelia influence the sound Michael has created is unique. Soulfulness in music creates a deep profound meaningful warmth within you which is ultimately projected from the dedication of the artist’s creative talent. Michael Kiwanuka, through his songwriting and singing, has done just that. Entertaining the audience for near on 2 hours, with such classic songs as, “Love and Hate”, “Rest of Me”, “One More Night” and “You Aint The Problem”, were only a sprinkle from the incredible set list for tonight’s show. The arrangement was tight and with backing singers with voices like angels, a cello and violin that made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up it was as good as any Issac Hayes gig I have seen ( compliment intended). Like any good story you need a start, middle and end. Tonight was Michael Kiwanuka musical story and the journey it has taken him on and as a reader, what a fine read it was.
Raymond Speedie
themumble.uk 