Photos and writing by Shavorne Wilbraham
Homegrown Scouse hero Jamie Webster took to the stage at Haydock Racecourse and opened his arms to thousands of eager fans from across the country.
With the gig taking place after a day at the races and the weather expected to peak at about 28°C, I looked online at the dress code.
I was impressed and relieved that ‘dressing for comfort’ was encouraged. Not everyone enjoys dressing up, particularly in the heat, but I felt it was a nice touch to give people freedom to be themselves in their choice of attire.
The final race took place around 8:15pm with Jamie kicking off shortly after 9pm.
The stage set-up and location was excellent with a very gradual slope that helped shorter audience members obtain a decent view.
The atmosphere was similar to that of a passionate football crowd but everyone cheering for the same side.
He opened with ‘Voice of the Voiceless’ and was complemented by a healthy blast of pyro to get everyone in the mood. ‘Days Unknown’ followed, with the crowd singing every word – and why wouldn’t they?
‘Lovers in the Supermarket’ was a welcome addition to the set, inspired by Webster’s fiancé – now his wife – sending him a photo she had taken of an elderly couple both jointly holding a basket in Tesco.
Personal favourite Davey Kane went down a treat along with ‘Something’ s Gotta Give’ and ‘Knock At My Door’.
Jamie’s performance was outstanding. Every step of the way he repeatedly thanked his fans for their continued support and for being the reason he is able to follow his passion.
Jamie is renowned for his anti-government and anti-establishment beliefs, and at points this almost felt like a rally with youngsters wearing hats that read ‘F*** the Tories’.
This might seem a little surprising to those from outside the area but when your songs are being praised in the House of Commons, you can’t deny, his messages carry weight and Webster is being listened to.
He insists his music is about having compassion for your fellow human beings. If you’re not familiar with Jamie, his outspoken manner may be considered offensive especially as anti-Conservative chants continue in between songs, sang by adults and children alike.
Jamie can be musical Marmite and whether you like him or not, there is one thing you can’t deny, his dedication to his role as a performer.
New songs were well-received and the meanings behind them were explained to the crowd. His love for this great city was tangible and you can see why.
There was a healthy mix of youngsters on parents’ shoulders making sure the security team earned their crust. There was a minor incident in the crowd where Jamie requested the help of security and then followed it up with a telling off to the audience as ‘this wasn’t that type of gig’.
The show closed with ‘Weekend In Paradise’, as the crowds chanting along, again accompanied by pyrotechnics.
Jamie thanked everyone for attending and gave appreciation with gusto. A sun drenched evening, listening to 17 heartfelt, anthemic masterpieces for which crowds seemed to know single everyone word, this definitely felt like a weekend in paradise.
You can follow Jamie Webster here and listen to his music here.
The Jockey Club Live hosted the event and can be followed here.
Mersey Music 