Frankie Valli, Genting Arena, Birmingham - review
Living legend Frankie Valli bid Birmingham fans goodbye last night in an outstanding show which had crowds wishing that he’d Stay.
His Farewell Tour show began with a gallery of pictures and clips of Frankie throughout the years, stood beside fellow stars such as Bob Dylan, Paul McCartney, Cher and Elton John, highlighting his illustrious career both with The Four Seasons and solo.
The 84-year-old icon shone with talent and charisma throughout the Genting Arena gig - and while he may have been in the business for more than 65 years, the star hasn’t lost an ounce of his tremendous voice or wit.
He boasted great energy too, putting on a passionate performance of more than two hours, during which he barely came up for air between songs and made time to shake hands with his fans stood beneath the stage.
The varied set, which saw Frankie backed by an excellent band of eight musicians and four singers, was packed with an array of the New Jersey star’s greatest hits, with a few well-known covers thrown in for good measure.
“Hello there. Are we ready to have some fun tonight?” grinned Frankie.
“We want you to have a good time - get up and dance, clap and sing.”
And fans most certainly made the most of his invitation, gleefully moving and singing along to favourites including Beggin’; Grease; Who Loves You; and December, 1963; plus renditions of Ben E King’s Spanish Harlem and The Temptations’ My Girl
Frankie is best known for his trademark high-ranging vocals, the sound of which are entirely unique to him - and last night the idol remained absolutely pitch perfect on each and every number in what was a truly remarkable performance.
“This is supposed to be a farewell tour,” he announced, stood before fans in a sharp charcoal suit and black top.
“It’s very difficult to say goodbye to such fantastic audiences. I don’t know what’s going to happen.
“I’ve had a wonderful career. I certainly wouldn’t have had it without all of you.
“Thank you for making my life tremendous, doing what I love more than anything.”
The crowd was then treated to a thrilling succession of hits which had almost every fan on their feet: Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Bye Bye Baby, and Ragdoll.
“We love you Birmingham,” beamed Frankie.
The feeling was most certainly mutual. Oh What A Night.
