A Night to Remember: Chris De Burgh's Captivating Concert at Budweiser Gardens

Chris de Burgh - London, ON 2023
Chris De Burgh’s concert at Budweiser Gardens in London, ON last night was a special event that left a lasting impression on those who were lucky enough to be there. The living legend, who is 74 years young, proved that he can still put on an incredibly entertaining and captivating show. De Burgh’s dedication to his craft and passion for music were evident in every moment of the two-and-a-half-hour performance, which was packed with close to 30 songs spanning his storied 50-year career.

As De Burgh stepped on stage, the energy in the arena was electric. The crowd erupted in cheers as he started the show with his hit song “The Hands of Man.” His voice was just as strong as it was in his younger years, and his energy level was through the roof. De Burgh’s love of storytelling was obvious throughout the concert, and he regaled the audience with anecdotes and jokes that had everyone laughing.

The concert was divided into three parts: a solo performance, selections from the Moonfleet saga, and a full band concert. The first featured a solo performance, with de Burgh taking the stage to thunderous applause as he launched into “The Hands of Man,” one of his hit songs. His voice was as powerful as ever, and his energy level was off the charts as he regaled the audience with jokes and anecdotes.

One of the highlights of the show was the performance of six songs from de Burgh’s Moonfleet saga from the 2010 album “Moonfleet & Other Stories”. Based on the novel by English writer J. Meade Falkner, the saga is an adventure tale of smuggling, treasure, and shipwreck set in 18th-century England. De Burgh’s storytelling skills were on full display as he transported the audience to another time and place with his powerful vocals and vivid imagery.

The concert also featured tracks from his latest album, The Legend of Robin Hood, which the audience received with great enthusiasm, although more tracks from this album would have made the storytelling more complete.

De Burgh’s rendition of Toto’s “Africa” was particularly memorable and had the entire audience on their feet and dancing. By the time the band got to “Don’t Pay the Ferryman” and “High on Emotion,” the energy level accelerated.

De Burgh’s band was equally impressive, with each member showcasing their incredible musicianship and adding to the overall experience of the concert. They played with precision and flair, keeping the audience engaged and entertained throughout the show.

But it was the final song of the night, “Legacy,” from de Burgh’s latest album, that truly left a lasting impression. As the final notes of the encore settled into silence, de Burgh held his gaze at the crowd for several seconds, almost reluctant to let us go before giving a casual wave. The song’s poignant lyrics and de Burgh’s emotional delivery left the audience feeling moved and inspired.

De Burgh’s performance was more than just a concert; it was a testament to his dedication to his craft and his love for music. Even as he joked with the audience and engaged in little bursts of comedy, he never lost sight of what was most important: the music. His passion and talent were undeniable, and the audience left the arena with smiles on their faces, memories to last a lifetime, and a renewed appreciation for the magic of live music.

Chris de Burgh’s concert at the Budweiser Gardens in London, ON was a tour-de-force of music, storytelling, and entertainment. He proved that age is just a number and that his talent and charisma are as powerful as ever. De Burgh’s performance was a true joy to experience, and those lucky enough to be in attendance will never forget the magic of that night.

Chris de Burgh
Budweiser Gardens
London, ON
April 24, 2023

All photos by Dan Savoie