The evening kicked off with support band Muddi Brooke, who wasted no time getting things moving with their powerful blend of loud punk and rock. Their energetic performance went down a storm with the enthusiastic crowd and provided the perfect warm-up for the main event.
At around 9.30pm, Hesleden-born Courtney and her band took to the stage to rapturous applause and, from the opening number, it was clear the audience was in for something special.
Courtney, who rose to fame after reaching the finals of “America’s Got Talent”, aged just 13, already has a staggering four million followers on social media and counts the likes of rock star Stevie Van Zandt among her admirers.
The 22-year-old – with her unmistakable voice, quirky dance moves and unique stage presence – delivered a fantastic, polished performance that showed just how much she has matured as an artist.
Performing mainly her own material, including Monsters, Jagged, Dirty, Different Kinda Pretty, D.N.A., Never Say Never and Breakable, Courtney demonstrated her incredible vocal range and ability to command a stage.
The set also included a cover medley featuring Seven Years, Unsteady and Yer Blues, while songs such as Die and Stay Pretty, Timeless and Electric helped bring an unforgettable evening of music to a close.
At times, Courtney was literally down on the floor, throwing herself into the performance with the kind of energy and enthusiasm that has become her trademark. Her backing band was equally impressive, providing a tight, powerful sound throughout the night.
It was just a shame that the venue was not full – as this was a performance deserving of a bigger audience.
Nevertheless, those who did turn out on Halloween night were rewarded with a superb evening of live entertainment, the likes of which Hartlepool doesn’t get nearly often enough.
Courtney Hadwin certainly rocked the Steelies, proving once again that this talented young performer is a force to be reckoned with.
MICHAEL GANT
