With the European Championship final between England and Spain just hours away, football fever swept over the North East on Sunday afternoon.
And whilst football might have been on the agenda of many today, the arrival of international producer and DJ Sigala in South Shields provided the perfect pre-match entertainment for the evening’s Euro 2024 final.
Music fans arrived in their droves in South Shields on Sunday afternoon for the first instalment of the annual South Tyneside Festival at Bents Park.
Of course, with the unpredictable nature of the British summertime weather this year, the North East faithful arrived dressed for all weathers. Shorts and t-shirts went side by side with wellies, umbrellas, and ponchos.
It goes without saying that many showed up bedecked in England shirts and carrying Union Jack flags. But one thing is for sure - a little bit of rain wouldn't stop the party.
School Samba group Drum Young was the first to take to the stage early in the afternoon. Subsequently, an energetic set from North East band Yo Man Funk Group carried the huge crowd through a light shower with their vast repertoire of covers.
The house beats of Hed Kandi DJ Mark Rowell, who was accompanied by a saxophone player, provided the perfect soundtrack to a Sunday afternoon on the coast.
At around 3.30 pm, it was time for the headliner to take the stage. Sigala is no stranger to the North East, having played in the region several times, including an appearance at Loose Fest in Newcastle. And once again, there was a huge turnout for the DJ’s return.
The artist’s bass-heavy sounds and chart-topping hits got the Bents Park crowd moving. Having collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including the likes of Ella Eyre, Paloma Faith and Becky Hill, to name but a few, the superstar DJ delivered a crowd-pleasing set that showcased his two albums and a whole lot more.
In summary, to paraphrase a Bruce Springsteen song title, the DJ’s anthemic numbers had the crowd dancing in the park.
South Tyneside Festival at Bents Park continues over the next three weeks, with the likes of Jason Donovan, Kathy Sledge, and Haircut 100 all featuring. For further information, please visit: https://www.southtynesidefestival.co.uk/.
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