14.06.2025

Day Two of Forest Live started in Delamere forest; the ultimate showman and great songwriter, Gary Barlow headlined and he did not disappoint. 

Beverley Knight kicked off the show on 14th June with some of her biggest hits and her high energy. Her world-renowned vocals did not disappoint, and the audience was filled with high energy, seemingly loving every second of it. She definitely got the audience excited and ready for Gary Barlow. In addition to her own hits, she performed a few covers, including the hit track ‘I’m Every Woman’ by Chaka Khan. Beverley Knight closed her set with the track ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Alright’ which was an absolute show stopper.

As Gary Barlow took to the stage, the audience went wild with excitement, marking the moment everyone had been waiting for. He began his performance with the hit “Open Road” and then transitioned into some of Take That’s biggest hits, with the audience singing and dancing along.  Fans displayed numerous signs, some expressing how long they had waited to see him, and one stating, “You didn’t come to Amsterdam; so Amsterdam came to you.” The love and devotion from his fans is truly special. His performance, as always, was both emotional and uplifting for the fans.

Gary Barlow’s songwriting and lyrics are truly beautiful, thanks to his complex writing and ability to express emotions so deeply. Arguably, he is one of the best frontmen and performers of all time. There wasn’t a dull moment; he dazzled the fans. He had an astounding band behind him, including backing vocals, a brass section, and more. Barlow ended the set with the hits from TakeThat ‘Rule the world’ and ‘Never Forget’ with a fabulous  fireworks display. 

Review and all Photography by Christina Thompson (@c.atphotography) for The Songbird HQ – Please do not use or share any images without prior consent.

THE SONGBIRD HQ