RONNIE SPECTOR & THE RONETTES
Tramshed, Cardiff
Fri 25 Jan
Fans of the ‘wall of sound’ style of music production, made famous by so many artists in the 1960s – and, more specifically, fans of Ronnie Spector’s powerful and piercing, yet rusty and rousing vocals – are in for a post-Christmas treat in January when Cardiff’s Tramshed hosts Ronnie Spector & The Ronettes. But even if you’re more of a movie fanatic than a musical historian, there’s a strong chance you’ve fallen in love with Ronnie Spector’s dulcet tones at some point: The Ronettes’ hit Be My Baby headlines two classic movies from opposite sides of the spectrum – Mean Streets and Dirty Dancing.
Growing up as a teen idol wasn’t easy for Ronnie Spector, especially once she’d got involved with record producer and future husband, Phil, who went on to exert vicious control over her music career, her finances and her youth, even after she escaped barefoot from his prison-like mansion.
But the beehive is back, bigger and bolder than ever and on a full UK tour. Ronnie hits all the right notes as she covers 60’s classics, while treating the audience to segments of her life story while she rests her mighty lungs. Don’t forget to pack the tissues alongside the dancing shoes: Ronnie Spector’s story is as moving as her songs.
Tickets: £30.50. Info: 029 2023 5555 / www.tramshedcardiff.com (JS)