On 24 May, some of the biggest names in Sheffield’s music scene came together to raise money for Roundabout Youth Homeless Charity, resulting in a night of unparalleled energy and passion.
Organised by Lucy Lee, the lineup included Kiziah and the Kings, Footprintz Jazz Collective, Nonna Fab (Apricot Ballroom/Footprints Jazz Club) and Peter Rabbit (Funky Drummer/Bass Off).
Miss Lee said: “Looking after our most vulnerable allows us all to thrive together. It’s about creating a home for everyone in the community and bringing people together for a good cause.”
The night began and ended with some brilliantly funky deck-work from Peter Rabbit and Nonna Fab, DJing from up on the Factory Floor mezzanine. The talented pair complemented each other beautifully, and seamlessly kept everyone on the dance floor until the wee hours.
Following on from their early slot was an impressive set from Footprintz Jazz Collective, whose performance was, mind blowingly, entirely improvised. They brought an ambient, true jazz sound, which eased everyone into the crazy evening to come, getting feet tapping and hands clapping.
I’m always struck by the huge variety of people who come to these gigs but as soon as the music starts, everything makes sense: these are the folks who are down for a real good boogie.
The venue was chockablock with bouncing, waving arms and fiendish footwork, and Kiziah and the Kings took it to a whole new level. I’ve never been so dazzled by a live band.
Kiziah Watson, lead vocalist, said: “The Sheffield music scene has this real buzz for different cultural music, which embraces all of us together.
“One love, peace, and unity. That’s our message.”
Rhythms of rock, ska, reggae, and funk got the room literally jumping, the top-notch musicians busting out sax solos from atop the bar and trumpet mosh pits on the floor.
Kiziah, on the vocals, absolutely blew my mind. With a wickedly strong voice and the stage presence of a goddess, this woman had the whole room in a chokehold. She told us to get down on the floor, and we did. She told us to jump back up, and we went absolutely feral. Her audience engagement was thrilling, and the excitement and power she brought charged the energy in the entire venue.
This was a five star night in an intimate, effortlessly cool venue that was not only unforgettable for the audience, but made a significant amount of money for a good cause – supporting young people at risk of homelessness in Sheffield.
