Around 5,000 music fans were at the Ricoh Arena to see some of the biggest artists from both sides of the Atlantic. The Jaguar Exhibition Hall hosted the inaugural BBC 1Xtra Live event, which featured American superstars Akon, Kelly Rowland and Chris Brown and UK sensations Craig David and Estelle. The diverse line-up was completed by Taio Cruz, Jay Sean, Lupe Fiasco, Wiley and guest appearances from Sway and Kano.
Singer Tami Chynn, who lived in Leamington for four years and studied at Stratford College, appeared on stage with headliner Akon. Tickets for the concert were free and BBC 1Xtra gave away the majority to residents of Coventry and Warwickshire.
Liz Cooper, marketing director at the Ricoh Arena, said she was delighted to see the venue host another major event. She said: “The concert was fantastic and all day the Ricoh was swarming with top artists, big name DJs, TV presenters and major players from the record industry. “It was a great privilege to host the inaugural concert as 1Xtra is a national radio station and could have chosen to stage the event anywhere in the country. “Having spoken to a number of artists the feedback was very positive and many were impressed by the flexibility at the Ricoh. “Already this year we have hosted a major darts tournament, a number of large exhibitions and the stadium has become an established music venue. “We are now gearing up to host The Enemy’s two homecoming gigs on April 5 and 6 and we will welcome Bon Jovi back later in the summer.”
UK R‘n’B star Craig David took part in a penalty shoot-out before the concert and said he had good first impressions of the city and the Ricoh Arena. “I haven’t been to Coventry before and it’s a nice place. There’s a hotel that’s right next door to the pitch and you can basically walk out of your bed onto the pitch!”, the Southampton fan said.
Highlights from 1Xtra Live can be seen and heard online and on digital TV through the red button.
To find out more visit www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra
English Girl and UK RnB diva Estelle blows the crowd in Coventry’s Ricoh Arena away with a setlist including the hit singles 1980 and American Boy.
UK RnB superstar Craig David wows the crowd at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena at 1Xtra Live.
Eskiboy and Grime pioneer Wiley performing the Rolex ance at 1Xtra LIve.
UK RnB artist Taio Cruz whips the Coventry crowd into a frenzy during his performance at 1Xtra Live.
Boy Better Know’s Skepta joined Wiley on stage at 1Xtra Live.
US rap phenomenon and Kanye West protege Lupe Fiasco performing at 1Xtra Live.
International RnB diva Kelly Rowland brought gasps of amazement to the Ricoh arena with her outfit and setlist including a Destiny’s Child medley and her latest singles.
Jay Sean gives it his all at 1Xtra Live, bringing sartorial heaviness to the stage and big vibes to the speakers.
US RnB superstar Chris Brown detonates Coventry’s Ricoh Arena with his set for 1Xtra Live.
Akon brings Konvict records signing Tami Chynn on stage to perform during 1Xtra Live.