Live Review: Bree Runway – 8th October 2024 – Lafayette, London, UK
3 min read
Photo by: Bree Ohagan
War Child’s Day of the Girl Charity Event was a night of spectacle, decadence, and a celebration for the bold. We headed to Lafayette to catch a true icon of modern pop, all in the name of a brilliant cause—raising funds to support girls and women in war-torn countries. It’s a cause that feels more relevant than ever in today’s world.
The crowd was warmed up by Brazy, who delivered a self-assured set packed with catchy lyrics like Cheat on Me, I’ll Cheat on You. Her blend of electronic production and Afro beats, mixed with laid-back but energetic audience participation, made for an engaging warm-up. Her confidence was contagious, and the audience appreciated it. After two powerful speeches from the War Child Committee, the stage was set for the superstar.
Runway, famously known for saying she performs every show like she’s headlining the O2 Arena, lived up to her reputation. In this intimate 600-capacity venue, indulgence was the name of the game. As the curtains rose, the crowd was treated to a lavish light show, and Runway appeared with her guitarist, flanked by electronic keyboards, and a drummer wielding a kit big enough to scare Alex Van Halen. Joined by her impeccably choreographed backup dancers, she had everything she needed to deliver a knockout performance.
From the very first note, she commanded the room. Her hour-long set was a genre-bending ride, keeping the audience on their toes, never knowing what to expect but certain that she’d give it her all. The versatility was undeniable—Pressure nodded to Afrobeats, Somebody Like You was a smooth R&B track reminiscent of Chaka Khan, and 2BadGyals, her latest release, took inspiration from industrial trance. Runway made it clear to the audience that she refuses to be pigeonholed; she wants to create what moves her. Her decision to leave EMI and go independent has clearly paid off, allowing her to craft and perform iconic shows like this.
Each song highlighted her flamboyance and uniqueness as an artist, but what stood out even more was how inclusive she made the experience. The room felt like a safe space where anyone could be themselves, and Runway would embrace them with love. Her connection with her dancers, her band, and the audience radiated throughout the venue. Runwaymania was not going anywhere, fans couldn’t keep their eyes and phones off her and every time there was an interaction it left that audience member completely starstruck. One funny moment came when she almost signed a fan’s iPhone charger—a lighthearted glimpse of her unflappable, down-to-earth nature.
Runway’s ability to captivate, motivate, and energize is exactly why she has such a devoted following. By the end of the night, it was clear to everyone why she’s one of those performers you have to see at least once in your life. She’s got the audience of Swift, the choreography of Lopez, and the presence of Beyoncé. Even though the show eventually came to an end, it was nothing short of spectacular. Her stage presence, musicianship, and showmanship are unmatched. Whether she’s at Lafayette or the O2 Arena, she’s truly one of the greats.
