Nocturne Live 2024 - Sugababes, Melanie C and Shaznay Lewis - Live Review

Sugababes, Melanie C, and Shaznay Lewis Shine at Nocturne Live 2024

On Saturday, June 15, 2024, Nocturne Live at Blenheim Palace delivered yet another unforgettable evening of music, featuring a stellar lineup of female powerhouses: Sugababes, Melanie C, and Shaznay Lewis. Against the stunning backdrop of Blenheim Palace, the night was a celebration of pop music, nostalgia, and unapologetic girl power.

Blenheim Palace, with its grand architecture and sprawling gardens, remains one of the most breathtaking venues for live music in the UK. The historic charm of the palace combined with the natural beauty of its grounds created an atmosphere that felt almost cinematic. It’s the kind of place where music feels bigger, emotions run deeper, and every moment feels like it’s part of something special.

The weather played its part too - well, mostly. Clear skies and a gentle breeze made for a comfortable evening, though a brief drizzle during Sugababes’ set reminded everyone that British summer concerts always come with a touch of unpredictability.

Nocturne Live isn’t just about the music - it’s about the experience. The food stalls added to the festival vibe, with Greek gyros and gourmet hot dogs proving to be crowd favorites. Whether you were indulging in a classic hot dog or savoring the flavors of Greece, the culinary offerings added a layer of enjoyment to the evening.

The night kicked off with Shaznay Lewis, best known as a member of the iconic girl group All Saints. Her set was a perfect blend of solo material and All Saints classics, including fan favorites like Never Ever and Pure Shores. A standout moment came when Shaznay brought out Shola Ama to perform their new song together - a surprise that had the crowd buzzing.

Shaznay also delivered a heartfelt cover of George Michael’s Freedom, which resonated deeply with the audience. Her soulful vocals and relaxed stage presence set the tone for the evening, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that felt like catching up with an old friend.

Next up was Melanie C, aka Sporty Spice, who brought an infectious energy to the stage. Her set was a mix of solo hits and Spice Girls classics, and she didn’t hold back. Tracks like I Turn to You and Never Be the Same Again showcased her vocal power, while Spice Girls anthems like 2 Become 1 and Spice Up Your Life had the crowd singing and dancing along like it was the ‘90s all over again.

Having seen Melanie perform last year, I was already a fan, but this show felt even more electric. She was clearly having fun, joking about herself “jumping around like a knob-head” but unapologetically embracing the moment. Her energy was contagious, and her ability to connect with the audience made her set one of the night’s highlights.

The headliners, Sugababes, closed the evening with a performance that was equal parts nostalgic and exhilarating. The original trio—Mutya Buena, Keisha Buchanan, and Siobhán Donaghy - proved why their harmonies and stage presence have stood the test of time.

Their setlist was packed with hits, from Push the Button to About You Now and Freak Like Me. Midway through, they surprised the crowd with an energetic Garage Medley that took the atmosphere to another level. The audience was fully engaged, singing along to every word and cheering with unbridled enthusiasm.

Despite the brief rain, the Sugababes didn’t miss a beat, delivering a performance that felt both polished and full of heart. Their ability to balance nostalgia with a fresh energy left a lasting impression, reminding everyone why their music remains so beloved.

Nocturne Live 2024 at Blenheim Palace was a triumph in every sense of the word. From Shaznay Lewis’ soulful start to Melanie C’s high-energy set and Sugababes’ show-stopping finale, the evening was a celebration of pop music at its finest.

The combination of a stunning venue, great food, and phenomenal performances made for an unforgettable experience. Each artist brought something unique to the stage, creating a night filled with joy, nostalgia, and empowerment.

If Nocturne Live continues to deliver evenings like this, it’s safe to say it will remain one of the UK’s most cherished summer music events. And as for Sugababes, Melanie C, and Shaznay Lewis? They reminded us all why they’re icons in their own right.