Words: Stella Akinwumi | Subbing: Isabella Dawe
On the 13th November 2017, singer/music producer Alex Aiono performed a sold out set at the O2 Academy Islington. ‘Voice of London’ went to go see Alex in action.
Pop/R&B duo Misunderstood were the opening act for the show and performed their singles ‘Juicy Fruit’, ‘Sucka’ and ‘Ghetto Style’ which was their first proper release. They effortlessly got the crowd energised by their choreography sequences and consistent engagement with fans.
Pausing the set to talk to the excitable crowd, Alex said, ” Thank you so much to everyone in this building right now, this is my second sold out show in London, without you this wouldn’t have been possible.”Before performing his hit single ‘Work the Middle’ he added, “The level of energy I’m feeling from you guys is unreal.”
Although the majority of the crowd consisted of girls aged between 14-16, it was interesting to see the parents not being able to resist a little dance also. His 60 minute set featured singles ‘Work the Middle’ and ‘Does It Feel Like Falling’ which were released with Interscope Records.
Whilst performing a cover of James Arthur’s number one hit ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ it looked like Alex struggled remembering the lyrics, the audience however came to his rescue and helped him out, and he was able to poke fun at himself in the process.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rjHLtDncFzY&w=560&h=315]
Footage by: Stella Akinwumi
Alex ended his hour set by performing a cover of Drake’s ‘One Dance’, his original cover of this song blew up the internet in April 2016. As of today his rendition of ‘One Dance’ has over 58 million views on Youtube, and his bilingual mash up has also established his heart throb status.
It was as if an essence of the latin/pop subculture was suddenly released upon the London crowd. The result was an overwhelming and somewhat hysterical wave of communal glee. Alex Aiono is definitely one to watch.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hu_hmD_wyso&w=560&h=315]
Footage by: Stella Akinwumi