With over twenty headline acts scheduled to perform in Cardiff this summer, alongside packed listings at the city’s independent venues and Cardiff City Music Festival happening in the autumn, 2024 might just be Cardiff’s biggest year for music yet.
To celebrate we’ll be profiling some of the stories from this blockbuster year for live performances in the city; speaking to the fans, the bands and the behind-the-scenes talent about what makes Cardiff such a special place for live music.
For our latest feature, we speak to Cardiff-based P!NK superfan Hayley about seeing her favourite artist perform in Cardiff!
Hayley, when did you become such a big fan of Pink?
I first became aware of Pink whilst watching the ‘Lady Marmalade’ video for Moulin Rouge in 2001. Pink’s incredible vocal ability instantly stood out to me on this track, despite being one of many talented signers who featured as part of the song.
After this, I decided to do some research and discovered that she had an album out ‘Can’t Take Me Home’. My love for Pink really grew (and continues to grow) after her second album (Missundaztood). By this album, her voice had evolved and her songs had more meaning and a wider message.
By now, I have 2 tattoos of her and a growing wall of fame in the house of all her cds as memorabilia in homage to her!
How many Pink concerts have you been to?
The Cardiff concert will be my 12th time! All in the UK, I’ve unfortunately never had the chance to go abroad to see her.
Her first gig in the Cardiff International Arena in 2006 just blew me away, as she performed on a small stage (not like her big stages now) on a Harley Davidson.
In 2010, I saw her play her first UK stadium in Swansea for her "Funhouse" tour, accompanied by my then 68-year-old mother who witnessed a 2 hour spectacle of entertainment from start to finish! I can safely say my mum is now a massive Pink fan! In 2019, she was in Cardiff, and now in 2024, I’m seeing Pink again in Cardiff. This is now my Mum’s third Pink concert, at the age of 82!
What’s so special about a Pink show?
Pink is not only a singer, but an entertainer. She doesn't just stand on stage and sing. I’ve seen Pink bungee jumping off a crane onto the stage, in an adult sized hamster ball rolling around the stage, and flying around the venues on a zip wire. It's a non-stop roller coaster!
Pink's ability as a gymnast allows her to put on such a show for all kinds of ages, young or old, performing new and familiar tracks. Pink interacts with her crowd both emotionally and personally, and her empathy shines through in her personality.
Her shows are just a 2-hour bundle of joy and excitement that draws you in and makes you think!
What’s different about seeing Pink here in Cardiff?
I work for a crowd management company and have done for 18 years. We look after certain venues, some of which host Pink shows. I have been to London Hyde Park and Manchester Arena a few times, but they don't compare to Cardiff. Cardiff is a fantastic city to host and see Pink. Not only is the stadium right in the middle of the city and easy to travel to with trains etc, the atmosphere here is also electric. For example, when watching the Rugby, the atmosphere draws you in. The hustle and bustle preshow and after is just buzzing, with great food and bars right on your doorstep.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about going to the show?
You won’t be disappointed! I myself have converted many a non-Pink fan, work colleagues, and family friends. Every time a non-Pink fan goes to see her in concert, they 100% want to go again and again.
It’s an experience- full of magical and energetic scenes, set with amazing music.
Pink tours the entire world, so there's always a long period of time between tours. If you get the chance to go, you should jump at it!
