The COVID-19 pandemic rudely interrupted Rina Sawayama's breakthrough year. After building up a fanbase since her first single in 2013, 2020 looked like it would be Rina's year, especially after touring the UK with Charli XCX which elevated her presence in 2019.
Rina isn't your obvious pop star and she's had to fight for it, which makes her wins even more special. Her mixed-heritage (Japanese/British) and her vocal support for the LGBTQ+ community don't scream, 'marketable pop star' but she's more than that. Rina is an actor, her big screen debut is coming next year and she's modeled for Versace and Missguided too!
But last night, we were there for a pop show and that's what we got, from a tour that was booked two years ago! Venues have had to be upgraded a handful of times as Rina's genre-bending debut, Sawayama won plenty of plaudits since its release in April 2020. Elton John has been a big supporter, jumping on a remix of Chosen Famiily, which featured on his latest release, The Lockdown Sessions.
The Leeds Beckett Students' Union was packed with a diverse crowd of all ages and identities, a community Rina, who is openly queer has created and the stage was full of strong female presence throughout the evening which started with Ama Jones who is a star in the making.
Much-loved electro-pop producer and performer, Hana followed. The LA star brought beats and energy to Leeds with a set that included We Appreciate Power, her collab with Grimes.
If you want to know what a low-key pop show looks like, look no further than the headliner!
Kicking off with pop-metal track Dynasty Rina worked the crowd effortlessly in a slick black outfit, flanked by two dancers, backed by a guitarist and drummer, it was powerful. Throughout the set which lasted over an hour, Rina danced off the energy she's been saving up during lockdown with bangers from the debut which included choreographed moves, costume changes, inclusivity and audience participation whilst the intimate Chosen Family was a moment.
Imagine what she'll be able to do when she gets to headline arenas, it's only a matter of time!
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