On Sunday, 7 July 2024, Shania Twain lit up Hyde Park, headlining the Great Oak Stage at the British Summer Time (BST) festival. Despite battling a cold, the 58-year-old Canadian singer delivered a performance many claimed was “better than Glastonbury.”
July 7 2024 – Shania Twain performs on stage at BST Hyde Park (Photo by Dave Hogan/Hogan Media Shutterstock)
A Night to Remember
Twain took the stage just as the sun was setting, wearing a striking Vivienne Westwood co-ord featuring a red mini skirt and jacket, paired with silver lace-up boots. Her plunging white shirt added a daring touch to her outfit, showing off her timeless figure. It was clear from the outset that Twain was ready to party.
The set kicked off with “Don’t Be Stupid,” instantly energising the crowd. “All the legends play this stage,” Twain announced, recalling her previous performance here in 2003. “I can’t thank you guys enough,” she added, clearly moved by the warm reception.
Shania Twain performs on stage at BST Hyde Park – July 7 2024
(Photo by Dave Hogan/Hogan Media Shutterstock)
A String of Hits
The concert was a nostalgic journey through Twain’s greatest hits. Songs like “You Win My Love,” “Wake Up Dreaming,” “Getcha Good,” and “Forever and Always” followed in quick succession. Twain picked up her guitar for an acoustic sing-along of “Still The One,” acknowledging the long-time fans who have supported her over the years. “There have been a lot of people who have been with me since the release of this song,” she said, before launching into “Come On Over,” celebrating the 27th anniversary of her third studio album.
Country Vibes and Personal Touches
Getting deeper into the country spirit, Twain performed lively renditions of “Any Man Of Mine,” “Giddy Up,” and “Boots.” “The country vibe is so much a part of how folk music has developed around the world,” Twain mused. “Country music has kinda come back around in fashion, right? I don’t care if they’re cowboy boots or wellington boots… we’re going to do some s***-kicking right now!” Her interaction with the audience, including hugging the iconic Great Oak tree on stage (“It’s thick!”), added a personal touch that made the evening even more special.
A Dazzling Finale
The concert’s climax featured an array of Twain’s biggest hits, including “That Don’t Impress Me Much,” “Party For Two,” “Rock This Country,” and “Outta Here.” The grand finale, “Man, I Feel Like A Woman,” had everyone on their feet, singing along. “I will remember this forever, I promise you,” Twain declared, her eyes gleaming with joy.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite her cold, Twain’s performance was strong. She candidly addressed her sniffles on stage, even asking for a tissue from her band at one point, but didn’t let it dampen her spirits or the audience’s enjoyment. Fans, adorned in vibrant and sparkly cowboy hats, leather boots, and leopard print garments, matched her energy, making it clear that they were there to celebrate her music and legacy.
Support Acts and Nostalgia
The evening was not just about Twain. An epic supporting line-up, including The Corrs, Anne-Marie, Elle King, Natalie Imbruglia, Cate, Nell Mescal, Natalie Shay, Dea Mattron, Hannah Grae, Germein, and Grace Davies, set the stage for a fantastic night. The Corrs brought a wave of nostalgia with hits like “Summer Sunshine,” “Only When I Sleep,” “Give Me A Reason,” “What Can I Do?,” “Listen To The Radio,” “Forgiven, Not Forgotten,” “Dreams” (a Fleetwood Mac cover and the band’s biggest UK hit), “So Young,” “Runaway,” and “Breathless.”
Sharon Corp, Anthony Drennan and Andrea Corr of The Corrs perform on stage at BST Hyde Park – – July 7 2024 (Photo by Dave Hogan/Hogan Media Shutterstock)
Fan Reactions
Audience members were ecstatic. Danielle Stephens, a pub manager from Kingston-upon-Thames, said, “It was a fantastic night – pure 90s nostalgia. Everyone was jumping for joy and it was better than Glastonbury, a better vibe… the whole crowd was living their best 90s lives.” Fans also appreciated Twain’s resilience and dedication, particularly given the sound issues she faced at Glastonbury. The vibrant crowd, many sporting T-shirts emblazoned with lyrics like “Let’s go girls” and “Giddy up,” added to the event’s festive atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Shania Twain’s BST Hyde Park gig was a testament to her enduring appeal and resilience. Her ability to connect with the audience, even while battling a cold, highlighted why she remains a beloved figure in music. As the final notes of “Man, I Feel Like A Woman” echoed through Hyde Park, it was clear that this was a night to remember, for Twain and her fans alike.
