Joy Crookes

Joy Crookes Live at O2 Academy Bournemouth

About the Event

Get ready for an unforgettable night of soulful melodies and captivating performances as the Mercury Prize-nominated sensation, Joy Crookes, graces the stage at the O2 Academy Bournemouth on Saturday, 15 November 2025. This promises to be a landmark evening for music lovers in Bournemouth, offering a chance to witness one of the UK’s most compelling emerging artists in an intimate and electrifying setting. Joy Crookes is renowned for her genre-bending sound, seamlessly blending R&B, soul, and elements of her South Asian heritage into a unique and deeply personal artistic expression. Her live shows are celebrated for their raw emotion, powerful vocal delivery, and an undeniable stage presence that connects with audiences on a profound level. This concert at the O2 Academy Bournemouth isn’t just another gig; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the artistry of a musician who is redefining contemporary British music, promising an evening that will resonate long after the final note has faded.

About Joy Crookes

Hailing from Elephant and Castle in South London, Joy Crookes has rapidly ascended to become one of the most exciting and distinctive voices in contemporary music. Her journey began with the viral success of her early tracks, which showcased a raw talent and an unflinching honesty in her songwriting. From these independent beginnings, she cultivated a devoted following, drawn to her lyrical depth and her ability to articulate complex emotions with a disarming vulnerability.

Crookes’ music is a rich tapestry woven from diverse influences. Her South Asian heritage is a significant thread, subtly infusing her sound with unique rhythms and melodic textures that set her apart. This cultural richness, combined with the urban soundscape of her London upbringing, creates a sonic palette that is both familiar and refreshingly new. She expertly navigates the realms of R&B, soul, and hip-hop, drawing comparisons to artists who have paved the way for thoughtful, genre-fluid musicianship.

Her debut album, An Act of Confidence, released in 2021, was met with critical acclaim and earned her a nomination for the prestigious Mercury Prize. This landmark achievement solidified her position as a significant force in the UK music scene. The album is a masterful exploration of love, loss, identity, and self-discovery, delivered with Crookes’ signature blend of sharp wit and heartfelt sincerity. Notable hits from her burgeoning discography include the introspective and empowering “When You Less Expect It”, the infectious and groove-laden “Fisherman’s Net”, and the deeply personal and critically lauded “Mother May I?”. These tracks, along with many others, have garnered millions of streams and solidified her reputation for crafting songs that are both sonically engaging and lyrically profound. Joy Crookes is more than just a singer; she is a storyteller, an artist who uses her voice to paint vivid pictures of the human experience, making her a truly captivating performer to witness live.

Venue Information

The O2 Academy Bournemouth is a renowned live music venue situated in the heart of the vibrant coastal town of Bournemouth. With a rich history of hosting a diverse range of musical talent, it provides an exceptional atmosphere for both artists and fans. Its reputation for excellent sound quality and its capacity to create an electric live music experience makes it the perfect setting for an artist as dynamic as Joy Crookes. The venue’s layout is designed to ensure excellent sightlines from various points, allowing every audience member to feel close to the action and fully immersed in the performance. Its accessible location within Bournemouth further enhances its appeal, making it a popular choice for music lovers across the region. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for an evening that will ignite your senses and stir your soul when Joy Crookes takes the stage at O2 Academy Bournemouth. Her live performances are a masterclass in vocal prowess and emotional resonance. Expect a setlist that masterfully balances her most celebrated hits with newer material, offering a comprehensive journey through her evolving artistic landscape. Tracks like the poignant “When You Less Expect It” are likely to be highlights, showcasing her ability to deliver emotionally charged ballads with breathtaking clarity and raw feeling. The infectious energy of “Fisherman’s Net” will undoubtedly have the audience on their feet, dancing along to its irresistible rhythm. You can also anticipate hearing powerful renditions of fan favourites such as “Mother May I?”, which often serves as a pivotal moment in her sets, highlighting her introspective lyricism and undeniable vocal control.

Joy Crookes’ performance style is characterized by its authenticity and an almost magnetic stage presence. She commands the stage with a captivating blend of confidence and vulnerability, engaging directly with her audience through her music and her words. Her vocal delivery is consistently exceptional, moving effortlessly from hushed, intimate tones to soaring, powerful declarations. She is known for her dynamic stage presence, often interacting with her band and conveying a genuine passion for her craft that is infectious. The visual aspect of her shows often complements the emotional depth of her music, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond just listening. While the exact duration can vary, a typical headline set from an artist of Joy Crookes’ calibre would be expected to last approximately 90 minutes, offering a substantial and fulfilling musical experience. This is an opportunity to witness an artist at the peak of her powers, delivering a performance that is both technically brilliant and deeply heartfelt.

FAQs

Q1: Will Joy Crookes be performing songs from her latest releases or focusing on older hits? A1: Joy Crookes is known for curating setlists that offer a comprehensive journey through her discography. While you can definitely expect to hear her beloved hits like “When You Less Expect It” and “Fisherman’s Net,” she also often features newer material, giving fans a taste of her evolving sound and artistic direction. This ensures a dynamic set that caters to both long-time admirers and those discovering her music live for the first time.

Q2: What is Joy Crookes’ typical performance style like? Is it high-energy or more laid-back? A2: Joy Crookes’ performance style is a captivating blend of both. She possesses an incredible ability to shift seamlessly between high-energy, vibrant performances that encourage dancing and singing along, to more intimate, soul-stirring moments where her raw vocal talent and emotional depth truly shine. Her stage presence is authentic and engaging, creating a powerful connection with the audience throughout the entire show.

Q3: Are there any specific songs that are guaranteed to be on the setlist, or does it change frequently? A3: While setlists can sometimes have minor variations, popular and critically acclaimed tracks like “When You Less Expect It,” “Fisherman’s Net,” and “Mother May I?” are usually staples in Joy Crookes’ live shows due to their popularity and significance in her career. Fans can anticipate these fan favourites making an appearance, alongside other well-loved tracks and potentially some surprises.

Q4: Is Joy Crookes known for engaging with the audience during her shows? A4: Absolutely. Joy Crookes is celebrated for her genuine connection with her audience. She often speaks to the crowd, sharing insights into her songs or simply expressing her gratitude. This interaction adds a personal and intimate layer to her performances, making the audience feel like they are part of a shared experience rather than just observers.

Q5: Are there any opening acts announced for the Joy Crookes concert at O2 Academy Bournemouth? A5: At this time, no opening acts have been officially announced for Joy Crookes’ performance at O2 Academy Bournemouth. Details regarding support acts are typically released closer to the event date. We recommend keeping an eye on the official ticketing pages and artist announcements for any updates.

Q6: What kind of musical influences can I expect to hear in Joy Crookes’ live performance? A6: Joy Crookes’ live performance is a vibrant showcase of her diverse influences. You’ll hear the rich textures of R&B and soul, infused with elements of her South Asian heritage, which manifest in unique rhythms and melodic phrases. Her sound is also grounded in the urban soundscapes of London, often incorporating elements of hip-hop and jazz. Her live set is a testament to her ability to weave these varied threads into a cohesive and compelling musical tapestry.