Sting & Shaggy: The 44/876 Tour

Sting and Shaggy played a concert in Łódź...

Although many Sting fans were skeptical about the artist's joint project with Jamaican vocalist Shaggy, the energy emanating from the stage of Łódź's Atlas Arena on November 17, 2018, and the positive response from the audience proved that any concerns about the "44/876" tour were unfounded.

Sting and Shaggy took the fans gathered at the Atlas Arena in Łódź on November 17, 2018, on a joyful, swinging, and energetic journey from Poland, through the UK, and all the way to Jamaica. The gentlemen performed nearly 30 songs, finding common ground for their diverse musical styles, surprising the audience with unique combinations, and inspiring fans to a party filled with positive energy. The artists created a cohesive and complete performance, proving that despite differences in age, nationality, career path, and musical style, they can create a captivating show together.

This wasn't the first time the unusual duo had appeared in Poland. Previously, Sting and Shaggy had performed at Empik's Bestseller Gala, where they sang "Don't Make Me Wait," but it wasn't until November 17th in Łódź that they truly showcased their collective talents, performing not only songs from the album "44/876," but also hits by Sting, Shaggy, and The Police.

The concert opened with one of Sting's biggest hits, "Englishman in New York," with the lyrics changed halfway through to "Jamaican in New York." Several other solo hits by the Englishman were also performed during the show, including "Shape of My Heart," "Fields of Gold," "Desert Rose," and "Fragile." However, when it comes to Sting's repertoire, songs by The Police dominated. This is no surprise – their atmosphere, combining reggae influences with Gordon Sumner's distinctive vocals, perfectly complemented Shaggy's upbeat songs.

The Police even managed to blend "So Lonely" (The Police) with "Strength of a Woman" (Shaggy) quite neatly (and thematically). The pairing of "Roxanne" (The Police) and "Boombastic" (Shaggy) fared slightly less well. Of course, there were also songs from the joint album by Shaggy and Sting, but the biggest treat for the fans of the British artist, who had already heard his songs on various stages in Poland, was certainly the opportunity to hear their rock-lyrical favourite perform fragments of Shaggy's popular songs: "Angel", "Hey Sexy Lady" and "It Wasn't Me", which was one of the most humorous elements of the entire performance.

Both artists were in high spirits throughout the concert. It was clear that, despite their differences, the two men had a great rapport with each other. They had a great rapport on stage, joking around with each other, and even acted out a scene where Sting dressed as a prisoner and Shaggy acted as the judge.

Shaggy, however, was the one who primarily engaged with the audience. He spoke with the concertgoers and, like a true stage host, encouraged them to join in the fun, dancing, and singing. At times, he got carried away, praising the charms of Polish women or making unmistakable hip movements during his songs, but for most of the concert, he successfully entertained the audience, who responded lively and enthusiastically.

Of course, despite Shaggy's considerable efforts and contortions, there was no doubt who the true star was on the Atlas Arena stage. Despite being 67 years old, Sting remains in top form – he still looks and sounds the same as he did 25 years ago when he recorded "Shape of My Heart." As usual, he was accompanied by his regular band – Dominic Miller and Rufus Miller on guitars, and Josh Freese on drums.

After performing 25 songs, in which even members of Shaggy's band – backing vocalist Melissa Musique and backing vocalist Gene Noble – took to the stage for solos, the musicians and vocalists concluded their set with their giant hits – "Roxanne" and "Boombastic." Called on by the enthusiastic audience, they returned to the stage two more times. They capped off the set with the lyrical "Fragile," not only sung but also beautifully played by Sting on guitar.

(c) Antyradio by Natalia Hluzow