September 12th 2024.
Florence Welch recently celebrated the 15th anniversary of her debut album, marking a milestone in her impressive career. After 15 years, five albums, and two Brit awards, Florence and the Machine has solidified their place as one of the most influential acts in the music industry. In a time where mainstream artists like Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, and Taylor Swift are dominating the charts, Florence and the Machine stands out as the blueprint for the modern-day pop girl.
One of the reasons for their success is Florence's unmatched talent in lyrics, cross-genre straddling, and capturing the eccentric but beautiful feeling of being alive. It's rare to find an artist who can command a stage with just their presence, but Florence Welch, now 38, has a captivating aura that even her silence can hold an audience in awe.
In 2009, a fresh-faced Florence released her debut indie rock/pop album, Lungs. It was a musical journey filled with exhilarating tunes, ethereal ballads, and masterful lyricism that seasoned artists can only dream of. At just 23 years old, Florence won the Brit award for Best British Album of the Year, beating out established names like Lily Allen and Dizzee Rascal. Her tracklist has stood the test of time, showcasing her undeniable talent and impact.
Since then, Florence's artistry has only grown stronger. Commercially, she consistently proves herself to be a force to be reckoned with, with all of her albums entering the top 10 on the UK charts, including her latest pop-rock album, Dance Fever. And as her success has grown, so has her devoted fanbase.
This was evident on the morning of her BBC Proms debut, where she performed Lungs with the backing of a live orchestra. Over 20,000 people tried to snag last-minute standing tickets for Symphony of Lungs, a testament to Florence's loyal following. As I watched the mesmerized audience, it was clear that her hold over indie pop fans is as strong as ever. One friend even messaged me, saying, "What's the point of being alive if we can't see Florence live?" I completely understood because there's no experience quite like hearing her angelic yet powerful vocals in the Royal Albert Hall, accompanied by a magnificent live soundtrack.
Florence's discography has a unique ability to transcend genres and evoke a mystical, witchy vibe that fills the room. Fans dressed accordingly, with flower garlands, flowing sleeves, and earthy dresses, reflecting the nature-filled and ethereal atmosphere.
Throughout the evening, Florence's humble and genuine nature shone through as she addressed the audience between songs. She joked about the challenging vocal ranges of her songs, saying, "You only ever think you'll sing them once when you're young and drunk," before flawlessly executing every note. And as she reflected on her teenage and early 20s chaos while performing these songs with the orchestra, her gratitude and joy were palpable.
The night was a series of standing ovations, with the audience rising to their feet after most songs. And it all culminated in Florence's biggest hit, Dog Days Are Over, where she encouraged everyone to disconnect and simply exist in the moment. It was a refreshing change from the typical concert experience, where most people are watching through their phone screens. Florence's music is meant to be experienced fully immersed, and her audience knows this well.
As Florence looks towards her next era, her Proms show served as a poignant reflection on all she has achieved. She has become a true icon in the music industry, and her talent and impact will continue to inspire generations to come. So take a bow, Florence. Your Proms performance was a beautiful tribute to your artistry. For those who missed it, the Florence + The Machine Prom is available on BBC Sounds and will be broadcast on BBC TV in October. And to all her fans, keep supporting this incredible artist and her music.
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