We are both longtime fans of Ms Stefani and seeing her with Eve as her opener held the promise of live versions of their decade old collaborations. We were not disappointed.  Gwen Stefani held thousands rapt and eager for more at Toronto’s Molson Amphitheatre. All views, whether lawn or seating, were powerful and the pop (formerly punk) princess was regal as ever.    

    
    Rich Girl was a highlight and I surprised myself ( and Allia) by knowing all the lyrics to Eve’s rap breakdown. 

   Stefani’s candour and gratitude to her fans was charming and sincere, hinting at how much her career has helped get her back to a place in the sun and onto her feet after quite a dark year; maybe this is part of her appeal- she may have it all, but man,  she has been through the ringer, clawed her way back and, as she always has, proved she is still a business woman, an artist, a brand in her own right, and she is still, thirty years into her career able to put on a killer show../ and she can hustle. 

It was also wonderful to see Eve step back into the spotlight. What a great duo to share stager one.  I can’t believe how many songs of theirs I know, and how many have been part of my own journey. 

  Shake your tambourine!   

  Always lovely: At Toronto concerts, you are as likely to see cuddly queer couples as you are to see straight folks, all snuggled and sprawled amidst families and groups of friends on picnic blankets. At left: a hugging pair of punk rock gay boys who clearly came out to support E. V. E.      

 Show footage