Underground to iconic: Lizzo, Live in London

It’s been four long years since Lizzo last played in London and, in that time, she’s gone from underground to iconic. From Ru Paul’s Drag Race to Teen Vogue - and a huge tour with Haim - it seems as though Lizzo has been everywhere apart from London and it’s clear that she’s been missed. The atmosphere is electric and with baited breath we wait for the infamous chime of opener “Fitness”; instantaneously we forget all our woes and dance like nobody’s watching. Her show is immaculately choreographed and, flanked by long time collaborator DJ Sophia Eris and dancers The Big Girls, we are treated to a fast paced set: “Phone” is fantastic while “En Love” sees Eris come down from the decks to show off her own moves.

Tonight we are not only a crowd but, instead, a choir and comrades: with added call and response “Deep” is defiant while “Scuse Me” is an anthemic ode to self-love. Word for word we know her hits and new single “Boys” is no exception; the crowd bubbles along brilliantly waiting for her to name each boy they’ve ever known and loved. Nothing can hold Lizzo back, and it’s clear that she’s a triple threat: she can sing, dance and play an instrument. “Coconut Oil” sees her bring out special guest Hermione – her flute – only to play the intro perfectly and, after a twerk tutoria,l it seems like there’s no end to her talents.

There’s no denying that Lizzo puts on an amazing show however, it’s in the more serious moments you realize that she’s the breath of fresh air we’ve been waiting for. After an emotional and empowering speech we stand stunned by “My Skin”; switching between singing and rapping we are united by her lyrics. “Truth Hurts” is fun yet fierce while “Good As Hell” takes us to church and back; we toss our hair, check our nails and dance with our newfound friends.

Returning for a well-deserved encore, Lizzo is unsure what to play: “We don’t have any other songs, unless you want to hear Phone again?”. Like stubborn children we scream out for deep cut “Batches and Cookies” and Sophia Eris finally takes centre stage to rap her verse. Promoting positivity, tonight’s performance is bold and brave and the perfect re-introduction to Lizzo. With her eagerly awaited album sure to come out soon, Lizzo doesn’t need a crown to know that she is already a queen.