Review by Tom Roberts
The Hub at St Mary’s, Lichfield — 6th March 2026
Guy Chambers is perhaps best known for his long-standing collaboration with Robbie Williams, having penned many of the singer’s biggest hits. Over the years he has also worked with an impressive list of artists, including Tina Turner, Kylie Minogue and Melanie C. With such a remarkable career behind him, his appearance at The Hub at St Mary’s was always likely to draw a full house.
Seated at the grand piano, Chambers performed stripped-back keyboard versions of some of his best-known songs, interspersed with anecdotes about his early career and behind-the-scenes stories from his time working with some of the biggest names in music. He was refreshingly candid too about the stars he didn’t always see eye-to-eye with, the sort of insider insight audiences always enjoy.
The second half of the evening offered a unique twist, inviting an audience member to come on stage and ‘co-write’ a song. A brave volunteer named Jo stepped forward, and together they shaped a verse and chorus inspired by Jo’s own words and experiences. It was a quick but fascinating glimpse into the craft of songwriting.
Another highlight was the announcement of the winner of The Hub’s Young Songwriter Prize. Earlier that afternoon, Chambers had spent time offering feedback to the five finalists; Sam Hollis, Rory Black, Cloudy Galvez, Christie Reeves and Holly Rolfe – all presenting songs of an impressively high standard.
Choosing a winner was clearly no easy task, but the prize ultimately went to 17-year-old Rory Black. Rory then performed a superb rendition of his winning song, Who Would I Be?, before closing the show with a memorable version of Angels, accompanied by Chambers at the piano — a real “pinch me” moment for the young songwriter.
It would have been wonderful to hear the other finalists perform as part of the evening too, but there is little doubt that all five talented artists have exciting journeys ahead.
Rory Black will return to The Hub at St Mary’s on April 16 as part of The Acoustic Lounge Introduces…, alongside Sarah Riches, Sheena Vultaggio, Bryan Brindley and Rory Black.
Tickets for The Acoustic Lounge Introduces… are available at: thehubstmarys.co.uk/
