Love BN1 Fest

Preston Park, Brighton

Sunday

ENTHUSIASTIC music lovers were back in Preston Park on Sunday, eager for more great entertainment.

Hometown girl Grace Carter opened proceedings and, despite this being her biggest Brighton show to date, she was unfazed by the occasion.

The rising star of the British music scene powered through some of her emotion-laden hits and while they may not be party anthems the crowd seemed to enjoy them.

Next up were the House Gospel Choir – a regular in the Pride line up – who provided a soulful entry to the mid-afternoon.

Scottish star Nina Nesbitt then got the crowd moving.

Along with Grace Carter she is a shining light in the UK’s pop scene and could be set for big things.

X Factor winners Rak-Su had the daunting task of warming up the crowd for the headliners but went into the show with a smile and looked as if they were having the time of their lives.

But most people in the crowd were there for the Grace Jones and Jessie J.

The inimitable Ms Jones was up first. At 71 she still puts on a stunning and unique show and fans went into a social media frenzy to praise her. “The genius that is Grace Jones,” said one. “The best performance ever. I can’t believe you’re playing here – you should be headlining.”

She appeared in a PVC bodice and flowing blonde wig and later astounded the crowd with her hula-hooping skills.

Jessie J brought an unforgettable Pride weekend to a close with a string of hits such as Bang Bang, Domino and Price Tag.

She also found time to deliver a series of inspiring speeches to youngsters in the crowd, telling them “it’s OK to be vulnerable” and that they should always be themselves.

As a cascade of rainbow confetti showered the crowd at the end of the show she joked: “I didn’t know I had the budget for this.”