Joy Crookes Brings Passion and Purpose to War Child BRITs Week

In the heart of Islington, at the beautifully lit Assembly Hall, Joy Crookes took to the stage for a night of soul-stirring music in aid of War Child’s BRITs Week 2025. 

The evening was not just about music - it was a gathering of purpose, with all proceeds going toward War Child’s vital work in supporting children affected by conflict. As Joy herself reminded the crowd, this was a night to celebrate music’s power to unite, heal, and advocate for change.

Opening the evening was Amie Blu, an artist whose heartfelt and earnest songwriting immediately captivated the audience. Her performance was effortless, exuding a quiet confidence that made the intimate setting feel even more personal. Sharing that she has new music on the way next month, including a track titled 'Swimming in Pity', Amie Blu’s set was an introduction to an artist who wears her emotions on her sleeve, making for a compelling start to the night.

From the moment Joy Crookes stepped on stage, it was clear that this was more than just a performance - it was a statement. With a plethora of instruments positioned on stage, from upright pianos to percussion, her setlist blended older fan-favourites with brand-new music, offering a glimpse into her ever-evolving artistry. Among the new tracks, 'Carmen' stood out as a poignant reflection on beauty standards in today’s society, delivered with her signature smoky vocals and in-depth storytelling.

One of the night’s most intimate moments came when she performed 'Don’t Let Me Down' solo - you could hear a pin drop as the audience sang softly in unison. Her ability to command the space - whether in stripped-back moments or with the full force of her band behind her - was undeniable.

Joy’s band brought the music to life with impeccable musicianship, each member locked in with one another to create a rich and immersive sound. Their synergy was particularly striking on a brand new track Joy introduced as a deceptively upbeat song that, in her words, is actually “a fuck off to mental health issues.” It was a testament to her knack for blending meaningful lyricism with dynamic instrumentation.

Her upcoming single, 'I Know You’d Kill', was another highlight of the set - a track about loyalty and the people who ground her. But perhaps the most moving moment of the evening came when she dedicated 'Forever' to the children affected by war. The song, taken from her forthcoming album, felt especially poignant in the context of the night’s purpose, reinforcing why War Child’s work is so crucial.

Joy Crookes’ performance at Islington Assembly Hall was a powerful reminder of why music matters not just as an art form, but as a force for change. With her soulful voice, unwavering authenticity, and a setlist that balanced personal storytelling with social consciousness, she left the audience not only in awe but inspired. As War Child continues its mission to support children in conflict zones, nights like these prove that music can be both a refuge and a rallying cry for those who need it most.

Olivia Judd

@oliviacjudd

Image: Bethan McConnell

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