Gary Barlow has called on Leona Lewis to join his forthcoming Music Played By Humans Tour.
The Take That frontman had been set to hit the road with Beverley Knight during the summer but, after pushing the dates amid the pandemic, she was forced to pull out of the gigs.
It’s not all bad news, however, as the Incredible singer has tapped Leona to open the shows, which kick off in Belfast on November 27th and run for 15 performances in 13 cities around the UK and Ireland.
“I’m so happy to have Leona join the tour next year, she’s such a talented singer,” says Gary. “I’ve missed performing so much this year, I’m just really looking forward to getting out there and seeing everyone again.
“I’m excited to think about how the new songs on the album will sound live and with an audience. I can’t wait to see you all next year!”
Leona adds: “I am overjoyed to be invited to join Gary Barlow next year on what’s set to be an incredible tour. I am a huge fan of Gary’s and I can’t wait to share the stage with him and bring back the magic of a live show!
“I’ve missed performing so much and am counting down the days until I can be back on the stage singing with my fans who have continued to be amazing throughout this crazy year. See you soon!”
According to a press release, the Music Played By Humans Tour will take inspiration from the orchestral and big band music – a theme central to the LP, which topped the UK charts following its November 2020 release.
Full dates for Gary Barlow: Music Played By Humans – The Tour:
27 November Belfast SSE Arena
28 November Dublin 3Arena
30 November Aberdeen P&J Live Arena
1 December Glasgow The SSE Hydro
2 December Sheffield FlyDSA Arena
5 December Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
6 December Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
7 December Nottingham Motorpoint Arena
9 December Manchester AO Arena
10 December Birmingham Resorts Arena
11 December Leeds First Direct Arena
13 December Liverpool M&S Bank Arena
16 December London The O2
17 December London The O2
18 December Newcastle Utilita Arena
Tickets for all shows are available here.
The news comes after Gary revealed he’s “loved” being at home so much during the pandemic he’s considering putting his foot down when it comes to future live shows.
“In the past, I would do 150 flights a year. I’d sometimes not bother unpacking my suitcase because I’d be gone again in a few days,” he shared.
“After this year, I don’t want to go back to doing what I used to do. I mean, I have really loved being at home. I’ve really loved having enough time to be around everyone and enjoy them.”