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- Rhyl Journal
Texas open Llangollen concert series with Mike Peters tribute
The concert, on June 26, marked the opening of the Pavilion's summer season of live music.
At the encore, Spiteri, lead singer and frontwoman of the Scottish rock band, paused to remember the Welsh rocker, who died from blood cancer aged 66 on April 29.
"Before we start this song, the last time I was here with my husband Bryn was with a very special couple and very special man, Mr Mike Peters," she said, prompting a round of applause from the audience.
She went on to say: "He was a true gentleman, a great musician, a great songwriter. He was one of the kindest, truest people that I have to say I've ever met.
"He always wore his heart on his sleeve and will be very sadly missed."
Spiteri, who has been awarded an honorary doctorate for her services to music, then dedicated a rendition of Suspicious Minds to his memory.
She said to the crowd: "If you don't know if the first two chords, go home! Because you need to love this."
Posting on Facebook after the concert, Jules, Mike's wife, said: "Today has been quite the day, topped off by the perfect Sharleen Spiteri tribute tonight to our darling Michael Peters
"Thank you Texas! You Rock!
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"Hard to believe that it was only a year ago that Mike and I stood with Sharleen and husband Bryn at the side of stage to watch the Manics [Manic Street Preachers] together.
"Live Today. Love Tomorrow."
It's been 36 years since Texas first stormed the music scene with their debut hit I Don't Want A Lover.
At the packed out concert, the band delivered a powerful 90-minute set packed with fan favourites, including Halo, Hi, In Our Lifetime, Summer Son, Say What You Want, and Black Eyed Boy. Between songs, Spiteri charmed the crowd with her trademark wit and effortless rapport, adding a personal touch to an already electric night.
The music legends were supported by Rianne Downey, a Scottish singer-songwriter.
The concert series coincides with the Llangollen International Eisteddfod, which begins on July 8.
Texas were the first of 13 headline acts set to perform at the North Wales venue. Other confirmed headliners include Rag'n'Bone Man, UB40 featuring Ali Campbell, James, The Script, Olly Murs, and The Human League.
The concerts are part of a collaboration between Live Nation promoters Cuffe and Taylor and the Llangollen International Eisteddfod.
TK Maxx Presents Live at Llangollen Pavilion continues on Friday (June 28) with headliner Rag'n'Bone Man. The triple BRIT Award and Ivor Novello Award winner will be joined by blues star Elles Bailey.
