review | rachel chinouriri live in london

Schön!’s 2024 Rising Star Rachel Chinouriri is one of the UK’s most promising emerging artists. Blending indie, soul, and alternative pop with deeply contemplative and thoughtful lyrics, her music spans themes of identity, self-love and the complexity of relationships. Chinouriri’s new album What A Devastating Turn Of Events has captivated fans and critics alike. Raised in Croydon, Chinouriri has earned comparisons to artists such as Lianne La Havas and Arlo Parks.

On 16 November, she closed her UK tour in breathtaking fashion at London’s O2 Forum Kentish Town. Chinouriri delivered a show that was equal parts celebration and heart-wrenching introspection. With the stage glowing in soft pink hues, each song was met with thunderous applause from her enamoured fanbase. Chinouriri shared heartfelt reflections and adorable anecdotes in between songs, revealing her beautiful journey with self-acceptance and resilience, something the crowd resonated with deeply.

Highlights of the show included a surprise appearance from singer Cat Burns who joined Rachel for a soulful duet of their song Even. Chinouriri truly set her show apart from the rest when she asked the audience to close their eyes and participate in some collective mindfulness. The packed crowd fell into a meditative hush and the venue felt like it entered an elevated spiritual plane when Chinouriri asked the room to visualise nature and to focus on love and gratitude.

Sitting on the edge of the stage, her storytelling prowess shined brightly during her acoustic ballad So My Darling. She went on to share the story behind the breakout song, recalling a crush she had aged nine. Chinouriri closed the show with fan favourite Never Need Me by standing in the centre of the crowd surrounded by fans looking at her with awe and affection. The interaction felt like a shared promise between artist and listener, ending the night with an emotional farewell. It was an unforgettable experience that showcased Chinouriri’s ability to connect to her fans on an intimate level offering a night of music, unity and emotional catharsis. If you weren’t a fan at the start, the show had you leaving as one.