An Evening with Greatness: Dionne Warwick at The Anvil, Basingstoke

From the moment I took my seat in the audience, I felt a deep sense of honour and awe. There she was—Dionne Warwick at The Anvil, the voice behind timeless classics like "That's What Friends Are For" and "Do You Know the Way to San Jose". But more than that, she was an icon, a symbol of musical history standing right before us.

The stage itself was simple, unfussy—just a settee, a table, and her band to one side. Yet it needed no extravagance, because all eyes were drawn to the elegant figure at the centre: Dionne herself and though she was dressed comfortably, tracksuit and trainers she held an air of grace. She was joined by her son Damon Elliott, also known as NomaD—a Grammy-winning producer and artist in his own right. Together, they guided us through the chapters of her life, sharing stories, laughter, and a few surprises along the way.

It was a night of nostalgia. I remember thinking throughout the performance: “WOW, I’m sitting here with a true legend.” An Evening with Greatness: Dionne Warwick at The Anvil, Basingstoke, where Dionne wasn’t just performing songs—she was opening a window into her world. We heard tales of her career, her family, and the incredible people she had met along the way. The legacy of her cousin, the late Whitney Houston, was lovingly honoured, as we shared in her pain of that experience, as were the contributions of her aunt Cissy Houston and the wider Warwick-Houston musical dynasty.

Dionne Warwick on stage at The Anvil Seated

Dionne Warwick on Stage at The Anvil with Son David

Dionne Warwick Standing Singing

There were moments where the conversation with NomaD felt a little lengthy—where I found myself wishing for just one more song. But Dionne’s charm, wit, and easy-going humour kept us engaged. Behind her, a slideshow played, offering glimpses into her six-decade career. Each image and video clip deepened the narrative, reminding us of the sheer breadth of her artistry.

One especially touching moment came when her other son, David Elliott—himself a Grammy-nominated songwriter—joined her on stage. Their duet 'I Say A Little Prayer for You' was heartfelt, and full of generational resonance. David then gave a beautiful solo performance, adding another layer to the evening's celebration of legacy and love.

Throughout the night, I kept wondering: What does it really take to be a legend? Watching Dionne, the answer was clear. It’s not just about hits or fame—it’s about presence. Despite everything she’s lived through, Dionne Warwick exudes a humble grace, a powerful gentleness that invites you in. In that space, she felt like family—Auntie Dionne, sharing her journey with warmth and laughter.

Yes, her voice isn’t what it once was. Age has softened the power, but not the soul. When she sang, even with a weaker tone, it was enough and to be honest it left me wanting more, because it became a trigger, to experience the Dionne that was once, however, acknowledging and respecting the voice of Dionne that is now. The emotion was intact. What mattered most wasn’t the perfection of the performance, but the person delivering it.

What I witnessed was more than a concert. It was a glimpse into a family legacy—one rooted in love, music, community, and faith. A story told not through spectacle, but through authenticity.

This was a night I will never forget. Not because of the celebrities she’s worked with or the accolades she’s earned, but because of who Dionne Warwick is. You can’t define greatness with charts or trophies. Greatness is humility, grace, love, passion, and faith—embodied in a woman who has lived, learned, and still chooses to give.

And I was lucky enough to be there to receive it. I would like to say a huge thank you to Angelo Ellerbee CEO & President of Double XXposure Media Relations, for arranging my tickets. To Elva Mason, Manager

EAM Talent and to David Shepherd from Neil O'Brien Entertainment,