Locals stoked to meet Ginny

JOY: Dantaye Simpson (15) meeting Ginny Blackmore.

Last week crowds gathered in The Square to relax and listen to some great Kiwi music from artists including Ginny Blackmore.

The Summer Concert funded by the Palmerston North City Council, Destination Manawatu, Central Energy Trust and Student City put on a great show for locals as we rolled into autumn.

Artists Libby Offord, Amy Hunt, Stevie Tonks, Mae Valley and Drax Project joined Ginny Blackmore to perform original music and all-time favourites.

Blackmore, a Sony music recording artist, was the main act of the day and sang songs never heard live before from her new album Over the Moon. She also sang her debut number one double-platinum single, Bones, as well as songs from Adele and Ed Sheeran.

All-time Blackmore fan Dantaye Simpson said she was over the moon about getting to meet the star on her birthday.

"It was the best birthday ever. I love all her music and think she is awesome."

It was Blackmore's first time singing in Palmerston North and she said she loved it.

"I love gigs in relaxed places like Palmerston North. The crowd was fun and had a mix of beautiful children in the front showing amazing support."

Blackmore currently lives in Los Angeles and was lucky enough to have been on holiday in New Zealand at the time of the concert.

She writes all her music from her own experiences and admires Lauren Hill as an artist.

Event organiser Tony McLaughlin said they got the best artists they could this year and were thrilled to get Ginny to perform.

"It was a great day out for everyone and was a great vehicle for local original artists to get involved."

The event is an annual event and Mr McLaughlin encourages more people to come along next year to show their support.