Madonna Applauds Self Esteem’s Theatrical Performance Ahead of Album Release
Madonna recently attended a performance of Self Esteem’s latest theatrical show in London, showering the artist with praise for her exceptional talents. The pop icon’s enthusiastic endorsement came during Self Esteem’s five special presentations of her upcoming album, A Complicated Woman, held at the Duke of York’s Theatre from April 16 to 19.
Upcoming Album and Performance Highlights
Self Esteem, whose real name is Rebecca Lucy Taylor, is set to release her third solo album, A Complicated Woman, on April 25 through Polydor Records. This much-anticipated project follows her critically acclaimed second album, Prioritise Pleasure, which garnered nominations for both a Mercury Prize and a BRIT Award in 2021. Madonna, attending the penultimate show on a sold-out night, shared her experience on Instagram, noting her enjoyment of Self Esteem’s performance amidst other Easter weekend activities.
Easter weekend looked like…🐰🐰 Spending time with friends and family, Watching Chelsea lose to Legia Warszawa. 😩 and seeing an Incredible Artist named @selfesteemselfesteem perform!! 🇬🇧
Artistic Inspirations and Influences
In previous statements, Taylor has mentioned Madonna as a significant influence on her artistic direction. Reflecting on her last album’s promotional era, she stated, “For the whole of this ‘Prioritise Pleasure’ era, the ‘Blonde Ambition’ tour is the blueprint,” crediting Madonna’s iconic 1990 tour for its stylistic inspiration.
Self Esteem expressed her admiration for the blending of styles, emphasizing how the fusion of lingerie and menswear within performances deeply resonates with her creative expression.
A Unique Theatrical Experience
The performance, designed by Taylor in collaboration with Tony Award-winning designer Tom Scutt, was described as an “ambitious quasi-theatrical experience.” It merges the energy of live music with theatrical storytelling. Scutt, who also directed the show, crafted an engaging visual and auditory experience, complemented by choreography from Stuart Rogers and musical direction by Mike Park.
Future Plans: Tours and New Directions
Looking ahead, Self Esteem is gearing up for a UK and Ireland tour starting this September. The tour will kick off in Birmingham and include stops in major cities such as Edinburgh, Newcastle, Glasgow, Dublin, Manchester, Bristol, and Brighton. The artist will also perform two shows at the O2 Academy Brixton in London and a significant homecoming concert at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
Challenges and Growth in the Music Industry
In recent discussions, Self Esteem highlighted her desire to diversify her career beyond music due to the pressures and stressors that have accompanied her last release, Prioritise Pleasure. She shared with The Times her goal to achieve financial independence in the industry, stating, “All I want is to no longer rely on anyone.” To foster her ambitions, she is currently taking on various artistic roles, including the lead in a West End production of Cabaret alongside Jake Shears from the Scissor Sisters.
Conclusion
With the release of A Complicated Woman just on the horizon, alongside her theatrical performances and upcoming tour, Self Esteem is creating a significant impact in the music and arts scene. As she navigates the complexities of the music industry, her ability to draw on personal influences and innovate in her performances continues to engage her growing audience.