Liverpool’s newly-signed singer Chelcee Grimes took centre stage at the ‘Big Time Ball’, headlining a hometown performance.
The sold-out event took place at the O2 Academy with some guest appearances from the cast of ‘Desperate Scousewives’ and ‘The Only Way Is Essex’.
Speaking to JMU Journalism, Chelcee, 19, said: “I haven’t played a proper show at the academy since last year or the year before. It was the first place I ever played and was very different as I didn’t have any fans waiting for me outside. There has been kids today waiting from 10am, which is insane.”
Since deciding to pursue a career in music at the age of 16, Chelcee has played many shows around the UK, many without payment. Last year she finally bagged a record deal with major label Sony RCA. where she now sits alongside artists such as Beyonce and Britney Spears.
The singer-songwriter from Wavertree, who was determined to be signed by the time she turned 18, opted not to go down the route of talent shows such as the X Factor, with the belief that it is good to gain experience.
Chelcee said: “I like the fact that I’ve performed for like, ten people, and worked my way up to performing at places like the Liverpool Echo Arena. It’s been good to go through rejection and I’d rather really work for it.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taXY62khM6w
Chelcee performed her own songs on the night, with a cover of Jessie J’s latest hit ‘Domino’ also gaining a roaring reaction from the crowd.
Jessie J has in fact recognised Chelcee’s talents and, during a performance at the Cavern Club last month, she brought Chelcee to the stage for a duet. Chelcee said: “I was front row and she got me on stage. To have someone at that level saying I’ve got talent and to let me perform my own song as well, it’s surreal.”
Speaking about her most valued lesson to date, Chelcee said: “I’ve learned to just never expect anything, always work hard and don’t rely on others. A lot of people said it wouldn’t happen for me.”