Watching this performance takes me back to-being a young boy In my home townLiverpool uk.I wasn’t going to walk in my old man’s boots down a mine shaft in all that dust and danger.I choose to leave find safer pastures.Little did I know that at 65 .So to speak would be about me.This man produces material that opens your heart fills it full passion and love.One of a kind this man.That’s the way are from old industrial north west and north east of England.I have not long left now but one thing I know that sing will be singing at my funeral.
I cannot adequately express my awe of Sting's evolution as an artist. The songs in this cycle are moving ("So To Speak"), hopeful ("And Yet"), and heartbreaking ("A Practical Arrangement") and show what happens when a naturally gifted artist continues on his chosen path, past the success and glory, and works harder than ever thereafter to hone his craft. What the world wants is often not the best an artist can give, and too many trade their real potential for gold and step off the path and recline in comfort (as well they may). But the occasional, rare artist never stops learning and working and struggling to get better. Sting is such an artist and I'd wager his finest work is yet to come . . .
"A Practical Arrangement" -how is this the one they cut !?! Every listening brings me so much joy. My shipyard town in Weymouth, Mass. hasn’t the charm of Geordie Newcastle, but my late 50’s & early 60’s childhood knows these characters and transforms boots up & down Tyneside into Chevy and Fords etc. heading on home past Wessagussett Beach 🚩🏴🏁🏳️🏴☠️
I saw it in Salt Lake City and just by luck Sting was there, and holy cow he sat right in front of me! I could smell his cologne! The audience cheered and called bravo and clapped...the play was received very well here. People in Salt Lake appreciate culture and the fine arts. Every performance was sold out! I was moved by the cast and their energy! Can't stop listening to this!
17-time Grammy Award-winner Sting will return to Broadway’s Supper Club 54 BELOW alongside members of the original Broadway cast and orchestra of his Tony® Award nominated musical THE LAST SHIP to celebrate the show’s 10th anniversary on 4 November 2024 at 7pm and 9:30pm.
Next week I'm going to visit this show for the 5th time, I'm so lucky. Thanks to my visits during the last 4 years, I could befriend almost the entire German ensemble, we are always happy to see each other after the show. They're really doing "The Last Ship" justice and bringing out all of its beauty.
Really love Sting’s childhood memory of being acknowledged by the queen. I had a very similar experience watching him during his Broken Music tour. Somehow I netted tickets just 6 rows from stage, and during one of the songs I was singing along and clapping overhead, lost in the experience, when Sting looked right at me and smiled. Star struck, I stopped clapping and gaped, and he nodded toward me and motioned for me to resume.... I’ll never forget that experience!
In times like these I'm really grateful for modern technology and the ability to listen to such beautiful "live" music in the comfort of my own living room. This video is truly amazing.
For those of us who were able to enjoy the performance of Sting’s ‘The Last Ship’ at the Sage, Gateshead 10th Anniversary Concert in April, can I say what a privilege it was. Sting’s genius for fusing powerful lyric with sensitive, wistful melody was there to be savoured, but the fact that the whole work was anchored and reflective of a time in Tyneside’s great maritime history - and, sadly, its subsequent decline - was one which would have a profound effect upon the individuals and communities living alongside our great river. There were obviously many at the concert(s) who were savouring the music just for what it was, but for others - of which I am one - those days can be recalled. During the 50’s, part of my childhood was spent in Walker and the dominance of the Shipyards on that and adjacent Wallsend was overwhelming, and inescapable. As a child I well recall lying in bed unable to get to sleep as great metallic ‘clangs' could be heard accompanied by the ‘rat-a-tat' of riveter’s hammers, as plates of iron were forged into the carcass of a leviathan. Flashes of light would permeate the curtains, not due to any heavenly source, but to the myriad arcs of welders as they stitched their creations together (those who were there will recall too, the unforgettable stench of the ‘Boneyard’ when boiling was taking place - a redolence I can still, even to this day, bring to my nostrils…..). Set in that context 'The Last Ship’ and Sting’s skill in juxtaposing it with his personal journey through those times, make compelling musical theatre. As for the production, he brought together an ensemble composed of both local and international musicians who I felt were not solely going about their profession, but had bought into the whole concept. It really felt as though the rock star - Geordie lad made good - was performing ‘back home for his people……’. A wonderful, unforgettable experience. Dr Keith Mitchell Choppington, Northumberland
+Keith Mitchell Thank you for sharing your personal history and unique perspective of this production by Sting. I wish I had had an opportunity to see it in person.
This brings a tear to my eye. What a beautiful suite of music, so masterfully performed by the band and Mssrs Sumner and Nail. Sting has to be about the only mainstream rock star I could think of who would even try to write something as (relatively) esoteric and as parochial as this, and yet pull it off with such universal aplomb.
So good, so emotional, love this so much. As a bloke from hebburn which is just across the tyne from wallsend, i have so many memories, my first job interview was at Swan Hunters, i walked through the predestian tunnel to get there, My dad was a sparky there (electrian). I did not get the job as i did not have enough qualifications. (too thick i think). Strange coincidence is my kids went to Miss Tickells schools, she was the head mistress at Goathland school in Longbenton, I seen Peter Tickell live there and he was just amazing, again such fond memories. sorry to bore you ,
The opening song is one of the most beautiful tributes to anything I have ever heard. makes me feel every emotion and sound and the smell of the sea. and i'm not even from the UK. what a masterpiece.
We were lucky enough to see him perform this live in Toronto. I agree this is probably Sting's greatest work and although it's had some problems commercially I think this musical will only gain popularity over time and we'll go down as one of the best musicals ever.
I saw this last night. It was tremendous. It is a testament to Sting as a man as well. He could have owned the stage. He wrote it. He is Sting, after all. That he is not the main character, that he is not on the stage at every turn, let the story focus on the people. The other actors could also be as powerful as Sting can be, because he was able to back off. To see such greatness combined with such humility is rare.
The Last Ship Sails is such an amazing, layered metaphor of a song. Not many write or even sing about death. Yet sting brings that sting of death right into our ears and down into our soul. And oh, how I love the way he brings royalty into it as well, reminding us that no matter how small or great one is, we all must make our final departure, woe betide if we're late, 'til the last ship sails. An incredible song (and album), by an incredible artist.
I am wondering..I am disturbed... I listen to this 5-8 times a day for two weeks now, and still counting. Is this some kind of new sickness, or what? I know that when I find a genius album or a song I play it A LOT...until it starts running in my veins, but this is total crazy! My first time I think. I just can`t have enough and every time is like the first. Every story, every joke is still touching and funny. Yes, I am infected. May be this is a sickness called shipness...or stingness I don`t know. But am not looking for a cure...yet. Thank you for uploading it!
And me! One of the most moving performances I've ever experienced so skillfully delivered by all the Performers. I identify with this play. I'm a working class nobody & I've known these people! Brilliant,thank you!
I had a depression and the only thing that could make me sleep and relax was this. So i put it on at least twice a day for over a year. Im 110% sure that Sting fixed my depression.
I just came across this by chance and could not turn it off! I loved the story and the music. Thank you Sting for sharing memories of your youth and the people around the shipyard in such an eloquent way❤️ I will listen to it over and over again!
Quite how it's taken me so long to discover this I don't know but as a homesick Geordie whose grandfather worked in the shipyards it's a wonderful tribute.
I've been listening to Sting/Police since the late 1970's and I think this is his greatest work. It's so moving..I'm speechless and emotional listening to this
This means so so much to me for i used to be a paper boy selling papers both in the morning and then again in the evening to the ship yard workers exactly at the same yard sting is singing about, when the men finished work the amount of men coming up that hill from the slipway used to make the ground shake, it was manic, god i miss those days so very much.
Mesmerizing! If Sting were a wine, he would be a "grand cru", getting better and better throughout the years. This production is a gem not only for the tremendous talents displayed but especially for the human stories depicted, with Sting as a bright shining star in its midst. I for one, am truly glad that he had the courage to leave his hometown and seek his fortune elsewhere. Yes, it cost him a lot but the world would have been deprived of so much richness. Thank you, Sting, for sharing so much of yourself with a simplicity that speaks directly to our souls!
I feel like he is at least genuine, and without excess drama. No more or less than any other talented artist. God doesn't live in houses built by human hands. At least someone is aware? The ides of March
Sting is at his best here as regards his storytelling through melody and lyrics, his exposure of his Newcastle roots and singing ostensibly in his own native voice is brave and raw.
I know that Sting is a versatile artist, singer, instrumentalist, songwriter, and therefore, this work is wonderful, a masterpiece of a life that is so rich, gifted and proof that music is the perfect language to give all life's stories. Well done Sting!
i remember 20 years ago when is was 14 watching a ship being launched from the ship yard in Wallsend. shame al the work has gone now. hope he bring this show to his home town can't wait to see it.
if i was asked who 's the happiest man in the world i'd answer Sting , he's probably the best song writter et one of the greatest poetes of our time, he met the greatest ( and humble) peoples at the peack of their art and share whith intensity the richness of what he became through all these years : a real man strong and wise never selfish nor egotic...who could had foreseen this at the time of Police ??
I worked in this shipyard and Sting is right about singing workmen. The bare metal rooms invited themselves to a good ole sing. As an apprentice I once thought I was alone, at the bottom of the ship, and sang "All by myself" Nillson, and this bull of a guy popped out of nowhere and laughed, "Now ya not!" I was so embarrassed. I had to carry on singing as though i didn't mind. Then more blokes arrived and we all had a sing off competition until a gaffer was spotted, approaching. Haha. I could write a play myself about my life in the shipyards in Geordieland but I'm glad Sting, Brian and Jimmy did it first.
What a wonderful story, Stuart! Hope you do decide to write them down, even if others came first! And post them here for us all to enjoy. By the way, what does ""Now ya not!" mean?
Ah, thank God and all Her wonderful Spirits for artists that speak and share the human experience. Sting just keeps getting better and becoming more interesting.
totally agree. I rarely pay attention to celebrities or their utterances, but Sting inspires me to get older with some dignity and grace. We need our oldies to believe in themselves and bypass the media programming.
Wish I'd seen this. The music is utterly brilliant. Love Sting, LOVE Jimmy Nail. It's a pairing that oozes hard work and authenticity. The music is awe inspiring. It doesn't fit the mold of the modern musical, and therein lies it's beauty and it's demise at the same time - making this a true work of art.
Doing a bit of homework on behalf of our clients... and was transfixed. This soulful, real, beautiful music is a testament to the community its from and about. Thank you Gordon Sumner.
This is so incredibly great and i just love it! Thank heavens that Sting found it in himself to start writing glorious music again. What I wouldn't give to see this live!
I love the way he hasn't forgotten his Geordie accent, even if he doesn't actually use it anymore. Really nice touch, making the whole performance even more genuine. Lovely!
the whole thing gave me goosebumps and practical arrangement made me cry. never have i been this moved by music before. i heard a few of the songs on stings tedx before talk and wished he would record an album
My mum, who's 81, lived in this same street, in Wallsend, was bombed in the war before being evacuated. So I forwarded this and she... adored it. Like Bjork or Freddie or Bob, his is a unique voice, underpinned by a deep talent. But it's the voice.
More than ever do we need true art to remember who we are, lest they convince us we are something completely other, unrecognizable, post human transhuman, robotlike. God bless Sting and his future endevours.
Incredible album. The more I listen to it, the more I like it. Definitely the musical highlight for me in 2013! I would've loved to see this show. I'd also love to see the actual play and observe its differences from the album.
I was born and raised in South Shields. My grandparents on both sides were impoverished by the closing of the Tyneside ship yards, though both travelled across the country and the globe to support my parents, rather than staying home and whining about lack of employment opportunities - a common occurrence that was so pervasive I remember getting taught about it history lessons at school. What I love here is that despite his obvious absence, Sting has caught an accurate memory in respect of the economic trauma my hometown was subjected to by successive negligent governments. I've heard so many familiar tales about the shipbuilding industry from family and family friends, everything addressed here has a beautiful resonance - and has captured so many specific nuances local to Tyneside folks exposed to that generation of hard working folks. I wish this had done better at the box office; as a professional sound tech often called to work in theatres locally - I see far too much un-stageworthy rubbish, which more often than not attracts absurdly high ticket prices from tasteless consumers. The best thing about Sting's musical here is how he doesn't pander to the cloying sentimentality of so much work done by "local" artists, on the same subject matter. The lack of economic prosperity in the NorthbEast of England has become tired and lazy subject matter for artists working locally in all artistic spheres, especially musical genres. These days I mostly get close to the Tyneside pride as expressed here, via the frequent funerals of family and friends I'm obliged to attend. I think "The Last Ship" is a beautiful and fitting tribute to a Tyneside mostly forgotten, without any of the cloying sentimentality which characterises most artistic attempts to capture this important period in our local history. Thanks for posting the video, Guy Graham.
Just saw this musical in LA. Heard some mixed reviews and didn’t expect much (even though I’m a big Sting fan) but was blown away! I can’t explain but totally connected with this. Downloaded the music and have been constantly listening to it. My family history started on the Mayflower and routed in England and Ireland...this music hits me in my heart. Thank you Sting!
Truer words never spoken. :) The songs that almost well me up are 'Practical Arrangement' and 'So To Speak'. :) It's a real shame the musical collaborators decided against 'Practical Arrangement'. Not sure if 'What Say You Meg?' is catching on to me yet. :s
Love him or hate him, you gotta have respect for his works. I can understand why people accuse Sting of being pretentious - but that's what theater is. So you gotta applaud Sting for this performance for taking a chance. It's why he is an artist, because he takes chances. It would be easier and more profitable to just keep playing the same commercialized hits over and over living off of the royalties. Or just keep repeating rewriting the same old song like Nickel back because it keeps selling to change the track title and lyrics. He is definitely one of the most talented performers out their right now and is under-rated because he doesn't stick to pop.
Just recently discovered this Album and absolutely love it! Listened to it while I was packing up and moving. Also great to listen to while cleaning. It'll make you dance around and just feel happy!
This sounds incredible.. it is SO rich The Hired Man.. Come From Away.. The Pogues.. and of course that undeniable Sting Stamp of melodic excellence.. seeing this in Nottingham in May.. already weeping!!
I love this Album, for me one of the best, because I,m a german Seaman, long, long time ago! It was a good time!! Say thank you for this Song, and greetings to all engl. Sailors and shipbuilders!!
Great music.......and lyrics, as always. Great vehicle to pay homage to the hard working people who never really had a choice. Thanks to all the collaborators.
Saw the pre Broadway run show in Chicago and was blown away. The whole cast was nothing short of amazing. Was able to find the original soundtrack on cd a few years ago.
why does this resonate so much to me...bnw pictures...60s...industrial england "atmosphere"...factories and ships? Just dont know why. Eversince Dream Of The Blue Turtles came out, I'm instantly magnetized by its atmosphere. Same with Nothing Like The Sun, Soul Cages, Nada Como El Sol, Bring On The Night, Ten Summoner's Tales...went to a diff path...and now this...Sting have always evoked the deepest longings of my soul. Great renaissance being.
Watching this performance takes me back to-being a young boy In my home townLiverpool uk.I wasn’t going to walk in my old man’s boots down a mine shaft in all that dust and danger.I choose to leave find safer pastures.Little did I know that at 65 .So to speak would be about me.This man produces material that opens your heart fills it full passion and love.One of a kind this man.That’s the way are from old industrial north west and north east of England.I have not long left now but one thing I know that sing will be singing at my funeral.
Sting's finest hour, this album is an outstanding masterpiece
I cannot adequately express my awe of Sting's evolution as an artist. The songs in this cycle are moving ("So To Speak"), hopeful ("And Yet"), and heartbreaking ("A Practical Arrangement") and show what happens when a naturally gifted artist continues on his chosen path, past the success and glory, and works harder than ever thereafter to hone his craft. What the world wants is often not the best an artist can give, and too many trade their real potential for gold and step off the path and recline in comfort (as well they may). But the occasional, rare artist never stops learning and working and struggling to get better. Sting is such an artist and I'd wager his finest work is yet to come . . .
Great comment Kenny !!! ☺
To me, his greatest work was The Soul Cages.
Winter Album is the gem
@@lukastomes1376 exactly the same thing I just wanted to write, my beloved winter and Christmas album
Well said. I'm blown away by Sting's incredible talent and his evolution.
It's so mooving. This is for le Sting ( Gordon) so personal , telling un his youth. I love it ❤ super rock star become human and so touching .....
"A Practical Arrangement" -how is this the one they cut !?!
Every listening brings me so much joy. My shipyard town in Weymouth, Mass. hasn’t the charm of Geordie Newcastle, but my late 50’s & early 60’s childhood knows these characters and transforms boots up & down Tyneside into Chevy and Fords etc. heading on home past Wessagussett Beach 🚩🏴🏁🏳️🏴☠️
I agree; it was my favorite song next to the opening theme; so poignant! Why on earth would they not keep it??
The whole show had its personality removed unfortunately
blows my goddamn mind how good the last ship is. The opener and reprise are among my absolute favorite Sting songs. They feel so large and epic.
the most elegant Rockstar that ever lived.
Yes! Elegant! Can't wait he gets the Sir title!
_"Show some respect"_ is the cure for depression!!!
So much energy and Power!!!! 👍🏻♥️
I saw it in Salt Lake City and just by luck Sting was there, and holy cow he sat right in front of me! I could smell his cologne! The audience cheered and called bravo and clapped...the play was received very well here. People in Salt Lake appreciate culture and the fine arts. Every performance was sold out! I was moved by the cast and their energy! Can't stop listening to this!
It's a shame that this show wasn't a success. I'd loved to have seen it live.
I loved "The Last Ship" on Broadway and it was beautifully moving
@matildeleo7641
Luckyyyyy
I saw it in stings home town
There’s a reunion show in “below 54” NYC , can you try and go ? It’s in June
17-time Grammy Award-winner Sting will return to Broadway’s Supper Club 54 BELOW alongside members of the original Broadway cast and orchestra of his Tony® Award nominated musical THE LAST SHIP to celebrate the show’s 10th anniversary on 4 November 2024 at 7pm and 9:30pm.
Next week I'm going to visit this show for the 5th time, I'm so lucky. Thanks to my visits during the last 4 years, I could befriend almost the entire German ensemble, we are always happy to see each other after the show. They're really doing "The Last Ship" justice and bringing out all of its beauty.
Really love Sting’s childhood memory of being acknowledged by the queen. I had a very similar experience watching him during his Broken Music tour. Somehow I netted tickets just 6 rows from stage, and during one of the songs I was singing along and clapping overhead, lost in the experience, when Sting looked right at me and smiled. Star struck, I stopped clapping and gaped, and he nodded toward me and motioned for me to resume.... I’ll never forget that experience!
AquaMunkee badass!!!
Some of the toughest people in this world come from Northern England. Great music performed by great musicians. Thank you Sting.
yes, thank you...we're a canny bunch...
In times like these I'm really grateful for modern technology and the ability to listen to such beautiful "live" music in the comfort of my own living room. This video is truly amazing.
For those of us who were able to enjoy the performance of Sting’s ‘The Last Ship’ at the Sage, Gateshead 10th Anniversary Concert in April, can I say what a privilege it was. Sting’s genius for fusing powerful lyric with sensitive, wistful melody was there to be savoured, but the fact that the whole work was anchored and reflective of a time in Tyneside’s great maritime history - and, sadly, its subsequent decline - was one which would have a profound effect upon the individuals and communities living alongside our great river.
There were obviously many at the concert(s) who were savouring the music just for what it was, but for others - of which I am one - those days can be recalled. During the 50’s, part of my childhood was spent in Walker and the dominance of the Shipyards on that and adjacent Wallsend was overwhelming, and inescapable.
As a child I well recall lying in bed unable to get to sleep as great metallic ‘clangs' could be heard accompanied by the ‘rat-a-tat' of riveter’s hammers, as plates of iron were forged into the carcass of a leviathan. Flashes of light would permeate the curtains, not due to any heavenly source, but to the myriad arcs of welders as they stitched their creations together (those who were there will recall too, the unforgettable stench of the ‘Boneyard’ when boiling was taking place - a redolence I can still, even to this day, bring to my nostrils…..).
Set in that context 'The Last Ship’ and Sting’s skill in juxtaposing it with his personal journey through those times, make compelling musical theatre. As for the production, he brought together an ensemble composed of both local and international musicians who I felt were not solely going about their profession, but had bought into the whole concept. It really felt as though the rock star - Geordie lad made good - was performing ‘back home for his people……’.
A wonderful, unforgettable experience.
Dr Keith Mitchell
Choppington,
Northumberland
+Keith Mitchell Thank you for sharing your personal history and unique perspective of this production by Sting. I wish I had had an opportunity to see it in person.
+speechrighter My pleasure.....
+Keith Mitchell Life time ambition, i saw Sting and Paul Simon at Gentering arena, wow.
The play is awesome seen it tonight in newcastle .
The freshness of this whole music is astonishing.
This brings a tear to my eye. What a beautiful suite of music, so masterfully performed by the band and Mssrs Sumner and Nail. Sting has to be about the only mainstream rock star I could think of who would even try to write something as (relatively) esoteric and as parochial as this, and yet pull it off with such universal aplomb.
So good, so emotional, love this so much. As a bloke from hebburn which is just across the tyne from wallsend, i have so many memories, my first job interview was at Swan Hunters, i walked through the predestian tunnel to get there, My dad was a sparky there (electrian). I did not get the job as i did not have enough qualifications. (too thick i think). Strange coincidence is my kids went to Miss Tickells schools, she was the head mistress at Goathland school in Longbenton, I seen Peter Tickell live there and he was just amazing, again such fond memories. sorry to bore you
,
Not boring at all❤
Maybe not the most popular on broadway but it takes time to appreciate what a genius has given us. A beautiful work of art.
This is a real art!!!!!!!
The opening song is one of the most beautiful tributes to anything I have ever heard. makes me feel every emotion and sound and the smell of the sea. and i'm not even from the UK. what a masterpiece.
i dont think i know any songwriter that writes more interesting music and lyrics simultaniously than this guy.
Super talented Sting nominated for a Grammy today I believe. Well deserved for this work.
No matter how many times I see this, I still feel the hairs on my body rise while listening.
We were lucky enough to see him perform this live in Toronto. I agree this is probably Sting's greatest work and although it's had some problems commercially I think this musical will only gain popularity over time and we'll go down as one of the best musicals ever.
I saw this last night. It was tremendous. It is a testament to Sting as a man as well. He could have owned the stage. He wrote it. He is Sting, after all. That he is not the main character, that he is not on the stage at every turn, let the story focus on the people. The other actors could also be as powerful as Sting can be, because he was able to back off. To see such greatness combined with such humility is rare.
The Last Ship Sails is such an amazing, layered metaphor of a song. Not many write or even sing about death. Yet sting brings that sting of death right into our ears and down into our soul. And oh, how I love the way he brings royalty into it as well, reminding us that no matter how small or great one is, we all must make our final departure, woe betide if we're late, 'til the last ship sails.
An incredible song (and album), by an incredible artist.
I am wondering..I am disturbed... I listen to this 5-8 times a day for two weeks now, and still counting. Is this some kind of new sickness, or what? I know that when I find a genius album or a song I play it A LOT...until it starts running in my veins, but this is total crazy! My first time I think. I just can`t have enough and every time is like the first. Every story, every joke is still touching and funny. Yes, I am infected. May be this is a sickness called shipness...or stingness I don`t know. But am not looking for a cure...yet. Thank you for uploading it!
Same here! :)
And me! One of the most moving performances I've ever experienced so skillfully delivered by all the Performers. I identify with this play. I'm a working class nobody & I've known these people! Brilliant,thank you!
I had a depression and the only thing that could make me sleep and relax was this. So i put it on at least twice a day for over a year. Im 110% sure that Sting fixed my depression.
It’s a beautiful album
Simply stung!
I just came across this by chance and could not turn it off! I loved the story and the music. Thank you Sting for sharing memories of your youth and the people around the shipyard in such an eloquent way❤️ I will listen to it over and over again!
Sting wielki artysta i wspanialy czlowiek❤❤❤❤❤
Sting: Every breath you take... I'll be watching you! One of my favourite artists.
I don't care how many times I listened to this perfection, but I will keep on loving it forever!!!!!
Quite how it's taken me so long to discover this I don't know but as a homesick Geordie whose grandfather worked in the shipyards it's a wonderful tribute.
Powerfully emotional performance....true artistic genius 🎸🎤💯💯
I've been listening to Sting/Police since the late 1970's and I think this is his greatest work.
It's so moving..I'm speechless and emotional listening to this
This means so so much to me for i used to be a paper boy selling papers both in the morning and then again in the evening to the ship yard workers exactly at the same yard sting is singing about, when the men finished work the amount of men coming up that hill from the slipway used to make the ground shake, it was manic, god i miss those days so very much.
Mesmerizing! If Sting were a wine, he would be a "grand cru", getting better and better throughout the years. This production is a gem not only for the tremendous talents displayed but especially for the human stories depicted, with Sting as a bright shining star in its midst. I for one, am truly glad that he had the courage to leave his hometown and seek his fortune elsewhere. Yes, it cost him a lot but the world would have been deprived of so much richness. Thank you, Sting, for sharing so much of yourself with a simplicity that speaks directly to our souls!
I feel like he is at least genuine, and without excess drama. No more or less than any other talented artist. God doesn't live in houses built by human hands. At least someone is aware? The ides of March
Lovely shanty tunes. Jordy boys
Sting is at his best here as regards his storytelling through melody and lyrics, his exposure of his Newcastle roots and singing ostensibly in his own native voice is brave and raw.
I know that Sting is a versatile artist, singer, instrumentalist, songwriter, and therefore, this work is wonderful, a masterpiece of a life that is so rich, gifted and proof that music is the perfect language to give all life's stories. Well done Sting!
Sent shivers down my spine the 1st time I heard it.......and it still does
i remember 20 years ago when is was 14 watching a ship being launched from the ship yard in Wallsend. shame al the work has gone now. hope he bring this show to his home town can't wait to see it.
if i was asked who 's the happiest man in the world i'd answer Sting , he's probably the best song writter et one of the greatest poetes of our time, he met the greatest ( and humble) peoples at the peack of their art and share whith intensity the richness of what he became through all these years : a real man strong and wise never selfish nor egotic...who could had foreseen this at the time of Police ??
I worked in this shipyard and Sting is right about singing workmen. The bare metal rooms invited themselves to a good ole sing. As an apprentice I once thought I was alone, at the bottom of the ship, and sang "All by myself" Nillson, and this bull of a guy popped out of nowhere and laughed, "Now ya not!" I was so embarrassed. I had to carry on singing as though i didn't mind. Then more blokes arrived and we all had a sing off competition until a gaffer was spotted, approaching. Haha. I could write a play myself about my life in the shipyards in Geordieland but I'm glad Sting, Brian and Jimmy did it first.
Stuart, did you write that play yet?
What a wonderful story, Stuart! Hope you do decide to write them down, even if others came first! And post them here for us all to enjoy. By the way, what does ""Now ya not!" mean?
@@CatherineSTodd I think it means that he wasn't the only one singing on the shipyards.
@Robin of Hood I read you, write more.
@@CatherineSTodd Now ya not, is what Geordies say to each other if they think their alone but someone joins them.
Ah, thank God and all Her wonderful Spirits for artists that speak and share the human experience. Sting just keeps getting better and becoming more interesting.
totally agree. I rarely pay attention to celebrities or their utterances, but Sting inspires me to get older with some dignity and grace. We need our oldies to believe in themselves and bypass the media programming.
Thank you. I so agree.
Wish I'd seen this. The music is utterly brilliant. Love Sting, LOVE Jimmy Nail. It's a pairing that oozes hard work and authenticity. The music is awe inspiring. It doesn't fit the mold of the modern musical, and therein lies it's beauty and it's demise at the same time - making this a true work of art.
best thing hes done for 30 years, cant get enough of this !!
Doing a bit of homework on behalf of our clients... and was transfixed. This soulful, real, beautiful music is a testament to the community its from and about. Thank you Gordon Sumner.
Excellent musicians, great written songs, lovely voices. Great performance.
I grew up 2 blocks from a steel mill. Not the same as a shipyard but we are all grateful, too, Sting. Absolutely the same sentiment.
I'm a Geordie too, was born in Wallsend as well. Just like Sting. I live abroad but feel "homesick" when I hear the songs from "The Last Ship"!
This is so incredibly great and i just love it! Thank heavens that Sting found it in himself to start writing glorious music again. What I wouldn't give to see this live!
Simply some of the best songs ever written
Fabulous atmosphere! Thanks for the journey! Sting is such a magical storyteller...
Lived a bad worked on the river Tyne for over 50 years - Sting has captured it all in this - magic!
Heart, style, sensitivity, professionalism. Sting keeps making people dream!
I met Sting. I am fan since high school. This is beyond amazing music. He is just brilliant!!!!
I have got to take that CD back out and reaquaint myself to that album. Fantastic.
I love the way he hasn't forgotten his Geordie accent, even if he doesn't actually use it anymore. Really nice touch, making the whole performance even more genuine. Lovely!
the whole thing gave me goosebumps and practical arrangement made me cry. never have i been this moved by music before.
i heard a few of the songs on stings tedx before talk and wished he would record an album
My mum, who's 81, lived in this same street, in Wallsend, was bombed in the war before being evacuated. So I forwarded this and she... adored it. Like Bjork or Freddie or Bob, his is a unique voice, underpinned by a deep talent. But it's the voice.
Alastair Simpson I so agree! But out of curiosity I'm not quite sure which Bob you are referring to; Geldof?
Dylan, actually :)
My mam was born in Lesley Gardens in 1936 and lived there until 1955. She probably knew your mam.
I'll ask her! That'd be amazing.
More than ever do we need true art to remember who we are, lest they convince us we are something completely other, unrecognizable, post human transhuman, robotlike. God bless Sting and his future endevours.
This man 'sting' is tooooooo talented , what ever he does is just MAGIC... Thanks
Every little thing he does...
Absolutely Fantastic, Great work from Sting and great to see Jimmy Nail again and all the other folk from the North East. Wish it every success.
Lifelong fan...a musical history of a big aspect of the North east....Makun or a Takun..inspirational!
Lyrical, 'transporting' magic from Sting yet again. Thanks so much for sharing this video!
Incredible album. The more I listen to it, the more I like it. Definitely the musical highlight for me in 2013! I would've loved to see this show. I'd also love to see the actual play and observe its differences from the album.
I was born and raised in South Shields. My grandparents on both sides were impoverished by the closing of the Tyneside ship yards, though both travelled across the country and the globe to support my parents, rather than staying home and whining about lack of employment opportunities - a common occurrence that was so pervasive I remember getting taught about it history lessons at school. What I love here is that despite his obvious absence, Sting has caught an accurate memory in respect of the economic trauma my hometown was subjected to by successive negligent governments. I've heard so many familiar tales about the shipbuilding industry from family and family friends, everything addressed here has a beautiful resonance - and has captured so many specific nuances local to Tyneside folks exposed to that generation of hard working folks. I wish this had done better at the box office; as a professional sound tech often called to work in theatres locally - I see far too much un-stageworthy rubbish, which more often than not attracts absurdly high ticket prices from tasteless consumers. The best thing about Sting's musical here is how he doesn't pander to the cloying sentimentality of so much work done by "local" artists, on the same subject matter. The lack of economic prosperity in the NorthbEast of England has become tired and lazy subject matter for artists working locally in all artistic spheres, especially musical genres. These days I mostly get close to the Tyneside pride as expressed here, via the frequent funerals of family and friends I'm obliged to attend. I think "The Last Ship" is a beautiful and fitting tribute to a Tyneside mostly forgotten, without any of the cloying sentimentality which characterises most artistic attempts to capture this important period in our local history. Thanks for posting the video, Guy Graham.
This is just outstanding. A hidden gem on TH-cam. Thank you. I'm sharing with many friends who need this right now. This is real. This is love.
Just saw this musical in LA. Heard some mixed reviews and didn’t expect much (even though I’m a big Sting fan) but was blown away! I can’t explain but totally connected with this. Downloaded the music and have been constantly listening to it. My family history started on the Mayflower and routed in England and Ireland...this music hits me in my heart. Thank you Sting!
Amazing ! The play is even better .
This is a fantastic play. Really would liked to have seen it again. I was lucky to see it with Sting in New York....
Probably the finest work that this Newcastle Boy has made...
That's a bold statement, sir, and I'm inclined to agree. Time well spent for his talents.
Maybe?
Definitely his finest in the last 3-4 years.
Better than Synchronicity, Dream Of The Blue Turtles, Nothing Like The Sun, The Soul Cages and Ten Summoner's Tales?
Gimme a break.
Amazing...............
WOW This is stunning performance.
I've never thought they'll perform it all live. "The Shipyard" has a beautiful theatrical touch.
Well, it is a musical, coming out in Broadway in 2014.
Truer words never spoken. :) The songs that almost well me up are 'Practical Arrangement' and 'So To Speak'. :) It's a real shame the musical collaborators decided against 'Practical Arrangement'. Not sure if 'What Say You Meg?' is catching on to me yet. :s
Love him or hate him, you gotta have respect for his works. I can understand why people accuse Sting of being pretentious - but that's what theater is.
So you gotta applaud Sting for this performance for taking a chance. It's why he is an artist, because he takes chances. It would be easier and more profitable to just keep playing the same commercialized hits over and over living off of the royalties. Or just keep repeating rewriting the same old song like Nickel back because it keeps selling to change the track title and lyrics.
He is definitely one of the most talented performers out their right now and is under-rated because he doesn't stick to pop.
Shea Volanti h
Just recently discovered this Album and absolutely love it! Listened to it while I was packing up and moving. Also great to listen to while cleaning. It'll make you dance around and just feel happy!
I have watched this several times, it never gets old.
Ever time I listen to this amazing song and the story behind it , it makes me cry.....It is so emotional ...................
What a wonderful return. Glad to see Sting back at it. I hope to see him in Vegas.
Sting, I still come back and listen and get inspired. Thank you.
This sounds incredible.. it is SO rich The Hired Man.. Come From Away.. The Pogues.. and of course that undeniable Sting Stamp of melodic excellence.. seeing this in Nottingham in May.. already weeping!!
This is just so easy, true and good. Very mature art by a talented man who've seen it all.
I am so excited. I may be able to meet Sting at a party in Atlanta. I hope to shake his hand and say "Thanks for the inspiration"
Lucky you... Please, say hello from me ;-))
I love Sting's story about the Queen Mum. He's so humble... (:
hello friend how's your well-being?, Where're you commenting from?
I love this music and Sting! He is so humble and sweet. Met him a few years ago and I will forever have the memory!
Leona, love your comment... but "humble" is not a word I've ever heard used about Sting... you must have had quite a meeting. Lucky you!
This is one that wonderfully grows with you. Agelessly beautiful! 👏
Whenever I listen to 'Practical Arrangement' I cry. It's so true and real. I loooooovvveee it so much. Thank you for Sting and your partner.
Outstanding! I, too, wish I could have seen this live performance. Whatever Sting creates is gold! Bravo!
Like everything that Sting has created, this play and music is beautifully crafted, with wonderful performances. Sting is a great, great artist.
I would listen to this years ago with my mom and I’m so glad I finally found it again :)
This Man always knows how to amaze us, from all over the world!
Music at it's best, I have watched this so many times.
The duet with Jo si much more than a practical arrangement: it is a jewel, pure art
Thinking about the time the play came to LA seeing Sting on stage was once in a lifetime!
I love this Album, for me one of the best, because I,m a german Seaman, long, long time ago! It was a good time!! Say thank you for this Song, and greetings to all engl. Sailors and shipbuilders!!
Great music.......and lyrics, as always. Great vehicle to pay homage to the hard working people who never really had a choice. Thanks to all the collaborators.
write music based on your childhood memories....and also honour the people who worked there...this is trully great!
Saw the pre Broadway run show in Chicago and was blown away. The whole cast was nothing short of amazing. Was able to find the original soundtrack on cd a few years ago.
Bring it on Sting. Toronto is looking forward to The Last Ship. Welcome back.
Going to the last show.
Absolutely adore this!!! "Practical Arrangement" is so great. (29:40)
Beautiful, Sting. Thank you.
Thanks jenny, how long have you been a fan. Where're you commenting from?
why does this resonate so much to me...bnw pictures...60s...industrial england "atmosphere"...factories and ships? Just dont know why. Eversince Dream Of The Blue Turtles came out, I'm instantly magnetized by its atmosphere. Same with Nothing Like The Sun, Soul Cages, Nada Como El Sol, Bring On The Night, Ten Summoner's Tales...went to a diff path...and now this...Sting have always evoked the deepest longings of my soul. Great renaissance being.