Courtney Hadwin live review: with a few more tours under her belt, she could become something seriously formidable

The Louisiana, Bristol, 18th February 2026

On Wednesday night I caught Courtney Hadwin on the penultimate date of her tour at The Louisiana. At just 21 years old, the Geordie powerhouse first shot to fame on America’s Got Talent, but live in Bristol it was clear she’s far more than a TV talent show alumna — she’s a fully-fledged rock vocalist with serious presence.

A voice as commanding as Hadwin’s feels destined for much larger stages, which made this intimate setting all the more special. The Louisiana allowed the audience to feel the full force of both her vocals and the band’s musicianship. The live arrangements leaned into gritty, 70s-inspired rock roots — rawer and, in my opinion, stronger than some of the more polished production found on her studio recordings. There was an edge and immediacy to the performance that really suited her.

Guitarist Orlando was a particular highlight, tearing through blistering solos with confidence and flair. The interplay between him and Courtney was one of the most compelling aspects of the night — a back-and-forth energy that elevated several tracks and hinted at the potential for an even tighter unit as the tour progresses.

Between songs, Hadwin embraced the intimacy of the venue, chatting openly with the crowd and offering insight into the stories behind her music. Many of her songs stem from feelings of not quite fitting in at school and finding solace in legendary voices such as Tina Turner, Janis Joplin and Aretha Franklin. Those influences are clear — not in imitation, but in spirit. There’s a similar sense of emotional abandon when she really lets go vocally.

Standout moments included her original track ‘Electric’, which she described as one of her favourites to perform. It carried a punchy confidence and felt tailor-made for the stage. Equally impressive was her cover of The Beatles’ ‘Yer Blues’, which suited her smoky, powerful tone perfectly — it genuinely sounded like it could have been one of her own compositions.

If and when she returns to Bristol, I’ll be there. Next time, hopefully in a bigger venue — she deserves the space to properly strut and command the stage. With a few more tours under their belt and a more consistent onstage aesthetic to match Courtney and Orlando’s presence, this could become something seriously formidable.