Legends love Beverley. David Bowie known as her “little Aretha”. Prince adored her voice a lot he flew her to LA to sing at his Oscars after-party.

Wolverhampton-born Knight has been impressing audiences for the reason that 90s along with her first-class gospel-powered soul vocals.

She has chalked up Top 10 hits, gold and platinum albums, and sustained a protracted parallel profession in musical theatre the place she has gained three Olivier Awards.

Now the bona fide nationwide treasure celebrates turning 50 with a brand new studio album spanning the “kaleidoscope” of her soul influences.

Tracks vary from the 80s-inspired pop-funk of Systematic Overload to large ballads and irresistible northern soul. It’s a sensible mixture of Bev’s influences, all delivered with class and magnificence.

Queen Of Everything is constructed to pack out dancefloors, Not Prepared For You is an old-school R&B ballad.

The opener Last One On My Mind begins deceptively slowly, simply Knight and a easy piano, earlier than constructing right into a glowing trendy dance quantity overflowing with exuberance.

The beat goes on with retro disco The One I’m Gonna Love earlier than slowing down with Cold World, an uplifting gospel ballad backed by the London Community Gospel Choir.

The choir returns on the insistent I’m On Fire with its explosive refrain, and on the jubilant nearer Everything’s Gonna Be Alright.

These 11 new numbers are a sworn statement to the inventive powers of the songwriters Knight has assembled – Diane Warren, Ollie Green, Andrew Roachford and Seb Coe (not the runner) – in addition to top-notch producers.

Result? An immaculate set from a world-class performer who is tough to pigeonhole.