As a first-time introduction to a Scottish audience, it would be hard to top a show at Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall to support a bonafide musical icon.
Mark Kingswood, a Kent-born star with a flair for big band jazz, will do just that when he tours with Motown legend Gladys Knight this month.
Speaking to the Glasgow Times, he said: “I’ve been doing a few outdoor festivals this year but haven’t been back to venues like concert halls since before Covid.
“I’m so looking forward to getting back to these lovely, lush environments and having a set list that’s tailored to sound good
“I’ve never played in Scotland before so I’m really looking forward to coming up to see you guys in Glasgow.
“A lot of the venues that we’re visiting on this tour have been a childhood dream of mine to play.”
On the topic of childhood dreams, talk quickly turns to the 'empress of soul' Gladys Knight, best known for her 70s hit, Midnight Train to Georgia.
Mark said: “To be touring with someone like Gladys Knight is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“I’ve done a lot of research into her previous shows to try and get an idea of what the audience will be looking for.
“I’ve been told they’re a wonderful and friendly bunch who love a good time and a bit of a party.
“From my point of view, it’s going to be a set that ticks all of those boxes.”
Ticking all the boxes is a talent that Mark has skillfully mastered since breaking into the music industry at just 14 years old.
From a soulful cover of R.E.M’s Losing My Religion to his homage to Rat Pack-style jazz, Got A Thing For Swing, Mark's voice lends itself seamlessly to any musical time period or mood.
He said: “The thing with me is, I’m an artist who likes to genre hop a little.
“I tie it together in my own way but there’s no running theme as such.
“Some people will come to see me for a bit of Jazz, others like pop and some will want to hear a cover that I’ve put a spin on.”
Despite his impressive musical repertoire, there’s one particular style that has garnered Mark worldwide recognition and seen him dubbed as the UK’s answer to Canadian superstar, Michael Bublé.
Mark explained: “I’m often asked about this because I think there’s a natural comparison there.
“He’s a huge star and certainly one of my heroes so even to be mentioned in the same sentence as him is brilliant.
“I had grown up listening to the crooners of the 50s and 60s playing big band or swing thanks to my grandparents but it didn’t hold that same relevance to me because couldn’t see it live.
“When Michael Bublé came about, it was really exciting to be in amongst that music, going to these concerts and really experiencing this big band thing for myself.
“It’s been a huge influence on me and my music.
“I can’t give too much away about the set for Glasgow, but will be a chance to experience that music that goes all the way back to the 50s.
“It’s going to be a really great night.”
For more information on Mark Kingswood click here or to book tickets for the Gladys Knight tour here.
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