PHOTOS: Sophie Ellis-Bextor – Portland, OR – 09/09/2024

There may have been a “Murder on the Dancefloor,” but Sophie Ellis-Bextor isn’t killing the groove!

Last Monday night, the English singer-songwriter stopped by Portland’s Wonder Ballroom for her first ever performance in the city. Known best for her work in the world of dance-pop, Ellis-Bextor has been active in the music industry for nearly thirty years with numerous top ten singles and albums in the UK to her name.

Ellis-Bextor saw quite the resurgence last year after her 2001 single “Murder on the Dancefloor” was used rather memorably in the 2023 film Saltburn. The song exploded in popularity across the world, leading Ellis-Bextor to her first ever entry on the US charts, peaking at #51 on the Billboard Hot 100. With new fans and momentum by her side, Ellis-Bextor recently embarked on North American tour which we were lucky enough to catch in Portland.

After an opening set from frequent touring mate Holiday Sidewinder, it was Ellis-Bextor’s time to hit the stage. Dressed in a shimmering purple number and infectious smile, she strutted out to the groovy “Crying at the Discotheque” which set the tone for a night of joy, dancing, and groovy tunes.

The show saw Ellis-Bextor performing songs from throughout her career, including songs from the majority of her seven studio albums, the most recent being 2023’s HANA. She also covered a number of pop and disco classics throughout the night including Madonna’s “Like a Prayer,” ABBA’s “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! (A Man After Midnight),” and Cher’s “Take Me Home,” the later of which is included on her debut album Read My Lips. Twice, she even pulled out a game show style wheel and gave it a spin to decide which song she and her band would play.

Whether singing one of her hits or interacting with fans between songs, Sophie Ellis-Bextor overflowed with talent, charm, and an undeniable stage presence that we’re thrilled to have witnessed in person.

Check out some photos from the show below, and click here to see Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s upcoming tour dates!