Tony Bennet considered Amy Winehouse to be the best singer he ever heard.
And he’s heard Tony Bennet.
And sure, some may disagree – but whatever your opinion, there’s no disputing the outsized cultural legacy she’s left, having released just two albums. And the Design Museum is adding to it with a show celebrating her life. And we do mean celebrate – they’re all too aware of the negative attention that Amy’s lifestyle & struggles with substance abuse invariably draw, so they’re keen to champion the more inspiring side of her life.
So what to expect? Well, they’re aiming to unravel the creative process behind her music, and lay it bare for you to see. You’ll see how she was impacted by artists like Dinah Washington, and movements like Motown & jazz, then see those influences written into her teenage notebooks, and sung in her early recordings. You’ll get to see original iconic outfits, handwritten lyrics, and never-before-exhibited personal items including her blue Daphne Fender Stratocaster guitar. It’s one of the most intimate portraits of the singer that’s been displayed.
That’s all helped by the fact that it’s all being held in close collaboration with The Estate of Amy Winehouse, who are choosing to waive all right to royalties in favour of the Amy Winehouse Foundation, which has been set up to help vulnerable & disadvantaged people with drug & alcohol addiction, and mental health issues.
Which, hopefully, can help the next Amy.
NOTE: Amy: Beyond The Stage is showing at the Design Museum until 10th April 2022. You can find out more, and book an advance ticket at their website right HERE.
The Design Museum | 224-238 Kensington High Street, W8 6AG
Big museum fan? Take a look at our Best Museums In London guide.