Paul Potts...

the shy moon-faced Carphone Warehouse manager from Wales with a big tenor voice and wonky teeth, was one of those unlikely contestants who turned the judges from sceptical to overwhelmed. Potts, below, went on to win the first series of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent in 2007 with his performance of Nessun Dorma, an aria from Puccini’s opera Turandot, singing his way into the history books and financial stability. He is appearing at Sage Gateshead on October 27.

He became an instant YouTube phenomenon after the full version of his BGT performance received 120m views. His debut album, One Chance, was released in July 2007 and claimed the No 1 spot in the UK album chart the following week.

In December that year, the then Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, presented Potts with a platinum disc in recognition of his two million album sales.

  • Sage Gateshead – Hall One – October 27 Box Office: 0191-443-4661 sagegateshead.com 

Peter Gabriel...

has confirmed a further show at Newcastle’s MetroRadio Arena on December 4 after phenomenal response to his recently-announced UK tour dates. It is testament to the enduring appeal of Gabriel’s 1986 album that the Back to Front tour has caught the public imagination so strongly once again. The new shows will continue to feature the original So live band (bass-wizard Tony Levin, guitarist David Rhodes, keyboardist David Sancious and drummer Manu Katche) and spans Gabriel’s illustrious career.

New material includes Daddy Long Legs and Show Yourself (from the film Words with Gods) both featured regularly during the 2013 tour.

Gabriel, the latest honoured musician to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, has been a champion of world music for much of his career.

  • Newcastle MetroRadio Arena, Thursday, December 4. Tickets: 0844-493-6666