Review: Billy Ocean at the Cambridge Corn Exchange

The popular soul singer's hit-packed set - and his dancing - didn't disappoint on Monday (March 4).

Though approaching 70, the Trinidad and Tobago-born singer looked in pretty good shape in a dark suit and tie, and managed to succeed in keeping the energy level up throughout.

His voice was good - maybe not quite as strong as it once was at times - although the gig didn't really get going until the timeless Love Really Hurts Without You was given a very enthusiastic welcome about six songs in.

The majority of the audience on the floor stood up and danced, having been encouraged earlier on by the singer to join him in singing and dancing.

In contrast, the ballad The Colour of Love was heartfelt and beautiful - and the star expertly got the crowd singing along.

A cover of Bob Marley's No Woman No Cry was a pleasant addition and Red Light Spells Danger was another track that provoked an outbreak of dancing.

After further gems, Suddenly and Loverboy, Billy saved one of his best-known tunes, the excellent Get Outta My Dreams, Get into My Car, until near the end, though there was still time for one more in the main set.

"What happens when the going gets tough?" he asked, by way of an introduction. "The tough get going!" yelled back his Cambridge fans.

There followed one of my favourite songs of all time, When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going, a worldwide smash from 1986 - and it was a great privilege to see it performed live.

The one-song encore consisted of Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run), yet another pop classic.

It's easy to forget how many great songs this artist has, and it was nice to be reminded.