Kim Wilde @ Z7 Pratteln Switzerland
30.11.2025, Konzertfabrik z7 Pratteln, Switzerland
In the 1980s, she was a pop icon of the pop scene and appeared on all the well-known music TV shows, toured the country, and had one hit after another. She experienced a minor revival in 2003 with the hit “Anywhere, Anytime,” a duet with Nena, especially in German-speaking countries.
She never really went away: in the background, the British singer hosted gardening shows on television, continued to write songs, and made music. No wonder, because as the daughter of a famous rock ‘n’ roll star, she was born with this talent.
We are, of course, talking about Kim Wilde, one of the artists I have wanted to see live for a long time, which unfortunately has not happened yet. So I was all the more delighted to learn that she was performing at Z7.
Her latest album, Closer, was released in January 2025, and in addition to her old hits, we mainly heard songs from this album that evening. It was clear that the audience had come for the old hits, but the crowd at sold-out Z7 also celebrated the new songs, some of which definitely had hit potential. However, in today’s crowded market, it’s simply difficult to survive if you’re not as active on social media as other pop stars.
Kim was definitely delighted by the warm atmosphere, which brought tears to her eyes from time to time. In return, the audience was treated to a wonderful show and incredible gratitude for the fact that she is still able to perform live after all these years.
Whether it was “Cambodia,” “Kids in America,” “You Came,” or the absolute hit cover song “You Keep Me Hangin’ On,” everyone sang along loudly. Together with her little brother Ricky and her niece Scarlett, she forms a real family business on stage. The songs on Closer were written in collaboration and she kept praising the songwriting qualities of her niece, who acts on tour as a backing singer. While Kim is rather reserved and quiet on stage at her age, Scarlett whirls around and infects everyone with her charming smile. She radiates a likeable presence and has already released her own songs, but is rather making a name for herself as an artist in London, presenting her pictures in exhibitions.
The concert evening took place without a support act, so that the audience could concentrate fully on Kim Wilde. Not a bad choice, after all, it was the last night of the tour. The fans were treated to a beautiful duet with Scarlett.
The setlist was well chosen, but unfortunately the sound quality was sometimes so poor that it was difficult to hear Kim’s voice. Nevertheless, it was enjoyable to see this pop star perform live, and I would do it again anytime. With the Bee Gees covers “If I Can’t Have You,” “Anyplace, Anywhere, Anytime,” and “Kids in America,” the concert evening was unfortunately over after 90 minutes. A new tour for 2026 has already been announced. I can only recommend everyone to see this icon live at least once in a lifetime.
