Paolo wows 'em!

Jun 2 2009 by Andrew Newport, Paisley Daily Express

THERE were deafening screams when proud-to-be-a-Buddie Paolo played a lunchtime gig for 350 fans yesterday.

The 22-year-old singer was bowled over by the reception he got from the frenzied crowd, consisting mainly of excited teenage girls delighted to see him perform.

Paolo’s mum Linda even joined the throngs of supporters at the HMV Store in Glasgow and sang along as the star showcased a number of hits from his second album Sunny Side Up, at its official launch.

Having given new compositions High Hopes – mentioned in our previous story on page three , Candy – already a hit single – and Growing Up Beside You an airing, he gave the already-thrilled audience further reason to smile when he closed his seven-song set with two classics from his first LP, These Streets and New Shoes.

“People have been here since 8am and I heard others had slept overnight to get in – that’s just crazy,” said Paolo.

Schoolgirls Shauna McGregor and Shona Addison, both from Kilbarchan, were among the dozens who queued up for hours to meet Paolo.

And although they only had a brief moment to share with the star, it was well worth it.

“We got the 8am train to Glasgow and waited outside for about five hours to get in. We only got a second or two with him and he asked where we came from. It was totally worth it – he’s a babe!” said Johnstone High kid Shauna, 15.

And St Benedict’s High pupil Shona, also 15, added: “I’m a real huge fan of Paolo’s and I’ve got both his albums now. It was really exciting getting to meet him.”

l Meanwhile, Paolo has announced a new 15-date Autumn UK tour.

As well as playing Glastonbury and T in The Park this summer, he’ll play Glasgow’s O2 Academy on October 14 and 15.