The song was also the theme to my first slow dance when I was 11 and looking around Win Entertainment Centre on Friday night I've no doubt  it was one which provided fond memories for most of Wollongong and the surrounds. 

Bryan Adams probably wasn't first on my hit list of acts to see this year, but my musician husband had heard he was an amazing guitar player and the chance to watch him live wasn't to be passed up. Who was I to argue? 

Adams' music has been soundtrack running in the background of my life. The Summer of 69 and Run to You are radio playlist staples.

Heaven was a hit with my parents when I was aged four and now the words are imprinted in my brain.

When you're Gone marked my second year at university, but most importantly was Mel C from the Spice Girls first foray into going it alone.(Spoiler, Mel C didn't attend the gig.)

The Canadian musician was in Wollongong for his Shine a Light tour and Wollongong's gig was bang in the middle of dates in Melbourne and Sydney. 

He didn't disappoint playing 30 tracks from his 14 albums and spending another two hours after the show with a genuine smile on his face and a handshake for every fan who had bought his CD. 

Adams kicked the night off with a shortened version of Ultimate Love, followed in quick succession by This Thing We Started and Run to You.  We knew then we were in for a pacey treat. 

He addressed the crowd with: "Hello, nice to be back in The Gong. I went for a walk on the beach there earlier. Where was everyone? What were you doing? Oh, you were here!" 

The evening continued with a level of intimacy which seems incomprehensible in such a large venue.  From asking for song requests, to encouraging dancing in the aisle, Adams knows how to build a rapport and leave the crowd wanting more. 

Kudos goes to his lead guitar player Keith Scott, supported by his aging and worn Fender Stratocaster. He led the way on It's Only Love - who needs Tina Turner when you've got Keith Scott by your side? 

Adams is a true old school professional who was never going to close the show on Brand New Day. He did us proud and came out with another four songs including a cover of Whiskey in the Jar and The Clash's I fought the Law, his classic Straight from the Heart before ending with an acoustic version of All for One.

Maybe Bryan Adams wasn't my first choice gig tonight, but from now on he's top of my list. 

You can see the full set list here: 

Adams will be supported at all shows by special guest Mahalia Barnes.

Bryan Adams is the latest major international act to sing at the Win Entertainment Centre following Cher's performance in October and Elton John in 2017.