Newport native Tanya Donelly demonstrated that musical dreams can come true as her alternative rock band Belly thrilled a sold-out crowd at the Greenwich Odeum on Sept. 18, performing their 1993 album “King” in its entirety for the first time.
While attending Rogers High School, Donelly and step-sister Kristin Hersh wrote poetry and added melodies to their verses. The pair formed Throwing Muses, which debuted on the lawn of the Newport Art Museum before attracting attention from UK label 4AD and gaining popularity in Britain and Germany.
Donelly left Throwing Muses to co-found The Breeders with Kim Deal in 1989, then formed Belly in 1991 in Boston seeking creative freedom. The band achieved mainstream success when “Feed the Tree” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart in 1993, earning Donelly a Grammy nomination. She appeared on Rolling Stone’s cover and in Gap advertisements.
Belly opened for U2 at the Hippodrome in Paris in 1992 and performed alongside R.E.M. and Oasis at Ireland’s Slane Festival in 1995. Donelly later stepped back to marry and raise a family while continuing to write and perform occasionally.
The current lineup — Donelly on guitar and vocals, Gail Greenwood on bass and vocals, Tom Gorman on guitar and vocals, and Chris Gorman on drums — performed two sets for the enthusiastic crowd. Greenwood served as the band’s energetic spokesperson, constantly moving and throwing candy to fans.
The performance showcased tight musicianship despite their extended hiatus, with merchandise tables busy throughout the evening.
Belly continues their anniversary tour with UK dates through September, returning to the United States for shows from mid-October through mid-December.
The Brick Alley Pub displays memorabilia celebrating Donelly’s achievements as a Newport success story.
Photos by Jack Casey/What’sUpNewp
