It was a stunning evening in the heart of Glasgow as excited fans flocked to the OVO Hydro, eager to witness an unforgettable performance by the Grammy-winning American singer, songwriter, and pianist John Legend. Rolling into town with his highly anticipated Get Lifted 20th Anniversary Tour, Legend chose Glasgow as the opening night of his UK and European tour—a decision that added to the palpable buzz in the air.
With no support act scheduled for the evening, the stage was set exclusively for John Legend, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in his artistry without distraction. As concertgoers found their seats, anticipation grew, and the atmosphere brimmed with excitement. The crowd knew they were about to be treated to an extraordinary show by one of music’s most brilliant and soulful performers.
As the house lights dimmed, anticipation rippled through the crowd. One by one, the band members appeared, taking their positions on stage in the shadows. After a few moments, the introductory music swelled, signalling the start of an unforgettable night in Glasgow. The excitement reached a fever pitch as John finally emerged, striding confidently to the centre of the stage. Settling at his piano, he greeted the audience with a warm, “What is up, Glasgow?” which was met with enthusiastic cheers.
The concert opened with a selection of tracks from the acclaimed *Get Lifted* album. The audience was treated to electrifying renditions of fan favourites, including “Used To Love U,” the groovy “Alright,” and a particularly moving performance of “I Can Change.” Each song showcased John’s remarkable vocal range and emotional depth.
At times, John stepped away from the piano, strolling across the stage and interacting with the crowd. His energy was infectious; it was clear from his broad smile and relaxed demeanour that he was genuinely enjoying the night as much as his fans. The connection between performer and audience was palpable, setting the tone for an evening filled with soulful music and memorable moments.
Tonight’s concert served as a retrospective celebration of John’s remarkable career, spanning more than twenty years since the release of his landmark debut album, *Get Lifted*. Throughout the evening, John guided the audience on a musical journey, highlighting not only his own hits but also the impressive array of collaborations he’s undertaken over the years. Early in the set, he paid tribute to his work with other artists by performing an outstanding rendition of Lauryn Hill’s “Everything is Everything,” recalling one of his earliest and most memorable features.
As the night unfolded, it became clear just how vast and diverse John’s musical partnerships have been—his list of collaborators is nothing short of astonishing, encompassing some of the biggest names in the industry. Each song served as a reminder of his versatility and influence across genres.
Nearing the end of the show, John delivered a powerful performance of his classic hit “Ordinary People,” showcasing the full range and emotion of his distinctive vocals. In a heartwarming moment that delighted the audience, he surprised a fan by inviting her on stage to dance with him, creating a memory she—and the crowd—will surely never forget.
He continued to keep the energy high with electrifying performances of “Stay With You” and the infectious “Green Light,” both of which were met with thunderous applause. Still, anticipation lingered in the air as fans waited for the song they had hoped to hear all night.
Finally, John closed the concert with his global anthem “All of Me,” prompting the entire audience to join in and sing along at the top of their lungs. The venue was filled with voices united in celebration, bringing the evening to a triumphant and emotional close. Before leaving the stage, John expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Glasgow crowd for spending the night with him, capping off an unforgettable musical experience. This was a night to remember for the fans in the OVO Hydro tonight.
Review and Photographs by James Edmond Photography
