It’s hard to believe it’s been less than two years since Max McNown released his debut album. In that short time, he’s toured the world, dropped a steady stream of new music, and now, at just 24, managed to sell out his first-ever Scottish show in minutes. Night two of the tour at the legendary Barrowland Ballroom felt less like a debut and more like the arrival of an artist already deeply loved.
The evening opened with Lily Fitts, who stepped onto the Barrowlands stage with the confidence and quiet fire of someone who knows exactly what she can do. Fresh from supporting Noah Kahan at London’s Hyde Park, she delivered a stunning 30-minute acoustic set that instantly silenced the chatter and drew the room in. Her vocal control is staggering – Max himself later told the crowd it’s the kind of talent “you can’t even imagine” – and songs like Brown Eyed Baby, Troubled Water, and my personal favorite standout What They Say, revealed a songwriter shaped by real experiences: anxiety, heartbreak, and healing.
Despite being a support act, the crowd was already packed, transfixed, and unusually attentive for so early in the night – but no complaints from me I’m glad people are finally seeing how fantastic Lily Fitts is! Even after a brief pause in the set to assist a fan needing medical attention, Lily returned with Lose You Now, closing to loud claps that carried the final beat. A stunning set, and one that deserves to bring her back to Scotland very soon.
What struck me next was the sheer range of ages in the audience. Country music resurgence has welcomed listeners from every corner in recent years, and Tuesday was proof – a room united simply by good music and the promise of a great show.
Max launched into the set with Forever Ain’t Long Enough, hitting the stage at full throttle with the band right behind him. Hotel Bible, Turned into Missing You, This Side of Heaven, and Azalea Place followed in rapid succession, each met with the kind of roar usually reserved for encore moments. He joked about bringing a “massive setlist” for his first UK tour – and with his discography, that meant anthem after anthem.
He spoke candidly about his latest EP, Both Sides of the Blade, a collection of songs from an “old era” of Max – tracks he’d held back until the moment felt right. One of the night’s most emotional points came with Take This Plane, dedicated to a friend he lost in high school. The raw emotion that comes with this track filled the room, and I even felt myself getting choked up
Then came a surprise show-stealer: drummer Marc. When Max said Marc was “going to give it some sauce,” no one could have expected the drum solo that followed. It was sheer talent and easily one of the best live drum moments I’ve ever witnessed – his name went straight into my notes.
As the show moved toward its final stretch, Fishing Line rolled in, accompanied by a heartfelt shoutout to Lily Fitts and a call to support her music, merch and career – a reminder of how artists uplifting artists elevates an entire genre.
And then Same Questions began. I’d warned Max in an interview earlier that this song makes me cry – and yes, a tear(s) were shed. There’s something indescribably powerful about hearing a song you connect with performed live, moments like that stay with you.
But the emotional summit of the night was Hindsight & Photographs. The track includes a recording of Max’s grandfather, a retired pastor, and as his voice echoed through the Barrowlands, Max sank to the floor, taking it in. “I used my Grandad’s voice because I hope one day I can play it to my children, and they can play it to theirs,” he explained. It was a moment of pure stillness -rare in a venue known for its chaos – and one that won’t be forgotten.
After a brief exit, Max and the band returned for A Lot More Free, closing the night with Better Me For You. It felt less like a finale and more like a promise.
For a debut headline tour, Max McNown already has Europe in the palm of his hand. The emotion, gratitude, and sheer presence he brought to Glasgow proved that this is just the beginning – and the rest of the UK is in for something truly special.
Max McNown returns next year for State Fayre in Chelmsford. Don’t miss him.
Review by Lauren Page & Photographs by Lynsey Wyllie
