Bristol Sounds has cemented its reputation as one of the premier summer festivals, offering not just a stellar location but also consistently featuring top-tier musical talent. This year was no exception, with James Arthur headlining an evening that will be remembered for years to come.
In his decade-long career, James Arthur has amassed impressive stats: 16 billion units sold from his first four studio albums, multiple No. 1 singles, and multi-platinum certifications across the UK. His hit single “Say You Won’t Let Go” alone boasts nearly 4 billion streams globally, 43 weeks on the UK charts, and No. 1 positions in over 10 countries, achieving multi-platinum status worldwide. Recently, it earned Diamond Status in the US, placing Arthur among the elite 100 recipients of an RIAA Diamond Single certification. With 36 million monthly Spotify listeners, Arthur’s star power is undeniable.
The anticipation was palpable as the crowd chanted “we want James,” culminating in a deafening roar when his backlit silhouette finally appeared on stage. Arthur arrived in Bristol promoting his fifth studio album, “Bitter Sweet Love,” which debuted at number one earlier this year. He quickly won over the audience with a cheerful “gert lush” and an amused nod to the millennium Ferris wheel.
Arthur’s setlist was a journey through his greatest hits, from “Impossible” to his duet with Anne-Marie, “Rewrite the Stars,” from The Greatest Showman. The clear, starry sky above was perfectly mirrored by the thousands of mobile phone lights illuminating the amphitheatre below.
The audience, largely composed of teenage girls and their mothers, was mesmerized by the 2012 X Factor winner. They jumped to his upbeat rock tracks and swayed to his heartfelt ballads, showcasing Arthur’s incredible vocal range and multi-instrumental prowess. His performances on guitar and keyboard were particularly notable.
James Arthur’s path to success has been anything but smooth. He has battled his way to the top, often struggling with the pressures of fame. In 2024, however, Arthur is refreshingly open about his life’s challenges. His songs frequently touch on themes of anxiety, self-doubt, and depression, and he uses his platform to encourage his young fans to speak openly about their own mental health issues.
The crowd’s enthusiasm never waned, as mass singalongs and a sea of raised phones continued through hits like “Impossible,” “Naked,” “Train Wreck,” and “Lasting Lover.” Several times, Arthur paused to let the audience take over, their voices filling the night air.
The pinnacle of the evening was “Say You Won’t Let Go.” For a moment, it seemed the song might not happen, as Arthur playfully pretended someone backstage had cut his time. But soon, he and his band launched into the chart-topping hit, and the audience responded with a wave of phones and unified voices. Arthur stood back, hand on heart, clearly moved by the crowd’s energy and appreciation.
Bristol Sounds Day 3 was a resounding success, delivering another unforgettable night.
@thebristolnomad / @bristolnomad_gigphotography
Role: Photographer / Reviewer / Interviewer
Chief, the one that bugs the team for team for their reviews and images. Creator and founder of The Bristol Gig Guide. Can usually be found swamped in admin or getting cramp kneeling at the front of a gig.
Available for: Gig Shoots, Gig Reviews, Photo Shoots, Album and Single cover shoots, Videography work, Interviews and Touring
First attended gig: Republica, circa 1996.
First gig shot: Hands Off Gretel, at The Louisiana!
Dream gig: Huge metalhead and my ultimate dream gig would be shooting my heroes Slipknot at a huge stadium gig, or as festival headliners. And to experience shooting a headline tour outside the UK
