As the sun began to set at Jones Beach Theater in Wantagh, New York, British singer-songwriter Calum Scott took the stage, where he would perform an emotional collection of songs off his debut album, Only Human. Within moments of the uptempo “Come Back Home”, it became clear that Calum Scott was an artist ready to bare his heart and soul in front of the 15,000 in attendance. The moving six-song set was an uninhibited display of his experiences with his identity, acceptance, and love—universal themes that struck a chord with everyone in the audience. It’s that openness and vulnerability that won the hearts of many…plus, his outstanding vocal ability didn’t hurt either.
One of the favorites from the night was the ballad, “Hotel Room”, which sends a hopeful message and outlook to everyone who’s ever felt like their heart has been ripped from their chest. Calum’s soothing vocals provided much-needed support and comfort for anyone who’s ever had to experience that heartache.
With that being said, the standout of the set was a performance of a track that wasn’t included on his debut album (and for good reason) titled “No Matter What”. It’s a deeply personal story of Calum’s and he opened up about why it wasn’t included: “I wanted it to have its own room to breathe. I wanted it to have its own moment.” The song is about his experience coming out to his parents as well as the unconditional love that all children seek from their parents, and judging by the tearful reaction of the audience, it’s a feeling that we all know.
To end his first appearance at Jones Beach Theater, Calum sung his breathtaking rendition of Robyn’s “Dancing on My Own”. If you’re not familiar with the backstory behind the cover, it was the song that started it all for him on Britain’s Got Talent, and a fitting conclusion to what we hope is the beginning of many more performances around the world.
Calum is currently on tour with Pentatonix. Check out dates on his official website.
Photo Credit: Kevin Jan for Pop Culturalist.com
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