Photo Credit: Niall Lea
Words: Charlotte Ramsay

Live from Wythenshawe Park saw an epic performance from Sam Fender on Saturday, launching the first night of his 2025 People Watching tour. Following a huge Friday headliner from Dublin’s own Fontaines D.C., the energy from the crowd rolled over into the Saturday, setting the perfect atmosphere for North Shields’ beloved rock hero.

Blue skies, soaring temperatures and a sea of Newcastle United shirts flooded through the gates at Wythenshawe Park, with a 70,000 capacity crowd turning up to watch watch Fender take the stage for a night of heartland rock bliss. Opening the day was another North Shields local, Bugman, known for his indie-punk sound and quirky lyricism – bringing an early spark to the stage. Charlie Noordewier kept the energy flowing, bringing a personal flare of alternative and indie sounds with heartfelt storytelling, including hit tracks ‘Dear Diazepam‘ and ‘Little Miss Sunshine‘.

A standout moment in the day came courtesy of rising star Olivia Dean, who has become a noticeable talent in recent months for her blend of soulful vocals and pop finesse. Olivia had the crowd under her spell, performing hit songs ‘Nice To Each Other‘, ‘The Hardest Part‘, ‘Lady Lady‘ and her latest single ‘Man I Need‘. Olivia – alongside her incredible band – had the audience singing, dancing and vibing in perfect harmony. A true crowd-warmer before the main event.

Fender last toured the UK and Ireland back in December 2024, selling out two nights at Manchester’s Co-Op Live, gave a hint of what was to come from his Wythenshawe show.

Sam took to the stage – and the crowd were in awe – surprising fans with a stripped back, isolated rendition of his beloved single ‘Angel In Lothian‘, catching the crowd off guard. From there, Sam performed hit after hit, tapping into his back catalogue and singles from his latest album: ‘Spit Of You‘, ‘Seventeen Going Under‘, ‘People Watching‘, ‘Will We Talk‘ and ‘Spice‘, the emotional energy throughout the crowd was incredible, as they were inundated in favoured lyrics and anthems. Between tracks, Fender‘s easy humour and grounded presence shone through. He’s one of those artists who makes you feel like you’re part of the moment, and not just watching it. That sincerity peaked when he invited a lucky fan, Noah, onstage to play ‘Borders‘, a moment no one will forget..

After a gripping hour and 15-minute set, and joking about needing a toilet break mid-show; Fender broke the bittersweet news that following this tour, he’ll be taking time out to focus on himself and his music. Sam closed the show, leaving the crowd on a high with his beloved track ‘Hypersonic Missiles‘, a thundering finale that had everyone bouncing. Whether you’re a life-long fan or new to his sound, this was one of those gigs that stays with you. An unforgettable night, and a fitting start to the People Watching tour.