The English crooner is back in the Philippines after 4 years, and once again, he did not disappoint! Calum Scott gave his Filipino fans a night to remember by taking us all on a musical ride. “We’re gonna take you on a journey. You’re gonna dance, you’re gonna cry.” 

Before Calum Scott took the stage, rising New Zealand singer-songwriter Mitch James pumped up the crowd by opening the show. He performed several songs including his recent singles ‘motions’, ‘japan’, upcoming release ‘Fades To Black’ and his 2019 hit ‘Sunday Morning’. The singer wow-ed the crowd with his upbeat but heartfelt songs.

After Mitch James’ impressive set, Calum Scott’s band slowly stepped on stage and positioned themselves on their respective musical instruments. Not long after, the singer stepped out and started the show with power ballad ‘Rise’, followed by several songs from his sophomore album Bridges. It was an incredible start to the night.

Moving on after his opening songs, Calum Scott greeted Filipino fans in our native language. “Magandang gabi sa inyong lahat!”  The fans screamed in excitement as Calum introduced the start of the Bridges tour in Manila. Calum proceeded to introduce the fans to what he calls the “crying corner” of the show. He sat on a stool, with the spotlight hitting him as he talked about the meaning behind his next song ‘Flaws’ — He dedicated this uplifting song to his older sister who couldn’t help but be upset about her own flaws. Calum shared how he decided to make this song as a way to show his boundless love for his sister, despite her flaws. He gave his sincerest thank you’s to her, as she was a stepping stone into the start of his career. A beautiful moment, indeed.

Calum Scott let his walls down and became vulnerable during the course of the show. He shared that most of his songs are his own way to express his true self, and we felt touched that he chose to share all these out in the open, in the best way he knows how. 

Calum did promise a night of dancing as well, and went on to perform his own twist to Maroon 5’s ‘This Love’. He shared an anecdote of how he used to be a part of a Maroon 5 tribute band named “Maroon 4” and this was one of the songs that they used to perform. The song may have started slow but definitely ended up on a high note. Calum brought the energy up and everyone was dancing the night away!

A fan favorite song of Calum Scott’s was a classic from his 2018 album ‘Only Human’ —  Calum serenaded his Filipino fans with ‘You Are The Reason’ and even switched up the last lyrics to “You are MY reason”. It was definitely a heart-warming experience to have been serenaded by Calum. We’re sure everyone was in tears by the end.

Before the end of the show Calum brought out his special guest, none other than our very own Darren Espanto! Calum’s 2022 track ‘Heaven’ was his collaboration song with several Asian artists including Darren. The duo blessed the crowd with their duet of ‘Heaven’ and it did feel like heaven on Earth hearing their beautiful voices blend together.

Of course, the show would not be complete without Calum’s full circle moment! Seven years after getting a golden ticket on Britain’s Got Talent for his rendition of Robyn’s ‘Dancing On My Own’, Calum Scott performed the very song that sky-rocketed him to fame, on his own world tour. It was the highlight of the night, seeing Calum grow more as a singer. His Filipino fans, and fans all over the world, are definitely proud of him and his achievements! 

It was a night to remember. Big thanks to Ovations Productions for making Bridges Asia Tour happen in Manila!

Spotted:

SJ Jazz of Ateneo

SJs Gabe and Jelena of UPD