The iconic Wiltern provided the perfect backdrop for James Arthur's recent sold-out show in Los Angeles. The palpable excitement was evident before stepping inside, with a long line of fans stretching down the block. Once inside the venue, the buzzing atmosphere only intensified as the show commenced.
While Arthur is primarily celebrated for his poignant ballads and soul-stirring vocals, his performance was infused with a playful and upbeat spirit that contrasted with his soulful musical style. The singer-songwriter commanded the stage with an animated presence that traveled throughout the venue, getting the whole crowd to their feet.
The setlist showcased a seamless blend of Arthur's hits and some well-chosen covers, each rendered with his flawless vocals. He kicked off the show with “Bitter Sweet Love,” immediately drawing the audience into the performance and starting the show off on a high note. A personal highlight for me was “Rewrite The Stars,” a song that has always resonated with me and was incredible to experience live. He captivated the crowd with back-to-back covers of Christina Perri's “A Thousand Years” and Shontelle's “Impossible,” showcasing his versatility and vocal prowess.
A standout aspect of the night was Arthur's sense of humor. He playfully teased the audience, at one point convincing everyone that Anne-Marie was about to join him on stage as a special guest. These lighter, humorous moments provided an entertaining counterpoint, contrasting the somber tones of his music and keeping the energy up.
Perhaps most touching was the genuine affection Arthur displayed towards his fans. An artist who truly seems to be enjoying their performance and connecting with the crowd goes a long way in my enjoyment of a performance, and Arthur certainly did both. At the end of the show, he repeatedly interacted with the audience, blowing kisses and waving long after most artists would have exited the stage. It was a heartfelt acknowledgement of the fans' support. At one point, he even dedicated a song to a fan in the audience who had just beaten cancer after a very long battle with it. It really illustrated the amount that he cares about knowing his fans' stories.
James Arthur's Wiltern performance was a wonderful mix of musical prowess, playful humor, and genuine audience connection. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his craft while creating a solid relationship with his fans. He closed the show with “Say You Won't Let Go,” leaving a lasting emotional impression on everyone who attended.
Words and photos by Ashley Crichton