Music > Live Reviews

Sam Ryder Rock n Roll Circus

Earlham Park

16/08/25

Former United Kingdom Eurovision representative Sam Ryder delivered an energising and powerful performance to round off the first night of the Rock n Roll Circus at Earlham Park, Norwich.

Opening for McFly on Thursday night, Sam took the stage to an excited crowd, brimming with anticipation after a stunning tightrope interval act that kept up the extravagant tone for the evening. As the lights dimmed and the first chords rang out, you could feel the collective buzz across the park. His entry was confident and inviting, like a friend you’ve been dying to catch up with.

He played a selection of hits and lesser-known fan favourites from his discography, including OH OK - a lead single from his upcoming album Heartland, which releases in October. The track’s hook and soaring vocals proved that his songwriting is just as compelling as his Eurovision performance. Other tracks were delivered with an extra punch in their live arrangements, showcasing his full vocal range which absolutely stunned.

Sam Ryder has a rare kind of stage presence that keeps the crowd enthused without forcing it. He commanded attention not just with his voice, but with his ease in speaking to the audience between songs. At one point, he encouraged everyone to take a moment, look up at the sky, and appreciate where they were. It was a small but meaningful reminder that helped the crowd feel truly connected.

The rapturous applause and cheering reached a peak when the iconic opening notes of his hit single ‘Space Man’ began to play. People jumped, hugged, and sang along at full volume. Even those unfamiliar with his music before the night couldn’t help but be swept up in the moment. The positive energy was undeniable, radiating from the stage into every corner of the crowd.

This was my first festival experience, and Sam Ryder made me feel welcome and part of something bigger. His ability to make thousands of strangers feel united through music was extraordinary. Even as the crowd kept increasing ahead of McFly’s set, Sam maintained a distinct identity, never overshadowed, just sharing joy in its purest form.

As his set closed, there was a sense of collective gratitude in the air. People lingered, still singing snippets of his songs as they headed for drinks or the next stage. For many, including myself, he was the highlight of the night, leading a very memorable performance.

More photographs can be found here  https://www.outlineonline.co.uk/gallery/rocknroll-circus-day-one-part-one/earlham-park/10503/0