Lewis Capaldi has made a powerful and emotional return to the Glastonbury Pyramid Stage, two years after he was forced to cut short his 2023 performance due to a flare-up of his Tourette’s symptoms.
The Scottish singer-songwriter, 28, appeared as a surprise act during the festival’s opening weekend, performing a 35-minute set that included his hits “Before You Go,” “Someone You Loved,” and his new single “Survive,” which was released on the same day.
“It’s so good to be back,” Capaldi told the crowd, visibly emotional as he addressed the audience. “I just wanted to finish what I couldn’t finish the last time.”
Capaldi’s 2023 performance at Glastonbury became a defining moment when he struggled to complete his set due to his condition, prompting fans to sing along in support. Following that appearance, he announced an indefinite break from touring to focus on his mental and physical health.
On Friday, fans packed the Pyramid Stage area as rumors of his appearance circulated. The crowd erupted in cheers as Capaldi walked on stage with his guitar, with many in the audience holding supportive banners. Throughout the set, Capaldi expressed gratitude for the support he has received over the past two years, describing it as “the reason I’m here today.”
A fan in attendance described the performance as “a full-circle moment,” while another noted the “overwhelming sense of love in the crowd” as Capaldi confidently finished “Someone You Loved,” the song he could not complete during his previous appearance.
Capaldi’s new single “Survive” touches on his journey with anxiety and the challenges of living in the public eye while managing his health. The track has already sparked discussions online about the importance of mental health and self-care within the music industry.
Festival organizers praised Capaldi’s return, calling it “a moment of resilience and healing not just for Lewis, but for everyone who has followed his journey.”
It is currently unclear whether Capaldi plans to announce further live performances, but sources close to the artist suggest that a gradual return to live shows may be possible, with a focus on balancing his health and career moving forward.
For now, Capaldi’s Glastonbury return marks a significant milestone in his career, celebrated by thousands of fans who witnessed a performance filled with vulnerability, courage, and the power of music to bring people together.