As the sun blazed overhead, the excitement outside the venue was amazing with fans eagerly queuing in a zigzag formation, all eager to experience the much-anticipated party.
The atmosphere buzzed with energy as George Bowie took to the stage, opening the show with his signature GBX anthems to get the festivities started. While the crowd waited in anticipation, Callum Beattie took it upon himself to entertain those still outside, serenading them with songs from the various artists set to perform that evening. Videos of his impromptu performance quickly made the rounds on social media, capturing the vibrant mood and heightening the sense of celebration as everyone geared up for a memorable birthday bash.
The atmosphere in the venue was electric as Tom Walker took to the stage for his first appearance at the OVO Hydro. The anticipation had been building, and when Tom’s name flashed across the big screens, the crowd’s excitement reached a crescendo. Donning a green hat, Tom received a resounding welcome as his band began playing the intro to “Holy Ghost.” His powerful vocals filled the arena, captivating the audience and drawing them into a collective chorus. As Tom transitioned into “Head Underwater,” the crowd’s enthusiasm was amazing, their voices filling the space with an infectious energy. The performance was met with overwhelming approval, and Tom’s appreciation was evident as he expressed his gratitude to the audience for their incredible reception. He then introduced a heartfelt song dedicated to his wife, “Just You and I,” further endearing himself to the crowd with its beautiful melody and touching lyrics.
The atmosphere in the venue was electric as the opening chords of Tom’s hit song “Leave the Light On” filled the air. The Glasgow crowd enthusiastically sang along to every word, their voices blending together in perfect harmony. Tom’s performance was energetic and engaging, effectively setting the tone for an unforgettable night of music and celebration. With a capacity of 12,000, the venue was packed with fans eager to experience Tom’s talent live. As he concluded his set with his powerful song “Burn,” the stage was illuminated with vibrant flames, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle. As Tom bid farewell to the cheering crowd, he left them with a sense of anticipation for the rest of the evening, promising that it was going to be a night to remember.
George and Cassi returned to the stage to introduce Emeli Sande to the stage.
Emeli Sandé captivated the audience with her spellbinding performance, showcasing her extraordinary talent on the grand piano. Her performance kicked off with “Read All About It,” where her stunning vocals resonated throughout the venue, encouraging the crowd to join in singing. Sandé then transitioned into the lively “My Boy Likes to Party,” setting an exhilarating tone for the evening and expressing her excitement to be part of the radio station’s 50th birthday celebration. She concluded her short but memorable set with the powerful “Next to Me,” leaving the audience in awe before bidding them farewell and wishing them a wonderful night. Sandé’s performance was a highlight of the event, leaving a lasting impression on all who were present.
Between bands you had radio station DJ Callum Gallacher playing songs to keep the crowd entertained during the changeover.
As the previous performer, Callum, exited the stage, anticipation buzzed through the crowd as images of Amy Macdonald began flashing on the various screens surrounding the stage. Soon enough, her band members made their way to their positions, building excitement further until Amy herself appeared, welcomed by a roaring ovation from her hometown crowd. The lights flared brightly as she kicked off her set with “The Hudson,” followed by the crowd-pleaser “Mr. Rock n’ Roll,” which had everyone singing along in unison. Amy expressed her joy of performing to the familiar faces, promising a memorable night for Clyde 1. Her set included a standout performance of “Statues” from the Human Demands album, and she playfully engaged the audience to join her in the chorus of the next song, humorously referring to it as her version of “National Service.” Amy continued to energize the crowd with “Slow It Down,” and the venue’s atmosphere was electric. Before ending her set with the iconic “This is The Life,” Amy expressed her hopes of returning to Glasgow soon. As the final song concluded, the audience danced and sang, and Amy’s heartfelt enjoyment was evident. She left the stage to a thunderous applause, the audience’s response echoing through the Hydro, a testament to a performance that would be remembered.
As the intermission began, the atmosphere in the venue was vibrant with excitement. People of all ages, including young families, eagerly took the opportunity to grab refreshments and catch their breath after an exhilarating first half of the show. The venue was abuzz with chatter and laughter, with everyone coming together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the beloved Glasgow radio station. On the big screen, a montage of videos played, featuring both old and new DJs, as well as highlights from various events hosted by the station over the years. The sense of nostalgia and community was palpable, making it a truly special occasion for all in attendance.
As the lights went down again, we could see images of Callum Beattie on the screens and the noise level went through the roof to welcome him to the stage.
As Callum stepped onto the stage, sporting sunglasses and armed with his guitar, he quickly captured the attention of the audience. He started his set with the title track from his latest album, “Vandals,” which had the crowd singing along instantly. Callum confidently strode across the stage, nodding to fans in the front rows as he passed by. The energy in the room soared when he launched into one of his biggest hits, “Heat Stops Beating,” with the crowd belting out the lyrics from the very first word. Both old and young fans were united in their enthusiasm, filling the venue with a vibrant, rocking atmosphere as they celebrated the music of the talented Callum Beattie.
He took a moment to express his gratitude to Clyde 1 for their support and for extending an invitation for him to perform at their 50th Birthday Party. The audience was thrilled as he performed the popular “Salamander Street,” with everyone in the venue singing along. Callum concluded the night with a heartfelt rendition of “Caledonia” by Dougie MacLean, dedicating it to everyone from the youth to the elderly. It was the perfect capstone to an electrifying set that had the venue buzzing from the first chords to the last. As the final notes rang out, he waved goodbye to the crowd at the Hydro, who reciprocated with deafening cheers, their appreciation reverberating throughout the venue.
As the stage crew made their final changes, excitement buzzed through the air in Glasgow. George Bowie and Cassi returned to the stage, ready to unveil a surprise that had been kept under wraps. With a flourish, they introduced Nathan Evans, who took the stage to perform his latest single “Heather On the Hill.” The audience erupted into cheers, dancing and singing along with every word. Nathan’s performance brought an electric energy to the venue, and as he waved goodbye, the crowd’s enthusiasm only grew.
Callum Gallacher then stepped up to the decks, and in a seamless transition, invited George Bowie back to the stage. It wouldn’t be a true Clyde 1 show without George’s iconic “Bits and Pieces,” and as the familiar tune began to play, the Hydro transformed into a sea of folk dancing and revelry, celebrating the night’s unforgettable moments.
As the big screens displayed images of Sharleen Spiteri, the lead singer of Texas, the noise level in the venue escalated, signifying the arrival of the final performer at Clyde 1’s grand 50th anniversary celebration. With the dimming of the lights, the Texas gold logo shone brilliantly above the stage, setting the scene for an unforgettable performance. As Sharleen stepped onto the stage, the crowd erupted into a deafening roar. “Are you ready Glasgow?” she shouted, and the audience responded with an even louder cheer. The band kicked off their set with “Summer Sun,” a fitting choice as the attendees had enjoyed a sunny day that felt like summer upon their arrival. Sharleen took a moment to reminisce about past performances at the venue and engaged the crowd by asking if they had been present during Texas’s last show there. The setlist continued with a parade of the band’s greatest hits, including “Halo,” “Black Eyed Boy,” and “You Make Me Feel,” which had everyone singing and dancing along. Sharleen expressed gratitude towards Clyde 1 for their unwavering support since 1989, and acknowledged the honour of performing at their milestone event. The band concluded their set with “Say What You Want,” leaving the crowd exhilarated as they bid farewell to the Hydro audience with a promise to return later in the year.
Wow, what a night! The Glasgow Radio station truly outdid itself with an unforgettable celebration of its 50th anniversary. The music was phenomenal, with bands delivering electrifying performances that had everyone on their feet. The energy in the air was amazing as fans danced and sang along, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. It was more than just a concert; it was a massive party where both the bands and the fans played their part in making the night truly special. Here’s to another 50 years of great music and memorable moments for the Glasgow Radio station. Roll on!
Review by Karen Edmond
