Fans were transported back in time last night as David Gray delivered a heartfelt and nostalgic performance at Sheffield City Hall, reminding the crowd why his music continues to resonate after more than two decades.
The concert drew hundreds of spectators, many of whom first discovered Gray’s music in the late 1990s.
Gray’s audience responded warmly throughout, many singing along to the songs. The song ‘Babylon’ is one of David Gray’s biggest hits.
It became a defining song of the early 2000s folk-pop revival and played extensively on radio and TV, making Gray a household name. Now, it still featured in films, TV shows, and nostalgia-driven playlists.
“Whenever ‘Babylon’ comes on, it’s like someone pressed rewind on my life,” said long-time fan Nathan, aged 32.
“David Gray’s music has grown up with me. I first heard White Ladder when I was a teenager, and now, twenty years later, those songs still understand me better than most people do. I have been haunted by his breath-taking music and lyrics.”
White Ladder was Gray’s fourth studio album ever, and made the fifth-best-selling UK album of the 2000s in the UK. The album has sold over 3 million copies in the UK – understandably fans are glad to hear these songs live once again.
Gray’s return to Sheffield highlighted the enduring cultural impact of his work. Despite changing musical trends, many believe the emotional honesty of his song writing is what continues to strike a chord with audiences young and old.
Sophie, 18, a university student, said: “ I came with my mum. I didn’t expect to love it, but honestly, I really did. Now I get why his songs mean so much to people.
“I assumed that I would just fall asleep as it’s my mum dragged me here. But by the end of the show, I was singing along too. It’s hard to explain, but there’s something about his music that just connects with you—no matter your age.”
The show marked another successful stop on Gray’s whole UK tour.
The tour continues with the next performance in Llandudno on March 28, where Gray will perform for another excited audience. Following that, his UK tour will head to Leicester, Liverpool and Birmingham.