"It's wild. What a way to spend a Saturday night... with 14,000 of my best pals.”
East Lothian singer-songwriter Callum Beattie is gearing up for the biggest performance of his career as he headlines the OVO Hydro this November.
With a capacity of 14,300, The Salamander Street singer will play Scotland's largest entertainment venue on Saturday 22nd November.
Callum, who now lives in Glasgow, sees the iconic venue every day but admits that taking on the vast arena for his first headline show on the biggest night of the week is something he barely dared to dream about.
He said: “It’s wild. I actually didn’t know, Dave (Rogers - his manager) set it all up and got me to the Hydro for some filming then he hit me with it on camera so what you see is absolutely genuine."
“We’ve done the Hydro for things like the big Clyde 1 birthday bash and played support slots there but putting on our own show in that arena is something I still can’t really get my head round."
“It’s huge – so huge I can’t take it in. Will that many people buy a ticket to come see me and the band? People seem to think so but I can’t think that way. I hope they do!"
“What a way to spend a Saturday night though with 14,000 of my best pals.”
The Something in my Eye singer-songwriter has seen his career take off since getting out of his record deal and becoming fully independent, all under the wing of manager Dave Rogers.
He credits Dave with turning his life and career around and this announcement shows the pair are absolutely on the right road – even if Callum can’t quite believe the Hydro news himself.
Callum said: “It really is amazing that we’ve announced a headline show at the OVO Hydro."
“Years ago I signed a record deal, thought I had made it and it couldn’t have been further from the truth, it nearly destroyed me."
“Dave got us out of all that and now it’s just us, doing things our way with the right people we trust to work with – and look where we are."
“I hope seeing this inspires other musicians in Scotland – it shows you can do it your own way, you don’t need the whole London industry thing at all, you don’t have to live someone else’s dream."
“Thank you to everyone who has helped us get here – and I hope you’ll join us at the Hydro on Saturday November 22 to celebrate the biggest night of our lives.”
Let’s Get Personal
I’ve known Callum for years! He’s from a town not too far from me and I remember, back in the day, seeing him gig in local pubs, and even back then I knew he would go far. He has this charisma and charm mixed with raw talent that inspires and hits you right in the feels.
Two years ago, almost to the day, I went along the HMV on Princes Street in Edinburgh to the launch of his album “Vandals”. One of the best albums I have ever listened to. FACT.
I’ve also seen him perform (and climb the stage) at TRNSMT, and headline at The Kelpies 10, and every time he brings the energy, the authenticity, the vulnerability, and the banter. A true entertainer.
I fully expect and wouldn’t be the surprised in the slightest if tickets sell out quickly. So, here’s what you need to know…
When: Saturday, November 22
Where: OVO Hydro
Get Your Tickets: Tickets are on sale on Friday at 9am – go to ovohydro.com or Ticketmaster.co.uk