Bradley Simpson returned to the stage at Coventry’s HMV Empire, delivering an electrifying and intimate set that felt like a homecoming before his full tour kicks off in May. While not quite Birmingham, Coventry is close enough to count as a near-hometown show, and you could feel the warmth and excitement from both Simpson and the crowd throughout the night.
Bradley Simpson @ HMV Empire, Coventry
From the moment he walked on stage, there was an effortless charisma about him—something that has drawn comparisons to Harry Styles. It’s not just in the vocals, which glide smoothly from tender falsettos to commanding rock-infused belts, but in the way he carries himself: playful, engaging, and completely in control of the stage. His banter with the crowd was a highlight, filled with cheeky remarks and back-and-forth moments that made the night feel truly special.
The 29-year-old opened with Daisies, a stunning track that immediately pulled the audience into his world. It was a delicate yet confident start, allowing his storytelling to take center stage before he picked up the pace with Cry at the Moon—a song that felt like it was meant to be screamed back by an audience. The energy in the room was undeniable, building with each track.
Bradley Simpson @ HMV Empire, Coventry
One of the most emotionally charged moments of the set came with Getting Clear, a song that showcased his raw, introspective lyricism. It was impossible not to be drawn in as he delivered each line with conviction, letting every word hit home. That vulnerability quickly gave way to the grittier Carpet Burn, which had a real edge—gritty, anthemic, and impossible to ignore.
The night flowed effortlessly, with Simpson switching between deeply personal moments and pure, unfiltered fun. Not Us Anymore and The Panic Years felt like instant classics, offering nostalgia and reflection in equal measure, while Favourite Band was a joyous singalong that had the whole room involved. His ability to balance stadium-sized hooks with intimate storytelling is what makes him such an engaging performer.
As the night drew to a close, The Band Is Not Breaking Up carried a bittersweet undertone—a reminder that while this is a solo venture, his journey with The Vamps remains ever-present. And with Picasso, he ended on a high, leaving the stage to roaring applause and the kind of atmosphere that suggests this is only the beginning of an incredible new chapter.
Bradley Simpson isn’t just stepping out on his own—he’s carving out something truly special. With the charm of a seasoned frontman, a sound that bridges indie-rock intimacy with pop-star energy, and an effortless connection with his audience, this show proved that his solo career is one to watch. If this was the warm-up, his tour in May is going to be unmissable.
Bradley Simpson @ HMV Empire, Coventry
Live review of Bradley Simpson at the HMV Empire, Coventry on 2nd March 2025 by Nick Allan. Photography by Josh Tanner.
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