July 7, 2024, 11:36
Robbie Williams commanding the stage at BST Hyde Park
Robbie Williams delivered a masterclass in showmanship at BST Hyde Park, solidifying his claim as a top contender for the Glastonbury 2025 headliner.
Kicking off his set with the anthemic “Let Me Entertain You,” Williams, now 50, proved that age hasn’t dulled his electrifying stage presence. His energetic performance had the crowd of 60,000, many still riding high on England’s Euro 2024 victory, captivated from the outset.
Williams’ setlist was a carefully curated journey through his illustrious career, packed with singalong classics like “Strong,” “Rock DJ,” and “Kids.” Each song was met with a roar of approval, highlighting the timeless appeal of his music.
Robbie Williams engaging the crowd at BST Hyde Park
In a nod to his past, Williams revisited his Take That days, sharing a humorous VT of the band’s early music video for “Do What U Like” before delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Back for Good.” The performance was a touching tribute to his time with the iconic boy band and a testament to his enduring friendship with his former bandmates.
The surprises didn’t end there. Williams welcomed Supergrass frontman Gaz Coombes to the stage for a rousing performance of the 90s hit “Alright.” But the highlight of the night came when actor Danny Dyer joined Williams for an unexpected but brilliant cover of Blur’s “Parklife,” creating a musical pairing no one saw coming.
Williams also took a moment to honor fallen music icons, dedicating his poignant track “Advertising Space” to George Michael, Freddie Mercury, Amy Winehouse, and Elvis Presley. The performance was a moving tribute to these legendary artists and their lasting impact on the music world.
As the night drew to a close, Williams left the crowd breathless with a powerful rendition of his signature ballad, “Angels.” The sight of 60,000 voices united in song under the summer sky was a testament to Williams’ enduring appeal and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
With Glastonbury 2024’s lineup receiving mixed reviews, Robbie Williams’ BST Hyde Park show felt like a strategic bid for a headlining slot in 2025. Based on this performance, it would be hard to deny him the opportunity to grace the Pyramid Stage once more.
