David Essex

David Essex plays The Glasgow Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow on 3 September 2026, revisiting the songs and stories that have shaped his path between pop, rock and musical theatre. Raised in Canning Town after early days as a drummer in 60s local bands, he broke through with Godspell in 1971, then the film That’ll Be the Day, before writing and recording Rock On in 1973, a track that set his blend of glam textures, supple vocals and a narrative tone. The run that followed — Rock On, David Essex, All the Fun of the Fair, Out on the Street, Imperial Wizard — moved toward melodic pop rock, while the stage called with Tommy, Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds and the role of Che in Evita. He has since balanced albums, UK tours and screen work, from Be-Bop the Future and Cover Shot to a collaboration with Saint Etienne on Tales from Turnpike House. In Glasgow, expect a set that links eras, folding in the staples and theatre pieces that marked his route.