Photos and Review by Marisol Elenes
Ben Barnes is a multifaceted British actor, singer, and songwriter, widely known for his roles in films such as *The Chronicles of Narnia* and *Shadow and Bone*. Recently, he has made a significant impact in the music industry, combining his rich vocals with heartfelt songwriting. His music blends indie, folk, and pop influences, and his top tracks include "11:11," "Rise Up," and "Cold Winds." Currently, he is touring in support of his highly anticipated album, "Where The Light Gets In", released on January 10, 2025. On January 12, 2025, he had his concert in San Francisco, CA
Before Ben took the stage, the audience enjoyed a fantastic lineup of opening performances. Zoe Sparks kicked things off with an engaging set, including her songs "Samantha" and "Boston (how to feel)" The crowd responded enthusiastically, applauding loudly after her set. Next, Sophia James took the stage, delivering a heartfelt performance of "Circadian Rhythm" revealing that the audience was among the second group to hear the song. She thanked Ben for having her and invited fans to visit her merch table and chat for 15 minutes after her set. The final opener, Charles Jones, brought soulful energy to the stage with his powerful vocals, performing an original track and a cover of Radiohead’s "Creep." He also encouraged the crowd to clap along during his performance of "Where Would I Be Without You." The openers created an incredible atmosphere that set the stage for the headliner.
Ben Barnes gave an unforgettable performance, effortlessly combining his musical talents with meaningful connections to the audience. From songs like " Where the Light Gets In," "Take Me to the Moon," "The In Between," and "Rise Up" to heartfelt exchanges with the crowd, Barnes made the night unforgettable. He even took a moment to thank the band and openers, sharing his personal connection to the drummer, and expressing gratitude for being on tour with friends. During the night when he mentioned Narnia and shadow and bones, the crowd erupted in excitement. Later, he threw a shirt into the crowd as a fun way to connect with his fans.
The evening continued with engaging moments, including Barnes quoting the iconic line, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it,” before performing "Slow It Down." He also premiered the unreleased track "Vulnerable" and gave fans the choice of four songs, with "You’ve Got a Friend in Me" emerging as the crowd favorite. The night concluded with "Someday," where Barnes encouraged the audience to follow their dreams, before returning for an encore of "11:11," during which the crowd sang along, earning praise from Barnes for their enthusiasm.
Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, Ben Barnes’ tour is an exceptional opportunity to enjoy his music and experience an evening full of connection that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
