Loreen brings her EU/UK 2025 Tour to Glasgow for Sold-Out show at O2 Academy

★★★★★ (5/5)

LOREEN PERFORMING AT GLASGOW’S O2 ACADEMY
PHOTOCREDIT: CALUM BUCHAN

Tuesday night sees Loreen, the Swedish pop powerhouse and Eurovision icon, took to the stage at Glasgow’s O2 Academy for a show that left fans breathless. As part of her ‘EU Tour 2025,’ Loreen delivered a night brimming with electrifying performances, emotional depth, and a connection to her fans that made the experience unforgettable. The venue, known for its intimate setting, was packed with fans eager to witness the magic of one of Europe’s most iconic voices.

As the crowd filtered into the O2 Academy, there was an electric energy buzzing in the air. Fans from all over Scotland and beyond gathered, ready to experience the legendary artist who had dominated the Eurovision stage with Euphoria and beyond. As the lights dimmed and the first notes of music echoed through the venue, the audience’s anticipation reached a fever pitch. Loreen emerged on stage, dressed in a futuristic ensemble that reflected both her bold artistry and her Scandinavian roots. The reaction was instant—a roaring applause, followed by shouts of excitement that rippled through the room.

Loreen began the night with Jupiter Drive, as she began the crowd, fully invested in the moment, starting to sing along, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. What truly stood out in these opening moments was Loreen's vocal prowess. She effortlessly navigated the high notes and intricate harmonies, her voice filling the space with an intensity that left no doubt: Loreen was a singer who could deliver live as powerfully as she did in the studio. Her sound was crisp and rich, her control impeccable, and she quickly demonstrated that she was a true vocal force.

The show’s setlist was an expertly curated blend of Loreen’s older hits and newer material from her latest album. Songs like My Heart Is Refusing Me and Statements had the crowd swaying and singing along, creating an atmosphere that was both reflective and euphoric. There was a raw emotion in Loreen’s delivery of these tracks—a personal connection to the lyrics that felt deeply intimate. Her storytelling through music was palpable, making even the most upbeat tracks feel deeply layered with meaning.

Fans were particularly excited to hear material from debut album and her most recent album, with songs like, Euphoria, Tattoo and We Got the Power lighting up the room. Tattoo was a standout moment of the night, with its haunting melody and catchy chorus that resonated with both old and new fans. It was clear that Loreen had evolved as an artist, moving from the electronic-pop anthems that made her famous to a more refined and layered sound that demonstrated her growth as a musician. Euphoria, the crowd sang along in unison, creating an almost spiritual connection between the artist and her fans. Her voice soared through the venue, showing off the incredible range and power that made her a Eurovision legend.

Her new tracks blended seamlessly with the classics, creating an exciting pace throughout the show. Every transition was smooth, with the audience caught up in the emotions and energy of the performance. Whether performing a haunting ballad or a high-energy anthem, Loreen was in complete control, commanding the stage with confidence and grace.

What set this performance apart was Loreen’s ability to balance vulnerability and power in equal measure. One moment, she would be on stage alone, singing a heartfelt ballad with just a spotlight shining down on her; the next, she would be leading the entire crowd in a raucous singalong to a crowd-pleasing anthem. The seamless transitions between these moments showcased her versatility as both an artist and a performer.

Her stage presence was magnetic. Every movement, every gesture felt deliberate, like each song had its own story to tell through her actions. She seemed completely in tune with the crowd, frequently engaging with them, making eye contact, and offering moments of genuine connection. At one point, Loreen paused to thank the audience for their unwavering support, telling them how much it meant to her to be on this tour, especially after her journey through Eurovision. The crowd responded with a heartfelt cheer, proving just how much Loreen's music has touched lives beyond the stage.

Another memorable moment was when she performed We Got the Power. The song, with its infectious energy, had the entire venue dancing and clapping along. Loreen's ability to bring an audience into her performance was truly special—there was no barrier between artist and fan, just a shared experience of pure joy.

Visually, the production was simple but stunning. The lighting design complemented the emotional highs and lows of the set, with bold, bright colours during the upbeat tracks and softer, more ethereal lighting during the intimate moments. A sleek backdrop allowed Loreen’s voice and stage presence to take centre stage, while minimalistic projections added a touch of drama without overwhelming the performance.

Despite the grand scale of the tour, the intimacy of the O2 Academy made for a special experience. The venue, known for its close proximity to the artist, allowed the audience to feel like they were part of something uniquely personal. Every word Loreen sang seemed to be directed right at the crowd, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

As the show neared its end, the anticipation built for the inevitable Euphoria encore. The crowd roared as Loreen took the stage once more, and as the familiar chords of the song filled the venue, the audience erupted into applause. It was the perfect conclusion to a night of unforgettable performances. The energy in the room was palpable, with everyone singing along, hands in the air, as if celebrating not only Loreen’s success but also the community that had formed in that moment.

With one final, soaring note, Loreen left the stage, leaving behind a room full of fans who were both exhausted and exhilarated by the experience. It was a night that not only celebrated Loreen’s musical journey but also the incredible connection she’s built with her audience over the years.

Loreen’s performance at the O2 Academy was a true testament to her status as one of the most captivating live performers of our time. Her voice, her stage presence, and her ability to connect with the crowd made for an unforgettable evening that will leave fans talking long after the lights went down. With her EU Tour 2025 now in full swing, Loreen has proven that she’s more than just a Eurovision winner—she’s a global pop icon with staying power, and this concert was just one example of why she continues to be a force in the music world.d—she’s a true force in the global music scene.