James Bay wrapped up his tour with a triumphant and emotionally resonant performance at Montreal’s MTELUS, delivering a night that felt both intimate and electric. The historic venue, buzzing with anticipation, welcomed not only Bay’s signature soulful sound but also a sense of celebration and gratitude that elevated the evening into something unforgettable.
Opening the evening was Hunter Metts, who quietly captivated the crowd with a stripped-back, soulful set. Sitting on a stool with just his guitar, Metts showcased a rich, emotive voice that filled the room with ease. A former contestant on Season 19 of American Idol, he’s clearly grown into an artist with depth and presence. His understated delivery and raw sincerity made for a beautiful, low-key start to the evening—one that perfectly complemented the emotional intensity to come.
Opening with “Up All Night,” Bay set the tone immediately—vulnerable yet powerful, his voice weaving through the crowd and pulling everyone in from the first note. The connection between artist and audience was palpable, and it only grew deeper throughout the set.
Bay’s love for Montreal was front and centre throughout the night. “We love this city,” he shared with a wide smile, “and we’re so happy to be finishing the tour here.” It wasn’t just words—it was clear in his energy, his interactions, and the way he took his time soaking in the crowd’s warmth. There’s something magical about a show when the artist is just as moved as the audience, and that mutual affection was on full display.
One of the standout moments came during “Let It Go.” As the crowd joined in a heartfelt singalong, a half disco ball above the stage cast scattered beams of light that danced across the venue. The combination of voices and soft, shimmering lights created a dreamlike atmosphere—fragile, emotional, and undeniably beautiful. Later in the set, Bay invited Ariel Posen to join him onstage for “You and Me Time,” blending their talents into a rich, layered performance that felt spontaneous and joyful.
The encore brought an unexpected and touching twist. A fan in the front held up a sign requesting “Hope,” and Bay, clearly exhausted after weeks on the road, hesitated. “I’ll try,” he said with a wry smile, “but my voice is pretty bang up from the tour—I’m not sure I can hit those notes.” And try he did. His voice cracked, faltered, but he pushed through with raw honesty. It wasn’t perfect, but it didn’t need to be. That moment captured the essence of the night—heart over polish, connection over perfection.
After this little snippet, he went into “Need the Sun to Break,” and followed with “The Elephant,” and closed with the anthemic “Hold Back the River,” sending the crowd into a final, euphoric chorus. It was a full-circle moment that encapsulated the power of live music to bring people together, to heal, and to inspire.
James Bay’s Montreal show was more than a tour closer—it was a celebration of artistry, community, and the enduring power of connection. A night to remember.
