Sid Sriram joined a long list of illustrious names to perform at the O2 Arena on the Greenwich Peninsula, last Sunday, to mark his biggest UK solo concert to date. The multi-talented versatile singer adds another feather to his musical journey progressing from last year’s performance at the OVO Arena, Wembley.
Sid Sriram reimagined the songs that first brought him into the spotlight, blending rock elements into his melodies with the help of his lead guitarist and drummer. In a unique approach, he not only performed tracks from his playback singing career but also paid homage to classic Tamil hits from the 1990s, including Kannalane, Oru Deivam Thantha Poove, and Nila Kaigaradhu—a tribute to A.R. Rahman, the composer who first introduced him to the Kollywood music industry. The band brought Sid’s vision to life, as the inclusion of the Nadhaswaram, a traditional Indian wind instrument, elevated the deeply soulful melodies, elegantly contrasting his competing Carnatic raga improvisations.
Eelam Tamil Artist Pritt was opening for his show, and performed songs from her catalogue alongside a live ensemble.
Sriram also delivered a moving rendition of Thiruppugazh, a Tamil religious hymn dedicated to Lord Murugan. Reflecting on his journey, he shared how his spirituality has profoundly influenced his music and creative direction. In a touching finale, he invited his mother on stage, acknowledging her as his greatest musical influence. Sid was able to resonate equally with audiences across generations, from the teenagers drawn in by his chart-topping Tamil, Telugu and Malayalam hits as well as endearing himself to the older generation, who cherished his deep respect for his Carnatic roots.
Throughout the show, Sid repeatedly expressed his affection for the UK, even stating, "it feels like home here." His remarks echoed sentiments from an August interview with the Tamil Guardian, where he spoke warmly of his UK fanbase, particularly highlighting the enduring support from Eelam Tamils. That deep connection was evident in his heartfelt performance of Oru Deivam Thantha Poove, a song from the film Kannathil Muthamittal, which is based on the Tamil Eelam struggle.
In an interview with the BBC, Sid has expressed his ambition to bring Tamil-language music and his Carnatic roots to a global audience. His performance at the packed O2 Arena is a significant milestone, making him the first Carnatic singer since A.R. Rahman to achieve such a feat. With plans to release his own original Tamil music soon, Sid is poised to act as a ‘cultural bridge’, extending his musical influence into the Western world. Audiences are eager to see how he will continue to blend tradition with contemporary appeal on the international stage.
