The British music scene has experienced a remarkable surge in recent years, with artists like Olivia Dean, RAYE, Central Cee, Yungblud, and Sleep Token achieving global recognition. Yet, one artist has particularly captivated audiences with her unfiltered personality and powerful vocals: Lola Young. The singer, whose 2022 single “Messy” topped the UK charts, delivered a triumphant return to the stage at London’s Palladium on Wednesday, marking a significant moment in her comeback following a health-related hiatus.
Young’s journey to this point has been marked by both soaring success and personal challenges. After collapsing onstage at the All Things Go Festival in Novel York in September, she announced a break to focus on her well-being, canceling all upcoming performances. This pause followed a period of rapid ascent, fueled by her debut releases and a distinctive artistic voice that draws comparisons to Amy Winehouse and Adele. Now, after a period of recovery and self-reflection, Young is back, and her performance at the Palladium demonstrated a renewed strength and artistry.
The comeback gained momentum earlier this year when Young secured the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance in February, beating out established stars like Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, and Justin Bieber, and delivering a characteristically candid acceptance speech. This victory was followed by winning the Breakthrough Artist award at the BRIT Awards on Saturday, where she spoke about the importance of music as a source of solace and escape. The Palladium show represented the final step in her highly anticipated return.
The Palladium, a historic 2,200-seater venue in London’s Soho district, has hosted legendary performers including The Beatles, Marvin Gaye, Frank Sinatra, and Judy Garland. Young’s presence there underscored her status as a rising star capable of commanding such a prestigious stage. She began the show with a stripped-down, solo piano rendition of “Disappointing Game (3AM),” immediately captivating the audience with her raw emotion and vocal control.
Raw Vocals and Intimate Arrangements
Throughout the early part of the set, Young showcased her vocal prowess with sparse arrangements, often accompanied only by a piano or a solo guitarist. Songs like “Spiders,” often considered a standout track in her catalog, and “Why Do I Feel Better When I Hurt You?” resonated deeply with the audience in these intimate settings. As Billboard reported, Young’s vocal chops were a key element of her initial success with “Messy,” and that strength was on full display at the Palladium.
A Full Band and Energetic Performance
The energy shifted with the arrival of a five-piece band for the sixth song, launching into a vibrant performance of “Penny Out of Nothing” from her third LP, I’m Only F***ing Myself. The performance of “Conceited” from her second album, This Wasn’t Meant For You Anyway, was particularly energetic, reportedly causing the upstairs balcony to vibrate with the synchronized dancing of the crowd.
Potential Collaboration on the Horizon?
Midway through the set, Young acknowledged James Blake, a producer and musician who was in attendance, thanking him for his recent presence in her life. She invited him to wave to the crowd, sparking speculation about a potential future collaboration. Blake has a diverse production discography, having worked with artists like Beyoncé and Miley Cyrus, and a collaboration with Young could signal an exciting new direction for both artists.
Lyrical Depth and Gen Z Realities
Young’s songwriting often explores the complexities of modern love and the contradictions of Gen Z life. Her lyrics, as exemplified in “Big Brown Eyes,” are characterized by a frankness and vulnerability that resonates with her audience. The song’s lyrics, which playfully acknowledge a problematic attraction, demonstrate her ability to navigate challenging emotions with honesty and wit.
Elton John’s Gamble and Sleeper Hits
In May 2025, Elton John famously bet that Young’s single “D£aler” would reach No. 1 on the UK charts, offering to hand over the keys to his house if it didn’t. While the song peaked at No. 27, and “One Thing” stalled at No. 18, Young’s live performance breathed new life into these tracks, suggesting they may yet find their audience.
“Messy” – The Song That Changed Everything
Young acknowledged the significance of “Messy,” calling it “the song that changed my life.” The track, which became a post-pandemic anthem, resonated with fans who connected with its message of self-acceptance. The crowd enthusiastically sang along, demonstrating the song’s enduring impact.
Lola Young – Palladium Setlist
- “Bad Game (3AM)”
- “Spiders”
- “Walk All Over You”
- “Why Do I Feel Better When I Hurt You?”
- “Sad Sob Story”
- “Wish You Were Dead”
- “Penny Out Of Nothing”
- “Conceited”
- “Big Brown Eyes”
- “Post Sex Clarity”
- “Dealer”
- “One Thing”
- “You Noticed”
- “Not Like That Anymore”
- “Messy”
Lola Young’s return to the stage at the Palladium was a resounding success, showcasing her growth as an artist and reaffirming her position as a compelling force in British music. With a Grammy Award, a BRIT Award, and a sold-out show under her belt, Young is poised for continued success, and fans will be eagerly anticipating her next musical chapter.
What comes next for Lola Young remains to be seen, but the potential collaboration with James Blake and the renewed energy surrounding her earlier work suggest a promising future. Stay tuned for updates on new music and tour dates.
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