James Arthur Slams 'Disgraceful' Critics After One-Hour Show Backlash
James Arthur faced a brutal backlash after delivering a one-hour set, with fans branding the performance "disgraceful." Critics erupted following his gig at Scarborough Open Air Theatre, where ticket prices hit £75, leading to outrage over the duration of the show.
One furious concertgoer blasted, "If we’re not careful then acts like this taking the p*** out of music fans will be the death of live music. £75 for 60 minutes is disgraceful."
Arthur, 38, responded to the vitriol by revealing that his set was cut short on medical advice. He was warned that continuing could seriously damage his voice.
On X, he stated, "I normally do two hours. I’m so sorry you feel so much anger about this but I was told by an ENT doctor to cancel and not speak for 10 days or risk serious damage to my vocal cords."
He expressed regret over not prioritizing his health, saying, "Maybe I should’ve done that and saved myself this abuse but I didn’t want to let all those people down and did what I could even at the risk of damage."
Arthur defended his performance, asserting he still "gave it everything." He emphasized that anyone who attended his recent arena tour would recognize his commitment to live shows.
He also highlighted the value of the concert, noting that fans experienced multiple artists alongside his performance, including Ben Ellis, with "a huge production" and a seven-piece band.
Arthur remarked, "Furthermore I think 75 quid to see some of the country’s best young artists and myself with a huge production and a 7 piece band consisting of some of the best musicians in the world is pretty good value for money."
He claimed that the Scarborough audience "seemed to have a great time," stating they sang so loudly that "we couldn’t hear ourselves."
In closing, Arthur lamented the negativity he faces online, saying, "This is a reminder why I don’t come on social media much, it’s full of hateful people who forget we’re all human... Hope you figure out what’s making you so neg."
