Lewis Capaldi Returns To The Stage First Time After 2023

Lewis Capaldi returned to the stage in a stirring surprise set during Tom Walker’s charity concert in Edinburgh. Thus marking his first live performance since 2023.

The emotionally charged evening was held at the Assembly Halls on May 2. Capaldi’s performance occurred during the opening show of a series of phone-free benefit concerts. All of them aimed to support the Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM), a UK-based suicide prevention organization. Though headlined by Walker, the concert stunned fans when Capaldi emerged unannounced for a six-song set. The set ended with his hit ballad “Someone You Loved.”

The return was both intimate and momentous. Capaldi’s unexpected appearance came after fans were teased with word of a “special guest.” After this, they saw sets by Walker and fellow Scottish singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt. As the lights dimmed, the crowd erupted into applause as Capaldi took the stage. It was a powerful comeback from the man who, in June 2023, had stepped away from touring to focus on his mental health. The singer announced he was going to battle with Tourette’s syndrome.

“Lewis Capaldi being a surprise guest was the best thing ever. What a gig,” one fan wrote on X. Another added, “Lewis Capaldi coming out at Tom Walker, oh, I’m going to bawl.”

Lewis Capaldi and Tom Walker’s Charity Event

The evening was deliberately phone-free — a rare choice in today’s social media world. Attendees were asked to lock away their devices in sealed Yondr pouches. Thus fostering an emotional, immersive atmosphere that allowed Capaldi’s vocals to cut through without distraction. It was the kind of moment best experienced, not recorded. It’s a fitting approach for an artist whose vulnerability has long been his calling card.

Capaldi’s performance at the CALM benefit marked a deeply personal milestone. His last appearance had been at Glastonbury 2023. He showed visible signs of the syndrome. Thus, the audience sang “Someone You Loved” for him. Days later, he announced an indefinite break from performing, writing in a heartfelt Instagram post. “I’m going to be taking a break from touring for the foreseeable future.”

Diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome in late 2022, Capaldi has been candid about the challenges of managing the condition onstage. In a 2024 interview with The Times, he admitted that his symptoms had become increasingly difficult to control during live shows.

Yet on Friday night, Capaldi defied that narrative — his voice strong, his wit intact. Also, his connection with the audience is as palpable as ever. If this performance hinted at anything, Capaldi’s story with the stage may not be over just yet.

The benefit series continues this week with a May 6 show at Stirling’s Albert Halls featuring Tom Walker, Declan McKenna, and Bradley Simpson. The final event will take place on May 10 at Glasgow’s Old Fruit Market. The show will have performances by Nathan Evans, Saint PHNX, and Caity Baser.

Whether this marks a new chapter in Capaldi’s career or simply a meaningful cameo, one thing is certain: his voice and presence have been deeply missed. And for one unforgettable night in Edinburgh, he was right where he belonged.