Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Multi-platinum recording artist James Arthur is stopping by Wolf Trap July 2 for a concert of his hits like “Say You Won’t Let Go” and “Rewrite the Stars” from The Greatest Showman. The 2012 winner of the UK singing competition The X Factor is also out with a new album called “Pisces.”
“It’s a set that’s concocted of all the albums,” Arthur, 37, told The Georgetowner. “It’s been a challenge trying to get everything into an 80-minute set.”
Arthur, who is among the company of singing contest winners and competitors like Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Little Mix, Adam Lambert and others, calls his success “an achievement in itself,” coming from a show like The X Factor or American Idol.
“It’s hard to achieve longevity after those things, and I think I’m on my way to doing that,” he said. “I’m very proud of that.”
For young artists looking to follow in his footsteps, Arthur said the reality tv route is quite different now than when he was on TV 13 years ago. Back then, there were often incentives to do well on singing shows, because there was a record deal at the end of it.
“Now, I think it’s more about the exposure, it’s about using those platforms to showcase your abilities and grow your social media profile,” he said. “I don’t think there’s any harm in just getting yourself out there and exposing yourself to as many people as possible—you can go viral pretty easily if you’re good enough.”
He added to just “keep making music,” as that’s the best way forward for younger artists today.
In addition to his singing, Arthur has become an advocate for mental health. In September 2016, after discussing his struggles with anxiety and depression, he became an ambassador for SANE, a UK-based mental health charity. To keep himself healthy mentally on tour (which can often be grueling), Arthur checks in with himself as often as possible.
“I try not to burn the candle at both ends too much,” Arthur said. “I’m around friends and a good community of people and a lot of positivity on tour, so I think that keeps everybody in good mental health.”
While Arthur has been visiting the D.C. area for what he calls a “long, long time,” he is often in and out quickly, not allowing much time to visit local restaurants or attractions. This time, he hopes to make a bit more time and promised to keep Georgetown in mind.
More information on Arthur’s show at Wolf Trap, including how to get tickets, can be found here.