Sombr says London’s Brixton Academy is “most poorly managed venue I’ve ever played”
Sombr called out London’s O2 Brixton Academy during his show on March 10th, deeming it the most “poorly managed” venue he’s ever played.
The global popstar played three nights at the venue, which has a capacity of around 5,000 people, on March 8th, 9th, and 10th.
On the third night, fan footage posted online shows the singer stopping his performance mid-song to address an incident in the crowd where somebody had appeared to faint.
“Alright, stop the show, guys, there’s someone passed out over here,” the 20-year-old singer began, as his band cut the song.
While gesturing to the area of the incident, the on-the-rise star went on, “This is the most poorly managed venue I’ve ever played at in my life.”
Addressing the security guards below, he insisted, “You guys need to pay attention, it’s insane. Safety comes first.”
Despite the on-stage statement, Sombr did not address the issue online, only writing after the show on Instagram, “London Night 3. I love you so much. Thanks for an unforgettable past 3 nights. I’ll be back London.”
The young artist then thanked Joe Jonas for joining him on stage, adding, “What an amazing lad”. The pair sang a rendition of the DNCE tune, ‘Cake By The Ocean’.
The venue was the site of tragedy in 2022, when a crowd crush outside of the sold-out concert by Afrobeatse artist Asake led to the deaths of a fan and a security guard, aged 23 and 33.
Brixton Academy’s license was initially suspended for three months by Lambeth Council, later extended, due to “shambolic” security procedures.
In order to reopen, the venue had to meet “77 extensive and robust new conditions designed to promote public safety, including the safety of both visitors and employees.” It eventually reopened in April 2024.
The venue did not immediately respond to Far Out’s request for a statement on the matter.
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