Will David Essex’s 2026 “Thanks for the memories” tour mark the ultimate celebration of a five-decade career?

After more than five decades of shaping the sound and spirit of British pop, David Essex is returning to the stage for what could be one of the most nostalgic musical events of 2026. The iconic singer, songwriter, and actor has officially announced his “Thanks for the Memories” tour — a 21-date UK journey that promises to celebrate his long, glittering career and timeless hits.

The tour begins in September 2026 at Glasgow’s Royal Concert Hall, before making its way through cities across the country and concluding at the London Palladium. Fans can expect an unforgettable night of music, stories, and stage magic from one of Britain’s most beloved entertainers.

Tickets go on sale at 9am on October 24, 2025, available via weloveconcerts.com and the Cliffs Pavilion Box Office at 01256 416384. The event is scheduled to start at 7:30pm on August 15, 2026, with an expected close at around 10pm.

A Legendary Journey in Music and Acting

Essex’s rise to fame began in the early 1970s when he took on the role of Jesus in the London production of Godspell. From there, his voice and charisma launched him into international stardom. His 1973 breakout single “Rock On” became a global phenomenon, topping charts in both the UK and the US, and earning a Grammy nomination.

Over the years, he went on to deliver a string of chart-topping hits, including Lamplight, Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You a Star, Silver Dream Machine, and Oh What a Circus. In total, Essex has achieved 23 Top 30 singles in Britain alone — a testament to his enduring connection with audiences.

But Essex’s talent didn’t stop at music. His acting career has been equally remarkable, spanning acclaimed films like That’ll Be the Day, Stardust, and Silver Dream Racer. On television, he famously joined EastEnders as the head of the Moon family, while on stage, his presence lit up productions such as Evita, Footloose, and Aspects of Love. He even wrote and produced his own musicals, Mutiny! and All the Fun of the Fair.

The Man Beyond the Spotlight

Offstage, Essex’s life has seen both joy and turbulence. Now 78, the London-born star has been married three times and is currently with his third wife, Welsh actress Susan Hallam-Wright, whom he married in 2010. The couple shares a son, Sonny, born in 2015. Essex also has four other adult children — Verity, Danny, and twins Billy and Kit — from previous relationships, as well as six grandchildren.

Despite the passage of time, Essex remains as passionate about music and family as ever. Speaking about fatherhood in his 60s, he once said: “It’s been magical. A real blessing. Our attitude was, if it happens, it happens — and it did.”

As he prepares to take audiences on one more tour filled with nostalgia, energy, and gratitude, fans can expect not only the hits that defined generations but also reflections from a man whose career mirrors the very evolution of British entertainment.

FAQs

1. When does David Essex’s 2026 tour begin?
The tour kicks off in September 2026, starting in Glasgow and ending in London.

2. How can fans buy tickets?
Tickets go on sale at 9am on October 24, 2025, via weloveconcerts.com or by calling the box office.

3. What is the “Thanks for the Memories” tour about?
It’s a nationwide farewell-style celebration of David Essex’s 50-year career in music, film, and theatre.

4. Which hit songs will be performed?
Fans can expect classics like Rock On, Hold Me Close, Gonna Make You a Star, and Silver Dream Machine.

5. How long will each concert last?
Shows are expected to start at 7:30pm and finish around 10pm.