Babybird

Babybird Live at O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London - Saturday, 7 March 2026

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the enigmatic and captivating Babybird descends upon the iconic O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire in London on Saturday, 7 March 2026. This promises to be a night of raw emotion, distinctive lyricism, and the singular musical artistry that has defined Babybird for decades. For fans who have followed Stephen Jones’s compelling journey through the highs and lows of the music industry, this is an unmissable opportunity to witness a truly unique performer in a legendary London venue. Expect an intimate yet electrifying atmosphere, where the power of his songwriting and the intensity of his performance will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression. It’s a chance to reconnect with cherished anthems and discover the enduring power of Babybird’s singular vision.

About Babybird

Emerging from the fertile artistic landscape of the 1990s, Babybird is the singular creative force of Stephen Jones, a songwriter whose lyrical prowess and genre-bending approach have carved a distinct niche in the annals of British music. Emerging with a sound that effortlessly blended introspective indie rock with elements of electronica and a healthy dose of dark humour, Babybird quickly garnered attention for its unflinching honesty and Jones’s distinctive, often sardonic, vocal delivery. His early work, particularly the critically acclaimed album “Ugly Beautiful” (1996), established him as a voice of a generation grappling with anxieties and desires often left unspoken.

The album spawned the chart-topping single “You’re Gorgeous,” a track that, despite its massive commercial success, retained the raw, unvarnished quality that became synonymous with Babybird. This unexpected hit catapulted Jones into the mainstream spotlight, yet he remained steadfast in his artistic integrity, refusing to compromise his unique vision for wider appeal. Subsequent releases like “Bury Beautiful” and “No Good Spirit” continued to explore themes of love, alienation, and the absurdities of modern life, each record a testament to his evolving, yet consistently compelling, songwriting.

Beyond “You’re Gorgeous,” Babybird boasts a catalogue rich with memorable and often cult-favourite tracks. “Candy Girl,” with its deceptively simple melody masking a poignant narrative, remains a fan favourite. “King of Nothing,” a swaggering, self-deprecating anthem, showcases Jones’s knack for crafting compelling character studies. Later works have seen him experiment with a broader sonic palette, incorporating even more electronic textures and intricate arrangements, yet always anchored by his unmistakable lyrical voice. Stephen Jones, as Babybird, has consistently defied easy categorisation, offering a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, solidifying his status as a true original in the British music scene.

Venue Information

The O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire stands as one of London’s most celebrated live music venues, steeped in history and renowned for its exceptional acoustics and intimate atmosphere. Originally built in 1906 as a music hall, it has played host to countless legendary performances across various genres. Its distinctive Edwardian Baroque architecture provides a grand yet welcoming setting for an evening of live music. With a capacity that fosters a close connection between artist and audience, the Empire ensures that every show feels special and memorable. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

When Babybird takes to the stage at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire on Saturday, 7 March 2026, prepare for an evening that is as emotionally charged as it is sonically adventurous. Stephen Jones, the singular architect of the Babybird sound, is known for his captivating and often intensely personal performance style. He possesses a unique ability to command attention, drawing the audience into his world with a combination of quiet introspection and explosive bursts of energy.

The setlist for this special London show is anticipated to be a masterful curation of Babybird’s most beloved tracks, woven together with gems from across his extensive discography. Fans can expect to be serenaded by the anthemic melancholy of “You’re Gorgeous,” a song that continues to resonate with its poignant observations on beauty and desire. Alongside this chart-topping hit, prepare for the raw, confessional power of tracks like “Candy Girl,” where Jones’s observational lyrics and distinctive vocal delivery shine. The set will likely delve into the introspective depths of “King of Nothing,” showcasing the artist’s ability to blend swagger with vulnerability.

Beyond the established hits, expect a journey through the nuanced and varied landscape of Babybird’s albums. Tracks from the seminal “Ugly Beautiful” will undoubtedly feature, reminding us of the album’s groundbreaking impact. However, this performance will also likely celebrate the evolution of Babybird’s sound, with potential inclusions from his more recent explorations into electronic soundscapes and intricate arrangements. Songs that highlight his continued lyrical acuity and his willingness to push sonic boundaries are a hallmark of his live shows.

Babybird’s performance style is far from a predictable, by-the-numbers show. Stephen Jones is an artist who bared his soul through his music, and his live performances are a testament to that. He often engages with the audience through a dry wit and an almost disarming honesty, creating a palpable connection that transcends the typical artist-fan dynamic. Expect moments of quiet contemplation, where his voice can convey profound sadness or longing with incredible subtlety, contrasted with passages of electrifying energy where the raw power of his guitar and the intensity of his performance take centre stage. The duration of the performance is expected to be a full-length set, typically around 90-120 minutes, allowing ample time for a comprehensive exploration of Babybird’s rich musical tapestry. This is not just a concert; it’s an experience – an immersion into the unique and compelling universe that is Babybird.

FAQs

Q1: Will Babybird be performing his hit song “You’re Gorgeous” at the show? Absolutely. “You’re Gorgeous” is an iconic track in Babybird’s repertoire, and it is a staple of his live performances. Fans can expect to hear this beloved hit performed with all the raw emotion and power that made it a chart-topping success.

Q2: Can I expect to hear older Babybird tracks as well as newer material? Yes, Babybird’s live sets are typically a celebration of his entire career. While “You’re Gorgeous” and other well-known hits are guaranteed, Stephen Jones also takes pride in showcasing the breadth of his songwriting. You can anticipate a balanced setlist that includes fan favourites from his earlier albums alongside compelling tracks from his more recent releases, offering a comprehensive journey through the Babybird sound.

Q3: What is Stephen Jones’s typical stage presence like? Stephen Jones, as Babybird, is known for a captivating and often intensely personal stage presence. He commands attention through a blend of raw honesty, dry wit, and a palpable connection with his audience. His performances can shift from moments of quiet introspection to bursts of electrifying energy, always underpinned by his distinctive vocal delivery and lyrical prowess.

Q4: Are there any specific themes or moods I should expect from a Babybird performance? Babybird’s music often explores themes of love, alienation, desire, and the absurdities of life with unflinching honesty. A live performance reflects this, often delving into both introspective and emotionally resonant territory. Expect moments of profound melancholy, sharp observations, and even flashes of dark humour, all delivered with a unique artistic integrity.

Q5: How long is a typical Babybird concert? A standard Babybird concert typically lasts between 90 and 120 minutes, allowing for a substantial exploration of his extensive catalogue. This duration ensures that fans are treated to a full and immersive musical experience, covering a wide range of his celebrated work.

Q6: Is Babybird a solo act or does he perform with a band? While Stephen Jones is the sole creative force and songwriter behind Babybird, he performs live with a backing band. This allows for the full realisation of the rich sonic textures and arrangements present in his recorded music, enhancing the live experience.