Sam Fender has just dropped the music video for his latest single, ‘People Watching’, which features none other than the beloved Irish actor Andrew Scott, best known for his roles in Fleabag and All of Us Are Strangers . The video, filmed in California, follows Scott’s character as he wakes up on a random street and continues on a journey across America. Along the way, he crosses paths with strangers, sharing moments of connection through conversation and dance. As the video unfolds, it becomes clear that his journey is more than just physical; it’s an emotional reflection on his past, particularly special memories of his mother. The cinematic visuals, combined with Scott’s expressive performance, bring a whole new depth to the song’s themes of nostalgia, loneliness, and human connection.
The track is the latest preview of Fender’s highly anticipated third album, also titled ‘People Watching’, which is set to arrive on 21 February 2025. The song itself is deeply personal, written as a tribute to Annie Orwin, a close friend whom Fender described as a “surrogate mother” to which he honours at the end of the video. Inspired by his walks to and from her care home, ‘People Watching’ captures the quiet beauty of observing life and death unfold from the sidelines. Musically, it delivers Fender’s signature soaring melodies and anthemic sound, packed with emotional intensity and honest lyrics.
Ahead of the album’s release, Fender has already given fans a taste of what’s to come with two other singles, ‘Arms Length’ and ‘Wild Long Lie’. ‘Arms Length’ leans into his rock influences, featuring driving guitars and powerful vocals, with imagery of being avoidant represented best through the lyrics, “Do you have to know me inside out?”. However ‘Wild Long Lie’ is a more reflective, atmospheric track that showcases his talent for telling stories of his hometown. Both songs hint at the emotional depth and sonic range of ‘People Watching‘, making it one of his most anticipated releases yet.
2025 is shaping up to be a huge year for Fender, with a major U.S. and European tour on the horizon. After taking some time off from touring after his UK and Ireland tour due to his vocal cords, he’s set to return to the stage in a big way. Following his monumental sold-out shows at St James’ Park in 2023, the Geordie is also doing another few dates at St James’ Park in June 2025, but this time with the addition of London Stadium.
On top of this, Fender has been nominated for two major awards at the 2025 BRITs: Artist of the Year and Best Alternative or Rock Act. It’s yet another sign of his growing influence in the music world, as he continues to push the boundaries of modern rock with his deeply personal songwriting and larger-than-life sound.
With a stunning music video, a highly anticipated album, and a massive tour lined up, this year is shaping up to be a defining moment in Fender’s career. He has always had a way of turning personal experiences into anthems that resonate with thousands, and ‘s no exception. If the last few latest releases are anything to go by, 2025 is going to be a huge year for him.
