Diana Ross - OVO Hydro 25th June 2025

Diana Ross Brings a Celebratory Evening of Hits to Glasgow

To an excited, multigenerational crowd, the evening at Glasgows OVO Hydro opened with a sweeping orchestral overture by the Royal Scottish National Orchestra - a graceful and cinematic introduction to what would be a nostalgic night of music. Facing a warm reception, Diana appeared, in white sequins, launching into the ever-popular Im Coming Out. The crowd was quickly on its feet, dancing and singing along.

At 81, Ross still commands the stage with poise. Her voice, though weathered in places as might be expected, carried much of the charm and character that made her a household name, and her stage presence continued to captivate the audience.

She leaned into her Motown legacy early, with a medley of Baby Love and You Cant Hurry Love, followed by Stop! In the Name of Love. These classic tracks were met with enthusiastic singalongs, a reminder of why these songs have endured for decades.

A highlight came with Chain Reaction, during which a large glitter ball bathed the arena in light. Rosss energy remained steady, and the crowd responded in kind, clearly enjoying the disco-era revival.

Endless Love was one of the evenings more tender moments, with a rich orchestral arrangement and a well-sustained vocal performance. Though Lionel Richie was absent, Ross carried the duet with poise and warmth.

The mood lifted again with Upside Down, a crowd favourite that brought some light-hearted interaction as Ross asked the audience, "Are you all having a good time?"-a question met with appreciative cheers.

Partway through the show, Ross paused to share a personal moment. "Im 81" she remarked, met with applause. She was then joined onstage by her daughter Brandi for a duet of Count on Me - a touching interlude that added an extra layer of intimacy to the evening.

The shows momentum continued with Why Do Fools Fall in Love, and reached a stirring peak with I Will Survive.

As the night came to a close, Ross offered a reflective moment with The Best Years of My Life, speaking candidly to the audience about the personal value of performing. "These shows help me emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually" she shared.

The final number, Thank You, wrapped the concert in a note of gratitude and warmth-an appropriate ending to a show that was both a career retrospective and a gesture of appreciation to long-time fans.

While time has inevitably softened some edges, Diana Ross remains a compelling live performer. She delivered Glasgow a nostalgic and well-crafted celebration of her music, delivered with emotion, professionalism, and enduring charm.

Review by Sara Law, picture by Cathie Fullerton.

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