Spencer Sutherland Brought the Drama to San Diego

If it was drama you wanted, then it was drama you got! And Spencer Sutherland served ALL of it.

We walked right into the drama at the House of Blues San Diego on a Saturday night for Spencer Sutherland’s Drama Tour. Die-hard fans who sang every word to every song, held up creative signs declaring their loyalty, and enjoyed every minute of the evening were there in full force to support all three names on the bill. That dedicated fan support was consistent throughout the entire show. It was fun to experience the same excitement for the opening acts as the headliner. 

The night began with the enchanting Cloe Wilder. Accompanied by a guitarist and drummer, Wilder sang and played electric and acoustic guitar. The audience was mesmerized by her beautiful vocals and sentimental songwriting. Wilder’s performance of “House by the Water” was a highlight for me because of its delicate yet complex sense of nostalgia.

Next up was Canadian singer/songwriter Stacey Ryan, with powerful vocals that contained equally powerful messages, such as tales of a teenage crush, a breakup, and getting over that breakup. Another song told of her personal story of becoming an independent artist. Ryan displayed her versatile talents while singing and playing various instruments (electric guitar, acoustic guitar, bass, and keyboards) during her set. She has a wonderful jazz-infused and soulful sound.

It was time for Spencer Sutherland to take the stage on the second to last show of his 42-night world tour. His introduction buildup magnified the suspense for what was to come. Once his band was in position, the wait was over. The Drama King himself appeared on stage to an electric crowd.

This was not my first time at a Spencer Sutherland show. I first saw him at the OC Fair in the summer of 2023, where I was instantly intrigued and have been paying attention to him since. When I heard he was coming to San Diego on this tour, there was no way I was going to miss it. Seeing him perform on stage is unmatched. He is a true showman, unapologetically himself, and a joy to watch. His constant movement on stage, the rock opera feel of the show, his eye-catching outfits, and his dynamic vocal range is invigorating.

In addition to songs from his latest album, “The Drama,” the set featured various top songs such as “Alive,” which is reminiscent of Freddie Mercury with its nod to the music of Queen, as well as the slower but gripping song, “Everybody,” where Sutherland sings about coming to terms with not worrying about what others think of you being yourself.

As with the supporting acts, the crowd was committed and belting out the tunes right along with him. 

Sutherland expressed his gratitude often and made the audience feel special. He engaged with them constantly, talked with them, posed for them, and even went into the crowd to be with them. His sudden appearance in the middle of floor at the soundboard was a welcome surprise for everyone in that area, providing many smiles and cheers. Later in the set, he also came down from the stage to the barrier to further interact with and hug those in the front couple of rows, much to their delight.

The bottom line is that Spencer Sutherland is a talented singer, songwriter, and entertainer. I highly recommend attending a future show to experience him live and in person!