Pop music is known for its catchy melodies whereas rock has a more rebellious reputation. In 2023, Candlelight is bringing tributes to the houses of both pop and soft rock to some very unique locations across the city. These spectacular concerts will take the modern touches out of world-famous songs and endow them with a traditional edge using classical instruments.

Typical concert venues will be replaced by the likes of Southwark Cathedral’s Gothic structure and Glazier’s Hall’s oak panelling. Candlelight concerts defamiliarise audiences by presenting the music they are used to hearing by in an established form. With so many extraordinary concerts to choose from, you are certain to find one that suits your tastes.

Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay

If you are looking for a concert that is full of energy and magic, add Candlelight’s tribute to Coldplay to your calendar. The famous British band is known for their alternative pop rock anthems and colourful performances.

Step into “Paradise” at St. Mary’s Church where you will reintroduce yourself to the likes of “Viva La Vida”, “Hymn for the Weekend”, and “My Universe”. And you can do so without the distraction of big crowds and bright lights. Instead you can listen to the honest notes of Coldplay’s songs in an intimate, candlelit oasis.

When: March 2

Candlelight: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac

When one thinks of Fleetwood Mac, the uplifting beat of “Everywhere” comes to mind. Master of pop-rock, the group produced albums such as Rumours (one of the biggest-selling albums of all time) and The Dance. The Kodamo Duo are set to rework the musical stylings of songs like “Little Lies”, “Dreams”, and “Don’t Stop” using a piano and violin.

This enchanting tribute will take place in the elaborately decorated interior of St. Mary’s Church. Listen out for the elements of hard rock, folk, and country veiled by the soothing sounds created by the Kodamo Duo.

When: March 3

Candlelight: A Tribute to Beyonce

Are you ready for an awe-inspiring performance dedicated to Queen B? You’ll find yourself “Crazy In Love” with the talented City String Ensemble at this tribute to Beyonce. Known for hitting the high notes and singing with soul, Beyonce has produced multiple award-winning singles. With over 70 nominations from the Grammy Awards, her talent is beyond belief.

Candlelight concerts will honour Beyonce with classical renditions of songs such as “Hold Up”, “Love on Top”, “Halo”, and many more. Whether you are one of the “Single Ladies”, “Drunk in Love” or are looking for a concert to go to with your favourite person, this tribute to Beyonce is one you won’t want to miss.

When: March 18

Candlelight: A Tribute to BTS

After the release of their hit single “I NEED U” in 2015, BTS has continued to grow in popularity. The group’s music is defined by its bravado and characteristic touches of contemporary hip-hop.

The lively, modern notes of songs such as “Butter”, “Fake Love”, and “DNA” will be supplanted by the classic sounds of a string quartet. This Candlelight tribute to BTS gives you the chance to appreciate the group from an entirely different angle.

When: February 18

Candlelight: A Tribute to ABBA

The tribute to ABBA at Butcher’s Hall will have you shouting (on the inside!) “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!” more of the Morassi Quartet. Candlelight will swap out all of the glitz and glamour for understated, moving performances of some of the Swedish supergroup’s greatest songs. The historic setting will be filled by the magic of “Dancing Queen”, the fiery spirit of “Money, Money, Money”, and the emotion pervading “The Winner Takes it All”.

When: March 8

Candlelight: A Tribute to Ed Sheeran

It’s hard to pinpoint exactly under which genre Ed Sheeran’s impressive music catalogue falls. His musically diverse songs such as “Bad Habits”, “The A Team”, and “Thinking Out Loud” are going to temporarily fall under the classical music genre. Invite your mates, get tickets for you and your significant other, or unwind on your own at a spellbinding tribute to Ed Sheeran at Glazier’s Hall.

When: March 19

Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift

Swifties get ready for an evening enchanted by Miss Swift’s well-known hits. Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift is coming to Southwark Cathedral allowing fans to re-envision songs like “Wildest Dream”, “Love Story”, and “Blank Space” as classical compositions. Fall in love with Miss Americana all over again surrounded by hundreds of flickering candles and the cathedral’s mesmerising arches.

When: April 14

The Candlelight concert series has received countless 5-star reviews praising the events for their venues and talented musicians. This year, Candlelight is continuing to celebrate contemporary artists and groups in London. If you are looking for something more traditional, you can always check out other Candlelight’s concerts.