On September 5th and 6th, the iconic Hollywood Bowl will come alive with the soaring voice of Josh Groban, alongside the Los Angeles Philharmonic under the baton of conductor Thomas Wilkins. These two outdoor performances promise to be a spectacular blend of Groban’s luminous vocals, the lush orchestration of the LA Phil, and an overall electricity among capacity crowds at one of SoCal’s most storied venues. Fans can expect unforgettable evenings filled with Groban’s signature hits, selections from his latest albums Harmony and Gems (the latter being a compilation with two new songs), and show-stopping numbers from his celebrated Broadway turns, notably Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street.
A Voice That Defines a Generation
Josh Groban, a multi-hyphenate talent — singer, songwriter, actor, and philanthropist — has captivated audiences worldwide with his crystalline baritone (although an argument can be made he’s a baritenor) and sincere delivery. Since bursting onto the scene in 2001 with his self-titled debut album, the 44-year-old has sold over 35 million records, blending classical, pop, and theatrical influences into a sound uniquely his own. His 2020 release Harmony, showcases a reflective Groban, weaving introspective ballads with the kind of anthems one might associate with the preternatural artist that highlight his robust belt, precision, and emotional depth. And let’s face it — it’s Groban’s elite voice, naturally curated over many years, which has become the main draw for audiences. The multiplatinum L.A. native doesn’t have to rely on the usual pomp and circumstance harnessed by his peers, either, because his simultaneously vulnerable and commanding voice is a spectacle unto its own.
From Broadway to the Bowl
Groban’s foray into musical theater has not only fleshed out his portfolio, it’s given him an extra-heroic dimension that makes him likeable to a wider set of fans. For instance, his 2016 Broadway debut in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 earned him a Tony nomination, showcasing his ability to inhabit complex characters. In 2023, he tackled the infernal, albeit misunderstood, barber in Sweeney Todd, earning raves for a performance that balanced menace, pathos, and meat pies, not to mention another Tony nod and a Grammy nomination.
At the Hollywood Bowl, fans can expect Groban to potentially include selections from Todd, such as the haunting “Not While I’m Around” or the chilling “My Friends.” His renditions will feel new and fresh under the stars, amplified by the LA Phil’s envelopingly rich sound. Of course, Groban’s pop-classical hits will anchor the setlist. Expect a combination of staples like “You Raise Me Up,” “To Where You Are,” and “You Are Loved (Don’t Give Up),” which remain crowd-pleasers for their uplifting melodies and for accentuating Groban’s vocal prowess. The lead single, “Angels,” from Harmony may make an appearance, too. Fans may also anticipate covers of “The Impossible Dream” (Man of La Mancha) or “It’s Now or Never” (made famous in the U.S. by Elvis Presley), or even possible performances of his newest original songs from Gems, “Be Alright” and “Open Hands,” which offer a fresh glimpse into Groban’s evolving discography.
The Hollywood Bowl Experience
The Hollywood Bowl, with its unmistakable bandshell and ambiance, is the perfect setting for Groban’s larger-than-life powerhouse vocals. Paired with Thomas Wilkins’s nuanced conducting and the LA Phil’s orchestral depth, Groban’s voice will only lilt and rise with increasing dynamics throughout his setlist, creating moments of intimacy and grandeur.
The versatile Wilkins, who is ever the friendly collaborator among celebrity musicians (and a star in his own right!), and known for his ability to elevate concerts of any genre, will draw out the cinematic quality of Groban’s arrangements, from sweeping strings to delicate piano flourishes. The most underrated ingredient to all of this is, of course, the Bowl itself and the passionate attendees who inhabit it. With audiences numbering as high as 17,500, a tangible energy will undoubtedly be on display. And then there’s Groban’s knack for engaging audiences, often with humorous anecdotes or heartfelt reflections, which will make the back-to-back nights feel personal despite the venue’s gargantuan scale.
A Philanthropic Mindset
Beyond his musical gifts, Groban’s commitment to arts education shines through his Find Your Light Foundation, which supports young artists and fosters cultural awareness. This passion for giving back adds a layer of authenticity to his performances, as he often speaks about the transformative power of music — a theme that will probably underscore his Bowl appearances.
What to Ultimately Expect
These September concerts will be a celebration of Groban’s nearly 25-year-career, alongside the LA Phil and Wilkins as high-caliber partners. The performances, moreover, will be a welcome and memorable addition to a career to that has stayed relevant due to Groban’s commitment to trying new things. Expect a sonic feast of vocal brilliance, a substantive emotional resonance, and a shared sense of gratitude and wonder experienced by a sea of admirers before summer turns to fall. All of this, and more, will be a testament to why Josh Groban remains one of music’s most beloved luminaries.
Cover image caption: Josh Groban sings at one of his previous concerts. Photo credit: NBC News.
Josh Groban performs at the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Phil on Friday, September 5th and Saturday, September 6th — both performances at 8:00 pm. For more information and tickets, visit hollywoodbowl.com.
