Sam Ryder is welcome back “anytime” say Westgate Centre bosses after his "once-in-a-lifetime" surprise performance.
The singer performed songs such as ‘Run Rudolph Run’, ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’, and his new Christmas single “You’re Christmas to Me” in an impromptu set at the Oxford shopping centre.
The 34-year-old looks to land the coveted Christmas number one spot with Wham! and their iconic hit ‘Last Christmas' his closest competition.
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Mr Ryder's hit song 'Spaceman' earned him and the UK second place at Eurovision and catapulted the 34-year-old to stardom in 2022 after rising to fame on TikTok during the coronavirus pandemic.
Centre director at Westgate Oxford Brendan Hattam said they were “absolutely thrilled” to host the singer.
He added: “Our local community were over the moon to watch him perform in their own local shopping centre, and it certainly spread some festive cheer throughout the city.
“This is a great example of the magic that comes from in-person experiences. We’re delighted to have helped some guests have once-in-a-lifetime experiences at Westgate Oxford today.
“We wish Sam the best of luck in his efforts to reach number one for Christmas, and we’d love to have him back to busk in-centre anytime.”
Mr Ryder’s 'You’re Christmas To Me' and Wham’s 'Last Christmas' are in a neck-and-neck battle, while Mariah Carey and The Pogues are also putting up a fight.
The Christmas number one will be announced on BBC Radio 1’s The Official Chart from 4pm on December 22.
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