James Bay Performs 'Scars,' 'Us,' and 'Hold Back the River' | In My Room

Rolling Stone and Gibson have teamed up to offer a special weeklong series of music performances and the first-ever chance for music fans to make a charitable donation to support musicians and walk away with a signature guitar.
First up is James Bay, who kicks off his set with “Scars,” from his 2015 LP, Chaos and the Calm. Bay tells the camera that the track is about “realizing when you’ve lost something or someone, [and] that person or thing was so vital to you,” he says, “that you can’t make that mistake again.”
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[@daniellej6251]

Anyone else think scars never got the attention it deserves. I honestly think in my 32 years I've never had a song mean so much to me.

[@satyamsinghh]

Some songs are better off like that. It's my favourite from james too

[@jacobwinchell8521]

I love Scars too, i always try to sing it at home on a KZbin karaoke version

[@caroldoocy4130]

Danielle--lYou should see the clip of him singing "Scars" at Rock Werchter 2018--the ending will blow your socks off.

[@SillySymphonyXD]

I hate listening to it because it reminds me of an ex that took me 2 years to forget hahahhaha

[@craigpeel5995]

Classic long distance missing you love song and yes you are correct, nowhere near enough praise for this song

[@lovaticdreamer]

I just love how this is so raw. So real. Kind of intimate also. Just his (amazing) voice and guitar. Pure talent, James.

[@hxnan]

I prefer his acoustic stuff played from his bedroom (especially his tutorials! They are awesome) to the big concert footage.

[@happylife6705]

If this is your first time hearing James Bay, listen to his first album/EP. EVERY SINGLE ONE IS PERFECT

[@sunflowerdaisies1663]

yess! I found him from his song “us” which was in the AFTER movie, he has nothing but hits 🥰🥰🥰

[@andreapop7359]

I heard "Let it go" and I never knew that this song was part of that album. Now I listen each song and I'm in love more and more.

[@PuriPuriPurple]

James: singing Scars live in his room Me: Dude. What the hell? *What kind of magic is that??*

[@beccataylor6011]

He is my favorite artist by far. So glad he is getting the recognition he deserves

[@sophiacolley3341]

He's one of the best singers in my opinion. Very talented

[@anetavolcano5496]

agree, and such effortless singing.

[@jasonrai7796]

his falsetto is so clean✨✨

[@glendamott6420]

I enjoy listening to your music , at 62 it’s still important to me to just get lost in my favorite songs and yours is part of that thank you for your talent.

[@McLovin201]

This guy's the real frickin deal

[@beccataylor6011]

My favorite artist by farr.

[@syafaapple]

Hold back the river is still superior, with those guitar. I adore you so much. Stay healthy and sane, james. Thank you for your music.

[@yonasbaudelaire4416]

Scars 0:39 Us 6:05 Hold back the river 10:03

[@itsallaboutme9779]

@A D yep

[@juliadornelas9186]

@Nothing ButaBreath we don't skip, we put on repeat

[@beoluon9258]

The way he sings Scars in this version is so much more, idk, effective. He doesnt use a powerful belt on the first chorus like he did in the recording but dials it down a notch with a more soft and subtle sound so the second chorus hits it all the way! I’m dead

[@deborahouellette8115]

Wonderful voice---I often fall asleep at night listening to James Bay.

[@TheWasp30]

Scars is a hell of a song. Proper hits the heart

[@claudiaastudilloriquelme6471]

This man is incredibly talented, one of the few artists who are able to stand on stage to sing and play a guitar at the same time and put on a fantastic show. They should take it more seriously. Thanks for your songs James I love you from Chile 🇨🇱

[@12seahawks12]

Hearing “Us” on acoustic gave it a nice little groove.

[@DPogs627]

Look at that. Someone with real talent. I love this guy.

[@helenmartin8051]

James scars really means a lot as I've lost someone recently a week ago who is very dear to me so thank you x

[@sportyspikeypk1]

Brings me to tears every time I hear him play "Scars"...Loss is an awful thing to bear sometimes...

[@ceecitizen3939]

Here 2022, things are better. This song is amazing. Love you all

[@prajwolpoudel744]

Hold back the river is one of the best song ever! ❤️

[@beccataylor6011]

Yes!!

[@roguemermaidmediapublisher822]

He played two of my all time fav songs, and now all is right with the world..well at least MY world

[@jonmejia2188]

4:15 guitar solo sent chills such a good tune

[@harrypotter1155]

9:32 I am on that phase now and the song really captures the feeling that he described. Thanks for the beautiful song that brings back so many memories ❤

[@littleminismall5920]

When I first time heard the song 'Scars' I'm immediately in love with this man's Voice💓

[@cedricwork1670]

Absolutely love seeing these more intimate shares/performances from these artists. Getting to peel back a layer or two to know what's actually behind the song and who they actually are. I always come out with a new level of respect for the person and their craft -- especially when his voice is still so true on such a raw and naked recording.

[@amandagrassi9629]

This man is a real talent. I love you, James!

[@williamcole5219]

Definitely got soul when he sings

[@sarah_maria5721]

Scars is such a beautiful song, but kinda all of his songs are amazing so yeah

[@charlottes9582]

The first time I saw him performing live was in 2019. His voice is so unique and recognizable and his lyrics always hit home. To many more albums to come ❤️

[@JanaKotysan]

I remember seeing James Bay in Spring 2015 at Irving Plaza, just when he was taking off. He sounded just as incredible (vocals and guitar), pure talent and hard work. Love this

[@rachelyoo2014]

How does it feel to be born with such perfection? He didnt even need a guitar. His voice is perfect!!!!

[@Lia_g_]

one of my favorite singers :(( his music is too damn good

[@seokjjna6376]

lately ive been craving some james bay, he singing scars gave me chills, wish i could see morr of him up like those pop singers, he deserves so much );

[@danetcaymo]

Why is it that I have only discovered him yesterday?! 😭😭😭 his "Us" captured me so deeply. It's my current favorite.

[@eileenohara560]

I have heard some of his songs before but never got into it or knew about him. Now I am realizing how great he is!

[@syasya5944]

Scars: You're setting off, It's time to go, the engine's running My mind is lost, We always knew this day was coming And now it's more frightening than it's ever gonna be We grow apart, I watch you on the red horizon Your lion's heart Will protect you under stormy skies And I will always be listening for your laughter and your tears And as soon as I can hold you once again I won't let go of you, I swear We lived through scars this time But I've made up my mind We can't leave us behind anymore Your hands are cold, Your lips are turning blue, you're shaking This fragile heart, So heavy in my chest, it's breaking And in the dark, you try to make a pay phone call to me But you're miles away, You're breaking up, you're on your own It's hard to take, I need an hour just to say hello But I can't make the truth of this work out for you or me And for all the pennies in your pocket We barely get a second just to speak We lived through scars this time But I've made up my mind We can't leave us behind anymore We'll have to hurt for now But next time there's no doubt 'Cause I can't go without you anymore Oh, no, oh, oh, oh, oh Oh, oh, oh Yeah yeah We lived through scars this time But I've made up my mind No, we can't leave us behind anymore We'll have to hurt for now But next time, there's no doubt 'Cause I can't go without you anymore No I can't go without you anymore

[@SMya-xk3jr]

One of my favs ty!

[@budiandayani1894]

Thank you 🙏🙂

[@SebaIzu]

I just love this man so much.

[@analauracanete3583]

So talented, I never get bored every time I listen to him...

[@beccataylor6011]

I so agree. So beautiful and raw and inspiring

[@gw2031]

Kind,,generous and amazingly talented guitar player song writer with a voice that speaks to the soul.Gotta love JB. What a travesty so many fell to tbe covid war lies,,never forget never forgive .

[@GiryGuitarist]

0:38 Scars 6:01 Us 10:00 Hold Back the River kzbin.info/www/bejne/qITFq6V5aKaboM0

[@sannvisa386]

Hold back the river ..all time fav💞

[@mejustsunny]

Goosebumps 💯🥺

[@azkatsaniaaffandi5396]

My favorite songs are played 😭🖤

[@maggieyoung1482]

This Man's BEAUTIFUL Voice simply can't be Real! Totally INCREDIBLE💝 For Now, we have to "Hold Back The River" and feel the "Scars" but THANK YOU for Being Here for "US". Stay Healthy & Safe💝💝💝💝💝💝💝💝U!

[@_rileyweaver_637]

Wow those were some "Bad" play on words.

[@estebancastro3944]

all my boys listen to rap, lil baby, all those guys-but i’m sticking w my boy James Bay 😎🎸

[@NandaTerra1]

My Gosh...so beautiful .. love your songs James...Brazil love's you. ❤

[@SergiOrtiz]

So good to see james play some of his older songs

[@sjfoster12]

I, and I cannot stress this enough - NEED HIS NEW ALBUM RIGHT NOW

[@beccataylor6011]

YESSSSS

[@claireobrien3861]

Me too

[@amber5799]

Just pure, raw, from the heart talent. Your music and performances are a true gift to all.

[@melissajustice9856]

Love these songs

[@MarianaAlmanza]

His voice is so soothing 💕

[@melenjane9955]

I can watch him all day...gosh

[@TobyyMarrtin]

I have no word to describe his real and raw talent on this performance. He’s one of my fave singers, thanks for choosing this song “ S C A R S “ This pandemic of the COVID19 has left the greatest scar to our family and relatives. As long as we unite, play your best part; follow the advice from the health ministry as the example. Be hopeful and we’ll get through this difficulty time 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@shanelcooke1922]

He sounds like an angel ❤️

[@veronicaburi3560]

Gosh!!! You deserve all the recognition man! ❤ love your voice

[@poulpeterlorentzen344]

This is probably the best version if Scars I've heard... been starting the video over and over again. The song meansso much to me. Many people in my/our life have been lost to Cancer or other sickness ... this keeps me going. Thank you mister James Bay ❤

[@wedibil]

One of beautiful soul

[@joaniewwh3502]

i'm always mesmerized... 💜 james bay and a guitar is everything...

[@rachellewis9251]

Makes it look so effortless raw talent

[@anisasalsabila1501]

Always happy seeing james bay . thanks rolling stone for inviting him

[@missmlb3842]

What a talent!! What a beautiful voice!

[@CaWi1009]

This voice, so incredible.. ❤ 1000% feeling, touching. Never get tired hearing him. 💯💫

[@zulfahlatuconsina3815]

Thanks, James! My mood booster 💞

[@liseprahm]

My heart is jumping all over the place! 💕❤💕

[@lorenciaang7934]

he is just- amazing!!

[@RoeNoAle]

You have the music inside your soul and it’ s so beautifull to feel the same love of your songs in my heart

[@liseprahm5491]

I still have time to enjoy this voice now past midnight 🥰😊

[@brando_00]

I love this man❤️

[@miosirislr5263]

I lov to James, really is the best!!! ❤️

[@jasondaniels3409]

This honestly deserves a lot more views 💯. Such an amazing artist

[@dianp.s692]

Love for James Bay from Indonesia ❤

[@liseprahm]

My heart is beating to fast, so Many emotions! 😅

[@marianne.1401]

I believe in James Bay and his music. ❤️🎸

[@bhobg]

Love you and your music, James!!!

[@estherkertz8589]

Great music. Thank you ❤

[@beatrizgaiterograells6065]

I love all your songs...its wonderful. Thanks so much!!!! Love youuuu🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@bananits5668]

Where's the kid with the lyrics in the comments section?

[@Ancovg]

You could've googled it you know

[@martinmatuska4845]

@@Ancovg And leave the lyrics kid without job? Shame on you.

[@alinarashid304]

This makes me so happy

[@fragman123xx]

Amazing musician and great human

[@user-jv1lp1me8v]

so in love with ur voice! sending lots of love from GREECE!!!!

[@lilianlima6919]

I love that man

[@philarimahynniewta8411]

This man! 😩❤️💞

[@amiranasir72]

Your music moves me, James. Especially in this trying time.. so thank you for that.

[@lilianapalacios7172]

Me encanta su sencillez, me parece un chico super talentoso, me encanta su música,👏👏👏👏👏♥️

[@michellel128]

Always so cool without trying, James , a natural!! thx ! Saw u in Boston and NY !! So talented and giving😇💜 lovin the lessons 💕💜💙🎸]

[@jr-ic2jy]

I was with you as a busker, posting on KZbin. I'm here with you now, sort of "post game" I'm not a fanboy, sorry, but I love you and your music. I sing your lyrics when family members have died, when I've gone off and got cancer, through everything. Sometimes your lyrics bring me to bits. But then, we have to stand, and fight for even more. Thanks James, stay safe, and bring us more. Fame is bigger than money. It's who's gonna bring the masses through. You've certainly done that for me. My only hope is that it's much much more. Love ya mate!

[@jr-ic2jy]

Ok, really, really love you. still not a fan girl, boy!

[@heidiburke6340]

Love your storytelling songs. Beautiful and emotional thank you

[@brokkoli5120]

scars makes me cry.. its rlly somethin else

[@bandnederpop6937]

The oldscool Gibson sound of the guitar and his strong voice is gold!! One of the best acoustic performances i’ve seen lately! Great! Respect for this artist and Gibson!

[@kellyteasdale8252]

A very talented guy with a very strong voice. Awesome song writer too :) stay safe and well.

[@elsajohansson5316]

absolutely legendary he doesn’t need any bass players etc. THATS how talented he is

[@alkaprajapati3639]

Perfect ❤️ so raw

[@ReiwaPia]

thanks James, stay safe

[@anestisgeorgia8658]

We love you James!❤️🎶🎸👍👏Thank you for everything...!🍀🌹🍀☺️

[@DoryAEF]

wHAT AN AMAZING PERFORMANCE! LOOK HOW HE KILLED THE GUITAR! HE WAS SOMETHING ELSE

[@stevenkeithortencio2411]

We live through scars this time 🎶

[@ucokcakrie2229]

Thanx for the great show

[@rickymurray]

Superb voice

[@ericherring3746]

Most underrated artist in recent memory.

[@lavenderkwon9017]

thank you

[@mox3226]

"it takes an hour just to say hello"..... the line that made me fall for james bay .. as a poet, story teller, & musician ..

[@lynnecollins5422]

Your song touch at soul level. Thankyou xx