Sam Ryder excited for show 'off the beaten track'

Sam Ryder came second in Eurovision in 2022

Singer Sam Ryder is looking forward to performing in Hastings as he said the town was "off the beaten track'' of the usual tour schedule and "these shows can be better, as the crowd can be better".

Ryder, who came second representing the UK in Eurovision in 2022, said he hoped his show at the White Rock on 5 December would be "wicked".

Speaking to BBC Radio Sussex, Ryder said he had never played at the White Rock before, but he was looking forward to the experience.

"I have nothing but gratitude for the people coming to see me and I am looking forward to playing for them," he added.

Ryder said "so many amazing places" were often missed out of tour schedules.

"The character of the people who come to those shows and the energy is another level," he added.

He said fans can expect to hear some songs from his first album "for the last time for a while" as he prepares to release a second album.

Originally from Maldon, Essex, he began his music career at the age of 14 and said it was a "dream" to be able to perform in venues like the White Rock.

"It means a great deal to be able to put these shows up and to come and play in these venues," he said.

In 2023, he was nominated for Best New Artist at the Brit Awards, becoming the first Eurovision act to be nominated in this category.