James Arthur opens up about his friendship with Robbie Williams

Following the release of his fourth studio album 'It’ll All Make Sense In The End' earlier this month, the wonderful James Arthur joined us at Hits Live Birmingham on Saturday 20th November, performing some of his biggest hits at the Resorts World Arena.

James, alongside Anne-Marie, Rag’n’Bone Man, Tom Grennan, Becky Hill, Dermot Kennedy, Years & Years, KSI and The Wanted, helped bring the party to Birmingham's sold-out crowd.

Before showing off his vocals on stage, the former X Factor star joined Tom Green backstage, where he discussed his rather sweet friendship with none other than Take That legend Robbie Williams, and how their friendship came about!

Speaking to Tom, James revealed: "I think my favourite moment with any, sort of, superstar would be Robbie Williams. Sat with him on the coach for the charity football match.

"I've never felt more connected with someone who's been on this ride, this journey - he passed on some really helpful advice and wisdom."

Tom then agreed: "And he's been on a rollercoaster," to which James added: "He's been through it like no one else. In terms of a British male artist that was famous, you know, has been famous throughout decades.

"So I cant really think of anyone I'd rather listen to when it comes to this business, I suppose!"

That wasn't the only celebrity friendship that James discussed backstage of Hits Live Birmingham, as the singer joked that him and footballer Cristiano Ronaldo were besties!

James revealed that the footballer asked him to sing at his 35th birthday party, however "the pandemic got in the way of that". He then admitted that the pair still DM back and forth! How sweet.

Check out all of the backstage photos from Hits Live Birmingham 2021 below:

James delighted his fans earlier in November when he dropped his delayed fourth studio album 'It’ll All Make Sense In The End', which he wrote in lockdown in 2020.

Admitting writing the album helped him get through a rough patch during the pandemic, James told fans: 'It’ll All Make Sense In The End is out now! Feels good to finally have this out in the world, it’s a project that got me through the lockdown and a particularly tough period in my personal life. It’s full of honest and authentic stories. This album is a vibe, I love the sound of it and I hope you enjoy it too. Love JA x'.

'It’ll All Make Sense In The End' contains 14 tracks, including his popular singles 'September' and the recent 'Emily'.

To accompany the album release, James also confirmed he will be going on tour next year, playing dates across the UK.

You can hear James Arthur's biggest hits on Hits Radio.

Now read:

Everything you need to know about James Arthur

James Arthur releases his fourth album 'It’ll All Make Sense In The End'

24 albums we are living for in 2021

How to listen to Hits Radio:

Turn it up with Hits Radio! Home of Fleur East, Sam Thompson and Gemma Atkinson playing the biggest hits and the biggest throwbacks, alongside the biggest laughs and life-changing competitions. Tune in on FM, DAB, online or ask your Smart Speaker to 'Play Hits Radio'.

• James Arthur
• hits live