Michael W. Smith Launches European Tour in Stockholm
Christian music icon begins BEYOND THE FAR HORIZON run with charged Filadelfia performance
Image: Instagram
American songwriter and artist Michael W. Smith kicked off his BEYOND THE FAR HORIZON World Tour in Stockholm at the Filadelfia Convention Center. The Contemporary Christian music veteran greeted a capacity crowd with a blend of soaring worship anthems, intimate piano-led ballads and a message of hope. Smith’s official Instagram account marked the moment with the simple caption: “American songwriter and artist Michael W. Smith @mwsmithofficial kicked off his European tour “BEYOND THE FAR HORIZON World Tour” in Stockholm at the Filadelfia Convention Center. #MichaelWSmith #Filadelfia #Stockholm.”
Show Highlights
From the opening chords of his career-launching album track “Michael’s Song (Too Many Secrets)” to the familiar strains of “Friends,” Smith set a joyous tone. Stage lights bathed the sanctuary-like hall in warm blues and golds as the audience raised hands in worship. Several Instagram snapshots show Smith at the piano, eyes closed, leading the congregation in “Agnus Dei,” then stepping out front to belt powerful choruses backed by his five-piece band. Fans captured moments of confetti drifting through the air as Smith closed the set with his latest single, “Arms Around the Sun,” a track he introduced earlier this year.
Tour Snapshot
This inaugural stop follows a preview post on August 5, 2023, when Smith shared, “Debbie, the crew and I made it to the first stop of the BEYOND THE FAR HORIZON World tour… Sweden! Thank you for the prayers. Stockholm, can’t wait to see you tomorrow night!” (https://www.instagram.com/p/DK-EzCbgKws/). Over the next two months, Smith and his team will travel to major European markets, including Göteborg, Oslo, Berlin and London, offering fans an evening that blends worship, storytelling and his three-decade catalog of hits. Production notes reveal a minimalist stage design—white drapery, ambient uplights and a central grand piano—designed to focus attention on the music and lyrics.
Artist Profile
Since his 1983 debut, Smith has earned three Grammy Awards, 45 Dove Awards and sold over 18 million albums worldwide. His 1986 single “Place in This World” broke into the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10, crossing over to mainstream radio and establishing him as a voice of faith-inspired pop. A graduate of Furman University, he tours with his wife Debbie and a core band that includes longtime collaborator Chris Graul on guitar and keyboardist Jeff Roach. In recent years, Smith has also produced worship albums and co-written with artists such as Amy Grant. His BEYOND THE FAR HORIZON World Tour follows the 2022 release of his live worship collection, Awaken: The Surrounded Experience.
The Filadelfia Convention Center, known for hosting major Christian music events, proved an ideal setting. Its vaulted ceilings and clear sightlines allowed Smith’s voice to resonate across every corner. Multiple Instagram images from the show (https://www.instagram.com/p/DLBP_K9tKV8/) capture the artist engaging in prayer with the audience and pausing between songs to share personal reflections on resilience and community.
As Smith moves on to the next European stops, ticket sales remain strong. Early reports point to sold-out dates in Norway and Germany. Fans on social media have praised the setlist for its balance of nostalgia and fresh material.
Smith’s message on this tour is rooted in connection: bridging gaps between generations and between stages and pews. With each note, he underscores why he remains one of the most enduring figures in Christian music.
Michael W. Smith’s BEYOND THE FAR HORIZON World Tour has set a high bar from night one in Stockholm, promising uplifting evenings for faith-music lovers across the continent.
Trivia
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