Joseph Simon, 19, whose dad and grandad are both from Newcastle, made the eight hour journey to Newcastle from Devon in the hope of sharing the stage with his hero.
His grandad, who attended the famous Inter-Cities Fairs Cup final in 1969, passed his passion for Newcastle United down through the generations.
Joseph hugging Sam Fender, on night two, Saturday June 14 of his three show vacancy at St James parkJoseph hugging Sam Fender, on night two, Saturday June 14 of his three show vacancy at St James park (Image: PROVIDED) And after seeing fellow fans holding up signs and getting the chance to play Sam Fender’s hit Borders on stage, Joseph took note.
Using a pillowcase with a message hand-painted by his mum, he joined the crowd with his mates at St James’ Park.
He said: “I didn’t think it would happen, but I thought it was worth a try. It was already the best gig I’ve ever been to so I just thought whatever happens I should just go for it."
Joseph on stage with Sam Fender, on night two, Saturday June 14 of his three show vacancy at St James parkJoseph on stage with Sam Fender, on night two, Saturday June 14 of his three show vacancy at St James park (Image: PROVIDED) And his sign managed to catch the singer's attention. Joseph was brought backstage through the tech room and straight onto the stage.
Fender’s guitarist, Dean, gave him a few words of encouragement, saying “just have fun and we will look after you" and then Joseph played to 50,000 fans.
Despite not having in-ear monitors, Joseph relied on the front-of-house speakers to guide him, with Sam leading the way.
Joseph on stage with Sam Fender, on night two, Saturday June 14 of his three show vacancy at St James parkJoseph on stage with Sam Fender, on night two, Saturday June 14 of his three show vacancy at St James park (Image: PROVIDED) He said: "I can't remember much from the stage, just how full of love the crowd was and how incredible it all looked."
His dad, seated in the East Stand, couldn’t believe what he was seeing. Joseph’s brother was beside him, while cousins watched from the Milburn Stand.
The teenager had first visited the stadium on a tour in 2016 with his dad. He said he would have 'never imagined' that he would be performing to a sold out crowd less than ten years later.
He said: “The response since [playing with Fender] has been mental. So many people messaging me, saying they couldn’t believe it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You just can’t get better than that.”
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Still processing the whirlwind few days, Joseph says he’s eternally grateful to Fender for the opportunity.
He said: “Fair play to Sam - he’s making young aspiring musicians’ dreams come true. He’s a real hero, a humble guy.
"There’s no one like him. Just a dream come true. Everyone’s buzzing.”