Redemption, Hope, and Forgiveness: Matthew West's Message Resonates in Virginia (10.4.25)

Matthew West, along with two other Christian music giants MercyMe and TobyMac, stopped at University of Virginia’s John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville on October 4, 2025 on the next to last day of their 8-city tour. Check out this slideshow and review by Annette Holloway Photography.

On a memorable October evening at the University of Virginia’s John Paul Jones Arena, Matthew West delivered a powerful and spiritually resonant performance as part of the highly anticipated fall tour featuring Christian music titans MercyMe, TobyMac, and Matthew West. The packed arena in Charlottesville bore witness to one of Christian music’s most prolific singer-songwriters at his finest, as West seamlessly blended humor, heartfelt storytelling, and worship into an unforgettable night. From the opening notes of “Hello, My Name Is” to the closing anthem “Unashamed,” West commanded the stage with the confidence and authenticity that has earned him 37 No. 1 songs and multiple GRAMMY nominations throughout his remarkable career.

West’s ability to connect with his audience was evident throughout the evening, as he interspersed his soul-stirring songs with moments of levity and genuine humor that had the crowd laughing and engaged. A highlight of the night came when his daughter Lulu joined him on stage for “It is Well with my Soul,” adding an intimate family moment to the already emotional performance. The production elements were fun, including confetti unexpectedly raining down during Matthew’s powerful last note of “Nobody,” creating a celebratory atmosphere that perfectly complemented the messages of hope, forgiveness, and redemption woven throughout his setlist. “My Jesus” which he cowrote with Anne Wilson and Jeff Pardo, added a fun country twang and the audience enjoyed singing along.

The evening served as a testament to West’s experience and commitment as a Christian performer and songwriter, with selections from his latest album “Don’t Stop Praying” sitting comfortably alongside beloved classics. His rendition of “It Is Well With My Soul” and “The God Who Stays” provided beautiful moments of quiet reflection in an otherwise high-energy show. As part of this powerhouse tour bringing together three of Christian music’s biggest names, West proved why he remains one of the genre’s most compelling live performers, delivering a set glorifying to God, and leaving the packed Charlottesville arena with hearts full and spirits lifted.

All photos and videos: ©Annette Holloway Photography for GodTube Music.
Annette Holloway Photography: https://annetteholloway.com

Matthew West at https://www.matthewwest.com/

SETLIST
1. Hello, My Name Is
2. What If
3. Nobody (Casting Crowns cover)
4. My Jesus (Anne Wilson cover)
5. The God Who Stays
6. Don’t Stop Praying
7. It Is Well With My Soul
8. Unashamed