EDINBURGH, June 6, 2025 A crowd of 300 music lovers gathered under the canopy of twilight at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh last night, for an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and mental health awareness. The exclusive event, headlined by TikTok sea shanty sensation Nathan Evans and powerhouse pop-rock duo Saint PHNX, delivered both powerful performances and a powerful purpose: raising funds and awareness for SAMH – the Scottish Association for Mental Health.
From TikTok to Top Billing: Nathan Evans and Saint PHNX Bring the Fire
Known for his meteoric rise from postie to popstar, Nathan Evans brought heartfelt energy and signature charm to the stage. Best known for his viral rendition of Wellerman, Evans’ set was a seamless blend of traditional folk, original songs from his latest album 1994, and crowd-pleasing shanties that had the entire garden swaying like waves on the Firth of Forth.
“It’s amazing to be back here, in Scotland, raising our voices for something that really matters,” Evans told the audience. “Mental health affects all of us. Let’s talk about it, sing about it, and support each other.”
Co Headliner Saint PHNX, the Glasgow brothers behind viral hits like Happy Place, delivered a thunderous set that pulsed with emotion and energy. Having previously shared their own story of losing their father to illness and channelling grief into music, the band echoed the event’s core message: music heals.
Supporting Stars: Cammy Barnes get the crowd warmed up
Opening the evening was none other than Cammy Barnes, Fife’s own folk-pop storyteller and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist. His raw vocals and emotional ballads, including Bonnie’s Song, captivated early attendees and set the tone for a night of authenticity and connection.
The Voice Behind the Vibes: FAT Brestovci Hosts the Night
Capital Radio’s charismatic FAT Brestovci held the evening together with humour, heart, and plenty of crowd engagement between acts. Whether hyping the audience or sharing personal stories, FAT kept the vibe high while never losing sight of why everyone was there.
Music with a Mission: In Aid of SAMH
All proceeds from the evening supported SAMH, Scotland’s leading mental health charity, which has been helping individuals and communities since 1923. The event highlighted SAMH’s ongoing efforts to break stigma, offer urgent support through initiatives like The Nook walk-in hubs, and bring services into underserved communities with projects like Wellbeing on Wheels.
The event also served as a timely reminder that mental health doesn’t discriminate, even among the most successful and creative individuals.
For Business Owners: When the Pressure Becomes Too Much
For many Scottish business owners, the pressures of running a company in today’s climate can be overwhelming. From navigating rising costs, staff shortages, and unpredictable market conditions to managing cashflow and digital disruption, entrepreneurs often find themselves wearing multiple hats with little time for self-care. Isolation, burnout, anxiety, and imposter syndrome are common, yet rarely talked about. Many feel they must appear strong for their team, clients, and community, while silently battling stress, sleeplessness, or emotional exhaustion. The stigma around seeking help only deepens the struggle. Scottish Business Network can help provide solutions for the business issues, and a network of peers who are probably feeling just like you are.
Organisations like SAMH are so vital, offering confidential, practical support to those who give so much of themselves to keep the Scottish economy thriving.
If you’re an entrepreneur, sole trader or SME owner facing burnout, stress, anxiety or personal crisis, you are not alone, and help is available:
Where to Start:
Visit www.samh.org.uk: explore their free services and mental wellbeing toolkits
- Try "Time for You": SAMH’s coaching and talking therapy service, free and flexible
- Drop in at The Nook: no GP referral needed for immediate mental health support
- Look out for WoW (Wellbeing on Wheels): mobile peer support visiting Scottish communities
Need to Talk?
SAMH has real people ready to listen. Whether you're navigating financial stress, staffing issues, or simply the loneliness of leadership, you don't need to wait for a breakdown. Reaching out is the first step to regaining balance.
Final Note
As Nathan Evans closed the evening with a soulful acoustic version of Caledonia, the message resonated far beyond the melodies:
Scotland is singing together for a reason, and there’s strength in asking for help.
Whether you are writing it, listening to it, singing it, or dancing to it, music heals.
If you or someone you know needs help, don't wait. Reach out.
Photo/Image Credit/Copyright Details: BabySweet