An Ayrshire tattoo artist got to rub shoulders with Lewis Capldi ahead of his world tour.
Niky Brown was drafted into top secret rehearsal shows in Edinburgh to tattoo the record-breaking singer's musicians and entourage.
The Kilmarnock inker hailed the Someone You Loved artist as a 'national treasure' following the surreal encounter.
Capaldi, 26, is due to embark on a seven-month global tour in 2023 starting in the UK before going on to Europe, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand with rehearsals underway ahead of the busy schedule.
Speaking about how the opportunity came to light, Niky said: "I just got contacted from the management if I could go tattoo everyone at his world tour rehearsal near Edinburgh. Nicest bunch of guys and super down to earth dudes. Made some great friends."
Capaldi, from West Lothian, is also due to release his second album in May next year.
While Niky was invited to tattoo Lewis' band mates and entourage, he didn't actually ink the man of the moment.
Niky added: "I tattooed his musicians in his band, management, sound guys, techs.
"Yeah, it was pretty strange. When someone’s that famous and at that level they can get anyone.
"Pretty cool they asked me, very cool experience and really enjoyed Lewis' company that day. Funny guy - he’s a national treasure."
And Niky clearly left his mark on Capldi and his crew as he was invited back again a week later.
Niky said: "Well the mad thing is I got asked back and went and tattooed his guitarist, bass player and his manager. So I must've made a good impression.
"It was terrifying. Sitting asking the most famous singer in the world if he’s watched the new House of Dragon while I tattooed his drummer.
"I think they must've seen my Instagram page. I’ve been tattooing bands and touring with bands tattooing them for years but Lewis Capaldi is the biggest one yet. Harry Styles is next! You never know…"
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