Ari Hest says he doesn’t consider himself a “natural performer” — however, at his show Monday night, he appeared to have the audience fooled.

Hest began playing to the crowd of 125 people who packed into People’s Bar and Grill, 2428 Lincoln Way, but was easily able to attract more as he sent his music beyond the venue’s walls and onto Welch Avenue.

By the fourth song, “One More Hour,” the crowd had blossomed to 160.

“Each performance depends on the audience, how they react to the music,” Hest said.

“Some nights, some performances are better because of the crowd. If my audience gets into the performance, then I will. Although studio recording is much more relaxed, I still prefer live performances.”

The all-ages crowd became more engrossed with each song, as if responding to Hest’s performance, which seemed to become more engaged with every passing note.

As Hest warmed up to the crowd, his performances became better and continued until the end of the show.

Even the strong percussion from the band’s mix, combined with Hest’s guitar strumming, were not enough to overpower or drown out his vocals, which he performed without the help of a microphone.

Only playing two cover songs, by The Police and Tom Petty, Hest performed songs that were “a little old, a little new and a little in between.”

“When I’m writing, I try to pick out the important moments in life, the moments that really stand out,” Hest said.

“I think writing about everyday details is too hard because it’s difficult to capture something. I get inspiration from my past experiences, like my relationships with girlfriends or family.”

His lyrics resemble metaphorical poetry, and he has managed to tap into the raw emotions that are rarely used by today’s mainstream recording artists.

His most memorable performance Monday night was his acoustic version of his new song “I’ve Got You” that silenced every person in People’s, including the bar staff.

Hest’s deep voice sung its way into each person, making it clear why his music is catching on so quickly.

Hest has been in the music industry for three years, what seems like a short amount of time considering how fast he has grown in popularity.

He is surprisingly humble in his music and personality — his roots seem to be just as important as where he’s going.

By the age of 25 he has earned a communications degree from New York University, signed a deal with Columbia Records and is making a name for himself, as well as a living, doing what he loves.

“Music will always be a part of my life. Of course I need to make money, but I feel lucky to be able to make a career out of music,” Hest said.

“The music industry is all about luck.

“I would love to have a single on the radio, but I feel really happy with where I’m at in my life right now.”

Hest is opening for O.A.R. with Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers.

The tour will run until next spring. Afterward, Hest will return home to Williamsburg, N.Y. and continue working on his next album.

He says he has already started writing new material and even manages to do some writing while on tour.

With his original talent, modest background and ability to capture the crowd’s attention, he may have what it takes to stand out among his peers.